Thrissur Mayor Row: Congress Councillor Laly James Accuses DCC President of Demanding Cash

Thrissur: Congress councillor Laly James has alleged that the Thrissur DCC president demanded money in order to secure the post of Corporation Mayor. She claimed that Dr Niji Justin, who was eventually elected mayor, met senior Congress leaders carrying a suitcase full of money, and that she herself was sidelined because she did not have money to offer.

Speaking to the media, Laly James said that the party leadership is now justifying Niji Justin’s selection by highlighting her credentials. However, she questioned whether Niji Justin had ever been seen putting up strong resistance on the frontlines of any major protest. “I strongly suspect that I was removed solely because of money,” she said.

According to Laly James, it was DCC President Joseph Tajett who demanded money. She alleged that Tajett told her money was required for the system to move forward, claiming that the demand was not for personal benefit but for the party. “I told him that I don’t even have ten rupees to give for this,” she said. “Throughout my public life, I have never stood for money. I have stood for the Indian National Congress, and I will continue to do so no matter the cost. I now doubt whether money has become the criterion that pushed me aside.”

She further revealed that three days ago, some prominent figures from Thrissur had called and warned her to be cautious, saying there was a possibility of manipulation. They reportedly told her that Niji and her husband, along with a four-member group, were travelling around in a car with a suitcase, hinting at financial dealings. Laly said she responded by asserting that she believed her party would never betray her.

She acknowledged that when the public and the media began projecting her name for the mayoral post, she too had aspirations. However, she reiterated that her name was dropped purely because of money. Lali James is a four-time councillor.

Meanwhile, DCC President Joseph Tajett and Dr Niji Justin have denied all the allegations made by Laly James.