Kannur CPI(M) builds memorial for 2 party workers who died while making bombs

Kannur CPI(M) builds memorial for 2 party workers who died while making bombs Thiruvananthapuram: In a shocking development that came to light on Saturday, Kerala CPI(M) Secretary MV Govindan plans to inaugurate on May 22 a memorial that has been built to honour two party workers who lost their lives while making bombs in June [] The post Kannur CPI(M) builds memorial for 2 party workers who died while making bombs appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Civil police officer suspended for assaulting taxi operator in Kochi

KOCHI: Kochi City Police Commissioner S Shyamsundar has suspended a civil police officer (CPO) for manhandling a Kannur resident and detaining his car illegally at the Ernakulam North police station. The police have registered a case against CPO K G Umesh, who belongs to Kalamassery but has been residing at Palarivattom, for assaulting Shahin at the station. He has since absconded, a police officer said. Umesh joined Kerala Police in 2011 and has been working at the Ernakulam North police station since 2022. According to the police, Umeshs elder brother was working as the manager of a private finance company in Kannur. The victim, Shahin, took a car loan last year from that particular firm. For the past eight months, Shahin has not been able to remit the EMI correctly. Initially, he was using the car as a cab but now he has rented out the car in Kochi, the police said. On the evening of May 13, Umesh, who was on duty, noticed Shahins car parked on the roadside while passing through Judges Avenue. The car was taken on rent by a person for a few days. He asked the driver to bring the car to the Ernakulam North police station as there was a criminal case involving the vehicle. After coming to know about the incident, Shahin also reached the police station. Following an argument, Umesh pushed and slapped Shahin, a police officer said. Later, Umesh parked the car among confiscated vehicles at the police station, asking Shahin to settle the liabilities with the financial institution to get it back. The next day, Shahin lodged a complaint with Kochi City Police Commissioner Shyamsundar who ordered an inquiry into the incident. By that time, the finance company personnel shifted the car from the police station to their custody, the officer said. As part of the initial inquiry, CCTV footage from the police station was checked and a report submitted to the police commissioner. Based on the report, Shyamsundar ordered the suspension of Umesh and appointed an assistant commissioner of police to carry out a detailed inquiry into the incident. Ernakulam North Police have also registered a case against Umesh for assaulting Shahin at the station. Fearing an arrest, Umesh has absconded. We have information that he is trying to secure an anticipatory bail from the court, a police officer said. CPO absconds The police have registered a case against CPO K G Umesh, for assaulting Shahin at the station. He has since absconded, the police said

Kerala health minister evaluates health situation in districts, urges caution

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : Highlighting the potential risks of communicable diseases due to the heatwave and subsequent summer rains, Health Minister Veena George has laid emphasise on effective collaboration between all the departments. She stressed on conducting thorough cleaning operations with the assistance of local bodies, ensuring sanitation in public areas and hostels as mandated by the Kerala Public Health Act, cleaning wells and drinking water sources. There will be strengthened focus on food safety checks and ensuring clean water in schools, the minister said. Treatment protocols must be strictly adhered to. Special fever clinics in hospitals will be started while also increasing isolation-bed capacity, Veena said. Hospitals have been instructed to monitor drug stocks and inform authorities if supplies fall below 30%. The minister issued the directives at a high-level meeting of district officials. Action will be taken against those who do not comply with the Kerala Public Health Act. It is the duty of those responsible to keep public water sources clean. Hence, they should be chlorinated at regular intervals. People with jaundice should rest for six weeks to avoid secondary infection. It was also directed to strengthen the awareness activities. Campaigns should be organised to create awareness among the public, the directives said. At the meeting, district medical officers issued updates on the situation in their respective districts and on preventive measures adopted. Jaundice cases have been mostly reported in Ernakulam, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Thrissur, Kannur, Pathanamthitta, and Palakkad. A list of dengue hotspots will be published. The minister called for the proper observance of dry days with the coordination of local bodies and public participation to destroy mosquito breeding grounds. The meeting called for precautions against rat fever. It also discussed bird flu prevention activities in Alappuzha, Kottayam and Pathanamthitta districts.

IUML, affiliates under fire for settling MSF woman leaders case

MALAPPURAM: The IUML and its youth and students wings are being panned for purportedly settling a case registered by a woman leader of the Muslim Students Federation (MSF) against a Muslim Youth League (MYL) leader in Kannur. According to an FIR registered at Vengara police station on May 6, MYL Payyanur constituency president Jiyas Velloor threatened the woman leader, saying he would attack her with acid and circulate her morphed pictures. After she turned down Jiyas marriage proposal, he stalked and threatened her constantly through social media from 2023, says the FIR, a copy of which is with TNIE . In a post on its official Facebook page, however, the Kerala unit of the MSF claimed that the case had been settled by the parties concerned, and the issue is being revived by political opponents to denigrate the party. It also asserted that the complaint against Jiyas was filed following an altercation over financial dealings. The news appearing in the media over the last two days involving the Payyanur constituency MYL president is contrary to reality. The situation that led to the complaint was a dispute relating to a financial transaction carried out through an educational consultancy. On the basis of the complaint, the matter was settled by the parties concerned. Political opponents are using the case to demean the party. Party activists should not be fooled by such campaigns, the post read. If the MSF Kerala units FB page is to be believed, the IUML leadership settled the case out of court before the issue escalated. However, Vengara police did not confirm withdrawal of the case.

Scribe reignites ado over secretariat siege in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Congress leader and then home minister Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan had reached out to the CPM to end the LDFs 2013 secretariat siege over the solar scandal, said Congress leader Cherian Philip, who was part of the Left camp at the time. Even as the state witnesses a fresh political debate over who took the initiative to settle the solar agitation, Cherians revelation has added a new twist to the entire saga. The new revelations over LDFs secretariat siege seeking the resignation of the then chief minister Oommen Chandy, were made by senior journalist John Mundakkayam, in his book on the solar scam, which is being serialised by Samakalika Malayalam Vaarika, a sister publication of The New Indian Express. How CPI (M) brokered a deal with ruling Congress in Kerala to withdraw its Secretariat siege against then CM in Solar scam In its latest issue, the article indicated a clandestine operation by the CPM to settle the agitation. It was John Brittas - heading the CPM-run Kairali television channel - who took the initiative and reached out to settle the agitation, the article says. Mundakkayam claims that Brittas, on behalf of the CPM, rang him up, seeking to settle the siege. The abrupt ending of the massive siege which had paralysed the functioning of the secretariat, had triggered many discussions and suspicions at the time. However, Brittas flatly denied the allegation, terming it mere fiction. Theres half-truth in what the article said. The then home minister Thiruvanchoor (Radhakrishnan) had got in touch to find a solution to the agitation. He called Cherian Philip, who handed me the phone. Thiruvanchoor said the government was ready for any kind of compromise, said Brittas. Meanwhile, Thiruvanchoor endorsed Mundakkayams revelations. There is nothing controversial in the new revelations. We held discussions with everyone to find a solution. The demand was the chief ministers resignation. The UDF was not ready for it. Later when they wanted to settle the agitation, we responded positively, said Radhakrishnan, adding that UDF had the satisfaction of getting the expected result. Even as the political slugfest continues, Cherian, who was part of the Left camp in 2013, came out with a clarification which could put the Congress in an embarrassing position. He said it was Thiruvanchoor who initiated talks and called him up to settle the strike. The decision was taken at an LDF meeting led by V S Achuthanandan. While I was at the Kairali TV office, Thiruvanchoor called me up asking how the strike could be settled. Following this, Brittas and I went to Thiruvanchoors house together, said Philip. Allegations of settling solar case protest baseless Kannur: CPM state committee member and Kannur district secretary M V Jayarajan has dismissed senior journalist John Mundakkayams allegations that CPM leaders intervened to settle the solar case protest. Addressing a press conference in Kannur on Friday, Jayarajan labelled the allegations as propaganda against the CPM. He asserted that the party had no reason to settle the protest.

Man dupes investors of Rs 25 crore, lands in crime branch net

KOCHI: The Crime Branch on Thursday arrested a man for allegedly cheating over 100 investors by promising big returns from the stock market and siphoning off Rs 25 crore. The arrested was identified as Sunish Nambiar, 44, a native of Kuveri in Kannur, currently residing at Chirakkal village. A probe by the Economic Offence Wing of the Ernakulam Crime Branch unit found that the accused first registered a company by the name Nam Index Derivatives. He then made the investors believe that he was an expert in stock trading and that his company was involved in regular share trading business. He used to receive investments by offering an annual profit share of up to 25 to 30%. He made the investors believe that he used to work in the London Banking sector and that he was an expert in Derivative Trading. His modus operandi was to first win the trust of a few persons by providing them big returns for their small investments and then finding new investors through them, sources said. The accused first received investments from two persons working in top positions in the Gulf and won their trust by sending them a big profit share from their own investment. Through them he made over a hundred people working in the Gulf invest in his company before siphoning off their money.

The Turf project provides children at Kerala government homes with ample recreational space

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The woman and Child Development Department is setting up turfs to provide safe and engaging spaces to promote recreational activities and sports among children residing in government institutions. As per a survey, around 60% of the children residing in institutions have behavioural issues. The project aims to attend to the children grappling with such problems and self-esteem challenges. The children coming and staying at these institutions have a lot of issues, especially behavioural issues. Some of them tend to show violent behaviours, and engaging them in sports activities can bring about a drastic change in their nature. We are doing a lot of activities, including yoga, arts, drawing and more. However, outdoor activities are crucial for the mental and physical rehabilitation of these children. We normally take them to nearby school grounds. Now they can utilise the turf on their premises for all physical activities, said a senior official of the women and child development department. The department is planning to implement the project in three districts -- Kannur, Malappuram and Thiruvananthapuram -- having enough space to set up turfs. The first turf under the project has been established in Kannur at a cost of Rs 18.91 lakh. There are around 21 institutions in the district. The second turf, set up at a cost of Rs 32 lakh in Malappuram, has already been completed and is awaiting the official opening, said an official. An official of the institution in Kannur said the response has been overwhelming. According to officials, the work on the third turf at the government home in Poojappura will take off soon. The project is expected to cost around Rs 29.78 lakh. The department has roped in PWD to execute the project in Thiruvananthapuram. Every year, we conduct inter-district sports competitions for our children and now we can host these events on our own turf, the official added.

Meet woman not from IIT, IIM or NIT, cracked UPSC exam in first attempt with AIR...

Annie George, a native of Alakode in Kannur, secured AIR 93 in her first attempt at the UPSC 2023 exam.

17 deaths in a decade: How precious lives are being lost in Kannur's Aralam

If you think Aralam in Kannur, a village along the forest fringes of the Kerala border, hogs headlines only for Maoists encounters, you are wrong. The Aralam Farm and the rehabilitation area have unfortunately been in the news for all the wrong reasons with tigers on the prowl and elephants running wild. The Aralam Farm , which was one of the 16 farms under the Farm Corporation of India, has been in the news for long. It has witnessed hundreds of agitations since 1978. A 57-day long strike, seeking to regularise casual labourers who had completed 240 work days, was one of the first agitations. In 2010, the state government set up the Aralam Farming Corporation. Once the corporation used to generate major revenue, but over the years due to various reasons the revenue generation has come down substantially. Now the corporation has about 425 employees including about 125 non-tribals. Many of them have salary arrears pending. In the recent past, there was another 15-day agitation seeking retirement benefits like gratuity for employees. Even now, the go-slow strike is on. The farm has remained on the war-path for long, said K Velayudhan, Aralam panchayat president back in 2003, who now serves as Iritty's block panchayat president. Hearing of a 64-year-old's tryst with Maoists and visiting Vietnam and Cambodia in India In 2003, the then Chief Minister AK Antony had intervened and bought about 7,500 acres from the union government for Rs 42 crore. An area of 4,000 acres were set aside for the farm, and another 3,500 acres were distributed among 3,335 tribal families. Of this only 1,717 families remain now as others moved out seeking better living conditions. 40 years ago I used to be an employee at this farm. I've seen how lives change overnight, due to animal attacks. Aralam presents a rare canvas before people like you as this village has people from everywhere including several tribal communities. There are people from different Christian factions who came as settlers long back. In addition, there are 12 tribal communities here, says Velayudhan. The efforts to rehabilitate people were made during the AK Antony government in 2003 and later by the VS Achuthanandan government during 2006-11. This area is deep forest, and there is lack of basic facilities like drinking water and other common amneties. There are now only around 1600 families there. The farm currently has an employee strength of 425, including 125 non-tribals. Earlier, there were about 180 official staff. The numbers have come down. Not all families of those who were killed in attacks received compensation; some only got partial compensation, Velayudhan rues. As per available statistics, the region has about 1798 Paniyar families, 335 families of the Karimpala tribe, 323 Kurichyar and 20 Kattunaykkar families, in addition to those belonging to other tribal groups like Kanis and Mavilans. Animal attacks are the biggest life threatening issue here. Despite efforts like solar fencing and a 13-km long wall from Valayanchal to Kariankapp, the conflict continues. Of late, there have also been a slew of elephant attacks. Since 2014, 17 people have lost their lives, recounts Valayudhan. Deaths are primarily due to elephants while attacks by wild boars and monkeys are also not rare. Local residents say there are around 70 elephants inside the farm. Once attempts were made to send them away from the Kerala forest. But in two days, 13 elephants came back. People in the tribal settlement live in constant fear. Raghu, who was trampled by a wild elephant when he went to collect firewood near their settlement in 2023, was the most recent victim of a wild animal attack in the region. Incidents of attacks are being reported even now. It seems poor lives don't matter anymore! In Kerala's Kannur, where Lok Sabha voters, eat, drink and breathe politics Deaths since 2014 1. Madhavi Block 13, Aralam farm Died on 14/4/2014 2. Balan Block 7 Died on 4/4/2015 3. Ammini Block 10 Kottapara Died on 8/3/2017 4. Reji Edappuzha Block 4 Died on 5/4/2017 5. Biju Adanikkal Narikkadav Died on 10/1/2017 6. Gopalan Temporary watcher of the farm Died on 2/2/2017 7. Raghavan Block 7 Died on 17/2/2018 8. Devu Block 13 Died on 30/1/2018 9. Krishnan Block 10 Died on 08/02/2018 10. Jayaraman Died after animal jumped across scooter Died on 11/10/2019 11. Veennappalam Narayanan Block 4 Died on 26/4/2020 12. Babeesh Kuttappan Colony Block 7 Died on 31/10/2020 13. Justine Perinkari Died on 25/09/2021 14. Rijesh Aralam Farm Block 1 Died on 31/01/2022 15. Damu Aralam Farm Block 7 Died on 14/07/2022 16. TA Vasu Died in wild elephant attack Died on 27/09/2022 17. Reghu Block 10 Died on 17/03/2023 * Seventeen deaths from 2014 to 2023. Data compiled by K Velayudhan.

IndiGo launches daily flight from Abu Dhabi to new Indian cities

Abu Dhabi: Indias low-cost airline, IndiGo, on Thursday, May 16, announced the launch of daily flights from Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi to Chandigarh and Kannur. It also announced the resumption of daily flights to Lucknow. IndiGo has added a total of 21 weekly flights in its schedule. This marks a 50 percent increase in Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Handle with care

KOCHI: Ramachandran (name changed) moved away from the harsh summer sun into the spacious hall of the senior living facility where he stays with his wife in Thiruvananthapuram. Its unusually hot this year; we are not used to this, he says, launching into a soliloquy on the climate of Canada, from where he returned two months ago. His son is settled there. Ramachandran was a banker before he retired to the comfort of his family home at Sasthamangalam. We have given it on rent now and moved in here. We cannot maintain a house like that, and we need support. Since our only son is abroad, this is the best arrangement, he says, recollecting the memories that he left behind in that 80-year-old home that nurtured two generations of his kith and kin. Families dispersing is a very painful thing, yet it seems to be the season here. Keralas complex and diverse family structure has been the topic of several studies worldwide. The matrilineal joint family homesteads; the Brahmin households, with patriline at its core; the family systems followed by the tribespeople; the pattern of families that existed among the migrants, which was a mishmash of whatever was brought in and whatever existed here. Kerala was a crucible, where the social fabric was intact because the units, though complex, were firm and extended their foundations to social structure, architecture, inheritance laws, womens rights, etc. The cracks in this structure probably began with the entry of land reforms, says Prof M S Mahendarakumar, head of anthropology department, at Kannur University. Collective sharing of resources gave way to individual aspirations, which led to the breakage of joint family systems. The nuclear ones that were formed did have more space for individuals but also did some dismantling of the ecosystem that organically sustained many aspects of life and nature. Yearly projects undertaken by his department to study families in different communities have shown a marked decrease in joint family units, which are about 5 per cent of the total units analysed. The impact of the breakdown of family units went parallel with the rise in individualisation among the members of the units, and it has reached a proportion when the number of cracks in the family system is more than evident, notes senior psychiatrist Dr C J John, who is a member of the State Mental Health Authority. We have proceeded one more step ahead from nuclearisation. Now, people are becoming islands under one roof, he says. Many can be seen glued to their worlds on social media, and even pleasantries or unpleasantries are both exchanged via the networking platforms even if under one roof. Microworlds are created within the family. This erodes communication between the members. Many parents dont know what is happening with their own kids. A tragic example was the recent infanticide case in Ernakulam, where the family members did not know that their daughter was pregnant. Free expression is hindered, and the families do not even meet their mandate. The structure and functionality of the family suffers. Mutual respect and regard erodes, roles get diffused, and the outcome is often violence and abuses rising during conflicts in families. The resultant mental health issues are seen to be on a rise, Dr John adds. The other results of this trend is rise in behavioural disorders, faulty relationships, and substance abuse which grow to unforeseen proportions because they did not get treated properly at the nascent stage at home by responsible family members. Individualisation thus hampers handholding of senior family members, too. As per state government records, there are over 48 lakh people in Kerala aged over 60, and an estimated 24 lakh Keralites live in various countries. These are conservative figures as per the Kerala Migration Survey, 2014. A decade has passed; the numbers would have soared. The outcome is the increase in senior living facilities, both luxury and economical. My daughter has been in New Zealand for the last 20 years, she is retired, her family well-settled, yet she wont be back. She has her world there and feels out of place here. I have been staying alone after my wife passed away. Kudumbasree members help me with food and other essentials, says 87-year-old Giriraj Sundar. The migrated population are also not keen to return due to better quality of life outside and also the inherent conservatism in Kerala, believes D Dhanuraj, chairman of Centre for Public Policy Research in Kochi. Our 2023 study on youth migration showed that the majority of the students interviewed did not want to return, he says. Our ongoing survey among women who have migrated also tells the same story. While lack of jobs and low pay are cited as reasons, the women especially spoke about the conservative mindset of the society, which did not allow them as much freedom as they experienced outside the state. Besides migration, individualisation is also being reflected in the attitude of the youngsters who claim that they would rather be single than move towards a family setup conforming to societal norms. Family brings its own set of responsibilities. And then there are unreasonable curbs, says a 24-year-old woman who shifted out from her home in Malappuram to be away from her family that wanted her to marry young and follow the norms of the religion she was born into. Even if we want to share our life with someone, it should be on terms that are equal, lenient and democratic. Dhanuraj believes the prevalent social structure is to be blamed for the evident streak of individualism in society. The paradox is that even while we claim high levels of literacy, our school education system remains ill-equipped to prepare children for society and family living, he says. Gender parity, for instance, is not effectively drilled in. We have to admit we are still a conservative society. The younger lot do not get the right direction, and they tend to rebel. The result of such changes is that the dependent population suffers most. Not just elders, the problems among the children are also on the rise. It is one of the fallouts of urbanisation, says Dr John. Holistic development of the upcoming generation hangs in balance. Our social structure is slowly turning fragile. Unhealthy parenting, ranging from over-involvement to total neglect, does not bode well for society. The idea of family might change with the times. But the core concept will remain paramount. We need to preserve families, much like nature, says Dr John. Origin & theme It was during the 1980s that the United Nations began focusing on issues related to the family. After much deliberation, in December 1989, the General Assembly proclaimed The International Year of the Family. However, it was after four years, i.e. in 1993, that the UN decided to observe May 15 as The International Day of Families. And this year marks the 30th family day. Today, one of the major challenges the organisation faces is the effects of climate change. It hugely impacts the health and well-being of families through increased pollution. At the same time, extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change, such as hurricanes, droughts and floods, lead to forced displacement and loss of livelihoods for families and individuals. That is why this years theme for the day is families and climate change.

