Thiruvananthapuram: Former DGP and BJP leader R Sreelekha appeared visibly displeased after being overlooked for the Thiruvananthapuram Mayor position. During the oath-taking ceremony on Friday, she initially moved to the back row due to lack of seating. Other attendees quickly intervened, arranging a seat near newly appointed Deputy Mayor GS Asha Nath.

Sreelekha left the council hall shortly after VV Rajesh’s swearing-in as Mayor, citing a housewarming event. She returned in the afternoon for the Deputy Mayor election, engaging with council members and party leaders in a manner that reflected her dissatisfaction.

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Following a reception at the BJP state committee office, the Mayor and Deputy Mayor visited Sreelekha’s residence. The visit reportedly was to ease tensions and maintain cordiality. However, the Mayor described it as customary to meet key party members after assuming office.

Potential new role for Sreelekha

Sreelekha joined the BJP in October 2024 and was made vice-president during a state party reorganisation under chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar. She had been considered a top contender for the Mayor post alongside Rajesh but was ultimately overlooked.
Internal party divisions reportedly influenced the decision. One faction supported Sreelekha, while senior BJP leaders and the RSS backed Rajesh, resulting in her exclusion. The RSS reportedly opposed her Mayor nomination, favouring a candidate with greater political experience. Her loyalists remain dissatisfied, seeking a senior position.

Sources suggest the BJP may offer her a new position outside official leadership roles. The party is also considering her for the Vattiyoorkavu assembly constituency, a seat seen as having strong prospects for a BJP victory. The final decision is expected from the BJP central committee.