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Kannur varsity presents 373.81-crore Budget with focus on innovation, student welfare
Congress finalises P. Indira as Mayor nominee in Kannur Corporation
As part of UDFs power sharing arrangement, IUML leader K.P. Thahir is being considered for Deputy Mayors post
Ambujakshi gears up to don garb of unique woman theyyam for 10th time
KANNUR: Sixty-two-year-old Ambujakshi M V is preparing for a rare and deeply significant ritual -- perform the Devakkoothu Theyyam. It is the only theyyam performed by women. In keeping with tradition, Ambujakashi -- a resident of Vengara in Pazhayangadi -- will perform the theyyam after completing a rigorous 41-day period of fasting and spiritual discipline. This is considered essential to attain the purity and devotion required to perform the Devakkoothu Theyyam, which holds a special place in the regions ritual heritage. The sacred performance is scheduled to take place at the Thekkumbadu Koolom Thazhekkavu Bhagavathy Temple in Cherukunnu, Kannur district, on December 20, drawing attention for its uniqueness and cultural importance. Im preparing to perform the Theyyam for the 10th time. The occasion is especially meaningful, as Devakkoothu Theyyam is the only theyyam performed by women, Ambujakshi tells TNIE . Sharing her journey towards performing Devakkoothu Theyyam, Ambujakshi described how the tradition was passed on to her within the family. Originally from Kannurs Kappad, she came to Vengara after marriage. Before Ambujakshi took it up, the ritual was performed by the wife of her father-in-laws younger brother. When she was no longer able to continue with it, she trained Ambujakshi in the art and rituals of the performance, with her husband, Kannan, and family lending strong support. Life feels very different now, as many people recognise me for performing theyyam, she says. Earlier, performing the ritual was simply part of my everyday life and attracted little attention. Today, however, Im widely known for my theyyam performances and recognised as a woman who performs this rare and traditional ritual. As part of the theyyam ritual, after observing the 41-day period of fasting at home, she stays at the kavu -- sacred grove -- for three days before the performance. Earlier, the Devakkoothu Theyyam was performed once every two years, but from 2019, the ritual has been performed every year.
Lost in time, Dracula returns to Kerala after half a century
KOCHI: After decades in the shadows, the Malayalam translation of Bram Stokers Dracula first published in 1975 will return to print in January 2026. For publisher Rayan Pushpanath, the rediscovery of the long-lost book felt less like routine archival work and more like cracking a cold case. Written by his grandfather, legendary Malayalam crime and horror writer Kottayam Pushpanath, the translation had virtually vanished from circulation. No major library had a copy. Collectors drew blanks. Even detailed bibliographies listed the book, but none could produce it. Yet this missing volume was no ordinary translation. It was the spark that opened the door to gothic horror for generations of Malayali readers and quietly reshaped popular fiction in the state. Printed in 1975, Dracula arrived in Kerala at a time when Malayalam popular literature was dominated by social novels, family sagas and romantic melodrama. For readers who had never encountered a full-fledged gothic horror novel, it was a revelation. Fear, mood and the supernatural suddenly became part of mainstream reading, recalls Rayan. Pushpanaths engagement with Dracula did not end with translation. The book became the foundation for what can now be described as the Malayalam Dracula universe. Over the years, he wrote nearly 10 interconnected novels, including Dracula Asiayil , Draculayude Makal , Dracula Unarunnu , Dracula Brazilil and Dracula Kotta . In these works, the vampire count was uprooted from Victorian England and placed in Indian and global settings, encountering local folklore, belief systems and anxieties. Long before people spoke about cinematic universes or franchise storytelling, my grandfather was doing it through novels, says Rayan. Holding the 1975 edition for first time was an emotional moment He took a Western myth and made it intimate, local and recognisably ours, says Rayan. In these stories, Dracula could walk through mist-covered hills reminiscent of Kerala, confront Eastern mysticism, or surface in unfamiliar geographies without losing his gothic core. Pushpanath did not merely adapt Stokers creation; he reimagined it, reclaiming the myth for a Malayalam-reading audience. Decades later, this literary experiment drew international attention. In 2025, British author Ann Morgan, known for A Year of Reading the World , highlighted Dracula Asiayil in her book Relearning to Read . She described it as a fascinating cultural phenomenon, noting how a Western character was reshaped through Indian emotional logic and narrative traditions. For Rayan, the recognition was affirming rather than surprising. For Kerala readers, Dracula became part of shared cultural memory. As familiar as popular fictional heroes, and as thrilling as stories told around a campfire, he says. Yet the absence of the original 1975 translation remained a troubling gap. It felt symbolic. As if the first chapter of a very large story had been torn out. The search for the book spanned seven years, taking him to libraries, ancestral homes, book fairs and private collections. The explanation he heard repeatedly was the same: the book had been borrowed endlessly, read until it fell apart, and never returned. It didnt disappear because people ignored it. It disappeared because people loved it, says Rayan. The breakthrough came in 2024 at a book fair in Kannur, when a collector casually confirmed he had a copy. Holding the fragile 1975 edition for the first time was an emotional moment. I wasnt just holding a book, Rayan recalls. I was holding a piece of my grandfathers imagination, travelling across generations. The rediscovery has now led to a carefully planned reprint, bringing the original translation back to readers after half a century.
LDF blames minority consolidation for Kerala local body poll loss; rejects anti-incumbency factor
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Rejecting anti-incumbency factor, the CPM and the CPI the two leading partners in the LDF have blamed minority consolidation in favour of the Opposition UDF and cross voting by the Congress and the BJP in select areas for the drubbing suffered by the ruling front in the local body polls. Based on preliminary reports from the district leaderships, the CPM state secretariat assessed that the Christian community deserted the LDF in the four central Kerala districts of Ernakulam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki, while the Muslim votes worked against it in the Malabar region. It attributed LDFs setback in Thiruvanathapuram and Kollam corporations to cross-voting between the Congress and the BJP. According to the CPM, the Christian community, cutting across denominations, largely shifted allegiance to the UDF in central Kerala. Party leaders cited Ernakulam as a striking example, where the LDF suffered unexpected setbacks in Kochi corporation and Ernakulam district panchayat. The shift they said, also adversely affected the LDFs vote sahre in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki. LDF suspects Cong-BJP cross-voting in TPuram and Kollam corporations The widening rift between the Church and the general education department was the primary trigger for the alienation, the CPM felt. Church-run school managements had demanded parity with a Supreme Court order obtained by the NSS on job reservations for differently-abled persons in private aided educational institutions. General Education Minister V Sivankuttys warning to managements against threatening the government is believed to have exacerbated tensions. The development prompted all Christian denominations to take a critical stance against the government, which got reflected in the voting, the secretariat felt. The CPM, however, rejected CPIs suggestion that the Kerala Congress has lost its organisational base in Kottayam. Post LSG poll debacle, bruised Left front starts introspection However, this trend did not significantly impact districts such as Thrissur, Kannur, Kozhikode and Kasaragod. It further assessed that a tacit understanding among the Jamaat e Islami, IUML and Congress consolidated Muslim votes in favour of the UDF, the CPM secretariat assessed. At a press conference, CPM state secretary M V Govindan questioned the claims that Muslims had deserted LDF, pointing out that it secured around 10 lakh votes in Malappuram. However, party insiders acknowledged concern over LDFs failure to secure presence in Malappuram district panchayat. CPI, in its assessment, said Muslim consolidation against LDF was intensified by two factors: CPMs failure to distance itself from the remarks of SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan, perceived as hostile to Muslims and apprehensions that special intensive revision (SIR) could adversely affect the community. The higher voter turnout worked against LDF, it said. In Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam corporations, both parties suspect tactical cross-voting between Congress and BJP aimed at defeating LDF. Govindan alleged that in 41 wards won by BJP in Thiruvananthapuram corporation, Congress polled less than 1,000 votes, suggesting strategic voting. CPI state secretariat identified similar pattern in Kollam corporation too. CPI felt that lack of action against former TDB president A Padmakumar had sent a wrong message to believers that the government has something to hide. However, CPM rejected any impact. Govindan asserted that action would be taken against Padmakumar only if the court found him guilty.
