The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has retained control of the P H C Ward, now renumbered as Ward 17, in the 2025 Local Body General Election, with Mohandas registering a decisive victory in a three-cornered contest. He secured 437 votes, defeating Indian National Congress candidate Ouseppachan (Kunjumon), who polled 388 votes. BJP candidate Sebastian Paul (Sibi) finished third with 139 votes.
According to the latest electoral roll, the ward has a total of 1,246 registered voters. The contest was closely watched, given the ward’s institutional and administrative importance within the panchayat.
The P H C Ward is a coastal ward and is considered one of the most significant in Kuthiathode Panchayat, housing key public institutions including a Lower Primary School, High School, Primary Health Centre (PHC), Post Office, and the Pallithode Church. These facilities make the ward central to public service delivery and local administration.
The victorious candidate Mohandas, aged 63, hails from Arattkulangara, Pallithode. He is an SSLC graduate from St. Sebastian High School, Pallithode, and works as an autorickshaw driver. His background and profession have helped him maintain close connections with everyday concerns of residents, particularly in this seaside community.
The ward has seen alternating political representation over the years. In 2010, it was represented by Ajitha Tomy of CPI(M) when the seat was reserved for women. The 2015 term saw Francis Obin of the Indian National Congress elected, followed by Sheeja Stephenson of CPI(M) in 2020, again under women’s reservation.
In 2025, due to delimitation, the ward number was changed from 16 to 17, though its geographical and administrative identity as the P H C Ward remains unchanged.
Political observers note that CPI(M)’s victory reflects sustained grassroots support in the ward, particularly among working-class and coastal households. With critical institutions under its jurisdiction, expectations are high that the new ward member will focus on healthcare services, educational infrastructure, coastal welfare, and daily civic issues affecting residents.