How will BJP rule Kerala? K Surendran spills beans on '35 seats' theory

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Former BJP state chief K Surendran’s remark that NDA would storm to power in Kerala if the party were to get 35 seats turned into a topic of discussion in no time. Even amidst criticism and jeering from political opponents over the statement, Surendran is in no mood to disown it. The BJP leader has now explained more about this controversial statement.

“With just four seats, we are ruling Mattathur. Why not apply a similar theory if we manage to win 35 seats in the assembly elections?” Surendran made this statement in the presence of KPCC President Sunny Joseph at the literary festival held in Thiruvananthapuram.

The move in Mattathur was similar to the surprising political drama in northern India that goes by the moniker 'Operation Lotus'. The four BJP members managed to convince resigned Congress members to vote in favour of Congress rebel Tesi Jose Kallarakkal, who was later elected as Mattathur Panchayat President.

The differences of opinion in Congress over the selection of candidates led to the coup. Later, the Congress expelled the DCC General Secretary and the Mandal President.