Pala: The Pulikkakandam family has emerged as a decisive force in the Pala Municipal elections, with three of its members winning council seats and reshaping local political equations. The victories, spread across three adjoining wards, have drawn widespread attention as a blend of political comeback, family solidarity and the rise of a new generation in civic leadership.
Veteran politician Binu Pulikkakandam, who contested as an independent candidate after severing ties with the CPI(M), secured a convincing win, marking what supporters describe as a âsweet revenge.â A familiar face in Palaâs municipal politics for over two decades, Binuâs return to the council underscores his enduring grassroots influence despite shifting party affiliations over the years.
Adding significance to the outcome was the maiden electoral success of his daughter, Diya Binu, who entered public life with her first contest and emerged victorious. Her win has been hailed as a symbolic generational transition, reflecting growing voter confidence in younger leadership while continuing a family legacy rooted in local governance.
Binuâs brother, Biju Pulikkakandam, also secured a council seat, completing a rare triple victory for a single family within the same municipal limits. The success in neighboring wards highlighted the strength of coordinated campaigning and the familyâs deep connection with local residents.
The election results are being closely analyzed for their broader political implications, particularly as the victories came amid strategic gaps left by major political fronts in select wards. Observers note that the strong showing by independents could influence future alignments within the municipal council and affect leadership equations in Pala.
Overall, the Pulikkakandam familyâs performance has turned the municipal election into more than a routine local contest, transforming it into a story of political resilience, strategic independence and the emergence of fresh leadership within Keralaâs vibrant grassroots democracy.