Kochi: Tensions have escalated in Muvattupuzha municipality as differences between staff members and ruling councillors have intensified, with councillors protesting what they term as arbitrary actions by chairperson Joice Mary Antony.
Background of the Conflict
Chairperson Antony alleged that the protest was triggered by a resolution passed by UDF councillors against the municipal secretary. Staff members claimed that the municipal secretary faced threats from the chairperson and that ruling councillors, led by Antony, created a difficult working environment. A councillor, speaking on condition of anonymity, said staff members were often targeted when they pointed out violations of municipal rules.
“I have worked in many municipalities, but here ruling councillors issue unnecessary threats. When officials correct leadership on rules, they risk becoming unfavourable to the councillors,” said a staff member of the municipality.
Chairperson’s Response
Responding to the allegations, Antony told TOI that the secretary took decisions independently without informing the council and allegedly misbehaved with an elderly person. She said this, along with other reasons, led to a resolution seeking the secretary’s removal. “It was staff affiliated with left unions who initiated the protest at the municipal office. The agenda to remove the secretary will be placed again in the next council meeting,” Antony said.
Secretary’s Denial
Municipal secretary Simi H denied the allegations, stating that the chairperson lacked clarity on municipal council procedures. She also confirmed that she wrote to the government requesting a transfer to another local body. Simi said the elderly person mentioned was asked to leave the office after allegedly attempting to physically attack her. Addressing another allegation, she clarified that agenda items cannot be forwarded with modifications through the K-SMART app, which only allows approval or rejection — an issue she said contributed to the dispute.
Current Situation
The standoff continues, with staff protesting and councillors demanding the secretary’s removal. The next council meeting is expected to address the agenda for removal, while the secretary awaits a transfer. The situation highlights deeper issues in municipal governance and staff-councillor relations.