Kerala mayors council decides to improve governance

KOCHI: A mayors council meeting was held in Kochi on Wednesday under the leadership of Kochi Mayor M Anilkumar. Mayors of Kannur, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram corporations attended the meeting which discussed measures to improvingmunicipal governance and efficiency. At the meeting, fourissues came up for discussion. They included monsoon cleaning, waste management, funding forvarious projects, and otherissuesrelated to the corporation.It wasunanimously decidedto implement the states pre-monsoon cleaning activities and comprehensive sanitation and waste management projects across all municipalities with active public participation, said Mayor Anilkumar. Project funding and treasury issues The council addressed the issue of pending bills from the 202324 municipal project funds that are included in the treasurys queue list. The local self-government minister has agreed to discuss the matter with the finance minister and the office-bearers of the mayors council, Municipal Chairmens Chamber, and the Grama Panchayat Association to expedite the release of funds. The council urged the state government to take steps to avoid delays created by the moral code of conduct in next years project activities and the current spillover list. Professionalism in municipalities The mayors council emphasised the need to make the functioning of municipalities more professional. The council decided to request the state government to appoint qualified professionals in key positions such as finance officer, town planner, legal advisor, environmental engineer, and mechanical-electric engineer without imposing additional financial burdens. Detailed discussions on the powers and responsibilities of local self-government institutions were held, with plans to present these suggestions to the state government and the Urban Commission. Efficiency in plan fund utilisation Comprehensive discussionswere heldto enhancethe efficiency of plan fund guidelines and theutilisation of funds.The formulated suggestions will be submittedto the LSG Minister and the Planning Board. These decisions reflect the councils commitment to improving municipal operations and addressing critical issues efficiently. The next mayors council willbe heldin Thiruvananthapuram in June.

Summer rain in Kerala brings relief to KSEB, peak demand declines by 1,500 MW

KOCHI: The summer rains that lashed the state over the past week brought respite from the sweltering heat as the daytime temperature dropped by 1 to 4.5 degrees Celsius across Kerala. However, it was the KSEB that heaved a sigh of relief. The daily power consumption which was soaring at an alarming rate, dropped by around 25 million units and the peak demand declined by 1,500 MW. As the peak demand touched 5,854 MW on May 2, the KSEB had taken steps to reduce consumption during peak hours. The board had requested public sector units, big industries, Water Authority and lift irrigation projects to re-schedule shifts which helped to reduce consumption by around 200 MW. However, the peak demand continued above 5,000 MW till May 10. With rain gods finally smiling, the daily consumption dropped to 98.89 million units on May 10. The peak demand plunged to 4,365 MW on May 14 registering a drop of 1,489 MW compared to May 2. The KSEB which was scrambling to purchase power from the Day Ahead Market and Real Time Market at exorbitant rate is relieved as the power situation has become normal. A cyclonic circulation over the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining south Sri Lanka and a trough that runs from this cyclonic circulation to Lakshadweep has brought rains to Kerala. Under its influence, the state is expected to receive isolated heavy rainfall from May 15 to May 19. The Southwest Monsoon is likely to advance into South Andaman sea and some parts of the Southeast Bay of Bengal on May 19. Normally the Monsoon reaches Kerala shore within 10 days after reaching South Andaman. So there are chances of the onset of Monsoon by June 1, said IMD scientist V K Mini. According to Cusat Advanced Centre for Atmospheric Radar Research director S Abhilash, there is little chance for the rise in temperature as the state will be receiving moderate rainfall for the next few days under the influence of a cyclonic circulation in the Bay of Bengal and a trough running from Sri Lanka to Lakshadweep. There are chances for the formation of a low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal which may bring more rains, he said. Max temperature April 29/May 15 (0C)/ Drop in temperature Thiruvananthapuram: 36.2/ 33.9/ -2.3 Punalur (Kollam): 38.6/ 35.6/ -3 Alappuzha: 38.3/ 35.9/ -2.4 Kochi: 34.4/ 33.6/ -0.8 Vellanikara (Thrissur): 40.0/ 36.2/ -3.8 Palakkad: 41.3/ 36.9/ -4.4 Kozhikode: 38.1/ 35.0/ -3.1 Kannur: 36.7/ 35.2/ -1.5

Speed limit violations on Kozhikode-Kannur NH pose a safety threat to passengers

Private bus operators accused of ignoring warning signs on accident-prone stretches even as complaints raised against them fall on deaf ears due to alleged negligence by enforcement squads

Kerala: IUML cadre refuses to bite all-party meeting bait, allege it is CPMs ploy

KOZHIKODE: The proposal to convene an all-party meeting to ease the communal tension in Vadakara has not gone down well among the rank and file of the IUML, who believe that the suggestion is only a ploy from the CPM to escape from the allegation of fanning communal feeling for political gains. Though the IUML leadership has welcomed the suggestion, the party cadres are unrelenting on the demand that the culprits behind the controversial Kafir post should be booked before thinking of any other measures. The CPM allegation was that an MSF local leader had sent a message asking the believers not to vote for LDF candidate K K Shailaja, who is a Kafir. The IUML has approached the police saying that its cadres have no role in the incident and raised a counter allegation that the post might be a creation of the CPM circles. Though police have registered a case, no significant breakthrough has been made thus far. UDF had organised a protest march in Vadakara against the police apathy in the investigation. The proposal for the all-party meeting emanated from CPM district secretary P Mohanan, which was welcomed by IUML national general secretary P K Kunhalikutty and later by party president Panakkad Syed Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal. Speaking to reporters in Malappuram on Tuesday, Thangal said an all-party meeting should be convened to maintain a peaceful atmosphere in Vadakara and Nadapuram areas. Regardless of the election outcome, maintaining peace must remain a top priority. Both the district administration and the state government must address the situation with utmost seriousness, he said. But sources in the IUML said the priority should be to find out who created the controversial post that ignited the communal campaign. There is an attempt from the CPM to isolate the Congress and put all the blame on the party. If we attend the all-party meeting now, the CPM may tell that all issues have been settled. Later, they may even argue that we were ready for a compromise because our cadres were behind the post, an IUML leader told TNIE. The uneasiness among the IUML cadres was expressed in the Facebook post of MSF leader C K Najaf in which he ridiculed the CPMs attempt to hide behind the all-party wall. The culprits will be brought to light simply by interrogating the admins of the Facebook page Ambadimukku Sakhakkal, Kannur, he said. CPM attempt ridiculed The uneasiness among the IUML cadres was expressed in the Facebook post of MSF leader C K Najaf in which he ridiculed the CPMs attempt to hide behind the all-party wall.

Kerala: Go slow on revamp, high command tells Sudhakaran

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In an apparent setback for state Congress chief K Sudhakaran, the party high command has stalled his move for an immediate organisational revamp of the party in Kerala. Party leaders as well as workers are in a holiday mood now after hectic electioneering lasting over a month. The national leadership is of the view that party revamp can wait, and senior leaders agreed to it, KPCC general secretary (organisation) T U Radhakrishnan told TNIE on Tuesday. The entire process can be set rolling once the election results are out on June 4, Radhakrishnan said. Sudhakaran returns as Kerala Congress chief, questions some decisions by Hassan After resuming charge as the KPCC chief recently, Sudhakaran, who is the Congress candidate from Kannur Lok Sabha constituency, has taken upon himself the task of organisational revamp, which is long overdue. He had called a meeting of state office bearers and district Congress committee presidents at Indira Bhavan on Thursday. District leadership of the party have been reportedly directed to prepare a list of names to be considered for the revamp. Till now, the practice was that Sudhakaran and Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan would jointly ask for the lists from DCCs as well as factions within the party. On receipt of the list, both leaders would sit together and finalise the names. But now Sudhakaran is keen to get rid of any outside intervention, including that of Satheesan. A senior Congress leader attributed Sudhakarans stubborn stand to the deliberate leaking of an audio in which Satheesan questioned him on the funds received for the Lok Sabha elections. Sudhakaran was cast in bad light which led to uncertainty over him resuming the role of party chief. He is annoyed at this, and has decided to take up tasks, including orgnaisation revamp, single-handedly, the senior leader said.

Kerala: Man kills ex-girlfriend while on video call with new BF, the gruesome murder got recorded; gets life sentence

Kannur: A district sessions court in Kerala has sentenced a 25-year old youth to life imprisonment for murdering his ex-girlfriend who had spurned him. The Thalassery Additional District Sessions Court (One) sentenced to life imprisonment M Shyamjith in connection with the October, 2022, murder of Vishnupriya of Vallyayi near Panoor, in an apparent revenge act after she snapped her relations with him. Additional District and Sessions Court judge A V Mridhula also imposed ten years of rigorous imprisonment and slapped a fine of Rs two lakh under section 449 (trespass in order to commit offence in her house) of IPC. The court also ruled that the fine amount would be given to the victims family. In case of non-payment of the fine, he has to undergo an additional six months of life imprisonment would be the result. Judge A V Mridhula found the youth guilty on May 10, under sections 449 and 302 (murder) of IPC . The trial began on September 21, 2023. It was on October 22, 2022, around 1130 am, that the body of Vishnupriya (23) was found with a slit in and around the neck, and around 18 injuries on her hands and legs, by her mother, when she returned from their ancestral house. Shyamjith barged into the house from the rear and entered her bedroom. At that time Vishnu Priya was on a video call with her boyfriend of Ponnani in Malappuram district and when the accused came home with weapons and attacked the victim the entire chain of events was recorded live in the 13 second video call. This formed a crucial evidence in the case. The prosecution also produced CCTV footage of the accused buying a hammer and gloves from a shop in Koothuparamba also became evidence in the court. Shyamjith and Vishnupriya were in love for about five years. The girl rejected Shyamjith after she started an affair with another youth of Ponnani and this resulted in revenge against the victim.

No new Plus-I batches in Kerala this year: V Sivankutty

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government has ruled out sanctioning new Plus-I batches in the state amid concerns that districts in northern Kerala would face shortage of Plus one seats as the admission process begins later this week. General Education Minister V Sivankutty told reporters that there was no need to create new batches. He assured that all students who were declared eligible for higher studies in the SSLC exam will be given admission. Demands for the creation of new Plus One batches, especially in Malappuram district, were politically motivated, he said. To address shortage of seats, the government has effected 30% marginal increase of seats in govenrment schools in Thiruvananthapuram, Palakkad, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod. Also, another 20% seat increase was made in all schools in these districts, with the provision of an additional 10% seat increase for aided schools that require it. In Kollam, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Ambalappuzha and Cherthala taluks in Alappuzha, the government has effected 20% marginal increase of seats in government and aided schools. A total of 61,759 seats have been created through marginal increase, the Minister said. The government had created 81 new Plus-I batches (77 new and four shifted from southern districts) in 2022-23 and 97 batches in 2023-24. All these batches will continue this year as well taking the overall seats in these batches to 11,965. The Minister said there were 4.33 lakh seats in higher secondary and 33,030 seats in vocational higher secondary sector. Taking into account 61,429 seats in ITIs and 9,990 seats in Polytechnics, the total number of Plus Two seats would add up to 4.25 lakh. Malappuram district has 79,730 students who passed the SSLC examination and the district has 70,976 higher secondary seats. If the 9,214 seats in VHSE, ITIs and Polytechnics are taken into account, the total number of seats available for higher studies is 80,190, the Minister said. Education Conclave An education conclave will be held on May 28 to discuss various proposals including implementation of minimum pass requirement of 30% marks for the written component of the SSLC exam. It will be attended by representatives of teachers associations and education experts. This was decided at a meeting between General Education Minister V Sivankutty and teachers association representatives here on Monday.

Differently abled man allegedly hacked to death by nephew in Kannur

Vishnupriya murder case: accused sentenced to life imprisonment

A fine of 2 lakh was slapped on the accused, Shyamjith, for the murder of the 23-year-old woman at Panur in Kannur in October 2022

Kerala: Life imprisonment for Shyamjith in Vishnupriya murder case

KANNUR: The Thalassery Additional District Court on Monday awarded life sentence to M Shyamjith (28) in the Vishnupriya murder case. Moreover, Justice AV Mrudula sentenced the convict to ten years imprisonment and slapped a fine of Rs 2 lakh for house-trespass in order to kill Vishnupriya. Earlier on Saturday, the Thalassery court found Shyamjith guilty under IPC sections 302 (Murder) and 449 (House-trespass in order to commit offence). The murder was committed on October 22, 2022, at Vallya in Panur. Shyamjith murdered the 23-year-old Vishnupriya for reportedly breaking up with him. On that fateful day, Vishnupriya's family had gone to attend a posthumous ceremony. Vishnupriya was engaged on a video call with her male friend when Shyamjith barged into the house, hit Vishnupriya on the head with a hammer and then slit her throat. He also inflicted 29 wounds on her body. The crucial evidence in the case, a 13-second video clip of Shyamjith's intrusion into Vishnupriya's residence and the CCTV camera visuals presented by the prosecution depicting Shyamjit purchasing the murder weapon (hammer) substantiated the prosecution case.

Kerala: Bomb explodes in front of police vehicle in Kannur; none injured

Kerala: Bomb explodes in front of police vehicle in Kannur; none injured A bomb was hurled in front of a police vehicle in Kannur in Kerala in the early hours of Monday. No casualties have been reported yet. The bomb exploded during a police patrol at Chakarakall Bavot. Two 'ice cream bombs' were thrown in front of the police jeep. The incident took place this morning around 4. The bomb was thrown on the road about 25 meters in front of the police jeep. Notably, this incident happened in the area where conflict between CPM-BJP exists. On Sunday, there was a clash between the CPM and the BJP regarding the temple festival of Chakarakal Bavot. After this, police patrolling was intensified in the area.. A bomb squad accompanied by a dog squad conducted searches. However, it has not been ascertained who threw the bomb. Police have started an investigation into the incident. More details are awaited. (ANI)

Crude bombs explode in Keralas Kannur

No injuries reported. The explosions occurred around 4 a.m. at Chakkarakkal moments before a police patrol team arrived at the scene

Kerala: Speech-impaired child suffers burns after drinking hot milk at anganwadi

KANNUR: A five-year-old boy with speech impairment suffered severe burns on his face after being made to drink boiling milk at the anganwadi. The incident took place last Tuesday at an anganwadi in Pinarayi, Kannur. The police have registered a case against anganwadi helper V Sheeba, who allegedly made the child drink the hot milk. The Child Rights Commission has also registered a suo motu case on the issue. The boys parents have alleged that the staff at the anganwadi refused to take the child to the hospital despite the severe burns on his face. My son has been under treatment at the Kozhikode Government Medical College Hospital for the past four days without being able to eat or drink. He has suffered burns on the lower chin, lips and inside the mouth. Though his burns were severe, the anganwadi staff did not rush him to the hospital, K Shanaj, the childs father, told reporters. An hour after the incident, an anganwadi staffer called the childs mother and informed her about the issue. Only after she reached the spot and found that her son suffered severe burns in the lower chin and lips, the child was taken to the hospital. Meanwhile, Sheeba denied the allegations against her. She told the police that after giving milk to the students, they were also provided with peanuts. She said that the child might be allergic to peanuts and that might have caused the reaction. However, other students at the anganwadi have also complained that the milk was extremely hot. The police said that a detailed probe is on. We have registered a case against the anganwadi helper under IPC Sections 337 and 120, said an officer.

Kerala: No break from reading for Mattannur students

KANNUR: The students of Mattannur Madhusoodanan Thangal Smaraka UP School are making the most of their summer holidays by reading books at their newly established school library, which is accessible even during holidays. With an extensive collection of over 6,000 books in Malayalam, English, Hindi, Sanskrit and Arabic, and supplemented by a reference section, the library was set up for Rs 5 lakh. A framed Preamble on the entrance of the reading space welcomes visitors, embracing the Constitution. Teachers at the school emphasise the importance of understanding the Preamble, which encapsulates principles of unity, secularism, and sovereignty in diversity among the students. On the opposite wall, a depiction of the legendary writer Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, immersed in the timeless narrative of Soja Raja Kumari beneath the shade of a Mangosteen tree, captures attention. Alongside him rests Pathummayude Aadu. The artistic portrayal of Basheer is credited to Srihari Ramdas, an alumnus of the school, while other wall drawings are the work of the schools art teacher, Sajan. At the library, modernity meets tradition by incorporating a large digital screen, catering to the demands of the contemporary era. A new library was always a long-pending dream for us. We wanted our students to grow with the knowledge of the world. They should know about our Constitution and rights. Only books and reading can mould the next generation. That is how we accepted the offer of KSFE chairman K Varadarajan to set up a new school library with their CSR fund. We started the work in January and were able to complete it by March, said social science teacher Rajesh T. The KSFE donated Rs 4 lakh for the purpose and the rest Rs 1 lakh was collected through crowdfunding from the PTA and the students. To foster a love for reading among the students, each class will have a library hour daily from the upcoming academic year. To oversee these initiatives, the Parent-Teacher Association has appointed a full-time librarian to the new library, he said.

