The BJP in Kerala is looking to make inroads with the Muslim community ahead of next year’s General Election, following their recent attempt to reach out to the Christian community on Easter Sunday. As part of the outreach campaign, BJP workers will visit the homes of Muslim people to extend the party’s greetings during Eid, which is expected next week. Additionally, on the day of Vishu, BJP workers will open their houses to celebrate with others.
Senior BJP leader and party’s Kerala in-charge, Prakash Javadekar, directed the state unit to reach out to the Muslim community after the successful Christian outreach program. He stated that the BJP’s workers are committed to fulfilling the Prime Minister’s dream of uniting people from all communities and sections.
The CPI(M) and Congress had criticized the party’s Christian outreach program, citing previous declarations by the RSS that minorities, including Christians and Communists, were internal threats to India. The BJP defended their outreach, stating that CPI(M) and Congress were nervous about losing their minority vote bank.
The BJP’s efforts to get closer to the Christian community have resulted in mixed reactions from clerics in Kerala. Some bishops welcomed the move, stating that the times have changed, and the saffron party should not be kept at bay over its past declarations against minorities. However, another section feels that “atrocities” against Christians under the BJP should be considered before warming up to the Sangh Pari.
The BJP in Kerala is attempting to build bridges with minority communities in the state ahead of next year’s elections. Whether their outreach efforts will be successful remains to be seen, but it is clear that the party is actively working to expand its base of support beyond its traditional Hindu voter base.
