Suspected drug peddler attacks cops in Kozhikode

Elderly man stabbed to death in Kozhikode; son in police custody

Proposed buffer zone around Peruvannamuzhi reservoir triggers protests in Kozhikode

Peoples vigilance committees to monitor drug hotspots in Kozhikode

Centre favourable towards AIIMS in Kerala: Prof K V Thomas

KOCHI: Delhis Special Representative for Kerala, Prof K V Thomas, has held discussions with the central government regarding the demand for AIIMS in Kerala and has secured a favourable response. He met with Ankita Mishra Bundela, senior secretary in charge of AIIMS at the Union Ministry of Health in Delhi onMarch 24 for the discussions. Kerala House's additional resident commissioner Chetan Kumar Meena was also present. One of the four new AIIMS institutions to be sanctioned by the Centre is expected to be allocated to Kerala. The state government has proposed Kozhikode as the location for the institute,a statement by Prof Thomas said here. Before final approval, a team from the Union Health Ministry will visit the proposed site to assess infrastructure availability, road, rail, and air connectivity, as well as proximity to national highways. The team is expected to visit the location soon after the ongoing Parliament session, according to the Senior Secretary. The Union Health Ministry has also expressed interest in discussions with the Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan regarding AIIMS. Additionally, ProfThomas stated that central funding has been secured for the Sree Chitra Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, along with the upgradation of three medical colleges. The colleges in Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, and Kozhikode will receive financial assistance from the central government,he stated.

Govt trying to undermine Christians in Kerala, alleges Thamarassery diocese

KOZHIKODE: Launching a scathing attack on the state government, the Thamarassery diocese of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church has accused it of marginalising the Christian community and failing to address critical issues faced by members. In a strongly worded pastoral letter released ahead of a major rights declaration rally scheduled for April 5 at the Muthalakulam ground, the diocese outlined a series of grievances and alleged systemic neglect by authorities. The letter lists ten key issues that the diocese said represent an ongoing crisis within the Christian community. Chief among the concerns is the allegation that the government is deliberately attempting to undermine and weaken the Christian community in the state. A major point of contention is the delay in releasing the findings of the J B Koshy Commission, which was commissioned in 2023 to study the socio-economic challenges faced by the Christian community. The diocese accused the government of deliberately withholding the report to avoid addressing the concerns highlighted in it. The pastoral letter further criticised the governments approach to minority scholarships, stating that eligible Christian students are being unfairly denied access to these benefits. The diocese also expressed discontent with the states handling of the worsening human-wildlife conflict. It argued that the government has failed to adopt scientific measures to mitigate wildlife attacks, leaving farmers vulnerable and without adequate compensation or support. The pastoral letter, seen as a prelude to the upcoming rally, signals growing discontent within the community and is expected to intensify discussions on minority rights and government accountability in the lead-up to the event. Responding to the charges, Forest Minister A K Saseendran criticised what he described as the selective stance of the diocese. The diocese is conspicuously silent on the role of the central government, which has been marginalising minorities on a national scale, the minister said. They have not uttered a word against the central government, which is systematically ignoring minority rights across the country. Their silence towards the Centre, while targeting the state, reveals where they stand, Saseendran said. Elaborating on the the human-wildlife conflict in the state, Saseendran defended his governments efforts, pointing out that Kerala is the only state to implement a scheme that ensures compensation within 48 hours of attacks. He also highlighted that the government has increased compensation rates and implemented preventive measures in affected regions. The diocese is conveniently ignoring the fact that Kerala has been more proactive than most states in handling the issue. We have strengthened forest patrols, created barriers, and released funds for compensation, but challenges remain due to the ecological complexities of the Western Ghats, the minister said.

Alert against vector-borne diseases in Kozhikode in view of summer showers

5-month-old under care of Kerala Child Welfare Council dies of breathing issues

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A five-month-old baby, that was under the care of Kerala State Council for Child Welfare (KSCCW), died at SAT Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday morning. On experiencing respiratory issues, the baby was rushed to the hospital for medical care but couldnt be saved. KSCCW general secretary G L Arun Gopi said that the baby had been sick and underwent treatment for the two weeks at SAT Hospital. He had got discharged only a week ago and was kept under special care at the council. This morning, the baby had a cough and experienced a breathing issue. He was immediately taken to SAT and initially kept under observation. However, the issue worsened, following which he was declared dead, said Arun, adding that the exact cause of death can be found only after postmortem examination. This is the second infant death being reported at the Ammathottil this month. Earlier on March 1, a two-month-old baby died because of suspected aspiration. We are yet to get the postmortem report of the baby, said Arun. The Child Council has Ammathottil facilities at Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, Ernakulam Malappuram, Palakkad, Kozhikode, Kasaragod and Kannur. Most of the babies we welcome have weak immunity because of lack of care and breast-feeding. We have a total of 91 caregivers at our facility to take care of the children, said Arun.

Kerala's Bevco explores ad route to generate revenue

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Advertising is more effective when people are relaxed because they are then more likely to believe what ads say, ad gurus aver. If that is true, potential advertisers in Kerala will soon get a mega avenue to advertise their products, where around two lakh people head to every day, looking to lift their dopamine levels. The Kerala State Beverages Corporation (Bevco), the state-run monopoly in retail liquor sales, is planning to offer advertisers two options to canvas its customers. One is to publish advertisements on the reverse side of the invoice given to customers at retail outlets. Second is to install LED display walls at outlets. Bevco has already invited expressions of interest (EoI) from agencies and companies interested in advertising on invoices. The bids will be scrutinised and the winners selected by April. We have 282 outlets statewide. Together, they generate around 60 lakh invoices a month. The advertisement revenue will help us cover the billing cost or even more, Bevcos chairman and managing director Harshita Attaluri told TNIE. The invoice is printed on 55 GSM single-colour thermal paper and its reverse side is offered to advertisers. Certain types of advertisements, like those of liquor or other undesirable goods and services, will not be permitted, Attaluri said. The corporation is devising the conditions and deliverables for the second option of installing LED display walls at retail outlets. The project is in a nascent stage. There will be certain conditions, like free display of corporations communication materials including statutory warnings and information for customers. It will be launched at outlets where sufficient space is available, she said. Super premium outlets Bevcos first super premium outlet, modelled on duty-free shops at airports, will come up at Manorama Junction, Thrissur, next month. Others to be launched in the first phase are at Vyttila and Vadakkekotta Metro Station in Ernakulam and Gokulam Mall in Kozhikode. The shops will offer a world class buying experience. Our aim is to open at least one shop in every district, the Bevco CMD said.

Shop staffer assaults boy for trying on too many clothes in Kozhikode

KOZHIKODE: Police have booked the employee of a textile shop in Thottilpalam, Kozhikode, who on Friday allegedly assaulted a 12-year-old boy seeking to exchange a shirt purchased from the same outlet. According to Thottilpalam police, Ashwanth, 30, was provoked when the boy tried on different clothes and was still undecided. In a complaint, the boy said he was strangled, shoved and beaten up by the staffer. The boy, who suffered injuries to the face, later sought treatment at Kuttiady taluk hospital. Ashwanth was booked under sections 126(2),115(2) of the BNS. The boy and his parents had purchased a shirt from the shop on Thursday. A day later, the boy returned with his mother to exchange the piece of clothing, which they said did not fit. Following the alleged assault, there was a verbal argument between the mother and the employee. CCTV footage of the attack has surfaced on social media. It shows the child being grabbed by the neck and pushed to an isolated area of the shop. Police officers said that they are conducting a through investigation.

Kerala de-addiction centres see massive influx

KOZHIKODE: Vineetha, a resident of Kurudimukku near Koyilandy, would never have imagined a day when she would send her son away to a de-addiction centre. Her voice trembles as she recounts the heartache of watching her 21-year-old son, once a bright and loving boy, fall into the clutches of drug addiction. We pleaded with him, tried everything, but when he started threatening to kill me and others in our family, I knew it was life or death, she says, holding back tears. I had no choice but to contact a de-addiction centre, she says. Vineethas grief is echoing across Kerala. Parents, overwhelmed by fear and desperation, are turning to rehabilitation centres in huge numbers as drug abuse especially of synthetic substances spirals out of control among the states youth. The de-addiction centres in Kozhikode, Kannur, Wayanad and Ernakulam are stretched to their limits. We are running at full capacity, and even have waiting lists now, says Dr Ramesh Pillai, senior psychiatrist at Jeevan De-addiction Centre in Wayanad. Amid threats, woman hands over drug-addict son to police in Kerala According to data with Vimukthi, the de-addiction programme of state excise department, the first two months of 2025 witnessed a staggering 11,174 in-patient cases. Pathanamthitta recorded the highest number of admissions with 1,446 cases, while Kannur had the lowest (183). The out-patient figures were even more shocking 1,38,635 in two months. The most alarming figure, however, is the increasing number of addicts below the age of 18. In the first two months of 2025, 588 minors were sent to rehab centres, a sharp increase from previous years. Psychiatrists call for timely intervention In 2021, 681 minors were admitted to rehabilitation centres, while the figures increased to 1,238 in 2022, and 2,885 cases in 2024. Its an alarming situation. We used to mainly treat people who are in their late twenties and above. But today, were flooded with young adults between 16 and 22 years, says Dr Ramesh Pillai. Wayanad is home to around 15 rehabilitation centres and calls from frantic parents pour in daily. We can only accommodate 50 inmates at a time because we prioritise specialised care, adds Dr Pillai. Joint Excise Commissioner Pradeep V A attributes this surge in admissions to a shift in parental attitude and increased cooperation from educational institutions. Parents are panicking and bringing their children in much earlier, Pradeep tells TNIE.Schools and colleges, which once concealed such issues, are now actively tipping us off. The ganja seizure at Kalamassery Polytechnic is just one example of how deeply this issue has penetrated educational spaces, he says. In the first two months of 2025, Vimukthis counselling centres in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam and Kozhikode received 4,581 direct cases, and its helpline handled over 18,698 calls three times more cases than same period last year. 251 individuals involved in drug peddling arrested in Kerala's Operation D-Hunt Health experts say the rising drug abuse cases is a symptom of a larger social crisis. When I started my career, alcohol was the main issue, says Dr Arun B Nair, professor of Psychiatry at the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College. Post-Covid, weve seen a sharp rise in synthetic drug abuse. Many of these youngsters are unemployed and socially disconnected. Lack of empathy, patience, and human connection has left them vulnerable. Instant gratification is the new norm when desires arent met, they turn impulsive and reckless, says Dr Arun. Psychiatrists warn that without timely intervention, this generation risks facing severe psychological disorders, criminal tendencies, and irreversible physical health damage. We are no longer dealing with just addiction. We are battling a growing emotional and social disconnect, he says. Meanwhile, parents like Vineetha are left hoping for a miracle. I just want my son to come back home healthy and whole, she says. No mother should have to choose between saving her child and protecting her family, she says. Alarmed by the escalating crisis, the state government has announced plans to expand de-addiction infrastructure and intensify awareness campaigns targeting both parents and the youth through the Vimukthi mission.

Drug peddler hospitalised after swallowing MDMA

It was the second such incident in two weeks from Thamarassery in Kozhikode district

21-year-old student jumps to death from college building in Bengaluru

BENGALURU: A 21-year-old Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) student ended her life by jumping from the fourth floor of a private engineering college building in Soladevanahalli police station limits on Friday afternoon. The deceased has been identified as Laxmi Mitra, a native of Kozhikode in Kerala. She was a sixth-semester BCA (Aviation) student at the private engineering college. Sources said that, around 1.30 pm, Laxmi took the extreme step by jumping from the fourth floor of the college. The college staff rushed her to a nearby hospital, but doctors declared her brought dead. No suicide note was found, and the reason for her extreme step is yet to be ascertained. The police are yet to register a complaint, as they are awaiting the arrival of the victims parents in the city.

