LDF accuses Mayor V.V.Rajesh of raking up theatre overpricing to divert attention from other issues - The HinduPublished - September 09, 2026 09:39 pm IST - THIRUVANANTHAPURAMThe Opposition Left Democratic Front (LDF) in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation has accused Mayor V.V.Rajesh of running a campaign on overpricing in theatres to cover up the allegations of corruption in the ‘Mayor Care’ initiative under which Onam kits were distributed to Corporation employees after collecting gifts and donations from commercial establishments. In a statement on Wednesday LDF Parliamentary Party leader S.P.Deepak said that the Mayor indulged in abuse of power by collecting gifts worth lakhs from major commercial establishments in the city and distributing gifts to employees earning lakhs and councillors, who are public servants.Mr.Deepak said that it is surprising that the Mayor, who is not worried about the fuel price in the country, about the irregularities in the NEET exam and about racial and communal hate attacks, is concerned about the price of popcorn. “Usually, when a natural disaster occurs or an emergency arises, the government or local self-government institutions accept such assistance from the general public. The government should thoroughly investigate the massive corruption that took place in accepting huge amounts of money from private traders in the name of giving gifts to employees and councillors. From the Mayor’s current campaign, it would seem that all other pressing problems have been resolved,” said Mr.Deepak. He alleged that a large catering unit in the city had sponsored the Corporation’s Onasadya for 4,000 people, unlike in the past when councillors and employees pooled in money to conduct the Sadya. The government and vigilance should investigate what illegal assistance the governing body provided to them. The theatre issue is being raised to divert people’s attention when they are facing serious problems including drinking water shortage, garbage problems, stray dog problems and traffic congestion. Only a few theatre owners participated in the meeting called by the Mayor on Wednesday. Most of the participants were Corporation officials, Mr.Deepak alleged.Published - September 09, 2026 09:39 pm ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }