Vigilance launches Op Adhigrahan to probe irregularities in highway land acquisition

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The vigilance department on Saturday launched a statewide inspection, Operation Adhigrahan to investigate allegations of corruption and irregularities in land acquisition and disbursement of rehabilitation funds linked to highway development projects. The raids began at 10m and were carried out at 32 offices across 12 districts, including the deputy collector and special tahsildar offices involved in land acquisition. The operation follows confidential inputs received by vigilance indicating that some officials facilitated misuse of public funds by falsifying records and allowed ineligible claims under the Rehabilitation and Resettlement (R&R) scheme. Under the R&R scheme, people whose properties are acquired for highway development are entitled to additional financial assistance beyond the compensation amount. A total of Rs 2,86,000 will be granted for those who lose their homes and Rs 75,000 for those who lose commercial establishments. The funds are meant to support temporary accommodation or help rebuild displaced lives. However, complaints have come out that certain tahsildars approved funds without verifying whether owners actually resided in the houses at the time of acquisition or whether the properties were rented. In some cases, field verification officers are suspected of deliberately submitting false reports. Further allegations point to landowners colluding with officials to reclassify land categories from lower to higher value slabs to claim inflated compensation amounts. The inspections, focused on identifying such procedural lapses and financial misconduct, were carried out under the directive of vigilance director Yogesh Gupta. District-wise, the highest number of inspections were conducted in Thiruvananthapuram (6) and Kollam (5), followed by Ernakulam (4) and other districts such as Alappuzha, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod.

Innocent teen picked up, assaulted by cops in Kerala

KOZHIKODE/KOCHI: An 18-year-old youth from Cheruvannur was reportedly beaten up by police after being mistaken for an associate of an accused in an abduction case in Meppayur, in Kozhikode. Adhil P, a student of hospital administration, suffered an injury to his ear in the incident. Adhil filed a complaint with the DGP, the Kerala State Human Rights Commission and Meppayur police. According to the complaint, Adhil was waiting at the Digital Seva Kendra, near Meppayur police station, last Friday afternoon when plainclothes police officers from Kalamassery in Kochi apprehended him, took him into the station and beat him up. The police team was after an accused in a kidnapping-for-ransom case involving a 22-year-old man from Kalamassery. On supposedly realising their mistake, officers issued an apology and released Adhil, it said. The police team had been tracking Muhammed Hashir, one of the suspects in the kidnapping of Sourav. As part of their operation to trap Hashir, from Meppayur, the 21-year-old was led to believe that the ransom money was kept in the vicinity of the Seva Kendra. I was at the Seva Kendra to procure documents to open a bank account. I noticed Hashir at the location. All of a sudden, a group of police officers in civvies reached there and detained me and another man waiting at the facility, along with Hashir, and led us to the station around 2.40pm, Adhil told TNIE. Despite pleading innocence, officers beat me up Despite pleading innocence, officers beat me up. When they realised the error they apologised and promised to help me open the bank account. They released me around 3.30 pm. The beating left me with severe ear pain and I consulted a doctor the same day. The subsequent scan and tests revealed an injury to the eardrum. I have been advised medication and rest for a month, Adhil told TNIE. Meanwhile, Meppayur police, who were also involved in the mission, admitted that it was a mistake on their part. We had been on the lookout for Hashir. After leading him into our trap, officers wanted to ensure that he does not escape. We took Adhil into custody in the belief that hes associated with Hashir. We questioned him, but we didnt assault him, said E K Shiju, SHO, Meppayur station. Kalamassery police also admitted to have detained the youth briefly as part of the operation. They, too, categorically denied the assault charge. The youth was not harmed in any way. We detained him briefly as he was seen talking to the accused, who had arrived to collect the ransom money. We released him soon after when it became clear that he was not involved, said Latheef M B, SHO, Kalamassery station.

Overheated battery short circuit caused Kozhikode MCH fire

KOZHIKODE: The fire that sparked panic at the emergency wing of Kozhikode Medical College Hospital (MCH) has been traced to a short circuit in a CPU battery unit, according to a report by the investigation team. The incident occurred in the room housing the battery backup systems connected to the MRI unit, leading to the destruction of 34 batteries and filling parts of the emergency department with thick smoke. The directorate of medical education (DME) has announced that a five-member expert medical team will carry out an independent investigation into the incident. The team has been tasked with examining the causes behind the spread of smoke and assessing whether it contributed to any difficulty or death of patients. Director of Medical Education K V Viswanathan confirmed that a full report will be submitted to the government within a week. Patients shifted to private hospitals will be brought back, he added. The committee includes the superintendent of Kottayam MCH, a professor from the surgery department of the Thrissur MCH, head of pulmonology from Ernakulam MCH, and the head of forensic medicine from the Kollam MCH. A review meeting held at 10am on Sunday lasted over three and a half hours and was attended by department heads, MCH superintendent, DME, principal and police officers. The authorities said the fire originated when a battery, overheated and swollen due to internal pressure, exploded. That triggered a chain reaction, causing the batteries nearby to ignite and explode as well. Although the fire was contained within the battery room, the dense smoke infiltrated the emergency department, leading to a temporary shutdown and evacuation. The UPS connected to the MRI machine sustained damage and will require expert restoration. Minor ceiling damage was also reported. Tincident has revived long-standing demands for a dedicated fire station near the Kozhikode MCH. Despite recommendations and a request for 20 cents of land, the project remains unrealised. MLA M K Muneer criticised the delay, stating that the lack of preparedness was unacceptable in a medical facility of this scale.

Rabies deaths raise concern over treatment procedures in Kerala

KOCHI: The recent deaths of two vaccinated youngsters from rabies have called into question the treatment procedures adopted in Kerala. Health experts warn that there are several risk factors associated with rabies. According to them, children are at greater risk, as they are more likely to be bitten on the head and face. Healthcare workers who handle patients should ensure that all the wounds are accounted for and treated to prevent complications, they add. As many as 13 rabies deaths have been reported in the state this year. In the whole of 2024, the official number stood at 22. Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, convenor of the IMA research cell, said that dog bites to the head, face and fingertips involve more risk because of the rich nerve supply. Children, because of their size, are more prone to be severely bitten on the neck, head and face. The virus has only a short distance to travel from the face to the brain, he said. Public health expert Dr K K Purushothaman echoed the view. Dog bites to the face and head are more dangerous. Moreover, children may not inform parents about licks or bites, making early detection difficult, he said. Administering the rabies vaccine requires skilled health workers and the cooperation of patients. It is relatively difficult to administer vaccines intradermally that is precisely into the top layer of the skin in children, as they have thin skin and may be agitated and restless. In addition, to prevent the entry of the virus into the nerves, wounds should be washed immediately and thoroughly, even before proceeding to the hospital. This is a critical step in reducing the total viral load. Inadequate first aid or delayed first aid and the failure to administer the serum or immunoglobulin into deep wounds are other risk factors, Dr Rajeev said. Dr Purushothaman added that health workers should not miss even small injuries while administering injections. Jabs should cover every wound, even smaller ones, even scratches. At times, patients, as well as health workers, may not be aware of certain wounds. Parents should be more careful when the children engage with animals, he said. The proper transport, handling and storage of vaccines is essential. Pitfalls can affect efficiency. Vaccines should be stored at a temperature of 2-8 degrees Celsius. The cooling facility should have power backup to reduce the chances of variation in temperature. It is extremely dangerous to not take the vaccine following a dog bite. Studies have shown that nearly eight out of 10 people who are bitten by a rabid dog and do not take a vaccine go on to contract rabies, Dr Rajeev pointed out. IntraDermal Rabies Vaccination 1st dose: Same day of the bite 2nd dose 3rd day 3rd dose 7th day 4th dose 14th day 5th dose 28th day Immunoglobulin Once immediately after the bite Immediate steps after a dog bite Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and running water Provide first aid without delay Inject anti-rabies serum or immunoglobulin into deep or severe wounds Complete the full course of anti-rabies vaccination without missing any dose Pain and Loss The state has seen a series of incidents involving children attacked by dogs both stray and pet resulting in multiple deaths and serious injuries. A look at the recent incidents February 10 (Alappuzha) Savan D Krishna, a 9-year-old boy from Charumoodu, succumbed to rabies while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Tiruvalla. He was reportedly chased by a dog while riding bicycle two weeks before his death but did not inform his family about the incident. April 9 (Pathanamthitta) B Bhagyalakshmi, a 12-year-old girl from Pullad and a Class VII student, died of rabies despite receiving an anti-rabies vaccination. She had been bitten by an unvaccinated pet dog belonging to a neighbour while waiting for her school bus on December 13, 2024. April 29 (Malappuram) Five-and-a-half-year-old Ziya, a Malappuram native, was mauled by a stray dog while playing outside her home at Peruvallur on March 29. Her father found her in a pool of blood and rushed her to the Tirurangadi Taluk Hospital and then to Kozhikode Medical College Hospital, where she died. Kollam A 7-year-old girl from Vilakudy is in critical condition at SAT Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram, after being attacked by a stray dog on April 8. She was admitted on April 29 with severe injuries to her hands.

