Row over declaration of holiday for school in Kozhikode
Vodafone Idea (Vi) Announces Rollout of 5G Services in 23 More Indian CIties
Vi announced that it is rolling out 5G services in 23 more Indian cities, including Ahmedabad, Agra, Aurangabad, Kozhikode, Cochin, Dehradun, Indore, Jaipur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Madurai, Malappuram, Meerut, Nagpur, Nashik, Pune, Rajkot, Sonepat, Surat, Siliguri, Trivandrum, Vadodara and Vizag. The rollout will happen in phases. Vi 5G network was already available in Delhi, Mumbai, Patna, Chandigarh and Bengaluru.
Global Gateway project takes off at Sargaalaya Arts and Crafts Village in Kozhikode
A light-and-sound show to be set up in the village on the culture and folklore of Kadathanad is touted to be the biggest in south India. 95.34 crore sanctioned for project which is funded by the Union government as per the recommendations of the State government
Kerala does not approve of National Education Policy, says Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan
Addressing a public meeting at SFIs national conference in Kozhikode, Pinarayi Vijayan says NEP will pose a danger to the country by disseminating wrong information to future generations
Five arrested for chasing Kerala Chief Ministers convoy in Kozhikode
The incident took place around 10 p.m. on Sunday when Pinarayi Vijayan was coming from Kannur to Kozhikode Government guesthouse
Body found in Tamil Nadu brought to Kozhikode for DNA test
KOZHIKODE: The decomposed body of Hemachandran, 53, a small-time chit fund operator from Sulthan Bathery who was brutally murdered and buried in Cherambadi, Tamil Nadu, has been brought to Kozhikode for DNA test and identification procedures. The body, recovered from a shallow grave in the Cherambadi forest, was transferred to Kozhikode Medical College, where it will remain until DNA tests confirms the identity. Deputy Commissioner of Police Arun K Pavithran revealed that multiple suspects are involved in the crime, including two women. The prime suspect, Noushad, is currently in Saudi Arabia. A lookout notice has been issued, and efforts are underway to bring him back. Within three days, all persons connected to the crime will be identified, he told reporters on Sunday. Hemachandran, who went missing from his rented house in Mayanad, Kozhikode, on March 20, 2024, was reportedly lured by a female acquaintance and abducted under the guise of a financial deal. His family filed a missing person report on April 1, 2024. At first, police suspected he had gone into hiding due to financial pressure, but further investigation into his transactions revealed deeper foul play. According to police, Hemachandran was taken to an unoccupied house in Sulthan Bathery, Wayanad, owned by a friend of the accused Noushad. He was tortured and ultimately murdered. The accused Jyotish Kumar, 32, and Ajesh B S, 27, both from Sulthan Bathery later buried his body in the dense Cherambadi forest, in the TANTEA plantation area. The suspects claimed the motive was to recover money they had lost in deals with Hemachandran. The breakthrough came after 15 months, when the arrested duo confessed during interrogation. Based on their testimony, the special investigation team - led by ACP A Umesh and Inspector P K Jijeesh -- with support from Tamil Nadu police, revenue and forest departments, exhumed the remains from a four-foot-deep pit on Saturday. The recovery operation lasted over six hours. Postmortem conducted at Ooty Medical College confirmed death due to grievous injuries. DNA analysis will now confirm the identity, ACP Umesh said.The police have identified Noushad, a native of Binachi, Wayanad, as the prime conspirator. He allegedly used his female accomplice to lure Hemachandran to Kozhikode Medical College premises before orchestrating the abduction. DCP Pavithran confirmed that a lookout circular has been issued against Noushad, and repatriation procedures are in progress. He is expected to be brought back to India by the first week of July. Police are also investigating whether vehicle thefts and black money deals are linked to the murder. We suspect a larger network. More arrests will follow, said Jijeesh. Meanwhile, residents near the house in Bathery, where the murder took place, claimed they were unaware of the crime. The house was reportedly handed to Noushad for sale, and people were seen occupying it temporarily. A look back March 20, 2024: Hemachandran goes missing from Mayanad, Kozhikode April 1, 2024: Family files missing person complaint May 24, 2024: A special investigation team is formed June 28, 2025: Body exhumed from Cherambadi forest based on confessions June 29, 2025: Body reaches Kozhikode Medical College morgue for DNA confirmation
Adarsh M Saji elected SFI All India president, Srijan Bhattacharya general secretary
KOZHIKODE: The Students Federation of India (SFI) has elected Adarsh M Saji as its new all India president and Srijan Bhattacharya as the general secretary at the 18th All India Conference, held at Sitaram Yechury and Nepaldev Bhattacharya Manch in Palestine Solidarity Nagar (Aspin Courtyard), Kozhikode on Sunday. Both leaders were previously serving as all India joint secretaries in the outgoing central committee and bring years of organisational experience and student leadership to their new roles. Adarsh M Saji hails from Chathannur in Kollam. He is currently a final-year LLB student at Janhit Law College and serves as a member of the CPM Kollam District Committee. Prior to this elevation, he held the positions of SFI state vice-president and all India joint secretary. Srijan Bhattacharya, the newly elected general secretary, is a native of Jadavpur in West Bengal. A postgraduate in history, he is also a member of the CPM West Bengal state Committee and previously served as the SFI West Bengal State Secretary. He contested in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections as the CPM candidate from the Jadavpur constituency. The conference, which drew delegates from across India, also elected 87 members to the Central Executive Committee. Kerala marked a significant presence in the newly constituted central leadership. SFI Kerala state secretary P S Sanjeev was elected as an all India joint secretary, while state president M Sivaprasad was named one of the vice-presidents. Ten people from Kerala were selected to the All India Secretariat. The newly formed All India Secretariat includes key national figures such as Subhash Jakar, T Nagaraju, Rohidas Yadav, Satyesh Leyuva, Shilpa Surendran, Pranav Kharji, M Sivaprasad, and C Mridula serving as vice-presidents. The joint secretaries include names like Aishe Ghosh, G Aravinda Sami, Anil Thakur, K Prasannakumar, Debanjan Dev, P S Sanjeev, Sreejan Dev, and Mohammed Atiq Ahmed. Currently, there are two vacancies in the central secretariat and eight in the ventral executive committee. From Kerala, S K Adarsh, Tony Kuriakose, P P Akshara, Bipinraj Payam, P Tajudheen, Sandra Raveendran, Arya Prasad, and E P Gopika were elected to the executive committee.
Wayanads tribal artists look to hit the right note on fellowship of music
KOZHIKODE: Until a few months ago, most of the 17 tribal musicians now part of the Earthlore Fellowship could have never imagined that their centuries-old songs would travel beyond the hills of Wayanad or the forest fringes of Coorg. For many, music was simply a way of life, performed during harvests, births, or rituals with no thought that these oral traditions would one day be showcased on prestigious stages or recorded for a global audience. The idea of receiving structured training, a stipend, mentorship from acclaimed musicians, and national recognition never even crossed their minds. That changed with the launch of the fellowship. Now, these young artists -- from communities such as the Kurichiya, Paniya, and Adiya -- find themselves at the heart of a cultural movement that is giving voice, value, and visibility to indigenous music like never before. A total of 20 fellows, including three non-tribal musicians from different parts of the country, have been selected through a rigorous process to join this pioneering initiative by the Archival and Research Project (ARPO), supported by Tata Trusts and the Samagata Foundation. Launched this April in Mananthavady, Wayanad, the fellowship is more than a training programme in the arts. It is a bridge between heritage and modernity, between forest and festival; tradition and transformation. For the first two months, fellows trained in the scenic Priyadarshini Tea Environs, a unique tea estate managed by a tribal cooperative. Structured 12-day residential workshops immersed them in vocal training with playback singer Sreekanth Hariharan, music arrangement with composer Charu Hariharan, and rhythm sessions with veteran percussionist Viveick Rajagopal. Speaking to TNIE, Sruthin Lal, executive director of ARPO, said, This is the first time such a dedicated initiative has been launched for tribal artists of Wayanad. Our goal is to elevate their status to that of recognised professionals, not just local performers. He added that the transformation is already visible. By October, the fellowships performance phase begins with a national tour. Their performances will not only introduce tribal folk music to new audiences but also assert the artistic legitimacy of voices long confined to the margins.
