‘Double-engine government’ essential for Kerala’s growth, says Union Minister Suresh Gopi

Union Minister Suresh Gopi on Friday said a “double-engine government” with the BJP in power both at the Centre and in Kerala is essential for the state’s development, highlighting concerns over project allocations and governance.

Speaking to reporters after visiting Kollam Junction railway station along with MP N K Premachandran to review the preservation of heritage buildings, Gopi said people should consider the benefits experienced by states with BJP governments at both levels. He cited Tamil Nadu as an exception , noting that the state continues to secure projects and development despite being ruled by a rival party.

“For Kerala’s development, there should either be a BJP government or a situation where the BJP can influence governance,” the Thrissur MP said. He added that the party should draw lessons from its recent victory in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation and replicate the approach in the upcoming Assembly elections.

Referring to a forensic laboratory project sanctioned by the Centre, Gopi said it was originally proposed for Thrissur but shifted to Thiruvananthapuram after the state government cited lack of land. “The Centre had asked for 25 acres in Thrissur, where another major project will now come up,” he said, alleging that several development initiatives were being moved out of the district. “These issues should be brought to the notice of the people. For development, every place should be included,” he added.

Gopi also stressed the broader implication of his statement, explaining that a “double-engine government” is aimed at better coordination between the Centre and the state , faster implementation of projects, and more efficient delivery of welfare schemes.

On the heritage front, Gopi said he would meet Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to discuss preserving Kollam railway station’s British-era structures and using them for tourism. He noted that some old buildings had already been removed, which could have been maintained. Premachandran said the renovation of the station is expected to be completed on schedule and suggested converting old buildings into a railway museum.

Currently, the BJP has no MLAs in the Kerala Assembly, and Gopi is the party’s sole Lok Sabha MP from the state . Analysts say statements promoting a “double-engine government” may shape voter perceptions, put pressure on the state government, and influence debates on project allocation and governance in the run-up to the Assembly elections.