Diya Binu Pulikkakandam, aged 21, belonging to Kerala, has been selected as a Municipal Chairperson. She is the first Generation Z woman in her state to occupy this important position.
Election Victory
- Diya ran as an independent candidate from the 15th ward at Pala Municipality and won. Her father and uncle also won in these elections. No major party gained a majority in the 26-member council. The ruling LDF gained 12 seats in the election. The Congress-led UDF gained 10 seats. Four Independent candidates won in the election. Three out of four are Diya’s family members. The fourth person who won as an independent candidate is Maya Rahul. She is a rebel from the Congress party.
- The independent candidates became a deciding factor for the formation of the council. After deliberations, Diya’s family and the rebel candidate sided with Congress. This caused the appointment of Diya as Chairperson and Maya Rahul as Vice-Chairperson.
Diya's Plans and Motivations
Diya reportedly told the media that the areas where her attention will be prioritized as a councillor are the development of general amenities to the municipality. The inspiration for Diya’s ideals comes as she has seen the service that her father has been providing to the community, as this is his fifth win as a councillor.Diya has completed a degree in Economics at the Madras Christian College. She has plans to pursue further studies, despite being a public servant.
Background of Young Leaders in Kerala: Rising Stars of India Social
Kerala has had young leaders in its local body politics in the past. In 2020, Arya Rajendran was elected Mayor of the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation at the age of 21 years. She was appointed Mayor at the age of 21, thereby drawing the nation's attention because of her tender age
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