Published Feb 09, 2026 | 5:28 PM ⚊ Updated Feb 09, 2026 | 5:28 PM
R Sreelekha.
Synopsis: Sreelekha, a councillor from the Sasthamangalam ward in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, is not part of the BJP councillors’ group that leave for Delhi on the Kerala Express at 12.30 pm on Monday, 9 February.
Former DGP and BJP councillor R Sreelekha has once again found herself at odds with sections of the BJP leadership, this time over her decision to skip a high-profile Delhi trip organised for BJP people’s representatives at the Prime Minister’s invitation.
Sreelekha, a councillor from the Sasthamangalam ward in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, is not part of the BJP councillors’ group that leave for Delhi on the Kerala Express at 12.30 pm on Monday, 9 February.
The delegation, which includes municipal councillors and panchayat presidents, is travelling to attend a banquet hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the 12 February.
The group is also set to receive receptions in the states through which the train passes.
Her absence immediately triggered speculation of dissent. However, Sreelekha moved swiftly to clarify her position through a video message and Facebook post, firmly denying any political motive behind the decision.
“I informed the party leadership that it would be difficult for me to undertake a three-day train journey at this age and to stay away from Thiruvananthapuram for five days,” she said.
When the party suggested a flight as an alternative, Sreelekha declined, stating she did not want the party to incur what she felt was an unnecessary expense.
She cited personal responsibilities as the main reason for opting out.
Her 94-year-old mother lives with her, and with domestic help currently unavailable, Sreelekha said she could not manage a prolonged absence.
“I have to take care of my mother, manage the household, and attend to my responsibilities as a councillor,” she explained.
Emphasising her frugal approach, Sreelekha noted that she had run her election campaign with minimal expenditure and remained opposed to avoidable spending.
She also dismissed rumours of contesting the upcoming Assembly elections, stating she intends to continue as a councillor for the next five years.
All her decisions, she asserted, were taken with the full knowledge of the party leadership.
(Edited by Sumavarsha, with inputs from Dileep V Kumar)
