SEC holds hearing on deletion of UDF candidate Vyshna’s name from voters' list; decision today

Thiruvananthapuram: The State Election Commission (SEC) on Tuesday held a hearing in the case concerning its decision to remove UDF candidate from Muttada ward, Vyshna Suresh, 24, from the supplementary voters’ list for the local body polls, following a directive from the Kerala High Court. The Commission will announce its decision on Wednesday.

Vyshna had filed a petition challenging the SEC's initial decision to remove her name from the supplementary voters' list. Speaking to the media, Vyshna said the Commission would convey the outcome of the hearing. “I believe in the law and trust that the Commission will decide what is right. Until now, no one, including officials of the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, was willing to hear us out. But today, we were heard. I will continue campaigning as usual, as per the party’s direction,” she said.

The High Court, in its observation on Monday, had noted that removing Vyshna's name from the electoral rolls "without proper inquiry appeared improper." The court further stated that the Commission was "not expected to act with any political motive" and directed that she be granted a second hearing before the Commission.

Vyshna was deemed ineligible after the CPM lodged a complaint. The complaint alleged that she was not a registered voter within the Corporation limits. Under election rules, candidates are required to be voters in any ward of the same Corporation in which they are contesting.

Prior to the High Court's hearing, Vyshna had also submitted an appeal before the Deputy Collector (Elections) challenging the Commission’s initial decision. Speaking earlier to Onmanorama, Vyshna stated that she would follow the course of action decided by the party. Thiruvananthapuram DCC president N Sakthan expressed confidence in the judicial process, saying the party is optimistic that the High Court will "recognise the merits of their appeal and grant relief."

In the Muttada ward, Vyshna is contesting against Anshu Vamadevan of the LDF, who is the sitting councillor from Kesavadasapuram, and a BDJS candidate nominated by the NDA.