Drug-fuelled crimes on the rise in Kerala

KOCHI: Kerala is witnessing a disturbing trend as the number of crimes committed under the influence of drugs and alcohol continues to rise sharply. In 2024 alone, the state has seen a more than 120% increase in criminal cases involving intoxicated individuals. In January, a 53-year-old woman was hacked to death by her son, Ashiq, 24, in Thamarassery. Ashiq was a known drug addict. Last month, in Engapuzha, Kozhikode, a 25-year-old man under the influence of drugs brutally murdered his wife. In another case, a 35-year-old attacked his elderly parents in Tanur, Malappuram, after they refused to give him money to buy drugs. These incidents are no longer isolated. In 2024 alone, 88 criminal cases, including murder, rape, attempted murder, and assault, committed under the influence of drugs or alcohol have been reported. In contrast, there were 37 such cases in 2023, 28 in 2022, and just 16 in 2021. Between January and March 15 this year, 23 cases have already been recorded. Renowned criminologist James Vadackumcherry believes the actual number of such incidents is much higher, as many cases remain within the confines of the family and go unreported. Son attacking parents, husband assaulting wife, these cases are often hidden behind closed doors. They only come to light when grave crimes occur, James said. According to James, there is a clear link between the rise in drug and alcohol abuse and these violent incidents, especially among youngsters. The government must take proactive measures to curb drug trafficking and substance abuse, he said. Dr Arun B Nair, professor of psychiatry at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College, pointed out that the surge in crime and drug abuse among youth are linked to social isolation, impulsive behaviour, and improper parenting. Youngsters today are more isolated and impulsive. In such a state, drug abuse becomes the final trigger. Drugs impair the prefrontal cortex - the part of the brain responsible for decision-making and social behaviour - leading to violent reactions in adverse situations, he explained. According to him, with access to overwhelming information from multiple platforms, todays youth are losing their ability to think critically. This often results in a dismissive attitude toward parents. To combat the crisis, Arun suggests the need for imparting early education to both children and parents. Reducing demand is key. We need to start training children from a young age. Life skills education that teaches resilience and emotional regulation must be incorporated into school curriculums. Though a curriculum was drafted, it needs to be implemented without delay. Identifying and nurturing each childs talents is crucial. Parents, too, should be part of this process - schools must ensure that fathers, in particular, attend PTA training sessions. Arun also highlighted the importance of extracurricular activities in crime prevention. Encouraging participation in sports and cultural events is vital. Studies show that sports helps reduce digital and drug addictions. Schools must revive defunct clubs and actively promote student involvement based on their interests and abilities, he added.

Kozhikode MCH fire: Five-member team to probe incident

Priyanka Gandhi stops her convoy, helps accident victim in Kozhikode

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi halted her convoy upon witnessing a car accident in Eengappuzha, Kozhikode. She promptly dispatched a doctor from her team to administer first aid to the injured, including Noushad and his family from Koyilandy. Ensuring their well-being, she arranged for the ambulance in her convoy to transport them to the hospital before resuming her journey to Wayanad.

Initial findings rule out asphyxiation, but questions still remain

KOZHIKODE: The death of four patients who were evacuated after smoke engulfed the emergency block of the Kozhikode Medical College Hospital on Friday night continues to raise questions, even as the preliminary postmortem examination concluded that the deaths were not caused by smoke inhalation. Health Minister Veena George, who visited the spot on Saturday, announced that a team of medical experts from outside the Kozhikode MCH will be appointed to investigate allegations by relatives of the deceased that the patients on ventilators died during evacuation. The allegation is that the deaths could have happened when the critically-ill patients were evacuated without proper medical support. Yusuf Ali, brother of a patient, Naseera, alleged that her health had improved before she was removed from the ventilator and that she died while being removed from the ventilator. The postmortem of Gopalan, 65, from West Hill; Surendran, 59, from Vadakara; and Gangadharan, 70, from Meppayur, revealed that the cause of death was cardiac arrest. According to the preliminary autopsy findings of Meppadi native Naseera, 44, the death was due to poisoning. A migrant worker Ganga, 34, was brought dead to the hospital. However, the samples of their internal organs will be sent for further examination. The explosion, which occurred around 8 pm on Friday, originated in the UPS room adjacent to the MRI scan unit. It was followed by a heavy release of smoke, causing panic among patients and their bystanders. The initial investigation report of the Fire and Rescue Services team stated that the smoke was caused by a short circuit in the UPS. The burnt batteries found from the UPS room of the Surgical Super Specialities and Emergency Block of Kozhikode Medical College Hospital PWD inspectorate, forensic team to determine cause of explosion: Min As many as 38 batteries set in five tiers were burnt and damaged. Before the smoke, there had been three power outages at the block. It is being investigated whether there was a problem with the quality of the battery. A major rescue operation took place at the hospital after smoke engulfed the block. All the doctors, nurses, fire and rescue teams, police, ambulance drivers, peoples representatives, and local residents came together to safely shift more than 200 people, including the patients and their bystanders. Out of the 151 patients who were in the emergency block at the time, 114 continue to receive treatment at the medical college hospital. A total of 37 patients were shifted to various other hospitals, including 12 to the General Hospital, and others to Baby Memorial, Aster MIMS, Iqraa, Nirmala, Star Care, and the Kozhikode District Cooperative Hospital. Veena said among the five deaths, one individual was brought in dead due to hanging, while another suffered cardiac arrest around 7pm. One patient on a non-invasive ventilator was shifted without interruption, and another was transported with an alternative ventilator facility in an ambulance by a doctor himself. During the meeting with the department heads, the need for protocol to evacuate patients during such emergency situations was also discussed, she said. According to the minister, fire and rescue and forensic teams have been deployed to investigate the UPS room in detail. The PWD inspectorate and the forensic science team are collaborating to determine the cause of the explosion. The engineers and departmental doctors stated that the Philips UPS unit had a valid battery warranty until October 2026. The required maintenance was carried out every six months, with no issues detected till date. Only after a full technical analysis and forensic report can we understand the true cause of this accident. We cannot jump to conclusions based on assumptions, Veena said. The government has to take a decision on the expenses incurred by the patients who were shifted to the private hospital. Relatives of a patient said the expense for one day would come around Rs 1 lakh, which includes the ventilator and scanning charges and the cost of medicines.

CM inaugurates Ente Keralam expo and National Saras Mela in Kozhikode

The expo features around 200 stalls by various government departments

Multiple-level probes into fire outbreak at Kozhikode MCH

Preliminary post-mortem report rules out possibility of inhalation of smoke as the cause of death of five patients on ventilator support

Kozhikode native is Commandant of MIC&S

Haritha Karma Sena to conduct water testing in Kozhikode city households

HKS members, who are also part of the Kudumbashree, are being trained to use water testing kits to examine water in wells, ponds, and other waterbodies

Fire At Kozhikode Hospital Claims 5 Lives, Over 200 Evacuated In Emergency Operation

A huge fire broke out inside the casualty ward of Kozhikode Medical College Hospital around 8 pm on Friday. This prompted the evacuation of more than 200 people from the area.

Kozhikode MCH Fire Forces Evacuation, Sparks Casualty Controversy

Health minister Veena George has ordered an immediate investigation.

15-year-old girl escapes clutches of attackers in Kozhikode; two migrant workers held

KOZHIKODE: Even as the police are checking whether more people were involved in the attempted kidnapping and sexual assault of a 15-year-old in Kozhikode, the girl has come in for praise for her bravery in handling the situation and escaping. Though the incident happened on Monday, the CCTV footage surfaced on Thursday following the arrest of the two accused, Faizan Anwar, 36, and Himan Ali, 18, who are from Kishanganj in Bihar. The accused tried to molest and kidnap the girl who was returning home after tuition around 7.30pm on Monday. As she was walking towards her house through an isolated area after getting down from a bus, one of the accused suddenly covered her mouth from behind and the other tried to drag her. But the girl screamed and ran away from the accused. While patrolling is being intensified in the wake of the incident, the police suspect that more people are involved in the incident. The girls courage is worth mentioning here. She screamed and ran away from the attackers. The girl was returning home from the city after tuition. As she ran, the accused escaped from the scene, said Kasaba Station House Officer Kiran C Nair. The police registered a case based on the girls complaint. During investigation, a sandal found at the scene of the incident with cement stuck to it proved the turning point. The police surmised that the accused were migrant workers involved in construction. On Thursday, the accused were arrested from a place on Chalappuram Bhajan Kovil Road, where migrant workers stay in a group. The police are collecting information about workers from other states. A separate list of those with criminal backgrounds will be prepared and steps including patrolling will be intensified to prevent such incidents from recurring, an officer said.

