Tue Dec 23 19:49:47 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

Deepthy Mary Varghese, a KPCC General Secretary and two-time Corporation Councillor, is publicly expressing her disappointment and alleging procedural irregularities after being passed over for the Mayor position in Kochi. She claims a KPCC circular prioritizing office-bearers was ignored, that the process of gathering councillor opinions was flawed, and that norms were violated in the selection process. Senior Congress leader Ajay Tharayil also criticized the decision, citing factionalism and a disregard for the will of the majority of councillors.

News Article:

Congress Leader Alleges Foul Play in Kochi Mayoral Selection

Kochi, India – December 24, 2025 – A rift has emerged within the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) following the selection of candidates for the Mayor and Deputy Mayor positions in the Kochi Corporation. Deepthy Mary Varghese, the KPCC General Secretary and a two-time Councillor, has publicly voiced her discontent, alleging that due process was not followed and a KPCC circular was ignored, leading to her being overlooked for the top job.

Speaking from her residence, Ms. Varghese stated she wasn’t even officially informed of the decision by the Ernakulam District Congress Committee (DCC). She argued that the collection of councillor opinions was compromised by a lack of secrecy and the absence of a neutral KPCC observer. She further claims a meeting to take a political decision was delayed and that she has contacted opposition leader V.D. Satheesan for clarification.

Senior Congress leader Ajay Tharayil has also come out against the decision, labeling it as contrary to the will of a majority of councillors. He criticized the party’s internal factions for excessive group politics and accused them of conspiring to sideline Ms. Varghese, a long-time member who has risen through the ranks.

The controversy casts a shadow over the Congress party’s leadership in Kochi and raises questions about internal procedures and decision-making within the KPCC.

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