BJP office becoming centre of Vikasit Keralam more important than having CM: Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized the importance of the BJP's state office in Thiruvananthapuram becoming the center of 'Vikasit Keralam,' even more so than having a Chief Minister. He inaugurated the new BJP state committee office, launching the party's mission for a developed Kerala ahead of local body and assembly elections. Shah also visited Kannur's Rajarajeshwara Temple.
BJP revamps state leadership; Sobha Surendran, Ramesh among general secretaries
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a significant move ahead of local body and assembly elections, the BJP has executed a major revamp of its state leadership. Prominent woman leader Sobha Surendran, former secretary S Suresh and former Yuva Morcha national secretary Anoop Antony Joseph have been inducted as general secretaries, while senior leader M T Ramesh has been retained in the post. Notably, ex-DGP R Sreelekha and young leader Shone George figure among the 10 new vice-presidents. The new office-bearers were announced on the day of Union Minister Amit Shahs visit to the state. Shah is expected to chair the state-level leadership meeting on Saturday. The revamp, widely perceived as an attempt to rework internal dynamics and increase the partys appeal, includes a combination of seasoned leaders and successful career professionals. The appointment of a new team reflects the vision of Rajeev Chandrasekhar, who recently took over as the party state chief. With the reshuffle, current group equations within the party are anticipated to change. There are allegations that leaders close to V Muraleedharan have not been given due consideration in the revamp. Meanwhile, attempts have been made to ensure social and communal balance. A couple of leaders from minority communities figure among the new appointees. Apart from Sreelekha and Shone, former vice-chancellors K S Radhakrishnan and Abdul Salam, C Sadanandan of Kannur, P Sudheer of Thiruvananthapuram, C Krishnakumar from Palakkad, B Gopalakr-ishnan from Thrissur, K Soman of Alapppuzha and K K Aneesh Kumar of Thrissur have also been appointed as new vice-presidents. The list of 10 newly appointed secretaries includes Ashokan Kulanada, K Renjith, Renu Suresh, V V Rajesh, Pandalam Prathapan, Jiji Joseph, M V Gopakumar, Poonthura Sreekumar, P Shyamraj and M P Anjana Renjith. In addition to these changes, Abhijith R Nair has been named the partys social media convenor. Many factors considered for party revamp T P Jayachandran Master will serve as the BJPs spokesperson. The overhaul is viewed as part of the BJPs strategy to energise its state unit and gear up for the elections with a refreshed leadership team. Ramesh told TNIE that many factors were considered before the revamp. The revised list has taken into account various sections, including newcomers, professionals and youths. The party will put up a strong performance in the upcoming elections, said Ramesh, who chose to downplay reports over certain leaders being sidelined in the reshuffle.
Train Nos. 16511/16512 KSR Bengaluru-Kannur Express, Train Nos. 12677/678 KSR Bengaluru-Ernakulam daily Superfast Express and Train No. 16593/594 KSR Bengaluru-Nanded daily Express would be diverted to run from SMVT Bengaluru
Amit Shah to arrive in Kerala today
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Union Home Minister Amit Shah will reach Kerala for a two-day visit on Friday. Shah, who is expected to land at the Thiruvananthapuram airport around 10pm by a special flight, will attend various events on Saturday. He will inaugurate the BJPs new state headquarters at Aristo Junction in the morning. Following this, he will address a massive gathering of booth-level party workers at Putharikandam ground. Senior BJP leaders said around 30,000 workers from Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, and Alappuzha districts are expected to attend the meeting. Around 12,000 of them will be from Thiruvananthapuram alone. Lunch arrangements have been made for all attendees, said a party functionary overseeing the preparations. After completing his engagements in the state capital, Shah will fly to Kannur. The minister, who is expected to reach the Kannur airport by 3pm, will visit the Thaliparamba Rajarajeswari Temple around 4 pm. Shah is likely to return to Delhi on Saturday night. In view of his visit, police have stepped up security across event venues and transit points in Thiruvananthapuram and Kannur, deploying additional personnel and intensifying surveillance. With local body and assembly elections around the corner, Shahs visit is expected to energise party workers and sharpen the BJPs electoral messaging in the state.
UK job fraud: CB launches inquiry into Kannur mans Mangaluru firm
KOCHI: The crime branch has launched an investigation into a Mangaluru-based overseas recruitment firm accused of cheating several people across Kerala of their money after offering them job opportunities in the United Kingdom. According to officials, as many as 26 cases have been registered in various districts of the state against the firm operating under the name UK in Regal Academy since 2024. Ernakulam alone accounts for seven of the complaints. Recently, all the cases were handed over to the economic offences wing of the crime branch for a detailed investigation. The company promoted its services aggressively on social media, claiming to provide UK job visas without the need for IELTS qualification. They also held online and in-person classes for candidates, a CB officer said. Many people transferred large sums of money to the firm. However, most never received the promised visas, nor were their funds returned. The main accused is the company director, C K Joseph alias Sooraj, a native of Kannur who was operating the firm out of Kodialbail, Mangaluru. His current whereabouts are unknown. Each of the victims, lured by job offers for care assistant positions in UK care homes, reportedly lost amounts ranging from Rs 15-20 lakh. Initially, they were given repeated assurances that their money would be refunded. But after some time, the company stopped responding. The majority of complainants had availed loans to meet the payment. CB officials confirmed that similar cases have been registered against the company in Karnataka. We are coordinating with Karnataka police as part of the probe. Efforts are under way to trace and apprehend the accused. The investigation began last month after the cases were officially transferred to us. We are expecting more people to approach the police with the complaint soon, the officer said.
