In an unprecedented event in Kerala, BJP councillor R Sugathan took oath as an elected representative inside Viyyur Central Prison in Thrissur on Monday. Sugathan, who represents the Vazhottukonam ward of the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, was administered the oath while remaining in judicial custody under the Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act, commonly known as KAAPA. The ceremony was conducted following a directive from the Kerala High Court.

Thiruvananthapuram Mayor VV Rajesh administered the oath at the prison library hall in the presence of Deputy Mayor PK Asha Nath, prison officials, and other authorities. According to officials, this marks the first time in Kerala’s history that an elected public representative has taken oath of office while inside a prison. The arrangement was made specifically to comply with the High Court order allowing Sugathan to complete the formal process of assuming office.

The unusual situation followed a series of legal developments involving Sugathan’s earlier oath ceremony. His first oath, which was taken in the name of deities, was declared invalid by the Kerala High Court. Before he could retake the oath through the officially prescribed procedure, he was detained under KAAPA. When Sugathan approached the court seeking bail to complete his swearing-in, the court rejected the bail request but directed that the oath be administered inside the prison.

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Although Sugathan has now officially taken oath, he continues to remain in custody as bail has not been granted in the KAAPA case. His absence from municipal proceedings has created a political challenge for the BJP-led administration in Thiruvananthapuram Corporation. Under municipal regulations, missing two consecutive council meetings has already put him in a difficult position, and absence from a third meeting could lead to his disqualification as councillor.

The prison oath ceremony has triggered criticism from opposition parties, with Congress and CPI(M) leaders alleging that the incident has brought embarrassment to the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation. Mayor Rajesh defended the process, stating that the administration had only followed the High Court’s instructions and that opposition protests were part of democratic functioning. He expressed confidence in the BJP-led council completing its full term.

Sugathan’s position has wider political significance because of the BJP’s narrow majority in the corporation. In December 2025, the party ended 45 years of CPI(M)-led LDF control of the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation by securing the Mayor’s post for the first time in Kerala. The BJP won 50 of the 101 council seats and required the support of an independent councillor to secure the Mayor’s election. If Sugathan loses his councillor position due to prolonged absence, the BJP’s strength could fall further, making its hold over the corporation more dependent on outside support.

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