Nurses union seeks appointment of house surgeons at Kozhikode MCH
Rights panel seeks report on police officers attack on motorcycle rider
Case to be considered at the commissions next sitting in Kozhikode on July 29
Migrant labourer dies as land caves in at construction site in Kozhikode
Two other labourers who sustained grave injuries in the incident were admitted to Kozhikode Medical College Hospital
Kerala government firm on zumba sessions in schools, says Minister Sivankutty
KOZHIKODE: Expressing the state governments resolve not to be cowed down by opposition from various Muslim organisations to the introduction of zumba sessions in schools , General Education Minister V Sivankutty said controversy over the initiative will only help grow of communalism and sectarianism. Addressing a press conference in Kozhikode on Saturday, the minister said the exercise was introduced to combat drug menace among the youth. The stand of those opposing it will spread poison in society that is more dangerous than drugs, he said. Reacting to the criticism that immodest dresses are made mandatory for zumba in schools, Sivankutty said students practise it in school uniforms. It is mandatory for students to participate in the study exercises that are stipulated under the Right to Education Act. Parents have no choice in that and teachers are duty-bound to follow those things under conduct rules, he said. There were veiled comments from some corners that the government may make a climbdown on the issue in the face of objections raised by some Muslim organisations as it happened in the case of PSC appointments in the Waqf Board and in the issue of gender-neutral uniform. The Kanthapuram factions of Sunnis have also come up against the governments decision. But CPM leaders have intensified their attacks against the organisations which oppose mzumba sessions in schools. DYFI state secretary V K Sanoj extended all support to the government to go ahead with the decision. Zumba row: Settle issues through discussion, says Satheesan Sanoj said there are reasons to believe that the controversy is part of an attempt to denigrate the public education system in Kerala. Sivankutty said in the press conference that the progressive forces in the country had upheld the high democratic values during the controversy over hijab. But some organisations are now adopting a policy that is beneficial for the majority communalism, he said. Physical exercises will help develop positive thinking in students and maintain a cheerful mentality, the minister said. Sivankutty said health and physical exercise are components in the general education system in Kerala. These things will help check diseases and reduce stress and anxiety among students. Walking, jogging, running, cycling and dancing are generally the exercises that are usually suggested. Aerobic dance, zumba and free style dance belong to the dance category, he said. Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan said the government should have held discussions with all stakeholders who have raised concern over the issue. It should not be imposed on anyone, he said. Satheesan said there are people who are waiting for an opportunity to capitalise on the issue. We should not give an opportunity to those elements. The issues should be settled through discussions, he said. Youth Congress state president Rahul Mankoottathil said there is no need to create a row over the issue. The opinion of the Youth Congress is that there is nothing controversial in the issue. There are other major issues in the education sector like paucity of Plus-I seats that warrant immediate attention, he said.
15 months on, missing mans body found buried in forest near Kerala-Tamil Nadu border
KOZHIKODE: Fifteen months after a man went missing from Kozhikode, police said they have recovered his decomposed body from a forest area near the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. He was reportedly murdered over a financial dispute. The remains, suspected to be that of Hemachandran, 53, a native of Sultan Bathery in Wayanad, were found buried in Coffee Kadu, which comes under the TANTEA plantation, at Cherambadi in TN on Saturday. Hemachandran reportedly went missing from his rented residence in Mayanad near Kozhikode Medical College on March 20, 2024. On April 1, his family filed a missing person complaint at the Kozhikode Medical College police station. During the course of the investigation, police learned that Hemachandran, a small-time chit fund operator, had extensive financial dealings with several individuals. Officers initially suspected that he might have gone into hiding to evade lenders to whom he owed money. A detailed probe into his financial transactions revealed several irregularities, prompting the Kozhikode city commissioner to form a special investigation team on May 24, 2024. During the inquiry, we discovered that Hemachandran was lured out of his house by a female acquaintance and subsequently abducted in connection with a financial dispute, a police officer said. Prime accused remains at large Following this, a case was registered against three persons. Two of them, Jyotish Kumar and Ajesh B S, both natives of Sulthan Bathery, were later taken into custody. During interrogation, the accused reportedly confessed to murdering Hemachandran and burying his body in the Cherambadi forest. Acting on their information, a search operation was launched leading to the recovery of the body in the presence of Medical College ACP A Umesh. The body was found in a 4ft-deep pit, face-down and partially decomposed. Exhuming works started at 10 am and continued till 4 pm on Saturday. The body was identified as that of Hemachandran based on preliminary examination. It has been sent to Nilgiris Medical College, Ooty, for conducting postmortem examination, after which it will be handed over to his relatives, police said. Officials from the Tamil Nadu revenue department, police, and forest authorities were present during the recovery procedures. Meanwhile, the prime accused in the case remains at large, with investigators suspecting that he may have fled the country.
Police put several spas under scanner in Kozhikode
Flash inspections are under consideration in the wake of the rising number of complaints hinting at the illegal appointment of untrained non-Kerala women as skilled therapists
More Muslim groups come out against Zumba sessions in Kerala schools
KOZHIKODE: The education departments decision to introduce zumba sessions in school curriculum to fight drug menace is now at the centre of controversy, with more Muslim organisations coming out opposing the move. After Wisdom Islamic Organisation, the Sunni Yuvajana Sangham (SYS) has also criticised the decision, alleging that it violates moral norms. However, opposition to the initiative intended to promote the physical and mental well-being of students and teachers has invited sharp criticism from various corners. Such opposition will take society backwards, social activists said. The first objection was raised by Wisdom Islamic Organisation general secretary T K Ashraf in a Facebook post on Thursday. Ashraf, a school teacher from Palakkad, told TNIE that neither he nor his children took part in the zumba sessions arranged at the school as part of International Day against Drug Abuse. I send my child to a public school for quality education not to promote a culture where boys and girls mingle, wear short clothes, and dance to music, he said. By Friday, more leaders echoed similar sentiments. Abdussamad Pookkottur, state secretary of Sunni Yuvajana Sangham (SYS), the youth organisation of the Samastha Kerala Jem-iyyathul Ulama, labelled zumba harmful to moral values and urged parents to respond critically. Another SYS leader, Nazar Faizy Koodathai, also argued that group dancing in vulgar attire is objectionable, especially in the case of older students. Zumba goes against Indian moral values. From what I understand, it involves students wearing tight clothes and dancing together. This cannot be tolerated. The government should have consulted student organisations before taking such a decision, he told TNIE. However, the criticism was swiftly countered by social activists and LDF leaders. Progressive Womens Forum president V P Zuhra accused leaders of Muslim organisations of trying to steer Kerala towards Taliban-style conservatism. How can a teacher like Ashraf say boys and girls should not be together? Their aim is to pull the youth backwards. The youth must resist this, Suhara said. Whats wrong with Zumba, asks Bindu Social activist and advocate C Shukkur also condemned the objections, pointing out the dangers of religious fanaticism. Both religious extremism and drug abuse are harmful to society. Allowing children aged five to 15 to mingle and play together can address many issues, including drug abuse. Fanaticism is more dangerous than drugs,he told TNIE. Responding to the controversy, CPM state secretary M V Govindan clarified that the Zumba programme was merely a warm-up exercise and will not be imposed on students. The education department will try to convince those who oppose it, he said. Higher Education Minister R Bindu also defended the initiative. What is wrong with Zumba? It brings both mental and physical happiness to children. We are living in the 21st century. Everyone should be prepared to change their thinking with the times, she said. Meanwhile, General Education Minister V Sivankutty shared the reel of a Zumba practice session on his Facebook page with the comment, Let the children grow healthy by enjoying and playing.
Poykayil Appachan, a symbol of anti-war sentiment in Kerala
KOZHIKODE: The Iran-Israel conflict and subsequent developments in West Asia have forced pacifists across the world to take to the streets to remind all of the unspeakable horrors of wars. The global media, too, is abuzz with images of anti-war protesters yelling an emphatic NO to all sorts of conflicts. However, not many remember a similar situation in a remote place in Kerala over a century ago, when people gathered for a peace rally during World War I. Not many remember Poykayil Appachan. While the First World War was brewing in Europe, a man named Poykayil Appachan, hailing from a section Kerala society deemed untouchable, led a peace rally in Travancore. At the time, untouchables were not even allowed to walk on public roads or temple roads. However, much before the Vaikom struggle for the right to enter temple roads, a leader of the socially excluded people of Kerala pioneered a peaceful protest against the World War, said Ajay Sekhar, associate professor of English at Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit, Kalady. This historic episode of Keralas enlightenment struggles is worth recalling in the totalitarian and oligarchic times of pseudo-majoritarian cultural nationalism, linguistic parochialisms and fascism, he said. The peace procession led by Poykayil Appachan or Sree Kumara Guru was probably the first anti-war protest in modern Kerala history. The event took place near Kulathoor in Pathanamthitta in 1914, but the exact date and month are not available, said V V Swami, who wrote a book on Appachan. The 86th death anniversary of Appachan will be observed at Eraviperoor in Pathanamthitta on June 29.
More non-engineering students breach B-school wall
India's top business schools are actively diversifying their classrooms by increasing the intake of non-engineering graduates. This strategic shift acknowledges the corporate world's need for varied perspectives and comprehensive problem-solving skills. Consequently, institutions like IIM Ahmedabad and IIM Kozhikode now have non-engineer majorities in their latest batches, reflecting a significant change from a decade ago.
Cyber police nabs two for alleged digital arrest of woman, son
A woman and her son from Kozhikode had lost 18 lakh in the alleged fraud that took place in February 2025
SFI delegates laud hospitality of Kozhikode
Participants from outside Kerala have especially appreciated the warmth of Kozhikode, finding it conducive to sharing their cultural experiences and building connections across regional boundaries
'Raktharakshas Reloaded' seeks to 'terrify' Kerala!
