RJD Intensifies Demand for Additional Seats in Kerala, Threatens Internal Resignation
The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) state committee convened a crucial meeting in Kozhikode on Monday, where leaders unanimously decided to aggressively pursue the demand for two extra electoral seats within the Left Democratic Front (LDF) coalition. The gathering highlighted growing frustration within the party over perceived neglect and insufficient recognition from its alliance partners.
Seat Allocation and Electoral History
During the intense deliberations, the committee formally resolved to request the Chalakkudy and Kovalam constituencies for upcoming elections. This strategic move follows the party's previous electoral performance, where it contested three seats—Koothuparamba, Kalpetta, and Vadakara—in the last polls. Notably, the RJD secured a victory only from the Koothuparamba seat, underscoring the need for expanded opportunities to strengthen its political footprint in the state.
Internal Dissent and Leadership Crisis
The meeting took a dramatic turn as state president M V Shreyams Kumar issued a stern warning, threatening to resign from his position. This ultimatum was driven by deep concerns over a lack of unity within the party ranks and the alleged leaking of confidential committee discussions to the media. Such breaches have exacerbated internal tensions, raising questions about the party's cohesion and operational discipline.
Exclusion from Ministerial Posts and Alliance Dynamics
A significant point of contention raised during the meeting was the RJD's exclusion from ministerial positions, despite all other alliance partners being considered for such roles. Party leaders expressed strong resentment, noting that the RJD, which had strategically left the United Democratic Front (UDF) to join the LDF, has not received the due consideration it deserves. This sentiment is particularly poignant given the party's relatively stronger public support among Dalit factions, which leaders argue should translate into greater political leverage.
Strategic Decisions and Future Political Moves
Amidst calls from a section of leaders to abandon the LDF and rejoin the UDF, the committee ultimately decided to maintain its current alliance with the LDF for the time being. Shreyams Kumar reaffirmed this commitment, stating that the RJD will continue within the LDF framework. However, in a personal political shift, he revealed that despite proposals from LDF leaders for him to contest from the Vadakara constituency again, he has chosen to step back from electoral politics moving forward. He emphasized that he will remain actively engaged in political activities without seeking elected office.
Voices of Discontent and Electoral Prospects
Adding to the chorus of dissatisfaction, RJD general secretary Varghese George voiced concerns that the party, which ranks fourth in the alliance hierarchy, is being systematically ignored. He pointed out that there are specific seats in Kerala where electoral victory is highly achievable, but only if the RJD and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) collaborate effectively. This statement underscores the potential for improved alliance synergy to unlock greater electoral success for the RJD.
The meeting concluded with a reinforced resolve to advocate for the party's interests more vigorously within the LDF, while addressing internal challenges to ensure unity and strategic focus in the lead-up to future elections.
