BJP launches Kerala assembly poll campaign from Nemom

Thiruvananthapuram: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) formally launched its campaign for the upcoming assembly elections on Sunday, with state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar inaugurating the drive in Nemom constituency.

Chandrasekhar wrote a slogan on a wall in Nemom that read, "We want a developed Nemom." The graffiti didn't mention any candidate's name.


Speaking to reporters, Chandrasekhar described the event as the beginning of a political change in Nemom. He reiterated his desire to contest from the constituency but said the final decision would rest with the party's national leadership. "I wish to contest from Nemom and I believe the national leadership will permit it. I strongly believe in people's faith in me when I contested in Lok Sabha elections," he said.

He said the graffiti campaign in Nemom signalled BJP's statewide push ahead of assembly polls. Accusing both UDF and LDF of failing to address public issues, Chandrasekhar said voters were seeking a change in governance. "UDF and LDF which ruled the state didn't address people's issues. Hence, people want a change in governance, and they will vote for BJP this time," he said.

Chandrasekhar criticised the incumbent MLA from Nemom, alleging a lack of development initiatives in the constituency. He said BJP and National Democratic Alliance (NDA) were seeking votes, promising change.

Meanwhile, BJP is expected to announce shortlisted candidates for around 30 assembly seats soon. Besides Chandrasekhar in Nemom, former Union minister V Muraleedharan is likely to contest from Kazhakkoottam. Former state president K Surendran is being considered for Manjeshwar, while Sobha Surendran is under consideration for Palakkad or Kayamkulam.

In Vattiyoorkavu, former DGP R Sreelekha and actor Krishna Kumar are in contention, while C Krishnakumar is expected to contest from Malampuzha. Shone George is likely to be fielded in Pala and Anoop Antony in Thiruvalla.

The state leadership is aiming to announce the first list of candidates before the assembly election schedule is notified.