Kerala government sitting over Karthikeyan panel proposals on imbalances in higher secondary sector

At least around 200 new batches should be allotted afresh to solve the shortage in the Malabar region comprising of districts such as Malappuram, Palakkad, Kozhikode, Kannur, Wayanad and Kasaragod, according to sources

Headline Rewritten - Inaugural Edition of Super League Kerala Announces Franchisees

Headline Rewritten - Inaugural Edition of Super League Kerala Announces Franchisees Football in Kerala, famed for its top-class talent pool and ardent fan following, is poised to enter an exciting new phase with the announcement of the franchisees of the long-awaited Super League Kerala (SLK). The six franchises that will figure in season one of the league scheduled to start early September, are Kochi Pipers FC, Calicut FC, Thrissur Roar FC, Kannur Squad FC, Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC, and Malappuram FC, a press statement said here on Sunday. Franchise owners and co-owners include: Legendary tennis star Mahesh Bhupathi, CEO, SGSE of APL Apollo (Kochi Pipers FC), Kaz Patafta, Chairman and CEO of Brisbane Roar FC, Benoit Joseph of Magnus Sports and Mohammed Rafeeq of Nusym Technologies (Thrissur Roar FC). M P Hassan Kunhi, Director of Kannur International Airport Ltd, Mibu Jose Nettikadan, Managing Director of Castle Group, Doha, Praveesh Kuzhuppilly, Director of Asset Homes and Shameem Backer, promoter of Wayanad FC (Kannur Squad FC). Travancore Princess Gowri Lakshmi Bayi, Dr Mohamed Ilyas Sahadulla, CMD of KIMS Hospital, K C Chandrahasan, MD, Kerala Travels, and T J Mathews, Co-owner, Kovalam FC (Thiruvananthapuram Kombans FC). VA Ajmal Bismi, MD, Bismi Group, Dr. Anvar Ameen Chelat, SAT Tirur FC and Grand Hypermarkets, and Baby Neelambra, President, Saudi Indian Football Forum (Malappuram FC), and Tech entrepreneur and Chairman, IBS Group, VK Mathews (Calicut FC) are also among the owners and co-owners of the franchise, it said. The meticulously planned SLK is poised to generate numerous opportunities across sectors such as sports and entertainment, retailing business, tourism, leisure, travel, and hospitality, benefitting the six chosen regions and their surrounding areas, it said. Over 100 talented youngsters from Kerala selected by SLK team owners would receive world-class exposure, paving the way for their further ascent in Indian and international football. SLK is certain to redefine the football activities of the state in a big way in the coming years, Kerala Minister of Sports, V Abdurahiman said at the introduction ceremony of the six franchisees on Friday. SLK CEO Mathew Joseph said stadiums and venues were chosen keeping in mind a fair spread of accessibility for football fans. ''The selected venues will promise an unparalleled and unprecedented experience for spectators,'' he said. The league will showcase promising talents from Kerala and football-loving regions across Asia, Europe, and South America, he said. Kerala Football Association (KFA) president Navas Meeran said though Kerala has been regarded as a traditional powerhouse of Indian football, the soccer fans in the state are yet to experience the fervour and excitement akin to what is experienced across Latin America or Europe. ''Currently, in an ambitious initiative aimed at promoting football and attracting more talent across Kerala, over 5,000 upcoming players are undergoing training and competitions in five groups for the Chakola Trophy tournament,'' he said. This is held as part of the Kerala Football Association's (KFA) Kerala Youth Development Project, Meeran said adding that under this project, boys selected from the districts will be given free coaching throughout the year with the help of SLK franchisees. Hibi Eden MP, MLAs TJ Vinod, and PV Sreenijan, U Sharafali, President of Kerala Sports Council, and Australia's Consul General (in Chennai) Silai Zaki were among those present during the function.

52 Air India Express flights cancelled on Saturday

KOCHI: Air India Express services continued to be affected on Saturday even after its cabin crew who had been protesting since Tuesday evening rejoined duty on Thursday evening. It is anticipated that the normal operations of the airline will resume by Sunday or Monday. According to sources, the airline operated a total of 305 flights and cancelled 52 flights across the country on Saturday. Passengers of Kannur Airport on Saturday were agitated after the airline cancelled its schedule to Dammam and Abu Dhabi at 5.15 am and 9.20 am respectively. On Friday, around 20 services from four airports in Kerala were cancelled. Similarly, airline service to Sharjah, Bahrain, and Abu Dhabi in the international sector and Bengaluru, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Thiruvananthapuram in domestic sectors were cancelled from Kochi Airport on Saturday. Due to protests by cabin crew, around 400 flights of AIX were cancelled in the last four days, since Wednesday. Air India Express to withdraw termination letters of 25 crew members after protest called off Air India Express passengers express dismay over mass flight cancellations

Major gold seizure at Keralas airports; 2.3kg gold seized in Kochi, 2.5kg in Kozhikode

KOCHI/MALAPPURAM: The customs team at the Kochi airport on Saturday intercepted a passenger who attempted to smuggle in 2.30kg of gold worth Rs 1.74 crore. The police arrested Khader Mytheen, of Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu, who arrived on a FlyDubai flight from Dubai in the morning. As many as 20 gold bars were found concealed inside a specially stitched cavity around the waistline of the jeans he was wearing. Khader confessed to the customs personnel that he was hired by a person in Dubai to smuggle the gold. He was promised a commission from the sale of the contraband in Kerala. The customs have started a probe regarding the people who hired Khader and the people who were supposed to receive the consignment in Kerala. He was produced before a magistrate and remanded to judicial custody. Meanwhile, at the Kozhikode airport, the customs seized 2.5kg of gold worth Rs 1.76 crore in three different cases last week. In the first incident, the officers seized 1.35kg of gold worth Rs 95.74 lakh from a man who arrived at the airport from Dubai. The Anakkayam native attempted to smuggle the gold in compound form by concealing the contraband in two pouches taped under his feet. In the second case, the officers seized 646g of gold valued at Rs 45.32 lakh from a native of Thazhekode in Malappuram. He attempted to smuggle in the contraband in compound form by concealing it inside his body. In the third incident, 494g of gold worth Rs 34.94 lakh was seized from a native of Mankada in Malappuram. He attempted to smuggle in the gold in compound form by pasting it on the jeans he was wearing. The officers also foiled attempts to smuggle foreign cigarettes through the airport. Two attempts to smuggle 10,000 sticks of Gold Flake brand cigarettes were foiled by the customs. One bundle of 10,000 cigarette sticks is valued at Rs 1.20 lakh. The passengers who tried to smuggle in the sticks were natives of Kannur and Malappuram. Another attempt to smuggle 5,000 sticks of Essay brand cigarettes valued at Rs 0.60 lakh by a passenger, a native of Koodathai in Kozhikode, was also defeated by the customs officers.

Vishnupriya murder case: Shyamjith found guilty

KANNUR: The Thalassery Additional District Sessions Court found the accused Shyamjith guilty in the case of murdering a girl named Vishnupriya from Panur in 2022. The sentence will be pronounced on the 13th May. The accused murdered Vishnu Priya when she decided to end their friendship. Vishnu Priya was on a video call with her male friend when the accused came home armed. visuals of Shyamjith entering Vishnupriya was recorded in the video call. This 13 seconds video call visual became crucial evidence in the case. The prosecution also produced the CCTV footage of the accused purchasing the hammer and other weapons in the court. The tragic incident took place on October 22, 2022 in Vallya, Panur. Shyamjith hit Vishnu Priya on the head with a hammer and then killed her by slitting her throat. He also stabbed Vishnupriya several times even after her death. There were 29 wounds on Vishnu Priya's body. Vishnu Priya ending her friendship with Shyamjith was the reason behind the murder. Shyamjith was also irritated by the girl's intimacy with Vivin Raj, a native of Ponnani. The accused went to Vishnu Priya's house and committed the murder when the family went to attend a posthumous ceremony.

Kerala Court Convicts Man for Brutal Murder of Young Woman

Kerala Court Convicts Man for Brutal Murder of Young Woman A Kerala court on Friday found a man guilty of the brutal murder of a 21-year-old woman pharmacist at her home near Panur in the northern Kerala district of Kannur in October 2022. The Thalassery Additional District Sessions Court found the accused, Shyamjith, guilty of killing the victim, Vishnupriya. It will pronounce the order on the sentence on May 13, Public Prosecutor K Ajith Kumar said. The prosecutor said that the accused killed the woman as she had ended their friendship and was close to another man. The prosecutor said that Shyamjith came to the Vishnupriya's house armed with a hammer and other weapons when her family had gone to attend a funeral. Vishnupriya was on a video call with a male friend when Shyamjith entered the home, he said. This was recorded in the video call, and the 13-second-long footage was the crucial evidence in the case, the prosecutor said. Besides that, the prosecution also relied on CCTV visuals of Shyamjith purchasing the weapons used to commit the crime. Kumar said that Shyamjith first hit Vishnupriya on the head with a hammer and when she fell down, he slit her throat. Even after she had died, he continued to stab her, and as a result, there were 29 wounds on her body, the prosecutor said. Vishnupriya was found dead in a pool of blood with a slit throat and deep wounds on her neck and hands at her residence on October 22, 2022. Within hours of the gruesome murder, police arrested Shyamjith, a native of nearby Manantheri.

Kannur Cocktail to Madurai Jigarthanda, what keeps Kochi cool this summer

Cool down this summer with rich, inventive milkshakes blending fruits, nuts and ice creams. We try Kochis most popular versions.

Kannur Cocktail to Madurai Jigarthanda, what keeps Kochi cool this summer - The Hindu

Kannur Cocktail to Madurai Jigarthanda, what keeps Kochi cool this summer The Hindu

Local is international is the new vibe of Mollywood says Rajesh Madhavan

Rajesh Madhavan is a tad antsy these days Sureshinteyum Sumalathayudeyum Hridayahariyaya Pranayakadha (SSHP) , his first film as the protagonist, is about to release, and the shooting of Pennum Porattum , his maiden directorial, is in its final leg. This was a long journey for the young actor-director, fuelled by a childhood passion that never died down. The beginning of it all was a short, comedic role in the film Maheshinte Prathikaram , a character that no one who has watched the film will ever forget. With measured answers, Rajesh opens up to TNIE about his filmmaking dreams and his love for the craft, his future as an actor, filmmaker and more. Excerpts: How did your interest in art and cinema begin? Well, one of my most earliest and distinct memories of experiencing art is a school play based on Poothapattu, in which my sister played a role. I still remember the characters, stage and visuals I was mesmerised. Even now, the imagery appears fantastical in my mind. Some years later, I entered the stage for the first time while I was in Class 7. It was again a school play where I enacted the main character, Mandan Shipayi. It won me a best actor award at the sub-district level. That was my first acting experience. From a school play to being a part of several blockbusters in the past decade, it must have been quite a journey Yes, I studied visual media for post-graduation, but wasnt sure what to do after that. I did several jobs four in two years but realised they werent suited for me. The cinema dream was always there. It finally materialised when my friend Ravi Shankar, who is also the writer of my film Pennum Porattum , decided to do a short film. I joined him as the chief associate. The short film clicked and received encouraging feedback. So,our next plan was cinema (laughs). We were dreamers, gung-ho about getting an opening. But, nothing materialised. So, for around a decade, we toiled in Kochi, just like how film aspirants of the past struggled in Kodambakkam. Were you always interested in acting? No, I never tried to get into acting. My focus was on the off-screen part. Ever since I started watching films, I was drawn by the people working behind the scenes. When [script writer] Syam Pushkaran, who knew me, offered me the role in Maheshinte Prathikaram , I did not express much excitement (laughs). But I soon realised I wouldnt be able to survive here without acting. There was no other income at that time. I am a big fan of Lal sir. I was awed by his performance in Kaliyattam , and used to wonder how he excelled in acting as well as direction. I used to tell myself: Lets try acting after becoming a good director. However, eventually, it happened the other way around. You spoke about the struggling days in Kochi. So, how did you find work for survival? A lot of people always ask me about a way to enter the world of cinema.There is no set way that fitsall. I came here with the confidence that we got after making the short film. It was a time when short films were trending. Basil Joseph had done one at that time. So we had some connection with such artists. Since I studied visual media, I knew the basics of photography. That was one income-generating area taking photos of interior designs of hotels, etc. Since editing also was part of the curriculum, I used to edit school projects and small documentaries. While in Kasaragod, cinema felt like an unapproachable world. In Kochi, it felt like we were a lot closer. There was never a stage where I went around asking for chances, though. How did the entry to Maheshinte Prathikaaram and the association with the likes of Dileesh Pothan and Syam Pushkaran begin? Syamettanhad watched one of our short films in which Unnimaya was also a part, and he would occasionally invite us for their discussions. So during Maheshinte Prathikaaram , he offered me a small role. At that time, I didnt realise the significance of my character or how his contribution to the series of incidents that form the films core conflict. I only knew about the Jana Gana Mana scene, but I loved the scene the moment Dileesh Pothan told me about it. He narrated it wonderfully. After Maheshinte Prathikaaram, I had no other option but to go to Dubai in search of a job. Thankfully, Pothannan called me to assist him in Thondimuthalum Dhriksakshiyum , as I was from Kasaragod. If not for that call, I would have gone abroad. You are fortunate to have got that opening, but is the industry a welcoming space for newcomers? Every persons journey is different. I have always wanted to be part of the film industry and tried relentlessly for it. Going around asking for chances is not the only option, there are many other ways to get there. I initially tried writing scripts and approached directors for narrations. Similarly, there are several other means to knock on doors. I believe everyone should learn a bit about the process of filmmaking before startingout. With all the glitz and glamour in this world, it is natural for people to be drawn to cinema and dream of becoming a hero one fine day. But we better not think illogically. Over the past few years, several films have been set in the north Malabar region. How do you see this shift? The Malayalam cinema we knew from 10-15 years ago has changed for the good. As part of this, cinema has reached local areas. Earlier, regions like Kasaragod and Kannur were sidelined, but that has changed now. My film, Pennum Porattum, is being shot in Kollengode in Palakkad. Its a popular shooting location, but we may have never seen an actual story of Kollengode in our cinema. Similarly,there are several regions that arestill left to be explored. Coming from Kasaragod, you must have grown up experiencing all the cultural art forms and rich folklore of the region. Have they influenced you? Yes, of course. Before exploring theatre, theyyam was a major part of my life. People like me, from the Kannur-Kasaragod region, are hugely influenced by this art form and it reflects in our daily lives in one or the other way. Even just the thought of the Vishnu Moorthy theyyam still gives me goosebumps. You will find a bit of one theyyam or the other in every person from that region. With Kasaragod-based narratives gaining prominence and more talents emerging from the region, have you been able to identify an evident transition in how cinema is perceived there today? During my growing-up days, Kasaragod wasnt deeply connected to cinema. When I was in Class 10, a childrens theatre group was formed. We met every Sunday. I was one of the students in its first batch. It wasnt an academic study space; we just used to meet and make plays. The possibilities were limited. However, after my generation, several cinema collectives started sprouting and film festivals became a regular occurrence. Theres a sense of community now. For instance, Senna (Hegde) rarely ventures out of Kanhangad to make films. My friend Vinu Kozhichal, the director of Bilathikuzhal , also contributes to the local cinema scene. Now that you are also a filmmaker and a casting director, is there ever an inclination to make the path easier for those from Kasaragod? It does not work like that. As I said, there was a time when cinema was something distant for people from regions like Kasaragod. But its not like that now. Now, people from any region can easily dream of cinema. Local is international is the new vibe in the industry. Geography is no longer a barrier. The diversity of cinema is vast today. Yes, people from my region seek chances. But I have to be professional; only 100 out of 1,000 get chosen. Thats the painful part. What is the diversity you are referring to? Cinema is now diverse in every manner. For instance, its language and visual expression. Consider recent films like Avesham, Premalu, Bramayugam, Manjummel Boys, and Aadujeevitham. Each of these five films is distinct. Aadujeevitham is an international film in every sense, while Manjummel Boys employs a unique visual language in the survival thriller category. Girish A Ds craft stands out in Premalu , and Bramayugam is equally exceptional. Theres a constant evolution in filmmaking styles and experimenting with language and format. Our filmmakers demonstrate sensitivity and innovation. Lijo Jose Pellisserys films, for instance, contribute to this cinematic language reform. I am optimistic about the future of cinema. Good films will continue to be made, and I am grateful for having been working in this space in this period. I had to reject Karthik Subbarajs offer... Rajesh Madhavan talks about the upcoming film, Sureshinteyum Sumalathayudeyum Hridayahariyaya Pranayakatha, headlined by him, and his directorial debut As an actor, so far, you have mostly done roles with short screen time. Yet, you managed to grab attention. Do you strictly follow the script, or improvise while delivering the scenes? I follow what my director says. They know the best. In films like Minnal Murali , I could deliver an over-the-top act because Basil encouraged me to. I like going a bit overboard; maybe thats my signature (laughs). Did you expect your character in Nna Thaan Case Kodu to get such a wide reach? No, but I was sure that the character would be noticed by the audience. What was your response when director Ratheesh Balakrishna Poduval (Nna Thaan Case Kodu) told you about the spin-off plans? The initial idea came when we were working on Madanolsavam . By then, there were talks in social media about the spinoff potential for Sumesh and Sumalathas characters. Inspired by the comments, Ratheesh decided to work on it. I was also excited. But, then, I didnt expect it to take off this soon. Two weeks after that initial discussion, we were on stage to announce the film. How would you define SSHP? It is a fun love story with several layers of emotions. The narrative spans different stages of Suresh and Sumalathas relationship to emphasise how love doesnt change. Ratheeshs knack for quirky humour will also be evident throughout the film. Many interesting visual techniques are employed to offer a new experience to the audience. Your performance in Prappeda was in contrast to your other outings. How was the experience working on it? Director Krishnendu was experimenting big time with the film, and I loved his vision and ideas. During the pandemic, he came up with a dystopian story and a small budget, but had some great technicians in it. We started out with just a half-page script and figured out the rest on the go. It was a wild experience. I am not even sure if I conveyed the directors thoughts correctly. Though the narrative is not everyones cup of tea, I feel that the film should reach more audiences. It is a bit abstract, as the director just created a structure and gave a vague idea of the plot. It was us actors, who had to act accordingly. I had to perform in an unemotional manner, which was difficult but fun. It is often said that an actor who can handle humour effectively can pull off any emotions. Have you ever felt like pushing yourself out of the humour shell? I prefer not to repeat myself in similar roles unless I am cash-strapped. I would love to play a villain role, preferably a psycho one. I have even told a few directors about this. There are a couple of upcoming films that have me in a new space. It includes Ratheeshs next. I am not keen on doing lead roles, as there are so many responsibilities associated with it. Supporting roles are safer with fewer responsibilities to manage. Could you elaborate on the shift from supporting roles to headlining a film? I am still not sure if I am good at acting. People might love me as a performer, but as an actor, I have a long way to go. Regarding SSHP, I had to maintain an emotional consistency for a longer period than usual. After becoming a lead actor, do you feel the pressure of its commercial potential? Its a huge risk to back a film without popular actors. Since our film is a bit too long, the commercial risks associated with it are bigger. Despite all that, the producers have been very supportive. I hope they gain some profit to enable them to support more such films. That is all I am thinking of right now. Earlier you had spoken about the drastic change in cinema from how it was a decade ago. What is that difference according to you? Though we always had great directors and scriptwriters, there was a period when our industry focused solely on mass entertainers. However, this changed after the audience started embracing quality content from other regions. Its not just about twirling the moustache anymore. Downloading platforms like Torrent introduced our audience to a wide range of content and they started appreciating the craft and art of foreign filmmakers. A new crop of makers tried adapting these styles here, resulting in a positive change in Malayalam cinema. Creators have now realised the importance of content. I believe it will only get better. What kind of films did you envision making when you first landed in Kochi? I appreciate the rich diversity of cinema. In my childhood, I watched films like Children of Heaven, thanks to the Sunday theatre group. It left a lasting impression. During my college days, [late director] K G George sir introduced me to French New Wave and neo-realism. While doing my masters, my teacher introduced me to The Godfather . She was shocked when I told her that I wasnt much impressed by it. But years later, when I revisited the film, I realised why its a timeless classic. I instantly called and apologised to the teacher, moving her to tears. I religiously watched films by directors like Griffith, Kusturica, Fatia, Wes Anderson, Scorsese and Coppola. Initially, I was confined to just local, masala movies, but my exposure to world cinema changed a lot of my perceptions. When I started getting into the film industry, there was a clear boundary between parallel movies and commercial films. But now, this gap is narrowing, and I hope it gets negated in the future. Is Pennum Porattum an attempt to straddle the fine line between offbeat and commercial sensibilities? You could say its an attempt. I am wary of making a definitive statement. However, Ive consciously tried to strike a balance. There is a specific segment in the film where I intentionally infused some commercial elements, yet, I have aimed to maintain authenticity and not disrupt the natural flow. The film has an entirely new cast. Was this a requirement dictated by the script? Absolutely. The story is quite dramatic, illogical, and absurd centred around a quarrel between two families in a village. It doesnt necessarily follow the usual beginning-middle-end structure. Despite that, it has a commercial flavour. I hope that audiences will appreciate the humour. If they laugh, its a comedy; otherwise, it might lean towards tragedy (laughs). What were the challenges that you faced during the transition from being an assistant director to an independent filmmaker? While working under someone, we have a lot of ideas, but we dont get to take the final call. But when you become independent, all these possibilities are open. So, the greatest challenge is to rein oneself in. A control on the immense freedom upon our shoulders that is the challenge. We are only answerable to the producer, but most of them would not intervene when there is a creative call. Its natural to feel anxious because the whole responsibility is on your shoulders, and theres a lot of money involved. It is also important to be aware of the craft and what you are trying to communicate. This is something we can learn only by doing it. I didnt know how to direct a film until I started doing it. We might have notions about ourselves and the job before doing it, but as we enter the job, we will realise most of it is not true. I am now learning, and hoping to do it the right way. Most of them associated with my film are friends. So, theres a lot of bond and mutual respect. I seek that kind of comfort while Im doing a movie. Many are new to cinema. These are people who never thought of being part of cinema, so the whole vibe on sets is different. Even if my tone turns slightly serious, they get worried if I am disappointed. At the same time, it is also a daunting task to manage everyone. It requires a certain level of discipline and I am still trying to achieve it. Malayalam cinema has often been plagued by controversies They are inevitable in this celebrated field, but their timing remains unpredictable. Personally, I prioritise discussing cinema and maintaining my stance on certain issues. I prefer not to comment on matters I am unfamiliar with. When in a position of influence, its important to avoid outdated beliefs and embrace modern perspectives. I recall being misled by a teachers opinion about flashbacks in filmmaking. So I am cautious not to mislead others. Have you received any offers from other languages? Recently, I had to decline one due to a date clash. It was Karthik Subbarajs film, and I was genuinely excited about collaborating with him. I never thought of becoming an actor, but since I am one now, Im eager to know where it leads me. It was unfortunate that I had to turn down Karthiks offer, and I hope he will call again (laughs). Do you check reviews and comments on social media? Though I dont interact much on social media, I love to observe all the opinions. I use social media to gauge responses, but I dont absorb everything out there. I think a movie should offer what the makers want, not what the audience wants to see. If makers offer good movies and new experiences, the audience will invariably accept them. Bramayugam is a perfect example of this. We never thought a black-and-white film would be released at this age, but its rather the experience that gained acceptance. Despite all the changes in the Malayalam film industry, there are still only very few women working behind the scenes. Whats your take on it? I recently did a short film where all the technicians were women. So, things are changing. It also depends on the kind of film we are taking. Two of my associates are women. I feel that every set should really have more female presence because their perspectives are important. There was a time when female technicians had a tough time surviving in the industry, but it is changing now. I hope they soon start making films and bring about newer trends. The film industry has been mans domain for a long time and it has its share of problems. The change cant happen overnight, it will be gradual. But its definitely changing for the good. TNIE team: S Neeraj Krishna, Vignesh Madhu, Krishna P S, Mahima Anna Jacob, Aishwarya Prabhakaran, Anna Jose, Swathy Lekshmi Vikram A Sanesh (photos) Pranav V P (video)

