Kerala Assembly polls 2026: Modi spotlight on Sobha as BJP goes all out in Palakkad

National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate and fiery orator Sobha Surendran has gained momentum in Palakkad, buoyed by the backing of the BJP’s national leadership in Palakkad. Prompted by the BJP’s national leadership, she hit the campaign trail in Palakkad far earlier than other party nominees. Early signs of her campaign suggest that, compared to her main rivals, she has carved out a strong image as a serious and formidable contender.

“I shall win by 30,000 votes,” Ms. Surendran declared with confidence. Taking aim at Palakkad’s former MLAs, she accused them of neglecting the constituency’s development and promised voters that, if elected, she would spearhead projects worth ₹700 crore within just three months.

Sign of popularity

She is among the BJP’s leading candidates for the April 9 Assembly election. The loud applause she received when taking the stage at the Palakkad Fort Grounds during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s rally on Sunday afternoon was a testament to her popularity.

Seated beside Mr. Modi, Ms. Surendran was the only BJP candidate on stage with whom he spent time conversing, standing out among the 12 party nominees. In contrast, NDA’s Malampuzha candidate and BJP State vice-president C. Krishnakumar, seated to Mr. Modi’s left, received little attention from the Prime Minister.

Although 12 NDA candidates were on stage, Mr. Modi mentioned only Ms. Surendran repeatedly. In addition to speaking on Naari Shakti, Mr. Modi highlighted her while speaking about women’s empowerment and the BJP’s commitment to uplifting women from ordinary backgrounds

The BJP’s national leadership further signalled its support for Ms. Surendran by deputing Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel to accompany her during her nomination filing last week. Since then, numerous BJP leaders from other States have been actively campaigning in Palakkad, energising party workers campaigning on her behalf.

The BJP campaign in the constituency appears significantly better resourced than those of its rivals, the United Democratic Front (UDF) and Left Democratic Front (LDF). Ms. Surendran’s election office — set up by converting a former Tata Westside showroom into a strikingly decorated hub — underscores the scale and high-voltage nature of the party’s campaign.

“The best is yet to come. Our campaign will take on a new, more vibrant and passionate form in the days ahead,” said Ms. Surendran, hinting at a dramatic escalation in her electioneering.