Rebel CPI(M) Councillor Kala Raju Helps UDF Seize Power in Koothattukulam Municipality

Speedy Summary

• Rebel CPI(M) councillor Kala Raju helped teh United Democratic Front (UDF) gain control of Koothattukulam municipality in Ernakulam district by defeating former CPI(M) colleague Vijaya Sivan in the chairperson election.
• Ms. Raju secured 13 votes, including those from an self-reliant candidate and UDF’s vice-chairman candidate P.G. sunilkumar, while Ms. Sivan managed 12 votes.
• Following her victory, Ms.Raju rejected LDF accusations of horse trading and claimed the decision was driven by conscience rather than inducements, pledging smooth governance for the short remaining term before local body polls.
• The LDF alleged that a whip had been issued to Ms. Raju to vote for their candidates and announced plans to petition for her disqualification through the Election commission; however, with local body elections approaching soon, this move may hold limited significance.
• Ironically,Ms. Raju is set to use the official chairperson’s vehicle in which she claimed she was abducted by LDF activists earlier this year during high tensions over her voting allegiance in a no-confidence motion brought by UDF against LDF leadership.

Indian Opinion Analysis
Kala Raju’s defection from CPI(M), followed by enabling UDF’s ascension through critical victories at Koothattukulam municipality on Friday afternoon demonstrates shifting allegiances among political entities at local levels ahead upcoming critical bodies previews += weakmoil loysome— broad shout few tribunpliant counters