Prisoner allegedly assaults official in Kannur jail
Actor and Special branch SI booked for drunk driving after accident in Kannur
IUML workers attacking our cadre: SDPI
KOZHIKODE: Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) has alleged that the IUML is mounting attacks on its cadre at various parts of north Kerala after the declaration of the results of the local body elections. The party said that its leader Salim Punathil was attacked by IUML workers when he was returning home after the victory celebrations on Saturday. In a statement, SDPI said the attack was a result of conspiracy hatched by IUML leadership to create tension. The party had won the ward number two of Azhiyur panchayat with a good majority. The IUML is frustrated that the party failed to win in the panchayat. IUML workers had attacked SDPI activist Sabad V P also, said the panchayat committee in a press release. SDPI district president Musthafa Kommeri said the IUML workers have unleashed attacks on party workers at Manjeri and Vadakara municipalities and Muzhakkunnu grama panchayat in Kannur district. Meanwhile, MSF state general secretary C K Najaf said the SDPI and the CPM acted like bosom friends in the elections. Kerala has kicked out the communal organisation called the SDPI along with the CPM in the elections, he said in an FB post.
BJP retains Madhur but loses much ground across Kasaragod district
KASARAGOD: With the victory in the just concluded elections, the BJP would complete ruling Madhur grama panchayat for fifty years by 2030. Madhur is one among the places the saffron party found its roots as an off-shoot of BJP finding its base in coastal Karnataka. Since its inception in 1980, the grama panchayat has been with the party. Nevertheless, the party has something to worry as it has lost considerable ground in the district. While the state stood firmly with the Congress and CPM four decades ago, the Kasaragod district was the place where BJP started growing in Kerala. In 2020 LSG elections, the BJP secured 13 out of 20 wards of Madhur grama panchayat while CPM could win only four and the UDF three. After delimitation, the grama panchayat consists of 24 wards. But the BJP managed to get only 15 seats. The UDF managed to secure nine seats while CPM lost all four wards it held earlier. The UDF had gained at CPMs loss, and came closer to BJPs turf, Madhur. The difference was hardly 200 votes in four wards. People are fed up with the four decades of rule under BJP and they want a change, said Haris Choori, chairman of the UDF in Madhur panchayat and IUML Kasaragod secretary. But the BJP was in a celebratory mood in Madhur on Sunday evening with a rally and public meeting. The BJP also managed to wrest Kumbadaje panchayat from the UDF in this election. After the elections were announced, the party was confident of denting CPMs fortunes in Kasaragod district panchayat and the LDFs strongholds bordering Kannur. The party had fielded candidates in 85 per cent of local bodies. But the BJPs hold in the district dented once the results were announced. In Kasaragod municipality where League and BJP had been fighting for supremacy in the last two decades, the partys tally came down to 12 from 14 when compared to 2020 elections.
Governor criticises judicial overreach in appointment of VCs
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Governor Rajendra Arlekar has criticised the Supreme Court for its overreach in the selection of university vice-chancellors. He was referring to the search committee formed by the SC to appoint VCs to the Digital University Kerala and the APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University. This trend is not healthy. Institutions like universities are well-established constitutional bodies. They must be allowed to perform their duties within their own domains. Courts taking over their functions entirely is not appropriate, he said. The governors statement came after conferring the Justice VR Krishna Iyer Award to former Chief Justice of India and former Kerala Governor Justice P Sathasivam here on Sunday. The Constitution is supreme above every institution and every authority, he said. There have been instances when the Constitution was not honoured in its true spirit... At times, it appears as though attempts are made to amend the Constitution in the courtroom. Here in Kerala, university matters particularly the Kannur judgment are widely discussed. That judgment recognised the authority of the UGC and the Chancellor in appointing Vice-Chancellors. However, later developments appear to have taken a different direction, with courts themselves constituting search committees, Governor Arlekar pointed out. Sathasivam, in his acceptance speech, said that courts have to remain committed to Justice Krishna Iyers humanist ideals even when society is turning increasingly digital. Kerala High Court judges H Nagaresh, K Babu and A Badarudeen were also present at the ceremony.
Violence after local body poll result declaration: case filed against CPI(M) workers in Kannur
Police say CPI(M) workers unleashed violence in parts of north Kerala soon after the declaration of the election results
Violence reported in several parts of Kerala after civic poll results
Violence flared across Kerala after local body election results were announced. Clashes erupted in northern districts, including Kozhikode and Kannur. Political party offices were attacked, and vehicles were damaged. Several individuals sustained injuries in the incidents. Police intervened to control the volatile situations in various locations.
Kerala local body poll results: After intense drama, UDF retains control of Kannur corporation
KANNUR: After a period marked by intense political drama and open threat from rebel factions, the UDF has retained control of Kannur corporation by securing victories in 36 of 56 divisions. The days following the declaration of the election date were fraught with uncertainty, as internal divisions surfaced within the front. Adding to the tension was the challenge from a group led by a former development standing committee chairman and Congress rebel, raising serious concerns about possible defections. For a time, these developments created a real possibility that the balance of power could tilt in favour of the LDF. However, despite the mounting pressure, the UDF ultimately claimed victory, ensuring its continued leadership of the corporation. In the 2020 local body elections, the UDF secured control of the corporation by winning 34 seats, while the LDF claimed victory in 19 divisions and the NDA managed to win just one. This election, the UDF strengthened its position, increasing its tally to 36 divisions. LDFs presence declined, with the front managing to win only 15 divisions. NDA expands footprint, SDPI makes debut Meanwhile, the NDA made notable gains, winning four divisions and establishing a stronger presence in the corporation. NDA secured victories in Kokkenpara, the Temple division, and the Thulicheri division. The front also retained the Pallikunnu division, a seat it had won for the first time in the 2020 election. The Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) has marked its entry into the corporation by securing victory in the Arakkal division. The partys candidate, Sameera K, won the seat with 1,643 votes, defeating IUML candidate K M Sabeera, who got 1,589 votes. Taking on rebels Despite repeated appeals and discussions by the leadership of the INC and the IUML, three candidates chose to contest the local body election as rebels against official UDF nominees, intensifying the contest. In the Varam division, a rebel candidate took on IUML district vice-president K P Tahir. Another rebel entered the fray in the Adikadalayi division against KPCC member Rijil Chandran Makkutty, while a third contested in the Payyambalam division against Indira P, former deputy mayor. However, the UDF managed secure victories in all three wards. Meanwhile, K K Ragesh, CPM district secretary admitted that the final outcome was unexpected and added that the party would review the results in due course.
