Idukki, Kerala: In a twist that has captured the attention of Munnar locals, a BJP candidate in the panchayat elections carries the name of the Congress party’s iconic leader, Sonia Gandhi. The irony has not gone unnoticed, sparking curiosity and conversations across the town.

A name with a story

The candidate, 34-year-old Sonia Gandhi, is the daughter of the late Congress leader Dure Raj. Her father was a devoted admirer of the former Congress president and gave his daughter the same name as a mark of respect. That name now finds itself on a BJP ballot, adding an unusual twist to local politics.

From shop worker to BJP candidate

Sonia seeks votes from the Nallathanni ward of Munnar panchayat. She joined the BJP after her marriage to Subhash, the panchayat’s BJP general secretary. Before stepping into politics, she worked at a shop in Munnar town.

A contested ward

Her candidature faces competition from UDF’s Manjula Ramesh and LDF’s S. Valarmathi, making the Nallathanni ward a closely watched seat in Kerala local body elections.