State medical council penalises doctor for advertising unrecognised qualification
Payyannur branch of Indian Medical Association files complaint against Kannur doctor alleging that he cited PG Diploma and certificate courses, which are not recognised medical degrees, on billboard advertising his practice
Ernakulam leads way as state reported 494 king cobra rescues over five years
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a growing sign of increased human-snake interaction, the state has recorded 494 king cobra rescues from human-inhabited areas over the past five years. They had either strayed into homes, plantations or backyards and were rescued without harm and released back into forests. According to district-wise records from the forest department, Ernakulam reported the most rescues at 70, followed by Wayanad (68) and Kannur (61). At the bottom of the list are Alappuzha (2), Thiruvananthapuram (11) and Malappuram (17). While 148 incidents were reported in 2024, the number stood at 63 till March of this year. Experts note that while the king cobra (Ophiophagus kaalinga) is highly venomous, it is not naturally aggressive and avoids confrontation unless provoked. The surge in sightings is linked to prey movement, climate change, mating season, and improved public reporting. The rise in rescues doesnt necessarily mean there are more king cobras. The same snake could have been rescued multiple times, said Sandeep Das, research associate at the department of zoology, University of Calicut. Forest officials say the department carries out timely rescue operations in coordination with trained snake handlers and herpetologists. Awareness campaigns, help lines and response teams have played a major role in managing such encounters. Assistant conservator of forests Mohammed Anvar said most sightings happen during the mating season which is typically between January and April. They travel up to 10km in search of mates, often following pheromone trails. Another reason is their movement in search of food. They feed mostly on other snakes, which is why they are called Ophiophagus, he said. Sandeep added that although Wayanad has a large forest cover, most king cobras stay within it. The rescue numbers reflect incidents in human settlements, likely due to urban expansion and better reporting. However, challenges remain. Rescuers often face delays in getting proper kits, even after completing training. The Sarpa app has improved identification and reporting. King cobras are intelligent and not aggressive unless threatened. People should keep their distance and alert experts when spotted, Anvar added. There have been only three recorded fatalities from king cobra bites in the country, including one in Kerala when A Harshad, an animal keeper at Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, died in 2021.
Rare masked booby bird rescued from Muzhappilangad beach in Kerala
The bird, which was found to be exhausted, has been treated at Kannur veterinary hospital
Private bus strike hits commuters hard in Kannur
'Had No Role': Vijayan Govt On Jyoti Malhotra's Visit To PromoteKeralaTourism
According to the RTI, Malhotra's visit included multiple destinations such as Kochi, Kannur, Kozhikode, Alappuzha, Munnar, and Thiruvananthapuram
SFI protest turns violent at Kannur University
Police, students sustain injuries; university gate and property damaged in protest against saffronisation of higher education
Cyber cell recovers 33 lost mobile phones in Kannur
'Pak spy' Jyoti Malhotra visited Kerala on govt invite
Notably, one of her earlier viral videos featured her wearing a Kerala sari and attending a Theyyam performance in Kannur.
Pakistan Spy Jyoti Malhotra Was Hired By Kerala Tourism, Reveals RTI
According to the RTI reply, Malhotra travelled extensively through key tourist circuits, including Kannur, Kozhikode, Kochi, Alappuzha, and Munnar, documenting her experiences.
C.P. Santhosh Kumar re-elected CPI Kannur district secretary
Air passenger traffic across India soars by 6.6% in opening months of fiscal 2025-26
NEW DELHI: The total passenger traffic across airports in India has grown by 6.6% in the first two months of this financial year, compared to the corresponding period last year, reveals the Airports Authority of India (AAI). Srinagar and Amritsar airports, which were closed for some weeks due to the India-Pakistan conflict following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 this year, have reported a steep decline on the patronage front. AAI data reveals that 71.14 million passengers travelled during April-May of 2025 as compared to 66.73 million in the period in 2024. International traffic soared by 8.8% in the period compared with 13.4 million travellers compared to 12.31 million earlier. Domestic traffic has recorded a 6.1% growth with 57.74 million against the previous 66.73 million. A total of 5.54 crore Air Traffic Movement Movements (Arrivals and Departures) have been recorded in April-May 2025, up by 6.5% over the same period last year, the data shows. The freight traffic too has boomed with an 8.1% increase in April and May of 2025 over the previous year by transporting 643.47 metric tonnes. Airports which have been severely impacted due to Indo-Pak tensions were on expected lines - Srinagar and Amritsar. Passenger traffic in Srinagar dipped by a whopping 67.1% in the two months. Srinagar International Airport had a patronage of just 1,61,214 flyers as compared to 4,89,561 earlier. The Sri Guru Ramdas Ji airport in Amritsar too followed suit with 1,56,288 passengers in the first two months of this fiscal as compared to 2,75,837 last year. The top three airports in passenger traffic in the country continue to be Delhi (93,89,191 flyers), Mumbai (65,68,271) and Bengaluru (64,43,050). The KIA airport in Bengaluru continues its non-stop growth trajectory by recording a 6.7% growth over its performance in April-May 2024. However, Delhi has dipped by 1.2% and Mumbai by 0.5% during the compared period. Airports which have done significantly well over their past performance in the two-month period compared in succeeding years are Bhubaneshwar (25.5% over previous period), Tirupati (49.2%), Varanasi (25.8%) Kannur (33.2%), Patna (32.1%), Agra (77.8) and Agati (42.5%), Durgapur (37%), Bhuj (48.6), Cudappah (58.8%), Dharbanga (52.2%), Dehradun (29.1%), Cooch Behar (38.4%), Dimapur (27.4%), Gorakhpur (995) and Hubballi (37.1%), Jabalpur (92.2%), Jaisalmer (86.4%), Kanpur (57%) and Kishangarh (38.9%), Rajahmundry (46.3%) Nanded (28.3%) Kurnool (34.3%) and Shivamogga (85.5%)
First Skin Bank to be launched in Thiruvananthapuram MCH
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: At a time when questions are being raised against the efficiency of the health sector, the states first skin bank is all set to open its door of relief for numerous burn victims. The skin bank is being set up in Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College. The bank will be inaugurated on July 15 coinciding with the World Plastic Surgery Day. The centre has also secured the approval of the Kerala State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (K- SOTTO) for receiving skin through organ donation. The facility has been constructed at a cost of Rs 6.75 crore. Skin Banks are facilities which collect skin through donors for replacing the burnt skin of victims. In cases where a burn victim could not use his or her skin, the skins stored in the Skin Banks can be used. This helps reduce the pain and chances of infection. The skins are kept at a specific temperature. Works are in progress to start another Skin Bank in Kottayam Government Medical College, Health Minister Veena George said in a statement. She also said that to ensure efficient treatment to burn victims, burn centres were set up in Alappuzha, Kollam, Kannur Medical Colleges. Plastic surgery units were also started in these medical colleges. Burns ICU were also set up in medical colleges.
