Two held with suspected synthetic drugs
Kerala local body polls: Kudumbashree candidates bank on people connect to sail through
The intersection of involvement in the Kudumbashree network and political ambitions has become the go-to for political parties of all hues in order to pick candidates for the local body elections
Kerala local body polls: LDF vying for a hat-trick in traditional UDF stronghold Sulthan Bathery
Ruling council believes that the developmental activities undertaken over the past 10 years will trump the tradition. Feud within Congress in Wayanad district has put UDF in a disadvantage. NDA is hoping for a repeat and possibly surpass its performance in the parliamentary polls of 2024, when BJP had enough votes within the municipality to come second
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Dec 14 rally against vote theft a pure Congress show
NEW DELHI: INDIA bloc constituents will not take part in the December 14 rally being organised by the Congress to protest against the Election Commission of India (ECI)s alleged vote theft. Party leaders insist that it will be a purely Congress affair and the decision to go solo was firmed up at the AICC review meeting early last week. A senior Congress leader told this newspaper that the rally at Ramlila Maidan would be completely a Congress show aimed at conveying that the party has consistently been at the forefront of exposing irregularities in the electoral process. We have been campaigning on this issue for months and has collected five crore signatures from across the country against vote chori. The party has invested its organisational strength on the matter. This protest is specifically our initiative, the leader said, adding that the party is expecting a huge turnout driven by state units that have been asked to mobilise workers from constituencies where alleged irregularities have surfaced. According to sources, the decision was finalised during the AICC review meeting chaired by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge with key office-bearers from 12 states and Union Territories (UT), where the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls is underway. The meeting was attended by former party president Rahul Gandhi, AICC general secretaries, state unit chiefs, Congress Legislature Party leaders and secretaries of 12 states and UTs where the SIR is underway. The states and UTs are Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Puducherry, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep. Among these, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala and West Bengal will go to polls in 2026. Phase 2 of the SIR exercise began on November 4 and will continue till December 4. The party has alleged that the EC is now a blatantly partisan player that is completely destroying the very concept of a level-playing field for all political parties. After the EC rolled out the second phase of the SIR on October 27, opposition-ruled states Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Kerala have escalated their objections to the ECs move by seeking legal options. Despite being a key constituent of the INDIA bloc and a primary opposition party, the Congress had not convened a joint meeting or crafted a coordinated strategy with its alliance partners on the SIR issue until now. On Sunday, Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on the EC, linking the ongoing SIR directly to the deaths of 16 Booth Level Officers (BLOs) over nearly three weeks. Gandhi alleged that the ECs rushed, paperwork-heavy process is a deliberate ploy to harass citizens and enable voter fraud. Decision finalised during AICC review meeting According to sources, the decision was finalised during the AICC review meeting chaired by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge with key office-bearers from 12 states and Union Territories (UT). The meeting was attended by former party president Rahul Gandhi, AICC general secretaries, state unit chiefs, Congress Legislature Party leaders and secretaries of 12 states and UTs where the SIR is underway.
Rebels trouble LDF & UDF as Thiruvananthapuram corporation election picture becomes clear
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With scrutiny of nominations completed on Monday, a full picture of the electoral contests to the Thiruvananthapuram corporation council has become clear and the two leading fronts are grappling with a surge in rebel candidates. Even senior leaders have entered the fray as independents, placing the LDF and the UDF in a tight spot ahead of the polls. In a contrast to previous elections, the LDF is facing serious internal rebellion this time. None of the LDF rebels withdrew their nominations despite last-minute attempts by the party leadership to persuade them. The LDF faces rebel threats in Vazhottukonam, Ulloor, Kachani, Chempazhanthy, and Vizhinjam. In Ulloor, former local committee member and former Deshabhimani bureau chief K Sreekantan is contesting independently. In Chempazhanthy, former block panchayat president Annie Ashokan has entered the race after raising allegations against MLA Kadakampally Surendran. In Vazhottukonam, local committee member K V Mohanan filed his papers in protest against the candidate selection. Nettayam Satheesh is contesting from Kachani, while N A Rasheed is in the fray from Vizhinjam. The UDF too is encountering similar challenges, with rebels active in four wards. Sudheesh Kumar in Poundkadavu, former councillor Krishnaveni in Punchakkari, INTUC mandalam president P Lalu in Kazhakoottam, and Youth Congress leader Hissan Hussain in Vizhinjam have all filed nominations as independents. While an IUML candidate is contesting in Poundkadavu, the RSP has put up its candidate in Punchakkari. Seat-sharing disagreements have further complicated matters for the UDF. In a fallout of the disputes, the Kerala Congress (Joseph) is contesting in five wards. Former Kerala Congress (M) member Vijayamoorthy is contesting from Vizhinjam. In the Port ward, Baby Pereira is in the fray, while Nirmala Thomas is contesting in Palayam. In Kazhakoottam, former grama panchayat member A M Hussain is the candidate, and in the Sainik School ward, Kerala Youth Front district president Thekkeveettil Sujith is also contesting. Despite the growing list of dissidents, senior Congress leader K Muraleedharan has dismissed the concerns. There is no concern for the party regarding the rebels. All of them have already been expelled. The rebels in Mannanthala and Poundkadavu were removed recently. The Kazhakoottam rebel could not withdraw his nomination in time, but he has submitted a notice expressing his intention to withdraw. Let them remain in the fray; the party has no issues with it. None of them will be taken back, nor will they be considered for the assembly elections, Muraleedharan said. Anavoor Nagappan too maintained that the rebel presence would not weaken the party. The party will take all necessary action against the rebels. Their presence will not affect our campaign or the election in any way. Our preparation has been strong and will continue without disruption, he said. Rebel threats LDF faces rebel threats in Vazhottukonam, Ulloor, Kachani, Chempazhanthy, and Vizhinjam UDF too is encountering similar challenges, with rebels active in four wards Seat-sharing disagreements have further complicated matters for the UDF
Footfall at Sabarimala crosses 7.5L; spot booking capped at 5,000 again
PATHANAMTHITTA: With the Mandala-Makaravilakku season witnessing a steady rise in pilgrim inflow, authorities have limited spot booking for darshan at 5,000 for Tuesday, even as the total footfall at Sabarimala crossed 7.5 lakh by Monday evening. Authorities also confirmed that the virtual queue booking will allow darshan access for up to 70,000 pilgrims. Despite a surge in pilgrim turnout, smooth darshan continued at the hill shrine on Monday, the ninth day of the annual pilgrim season. A total of 90,393 devotees had offered prayers at the hill shrine by 7pm on Monday. The rush remained high throughout the day, with long queues from early morning, yet darshan was completed without long waiting hours. On Sunday, 84,605 pilgrims had darshan at the shrine. Officials expect the numbers of devotees to rise in the coming days. Meanwhile, cool weather and intermittent rain continued in the Sabarimala hills. Tight security and real-time monitoring Elaborate security arrangements remain in effect across Sannidhanam and base stations. Continuous surveillance is being maintained through around 450 CCTV cameras, jointly monitored by the police and Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB). Dedicated control rooms ensure round-the-clock monitoring of all major points -- enabling quick intervention in case of emergencies or crowd surges. Nearly 90 cameras overseen by the police cover critical spots from Chalakkayam to Pandithavalam, while 345 TDB cameras focus on high-density locations including Marakkoottam, the flyover, Valiyanadappanthal, Sopanam and Malikappuram. Drinking water supply To ensure unhindered access to clean drinking water, the Water Authority has set up 193 kiosks from Pampa to the upper reaches of Sannidhanam supported by modern purification and distribution systems, while 105 kiosks have been installed along the pilgrim pathway from Pampa to Nadappanthal. The Kerala High Court on Monday directed the engineer in charge of the AchankovilKonni road, extensively used by Sabarimala devotees, to file a statement on the measures taken to repair the road. The court had earlier directed that the road, which was in a dilapidated condition, should be repaired before the Sabarimala pilgrimage season. The directive comes in continuation of a previous order issued in September by a division bench comprising Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan and Justice K V Jayakumar, which instructed various departments to take coordinated action to ensure proper maintenance of all roads used by pilgrims. The court had also asked the amicus curiae for the special commissioner to examine and report on deficiency. During the hearing on Monday, the amicus curiae submitted that all the other aspects have been complied with the exception of the Achankovil-Konni road.
Youth stabbed to death; Congress leaders son held
KOTTAYAM: A 23-year-old youth was stabbed to death following a dispute over a drug deal at Manikunnam near Kottayam in the early hours of Monday. The deceased is Adarsh, a native of Manganam near Puthuppally. Abhijith, 24, of Kottayam and son of Congress leader and former Kottayam municipal councillor V K Anilkumar (Titto), was taken into custody by the police in connection with the incident. The incident took place in front of Anilkumars house around 4.30am. Police said the violence stemmed from a drug-related transaction between Abhijith, who is a history-sheeter, and the deceased Adarsh. Adarsh had reportedly borrowed MDMA worth `1,500 from Abhijith and also pawned his scooter. An argument over these matters led to a clash during which Abhijith stabbed Adarsh.
