Congress suspends Councillor Laly James over mayoral bribery allegation

Thrissur: The Congress party has suspended Thrissur municipal councillor Laly James following allegations that the DCC president demanded money in exchange for the mayoral post.

Laly James had claimed that Dr. Niji Justin, who was elected mayor, met with Congress leaders with a cash bundle, and that she herself was denied the post due to lack of funds. Congress leadership has dismissed these claims, stating that Dr. Niji Justin was chosen for the mayoral position.

Speaking to reporters, Laly James questioned whether Dr. Niji Justin had ever participated in party protests, saying he entered the party through white- collar channels. She expressed deep hurt over being sidelined despite decades of active service in party struggles, adding that she had hoped to become mayor even during her first term but was denied.

The Congress had previously considered Laly James for the councillor post, but ultimately selected Dr. Niji Justin for the mayoral position, leading to the serious allegations.