Cash-for-Mayor Claim Shakes Kerala Congress

A political storm has erupted within the Indian National Congress in Kerala after a senior councillor alleged that the mayor’s post in Thrissur Municipal Corporation was effectively sold for large sums of money.

The allegation was made by a four-time councillor, who claimed she was sidelined in the mayoral race because she lacked the financial backing allegedly required to secure the position. She alleged that the post went to another party member whose family is financially well-off, adding that senior leaders were “moving around with bags of money” during the internal selection process.

The claims have triggered sharp reactions within the party. Congress leaders have strongly rejected the allegations, insisting that the choice of mayor was made through internal consultations and democratic procedures. Party representatives said no senior leader should interfere in the election of a mayor and maintained that the process followed constitutional and organisational norms.

The mayor-elect has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that her selection was based on years of political work and service within the party. She described the allegations as baseless and damaging, stating that she has been active in the organisation for decades and earned the confidence of party colleagues.

The Congress state unit has indicated that it will examine the allegations to prevent further damage to the party’s credibility. The controversy comes at a sensitive time, as the party-led United Democratic Front holds key local bodies across Kerala, making leadership positions in municipal corporations politically significant.

The episode has reignited debate over transparency, internal democracy, and the influence of money in local governance, raising uncomfortable questions for a party that has repeatedly spoken against corruption in public life.