NEW DELHI: In a significant political shift that could redefine Kerala’s electoral future, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) has observed that the influential Christian vote bank—which had distanced itself from the Congress for nearly two decades—has made a resounding return to the United Democratic Front (UDF).
According to the AICC Working Committee, the primary architect of this transition is the Leader of the Opposition, VD Satheesan. His meticulously crafted “social engineering” strategy over the last four and a half years is credited with steering the minority community back to the UDF fold, as evidenced by the front’s stellar performance in the recent local body elections.
The Shift of Major Churches
The most notable change is seen in the Malankara Orthodox Church, which had openly supported the LDF in 2016 following disputes with the then-Oommen Chandy government. Additionally, the Syro-Malabar Church, which at one point appeared to be gravitating toward the BJP, has now firmly realigned with the UDF.
Satheesan’s Proactive Engagement
The party high command highlighted Satheesan’s vocal stance against atrocities faced by Christians in North India as a key factor in building trust. His direct intervention in local issues—including human-wildlife conflicts, coastal community grievances, the Munambam land dispute, and aided school appointments—has resonated deeply with the community.
Satheesan personally attended over 250 Christian community gatherings, engaging with both religious leaders and believers. This hands-on approach has successfully bridged the gap that existed for years.
Winning Without the Mani Group
One of the most significant takeaways for the AICC is that the UDF achieved this consolidation without the help of the Jose K. Mani-led Kerala Congress (M), which is currently with the LDF. The UDF managed to sweep the high-range and coastal belts in districts like Kottayam, Idukki, Pathanamthitta, Ernakulam, Kannur, and Kozhikode.
Political analysts suggest that if this trend continues into the upcoming Assembly elections, the UDF is well-positioned to secure a comfortable victory and return to power in Kerala.