As a plane touches down and the passengers alight on the stage, we feel like we know whats coming up. But as the scenes shift and the first lightning strikes, accompanied by the roar of a thunderstorm, its difficult not to tremble. As the lights dim and large demonic hands creep onto the stage, the audience is immersed in what some might call the peak horror experience. Shes everywhere. We feel it in the innards. The legendary Raktharakshas, staged by Aries Kalanilayam, makes us feel everything on a cellular level, thanks to a wonderfully crafted stage and bold technical vision. Theatre transforms into an experience. Raktharakshas is one of the defining plays of Kalanilayam. It had made a mark on generations of theatre enthusiasts. So, as we decided to make a comeback, we could not think of a better story, says Anandapadmanabhan, son of Kalanilayam Krishnan Nair, the founder and director of Kalanilayam. A scene from the play Raktharakshas, written by the late dramatist Jagathy N K Achary, was first staged in 1974. The tale follows Lakshmi, who lives deep in the forest with her father, the renowned Kadan Vaidyan. Using wild herbs, he concocts several miracle medicines. Our heroine, however, turns into the raktharakshas (vampire) after an experimental beauty treatment goes horribly wrong. Five decades have passed, but the story remains fresh. And the production is top-notch. As the creative and managing director of Kalanilayam, Anandapadmanabhan is indeed on a mission to transform the commercial theatre scene one play at a time. Its the amazing technical, art, and stage crew along with artists that make our play stand out, he says. Perhaps no one else in India has used technology in theatre quite like Kalanilayam. Probably. It takes just seconds for the grand props and scenes to change from an airport to a deep forest, to a Buddha temple, and then to a grand bungalow in the city. The story shifts locations as one blinks. The original stage was designed by the late Tripunithura Kumaran Nair and my father, who had developed the original technology Kalanilayam was known for in its heyday, says Anandapadmanabhan. Now, we have added hydraulics, new sound systems, and other technologies to make theatre an experience for the new age. He highlights that a Dolby 7.1 surround sound system, usually found at the cinemas, has been used for the play. The live dialogues, music, sounds and effects everything is simultaneously mixed together. Overall, he adds, about 120 crew members work on and off stage during a show. Thats how the magic happens. This is why the tagline is Come and experience the perfect theatre. This is an experience. However, he would not reveal anything more. If we start explaining everything, the charm will diminish. Thats why we dont let anyone take photos of the play, he adds. Even in its early avtar, Kalanilayam was known for path-breaking inclusion of technology. It all began in 1952 when legendary thespian Krishnan Nair founded the troupe. His vision was to create a permanent stage, which he later realised at Putharikandam Maithanam in Thiruvananthapuram. The stage became home to months-long performances. He incorporated elaborate sets and realistic effects such as rain, thunderstorms, oceans, and ships into his productions. The idea of a Raktharakshas wasnt new, the experience was. And there was a twist: there are no supernatural vampires here. Its all a side effect of a medical procedure, smiles Anandapadmanabhan, who has directed the new version. Audiences loved the horror story. Just like our other popular productions like Kayamkulam Kochunni and Kadamattathu Kathanar. Malayalis wholeheartedly embraced Kalanilayam for its visionary approach in terms of production. Its the same approach that guided Aries Kalanilayam as it repackaged and relaunched its classic dramas. In 2003, when Anandapadmanabhan first revived Kalanilayam after a long hiatus, he started off, again, with Raktharakshas. People thronged the venues then too, he recalls. But two setbacks made him pause. Actor Jagathy Sreekumar, son of N K Achary, was a major force behind the revival of Kalanilayam. But, as you know, he met with a tragic accident in 2012. The next year, I had to pause following the death of my mother, Kodungaloor Ammini Amma [who was also a thespian]. By the time Anandapadmanabhan again considered a comeback, Covid struck. However, soon under a partnership with Aries Group of Companies, the theatre group returned. That's when it changed its name to Aries Kalanilayam. Sohan Roy, founder and chairman of the business group, became a supporter and 50 per cent partner of the theatre company. And finally, we reintroduced Raktharakshas last year. The same old story, with some tweaks to suit the tastes of a new generation, Anandapadmanabhan says. Thus was born Raktharakshas: Chapter 1, which has been successfully staged in many districts and is currently playing in Tripunithura. People are coming even from Chennai and Bengaluru to watch the play. Many share nostalgic stories, says Anandapadmanabhan. One woman brought her daughter to recreate her childhood experience of watching Raktharakshas with her father. Another audience member recalled being so terrified after watching the play decades ago that he spent the night after the show at a bus stand instead of going home. Soon, we will travel to Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode and Kottayam. Raktharakshas will have her sway in every district, Anandapadmanabhan smiles. The only challenge, he adds, is transporting the elaborate props and stage. It takes time to dismantle the stage and rebuild it. At least a month, he says. And when will Chapter II arrive? I am writing it as we speak, Anandapadmanabhan says. Chapter II will have a new script. It will take at least a year for everything to come together. After that, we will start staging the iconic Kadamattathu Kathanar. Exciting years ahead.
Kerala rains: Many rural schools remain closed in Kozhikode district
Shutters of Kakkayam dam in Kozhikode and Banasura Sagar dam in Wayanad opened following heavy inflow from catchment areas
SFI national conference begins on Kozhikode Beach
KOZHIKODE: The 18th All-India conference of the Students Federation of India (SFI) began at Kozhikode Beach with the flag-hoisting ceremony. Hundreds of delegates, torchbearers, and leaders gathered near the beach at the specially named Palestine Solidarity Nagar (Aspin Courtyard), where the main venueSitaram Yechury and Nepaldev Bhattacharya Manchhas been set up. The flags and torches were brought in from places of historic significance in the student movement, symbolising sacrifices and continuity of struggle. The flagpole from the K V Sudheesh Memorial in Koothuparamba was received by treasurer M Mehboob. The flag from the Dheeraj Rajendran Memorial in Painavu was received by All India president V P Sanu, and the torch from the Somu-Sempu Memorial in Madurai was received by secretary Mayukh Biswas. Works Minister P A Mohamed Riyas, who is also chairman of the reception committee, hoisted the conference flag, officially marking the beginning of the four-day event. The formal inauguration of the delegates conference is scheduled for Friday at 10 am, when V P Sanu will hoist the flag once again at the main stage at Palestine Solidarity Nagar. The conference will be inaugurated by journalist Sasikumar and renowned theatre personality M K Raina. On Saturday at 4 pm, a special gathering of former leaders will take place, featuring senior leaders such as M A Baby, Prakash Karat, Biman Basu, and A Vijayaraghavan, who will share insights and experiences from their time in the organisation. On the evening of June 29, the national leadership of SFI will elect its new set of office-bearers. The conference will conclude on a high note with a massive student rally on Monday morning, starting from Malabar Christian College premises. The final public meeting, expected to be attended by thousands, will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan at 11 am at K V Sudheesh Nagar on the Kozhikode beach.
Appoint junior resident doctors at Kozhikode MCH, demands medical PG association
The sudden exit of nearly 250 doctors has left a major gap in the system as the next batch was yet to complete their exams
Heavy rain: updated list of residents in landslide-prone areas in Kozhikode sought
The DDMA has drawn up a plan to identify a feasible solution for the speedy relocation of families living in vulnerable areas
Two students held with LSD stamps
The duo was reportedly taken into custody while on their way to Kozhikode railway station after allegedly sourcing the drugs from yet-to-be-identified local peddlers in the city
Kerala rains: IMD issues red alert for three districts as monsoon intensifies
Seven districts Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Kozhikode and Kannur put on orange alert on Thursday
Kozhikode Zamorin K C Ramachandran Raja passes away at 93
KOZHIKODE: Zamorin of Kozhikode, K C Ramachandran Raja, passed away early on Thursday morning at the age of 93. He breathed his last at a private hospital in Bengaluru, where he was under treatment for age-related ailments. The final rites will be conducted on June 27 (Friday) in Bengaluru, family sources confirmed. Ramachandran Raja had ascended to the ceremonial post of Zamorin in April this year following the demise of his predecessor, K C Unniyanujan Raja, on April 3. However, due to health issues, he could not travel to Kozhikode to personally take charge of the administration of temples and educational institutions under the Zamorins trust. A respected elder from the East Kovilakam branch of the Zamorin dynasty, K C Ramachandran Raja was born on April 27, 1932. His academic journey began at KP School, Kottakkal and Raja's High School, and later continued in Delhi. He earned his BA (Hons) and MA in Economics from the St. Stephens College, Delhi, and pursued higher studies at the London School of Economics. He initially served as a commercial manager at Metal Box before turning to academia. His contributions to management education in India are noteworthy. He served as a faculty member at Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai, before becoming the Founder Director of the Garware Institute of Career Education and Development, and later the Director of the SP Jain Institute of Management. Until recently, he was a member of the Governing Council of Vapi University, Gujarat. He was the son of Kalady Mana Jathavedan Namboothiri and Kizhakke Kovilakath Mahadevi Thampuratti. His wife, Indira Raja, hails from the Kottakkal Parappil family. He is survived by his children Narayan Menon (US) and Kalyani R Menon (Bangalore), daughter-in-law Minni Menon (US), and son-in-law Ravi Menon (Bangalore).