Kerala local body poll results: Congress headquarters marks resurgence
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: At the KPCC office in Thiruvananthapuram, Saturdays local body poll results felt like a reward long in coming. The Congress headquarters exuded joy as screens lit up with numbers that turned favourable after 15 years. As the results settled, supporters thronged the corridors with sweets, handshakes and unguarded laughter. Since the 2010 local body elections, the UDF had repeatedly fallen short in both assembly and local polls. Victories were largely limited to the Lok Sabha. However, Saturdays mandate marked a decisive break from that pattern. KPCC president Sunny Joseph described the verdict as the outcome of collective effort within the front. Thanking party leaders, workers, the public and the media, he said the whole party had worked as one. While the party had expected a win, the scale of public support exceeded expectations. It is a strong rejection of the LDF governments anti-people policies, Sunny Joseph told reporters. Terming the local body elections a semifinal, Sunny showed confidence in the road ahead, predicting a decisive UDF victory in the forthcoming assembly polls. The governments policies and conduct had been exposed early. Controversies like attempt to remove (UDF Muttada candidate) Vyshnas name, assault on a retired teacher in Kannur, and unscientific ward delimitation backfired on the LDF. This is an indication of the public mood ahead of the assembly elections, he said. The Congress state president also accused the government of double standards in implementing its promises and neglecting coastal regions. He also raised criticism over the Sabarimala gold smuggling case. Commenting on BJPs victory in Thiruvananthapuram corporation, which is a result that has the potential to steal the UDFs thunder, senior Congress leader Hassan said the UDF has improved significantly on its previous performance. He alleged that a CPM-BJP nexus had enabled the BJPs win in the capital, even as the UDF secured more seats compared to the last elections.
LDFs organisational strength in Kannur intact: K.K. Ragesh
Watch: Kerala local body elections: Congress-led UDF emerges front-runner
The Congress-led United Democratic Front has emerged as the clear front-runner in Keralas local body elections as counting concludes. The UDF secured major gains across grama panchayats, municipalities, and key corporations including Kochi, Thrissur, and Kannur. The ruling LDF trailed in most segments, while the BJP-led NDA made limited gains. Several local bodies remain undecided due to ties.
UDF returns to power in Kannur Corporation
Kerala local body polls: UDF secures majority in Kannur Corporation, set to form council
Several prominent LDF leaders faced defeat
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Congress-led United Democratic Front showcased a thumping victory in both rural and urban civic bodies, as the counting of votes for the 2025 Kerala local body elections came to a close. The UDF has won in four out of six corporations: Kollam, Kochi, Thrissur, and Kannur. The LDF retained Kozhikode, whereas the NDA has wrested Thiruvananthapuram from LDF. The UDF also won 59 district panchayats, 1063 block panchayats, and 7451 grama panchayats; the LDF won 30 district panchayats, 823 block panchayats, and 6137 grama panchayats; while the NDA won just one district panchayat, 50 block panchayats, and 1363 grama panchayats. LoP in Kerala Assembly and Congress leader V D Satheesan called the UDF's sweeping victory a warning against the state government and a protest of the people against those who misgoverned Kerala. KPCC president Sunny Joseph said on Saturday that the front's results indicated the people had rejected the LDF government. LDF convenor T P Ramakrishnan said the results would be closely examined. Why such a verdict happened will be examined at the micro level. People's opinion will be considered and further steps will be taken, he said. Kerala local body polls: Public anger against Pinarayi govt fueled UDF momentum, says VD Satheesan NDA secures 50 seats in Thiruvanathapuram Corporation In the biggest gain for the BJP in the local body polls, the NDA secured 50 seats in the 101-member Thiruvananthapuram Corporation Council. Kerala is fed up of UDF and LDF. They see NDA as the only option that can deliver on good governance and build a #VikasitaKeralam with opportunities for all, wrote Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media platform X. A few of BJP's remarkable wins include its possible mayor candidates, ex-DGP R Sreelekha in Sasthamangalam and VV Rajesh in Kodunganoor wards. However, one of the BJP's star candidates, Padmini Thomas, faced a bitter result in the Palayam ward. The election results come as a shock for the LDF, having lost half of its seats from its previous tenure. The LDF secured only 29 seats. Ajin SL, Left candidate from Thrikkannapuram ward, is becoming one of the party's 'saving graces'. A BJP worker had died by suicide in the work. The UDF improved its status in the corporation, gaining six seats this term, a total of 19 seats. Vaishna Suresh, who fought a legal battle to secure her candidature, won from the Muttada ward with a lead of 393 votes. Ex-MLA KS Sabarinadhan, who was UDF's mayoral candidate from Kowdiar, also made a remarkable win. Thiruvananthapuram Corporation stands different from the pro-UDF wave across the State. Congress candidate who moved Kerala HC for name reinstatement in electoral roll, wins Muttada ward Kollam Corporation: UDFsecures 25 seats UDF candidates secured victories in a majority of divisions in Kollam Corporation. UDF candidate Xavier Mathias won in Shakthikulangara Harbour Division. NDA candidate Shiji won the Shakthikulangara Division by a margin of 1,385 votes. UDF candidates B Deepu Gangadharan won Meenathuchery by 2,166 votes. and Radhika Saji won Kavanad by 1,732 votes. Vallikkeezhu Division was won by LDF candidate Vidya Manoj with a margin of 1,459 votes. LDF candidate A M Mustafa won in Kureepuzha West Division, while UDF candidate B Ajith Kumar won in Kureepuzha Division. Neeravil Division was won by LDF candidate Mahesh R by a margin of 1,751 votes. UDF candidate Richa Sugunan won in Anchalumood West Division, while in Anchalumood East Division, UDF candidate Adv. M S Gopakumar won. UDF candidate Dhanya Raju won in Kadavur Division. LDF candidate B Prashanth won in Mathil Division. NDA candidate B Shailaja won in Thevalli Division, while BJP candidate C Suresh Kumar won in Ashramam Division. UDF candidate Shaima won in Pallimukku Division. Ayathil Division was won by LDF candidate Jariath by a margin of 1,467 votes. UDF candidate T Lailakumari won in Kilikollur Division, while P Rajendran Pillai (UDF) won in Pandalathazham Division. NDA candidate R Destimona won in Palathara Division, while UDF candidate Sadakath A won in Manakkad Division. Thrissur Corporation: UDF leads The UDF has made a historic comeback in Thrissur Corporation, securing 33 out of 56 divisions. The Left Democratic Front (LDF), which ruled the corporation for two terms, won 11 seats. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won 8 seats. The UDF's victory is attributed to voters' disappointment over the LDF's development projects. Suby Babu, former deputy mayor of Thrissur Corporation, has won in the Gandhinagar division. Raghunath C Menon, who led the campaign works of Suresh Gopi in the Lok Sabha election, has won in the BJP's stronghold, Poonkunnam. The LDF has won 21 out of 30 divisions in Thrissur district panchayat, a clear majority. The UDF has increased its presence from 7 to 9 seats, while the NDA has failed to win any seats despite fielding prominent leaders. The LDF continues to dominate municipalities too, securing five out of seven. Kerala local body polls: UDF makes a strong comeback in Alappuzha, sweeps Malappuram Kottayam district panchayat: LDF, KC (M) defeated in Pala The UDF, this time, reclaimed power in the Kottayam district panchayat, all sixmunicipalities, and a majority of gram and block panchayats. The LDF faced a significant setback this year. In the 2020 local body polls, the LDF had secured the district panchayat, 51 out of 71 block panchayats, 10 out of 11 block panchayats, and three out of sixmunicipalities. Notably, the LDF faced a significant defeat in Pala municipality, traditionally a stronghold of the Kerala Congress (M), suggesting a shift in the party's corevoter base. Speaking to media persons, KC (M) chairman Jose K Mani stated that the party respects the people's mandate and will conduct a 'thorough' analysis ofthe reasons behind the electoral defeat. In 2020, the UDF lost Pala municipality for the first time ever,after KC (M) left the UDF to join the LDF. UDF leadersbelieve this victory will provide a substantial boost to the coalition in the lead-up to the upcoming Assembly elections, scheduled for April-May 2026. Meanwhile, the NDA did not perform as expected. Although they secured Poonjar Thekkekkara panchayat, the BJP lost its existing panchayats, Pallikkathodu and Mutholi. Post-poll arithmetic pushes UDFLDF talks in Palakkad municipality to block NDA
Kannur set for counting amid tight security
UDF, IUML and BJP accuse CPI(M) of orchestrating systematic disruption across the district. CPI(M) rejects charges, counter-alleging that UDF is resorting to false propaganda in fear of impending defeat
Dramatic scenes in court as actor abduction case awaits sentencing at 3.30 pm today
