The BJP and its ideological parent, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), are set to hold a crucial meeting in Kerala’s Palakkad.
This gathering, scheduled from August 31 to September 2, will review the recent Lok Sabha election outcomes among other agenda items.
Palakkad as a location holds particular importance as the BJP secured its first-ever Lok Sabha seat in Kerala, reflecting the party's strategic focus on southern India during the elections. Actor-politician Suresh Gopi’s victory in Thrissur, with a margin of over 74,000 votes, was notable in the most recent Lok Sabha Elections.
Kerala hosts the highest number of RSS shakhas (local units), highlighting the state’s importance to the organization. Despite gains in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala, the BJP’s overall southern tally remained stagnant at 29 seats, the same as in 2019, due to losses in Karnataka.
The meeting will focus on analyzing the Lok Sabha election performance and strategizing for future gains. Efforts to bolster the party’s presence in southern India will be a primary discussion point. The coordination meeting aims to send a message of resilience in Kerala.
The BJP is preparing to select a new party president as JP Nadda returns to the Union Cabinet. Discussions may include addressing concerns about perceived arrogance among some BJP leaders, which is believed to have contributed to the party's reduced seats.
This coordination meeting between the BJP and RSS is viewed as a strategic move to reinforce their influence in Kerala and the broader southern region, in light of the recent electoral outcomes and internal party dynamics.