Fake disability certificates: Health department on alert, doctors under scrutiny in Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The health department is taking steps to streamline the process for issuing disability medical certificates following allegations of a scam involving fake certificates. The department intends to oversee the issuance of certificates by medical boards at the taluk, district and medical college levels. The decision follows an order from the Chief Ministers Office directing the state police chief to launch a statewide investigation into the fraudulent certificates. Certificates are typically reviewed only when a specific complaint is filed. However, we are working on implementing a more transparent and efficient system without causing delays, a department source said. The scam was exposed after the Society for Educating and Empowering Differently Abled filed a complaint with the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau regarding a teacher appointment in Kannur. It was revealed that the medical certificate had exaggerated the applicants disability to secure a job intended for individuals with disabilities. As many as thirty fake certificates were created in Kuttiyadi, Kozhikode, alone. There should be action against the doctors involved in this racket, said Kulathur Jaisingh, a High Court lawyer and public activist who appealed to the Chief Ministers Office for an expanded investigation. Disability certificates are essential for individuals with disabilities (PWD) to access educational opportunities, employment, insurance benefits, and travel services. It can take at least three months to obtain a certificate through the Swabalamban portal. These certificates are issued for 21 different disabilities under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act. The Kerala Social Security Mission, the Health Department, and local self-government bodies also hold camps to issue certificates and Unique Disability Identity cards.
Kerala NGO breathes fresh life into Koyilandy hookah
KOZHIKODE: In Koyilandy, tucked away in Keralas Malabar coast, time once stood still with the hiss of hot metal, the scent of molten wax, and the clang of hammer on brass. For over 300 years, this sleepy town has helped shape an extraordinary symbol of cross-cultural legacy, royal indulgence, and skilled craftsmanship passed down like a sacred chant through generations. And, after a period in obscurity and neglect, the Malabar hookah also known as the Koyilandy hookah is now seeing a revival, with interest from both domestic and international buyers. These are no ordinary hookahs. Forged by the Mooshari community and finished with oversize coconut shells and ornamental brass work, they were once treasured in the Arabian Peninsula. They graced Bedouin tents and palaces alike, and were carried across the sea by Yemeni traders, who settled in Malabar centuries ago. But history, like smoke, often fades. And so nearly did this craft, until a chance documentary project by The Archival and Research Project (ARPO), a Kerala-based non-profit, unearthed not just an artifact, but a spark of revival. It turned into a mission to rescue a dying art. We were documenting the last of the hookah-makers, says Sruthin Lal, ARPOs executive director. But once we saw the beauty of the process and the heartbreak behind its decline, we knew we couldnt walk away. Rather than lament the loss, the team chose to act. ARPO created a digital presence for the Koyilandy hookah, and offered online promotions, featured it in niche design and heritage media and, more importantly, rebranded it as a luxury collectible steeped in history. This has been good news for 72-year-old Hashim, a long-time exporter who had been sitting on unsold stock after Covid closed international borders. I had given up, he says. I thought no one would ever want these again. Within months, however, Hashim sold dozens of hookahs. Buyers ranged from industrialists and authors to an ambassador and a Padma Bhushan awardee. The Malabar hookah was back not as a mass product, but as a timeless heirloom. Unlike modern glass hookahs, the Koyilandy version uses massive coconut shells as internal water chambers. The shell acts as a natural filter, explains artisan Chandrashekaran Mooshari. They still use wax, clay, and wood to make the brass moulds by hand. Its labour intensive, but worth it. The intricate patterns etched on the hookahs including floral patterns and Arabic calligraphy tell stories of cultural confluence: Involving Chinese metal traders, Arab merchants, and Mooshari skill. Today, only a few families continue the tradition. But, ARPO is expanding its efforts: Documenting the process in detail and exploring online marketplaces to take the product global again. Hashim, for his part, is hopeful. These hookahs built homes, married off daughters, and put food on the table. I thought that chapter was closed. But maybe it was just waiting to be rewritten. Shamil Ibrahim, one of the key members behind the Malabar hookah initiative, says, While weve managed to create a platform for artisans to sell their craft, the real challenge lies in the dwindling number of skilled makers. However, we are making every effort to generate strong demand for the product, hoping this will encourage more people to take up the craft or inspire families who once proudly practised hookah-making to return to it. The hookahs are available in three standard sizes: 16, 18, and 20 inches. When someone buys a Koyilandy hookah, theyre not just purchasing a beautiful artifact, theyre helping to preserve a piece of world heritage and revive a centuries-old tradition from this region, Shamil adds. Tracing history Known as Malabar hookah, once popular in the Arabian Peninsula 300 years of craftsmanship Originated in Koyilandy, a coastal town in Malabar Crafted by the Mooshari community, renowned brass artisans Symbol of royalty, heritage, and skilled labour passed across generations Traded by Yemeni settlers, embraced by Bedouins and royals alike Carried through maritime trade routes by Arab and Chinese merchants Oversized coconut shells used as natural water chambers Crafted using traditional materials: Wax, wood, clay and hand-beaten brass Each piece etched with Arabic and floral motifs, telling stories of cultural confluence
Kerala Automobiles Limited launches electric icecream carts for Milma
Ten electric carts each will be provided to the regional cooperative milk producers units in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam and Kozhikode
IUML has no links with Jamaat-e-Islami: Muneer
KOZHIKODE: IUML senior leader and MLA M K Muneer has refuted allegations of any alliance or understanding with the Jamaat-e-Islami or its political wing, the Welfare Party of India (WPI), asserting that ideological rifts prevent any such association. Speaking to reporters in the wake of Aryadan Shoukaths win in Nilambur, Muneer emphasised that the IUML and Jamaat-e-Islami stand on opposite ends of the ideological spectrum and therefore have no scope for collaboration. The IUML has never invited or accepted support from the Welfare Party, he stated, stressing that neither joint platforms nor coordinated campaigns had taken place. The comments follow a charged campaign led by the ruling LDF, which attempted to highlight purported support from the WPI as a blot on the UDFs secular credentials. Countering it, Muneer accused the CPM of hypocrisy, recalling past instances where the Left had embraced Jamaat-e-Islami without hesitation. The CPMs criticism of the Jamaat-e-Islami now seems deeply opportunistic. When it served their interests, they didnt hesitate to accept support from the very same ideological quarters they now denounce, Muneer said, adding that the IUMLs stand has remained consistent over the years. In a political twist, Muneer also credited CPM state secretary M V Govindan for inadvertently aiding the UDFs campaign. Govindans controversial remark admitting past electoral support from the RSS, according to Muneer, weakened the Lefts credibility and helped galvanise UDF voters.
Qatar Malayalis recount horrifying moments of Iran missile attack
KOZHIKODE: For the large Malayali population in Qatar, many of whom are blue-collar workers, nurses, teachers, and technicians, Monday night after Iran launched missiles targeting the Al-Udeid Air Base located near Doha was a grim reminder of their vulnerability far from home. WhatsApp groups flooded with videos of the explosions, frantic voice messages, and calls for updates. Several people were too scared to sleep. When Habeeb K, a Kozhikode native living in Lusail, stepped out of his apartment after a thunderous blast shook his building, he wasnt prepared for what he saw: his parked car partially engulfed in flames, hit by falling missile debris. It felt like the world was ending, Habeeb, still shaken, told TNIE over the phone. My car was burning just a few feet away from where children usually play. It could have been us. While Qatars defence systems managed to shoot down the threats, fragments from the explosions rained down over residential neighbourhoods, some of them heavily populated by Malayali expats from Kerala. According to eyewitnesses, several missiles lit up the sky shortly after 11 pm, followed by thunderous explosions. This was a turning point, said Faisal M, a social worker who assists new people from Kerala. People came here for a better life. Now they are afraid to step outside. Some are even talking about returning to Kerala for good. On Tuesday, a majority of the people took leave and decided to stay at their houses and apartments. Nazeera T, a nurse from Kannur, recalled: I was feeding my baby when I saw a flash outside the window. Then came the sound, like something had exploded just above our heads. My hands were trembling. I didnt know whether to grab my phone or run. Entire apartment buildings in Doha, Al Wakrah, and Lusail emptied into stairwells. Families huddled together. Videos shared in Malayali WhatsApp groups captured the raw fear on peoples faces, with some even reciting prayers aloud as they waited in corridors. Weve survived the Gulf War, the blockade, even Covid. But this is different. This time, people truly feel unsafe, as if war has come to our doorstep, said Faisal, a long-time Doha resident.