Kerala Congress gears up for major rejig ahead of LSG, assembly polls
KOTTAYAM: As the Nilambur by-election is over, the Congress state unit is gearing up for a significant organisational overhaul as part of preparing itself for the upcoming local body elections at the end of the year and the assembly elections next year. As part of it, KPCC president Sunny Joseph and Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan will leave for New Delhi on Tuesday. According to sources, they will hold a meeting with AICC general secretary in-charge of Kerala, Deepa Dasmunsi, and general secretary (organisation), K C Venugopal, on Wednesday. The revamp is following a report submitted by Dasmunsi, who recommended a restructuring to strengthen the party ahead of crucial elections. As the AICC has already appointed new KPCC president and working presidents, the leadership is planning to re-organise the state committee with new office-bearers, including vice-presidents, general secretaries and secretaries. Change of guard in DCCs is also anticipated as part of the KPCC revamp. The KPCC leadership has already begun compiling a primary list of potential candidates to be submitted to the AICC general secretaries during the Delhi visit of the KPCC president and Leader of Opposition. With local body and assembly elections nearing, the KPCC is learnt to have decided not to remove any existing office-bearers to avoid any dissatisfactions among party leaders. Instead, the KPCC will be reorganised by adding more office-bearers. The leadership doesnt wish to alter the smooth functioning of the existing system. Rather it wants to address the concerns and dissatisfaction of other leaders, said a Congress leader on condition of anonymity. Additionally, the KPCC also wants to ensure communal balance during the revamp. Earlier, the AICC made Sunny Joseph as the KPCC president to address the long-standing concerns of the Catholic Church regarding its inadequate representation in leadership roles. The Church has also expressed a desire for the inclusion of additional leaders in key positions, such as vice-presidents. Sources indicate that the Syro-Malabar Church is particularly interested in securing representation from Central Travancore within the leadership as Sunny Joseph is from Kannur. Earlier, the Ezhava community had voiced its dissatisfaction regarding the removal of K Sudhakaran from the position of KPCC president. In response, the KPCC leadership is keen to address their concerns also. Although group politics have almost subsided in state Congress, the KPCC is expected to take into account the recommendations of senior leaders such as V M Sudheeran, Ramesh Chennithala, K Muraleedharan, Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan and Benny Behanan. Following a vetting of the AICC leadership, the restructuring process is likely to commence in the state shortly after the state-wide meetings of the KPCC being attended by Sunny Joseph, Satheesan, UDF convener Adoor Prakash and three working presidents, A P Anil Kumar, P C Vishnunadh and Shafi Parambil, which will be concluded on July 17. It is learnt that a majority of DCC presidents will also be replaced during the revamp, as complaints are rampant that DCCs are inactive, especially from Kottayam to Thiruvana-nthapuram. new paths Leadership planning to re-organise the state committee with new office-bearers Change of guard in DCCs is also anticipated KPCC leadership already compiling a primary list of potential candidates
Youth Congress march turns violent in Kannur
One arrested with suspected ganja in Kannur
Rain remains subdued for two weeks in most part of the State with the exception of north Kerala
IMD issued a yellow alert warning of isolated heavy rain for Kannur and Kasaragod on Sunday
Private bus operators in Vadakara go on token strike over poor road conditions
The dawn-to-dusk protest organised by a joint action committee of bus operators disrupted the regular bus services between Kozhikode and Kannur districts on Friday
Coimbatore Junction-Kannur Express to start from Podanur Junction on July 8 and 10
Trains to run late in Kerala due to track maintenance works
KOZHIKODE: More than half a dozen trains in Kerala are going run late by a few hours this month on selective dates to facilitate track maintenance works in various locations in the Palakkad division on multiple days. According to a statement from Southern Railway, Train No. 22633 Thiruvananthapuram Central Hazrat Nizamuddin Junction Weekly Superfast Express journey commencing on July 09th & 23rd from Thiruvananthapuram Central will be regulated by one hour and ten minutes en-route. Train No.16307 Alappuzha Kannur Express journey commencing on July 09th & 23rd from Alappuzha will be regulated by one hour en-route. Train No.12082 Thiruvananthapuram Central - Kannur Janshatabdi Superfast Express journey commencing on July 09th & 23rd from Thiruvananthapuram Central will be regulated by one hour en-route. Train No.12618 Hazrat Nizamuddin Junction Ernakulam Junction Mangala Lakshadweep Superfast Express journey commencing on July 24th from Hazrat Nizamuddin Junction will be regulated by 30 minutes en-route. Train No.16338 Ernakulam Junction Okha Weekly Express journey commencing on July 25thfrom Ernakulam Junction will be regulated by one hour en-route. Train No.22638 Mangaluru Central Dr MGR Chennai Central West Coast Superfast Express journey commencing on July 25th from Mangaluru Central will be regulated by one hour en-route. Train No.22638 Mangaluru Central Dr MGR Chennai Central West Coast Superfast Express journey commencing on July 10th, 15th, 17th & August 04th from Mangaluru Central will be regulated by 30 minutes en-route.