Keralas old-age homes failing to meet demand

KOZHIKODE: It was a Monday morning, and Tezy Jose was hooked to her phone. The founder of Divine Charitable Trust a non-profit working for patient welfare -- was tirelessly calling every old-age home she knew in the Malabar region. Her mission: To accommodate a 65-year-old woman recently abandoned by her three adult children. But call after call ended with the same response: No vacancy. I was stunned, Tezy said. Ive been in this field for more than a decade, but never have I faced such a situation. Every care home I reached out to had already exceeded capacity. What began as a rescue effort for one woman quickly evolved into a distress call to the entire caregiving network Tezy had built over the years. She alerted fellow NGOs, support groups, and government officers, hoping someone, somewhere, had space for just one more mother. This episode is no longer the exception: Its fast becoming the norm across Kerala, particularly in the Malabar region. Old-age homes across the state are overwhelmed, with many formally shutting their doors to new admissions. The state, often hailed for its high human development indices, is now grappling with a silent emergency: Where do the elders go when families fade away? According to the social justice departments 2024 records, the number of old-age homes in the state surged to 722 including 35 paid homes housing over 22,180 inmates. By contrast, back in 2015, the state had only 502 homes with 14,642 residents. Between 2020 and 2024 alone, at least 12 new paid facilities were opened. But even this growing infrastructure has not kept pace with demand. We used to get two or three applications a month. Now, its easily 10-15 a week, said Sr Annamma, a nun who manages a reputed home in Kozhikode. But we simply do not have the space or manpower to take them all. The waiting list is heartbreaking. At Home of Love in Kottooli, Sr Anupama shared a similar experience. Weve pushed our capacity from 85 to 92 just to help more people. But even then, enquiries keep pouring in. When we redirect them to other homes, the answer is the same everywhere: Were full. Experts point to a deep societal transition. With Keralas youth migrating in large numbers for education and jobs, often settling abroad, the traditional joint family structure has crumbled. Elderly parents are increasingly left behind, with neither emotional nor physical support. In Malabar, where family care for the elderly was once a cultural cornerstone, we are witnessing a complete reversal, said Dr P A Rahim, a sociologist at Kannur University. Seniors themselves are initiating the move to old-age homes -- not because they want to, but because they have no other choice. A 2024 study by the Kerala Planning Board showed that nearly 20% of the state population is aged, 60 and above, with the number growing by 2.3% annually. Adding complexity to the issue is the mushrooming of paid old-age homes. These facilities collect deposits and monthly fees that vary based on amenities offered: From basic rooms to private suites with medical staff, air conditioning, and recreation. While these options work for the wealthy, they remain inaccessible for most seniors dependent on meagre pensions or support from welfare groups. Charitable homes are still the primary option for the vulnerable elderly, said Tezy. But theyre now beyond capacity. We need urgent alternatives. Many social workers argue that the state has yet to catch up with this demographic shift. Anoop Gangadharan, founder of Arm of Joy, emphasised, We must build senior-specific infrastructure. Day-care centres dont solve the crisis -- they are underutilised and poorly planned. What we need are long-term, well-staffed, and sustainable elder care facilities. The government, meanwhile, is being urged to step in. Proposals include upgrading existing old-age homes with more beds and medical staff, incentivising private-public partnerships for affordable elder housing, creating a state-level elder welfare registry to monitor and support those at risk. A lookback 2015 -The state had only 502 old-age homes with 14,642 residents 2024 -The number of old-age homes in the state surged to 722 including 35 paid homes housing over 22,180 inmates

Smoke engulfs Kozhikode MCH casualty, patients evacuated

The initial assessment of the fire services is that a short circuit might have caused the fire. Health Minister Veena George has ordered an inquiry into the incident.

Kozhikode gets WHO recognition as age-friendly city

Uncertainty continues over Anvars entry into UDF

He appears hesitant to abruptly sever ties with the Trinamool Congress and seems unwilling to join the Congress. A high-level UDF meeting convened in Kozhikode on Friday welcomes Anvar into its fold

FIR against man for posting video of Suddaguntepalya groping incident on social media

BENGALURU: The 19-year-old survivor of the Suddaguntepalya groping case on April 3, filed a complaint against Lokesh Gowda, 55, a resident of 1st Cross, Bharathi Layout in Suddaguntepalya, for posting a video of the crime on social media and making it public. Suddaguntepalya police registered a case under Section 66e of the Information Technology Act, which pertains to intentional or knowing capture, publication, or transmission of images of a persons private area without consent, in violation of their privacy. The case against Lokesh was registered on Tuesday. The woman, who resides in a PG accommodation on Tavarekere Main Road, alleged in her complaint that Gowda had posted the video on his Facebook account without her consent. The case was registered on Tuesday. Lokesh is yet to be arrested, and the section under which the case is registered is bailable, said a police officer. It may be recalled that Home Minister Dr G Parameshwara faced a massive backlash for his remark that such incidents tend to happen here and there in a big city like Bengaluru in connection with the groping case. Ten days after the incident, police arrested 26-year-old Santhosh Daniel from Kozhikode district, Kerala. He was tracked after reviewing footage from over 700 CCTVs, tracing his movements across Karnataka and neighbouring Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Santhosh, a resident of Gulbarga Colony in Tilak Nagar, initially took shelter in Hosur before travelling to Kozhikode via Salem. He worked as a test driver at an imported car showroom in Whitefield. A native of Thally in Hosur, he lived with his mother and brother, an auto driver. The crime took place at 1.52 am on April 3 on 1st Cross, Bharathi Layout, Suddaguntepalya. Based on the video, police had filed a complaint on April 6 by a 55-year-old Gowda, who resides on the same street. A case was registered against Santhosh under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections for sexual harassment (BNS 75), stalking (BNS 78), and using criminal force on a woman with intent to outrage her modesty (BNS 74).

Satheesan opts out of Vizhinjam seaport launch

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Leader of opposition V D Satheesan will not attend the inaugural function of the Vizhinjam Seaport on May 2. His office alleged that the LDF government failed to ensure his presence in the inaugural function. However, the Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan dismissed the allegation and clarified that Satheesans name was included in the list submitted by the state government to the Prime Ministers Office. The final decision on the list of attendees was taken by the PMO. The state government had only submitted the proposals. The invitation was sent after the PMO gave the final list to the state government. The invitation was extended to all leaders from the Chief Ministers Office simultaneously, he said. Congress has decided to limit the presence of Opposition in the inaugural function to its Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor and Vizhinjam MLA M Vincent. Though the state government had not sent invitations to political leaders, some channel reports on Tuesday said that the leader of opposition was not in the list though Tharoor and Vincents name were included. At a press conference, M Vincent alleged that Satheesan was excluded from the function. However, when TNIE contacted Vincent, he said he has also not received the invitation letter, but was told by some sources that Satheesans name was not in the list. Meanwhile, Port Minister V N Vasavan told TNIE that the invitations to the leader of Opposition, Tharoor and Vincent were sent through a messenger in the morning after the PMOs approval. The opposition leader did not respond to repeated efforts to get his response. Satheesans office said that the leader of Opposition was invited in a letter head of the port minister and his role at the function was not specified. Satheesan will participate in the UDF coordination meeting to be held on May 2 in Kozhikode. Meanwhile, there is a differing view in the Congress and UDF against Satheesans decision to opt out of the programme. Tharoor is the only Congress leader who had visited the port premises after the CMs visit. Meanwhile CM Pinarayi dismissed reports that BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhars name was sent by the state government. We had included only the names of peoples representatives in the states list. It was in the list approved by the PMO that those names were included. We had not included the names of the LDF convener or the secretaries of the CPM or CPI in the list, he said.

Two migrant workers taken into police custody on charge of sexual assault bid in Kozhikode

IIM Bangalore tops India in QS Executive MBA Rankings 2025, secures 10th spot in Asia-Pacific

IIM Bangalore's PGPEM has been ranked the top Executive MBA programme in India and placed 10th in the Asia-Pacific and 50th globally in the QS Executive MBA Rankings 2025. The programme outperformed global averages in career outcomes, employer reputation, and thought leadership. Other Indian institutes including ISB, IIM Kozhikode, and IMT Ghaziabad also featured in the rankings, highlighting India's growing presence in executive education on the global stage.

Firm seeks three months to repair escalator at moffusil bus in Kozhikode

The escalator is part of the first-ever mechanised foot overbridge in the State, which connects the bus stand with the V.K. Krishnamenon Indoor Stadium across Rajaji Road

QR code launched to locate police stations in Kozhikode

The initiative, named Police Finder, was completed under sub-inspector Manoj Babu (Traffic), who retired from service on April 30, 2025

Cardiologists meet in Kozhikode from May 2

SSK takes up various projects in Kozhikode amid fund crunch

The projects are being implemented at a time when the Centre has withheld the States due share for not signing the PM Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) agreement