LDF secures 14 wards in Kannur unopposed as nomination scrutiny ends
KANNUR: With the completion of the final scrutiny of nominations in Kannur, the LDF has secured uncontested victories in 14 wards across the district. The presiding officers have rejected a total of four nominations, two from Anthoor municipality, both filed by UDF candidates, and two from Kannapuram panchayat, one each from the UDF and the BJP rendering the CPM unopposed. LDF candidates have now secured six wards of Kannapuram, three wards of Malapattam panchayat, and five wards of Anthoor municipality. In Anthoor municipality, CPM candidates K V Premarajan in Thalivayal ward and E Rajitha in Kodallur ward were declared winners without facing any opposition. Similarly, in Kannapuram panchayat, Usha Mohan in Ambalapuram ward and Mohanan T E in Chemmaravayal ward were elected unopposed, marking a significant outcome shaped entirely by the scrutiny process rather than electoral competition. In Kannapuram panchayat, the nomination of INC candidate in Ambalapuram ward was rejected after the nominator denied the signature during scrutiny, and in Chemmaravayal ward, the nomination of BJP was rejected because the nominee refused to sign, both under Section 55(2)(c) of the Kerala Panchayat Raj Act. In Anthoor municipality, the nominations in both Thaliyil ward (INC) and Kodallur ward (IUML) were rejected after the respective nominees submitted written and in-person statements confirming that they had not signed the nomination papers. The nomination papers of the Congress in Malappattam and Anthoor and the BJP in Kuthuparamba were rejected on close scrutiny due to fake signatures.
Roof concreting of 50 houses in Wayanad done
KALPETTA: The township project of the state government, aimed at the rehabilitation of Wayanad landslide survivors, crossed a major milestone on Monday with the completion of the roof concreting of the 50th house. The construction work at Elstone Estate, being carried out by the Uralungal Labour Contract Society (ULCCS), is progressing at a remarkable speed. Currently, the roof concreting of four houses is being completed daily on an average, and officials said it will soon be ramped up to 10 houses per day. Over 1,200 workers are engaged in round-the-clock, shift-based construction. Alongside housing units, work on internal roads, a sewage treatment plant, drinking water storage facilities, and drainage networks is advancing in parallel. Road connectivity across all five zones of the township has been established. Over 1km of stone has been laid on the 12-metre-wide main internal road from the townships primary gate to make it motorable. In total, 11.72km of internal roads will be completed as part of the project. As of Sunday, foundations have been laid for 302 houses, while pillars have been erected for 108 homes. In units where pouring, plastering, wiring, and plumbing have been finished, first-phase painting is under way. Authorities aim to complete the concrete work for all houses by December 25 and hand them over to families by January. Additional manpower and state-of-the-art equipment have been deployed to speed up work.
BJP fighting to hold Sabarimala ground in Pandalam
PATHANAMTHITTA: As the local body elections draw near, Pandalam a municipality long influenced by the political and religious pulse surrounding the Sabarimala temple, braces for another high-stakes contest. For the BJP, which captured power there in the wake of the 2018 Sabarimala agitation, retaining the council is a critical political mission. It remains the partys sole ruling turf in south Kerala, and a test of whether the fervour it once harnessed still holds sway. Pandalams political shifts often reflect larger ideological battles. The 2018 Supreme Court verdict permitting women of all ages to enter the Sabarimala shrine triggered protests rooted in this historic royal town that shares deep ties with the Ayyappa legacy. That wave propelled the BJP to victory in 18 of the 33 seats in the last elections--a landmark result. This time, the party is banking on the Sabarimala gold plate controversy, involving allegations of missing temple material, to consolidate Hindu sentiments again. The BJP has accused the LDF government of shielding wrongdoing in temple affairs, turning the issue into a cornerstone of its campaign narrative. We are confident of extending our winning streak, says Pandalam municipal chairperson Achankunju John. Ward-level preparations are done, and leadership reviews are happening daily. People remember who stood firmly with their faith, he asserts. Trouble from within The BJP-led NDA had unveiled its first list of 17 candidates with 11 newcomers, and continues to welcome defectors from rival fronts even as internal troubles intensify further. The sudden appearance of newcomers posed challenges to some popular local leaders, who ended up being displaced from their wards. Even party workers feel the internal discord threatens the saffron partys prospects. Allegations of nepotism, corruption, and administrative inexperience combined with the emergence of rebel candidates in at least three wards (5, 21, and 22) have embarrassed the leadership, exposing fault lines within the organisation. BJP may find its biggest hurdles coming from its own cadre. Rivals sense opportunity The LDF sees fertile ground to strike back, accusing the BJP-led council of rampant corruption and non-performance. The failure to pass the 2021 budget a lapse that nearly led to the municipalitys dissolution remains a major talking point. They named a half-done bus stand after Lord Ayyappa at Rs 31 lakh. While trying to woo devotees, they think the scandal is being ignored. No, people are watching, says LDF parliamentary party leader Lasitha Nair. They grabbed power riding on the emotions of devotees last time. But these five years have shown their real face from questionable sewage-cleaning equipment purchases to spending excessively on furnishing the chairmans office. People have rejected their arrogance. We expect to win at least 18 seats, she adds. Meanwhile, the Congress-led UDF, out of power in the municipality for nearly a decade, is attempting a comeback this time by reclaiming the Sabarimala narrative. Its faith protection campaigns are drawing crowds, but the defection of local leaders to the BJP remains a concern. People have witnessed corruption under the BJP. The LDF too failed Pandalam. The gold theft allegations haunt them. Devotees who punished us earlier will stand with us now. We are aiming for 23 seats, says UDF parliamentary leader K R Vijayakumar. From prayer marches to gold theft accusations, Lord Ayyappa continues to be the defining force in this small, symbolically crucial town. For the BJP, winning here is not merely about municipal politics it is a battle to preserve its identity as the chief guardian of faith in Kerala.
UDF is weakening, BJP irrelevant in Kochi corp
KOCHI: As his tenure nears end, Kochi Mayor M Anilkumar speaks to TNIE on his assessment of the past five years, LDFs challenges in the corporation and his advice to his successor. Excerpts: How do you evaluate your five-year performance? Are there any regrets about projects you wished you had completed? The public and media should evaluate my performance; I get positive response from the public. Considering the circumstances we faced during our tenure, including the by-elections, I am satisfied with our work. We completed 72 projects. I hope some projects that we initiated, like the one to rehabilitate street vendors and destitute, and for canal rejuvenation, are continued by the next council. Given that Kochi has mostly been a UDF stronghold, and LDF managed only a narrow win last time, what are the Lefts chances this time? The UDF has a negative attitude towards governance and development projects. When a project is launched, they allege they conceived the idea and that the project was started during their term. Such allegations actually helped people understand what they had done in 10 years and how we performed in the past five years. Also, while in power, UDF faced internal conflicts. It did not happen during our term. It is being said the LDF candidates list comprises of UDF defectors. Is it difficult for LDF to find candidates? We completed the five-year term with the support of UDF rebels. We accommodate people. Our policy is to cooperate with such leaders. Our three candidates, A B Sabu, M B Muraleedharan and P M Harris, left the UDF and started working with the Left around five years ago. Also, Sheeba Durom, Mary Calista and K J Prakashan switched and joined LDF. UDF is weakening and people who lack secular credentials join BJP. What is your view on UDFs allegations and BJPs expansion strategies? UDF could not complete any projects on time, so they are levelling allegations. JNNURM was brought during the UDF term, but they did not complete it. Many projects, which they never envisioned, including Samriddhi and Shelodge, were introduced by this council. As for the BJP, it is irrelevant in the corporation. There are a few areas where it is strong; it has funds and can claim to secure more seats, but it is not practical. What are the challenges for the LDF in the corporation? The LDFs seat-sharing and candidate finalisation were smooth. Development projects implemented in the past five years gave party workers the confidence to meet the public. There is no anti-incumbency either. I believe voters would grant the Left front a formidable majority. What issues and projects should the coming mayor and ruling party look into? We have addressed most of the major issues. Canal rejuvenation should be given more priority. Cleaning and rejuvenating the canals will improve the city and help prevent waterlogging. The project is in the initial stage, and it needs to be completed. Renovation of footpaths should also be apriority.
