Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has criticized recent demolitions in Bengaluru, reportedly affecting many Muslim homes, sparking a political exchange with Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar. Vijayan's stance is seen by some as a strategic move by the CPI(M) to regain minority support following electoral setbacks in Kerala. Sources suggest the party aims to address perceived unease within the Muslim community regarding past statements and alliances, while Karnataka officials deem Vijayan's comments politically misleading and lacking understanding of local realities.