KOCHI: The verdict on the quantum of punishment for the six convicted men will be pronounced at 3:30 pm, following intense arguments from both the prosecution and defence earlier in the day. Tense and emotional scenes unfolded at the Ernakulam District and Sessions Court on Friday as the trial court prepared to deliver its judgment in the 2017 actor abduction and sexual assault case. The long-running trial saw multiple rounds of evidence, witness statements, and legal challenges before the court found the six guilty earlier this week. Sentencing is expected to conclude the latest phase of the case, which continues to draw widespread public attention. By 10:15 a.m., District and Sessions Court Judge Honey M Varghese, Special Public Prosecutor Ajakumar, survivors counsel T B Mini, and the defence teams representing accused A1 to A6 had assembled in court. The accused, brought under heavy police escort from Viyyur Central Jail, sat through proceedings as the prosecution pressed for life imprisonment for all six, calling it a gang-rape case warranting the strongest message to society. The defence countered that sentencing must align with the individual roles and past conduct of each accused. The court, too, questioned the prosecutions demand for identical punishment. Shouldn't one accused be given the maximum sentence and the others the minimum? The sentence should be decided after considering the accused persons past background, the judge observed, adding later: Are we writing this judgment for the sake of society? Judge Varghese also instructed advocates and journalists to report the case with caution. The judges past can be examined, but the courts directions must be strictly followed, she said. Inside the packed courtroom, several accused broke down while addressing the court personally. Pulsar Suni (A1): My mother is the only person I have. His counsel argued that compared to the Nirbhaya case, this incident was relatively minor and sought a reduced sentence. Martin (A2), in tears, said: I havent committed any crime Ive never had even a petty case against me. Yet I was jailed for five and a half years. My parents are unwell. Manikandan (A3) said: I never planned anything with the others. My wife, nine-year-old daughter, and two-and-a-half-year-old son depend solely on me. Vijeesh (A4) requested a reduced sentence and asked to be shifted to Kannur jail, while Salim (A5) and Pradeep (A6) reiterated they had no involvement. The court noted that only the first accused committed the rape, and said this must factor into determining sentences for the remaining five. The prosecution maintained that A1 could not have assaulted without the coordinated support of the others. All the accused should be given the maximum punishment, the prosecutor insisted. The magistrate also remarked that several contempt petitions linked to public comments on the case were pending and would be heard on December 18. The accused have undergone long periods of imprisonment during the course of the trial: A1 Sunil N.S. ~7 years; A2 Martin ~7 years; A3 Manikandan ~3.5 years; A4 Vijeesh ~3.5 years; A5 Salim ~2 years; A6 Pradeep ~2 years. Dileep seeks the return of the passport Meanwhile, Malayalam actor Dileep, who was acquitted in the same case by the Principal Sessions Court, appeared before Judge Honey M. Varghese to seek the release of his passport, which he had surrendered as part of his earlier bail conditions. The court said the plea would be considered after roll call. Following the morning session, the court broke for lunch and will reconvene for the sentencing order at 3.30 p.m. today.
Cantonment residents watch from sidelines as Kannur district votes
KANNUR: While most of Kannur was immersed in the intensity of election day, the cantonment area of Kannur corporation remained on the sidelines, watching the flurry of activities from a distance. For, the residents of cantonment area of the corporation have not participated in a local election since 2015, the year the last Cantonment Board polls were held. As the rest of the district engaged in the democratic exercise, people in the regions could only observe the excitement around them. The cantonment area, though geographically situated within the limits of the corporation, operates under a completely separate administrative system managed by the Cantonment Board. It is the only such cantonment in Kerala under the control of the Union Ministry of Defence. Residents of the area enjoy voting rights in parliamentary and assembly elections, but they cannot participate in local body elections. Instead, they elect representatives to the Cantonment Board in a special election held every five years. The last election to the cantonment was held in 2015. The board, whose term ended in 2020, was given one more year extension. Although the term ended in 2021, there has been no elected governing body since then. The Centre had issued a notification to hold elections to the cantonments in 2023 but put it on hold indefinitely later. Ratheesh Antony, former councillor of Ward 1 in the Cantonment Board, said they are eager to participate in the elections so that residents can once again bring their concerns before the authorities. He explained that previously, councillors from each ward were able to present issues through monthly meeting agendas, ensuring they reached the officials and were acted upon. Our demand is either to merge the cantonment area with the Kannur Corporation or to resume elections the way they were held earlier, he added. The Cantonment Board consists of six elected civilian representatives and six members from the military. The Military Commandant serves as the boards president, while the vice-president is chosen from among the elected civilian members. What census says The Kannur Cantonment has a population of 4,798, of which 1,867 are civilian residents and the rest are military personnel, according to the 2011 Census
Kannur, Kasaragod record huge turnout in local body polls
76.08% vote in second phase of local body polls, Kerala records overall turnout of 73.69%
Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod went to the polls on Thursday (December 11) and 1.16 crore of the 1.53 crore voters in these districts exercised their right to vote.
Bids received for Kasaragod water aerodrome project during UDAN 5.5 bidding
Letter of Intent issued for seaplane operations on routes connecting Kasaragod with Mangaluru and Kannur airports, Union Civil Aviation Minister informs Parliament
Kerala local body polls 2025: Congress candidates attacked in Kannur
In two separate incidents, UDFs two women candidates as well as a polling agent were attacked allegedly by CPI(M) workers
Kerala local body polls: Second phase records 63.8% turnout by 3 pm
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: An overall voter turnout of 63.8% was recorded at 3 pm in the second phase of the local body polls in seven northern districts of the state. Electors are choosing representatives to three tier panchayats in rural areas as well as municipalities and corporations in urban areas. The districts in which polling is being held in the second phase are: Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod. Voting is being held in 18,274 polling stations from 7 am to 6 pm. Of these, 2,055 polling stations have been earmarked as sensitive. A total of 12,391 wards spread across 604 local bodies are facing the polls on Thursday. This includes 9,015 wards in 470 grama panchayats, 1,177 wards in 77 block panchayats, 182 divisions in seven district panchayats, 1,829 wards in 47 municipalities and 188 wards in three Corporations. As many as 1.53 crore voters, including 72.46 lakh men, 80.90 lakh women and 161 transgender persons figure in the voters' list in local bodies that are going to polls in the first phase. Another 3,293 overseas voters also figure in the electoral roll. A total of 38,994 candidates are in the fray in the seven districts. The first phase of polling in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki and Ernakulam concluded on December 9 with a turnout of around 70%. Results for both phases will be declared on December 13. VIDEO | Kannur: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan ( @pinarayivijayan ) casts his vote in the local body polls. #KeralaElections #LocalBodyPolls #Kannur (Full video available on PTI Videos https://t.co/n147TvrpG7 ) pic.twitter.com/OGQxTd91kj Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 11, 2025
Second phase of key Kerala local body polls begins, CM confident of LDF win
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The second phase of polling in the crucial local body elections commenced in seven districts of Kerala on Thursday morning with the turnout crossing 8 per cent in the first two hours of voting. Voters began casting ballots from 7 am at the 18,274 polling stations in the districts of Thrissur, Palakkad, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod. Polling will conclude at 6 pm. People of all ages and professions, including political leaders, queued up at polling stations since early morning. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan turned up to vote along with his family in Kannur. Speaking to reporters after casting his vote, he expressed confidence about a historic win for the LDF and said that the Sabarimala gold loss issue would not affect the prospects of the Left front. He claimed that the government took stringent action in the matter and if it were any other party in power, such steps would not have been taken. Regarding the reported claims by Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) chief Sunny Joseph of a conspiracy behind the second complaint of sexual assault against MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, the CM hinted at the presence of a criminal gang of sexual perverts in the grand old party. Vijayan said that such persons intimidated their victims to prevent them from coming forward. VIDEO | Kannur: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan ( @pinarayivijayan ) casts his vote in the local body polls. #KeralaElections #LocalBodyPolls #Kannur (Full video available on PTI Videos https://t.co/n147TvrpG7 ) pic.twitter.com/OGQxTd91kj Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 11, 2025 Leaders of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), a key ally of the Congress, like Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal, P K Kunhalikutty and M K Muneer were confident of a huge victory for the UDF in the local body polls. The KPCC chief said that the Sabarimala gold issue would affect the LDF prospects in the polls as they were protecting those involved in the scam. The local body polls are viewed by many as a key indicator ahead of next year's state assembly elections. In the second phase, over 1.53 crore voters will elect representatives to 12,931 wards across 604 local bodies, including grama panchayats, block panchayats, district panchayats, municipalities and corporations. A total of 38,994 candidates are in the fray. The first phase of polling in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki and Ernakulam districts of the state concluded on December 9 with a turnout of around 70 per cent. The results of both phases of polling will be announced on December 13.