Kerala to ink MoU with Cuba on healthcare, research

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government has strengthened its healthcare and medical research collaboration with Cuba following discussions held in New Delhi. Health Minister Veena George met with Cuban First Deputy Health Minister Tania Margarita Cruz Hernndez and a Cuban delegation on Thursday to advance the partnership. According to Veena, the collaboration is set to bring significant advancements to the states health sector. Cuban expertise in research will be integrated with the approval of the Centre, ICMR, and DCGA. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) in this regard is expected to be signed by April. The decision to partner with Cubas research sector in four key health areas was made after Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayans visit to the country in 2023. The collaboration will focus on developing a triple-negative breast cancer vaccine, a lung cancer vaccine, treatment for diabetic foot ulcers, a dengue vaccine, and therapies for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimers. The Institute of Advanced Virology in Thonnakkal, Thiruvanathapuram, will lead the vaccine development using Cuban technology. Research on cancer will be conducted in collaboration with Malabar Cancer Centre, diabetic foot treatment with Thrissur and Kozhikode Medical Colleges, and Alzheimers treatment with Thiruvananthapuram Medical College.

Trains, courier services now key routes for narcotics smuggling in Kerala

KOZHIKODE: A recent joint analysis by the states excise and police departments has raised serious concerns over the sharp rise in drug trafficking via trains and courier services, which are now being identified as primary conduits for smuggling narcotics into the state. Data reveals that drug seizures on trains have shot up dramatically this year. In 2024, authorities seized 559 kg of narcotics worth approximately Rs 2.85 crore from trains operating within Kerala. However, in just the first two months of 2025, 421 kg of drugs valued at Rs 2.16 crore were intercepted, signalling a worrying trend. This surge is unprecedented, a senior officer with the Railway Protection Force (RPF) said. Nearly 75% of the amount of narcotics seized in the whole of 2024 was confiscated in just January and February of this year. We have arrested 31 individuals acting as carriers, and investigations suggest a well-coordinated network operating across state lines. The figures currently available pertain solely to the Thiruvananthapuram railway division, hinting at the possibility of even larger trafficking operations across other divisions in the state. Police invoke SAFEMA against drug peddler in Kerala, confiscate assets Kerala police zoom in on 25 dark web drug traffickers According to Navin Prasath, assistant security commissioner, RPF, As the illegal transportation of drugs and narcotic substances through trains is on the rise, RPF Palakkad division has formulated a multi-layered enforcement plan in collaboration with government railway police (GRP), excise and local police. Surveillance cameras have been installed at key railway stations in the division and are being monitored 24x7. The vulnerability of trains is being analysed and frequent random luggage checks are conducted by RPF personnel in association with other law-enforcement agencies. We have procured a sniffer dog who is being trained for deployment at major railway stations and key transit points. The special squad is analysing suspicious booking of tickets by former convicts and effective intelligence sharing is being carried out between RFP, GRP, excise and local police, he added. RPF officials attribute the spike to increased vulnerability of passenger and cargo trains. Trains, due to their connectivity and high volume of passengers, have become soft targets of smugglers. We have intensified checks, deployed additional personnel, and are using sniffer dogs and surveillance technologies to stem the flow, the officer added. Excise officials expressed similar concern over courier services especially unregulated and illegal operators who function beyond the purview of existing transport laws being exploited by drug syndicates. In January and February alone, over 50 kg of ganja smuggled through courier services were seized following tip-offs. Amid threats, woman hands over drug-addict son to police in Kerala

Alleged drug trafficking: action sought against unregistered wayside shops in Kozhikode

Police urged to conduct inspections in suspected shops reportedly frequented by drug pushers to expand their network

Man suspected of involvement in drug trafficking cases arrested in Kozhikode

Kozhikode Corporation launches sports academy

Corporation Academy for Sports Kozhikode aims to nurture physical, mental well being of the citizens, irrespective of age or gender

Murders surge as drug mafia grips Thamarassery in Kerala's Kozhikode district

KOZHIKODE: The people of Thamarassery, still reeling from the murder of Subaida, who was hacked to death by her drug-addict son Ashiq at Adivaram, have now witnessed yet another brutal crime. On Tuesday evening, 26-year-old Yasir, reportedly addicted to alcohol and drugs, hacked his 23-year-old wife, Shibila, to death in front of their three-year-old daughter at Kakkad, following a family dispute. The incident has left the local residents and families in shock. Adding to the concern, Yasir and Ashiq were friends, raising suspicions of their ties to the drug mafia. A photo of them together has surfaced on social media. It's as if a curse has fallen on Thamarassery, with drug-related violence and murders plunging our locality into grief, says Majeed, an Engapuzha resident and paternal uncle of Shibila. The police and excise officials agree that Thamarassery has become a hotspot for NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) Act cases and stress that stronger public participation is needed to curb the menace. The drug mafia's grip on Thamarassery is evident in the continuing violence. Irshad K K, a local resident, is still facing the wrath of drug gangs after intervening in a mafia-led attack against the family of Mansoor in Ambalamukku in September 2023. Mansoor had opposed the drug trade run by Ayyub Kudikkulummaram from a temporary shed near his house. In retaliation, the mafia launched an attack on his family at night. When we tried to stop them, they hacked me too. I had to undergo surgery on my hand at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital. Though some gang members were arrested, they were later released on bail and attacked my relatives house again in March 2024, Irshad said. In response to the growing crisis, panchayat leadership, residents, local organisations, Mahallu committees, and police have launched campaigns to curb drug menace. Thamarassery, Kattippara, and Puthuppady panchayats, located near the NH, provide a strategic advantage for drug dealers. The hilly areas, forests, riverbanks, and remote fields are ideal spots for drug trafficking. When teachers reported that schoolchildren were widely using drugs and even acting as drug carriers, we launched an awareness campaign. We divided the region into 10 clusters, visited houses, and even held a mass rally with the support of 15 Mahallu committees. 2.67g MDMA recovered from accident victim in Kerala Ashiq, the youth who murdered his mother, was once sent to a de-addiction centre through our intervention. As per the findings, 45 school students in Puthuppady alone were acting as drug carriers, said Abdul Majeed Haji, president of Adivaram mahallu committee. Kudikkulummaram, where the police bust the drug mafia of Ayyub, is just 3km away from Ambayathode, where the house of Aashiq is located. Ashiq, hacked his mother, Subaida, to death on January 18, leaving her with 17 stab wounds. Similarly, Shanid Saleem, 28, a drug peddler from Ambayathode , died on March 8 after swallowing packets of MDMA and ganja while fleeing from the Thamarassery police. On March 7, the police noticed Shanid, in suspicious circumstances while the officers were on patrol in Ambayathode. As soon as Shanid saw the police vehicle, he tried to run away after swallowing the packets of MDMA and ganja. The Thamarassery excise team registered 48 cases under the NDPS Act last year. Thamarassery excise range covers 11 panchayats and it is a hilly region. The bushy areas of Ambayathode, Koduvally town, the spots beneath the Manipuram bridge, Adivaram and riverbanks are some of the the hotspots identified by the Excise team. We are conducting frequent inspections, but we need stronger public participation to curb the menace. Recently, Kudumbashree units have been helping us by providing information on drug activities, said Shaji N K, CI, Thamarassery excise range. 3.4kg MDMA, 96g cocaine seized from house in Kerala

Search on for robbers who took away 40.25 lakh from parked car in Keralas Kozhikode

CCTV footage which reportedly caught the robbers in action have been recovered from crime spot

Thamarassery mosque committees take hardline approach to drug abuse

KOZHIKODE: In a powerful show of community resolve, mosque committees in Thamarassery, a usually quiet and tightly-knit region of Kozhikode district, have drawn a line: Anyone caught dealing or abusing drugs will be cast out, socially and spiritually. The move comes as the region reels from a spate of violent crimes linked to drug abuse. Two chilling murders one in which a young man, P Ashik, allegedly hacked his mother to death in Puthupady, and the other in which Yasir allegedly murdered his wife Shibila in Eengappuzha were the final straw. Both crimes, police said, were rooted in drug abuse. This is no longer just about individual cases, its about protecting the very fabric of our society. We cant allow drug culture to destroy families and community values, said a committee member who wished to remain anonymous. The initiative has begun gaining momentum across Thamarassery. Many mosques in the region have taken a proactive role in combating the growing drug menace. Islamic preachers, or Khateebs, have been addressing the issue during daily and Friday prayers. Everyday, during prayers, we hear Khateebs reminding us how addiction is tearing our youth and families apart, said a worshipper, adding, They are even visiting homes, speaking to families about the damage the drugs are causing. In 2023, the Beemapally Muslim Jamaath Committee in Thiruvananthapuram had taken an equally firm stance, banning drug offenders from the community for 10 years and imposing Rs 50,000 as fine. Even those offering legal support to the accused faced sanctions. Despite initial warnings, many members ignored the message. So, we had to escalate the penalties, said M K M Niyas, the committees general secretary. In 2022, the Padannakkad Ansarul Islam Jamaath Committee in Kasaragod had also cracked down on drug-related offences after noticing a resurgence of drug mafia. The committee expelled several members and announced that youths caught in drug-related crimes would be barred from marriage approval within the community and also denied post-burial rites. In Thamarassery, locals view the mahals latest decision as a necessary, if sombre, intervention to protect future generations. It is painful, but we cant sit idle while drugs ruin our people, said another committee member. The message is clear: The community is ready to prioritise collective well-being over individual leniency. Other mahals in the region said they too will soon be making similar announcements.

