Thiruvananthapuram: In a surprise move, the BJP high command has given the baton of the leadership of its Kerala unit to former Union Minister and businessman Rajeev Chandrasekharan, popularly known as RC. He will be the first leader who will not carry the RSS baggage or even an important Karyakarta badge. But to his credit, he did well in the Lok Sabha polls giving Shashi Tharoor a run for his money.
About The Decision
The cap fell on RC’s head when a meeting of top leaders in Delhi, headed by BJP central observer Prahlad Joshi decided to roll a new dice in God’s Own Country.
Despite his initial reluctance, it is reported that Home Minister Amit Shah requested his presence at Sunday’s meeting of BJP in Thiruvananthapuram.
With former technocrat-turned-politician RC at the helm, the BJP is trying to woo the growing number of young voters and also secure the support of the upper-caste Hindu vote base, traditionally aligned with the Congress.
RC woefully lacks extensive grassroots political experience and sources said the may function only as a figurehead, focusing on the broader strategic vision, especially when Kerala is trying to attract new ventures with active support from the Centre.
An organizing secretary is expected to handle the day-to-day operations. Sources told the media that A Jayakumar, from the RSS is the front-runner for the post. He has been asked to be in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday.
Rajeev Chandrasekhar’s name will be formally announced on Monday after the poll observer opens the ballot box which will have only one name.
Soft-spoken RC will succeed K. Surendran, who served as president for five years, including two years as interim president and three years in a full-term capacity.
