Across Kochi, one could see mosques, churches, and temples in close proximity. Something similar could be seen even in Thiruvanthanapuram. Within India, Kerala itself is unique in terms of the relatively peaceful coexistence of different faiths. Locals proudly point out how there have been no “communal” riots here since the Moplah uprising of 1923. No doubt, in nearby coastal Karnataka, hostilities between radical Hindu and Muslim outfits are distressingly frequent. Not in God’s Own Country. Or, not yet.
Traditional alliances and relationships are breaking down or shifting shape, and new vote banks are being sought with ferocity. Jyothi Kumar is a senior journalist based in Thrissur and enjoys delving into data to analyse political trends in his state and around the world. He largely agrees with the opinion polls conducted by C Voter and other credible agencies that suggest yet another sweep for the UDF in Kerala in 2024. But he has identified a change that will have future…