UDF unveils manifesto, pushes for waste management, five lakh houses in five years
KOCHI: The United Democratic Front (UDF) on Monday released its election manifesto, outlining a five-year plan centred on waste management, housing, public health and stronger local governance. The manifesto, unveiled in Kochi, gives sharp focus to the growing threats posed by stray dogs and wild animals. Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan said the document was drafted with accurate planning and clear timelines, emphasising that every project included in the manifesto is implementable in the given period. Responding to rising stray dog attacks, the UDF promises new laws to tackle the menace, strict enforcement of Animal Birth Control (ABC) measures, and monthly sterilisation drives. Noting that 3.16 lakh people were treated for stray dog bites at government hospitals in 2024, the front stressed that slaughterhouse waste must be managed properly to stop feeding the stray populations. Furthermore, to address the frequent human-wildlife conflicts, the UDF also asserted that every local body will form special squads to handle wild animal intrusions, supported by a compensation fund for affected families and farmers. Waste management forms the manifestos most ambitious segment. The UDF proposes deploying plasma technology used internationally to break down waste into syngas and inert slag -- while promoting source-level management, and involving NGOs and community groups. Value-added products from waste, new waste-to-energy plants and biogas plants in all cities within a year are also promised, along with 100% collection of biodegradable waste from households. Housing receives equal attention through the Home for All scheme, promising to build five lakh houses in five years. It aims to ensure that every eligible family receives a house within five years by integrating central government projects. The manifesto notes that Kerala has 5.91 lakh extremely poor Yellow Card holders, emphasising that improving their lives is a core priority. The front also pushes for strengthening public health measures in light of rising cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis, jaundice, typhoid, cholera and leptospirosis. Local bodies will form rapid-response teams for health emergencies. ASHA workers will receive a Rs 2,000 monthly allowance from local self-government funds. The front also plans to revive the poverty eradication programme Asraya 2.0, launched during the Oommen Chandy era. The document also outlines plans for youth development, elderly welfare, and initiatives for SC/ST communities, women, migrant workers and fisherfolk. Tourism will be expanded through eco-tourism, literary, adventure, Ayurveda and water-based projects, while local markets will be modernised and investment meets organised in a PPP model. Reaffirming the need for stronger decentralisation, Satheesan said local bodies must be given more autonomy, unlimited ward-level development funds and better financial systems to ensure efficient governance. The event was attended by the KPCC state president Sunny Joseph, AICC general secretary Deepa Dasmunshi, UDF convenor Adoor Prakash, IUML national general secretary P K Kunhalikutty, and other leaders. Manifesto overview Plasma tech-driven waste management; biogas plants in all cities Strict ABC measures, new laws, and special squads for stray dog & wild animal attacks Home for All schmes aims to construct 5 lakh houses in five years Rapid-response health squads; B2,000 allowance for ASHA workers More autonomy and unlimited devpt funds for local bodies
AI creates flutter among voters in Kerala poll campaign
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: AI-generated videos of football legend Lionel Messi have been circulating among Keralites for almost a year, making the format familiar to many. Yet in November, when K P Saleem from the Otukkungal panchayat in Malappuram used a fresh Messi video as part of his campaign strategy, it created a flutter among voters. By tapping into the regions massive football fan base, Saleem managed to score a political goal or two against his opponents. This election marks the first major political contest in Kerala after the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and parties are embracing the technology like never before. From digital avatars to content tailored for specific age groups and locations, tech-driven methods have become central to campaign strategies. However, the mainstay of local body elections remains the familiarity of the candidate and the personal one-to-one connection with voters. In the second phase of campaigning, parties continue door-to-door visits to reinforce this factor. Yet, digital marketing becomes a powerful complement. It is about setting the mood among voters. Social media now influences trends across different age groups, said Robin Alex Panicker, a tech entrepreneur closely tracking these developments. This election is unlike the one five years ago. Our digital behaviour has changed a lot. Young voters consume more content from reels on social media, so this trend naturally enters the election. Those who ignore the medium cannot reach these voters, he added. Most candidates now have some form of digital strategy, though the scale differs. There is demand to manage the entire digital campaign of a party or assist in placing advertisements targeted to specific geographic areas, explained Sham Mohammed, director of Storycat Creative Pvt Ltd. He noted that individual candidates often want their pictures transformed into videos with constituency locations as the backdrop. Pointing out new possibilities, Midhun Mohan, managing director of Green Ads Global, said, We can make a candidate read out a script to capture lip movements, expressions, and emotions, and then create a digital twin or AI avatar. With different prompts, we can generate multiple videos. The scalability is quite high. Similarly, Tinu Easo Cherian and Kiranraj V R, co-founders of Originative Nest, observed that AI advancements have overcome earlier shortcomings. We can now create longer videos in a cost-effective manner. Soon, we will be able to upgrade the resolution to match big-screen quality, they said. At the same time, the rapid spread of these tools has also raised concerns. In a bid to address this, the State Election Commission has formed expert panels to monitor and regulate AI-generated content during the local body elections, aiming to prevent misuse and ensure a fair process. Despite these concerns, experts believe AIs role in campaigns will only grow in the upcoming assembly elections. Messi magic International football players making announcement in Malayalam, driving KSRTC bus K P Saleem from the Otukkungal panchayat uses Lionel Messis digital twin to take a dig at Sports Minister V Abdurahiman Startups/digital marketing companies working with political parties to make personalised campaign materials Benefits of using AI Personalised voter outreach based on demographics and interests Efficient resource allocation for campaign events and ads Real-time feedback from public sentiment tracking Scalable communication across platforms and languages Data-driven decision making for strategy refinement AI tools used in elections Automated content generation for campaign messaging Facial and voice recognition in voter verification systems Chatbots for voter interaction and FAQs Predictive analytics to forecast voter behaviour Risks and ethical concerns Privacy violations from data harvesting Algorithmic bias affecting fairness Manipulative targeting of vulnerable groups Lack of transparency in AI-driven decisions Spread of misinformation via deep fakes or bots
72,005 in the fray for local body elections in Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A total of 72,005 candidates are officially in the fray across the state for the upcoming local body elections, as per provisional data released by the State Election Commission late on Monday. The final picture of the candidates became clear after the deadline for withdrawal of nominations ended on Monday. The list of candidates includes 37,786 women, 34,218 men and one transgender person. Meanwhile, all major fronts are facing the menace of rebel candidates who have refused to withdraw their candidature despite efforts by party leadership to mollify them. While the LDF and the UDF have five rebel candidates each in Thiruvananthapruam corporation, 11 rebels are causing headache to the Congress-led front in Kochi corporation. Six-time BJP councillor Shyamala S Prabhu, who turned a rebel this time, is taking on the official candidate of the saffron alliance in Kochi corporations Cherlai ward. While the UDF has six rebel candidates in the fray in Thrissur corporation, four rebel candidates are poised to play spoilsport for the LDF that rules the civic body. The BJP-led NDA too has a rebel candidate in Vadookara ward, its sitting seat in Thrissur corporation. Kannur, the lone UDF-ruled corporation, has rebel trouble for the Congress-led front in three seats. A CPM rebel candidate in Kannur corporation withdrew his candidature on Monday, offering relief to the LDF. Relief for Wayanad UDF as YC rebel withdraws The UDF in Wayanad heaved a sigh of relief after Youth Congress leader Jasheer Pallivayal, who had entered the fray as a rebel for the district panchayat, withdrew his nomination on Monday following last-minute intervention by senior party leaders. In Alappuzha district panchayats Ambalappuzha division, the conflict within the UDF over the seat has been resolved, with the IUML agreeing to withdraw its rebel candidate at the last minute. The LDF has already secured 14 seats unchallenged. In Kannur, LDF secured two additional unopposed victories in Anthoor municipality after the nomination papers of UDF candidates were rejected during fresh scrutiny on Monday. With this, five LDF candidates have been elected unopposed in the civic body.
Kerala HC for app to alert public about missing Bengaluru native
KOCHI: In a significant decision to help locate Suraj Lama, a Bengaluru native who went missing in Kochi soon after being deported from Kuwait last month, the Kerala High Court has asked the state government to develop a mobile app that can issue a unified alert containing his details to various social media platforms. The court issued the directive while considering a habeas corpus petition filed by Santon Lama, Surajs son. It noted that the app should be created in coordination with the Kerala Police Cyberdome and Meta, the parent company of Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram. During the hearing on November 21, the court directed the states counsel to develop an application capable of circulating a unified WhatsApp message across social media platforms, ensuring it reaches users across cyberspace, especially within Kerala, said a source with the Kerala State Legal Services Authority (KeLSA), which is providing legal assistance to Santon. As per the plan, the app will send a unified alert mentioning details of Suraj, the time of his disappearance and other information to all social media platforms. The app will not be for public use. Meanwhile, Santons counsel said the state government had informed the court that missing person posters, including Surajs photograph, had been displayed at major pilgrim centres, including Sabarimala. The government also said they had arranged for public announcements about Suraj during the morning and evening sessions at Sabarimala, the counsel said. Aluva DySP T R Rajesh, who is heading the special investigation team (SIT) formed to trace Lama, said they had covered almost entire Ernakulam and Thrissur. We are once again carrying out searches focused on medical colleges, shelter homes and locations that that may have been missed earlier. We are also checking unidentified bodies, he said. Rajesh said the SIT has proposed additional measures, including issuing alerts during phone calls. When contacted, Santon told TNIE that he was thankful to all involved in the search of his father.
