An honour for Kerala too, says Sadanandan

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader C. Sadanandan, 61, a retired teacher from Kannur and a survivor of brutal political attack in the 1990s, has been nominated to the Rajya Sabha under Article 80(3) of the Constitution, which allows the President to nominate individuals with expertise in education, social service, and other key sectors.

Mr. Sadanandan told mediapersons in Kannur on Sunday that the proposal was part of the BJP’s efforts to implement its slogan of a “developed Kerala”. “The party has high hopes for Kerala. This proposal is a step towards fulfilling those hopes,” he said, describing it as not only a personal honour but also a recognition for the State. He said the BJP Central leadership had always bestowed “special attention” on Kerala regardless of its electoral success in the State.

Modi’s call

Mr. Sadanandan said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had called him two days ago. “He said the party would delegate me a task. I found out about it only this morning,” he added.

He said the BJP’s Central approach was not hindered by electoral losses in Kerala. “That is not seen as a big issue or obstacle. Policies are being formulated for Kerala’s development,” he said.

Mr. Sadanandan, a native of Perincheri, was a teacher at Sree Durga Vilasam Higher Secondary School in Thrissur. He began his teaching career at Kuzhikkal Lower Primary School and was also as subeditor of Janmabhoomi and an announcer at All India Radio. His social engagements began at the age of 17 through Nehru Yuva Kendra and continued through organisations such as Bharatiya Vichara Kendra and Sri Parvathi Jana Seva Samithi. He also served as the State president of the Desiya Adhyapaka Parishad and Chief Editor of Desiya Adhyapaka Vartha for 15 years.

Double amputee

At the age of 30, Mr. Sadanandan underwent double amputation below the knees, following an attack allegedly perpetrated by CPI(M) workers in 1994. He continues to remain active in public life using prosthetic limbs.

Mr. Sadanandan’s elevation to the Raja Sabha is seen within BJP circle as a strategic move to energise the party base in Kerala while honouring a lifetime of ideological commitment and public service.