Pala, Kerala, India: At the age of 21, when many young people are still deciding on their education or career paths, Kerala’s Diyabinu Puzhikkakandam, popularly known as Diya Binu, has achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming a municipal chairperson. She is the first woman from the Gen Z generation in the state to reach this position.

In the recent local body elections in Kerala, 21-year-old Diya contested as an independent candidate from the 15th ward of the Pala municipality and emerged victorious. Her father and uncle also won seats in the same elections. However, the results did not give any single political party a clear majority. The LDF secured 12 seats, while the Congress-led UDF won 10 seats. Independents captured four seats, three of which were won by members of Diya’s family. The fourth independent winner was Congress rebel candidate Maya Rahul.

With no party holding a majority in the 26-member municipal council, independent members became crucial decision-makers. After several days of discussions, the Diya family extended its support to the Congress, and the rebel candidate also aligned with the party. As a result, Diya was elected chairperson, while Maya Rahul assumed the role of vice chairperson.

After taking charge, Diya shared her joy with the media, expressing her commitment as one of the youngest municipal chairpersons in the state. She said she aims to focus on long-term planning and ensure the availability of essential facilities within the municipality. Diya also mentioned that this was the fifth consecutive electoral victory for her father and that witnessing his dedication to public service since childhood inspired her to enter public life. A graduate in Economics from Madras Christian College, she added that she intends to continue her higher education alongside her responsibilities as a public representative.

Kerala has previously drawn national attention for young leadership in local governance. In 2020, Arya Rajendran became the Mayor of the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation at just 21 years of age, drawing widespread interest across the country for her early rise to public office.