GG News Bureau
Thiruvananthapuram, 29th Feb. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor asserted on Wednesday that the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) vote share in Kerala has reached a saturation point, downplaying the party’s prospects in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
In an interview with ANI, Tharoor remarked, “I am afraid the only way they can get two digits is if it is two zeroes. The issue with the BJP is that they don’t understand Kerala’s history and culture. Communalism cannot go beyond a small limit here.”
Acknowledging Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts to expand the BJP’s presence, Tharoor noted, “I give Narendra Modi credit for taking a 6 per cent party to a 12-13 per cent party but that is it. The ceiling has been reached.”
Tharoor highlighted the BJP’s attempts to appeal to the Christian community in Kerala, particularly in the Central Travancore area, where their vote is considered significant. However, he suggested that recent events, such as the situation in Manipur, may hinder the party’s outreach efforts.
Regarding his candidature in the Thiruvananthapuram Lok Sabha constituency, Tharoor stated, “The Congress party has not yet announced any candidature nor has it told any of us that we will not be contesting. Whatever I am doing is working as a sitting MP. I have responsibilities to my constituency, which I am doing now.”
Commenting on the political crisis in Himachal Pradesh following cross-voting by some Congress MLAs, Tharoor condemned the BJP’s alleged misuse of power and resources. He characterized the developments as a betrayal of democracy and expressed concern over the erosion of democratic principles.
The back-to-back events in Himachal Pradesh have sparked tensions within the ruling Congress party, with the BJP claiming a loss of majority and calling for the CM’s resignation. Meanwhile, the Congress maintains its stance, asserting its legitimacy to govern the state.
