2024 Lok Sabha Election: Anil Antony Expresses Hope for BJP in Kerala, Anticipates a Different Election

The Lok Sabha Election 2024 is seeing a unique dynamic in the state of Kerala. Anil Antony, in an exclusive interview with NDTV, highlighted multiple factors contributing to the distinctiveness of this election. Kerala, known for its bipolar political landscape often oscillating between the Congress and a Left-led alliance, has never sent a BJP candidate to parliament despite having a large majority community. However, a shocking break with tradition occurred in 2021 when Kerala re-elected Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for a second term, signaling a potential shift in the political dynamics of the state.

Anil Antony pointed out that the last election, particularly with Rahul Gandhi contesting from Wayanad, ignited a narrative of the UPA winning, only to witness a mood shift towards the end. He highlighted the state’s dire financial distress, with the government struggling to meet payroll and pension obligations, leading to widespread anti-incumbency sentiment across all 20 seats. The BJP is striving to establish itself in the state in pursuit of capturing 370 seats. Antony criticized the current situation where both Congress and CPM supporters perceive the NDA-3 as returning under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.

He also addressed his transition from the Congress to the BJP, with the latter counting on him to aid in expanding their base in the state, particularly among Christians. The upcoming election in Pathanamthitta has added an intriguing element to the political landscape with Anil Antony contesting against Congress’s Anto Antony and the Left’s TM Thomas Issac. However, this move has not been well-received by senior politician PC George, who believes it may harm the BJP’s prospects in the constituency. The controversy around Anil Antony’s candidacy has sparked debates within the political circles.

The unique political intricacies of Kerala in the upcoming Lok Sabha Election 2024 portray a shifting landscape with varied factors in play.