Thrissur: The Kerala local body polls delivered an unexpected result in Thrissur, where the BJP’s Muslim candidate Mumtaz secured victory in Kannankulangara, wresting the ward from the Congress..

The win is being widely seen as a breakthrough for the BJP in a corporation long dominated by the Congress and the Left, and as an outcome that underlines the party’s efforts to expand its footprint in traditionally unfavourable wards.

BJP makes inroads into Congress-held ward

Mumtaz emerged victorious from the 35th division of the Thrissur Corporation, a ward with a clear Hindu majority. Her candidature stood out as distinctive, as she was the only Muslim candidate fielded by the BJP in Thrissur for these elections.

By clinching Kannankulangara, the BJP wrested the seat from the Congress, marking a strategic gain as the party continues to target Congress-held wards in the corporation.

Background in party work and Minority Morcha role

Mumtaz and her family have been associated with the BJP for the past eight years, working as supporters and grassroots-level workers. Over the last two years, she was also given organisational responsibilities within the party’s Minority Morcha, with her role based in Chennai.

A long-time party member, she has actively participated in BJP programmes and election campaigns, including those led by actor-turned-politician Suresh Gopi.

By profession, Mumtaz is an entrepreneur who runs a pet grooming shop in Thrissur, catering to the care and maintenance of domestic animals. She has described her entry into electoral politics as an opportunity to serve her hometown more directly.

Earlier, she had credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s development vision as a key factor that drew her towards the BJP.

Contest details and margin

In the Kannankulangara ward, Mumtaz defeated Congress candidate Sindhu Chakkolayil. The Left Democratic Front (LDF) had fielded Seena as its nominee, making the contest a three-cornered fight.

The Thrissur Corporation elections this year also reflected a notable presence of women in local body politics, with as many as 28 women candidates contesting across wards.

Candidate’s remarks

Speaking earlier on her selection as a BJP candidate, Mumtaz had said, “I have been working for the party for the past eight years. The party chose me because it felt I was capable of reaching out to the people. Whether it is my business or my personal life, I am someone who engages actively with society.”

(With inputs from IANS)