Rift Erupts in Kasaragod BJP as M. L. Ashwini Clashes With K. Surendran

Kasaragod: A rift has emerged within BJP leadership in Kasaragod district, with district president M L Ashwini raising strong objections against senior party leader K Surendran. During a district core committee meeting, Ashwini demanded that she be relieved from the responsibility of constituency in-charge for Manjeswaram, stating that Surendran was not informing her about party programs being conducted there.

According to party sources, a section within the BJP has accused Surendran of including only his close supporters in organisational activities. Leaders N Madhu and P Ramesan, who are in charge of the Manjeswaram and Kumbala areas and are considered supporters of Ashwini, are also expected to stay away from upcoming programs. Several Mandalam presidents have reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with the current situation.

The differences have widened into a clear divide between the Ashwini and Surendran factions within the district unit. Although attempts were made to resolve the dispute through consensus talks, the discussions failed to produce a settlement.

The conflict is also linked to candidate selection for the upcoming elections. While Ashwini’s name had been considered in the initial phase as a possible candidate from Manjeswaram, Surendran is reportedly seeking the same seat for himself. The disagreement has intensified existing differences within the Kasaragod BJP over the choice of candidate for the constituency.