The 2026 Assembly elections in Kerala pose a significant challenge for the Congress party. Traditionally a b force in the state, Congress is now facing intense competition from both the CPM and the BJP.
New Delhi: The 2026 Assembly elections in Kerala represent a crucial test for the Congress party. Historically a dominant force in the state, Congress is now facing fierce competition from both the CPM and the BJP. Recent political developments suggest intensified efforts to retain their traditional voter base.
Dual Assault from BJP and CPM
In Kerala, the BJP and CPM are employing distinct strategies to weaken the Congress. While the BJP is attempting to attract Hindu and Christian voters, the CPM is striving to consolidate its dominance among Congress's minority supporters. The CPM's consecutive victory in the 2021 Assembly elections broke the electoral cycle in Kerala.
Now, the party has shifted its strategy, focusing on strengthening its Hindu voter base. The CPM aims to minimize the BJP's influence and prevent their traditional supporters from shifting towards Congress. To this end, the CPM has intensified its outreach to Hindu voters, particularly the Ezhava community.
BJP's Growing Influence
The BJP's victory in the Thrissur constituency during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections signaled its emergence as a major force in Kerala's politics. The BJP is now actively trying to bring the Christian community into its fold. The recent appointment of three Christian leaders as district presidents signals the BJP's attempt to establish its dominance within the Christian community. Furthermore, the CPM's efforts to unite Dalit and backward communities against the BJP's Hindutva agenda pose a challenge for the Congress.
Congress Needs Organizational Strengthening
Congress's biggest challenge lies in resolving internal conflicts and retaining its traditional voter base. Following their 2021 election defeat, Congress needed introspection, but the party doesn't seem to have significantly strengthened its organizational structure. A further blow to Congress in Kerala came when their traditional ally, Kerala Congress (M), aligned with the Left Front.
This has impacted Congress's influence among Christian voters, a segment the BJP is also actively courting. Congress needs to adopt new strategic measures to retain the confidence of this community. Congress's ally, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), also faces new political challenges.
The CPM has made significant efforts to attract the Muslim community, potentially weakening the IUML's position. If the CPM succeeds, it would be a severe setback for Congress.
2026 Assembly Elections: A Crucible for Congress
The 2026 Assembly elections are not just an electoral battle for Congress; it's a fight for survival. Failure to consolidate their traditional voter base risks the loss of their b position in Kerala. Congress needs to overcome internal strife and present a united front in the electoral contest. Moreover, the party must formulate effective policies to strengthen its social base.
Time is running out for Congress in Kerala. Failure to adopt the right strategies will leave them vulnerable in the intensely competitive 2026 Assembly elections. The dual strategies of the BJP and CPM have exacerbated Congress's problems, and the party must now focus on effective strategies to retain its popular support.
