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Athawale said the move would be “revolutionary” and could bring more funds and development to Kerala.
Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale and Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. (PTI file photos)
Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale on Wednesday suggested that Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan join the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) ahead of the state Assembly elections.
Athawale said the move would be “revolutionary” and could bring more funds and development to Kerala.
Speaking at a press conference in Kannur, Athawale said, “I appeal to the CPI(M) leader and long-serving Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan, to join the NDA, as it would be a revolutionary decision. If he and the CPI(M) join the NDA, more money will come to Kerala, which will lead to the development of the state.”
The suggestion comes amid ongoing tensions between the state and the Centre over fund allocations. The CPI(M)-led state government has previously alleged discrimination in disbursing central funds.
Earlier this month, the Left Democratic Alliance (LDA), under Vijayan’s leadership, staged a protest claiming that the Centre had withheld funds.
Kerala Excise Minister MB Rajesh had also accused the BJP-led central government of reducing grants, delaying payments under key schemes, and failing to provide timely support during the Wayanad landslides.
Kerala is scheduled to hold Assembly elections later this year, and the political contest has become a triangular battle, with the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) aiming to challenge the ruling LDF and the BJP-led NDA trying to expand its influence. The BJP gained momentum following its victory in the Thiruvananthapuram civic body polls.
(With inputs from agencies)
Kerala, India, India
January 21, 2026, 20:00 IST
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