Varier’s dramatic entry occurred during a media briefing by Kerala's Leader of the Opposition Satheesan in Palakkad. He had reportedly been in talks with both national and state Congress leadership for over a week.
Published Nov 16, 2024 | 3:08 PM ⚊ Updated Nov 16, 2024 | 9:53 PM
Sandeep G Varier joined Congress ahead of Palakkad bypolls
Sandeep G Varier, a prominent BJP leader from Palakkad, has officially joined the Indian National Congress (INC) party, marking a significant shift in the political landscape of Kerala.
Varier, who was a member of the BJP state committee, was welcomed into the Congress fold by Kerala Congress president K Sudhakaran, Leader of the Opposition V D Satheesan, and Palakkad MP V K Sreekandan, among other senior leaders, on 13 November.
#Kerala: Sandeep G Varier has officially joined the @INCIndia party. He was welcomed by @INCKerala president K Sudhakaran, Leader of the Opposition @vdsatheesan, and Palakkad MP V K Sreekandan, among other leaders. pic.twitter.com/AZHJC7vUUH
— South First (@TheSouthfirst) November 16, 2024
Varier’s dramatic entry came as Leader of the Opposition Satheesan and other Congress leaders were addressing the media in Palakkad. It is understood that Varier had been in talks with both the national and state Congress leadership for over a week before making the move.
His decision to join Congress follows a period of growing discontent with the BJP, particularly over internal party issues and his frustrations with the party’s candidate for Palakkad Assembly constituency bypolls, C Krishna Kumar.
In a social media post earlier this year, Varier openly criticised Krishna Kumar, questioning the claims made by Kumar about their past working relationship.
The post, which refuted Kumar’s assertions about their collaboration during the Yuva Morcha days, raised eyebrows within the party and sparked speculation about Varier’s intentions.
“I heard Krishnakumar Ettan (brother) say on the channel yesterday that Sandeep and I have worked together since the Yuva Morcha days. Ettan, we have never worked together in the Yuva Morcha. Has Ettan ever seen my house?” Varier remarked, pointing to the strained connection he felt with the BJP leadership.
Varier, in his post, also alluded to personal grievances, citing “mental difficulties” and emphasising that his self-respect prevented him from continuing his association with the party.
He hinted that a “chain of events” within the BJP had left him feeling disrespected, and despite his frustration, he wished Krishna Kumar the best in the upcoming election. However, Varier made it clear that he could not return to a place where he felt humiliated.
Varier’s departure from the BJP had been the subject of much speculation in recent weeks, with reports suggesting he might join either the CPI(M) or CPI. In his announcement, he criticised the BJP for its “totalitarian tendencies” and lack of internal camaraderie, pointing to the party’s divisive atmosphere.
“I was part of a party that functions like a factory producing hatred every day. I had expected love and care, but that was my mistake,” Varier remarked, reflecting on his disillusionment with the party.
He also highlighted a specific incident where he faced disciplinary action for a social media post stating that Hindus, Muslims, and Christians in Kerala cannot coexist by imposing restrictions on one another. This, according to Varier, marked the beginning of his disenchantment with the BJP.
Varier, who had maintained cordial relationships with Congress leaders despite ideological differences, expressed that he found a more humane and inclusive approach in the Congress.
He formally joined Congress, saying, “I have decided to take membership in the shop of love,” signaling his break from the BJP’s divisive politics.
Varier’s decision to join Congress has created a ripple effect in Palakkad’s political dynamics. His entry serves as a morale booster for the Congress, especially after the recent setback caused by P Sarin’s decision to contest the Palakkad by-election as an independent candidate supported by the Left Democratic Front (LDF).
Sarin’s exit had left a gap in Congress, particularly concerning internal dissension over Rahul Mamkootathil’s candidacy.
Varier’s joining has also diverted attention from these internal issues, providing the Congress with a more united front ahead of the crucial Palakkad bypoll.
The Congress is now in a stronger position to challenge the BJP and the Left, both of which have been vying for dominance in the constituency.
The CPI(M), which had also extended open invitations to Varier, now finds itself on the defensive. While the Left had anticipated that Varier might align with them, his decision to join Congress has prompted a reassessment of their strategy in the region.
For the BJP, Varier’s defection is a significant blow, particularly in the Palakkad constituency where he was a prominent figure. His departure not only weakens the party’s position but also opens the door for revelations about internal party strife, which could affect the party’s image and electoral prospects.
The BJP, now facing potential fragmentation in its vote base, is bracing for a tough contest. Varier’s exit, though a personal decision, is expected to have broader implications in the tight race for Palakkad, where every vote counts.
(Edited by Ananya Rao with inputs from Dileep V Kumar)