Meet the Devis

P G Deepamol, ambulance driver Lifesaver on wheels P G Deepamol made history in 2023 as Keralas first woman ambulance driver. She took up professional driving to support her family, but its also her passion. In 2021, she even completed a solo motorcycle journey from Kottayam to Ladakh. V J Joshitha, cricketer Gamechanger Hailing from a small village in Kalpetta, Wayanad, Joshithas cricketing career began early when she was selected for the Kerala Cricket Associations Krishnagiri Cricket Academy while studying in Class 6. She etched her name in history as the first woman from Kerala to be part of an India U-19 World Cup winning team this year. Team Ezha Heritage guardians Swathy Subramanian, Savita Rajan, and Ritu Sara Thomas co-founded Ezha, a heritage conservation and architectural design consultancy committed to creating sustainable, culturally rich spaces by reviving traditional knowledge systems. Their work has earned prestigious accolades, including the Unesco Asia-Pacific Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation (2023), the IIA Kerala State Golden Leaf Award, and the India Design ID Honours 2025. Usha Nangiar, Koodiyattam artist Art to heart Usha P K, better known as Usha Nangiar, is a beacon of Kerala traditional arts. Born into the Kuzhupilli Nambiar family of Mizhavu performers, she specialises in Koodiyattam and Nangiar Koothu. Trained by legends, she has spent decades performing and conducting workshops worldwide. Sheela Kochouseph, entrepreneur Sartorial queen Sheela Kochouseph founded VStar Creations in 1995, starting with ethnic wear and expanding into lifestyle apparel and innerwear. Today, the brand has a significant presence in south India and the Middle East. Sheela started the Women Entrepreneurs Network (WEN) to guide aspirants. R N Rejitha, CRMG crane operator Graceful dexterity R N Rejitha is an ace CRMG crane operator at Vizhinjam Port. She is part of a nine-member team of women managing these massive cranes for container operations a first in India. Rejitha is a powerful example of empowerment in the maritime industry. Sister Roselin Chirayil, founder of Snehatheeram Poornima Indrajith, actor & designer Creative couturier A prominent name in the film industry, Poornima Indrajith ventured into fashion in 2013 with the launch of her couture label Pranaah. Passionate about reviving Kerala handlooms, she blends tradition with modernity. One of her handloom creations stole the spotlight at the recent Oscars. Sreekumari Ramachandran, author Write angle Sreekumari Ramachandran is a bilingual writer with an repertoire of 40 books on diverse subjects. She gained wide recognition for her English translation of Aithihyamala. She has worked with Sangeetha Nataka Akademi, and heads the Kerala Chapter of Indian Society of Authors. Latha K, chef Culinary celebrity Hailing from a small village in Kozhikode, Latha Ks culinary journey is as remarkable as her flavours. A hotel management graduate, she honed her skills in top restaurants across India and beyond. Now, as master chef at Malabar Cafe, Grand Hyatt Kochi, she preserves and elevates Kerala culinary traditions. Maya Mohan, educator Teaching right Maya Mohan is a distinguished educator and recipient of the National Award for Best Teacher. In 2016, she founded Tattwa Centre of Learning, Kochi, a micro-school dedicated to personalised education and skill development. Earlier, she served as principal of Chinmaya Vidyalaya, Vaduthala. V P Suhara, social activist and writer Champion of justice V P Suhara has dedicated nearly five decades fighting for womens rights, especially Muslim womens empowerment in Kerala. She founded NISA in 1997, advocating gender justice. As a writer, Suhara provides a voice for countless women facing systemic oppression. Sister Roselin Chirayil, founder of Snehatheeram Angel of mercy Moved by the suffering of the mentally ill while working in mental health centres and Thiruvananthapuram Medical College, Sister Roselin founded Snehatheeram Charitable Society in 2002. The organisation rehabilitates individuals by offering a home, medical care, and compassion. Sudhamma Chandran, forest guide Bridging worlds Sudhamma Chandran arrived in Thattekad as a young bride, fearful of the dense forest surrounding her new home. Now, 54 years later, she leads visitors into the same wilderness. A cancer survivor and widow, Sudhamma won the Sanctuary Wildlife Service Award in 2023.

South Indian women bodybuilders flex in London-based Keerthana Kunnaths award-winning photographs

The photographer, originally from Kozhikode, Kerala, has won the International Photography Exhibition Awards by the Royal Photographic Society in the Under 30s category for her photo-series, Not What You Saw

Non-Hindu believers should be given entry into temples, says Sivagiri Mutt chief

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Declaring that it was time for sweeping overhaul of certain temple customs, Sivagiri Mutt chief Swami Satchidananda announced the launch of a campaign to make the temples in Kerala accessible to believers from all religions. The campaign, coming a century after the inter-religious meet convened by Sree Narayana Guru, will raise demands such as allowing temple entry to non-Hindus who are believers of Hindu gods and lifting the shirt ban on male devotees. The campaign will begin at Guruvayur temple where singer K J Yesudas was denied entry in the past as he was a non-Hindu. It is time for a sweeping overhaul of temple customs that undermine the ideals of equality and social justice, Satchidananda said. He said Yesudas devotional songs praising Guruvayurappan are famous and are played at the temple daily, yet his request for entry was turned down. There are many non-Hindus like him who are believers of Hindu gods. They should be given entry in temples, he told TNIE , adding that he will lead a march to the temple raising the demand. As per the custom at Guruvayur temple, only Hindus can pray inside the temple. Those born in other religions are required to produce a certificate from Kozhikode-based Arya Samajam stating they have converted to Hinduism. In several Kerala temples, non-Hindus need to furnish a self-affidavit saying they are a believer of Hinduism. Satchidananda felt both models are outdated. Non-Hindus visit a temple as they have faith there. They should not be forced to produce a written proof for that. Keralas temples should follow the model of some famous temples in North India which do not ask for any certificate, he said. Social justice still anillusion in Kerala:Sivagiri Mutt head Thantris neednt comment on social issues, says Swami Satchidananda Swami Satchidananda also rejected the claim often made by some thantris that Keralas temples follow a different system of thantric worship. Thantris powers are restricted to thantric and Vedic practices. They need not comment on social issues. Our demands allowing hassle-free entry of non-Hindus in temples and lifting the shirt ban on male devotees are social issues. Thantris have no role in these issues, he said while reminding that historic reforms in temple customs were not achieved with the permission of thantris. Im also against the current practice in which the thantri position at major temples is reserved as a hereditary right of certain communities, he said. Satchidananda had mooted the idea to lift the shirt ban during the annual Sivagiri pilgrimage in January. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who was at the venue, seconded the idea. However, none of the five government-controlled boards have implemented it so far. But Satchidananda is hopeful. Several temples under the SNDP and the Chakkulathukavu Devi temple managed by a Brahmin family lifted the ban. The devaswom temples will follow it, he said. Swami also suggested equal distribution of devaswom jobs among Hindu communities. Around 90% of devaswom jobs, ranging from that of priests to office jobs, are held by people of upper castes. Equal representation of all communities should be ensured in future recruitment, he said.

Assam native killed in accident in Kozhikode

Police nab suspected drug pushers during special drive in Kozhikode

Kerala government to celebrate fourth anniversary in grand manner in April, May

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala government is all set to celebrate the fourth anniversary of the government in a grand manner. A cabinet meeting held on March 18 decided to conduct the celebrations in April and May. A series of events will be organised at the local self-government institution level, district level, and state level. The chief minister will participate in events across all districts. The programme will begin in Kasaragod on April 21 and conclude in Thiruvananthapuram on May 21. Meetings will be organised with beneficiaries of various government schemes and prominent personalities. Also, district-level exhibitions and trade fairs exhibiting the government's developmental and welfare initiatives will be held for a week. District-Level Meetings April 21- Kasaragod April 22- Wayanad April 24- Pathanamthitta April 28- Idukki April 29- Kottayam May 5- Palakkad May 6- Kollam May 7- Ernakulam May 12- Malappuram May 13- Kozhikode May 14- Kannur May 19- Alappuzha May 20- Thrissur May 21- Thiruvananthapuram State-level public events will also be organised in addition to these events. Discussions will be held with various groups under the leadership of respective departments, including youth (Youth Welfare Department), women (Women Development Department), Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST Department), cultural figures (Cultural Affairs Department), professional students and researchers (Higher Education and Health Departments), and professionals (Science & Technology Department). State-Level Meetings May 3- Youth Welfare - Kozhikode May 4- Women Development-Ernakulam May 10- Culture - Thrissur May 11- Higher Education - Kottayam May 17- Professionals' Discussion - Thiruvananthapuram May 18- SC/ST Welfare - Palakkad In addition to exhibitions, discussions, sports competitions, and other programmes will also be conducted. For the smooth execution of the events, district-level organising committees will be formed, with the respective district minister as chairman and the district collector as the general convener. The chief secretary has been assigned to issue necessary guidelines and oversee further actions. Regional Review Meetings To make governance achievements more accessible to the public and ensure the timely completion of development projects, regional review meetings will be held under the leadership of the chief minister. These meetings will also identify and resolve obstacles in ongoing development projects. Four such meetings will be held in May. The chief minister, along with ministers, the chief secretary, department secretaries and heads of departments will evaluate the progress of developmental initiatives in various districts. Any administrative or technical challenges will be identified and addressed. These meetings will be a continuation of the regional review meetings conducted in September and October 2023. Issues from the 2023 review meetings that remain unresolved, major developmental projects raised by MLAs during the meeting with the chief minister, constituency-level projects planned as part of the 'Nava Kerala Sabha', and the rehabilitation of rural roads will be discussed in the regional review meetings. The progress of government initiatives such as extreme poverty eradication, the Nava Keralam Mission (including LIFE, Aardram, the Public Education Protection Campaign, and the Haritha Kerala Mission), and the Malinya Muktha Nava Keralam programme will also be evaluated. Schedule for Regional Review Meetings May 8- Palakkad (Palakkad, Malappuram, Thrissur) May 15- Thiruvananthapuram (Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta) May 26- Kannur (Kasaragod, Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode) May 29 - Kottayam (Ernakulam, Idukki, Alappuzha, Kottayam) The chief secretary has been entrusted with issuing guidelines and coordinating the organisation of these review meetings. The district collectors of the respective regions will be responsible for conducting the meetings. The Electronics and IT Department Secretary has also been tasked with developing the necessary software for managing the review process.

Drug addict arrested for hacking wife to death in Keralas Kozhikode

25-year-old escaped from the spot after the crime. Victims parents who tried to intervene also sustained stab injuries in the attack

23 government employees caught taking bribes in three months of VACB operations in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In what could be construed as a rise in corruption among civil servants, the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau has arrested 23 government employees in 21 trap cases so far this year while they were receiving bribes. The arrests were made during Operation Spot Trap, which was launched to tackle corruption among public servants by catching them red-handed. Four agents employed by the corrupt government employees to act as middlemen and also to collect kickbacks on their behalf were also arrested. As many as 34 cases were registered in 2024, while 21 cases have been registered in three months this year, said a Vigilance source. According to the source, if the trend continues this way, the department will see a record increase in trap cases. This is a positive thing as the increase in trap cases shows that the department is doing its job efficiently. However, the sad aspect is that the rise in number of arrests shows there are still people, who abuse their position in return for some benefits, the source said. As per the Vigilance data, the most number of tainted officers arrested were from the revenue department (12),followed by police (4). One officer each was arrested from the motor vehicles department, Kerala Water Authority, health, survey, local self-government, registration departments and petroleum corporation. The most number of cases were registered in Ernakulam district (6), followed by Malappuram (3), Thrissur (3), Thiruvananthapuram (2), Kottayam (2) and Kozhikode, Idukki, Alappuzha, Kollam and Wayanad (1 each). Last year, as many as 39 public servants were arrested for taking bribes. The Vigilance ramped up its trap operations after Yogesh Gupta was appointed as the director. A senior Vigilance officer said the public has become more aware of the corruption menace and the need to tackle it. People are now giving tip-offs while coming across corrupt officials. They know that this practice is harming them more. The tainted officials are also aware of the change in scenario and many are deploying innovative ways to receive bribes without getting caught, said the officer. In Kottayam, a police officer was trapped while receiving a bottle of liquor, while another cop and his agent were arrested from Idukki for receiving kickback on a payment app.

26-year-old hacks wife to death in Kerala's Kozhikode

KOZHIKODE: A drunk man hacked his wife to death at Engapuzha in Kozhikode on Tuesday. Kakkad resident Shibila, 22, was killed by her husband Yasir, 26. Shibilas mother Haseena and father Abdurahman were seriously injured in his attack. Yasir attacked his wife on Tuesday evening following a family dispute. He reached Shibilas house in his car and slashed her with a knife. Haseena and Abdurahman were injured while trying to prevent the attack. Haseena has been admitted to Thamarassery Taluk Hospital and Abdurahman to Kozhikode Medical College Hospital. Yasir escaped from the spot after the incident. Before leaving, Yasir piled up Shibilas clothes, burned them, posted the photo as his WhatsApp status, and sent it to many people. After hours of search, police nabbed Yasir from the casualty area of the Kozhikode Medical College Hospital. Thamarassery police officials said that the accused will be taken for detailed medical checkup to confirm whether he had used drugs or alcohol during the crime. Yasir married Shibila in 2020. He had been running an eatery on Thamarassery Ghat Road. But he was selling drugs under the guise of the eatery business and when residents became aware of this, they complained, leading to the shops closure. Yasir used to create ruckus at home always, said Majeed, Shibilas relative. Shibila and her family had earlier filed a complaint with the Thamarassery police, citing threats from Yasir.

