Lep jumps from wrestling ring to poll arena

Fresh off a gold medal victory at the National Arm Wrestling Championship in Himachal Pradesh, Leo E. Mathew Erumedyil of Kumily has stepped into the political ring in Idukki. The champion athlete is contesting the local body elections in Kumily panchayat as an National Democratic Alliance-supported Independent candidate.

Seeking a mandate from Ward 15 (Kulathupalam) under the ‘Candle’ symbol, Mr. Leo, who secured the 75kg category title in the masters section, vows to bring the same dedication to public service. “My goal is to be a light for the village and implement the development models I have witnessed across the country in this key region bordering Thekkady,” he says, marking his transition from a spectator to an active participant in local governance.