Kerala to showcase wedding, MICE tourism potential through August conclave

KOCHI: Kerala is set to host a high-profile conclave from August 14 to 16 to position itself as the countrys leading destination for wedding and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) tourism. Organised by the Kerala Travel Mart Society in association with the state government, the Wedding and MICE Conclave will seek to align regional tourism with global trends in the sector. To be inaugurated at 5 p.m. on August 14 at the Grand Hyatt, Bolgatty Island, the conclave will feature two days of business meetings and seminars at Le Meridien in Kundannur, from 9.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. The initiative follows remarks made by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan at KTM-2024 last year, where he emphasised Keralas potential as a hub for wedding and honeymoon tourism. Building on this vision, the conclave aims to strengthen Keralas presence in the global tourism landscape. Tourism and PWD Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas said, The points raised during my inaugural speech at the 12th KTM in September triggered a string of discussions by the administration, leading to the idea of holding an international conference in this sector. He stressed the need to closely monitor changes in the international tourism sector to help the state prepare for the future. KTM will be an excellent technological infrastructure functioning as an asset to the conference, added Minister Riyas. Kerala Tourism Secretary K. Biju stated that one of the primary goals of the conclave is to transform the state into a major hub for wedding and MICE tourism. The state can use its best infrastructure facilities in Kochi, Munnar, Kumarakom, Kollam, Kovalam, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Bekal for MICE conferences. It can host wedding tourism with beaches, backwaters and hills as locations, he said. He added that the conference would generate greater awareness about Keralas cultural heritage, ancient architecture and cuisine. Kerala Tourism Director Smt Sikha Surendran said the conclave would bring together stakeholders from wedding planning, corporate events, large convention centres and tour operations under one umbrella. Training workshops, innovative marketing strategies, logistics and technology deployment will be organised in collaboration with large MICE and wedding companies, she said. Buyers attending the event will get the opportunity to visit wedding and MICE destinations across Kerala. Familiarisation trips will be organised in Kochi, Munnar, Kumarakom, Kollam, Kovalam, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Bekal. Special promotional focus will be given to the states beaches, heritage buildings and backwater resorts. New wedding and honeymoon packages are also expected to be launched. KTM Society president Jose Pradeep said B2B meetings would be a key attraction for tour operators, wedding planners and the hospitality sector to directly interact. Apart from the states art forms of classical and folk genres, the conference will also showcase regional delicacies, he said. An exhibition focused on the wedding and MICE tourism sectors will also be held. Hotels, resorts, conference venues, organisers and technical workers will exhibit in the MICE sector. Wedding organisers, luxury resorts, destination venues, floral arrangements, photography, catering and bridal services will exhibit in the wedding sector, said KTM Society secretary S. Swaminathan.

Nigerian citizen nabbed in major drug trafficking case in Kozhikode

The suspect was nabbed from Greater Noida after a three-month long investigation into the incident

Location mix-up lands groom in wrong temple in Kannur

KOZHIKODE: An honest mistake by a relative led to tense moments and ended up nearly postponing a wedding in Kannur recently. The groom, a native of Thiruvananthapuram, was supposed to marry the bride from Kannur at the Iritty Keezhur Mahavishnu Temple. The muhurtham was 10.30am. However, when he failed to arrive by the auspicious time, the tense family of the bride called him up. Thats when they learnt that he had reached the similar-sounding Kizhur Shiva Temple at Payyoli in Vadakara, Kozhikode, some 60 km away. It soon emerged that one of the brides relatives had inadvertently sent him the wrong Google location. The correct location was then sent and the groom reached the Iritty temple, some three hours after the muhurtham. The couple finally tied the knot. As per the relatives, the groom and his near and dear ones had arrived at Thalassery from Thiruvananthapuram the day before for the wedding. On the morning of the marriage, they had left for Vadakara after checking the Google Maps location sent by the brides relative. After the temple authorities in Iritty informed them that there was no need to wait for a special muhurtham during weddings and that the marriage could be held no matter how late it was, the groom and the others left for Iritty from Vadakara. Though the groom had visited the house of the bride before the marriage, he was not familiar with the temple, located just 2km away from her home, that the brides family had chosen for the marriage. This was the second marriage of both the groom and the bride.

Amrita Centre for Oncogenetics opened in Kozhikode

5-Year-Old Dies From Rabies In Kerala Despite Timely Vaccination After Dog Bite

Ziya Faris, a 5-year-old from Kerala, died from rabies despite timely vaccination after a stray dog bite. Treated at Kozhikode Medical College, she succumbed to severe injuries

Tuning into 75 years: The story of All India Radio Thiruvananthapuram

Sreekumar Mukhathala was busy organising an outreach programme as part of All India Radio (AIR) when it dawned on him: the national broadcaster, whose Thiruvananthapuram chapter is now celebrating its 75th year, can never be spoken of in the past tense. That may be the common perception. But this is far from true. The reach and the prospect of the medium, and the potential of our content to address the needs and concerns of the masses, have always stood out. The tech advances have only led us to adapt our content in tandem with the changing times, says the assistant director (programmes), who is set to retire on April 30 after three decades of service. As part of the anniversary, AIR Thiruvananthapuram has been organising outreach programmes across the district. On April 22, it was set to travel to Amaravila for a workshop for children on local and folk arts. Such programmes, reflecting the culture and life of the masses, have always been AIRs hallmark unlike the heavily cinema-based content visual media doles out, he adds. The years spent at AIR have been monumental, working with greats and emerging talents. This has been another hallmark since its inception on April 1, 1950, when Travancore Radio established by Maharaja Chithira Thirunal in 1943 merged with AIR. Travancore Radios first transmitter was located at Kulathoor, with the studio at Palayam, where the MLA quarters now stand. Initially, broadcasts were limited to Tuesdays to Fridays, from 7pm to 9.30pm. The focus was on music and theatre, later adding a news bulletin in English read by Indira Joseph. Team AIR, (Centre) Sreekumar Mukhathala AIR evolved by merging the Indian State Broadcasting Service with regional services and was given the name Akashvani coined by Rabindranath Tagore. Akashvani was also the name of Indias first private radio station, founded by professor M V Gopalaswami in Mysore in 1936. The merger made Thiruvananthapuram the first AIR station in Kerala, followed shortly by Kozhikode. Bhakthi Vilasom at Vazhuthacaud the former office residence of Diwan Sir C P Ramaswami Iyer became our operational hub. GPS Nair, who worked tirelessly towards it, was the first director. We still function from that sprawling, campus, Sreekumar says. Over the decades, AIR Thiruvananthapuram has seen many artists who later rose to prominence serve in permanent and honorary roles. After Indias independence, AIR drew up a uniform pattern of broadcast and content, including news, education, and socially relevant programming, evolving with time. Modernism guided content creation, but it always kept the working class and rural listeners at its heart. In Malayalam, AIR covered agriculture, literature, theatre, music, and education topics deeply rooted in the lives of common people. The radio occupied a prominent place in homes. Our mornings would start with its signature tune, recalls Karunakara Kurup, a retired banker, fondly remembering Vividh Bharati and Lalitha Ganangal, which offered a refreshing contrast to the purely classical perception of music. In fact, AIRs declassification of music remains one of its biggest cultural contributions. The Lalitha Sangeetam concept received a big push from AIR. It started in the north as Sugam Sangeet, Mellisai in Tamil, and then Lalitha Sangeetam in Malayalam, says Dileep M K, a transmission executive. School kids visiting AIR Thiruvananthapuram It was K Raghavan, transferred from Delhi to Kozhikode AIR, who, alongside P Bhaskaran, popularised light music in Kerala. Since then, AIRs light music team has only grown stronger, producing compositions that have become cultural staples. The teamwork of stalwarts like Kavalam Narayana Panicker and M G Radhakrishnan at AIR led to classics such as Ghanashyama Sandhya Hridayam sung by K J Yesudas, Odakuzhalvili Ozhuki Ozhuki Varum sung by Sujatha, and Shararanthal Velichathil Shayana Muriyil Njan by Kamukara Purushothaman. Among those still serving are S R Mahadeva Sharma, Manjula Mrinalini (violin), Mavelikkara R V Rajesh (mridangam), and Nanchil Arul. Neyyattinkara Vasudevan was once our tanpura artist, recalls Dileep. Many staffers rose to fame outside. Even now, we have a panel of about 400 composers and artists, including Perumbavur G Ravindranath, an A-Top artist. AIRs artist grading system remains a sought-after benchmark. Despite the many courses available now, AIR grading is still treated like a certification, says Manjula Mrinalini. Prominent singers such as K S Chithra, G Venugopal, Kallara Gopan, and G Sriram are among those who have earned the A-grade, with regional panels for light music and central panels for classical music. While the highest is A-Top, famous singers often dont return for further grading. We have seven A-Toppers linked with AIR Thiruvananthapuram, Dileep notes. Workshops on grading were recently conducted at NSS College, Niramankara, and Government Womens College, Thiruvananthapuram. While other avenues for ratings exist today, the AIR tag remains valuable, Manjula says. Storytelling session being recorded However, the ongoing recruitment freeze poses a serious threat to maintaining quality. There have been no recruitments for ten years now. We were the last batch, in 2015, says Aishwarya Nair, who handles womens and childrens programmes. The current team is strong, but to sustain the institution, we need quality hands regularly, she adds, during a break from recording an Aithihyamala storytelling session. Ruby Babu, a transmission executive for plays, says her section has embraced modern techniques. We record playsand simultaneously live-video them for social media promotions. The visual now complements sound, she says. AIR is also actively organising theatre workshops for university students. Programmes are finding new life online too. For instance, Nervazhi, a Saturday morning show for the visually impaired, once aired a session highlighting the challenges blind commuters face while boarding buses. Inspired by this, students at Chinmaya Vidyalaya developed an app, also called Nervazhi, to assist the visually impaired. AIR Thiruvananthapurams complex now boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure composite rooms dedicated to drama, talks, storytelling, light music, instrumental, and classical music. As I said, people mistakenly view AIR as a relic of the past. The truth is very different we are adapting swiftly, Sreekumar says, sipping lemonade with younger colleagues. They are the young face of this institution. We are exploring podcasting next, to tap the modern listener who consumes audio content while working or commuting, he says. Our programmes remain free of cliches and glamour yet are creative, critical, and entertaining be it documentaries, literature sessions, or talks. Even as a government-run entity, we have consistently upheld journalistic ethics, he adds further. What AIR Thiruvananthapuram now needs is more permanent hands to steer the ship forward, Sreekumar and his younger colleagues point out a team evidently in love with their work, the calm interiors, and the serene expanse of Bhakthi Vilasom, a cornerstone of Indias flagship radio network.

