Fri Jan 03 15:38:27 UTC 2025: ## Kochi Corporation UDF Moves No-Confidence Motion Against Standing Committee Chairperson

**KOCHI, January 3, 2025** – The opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) in the Kochi Corporation has filed a no-confidence motion against development standing committee chairperson P.R. Ranish. The move follows allegations of corruption against Mr. Ranish, who has reportedly refused to resign despite the accusations.

UDF members Antony Painuthara, Henry Austin, and Kajal Salim submitted the notice to the District Collector. The dispute stems from allegations made by LDF councillor P.S. Biju at a council meeting, claiming a revenue inspector demanded a ₹50 lakh bribe ostensibly for Mr. Ranish and town planning standing committee chairperson Sanilmon. Following the allegations, the Mayor announced the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau would be informed, but no action has yet been taken.

The UDF statement emphasizes Mr. Ranish’s continued refusal to resign despite the serious allegations. The outcome hinges on the CPI’s stance, as the Left Democratic Front (LDF) holds a slim majority of just one member in the committee. Senior Congress leader Antony Kureethara and UDF parliamentary party leader M.G. Aristotle highlighted the CPI’s crucial role in the upcoming vote.

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