**Youngest Municipal Chairperson in India Elected in Kerala**
A municipality in Kerala has made history with the election of a 21-year-old as its chairperson, marking her as the youngest municipal chairperson in the country. Diya Binu Pullikkakandam was elected as the chairperson of Pala municipality in Kottayam district after a period of political uncertainty following a split decision in the civic elections.
Diya, recognized as Kerala’s first Gen Z municipal chairperson, won her seat in the 15th ward as an independent candidate, garnering 131 votes. Her family, the Pullikkakandams, also saw success in the elections, with her father, Binu Pullikkakandam, and uncle, Biju Pullikkakandam, winning their respective seats as independents. This victory solidifies the Pullikkakandam family’s influential role in the municipality’s governance.
In a statement to the media, Diya expressed her commitment to focusing on basic development and long-term planning for the municipality. “This is the fifth consecutive time my father has won. He first became a councillor when I was just one year old. Watching his work inspired me,” said Diya, who holds a degree in Economics from Madras Christian College. Despite her new responsibilities, she plans to pursue further education.
Diya’s election follows weeks of political maneuvering after the municipal election results revealed no single party had achieved an outright majority in the 26-member council. The ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) secured 12 seats, while the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) won 10 seats. Four seats were claimed by independents, including three from the Pullikkakandam family and one from Congress rebel Maya Rahul.
The Pullikkakandam family aligned with the Congress, which ultimately formed the governing body. Maya Rahul, who also supported the UDF, has been appointed as the vice chairperson of the municipality. Negotiations between the LDF leadership and the Pullikkakandam family regarding the chairperson’s position fell through, resulting in the Kerala Congress (M), an LDF ally, sitting in opposition for the first time since Pala municipality’s establishment in 1985.
In conclusion, Diya Binu Pullikkakandam’s election as the youngest municipal chairperson in India not only highlights a significant milestone in local governance but also reflects the evolving political landscape in Kerala.
**FAQ**
**Q: Who is the youngest municipal chairperson in India?**
A: Diya Binu Pullikkakandam, elected at 21 years old in Pala municipality, Kerala, is the youngest municipal chairperson in India.