Kannur youth wheelies out against drug abuse

KOCHI: Close on the heels of his all-Kerala trip to spread awareness against drug abuse, Kannur native Saneed P P is already midway into his next mission an all-India trip to sow the same message even further. What distinguishes this journey is that the cycle he rides has no front wheel. A stunt rider, Saneed does a wheelie the entire stretch of the journey. The peculiarity of the trip turns eyes and in turn, to the message. Drug abuse is the greatest menace in our society today, he says. The journey, which began in Kanyakumari in December, traversed the length of Kerala, before hugging the road along the western coast to Mumbai. Saneed hopes to make it to the highest motorable road in the Himalayas before November. Despite not knowing much Hindi, I have had no trouble finding routes or camping at night. People are keen to help, says the 23-year-old. This ride has been my dream for the past few years. Now, with each whirl of the pedal, Im slowly realising it. Saneeds ride starts at 6am and he aims to cover 30-40km a day. At night, he sets up a tent near fuel stations or dhabas. Wherever there is a toilet facility, he chuckles.The journey is not just confined to roads as Saneed also makes it a point to explore various tourist locations along the route. His constant companions on this journey are a stiff neck and persistent back pain. Saneed parents had warned him about this, and how this may create difficulties later on in life. There are many who are addicts of cigarettes, alcohol, or worse, drugs. Using these can lead to complications later. I am willing to suffer a little to help my friends escape from these vices, says the aspiring interior designer. One of his friends has already given up on cigarettes after learning about his journey. I receive many emails from those who are inspired by my journey. This is my fuel, says Saneed, whose finesse on the bike has also earned him a role as a stunt double for Kalyani Priyadarshan in Thallumala. However, the youngster is not yearning for more such distractions. My focus is on this journey, Saneed says.

With 6 teams, 4 venues & foreign players, Super League Kerala set for kick-off in September

KOCHI: Super League Kerala (SLK), which has been structured to mirror European football leagues, is set to commence in September this year. The tournament, to be staged at four stadiums spread across the state, will feature six teams and also foreign players, organisers said. Mathew Joseph, CEO of SLK, said the leagues significance as a groundbreaking venture in Indian football highlights its potential for aspiring players, passionate fans and stakeholders. He noted that the meticulous selection of venues will ensure improved accessibility for football enthusiasts. Six teams from Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Kannur districts will participate in the tournament, said Navas Meeran, president of the Kerala Football Association. Each team will comprise four foreign players, besides young and talented players from both Kerala and other states. The launch of the six franchisees will be held in Kochi on May 10. Sports Minister V Abdurahiman, AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey, and Charu Sharma, sports commentator and board member of SLK, will be part of the event. Joseph said the venues will meet international standards and provide an unparalleled experience for fans. The league will showcase promising talent from Kerala and other football-loving regions across Asia, Europe and South America. Although Kerala has long been considered a powerhouse of Indian football, its fans have yet to experience the same level of excitement seen in Latin America or Europe. Super League Keralas success and the opportunities it presents for our youth are projected to positively impact the state and its people, offering a level of excitement and entertainment previously unseen, said Firoz Meeran, director of SLK. Ready for the whistle The tournament will be staged at four stadiums spread across the state Six teams from TPuram, Ernakulam, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Kannur districts will participate Each team will comprise four foreign players, besides young and talented players from both Kerala and other states

Kerala Startup Mission to tap commercial potential of food tech

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Creating opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs and setting a unique model to start their ventures in food technology sector, Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) will conduct a virtual Rink Demo Day on Friday. The event will showcase nine innovative food technologies that are ready for commercialisation. Major designers had given diligent branding identities to these products in the Branding Challenge held on the sidelines of KSUMs Huddle Global 2023. Prominent research and development (R&D) institutions from across the state will display technologies at the expo, being conducted as part of National Technology Day, from 10.30am. Those who work in the food processing industry as well as aspiring entrepreneurs can attend the Rink Demo Day. Participants of the Demo Day will gain access to cutting-edge food technologies with commercialisation rights and professionally designed brand identities for each technology. The technologies to be displayed in the online event include coconut honey and coconut chips developed by ICAR - CPCRI, Kasaragod; seaweed pasta by KUFOS, Kochi; flavoured sugarcane wine by ICAR-Sugarcane Breeding Institute Research Centre, Kannur, vacuum fried chips and sweet potato nutribar by ICAR-CTCRI, Thiruvananthapuram; ready-to-cook elephant foot yam by CSIR-NIIST, Thiruvananthapuram; millet and seaweed cookies and fish protein wafers by ICAR-CIFT. Technology access Participants will get access to cutting-edge food technologies with commercialisation rights and professionally-designed brand identities for each technology

DC Edit | IPL: An unsportsman-like rant

IPL team owner Sanjiv Goenkas rant against K.L. Rahul in the glare of floodlights and TV cameras was most unbecoming of a sports team owner. The dressing down the owner gave his star cricketer was not in keeping with the spirit of sport, particularly an unpredictable game of great uncertainties like cricket. Champion teams are sometimes mowed down in a complex team sport in which individuals have huge space to shine though it wasnt Kannur Lokesh Rahuls day as he batted slowly and then saw his bowlers being blasted to smithereens as Hyderabad Sunrisers bulldozed the Lucknow Super Giants in less than half the 20 overs to climb to third in the IPL table. There is no denying that generous sports team owners open their purse to pay the players even if the cash-rich IPL is more of an entertainment business that has brought industrialist and showbiz personality owners into the limelight even as it promises to be a rewarding experience for owners as well as players. The cricketers are professionals who try to live up to their reputation and rating in every match they play in, particularly in a high-profile tournament like the IPL that is all the rage in India and is the worlds highest paying T20 cricket league. It was the public way in which the owner berated his captain, and presumably his team, for performing miserably that rankled. But then in this game of fluctuating fortunes the chances of having a bad day while the opponents have a good one are quite common. In IPL history, the owner of Lucknow Super Giants who had once owned the Rising Pune Supergiants, had showed shocking lack of cricketing judgment in sacking Mahendra Singh Dhoni as captain when he was already limited-overs cricket and IPLs winningest skipper ever, and replacing him with the Australian Steve Smith. It is not known what the LSG owner told his captain though the body language was a giveaway. To Rahuls credit, he took the criticism in a stoic style of the quality sportsman that he is. What the episode brought out was owners, regardless of how rich and powerful they are, they must still bow to the vicissitudes in the game of cricket, which can often be a humbling experience. As the famous saying about the game as a metaphor for fair play goes, its not cricket, certainly not when owners pounce on a cricket captain as if he were an employee on the shop floor.

IMD Issues Yellow Alert for Heat Wave in Kerala's Alappuzha District on May 9

IMD Issues Yellow Alert for Heat Wave in Kerala's Alappuzha District on May 9 The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday issued a yellow alert for Alappuzha district of the state for the day due to the likelihood of heatwave conditions there. The IMD said maximum temperatures were likely to be around 39 degrees Celsius in Thrissur and Palakkad, 38 degrees Celsius in Alappuzha, 37 degrees Celsius in Kollam, Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, Ernakulam, Kozhikode and Kannur and 36 degrees Celsius in Thiruvananthapuram, Malappuram and Kasaragod districts of the state till May 10. These temperatures were three to five degrees Celsius more than what was normal for this time of the year, it said. ''Heat wave conditions are very likely to prevail at one or two places in Alappuzha district on May 9 (YELLOW WARNING),'' it added. The IMD also said that hot and humid weather was very likely over these districts except in the hilly areas during this period.

Kerala passengers disappointed as Air India Express flights cancelled for second consecutive day

Travellers at Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kannur airports faced disappointment when AIE flights to Gulf nations were called off at the last minute for the second consecutive day

AI Express flights cancelled for 2nd consecutive day; passengers unhappy

NEW DELHI, May 9: Air India Express passengers who were promised travel to various destinations from airports in Kerala were left stranded on Thursday as their flights were unexpectedly canceled for the second day in a row. Travellers at Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kannur airports faced disappointment when flights to Gulf nations were called off at the last minute for the second consecutive day. This sudden cancellation has sparked frustration and caused inconvenience among passengers who relied on the airlines assurance [] The post AI Express flights cancelled for 2nd consecutive day; passengers unhappy appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Taking a toll! Lack of regulation & awareness driving online addiction in Kerala

KOCH: Akash was a hardworking youth who earned around Rs 1,200 a day working for a private company in Kozhikode. Yet, the 24-year-old developed an addiction for online rummy, which led him to take his own life. On August 17, 2023, Akash was found hanging from a water pipeline in Manjappalam, Kozhikode. His uncle Shyju K says that Akash was not the same person after he started playing online rummy two years ago. Akash was very bright and energetic. He worked as a driver transporting glass from Kozhikode to Thiruvananthapuram. He initially made some money from online gambling. But, within a year, he accumulated debt of over Rs 1.5 lakh. An accident interrupted his addiction for a while. Meanwhile, his father took a loan to clear his debts. After making a recovery, he was back to being hooked to online gaming. To keep funding his activity, he started taking small amounts as loans from relatives and friends, Shyju said. On the day Akashs body was found, around Rs 45,000 was debited from his bank account by a Mumbai-based firm, which the family claims runs an online gaming platform. No probe was conducted into the company. Paying the price Last year, over four suicides linked to online gaming were reported across Kerala. In August 2022, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan told the state assembly that between January 2019 and July 2022, nearly 25 children ended their lives over online addiction. In February 2021, the state government amended the Kerala Gaming Act to ban online games, including rummy. But the Kerala High Court in September that year quashed the amendment terming rummy a game of skill, in line with the ruling of the Supreme Court. Later, the government proposed legislation to put a stop to online games that siphon off money. But alas, that has not been followed up. Jiyas Jamal, an expert in cyber law and founder of the Cyber Suraksha Foundation, said a major lobby runs online gaming that targets even young children. Online games can be classified into two broad categories - those that are free and those that involve money. The games played with money can be further classified into skill-based and chance-based games. Chance-based games are barred. Despite the ban, they operate under different names. Even though the state government attempted to ban even skill-based online games, the High Court stayed the amendment brought in this regard, Jiyas said. Non-compliance with rules However, according to him, the majority of skill-based online gaming companies that are operated from China are not registered in India. They do not comply with the countrys Information Technology (IT) Rules. Despite the numerous suicides reported in Kerala linked to online gaming, no companies running them have been booked for abetment. As per the IT Rules, online platforms operating in India should have an office in the country. They should also have nodal officers to attend to the grievances of users. However, most of the firms running online gaming in the country operate through agents, who deal with financial transactions. A person who loses money has no forum to lodge a complaint. In fact, these firms indulge in money laundering by re-routing unaccounted money from India to foreign countries. The saddest part is that no online gaming companies have been arraigned as accused in suicide cases reported here, he said. Jiyas alleged that there are fakes games that are propagated through advertisements on social media platforms and through influencers. There should be action against people who endorse such games. Recently, I came across an advertisement for a bogus game on a social media platform. Although I reported it, the advertisement has not been removed. Online influencers are also major promoters of such games. The companies offer influencers money to endorse the games in their videos. The influencers are shown demo accounts that show users earning large amounts from playing their games. With governments refusing to take action, we have started flagging influencers who promote fake apps and games, he said. DDA programme After the state governments move to counter online gaming addiction was struck down by the HC, Kerala Police came up with its Digital De-Addiction (DDA) programme for children under 18. The initiative has proved to be effective. The programme was started in six districts Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kozhikode and Kannur on an experimental basis in January last year before being operationalised in November. Each DDA unit has a psychologist attending to cases related to online gaming and mobile phone addiction. Sooraj Kumar M B, nodal officer of the Student Police Cadet (SPC) Project in Ernakulam who also co-ordinates the DDA operation in the district, said that the majority of students referred for the programme were involved in mobile gaming. DDA also provides training to children on remedial measures in case they become the target of cyber fraud. Since last November, we have attended to over 100 cases in Ernakulam. Most of the students are referred to by teachers due to online addiction. A good number were involved in online gaming. We provide them a self-assessment chart to diagnose whether they are addicted to mobile phones. After this, our psychologist gives them counselling. Our DDA has a 85% rehabilitation success rate, he claimed. Post-Covid phenomenon According to Sooraj, digital addiction is largely a post-Covid phenomenon. For almost two years during the pandemic, children relied on mobile phones for all their activities and now taking the devices away from them is a daunting task. Its not just children, even many youth and adults cannot live without their mobile phones now. Addicted students turn aggressive when they are denied access to mobile phones. Such a response can lead to issues in the family, he added. Arun B Nair, professor of psychiatry at Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College Hospital, says a deep craving for online gambling is a behavioural addiction. Online gaming and over-access to the digital world has affected the sleep cycles of children and adults alike. Such games generate a dopamine surge to the brain that gives those playing them a thrill. The person thinks that he has attained enough skill to beat all obstacles and continues to gamble money even after incurring heavy losses, he said. Psychiatric help Such addiction can be tackled with psychiatric intervention, says Arun. Fixation for video games existed even before Covid. The situation, however, aggravated with the pandemic when children started getting access to mobile phones and other digital devices. Use of devices should be regulated based on the age of kids. Similarly, children should not be allowed to access mobile phones after 10pm to ensure they get a good nights sleep, he added. Recent Victims Feb 7, 2023: Girish, 35, of Kollengode, Palakkad, committed suicide by hanging himself in his house after he lost over 20 lakh playing online games Aug 17: Akash, 24, of Paloli, Kozhikode, killed himself after suffering losses playing online rummy Sept 13: A resident of Vellarikundu, Kasaragod, P K Rosh, 23, died by hanging himself at his workplace in Idukki after losing over Rs 80,000 playing an online game Oct 17: Dileesh, 40, a barber from Rayamangalam, Ernakulam ended his life by consuming poison after suffering financial losses playing online rummy Points to Ponder 25 children killed themselves between Jan 2019 - Jan 2022 in state The Kerala government banned online games in Feb 2021, but Kerala scrapped decision in Sept 2021 Kerala Police runs a Digital De-Addiction (DDA) programme for children in six districts Most of the firms running online games are linked to China and operate in India without any office or nodal officer, as stated in IT Rules Social media influencers endorse games and lure youngsters promising high returns Gambling games generate a dopamine surge to the brain that gives those playing them a thrill

Man arrested with fake currency notes in Kannur

K Sudhakaran Resumes Role as Head of Kerala Congress

K Sudhakaran Resumes Role as Head of Kerala Congress Amidst reports of strong displeasure and objection raised by a section of leaders, veteran leader K Sudhakaran on Wednesday took over as president of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee after a brief interval. He was given a warm welcome by his admirers at the party headquarters here by draping shawls and raising slogans. However, prominent leaders, including M M Hassan, who was serving as the acting president of the KPCC in the absence of Sudhakaran, were conspicuous by their absence when he came to take charge. Earlier in the day, Sudhakaran visited veteran leader A K Antony at his residence before assuming office. As per the direction of the All India Congress Committee (AICC), Sudhakaran had temporarily handed over the post to Hassan following his candidature from Kannur constituency in the recent Lok Sabha polls. There were reports that the party leadership had asked him to wait until the election results come out next month to resume charges as KPCC Chief following an objection raised by a group of state leaders. However, state and national leaders had rejected the reports and said Hassan was given the charge as part of a temporary arrangement. While addressing a press conference after taking charges, Sudhakaran also dismissed media reports about the rift within the party over his comeback. Replying to questions, he said he took over the charge as per the direction of the AICC. When reporters asked about the absence of Hassan, he said the senior leader might have felt that his presence was not needed in the function. ''But I wished for his presence there,'' Sudhakaran said. When reporters asked whether there was any delay in getting him back to the post of KPCC Chief, he said, ''All these decisions are taken by the AICC.'' ''And it depends on each individual when they will hand over a post back,'' he added. Sudhakaran is seeking his electoral luck for a second consecutive term from the politically volatile Kannur during the recently concluded LS poll.

