KOCHI: Following Uma Thomas’ historic victory, BJP leader K Surendran has reacted to the BJP’s defeat in Thrikkakkara.

“This is the biggest setback for the state government. A strong warning for the government’s policy of communal oppression and authoritarian tendencies has reflected in Thrikkakkara. Mainly some factors have influenced the election. Firstly, there was a strong sympathy wave in favour of Uma Thomas. Secondly, strong opposition towards the government’s authoritarian activities. Providing support for religious-terrorist organizations, including the Popular Front, has provoked strong protests from the people. That protest is what we saw in Thrikkakkara. There was strong sentiments against the LDF, especially among the Hindu and Christian communities”, Surendran said.

“The UDF’s victory shows that the government's indifference to the developments in Alappuzha and the atrocities of the Popular Front have led to a massive polarization. It was a very weak constituency for the BJP. Strong activities were conducted. Votes were almost retained. The government should learn their lesson from this at least. This election is a setback to the government’s activities, including laying stones and conducting the survey on the K-Rail issue, without the permission of the central government”, he added.