Steps sought to address frequent snarl-ups on Kozhikode-Kannur NH
Ambulance operators allege non-compliance with traffic control norms by road construction workers; they also say lane discipline violations by private bus operators worsening the situation
Mock drill conducted at Kannur airport
Six crude bombs recovered in Kannur
Man posing as journalist disrupts new state police chiefs first press meet
THIRUVANTHAPURAM: A man posing as a journalist disrupted the first press conference of newly appointed State Police Chief Ravada A Chandrasekhar on Tuesday, demanding action on a personal grievance. The incident occurred in the conference hall on the fifth floor of the police headquarters, where the DGP was addressing the media. The man, later identified as V. P. Basheer, a former police officer from Kannur, interrupted the proceedings, claiming that his long-pending complaint had not been acted upon. Despite the state police chief assuring him that the issue would be looked into, Basheer raised his voice and waved papers, alleging that he was a victim of injustice. Ravada Chandrasekhar takes charge as Kerala police chief; emphasises anti-drug drive, cybercrime control He claimed that he was attacked by CPM workers during his service and that no proper investigation had followed, even though he had submitted petitions including to the Chief Minister. I suffered for 30 years, sir. I deserve a response, he said. He also alleged that his name was used without permission in a recently released movie, Narivetta. At first, police officials believed he was part of the press, as he had entered the premises showing an online media ID card and claimed to have served in Kannur during the DGPs earlier posting as DIG there. But, sensing irregularities in his conduct, officers questioned other journalists and found that he was not a member of the press. He was soon escorted out by the police. Further enquiry revealed that he was a former officer known for filing repeated complaints. Following the incident, Museum police took him into custody for questioning. According to the Kannur City Police Commissioner, the case in which Basheer was allegedly attacked had been investigated and a chargesheet had already been filed. In light of the breach, AIG Poonkuzhali has been tasked with investigating the security lapse.
CPI(M) Kannur district secretary K.K. Ragesh defends Kerala DGP appointment
Ragesh says Ravada A. Chandrasekhar had no involvement in Koothuparamba firing conspiracy
Kannur University 6th Sem Revaluation Result 2025: Kannur University 6th Sem Revaluation Result 2025 has been released on kannuruniversity.ac.in. Here is the direct Link to check your UG 6th Sem Results Online.
Ravada Chandrasekhar, a 1991 batch IPS officer with IB, UN exposure
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ravada A Chandrasekhar , a Kerala cadre IPS officer of the 1991 batch who was named the state police chief on Monday, had been on central deputation serving as special director in the Intelligence Bureau (IB). A native of Godavari region of Andhra Pradesh, he holds a postgraduate degree in science, and began service in the force as an ASP at Thalassery in Kannur. Over the years, he has served as SP in Pathanamthitta, Malappuram, Ernakulam Rural, Railways, Vigilance Ernakulam Range, Crime Branch Thiruvananthapuram and Palakkad, as AIG-1 at the police headquarters and as commandant of KAP second and third Battalions. He has also been part of the United Nations Mission in Bosnia. This apart, he has served as the Kochi city police commissioner. As a DIG rank officer, he served in the UN Mission in Sudan and has held posts in Thrissur and Ernakulam Ranges. He was also the Thiruvananthapuram city police commissioner while holding the DIG rank. While serving as an IG in the State Crime Records Bureau, he was deputed to the IB as deputy director, and worked at IB offices in Bhubaneswar, Hyderabad and Vijayawada. During central deputation, he was promoted as ADGP and served as additional director of IB in Vijayawada and Mumbai. He was conferred with the Presidents Police Medal for Distinguished Service in 2015 and the Indian Police Medal for Meritorious Service in 2009.
Rabies death: Cong. workers stage protest at Kannur district hospital
Woman who jumped into river rescued in Kannur, search on for missing man
Five arrested for chasing Kerala Chief Ministers convoy in Kozhikode
The incident took place around 10 p.m. on Sunday when Pinarayi Vijayan was coming from Kannur to Kozhikode Government guesthouse
No guarantee Leader of Opposition will become CM face
Sunny Joseph belongs to the rare breed of Congress leaders who prefer to keep a low profile and remain in the background. That trait must have played a crucial role in making Sunny Vakeel, as he is fondly called, the partys Kerala president. Close on the heels of assuming office, he led Congress to victory in the Nilambur bypoll. Sunny shares with TNIE his take on the Nilambur success, P V Anvar factor, Satheesanism in the party, larger than life image of Shashi Tharoor, and his optimism about the Congress coming back to power in the next assembly elections. Excerpts UDF won the Nilambur by-election. Did Congress achieve the success it expected? I expected a winning margin of 10,000 to 15,000 votes. Ten thousand is a decent margin, and we managed to achieve 11,000. Did the anti-incumbency factor work in Nilambur? Yes, because CPM and LDF campaigned intensively. The chief minister (Pinarayi Vijayan) camped there and visited all panchayats. The government agencies worked hard. Yet they suffered a huge loss of votes. If anti-incumbency worked, shouldnt UDF have polled more votes in Nilambur which is a Congress bastion? A margin of 11,000 votes is not bad. The poll figures show Anvar took away the votes he had brought to the LDF kitty in the last two elections, and hence, UDF won You shouldnt think CPM lost only the votes Anvar canvassed on his own. How could CPM then retain the same vote share as in 2011? The total number of votes increased in 2025 compared to 2011. Fifteen years have passed. The votes increased by some 15,000 or 20,000. Nilambur has always been a UDF stronghold. Did you need the support of religious groups like Jamaat-e-Islami to win the seat? We wouldve won even otherwise. Then, what was the need to whitewash Jamaat? We didnt seek their support. Nor did we whitewash them. We only resisted attempts by LDF to portray it so. Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan did whitewash Jamaat He was only replying to a question. Satheesan said Jamaat has changed its old stand. A video of former Jamaat amir T K Abdulla that went viral shows theres no change in their earlier position What did Saji Cherian say earlier? He made insulting remarks against the Constitution. Will Jamaat be made an associate member of UDF? No. Who told you? They have raised such a demand That did not come up for discussion before us. How can a party like Congress align with a political party floated by Jamaat? The Leader of Opposition said LDF whitewashed Jamaat-e-Islami when they supported it. LDF will make accusations against them if they do not support it. CPM and Congress are parties that believe in the ideals of democracy and secularism laid out in the Constitution CPMs belief is namesake, as is evident from the reinstating of (Minister) Saji Cherian. You are saying this on June 25, the 50th anniversary of Emergency, the day the Constitution was murdered... No. I do not believe the Constitution was killed then. Emergency is a provision in the Constitution. It was employed then. Dont you think it was a mistake? I dont think it was a total mistake. There are different aspects to it. Was it inevitable? It was related to the situation then and ended at the right time. During the Nilambur bypoll, the general impression was that Leader of