Thiruvananthapuram: CPM state secretary M.V. Govindan stated that Thiruvananthapuram Mayor Arya Rajendran may have served as an inspiration for Zohran Mamdani, who was recently elected Mayor of New York.

Speaking to reporters, Govindan referred to Mamdani’s earlier social media post, made at the time Arya Rajendran became the Mayor of Thiruvananthapuram. “When Arya Rajendran was elected as Mayor, Mamdani wrote on X that one day, a young man or woman like her would become the Mayor of New York. From that moment onwards, he seems to have begun his own journey towards that goal,” Govindan said.

He added that Mamdani had expressed admiration for Arya’s achievement, noting that her election as a 21-year-old woman to lead the Kerala capital had created an inspiring precedent. “He saluted Arya Rajendran’s success and envisioned a similar moment for New York in the future,” Govindan remarked.

Highlighting the growing influence of progressive politics, the CPM leader said, “A left-wing current is strengthening across the world. Despite attempts by figures like Donald Trump, it is clear that socialism and its ideals are becoming increasingly relevant in shaping the world’s future.”

Referring to the Left’s sweeping victory in the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) elections, Govindan said it reflected a broader global shift against the far right. “This is a sign of a rising left-leaning consciousness worldwide. With the upcoming elections in Bihar, this trend is expected to grow further,” he added.