Cabin Crew Shortage Forces AI Express to Cancel 80 Flights, Leaving Passengers Stranded

Cabin Crew Shortage Forces AI Express to Cancel 80 Flights, Leaving Passengers Stranded Air India Express has cancelled more than 80 flights since Tuesday night with a section of senior cabin crew reporting sick to protest against alleged mismanagement at the Tata Group-owned airline, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded at various airports in the country. Scores of Air India Express passengers, mostly scheduled to travel to the Gulf nations, protested at airports in Kerala against last-minute flight cancellations. Some of them claimed that they were informed about the cancellations after the completion of security checks. On Wednesday, sources told PTI that more than 200 cabin crew are believed to have reported sick to protest against the alleged mismanagement at the airline. The cabin crew shortage has resulted in the cancellation of at least more than 80 flights since Tuesday night and scores of flights were delayed. Flight disruptions are happening at various airports, including Kochi, Calicut, Delhi and Bengaluru, they added. An Air India Express spokesperson said the airline is engaging with the cabin crew members to understand the reasons for reporting sick and also apologised for the flight disruptions. Discontent has been brewing among a section of the cabin crew at the low-cost carrier for some time now, especially after the start of the process to merge AIX Connect, formerly AirAsia India, with itself. The sources also said there was chaos at some airports due to the sudden cancellation of flights, including to overseas destinations. The airline is to operate 360 daily flights during the summer schedule that started in the last week of March. ''A section of our cabin crew has reported sick at the last minute, starting last night, resulting in flight delays and cancellations. ''While we are engaging with the crew to understand the reasons behind these occurrences, our teams are actively addressing this issue to minimise any inconvenience caused to our guests as a result,'' the Air India Express spokesperson said in a statement. Apologising to the customers for the ''unexpected disruption'', the spokesperson said those impacted by the cancellations will be offered a full refund or complimentary rescheduling to another date. Late last month, a union representing a section of the Air India Express cabin crew alleged that the airline is being mismanaged and there is a lack of equality in the treatment of the staff. Air India Express Employees Union (AIXEU), a registered union, which claims to represent around 300 cabin crew members, mostly seniors, had also alleged that mismanagement of the affairs has affected the morale of the employees. The development at Air India Express comes a month after Tata Group full-service carrier Vistara witnessed pilot woes, forcing it to temporarily cut down capacity by 10 per cent or 25-30 flights daily. On Wednesday, a woman passenger, who was to travel from Kannur to Sharjah with twin babies and her husband on an Air India Express flight, said she has to rejoin work on May 9, but the airline was offering her a flight from Kochi only on May 10. ''What would be the point in me travelling on May 10? If I do not reach there before May 9, my boss will say not to come and I will lose my job,'' she told the media. ''Guests flying with us today are requested to check if their flight is affected, before heading to the airport,'' the airline spokesperson said. As part of consolidating its airline business, Tata Group is merging Air India Express and AIX Connect, as well as Vistara with Air India.

Kerala airports witness passenger fury over last-minute AI Express flight cancellations

Kerala airports witness passenger fury over last-minute AI Express flight cancellations Protests by irate passengers were witnessed at all airports in Kerala on Wednesday against the last minute cancellation of their Air India Express flights. Passengers, mostly travelling to the Gulf nations, claimed that they were informed about the flight cancellations after they completed their security check and were waiting to board the flight. While Air India Express has offered a full refund or complimentary rescheduling to another date, passengers are not happy with that. Many of them claimed that they could lose their jobs if they do not reach their place of work today, while some others' work visas are about to expire. One woman, who was to travel from Kannur to Sharjah with twin babies and her husband, said she has to rejoin work on May 9, but Air India Express was offering her a flight from Kochi only on May 10. ''What would be the point in me travelling on May 10? If I do not reach there before May 9, my boss will say not to come and I will lose my job,'' she told media. Similar concerns were aired by many others who have to rejoin their places of work in the Gulf nations today or tomorrow and failure to do so could result in them losing their jobs. The woman also said that she had been waiting at the airport since Tuesday night, when her flight was scheduled to leave for Sharjah, but no accommodation or other facilities were provided to them by the airline. Another woman, who had booked tickets on Air India Express to meet her husband who is hospitalised in Muscat, said that she was told about the cancellation only when she reached the Kannur airport in the morning. One man who had to travel urgently to Sharjah on Tuesday night from Kannur, did not wait to cancel the ticket and instead quickly bought a ticket on Indigo for Rs 37,000. ''There is a fight going on at the ticket counter. So, I quickly bought a ticket on Indigo for Rs 37,000,'' he said. Similar scenes of irate passengers, some travelling with small children, were seen at Kochi, Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram airports in the state. Air India Express has cancelled ''scores of flights'' due to a shortage of cabin crew members as a section of them are reporting sick to protest against alleged mismanagement at the Tata Group-owned airline, according to sources. Discontent has been brewing among a section of the cabin crew at the low-cost carrier for some time now, especially after the start of the process of merger of AIX Connect, formerly AirAsia India, with itself. The sources on Wednesday said several cabin crew members started reporting sick since Monday evening and as there are not enough cabin crew members, ''scores of flights'' have been cancelled at various airports, including Kochi, Calicut and Kannur. Later the airline, in a statement, said, ''A section of our cabin crew has reported sick at the last minute, starting last night, resulting in flight delays and cancellations. ''While we are engaging with the crew to understand the reasons behind these occurrences, our teams are actively addressing this issue to minimise any inconvenience caused to our guests as a result.'' The airline, in its statement, sincerely apologised to passengers for this unexpected disruption and emphasised that this situation does not reflect the standard of service it strives to provide.

AICC blinks, Sudhakaran to return as KPCC president

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Giving in to persuasion by key party leaders in Kerala and pressure from K Sudhakaran himself, the Congress national leadership has decided to reinstate the Kannur leader as the KPCC president. Sudhakaran will re-assume the post at Indira Bhavan at 11am on Wednesday. It is learnt that a section of senior leaders backing Sudhakaran had conveyed to Delhi that dilly-dallying on Sudhakarans return at the partys helm will send a wrong message on social balancing. Following this, Deepa Das Munshi, AICC general secretary in-charge of Kerala, softened her stand and gave Sudhakaran the green signal during a telephone conversation on Tuesday. Sudhakaran was forced to defend his Kannur Lok Sabha seat as there was no other credible Thiyya leader to take on CPM. The other Ezhava community member in the fray is Attingal candidate Adoor Prakash. The High Command realised it will end up further antagonising the Ezhava community which is already under-represented in the Congress, said a leader close to Sudhakaran. Sudhakaran keen on making grand return to Indira Bhavan Talking to reporters in Angamaly later, a jovial Sudhakaran confirmed that he will resume his duties at Indira Bhavan on Wednesday. Its learnt Sudhakaran had decided to turn his return into a gala event by inviting all 26 general secretaries, working presidents and vice-presidents. As per plan, a meeting of party office-bearers was to follow. Meanwhile, post June 4, after the Lok Sabha results are out, the AICC is expected to go for a major organisational overhaul, even if UDF sweeps the polls. Amid the uncertainty surrounding his return as party head, there were campaigns both in his favour and against him. A section of leaders wanted a new president to lead Congress at the time of the local body polls. Meanwhile, a peeved Sudhakaran was keen on getting an honourable exit, and wanted to take credit for UDFs performance in the LS polls. Many senior Congress leaders had alerted the High Command that it was targeting Sudhakaran at a time when communal balancing was at stake. While AICC general secretary K C Venugopal was in Sudhakarans favour and had promised to address the issue after the third phase of the elections, Deepa wanted Sudhakaran to return only after the poll outcome was known. During her phone call with Sudhakaran on Tuesday though, Deepa was keen to know whether he wished to have a swearing-in ceremony at Indira Bhavan, toeing Sudhakarans line. News of Sudhakarans return has come as a setback to leaders in his opposing camp. In the days to come, power equations in the state Congress are expected to see changes.

K Sudhakaran to resume duties as KPCC chief on Wednesday

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: K Sudhakaran, who has taken a break to contest the Lok Sabha poll from Kannur, will resume his role as Congress state president on Wednesday. Coupled with the intervention of senior Congress leaders and pressure from K Sudhakaran himself, the AICC leadership has intervened favourably in bringing him back at the helm of the party. A section of senior Congress leaders who backed Sudhakaran conveyed the message to Delhi that if there is further dilly-dallying on Sudhakaran's return as party chief, it will convey a wrong message. Deepa Dasmunshi, AICC general secretary in-charge of the state also loosened her firm stand and gave the green signal to Sudhakaran during a telephone conversation on Tuesday morning. Talking to reporters at Angamaly, a jovial Sudhakaran confirmed that he will resume his duties at Indira Bhavan on Wednesday. Congress brass not keen to reinstate Sudhakaran as partys Kerala chief Sudhakarans return to Indira Bhavan was getting delayed for sometime. There was also a campaign going on in his favour and against him. A section of leaders felt that a new president should lead the party in time for the local body election. A peeved Sudhakaran has been keen on getting an honourable exit. Also Sudhakaran felt that as KPCC chief he should be given the credit for UDF performance in the poll. Following this, many senior Congress leaders alerted the party High Command saying that they are unduly targeting Sudhakaran when communal balancing has been at stake. Sudhakaran was forced to defend his Kannur Lok Sabha seat as there was no other suitable leader to take on the CPM. So when Sudhakaran is being shown the door without giving him due recognition, the Congress High Command realized that they are only further antagonizing the Ezhava community which are under-represented in the Congress, said a leader close to Sudhakaran. While All-India Congress Committee general secretary (organization) K C Venugopal was in favour of Sudhakaran and had promised to address the issue after the third phase election, Deepa Dasmunshi wanted him to return to office only after the Lok Sabha poll outcome is known on June 4. Following the intervention of the senior Congress leaders, there was swift action from the Congress High Command. This saw Deepa Dasmunshi calling up Sudhakaran over phone. She was keen to know whether he wishes to have a swearing in ceremony organized at Indira Bhavan thereby toeing the line of Sudhakaran. The Sudhakaran camp is jubilant following the developments.

Kannur Art Foundation unveils kaleidoscope of creativity at Commune, the Art Hub

Kerala: Police begin probe into mystery deaths of man, woman near Payyannur

KANNUR: A woman who went missing from her home at Mathamangalam on Saturday was found dead inside a house at Annur in Payyannur on Sunday. Twenty-two kilometres away at Irul, a youngster who was assigned to look after the house in which the woman was found dead was also found hanging at a rubber plantation. The deceased are Mathamangalam native Anila, 36, and Sudarshan Prasad, 34, of Kuttur in Irul. The owner of the house, Betty, and her family had been away from home for the past few days. She had asked Sudarshan to look after the house while they were away. The police said that it is unclear how Anila reached Bettys house. Anilas relatives and neighbours have alleged a mystery behind the incident. Anilas body was found by Bettys relatives when they inspected the house after coming to know of Sudarshans death. Her relatives told us that she was in a relationship with Sudarshan, said K K Falgunan, a ward councillor. The Payyannur police have registered a case of unnatural death and started a probe. They are investigating how Anila could have reached Bettys house. We are checking whether there is any connection between the two deaths, said a cop. Sources said that Anila has no connection with the house where she was found dead. The womans body is more than 24 hours old. The police are treating it as a murder-suicide case, the source added.

Can't keep a determined woman down, shows Kerala's 1st woman toddy tapper

Toddy, the fermented sap of coconut flowers, is a favourite of Kerala tipplers, who are mostly men. As are most toddy tappers. Till C Sheeja (40) joined the trade in 2019. A resident of Panniyode, near Koothuparamba, she got a toddy tapping licence from Koothuparamba Excise Range in Kannur. She climbs around 10 palm trees every day, each tree thrice, early morning and late evening, to extract toddy. That's not all. At noon every day, she climbs again to prune overhanging palm fronds.

Woman, man found dead in Kannur

Rape victim cannot be forced to give birth to child of abuser: Kerala HC

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court on Saturday observed that a rape victim cannot be forced to give birth to the child of a man who sexually assaulted her. Declining permission to a rape victim to medically terminate her unwanted pregnancy would amount to forcing her with the responsibility of motherhood and denying her human rights to live with dignity, which forms a significant part of the right of life guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution, said Justice Kauser Edappagath. While allowing the plea of the mother of a 16-year-old girl who is a rape victim, seeking permission for medical termination of her daughters pregnancy, the court said that sexual assault or abuse of a woman is distressing and the resultant pregnancy compounds the injury. The petitioner alleged that the victim, while studying in the XIth standard, was sexually abused by her 19-year-old lover and she became pregnant. A case was registered by the Edakkad police, Kannur, for rape. The victim is now in her 28th week of pregnancy. The medical board informed the court that continuance of pregnancy may be detrimental to the physical and mental health of the victim. The psychiatrist who was part of the board also opined that the continuation of the pregnancy may result in severe psychological trauma to thevictim. The court further stated that after terminating the victims pregnancy, the superintendent, of Pariyaram Medical College, Kannur should preserve the foetus for carrying out the medical test for the case pending against the accused.

Kerala: M M Hassan to continue as Congress state president for the time being

THIRUVANNATHAPURAM : Even as K Sudhakaran expressed eagerness to return to the role of Congress state president, incumbent president in-charge M M Hassan will continue for the time being. The sitting MP who was party candidate from Kannur, was planing to take the mantle on Sunday, a day after the partys LS poll review meeting. However, the party directed him to wait for a communication from the national leadership. After the poll review meeting on Saturday, Sudhakaran was huddled with AICC general secretary K C Venugopal. Sudhakaran was forced to ask him whether hes still the Kerala Pradesh Congress C ommittee (KPCC) president, in an apparent reference to the dilly-dallying on handing over charge. Venugopal apprised him that a letter from AICC leadership has to be released urging him to resume his duties as state party chief. It is scheduled to be sent after a few days, said a senior leader close to Sudhakaran. Sudhakaran had initially planned to resume his role as Congress state president on April 29. But he was informed on the previous day that Hassan will continue holding the charge until the review meeting on Saturday. Thats when he decided to resume his duties on Sunday. But now it has become clear that he will have to wait for some more time. Curiously, its K C Venugopal who should issue the letter on behalf of the national leadership. In the AICCs letterhead dated March 21, Venugopal had conveyed to AICC general secretary in charge of Kerala Deepa Das Munshi, that Hassan was being given charge as state party chief until the conclusion of Parliament elections, given the current PCC presidents involvement in the ongoing elections. Contrary to Sudhakaran camps claim, there are reports that Hassan will continue holding the charge until the poll outcome is known on June 4. Hassan draws flak at meeting Sources said M M Hassan faced the ire of K C Venugopal at the review meeting. Its learnt that Venugopal reprimanded Hassan for not defending Rahul Gandhi in the P V Anwar row. Venugopal told Hassan that he should have effectively resisted when the Nilambur MLA made a controversial remark about DNA test on Rahul Gandhi. Venugopal did not hide his disappointment against Hassan for not coming out with a strongly-worded statement when Anwar went to the extent of addressing Rahul Gandhi as a low-level citizen

Kerala's Heatwave Intensifies: Yellow Alert Issued for 12 Districts by IMD

Kerala's Heatwave Intensifies: Yellow Alert Issued for 12 Districts by IMD The India Meteorological Department on Saturday issued a yellow alert for 12 out of the 14 districts in Kerala due to the likelihood of high temperature and humidity there till May 6. IMD said the maximum temperatures were very likely to be around 39 degrees Celsius in Palakkad, around 38 degrees Celsius in Kollam, Thrissur and Kozhikode, around 37 degrees Celsius in Alappuzha, Kottayam, Pathanamthitta and Kannur districts and around 36 degrees Celsius in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Malappuram and Kasaragod districts from May 4 to May 6. ''Hot and humid weather is very likely over these districts except in hilly areas during May 4 to May 6 due to high temperature and humidity. (YELLOW WARNING),'' it said. It also issued a yellow alert for Alappuzha and Kozhikode districts for today due to the possibility of warm night conditions there. The southern state has been reeling under hot weather conditions for several days leading to educational institutions being closed in Kerala till May 6. Additionally, the government has also issued a slew of directions which include avoiding working under the sun from 11 am to 3 pm by construction workers, farmers, hawkers, etc. It has also asked everyone to avoid exposure to sunlight during these hours of the day and remain hydrated.