Contrasting hues colour Kannurs political canvas
KANNUR: In the popular imagination, Kannur, the home turf of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, CPM state secretary M V Govindan, former state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan and senior party leaders E P Jayarajan, P K Sreemathi and K K Shailaja, is almost synonymous with the communist party. Here, everything boils down to politics and all discussions invariably progress along party lines. CPM holds sway in a majority of local bodies in the district; there are even councils where its candidates are elected unopposed. And, this year has been no different. A total of 14 candidates of the party have already sailed through in Anthoor municipality and Malappattam and Kannapuram grama panchayats without a single vote cast. For its part, the UDF, which declared that things will be different this time, as usual cried foul, blaming the CPM of intimidating its workers from filing nominations. However, Kannur corporation presents a different picture. The Congress, with the strong backing of the IUML, is a force to reckon with in the urban civic body. The CPM was able to snatch power in 2015 with the support of Congress rebel P K Ragesh and ruled the council for three years before Ragesh returned to the Congress. UDF returned to power in 2020, but to its dismay, Ragesh has floated a new entity and is contesting 12 divisions in the municipality this time round. It remains to be seen whether he can upset the UDFs calculations. Pinarayi himself came forward to lead the LDF campaign in the municipality. Addressing a press conference, he said the UDF lacked a plan for development of the city. Presenting a road map for Kannurs development, he said the LDF has a clear agenda of what should be done. There was a time when the district gained notoriety for political murders involving CPM and RSS/BJP workers -- which even became grist for national media mills. But the past few years have been marked by a lull in the violence, following the intervention of senior leaders from both sides. The RSS/BJP leadership had alleged that the CPMs politics of intolerance -- that does permit other parties to function in its stronghold -- was a key reason for the political turbulence. In the 2020 election, the BJP improved its tally in Thalassery (with eight councillors), Iritty (five), and Panur (three) municipalities, and Dharmadam panchayat (three members). Attracting eyeballs The district is also playing host to some interesting contests this time. Rebels are giving the IUML sleepless nights in Kannur corporations Varam division. Interestingly, Rayeez K V, who is contesting as a rebel, is a teacher at the madrassa controlled by the Samastha Kerala Jem-Iyyathul Ulama, a Sunni body. Many see his candidature as a reflection of the ongoing rift between the Samastha and the IUML, but Rayeez has clarified that he does not represent the religious body. I am fighting the election to uphold the sentiments of local IUML workers, who are frustrated by the imposition of a candidate from outside the division, he said. Former assistant commissioner of police T K Rathnakumar, who oversaw the case related to the suicide of ADM Naveen Babu, is the LDF candidate in Sreekandapuram municipality. CPM leader and former district panchayat president P P Divya is an accused in the controversial case. CPM leader Karayi Chandrasekharan, an accused in the murder of NDF worker Fazal, is a candidate in Thalassery municipality. He was elected municipal chairman in 2015 but resigned after he was named in the case, which was investigated by the CBI. Carry your ID Voters must present a valid photo ID to cast their vote, the State Election Commission has reminded Accepted IDs: Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC) Voter slip issued by the SEC Passport Driving licence PAN card Aadhaar card SSLC certificate/book with photo Photo-affixed passbook issued by a nationalised bank (issued at least six months before polling) After-hours voting Voters who reach the station before the end of the polling at 6pm will be allowed to vote even after closing time Polling officials will mark all voters still in queue at 6 pm These voters will be issued signed slips by the presiding officer The slip will allow them to cast their vote after polling hours
Top leaders to cast votes in Kannur as local body polls begin on Dec. 11
Kerala local body polls: Missing UDF candidate traced by Chokli police
KANNUR: Chokli police have located Aruva T P, 29, the Muslim League candidate from Kanhirathin Keezhil, the 9th ward of Chokli panchayat, after her mother filed a complaint that she was missing. Aruva had gone missing from her house in Olavilam on December 6, just days before the local body elections. It later emerged that she had eloped with a resident of Chokli. She was produced before the magistrate. Following her mothers complaint, the police registered a missing case under Section 57 of the Kerala Police Act. She was found on December 9 during an investigation conducted by the Chokli police. A police officer said, We located Aruva at the house of the man she had gone with, in Chokli. It is learnt that he is a BJP supporter, though we cannot confirm that yet. The incident has thrown the entire ward into uncertainty, especially among UDF supporters who were caught completely off-guard. Adding to the drama was the fact that Chokli panchayat has long been a CPM stronghold, making the development even more striking.
Vibrant Kottikalasam marks conclusion of hectic campaigning in Kannur, Kasaragod
In Kannur, the day remained largely peaceful, though a large police force was deployed to maintain law and order in view of the previous elections, while in Kasaragod, the Kottikalasam peaked in Kanhangad town, where all three fronts are expected to face a close contest in the local body elections
Collector seeks cooperation from political parties, voters for peaceful polling in Kannur
A total of 5,472 candidates are in the fray across all three tiers of panchayats and urban bodies
Dry day declared in Kannur ahead of local body polls
Hyderabad airport receives bomb threats to three incoming flights
HYDERABAD: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport has received bomb threats to three flights coming from different cities, including two international, sources said on Monday. The airport received emails on late Sunday night targeting British Airways (BA 277) from Heathrow, Lufthansas (LH 752) from Frankfurt and IndiGos 6E 7178 from Kannur. Airport sources said all the flights []
Hyderabad Airport Receives Bomb Threats to 3 Incoming Flights
The airport received emails on late Sunday night targeting British Airways' (BA 277) from Heathrow, Lufthansa's (LH 752) from Frankfurt and IndiGo's 6E 7178 from Kannur
Fresh bomb threats hit three flights to Hyderabad; second scare in a week at RGIA
HYDERABAD: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport has received three bomb threats to flights coming from different cities, including two international, sources said. The airport received emails on late Sunday night targeting British Airways' (BA 277) from Heathrow, Lufthansas (LH 752) from Frankfurt and IndiGo's 6E 7178 from Kannur. Airport sources said all the flights landed safely. The two international flights landed here during the early hours of Monday. Standard safety protocols were initiated for all three aircraft, sources said. Standard safety protocols include isolation of the aircraft, screening of baggage and passengers, keeping fire engines ready and pressing sniffer dogs into services, among others, sources added. Last week, the RGIA received bomb threat emails for the Dubai-Hyderabad Emirates flight and IndiGo's MadinaHyderabad and Sharjah-Hyderabad flights separately. MadinaHyderabad was diverted to Ahmedabad airport.