How Kakkayam became Keralas Emergency-era house of horror
KOZHIKODE: he infamous Kakkayam concentration camp and the disappearance of P Rajan remain some of the darkest and most disturbing episodes from the Emergency period in Kerala, and perhaps the entire country. The relentless legal battle waged by Rajans father, T V Eachara Warrier, not only sought to trace his missing son but also exposed a chilling record of police torture and human rights violations inflicted on naxalites and their sympathisers at the camp. The chain of events that led to the Kakkayam horror began with a naxalite attack on the Kayanna (Koorachundu) police station on February 28, 1976. A group of naxalites M M Somasekharan, Murali Kannampally, C H Achuthan, Sugathan, Bhargavan, and K Vasu stormed the station and escaped with a firearm. In retaliation, the police launched a large-scale crackdown the very next day, targeting young men from nearby areas including Kayanna, Koorachundu, and Kakkayam. Dozens were picked up and taken to a makeshift detention centre at the KSEB quarters in Kakkayam, where they were subjected to brutal torture. The inquiry team, headed by the then crime branch deputy inspector general, Jayaram Padikkal, is alleged to have employed severe torture techniques, the most notorious being uruttal the practice of rolling a heavy wooden log over a prisoners thighs to force confessions and extract information. On March 1, 1976, the police arrived at the Regional Engineering College in Chathamangalam to arrest Rajan and several others on suspicion of involvement in the attack. Somasekharan, the prime accused in the police station attack, later recalled witnessing Rajan being taken away. I saw the van taking Rajan and others, Somasekharan recounted. At the time, I didnt realise it was him. I was running for my life. But within days, I too was captured. The first thing I heard after arriving at the camp was that someone had been killed. A police officer casually told me, Ones dead, youll be next. It was only the next day that I learnt it was Rajan. Somasekharan described the harrowing torture he endured at the camp, particularly uruttal, from the very first day. All of us went through the same procedure. We were tied down to a wooden bench and a heavy wooden rod was rolled down with force between our waist and knee. We all withstood it on the first day. On the second day, it was like tearing off flesh from our thighs. On the third day, the skin became dark blue in colour. Padikkals strategy was very scientific, the brutality will never kill us. But we desire for death. When they stuffed cloth into my mouth to silence my screams, a senior officer warned them to be careful. I suspect Rajan may have suffocated to death in a similar way, and they didnt want that happening again, he said. To this day, debate continues over whether Rajan was an active naxalite. Somasekharan maintains that while Rajan may not have been a militant, he was a sympathiser. We held meetings in his hostel room at the engineering college. Later, after we were released from jail, we made inquiries to find out what happened to his body. Some claimed his body was burnt with sugar, others said it was dumped into the Urakkuzhi waterfalls. I once visited Urakkuzhi and spoke to the guard there. The fear in his eyes made it clear to me that theres a good chance Rajans body was disposed there, he said. Today, little remains at Kakkayam to mark the grim history, except a memorial statue of Rajan. The old KSEB building, which served as the camp, was demolished to make way for a canal as part of the Kakkayam mini-hydro project. Even today, visitors to the Urakkuzhi waterfalls hear from the forest guards the infamous story of Rajans body being dumped there a grim reminder of a time when voices of dissent were silenced through force.
How Satheesan and Team UDF scripted stunning Nilambur bypoll victory in Kerala
The mood in the state Congress and UDF has been celebratory ever since the comfortable victory in the LDF-held seat of Nilambur. Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan, termed Captain by his followers following the stunning victory of the party in the Thrikkakara, Puthupally and Palakkad byelections earlier, is no longer the sole focal point within the alliance, which he himself has realised. Following the UDF's victory in the three seats in 2022, the credit went to Satheesan, as he often called the shots unilaterally. In Puthupally, the open tussle between Satheesan and the then KPCC president K Sudhakaran at a press conference over who would talk first had destroyed the glow of the victory. Organisationally, too, Satheesan was accused of being arrogant to leaders. However, Nilambur has shown that a collective effort was behind the UDF's victory this time round. It was evident in the way Satheesan himself gave credit to 'Team UDF' in his press conference and corrected the media for giving him sole credit. No 'Satheesanism' in Congress What led to the scenario was the strong undercurrents in the Congress and UDF during the campaign, culminating in statements by senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, KPCC president Sunny Joseph and Muslim League supremo Panakkad Sadique Ali Thangal, all of whom cleared the air of confusion, saying that PV Anvar is not a closed chapter. Going one step further, Ramesh declared that there is no 'Satheesanism' in Congress, a term now largely used to denote the opposition leader's unilateral style of functioning. This has come at a crucial time, as the Congress and UDF are gearing up for the 2026 assembly election with many contenders in line for the CM post. There was criticism among UDF leaders and in the Congress against Satheesan calling the shots unilaterally for some time, a senior Congress leader told The New Indian Express . Before the poll date, leaders from both the Congress and UDF conveyed to Satheesan that he should be careful while making statements and taking decisions. Satheesan's declaration that Anvar is a closed chapter for the UDF without considering the opinion of senior leaders has not gone well within the UDF. We were anguished that his controversial response when asked about whether the failure of Aryadan Shoukath to visit former Congress candidate VV Prakash's house would cause a setback. And many youth leaders across group politics also came out against certain MLAs who are part of the opposition leaders inner ring for making reels. The loose talk of Youth Congress president Rahul Mamkootathil, who is close to Satheeshan, and the way in which he intervened in many issues was the last nail in the patience of leaders, he said. The League was upset with Satheesan after he allegedly derailed IUML general secretary PK Kunhalikuttys attempts to reach a settlement with PV Anvar. When Kunhalikutty was minister, Satheesan was nowhere in the political landscape of Kerala, a senior League leader told The New Indian Express on condition of anonymity. Though we are of the opinion that the candidate of a political party should not be determined by people from outside, on a larger political sphere, there were numerous ways to tackle the issue and neutralise the threat. On many occasions, the League and Kunhalikutty have carried out this task for the Congress and UDF, he added. The Priyanka Gandhi factor Aryadan Shoukath's victory against all odds has proved that in Nilambur, the League comes first with Congress in second place. Unlike the last three byelections, in Nilambur several leaders pitched in during various stages of the campaign -- selecting the candidate, keeping it secret till the last moment, setting the campaign agenda and social engineering. It was KPCC working president AP Anil Kumar, who was also in charge of the bypoll, who successfully resolved the candidate issue by taking along DCC president VS Joy and kept the candidate's name a secret till the day Congress announced it. Anil also undertook many tasks, including registering 8,000 new voters and holding around 400 house meetings. He was the brain behind implementing public meetings at each Congress's mandalam committee. However, the election agenda for the byelection was set by AICC organisational general secretary KC Venugopal, who attacked Pinarayi Vijayan, alleging that the CM had defamed Malappuram in an earlier interview. Incidentally, the AICC also wanted a comfortable victory margin as Nilambur falls in Priyanka Gandhi's Wayanad parliament constituency. Venugopal's statement that Anvar's issues would be addressed was made taking into account AICC's decisions. However, the unexpected objection raised by Satheesan came as a surprise to the high command. AICC has taken a decision not to intervene in the state leadership's decisions to avoid a controversy. KC Venugopals decision not to meet PV Anvar though the latter had requested to meet him in Kozhikode was in sync with this position. UDF's social engineering The Muslim League, which faced criticism at first after family members from the Panakkad family were missing from the UDF convention, went on a firefighting mode with its rank and file taking part in campaigning and door-to-door visits. League president Panakkad Sadique Ali Thangal participated in house meetings at Pothukal panchayat, the native place of CPM candidate. The League ensured that not a single vote would go to the rival side. It was PK Kunhalikutty who intervened whenever the ego clash between Satheesan and Anvar intensified. League leaders PK Basheer, PMA Salam coordinated all the campaign work. It was Basheer who had taken steps to resolve the existing issues with the candidate and League workers. The Nilambur election also witnessed the complete dominance of the UDF in social engineering by taking all community groups with them, a strategy the CPM had previously implemented successfully. When Shoukath's candidature was decided, he was quite unpopular in the constituency. It was Satheesan and KPCC secretary KP Noushad Ali who sorted out these issues by holding marathon meetings with different community groups and organisations. There are three Mujahideen sections in Nilambur. Anvar, being a Mujahideen, has a strong influence in the community. Hence, Satheesan held discussions with Kerala Nadvathul Mujahideen, Wisdom and Markus Dava leadership separately. The two leaders also met the new group that emerged from the EK Sunni section, as they have an affiliation with the CPM. The leaders were also successful in taking AP Sunni sections which are traditionally close to CPM - into confidence. To resolve the issues the merchants in Nilambur had with Shoukath, the opposition leader held discussions with the state general secretary of the powerful Vyapari Vyavasay Ekopana Samithi at its office at Nilambur for almost two hours. Anvar left with less bargaining power Meanwhile, since the BDJS, as part of the NDA, decided not to contest the election, it was UDF convener Adoor Prakash who canvassed for votes from the community in favour of the UDF. KPCC president Sunny Joseph and Roji M John made sure that the Christian community's votes remained intact. Besides youth leaders Chandy Oommen, who had covered 3,000 houses, CR Mahesh, M Liju and Mathew Kuzhlnadan, who were in charge of panchayats, worked hard to coordinate the campaigns. The outcome of the Nilambur byelection will have an impact on the state Congress in the coming days, said a KPCC leader. Though Satheesan has objected to an association with Anvar, the 19,690 votes he garnered are enough for the UDF to reconsider their earlier stand. However, Anvar himself now knows that he has less bargaining power. He has already declared that he will be contesting the 2026 assembly election from Beypore in Kozhikode against PA Mohammad Riyaz, son-in-law of CM Pinarayi. However, the Congress will have to consider many factors, and hence accommodating him will be a matter of discussion within the Congress and the UDF in the coming days. Interesting times lie ahead. Nilambur loss a warning for LDF as anti-Pinarayi sentiment gains ground in Kerala UDFs Nilambur win might cement V D Satheesans rise as Congress state leader
Airlines resume Middle East operations after temporary shutdown
NEW DELHI: With tensions easing in the Middle East and Qatari airspace reopening, airlines operating to and from India have begun cautiously resuming services from Tuesday, following a temporary shutdown on Monday. While some flights may still face delays due to rerouting, most major carriers are gradually restoring operations. Air India Express, Indias largest carrier in the Gulf region, operates around 900 flights weekly between Indian cities and 13 Middle Eastern destinations. In a statement, the airline said, Air India Express is progressively resuming its operations to the Middle East from today, 24th June, as airspaces in the region reopen. Our first flight today will be on the DelhiMuscat route, followed by services on the MumbaiMuscat, KozhikodeMuscat, KozhikodeRiyadh, and JaipurJeddah routes. Flights to and from key UAE cities including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Al Ain, and Ras Al Khaimah are scheduled to resume from Wednesday (25th June), the airline added. Air India also confirmed the resumption of flights to the Middle East from Tuesday. A spokesperson said, As airspaces gradually reopen in certain parts of the Middle East, Air India will progressively resume flights to the region starting today, with most operations resuming from June 25. Flights to and from Europe, previously cancelled, are also being reinstated. Services to the East Coast of the U.S. and Canada will resume at the earliest opportunity. The airline noted that some flights may still experience delays or cancellations due to rerouted paths and longer flight times. We are committed to minimising disruptions and restoring our schedule integrity, it said. Air India also emphasised that it would avoid any airspaces assessed as unsafe, reiterating that the safety and security of our passengers, staff, and aircraft remain our top priority. SpiceJet, which operates 12 daily flights between Indian cities and Dubai, also resumed operations on all routes from Tuesday. A spokesperson stated, We had to cancel some routes on Monday evening but have now resumed full services. IndiGo confirmed stabilised operations across Gulf countries, though noted that flights might face extended durations. As Iranian airspace remains restricted, some routes may be longer. Passengers are advised to monitor their flight status for the latest updates, the airline said. Qatar Airways announced that it is in the process of restoring its global network of over 170 destinations and is assisting affected passengers with rebooking and support. Emirates, which rerouted flights via Dubai on Monday, said it would continue using routes well away from conflict zones. Some delays may occur due to longer flight paths or airspace congestion, the airline stated.