Boy allegedly hacks neighbour in Kozhikode

Leaders, uninterrupted: Work and learn via UWA Global MBA with IIM Kozhikode certification

The UWA Global MBA with IIM Kozhikode certification offers an opportunity to upskill without stepping away from your career. This dual-accredited MBA program promises a world-class curriculum from two globally respected institutions, tailored for mid to senior-level professionals looking to stay ahead of the growth curve. Here are its key advantages and a guide on how to apply.

Police in Kozhikode to revoke notices issued to Pakistan citizens to leave country

KOZHIKODE: Notices issued by city police asking three Pakistani citizens to leave the country will be rescinded. Kozhikode Rural SP said the decision was taken following instructions from the top. Of the three Pakistani citizens who had applied for long-term visas, instruction had already been sent out to withdraw the notice issued to Hamsa, a resident of Koyilandy. Notices were issued to Hamsa, Kunjiparambath Khamarunnisa, a native of Vadakara, and her sister Asma. They had taken Pakistani citizenship for business and marital reasons. Hamsa, 78, has a heart condition. He was born in Kerala. In 1965, he proceeded on a journey in search of work and ended up in East Pakistan, present-day Bangladesh. As he needed a passport to return home, Hamsa took Pakistani citizenship in 1972. He returned to Kerala after closing his business in 2007, and applied for Indian citizenship. But, except for a reply that his application had been accepted, no further procedures were initiated. Khamarunnisas family returned to Kerala from Karachi in 1993, before moving to Vadakara in 2022. Asma lives in Chokli. Both say that after their visas expired in 2024, they applied for an extension. But nothing came of it. The notices directed the three to visit the police station on Sunday with their residence permit documents. Hamsas life story had led to several debates. This prompted an order on revoking the notice issued to him. Police say that others with long-term visas are being asked to produce documents.

Fatal end to parking dispute among college students in Kozhikode

KOZHIKODE: A parking dispute involving college students escalated into violence on Saturday night, resulting in the death of a 20-year-old man near Palakkottuvayal in Mayanad. The deceased is Sooraj, of Ambalakandi, who was working at a car service centre in Chevarambalam. According to initial reports, the confrontation began as a minor dispute between senior and junior students of Chathamangalam SNES College, where Soorajs friends are studying. Friends say that Sooraj intervened to help resolve the argument and was subsequently attacked. Police have arrested Manoj Kumar Perayottil, 50, a Chelavoor resident, along with his two sons, Vijay, 19, and Ajay, 20, as the main suspects, along with six othersAnanthu Krishna, 20, Aswin Shankar, 18, Yadukrishna, 20, Abhishanth, 21, Vijay Krishna, 21, and Nihal, 20. Another accused, who is a minor, was produced before the Juvenile Justice Board. The conflict traces back to an argument that erupted between Aswanth, a first-year student, and Vijay, a second-year student, at the college. Later that night, during a festival at Thiruthiyad temple in Chevayur, tensions flared again, leading to a violent altercation between Aswanths and Vijays gangs. There was an ongoing dispute between Aswanth and Vijay at college. Vijays father, Manoj Kumar, intervened and brought outside individuals to retaliate. Sooraj, being a close friend and relative of Aswanth, was targeted when he attempted to intervene, which ultimately led to his death, Medical College ACP A Umesh said. Sooraj suffered severe injuries from the brutal beating by a gang of approximately 15 individuals. He was rushed to Kozhikode MCH, but could not be saved.

Municipal bond: Kochi corporation eyes new era of development financing

KOCHI: With Kochi corporation initiating talks with regulators and stakeholders to raise funds through municipal bonds, a new era of development financing is on the horizon for Kerala. If successful, Kochi will be the first among four corporations in the state to implement the municipal bond system. Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, and Kannur corporations are also toying with the idea. The move takes forward a state budget proposal that recommended allowing urban local bodies to raise Rs 1,000 crore through municipal bonds for projects like IT parks, commercial centres, roads, waste management systems, and water supply schemes. What are municipal bonds? Municipal bonds are debt instruments issued by local self-government institutions to fund infrastructure projects and daily operations. These bonds typically mature within 1 to 30 years and offer a fixed interest rate. Investors receive periodic interest payments, with the principal repaid on maturity. Indias first municipal bond was issued by the Bengaluru Municipal Corporation in 1997, and cities like Ahmedabad, Indore, Lucknow, and Vadodara have since followed suit. Types of municipal bonds General Obligation Bonds: Backed by the issuers creditworthiness and ability to levy taxes, not tied to the income from the project. Revenue Bonds: Linked to specific projects expected to generate revenue. Kochi corporation plans to issue revenue bonds, meaning repayments will rely on the revenue generated by the funded projects. Experts caution that while successful projects can drive growth, mismanagement could lead to defaults and debt traps. The funds need to be invested in viable projects which will be profitable. Mismanagement can lead to defaults and debt traps, whereas effective utilisation can drive sustainable growth and ensure financial stability for local bodies. Proper oversight and transparent governance will be essential in making municipal bonds a successful financial instrument in India, said Rintu Anthony, an assistant professor with the Rajagiri Business School. Issuance criteria The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) mandates specific criteria for municipal bond issuance: No defaults on debt repayment in the past 365 days. No promoters, directors, or the issuer classified as wilful defaulters or fugitive economic offenders. In-principle approval from a recognised stock exchange. A strong credit rating is critical. Kochi corporation, currently without an established credit rating, plans to appoint consulting firms to support financial audits and secure ratings. Credit enhancement techniques may also be explored to improve investor confidence. The credit rating should be accurate and the accounts need to be transparent, which requires financial and professional accounting support. The corporation is planning to appoint consulting firms for these processes, said Mayor M Anilkumar. Current status in Kochi Mayor Anilkumar recently met Ashwin Bhatia, a whole-time member of SEBI, to discuss the procedures and regulations for the launch of municipal bonds. Bhatia said that Kochi corporation will be given all possible support to launch municipal bonds. SEBI representatives have been informed that the procedures will be initiated as soon as possible. We may not issue the bonds during the tenure of this council. However, if we can complete the procedures by the end of this council, we will be able to issue the bonds in the next council, the mayor said. SEBI is also planning a two-day workshop for Keralas corporations, including Kochi, on the launch and management of municipal bonds. Why municipal bonds? Traditionally, local bodies in Kerala have relied on revenue generated through taxes and government loans. With the Kerala state government facing severe financial constraints, municipal bonds offer a sustainable financing alternative. The Kerala Urban Commission had earlier submitted a proposal to the state government to allow local bodies to issue municipal bonds, added Anilkumar, who is also the vice-chairman of the Kerala Urban Commission. Traditionally, local bodies rely on revenue generated through taxes, tolls, and other sources. In cases of fund shortages, they often turn to loans from the state and central governments. However, given the current financial distress faced by the state government, securing such loans has become increasingly difficult, emphasised Rintu Anthony, adding that municipal bonds provide an efficient alternative for financing and ensuring self-sustainability. Globally, municipal bonds have been successfully used in countries like the United States and Canada, but Indias bond market remains relatively illiquid, posing challenges for secondary trading.

Police withdraw notice served on three Pakistan citizens in Kozhikode asking to leave the country

Action revoked complying with latest instructions from Union Ministry of Home Affairs

Youth beaten to death in Kozhikode

Three men who allegedly spearheaded the attack taken into police custody on April 26

