Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday strongly denounced Maharashtra BJP minister Nitesh Rane?s recent remarks referring to Kerala as ?Mini Pakistan.? Calling the statement ?provocative and deplorable,? Vijayan accused the Sangh Parivar of resorting to divisive narratives to isolate regions where they lack political influence.

?The statement by Maharashtra BJP Minister Nitesh Rane, labelling Kerala as 'Mini Pakistan,' is deeply provocative and deplorable. It reflects the fundamental approach of the Sangh Parivar towards Kerala. The Sangh Parivar believes they can marginalize and isolate regions where they struggle to establish influence through hate campaigns and divisive narratives. Rane's statement is a direct example of this strategy,? Vijayan posted on X (formerly Twitter).

The Kerala CM also criticized the central government for not addressing the minister?s comments, terming them a violation of constitutional values. ?A minister who makes such hate-filled remarks is unfit to hold office. It is astonishing that the leadership of the ruling party at the Centre has chosen not to react to this blatant violation of constitutional values and the minister's oath of office,? Vijayan added.

BJP?s Rajeev Chandrasekhar Reacts

While Vijayan?s criticism garnered widespread attention, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar also weighed in, taking a different stance. Chandrasekhar condemned the remark, stating, ?I oppose any attempt by anyone to tarnish the name and image of my state Kerala.? However, he used the opportunity to criticize the Kerala government, alleging lawlessness and mismanagement in the state.

Chandrasekhar?s statement reflects a nuanced opposition within the BJP, distancing himself from Rane?s remarks while simultaneously targeting the Kerala government.

The Broader Context

This episode highlights the ongoing tensions between the BJP and Kerala?s ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) government. Nitesh Rane?s remarks have drawn criticism not just from political opponents but also from some within his party, raising questions about the rhetoric used in political discourse.