Pledge against substance abuse in Kozhikode on June 26
West-Asia tensions: 10 flight services from Kozhikode in Kerala cancelled
Airport authorities and airlines have urged passengers to verify flight status before travelling
New day train connecting Kozhikode, Palakkad begins trial run
Wayanad to get first weather radar, boosting disaster readiness in high ranges
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ending a long wait, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) is setting up its first radar station in Wayanad, a move expected to significantly enhance weather forecasting and disaster preparedness in the high ranges. The X-band doppler weather radar system will be installed on land provided by the Pazhassiraja College in Pulpally. A 30-year lease agreement was signed on Wednesday between IMD, Kerala State Disaster Management Authority and college authorities. Given Wayanads vulnerability to landslides, the installation is being hailed as a game changer. The radar will monitor rainfall within a 100km radius, covering Wayanad and adjoining areas in Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, said IMD Kerala director Neetha K Gopal. The demand for a radar station in the region dates to 2010. Though the project was marked high-priority, identifying suitable land proved difficult. Locations in Kozhikode and Kannur were also considered before zeroing in on Wayanad. Official clearance came this April. Until now, Wayanad was not adequately covered by the Kochi radar, which hampered weather alerts and early warnings. Last year, a series of major landslides in Meppadi panchayat left nearly 300 people died. Minor mudslides have been reported this year in forested areas. Neetha clarified that while the radar itself does not predict landslides, it provides crucial rainfall data that supports forecasts by other central agencies. Landslides are impacts. The radar gives us better rainfall input, which feeds into impact-based forecasting, she explained. The MoU marks a critical step toward setting up the facility. Weve discussed electricity and internet connectivity. Once the land agreement is signed, we can proceed with the rest, Neetha said. The radar system is being supplied by Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) at a cost of Rs 6 crore.
Migrant students reshape Kozhikodes government school classrooms
KOZHIKODE: Walk into the Byraikulam Government Lower Primary School in the heart of Kozhikode city, and you might hear more Hindi than Malayalam in its corridors. What was once a small neighbourhood school for local children has over the years transformed into a vibrant classroom filled with the voices of migrant students from across northern India. Ive been teaching here for around 10 years. When I joined, there were around 10 students, a mix of Malayali and migrant children. Now, nearly all our students are children of migrant workers, Geo Jaison, a teacher at the school, told TNIE. The rising number of migrant labourers in Kerala from states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal has brought a parallel rise in students enrolling in local government schools. Whether its a restaurant, a construction site, or a barber shop, workers from the northern states are everywhere. And now, so are their children, Jaison said. This year, for the first time in years, three Malayali students joined the school. They mingle well. The Malayali children pick up bits of Hindi, while the others learn Malayalam, said Byraikulam school headmistress Deepthi K P. The teachers have adapted too, often blending Malayalam and Hindi while teaching and communicating with parents. At PTA meetings, we mostly speak in Hindi because many parents dont understand Malayalam, Deepthi said. Families who send their children to local schools are typically those who have settled down with their families. Some parents run small businesses and are doing okay, while others are street vendors from very poor backgrounds, said Sumi S, headmistress of the Achuthan Girls LP School, Chalapuram, where around 30 students are children of migrant workers. Despite the challenges, many of these children quickly become fluent in Malayalam. Some are even acting as translators for their parents during school calls. They can read, write, and speak like native speakers by the time they complete primary school, Sumi noted. To support them, the government introduced the Meethi Malayalam programme, in which teachers of schools with a high migrant student population are trained to make Malayalam learning easier, helping the students to integrate more smoothly into the local environment. While many children continue their studies beyond lower primary, some families leave abruptly. Sometimes, a student stops coming to school. When we finally get in touch, were told theyve gone back home, Deepthi said. Yet, for those who stay, Kerala is becoming a second home. Theres work here and there are good schools for my children. Thats why I like it here, said Raju, a labourer from Mathura now living in Chalapuram. As more migrant families put down roots in Kerala, schools like Byraikulam GLPS and Achuthan Girls LPS are quietly becoming places of connection and change, bridging the gap between cultures. It is not always easy, and some families leave as suddenly as they arrive. But for those who stay, Kerala offers not just work but a chance at belonging, and for their children, a future written in both Hindi and Malayalam.
Fake doctor arrested after two-year GPA battle in Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: After a two-year legal and investigative battle, the General Practitioners Association (GPA) has finally succeeded in getting a man arrested for working as a doctor as well as a nurse in multiple hospitals without the required qualifications. Jobin Babu, of Perambra, was arrested by the Ambalavayal police in Wayanad. He allegedly forged his credentials to secure jobs in several hospitals in Kozhikode and Wayanad. The arrest followed the Kerala High Courts admission of a writ petition filed by the GPA, which highlighted systemic failures in identifying and prosecuting unqualified medical practitioners. Though the arrest has come as a relief to the GPA and the medical community, doctors expressed concern that Jobin had been attending to patients unchecked for years. Jobin had falsely claimed to have earned an MBBS degree from Pariyaram Medical College. It was his estranged wife, a registered doctor, who lodged a complaint with GPAs anti-quackery cell, alleging that he had been misusing her registration number to forge credentials. We submitted evidence to the police and the district medical officer two years ago. Still, he was allowed to continue practising. He was so brazen, he didnt even attempt to escape, said Dr Ashik Basheer, the GPA state president. Dr Basheer also pointed out another disturbing case of a medical college dropout who, after being exposed in Mavelikara, simply relocated to Idukki and resumed his illegal practice. Such cases, he said, underscored the urgent need for a regulatory framework to identify and eliminate impersonators. The GPA said the authorities took action only after it moved the HC seeking a mechanism to report and prevent medical impersonation. The writ petition specifically criticised the Kerala State Medical Council (KSMC) for its inaction and lack of oversight. The KSMC refused to acknowledge complaints initially. It only started responding after we named them as a respondent in the case, Dr Basheer said. Though the KSMC has the power to register and regulate clinical practitioners in Kerala, it is yet to establish an effective process to identify and act against quacks. Dr Harikumaran Nair G S, president (modern medicine) of KSMC, did not respond to repeated calls from TNIE.As per rules, only those registered with the KSMC - the body that succeeded the Travancore-Cochin Medical Councils - are permitted to practice modern medicine in Kerala.