MGS went by scientific temper, not famed fables

KOZHIKODE: Eminent historian M G S Narayanan , who evaluated history using the microscope of scientific temper and not by popular fables, passed away at his residence in Malaparamba, Kozhikode, on Saturday following age-related ailments. He was 92. A respected scholar and former chairman of the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR), the native of Ponnani in Malappuram laid the foundation stone for scientific study of history in the country. A product of human school of thought, MGS often found himself at odds with political parties. Over the years, he clashed with the Left, the Congress, and the BJP in Kerala, unafraid to voice his dissent regardless of the party in power. His mortal remains were cremated at the Mavoor Road crematorium on Saturday by 4:30pm, after ministers including A K Saseendran paid final respects. MGS is a historian who salvaged Kerala history from myths and legends, says KKN Kurup MGS even questioned Modi on plastic surgery remark His seminal contribution was the study of the second Chera dynasty that culminated in his book Perumals of Kerala, a landmark work in the states historiography. He differed with the legendary Elamkulam Kunjan Pillai on the issue of Chera dynasty but never belittled Pillais contribution to Kerala history. He also made notable discoveries, including stone and copper plate inscriptions, which opened new avenues for historical research in the state. Known for his irreverent approach, the historian successfully demolished many myths associated with Kerala history that were part of the states popular imagination. In his early years, MGS maintained close ties with communist leaders. He has a history of both guiding E M S Namboodiripad to a hideout at midnight and clashing with him in later years. In one pointed remark, he questioned EMSs failure to oppose being called a Thambran (feudal lord). Later in life, MGS concluded that Marxist socialism was fundamentally incompatible with democratic principles. MGS joined the ICHR when the Congress was in power. Yet, he did not shy away from criticising the party, emerging as a vocal opponent of what he described the partys culture of family rule. It was perhaps this independent stance that prompted the BJP-led Vajpayee government to appoint him as chairman of the ICHR in 2001. However, his tenure was short-lived. True to his principles, MGS resigned in protest against government interference in the councils decisions. Later, he made it clear that had the Narendra Modi government offered him the position, he would have declined. MGS criticised BJPs attempts to project mythological narratives from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata as historical fact. On one occasion, MGS publicly questioned Modis remark at a Science Congress, where the PM claimed the elephant-headed deity Ganesha was evidence of the worlds first plastic surgery. What nonsense is this? It is inconceivable that those in responsible positions would say such things, MGS had remarked. He also questioned the claim that Pushpak Vimana, a flying chariot mentioned in the Ramayana, was the worlds first aircraft. Born on August 20, 1932, as Muttayil Govinda Menon Shankara Narayanan, he completed his graduation in economics and PG in history from the University of Madras, securing first rank. He began his teaching career in 1954 at Zamorin (Guruvayurappan) College, Kozhikode, later joining the Kozhikode centre of the University of Kerala in 1964 and the University of Calicut in 1968. MGS earned his PhD from the University of Kerala in 1973. He was an active member of the Indian History Congress from 1974 and retired in 1992 as the head of the history department at the University of Calicut. He went on to hold several key positions, including member-secretary of the ICHR and chairman of the Technical Advisory Committee of the Kerala State Archives (2004-05). He is survived by wife Premalatha, son Vijayakumar and daughter Vinaya Manoj. MGS Narayanan was a relentless fighter: M G Sasibhooshan

MGS Narayanan was a relentless fighter: M G Sasibhooshan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Remembering how M G S Narayanan would always encourage ideas but seldom endorse them, historian M G Sasibhooshan reminisced how MGS became a critic of precision. Often, his smile was the only response we got. But when he truly loved something, he would share his thoughts openly. That approval meant the world for me, said Sasibhooshan. Speaking of his masterpiece Perumals of Kerala, Sasibhooshan said the work freed Keralas medieval history from myths and misconceptions. His 1996 work Perumals of Kerala analysed both social and economic history along with political history. It is his masterpiece, opined Sasibhooshan. He added that one of his most-cherished memories was when MGS asked him to massage his shoulders the last time he visited MGS at his home in Kozhikode. He was not someone who would ask such things. When he made that request, I knew he considered me as somebody special, he added. Sasibooshan remembered how once, after he wrote an article, MGS not only praised it but also suggested that it should be turned into a book. That was precious for me. We share the same initials, so people used to call me Junior MGS as if considering me as a successor, said Sasibhooshan. Beyond his work as a historian, M G S Narayanan was a remarkable epigraphist and artist, said Sasibhooshan. He identified that Bhaskara Ravi Chakravarthi and Manu Kuladithyan were the same person, as well as that Godaradi and Vijayaragadevan were the same, Sasibhooshan noted. Though MGS was known internationally for his work, serving as a visiting professor at prestigious universities such as Harvard, Oxford, and Moscow, he never compromised on his principles. Sasibhooshan also recalled M G S Narayanans talent for art. In his younger days, he used to compete with Artist Namboodiri and even win. He was truly an all-rounder. He had a heart of gold, and his smile was one of the best Ive ever seen. It is a huge loss, concluded Sasibhooshan. MGS is a historian who salvaged Kerala history from myths and legends, says KKN Kurup

MGS wrote about Kozhikode and had an active life here

The late historians connection with Kozhikode started in 1947 when he joined the Zamorins Guruvayoorappan College as an intermediate student

Renowned historian Dr MGS Narayanan passes away at 93

KOZHIKODE: Eminent historian Dr. M.G.S. Narayanan passed away at his residence in Malaparamba, Kozhikode, on Friday. He was 93. A respected scholar and former chairman of the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR), Dr. Narayanan was widely regarded for his significant contributions to the historical and cultural studies of Kerala. A native of Ponnani, Dr Narayanan was known for his outspoken views and pathbreaking research. He had been suffering from age-related ailments. The funeral will be held at the Mavoor Road crematorium on Saturday at 4 pm. Dr Narayanans authoritative research on the Chera dynasty culminated in his acclaimed book Perumals of Kerala, a landmark work in the states historiography. He also made notable discoveries, including stone and copper plate inscriptions, which opened new avenues in Keralas historical research. His scholarly papers earned international recognition, and he served as a visiting professor at universities in the United Kingdom and Russia. Born on August 20, 1932, as Muttayil Govinda Menon Shankara Narayanan, he completed his graduation in economics and post-graduation in history from the University of Madras, securing first rank. He began his teaching career in 1954 at Zamorin (Guruvayoorappan) College, Kozhikode, later joining the Kozhikode centre of the University of Kerala in 1964 and the University of Calicut in 1968. Dr Narayanan earned his PhD from the University of Kerala in 1973. He was an active member of the Indian History Congress from 1974 and retired in 1992 as the head of the history department at the University of Calicut. He went on to hold several key positions, including member secretary of the ICHR and chairman of the Technical Advisory Committee of the Kerala State Archives (200405). An editor of numerous research publications, Dr Narayanan authored several important works, including Kozhikodinte Katha, Kalaripayattu Nighandu, Kavitha Communism Vargheeyata M.G.S. Thoughts, 10 False Stories in Kerala History, and Chirithri Viyavaharam Kerala and Bharatavum. His autobiography Jalakangal was published by Current Books in 2018. He is survived by his wife Premalatha, son Vijayakumar, and daughter Vinaya Manoj.

Jal Jeevan Mission reaches out to nearly three lakh beneficiaries in Kozhikode

The first phase of the project has been completed making its reach visible in rural areas

Private bus operators plan strike route against long-distance permit delay

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Peeved at the transport departments inaction over long-distance permits, private bus operators are planning to go on strike. The Kerala State Bus Operators Federation (KSBOF) will take a call on the protest on Saturday. The federation has accused the transport department of stalling approvals despite the Kerala High Court overturning an earlier order that reserved the permits exclusively for KSRTC services. Its been quite some time since the HC ruled in our favour. Still, the government is dragging its feet on implementing the verdict. A decision on launching a protest will be taken at our state committee meeting on Saturday, said Hamsa Erikunnan, KSBOF general secretary. At present, 241 permits for routes over 140 km and more than 1,500 limited-stop services are pending approval. The KSRTC has not challenged the HC ruling in the Supreme Court even after receiving legal advice on March 20 to proceed with an appeal. The counsel had argued that private operators could not be granted permits beyond what is allowed under Rule 2 (oa) of the Kerala Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar had earlier said the KSRTC would file an appeal and introduce new buses along these routes. The KSRTC took control of 243 bus routes through a notification issued on May 4, 2023. However, it could manage to operate less than 25% of the services, citing delay in securing funds for new buses. The gap in service has severely affected commuters, especially in high-range regions like Idukki, where residents had staged protests demanding restoration of services. Hamsa said the KSRTCs move has harmed not only the travelling public but also the private transport sector. Only 100 buses are currently running in the above-140 km category. Around 150 operators have quit due to the prolonged legal uncertainty, he said. The long distance bus operations by private operators in Ernakulam, Idukki, Kozhikode and Kottayam have been affected by the delay in approving permits.

Unused govt. land to be identified for LIFE Mission in Kozhikode

The Collector is authorised to take over such identified plots without requiring No-Objection Certificates from landholders, says a government order

Keralas online registration service gets popular among migrant workers

Over 22,000 workers registered within a year in Kozhikode district using a specially designed app and portal of the Labour department

