Kerala: Nair-Ezhava Unity Could Pave BJP's Path to Power in Left Stronghold

• The BJP aims to make inroads in Kerala, a state where it has yet to form a government, targeting it as its next major stronghold after West Bengal.
• A recent survey indicates BJP is rapidly growing in Kerala, potentially securing up to 20% of votes, making it the third-largest force.
• Kerala's Hindu population is significant (54-55%), with Ezhava (23%) and Nair (14-15%) communities being highly influential, together comprising 37-38% of the state's population.
• These communities hold substantial political power, dominating 35-40% of Assembly seats and influencing through organizations like NSS and SNDP.
• Traditionally, Ezhavas leaned Left and Nairs towards Congress, but a shift sees Nairs moving to BJP, and BJP allied with SNDP's political wing to attract Ezhavas. Their combined support could push BJP's vote share to 35-40%, sufficient for power in a triangular contest.

Why It Matters: Uniting Kerala's influential Nair and Ezhava communities is key for BJP to gain power in the Left bastion.