THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: It seems like things are going south between BJP and the Christian factions in Kerala. To begin with, the Christian factions-led national progressive party was formed under the guidance of the BJP. The party gave all ample signs of a new formidable bonding between parishes and the BJP. However, the Manipur violence has fractured this camaraderie. The Catholics are currently not on terms with BJP after many churches were demolished by tribes in Manipur.

The discord didn’t happen overnight. The thumping victory of Congress in Karnataka was a revelation for NPP. The national progressive party was since then uncanny about moving in allegiance with BJP and out of the blue came Manipur. Yesterday, making it more evident, the national progressive party came on harsh against BJP leadership in Manipur and said the attack on churches was preplanned. Bishop Mar Joseph Pamplany who earlier courted controversy for his adherence to BJP has now made a detour. He said BJP is equally responsible for the chaos in Manipur.

The national progressive party is now pondering over the ill effects of teaming up with the BJP in the 2024 elections. Meanwhile, CPM, congress, and smaller factions have come forefront with luring tactics to bring the isolated national progressive party to their camp.