Kozhikode: BJP state president K Surendran has expressed his willingness to resign, citing the party’s defeat in Palakkad as the primary reason. However, Surendran’s camp claims that the central leadership, including BJP National President J.P. Nadda and General Secretary B.L. Santosh, has advised against his resignation.
At the same time, Surendran has raised serious allegations against Shobha Surendran, accusing her and 18 municipal councilors supporting her of undermining the party’s chances of victory. He alleged that votes were deliberately diverted in the Kannadi area under the leadership of Shobha Surendran’s driver. Additionally, Surendran informed the central leadership that councilors Smithesh Meenakshi, Divya, and Sabu worked against the BJP candidate.
One of the key points of contention was the municipal chairperson’s refusal to reduce the user fee for traders from ₹300 to ₹100. Surendran has demanded an inquiry into the matter under the supervision of a co-prabhari (co-in-charge).
The controversy follows the BJP’s heavy loss in the A+ constituency in Palakkad, with criticism mounting against the leadership. The replacement of Shobha Surendran, who secured 40,000 votes in 2016, with C. Krishnakumar, who managed only 37,000 votes, has been heavily criticized. Many believe this decision impacted the party’s performance.
Surendran’s announcement of his willingness to step down comes amidst this growing dissent within the party.
