Alappuzha, 16 August (H.S.): Actor Devan has resigned from the Bharatiya Janata Party and stepped down as its Kerala vice-president, citing his inability to pursue politics based on the ideals of social reformer Sree Narayana Guru.

Devan announced his decision during a function at the Kanichukulangara Devi Temple. He said his resignation letter had been prepared and would shortly be handed over to the BJP’s State leadership.

Explaining his decision, Devan said the teachings and vision of Sree Narayana Guru formed the foundation of his political outlook. However, he felt that he was unable to translate those principles into action while remaining with the BJP.

The actor also referred to difficulties he had encountered during the last election. He did not, however, elaborate on the nature of the problems or specify whether they had influenced his decision to leave the party.

Devan entered active politics in 2004 by establishing the Nava Kerala People’s Party. At the time, he said the organisation had been formed to address Kerala’s lack of development and to offer voters a political alternative.

In the 2004 Wadakkanchery Assembly by-election, Devan contested as the candidate of his own party. Although he failed to secure an electoral breakthrough, he continued his political activities and maintained that Kerala needed a development-oriented political movement.

Years later, Devan merged the Nava Kerala People’s Party with the BJP. He had then said that the decision was taken following discussions with senior BJP leader and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Following the merger, Devan was given organisational responsibilities in the BJP and subsequently appointed a State vice-president.

His departure marks the end of his association with the party. Devan has not announced whether he plans to join another political organisation, revive his former party or pursue an independent political course based on Sree Narayana Guru’s ideals.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman