Reflections on the Role of Christians in Chengannur and the BJP vs. LDF and UDF Tussle
Introduction
The recent discussions surrounding the role of Christians in Chengannur, particularly whether they should vote for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to teach lessons to the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and United Democratic Front (UDF), have sparked intense debates and reflections. This article aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the historical and contemporary context surrounding this issue, focusing on the implications of Christian participation in Indian politics.
The Role of Christians in Politics
Christians have always played a significant role in Indian politics, with a diverse range of priests, educators, and activists contributing to the socio-political landscape of the country. The Christian community in particular, residing in towns like Chengannur, has a rich history of engagement with political issues. Chengannur, a Christian-majority town in Kerala, has seen numerous instances of religious harmony and community activism.
Historical Context
It is crucial to understand the historical context to grasp the current debates. The concern often stems from the catastrophic example of ISIS in the Middle East, where Christians were among the first to be targeted and slaughtered. This has led many to believe that aligning with extremist ideologies can be disastrous for communities. In contrast, the relationship between Hindus and Christians in India has often been portrayed as one of mutual respect and coexistence, despite some historical instances of brutality.
Christians in India and Their Contribution
The history of Christians in India is marked by periods of contribution and protection. Historically, Christians in India have been strongly associated with social reform movements, notably figures like St. Thomas, who was one of the apostles to India, and later figures like St. Francis Xavier and St. Thomas Chptune. More recently, the Christian community has played a significant role in education, healthcare, and social development.
The BJP and Local Political Dynamics
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been a dominant force in national politics and has shown increasing presence in state-level politics, including in Kerala. The BJP's policies and ideologies, particularly its nationalist stance, have made it a controversial figure in some parts of the country. The LDF and UDF, and their predecessors, have long dominated Kerala's politics, with the UDF having a stronger Christian following, particularly in southern Kerala where Chengannur is located.
Role of Christians in Chengannur
The Christian community in Chengannur has a unique place in the local political scenario. While some members may be inclined towards the UDF and other left-wing parties due to historical ties and social structures, others see the BJP as a vehicle for change and progress. The idea of voting for the BJP to 'teach a lesson' to the LDF and UDF is not unique to Christians but a broader strategy employed by various segments of the population to assert their political beliefs.
Religious Harmony and Coexistence
The key to understanding the current situation lies in the historically well-documented fact that Hindus and Christians in India, especially in regions like Kerala, have practiced a remarkable degree of religious harmony and coexistence. Unlike regions where religious extremism has led to violence, the relationship between these communities in Kerala is characterized by dialogue and mutual respect. This peaceful coexistence is often attributed to the strong tradition of interfaith dialogue and cooperation.
Conclusion
The choice of whether to vote for the BJP or any other party is a deeply personal and complex decision. For Christians in Chengannur and elsewhere, this decision is shaped by a variety of factors including personal beliefs, historical experiences, and the hope for a better future. The BJP may present itself as a platform for change, but it is ultimately up to individual voters to decide whether this change aligns with their values and aspirations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do some Christians in Chengannur support the BJP?
A: Some Christians see the BJP as a way to challenge the dominance of leftist parties and represent their interests more effectively.
Q: Is there historical animosity between Hindus and Christians in India?
A: Historically, the relationship between Hindus and Christians in India has been characterized by periods of mutual respect and coexistence, though there have been instances of tension and conflict.
Q: How does the Christian community in Kerala typically vote?
A: Historically, many Christian voters in regions like Chengannur have supported the UDF and left-wing parties due to their strong ideological leanings, but this is not uniform and varies based on individual beliefs and political strategies.