Former CPI(M) MLA S Rajendran to Join BJP; Will Accept Membership from Rajeev Chandrasekhar Today

What happened: Former CPI(M) leader S Rajendran is set to formally join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) today, accepting membership from BJP Kerala state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar.

Why it matters now: The move marks a significant political shift ahead of the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections, weakening the Communist Party’s hold in traditional strongholds.

What changes for people: Rajendran’s entry strengthens the BJP’s political footprint in Kerala, especially in Idukki and high-range constituencies.

Who is affected: Kerala’s political landscape, voters in Idukki region, BJP and CPI(M) leaderships and cadres.

Political defection formalised in Thiruvananthapuram

S Rajendran, a three-time MLA from the Devikulam constituency and former CPI(M) legislator, is expected to officially join the BJP today at the party’s state office in Thiruvananthapuram, where Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the BJP’s incumbent Kerala state president, will present his membership card.