Thiruvananthpuram: With the Sangh Parivar scaling up its agitation catching even cops by surprise in Sabarimala, the LDF leadership has no other option but to intensify its campaign to mobilize public opinion.
Knowing well that it is pitted against a more organised Sangh Parivar leadership and their belligerent cadres, the belief is that LDF will have to devise a counter strategy to check the saffron surge ahead of mandala makara vilakku season. A section of leaders believe that its high time a more aggressive strategy is adopted taking lessons from the violent incidents that unfolded during thulamasa puja and atta visheashal puja.
However, political observers view the whole issue as a political gamble of LDF. “The BJPs’ gain will be mainly Congress’ loss. Left believes the strident position of BJP and weakening of Congress would result in minority consolidation in its favour,” said Dr J. Prabhash, political analyst. The Left is also consciously building the savarna avarna narrative.
“With Brahmins and NSS going along with the BJP-RSS view, there is a possibility of counter consolidation of OBC and Dalit sections in favour of LDF. The decision to appoint OBC and Dalit priests has sent positive signals to these sections,” he added.
But many say the government’s decision was hasty. It helped right wing forces to storm the temple premises.
“When Left takes a decision, it should be careful about the outcome. Whether your purpose is good or bad, the end result is more important. Today a person like Valsan Thilenkery with criminal background is calling shots,” said CMP leader C.P. John.
He said Sabarimala being a prominent subaltern secular shrine, all efforts should be made to protect it. “The government's actions are creating space for the right wing forces. It failed to rein in Sangh Parivar and also to comply with the SC verdict,” John added.
