Daijiworld Media Network - Kottayam
Kottayam, Jul 21: India's youngest municipal chairperson, Diya Binu Pulikkakandam, was removed from office on Tuesday after a no-confidence motion was passed against her in the Pala Municipality, ending the UDF-backed administration amid escalating factionalism within the Congress.
The motion was approved unanimously by all 17 councillors present during the meeting of the 26-member municipal council. Those supporting the motion included 12 Left Democratic Front (LDF) councillors, four Congress councillors who defied the party whip, and Independent Vice-Chairperson Maya Rahul.
With no councillor voting against the motion, the United Democratic Front (UDF) lost its majority, bringing the municipal administration to an abrupt end.
The development followed weeks of political turmoil within the UDF, where differences between the Congress and the independent group led by the 21-year-old chairperson had steadily widened.
The Congress had gradually withdrawn its backing for Diya Binu's faction, with several party councillors refusing to continue the alliance. Sensing the growing divisions within the ruling coalition, the LDF moved the no-confidence motion, which ultimately succeeded with the support of the dissenting Congress members.
Ahead of the vote, the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) had issued a whip directing its councillors to refrain from any action that could topple the UDF administration. Despite the directive, four Congress councillors attended the meeting and voted in favour of the motion.
Following the outcome, district UDF leaders expressed disappointment over the defiance of the party whip and indicated that disciplinary proceedings would be initiated against the rebel councillors.
Before the political crisis unfolded, the UDF administration enjoyed the support of 14 councillors, including members of the Pulikkakandam family, Congress, Kerala Congress (Joseph) and independent representatives. However, the alliance weakened after the Congress formally withdrew support to Diya Binu's independent group, paving the way for the collapse of the administration.
Responding to the result, Diya Binu said she accepted the verdict of the council and respected the democratic process.
She also maintained that throughout her tenure, no allegations of corruption, misuse of public funds, bribery, favouritism or any other illegal activity had been levelled against her.
Emphasising that public service extends beyond holding office, Diya Binu said values are more important than power and affirmed that she would continue serving the people of Pala in her capacity as an elected councillor.