In a significant move ahead of the upcoming local body elections, the State Election Commission (SEC) has instructed the Local Self-Government Department (LSGD) to promptly transfer and initiate disciplinary proceedings against the Secretary of Koduvally Municipality. This directive comes after widespread complaints from various political parties regarding the Secretary’s prolonged absence from duty, which has severely hampered electoral processes.
The controversy centers around allegations made by the United Democratic Front (UDF), claiming that the municipal Secretary, V.S. Manoj, intentionally removed numerous individuals from the electoral rolls, reportedly under political influence. Furthermore, critical documents related to the voter list have reportedly vanished from the office. Manoj has been unreachable for approximately two weeks, causing major disruptions. Following a complaint from Municipal Chairman Vellara Abdu, the District Collector recommended strong disciplinary action, leading to the SEC’s current order.
The gravity of the situation became apparent with the release of the municipality’s final voter list, which inexplicably excluded many residents. Normally, grievances concerning the voter list are directed to the municipal Secretary. However, citizens have been unable to reach Manoj, leaving a backlog of hundreds of unresolved complaints piling up daily at the municipal office.
Responding to the escalating crisis, the District Collector launched an investigation, with Deputy Director of LSGD Baiju Jose and Senior Superintendent U.K. Rajan visiting the municipal office on a recent Saturday to assess the situation firsthand.