K. Vasu and his wife M. Girija
A husband and wife belonging to rival political fronts have added a compelling personal dimension to the Pullur-Periya grama panchayat election, as M. Girija, 46, steps into the electoral arena for the first time, while her husband K. Vasu, 56, a CPI(M) Kannoth branch secretary, stays away from the contest. Despite their ideological differences, the couple maintains that politics has never disturbed the harmony of their household.
Ms. Girija, who hails from a staunch Congress family, is contesting from Kumbala (Ward 7) as the party’s candidate. This is her electoral debut, though political participation runs in the family — her aunt had earlier contested on the Congress ticket. She said that the family’s political split had never caused friction at home, even though discussions on political development are frequent.
Over the years, Ms. Girija had received offers from the Congress to contest from her ward — a division where the CPI(M) has been winning by narrow margins — but family responsibilities kept her away from the ballot. Active in social work and well known among residents, she said this was the right moment to step forward. Her campaign, she said, is rooted in personal connection rather than political rhetoric.
Her husband Vasu is a seasoned CPI(M) worker and was elected branch secretary for the fourth time. A farmer by profession, he said both families were fully aware of their differing political loyalties before their marriage and accepted them without hesitation.
“Her family has always been with the Congress and ours with the CPI(M). Our marriage happened with full understanding of this,” he said, adding, “Ideologies may differ, but the purpose is the same – to serve people. That difference has never been a problem for either of us or our two children.” Their children, one pursuing a doctorate and another working as a civil engineer, grew up watching their parents navigate political plurality within the same home.
Mr. Vasu said he had never objected to his wife’s political involvement, emphasising that personal respect takes precedence over party lines. To avoid controversy, since Ms. Girija contests from a ward traditionally fought between their parties, Mr. Vasu has chosen to campaign only in the neighbouring Ward 6. Confident of his party’s performance, he believes the CPI(M) will retain the seat, though Girija expressed equal confidence in securing a strong victory of her own.
Ms. Girija said she was appealing for votes based on her personal rapport with the community and her work among people. She insists that her campaign avoids criticism of rival fronts. “I am seeking votes on my merit. I have never believed in blaming others,” she said.
The couple’s story, rooted in political diversity but bound by mutual respect, has become a talking point in the local elections, reflecting how personal relationships can rise above ideological divides even in a polarised political landscape.
Published – November 21, 2025 12:56 am IST