IFFK fervour takes over Thiruvananthapuram
Just one more week to go before the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) descends for the thirtieth time in Thiruvananthapuram. For this edition, the Kerala State Chalachithra Academy will be using one more screen to show films (Kripa 1) thus taking the total number to 16, says its secretary and executive director of IFFK, C Ajoy. This invariably also hints that there would be more screenings for enthusiasts to relish in the IFFK curated basket. In addition, two additional packages are also included in the curated list: one comprising chosen Suvarna Chakoram award winners up to 2020, and another package of 10 films on select IFFK lifetime achievement awardees. The usual packages of films to be shown at the festival include seven films in the Indian Cinema Now category, 14 films in the International Competition category, eight in the Kaleidoscope section, and 12 in the Malayalam Cinema Today category. To me, the highlight is the Ritwik Ghatak centenary package with gems like Meghe Dhaka Tara and Subarnarekha in the list. Quite a tribute on the veterans centenary year, says Jyotirmayi Manoj, who has been to IFFK several times. Unlike previous editions, she will be attending this years IFFK as a film school student. More in the focus segments include the retrospective on Saeed Mirza, which includes the iconic filmmakers noted takes such as Salim Langde Pe Mat Maro and Arvind Joshi Ki Ajeeb Dastan. Meghe Dhaka Tara, part of Ritwik Ghatak centenary package. Saeed Mirzas Nukkad and Albert Pinto ko Gussa Kyo Aaaya were so part of our growing up. The man deserves this, and we too deserve to watch him more, smiles Prasad K Balan, who is planning to visit Thiruvananthapuram for IFFK, taking a break from his sound designing work in Mumbai. Another retrospective in the IFFK bouquet this year is on Egyptian director Youssef Chahine, with the choicest among his 37 films being included. The anime trip continues this year too as Signatures in Motion, with a list of four award-winners from the Annecy Animation Film Festival, the exclusive fete for anime films being held in France since 1960. Striking in the list is Zaven Najjars hard-hitting adaptation of Ahmadou Kourouma's 2000 novel about the trials of a child soldier who gets caught up in civil wars in Liberia. The Spirit of Cinema award this year is for Kelly Fyffe-Marshall, a Canadian filmmaker who tells stories that shatter perceptions of Black people and contribute towards their social uplift, even while creating spaces that reflect healing and unity. When Morning Comes, her debut film that premiered at the TIFF 2022, is being shown at the IFFK. The presence of masters in IFFK continues with Indonesian director Garin Nugroho, whose five movies are being shown Bird Man Tale, A Poet: Unconcealed Poetry, Samsara, Whispers in the Dabdas, and Letter to an Angel. While IFFK is being given finishing touches, its regulars are gearing up to visit from different parts of the state and beyond. Hotels are being booked at a speed faster than last year, and city-based film buffs are gearing up to host their friends from other places. It is the time of the year when we get together. I have not missed even one festival since 2008, says Noufal Mariam Plathur from Kannur. The research associate at the University of Keralas Kariyavattom campus claims he has been offered an official pass this year, as his article that appeared in the magazine Yuvatara was selected as the best by the Chalachithra Academy. With the Academy giving finishing touches to IFFKs smooth functioning, the wait is now for the jury list as well as the eminent names who are to grace the occasion.
Mattannur, Kannur Cantonment remain quiet as State gears up for local body polls
Mattannur is exempt as its governing council has two more years left in its term, while residents of the Kannur Cantonment do not have voting rights in local body polls
Kannurs electoral battlefield: fronts weigh gains and losses as rebel surge reshapes equations
LDF holds structural dominance across the district. Capturing Kannur Corporation remains its symbolic objective, while defending it remains the foremost challenge of UDF that is looking forward to improve its show in three-tier panchayats
Kerala: Standing ground, amid the barrage
KOZHIKODE: here is unlikely to be any change in the majority of Muslim voters inclination for the UDF in the local-body polls as it had played out in the 2024 Lok Sabha election and the subsequent by-elections to the Palakkad and Nilambur assembly constituencies. This has more to do with the communitys antagonism towards the CPM, driven by a host of factors, than its enthusiasm for the policies of the Congress-led front. The CPMs reluctance to denounce SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesans anti-Muslim remarks remains a major irritant. There is a strong feeling in the community that the left party is quietly backing Vellappally to come out with more remarks disparaging Muslims. Politburo member A Vijayaraghavan has said the party doesnt view Vellappallys remarks as communally coloured. Quizzed on the SNDP chiefs stand, party state secretary M V Govindan remarked that using religion for political gains is the definition of communalism, thereby hinting that Vellappally is not communal. During a recent interaction with mediapersons, Kerala Nadvathul Mujahideen (KNM) state president T P Abdulla Koya Madani said it is quite unfortunate that the leader of a renaissance movement is using communally charged language. The Muslim community is thoroughly unhappy that Vellappally remains chairman of the committee formed to protect renaissance values and a trusted ally of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, he said. Developments in the Sunni group led by Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musliyar also dont bode well for the CPM. Though some LDF leaders have been working overtime on social media, not all in the rank and file are happy with the positions the CPM has adopted on certain issues.The campaign that the CPM is smuggling in liberal values has also not sat well with Kanthapuram Sunnis. The CPMs game plan of unleashing all-out attacks on the Jamaat-e-Islami also has not paid the expected dividend in the campaign. While opposing the Jamaat ideology in its entirety, Muslim organisations suspect the sincerity of the CPM is raking up the issue in every election. While Samastha Kerala Jem-iyyathul Ulama leaders including Umar Faizi Mukkam and Abdul Hameed Faizi have repeatedly laid into the Jamaat, its president Syed Muhammad Jiffiri Muthukoya Thangal has been more guarded. He refused to be drawn into the controversy over the Welfare Party of India-UDF tie-up, saying Samastha is not concerned about political alliances. The functioning of the home department is another area of worry for the Muslims. The CMs perceived tolerance of ADGP Ajith Kumar, despite his alleged links to RSS leaders, is continuously quoted to attack the CPM. The intervention of spiritual leader Sri M in ending the political violence in Kannur is recalled to buttress the argument that there exists a secret deal between the RSS and the CPM. Ironically, the UDF is also palpitating over happenings. Consolidation may help the front improve its position in Malabar, where Muslims are a strong presence, but its impact in the central and southern regions of the state remains to be seen. Secondly, some Muslim groups have opposed the UDFs attempt to normalise the Jamaat, which they believe is a threat to the community. If such groups decide to defeat Welfare Party candidates, who are backed by the UDF, it will spell trouble for the front in local bodies where one or two seats will prove to be the deciding factor.
