While Kozhikode is fast emerging as a globalised urban habitat, the city’s political leadership continues to be dominated by intrigues and manipulations more fitting for feudal locales, say a cross section of prominent personalities.

According to them, while the corporation is facing basic infrastructure issues such as traffic bottlenecks, waste treatment and drinking water crises, among others, the council meetings are hardly ever host to any meaningful discussion.

The council passed many decisions in its last several meetings without proper discussion, they said.

Prof K.S. Jayasree, general secretary of the women’s organisation Sthree Chethana, told DC that political activism should not come in the way of overall development projects. “Issues should be raised but they should not be allowed to destroy the democratic dialogue,” she said.

The negative attitude in most members at present should be replaced with positive energy, she said.
Activist and writer Civic Chandran said the political leadership should realise that the city is entering a globalised era and need to change their behavior and outlook accordingly. “Both LDF and the UDF are equally responsible for the ugly tussle going on in the council meetings, which often spill on to the streets.”

Mr Chandran said the political leadership would be soon overthrown unless the leaders accept the change. Particularly scathing on the LDF, which is ruling the corporation for over three decades, he said LDF leaders resist any attempt to change.