Debate rages as DJ parties, light shows replace traditional festival ambience in Kerala

KOZHIKODE: Traditionally rooted in rituals, classical performances and percussion ensembles like chenda melam, temple festivals have recently embraced modern entertainment elements. The trend is equally evident in annual church festivals, with recent examples including the extravagant celebrations at the Immaculate Conception Church in Mananthavady and Infant Jesus Church at Kallettumkara in Thrissur. DJ parties featuring electronic music and dazzling light shows have now become part and parcel of festivities, especially during the Utsavam season. Just a week ago, the Uravinkal Devi temple festival in Naduvathur, Koyilandy, hosted one of the largest DJ events and light shows in the district, setting the stage for a growing trend. Several other temples, including Naduvathur temple, Arikulam temple, Muchukunnu Kottayil Shiva temple and Cherimangadu Kottayi temple, have followed suit, with many more set to incorporate similar spectacles in the upcoming festival season. The evolution of these festivals highlights a fusion of tradition and modernity. This is a trend that has been picking up momentum for the last five to six years, said DJ Prakash, a local artist who has been performing at temple festivals across Malabar. This festival season alone, I have been part of six shows in various parts of Kozhikode and Kannur districts. Earlier, we were invited to youth clubs and private events like weddings, but now temple committees have started hiring us. We bring a fusion of electronic beats and folk tunes to keep the audience engaged, he says. While the youths have welcomed the shift, the older generation has a more apprehensive approach. When I was young, these festivals were all about devotion, processions and art forms like Kathakali and Theyyam. Now, you have people dancing to DJ beats in the temple compound. Suddenly, it feels like the soul of the festival is slipping away, opines Naryanan Master, a retired school teacher. Temple authorities themselves are walking a fine line. Some committees argue that modern additions are necessary to engage younger generations and enhance the festivals commercial viability. Times are changing, said Krishnan Nambiar, a trustee at a prominent temple near Koyilandy. We cannot ignore the preferences of the youngsters. The idea is to carefully blend tradition with modernity. However, the fusion has sparked intense debate within local communities. Traditionalists believe that the sanctity of temple premises is being compromised, while proponents of modernisation insist that festivals are evolving social gatherings that must reflect contemporary sensibilities. There is nothing wrong with adapting to new trends. For us, the DJ event is just another form of celebration. After the rituals end, a DJ night brings the whole community together in a different way, said Divya R, a college student and festival volunteer. This cultural shift is also portrayed in the recently released film Narayaneente Moonnaanmakkal, shot in Koyilandy. One of its actors said, The film is not just about music or festivals. Its about change. During our shoots, we saw both sides - people who loved the energy of DJ parties and elders who felt that something sacred was being overshadowed by all the glitz. Koyilandy, like many other towns in northern Kerala, has a rich tradition of temple festivals that involve rituals, chenda melam (traditional percussion ensembles), and community feasts. However, in recent years, these festivals have been incorporating modern entertainment options, including DJ nights, LED light shows, and even laser displays. Yet, not everyone is convinced. Meenakshi Amma, a 72-year-old devotee, expressed her concerns. We used to have devotional music nights and percussion that echoed spirituality. Now, when the DJ starts blasting film songs late into the night, it feels like a nightclub, not a temple festival, she said.

Two key clearances obtained for Messis Kerala visit, says Minister V Abdurahiman

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Two important clearances have been obtained for the arrival of the Argentina football team, featuring Lionel Messi, to play in Kerala, Sports Minister V Abdurahiman told the assembly on Tuesday. Replying to the discussion on demand for grants for 2025-26 fiscal, Abdurahiman said approvals from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Union Sports Ministry have been obtained. Further formalities are in progress and more updates will be provided once all necessary procedures are completed, the minister said. It was in November last year that Abdurahiman announced that Messi and the Argentina team would visit Kerala to play two friendly matches in 2025. Abdurahiman also told the assembly that an international football stadium is being planned at the Malappuram-Kozhikode border. The Calicut University has agreed to provide 35 acres of land for the purpose and the construction will begin soon, he said. He also trained his guns at Indian Olympic Association president P T Usha and the Kerala Olympic Association for the dismal performance of the state in the recently held National Games. While Usha intervened to get Kalaripayattu removed from the list of events, the state Olympic association made changes to two teams proposed by the state sports council. As a result, the state could not win up to 21 gold medals at the National Games, he said. Abdurahiman said the One Playground in One Panchayat initiative of the state sports department has earned national recognition at a meeting of state sports ministers organised by the Centre last week. Abdurahiman said Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has issued directions to implement Keralas initiative across the country. The state government project is meant to foster sportsmanship and keep youth away from substance abuse. The minister said that the introduction of e-certification for sportspersons to prevent malpractices and corruption will also be taken up as a model for nationwide implementation. References in the states sports policy of 2023 have been incorporated in the national sports policy being finalised by the Centre, he said. Abdurhiman added that lessons on sports will be a part of the textbooks at the primary level in schools from the next academic year.

Sreevalsan J Menon: 'Kerala has broken the elitist mould of Carnatic music'

His name caught the eye of Keralites about two decades ago, when music in Kerala witnessed a fusion of sorts, where emotions and seasons were explored as against krithis of doyens. Sreevalsan J Menons deep voice that treated popular and not-so-popular works of legends was appreciated not just for its musical quality but also for its grasp of nuances, the richness of the legacy of his guru Neyyatinkara Vasudevan, and an evident urge to explore music in its totality. He quickly struck a chord among music lovers. A few lyrical melodies that came in films, programmes where he was seen collaborating with musicians cutting across genres, and efforts to popularise folk arts through a project of Kerala Agricultural University, where he works as the director of its extension services, made him lauded as a thinking musician. Excerpts from a freewheeling interaction: Shall we start with your initiation into the world of music? I was born in a village called Ganapathy Agrahaaram in Thrissur. There was a music teacher, Rajalakshmi Krishnan, right next to my house. Music would always flow from their house. One day, she called some of us children in the area and asked them to sing. She must have thought that I had some talent, and told my parents to let me learn music. So, I went to her to train. That is how I started. Who were your early musical influences? For some years, I studied with gurus such as a violinist named T V Ramani and Kongurpalli Parameshwaran Namboothiri, who was Chembais disciple. Then, I came to Thiruvananthapuram to study at the Kerala Agricultural University (KAU). It was then I attended a music competition in Akashavani. Carnatic maestro Neyyattinkara Vasudevan used to accompany all the contestants on the tanpura. I met him there, and soon started training under him. The learning period lasted for 18 years. Does your scientific career help you in music? Very much. I started to understand the problems of people at the grassroots only after I entered the study of agriculture. I now connect with farmers, and work to help them with tech. This approach helps me understand music better, because music is about empathy. Do art and science connect somewhere? In Indian art, yes. Science implies systematisation. Sangeetha Shastra has a large body of knowledge and is categorised systematically. Such categorisation gave rise to new ragas. So, there clearly was growth due to the scientific categorisation. That is why the music genre is called shastriya sangeetham. Basically, it is a body of knowledge that is systematic. The more you study it, the more you realise it. Nowadays, there is a lot of talk about the connection between music, therapy, and medicine. What are your thoughts? Recently, I heard someone say that listening to the song Ambalapuzhe Unnikannanodu nee helps that persons mind calm down. But I cannot say this is universally applicable. One cannot declare that listening to Anandha Bhairavi raga will lower blood pressure. Music can only be supplemented with other therapies. But there are tales of Tansen singing Malhar and bringing rain. You, too, have sung Amritavarshini. What do you think about that? The rain referred to is the showers of bliss within you. You get the feeling of rain without experiencing it. There is a tale about lighting up a place by singing Deepak raga. I would see it as the light that the music creates within one. This is where science creeps into me I become a scientist. How did you conceptualise your album Monsoon Anuraga? We were thinking about celebrating the monsoon. We also took the works of Mira Bai, Kalidasan, and Sangam poetry, which spoke of rain. Some were secular poems, some were on love, some were about nature, and some about rain. The idea was to present music connecting it to everything around. Finally, as I am a musician, I wanted to present it before the people through music. In this age of fusion, do you think the purity of classical music would hold good? That is an interesting question. In todays fusion, all kinds of orchestras are included like guitar, bass, flute, etc. It does complement some works. But the artist must use music responsibly, and purity is about that. That said, I do not do much fusion nowadays, and am mostly focused on kacheri. For me, now, it is more like meditation than showing it to the world. I am going deeper into my own self. Have you experienced a trance state? Yes, absolutely. I am neither happy nor sad in that state. I was fortunate enough to experience trance on many occasions. But I cannot reproduce it. Is there, as some say, a divine touch to music? A psychiatrist in London said recently that surgeons at times faced some epiphanic moments during surgeries. They really did not know if they were operating they were not conscious. So, there is this phase in every field. People who consider doctors as gods can consider Tyagaraja Swami a god as well. Have you felt an emotional or spiritual connection to any raga? Some like Kalyani, Sankarabharanam, Thodi, etc., have the kind of expanse from which you feel like taking, again and again. That gives me more motivation (sings a note). In compositions like Thaaye Yashoda, I feel that I can keep adding something to it there is much to explore. Since the music tastes of the youth have changed a lot, do you think Carnatic music still has as many listeners as in the past? Yes, of course. If you are looking at the number of people in the audience, Kerala leads in that aspect, compared with other states. Kerala is the most musically literate state in the country. It is said that only two names from Kerala get the prime slots in Chennai K J Yesudas and you. Why is it that musicians from Kerala are not sought-after? See, we are reiterating that Chennai is the seat of music that is unnecessary. Let me show you a different perspective it is in Kerala that all the good musicians get paid well. During temple festivals in Kerala, musicians from different states come and sing. We patronise music that much. Chennai, meanwhile, is a learning hub. We do not do much research in music. What are your views on youth festivals? If you ask whether the participants continue their art, the answer is no. But the state does have a system in place, and that is commendable. Especially because we have many artforms, and they keep getting highlighted at these festivals. Whatever said, I get a positive vibe out of these youth festivals. Does loudness mar soulful, melodious compositions? If 1,000 people can listen to a Sagara shayana with bass guitar and drums, I say we should respect their tastes. I may not listen to it but I cannot say that it is wrong. But does not misplaced loudness reduce quality? Take a concert by Thaikkudam Bridge or Sithara [Krishnakumar], where 2,000 people are attending. You cannot give them very sober, soft music, and expect them to get into a meditative mood. That is impossible. People come to such places to have a good time, so you will have to give them the adrenaline rush. There are bands, like Agam that fuse western and Carnatic music. Does this help draw younger listeners to Carnatic music? Absolutely! I really feel it is helpful. When I was in school, I remember that many people did not like Yesudass concert, but today, if compositions like Vatapi Ganapatim or Alai paayuthe have become popular, it is because of him (sings Vatapi). Is there an elitism when it comes to classical music? That argument does not apply to Kerala. I am sure that for the past 75 years at least, we have shattered all those norms or stereotypes. My guru, Yesudas, [Kalamandalam] Hyderali, and many other artists all have broken the mould. But in other states, like Tamil Nadu, parties like the DMK were vehemently against classical music, and because of that, I think a section of society was kept away from the Carnatic scene. Here, both the political right and the left accept Carnatic music. But are you helping to remove elitism? Especially since you carry your caste name How am I supposed to fulfil that responsibility? One way is by giving music education. The second way is what I am doing now studying and documenting folk arts and culture. Kerala is home to about 3,000 folk artforms, but over 2,000 of them have become extinct. I am part of a KAU project to visually document these artforms through the lens of agriculture. When Nanchamma received the National Award, some questioned if tribal music should be considered along with mainstream music. Whats your take? I strongly disagree with that view. I cannot sing like Nanchamma. She received the award because her artistry was respected. Similarly, Vidyadharan Master, who is a music director, received an award for best singer, and he certainly deserves it. There was a controversy over Sangita Kalanidhi M S Subbulakshmi Award being given to T M Krishna last year. The name of the award raised eyebrows (as Krishna was a staunch critic of Subbulakshmi). What are your thoughts on the matter? Krishna undoubtedly deserved the award. The issue is not about his deserving of it but about the narrative surrounding it. It is important to look beyond just the name of the award. Else, it will be a very narrow view. But, Krishna has spoken about a lot of things controversially. It is not that I am subscribing to all of what he says, but I think there was a need for broad-mindedness in such matters. Theres now a trend of folk artists being featured more frequently in cinema. Do you think this will create more opportunities for folk music? Yes. For example, Hanumankinds new song (Run It Up)uses visuals from Theyyam. While the music itself may be unconventional for some, it brings a universal appeal to Theyyam. People may find it hard to digest, but I think it is a great step forward. Hindustani music is gaining popularity in Kerala, with many students learning it. Whats driving this trend? Firstly, we cannot ignore the importance of Kozhikode. Ghazal, Arab, Persian, and Sufi music have always been a part of the regions culture. Because of this, Karnataka music has not been as dominant in Kozhikode. But Ghazal and Babukkas songs are sung every day in many houses. They like Ghazal songs more. It is because of that culture. You mentioned earlier that Chennai is a learning hub for music. How much of a learning hub was your Guru for you? My guru was someone who changed my life completely. Travels with him, concerts with him it was like the Gurukula tradition, somehow. I would accompany him to places, and fortunately, my college also facilitated all this. You also get to meet many artists, for example, a tour may introduce us to Mandolin U Srinivasan, flautist K S Venugopalan, mridangm maestros Palakkad Reghu, Umayalpuram Sivaraman, MS Gopalakrishnan, and all these people may be staying in the same lodge. You see them frequently and they talk about their journey in music. Even the artists accompanying my guru Velukutty Nair, Chalakkudy Narayana Swamy, M G Radhakrishnan, Perumbavoor Ravindranath all these people would regularly come to his concerts and would often point out mistakes in my renditions. This was like having multiple gurus. You also aspire to make films, and you have acted in a movie (Kumaranasan). Could you tell us more about that? I am in the process of directing a film. It is not Carnatic-based, but yes, it is about music. That is all I can reveal right now. At what stage is it currently at? We have already shot for around 15 days now. I dont want to say anything more; let it stay like that. Can you tell us about your relationship with artist Namboothiri? I shared a bond of about 30 years with him. I met M T Vasudevan Nair through Namboothiri. I feel that a practitioner of art can take inputs from any kind of art. These things are highly inspiring to me. Has your career in agriculture ever given you a sense of security? Of course! At all times. Even now, it is because of that that I am able to talk like this today. The question that arises here is that for people choosing Carnatic music as their only career, how far is it sustainable? I can talk like this because I have another career, but I do not say that is the only way. However, there are people who pursue music or dance as a profession, like Rajashree Warrier, Methil Devika, Kapila, and so many more. Is that why people are hesitant or scared to take it up as a profession? Yes, this is also why, when students graduate from a music college, they go to reality shows or sing for dance recitals they get paid better. For a student graduating from a music college, the only option is teaching. Even Central government institutions are not promoting or encouraging art as they once used to do. You are known as T M Krishna of Kerala. What are your political feelings like? I dont think that is a right comparison. Also, talking about political beliefs, dont forget that I am a government servant (laughs, and sings Bhagyada Lakshmi baramma). Team TNIE Anil S, Aparna Nair, Parvana K B, Varsha Somaraj, Uthama S Vincent Pulickal (photos) Pranav V P (video)