Wild elephant wreaks havoc in Aralam farm rehabilitation area in Keralas Kannur; three injured

Kerala: Post-poll developments likely to alter equations in Congress leadership

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: After the Lok Sabha election, the A group which has been at loggerheads with the Congress state leadership has cosied up to it indicating a change in power equations within the party. If earlier, Congress state president K Sudhakaran and Opposition Leader V D Satheesan worked as a team, party insiders reveal that fissures have developed in their rapport. The A group which was once led by former CM Oommen Chandy did not share excellent camaraderie with the current leadership. A day after the Lok Sabha poll, rumours were rife that Satheesan is eager to see Congress state president in-charge M M Hassan, who belongs to the A group, continuing in office. This move has antagonised the Sudhakaran camp which led him to advance his duties as party chief from last Monday onward. But he later postponed his trip to Thiruvananthapuram after reports emerged that Hassan, who led the Lok Sabha campaign of the Congress, will chair the meeting on reporting of poll prospects at Indira Bhavan on Saturday. A leader close to Sudhakaran told TNIE that since the tenure of Satheesan has reached the second half, he has been trying to garner maximum support from the A group so as to have a tie-up with it. Satheesans diplomatic move is to garner the support of as many legislators as possible keeping in mind the 2026 assembly elections. Apart from senior A group leaders, youth leaders like Palakkad MLA Shafi Parambil and Rahul Mamkootathil have the backing of Satheesan. Circulation of fake reports that Sudhakaran is likely to be defeated in Kannur has led him to return to the seat of party chief at the earliest before the poll outcome is known, said a leader close to Sudhakaran. Satheesan camp has vehemently denied the allegations that he had tried to derail Sudhakarans return to the KPCC president post. The Leader of Opposition is currently on voice rest and his office informed that there is a standing directive from AICC that Hassan will hold charges until the Lok Sabha poll is over. K C Venugopal, All India general secretary (organisation), in a letter dated March 21 had conveyed to Deepa Das Munshi, AICC general secretary in charge of the state, that Hassan is being given charge of state party chief until the conclusion of Parliament elections, given the current PCC presidents involvement in the ongoing elections.

Kerala: Organ donation unfolds a tale of human bonding and hope

KOZHIKODE: In Kannur, a touching tale of gratitude and deep human bonding unfolded, highlighting the transformative power of organ donation. The story serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact that organ donation can have, not just on the lives of recipients but on an entire community. Ashok V Nair, a 44-year-old resident of Kurungazha Chalungal house in Pathanamthitta, owes his life to the generosity of a family in Kannur. Six months ago, Ashok received the heart of Vishnu, a young man from Kannur who lost his life in a motorcycle accident in Kozhikode. Despite their deep sorrow, Vishnus parents, Shaji and Sajana, along with their daughter Nandana, decided to donate Vishnus organs. The decision was facilitated under the governments Mritha Sanjeevani scheme, which promotes organ donations at no cost with the stipulation that the donors and recipients have the opportunity to meet. The relationship between Ashok and Vishnus family deepened over the years, marked by regular visits and shared memories of Vishnu. Sajana, who was battling cancer, found in Ashok a surrogate son. Their bond was strengthened through their shared connection to Vishnu and the heart that now beats in Ashoks body. When Sajana succumbed to cancer, it was Ashok who stepped forward to perform her last rites. This profound act of respect and gratitude took place in the presence of grieving family members and neighbours, deeply moved by the symbolic gesture of life continuing to give even after passing. For my wife, Ashok was no less than our son, said Shaji. There is no one in the world to replace his position in our lives right now. Both of us call him Vishnu and not Ashok. Even during her last stage of life battling cancer, Ashoks presence was a great relief for Sajana. She always kept her hands close to Ashoks heart to feel Vishnu. Not just Ashok, Vishnus kidneys, heart, and liver were given to three people in Kerala. Vishnu Sajana and I had realised that nothing could bring our son back to life, but the only way we could get him back was through giving life to other people through our sons organ, he added. The only demand we had while giving consent for organ donation was to know the details about the organ recipients because they wanted to see their son again and again through them, Shaji added. I considered performing the last rites for Vishnus mother as my responsibility and I was mentally and physically ready to perform any duties for the family, said Ashok. Every conversation I had with her after the transplant is a great memory for me. Every time I called her amma (mother), she looked back at me profoundly. Every month when I visited Kannur for a routine health check-up after the transplantation, I made sure to visit her and spend some quality time with the family, Ashok added. The scene at the funeral was emotionally charged, as onlookers witnessed the cycle of life, loss, and continuing legacy. Ashok, with Vishnus heart beating within him, lit Sajanas pyre as a reminder for everyone to understand the importance of the selfless act of organ donation.

Kerala CM Orders Closure Of Educational Institutions To Counter Impending Heatwave

As Kerala continues to reel under hot weather conditions, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday held a meeting to assess the possibilities of heat waves in the state and issued several instructions including the closure of educational institutions until May 6. In an online meeting of the State Disaster Management Authority that was attended by District Collectors, the CM also issued directions with regard to the monsoon season, according to an official statement. With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a yellow alert for Alappuzha, Palakkad, Thrissur, and Kozhikode districts due to an anticipated heatwave, Vijayan urged residents to refrain from direct sunlight exposure between 11 am and 3 pm on Thursday and Friday. He directed that those working during these hours, like construction workers, farmers, hawkers, etc should adjust their work timings accordingly, holiday classes should be avoided between 11 am to 3 p.m., and daytime parades and drills should not be held at training centres of police, fire brigade and other forces, said the statement issued by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO). The CM said that educational institutions, including professional colleges, will remain closed until May 6. Additionally, he directed that audits should be carried out in areas prone to fires like markets, buildings, waste collection and storage facilities, hospitals, and major government institutions. Following instructions from the forest department to avoid forest fires, grazing cattle under the midday sun, and ensuring drinking water in tribal hamlets and habitations were the other directions issued in the meeting, according to the statement. According to the IMD, maximum temperatures are very likely to be around 40 degrees Celsius in Palakkad, around 39 degrees Celsius in Kollam, Thrissur, and Kozhikode, about 38 degrees Celsius in Alappuzha, Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, and Kannur, and around 37 degrees Celsius in the remaining districts of Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Malappuram, and Kasaragod from Thursday till May 6. With regard to the monsoon-related preparedness, the CM directed the holding of a meeting under the leadership of the collector in the presence of the minister in-charge of the district to discuss the matters to be done first as part of the pre-rains cleaning work, it said. Local self-government bodies should start pre-monsoon cleaning on an urgent basis in order to clear blockages in drains, culverts, and small canals before the onset of the rains, he directed. Not allowing garbage to pile up, ensuring mosquito control, preparing buildings to be used as relief camps, releasing excess water from rivers and canals into the ocean, and clearing obstructions from the regulators and spillways of dams were the other directions issued by Vijayan in the meeting, the CMO statement said. Besides that, he also ordered that trees, branches, hoardings and posts that may pose a danger to people should be removed before the rains. Hazard warnings should be displayed at tourist attractions and awareness created among the public living in hilly areas prone to landslides, he added.

Now, book a private train from Kerala

KOCHI: In a first, private trains will be available for tourists from Kerala to destinations such as Goa, Mumbai and Ayodhya. To begin with, the private train journey from the state to Goa will begin next month. The facility is being launched by SRMPR Global Railways, a Chennai-based tour operator, in partnership with the Kochi-based Princy World Travel Limited. An individual or a group of 600 passengers can book a private train journey to the three prominent destinations from Kerala, said officials. The inaugural journey is set to depart from Thiruvananthapuram on June 4 to Madgaon in Goa. The four-day tour package is available in three categories: 2-tier AC at Rs 16,400 per person, 3-tier AC at Rs 15,150 per person and non-AC sleeper at Rs 13,999. The package includes stay, food and sightseeing. Services like off-board travel and excursions by buses, stay at hotels, tour guides, meals and travel insurance are provided along with these train journeys and allied onboard services. Though the Indian Railways introduced the concept of private players operating tourist trains on theme-based circuits under the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Trains around a couple of years back, this is the first time that a private company is getting into this segment from Kerala. Earlier, such private train tours were launched from states such as Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. For instance, the government of Karnataka in association with IRCTC operates private trains to Kashi Prayag, Gaya and Ayodhya. Similarly, private trains are operated between Coimbatore and Shirdi. Plan to import private trains from Germany According to officials of Princy Tours, the trains are purchased by SRMPR from the Indian Railways to operate exclusively for tourism purposes. From Kerala, there are mainly three tour packages Thiruvananthapuram to Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram to Goa (four-day package) and Thiruvananthapuram to Ayodhya (eight-day package), said Devika Menon, director of Princy World Travel Ltd. Plans are on to operate around 12 trains from Kerala. Once the initial three routes gain maximum traction, new routes will be introduced, she said. This train is being introduced on a trial basis.The SRMPR group will import special trains from Germany to run them privately. Hopefully, the trains will arrive by this year's end, she said. The trains have limited stops and only those who have booked the tickets can enter the train. A total of 60 staff, including the paramedical team and pantry are available onboard, said Devika Menon. The train is equipped with CCTV cameras and WiFi. As per the initial plan, the tourist train will operate to the specific destinations with a weeks gap. We have received the slots to operate from June to September. The dates for Mumbai and Ayodhya will be released soon, she said. The trains will have boarding from Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasaragod from Kerala.

Two die of heatstroke; Kerala gears up to meet the challenge

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM/KOZHIKODE: On a day two suspected heatstroke deaths were reported in Malappuram and Kozhikode, the state government swung into action on Thursday rolling out a series of measures to cope with the prevailing heatwave conditions. A high-level meeting of the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan decided to declare holiday for educational institutions, including professional colleges, till May 6. Meanwhile, a high level meeting attended by power minister K Krishnankutty and KSEB management decided not to go for load shedding in spite of the power crisis. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued heatwave alerts in Alappuzha, Palakkad, Thrissur and Kozhikode for Friday. It also issued a warm night warning in Alappuzha. Palakkad is likely to record a maximum temperature of 40 degree Celsius, Thrissur, Kollam and Kozhikode 39, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Pathanamthitta and Kannur 38, Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Malappuram and Kasaragod 37, on Friday. Palakkad remained the warmest district with a maximum temperature of 40.4 degree Celsius on Thursday. Kozhikode city reported 39, which is 4.6 degree Celsius above the normal. Muhammad Haneefa, 63, a resident of Padinhattummuri in Malappuram, passed away while undergoing treatment for heatstroke at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital on Thursday. He collapsed while working in a field near Tamarakuzhi on Wednesday. Preliminary assessment indicates dehydration to be the cause of hisdeath. Bijesh, a 41-year-old painter from Chakkumkadavu in Panniyankara, Kozhikode died of suspected heatstroke at his work site on Thursday. Feeling the heat Holiday for educational institutions, including professional colleges, till May 6 IMD issues heatwave alerts in Alappuzha, Palakkad, Thrissur and Kozhikode for Friday Warm night warning issued in Alappuzha CM calls for adjusting working hours to avoid direct sun In a statement issued the review meeting in Thiruvananthapuram, the chief minister called for adjusting the working hours for construction workers, farmers, street vendors, fishermen and other labourers so as avoid the sun between 11 am and 3 pm. The meeting has also directed to adjust the working hours at workplaces with asbestos, tin roofs and other heat-intensive environments. The meeting also decided to reschedule the parade and training sessions of police, fire brigade, NCC, SPC and other armed forces units accordingly. The fire department has been directed to carry out fire audits in vulnerable areas like markets, high rise buildings and waste management facilities. The meeting also decided to relocate people and migrant labourers residing in areas prone to heatwaves to safer locations or camps. All the cultural and sports events should be rescheduled to avoid direct sunlight. To protect animals during the heatwave, instructions have been given to provide water and shelter. Hospital and major government institutions have been asked to adhere to necessary disaster preparedness protocols. Pet care To protect animals during the heatwave, instructions have been given to provide water and shelter.

Kerala government to increase Plus-I seats

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The cabinet has decided to allow more batches in government and aided schools in different districts to address the shortage of Plus-I seats. As per the decision, seats will be increased by 30% at government schools in seven districts -- Thiruvananthapuram, Palakkad, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod. The cabinet has also decided to bring in a 20% increase in Plus-I seats in aided schools in these districts. In addition, a 10% increase in seats will be allowed at aided schools that demand more batches. The marginal increase in new batches will be made without creating an additional financial burden for the government. It is learned that sanction would also be given for a 20% increase in seats at all government and aided schools in Kollam, Ernakulam and Thrissur districts, in addition to Ambalappuzha and Cherhala taluks in Alappuzha district. There will be no increase in Plus-I seats in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki districts. The 77 higher secondary batches sanctioned on a temporary basis in 2022-23 and the 97 temporary batches in 2023-24 will continue, subject to clearance from the finance department. Sanctioning 178 additional batches would give the government a financial burden to the tune of about Rs 19 crore.

Poacher star makes a hit

THRISSUR: 'Poacher', the miniseries streaming on Amazon Prime Video, has been receiving widespread applause since its release in February this year. The series based on elephant poaching, grabbed movie buffs attention for its storyline, visuals and cast. As the story is set in Kerala, Malayali actors also starred in the series, making it an instant hit in the southern state. Thiruvananthapuram native Ankith Madhav, who played the role of Vijay Babu, the lazy forest officer who later becomes an inevitable character as the story moves ahead, has been on cloud nine ever since the release of the series. Through his appearances in numerous advertisements, including sharing the screen with M S Dhoni, Ankith is now a pan-Indian face. Born and brought up in Kerala, Ankith carried his dream to be an actor since childhood. However, surrendering to societal and familial pressures, he pursued engineering and moved to Mumbai for a job. Practising in front of a mirror and challenging my own limitations helped me overcome my fear of cameras. Now, the camera is my best friend. As I lacked a godfather in the industry, I had to struggle a lot to prove myself. I was so obsessed with acting that I kept attending auditions and acted in ad films. It helped build professionalism in me, he shared. Before immersing into the field of cinema, Ankith pursued an acting course at Brian Timony Acting School in London. Though he made his debut through the Malayalam film 'Solo', it was the role in Madhavan-starrer 'Rocketry: The Nambi Effect' that garnered him a mark as an actor. Later, the role of Yogesh Yadav in Mammootty-starrer 'Kannur Squad' ensured a place for Ankith in the hearts of Malayalis. However, the character of Vijay in 'Poacher' stood entirely different. Acting in 'Poacher' was a learning lesson for me. I was initially auditioned for a short character named Babu. But later, Richie Mehta, the director of the show, decided to give me a big role, he said. With earning more attention for his roles, Ankith is all set to move on to the next projects, determined to keep the pace up.

Kerala: Congress booth agent assaulted by CPI-M workers in Kannur, say police

The News Mill

Case filed in Uttarakhand court against Patanjali Ayurved

Based on complaint by Kannur-based RTI activist and ophthalmologist K.V. Babu with the Prime Ministers office in January

TTEs protest in Kannur, Palakkad, Shoranur, Mangaluru on May 1

Human Rights Commission sends notice to Palakkad, Thiruvananthapuram DRMs

Jayarajan is custodian of CPI(M)s palace of corruption: Congress leader

Kannur: Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee chief K Sudhakaran on Tuesday said that he was certain there wouldnt be any action against CPI(M) veteran and LDF Convenor E P Jayarajan over his controversial meeting with BJP leader Prakash Javadekar, remarking that the Left leader was the custodian of the ruling partys palace of corruption. His statement Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Five, including child, killed in car-lorry collision in Keralas Kannur

Reports says lorry lost control and collided with car from behind, causing car to hit oncoming gas cylinder lorry

Five of a family killed in car-lorry collision in Keralas Kannur

The News Mill

Kerala Registers 71.27% Voter Turnout in Lok Sabha Elections: EC

Kerala Registers 71.27% Voter Turnout in Lok Sabha Elections: EC Kerala has registered 71.27 per cent voter turnout in the April 26 Lok Sabha polls, according to the updated figures released by the Election Commission on Monday. As many as 71.27 per cent of votes were cast on polling day in the state, Chief Electoral Officer Sanjay Kaul said. Out of the total 27,749,158 voters in the state, 19,777,478 voted through the electronic voting machines on April 26. Among these, 9,475,090 were male voters, 10, 302, 238 were female voters, and 150 were transgender voters, he said in a statement. The highest polling was registered in Vadakara constituency with 78.41 per cent, where 1,114,950 voters cast their votes. The lowest was in the Pathanamthitta constituency with 63.37 per cent, where only 906,051 of 1,429,700 voters cast their votes, Kaul said. The updated polling percentage in other constituencies are: Thiruvananthapuram (66.47), Attingal (69.48), Kollam (68.15), Mavelikkara (65.95), Alappuzha (75.05), Kottayam (65.61), Idukki (66.55), Eranakulam (68.29), Chalakudy (71.94), Thrissur (72.90), Palakkad (73.57), Alathur (73.42), Ponnani (69.34), Malappuram (72.95), Kozhikode (75.52), Wayanad (73.57), Vadakara (78.41), Kannur (77.21) and Kasaragod (76.04). In the absentee voter category, 1,80,865 votes were recorded, and in the category for officials on election duty, 41,904 postal votes were polled. Absentee voters include those belonging to the age group of over 85 years, voters with disabilities, those affected by COVID-19, and essential service workers. As many as 57,849 military personnel have applied in the service voters category, and 8,277 votes have been sent as of April 27. Service votes will continue to be accepted until the counting begins, the Chief Electoral Officer added.

