Though BJP-RSS cadres remain publicly muted, the perceived disillusionment could shadow a campaign that depends heavily on committed grassroots workers.
A former CEO of Emaar Infrastructure in Dubai, Varghese, returned to Kerala after Oommen Chandy’s demise and has since become active in local politics.
In Kunnathunad, widely regarded as the party’s stronghold, Babu Divakaran, a former Congress leader and ex-chairman of Adoor Municipality, will contest under the party’s Jackfruit symbol.