Political Showdown in Kerala: Thiruvananthapuram Mayor Arya Rajendran's Election Withdrawal Sparks BJP-CPI(M) Controversy

Thiruvananthapuram Mayor Arya Rajendran's decision to withdraw from the upcoming municipal corporation elections has sparked a heated political debate between the BJP and CPI(M) in Kerala. BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar claimed the CPI(M) removed her from contention because of the BJP's development-focused campaign, stating, "They are afraid. That's why Arya is not contesting."

CPI(M) state secretary MV Govindan firmly rejected this assertion, explaining that Arya's withdrawal had strategic reasons. He clarified that even if she contested and won, party arrangements would limit her to becoming deputy mayor.

In her response to BJP allegations, Arya Rajendran emphasized that she never entered politics seeking positions or titles. She confidently stated that she has "done more than what Rajeev Chandrasekhar has achieved" and dismissed their criticism as merely "their own frustration expressed in their own style."

Party sources indicate that Arya's political future might be relocated to Kozhikode district, where her husband, Balussery MLA KM Sachin Dev, resides. While managing her responsibilities as mayor, Arya has been living in Thiruvananthapuram with their child, creating a challenging dual-location family situation.

This split family arrangement, combined with party-level strategic planning, has prompted serious consideration about shifting her political activities to Kozhikode. CPI(M) officials in Kozhikode confirmed to NDTV that the party is actively exploring this possibility.

Arya firmly denied stepping away from the elections due to controversies. Speaking to media representatives, she defended the party's prerogative to determine candidacies, stating, "No one should get opportunities forever. I have worked to the best of my ability in the position the party entrusted me with." She added that contesting for a ward seat would restrict her political work to a limited area.

When questioned about potentially running for the state Assembly in the future, Arya maintained it was premature to comment. She also strongly condemned personal attacks against her, arguing that labeling her as "adamant" or accusing her of "back-seat driving" reflected a mindset unwilling to accept women in leadership positions.