Govt. urged to speed up investigation into building number scam

Kozhikode Corporation unable to take action against culprits as the investigation is incomplete, says report submitted by the secretary

Man hacks wife to death at Engapuzha in Kozhikode

PG doctors at Kozhikode MCH call off strike

Stir called off after funds were released to the Director of Medical Education

PG doctors launch indefinite stir at Kozhikode MCH over stipend delay

Celebrations mark 75th year of AIR Kozhikode

LDF takes out protest march against Centre to Raj Bhavan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Senior CPM leader M A Baby has accused the Union government of neglecting Kerala in the Union budget. Inaugurating a protest march taken out by the LDF to the Raj Bhavan on Monday, Baby said the Centre has not addressed the demands raised by the state seeking support for the Vizhinjam project, expansion of Sabari railroad to Erumeli, and the Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode metro. He alleged that the Centre has not kept aside viability gap fund for the Vizhinjam port project. States cover 62% of the countrys expenses. But only 37.7% of the revenue reach the states, while the Centre receives 62.3% revenue, he said, adding that the Union government policies are anti-federal in nature. Referring to the ongoing agitation by ASHA workers, the CPM politburo member said that the Union government has not allocated sufficient funds for them. They should protest against the Centre, not against the state government, he said. Senior leaders, including LDF convener T P Ramakrishnan, MLAs Kadakampally Surendran, D K Murali, O S Ambika and V Sasi, attended the march to support the cause. Prominent leaders including Pannian Raveendran, Mathew T Thomas, V Surendran Pillai and Mangode Radhakrishnan spoke at the event.

Herstory & civics: A look at some landmark movements led by women in Kerala

The air feels heavy, and the sun beats down without mercy. Yet these women remain steadfast day and night outside the Secretariat in Thiruvananthapuram. Their faces are lined with exhaustion. They lean against one another, holding hands for comfort. Some clutch faded hospital bills and letters warning of overdue loans. A few break down into tears as they narrate their struggles back home. But they refuse to quit. Since February 9, ASHA workers in Kerala have been protesting for improved wages and benefits. Their primary demands include raising their monthly honorarium from Rs 7,000 to Rs 21,000, and securing a retirement package of Rs 5 lakh. The protest began after the government failed to pay over 26,000 ASHA workers across the state their pending dues. Its upsetting that we still in this 21st century have to protest for fair wages after doing our jobs. On top of that, we face insults and contempt. This is not one would expect in a democracy, especially in a state led by a Left government, says ASHA Workers Association general secretary M A Bindu. From the very first day of our protest, we have faced harsh comments, propaganda campaigns, accusations, and cyber-attacks. But we are determined to keep going. A press conference by WCC Uprisings and social movements led by women are not a rarity in Kerala. From the Channar Lahala, where women fought for the right to cover their upper bodies, to the Perinad Mutiny, where Dalit women discarded stone necklaces that marked their caste status, women have led many struggles. Even in the Vaikom Satyagraha, women had a strong role organising protests, mobilising support, and taking charge when men were arrested, ensuring the movements momentum continued. A more recent example is the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC), which was formed in 2017 after an actress was abducted and sexually assaulted. It brought together several women in cinema to advocate for gender equality and safer workplaces in the film industry. The groups efforts eventually led to the formation of the Hema Committee, which probed gender discrimination and sexual harassment in Malayalam cinema. It takes a lot of grit to sustain such efforts in a biased society, says P Viji, who led Penkoottu, a movement that amplified the voices of women employees through their fight in 2009 for toilet facilities in unorganised workplaces. When women protest, many in society tend to brush aside the demands or assume that they lack the intelligence to organise such movements, she says. Even when women raise legitimate demands, this patriarchal society constantly tries to suppress them. There are continuous attempts to politicise and divert these issues. So, in a way, women with a sense of their rights are protesting against a society that refuses to acknowledge the value of their contributions and labour. Protest by Pembilai Orumai Viji recalls the slogan of the Penkoottu movement that took root in Kozhikode: Recognise us as humans, accept us as workers. At the time, the then president of the states traders association mocked us, saying, We can tear down the shops on Mittai Theruvu and build toilets instead. We were insulted, and our demands were trivialised. Despite humiliations, we kept the protest going, and in the end, we succeeded in achieving our goal, Viji says. Following this movement, Penkoottu formed the Asanghatitha Meghala Thozhilali Union (Unorganised Sector Workers Union) to advocate for the right to sit during work, fair wages, and regulated working hours at shops. Salesgirls in textile showrooms across the state staged the Irikkal Samaram, a sit-in protest, which eventually led the government to amend the Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1960, to ensure better working conditions for women. Scene from a nurses protest In 2011, the United Nurses Association was formed in the state to address and discuss the challenges faced by nurses in private hospitals. In 2012, hundreds of nurses went on a protest demanding better wages and improved working schedules. We didnt even know what our basic pay scale was, recalls Rashmi Parameswaran, one of the leaders of the protest. We worked overtime, often forgetting our families, all for a meagre income. It was against this exploitation that we decided to protest. Rashmi, who had gone on a hunger strike for nine days, recalls that there were several attempts to weaken the protest that lasted for 84 days. Some even criticised us in the name of morality for protesting on the streets. But none of us backed down as we were tired of living like slaves, she says. Among the protesters were several young mothers who faced extreme hardships during the 84-day-long protest. With two months of unpaid wages, some couldnt even afford their rent. In response, the group collectively pledged their ornaments and raised money to support those in need. Looking back today, I feel proud. The improvements we see now, including a better basic pay scale, regulated working hours, and proper maternity leave, are the result of that protest, says Rashmi. A few years later, a group of women in Munnar also launched a protest over similar issues. The Pembilai Orumai movement began in September 2015, with plantation workers taking to the streets demanding an increase in wages and bonuses for its over 4,000 women employees. Over 10,000 workers united during the strike. We faced a lot of struggles, says Gomathi Augustine, one of the leaders of Pembilai Orumai. They threatened to terminate us. We were labelled as extremists from Tamil Nadu. They tried to mentally break us down by spreading degrading remarks about some of the women. The aim was to scare us into stepping back. We endured all these, and stood firm together. The same is happening now with the ASHA workers, too. Gomathi adds that she is disillusioned with the current Left leadership. Communisms very foundation was built on the workers cause, she says. But in recent times, leaders seem to have strayed from the roots or perhaps comfortably forgotten them altogether. Its not just about collective movements. There have been lone warriors as well. No one can forget the iron lady of Kerala politics, K R Gouri Amma. As the only woman in the first democratically elected Communist government in the state, she presented the revolutionary Land Reforms Bill in 1957, which later became law. Another such example was Mary Roys legal battle against the state of Kerala, in which the Supreme Court upheld equal inheritance rights for Syrian Christian women. And, of course, there is the unforgettable legal battle Prof. Monamma Kokkad fought against smoking in public places. She stood up against tobacco lobbies, and her petition led to a historic High Court verdict on July 12, 1999, that laid the groundwork for the nationwide ban on smoking in public. For years, I used to commute from Ernakulam to Kottayam, where I was teaching at a college. During those train journeys, the compartments would often be filled with cigarette smoke. On rainy days, once the shutters were down, the entire compartment would turn into a smoke chamber. Non-smokers, including women and children, had no choice but to inhale the smoke, she recalls. I used to be accompanied by a colleague who suffered from asthma. I spoke up for her, but that hardly ever made a difference. Men would argue about their freedom and right to smoke. Thats when I started thinking about the right to breathe clean air. I decided to take the legal route, and eventually, a positive outcome followed. Monamma continues raising her voice against injustices. In 2019, she launched an initiative called Never Me amid rising Me Too cases to address the atrocities women face in society. As part of this initiative, I visit schools and colleges to teach how girls can protect themselves, she says. While patriarchy has not been erased from society, women today benefit from several reforms and laws. These didnt emerge on their own; they are the result of persistent struggles by women, author, feminist, and academician C S Chandrika. Be it for the freedom to dress as they chose, the right to vote, the right to work, or access to education, even the most basic rights had to be fought for, she says. These struggles are far from over, as women continue to face oppression, exploitation, and violence. But changes are happening, and it will continue to happen. Every woman can make a difference.