Opposition led the campaign. Was the KPCC chief sidelined? Im not answering that. That question doesnt arise. Important decisions like fielding Aryadan Shoukath, Jamaat-e-Islami tie-up, and keeping Anvar out were taken by Satheesan As part of deciding the candidate, Satheesan and I met the Congress election committee members, including A K Antony. Every election committee member was consulted. On the basis of the discussions, we conveyed the general sentiment to AICC (All India Congress Committee), and Aryadan was made the candidate. Satheesan said the credit for a win goes to all and he will take responsibility in case of a defeat. It sounded like he was leading the fight... My point is that it was the joint leadership of UDF. I had said the people are responsible for the win. There is no issue of sidelining. The Leader of Opposition has the total leadership of the UDF. Im in the leadership of the Congress. Who took the decision on Jamaat? They came to us and offered support. We did not ask anything. What was the reason for changing V S Joy and fielding Aryadan Shoukath in Nilambur? Who said Joys candidature was fixed? Did Joy say that? Joys name was also considered. A huge majority of the election committee members proposed Shoukath and thats why we recommended him. Theres a general feeling the Leader of Oppositions body language is visibly arrogant... I dont think so. In the last term, we had adjacent seats in the assembly. This time, I was the first to openly propose him as Leader of Opposition. Do young leaders of your party have an arrogant attitude, which was earlier attributed to CPM leaders? Did any of them address anyone as edo Gopalakrishna. Did we call anyone nikrishta jeevi (a wretched creature)? What did M V Jayarajan say about a High Court judge? Did we abuse a renowned parliamentarian paranari (a scoundrel)? Congress leaders in recent times havent behaved in such a wrong manner. Didnt a young Congress MLA threaten an officer on duty saying he will be delivered a gift? There might be some context to it. In some cases, if they copy CPM leaders, they should be corrected. I dont say Congressmen are all saints. They may learn things from others. Is there something called Satheesanism in the party? Satheesan is a strong leader and a promising politician. Theres nothing called Satheesanism. Until Satheesan, Congress leaders used to have a tactical approach. Is there now a supremacy of a leader? Thats a wrong perspective. The party achieved good results under him Thrikkakara, Puthuppally, Palakkad, Nilambur and Chelakkara. He has led UDF well. Whats IUMLs contribution to Nilambur win? They had a huge contribution. League leaders and workers toiled hard. Entire UDF deserves credit for the win. Many in UDF say the sole credit goes to IUML... Who said such a thing? I give them (IUML) equal share. Several Congress and UDF leaders wanted to have P V Anvar on board. What happened? Even Satheesan didnt say Anvar shouldnt be inducted. When the Congress high command declares a candidate, and the announcement is made by the AICC president, what should a person who wants to join UDF say? If theres any difference of opinion, he should tell us and not the media. When all of you adopted a path of reconciliation, Satheesan maintained the door is closed... Theres a reason for that. Anvar never corrected his stand. Or is it because of the serious allegations Anvar raised in the assembly against Satheesan? Anvar has expressed regret for that and has withdrawn his statement. Satheesan has also said its a closed chapter. Was it an ego issue? It isnt an ego issue. Satheesan has only spoken reasonably. Anvar went on to say that Joy was sidelined as he didnt have a godfather. What godfather? Havent I been offered a ticket thrice? Was that because of any godfather? On the counting day, you said the door has not been closed for Anvar That was a general statement. When it is a door, it can be operated either way... opened or shut. If it was a wall, it would be closed forever. Whats the situation now? As it is, its closed (laughs). Does that mean it can be opened? I cant predict that now. Why are you so particular it should be opened (laughs out loud)? During Sudhakarans tenure, KPCC presidents used to be the final word... But Im not the final word. Ill be making my statements in consultation with all the senior leaders. Even Antony says KPCC presidents word is final. But I know the post means responsibility, not power. We have seen Satheesan and former KPCC president Sudhakaran fighting for the mic during a press conference That isnt happening now (laughs). A joke doing the rounds was that one criteria for KPCC president is that he shouldnt fight with Satheesan for the mic... (Laughs out) What were the circumstances under which Sudhakaran was removed? It was the high commands decision. Thats a closed chapter. Why should I reopen past episodes (laughs)? Sudhakaran has been elevated to CWC. Sudhakaran himself has said a CWC berth is no big deal It is a big deal (laughs). Thats a bigger post. Usually, high profile leaders are chosen as KPCC chief. You, however, maintain a relatively low profile... I have myself checked with a few who suggested my name, whether Im fit for the job. I asked Vishnu (P C Vishnunadh) who sits next to me (in the assembly). I suggested Rojis (Roji M John) name, but he in turn proposed my name. When I asked Vishnu, he said a person like me was the need of the hour. What was the primary mandate the AICC leadership gave you? To prepare for the 2026 (assembly) polls and take the party forward unitedly. I told Rahulji that our new team has garnered wide acceptance... not my merit, but that of the entire team. For 2026, LDF has a leader to project. Who does UDF project as its leader? The LDF leadership is in a state of confusion. Is Pinarayi contesting next time? M A Baby (CPM general secretary) has said Pinarayi will lead the campaign... It isnt about leading the campaign. Is Pinarayi contesting? LDF has a tall leader in Pinarayi. But in Congress we see four-five leaders... Congress is rich in leadership. We have many strong leaders. When Oommen Chandy contested, didnt Chennithala and Satheesan also contest? But everyone knew OC would be the CM Even then, the high command had approached us for our view after the elections. Is Shashi Tharoor among the leaders you have mentioned? As it is, he is there. Is there a chance he may not figure in the list? That possibility exists for everyone. The elections are just six to seven months away. Will he still be considered? Tharoor is both a national leader and an internationally recognised figure. The high command decides the parliamentary party leader after taking into account MLAs views. That has been the practice whether it was K Karunakaran, Antony, Chandy, or later when Chennithala and Satheesan became Opposition Leaders. Does that mean it isnt mandatory for Satheesan, being Leader of Opposition, to become chief minister? Theres no such guarantee. He may or may not become (CM). That depends on the partys decision. Theres a strong public perception that Tharoor is a great leader. Why hasnt the party been able to fully utilise someone like him? He was made Union minister twice and is part of the CWC. He also chairs important parliamentary committees. The party has certainly given him significant responsibilities. The question isnt about positions, but his role in campaigning. Isnt he one of the best faces the party has? Thats precisely why he was included in the list of star campaigners in Nilambur. But Tharoors office said they werent informed about this... We all know he was out of the country at the time. But he was in the state for two days... Someone visiting for just two days can have a packed schedule. Isnt Tharoor the biggest crowd-puller for the party? I disagree with that superlative. He is certainly a