In a move that has stirred considerable discussion in Kerala's political circles, Union Home Minister Amit Shah responded to a letter from CPI(M) MP John Brittas in Malayalam. This is believed to be the first instance of a Union Home Minister officially replying in the regional language. The letter, dated November 14, acknowledges Brittas' concerns regarding a notification about Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) registration.
Brittas' original letter, dated October 22, addressed the Ministry's notification that allows chargesheeting as grounds for cancelling OCI registration. The MP argued that this measure could violate due process and undermine natural justice, potentially exposing OCI cardholders to arbitrary action without proper judicial findings. He stressed that any action against OCI cardholders should be based on judicial determination, not merely procedural steps in criminal investigations. Shah's reply acknowledged receipt of Brittas' letter but did not delve into the details of the concerns raised.
The response gains significance as Kerala gears up for local body elections in December 2025, ahead of the assembly elections. The State Election Commission has announced that local body polls will be held in two phases on December 9 and 11, with counting on December 13. These elections are viewed as a crucial test for the ruling LDF (Left Democratic Front), as well as the Congress and BJP, who are seeking to expand their influence in the state.
The BJP has been working to increase its footprint in Kerala, having secured its first-ever Lok Sabha seat in the state in 2024. The party aims to present itself as a viable alternative to both the Left and the UDF (United Democratic Front). The local body election results are expected to significantly shape the political strategies of all three major blocs in the lead-up to the assembly elections.
Brittas, known for his advocacy of linguistic parity in Parliament, has previously called for translation devices to assist MPs struggling with lengthy Hindi speeches. He maintains that true legislative participation requires equal access to language. Some observers suggest that Shah's gesture of replying in Malayalam is a calculated political move, keeping in mind the upcoming elections in the South. Others see it as part of a broader effort to present a more inclusive image.
In the 2020 local body elections, the CPI(M)-led LDF gained an upper hand over the Congress-led UDF. The LDF currently governs 673 local bodies, while the Congress-led UDF controls 468 and the BJP-led NDA holds 25. The LDF also leads five of the state's six corporations. These local body polls are often seen as indicators of voter sentiment, with past results influencing the outcomes of subsequent assembly elections.
While Brittas acknowledges the significance of Shah's gesture, he emphasizes that the constitutional concerns regarding the OCI notification remain unresolved. The exchange of letters, particularly the language used, has introduced a new dimension to political discussions in Kerala, where language and identity are important factors. The incident underscores the complex interplay between national politics and regional sentiments as Kerala approaches a crucial election cycle.
