Kottayam, 13 Jan (H.S.):A behind-the-scenes political realignment may be taking shape in Kerala, with reports suggesting that three senior bishops of the Catholic Church are playing a strategic role in efforts to bring Kerala Congress (M) back into the United Democratic Front (UDF) from the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF).

According to political observers, the Church’s broader objective is to restore what it sees as a desirable communal balance within the UDF by positioning Kerala Congress (M) as a key Christian political force within the opposition alliance. Church strategists reportedly believe that the entry of Kerala Congress (M) into the UDF would also curb the overwhelming influence currently exercised by the Muslim League within the front.

A senior Congress leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, was quoted as saying that the present leadership of the Congress party in Kerala is largely dominated by leaders from the Hindu community. “If the Muslim League is on one side and Kerala Congress (M) on the other, the UDF can project itself as a more balanced coalition. This would not only strengthen the front politically but also help it regain a sense of social and communal equilibrium,” the leader said.

The reported shift in Church thinking comes against the backdrop of growing friction between Christian organisations and the LDF government on several contentious issues. These include the Munambam land dispute, prolonged delays and uncertainty in teacher appointments in aided schools, and recurring incidents of wildlife attacks in forest-fringe areas affecting farming communities.

Church leaders are said to be increasingly dissatisfied with the LDF government’s handling of these matters, which directly impact large sections of the Christian population. In this context, Kerala Congress (M) continuing within the LDF is viewed as a factor that could fragment Christian votes in future elections.

By facilitating the return of Kerala Congress (M) to the UDF, Church leaders believe such vote division can be avoided, allowing Christian voters to consolidate behind a single political platform. This consolidation, they estimate, could significantly alter electoral dynamics in central Kerala, particularly in districts such as Kottayam, Idukki, and parts of Ernakulam.

While no official confirmation has emerged either from the Church or from Kerala Congress (M) leadership, the reported manoeuvres underline the continuing influence of religious institutions in shaping Kerala’s complex coalition politics. Political circles expect the coming months to reveal whether these quiet efforts translate into a formal political realignment.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman