Dispute over office space between CPM MLA, BJP councillor leads to probe into Thiruvananthapuram Corp leasing irregularities

The row that has erupted in Kerala’s capital over a dispute between Sasthamangalam ward BJP councillor R Sreelekha and Vattiyoorkavu CPM MLA VK Prasanth over the office space in the city corporation building has reached a new level as it exposed alleged large-scale irregularities and favouritism in the leasing of various Thiruvananthapuram Corporation buildings to private entities, often at low rents or without proper procedure.

It has been found that there have been huge irregularities in renting out Thiruvananthapuram corporation buildings to private individuals. Mayor V V Rajesh has directed the Corporation Secretary to collect detailed information, including floor areas and lease documents, for all rented corporation assets to reclaim unauthorised transfers.

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Preliminary findings suggest significant malpractice under previous CPM-led administrations, including properties being illegally transferred for substantial sums despite nominal official rents. In some cases, buildings were not returned to the Corporation even after the original leaseholder died.

It has been alleged that shop rooms were leased out by the Corporation for as little as Rs 250 per month, but occupants allegedly sublet them at market rates, earning lakhs of rupees in “rent theft”.

It has also been found that many Corporation properties are currently being used by individuals who are not the original tenants, with some tenants having passed away years ago without the buildings being returned to the Corporation.

It has been alleged that some individuals who secured buildings or parking spaces through auctions were reportedly given unauthorised rent exemptions after officials falsely certified the buildings were not in use.

A comprehensive investigation has been ordered into alleged widespread irregularities in the leasing of Thiruvananthapuram Corporation buildings to private individuals. The new BJP-led administration in the civic body is spearheading the inquiry. The Corporation is also investigating whether public revenue, including rent and taxes, was properly collected or if significant funds were lost due to official negligence or corruption.

The issue began when the newly elected BJP councillor for the Sasthamangalam ward and former state DGP, R Sreelekha reportedly called Prasanth, a CPM MLA, and asked him to vacate the office space he occupies in a corporation-owned building. Sreelekha cited a lack of sufficient space for her own councillor’s office and a health circle office.

Prasanth refused, citing a valid rental agreement and arguing that only the municipal secretary could issue an eviction notice following a council decision. The dispute has led to alleged irregularities in the corporation’s leasing practices, including nominal rent payments and improper allotment procedures.