Independent councilor Jose Chellappan, elected from Mangalam constituency, has decided to extend “conditional support” to the United Democratic Front (UDF) in Alappuzha municipality.
With his support, the UDF – which emerged as the single largest bloc with 23 seats in the 53-member council – is to form the governing body. It is closely followed by the Left Democratic Front (LDF) with 22 seats. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won five seats, while the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) won one seat each.
With no front having a clear majority, the independent councillor’s decision proved decisive. Both the UDF and LDF approached Mr. Chellappan and sought his support. Speaking to reporters on Monday, he made it clear that his support would go to the front that agreed to implement a development charter prepared by a “committee of friends” at ward level aimed at the overall development of the municipality. He said that the UDF had given written assurance of accepting the charter after which he decided to support the front.
Mr. Chellappan said he would vote for the UDF in the elections for the post of municipal chairman and vice-chairman to be held on December 26. The post of village chairperson in Alappuzha village is reserved for women. UDF sources said Chellappan will be offered the post of deputy chairman, with an announcement expected after the parliamentary party meeting.
PDP decision soon
Meanwhile, PDP’s S. Faizal, who won from Lajaneth ward, said discussions were on and the party would take a final decision on whether to support UDF or LDF in the next few days. However, PDP support is unlikely to make a difference. It is also unlikely that both the UDF and LDF will seek the support of a lone SDPI councillor.
Published – 22 Dec 2025 21:15 IST