College student stabbed to death in Kollam, suspect found dead on railway track

KOLLAM: In a suspected crime of passion, a 22-year-old college student was brutally stabbed to death at his house at Uliyakovil in Kollam on Monday. The victim, Febin George Gomez, a second-year student at Fathima Matha College, was attacked around 7 pm by an assailant who arrived in a car. Febins father, Gomez, was also injured in the attack and has been hospitalised. Police have launched an investigation. The suspected murderer was found dead on the railway track near Kadappakada an hour later. The body was identified to be that of Thejus Raj, a native of Neendankara in Chavara, who allegedly died by suicide by jumping in front of a train. A Maruti car with bloodstains was found abandoned near the tracks, and police have confirmed that it was the car used by the Thejus. According to preliminary reports, Thejus arrived at Febins house wearing a burqa around 7 pm. He parked his car nearby and entered the house, where only Febin and his father were there. Thejus first attacked Febins father before repeatedly stabbing Febin. According to preliminary reports, Thejus arrived at Febins house wearing a burqa around 7 pm and attacked Febins father before repeatedly stabbing Febin. Despite sustaining multiple stabs, Febin managed to run outside but collapsed near a wall. He was later rushed to the hospital in an autorickshaw. Febin had multiple stab wounds on his chest and succumbed to his injuries while being taken to the hospital. The police suspect that petrol was poured in the house. Preliminary reports indicate that Febin's sister and Tejas were former classmates. The city police commissioner, Kollam ACP and East police arrived at the scene and launched an investigation. City Police Commissioner Kiran Narayanan told media that the murder is a result of sudden provocation, though the exact motive is still under investigation. Officers are looking into whether the accused had any prior connection with Febin or his family. It is a very unfortunate incident. Children these days don't value life. The investigation is underway and how petrol was accessed for the crime will be probed, said the city police commissioner. The police have launched a detailed investigation into the case. Further forensic analysis of the suspects car and other evidence is underway. Febin is survived by his parents and elder sister, a bank employee, in Kozhikode.

15 injured as KSRTC bus overturns in Keralas Kozhikode

Police sources said bus overturned when driver attempted to overtake a car

60-year-old dies after falling into overflowing drainage in Keralas Kozhikode

Body recovered after 10-hour long search by various rescue squads

Armed with national tourist permit, more private bus operators enter long-distance sector

KOCHI: While the debate over the Robin Bus episode rages on, more private operators have entered the long-distance sector to conduct intercity and interstate services using luxury buses with all India tourist permits (AITP). The development has presented passengers with more options for easy and comfortable travel, especially with the holiday season around the corner. The latest to join the bandwagon is Deer Bus which started operating in the Kochi-Kozhikode sector via Kodungallor, Ponnani and Kuttipuram from March 5. Two air-conditioned Tata Marcopolo buses with push-back seats have been deployed to conduct the services. The buses leave Kochi at 5 am and 6 pm respectively while the return services from Kozhikode are at 5 am and 6 pm. We are operating using AITP, fully adhering to rules. Booking can be done only online (www.deerbus.in) and the service will be non-stop, Deer Bus managing director Prasad Kumar told TNIE . He said the services have been stopped temporarily because of certain glitches on the website. They will be back in a day or two. We plan to deploy more buses based on the response, Prasad said. AITP allows an operator to ply tourist vehicles throughout the country on paying a higher permit fee. Were providing a comfortable journey option. The buses have fixed glass AC, not sliding glasses, he said. While a stage-carriage operator is required to pay Rs 27,000 and a contract-carriage Rs 35,000 a quarter towards the permit fee, an AITP operator needs to dole out Rs 1.7 lakh a quarter towards permit fee. Stage carriages, for instance the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), carry passengers either for the whole journey or in stages and the fares are fixed by the state government. Contract carriers however operate from one point to another without stopping to pick up or drop off passengers under a previously agreed rate. KSRTC lodges complaint The KSRTC, which is facing stiff competition from private bus operators, has complained Deer Bus, claiming that the services are being held in violation of rules. The Ernakulam unit officer of KSRTC has filed the complaint with the regional transport officer, saying the operator is conducting the service as a state carrier, which is in violation of the AITP rules, sources said. Earlier, the motor vehicle department (MVD) had slapped fines on Robin Bus which conducts services in the Pathanamthitta-Coimbatore section using AITP. MVD officials contention was the operator was picking up and dropping passengers along the way and thus operating as a stage carrier. Meanwhile, there is a demand from several quarters to allow more private operators to run comfortable services using AITP. According to MoRTH (ministry of road transport and highways) data, Kerala requires 35,000 to 50,000 public transport buses in different categories (at 1.33 buses per 1,000 population), said Ebenezer Chullikkad of the Greater Cochin Development Watch. Currently, Kerala has only 12,000 buses (7,000 in the private sector and 5,000 with KSRTC), he pointed out. With KSRTC failing to fill the gap, the authorities should allow international companies with good technology to operate services using AITP. This will help remove a lot of private vehicles, especially cars, from the roads. Now, the NH-66 widening is progressing fast. Theres scope for more bus operators, Ebenezer said.

Rising trend of clash over social media posts sparks concern

KOZHIKODE: The state is currently seeing a rise in clashes among students with back-to-back cases being reported. Stir over pictures and videos shared on Instagram and WhatsApp is now the beginning of many clashes between senior and junior students. On March 10, senior students of Payyoli Cherandathur MHES College in Maniyur ragged a first-year student after he shared a selfie taken during a college function on the college WhatsApp group. After BCom first-year student Muhammad Jabir shared the picture, a three-member senior group approached him asking, Why did you post a selfie in the group when we are here as seniors? SI Rafeeq of Payyoli police station arrested the accused seniors who are final year BBA students of the college. The arrested are Mohammed Ansif, 20, a native of Villiappally, Kuni Mohammed Rumais, 21, a native of Meppayil, and Jasin Soopi, 21, a native of Thurayur. In another incident that occurred in February, a second-year BCom student was attacked for posting updates about the activities carried out by their class on Instagram. The injured is Shanid, a second-year BCom student of Hikamiyya Arts and Science College at Thiruvali in Malappuram. Irked by the post, the seniors confronted Shanid. Asking him who permitted him to post it, they demanded that he delete the post. During the argument, Shanid was hit in the face with a key and his front teeth were broken in the attack. Currently, the Edavanna police are investigating the case.

Academic quality enhancement project launched in Kozhikode

Man Booked After Video Shows Minor Son Driving Car in Kozhikode

The viral social media video from October shows a 13-year-old boy driving an Innova, prompting police action

Kerala man booked after minor son driving car goes viral on social media

In Kerala's Kozhikode, a man named Naushad was booked after a video of his 13-year-old driving a Toyota Innova went viral. The video, uploaded last October, showed the minor driving on public roads. Police acted when the video surfaced recently, charging Naushad under traffic violation laws. Earlier, Naushad was seen driving with his son on the car's roof.

Kozhikode police arrest two Tanzanian nationals in Punjab for alleged drug trafficking

Fire engulfs home appliances store at Balussery in Keralas Kozhikode

No casualties as shop was not occupied at the time. Cause of fire unknown

Kerala Mosques advocate healthy iftar this Ramadan

KOZHIKODE: As the holy month of Ramadan progresses, religious scholars and community leaders have begun addressing concerns over excessive consumption of oily and unhealthy food items during Iftar. Mosques across different regions have taken up the responsibility of educating their communities about the importance of clean eating after breaking the fast. During Ramadan, many people tend to indulge in deep-fried snacks, sugary beverages, and calorie-dense meals immediately after fasting for long hours. This often leads to digestive discomfort, sluggishness, and, in some cases, even health complications such as acidity, bloating, and an increased risk of lifestyle diseases like diabetes and hypertension. For years, the tradition of breaking fast with calorie-laden, oil-heavy foods has been deeply ingrained in Ramadan celebrations. Recognising the surge in lifestyle diseases, mosques across Kozhikode have started integrating health-conscious messages into their sermons. Our food culture during Ramadan is slowly harming our bodies. Eateries focus on taste rather than health and we have fallen into the trap of indulgence, says Ansar Nanmanda, a religious scholar known for his Friday sermons. Sixty percent of the patients crowding medical colleges today are suffering from kidney-related diseases and other health complications due to unhealthy diets. Even medical experts warn against the excessive consumption of food additives like ajinomoto, especially among children and pregnant women, yet we continue to ignore these dangers, says Ansar Nanmanda. Kozhikode warms up to healthy iftars The push for healthier eating is not just a response to medical concerns, it is deeply rooted in religious teachings. Shoukat Ali, a well-known advocate for clean eating, highlights the significance of Quranic verses that emphasise the importance of consuming only what is halal (lawful) and tayyib (pure and wholesome). In Surah An-Nahl (16:114), Allah instructs us to eat from what is good and pure. This Ramadan, we are taking this command seriously by promoting healthier eating habits. Im grateful that even religious communities are joining in this effort to shift our focus from indulgence to nourishment, he says. People are now thinking twice before indulging in unhealthy food. The change is happening, and its heartening to see, Ali adds. Spurred by these discussions, a growing number of people are seeking healthier alternatives for their Iftar meals. Restaurants, home-based catering services, and community kitchens in Kozhikode have responded by introducing nutritious options, making it easier for families to make the shift. Local eateries now offer grilled meat, lentil-based dishes, whole grains, and fresh fruit juices in place of traditional deep-fried items. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with more residents opting for balanced meals that sustain energy without causing digestive distress. Health experts and nutritionists have welcomed this transformation, stating that a well-balanced Iftar meal can help maintain energy levels, prevent fatigue, and improve overall well-being.

