Periya case convict K Manikandan resigns as Kanhangad block panchayat president

K Manikandan, convicted in the Periya double murder case, resigned from his post as Kanhangad Block panchayat president and member on Saturday (June 21, 2025), ahead of a possible disqualification verdict by the Election Commission.

Manikandan submitted his resignation letter to the Block panchayat secretary, stating personal and political reasons. However, in a detailed Facebook post later, he described the move as an ethical decision in line with Communist principles of public service.

His resignation comes as the Election Commission is set to announce its decision on a complaint filed by Congress leader Baburaj, seeking his disqualification following the Ernakulam CBI court’s conviction.

Manikandan had been sentenced to five years in prison but the High Court granted him bail and stayed the sentence pending appeal.

Political observers view the resignation as a preemptive move to avoid disqualification which could have political ramifications in the run-up to local body election. UDF sources said the ruling LDF wanted to avoid providing the opposition with ammunition during the polls.

Party sources confirmed that permission had already been given for his resignation, but it was delayed until after the Nilambur by-election. With only a few months remaining in the current term, no by-election will be held for his ward.

In his Facebook note, Manikandan likened public service to navigating stormy seas and described his resignation as part of a “trasnition” in public life. He thanked supporters and asserted that his departure was in keeping with the values of the party and the responsibilities entrusted to him.