Prominent Left Face Regi Lukas Joins BJP, Says CPI(M)’s Deteriorating Ideology Not Good for Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram, January 9, 2026: In a significant political shift, well-known Left supporter and frequent TV debate participant Regi Lukas formally joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday. He was welcomed at the state BJP headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram by Kerala state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar.

Citing ‘Deteriorating Ideology’ of the Left
Regi Lukas, who has actively supported Left ideology for the past 13 years through debates, articles, and political discussions, said he has realized that the “deteriorating ideas” of the Left and the CPI(M) are not beneficial for Kerala’s future.

He expressed concern that if outdated Leftist policies continue, Kerala risks turning into “a care home for the elderly”, stifling development and progress. Lukas said he was influenced by BJP’s emphasis on development and governance during recent visits to northern India, where he observed rapid progress and infrastructural growth.

Changing Perception of BJP
Lukas added that while BJP has often been labeled as ‘communal’, recent developments, including the Left Front’s focus on communal divides, have disappointed many, including himself. He emphasized that his future words and actions will now reflect support for BJP.

CPI(M) Responds
CPI(M) senior leader K. Anilkumar clarified that Regi Lukas was never a formal member of the party and was not authorized to represent the party in TV debates. He said, “If an individual publicly expresses support for the Left, we cannot prevent them. Their personal views do not reflect party ideology.”

Regi Lukas joins BJP at a time when the party is strategically working to strengthen ties with Kerala’s Christian community, traditionally a stronghold of the United Democratic Front (UDF) and constituting about 20% of the state’s population.