[IN PICS] Attukal Pongala: When devotion flows over

Thiruvananthapuram considers Attukal Pongala its cultural landmark. True to tradition, this years festival was as grand as ever. The festivities began 10 days ago at the temple, with crowds until 1am on most days. The legend of the temple is contested, with some believing the deity to be Kannagi, the fiery Tamil heroine who brought down the Pandya kingdom. Others contend that the deity is Bhadrakali. The Thottampaattu, sung throughout 10 days of the festival, is considered an authentic source of the temples legend. And researchers believe the story of Bhadrakali was later adopted by Sangam litterateur Ilango Adigal. Attukal has undergone several changes over time, largely due to the influence of social reformers such as Chattambi Swami, who brought an end to animal sacrifice at the temple. It is also said that during his student days, poet Changampuzha Krishna Pillai visited the temple then a simple shrine nestled amidst natures bounty. According to historian M G Sashibooshan, the tranquil setting is said to have awakened the poet in him. Attukal Pongala in Thiruvananthapuram A flourishing art scene The festival also features a vibrant art scene that attracts artists from beyond the local community. One of the highlights this year was a Carnatic concert by Additional Director General of Police S Sreejith. It is heartening to see the growth of the temple space as an art hub, says Latha Balachandran, who has been running the Gayatri School of Dance in the capital for 36 years. Even people from abroad want to perform here, she says. The festival also sees singers and composers releasing albums during this period. It was a long-standing wish of mine to do an album on the goddess as an offering, says G K Venugopal, who produced the album Amme Devi. Attukal Pongala Scenes from the city on Attukal Pongala The city transformed On the day, the city transformed into a carnival space, with hearths stacked together, creating a fiery celebratory spirit. Even women from across the state took part in the event. I am from Kozhikode. Its my first time here. Its a surreal experience, says Sajitha N, a school teacher. For local women, it is a familiar tradition. I have been offering Pongala since I was a little girl, smiles Pattom resident Sreekala Sasidharan. Those from the suburbs arrived days in advance to reserve spaces near the temple. However, those living in the city limits, but farther from the temple, now prefer to offer Pongala at their doorsteps. With Attukal and its precincts bursting at the seams, local temples doubled up as divine stops, offering Pongala facilities for devotees. Organisations such as the Sathya Sai Seva Samiti, Vattiyoorkavu, assisted participants in the community ritual. Local clubs and residents associations organise mass lunches and drinking water facilities. Shops, vendors groups, and autorickshaw drivers also played their bits. This years consecration took place at 1.15pm, after which the women left their spaces. Once here, you will be back again, remarked a woman as she stacked earthen pots to return home. Aparna Nair

Over 60 POCSO cases registered in Kozhikode in past two months

Legal awareness among children leads to an increase in the registration of cases; PTAs seek appointment of counsellors in all schools

Advisory against Hepatitis A in Kozhikode

Vacation courses at regional science centre, Kozhikode, from April 7

Malayalam finds a place in Wikipedias article writing contest on Islamic heritage

KOZHIKODE: This Ramadan, participants from 32 countries will come together for a Wikipedia competition united by a common goal -- create and expand knowledge on Islamic topics in multiple languages. Malayalam too has found a place on the list. Organised by Wikiknowledge Park with support from the Wikimedia Foundation, the global article writing competition focused on Islamic culture, heritage, and history is expected to help expand the availability of well-researched articles in Malayalam, enabling greater access to knowledge for Malayalis worldwide. Over the next two months, thousands of writers will collaborate to enrich Wikipedias vast repository with fresh articles on everything from legendary scholars to historic mosques. For many contributors, this is more than just a competition, its a passion project. Growing up, I always wished there was more information in Malayalam about our history and traditions, says Akbar Ali, a participant, who resides in the UAE. Now, I have the chance to be part of something bigger ensureing future generations have access to this knowledge. Wikipedias goal: 5,000 new articles. But beyond the numbers, the project is about preserving heritage and making knowledge accessible to all. Those interested to join can visit the website https://w.wiki/BSNv or reach out via email at support@wikilovesramadan.org.

When a teeny-weeny rascal halted mankind's mad rush

Pause for a moment. Close your eyes, and rewind to 2020. It was on the evening of 11 March, five years ago, that the Covid-19 outbreak was declared a global pandemic. A harrowing time when a microscopic entity brought humankinds relentless pursuit of progress to an abrupt halt. What began as a cluster of mysterious fever cases in Wuhan, China, soon spiralled into a devastating global crisis of unprecedented scale. Today, people jest about having a survival story to tell future generations, yet beneath the humour lies the weight of collective loss, resilience, and reckoning. Five years have passed in a jiffy, right? And we find ourselves slipping back into familiar patterns. Should we? If the pandemic taught us anything, it was the fragility of life, the power of community, and the need to pause, reflect, and cherish the ordinary moments we once took for granted. Let us not forget. Cremation of a Covid-19 victim at Chembumukku church cemetery in Kochi December 31, 2019 China alerts the WHO about cases of pneumonia of unknown cause in Wuhan, Hubei province. January 7, 2020 Chinese scientists identify a new coronavirus, later named SARS-CoV-2. January 11, 2020 China reports the first death linked to Covid-19 in Wuhan. January 30, 2020 WHO declares Covid-19 a public health emergency of international concern. January 30, 2020 India reports its first confirmed Covid-19 case in Thrissur, a student who returned from Wuhan. February 11, 2020- The disease officially named Covid-19. March 11, 2020 WHO declares Covid-19 a global pandemic. March 12, 2020 India reports its first Covid-19 death (a 76-year-old man in Karnataka). March 22, 2020 Janata Curfew to prepare for social distancing measures. March 24, 2020 Prime Minister Narendra Modi announces a 21-day nationwide lockdown, which is later extended multiple times. April 4, 2020 - WHO reports that over 1 million cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed worldwide. May 1, 2020 India begins the Vande Bharat Mission to repatriate stranded Indians. August 15, 2020 Indias first indigenous vaccine, Covaxin, is announced by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with ICMR. December 2, 2020 The UK becomes the first country to approve a Covid-19 vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech). December 14, 2020 The first Covid-19 vaccination is administered in the UK to a 90-year-old woman. A health worker spraying hand-sanitiser for a student in Thiruvananthapuram December 31, 2020 WHO grants emergency use approval to Pfizer-BioNTechs vaccine. January 3, 2021 India grants emergency use approval to Covaxin and Covishield. January 16, 2021 India begins its Covid-19 vaccination drive, prioritising healthcare and frontline workers. March 1, 2021 Vaccination expands to senior citizens (60+) and those with comorbidities (45+). May 1, 2021 Vaccination eligibility opens for all adults (18+). June 21, 2021 India administers a record 8.6 million vaccine doses in a single day. October 21, 2021 India crosses 1 billion vaccine doses Migrant workers line up to depart for their native places at the Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station Covid-19 students writing an SSLC exam at St Marys HSS, Pattom, in Thiruvananthapuram November 26, 2021- WHO declares Omicron as variant of concern. December 2021 The Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) is detected in India. January 3, 2022 India starts vaccinating teenagers aged 1518. January 10, 2022 India begins booster (precautionary) doses for frontline workers and senior citizens. January 20, 2022 Peak of the third wave. March 2022 Cases decline, and restrictions are gradually lifted. April 10, 2022 Booster doses expanded to all adults. March 31, 2022- India lifts all covid restrictions, except masks. July 17, 2022 India surpasses 2 billion vaccine doses administered. May 5, 2023 WHO declares that Covid-19 is no longer a global health emergency, confirming the pandemics end. Graphics compiled by Sainaba Cheenammadath & Sangay Chenzom Bhutia A sample collection kiosk at Ernakulam Medical College Hospital A police officer feeds a stray dog during lockdown in Kozhikode Vaccine being administered at Government Ayurveda Hospital, Varakala A deserted road in Kozhikode during lockdown A man prays with his face covered at a temple in Kozhikode

No factional meeting of Congress leaders in Kozhikode, says DCC

Snake-bitten patients get a new lease of life at Kozhikode MCH

Seven patients each recovered in Jan. and Feb.; experts highlight the need for swift medical attention and awareness of venomous species

Medical negligence allegation against Kozhikode MCH after Perambra womans death

57-year-old dies following surgery conducted on March 7

KSRTCs Ramadan pilgrimage tour sparks controversy over exclusion of women

KOZHIKODE: The Kerala State Road Transport Corporations (KSRTC) Ramadan Ziyarat Yatra, launched as part of its budget tourism initiative, has sparked controversy over its exclusivity. The pilgrimage, which began from the Malappuram depot on March 20 under the name Punyam Pookavanam Dhanyamankam Mahanmarude Charath, is open only to men, drawing strong opposition from various quarters. The itinerary includes visits to several maqams (Islamic shrines) across Kozhikode and Malappuram districts, with Iftar (breaking of the fast) and Taraweeh (night prayers) scheduled at Knowledge City. The pilgrimage stops at Omanur Shuhada Makham, Shamsul Ulama Makham, Varakkal Makham, Idiyangara Makham, Parappally, CM Makham, Odungakkad Makham, and concludes at Markaz Knowledge City. The ticket price is set at Rs 600. The journey is scheduled to depart from Malappuram depot at 7 a.m. and return by midnight, operating based on advance bookings. Social activists have strongly criticized the service, questioning its legality and inclusivity. Veteran journalist Shahina KK took to Facebook, asking whether such a male-only service is discriminatory and unconstitutional. If the reports about this being a men-only service are true, the transport minister should clarify whether it aligns with legal provisions. Organizing Iftar and Taraweeh is one thing, but isnt it unconstitutional to operate a government-run transport service exclusively for men? The left-wing government must answer for this, she wrote. KSRTC officials, however, defended the move, citing logistical reasons. A trip coordinator, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that the decision was made in consultation with local mosques. Many mosques in the area informed us that transportation options are limited. Since it is mostly men who visit mosques for Iftar, we structured the service accordingly. This arrangement will continue until the end of Ramadan, a source said. Despite the justification, the controversy surrounding KSRTCs exclusive pilgrimage tour shows no signs of dying down. Both faction opposing and supporting the trips are engaging in verbal fights under the facebook post of KSRTC about the Ramadan Ziyarat Yatra.

7-year-old boy dies after falling from apartment in Keralas Kozhikode

He is suspected to have slipped from balcony while playing

'I've never seen a proper internal complaints committee in...': Rise in workplace harassment of women in Kerala

KOCHI: On February 10, media houses reported the death of Jolly Madhu, a 56-year-old section officer at the Coir Board. She reportedly died of cerebral haemorrhage caused due to extensive mental pressure and stress induced by her seniors at work. A few days later, it was reported that Alina Benny, a school teacher from Kozhikode, ended her life on February 18. She had been in distress as she had never received a pay cheque in the six years she spent working for the Catholic-run school. Complaints of workplace harassment have been high in Kerala in the past few years, Kerala Womens Commission (KWC) chairperson P Satheedevi had noted at a press meet recently. As per the KWC, it registered 190 cases related to workplace harassment in 2022. The number rose to 194 cases in 2023. In 2024, 168 cases were registered. The commission said in the category of complaints it received, those related to workplace harassment were on top, along with those on domestic abuse. According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey, female participation in the states workforce grew from 32.3% in 2020-21 to 36.4% in 2023-24. Satheedevi had said that though a system had been in place for years, women were scared to come forth and complain, as they feared being targeted, ostracised and even losing their jobs. Sexual harassment at workplace: SC says plea for job security of ICC members 'important' We have now been seeing a huge shift in attitude, More and more women are speaking out against workplace harassment. Many complaints are being registered through the POSH portal (of the women and child development department) and in the public sittings we hold across the state, she had said. The KWC chairperson said most complaints were from women working in private educational institutions, IT firms, textile industry and private hospitals. The complaints include those on mental, physical and sexual harassment, stress induced by work pressure as well as distress caused by gender-based discrimination at work, she had said. Krishna Vinod, a techie in Kochi, agreed to the allegations against the IT industry. I have never seen a proper internal complaints committee (ICC) in the IT sector. Even if its there, none would complain fearing serious repercussions. I have experienced it, she said. Stress induced by unrealistic deadlines, and unregulated work hours that eat into family time are also very common in the industry. And if you are a married woman, companies intentionally try to avoid hiring you, Krishna said. Workplace harassment of women became the hot topic of discussion in 2024 after the release of the Justice Hema Committee report that highlighted the challenges and bad experiences faced by women employed in the Malayalam film industry. SHe-Box portal launches to streamline sexual harassment complaints at workplace

Discover Myriad Colours, Flavours, Beauty in Gods Own Country

From the historic charm of Kozhikode to the serene landscapes of Wayanad, experience Keralas rich culture, crafts, and cuisine.