Darshanam Library hands over books to Kozhikode Corporations Arivu Granthappura

Uproar in Kozhikode Corporation over BJP members remarks about Gandhi

Kerala vehicle registrations rise to 7.83 lakh in 2024-25 after brief sputter

KOCHI: After a marginal decline in the previous year, Kerala posted an increase in vehicle registrations in 2024-25, with 7.83 lakh new vehicles added across the state. This, however, remained below 2022-23 numbers, when a post-Covid surge saw 7.91 lakh new registrations. The pent-up demand cooled off in 2023-24, when it came in at 7.44 lakh. The total number of registered vehicles in Kerala has now crossed 1.82 crore, reaffirming its reputation as among the most vehicle-dense states in the country, with 425 vehicles per 1,000 people. Among districts, Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, and Kozhikode accounted for the highest number of new registrations in the last financial year. The capital district saw 32,399 new registrations, including 10,074 light-motor vehicles (LMVs) and 18,803 two-wheelers. In 2023-24, the district recorded 33,061 new cars, and 33,091 in 202223. Ernakulam registered 24,640 vehicles in 202425, slightly down from 24,932 the previous year and 25,703 in 2022-23. Kozhikode, which overtook Ernakulam in total vehicle count, registered 18,978 new vehicles, including 4,764 LMVs and 12,967 two-wheelers, compared to 19,219 and 19,242 in the two previous years. The pace of new registrations is also evident in the progression of the number series. Ernakulam crossed into the DG series by the end of March 2025, with Thiruvananthapuram in the DF series. Each series corresponds to 9,999 registrations. Transport Commissioner Nagaraju Chakilam attributed the increase to a shift in transport preferences and improving road infrastructure. He said the rise in vehicle ownership is linked to growing purchasing power in the state and a marked shift from public to personal transport, particularly after the Covid pandemic. People are increasingly opting for personal vehicles due to convenience, and the improved road network between towns, he said. D Dhanuraj, chairman of the Centre for Public Policy Research, a Kochi-based think tank, pointed to localised factors influencing vehicle purchases. He noted that in Thiruvananthapuram, land acquisition for major development projects resulted in lump-sum compensation, a portion of which was used to buy vehicles. One concern behind the rising vehicle numbers, especially in Thiruvananthapuram, is the inefficiency of the public transport system. With many people finding it unreliable or insufficient, they are turning to private options, he said. Experts also attribute the rise to increased adoption of electric vehicles. Nationally, Kerala remains one of the most motorised states. While Uttar Pradesh leads in total vehicle numbers with over 5.07 crore registered vehicles, followed by Maharashtra (3.96 crore), Keralas per capita vehicle density is significantly higher. Only Chandigarh (702 vehicles per 1,000 people), Puducherry (521), and Goa (476) exceed Keralas density, according to data with the ministry of road transport and highways. With vehicle numbers continuing to rise steadily, urban planners and transport experts are calling for strengthened public-transport systems and better traffic management to balance the growing pressure on the states roads. Rapid pace Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, and Kozhikode accounted for the highest number of new registrations in the last financial year The pace of new registrations is also evident in the progression of the number series

Rental e-scooters launched at Kerala's Tirur railway station to boost last-mile connectivity

KOZHIKODE: For the thousands of passengers alighting at Tirur railway station daily, the journey doesnt end with the last whistle. Getting to their destination whether its home, work or a quick visit to the market always entails waiting for an autorickshaw or haggling with a taxi driver. Thankfully, that is now changing. To improve last-mile connectivity and promote green mobility, electric scooter rental services have been launched at Tirur railway station, along with Thrissur and Ernakulam Town railway stations in Kerala as a pilot project. The initiative, jointly spearheaded by Indian Railways and a private mobility startup, aims to provide a seamless travel experience to train passengers arriving at or departing from the stations. The passengers can rent the electric scooters from the designated kiosks located outside the railway stations. The process is quick and entirely digital an Aadhaar card and valid driving licence are all that is needed to unlock the vehicle via a mobile app. The service is operational 24x7 and is designed to support short-distance commuting needs, such as travel to hotels, offices or homes from the station. Railway officials said the move is expected to reduce dependence on conventional autorickshaws and taxis while offering an eco-friendly and affordable option for solo travellers. We are witnessing a shift in the way passengers prefer to travel. With this move, we are not only promoting green mobility but also addressing the gap in last-mile connectivity, said a senior official with the Palakkad railway division. The scooter service will soon be extended to Kozhikode, Kannur, Parappanangadi and Feroke railway stations and, based on its success, cover more stations. The rent is nominal, with a pay-as-you-go model and hourly packages. The scooters are GPS-enabled and come with safety features like speed limits and geofencing. Helmets are provided. The initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Indian Railways to modernise station amenities, encourage sustainable transport and improve overall passenger experience. 24x7 service Passengers can rent electric scooters from the designated kiosks located outside railway stations An Aadhaar card and valid driving licence are needed to unlock the vehicle via a mobile app The service is operational 24x7 and is designed to support short-distance commuting needs such as travel to hotels, offices or homes

IN PICS: Action from Federation Cup Athletics Championships in Kochi

Despite the scorching summer heat and sporadic showers, the Maharajas College Stadium in Kochi was abuzz with activity as athletes from all over the country gathered for day 2 of the 28th Federation Cup Senior Athletics Championships. This is only the second time that Kerala is hosting the event, the first being in 2021 at Kozhikode. Organised by the Kerala State Athletics Association under the aegis of the Athletics Federation of India, the four-day event, which began on Monday, will see over 470 athletes compete in as many as 38 track and field events. Among the fray are Olympians and national record holders, including Jyoti Yarraji (quarter-mile hurdles), Gurindervir Singh (fastest man in India), Kishore Kumar Jena (javelin), Praveen Chitravel (triple-jump champion), among others. A contingent of 27 athletes is representing Kerala at this years event. Though none of them finished on the podium on Day 1, Malayalis were indeed among the winners. Quartermilers Sneha K and Manu T S, and Mohammad Lazan (110m hurdles), who represented JSW, won bronze medals in their respective events. No matter the result, the enthusiasm these youth had for sports was evident. And as the sun dipped on Tuesday, it was clear that the remainder of the event would be as scintillating as the days before, if not more. The event is considered the selection trials for the Asian championships, to be held in South Korea next month. Jyothi Yarraji after winning 100m hurdles Lilly Das after winning gold in the 1,500m run Maria Jaison during pole vault event Muhammed Anees, who won bronze in long jump Nithya Gandhe after winning the 100m race Pranav Pramod Gaurav, who won gold in the 100m race Rupal Chaudhary after winning 400m run Triple jumper Sandra Babu during training Decathlete Tejaswin Shankar warming up

NCC Director-General visits Kozhikode unit

Passenger assaulted, robbed, and thrown from moving bus in Kozhikode; accused arrested

The incident was recorded on bus CCTV

Amid negotiation talks, Muthalapozhi fishers call off protest

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The indefinite protest launched by fishermen at Muthalapozhi was called off on Monday after negotiations talks with the Harbour Engineering Department. Muthalapozhi has been witnessing multiple protests by fishermen, trade unions and other allied workers for the past many days after the harbour mouth was closed following accumulation of sand bringing all fishing activities to a grinding halt. The negotiation talk held at the protest venue by the Harbour department authorities had decided to cut open the sandbar with 13-metre width and a depth of 3 metres to ensure operations of fishing vessels during monsoon. The Harbour department is bringing a dredger from Azheekal to carry out dredging activities and ensure the removal of the accumulated sand by May 15. Sajeev Salahudheen, vice chairman of the Muthalapozhi Avakasa Samithi said that the authorities and the operators roped in for removing the sandbar have held discussions. We called off the protest after they promised to break the sandbar with sufficient width and depth so that fishing activities can be resumed, he said. An official of the Harbour Engineering Department said that the dredging activities will resume on Tuesday. The discussion was fruitful and the fishermen spoke with the dredger operator also. Following this, they agreed to withdraw the protest and allow the resumption of dredging activities at the harbour mouth. The dredger is being brought via sea and it has reached Kozhikode. If the weather is favourable it will reach by Friday, said the official. The department has mobilised more machinery to expedite the work and as per the current plan, the 10-hour working schedule will be increased to 20 hours. We aim to complete the work by May 15, said the official.

Teen sexual assault survivor, son go missing from govt shelter home in Kozhikode

KOZHIKODE: A 17-year-old survivor of a Pocso (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) case and her three-year-old son have gone missing from the Sakhi Women and Child Protection Centre in Vellimadukunnu, Kozhikode. The incident occurred on Sunday night and has raised serious concerns about the safety measures in place at the government-run shelter. According to official sources, the young mother and her child were brought to the Kozhikode care centre from Kottayam on Sunday morning, following an order by the Child Welfare Committee (CWC). The girl, belonging to Kunnamangalam, was shifted to the facility as her father her only guardian was undergoing treatment for a serious illness in Kottayam and could no longer care for her and the child. A victim of sexual assault by a neighbour, she gave birth at the age of 14. Since then, she had been living under her fathers care. Recognising the challenges faced by the family, the hospital staff in Kottayam contacted the CWC which facilitated the transfer of the girl and her child to the protection centre. After being admitted to the facility around noon, the mother and child reportedly went missing after 9.30pm. The staff at the centre noticed their absence during a routine check and alerted the authorities. A police investigation was promptly launched. Town Inspector P Jithesh, who is leading the probe, said, We are treating this as a high-priority case due to the vulnerability of both the girl and the child. We are examining CCTV footage from the centre and nearby areas and collecting witness statements from staff and residents. He said there was no indication of an abduction, as of Monday. Preliminary findings suggest the girl may have left voluntarily, but the circumstances and motive remain unclear. The fact that she does not use a mobile phone is complicating our ability to track her, the officer said. A parallel inquiry by department of women and child development is under way.

