Tue Jan 13 10:25:43 UTC 2026: ### CPI(M) Veteran P. Aisha Potty Joins Congress in Kerala, Citing Ideological Differences

The Story:
Former three-time CPI(M) MLA P. Aisha Potty made a surprising move by joining the Congress party in Kerala on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. She was formally inducted into the party alongside senior Congress leaders during a protest in front of Kerala Lok Bhavan. Potty, who represented the Kottarakara Assembly constituency, had been distancing herself from the CPI(M) for several years, particularly after being denied a seat in the 2021 Assembly elections.

Potty rejected accusations of betrayal, stating that the CPI(M) has changed since she first joined. She mentioned informing the party in March 2023 that she was struggling to function effectively within the organization. While she said she joined Congress “without any conditions,” she didn’t rule out contesting the upcoming Assembly elections.

Key Points:

  • P. Aisha Potty, a former three-time CPI(M) MLA, joined the Congress party on January 13, 2026.
  • She represented the Kottarakara Assembly constituency.
  • Potty was denied a seat in the 2021 Assembly elections.
  • She cited ideological differences and a lack of space to work effectively as reasons for leaving the CPI(M).
  • She stated she joined the Congress “without any conditions.”
  • Speculation about her move to Congress had been circulating for months.
  • Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan had previously claimed the State would witness several “political surprises” in the run-up to the elections.

Key Takeaways:

  • This defection highlights potential internal issues and ideological shifts within the CPI(M) in Kerala.
  • The move strengthens the Congress-led UDF coalition in the lead-up to future elections.
  • Potty’s decision could influence other disaffected members of the CPI(M) to consider similar moves.
  • The political landscape in Kerala is likely to become more volatile as the election nears.
  • The defection serves as a strategic move for Congress, who is actively seeking to consolidate power by welcoming members from other parties.

    Read More

Related News: