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BJP Candidate's Comments on Hindu MLA Prompt Criticism, Complaint Filed
Political parties in Kerala, including the Congress and CPI(M), have criticized BJP candidate C. Gopalakrishnan for comments regarding the absence of a Hindu MLA in Guruvayur. A formal complaint has been filed with the Election Commission over the remarks.
C. Gopalakrishnan said in a purported video that Guruvayur, described as the "land of Lord Guruvayurappan" and an international pilgrimage centre, has been in the hands of "temple thieves" for the past five decades, and questioned why there has been no Hindu MLA in Guruvayur so far. Leader of the Opposition V. D. Satheesan strongly criticised Gopalakrishnan's remarks, saying that BJP leaders seek votes by dividing people along religious and caste lines. Satheesan said that Kerala is known for its communal harmony, and that constituencies such as Ponnani have elected Hindu MLAs, while Guruvayur has often elected Muslim legislators. CPI(M) Thrissur district secretary Abdul Khader said that Gopalakrishnan's remarks were aimed at creating divisions and that the BJP has had no role in developing Guruvayur. Khader also questioned the contributions of Union Minister and Thrissur MP Suresh Gopi to Guruvayur's temple development.
Key Facts
- C. Gopalakrishnan's comments about the lack of a Hindu MLA in Guruvayur have sparked controversy.
- The Leader of the Opposition, V. D. Satheesan, criticised the BJP for allegedly attempting to divide voters based on religion.
- Satheesan noted Kerala's history of communal harmony, citing examples of diverse representation in the state legislature.
- Abdul Khader, CPI(M) Thrissur district secretary, said that the BJP is attempting to create divisions among the people.
- Khader said secular parties have primarily driven the development of Guruvayur.
- A formal complaint has been lodged with the Election Commission regarding the alleged communal comments.
- Khader questioned the initiatives undertaken by Union Minister Suresh Gopi for the Guruvayur Temple's development.