Two succumb to sunstroke as Kerala swelters in severe heat

The greenery along the roadside near Vandipetta in Kozhikode provides some relief to people in the summer heat. (Photo: Venugopal) The greenery along the roadside near Vandipetta in Kozhikode provides some relief to people in the summer heat. (Photo: Venugopal) Kannur/Palakkad/Thiruvananthapuram: Two persons--a man in his 50s and an elderly woman--have succumbed to sunstroke in Kerala as the southern state grapples with severe heat conditions, disrupting daily life, officials said on Sunday. Heat-related fatalities were reported in the north Kerala districts of Kannur and Palakkad. As Kerala battles severe heat, the meteorological department has issued a maximum temperature warning for 12 districts for the upcoming five days. In response to the escalating temperatures affecting everyday life, the Women and Child Development Department has opted to suspend preschool activities in anganwadis in the state for a week. A Palakkad district health official stated that the 90-year-old woman was found dead in a canal in Elappully village on Sunday. The woman, a dementia patient, had suffered a sunstroke after venturing out of her home. Her post-mortem revealed burn injuries on her body which confirmed the sunstroke, the health official said. Last week, a man was found dead with burn injuries in the district, the official added, advising people not to step out of their homes between 11 am and 3 pm. A health official in Kannur district said a 53-year-old man who was being treated at a private hospital for sunstroke died in the early hours of Sunday. The man, originally from nearby Mahe, had suffered from sunstroke while involved in digging a well in the Pallur area near Chokli on April 26, the official said. He had symptoms of breathlessness and was immediately taken to a primary health center and later shifted to another hospital in Kannur. His condition worsened on Sunday morning and he died. Although there were no burn injuries on his body, he had other symptoms of sunstroke. The official confirmed that the case is being treated as a sunstroke-related incident. According to the IMD and the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority, there's a possibility of a heatwave in certain areas in Kollam, Palakkad, and Thrissur districts. Maximum temperatures are very likely to be around 41C in the Palakkad district, around 40C in Kollam & Thrissur districts, around 38 degree C in Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, Kozhikode & Kannur districts, and around 37 degree C in Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Malappuram & Kasaragod districts, and around 36 degree C in Thiruvananthapuram district (3 to 5C above normal) during April 28th to May 2nd, 2024, the weather agencies said. These districts are expected to experience hot and humid weather conditions, excluding hilly areas, from April 28th to May 2nd, due to elevated temperatures and humidity levels, they added. Additionally, there is a likelihood of heatwave conditions occurring in one or two locations within Kollam, Palakkad, and Thrissur districts specifically on April 28th and 29th, the agencies added.

Kerala Braces for Scorching Heat as Sunstroke Claims Two Lives

Kerala Braces for Scorching Heat as Sunstroke Claims Two Lives Two persons--a man in his 50s and an elderly woman--have succumbed to sunstroke in Kerala as the southern state grapples with severe heat conditions, disrupting daily life, officials said on Sunday. Heat-related fatalities were reported in the north Kerala districts of Kannur and Palakkad. As Kerala battles severe heat, the meteorological department has issued a maximum temperature warning for 12 districts for the upcoming five days. In response to the escalating temperatures affecting everyday life, the Women and Child Development Department has opted to suspend preschool activities in anganwadis in the state for a week. A Palakkad district health official stated that the 90-year-old woman was found dead in a canal in Elappully village on Sunday. The woman, a dementia patient, had suffered a sunstroke after venturing out of her home. Her post-mortem revealed burn injuries on her body which confirmed the sunstroke, the health official said. Last week, a man was found dead with burn injuries in the district, the official added, advising people not to step out of their homes between 11 am and 3 pm. A health official in Kannur district said a 53-year-old man who was being treated at a private hospital for sunstroke died in the early hours of Sunday. The man, originally from nearby Mahe, had suffered from sunstroke while involved in digging a well in the Pallur area near Chokli on April 26, the official said. He had symptoms of breathlessness and was immediately taken to a primary health center and later shifted to another hospital in Kannur. His condition worsened on Sunday morning and he died. Although there were no burn injuries on his body, he had other symptoms of sunstroke. The official confirmed that the case is being treated as a sunstroke-related incident. According to the IMD and the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority, there's a possibility of a heatwave in certain areas in Kollam, Palakkad, and Thrissur districts. ''Maximum temperatures are very likely to be around 41C in the Palakkad district, around 40C in Kollam & Thrissur districts, around 38C in Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, Kozhikode & Kannur districts, and around 37C in Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Malappuram & Kasaragod districts, and around 36C in Thiruvananthapuram district (3 to 5C above normal) during April 28th to May 2nd, 2024,'' the weather agencies said. These districts are expected to experience hot and humid weather conditions, excluding hilly areas, from April 28th to May 2nd, due to elevated temperatures and humidity levels, they added. Additionally, there is a likelihood of heatwave conditions occurring in one or two locations within Kollam, Palakkad, and Thrissur districts specifically on April 28th and 29th, the agencies added.

Man dies of sunstroke in Kannur

Kerala LS polls: Congress moves election panel with a slew of complaints

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Within hours of the general election coming to an end, the state Congress leadership approached the chief electoral officer (CEO) with complaints of delays in voting, issues with electoral voting machines (EVMs) and conniving polling officials. Speaking to reporters at Indira Bhavan, Congress state president in-charge M M Hassan said there have been reports of the electorate being inconvenienced by voting stoppages in several districts. In some places, voters had to wait for more than four hours, which forced several people to leave without casting their ballot. Several glitches involving EVMs, including delayed response times, were reported, said Hassan, expressing apprehension over attempts to tamper with devices. The chief electoral officer should look into our complaints. In certain booths in Kasaragod and Kannur, there were widespread attacks and reports of bogus voting. Two polling officials were suspended in Vadakara for fudging data. But the UDF does not fear defeat anywhere, said Hassan. Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan echoed the remarks. He rued the lack of an independent and fair election process. Voting was brisk in several districts. We fear that there have been attempts on the part of polling officials to delay the voting process. There have also been instances of polling time not being extended despite faulty machines delaying the process. An investigation should be initiated into the matter, said Satheesan. Middleman EP Taking a jibe at LDF convenor E P Jayarajan, Hassan said that he is the middleman of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Hassan said Jayarajan would not have met senior BJP leader Prakash Javadekar without Pinarayis express permission. Glitches in EVMs Several glitches involving EVMs, including delayed response times, were reported. Voting was brisk in several districts.

Kerala sees delayed polls, low voter turnout amid scorching heat, 8 people die

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a Lok Sabha election marred by an uncharacteristic delay of more than five hours, with polling extending well beyond the scheduled time, Kerala on Friday recorded a turnout of 70.35% over 7 percentage points lower than the 2019 polls. The delay led to many voters returning without exercising their franchise. The comparatively low turnout has ignited hopes for the Left while the UDF has approached the Election Commission alleging the absence of free and fair elections. Meanwhile, eight persons collapsed and died due to extreme heat and exhaustion in Palakkad, Alappuzha, Kozhikode and Malappuram districts. Lok Sabha polls 2024 | Phase 2: Brisk voter turnout in Kerala Braving the blistering heat, voters turned out in large numbers in the initial hours, thus recording brisk polling in almost all places, except in constituencies like Ponnani and Malappuram. The initial enthusiasm wore off by afternoon as voting slowly declined in southern and central districts. However, the northern districts witnessed huge voter turnout in the evening hours with serpentine queues in many polling booths. Widespread incidents of malfunctioning EVMs reported in several places in Pathanamthitta, where authorities had to replace 40 machines. Polling was held peacefully across the state, with no major incidents of violence. As the polling continued in about 200 booths in northern Kerala even after 10pm, the final poll percentage is likely to go up. Polling was delayed in many booths in Kannur, Vadakara, Kozhikode, Malappuram and Alathur. At 10pm, 2,091 out of 2,248 booths in Kannur had completed the voting process while polling was still on at 157 booths. In Vadakara polling was completed in 1,191 of the 1,206 booths by 10pm. Vadakara, which is witnessing one of the biggest political fights, began with slow polling in the initial hours and picked up by afternoon. Turnout 70.35% - (2024) 77.84% - 2019 73.94% - 2014 Polling remained mostly peaceful despite fierce contests in several constituencies Malfunctioning of EVMs reported in several booths, causing delay in the voting process 75.74% - Highest voter turnout in Kannur 63.35% - Lowest turnout in Pathanamthitta Northern districts witnessed huge voter turnout in the evening hours with serpentine queues at many polling booths As polling continued in about 200 booths in northern Kerala even after 10 pm, the final poll percentage is likely to go up Counting on June 4 At 8pm the Vadakara constituency recorded 73.36% polling. The delay in voting in many booths in Vadakara has led to apprehensions in UDF camps as they suspect an attempt to sabotage. Meanwhile, in Attingal poll percentage remained high right from the beginning. The constituency recorded 69.40% turnout by 8pm. Pathanamthitta recorded the lowest voter turnout of 63.35% in the state. While Ponnani recorded 67.93% polling, another Muslim League stronghold Malappuram recorded 71.68% by 8pm. The state capital of Thiruvananthapuram, which usually marks low voter turnout, recorded 66.43% polling. The Congress strongholds of Idukki (66.39%) and Ernakulam (68.10%) too recorded low turnout. Amid concerns of sweltering heat bringing down the turnout, eight persons collapsed and died on the day. An elderly voter died after exercising his franchise at Ambalappuzha in Alappuzha, while three men died in similar circumstances in Palakkad. As the district recorded a temperature of 41.4 degrees Celsius on Friday, the district administration arranged basic amenities, including drinking water and waiting shelters, for the voters at the polling stations. In Kozhikode, a polling agent and two voters collapsed and died in the intense heat. In Malappuram, a voter died after reaching home. Elections 2024: 21 states, UTs set for polling in phase one; 102 LS seats in fray

CPI(M) Veterans Deny Rumors of Joining BJP, Denounce Smear Campaign

CPI(M) Veterans Deny Rumors of Joining BJP, Denounce Smear Campaign The accusations levelled by political opponents about senior CPI(M) leader E P Jayarajan 's alleged plans to join the BJP continued to trigger shock waves in the ruling Left in Kerala on Friday, the day of Lok Sabha polls, with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan cautioning his party colleague to be vigilant in his associations. ''If Lord Shiva joins a sinner, Shiva will also become a sinner,'' Vijayan said using a vernacular saying indirectly cautioning Jayarajan, who is also the convenor of the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF). The Chief Minister's statement came a day after BJP's firebrand leader Sobha Surendran fired a salvo at CPI(M) by revealing the alleged bid made to take Jayarajan into the saffron party fold. Two days ago Shobha had alleged that a middleman had tried to help a top CPI(M) leader who wanted to join the BJP and on Thursday, she claimed that the leader was E P Jayarajan. While taking to reporters in Kannur, the CM said there are certain people in our country who wake up every day thinking about whom to cheat. Without naming T G Nandakumar, who had allegedly played the role of a middleman between the BJP and Jayarajan, he further said any friendship or acquaintance with such people should be generally avoided. Vijayan said the experience was that Jayarajan, who always maintains a good relationship with everyone, was usually not vigilant in such matters. That's how a person who has the most dubious background in the state came as a witness to all these developments, he said without directly mentioning about Nandakumar who is known as ''Dallal'' in state political circles. The Left veteran said he clearly knows the connection of the particular person with the Lavlin case, which he has been fighting for years at the Supreme Court. Friendship or even an acquaintance with such people was unacceptable, he added. Responding to media reports that Jayarajan had admitted to meeting BJP leader Prakash Javadekar, Vijayan said there was nothing wrong with such meetings. He said even he himself had talked to Javadekar recently ahead of LS polls. Hailing Jayarajan's decades-long political journey, the CM said he faced several turbulences in his life as a communist leader that have been an encouragement to all left workers. The ongoing row was a political attack targeting not only Jayarajan but also the CPI(M) and LDF, he said. Vijayan also expressed hope that the people of the state won't believe such propaganda. Replying to a question about the alleged meeting of Jayarajan with Javadekar, CPI (M) state secretary M V Govindan said people can meet anyone. These are just means to attack the Left and a 'political conspiracy' against the Marxist party, he told reporters in Kannur. ''As politicians, we meet numerous people. Recently, I met M M Hassan and BJP leader Krishnadas. We were there for a television debate. We have a friendship, but we have strong political differences. It's not the personal relationship but the politics that matter,'' he said. To a query about the power broker, Govindan said he never reacted to the statements of the middleman as they were not needed. ''There is no need to react to such frauds. But he claimed certain things, and they should be probed. I said he cannot be trusted, but all the matters he claimed should be investigated,'' Govindan added. Meanwhile, KPCC Chief K Sudhakaran continued to criticise Jayarajan and CPI (M) over the matter and asked if a person would go and visit anyone without any relation. ''I don't care whether Jayarajan goes to the BJP or not. We are not worried about his political future. There was some sort of conspiracy inside that party to corner Jayarajan. That's why he was staying away,'' Sudhakaran added. Asked about Chief Minister's statements regarding the row, senior BJP leader and NDA candidate Shobha Surendran alleged that it was Vijayan who always maintained relationships with people with dubious backgrounds. She also accused Vijayan of causing the 'degradation' of the Communist party in the state. Leader of Opposition in the state Assembly, V D Satheesan questioned CM Vijayan's statement that there was nothing wrong in the meeting between Jayarajan and Javadekar. ''That means, Jayarajan had visited Javadekar with the permission of the Chief Minister. What did the LDF Convenor have to talk to the BJP state in-charge?'' Satheesan asked while talking to media in Paravur. Noting that the CM admitted that he himself had met Javadekar several times, the LoP sought to know for what reason that he met the BJP leader who is not a union minister now. ''Even before the election, the UDF has talked about the BJP-CPI(M) nexus. The events that have taken place now underlines the words of the opposition,'' he said. Satheesan further alleged that the first accused in the matter is CM Vijayan who is now trying to escape after rejecting his co-accused-Jayarajan. KPCC chief K Sudhakaran and ruling LDF Convenor E P Jayarajan on Thursday accused each other of planning to join the BJP. While Sudhakaran alleged that the BJP leaders held parleys with Jayarajan to bring him into the party fold, the senior CPI(M) leader claimed that the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president had gone to Chennai to join the saffron outfit. The senior politicians traded charges against each other in the wake of allegations levelled by BJP leader Shobha Surendran in this regards a few days ago.

Will block unholy alliance between BJP & CPM: Congress' K Muraleedharan

Will block unholy alliance between BJP & CPM: Congress' K Muraleedharan Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) Thrissur Lok Sabha constituency candidate K Muraleedharan on Friday cast his vote at Jawahar Nagar LP School in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala and said that the Congress will block unholy alliance between BJP & CPM in the state. While speaking to the reporters, K Muraleedharan said that the party will win all the seats in the state. We are going to win all 20 seats in Kerala. Unfortunately, there is a deal between CPM and BJP in Kerala. The news has come out that EP Jayarajan (LDF convener) met BJP leader Prakash Javadekar. Their link is clear. We will win but we will block an unholy alliance between BJP & CPM in Kerala. Thrissur Lok Sabha constituency, where high-profile candidates are in the fray this time, is going to witness a fierce triangular contest between BJP, Congress, and the CPI. Congress has fielded K Muraleedharan, son of late Congress doyen K Karunakaran whose pocket borough was once Thrissur, the ruling Left Democratic Front nominated former Agriculture Minister in the previous LDF government in the state, VS Sunilkumar. The constituency, where both Congress-led UDF and CPM-led LDF interchangeably won multiple times in the past seven decades, is currently held by Congress. All 20 seats will vote in the second phase in Kerala. These include Kasaragod, Kannur, Vatakara, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Ponnani, Palakkad, Alathur, Thrissur, Chalakudy, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Mavelikkara, Pathanamthitta, Kollam, Attingal, and Thiruvananthapuram. The second phase has 88 Lok Sabha constituencies across 13 States/Union Territory including 13 in Rajasthan, 20 in Kerala, eight in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, five each in Assam and Bihar, six in Madhya Pradesh, three each in Chhattisgarh and West Bengal, and one each in Tripura, Manipur, and Jammu & Kashmir According to the ECI, over 15.88 crore voters will be voting in the second phase which includes 8.08 crore male electors, 7.8 crore female electors, and 5929 third-gender electors. A total of 4553 flying squads, 5731 static surveillance teams, 1462 video surveillance teams and 844 video viewing teams are keeping surveillance round the clock to strictly and swiftly deal with any form of inducement of voters across the 1.67 lakh polling stations, as per the ECI press note. (ANI)

Kerala LS poll campaign recap: Josh, jostle & jolts

LDF CPM, CPI, Kerala Congress (M), JDS (T), NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar), RJD, Indian National League, Congress (S), Janadhipathya Kerala Congress, Kerala Congress (Skaria Thomas) Highlights The Left campaigns primary focus was on the Citizenship Amendment Act, using it as a plank to cash in on anti-BJP sentiments. The Left banked heavily on anti-incumbency against the Centre and sitting UDF MPs. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan remained the star campaigner throughout, travelling across the state to address conventions. National leaders such as CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury, politburo members Prakash Karat and Brinda Karat, and CPI general secretary D Raja campaigned in Kerala. In Vadakara, the Left engaged in a whisper campaign that if UDF candidate Shafi. Paramabil wins, the bypoll to his Palakkad assembly seat would BJP. CPM went all out to woo Muslim minority voters, posturing as the real champion of the communitys causes. The party also took efforts to retain its traditional Hindu vote base, and sought to make inroads into Christian belts. Through consistent campaigning, the Left attempted to create an anti-Centre narrative in the state. In what was viewed as a shrewd strategy to sideline the BJP, the chief minister unleashed a barrage of attacks against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. The CPMs strong organisational structure appeared to be the Lefts biggest strength. Controversies In Vadakara, LDF candidate K K Shailaja alleged wide circulation of her fake videos, photos and morphed images. The social media campaign against her created quite a stir across the state, and also led to legal a tussle between Shailaja and UDF candidate Shafi Parambil. Left MLA P V Anwar stirred a hornets nest after he termed Rahul Gandhi a fourth-class citizen who should undergo a DNA test to confirm whether he indeed hailed from the Nehru-Gandhi clan. The scenario worsened after CM Pinarayi Vijayan backed Anwar, saying Rahul was not beyond criticism Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at a campaign event in Kozhikode UDF Congress, IUML, RSP, Kerala Congress (Jospeh), Kerala Congress (Jacob), Kerala democratic Party, CMP, RMP, AIFB, JSS, National Janata Dal Highlights Managed to draw massive participation of people during the campaign in most of the constituencies. Key agendas included highlighting denial of welfare pensions in the state, failures of Central and state governments, unemployment, man-animal conflict Strategic moves included surprise candidature of Shafi Parambil in Vadakara and K Muraleedharan in Thrissur, and rejecting the support extended by SDPI. The UDFs talking points included scam allegations against Chief Minsiter Pinarayi Vijayan and his daughter, death of Sidharthan J S, student of Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University in Wayanad, the Panur bomb blast involving DYFI workers. It also raised issues such as double voters in Alappuzha, Attingal and Palakkad constituencies, and bogus voting in Kannur and Kasargod. Alleged a nexus between the BJP and CPM in the Thrissur Pooram mess-up. Star campaigners included Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Karnataka Deputy CM D K Shivakumar, Telangana C M Revanth Reddy, and top leaders such Priyanka Gandhi and Sachin Pilot Controversies Decision to avoid using flags of the Congress and its ally IUML for campaigns in Wayand, fearing a backlash in north India against the Leagues green flag Cyber attack against Vadakara LDF candidate K K Shailaja Thiruvananthapuram candidate Shashi Tharoor was booked by the cyber police on a BJP complaint accusing him of spreading baseless allegations against NDA candidate Rajeev Chandrasekhar. The latter had earlier served a legal notice, accusing Tharoor of defamation Prime Minister Narendra Modi with NDA candidate C Krishnakumar in Palakkad NDA BJP, BDJS, Shiv Sena, JRS (CK Janu), NCP (Ajit Pawar) Kerala Congress Democratic, National Progressive Party, Nationalist Kerala Congress, LJP, Kerala Kamraj Congress Highlights The BJP-led NDA heavily banked on Modis Guarantee throughout its campaign Highlighting strong governance, welfare schemes and development initiatives of the Modi government Strong stand against terrorism Wooed voters dangling the prospect of candidates becoming Union ministers if elected Accused INDIA bloc allies CPM and Congress of fighting in Kerala and hugging in Delhi Sustained attack on the scam allegations against the state government Consolidation of Hindu-Christian votes was one of the key agendas. Highlighted SDPI support to UDF, and PDPs support to LDF Gained backing from the SNDP, Sivagiri Mutt, and some churches in some regions Some of its strategic/surprise moves included fielding state president K Surendran against Rahul Gandhi in Wayanad, pitting Union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar against Shashi Tharoor in Thiruvananthapuram, offering Pathanamthitta seat to Congress veteran A K Antonys son Anil Antony, and inducting former chief minister K Karunakarans daughter Padmaja Venugopal Star campaigners included Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Minister for Women and Child Development Smriti Irani, BJP national president J P Nadda, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sharma and BJP Tamil Nadu state president K Annamalai Controversies Political wheeler-dealer T G Nandakukar accused Pathanamthitta BJP candidate Anil Antony of having taken bribes in the past Wayanad candidate K Surendran stirred a debate as he said Sulthan Bathery should revert to its old name, Ganapathi Vattom

