BJP accuses CPI(M) of playing ''minority politics''

Kochi, Jan 12 (UNI) The BJP today criticised the Kerala government for following a policy of ''appeasement'' on one section of minorities in the state while ''insulting'' the others.

Addressing the inaugural session of the two-day Kerala State Executive Council Meeting here, BJP National Secretary Balbir Punj accused the CPI(M)-led Left Front government of practising religious intolerance.

Stating that the Christian community was feeling threatened by the CPI(M), he said recent statements by the party leaders, including state secretary Pinarayi Vijayan showed that the CPI(M) was setting one minority community against the other.

Mr Vijayan had reportedly criticised the Christian community for refusing to participate in the proposed talks with the government on the issue of changes in the Kerala Education Rules while praising the Muslims for coming forward for talks.

He also criticised the state government for mismanaging even renowned temples such as Sabarimala and diverting funds meant for temple upkeep.

Describing the incidents at Nandigram as a blot on democracy, the BJP leader said such instances of political violence were becoming increasingly common in CPI(M)-ruled states such as West Bengal and Kerala.

BJP President Rajnath Singh would address the meeting tomorrow.

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