BJP president Amit Shah said on Sunday that the CPI(M)’s violence against Sangh activists has only helped the BJP gain further inroads in Kerala.

“Whenever Left parties formed the government in the state, there has been a rise in violence against Sangh activists,” Shah said, speaking after laying the foundation stone for a new party office here.

Pointing out that violence against BJP activists has been particularly severe in Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s home district of Kannur, Shah said, “We will explore all legal options to ensure that the killers of BJP workers face the harshest punishment.”

Several top BJP leaders in the state, including state unit chief Kummanam Rajasekharan and MLA O Rajagopal, attended the function.

Shah is on a three-day visit to the state to discuss strategies for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. He has embarked on a 110-day tour across the nation.

His visit comes amid severe protests against the Centre’s ban to sell cattle marked for slaughter at livestock markets.

The BJP chief cancelled an interaction with the media.

He is also focused on mobilising support among Dalits and minorities.  On Friday, Shah met church leaders of the state.