R Sreelekha resigns as BJP councillor in Thiruvananthapuram

R Sreelekha, the former Director General of Police and first woman to hold that rank in Kerala, has resigned from her position as a BJP councillor for the Sasthamangalam ward in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation.

Sreelekha stated her resignation was due to personal reasons and informed residents via ward communication groups. She submitted her resignation to Mayor V. V. Rajesh on September 30 and intends to provide a copy to the District Collector. While the Mayor confirmed receipt, the Corporation secretary noted that, according to rules, resignations should be submitted to the secretary.

The move presents a significant challenge for the BJP, which currently leads the 101-member council with a narrow majority through the support of independents. Reports suggest the resignation follows prolonged differences with party leadership, specifically regarding Sreelekha being denied the mayoral post despite prior assurances. The departure also follows controversies involving office space disputes at the Corporation building.