crowd-puller, but not the biggest. Priyanka Gandhi too came for campaigning. At least, among leaders from Kerala? Still, I wouldnt call him the biggest. But yes, he does draw crowds. CPM was earlier seen as anti-development and now they appear pro-development, while Congress seems to have taken over the anti-development space Thats a flawed premise. Congress has always stood for development, even while in the opposition. It was LDF that opposed key projects like GAIL pipeline and metro rail. In the case of Vizhinjam port, they werent satisfied even with a vigilance probe and went ahead with a judicial inquiry. But the LDF government implemented those very projects That is just their wrong claim. Congress has consistently maintained a pro-development stand. Satheesan had declared he wouldnt allow the Vizhinjam project to happen... Thats simply not true. Whose baby is Vizhinjam? You need to check. Who finalised the agreement and started work? Who ensured environmental clearance for the project? As per the agreement, this project shouldve been completed long back. Has any work been completed on time in Kerala? During the tenure of the previous UDF government, the national highways office was closed down in Kerala Why did it happen? The Oommen Chandy government had initiated the NH development project. It was the Marxist party that created obstacles in land acquisition. What was their stand on the Kannur airport issue? On the day the first aircraft landed there, the then LDF convener E P Jayarajan staged a protest, seeking to extend the length of the runway. He won from the constituency where this airport is located, and became a minister. Was something done? The length has still not been increased. But shouldnt a government overcome such protests? Yes. Weve done that. Thats how major development projects like metro rail, airport, and Vizhinjam were brought in. You all know how CPM opposed the Kochi airport project. The Chandy government had once decided to develop NH stretches with a width of 30m , while the then Opposition CPM demanded 45m. It was a collective demand that came up at an all-party meeting. Since land acquisition in Kerala is difficult, the all-party meeting demanded to reduce the NH width. CPM too demanded the same. Pinarayi had publicly demanded a 45m wide NH. Shouldnt you speak factually? Yes, I was stating facts. Will the KPCC president contest the next election? Thats for the party to decide. Will sitting MPs contest in the assembly polls? That too is for the party to decide. During the bypoll, the party got into several controversies because of new MLA Rahul Mamkootathil... Though the media highlighted certain things, there were no issues that harmed the party. Leader of Opposition had claimed Rahul would be admonished... I wont use the word admonish. Rahul himself rectified his stand and admitted there were certain lapses on his part. So, individuals like Rahul enjoy certain privileges in the party... It isnt a privilege... Id say a certain consideration. You mean the consideration that hes Satheesans close confidant? Hes a close confidant of all of us, including me (smiles). If elected to power, will UDF conduct a caste census? We havent thought about it. Those are things we will discuss later. The party had also spoken about introducing a Faith Protection Legislation in 2021... We need to think about it. Such a matter hasnt come before me. How do you assess the Chief Minister? The CM is autocratic in his approach. Even within the assembly, whats his approach towards the Opposition? Has any CM behaved like this in the past? Does he conduct press conferences, does he respond to your questions? He has been holding press conferences... But nobody asks questions... maybe they ask as he gets up to leave. We havent heard anyone ask questions. Can we expect a more assertive KPCC president in future? (Smiles) That depends (on various factors). I wont speak about myself. Any plans to exercise power? I will never be a KPCC president who imposes authority. Ill be a KPCC president who seeks everybodys cooperation... a chief who discharges responsibilities. But I have my own opinions.
Five-year-old boy dies of suspected rabies in Kannur despite vaccination
Abortions in Kerala rise 76% over nine years
KOLLAM: Kerala has recorded an over 76% jump in abortion cases over a nine-year period, given the improved access to reproductive healthcare, according to data with the Health Management Information System (HMIS) portal. The state reported 30,037 abortions in 2023-24, compared to 17,025 in 2014-15, marking a 76.43% increase. In the latest period, 21,282 abortions were conducted in private hospitals, while government hospitals accounted for only 8,755 cases, indicating a growing reliance on private healthcare facilities. The data includes both spontaneous and induced abortions. In 2023-24, the state reported 20,179 induced abortions and 9,858 spontaneous abortions. In 2014-15, abortion procedures were almost evenly split between public and private hospitals, with 8,324 and 8,701 cases respectively. However, since 2015-16, private hospitals have consistently recorded a higher share of cases. From 2015-16 to 2024-25, Kerala reported a total of 1,97,782 abortion cases, of which only 67,004 were in government hospitals. Private hospitals accounted for 1,30,778 cases during this period. The report also noted a steady rise in induced abortions over the period under under review, reflecting better access to reproductive healthcare. Health experts, however, express concern over the increasing dependence on private hospitals and stress the need to strengthen the public health sector. Speaking to TNIE, Dr Leema, senior gynaecologist at the Women and Children Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram, said more patients now prefer private institutions due to better facilities and enhanced privacy. Medical termination of pregnancy (MTP) is a high-risk procedure, said Leema. It is high time govt invested in better infra Under the MTP (Amendment) Act, 2021, the permissible abortion limit has been extended from 20 to 24 weeks. Most women seeking abortions today are aware of their rights. They trust private hospitals for better operational care, post-procedure support, and, importantly, privacy something often lacking in government institutions. Women today dont want to take risks with their lives and naturally lean towards private care, she said. Dr Pandu R, senior gynaecologist at Kannur MCH, said it is high time the government invested in better infrastructure to regain public trust. Government hospitals are usually overcrowded, making patients uncomfortable. Bureaucratic hurdles, such as the demand for a marriage certificate for abortion services, further discourage women. Such requirements are rare in private institutions. Reforms and infrastructure improvements are essential if we want people to depend on public healthcare, he said. Social scientists note that the rise in induced abortions is a sign of increased womens empowerment. However, they caution that awareness about contraception and reproductive health needs to improve to prevent unwanted pregnancies. The increase in induced abortions is an indication that women are increasingly gaining control over their bodies. However, the rising rate also highlights gaps in awareness about contraception, said Amrutha Rinu Abraham, senior faculty member at the department of sociology, CMS College, Kottayam. Pvt hosps preferred 30,037 abortions in state in 2023-24, compared to 17,025 in 2014-15 21,282 abortions were conducted in private hospitals in 2023-24, while government hospitals accounted for only 8,755 cases
Kannur University Result 2025: Kannur University Result 2025 has been released on kannuruniversity.ac.in. Here is the direct Link to check your B.A, B.Com and BBA 2nd and 5th Semester Results Online.
