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Betrayal of majority? UDF accused of sidelining Ezhava community in cabinet race

Friday 08 May, 2026 | 10:51 PM READ MALAYALAM VERSION

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The United Democratic Front (UDF) is embroiled in a burgeoning controversy following reports of a deliberate attempt to restrict the Ezhava community's representation in the upcoming state cabinet. Despite boasting nine newly elected MLAs, sources indicate the community’s share may be whittled down to just two ministerial berths.

The move is being viewed as a concession to aggressive lobbying by influential religious and denominational groups seeking to consolidate their own power within the new administration. Critics argue that by yielding to these external pressures, the UDF leadership is alienating the state’s largest Hindu demographic, which accounts for nearly 27% of Kerala’s population.

Proportional disparity

Community advocates point out a stark disparity between population metrics and political representation. With the Ezhava population estimated at nearly one crore, leaders argue the community is numerically entitled to at least six cabinet spots. Historical data supports this demand, showing that previous governments—both LDF and UDF—regularly appointed between four and nine ministers from the community.

Historical Context of Sidelining

The current situation mirrors the 2011 Oommen Chandy administration, which saw Ezhava representation hit a record low of two ministers. This decline was largely blamed on "seat-trimming" tactics where candidates were denied winnable constituencies. While the Congress fielded 17 candidates from the community in the most recent election, and nine secured victories, the leadership's reported plan to bypass senior names like Bindu Krishna and M. Liju in favour of a downsized representation has sparked significant internal friction.

As the UDF finalises its cabinet list, the burgeoning discontent within this key vote bank poses a significant challenge to the coalition’s stability and its image as an inclusive political front.

Ezhava Ministerial representation since 1991: