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

Nov 14, 2025 01:29 pm CST

Thiruvananthapuram Mayor Arya Rajendran's decision to not contest in upcoming municipal elections has ignited a political clash between BJP and CPI(M) in Kerala. While BJP claims fear motivated her withdrawal, CPI(M) cites strategic party arrangements. Sources suggest Arya may relocate her political base to Kozhikode to be closer to her family, as she balances leadership responsibilities with personal commitments while facing criticism that she characterizes as gender-biased.