In a significant political development, Rajeev Chandrasekhar officially assumed charge as the Kerala State BJP president at the party’s State Council meeting in Thiruvananthapuram on March 24, 2025. His appointment, announced by BJP’s central observer and Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, was met with enthusiastic support from party workers. The outgoing president, K. Surendran, handed over the party flag in a symbolic transition of leadership.
Chandrasekhar’s Mission: NDA Government in Kerala
After taking over, Rajeev Chandrasekhar outlined his clear mission: to establish an NDA government in Kerala. Emphasizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s model of development and performance-based governance, Chandrasekhar said, “Kerala needs to move from false promises to real investments and jobs. I will only return after completing this mission.” He also stressed the importance of teamwork to carry this vision of development into every household in the state.
Addressing Criticism and Challenges
K. Surendran, the outgoing president, dismissed doubts over Chandrasekhar's political and organizational experience, highlighting his active involvement in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Thiruvananthapuram. Surendran also pointed out that BJP in Kerala is evolving rapidly, with increased representation of women, Christians, and Scheduled Caste leaders across party positions.
A Clear Path for BJP’s Growth in Kerala
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi expressed confidence in Chandrasekhar’s strategic roadmap for expanding the BJP's presence in Kerala. He also criticized the current LDF government, accusing it of financial mismanagement, corruption, and law-and-order failures. Joshi condemned the habit of blaming the central government for state-level inefficiencies, especially regarding payments to ASHAs and other civic workers.
What’s Next for BJP in Kerala?
Prakash Javadekar, the party's Kerala in-charge, reassured party members that all deserving leaders, including the former president Surendran, will be assigned crucial roles in the party’s next phase of growth. With upcoming local body elections in 2025 and Assembly elections in 2026, Rajeev Chandrasekhar’s leadership is set to play a pivotal role in BJP's future in Kerala.