Forklifts, cranes are motor vehicles, must be registered
KOCHI: Machines like forklifts and cranes, though used exclusively on private factory premises, fall under the category of motor vehicles and must be registered and taxed accordingly, the Kerala High Court has stated. Justice Mohammed Nias C P made the ruling while dismissing a petition filed by a company challenging a MVD directive prohibiting it from operating two forklifts and a hydraulic crane without registration and valid insurance. His counsel argued that the equipment operates strictly as material-handling machinery within a fully enclosed factory premises and is never driven on public roads. However, the respondents contended that the forklifts and cranes are roadworthy and capable of being used on public roads at any time, and added that the petitioners factory premises are accessible to workers, visitors and other vehicles, and hence constitute a public place. The court observed that Section 2(28) of the Motor Vehicles Act uses a broadly inclusive definition of motor vehicle, covering any mechanically propelled vehicle adapted for use on roads.
Comeback shot! Kerala lines up first-ever basketball franchise league
KOCHI: For decades, basketball ruled Keralas playgrounds, especially in schools and colleges. The state produced stars who dazzled on national and international courts, and galleries once filled up for neighbourhood games as if they were festival matches. Now, in an ambitious bid to relive that golden era and bring back the lost frenzy, the Kerala Basketball Association (KBA) is set to roll out the states first-ever exclusive basketball league in April 2026. The developmental competition titled Basketball League Kerala to debut in Kochi is KBAs biggest push yet to revive a sport whose grassroots sheen has dimmed even as Keralas women continue to shine on the national stage. Back then, basketball courts were always packed, just like football or volleyball. We have lost that completely, recalled veteran player George Zachariah, captain of Keralas 1983 senior nationals squad. College teams used to dominate. Now, its the school teams that are doing well. This league is a great chance to revive the sport. In its first season, the league will feature only Kerala-based players and is structured as a full-fledged talent pipeline. It is being organised in association with Kochi-based Starting Five Sports Management which has struck a 20-year partnership with KBA and Pune-based ABCFF League, the team behind Maharashtras successful basketball league. Scouting begins this December, when registered players in four categories U-14 boys and girls, and U-18 boys and girls will compete in a unique One Minute to Hoop Skill (OMH) challenge. Shortlisted players will go through match-play trials in late January, after which 100 players will enter a digital auction powered by virtual points. Six franchise teams will build their squads from this pool. Leagues like this make children serious about the sport from a very young age, said Anirudh Pole, CEO of ABCFF and a coach who helped build Maharashtras league in just four years. BLK Season 1, scheduled from April 2 to 12 at the Regional Sports Centre, Kochi, will pack in 72 matches the biggest competitive stage Keralas U-14 and U-18 talent has ever had. The tournament will be streamed on FanCode. It will also open the doors for 48 Kerala coaches, alongside referees and support staff, to be part of the league ecosystem. Looking at Keralas basketball arc, KBA life president and former state captain P J Sunny pointed to the financial strain that has stunted the sports growth. Expenses have been really high. It has affected the number of high-level tournaments. We need money both to support players and to run advanced facilities. Were trying to revive all that now, he said at the launch event in Kochi. KBA officials added that a senior league too is planned for next season.
Chessboxer who blends brains and brawn on her way to glory
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: At just 20 years old, Arundhathy Raju Nair is already a force to reckon with in the rare and demanding sport that is chessboxing. A final-year BTech student at LBS Engineering College in Thiruvananthapuram, Arundhathy has managed to balance the pressures of academics with the intensity of training, and in the process, etched her name in Asia Book of Records for being the only female athlete to win the Asian Chessboxing Championship for three consecutive years: 2023, 2024 and 2025. Her journey began in Class V when she discovered chess. Representing her school at state-level competitions, Arundhathy quickly developed a reputation for her sharp mind and calm composure. However, her life took an unexpected turn when her coach, Sandhanu Vijayan, introduced her to chessboxing, a hybrid sport that demands both mental agility and physical aggression. I started with a loss after just two months of practice, she recalls. Later, I picked up momentum, winning gold or silver regularly in Asian and national championships. Unlike any other sport, the main challenge in chessboxing lies not only in mastering chess and boxing, two games at opposite ends of the spectrum, but also in switching seamlessly between them. First, a chess match is played in the boxing ring. If no decision is reached within three minutes, the players spar. The game keeps alternating until there is a winner. Unlike other combat sports such as kick boxing, chessboxing combines pure chess and pure boxing, with rules of both the disciplines enforced strictly. Usually, chess players do not take up boxing. They prefer concentrating on the board. Boxers, on the other hand, show aggression but may not think of ways to win a board game. Chessboxing shows you are both mentally and physically fit, Arundhathy explains. Arundhathy in action against Russias Oksana Komissarova during the Asian Chessboxing Championship in 2023 The toughest part, she admits, is regaining focus after a bout. You may not be in a position to think through the strategies you planned earlier. Her breakthrough moment came in 2023, during her first year of engineering, when she scored back-to-back victories against Maharashtras Madhavi Gonbare, a prominent Indian chessboxer. Those wins, first at the Asian Championship (her maiden Asian title) and then at the Indian Open World Championship, catapulted her to fame. I was just one of the players till then, she says. She has gone on to win gold at the Asian Championship in Kolkata, competing in the under-55 kg category, and has built a professional boxing record of two wins and one loss. Behind her success lies a strong support system. Arundhathy grew up in Oruvathikotta, Thiruvananthapuram, studied at GGHS Cottonhill, and comes from a family deeply rooted in academics and professional excellence. Her father, Raju N R, is a senior IT professional at Allianz Technology, while her mother, Suma M S, serves as the principal of Sholayur HSS in Palakkad. Her younger sister, Aparna N Nair, also tried her hand at boxing before Arundhathy. Her familys encouragement and example provided Arundhathy with a strong foundation of discipline, resilience and ambition, shaping her journey both inside the ring and on the chessboard. Training for her is a disciplined affair. She practises boxing at the Brothers Boxing Academy and hones her chess skills at Masters Academy. Before competitions, she follows a strict 45-day regimen that combines diet and training. I am underweight, so there isnt much weight restriction, she says with a smile, acknowledging the unique advantage she carries into her bouts. Chessboxing may still be a niche sport in India, but it is gaining recognition abroad. It was even showcased at the Paris Olympics cultural event. Arundhathy hopes to be part of the wave that brings the sport into the mainstream in India. Her next big goal is the World Championship in France, where she plans to represent the country on the global stage. Arundhathys story is not just about medals and records. It is about breaking stereotypes, proving that a chess player can throw punches, and a boxer can think several moves ahead. Her journey embodies resilience, discipline, and the courage to step into uncharted territory.
Kerala Local body polls 2025: SEC faces demand for postal ballots ahead of polls
Unlike the Assembly and Lok Sabha polls, local body polls do not have a provision for postal ballots; Postal ballots are restricted to officials on election duty
Police book flea festival organisers after crowd surge triggers chaos
Two flights from Kochi cancelled due to volcanic eruption in Ethiopia
Cyclone Senyar: Heavy Rain Likely In These States; Check Expected Landfall Timing, Path
IMD warns Cyclone Senyar, with heavy rain expected in Andaman, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Mahe, Lakshadweep, Andhra Pradesh, Yanam. Check its path and other details.
Kerala local body polls: 72,005 candidates in the fray as per provisional data
Season of desertions and shifting of allegiances
Navy gets its silent hunter, 80% home-grown INS Mahe
Army chief General Dwivedi launches warship, says in age of multi-domain warfare, true strength of the armed forces lies in synergy, adds that Army, Navy and Air Force form the trinity of Indias strategic strength
KWA initiates steps for construction of new water tank at Thammanam
Row over seat-sharing: Congress workers lock party office in Manjeswaram
Two held on charge of assaulting minors
Rebel threat to UDF, LDF in Kozhikode
Forklifts, cranes are motor vehicles and need registration, insurance cover, says Kerala HC
Customs-police stand-off continues in Karipur gold case
Tiger census can wait till polls are over: CPI
Newly formed Stadium division set to witness a high-profile contest
For UDF candidate Deepthi Mary Varghese, whose name is doing the rounds as a potential mayoral candidate, and LDF-backed Independent George Nanatt, Stadium, formed after delimitation, is a mix of their sitting divisions; BDJS has fielded J. Asokan as NDA candidate
Meeting with central trade unions on Labour Codes on November 27
Ananth Technologies to open Centre of Excellence for Navigation in Thiruvananthapuram
ISRO Chairman to inaugurate the centre on Tuesday
Ration card scam: Thiruvananthapuram police intensify hunt for second suspect
The Vanchiyoor police had arrested a ration outlet licensee from Beemapally recently in the case
Initiate steps for immediate repair of Achencoil-Konni stretch: Kerala HC
47.35% SIR enumeration forms digitised, says Election Commission
At 76.89%, Goa reports highest digitisation, only 23% data, the lowest, uploaded from Kerala, says poll body; BLOs race against time, several find process confusing
New director board takes charge at Kerala Bank
Youth attacked by father succumbs to injuries
Congress suffers early setback in Peringottukurissi after nominations of two candidates rejected
Nominations rejected for want of proper documents. Party facing big challenge from dissident leader and former district president A.V. Gopinathan in the local body
KSRTCs double-decker service earns revenue of 1 cr. in nine months
Congress leaders appear discomfited that the resurgence of the scandal has supplied the ruling front with sensational grist to endeavour to alter the arc of the States political narrative during the crucial local body campaign
Light fishing: enforcement squad intensifies coastal patrol
A non-Kerala boat loaded with high-power lights has already been impounded as part of heightened coastal surveillance measures
Congress alleges BJP tried to buy off its candidate in Palakkad
First-year PG students on CU campus find it difficult to log onto K-REAP software
Round-the-clock vigil at Sabarimala as crowd eases after initial rush
This enhanced surveillance aims to manage crowd flow, deter criminal activity, and provide immediate assistance to the thousands of devotees expected daily.
