Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: Minorities who make up around 47 per cent of Kerala’s population remain a decisive factor in determining the poll outcomes in a region long known for its bipolar politics.
The Congress’ long-standing association with the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), a predominantly Muslim political outfit, has ensured a significant number of Muslim votes are polled in favour of the United Democratic Front, according to a media report.
Splinter groups The CPI (M)-led LDF has had to mostly satisfy itself with the support of splinter Muslims groups and rebels from the League.
The Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama and its affiliates have traditionally leaned towards the UDF and many within various Mujahid groups are also expected to back it. The Welfare Party of India, the political wing of Jamaat-e-Islami, has extended its support to the UDF.
The BJP has been trying to win the confidence of sections of the Christian community, which is 18% of the population. Once seen as a cohesive block, the Christian vote today is far more fragmented, yet no less decisive.
The politics surrounding the Sabarimala temple continues to shape Kerala’s electoral landscape. The alleged gold theft and the ongoing court proceedings related to the entry of women of all ages have once again brought the issue back into focus.
