BJP Leader Accuses Kerala Parties of Abandoning Expatriates in Gulf Crisis
In a sharp critique on Wednesday, BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar alleged that both ruling and opposition party leaders in Kerala have forsaken the welfare of Malayalis working in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, prioritizing political appeasement over people's safety. Speaking in Thiruvananthapuram, Chandrasekhar highlighted the escalating tensions in West Asia, including recent attacks by Iran on Gulf nations and Israel's military actions, which have put millions of Kerala families at risk.
Political Silence on Iran's Attacks Draws Fire
Chandrasekhar emphasized that the attacks by Iran on GCC countries directly impact numerous families in Kerala, yet pro-Iran sentiments persist within the state. He criticized the left and right fronts for supporting issues based on vote banks, which he claims fosters religious extremism. The Central government and BJP, he asserted, maintain a stance focused on protecting all Indians, irrespective of their location, without engaging in politics. He pointed out that neither the CPM nor the Congress has condemned Iran's attacks on Gulf countries, while the BJP in Kerala stands firmly with expatriate Malayalis.
Selective Concern Over Global Conflicts
Further, Chandrasekhar accused Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Congress leader Priyanka Vadra of showing concern for Gaza and Iran while remaining silent on the killings of Christians in Syria and Nigeria. He argued that political leaders fear reacting against Islamic extremism, leading to a deplorable lack of action. With many Keralites employed in GCC countries, the safety of these expatriates should be a top priority, yet political unwillingness to address Iran's unprovoked attacks is alarming, he added.
Transgender Community Members Join BJP
In a separate development, the BJP welcomed 15 transgender persons into its fold, including notable figures such as make-up artist Seema Vineeth. Chandrasekhar received them at Mararji Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram. The new members include social activist Sreekutty Namitha, Bharatanatyam dancer Adrija Das, Liberty Foundation president Ranjini Pillai, Metro Employees Sangh joint secretary Meera Murali, and Kerala Transgender Cricket Team captain Yelohim Adrik, signaling the party's outreach efforts.