I shall move legally when time comes, says Mamkootathil
Man sentenced to death for murdering pregnant woman in Alappuzha
Prabeesh, 36, of Nilambur convicted for murdering Anitha Sasidharan of Punnapra. Court also finds Rejani, 38, of Kainakary guilty, but her sentence is not pronounced as she is in a jail in Odisha
BLO deaths: EC moves fast after audio surfaces of official claiming stress; TMC sharpens attack
The Election Commission is addressing work-related stress among Booth Level Officers (BLOs) during Kerala's Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls after an audio message went viral. This follows reports of BLO suicides and deaths due to excessive pressure in several states, prompting protests and criticism from political parties regarding the rushed and opaque nature of the revision process.
BLO issues suicide threat, revenue officials reach out to him
Officials visit him at his residence. Two staff members from the Mundakkayam village office have been assigned to assist him
A court in Kerala's Alappuzha sentences key accused Prabeesh to death in Anitha murder case of 2021
ALAPPUZHA: The Alappuzha Additional Sessions CourtIII on Monday awarded death penalty to the first accused in the Anitha murder case that took place in Kainakari. Prabeesh (37), of Pookodan House, Nilambur, was sentenced to death for the murder of Anitha (32), of Thekkemadam House, Punnapra South panchayat. Rajani (38), of Pathissery House, Thottuvathala, Kainakari, is the second accused in the case. A close friend of Prabeesh, she is currently lodged in an Odisha jail in connection with an NDPS case. Judge M Shuhaib directed the prosecution to produce her in court on November 29 on the basis of a production warrant, after which the quantum of punishment to Rajani will be pronounced. According to the prosecution, Prabeesh strangled Anitha to death while engaging in sexual intercourse, with the intent of removing her from his life so he could continue living with Rajani. A driver by profession, Prabeesh had been cohabiting with Rajani. The murder was allegedly executed at Rajanis house on July 7, 2021. Prosecution reports state that Anitha became unconscious after being strangled. Believing she had died, the accused transported her body in a country boat to Pallathuruthy and dumped it in the canal near the Arayanthodu bridge. Local residents discovered the body the next evening. Initially registered as a case of unnatural death, the woman remained unidentified until Anithas brother recognised the body the following day. A postmortem examination revealed injuries to the throat and damage to the thyroid gland, raising suspicion among doctors, who alerted the police. An analysis of Anithas mobile phone data showed that the last call came from Prabeesh. Further investigation traced his phone location to Kainakari, and records indicated online transactions made using the device. Police later arrested both Prabeesh and Rajani, who reportedly confessed to the crime. Anitha, who was married and the mother of two children, had separated from her husband Aneesh and was living with Prabeesh at Rajanis house. She became pregnant, and attempts by the accused to terminate the pregnancy allegedly failed. This led to escalating conflict, ultimately resulting in the murder, according to the prosecution. The prosecution further stated that after Anitha fell unconscious, the accused placed her body in a fibre boat, intending to abandon it in the middle of the lake. However, the boat capsized, and the body drifted away before washing ashore at Arayanthodu bridge. The court examined 82 witnesses out of a total of 112, and reviewed 131 documents, including the fibre boat used in the crime. The investigation was led by Nedumudi SHO A V Biju, while government pleader N B Shari represented the prosecution.
IFFK delegate registration from November 25
Indian Navy commissions INS Mahe: Silent hunter ready to neutralise sub-surface threats
The ship's crest features the Urumi, the flexible sword of Kalarippayattu, rising from stylised blue waves - a symbol of agility, precision, and lethal grace. Her mascot, the Cheetah, embodies speed and focus, while the motto Silent Hunters reflects the ship's stealth, vigilance, and unyielding readiness.
LDF candidates win unopposed from two more wards in Anthoor municipality
The wins came after the returning officer rejected the nomination papers of the United Democratic Front candidates during re-scrutiny after it was found that the signatures in the nomination papers were forged
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Fresh audio clips and WhatsApp chats have surfaced in connection with the sexual harassment allegations against MLA Rahul Mankootathil. The recordings, released by the News Malayalam channel, feature purported conversations between the MLA and the girl. In the audio, the girl is heard alleging that Rahul Mankootathil encouraged her to become to get conceived. He can be heard telling her that they should have a baby. However, a conversation further reveals that the MLA is allegedly pressuring the girl to undergo an abortion. Questioning his sudden change of stance, the girl says everything had been planned by him. Distraught and emotional, she is heard saying she is facing physical and mental distress and is unable to cope. MLA Rahul Mamkootathils audio on sleepless nights after harassment allegation sparks social media trolling The girl mentions nausea and related health issues, expressing fear about visiting the doctor known to Rahuls family. In response, Rahul is heard dismissing her concerns, asking her to speak realistically and accusing her of showing drama. When the girl breaks down, saying she cannot handle the situation, Rahul allegedly responds with an obscene remark in an attempt to silence her. He further questions why she is getting upset now, pointing out that she had been fine for the past three days. As the girl says she cannot even eat due to stress, Rahul replies that everyone knows what happens in the first month of pregnancy. The girl counters, saying that while he may have seen many people, she only knows her own difficulties. The emergence of the audio and chat messages has intensified the controversy, prompting renewed calls for a detailed investigation into the allegations.
2 Kerala Students Killed After Being Run Over By Vande Bharat Express Near Bengaluru
Two BSc Nursing students from Kerala, died after being hit by Vande Bharat Express near Chikkabanavara, Bengaluru. The incident is under investigation.
'EC, SIR Will Be Responsible': After BLOs Suicide In Kerala, Another Officer Threatens Suicide
Antony, a BLO in Kottayam, threatened suicide over SIR workload, days after Aneesh George, a BLO in Kannur, died by suicide due to similar stress linked to election duties.
State government makes a specific policy direction to the commission. In May 2023, KSERC commission had fixed 10 paise a unit as maximum surcharge a month after the Centre amended the Electricity Rules to make surcharge recovery by distribution companies an automatic process
Punjab: 1 killed, 3 injured as two cars catch fire after collision on NH-44
A student from Kerala died and three others were seriously injured after two cars caught fire following a multi-vehicle collision on NH-44 in Punjabs Phagwara
KOCHI: Aiming to regain control of Keralas local bodies, the United Democratic Front (UDF) on Monday released its election manifesto, outlining a tight, five-year action plan centred on waste management, housing, public health, and strengthened local governance. The manifesto, unveiled in Kochi, places immediate emphasis on the growing threats posed by stray dogs and wild animals. Leader of the Opposition V D Satheeshan said the front focused on accurate planning and clear timelines, adding that every project is implementable. We have proposed projects that can be implemented and completed within five years. Our focus while preparing the manifesto was accurate planning and clear timelines, he said, addressing a news conference here. Against the backdrop of rising humanwildlife conflict and a spike in stray dog attacks, the document promises amendments to laws to deal firmly with stray dogs, strict enforcement of Animal Birth Control measures, and monthly sterilisation drives. It also seeks to cut off food sources by regulating slaughterhouse waste and ensuring 100% collection of biodegradable waste from households. The UDF highlights the severity of the issue, noting that 3.16 lakh people were treated for stray dog bites at government hospitals in 2024. For increasingly frequent wild animal intrusions, every local body will form special squads and maintain a dedicated fund for victim compensation and crop protection. Waste management forms one of the most ambitious pillars of the manifesto. Along with promoting source-level segregation, the UDF proposes deploying plasma technology used in several developed countries to break down waste into syngas and reusable slag. The front also promises value-added products from waste, new waste-to-energy plants, and biogas plants in all cities within a year, with active involvement of NGOs and community organisations. Housing receives equal priority through the proposed Home for All scheme, which aims to ensure a house for every eligible family by integrating central projects and completing the programme in five years. With 5.91 lakh extremely poor Yellow Card ration card holders in Kerala, the UDF says its core goal is to make their life prosperous. Public health measures also occupy a central part of the manifesto, particularly as Kerala grapples with rising cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis, jaundice, typhoid, cholera and leptospirosis. Local bodies will be equipped with rapid-response squads for health emergencies and disasters. ASHA workers, who recently staged protests, are promised a monthly allowance of 2,000 from local self-government funds. The front will also relaunch Asraya 2.0 first introduced under Oommen Chandy to strengthen poverty eradication efforts. The manifesto further lays out initiatives for youth development, elderly welfare, SC/ST communities, women, migrants, and the fisherfolk. Tourism and entrepreneurship receive a significant push, with region-specific plans for ecotourism, agritourism, literary tourism, Ayurveda, adventure, and water tourism. Local markets will be modernised with Western technologies, and investment meetings will be held in a PPP model. Reaffirming the need for greater local autonomy, Satheeshan said panchayats, municipalities and corporations must be strengthened with adequate powers and resources. The UDF promises unlimited ward-level development funds and more efficient financial management to ensure truly decentralised governance. The event was attended by the KPCC state president Sunny Joseph, AICC general secretary Deepa Dasmunshi, UDF convenor Adoor Prakash, IUML national general secretary P K Kunhalikutty, and other leaders.