Crackdown on unregistered houseboats in Kozhikode
Minister Sivankutty alleges Raj Bhavan behind ABVP protests; BJP accuses CPI(M) of 'violence'
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala General Education Minister V Sivankutty on Sunday claimed that the protests by the BJP's youth and student groups against him , over the 'Bharat Mata' controversy, were aimed at causing riots in the state and were allegedly held on instructions of the Raj Bhavan. Hitting back at the CPI(M), BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar accused the Left party of trying to suppress protests by resorting to violence against the protestors. He warned that if the Left government uses force to suppress protests, it will face retaliation in the same manner. Earlier in the day, Sivankutty told reporters that he has been attacked and his travels obstructed during the last couple of days after he walked out of a programme at the Raj Bhavan where a portrait of 'Bharat Mata' -- as seen in RSS events -- was displayed. He said that as a minister, MLA and a citizen, he has the right to protest against the actions of the Governor at the Raj Bhavan and that is what he did. The Governor has said that he will continue with it (the portrait) and we have not responded to that, he added. Bharat Mata and the protocol of dignity: A Kerala Raj Bhavan perspective Subsequently, the BJP youth wing Yuva Morcha and student organisation -- Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) -- attacked him and obstructed his vehicle at various places in the state during the last two day, the minister claimed. Meanwhile, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, in an interview given to BJP mouthpiece Janmabhumi, said that the concept of 'Bharat Mata' became more clear to him when he was jailed during the emergency period in the country. He said that during that time he saw the concept of Bharat Mata as being above ideology and politics. I got a strong urge to work more for Bharat Mata. The inspiration to become a 'sangh pracharak' also became stronger during that time, he said in the interview. Sivankutty, during his press conference in the morning, also alleged that at one such protest, ABVP activists tore apart the national flag while some acted as suicide squads and jumped in front of his moving vehicle., a claim reportedly denied by the student organisation. The minister also alleged that the protests and attacks against him were being carried out on the instructions of the Raj Bhavan, ut they were unable to gather enough youth for the same. ABVP and Yuva Morcha activists had waved black flags at the minister's vehicle in Kozhikode on Saturday and also burned his effigy in protest against his walkout from the Raj Bhavan event. Sivankutty said that ABVP and Yuva Morcha should realise that showing support to the Governor, who is allegedly acting contrary to the Constitution, will turn people against them. He also claimed that two hardcore RSS activists in the Raj Bhavan were advising the Governor to act in this manner. The minister said that he will not name them, but everyone knows them very well. The Congress too spoke out against the Governor's recent actions and said the Raj Bhavan should not be turned into a venue for political activities. Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) chief Sunny Joseph also said that protests against the Governor's actions need not be taken to the streets. Later in the day, Chandrasekhar, in a statement, claimed that it was the CPI(M) which was behind the violence against the ABVP and Yuva Morcha protestors because the BJP exposed the Left party's anti-nationalism and appeasement politics. He also accused the Left parties of being intolerant towards protests against them. Unacceptable to make Governors residence a venue for RSS agenda: Kerala CM on Bharat Mata portrait row The BJP leader said that protests against the Governor by the Students Federation of India and the Democratic Youth Federation of India -- the student and youth wings of the CPI(M), respectively -- were acceptable, but agitations against a Left minister were not. This is an authoritarian style of communist parties, he claimed. He warned that if attacks on BJP and related organisations' workers are not stopped, the Left parties and their leaders will have to pay a heavy price. If the CPI(M) is trying to suppress the protesters by taking the law into its own hands, and if the police decide to help them by standing by, then the national movements, including the BJP, will take to the streets, the BJP leader said. He also said that criticising and insulting the 'Bharat Mata', a sentimental concept for the country, was not acceptable and whosoever dares to do so will face a strong protest in a democratic manner. Chandrasekhar further warned that if the Left government's decision was to suppress the protests by force, there were those on the other side who were capable of retaliating in the same manner. The southern state has been witnessing a tussle between Arlekar and the Marxist party-led LDF government over the display of 'Bharat Mata portrait' during official events at the Raj Bhavan here.
NEW DELHI: As the probe continues into the fatal Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad on June 12, former Director General of Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) Group Captain Aurobindo Handa (Retd) spoke exclusively to PTI on the investigation process. Handa said going by the visuals of the crash, the aircraft has been very badly damaged by fire and stitching together the evidence would be a tedious process. In all probability and in fairness, the investigation is likely to be a long-drawn process, he told PTI. Handa is also the former Chairman Accident Investigation Group (AIG) of the ICAO-APAC Region. During Handa's stewardship, AAIB had closed over 100 investigations, including the fatal crash of the Air India Express plane, which happened in August 2020 at Kozhikode, Kerala. Following is the detailed interview Air India plane crash: Wreckage being shifted to airport premises in Ahmedabad Q. How much time do you envisage that the investigation into the Air India plane crash Ahmedabad would take? Annexe 13 of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) as well as AAIB Rules mandate that any investigation should preferably be completed in less than a year. Our investigators' endeavour to complete an investigation as quickly as possible so that remedial actions are instituted quickly through DGCA to avoid any recurrence. However, going by the visuals of this accident, you would appreciate that this aircraft has been very badly damaged by fire. Therefore, corroborating and stitching together the evidences would be a tedious process. In all probability and in fairness, the investigation is likely to be a long-drawn process. Q. How are the probable causes zeroed in during an aircraft accident investigation? Deep and detailed examination of meaningful evidences is a time-consuming process. After analysing the data from the recorders, the investigators narrow down to the most probable systems and/or sub-systems that could have malfunctioned and/or contributed in a malfunction. Step by step, each of the suspected causes for the accident are examined deeply and the unlikely causes are ruled out which is a rigorous process. Basically, the process is driven by the 'method of elimination'. It is akin to a physician going through pathological reports, X-Ray/MRI or other test reports before coming to a conclusion. Q.What is the main aim of an aircraft crash investigation? As per Annex 13 of ICAO and AAIB Rules 2012 (as amended from time to time), the aim of the investigation is to find out the most probable root cause but not to apportion blame or liability. Q. What are the broad steps involved in an investigation? The ICAO had come out with 'DOC 9756' or the Manual of Accident Investigation. Globally, the investigators follow this manual, which outlines detailed procedures to arrive at the most probable cause of an aircraft accident. In addition, based on 'DOC 9756' and its own experiences, AAIB has prepared a document known as 'Procedure Manual' which contains the investigation process/procedures to be followed in India. Q.What are the priorities for AAIB investigators after reaching the aircraft accident site? Obviously, when any unfortunate aircraft accident happens, the immediate focus of the 'first responders' such as airport staff, security personnel which includes CISF, NDRF and local police is to save lives. AAIB takes charge of the activities as soon as its team arrives at the crash site and starts coordinating with the 'first responders' for the remaining work. After cordoning off the general area, AAIB controls and regulates any movement at the crash site in order to make sure that the evidence is not lost inadvertently or tampered with deliberately. AAIB's priorities are to look for survivors and/or save lives at the crash site, retrieve recorders, sift through the debris for any meaningful examination at a later date, and shift these meaningful debris to a safe and secure place. AAIB investigators get divided into sub-groups and start segregating the debris into sub-groups such as flight recorders, airframe, propulsion, avionics and controls, among other elements. The first and foremost task is the retrieval of recorders i.e. Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Digital Flight Data Recorder (DFDR). Once the retrieval is affected, the next step is 'milking of raw data' from these recorders. The raw data is then converted into actionable and workable 'engineering parameters'. Then, these engineering parameters are converted into graphs and charts for deriving meaningful and credible interpretations. Q. How strong are India's capabilities in analysing the data during an aircraft accident investigation? India as a sovereign nation is quite well equipped to analyse recorders. AAIB, DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) and airlines also have their recorder labs in place. In case, there is a need, AAIB can seek help from NAL (National Aerospace Laboratories), Bengaluru, HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd), Korwa, and LCA (Light Combat Aircraft) Project as they have excellent infrastructure and enough domain experts of international repute who can be co-opted to assist the aircraft accident investigations and render advice. Also, if there is an iota of doubt that the milking of raw data from the recorders could result in erosion of data, the chief investigator under the guidance from the DG, AAIB can decide to take the recorders to their Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). Aircraft manufacturers do not manufacture recorders and these are outsourced from other companies like Honeywell.
Political spat over Bharat Mata image spills over into streets
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With tensions escalating between the LDF government and the governor over the image of Bharat Mata with a saffron flag, the political spat spilled over into streets with CPM and BJP workers crossing swords across the state. Close on the heels of Education Minister Sivankutty walking out of a function at Raj Bhavan on Thursday in protest against Governor Rajendra Arlekar paying floral tributes to the image, the Left and BJP leaderships engaged in a war of words over the past two days. A day after a march taken out by SFI activists to the Raj Bhavan turned violent in the state capital, BJP-Yuva Morcha activists staged protests against Sivankutty in Kozhikode on Saturday. Tensions flared during the minsters visit as the protesters who waved black flags at him were stopped by SFI activists, triggering a clash between them. In Thiruvananthapuram, BJP activists from Pappanamcode took out a march to Sivankuttys MLA office in the evening. Following this, CPM took out another march against the governor, leading to minor clashes between CPM and BJP workers. ABVP is controlled by RSS-ruled Raj Bhavan Later in the night, fresh clashes erupted between BJP and CPM workers near the Thiruvananthapuram railway station. BJP workers gathered at the railway station to protest against Sivankutty who was arriving by Vande Bharat Express. As protests intensified, CPM and DYFI members too reached the spot, leading to heated exchanges and confrontation between the two groups. Earlier in the day, the BJP district leadership organised a protest meet in front of the Secretariat. During the meet, which was led by senior leader V Muraleedharan, party workers offered floral tributes to the portrait of Bharatamba. Meanwhile, Sivankutty alleged that ABVPs black flag protest against him was staged on the orders from the Raj Bhavan. The ABVP workers who protested in Thiruvananthapuram tore the national flag placed in front of my vehicle. This is an insult to the national flag. ABVP is controlled by the RSS-ruled Raj Bhavan, said Sivankutty. While both the CPM and CPI leaderships came down heavily on the governor for not adhering to constitutional values, the BJP shot back saying only those who have loyalty towards China would hesitate to offer floral tributes to the portrait. Those who have loyalty towards the country would garland the Bharatamba image, said Muraleedharan. The Congress leadership, however, chose to put the blame on the ruling Left, saying it had already warned about Raj Bhavans saffron turn. Terming the new developments mere drama, the Congress also hinted at a hidden nexus between the CPM and BJP leaderships. In another development, the Raj Bhavan rejected media reports that in the wake of protests, it proposes to seek central forces protection for the governor. There has been no such move or plan by the Raj Bhavan, it said, adding that the governor has total faith in the commitment and efficiency of the Kerala Police. They have been performing their duty extremely well and to the best of the Raj Bhavans satisfaction, said a statement from Raj Bhavan, strongly ruling out any threat, direct or indirect, to the governor.
