PM Modi assures Kerala BJP councillors of campaigning in state polls
New Delhi, Feb 12
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday, assured the Bharatiya Janata Party delegation from Kerala that he would visit the state to campaign for the upcoming Assembly elections, describing the party's recent victory at the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation as significant and a major milestone for the BJP in the state.
The Prime Minister made these remarks while receiving 115 BJP elected representatives from corporations, municipalities and the three-tier panchayat institutions in Kerala at his official residence in New Delhi.
All of them had won on a BJP ticket in the December local body polls across various parts of the state.
In the 101-member Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, the BJP secured 50 seats and, with the support of one Independent Councillor, was able to assume power, a development party leaders see as a breakthrough in Kerala's local body politics.
During the interaction, held as part of a governance skill development camp, Prime Minister Modi spoke at length about Kerala's development potential and its role in India's broader growth trajectory.
He highlighted the importance of strengthening grassroots engagement and ensuring effective implementation of Central schemes at the local level.
The representatives raised questions on issues, including development models for urban and rural bodies, improving delivery mechanisms, and enhancing employment opportunities for youth.
The Prime Minister responded in detail and emphasised the need for efficient governance, transparency and stronger public outreach.
Prime Minister Modi also appreciated the efforts of party workers and elected members in expanding the BJP's base in Kerala despite challenging political circumstances.
The meeting concluded with a group photograph and a shared meal, during which informal discussions continued.
The Kerala representatives described the interaction as encouraging and said the Prime Minister's assurance of active participation in the Assembly campaign had boosted their confidence ahead of the electoral contest.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As a Keralite, I welcome any leader who talks about our state's development potential. But the real test is on the ground. Will these central schemes actually reach the people effectively? Hope this isn't just pre-election talk.
Finally some attention for Kerala from the Centre! The LDF and UDF have had their turns for decades. A strong third alternative is healthy for democracy. The focus on transparency and youth employment is exactly what we need.
I respect the PM's assurance, but I have a request. When campaigning, please focus on Kerala's specific issues - like the fisherfolk community, sustainable tourism, and protecting our unique environment. Don't bring in divisive national narratives.
The local body victory is significant, but Assembly polls are a different ball game. The BJP's organizational structure in Kerala still needs much work beyond a few urban pockets. The shared meal at the end is a nice touch though - shows humility.
Interesting to watch Indian politics. From an outside perspective, the PM meeting local councillors directly is quite hands-on. Kerala has high social indicators; curious to see what development model is proposed.
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