Kerala Lottery Result Today, November 24, 2025: Bhagyathara BT-30 Winning Numbers
Kerala Lottery Result Today, 24-11-2025: Heres full list of winning numbers for Bhagyathara BT-30 lottery for Monday, November 24.
Two Nursing Students Killed After Being Run Over by Vande Bharat Near Bengaluru
Kerala students died on the spot while crossing tracks; police probing CCTV to confirm if accident or suicide
Kerala man arrested for bludgeoning wife to death with LPG cylinder
KOLLAM: A man from Karikkod in Kollam was arrested for bludgeoning his wife with an LPG cylinder to death in a late-night assault. The woman was found dead in a pool of blood at their home in the early hours of Monday when police reached the spot. Kilikollur police have registered a case. The victim, Kavitha, 46, had suffered fatal head injuries and died on the spot, police said. Her husband, Madhusoodanan Pillai, was taken into custody from the house soon after officers arrived. According to police, the incident happened around 12.30 am, when Madhusoodanan Pillai allegedly hit Kavitha multiple times on her head with a gas cylinder. Their daughter was inside the house at the time. Startled by loud sounds, neighbours rushed to their house and alerted the police. A doctor called to the spot confirmed that she was dead. Madhusoodanan Pillai was later taken to the Kilikkollur police station. The body has been shifted to a government hospital for autopsy. Police said preliminary investigation suggest that a domestic dispute triggered the attack and investigation is underway. Officers added that Madhusoodanan Pillai, who works in the cashew business, is a habitual drinker and has been undergoing treatment for depression.
IFFK 2025 delegate registration to begin from Nov 25
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Delegate registration for the 30th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), organised by the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, will begin at 10 am on Tuesday (November 25). The festival is scheduled to be held in Thiruvananthapuram from December 12 to 19, 2025. The registrations can be completed through the official portal (registration.iffk.in). The delegate fee has been fixed at Rs 1180, including GST, for the general category and Rs 590 for students. Online registration is open to all categories, including the general public, students, film societies, and film and television professionals. A delegate cell has also been set up at Tagore Theatre in Thiruvananthapuram for those opting for direct registration. The 30th edition of IFFK will feature an array of curated sections, including the International Competition for films from Asian, African and Latin American countries; World Cinema, showcasing globally acclaimed films; Indian Cinema Now; Malayalam Cinema Today; Country Focus; and the Homage section, honouring departed film personalities. Over 200 international guestsincluding directors, technicians and jury membersare expected to participate. The festival will also host open forum discussions, meet-the-director sessions, exhibitions and a range of cultural programmes.
A low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm named Senyar by November 26. Heavy rainfall alerts have been issued for Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Kerala. Several districts in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry have already announced school holidays due to the forecast.
Kerala Receives Widespread Rains; Yellow Alert in Seven Districts
Heavy rains (7 cm to 11 cm in 24 hours) are very likely to occur at one or two places in the state
Low-Pressure Over Bay Of Bengal Strengthens, May Intensify Into Cyclone Senyar
IMD warns a low-pressure system over Bay of Bengal may become Cyclonic Storm Senyar, bringing heavy rain to Andaman, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Sri Lanka.
Two nursing students die after being hit by Vande Bharat Express train in Bengaluru
The students hailed from Kerala and were pursuing their first-year BSc Nursing course
4 Sabarimala Pilgrims Killed as Car Falls Off Flyover in Karnataka
The victims, all friends, were on their way to Sabarimala in Kerala when the accident took place: Police
Man kills wife by hitting her with LPG cylinder in Kerala's Kollam
KOLLAM : A 45-year-old woman died after she was allegedly attacked by her husband using an LPG cylinder at Mangad here in the early hours of Monday, police said. The deceased has been identified as Kavitha, a resident near Apollo Junction, Karicode, Mangad. Police have arrested her husband, Madhusudhanan Pillai, who assaulted her following a quarrel at their house around midnight. According to the FIR, the incident took place at around 12.30 am when Pillai hit Kavitha multiple times on her head with a gas cylinder. The FIR also stated that the couple's daughter was present in the house at the time of the incident. Hearing loud noises, neighbours rushed to the house and alerted the police. Officers reached the spot and found Kavitha lying unconscious in the hall. A doctor was called to the location and confirmed her death. Pillai was arrested and shifted to the Kilikkollur police station, where a case of murder has been registered, officials said. The body has been shifted to a government hospital for postmortem.
Two Nursing Students Killed After Vande Bharat Runs Over Them Near Kerala Station
Two nursing students from Pathanamthitta, died after being hit by Vande Bharat Express near Chikkabanavara. Police and railway officials are investigating.
Kerala: Man Kills Wife by Hitting Her with LPG Cylinder in Kollam
Police have arrested her husband, Madhusudhanan Pillai, who assaulted her following a quarrel at their house around midnight
Kerala Lottery Result Today, November 24, 2025 Live: Bhagyathara BT-30 Winning Numbers
Kerala Lottery Result Today Live Updates, 24-11-2025: Heres Guessing Numbers for Bhagyathara BT-30 for Monday, November 24. Check the full list of winning numbers from 3 pm.
Man found drowned at Papanasam beach
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A 53-year-old man from Puthenchanda in Varkala was found drowned at Papanasam beach on Sunday morning. The deceased, identified as Binukumar, was first spotted by a group of fishermen who had gone out to sea early in the day. They brought the body ashore and alerted the police. The police said preliminary indications point to suicide, though the conclusion is yet to be confirmed. Officers said he was reportedly under financial stress. Binukumar worked as a security guard and helper at a doctors clinic. He is survived by wife and two children. No missing person complaint had been filed. Relatives told the police that they had gone to attend a nearby wedding and that he had told them he would join later. The police said the condition of the body suggested he may have entered the sea either late at night or in the early hours of the morning. The coastal police reached the spot shortly after the fishermen recovered the body and passed the information to both Varkala and Ayiroor police stations. As the body was initially unidentified, officers checked recent missing-person reports within both station limits. After the inquest, the body was shifted to the mortuary.
CPM winning elections by threatening public: Sreelekha
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: BJP candidate in Sasthamangalam ward and former DGP R Sreelekha on Sunday alleged that the Communist party wins votes and governs the state by intimidating and threatening the public. In a Facebook post, she questioned whether there was anything wrong in making such a statement. Referring to Kannur, Sreelekha said, Reports claimed that there were no Opposition candidates in four LDF wards. The reason is clear: If anyone contests, they will be killed. This is their democracy. She also expressed concern over the incident in which a CPM candidate attacked the Thiruvananthapuram Press Club secretary and an independent candidate. Sreelekha also talked about the sudden announcement of a new candidate, Sreelatha V V, in the Sasthamangalam ward. The former DGP said she didnt know if the candidate was contesting as an independent or belonged to the CPI(ML), but claimed the intention was evident. According to her, voters might mistake the candidate for her due to the similarity in names, which would ultimately benefit the LDF.
