Veteran CPI(M) Leader Aisha Potty Switches to Congress in Kerala
Three-time CPI(M) MLA Aisha Potty from Kottarakkara joins Congress ahead of Kerala Assembly elections.
Thiruvananthapuram: In a major political development in Kerala, three-time Kottarakkara MLA Aisha Potty formally joined the Congress on Tuesday, marking a dramatic exit from the CPI(M). The induction took place at a KPCC protest venue outside Lok Bhavan, with Opposition leader VD Satheesan and KPCC president Sunny Joseph welcoming her and presenting her with party membership and a traditional Congress shawl.
Potty, who held Kottarakkara for 15 years under the CPI(M) banner, is reportedly set to contest the upcoming Assembly elections as the United Democratic Front (UDF) candidate from her stronghold. Speaking to the media, she cited internal friction and lack of support within the CPI(M) as key reasons for her departure, asserting her commitment remains with her constituents regardless of party lines.
Reflecting on her political journey, Potty recalled her breakthrough victory in 2006 against veteran leader R Balakrishna Pillai, a win that earned her the nickname ‘Padakkuthira’ (warhorse). She successfully retained the seat in 2011 and 2016, establishing herself as a formidable figure in central Travancore politics.
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Observers note that tensions with the CPI(M) leadership had surfaced during the first Pinarayi Vijayan-led government, when she was overlooked for ministerial and committee posts despite her seniority. The rift deepened in 2021 when she was denied a seat to accommodate another candidate, prompting her gradual disengagement from party activities.
Her shift towards Congress began visibly in July 2025, when she appeared alongside senior Congress leaders at an Oommen Chandy memorial event. Later, her decision not to renew CPI(M) membership confirmed her exit, culminating in Tuesday’s formal induction into the party.
Political analysts suggest Potty’s move could significantly influence Christian and neutral voter bases in Kollam, strengthening UDF’s electoral prospects. With the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections approaching, her entry into Congress is likely to reshape local political dynamics and challenge CPI(M)’s dominance in the region.
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