BJP's Rise 'Nationalizes' Kerala Politics, Disrupts Traditional Two-Front Contest
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The BJP's rise in Kerala since 2014 has "nationalized" state politics by introducing national issues and dynamics into local elections. This has disrupted the traditional two-front contest.
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National decisions and issues like Article 370, Ram temple, etc. now drive public discourse in Kerala, unlike in the past. Mainstream and social media focus more on national topics.
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Digitization and social media have led to more pro-BJP outlets in Malayalam, providing alternatives to anti-BJP mainstream media. This boosts BJP's reach.
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Removing language barriers through AI translation of PM Modi's speeches could further boost his popularity in Kerala. His popularity already far outstrips BJP's vote share.
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The LDF and UDF have become essentially identical, forcing voters to choose between them and the BJP-led NDA. Competitive anti-Hindutva politics will likely continue to define the two fronts.