Opposition accuses CPM of butchering democracy in Kannur, slams CM
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan on Sunday accused the CPM of using intimidation and goondaism to prevent rival candidates from contesting the local body polls. The CPM is butchering democracy by celebrating victories in Kannur even before the elections, he said in Thiruvananthapuram. Satheesan said CPM workers had threatened people who agreed to contest on UDF tickets, including in the state secretarys own ward. He criticised Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and CPM state secretary M V Govindan for lecturing others on anti-fascism while denying democracy and freedom in their own strongholds. He alleged that the CPMs activities in Kerala resembled a mafia-like pattern, worse than the party-dominated villages once seen in Bengal and Tripura. According to him, a section of election officials functioned like a CPM faction during the scrutiny of UDF nominations in several parts of Kannur district. In Malappattam, Kannapuram and Anthoor, CPM-linked groups threatened UDF candidates, he alleged. He also referred to cases in Ernakulam and Palakkad, including police allegedly delaying a UDF candidate from reaching the returning officer, and a CPM local leader in Attappadi allegedly threatening to abduct a rival candidate. Satheesan further accused the Election Commission of bias for accepting the nomination papers of four CPM candidates employed temporarily with the Khadi Board in Kannur and Kasaragod while rejecting a UDF candidate in Alangad on the same grounds. Satheesan said the UDF would challenge these decisions legally.
UDF says no ties, but Welfare Party members contest as independents
KOZHIKODE: Even as the Congress-led UDF maintains that it will not enter into any formal electoral understanding with the Welfare Party of India (WPI), the ground reality across several wards in the region tells a starkly different political story. Welfare Party members, backed discreetly but decisively by UDF constituents and RMPI, are contesting as independents, reshaping traditional alliance boundaries ahead of the local body polls. The contradiction became sharply visible after noted social activist and long-time Welfare Party leader and its current secretary Fousiya Teacher announced her candidature in Ward 18 of Vadakara municipality, not under the party banner but as an independent. Her campaign has the open support of both the UDF and the RMPI. Similarly, a senior Welfare Party worker in Malappuram district, Asma Jalali is contesting in Koottilangadi panchayat as an independent candidate with UDF support. Earlier, the UDF had formally announced that it would not engage in seat-sharing or alliance arrangements with WPI, the political arm of Jamaat-e-Islami. Kozhikode DCC president K Praveen Kumar pointed out that the district committees stand was appropriate in the current context. Seat-sharing should be limited to UDF constituents and associate members, he said. Speaking to TNIE, Fousiya defended her decision to break from the party line. I decided to contest as an independent because I want all secular and democratic forces in Vadakara to unite against divisive politics. My decision is backed by the people, and supported by the UDF and the RMP purely on the strength of my work, not because of political negotiations, she said. She added that contesting independently ensures wider acceptance in a ward where coalition equations shift at the grassroots. While the UDF leadership remains cautious and defensive about its position, RMPI leaders have taken a more assertive stand. RMPI leader K S Hariharan openly questioned the hesitation to back Welfare Party candidates. Why should we not support the Welfare Party when the Election Commission itself has recognised them and granted registration? They are a lawful organisation. If they were associated with terrorism as some allege, the Election Commission would never have approved them. Supporting such candidates is not a mistake, he said. Welfare Party district general secretary Salih Kodapana, meanwhile, admitted that political pragmatism often overrides ideological rigidity at the grassroots. LSG polls create situations where we may not always be able to contest directly under our banner. Sometimes alliances become necessary. Things will be very different in assembly polls, he said. External support sometimes necessary Local body polls create situations where we may not always be able to contest directly under our banner. Sometimes alliances or external support become necessary, said WPI district general secretary
UDFs weakness not CPMs fault, says K K Ragesh
KANNUR: CPM district secretary K K Ragesh has said that the UDF and Congress should not try to blame the CPM for not having enough people to contest in the elections. He said the Congress has spread false claims across the state, including allegations regarding destruction of Mahatma Gandhis statue, and boasted about conquering Malappattam panchayat, while they themselves were unable to find even two candidates to file nominations in the panchayat. Instead of addressing their own shortcomings, Congress is attempting to shift the blame onto the CPM. They even circulated false news that the CPM had kidnapped a person who submitted nomination in Anthoor municipality, but when the police checked, the person was found safe at home, said Ragesh. He pointed out that in Anthoor municipality, five members of a single family are contesting in five different wards under the UDF banner. However, he said the UDF had to withdraw nominations in two wards simply because they could not find people to propose their candidates. In Kannapuram panchayat, a candidate sent their oath through WhatsApp instead of appearing before the returning officer. While a proposer can submit the nomination form on behalf of the candidate, the oath must be taken by the candidate in front of a gazetted officer, who must certify it. Since it was not followed, their nomination was cancelled. Fake signature forced a UDF candidate out of fray In Malappattam, Ragesh said, the candidate filed the nomination using a fake signature. Four earlier signatures were on record, and all of them differed from the one provided at the time of submitting the nomination papers. When the person came to sign, the signature did not match any of the previously given ones.
Kerala local body polls: Jewellery hub of Koduvally has many Independents in the fray
The Indian Union Muslim League stronghold is often in the news for the Communist Party of India (Marxist)s [CPI(M)] unique experiment of fielding a high number of Independent candidates, who are quite often IUML rebels
Keralas Opposition says SIR overburdens, but BJP says it complements
Over 6.5L pilgrims visit Sabarimala; spot booking curbs eased further
PATHANAMTHITTA: The heavy but streamlined inflow of devotees to Sabarimala continues as the mandalam season progresses. Despite rain, devotees had smooth darshan while the valiya nadapandal mostly witnessed a smaller crowd of pilgrims on Sunday. By 7pm on Sunday, 69,295 pilgrims had trekked up the hill shrine. In line with Saturdays directive to speed up the ascent of the 18 holy steps, the flow improved significantly, with around 80-85 pilgrims climbing the steps every minute. On Saturday alone, more than 86,000 people had offered prayers at the temple. With the latest figures, the total footfall has crossed 6.5 lakh since the temple opened for the season. Spot booking has been further eased to ensure more pilgrims receive darshan on time. The High Court had earlier permitted the authorities to revise the daily spot-booking limit based on real-time crowd. Accordingly, the Travancore Devaswom Board and the police are jointly assessing the situation and allowing bookings dynamically. Armbands help track children A safety armband introduced by the police to prevent children from getting lost in the crowd during the Sabarimala pilgrimage is yielding results. The police said all children below the age of 10 are provided the armband at Pampa, with the childs name as well as the mobile number of the accompanying guardian printed on it.
The issue affects 273 grama panchayats, with 30 of these classified as severe conflict zones, according to a Forest dept. study. While the LDF claims to have taken several steps to mitigate the problem, the UDF and NDA differ and see the Wild Life Protection (Kerala Amendment) Bill, 2025 as a poll ploy
Parasitic leech found off Kollam a likely threat to native fish health
KOLLAM: A parasitic marine leech previously found only along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts has been reported for the first time in Indian waters off the Kollam coast. The finding has raised concern among researchers about the parasites potential impact on fish health, fisheries productivity and the marine ecosystem. The species, Pontobdella muricata, was found among the trawl bycatch that landed at Sakthikulangara harbour. The specimen was found attached to the ventral side of a ray fish, confirming a new parasite-host association for a leech previously restricted to colder European waters. Researchers say the leech poses no direct threat to humans but warn that it could severely affect native fish populations. Even a single leech can cause lesions, draw blood and create wounds that allow secondary infections reducing fish health and market value, says the study. The finding has triggered concerns about what else may be silently shifting to Keralas waters. The current detection is limited to deepwater skates, but researchers warn that the shift in parasite distribution may indicate changing ocean conditions, altered migration routes or broader ecological imbalances. Our marine ecosystem is already under extreme stress due to global warming, pollution, deep-sea fishing and declining fish stocks. With fisheries under unprecedented pressure, the emergence of a new parasite is a red flag, said Sarlin Pathissery, head of the zoology department, Fatima Mata National College, Kollam, who led the study. The new parasite could harm fish populations in the long run, especially in waters already stressed by overfishing, warming seas and species degradation. But how exactly this will affect the fishing community and the wider environment requires in-depth study, she said. If such parasites spread to commercially important species, small fishers who depend on healthy, clean catch for their livelihood will be the most affected, the study notes. Impact of parasites may be huge, need further study The exceptionally high genetic similarity (more than 99%) between the Kollam specimen and populations from the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts underscores the need for focused comparative assessments to determine whether similar ecological or pathological effects may arise in Indian waters. Researchers argue that monitoring such hidden parasites is crucial not just for biodiversity records but to understand subtle ecological shifts that ultimately influence coastal livelihoods. The discovery of the parasite is a reminder that what is hiding under the ocean will reach the market fish stall and our homes sooner than we expect. These parasites may be small, but their impact could be huge. Thats why further study is needed, said Sandie Moris, a chemical engineering student at Government Engineering College, Thrissur, who assisted the study. Savio Morris, chemical engeneering student at TKM Engineering College, Kollam, and Sancia Moris of the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology, Germany, were also part of the study. It has been published in a peer reviewed international journal, Taylor & Francis Biodiversity. First time in Indian waters Its for the first time that parasitic marine leech, Pontobdella muricata, is found in Indian waters, says the study The species was previously found only along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts The leech could severely affect native fish populations