Liver transplant surgeries soon at Kozhikode MCH, says Health Minister

Probe on into missing of POCSO case survivor, child from shelter home in Kozhikode

The girl and her child had recently been brought to Shakti Sadan, an integrated relief and rehabilitation home for women in distress

Congress accuses CPI(M) of turning Kozhikode into its hub of corruption

The Congress will launch a campaign against corruption in May, says DCC president

Hepatitis A cases rise sharply in Kerala; 16 deaths reported till April this year

KOCHI: Despite multiple efforts to contain the spread of communicable diseases, Kerala continues to report a surge in Hepatitis A cases. The state recorded 3,227 confirmed cases and 16 deaths this year until April 16, with Ernakulam, Malappuram and, more recently Kozhikode, emerging as the worst-affected districts. According to health experts, the spike indicates that the underlying reasons for the spread of the disease have not been addressed effectively. While the health authorities and local bodies are super-chlorinating water sources in affected areas, this measure alone is insufficient. Super-chlorinating just a few water bodies cannot contain the overall spread. The increase in cases suggests that drinking water sources are being contaminated with sewage. We need consistent efforts to clean and purify water sources, said Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, convenor of the Indian Medical Association Research Cell, adding that illegal waste dumping must be curbed and a scientifically proven method for septic waste disposal must be implemented. In 2024, the state recorded 7,943 Hepatitis A cases and 81 deaths, with multiple outbreaks reported, especially in Malappuram and Ernakulams Vengoor. The disease tends to spread during summer when there is a water scarcity. People often end up consuming contaminated water when clean water is unavailable. Mere filtration and treatment methods may also prove ineffective, said Dr Anish T S, professor with the Department of Community Medicine at Government Medical College, Kozhikode. The general population here has low immunity to the disease. The elderly population, especially those with existing conditions such as lifestyle disease, fatty liver and alcoholism, are at higher risk, compared to children. These factors can cause serious complications and even prove fatal, he added. Meanwhile, public awareness about the condition and its complications has led to an increase in testing. Hepatitis A vaccines are available, however, they involve out-of-pocket expenses and are not included in the national vaccination programme. Those who havent had a prior infection or vaccine must consider getting vaccinated, Dr Rajeev advised. Stressing the need for a multi-pronged intervention to tackle the spread, Dr Anish said, We must strengthen sewage treatment and develop a more systematic waste management framework to prevent soil and water contamination. With the arrival of the monsoon, experts caution about an increased risk of other waterborne diseases such as leptospirosis and dengue due to possible flooding. Avoid self-medication According to Dr Rajeev, treatment should be sought at the earliest if a person develops symptoms. Relying on traditional and home remedies for viral hepatitis will invite complications. Delaying treatment can lead to organ damage, including kidney failure from dehydration. The patient should get prompt medical attention. Early detection and hospitalisation, if necessary, can save lives, he said.

Five super-speciality depts. at Kozhikode MCH to function from PMSSY block

JEE Main Session 2 Results out; Akshay Biju is Kerala topper

TPURAM/KOZHIKODE: Akshay Biju from Kozhikode, with a score of 99.9960501, emerged state topper in the JEE (Main) 2025 Session 2 Paper 1 (BE/BTech) exam, the results of which were announced on Saturday. Akshay is a resident of Kakkur. His father, Biju N is a junior superintendent in the Department of Treasuries and mother, Nisha C K is a medical officer in a government ayurveda dispensary. He studied in KE Higher Secondary School, Mannanam, Kottayam. IIT is my goal. My confidence level has mounted with the result of JEE Main 2025. Right now, Im preparing for JEE advanced exam scheduled on May 18, said Akshay. Akshay completed his high school from Veda Vyasa School, Kozhikode. There is no shortcut to success. I prepared a timetable and I limited the use of social media and playing games for more study time. Im thankful that I have supportive parents. Though they are government staff and working in different parts of Kerala, they managed to take care of my studies, he said. Notably, of the 24 candidates in the country who obtained NTA Score of 100 in JEE (Main) 2025 Paper 1 (BE/BTech.), none of them were from Kerala. The results of Session 1 of JEE Main 2025 was announced in February. If a candidate appears in both sessions of JEE Main 2025, the best score from the two will be used to prepare the final merit list and All India Ranks (AIR).

16 street vending zones to come up in Kozhikode

Minister for Local Self-Governance M.B. Rajesh inaugurates distribution of identity cards to street vendors

Kozhikode Corpn. hands over 32 flat units to extremely poor families in Kalluthankadavu

Online investment fraud: Doctor from Kozhikode loses 1.25 crore

Police suspect the involvement of a Cambodian gangs suspected in the incident

Life Mission fulfills dream of over 30,000 homeless people in Kozhikode

A total of 6,484 houses were constructed and handed over in the first phase of the project, while 5,147 and 682 houses were completed in the second and third phases, respectively

Beat patrol to be reintroduced in Kozhikode to combat drug trafficking

Preparations are under way in the district to assign beats to police officers who will be collaborating with local residents to step up day-and-night patrol

Under nPROUD, 21 tonnes of unused or expired drugs from Kozhikode sent for disposal

Around 14 tonnes of unused or expired drugs collected from Kozhikode Corporation through line collection method,five tonnes through temporary collection, and five tonnes through household collection

Three Kasaragod natives arrested with Ganja in Kozhikode

The seized drug had a market value of 8 lakh

Accused in Sudduguntepalya sexual assault case tracked down in Kozhikode

Bengaluru woman molestation case: Accused arrested in Kerala

Bengaluru police, on Sunday, April 13, arrested a 26-year-old man accused of molesting and groping a woman while she was walking with her friend in a deserted residential area in the BTM Layout at Suddaguntepalya. Santosh Daniel works as a driver at a Jaguar showroom. He was arrested in Keralas Kozhikode district after an extensive Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Man arrested in Kerala for molestation case in Bengaluru

Bengaluru: A suspect has been arrested for allegedly molesting a woman at Suddaguntepalya here earlier this month, police said. Santosh aged about 29 has been arrested from Keralas Kozhikode, they said. The incident allegedly occurred at 1.55 am on April 3 in Suddaguntepalya and the CCTV footage attributed to the incident had gone viral. When Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Kozhikode Rural police set to form ward-level vigilance committees to combat drug abuse

The police have proposed the formation of ward-level vigilance committees in response to the growing presence of drug pushers in the rural areas of Kozhikode

Diversity is in the DNA of Kozhikode: Tharoor

Ditches on road: rights panel seeks report from Kozhikode Collector, PWD

KSRTC revokes order on breath analyser tests for staff following alleged misuse

The corporation had recently issued an order revising its procedure for breath analyser tests after one of its drivers from Kozhikode, who had consumed a homoeopathic medicine before reporting for duty, tested positive for alcohol content on March 30

Kozhikode Rural police register 425 cases under Operation D Hunt

Accused in Fashion Gold case remanded in ED custody

They were produced in a special court for PMLA in Kozhikode on Tuesday

Kozhikode Corporation passes annual project plan of 246.60 crore

The highest allocation of 47.22 crore is for sanitation, hygiene, and water conservation, while the housing sector gets 25.92 crore

Panel discussions in Kozhikode on Gujarat riots, cuts to L2: Empuraan

Munambam land dispute: Waqf Tribunal approves land holders plea to implead them in the case

The order was passed by the three-member tribunal in Kozhikode on Monday

Protests mount over speed limit violations by private buses on KozhikodeKuttiyadi route

Patient who suffered double heart attack recovers at Kozhikode beach hospital

From rockets on bicycles to Chandrayaan missions, India has come a long way: ISRO chairman

KOZHIKODE (Kerala), Apr 5: From carrying rocket parts on bicycles and satellites on bullock carts in the 1970s, India has become one of the world leaders in the space sector through its successful Mars orbiter and Chandrayaan missions, which have also made several world records, ISRO chairman V Narayanan said here on Saturday. Speaking at the 27th convocation of the Indian Institutes of Management (IIM) Kozhikode, Narayanan said the country has come a long way from when it launched [] The post From rockets on bicycles to Chandrayaan missions, India has come a long way: ISRO chairman appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

ISRO Chairman attributes success of Indian space programmes to teamwork

A total of 1,318 students from the Indian Institute of Management-Kozhikode

Retired HC judge duped for Rs 90 lakh in cyber scam, three arrested

Kochi: Three people have been arrested for allegedly cheating a retired Kerala High Court judge of Rs 90 lakh through a fake share trading application, police said on Saturday. The arrested have been identified as Mohammed Sha (33) of Kannur, and Mirshad N (32) and Mohammad Sharjil T (22), both natives of Vadakara in Kozhikode Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

From rockets on bicycles to Chandrayaan missions, India has come a long way: ISRO

Kozhikode: From carrying rocket parts on bicycles and satellites on bullock carts in the 1970s, India has become one of the world leaders in the space sector through its successful Mars orbiter and Chandrayaan missions, which have also made several world records, ISRO chairman V Narayanan said here on Saturday. Speaking at the 27th convocation Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

ED seizes Rs 1.5 cr from L2: Empuraan producer's firm

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has seized Rs 1.5 crore in cash from the premises of a chit fund company owned by Gokulam Gopalan, one of the producers of the Malayalam movie L2: Empuraan, in connection with foreign exchange law violations. The searches were conducted at locations in Kozhikode, Kerala and Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The ED alleged that the company collected subscription to chit funds from persons residing outside India without due permission and violated regulations framed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Poor show by many local bodies in Plan fund utilisation in Kozhikode

Only 13 local bodies in Kozhikode able to achieve the 100 per cent target; lack of timely planning and the delay in implementing spill-over projects cited to be the prime reasons