India’s Youngest Municipal Chairperson Diya Binu Ousted After No-Confidence Motion in Kerala

Kottayam, July 2026 : India’s youngest municipal chairperson, 21-year-old Diya Binu Pulikkakandam, was removed from office on Tuesday after a no-confidence motion was passed against her in the Pala Municipality, ending the United Democratic Front (UDF)-backed administration amid growing internal divisions within the Congress.

The no-confidence motion was unanimously approved by all 17 councillors present during the special council meeting. The 26-member municipal council witnessed all those in attendance voting in favour of the motion, including 12 councillors from the Left Democratic Front (LDF), four Congress councillors who defied the party whip, and Independent Vice-Chairperson Maya Rahul.

With no votes cast against the motion, the UDF administration lost its majority, bringing an end to Diya Binu’s tenure as municipal chairperson. The development marks the culmination of weeks of political turmoil and infighting within the ruling coalition.

The crisis began after differences emerged between the Congress and the independent group led by Diya Binu. A section of Congress councillors became increasingly reluctant to continue supporting the administration, leading to widening cracks within the alliance. Sensing the opportunity, the LDF moved the no-confidence motion, capitalising on the growing disunity within the UDF.

Ahead of the vote, the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) had issued a strict party whip directing Congress councillors not to support any move that could topple the UDF administration. However, four Congress councillors ignored the directive, attended the meeting, and voted in favour of the motion alongside the opposition.

The defiance has triggered disciplinary proceedings within the party. District UDF leaders expressed strong displeasure over the actions of the rebel councillors and indicated that stringent action would be taken against those who violated the party whip.

Before the political crisis erupted, the UDF administration enjoyed the support of 14 members, including the three-member Pulikkakandam family, Congress representatives, Kerala Congress (Joseph), and independent councillors. However, the coalition began to unravel after the Congress formally withdrew support to Diya Binu’s independent faction, paving the way for the collapse of the administration.

Following the vote, Diya Binu accepted the outcome, stating that she respected the democratic process and the decision of the council.

In a statement, she emphasised that throughout her tenure no allegations of corruption, misuse of public funds, bribery, nepotism, or any form of illegal conduct had been levelled against her. Stressing that integrity remains the foundation of public service, she said, “The greatest strength in public life is not power, but values.”

Despite her removal as chairperson, Diya Binu affirmed that she would continue serving the people of Pala as an elected councillor and remain committed to public welfare.

Team Maverick.