GST trap hinders renovation of Fort Kochis Chinese nets
KOCHI: The Chinese fishing nets, historic, cantilevered structures that define the coastline of Fort Kochi, are languishing in disrepair, their much-needed restoration stalled for years despite a Rs 2.40-crore grant. The urgency for restoration was underscored when a worn-out platform of one of the nets gave way, with 11 foreign visitors falling into the water last Friday. While the tourism department had entrusted the Kerala Industrial and Technology Consultancy Organisation (Kitco) with the task of refurbishing 11 nets, the fishermen-owners point towards the insistence of the latter in having a GST (Goods & Services Tax) account for receipt of the grant, and cite it as the reason for not carrying out the repair. In fact, the mishap involving the foreign tourists happened after a plywood plank, set up temporarily instead of hard wood, gave in, resulting in the collapse of the platform. Kitco, though, maintains that GST is mandatory for benefit of government funds, while promising that it will award a tender for urgent repairs in four weeks. The delay in the repair of the Chinese nets happened due to bureaucratic requirement for the owners to secure a GST account. Why do the poor fishermen need to take a GST account? They are not doing any large business or export. In fact, the non-repair has been affecting their livelihood for years, said K J Sohan, former Kochi mayor and a heritage enthusiast. Compounding the loss, the valuable teakwood and ironwood logs sourced years ago have started decaying. Following the continued insistence, the owners finally formed a collective Fish Net Association and secured a GST account. But, the owners lament that they have still not received the funds for repair. Chinese fishing net owners plead for quick release of fund In fact, some of the owners, who carried out basic repair work on the assurance of fund extension by Kitco, now finds themselves debt ridden and plead for quick release of the assured sum. I took a loan of nearly Rs 5 lakh for the basic restoration work of my Chinese net. It has been three years since I submitted the expense bills. We also secured a GST account and submitted the revised bills. But they have not cleared it yet. Now we are struggling to repay our loans and facing huge debt, rued Vincent, an owner. When contacted, a top Kitco official said, The chief technical examiner of the tourism department has cleared the revised bills. Since they have the GST account, the fund will be issued soon. The tax for the government fund needs to be deducted. In fact, we will start the repair in four weeks. There is a court directive to carry out the repair with the involvement of owners. A five-member high-power committee was formed by the tourism department, with the local MLA as convenor. There was a delay in getting the funds, but now all hurdles have been cleared, the Kitco official said, while admitting that the administrative sanction for the repair was given as early as 2015. Meanwhile, Kitco has initiated the process to refurbish the Chinese net platforms using sandalwood. The tender process for the same will be completed in two weeks and the work in another four weeks, the official said. According to GST expert K S Hariharan, as per existing provisions, a GST account is not strictly necessary for the owners to receive the restoration fund or loan, as they are currently not engaged in highly remunerative or export-related work. KITCOs insistence on a GST account may stem from foreseeing substantial tourism revenue from the restored nets. GST registration is only mandatory if a business revenue exceeds `20 lakh. Furthermore, once registered, the owners would be liable to pay tax, either 5% or 18%, based on their earnings. The owners, though, can take a GST account and afterwards cancel the same, he said.
Opposition mounts against UDFs tie-up with Welfare Party
KOZHIKODE: Pressure is mounting on the UDF not to have an alliance with the Welfare Party of India, the political wing of the Jamaat-e-Islami, even while the Congress-led front is going ahead with its plan of local-level adjustments with the party in the local body elections. The latest to raise voice against the tie-up is Abdul Hameed Faizy Ambalakadavu, the working secretary of the Sunni Yuvajana Sangam (SYS), who sought to remind the UDF that the Jamaat and Muslim Brotherhood are the two sides of the same coin. In a Facebook post on Sunday, Faizy said Jamaat had declared that the Muslims who cooperate with the democratic system or exercise their franchise would automatically be out of Islam. The same organisation later formed a political party to be a part of the same system by becoming an ally of different political fronts, he said. Faizy said this should be viewed seriously because the Jamaat is a cadre organisation that would not hesitate to resort to any strategy to achieve its aim. If the Jamaat is elected in Sunni-majority mahals, the organisation will convert the local body ward and mahal as its own, he said. Faizy recalled that the Solidarity Youth Movement, the youth organisation of the Jamaat, had carried the photos of leaders of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt during the protest march to the Kozhikode Airport last April. IUML has surrendered its Sunni ideology Faizy said the efforts from the part of certain persons to forge alliance with the Jamaat was the reason behind the issues in Samastha Kerala Jem-Iyyathul Ulama. Diluting the Samasthas stand that deviant groups should be kept at distance would lead to acceptance of the ideology of forces like Jamaat, he said. Meanwhile, the INL has expressed concern over the development of the Panakkad family members declaring the Jamaat candidates. Panakkad Syed Rasheed Ali Shihab Thangal had declared the candidates for Kodur panchayat in Malappuram, which included the names of Welfare Party members. INL state general secretary Kasim Irikkur said the incident marked a change in Kerala politics. The IUML has donated many seats to the Welfare Party neglecting the opposition from local-level leaders and workers, he said. Kasim added that the IUML has surrendered its Sunni ideology.
Rookies who redefined rural development in Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: They were once dismissed as too young, too inexperienced, too idealistic for the rough-and-tumble of grassroots administration. But over the past five years, a few in their 20s who took charge of grama panchayats across Kerala have not only proved sceptics wrong, but also left behind commendable achievements. As Kerala heads for another local body election, its stories offer a revealing glimpse into both the possibilities and the limitations of youth politics at the grassroots. TNIE spoke to some leaders who assumed office between 20 and 25 a cohort that brought freshness, visibility and vibrancy to local governance. Their track records show ambition and innovation, yet many are stepping away, citing one factor that continues to haunt young entrants: the painfully low honorarium that makes politics a financial burden rather than a career possibility. Reshma Mariam Roy From too young to double Swaraj Trophy winner When CPMs Reshma Mariam Roy became president of the Aruvappulam grama panchayat (Pathanamthitta) in 2020, she had turned 21 the minimum age to contest just a day before filing her nomination. She went on to lead her panchayat to two consecutive Swaraj Trophies, disproving assumptions about her inexperience. I was told running a panchayat is not childs play, Reshma said. But with the support of my colleagues and comrades, we transformed Aruvappulam into one of the districts best-performing panchayats, she said. This time, she is contesting for the district panchayat from Malayalapuzha, confident that younger generations bring a sharper focus on development, especially when paired with the experience of senior leaders. Johnys P Stephen Young leaders bow out due to low honorarium While some soared, others have quietly decided to step away from electoral politics - not due to disillusionment, but because they simply cannot afford it. One of them is Johnys P Stephen, who became Uzhavoor (Kottayam) panchayat president as a 22-year-old independent backed by the UDF. I contested while doing my MA in English, he said. During his tenure, he secured land for a long-delayed mini civil station project worth Rs 4 crore and launched a farmers market bringing together growers from every ward. But he is not contesting again. With just Rs 8,000 for a ward member and around Rs 15,000 for a president, survival becomes difficult, he said. Young members can do tremendous work, but the low honorarium pushes them out. The amount must be increased, he added. Radhika Madhavan Taking development to Adivasi hamlets At 23, CPMs Radhika Madhavan took charge of the Malampuzha grama panchayat (Palakkad) in 2020. She is staying in politics and is now contesting for the block panchayat. Her tenure saw major interventions in Adivasi belts: new health sub-centres in Elival and Anakkal (one inaugurated and one awaiting opening), a new building for a 31-year-old homeopathy dispensary, and extensive waste-management projects. Pipeline work to address drinking water shortage in remote tribal settlements has also been completed. Young people should enter local governance, but financial constraints discourage many, she said. I continue because of my commitment to the party and the people. Amrutha C Rebuilding a panchayat while completing degree CPMs Amrutha C, president of Ittiva grama panchayat (Kollam), also assumed office at 23 after completing her degree in Sociology. During her tenure, the 70-year-old panchayat building was demolished and rebuilt, and funds were allocated for an upcoming industrial centre to support future entrepreneurs. She is recontesting, this time from a ward (Padinjare Vayala) held by the BJP. I could continue my studies alongside my responsibilities, she said. This time too, I want to show that young leaders are not temporary placeholders. A generation willing to lead, if system lets them As Keralas political landscape prepares for another electoral cycle, these stories underline a stark reality: Young leaders are willing to take charge and are capable of delivering measurable development. But structural constraints especially low remuneration are forcing many to walk away. The kids on the block have proven they can run panchayats, win awards, and push long-stalled development projects into motion. Yet unless formal support systems improve, Kerala risks losing an emerging generation of grassroots leaders whose only demand is that public service should not come at the cost of personal survival
Congress will not support four new anti-national labour codes: K Muraleedharan slams Centre
Mr. Murleedharan claimed that under the new codes, labourers can form an organisation only if at least 10% of its members are part of it; he called this provision incorrect, saying that forming a union is a workers' right.