Kerala: Candidates tweaked schedule to beat the heat in exhausting poll campaign

KOCHI: With heatwave-like conditions prevailing in the state, the month-long election campaign turned out to be a gruelling task for candidates. Campaigning in open vehicles was exhausting with candidates being exposed to the sun and a hot wind. Most candidates scheduled their campaigns in open vehicles during the morning and evening hours and focused on visits to institutions and houses in the afternoon. With heat and humidity causing health issues, to avoid dehydration, the candidates preferred light and vegetarian food, drinking plenty of water. The southern districts have received isolated showers, which helped bring down the temperature. But the situation in north Kerala, especially Palakkad, Malappuram and Kannur, remains tough, said Cusat Advanced Centre for Atmospheric Radar Research director S Abhilash. Campaigning in an open jeep was a tough task as hot air was blowing on our faces for hours together, the open-jeep campaigning extended from early morning to 3pm, for the past three weeks. The extreme heat caused rashes because of which I couldnt sleep properly at night, said Alathur LDF candidate K Radhakrishnan. Campaigning was strenuous in Palakkad where the mercury has been hovering above 41 degrees Celsius for the past couple of weeks. The green canopy in the villages provided much relief, said LDF candidate A Vijayaraghavan. We rested under banyan trees and held small corner meetings, said UDFs V K Sreekandan. As a Palakkad native, the hot climate has not been a challenge. For the past 28 days, I have been travelling in an open jeep throughout the day, he added. It has been exhausting, but I didnt have any health issue, said BJP candidate C Krishnakumar. I consumed plenty of butter milk and curd to keep the body cool. UDF candidate for Thrissur, K Muraleedharan too said the campaign was tiring. It has been energy-sapping. The diet has been normal, but I drank a lot of water, he said. The candidates fear the hot conditions may force some voters to stay indoors, leading to a drop in polling percentage.

Voter alert: IMD issues heatwave warning in Kerala, advises caution

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The sweltering heat will be a cause for concern for voters across Kerala who will exercise their franchise in the Lok Sabha elections on Friday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued yellow alerts and heatwave warnings in 12 districts on polling day. The IMD has said the temperatures are expected to be 2 to 4 degrees Celsius above normal in the state. As of last week, around 437 heat-related ailments have been reported in the state since the advent of summer. There have been one confirmed and two suspected heat-related deaths. IMD has predicted the likelihood of a heatwave in one or two places in Palakkad on Friday, making the democratic exercise challenging for party workers, voters and officials alike. Meanwhile, the Election Commission has made elaborate arrangements at booths in view of the hot and humid weather. Voting will be held in 25,231 booths across Kerala. Drinking water, areas having shade and separate queues for the elderly and the differently-abled are among the ECs arrangements made at booths to ensure voters comfort. All arrangements are in place. There will be separate queues for the elderly to reduce their waiting time. We have sensitised district collectors, and first aid, including ORS packets, will be made available at polling stations vulnerable to extreme heat, Sanjay Kaul, Chief Electoral Officer, Kerala, told TNIE . Mothers coming to the booths with children will be able to use creche facilities at the polling stations, he said. Maximum temperature in Palakkad is likely to hover around 41 degrees Celsius on Friday, making it the hottest district in the state. Maximum temperatures will be 39 degrees Celsius, the second highest, in Kollam and Thrissur districts. Maximum temperatures will be 38 degrees Celsius in Kannur and Kozhikode districts and 36 degrees Celsius in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam and Malappuram districts. Southern districts are expected to receive thunderstorms in the evening. We have advised authorities to keep community health centres and primary health centres on alert to deal with heat-related incidents, said an official with the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority. Be smart, be safe Avoid prolonged heat exposure Wear light-weight, light-coloured, loose, cotton clothes Cover your head with a cloth or hat or use an umbrella outdoors Drink sufficient water even if not thirsty to prevent dehydration Avoid direct sunlight from 11am to 3pm

Sun, style and strategy: Sartorial choices of Lok Sabha candidates in Kerala on fleek

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As the mercury climbs, so does the style quotient on the campaign trail. From seasoned veterans to fresh faces, candidates are shaking up their wardrobe and hair care routines to beat the blazing sun and win over voters. Some candidates stick to their signature style no matter the weather. Take the Vadakara LDF candidate K K Shailaja, whose crisp cotton sarees and infectious smile can cool down the hottest of days. When you imagine a politician in Kerala, the first image that comes to mind would be someone wearing a stiff white cotton shirt and the evergreen mundu. Though times have changed, some remain the same when it comes to the campaign trail. The majority of them are UDF candidates. They include UDF Kasaragod candidate Rajmohan Unnithan, Kannur candidate K Sudhakaran, Kozhikode candidate M K Raghavan, Thrissur candidate K Muraleedharan, Alappuzha candidate K C Venugopal and Mavelikkara candidate Kodikkunnil Suresh. LDF's Panniyan Raveendran is not to be ignored in his all time simple attire and long hair. To an extent, this saves them the trouble of choosing what to wear. Whether it is an election or not, white cotton shirts are what I choose any day, said K C Venugopal. 'No one wants to stay here anymore': The unflattering Kerala story Bonacaud Junction has to tell Another group of candidates are the kurtawalas. Elections have made them choose cotton kurtas over anything else. Thiruvananthapuram UDF candidate Shashi Tharoor, NDA candidate Rajeev Chandrasekhar and Pathanamthitta LDF candidate Thomas Isaac come under this category. Kollam NDA candidate K Krishnakumar wears cotton kurtas all day for campaigns. I wear cotton kurtas from Fabindia and try to have a change twice a day but it doesn't usually happen. Also in politics, changing more times can sometimes do more bad than good. However, if I get to change also, I immediately sweat. It's the heat of the campaign, that's fine, he said. Shafi Parambil, the Vadakara UDF candidate, can be seen in all kinds of clothes. One day he pulls off the chic young candidate in shirts and jeans, the next day he will be in white cotton shirts and mundu. Never does he miss wearing snazzy printed shirts and jeans and spreading his vibrancy into youth groups. From plain to printed, Alappuzha LDF candidate A M Arif is spiffy in linen shirts for campaigns. To escape the heat, the best is wearing linen shirts and mundu. I wear only linen for campaigns, said Arif. This candidate in the high-profile Thiruvananthapuram Lok Sabha seat has no house and lives in the party office NDA candidates Niveditha Subramaniam of Ponnani and Sobha Surendran of Alappuzha are saree folks. Cotton saree is a saviour in this weather, I avoid all other materials and try to change twice a day usually it doesn't happen but when I do, it's truly a refreshment and gives energy for the second half of the day, said Niveditha Subramaniam. Ernakulam LDF candidate K J Shine is usually seen in cotton sarees or set mundu but prefers salwar kameez for campaigns. During the first phase, I used to try and wear saree or set mundu but gradually I prefer salwar kameez to other clothing, said Shine. Battling hair loss amid the grueling campaign schedule, candidates like Krishnakumar and Niveditha Subramaniam prioritize haircare, finding time for weekly oiling sessions. Heavy hair loss is a factor while campaigning in this weather, you look haggard after campaigning but I try to oil my hair weekly, said Niveditha Subramaniam. Anna Linda keeps it real, admitting that election season leaves little time for hair and skincare routines. There is no time to take care of the hair and skin during election time, so he leaves it that way, she said about Hibi Eden's routine. The sartorial choices of candidates in this weather have been on fleek. From cotton classics to chic prints, they have made every effort to shine bright under the scorching sun.

All arrangements completed for Lok Sabha polls in Kerala on Friday

Thiruvananthapuram : All preparations have been made for the smooth conduct of the polls in Kerala on Friday.Voting for all the 20 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state in the second phase of the Lok Sabha elections will begin today at 7 am. Polling will continue till 6 pm. There are 2,77,49,159 voters in the state this time. Of these, 1,43,33,499 are women.Of the total voters, 5,34,394 are first-time voters in the age group of 18-19 years. There are also 2,64,232 differently-abled voters and 367 transgender voters in the state. The Chief Electoral Officer appealed to all voters, irrespective of age and gender, to exercise their right to vote and participate in the festival of democracy.A total of 194 candidates are in the fray in 20 constituencies in the state. All arrangements have been made to ensure smooth polling at the polling booths and to ensure that the voting machines are safely transported to strong rooms after the polling. A total of 1,01,176 polling personnel have been deployed for the polling process at 25,231 booths set up at 13,272 centres in the state. The polling process will be controlled by four officials, including the presiding officer, at a booth. There are 437 booths controlled only by women, 31 booths controlled by youth below 30 years of age and six booths controlled by differently-abled employees in the state. There are also 316 ethnic polling booths and 131 theme-based booths. Ramps and wheelchairs have been set up at the booths for differently-abled voters. Voting machines in Braille script have also been provided for the visually impaired.There will be a special queue facility at the booths for differently-abled voters and senior citizens. In addition, a sign language facility and travel facility for differently-abled voters have also been arranged. A total of 30,238 electronic voting machines (EVMs) are being used in the state in the Lok Sabha elections this year. In case of operational failure of any machines, the reserve machines will be delivered through the respective sector officers instead. The voting machines have been brought to the polling booths after completing the preliminary testing, three phases of randomization and mock polling. The polling will begin at 6 am on Friday after a mock poll is conducted again in the presence of representatives of political parties at the polling booths to ensure the safety of the machines. As many as 66,303 security personnel have been deployed at polling booths, distribution centres and strong rooms to ensure a smooth voting process. The Rapid Action Force has also been deployed at all police stations for security. Special security measures have also been taken in Maoist-affected areas involving central forces to ensure that voters cast their votes fearlessly. To ensure free and transparent polling, the Chief Electoral Officer said that a webcasting system has been put in place for real-time monitoring in all booths in eight districts of the state and 75 percent of booths in the remaining six districts. The real-time monitoring system has been implemented in all booths in Kasargod, Kannur, Wayanad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Palakkad, Thrissur and Thiruvananthapuram districts. Cameras have also been installed outside the booths to control crowding at polling stations with multiple booths. According to the Chief Electoral Officer, the webcasting facility has been introduced to ensure a transparent election by preventing booth capturing, money distribution and bogus voting. Webcasting has also been arranged in the affected booths. In the office of the Chief Electoral Officer and the control rooms set up under the ROs of 20 Lok Sabha constituencies, A similar monitoring system has been set up in strong rooms and counting centres.

194 contestants vie for votes as Kerala gears up for polls with over 2.75 cr voters

Thiruvananthapuram: A total of 194 contestants in 20 Lok Sabha seats are seeking the blessings of the people as Kerala goes to the polls on Friday, after over a month-long fierce campaign by the CPI(M)-led LDF, Congress-headed UDF, and the BJP-led NDA. The Election Commission said there are over 2.75 crore voters in Kerala where polling will commence at 7 am on Friday. Chief Electoral Officer Sanjay Kaul said 63,100 bottles of ink are used to prevent fraudulent voting and ensure flawless and transparent elections. This time there are 2,77,49,159 voters in the state out of which more than five lakh are first-time voters. Kottayam constituency boasts the highest number of candidates at 14, while Alathur has the fewest at five. Other notable figures are: 13 candidates in Kozhikode and 12 each in Kollam and Kannur. Of the total 194 candidates, 169 are men and 25 are women. The Vadakara constituency stands out with the highest number of female candidates, at four. The Election Commission said steps have been taken to ensure safe and peaceful polling by deploying 66,303 security personnel. Kerala Police and Central forces are providing tight security for the polling in a total of 25,231 booths arranged at 13,272 places. Police deployment has been made throughout the state as per the instructions of the Central Election Commission. When the polling for 20 constituencies in the state begins at 7 am on Friday, more than five lakh first-time voters will go to the polling booth. As the curtains fell on Wednesday evening, marking the conclusion of the over-month-long, high-octane public campaigning for the April 26 polls, Kerala on Thursday witnessed a silent campaign before the state votes. Two union ministers, a state minister, three actors and a few MLAs are among the total candidates who try their political luck this time. BJP-led NDA is fielding the most number of women candidates - five. Unlike the previous general elections, Kerala has seen a highly active and aggressive campaign. Diverse issues ranging from the implementation of the CAA, the alleged existence of 'love jihad', controversies surrounding 'The Kerala Story' movie, the Manipur violence, Rahul Gandhi's candidature in Wayanad, as well as alleged appeasement of minorities by various political parties, dominated the high-decibel public campaigns. In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the UDF won 19 of the 20 seats, while the LDF had to settle for just a single seat.

Will Kerala buck national trend of low voter turnout?

With seven constituencies witnessing three-cornered fights and Vadakara and Kannur witnessing intense two-cornered fights, experts say it is unlikely that the voting percentage will fall in the State

Manjummel Boys Actor Ties the Knot

Malayalam actor Aparna Das and Manjummel Boys actor Deepak Parambol exchanged vows in a private wedding ceremony on April 24th. The serene Guruvayur temple in Kerala served as the auspicious venue for their union, witnessed by close family members and friends. Photos and videos capturing the beautiful moments of their wedding have been circulating widely on social media platforms. Aparna Das, known for her remarkable performances in films like Thalapathy Vijay's Beast and Kavin's 2023 hit Dada, joined hands in matrimony with Malayalam actor Deepak Parambol, who gained recognition for his role in the blockbuster Manjummel Boys. Their love story culminated in an intimate ceremony, sealing their commitment to each other on April 24th. According to reports, the couple's wedding ceremony unfolded in the sacred precincts of the Guruvayur temple, resonating with traditional customs and rituals. The joyous occasion witnessed the presence of Aparna and Deepak's loved ones, adding warmth and blessings to their new journey together. Renowned trade analyst Sreedhar Pillai shared a heartwarming picture of the newlyweds on April 24th, capturing their radiant smiles and shared happiness. Deepak exuded grace in his silk dhoti, while Aparna's timeless elegance shone through her choice of attire, embellishing her in a traditional saree paired with a intricately embroidered green blouse. Aparna Das and Deepak Parambol, who shared a blossoming relationship for several years, embarked on this lifelong journey of togetherness. Aparna marked her debut in the industry with Fahadh Faasil's Njan Prakashan and gained acclaim for her role in the 2019 film Manoharam, which also featured Deepak. Meanwhile, Deepak Parambol made his entry into Malayalam cinema with Vineeth Sreenivasan's Malarvaadi Arts Club and garnered attention with his role in the highly acclaimed Manjummel Boys. With an impressive filmography including hits like Thattathin Marayathu, Kannur Squad, and D Company, Deepak continues to captivate audiences with his versatile performances, promising a bright future ahead for the newlyweds.

Ahead of Lok Sabha polls in Kerala, nine crude bombs recovered from a field in Kannur

Mattanur police and a bomb squad from Kannur neutralise the explosives

Rahul Gandhi not beyond reproach: Kerala CM backs Anvar

Anvar's comments, made just three days before the second phase of voting for all 20 Lok Sabha seats in Kerala, garnered support from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan despite facing criticism from the Congress party. Rahul Gandhi was bound to get a reply for what he said. He is not beyond reproach, the CM told reporters in Kannur, alluding to Rahul targeting him.

INDIA bloc a platform against BJP: Vijayan

KANNUR (KERALA), April 23: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday said the INDIA bloc was not a front, but a system of opposition political parties that has come up as a platform against the ruling BJP at the Centre. The statement by Vijayan comes amidst an intense fight between the CPI(M)-led LDF and the []

INDIA leader will be decided after ....: Vijayan

He said, during a press meet in Kannur, that during the LS polls, alliances were being formed in various states as part of the platform and its result was that the Bharatiya Janata Party was being largely isolated.

Kerala CM Criticizes PM's Divisive Speech, Urges Election Commission to Take Action

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan spoke up about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's comments on the Muslim community during an election rally in Rajasthan's Banswara. Pinarayi Vijayan said these remarks were harmful and aimed at dividing people. During a press conference in Kannur, Pinarayi Vijayan stated, The derogatory reference to intruders and 'hoarders' is untrue and part of their ideological code. He added, The fact that the Prime Minister himself has come forward to take political advantage by saying communalism during the elections is an illustration of the challenges facing democratic and secular values in the country. Pinarayi Vijayan urged the Election Commission to take notice of the Prime Minister's speech. He said, The Muslim community was also accused of stealing the country's wealth. The Election Commission should take strong action against these defamatory and communal remarks. Pinarayi Vijayan also criticized the BJP for undermining the country's constitutional institutions. He said, The formation of the selection committee for the Election Commission, excluding the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, is particularly concerning. He added, Numerous legal violations by high-ranking officials in the central government, including the Prime Minister, have been alleged, yet the Election Commission has remained silent, failing to assert its neutrality. He further stated, Furthermore, the Commission's lack of intervention in the Prime minister's statement of communal propaganda during elections, aimed at inciting religious sentiments, raises serious doubts about its impartiality. It is imperative that the Election Commission takes immediate action to reassure the public of its neutrality.