BJP Creates History in Kerala Capital as VV Rajesh Takes Charge as Thiruvananthapuram Mayor

Thiruvananthapuram: The Bharatiya Janata Party marked a historic milestone in Kerala politics on Friday as its councillor VV Rajesh was elected Mayor of the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation, breaking decades-long political dominance of the Left in the state capital.

Rajesh, who represents the Kodunganoor ward and also serves as the BJP’s Kerala state secretary, secured a clear majority during the mayoral election held in the corporation council. He received backing from BJP councillors along with the support of an independent member, comfortably surpassing the halfway mark in the 101-member house.

Candidates from rival fronts trailed behind, with the Left Democratic Front nominee finishing second, while the Congress-led United Democratic Front candidate secured a smaller share of votes. The outcome confirmed the BJP’s growing influence in urban Kerala, particularly in Thiruvananthapuram, which has long been considered a Left stronghold.

After assuming office, Rajesh struck a conciliatory and development-focused tone. He said the corporation would work inclusively across all wards, promising equal attention to infrastructure, civic services, and urban development. According to him, the administration’s priority will be to transform Thiruvananthapuram into a modern, citizen-friendly city while ensuring transparency and accountability.

The mayoral victory follows BJP’s strong showing in the recent civic body elections, where the party emerged as the single largest force in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation. The results signalled a major political shift, as the BJP overtook both the LDF and UDF in ward-wise performance, ending years of uninterrupted Left control in the capital city.

Polling for the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation took place during the first phase of Kerala’s local body elections on December 9. The election witnessed a high voter turnout, reflecting strong public engagement in the civic process.