Rajeev Chandrasekhar, a businessman and former Union Minister, has been appointed as the new president of the BJP’s Kerala unit, in a decision reportedly made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. This strategic move is aimed at reshaping the BJP’s presence in Kerala and positioning it as a strong, development-focused alternative to the CPI(M)-led LDF and the Congress-led UDF. His appointment will be officially announced at the BJP state council meeting in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday.
Chandrasekhar, who was initially reluctant to take on the role, citing his lack of political experience, was eventually persuaded by the party leadership. His hesitation, sources suggest, stemmed more from his busy business commitments than from any lack of political knowledge. Just hours before he was scheduled to travel abroad for an international AI conference in Australia, he was instructed to file his nomination for the position. He submitted his papers later that evening after a core committee meeting in Thiruvananthapuram, attended by key BJP leaders such as K Surendran, Suresh Gopi, George Kurian, V Muraleedharan, PK Krishnadas, and Kummanam Rajasekharan.
Chandrasekhar’s appointment signals the BJP’s effort to challenge the CPM’s dominance in Kerala by promoting a development-centric political agenda. His leadership is expected to unite the state unit, addressing internal conflicts and providing a fresh direction for the party. The new role for the outgoing president, K Surendran, is expected to be announced in the coming days. (Also read: Finance Minister Slams Tamil Nadu for Dropping Rupee Symbol – A Bold Move or Dangerous Message?)
Chandrasekhar’s political journey took a significant turn in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, where he made a strong challenge against Congress leader Shashi Tharoor in Thiruvananthapuram, winning the support of many young voters. Known for his “no-nonsense, development-focused” approach, he is seen as a true representative of Prime Minister Modi’s vision.
Chandrasekhar, who entered politics in 2006, has served three terms in the Rajya Sabha representing Karnataka. Born in Ahmedabad to Air Commodore MK Chandrasekhar and Vall, he has ancestral roots in Palakkad. He is also the vice-chairman of the NDA’s Kerala unit.
This shift in leadership also reflects the BJP’s preference for full-time politicians over part-time figures, as seen with actor-politician Suresh Gopi, who was made a Union minister while continuing his acting career as the MP from Thrissur.
On Monday, Chandrasekhar formally assumed office as the BJP’s Kerala president, declaring his mission to bring the NDA to power in the state. Addressing party workers, he expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him and pledged to stay in the role until his goal of leading the party to victory is achieved. He thanked Prime Minister Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP national president JP Nadda, and other leaders for their confidence in him, while also acknowledging the contributions of former state presidents and party workers.
Chandrasekhar also addressed Kerala’s stagnant development, questioning the state’s reliance on debt and the lack of new initiatives. He urged the state to create opportunities for youth, attract investment, and create jobs. “Kerala’s development has stalled. Without opportunities, our youth will leave. We need a Kerala that attracts investment and creates employment,” he emphasized.
During the meeting, BJP’s central observer Pralhad Joshi made the official announcement. Chandrasekhar was the only nominee for the top post, having submitted his nomination papers the previous day. K Surendran formally handed over the party flag to Chandrasekhar, and in his address, he urged party workers to spread the message of development across the state.
Concluding his speech with a quote from social reformer Sree Narayana Guru, “Progress through education, strength through organisation, and enrichment through effort,” Chandrasekhar highlighted the BJP’s growing influence in Kerala and the party’s commitment to workers. Surendran, the outgoing president, praised Chandrasekhar’s experience and expertise, asserting that his leadership would accelerate the BJP’s growth in the state.
At 60, Chandrasekhar brings over two decades of political experience. He has served as the Union Minister of State for Electronics and IT, Skill Development, and Jal Shakti. He has been a Rajya Sabha MP from Karnataka for three terms and has also served as the BJP’s national spokesperson. His significant experience, combined with his recent involvement in Kerala politics, makes him a strong leader for the state unit.
Although he contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Thiruvananthapuram, Chandrasekhar lost to Shashi Tharoor by 16,077 votes. Born in Ahmedabad to Keralite parents, his family roots lie in Thrissur, and his father-in-law, TPG Nambiar, is the founder of the BPL Group.
Chandrasekhar’s leadership marks the beginning of a new chapter for the BJP in Kerala, with the party aiming for unprecedented growth and success under his guidance.