Development works worth 700 crore implemented in Kannur Corporation, claims UDF
The first phase, which began on 1 December involves systematic data gathering across tiger habitats
Farmer outfits seek written assurance from candidates
KOCHI: With the campaigning for local body elections entering the final stage, farmers organisations have demanded written assurance from candidates on safeguarding the rights of farmers to defend themselves from wild animal attacks. The Kerala Independent Farmers Association (KIFA) and the Catholic Congress have given a call to farmers in the high ranges to get the assurance duly signed by candidates in a prescribed format. The form has been distributed among farmers in the forest fringe areas of Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Palakkad, Thrissur, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Idukki, Pathanamthitta and Thiruvananthapuram. The form states that I (the candidate) and my party assure that we will support any farmer who takes defensive measures to stop wild animals entering farmlands outside the forest as per the provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act 11 (2), and will oppose any move to book criminal cases against them. We will take earnest efforts to make the government accept this stand. Initially some political parties had refused to sign the form. But the farmers declared that they will boycott the election if the candidates refuse to sign the form. Now candidates are willingly signing it and some candidates have taken the printouts on their own and and delivered them to the farmers. Our stand is that we will support only candidates who stand for the farmers cause. Besides we are putting up flex boards in all wards of forest fringe areas. The flex board carries the message that No vote for those who stand for wild animals, said KIFA chairman Alex Ozhukayil. The Catholic Congress has issued a statement urging farmers to demand candidates to declare their stand on issues affecting the farmers. We will respond to political parties who ignore the woes of farmers. The plan is to expose politicians who failed to implement the assurance on ensuring fair price to rubber and paddy farmers. Politicians are circulating spicy narratives to divert attention from the core issues. We will demand candidates to give a written assurance on ensuring protection under Section 11 (2) of Wildlife Protection act to farmers who defend themselves from wild animals raiding crops, said Catholic Congress global director Fr Philip Kaviyil. As many as 32 people were killed by wild elephants in 2025 while three others were mauled by tigers. The farmers are unable to cultivate crops due to increasing wild animal attacks. We want political parties to take a proactive stand to save farmers from wild animals, he said. Meanwhile, a senior forest official said some people are circulating exaggerated figures of deaths in wild animal attacks. Only 15 deaths have occurred in wild elephant attacks in 2025-26, which is lower that the previous years. The total number of deaths in wild animal conflicts this year is 21 and two of the victims were killed by tigers. There were four deaths in wild pig attacks. We have succeeded in bringing down the deaths due to snakebites which is 13 this year compared to 34 in the previous year, he said.
Rebel trouble continues to rankle UDF in Kannur
KANNUR: The UDF continues to be beset by rebel trouble in Kannur corporation, despite having settled the latest round of political upheaval. Although the civic body is largely considered a front stronghold, history tells a different story about its shifting power dynamics. Following its formation in 2015, the LDF took hold of the reins of power, thanks to the unexpected support of a group of Congress rebels. And this set the tone, as rebels have played a decisive and often unpredictable role in shaping the political landscape of the corporation. In the upcoming election, rebel candidates pose a stiff challenge to the UDF in three key divisions. In Adikadalayi, UDF candidate Rijil Chandran Makkutty, former state president of the Youth Congress and KPCC member, is facing unexpected opposition from V Muhammadali, a Muslim League member. In Varam division, IUML district vice president K P Tahir is pitted against Rayees K V, another rebel contender. Both Muhammadali and Rayees were suspended by the Muslim League state committee for defying the UDFs official line and contesting independently. In Payyambalam, sitting deputy chairperson Indira P is taking on Bindu K N, the Payyambalam mandala vice president who chose to break ranks and file her nomination as a rebel. Her decision led to her removal from the Congress, which intensified the political rift within the division. Kannur DCC chief Martin George dismissed the influence of rebel candidates, saying they stand no real chance against official candidates. He described the current buzz around them as mere hype that would fade as the election approaches. According to him, UDF supporters remain loyal to the front and will not split their votes, regardless of the noise created during the campaign. P K Ragesh rose to prominence in Kannur city politics when he helped elect the citys first mayor -- E P Latha of the CPM in 2015. That year, the UDF and the LDF both won 27 seats in the 55-member council, and Ragesh, who had left the Congress, won as an independent. He backed the LDF, and was named deputy mayor. In 2019, he switched sides again and supported a UDF-led no-confidence motion against mayor Latha, which passed the council. Later that year, after discussions led by K Sudhakaran, he rejoined the Congress. This allowed Suma Balakrishnan to become mayor, while Ragesh continued as deputy mayor. In 2023, however, he was expelled from the party following an internal dispute. This year, Ragesh has fielded 11 candidates in important wards under the banner of the Aikya Janadhipathya Samrakshana Samithi, which is part of the Rajivji Cultural Forum. Ragesh said he and the candidates supporting him are focused on building a corruption-free corporation and are committed to contributing to its overall development. Certain UDF leaders place their personal interests over public welfare, which has hindered the citys development, and my fight is against such individuals, he added. CPM Kannur district secretary K K Ragesh expressed confidence that the LDF would return to power in the upcoming election, saying the electorate is now seeking genuine development. Speaking about the civic scenario, Ragesh claimed that Kannur corporation, under UDF rule, has witnessed the least progress among all municipal corporations in the state, attributing the stagnation to widespread corruption. The heart of Kannur city is with development, he added.
UDF alleges lapses in identifying sensitive booths in Kannur
Undertrial found dead in Kannur Central Jail in Kerala
He was facing trial for allegedly murdering his wife and was sent to Kannur prison from Wayanad seven months ago, says jail superintendent
Kerala local body polls: Rebel trouble haunts UDF in its Kannur stronghold
Rebel candidates are in the fray against both Congress and IUML nominees in the Corporation, prompting the latter to take disciplinary action against four activists. CPI(M) is presenting a team of new faces from diverse professional backgrounds, while the BJP has given priority to women candidates
GCTO accuses Kannur University of violating norms by fixing exams on Saturdays
Government norms allow only five working days a week, with Saturdays becoming working days only in emergencies, it says
Cash, ornaments stolen from temple in Kannur
WATCH: 5 stranded mid-air in sky dining restaurant near Munnar in Kerala, rescue opsunderway
Media reports said that a four-member family from Kannur district and a restaurant staff member have been trapped in the sky dining restaurant. According to the operators, they cannot lower the crane as its hydraulics have stopped working.
BJP accuses LDF, UDF of stalling development in Kannur Corporation
Normalcy returns to Indian skies, Air India cancels six flights to carry out precautionary checks
NEW DELHI: The chaos in Indian skies on Monday night, triggered by the volcanic eruption in Ethiopia and the eastward drift of ash, subsided on Tuesday after the ash cloud moved towards China. While Air India cancelled seven of its domestic flights as a precautionary move, other airlines have reported normal operations. An Air India statement said the following six domestic flights stood cancelled on Tuesday (November 25) - AI 2822 ChennaiMumbai; AI 2466 HyderabadDelhi; AI 2444 MumbaiHyderabad and AI 2445 Hyderabad to Mumbai; AI 2471 MumbaiKolkata and AI 2472 Kolkata to Mumbai The following Air India flights have been cancelled as we carry out precautionary checks on those aircraft which had flown over certain geographical locations after the Hayli Gubbi volcanic eruption, it said. The airline had cancelled seven international flights on Monday AI 106 NewarkDelhi; AI 102 New York (JFK)Delhi; AI 2204 DubaiHyderabad; AI 2290 DohaMumbai; AI 2212 DubaiChennai ; AI 2250 DammamMumbai and AI 2284 DohaDelhi. Akasa Air had already announced cancellation of all its flights to and from Jeddah, Kuwait and Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. It had done the same on Monday too. Indigo had diverted its flight from Kannur to Ahmedabad on Monday. Massive ash cloud drifts toward northern India as Ethiopias Hayli Gubbi erupts after 10,000 years Spokespersons from Indigo, Spicejet and Air India Express said that they had not cancelled any of their flights on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) in a statement said there was no cause for concern presently. Following the 23 Nov volcanic eruption in Ethiopia and the eastward movement of the ash cloud, MoCA along with ATC, IMD, airlines and international aviation agenciesis