IIM-Kozhikode to host Agent-Based Modeling workshop

Child protection panel to act tough on unauthorised tuition centres in Kozhikode

Three arrested for possession, distribution of MDMA in Keralas Kozhikode

79.74 grams of MDMA confiscated

Gen Zs Chorulla Palli trending on social media

KOZHIKODE: During the holy month of Ramadan, helping others and sharing food are considered sacred acts in Islam. Embracing technology for a modern approach, Gen Z has turned to WhatsApp to facilitate food distribution through groups named Chorulla Palli (mosques that serve food). More than five such groups operate across North Malabar and other parts of the state, providing real-time updates on mosques offering Iftar the evening meal that marks the end of the daily fast. These groups, with names like Mandhiyulla Palli, Thurayulla Palli, and Chorulla Thura, each have over 1,000 members. Daily updates include the names of mosques and the dishes they serve, ensuring that those in need can find reliable sources of food. Muhammed Sabith, an admin of one such Chorulla Palli group, highlighted the overwhelming response from members. We started this group last year just for fun, initially as a friends group. Gradually, more people joined, and members began sharing updates about mosques serving Iftar. The activity continued until Eid al-Fitr, he said. This year, I sent a message to the group again, just casually. The response was incredible, and the group became even more active than before. Now, we have 1,025 members. Ive also learned that many more such groups have emerged this year, he added. Amil Sadih, another groups admin, emphasised the trust-based nature of the initiative. We prepare the list based on information shared by our members. Its all about trust, and by Gods grace, no one has ever complained about incorrect details, he said. Some users are part of multiple groups to ensure the widest reach. Im a member of 10 such groups. We share lists of mosques across all of them, and see this as a great way to help those in need, said Shahin Sha. WhatsApp groups with members sharing updates about mosques serving Iftar

Kozhikode DCC to inquire into alleged factional meeting

Water kiosks in Kozhikode to be repaired

Kudumbashrees food stall a hit at Vividhta Ka Amrit Mahotsav

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Members of the Sauparnika Kudumbashree unit from Kozhikode made their mark at the Vividhta Ka Amrit Mahotsav held at Amrit Udyan in Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, from March 1 to 9. The Kudumbashree women were entrusted with the task of running the states food stall at the festival. Besides Kerala, the event saw participation from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and the union territories Puducherry and Lakshadweep. Sajeena, Nusrat, Prashanthini, Maimoona and Shahida were at the helm of the stall, serving a variety of dishes representing the flavours of Travancore, Kochi and Malabar. The menu included fish and meat biryanis, chicken dishes, snacks, tapioca with fish curry, and mini sadyas. Governors, public representatives and senior officials from various states visited the Kerala food stall, which recorded a revenue of around Rs 5 lakh during the event. The food stalls operations were coordinated by Kudumbashree state assistant programme manager Shaiju R S, and the team leaders of Kudumbashrees youth entrepreneurship initiative, Adhebha Institute Of Food Research And Hospitality Management (AIFRHM).

Extreme dieting claims teen girls life in Kannur

KOZHIKODE: An 18-year-old lost her life after following an extreme weight-loss diet regime that she came across on YouTube. M Sreenanda, a resident of Koothuparamba in Kannur, had reportedly been surviving almost entirely on water for months, leading to severe health complications. A first-year student of Pazhassi Raja NSS College, Mattannur, Sreenanda was admitted to the Thalassery Co-operative Hospital a week ago after she showed signs of extreme tiredness and vomiting. She had been on ventilator support and died on Saturday night. Dr Nagesh Prabhu, who treated Sreenanda, confirmed she was suffering from anorexia nervosa, a severe eating disorder characterised by an intense fear of weight gain. She had been starving herself for nearly six months. One of my colleagues had earlier advised her family to seek psychiatric help, but they underestimated the seriousness of the condition, he said. Anorexia Nervosa is a complex disorder that not only affects eating habits but also has deep psychological roots. Patients eventually lose their sense of hunger, and in Sreenandas case, her sodium and sugar levels plummeted beyond correction, the doctor said. Eating disorders among children in 6-18 age group on rise, says expert While such cases are more common in Western countries, experts warn that India, particularly Kerala, is witnessing a rise in similar instances mainly due to unrealistic body standards propagated by social media. Sreenandas case is not an isolated one. There have been instances where children and teens have taken to extreme measures due to fear of gaining weight. Sharing his familys harrowing experience, the father of an eight-year-old told TNIE: My daughter was slightly overweight for her age. However, we found that she lost weight drastically within a span of two months. We initially assumed it was due to her sports activities. She always sat at the dining table with us. So, we never suspected that she was skipping meals. The family, however, found food items hidden under the bed and in unexpected corners of their home. The child told them that she had been bullied over her weight, which prompted her to secretly starve herself. After months of therapy, she is now showing signs of improvement. According to psychologists, social media platforms glorifying size-zero figures play a significant role in triggering unhealthy weight-loss behaviours among children and teenagers. Young minds are highly impressionable. The pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards can push them towards extreme measures, sometimes with fatal consequences, warned a mental health expert. Dr Anitha Shivaprakash, a peadiatrician, said eating disorders are life-threatening conditions affecting not just individuals but entire families. These disorders stem from an obsessive focus on body weight and food, leading to extreme dietary habits that negatively impact nutrition and overall well-being. More alarmingly, eating disorders in children aged 6 to 18 are on the rise, she said. Effective treatment often involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, nutritional counselling and, in severe cases, hospitalisation. Recovery is possible but requires consistent medical and psychological support. Experts said raising awareness about the dangers of extreme dieting and promoting a culture of body positivity is crucial in preventing such incidents. Sreenanda is survived by father Alakkadan Sreedharan, mother M Sreeja, and brother Yadunand.

MDMA overdose leads to multiple organ failure, death within hours

KOZHIKODE: The postmortem examination of Shanid Saleem, 28, who died after swallowing a packet of MDMA to escape from the police in Thamarassery on Saturday, confirmed overdose as the cause of death. Thamarassery DySP K Susheer said the postmortem held at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital (MCH) on Sunday revealed he Shanid swallowed a packet containing 9g of ganja and another having MDMA in liquid form. The packet of MDMA was found torn, while the other was intact, he said. Experts said MDMA overdose leads to multiple organ failure within hours and finally, death. Also, there is no antidote for its overdose, they said. Upon MDMA overdose, what follows is a complex and dangerous health issue. MDMA, a synthetic drug, is a nervous system stimulant and is used to feel more energetic and alert. Even a limited quantity of MDMA will increase the heart rate and blood pressure, cause wakefulness and sweating and hike the body temperature, said Dr Suresh Kumar P N, a psychiatrist from Kozhikode. He said its overdose will cause the blood pressure to shoot up leading to cerebral haemorrhage. The heart starts beating very fast, leading to heart failure. And when the body temperature increases abnormally, it affects all organs. MDMA overdose may also lead to seizure and drop in sodium level, Dr Suresh said, adding that all these factors lead to failure of the brain, heart, kidney and other organs. The death rate is high. If a patient who overdosed is brought to the hospital within an hour or two, doctors can do a stomach wash with a universal antidote. However, it can only reduce absorption level; the complexities will continue, he said. The Thamarassery DySP said usually, gold smugglers swallow the metal to escape from authoirities. There is no change to the golds form later. However, drug peddlers doing it is dangerous and leads to overdose as in Shanids case, Susheer said. After he swallowed the drugs, the cops first took Shanid to the Thamarassery taluk hospital and later to the Kozhikode MCH. Though the doctors recommended that the packets be removed through surgery, Shanid refused to sign the consent form as he started showing behavioural changes. He died while the authorities were planning to go ahead with the surgery considering his critical condition. The inquest was held at the MCH in the presence of a magistrate, and the body handed over to relatives after postmortem.

Kerala: Youth dies after swallowing 2 packets of MDMA to flee from police custody in Kozhikode

A drug-peddler died on Saturday while undergoing treatment at Kozhikode Medical College hospital after swallowing two packets of MDMA tablets in an attempt to flee from police custody.

Police, Excise told to crack down on drug pushers near de-addiction centre

The de-addiction centre near Kozhikode Government General Hospital has become a hotspot for drug pushers who reportedly interact with patients undergoing treatment

Kerala Man Swallows 2 Packets Of MDMA Drug To Escape Police Checking, Dies

A man died after he swallowed two packets of MDMA (Ecstasy) to escape a police check in Kerala's Kozhikode, officials said on Saturday.

Man dies after swallowing MDMA on seeing police in Kozhikode

The 28-year-old suspect swallowed the synthetic drug on Friday during his attempts to escape from the police and was under treatment at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital

Minors in conflict with the law: A party, a street fight, and the death of a Kerala boy

On March 1, Mohammed Shahabaz, a Class 10 student in Kozhikode district, succumbed to the injuries he had sustained during a street fight between students a few days prior. Six students have been nabbed by the police in connection with the incident. Mithosh Joseph reports on the ongoing police investigation in the case and the increasing worries about minors in conflict with the law

Wayanad gets long-awaited POPSK as Vishu gift

New passport facility to spare Wayanad residents long trips to Passport Seva Kendras in Kozhikode and Vadakara via Thamarassery and Kuttiyadi-Pakramthalam Ghat Roads

Missing woman found dead in forest in Kozhikode

Search had been on for her since March 1

Canadian medal for Kozhikode native

Kozhikode DTPC to digitally recreate Portuguese fort at Chaliyam

Alleged police assault on 15-year-old protester sparks outrage in Kerala

Alleged assault took place when the boy was taking part in a protest against opening of a granite quarry at his village in Kozhikode. Action has been sought against police officers

Survey finds occupational health issues among food handlers in Keralas Kozhikode

Sanitation and Fitness Evaluation (SAFE) project was conceived as a surveillance program for food handlers to strengthen food safety and public health. Food handlers were later issued health cards of one-year validity

Shahabas death: protests continue, police seek details of Instagram accounts from Meta

KSU and MSF activists take out march to government observation home at Vellimadukunnu in Kozhikode city, where the accused have been lodged

Fed up with wild animal attacks, panchayat in Keralas Kozhikode decides to shoot them

Chakkittapara panchayat plans to have 20 empanelled shooters in the wake of frequent attacks by leopards, tigers, wild boars, bisons, and wild elephants. 15-member panchayat body unanimously passes a resolution

Nipah Virus Alert in Kerala: State Issues New Precautionary Measures Ahead of Bat Breeding Season All You Need to Know

Nipah Virus In Kerala Updates: According to the latest reports, the Kerala Health department has zeroed in on Kozhikode, Malappuram, Kannur, Wayanad and Ernakulam as possible hotspots.

Death of Kozhikode student after group clash: One more arrested

He is the sixth person apprehended by police in the case

Environmental nod for tunnel road in Wayanad, greens see red

The 2,043.74-crore project aims to reduce travel time between Kozhikode and Wayanad

Hospitals in five districts in Kerala asked to be on alert against Nipah in view of mating season of fruit bats

The Health department has zeroed in on Kozhikode, Malappuram, Kannur, Wayanad and Ernakulam as possible hotspots.