Kochi, 01 March (H.S.): The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Kerala will hold its final round of seat-sharing discussions on Monday, with key leaders expected to iron out differences ahead of the Assembly elections. The crucial meeting will take place in Kochi under the leadership of BJP State president Rajeev Chandrasekhar.
According to party sources, the BJP’s national leadership has directed that all senior NDA leaders should enter the electoral fray this time. While most senior BJP leaders have agreed to contest, uncertainty remains over the participation of Bharat Dharma Jana Sena (BDJS) president Thushar Vellappally and Twenty20 chairman Sabu Jacob.
Both Vellappally and Jacob had earlier informed the BJP leadership that they were not inclined to contest the upcoming elections. However, the BJP’s central leadership is reportedly keen that both leaders reconsider their decision and step into the fray, viewing their candidature as crucial to strengthening the NDA’s prospects in key constituencies. The issue is expected to be taken up for a final decision at Mondays meeting.
Internal BJP survey reports suggest that Sabu Jacob could have a strong chance of victory if he contests from Thrippunithura. Similarly, Thushar Vellappally is said to be a potential candidate in either Kayamkulam or Aroor, where the alliance believes he could make a significant impact.
In the 2021 Assembly elections, the BDJS contested 30 seats as part of the NDA. However, this time, the party is likely to see a reduction in the number of seats allocated to it, reflecting a recalibration within the alliance.
Discussions within the BJP indicate that, in Ernakulam district, all but one constituency may be allotted to Twenty20. In Changanassery, the name of B. Radhakrishna Menon is being discussed as a possible candidate, while in Kottayam, N. Hari and Lijin Lal are under consideration. Reji Lukose’s name is also being considered for Kaduthuruthy.
The BDJS is likely to be allotted Ettumanoor this time. The shift comes as P.C. George is set to contest from Poonjar, a seat previously contested by the BDJS.
With seat allocations and high-profile candidatures hanging in the balance, Monday's meeting is expected to play a decisive role in shaping the NDA’s electoral strategy in Kerala.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