Missing teens body found near Muzhappilangad beachin Keralas Kannur
Doctor in Kannur duped of over 4 crore by cyber fraudsters
Toddy worker killed in lighting strike at Aralam in Keralas Kannur
Deceased identified as Rajeev (54), a resident of Block 1 in rehabilitation area of Aralam farm
Kerala rains: IMD issues red alert for three districts as monsoon intensifies
Seven districts Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Kozhikode and Kannur put on orange alert on Thursday
Teen missing after being swept away by waves at Ezhara Parappally beach in Keralas Kannur
Incident occurred when a group of four youths were spending time on the beach, two of whom were caught in the rough seas
Public awareness committees reconstituted to mitigate human-wildlife conflict in Kannur
Deshabhimani journalist Ragesh Kayalur succumbs to injuries after road accident in Kannur
Accident occurred late Sunday night while Ragesh was returning home after duty. He was hit by a lorry on Mattannur-Irrity road
Rail users say long-pending passenger demands are being ignored
West Asia tensions disrupt flights from Kannur airport in Kerala, Gulf-bound passengers hit
Passengers are advised to check the latest status of their flights with their respective airlines before proceeding to the airport, says Kannur International Airport Limited
Anti-drug day programmes to be held at Kannur Central Jail
Stray dog menace: three shelter homes to be set up in Kannur
Decision follows concern after a spate of dog bite incidents reported in the district. To prevent a potential rabies outbreak, stray dogs within the city limits will be captured, vaccinated, and relocated to the shelters
Woman arrested for assaulting niece, pushing police officer in Keralas Kannur
According to police, officers were dispatched to the house after receiving a complaint that the accused was attacking her mother and sister
Four attacked by jackal in Kannur
Stray dog menace in Kannur: BJP to launch protest
Kannur varsity professor held on charge of raping student
Five-year-old battles rabies in Keralas Kannur; jackal attack adds to scare
The boy sustained bites on eye and leg. Though he was vaccinated immediately, doctors said facial wounds allowed virus to reach brain
Nine-year-old boy drowns in Kakkad river in Kannur
22 more bitten by stray dogs in Kannur, protest erupts at Corporation council meet
A day ago, 51 people were bitten, sparking fear among people. Among the injured are elderly people, students, and a differently abled youth.
Kerala weather: Intensity of rains to decrease, schools to remain shut in some districts
Heavy rains caused widespread destruction in Kerala. Many families were moved to relief camps. People protested against waterlogging in Kannamaly. Coastal areas faced high tidal waves. Schools in Kuttanad were closed due to waterlogging. Relief camps were set up in Kottayam and Thrissur. Waterlogging and mudslides were reported in Kannur and Kasaragod districts.
Incessant rain wreaks havoc in Kannur
Stray dog that bit over 50 people in Kannur found dead
Over 20 injured in stray dog attack in Kannur
Body washes ashore at Arthunkal
The body is suspected to be one of the missing crew members from the cargo ship which caught fire at sea off Kannur coast on June 9
Heavy rains disrupted life in Kerala. Northern districts like Kannur and Kasaragod faced severe flooding. Residents were evacuated to relief camps. Rivers overflowed, and roadways were submerged. Train services were delayed across the state. The India Meteorological Department issued warnings for continued showers and gusty winds. The southwest monsoon remains vigorous over Kerala and Lakshadweep.
Authorities remain on high alert as water levels at Manjeswaram, Puthige, Madhur, and Uppala river gauge stations crossed danger marks on Monday morning
Youth drowns in Kannur; red alert issued in two districts
Holiday declared for all educational institutions in Kannur and Kasaragod
Rain relentless in Kerala, holiday declared for educational institutions in nine districts on Monday
Kasaragod, Kannur, Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Malappuram on red alert on Monday. Mining operations banned in Kottayam till June 17
Heavy rainfall caused widespread disruption in Kerala, leading to uprooted trees, mudslides, and flooding. Kannur declared a holiday for educational institutions due to a Red Alert from the IMD. Several incidents of property damage were reported, and authorities issued warnings due to rising water levels at the Neyyar Dam, urging residents near the river to stay alert.
Monsoon rainfall set to intensify over Kerala
Red alert issued for Kannur and Kasaragod on Saturday, orange alert in nine districts
Heavy Rain Alert: In response to an IMD warning of heavy rainfall, the District Collector in Kannur has declared holidays for all educational institutions on June 14 and 15. The IMD forecasts widespread rain across Kerala for the next five days, advising fishermen to avoid the sea.
