Former CPI(M) MLA P. Aisha Potty Joins Congress Ahead of Kerala Assembly Polls

Former three-time CPI(M) MLA P. Aisha Potty joined the Congress party in Kerala ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, formally taking membership during a Congress protest in Thiruvananthapuram. Potty, who represented Kottarakkara from 2006 to 2021, cited feeling neglected and ideological differences within CPI(M). The CPI(M) criticized her exit as self-serving and disloyal. Congress leaders welcomed her, with speculation she may contest from Kottarakkara against incumbent CPI(M) Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal.