With crucial elections drawing near, the United Democratic Front (UDF) is urgently stepping up its efforts to reconcile with the Nair Service Society (NSS). This influential community organization has recently shown a preference for the Left Democratic Front, particularly due to disagreements over the sensitive Sabarimala issue.
Recently, prominent UDF figures, including Congress Working Committee special invitee Kodikkunnil Suresh, KPCC disciplinary committee chairman Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan, veteran leader P.J. Kurian, and Kerala Congress deputy chairman Francis George, made visits to the NSS headquarters in Perunna. There, they engaged in discussions with NSS General Secretary G. Sukumaran Nair.
When questioned by reporters, Mr. Radhakrishnan characterized his visit as a mere courtesy call, devoid of any political motives. Mr. George offered a similar explanation, stating his visit was a friendly gesture, honoring the strong relationship his late father, former Kerala Congress leader K.M. George, maintained with the NSS.
Despite these overtures, the NSS leadership remains steadfast in its position, seemingly disinclined to view these meetings as genuine attempts by the UDF to mend their strained relationship. According to internal sources, NSS leaders suspect the UDF of exploiting the issue of religious faith for political gain, rather than sincerely upholding the interests of devotees.
“The NSS has consistently voiced legitimate concerns regarding the safeguarding of religious faith,” a senior NSS leader commented. “There is no justification for politicizing this matter. The UDF should clearly state its stance on these issues before seeking meetings at the NSS headquarters.”
Concurrently, a growing wave of dissent is emerging within certain segments of the NSS, challenging the current approach taken by Mr. Nair. Members have demonstrated their disapproval by organizing rallies in Neyyattinkara, Pathanamthitta, and Chengannur. Furthermore, banners explicitly labeling Mr. Nair as a ‘traitor’ have been displayed outside numerous NSS Karayogam offices, highlighting the internal friction.