Days after becoming Kerala’s inaugural BJP Mayor, V.V. Rajesh has taken a firm stand by criticizing the long-standing CPI(M)-led Left rule in Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, citing entrenched corruption in civic management. Rajesh, in a significant move, highlighted the alleged misuse of electric buses assigned to the city, breaking away from previous practices. He insisted that these e-buses, meant for the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, should operate solely within the city limits, calling for the immediate return of those running outside.
Rajesh has raised concerns that political pressures have led to the buses serving other areas, contrary to their intended purpose. He stressed the need for the Corporation to receive its rightful revenue share from the bus services, vowing to review the agreement with the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) to prevent any unauthorized changes. The Mayor emphasized that the buses, a central government allocation, should primarily benefit the city residents.
Amid escalating tensions between the BJP and CPI(M) in the Corporation, Rajesh’s proactive approach coincides with a recent clash. Former DGP and BJP councilor R. Sreelekha demanded that CPI(M) MLA V.K. Prasanth vacate an office in a Corporation-owned building, intensifying the political rift following the change in mayoral leadership. Beyond the transportation issue, Rajesh announced plans for a thorough investigation into alleged irregularities surrounding the leasing of Corporation properties, citing unauthorized transfers of commercial spaces to third parties for substantial sums.
Rajesh has instructed the Corporation Secretary to furnish all pertinent lease documents, hinting at forthcoming actions to address the situation.
