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Summary:

The Ponnurunni East division of the Kochi Corporation is witnessing a fascinating local election battle. The traditionally LDF-stronghold is being challenged by UDF candidate Jain Gray (formerly LDF) and BJP candidate Sunitha Dixon (formerly RSP). Gray emphasizes her past success with local waste management. Dixon highlights her track record in the neighboring Vyttila division and focuses on infrastructure improvements. CPI(M) candidate Beena Divakaran, a newcomer, banks on the LDF’s historical dominance and promises development initiatives. The election is notable for the candidates’ shifting political affiliations and their emphasis on local issues.

News Article:

Kochi Local Elections See Intriguing Contest in Ponnurunni East

KOCHI, December 6, 2025 – The Ponnurunni East division of the Kochi Corporation is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched contests in the upcoming local elections. The division, a traditional stronghold of the Left Democratic Front (LDF), is facing strong challenges from candidates with shifting political allegiances and a focus on hyperlocal issues.

United Democratic Front (UDF) candidate Jain Gray, running on the Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP) ticket, is no stranger to the division. She previously served as a councillor for the CPI(M) two decades ago and hopes her past record, particularly her work on decentralized waste management, will resonate with voters. “The contacts I built all those years ago seem to be intact,” she stated.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Sunitha Dixon brings experience from the neighboring Vyttila division, where she served as a councillor. Dixon emphasizes the need for infrastructure improvements, including road repairs and addressing drainage issues, promising to leverage central funds for the purpose. Dixon downplayed criticism of her party switch. “In local body polls, individuals matter, not the party. Besides, my work in the neighbouring Vyttila division is known to the people of Ponnurunni East as well”

CPI(M) candidate Beena Divakaran, a political debutant, is relying on the LDF’s historical dominance in the division. Actively involved in local women’s organizations and cultural forums, she is confident of victory. She is campaigning on a platform of skill development centers for women, recreational spaces for the elderly, improved roads and smart city initiatives.

The election is notable for the fluidity of political affiliations among the candidates, highlighting the focus on local issues and personalities in this fiercely contested division. Voters will head to the polls later this month.

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