NH development destroying Kannur wetlands, says fact-finding panel
The teams report is on the secondphase of its study from the Taliparamba bus stand. It accused National Highways Authority of India of failing to account for the destruction of tens of thousands of mangrove trees
Passenger associations tell Railways the addition should not affect the tight timetable of either the Panchaganga or the Kannur Express
Kannur University Senators Forum submits formal petition to Vice Chancellor, demanding uniform application of rule
Inspired By Goa's 'Feni', Kerala Can Soon Say Cheers With Native Cashew Liquor
This native alcoholic beverage from Kerala's Kannur district will be distilled from fresh cashews in the district and is set to make its debut in January 2026
Kannur University withdraws controversial anti-national monitoring committee order
Move after opposition from syndicate members and SFIs protest
HC asks govt. to take decision on plea to appoint special public prosecutor in Shuhaib case
State government asked to take a decision within six weeks. Shuhaib, a Youth Congress leader from Kannur, was hacked to death
Two held with suspected drugs and weapons in Kannur
IMD issues alert for heavy rainfall in 4 Kerala districts, fishermen advised caution
Thiruvananthapuram: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert on Sunday for heavy rainfall in four districts of Kerala, warning residents and authorities to remain vigilant. According to the IMD bulletin, the districts of Kasaragod, Kannur, Ernakulam, and Alappuzha are likely to receive heavy rainfall ranging from 7 cm to 11 cm. The rest Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Small IndiGo flights to now depart from Chennai airports Terminal 4
For nearly two months from June 1, the departure operations of ATR flights of IndiGo will be shifted to T4, as per AAI; this means, passengers to places such as Salem, Kozhikode, Mangaluru and Kannur, via IndiGos ATR flights must board at T4
Flooding near Kannur University forces evacuations; relief efforts under way
Kerala rains wreak havoc: Homes flooded, trees uprooted, red alert in 9 districts
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Houses in low lying areas of Kerala were flooded in the heavy rains, while the accompanying strong winds uprooted trees, damaged homes and caused power disruptions, throwing normal way of life into disarray across the state. In Thrissur, Kannur and Kasaragod districts, there were reports of several homes getting flooded due to the heavy rains, forcing people to move to relief camps. Not just homes, but many roads in these districts and other parts of the state were inundated due to the heavy rains. In Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki districts, the heavy rains and strong winds uprooted trees and damaged electricity poles and transformers, leading to partial and complete destruction of hundreds of homes and power disruptions for hours, according to the authorities. It will be a holiday for educational institutions in Kottayam district on Saturday, district authorities said. In Kollam, uprooted trees and falling branches, due to the rains and strong winds, caused damage to several homes and private vehicles in the district and a few persons were reportedly injured. An 85-year-old woman, who worked as an MGNREGA worker in Ernakulam district, died when an uprooted tree fell on top of her while returning home on Thursday evening. The Ernakulam district authorities also reported a rise in the water level of the Muvattupuzha River above the flood warning markers, leading to the opening of three shutters of the Malankara Dam by 20 centimetres (cm). Train services were also affected with some, including the Mangaluru-Thiruvananthapuram Vande Bharat Expres, being diverted due to fallen trees on the tracks, while others were rescheduled or delayed due to the heavy rains, authorities said. Amidst the widespread damage in the state due to the heavy rains and strong winds, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert in Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Kannur and Kasaragod and an orange alert in the remaining six districts of the state for the day. A red alert by IMD indicates heavy to extremely heavy rain of over 20 cm in 24 hours, while an orange alert means very heavy rain of 11 cm to 20 cm, and a yellow alert means heavy rainfall between 6 cm and 11 cm. State Revenue Minister K Rajan said that the heavy rains have caused widespread damage in the state and advised people to be cautious. Speaking to reporters at a press conference in Thrissur, Rajan further said that as the westerly winds are expected to continue over Kerala for the next five days and due to the possibility of widespread rainfall, caution should be exercised by everyone. He advised the public to avoid unnecessary trips, especially to hilly areas and said that those living in dangerous places should move to safer locations or relief camps. Rajan said there are 66 camps functioning in the state currently and 1,894 people are living there. Around 4,000 camps are ready to be opened to accommodate about six lakh people. The public should not be averse to moving there, he added. He also said that hundreds of homes in the state have been partially or completely destroyed due to the heavy rains and strong winds since the arrival of the monsoons. The minister said according to the IMD there is a possibility of heavy rains in all districts of the state in the week from May 30 to June 5 and the amount of rainfall would be more than usual for this period. In the second week of June also there will be rain in all districts of the state, but it will be less than normal for this period, the minister said. The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) said that there is a possibility of high waves ranging from 3 to 3.9 meters along the Kerala coast till 5.30 pm on Saturday and urged fishermen and coastal residents to be cautious and avoid launching of small boats, yachts or fishing vessels during this time. Meanwhile, the state government said that it has sanctioned Rs one crore each to all District Collectors from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for carrying out monsoon preparedness activities. Additionally, Rs two crore each has been sanctioned to the Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode District Disaster Management Authorities for undertaking flood mitigation works in the cities, the government said. The government said that it has also sanctioned Rs one lakh to each panchayat, Rs 3 lakh to each municipality and Rs 5 lakh to each corporation in the state to buy necessary equipment and open storage centres as part of monsoon preparedness activities.
Southwest monsoon rainfall continues to lash Kerala
Three districts Kasaragod, Kannur and Idukki are on red alert, while the 11 remaining districts are on orange alert
Heavy rains batter Kerala overnight, cause widespread havoc and power outages
IMD says severe weather set to continue with low-pressure area over Bay of Bengal intensifying.It has issued a red alert for Idukki, Kannur and Kasaragod districts
Weather News Today Live: IMD Issues 'Yellow' Alert For Mumbai, Pune
The IMD has issued a red alert in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod districts for the day and an orange alert in the remaining six districts.
The collapse of the newly built National Highway 66 at Malappuram and the deep fissures that were developed on the road stretches in Thrissur, Kozhikode and Kannur districts have caught the State and the Union governments off guard. As questions are being raised about public safety and the technical feasibility of the ambitious road projects in the State, Abdul Latheef Naha hits the road to weigh up the situation
Heavy rain, windstorm cause widespread damage in Kannur
Rain, gusty wind inflict heavy damage on Kerala
Youth dies after tree falls on a parked car in Kumily; several areas in Kuttanad inundated prompting emergency evacuations; IMD issues red alert for Idukki, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts
IMD Issues Red Alert for 3 Kerala Districts, Orange Alert for 11 on May 30
Holiday declared for educational institutions in Kannur, Ernakulam, Kasargod, Kottayam, Thrissur, Idukki and Wayanad districts on Friday
KSEB reports loss of over 8 crore in Kannur
A total of 616 electricity posts were destroyed, and line wires snapped at 1,953 locations
Shortage of doctors hits Peravoor taluk hospital in Kannur; KGMOA stages protest
The only gynaecologist is forced to work round the clock, and the services of the night emergency department have been suspended due to staff crunch, alleges KGMOA
Crop loss worth 4.44 crore in Kannur district as monsoon wreaks havoc