ensuring seamless coordination. AAI has issued the necessary NOTAM and all affected flights have been kept informed. Operations across India remain smooth, with only a few flights rerouted or descended as a precaution, it added. There is no cause for concern at this moment. We continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide timely updates to ensure passenger safety, the Ministry added. Air India passengers upset Passengers whose flights were cancelled took to social media to lash out at Air India for not keeping them informed for hours even after the flight was cancelled. Flyer Teekam Singh Gehlot said he had booked a ticket on his Air India flight from Mumbai to Kolkata on Tuesday. No information about cancellation of flight and boarding pass was issued, he said. Only after security checks, he learnt about the cancellation, he said billing it a horrible experience. Passenger Aswari E said, I had my booking from Dammam to Mumbai. Very pathetic service by ground staff , no clear communication. After 6 hours they brought all the passengers from immigration area and left them stranded in the departure area. Until now no one contacted me for the rescheduled flight, she said. Referring to the same flight, Ruchit Mehta added, Very pathetic treatment at Dammam Airport. No food or refreshment provided to passengers till 3 AM in the morning. No accommodation or travel allowance given to some passengers. The Air India statement added, Our ground teams across the network are keeping passengers updated on their flight status and are providing immediate assistance, including hotel accommodation. We are making every effort to arrange alternative travel at the earliest. We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused to passengers due to this unforeseen situation beyond our control. The safety of our passengers and crew remains our highest priority. Ethiopia volcano eruption disrupts flights in India; ash cloud to clear by evening
UDF, BJP campaign boards vandalised in Kannur
Massive ash cloud drifts toward northern India as Ethiopias Hayli Gubbi erupts after 10,000 years
After the long-silent volcano erupted for the first time in nearly 10,000 years, a massive ash cloud from Ethiopia's Hayli Gubbi has begun drifting toward northern India. The eruption covered the nearby village of Afdera in dust and pushed thick plumes across the Red Sea toward Yemen and Oman before the cloud shifted eastwards. According to the Toulouse Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC), the explosive activity began around 8.30 am UTC and marked the volcanos first known eruption in almost 10,000 years. Although the eruption has now stopped, the Toulouse VAAC said that a large ash plume is moving toward northern India, prompting meteorological agencies to closely monitor its trajectory. Even though no injuries have been reported, local officials worry economic implications for the local community of livestock herders. The volcano, part of Ethiopias Erta Ale Range, last showed activity around 10,000 to 12,000 years ago. After the eruption, volcanic ash was observed over parts of the Arabian Peninsula. Airlines issued cautionary messages for flights passing through the Middle East. Indias aviation regulator, DGCA, has instructed all airline operators to follow a volcanic advisory issued by the Airport Authority of India. In view of the DGCA advisory, several airlines, including Akasa Air, KLM, Air India and IndiGo, cancelled flights operating on routes that pass through the affected corridor. An Air India flight from Delhi to Tokyo was cancelled moments before take-off. Flights to Jeddah and Dubai from Kochi were also cancelled as a precaution. An IndiGo flight from Kannur to Abu Dhabi was diverted to Ahmedabad as a safety measure. Akasa Air said it was monitoring the situation and assessing potential impacts on nearby regions in line with international aviation guidelines. Following recent volcanic activity in Ethiopia and the resulting ash plume in the surrounding airspace, our flights to and from Jeddah, Kuwait, and Abu Dhabi scheduled for 24th and 25th November 2025 have been cancelled, the airline said in a statement. SpiceJet said volcanic ash may impact flight operations flying through the affected regions. In a statement, the airline added, Passengers travelling to/from Dubai (DXB) are advised to keep a check on their flight status, noting that safety teams are coordinating with aviation authorities. The Afar region is known for frequent earthquakes. Residents told The Associated Press they heard a loud sound and felt what they described as a shock wave. It felt like a sudden bomb had been thrown with smoke and ash, one resident said. By Monday, the village near the Danakil desert, a popular tourist destination, remained covered in ash. Tourists and guides travelling to the desert were stranded in the village, according to a report by AP . Local authorities also shared images and videos showing a towering plume of ash rising from the volcano. (With inputs from Agencies)
'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.
Bar hotel employee found dead in Kannur
LDF claims win in 10 wards in Kannur, Kasaragod
With no opposition, LDF secures four wins in Kannur
CPI(M) bags two seats in Anthoor municipality and two in Malapattam grama panchayat. DCC president says UDF candidates nominations were rejected to help the LDFs cause
Another BLO Dies By Suicide In Bengal, Family Alleges SIR Work-Related Stress; Note Recovered
Rinku Tarafdar, a BLO in West Bengal, was found dead amid SIR workload stress. Similar suicides occurred in Jalpaiguri, Jaipur, and Kannur. Mamata Banerjee urged suspension of SIR.
Congress rebel predicts repeat of 2015 in Kannur Corporation
BLO given tearful farewell in Kannur
Car Gets Stuck Between 2 Sections Of Under-Construction Bridge In Kerala
A Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire got stuck between two sections of an under-construction bridge and was left hanging mid-air in Kerala's Kannur district on Sunday after its driver entered the flyover while drunk.
Congress, BJP allege CPI(M) threat led to BLO Aneesh Georges death
Kannur District Congress Committee (DCC) president releases audio clip to back the claim.
121 nominations filed in Kannur for local body polls on day 1
UDF finalises seat-sharing in Kannur Corporation; candidate list released
IUML leader P.K. Kunhalikutty alleges unholy haste by ECI in conducting SIR in Kerala
IUML raises various issues, including death of Kannur booth level officer allegedly due to work pressure, as reasons for seeking a halt to SIR in Supreme Court
Kannur BLOs death linked to work pressure, claims panchayat president
Kankol-Alappadamba panchayat president M.V. Sunil Kumar says Aneesh George was under extreme pressure adding that he repeatedly told superiors he was unable to cope with the responsibilities assigned
SIR claims a life in Kerala? 44-year-old BLO dies by suicide, family alleges...
A 44-year-old Booth Level Officer (BLO) in Kerala's Kannur district was found dead at his home, allegedly due to mental pressure from Special Intensive Revision (SIR) duties.
Kerala's electoral roll revision faces a boycott by Booth Level Officers (BLOs) on Monday following the death of one in Kannur, allegedly due to intense work pressure. Trade unions claim unrealistic targets for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and upcoming local body polls are pushing BLOs to the brink. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the BLO's death.
BLO's Suicide in Kannur Triggers Huge Protest in Kerala
Who took the extreme step because of alleged huge work pressure on Sunday
Kannur BLO Commits Suicide Amid SIR-Related Work Stress
Local people and his family members alleged that Aneesh George (44) took the extreme step due to work pressure in connection with the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls.
Extend deadline for Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls: CPI State secretary Binoy Viswam
He was reacting to the alleged suicide of a booth-level officer, Aneesh George, in Kannur
Case of unnatural death registered after booth-level officer found dead in Kannur
Chief Electoral Officer seeks report from District Collector on the incident
Woman under treatment at Kannur MCH found dead
Kerala local body polls: NDA announces 42 candidates for Kannur Corporation
CPI(M) demands VACB probe into corruption in Kannur Corporation
Kodi Sunis mother approaches Kerala HC, seeking his transfer to Kannur prison
LDF finalises seat allocation for Kannur district panchayat polls
Malappuram clinches hat-trick win in Kerala school science fest
Malappuram secures 1,548 points to claim the championship for the third consecutive year. Though Palakkad and Kannur record 1,487 points each, Palakkad takes second place on the basis of 17 first prizes it won and Kannur third.
Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Alappuzha and Ernakulam will go to polls on December 9. Thrissur, Malappuram, Wayanad, Palakkad, Kannur, Kasaragod, Kannur and Kozhikode on December 11
Anusree, now a CPI(M) district committee member, is being positioned as the likely district panchayat vice-president if the Left front retains the council. The party is banking on new faces to strengthen its hold on the Kannur district panchayat
LSGD identifies new sites for regional sanitary waste incineration facilities in Kerala
The proposed plants, each capable of processing 20 tonnes of waste per day, will be established in Kottarakara in Kollam, Muvattupuzha in Ernakulam, Kuttippuram in Malappuram and Kadannappalli in Kannur.
Lapses alleged in use of SC development fund in Kannur Corporation
Entries invited for short film contest at Kannur University
Kannur Corporation denies graft charge, says STP yet to get clearance
Kannur University senate members flag data-fraud risk in exam registration process
