Chennai: For the first time in history, a woman is leading Chennai, the oldest corporation in the Commonwealth. Formed in 1688, the corporation is now headed by a Dalit woman. Yesterday’s local body elections in Tamil Nadu marked a historic milestone for the Chennai Corporation. Many prominent personalities, including Chief Minister MK Stalin and Health Minister M Subramaniam, have been ousted from politics as Chennai mayor.
The Madras Corporation was formed in 1688 by order of King James II of Britain. Later it was renamed as Chennai and Greater Chennai Corporation. However, Rippon Mall is one step ahead of other urban centers in the country. There has never been a Dalit person or woman in history to turn the wheel of the oldest corporation after the City of London.
The two happen together when time goes wrong. The post of Chennai Corporation chairperson has been reserved for Scheduled Caste women in the recent elections to urban local bodies. This will be a big step forward in Tamil Nadu where casteism is rampant.
Rippon Malika has been Lordless for the past six years. The corporation came to power in October 2016 following a dispute over the voter list. The Chennai mayoralty is also the gateway to state politics. The woman mayor is sure to enter state politics in the near future.
English Summary: Chennai will soon have a Dalit woman mayor