The leak embarrassed the KPCC and disrupted its unity narrative, just as it was trying to rebuild its base. Ravi’s remarks exposed internal rifts and grassroots disillusionment within the party
Published Jul 27, 2025 | 12:42 AM ⚊ Updated Jul 27, 2025 | 9:57 AM
Palode Ravi.
Synopsis: In a major shake-up, the Congress in Kerala accepted Thiruvananthapuram DCC President Palode Ravi’s resignation following a leaked audio that sparked internal unrest. KPCC chief Sunny Joseph also expelled A Jaleel for anti-party activities, including allegedly recording and leaking Ravi’s conversation, which criticised the party’s prospects and leadership ahead of the upcoming elections
The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) on Saturday, 26 July, accepted the resignation of Palode Ravi, President of the Thiruvananthapuram District Congress Committee (DCC), days after a leaked audio clip plunged the state Congress unit into turmoil.
Announcing the decision, KPCC President and MLA Sunny Joseph also declared the expulsion of A Jaleel, General Secretary of the Vamanapuram Block Congress Committee, from the party’s primary membership. Jaleel was found to have engaged in anti-party activities, including allegedly recording and releasing the controversial phone conversation with Ravi.
The audio, which went viral on social media and stirred intense debate within party circles, featured Ravi making scathing remarks about the Congress’s organisational weakness and its bleak electoral prospects.
He warned that the party could be relegated to third place in the upcoming local body and Assembly elections, behind the CPI(M) and BJP. “The Marxist party will return to power for the third time. The BJP will gain in 60 constituencies,” Ravi is heard saying.
The Congress leadership took serious note of the leak, particularly as it came at a politically sensitive time with elections approaching. Sunny Joseph reportedly consulted with senior state leaders and the AICC before accepting Ravi’s resignation and initiating disciplinary action.
“This is not a matter to be taken lightly,” a party source said. “When someone in a key position like a DCC president makes such remarks, it has far-reaching implications, especially ahead of elections.”
The leak not only embarrassed the KPCC but also forced it to go on the defensive at a time when it was attempting to project unity and revive its base. Ravi’s comments highlighted the deep internal divisions and growing disillusionment within the grassroots.
Sunny Joseph, who was in Kochi to attend the memorial of late MP George Eden, held discussions with party leaders before finalising the decisions.
With Palode Ravi stepping down and disciplinary action initiated, the Congress now faces the dual challenge of damage control and rebuilding organisational morale in a key district ahead of the crucial polls.
Meanwhile, Joseph has given KPCC Vice President N Sakthan the temporary charge as the Thiruvananthapuram DCC President.
(Edited by Ananya Rao with inputs from Dileep V Kumar.)
