UDF takes control of Naranganam panchayat with LDF support after BJP loses power

PATHANAMTHITTA: The United Democratic Front (UDF) has taken control of Naranganam panchayat with the support of the Left Democratic Front (LDF), after the BJP lost power following a no-confidence motion. The CPM supported the Congress candidate in the election for panchayat president.

The 14-member panchayat has six members each from the BJP and UDF, while the LDF has two members. The BJP had initially come to power after winning the presidency through a draw of lots.

On August 6, the UDF moved a no-confidence motion against Naranganam panchayat president V V Prasad of the BJP, with the LDF supporting the motion. The motion resulted in the BJP losing control of the panchayat. After the BJP lost power, the Congress said the no-confidence motion reflected the public sentiment against the panchayat administration.

Following the loss of power, the BJP had also attempted to remove the panchayat vice-president, who belongs to the Congress. The BJP moved a no-confidence motion against the vice-president, but it failed as the CPM and Congress members stayed away from the proceedings, leaving the house without the required quorum.