Case filed against Thiruvananthapuram Mayor, BJP councillor Sugathan over forged signature
A criminal case has been filed against the Thiruvananthapuram Mayor and a BJP councillor over allegations of forging a signature in council attendance records. The forgery was allegedly committed to prevent the disqualification of the councillor, who had been absent from meetings.
Why it matters
This case highlights potential corruption and legal accountability within local municipal governance, involving high-ranking political officials.
A case has been registered against Thiruvananthapuram Mayor V.V. Rajesh, the Corporation secretary and a BJP councillor over an alleged forged signature, the police said on Thursday (October 8, 2026).
The case was registered at the Museum police station against Mr. Rajesh, councillor K. Sugathan and the Corporation Secretary following a complaint lodged by CPI(M) councillor S P Deepak on Wednesday night.
According to the police, Mr. Sugathan was detained under the Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act (KAAPA) after allegedly being involved in multiple criminal cases.
As per the FIR, the accused persons conspired to forge Mr. Sugathan’s signature in the attendance book for council meetings held on February 26, March 11, and April 27 this year.
Police officials said that under the Kerala Municipality Act, prolonged absence from council meetings can lead to disqualification under specified conditions.
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