As Vellappally continues ‘anti-Muslim’ remarks, Congress says his ‘divisive statements’ at CM Vijayan’s behest
Kerala is witnessing a new political storm. Vellappally Natesan, the General Secretary of SNDP Yogam, has sparked outrage with remarks perceived as anti-Muslim. His statements have drawn sharp criticism from the Congress, which claims Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is behind a plan to divide communities for political benefit.
Vellappally’s Remarks Spark Backlash
At a recent public event, Vellappally questioned the role of Muslims in Kerala’s politics. He said that appeasement of one group had gone too far. Although he didn’t name any party or individual, his words were seen as a direct jab at the Muslim community.
Social media quickly reacted, and civil society condemned the speech. Critics called it divisive and dangerous. Kerala has always been proud of its secular traditions. Many fear that such statements threaten that legacy.
Congress Points Finger at CM Vijayan
The Congress party responded immediately. Its leaders alleged that Natesan acted on directions from CM Vijayan. According to them, the Chief Minister is trying to distract the public from his administration’s failures by stirring up communal tensions.
K. Sudhakaran, the KPCC president, didn’t hold back. He said, “This isn’t just Vellappally’s voice. This is Pinarayi Vijayan speaking through him. The aim is to divide the people and hold on to power.”
The Congress accused the Left government of abandoning secular values. They believe the state is drifting toward a soft Hindutva line under Vijayan’s leadership.
Mixed Political Reactions
Other political parties also weighed in. The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) strongly condemned Natesan’s remarks. IUML leader P.K. Kunhalikutty demanded that the government act and issue a clear response. He warned that silence from the Chief Minister would only confirm the Congress’s allegations.
The BJP, however, took a different tone. While officially distancing itself, some party members said Natesan had raised valid concerns about minority appeasement. This dual response raised more questions about the political motives behind the controversy.
SNDP Yogam Comes to Natesan’s Defense
The SNDP Yogam defended Natesan and issued a statement to clarify his position. According to the group, his words were not communal. They claimed he was highlighting the concerns of marginalized Hindus and had been misquoted.
Observers disagree. They argue that even if unintentional, such remarks deepen existing social divides. Public figures like Natesan have great influence. Their words can shape public attitudes and fan dangerous sentiments.
Is This Part of a Larger Strategy?
This isn’t the first time Natesan has made controversial remarks about Muslims. In the past, he has spoken against community-based welfare schemes and religious institutions. Many analysts believe these statements fit a pattern.
Some political experts say the CPI(M) is shifting its strategy. They suggest the party now relies on caste and religious leaders to help it maintain power. The Congress has accused the ruling party of embracing a subtle form of Hindutva.
This shift, they warn, could damage Kerala’s long-standing secular framework.
Widening Concerns Over Social Unity
Kerala has long stood out for its harmony between different faiths and communities. That image now seems at risk. Many rights activists, social thinkers, and academics have voiced concern.
They are urging the government to act quickly. A formal statement from the Chief Minister could help ease tensions. But Vijayan’s silence so far is worrying. Critics say his refusal to speak clearly adds fuel to the fire.
The longer the government stays quiet, the harder it will be to repair the damage.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding Vellappally Natesan’s statements has exposed deep cracks in Kerala’s political discourse. As the Congress blames CM Vijayan for using divisive tactics, the people of the state are left uneasy. Many now fear a future where vote-bank politics replace Kerala’s proud history of tolerance.
With elections on the horizon, these tensions may grow even stronger. Whether Vijayan responds or not, the conversation about Kerala’s political direction has already changed.