Minister Sivankutty: 30 per cent marks must in year-end exams from Class V to IX
KOZHIKODE: Amid allegations that the quality of general education is declining, a high-level meeting of the General Education Department has decided to implement minimum marks scheme from Class V to IX. This was informed by Education Minister V Sivankutty at a press conference in Kozhikode on Saturday. It was earlier decided that students should obtain at least 30 per cent marks in the year-end exams in Class VIII, subject-wise, and that students who do not achieve this should be promoted to the next class by providing additional study support during the vacation. This suggestion drew a lot of social attention. Students, teachers and parents realised the importance of the study support. Along with this, we also realised the importance of achieving the learning objectives in each class. This is not an activity that should be done only after the end-of-year examination, the minister said. In Classes V to IX, 30 per cent marks will be mandatory for written examinations on a subject-wise basis. The minister said that this is not to limit or filter out the excellence of children to 30 per cent, but to raise all children to the desirable level set by the curriculum. Education department-level monitoring will be strengthened to ensure the implementation of the project. Deputy Directors of Education, DEOs, AEOs, DIET Principals, Vidyakiranam District Coordinators, and Samagra Shiksha Keralam District Project Coordinators will be trained in these matters at the state level. The respective education officers will provide training to the head teachers of schools in their jurisdiction. The training of head teachers of all public schools in Kerala will be completed by July 15. It has also been decided to conduct cluster training on July 19 with the participation of all teachers in school-level activities of the comprehensive quality education programme, timely detection of the learning status of students, and providing necessary learning support. Revised textbooks for Special Schools This year, for the first time in the history of education in the state, it has been decided to prepare and provide special textbooks for the children of special deaf schools. The books have been prepared under the leadership of SCERT considering the special abilities of these children. The release and distribution of these books will be held on June 30 at Government Vocational Higher Secondary School for the Deaf, Jagathy, Thiruvananthapuram. HEAD TEACHERS SHOULD HANDLE MID-DAY MEAL SCHEME Meanwhile, the minister reiterated that head teachers should also bear the responsibility of the controversial changed menu of the mid-day meals scheme such as vegetable fried rice, lemon rice and vegetable biryani. The schools can take financial support from the CSR fund, NGOs and individuals to run the project. The headmaster has to manage these roles and theyre salaried for this. Buying commodities on credit and paying them later is a usual thing. No head teacher will land in debt for feeding students, said the minister, in response to head teachers complaint regarding lack of enough government financial support to run the midday meals scheme. PTAs in schools to be strengthened The government is seriously considering strengthening the Parent Teacher Associations in public schools academically. As part of the curriculum reform, it has been decided to prepare books for parents and provide orientation based on this. The Department of General Education is planning to organise district-level, state-level art and sports competitions for PTAs this year to enable parents to actively participate in school activities. Minister Sivankutty also criticised the Union Government in connection with the fund crisis in Samagra Shiksha Keralam projects. If the interventions/activities being carried out by Samagra Shiksha Keralam are not carried out, a situation will arise in which a large number of children from marginalised sections will not be able to enter school. Samagra Shiksha Keralam is implementing a centrally sponsored scheme. Although Kerala is providing funds for this, the Centre has stopped the funding saying that the state has not agreed to the PM SHRI scheme. The students of common people and marginalised groups will be affected by this, said Sivankutty.
Land identified in Kozhikode most suitable for AIIMS, says Kerala government
KOCHI: At a time when Union minister Suresh Gopi has cast doubts on Kozhikode being selected to host the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Kerala, the state government has reaffirmed its decision in an affidavit, filed with the High Court, stating that the land in Kinaloor is most suitable for the premier institution. The government also said that the allegation that Kasaragod and other districts have been neglected in considering the site has no standing. The affidavit was filed in response to petitions challenging the decision. One of the petitioners AIIMS Kasaragod Janakeeya Koottayma sought a directive to resubmit a list to include Kasaragod as a potential site for the establishment of the medical institution, while Greater Piravom Development Forum, Ernakulam, sought to explore the feasibility of proposing land owned by the state government -- the first respondent -- at Mevalloor Newsprint Nagar at Velloor as an alternative. Opposing the pleas, the deputy secretary of the health department said the state has chosen Kinaloor as the most suitable location for establishing the AIIMS, considering various factors. Moreover, the government has taken all possible steps to develop medical facilities across the state, without discrimination. Action is being taken for establishing a medical college in Kasaragod district. The application has been submitted to the National Medical Commission and the government plans to enrol 50 students in the 2025-26 academic year itself, the official said. Last year, secretary of the central ministry of health and family welfare was requested to depute a team to study feasibility of the land earmarked in Kerala. Further, in a letter of the minister of health, the Union finance ministry was requested to give its in principle approval for the AIIMS in Kerala and to include the same in the next phase of the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY). Project updates The Union govt directed Kerala to identify 3-4 locations for AIIMS, stating that nearly 200 acres of land was needed for the premier super-specialty hospital and college The state should undertake to provide, free of cost, land and other required infrastructure, including suitable road connectivity, water supply, electricity, etc., while the centre would bear construction cost under PMSSY 4 spots identified by Kerala were Kinaloor, belonging to KSIDC, land near the open jail in Nettukaltheri, Neyyattinkara, land belonging to Kottayam Medical College, and a property owned by HMT in Ernakulam
SFI, Yuva Morcha clash in Kozhikode over Bharat Mata controversy
KOZHIKODE: The Yuva Morcha workers who staged a black flag protest against General Education Minister V Sivankutty in Kozhikode over the Bharat Mata controversy were stopped by the SFI workers and ended in a clash. On Saturday morning, Yuva Morcha workers showed black flags when the minister arrived at the Jubilee Hall in Tali to attend a programme related to the SFI national conference. However, in the meantime, SFI workers who were present there clashed with Yuva Morcha activists. Following this, the police intervened and detained the workers. Later, when Fraternity workers came to protest there in connection with the Plus One seat crisis, the SFI workers stopped them, and a clash broke out. The police intervened and took both groups away. Protesting the incident of SFI workers attacking the Yuva Morcha workers, BJP members burnt the effigy of Minister Sivankutty at the spot. BJP leaders alleged that the police were helping SFI members to attack Yuva Morcha workers. Our workers were beaten up by CPM workers and the police. If the police do not arrest the criminals, we will retaliate. The BJP knows what to do if the police do not take necessary action, said BJP Kozhikode district president KP Prakash Babu.
Muslim League expels four members for inviting P V Anvar to KMCC event
KOZHIKODE: The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has expelled four of its members for inviting Nilambur independent candidate P V Anvar to a programme, defying party directives. The disciplinary action pertains to a KMCC family gathering held in Thiruvambady on June 15. However, Anvar didnt participate in the event. The party leadership announced the expulsion of the four organisers from IUMLs primary membership, citing serious breach of party discipline. Among those removed are Thiruvambady panchayat vice-president K M Abdurahman, Arafi Kattiparuthi, Faisal Matamthalu, and Rafeeq Pulloorampara. Following the row over the event, which was held during the Nilambur bypoll campaign, the IUML leadership clarified that the party had no links with the gathering. The party also claimed it had instructed leaders and members to stay away from the function. However, Abdurahman denied receiving any such directive. The event was planned months ago with the knowledge of the party leadership. When the issue turned controversial, the party claimed that it had warned top leaders not to attend. But I never received any such call, he told TNIE . He refuted the allegation that the programme was organised by suspended KMCC members. I was one of the organisers, and the other is a member of Oman KMCC. Its true that a few suspended KMCC members participated in the event, but they didnt organise the programme, he said. He also said future steps would be decided after internal discussions on Sunday.
Study links microplastics to rise in gallbladder cancer
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: While plastic pollution along Keralas coast continues to spark concerns, a new study by cancer researchers from the states medical colleges has set alarm bells ringing about a possible link between microplastics and gallbladder cancer (GBC). The research, published in the Indian Journal of Medical and Paediatric Oncology, draws a connection between GBC and microplastics found in the Ganges, one of the most polluted rivers in India. The study suggests that the potential carcinogenic effects of microplastics in such water bodies could help explain the rising incidence of GBC, including in regions like Kerala. While earlier studies have explored the link between environmental pollutants and GBC, the latest research focuses specifically on the role of microplastics tiny plastic fragments less than 5mm in size in triggering the disease. Though the full impact of microplastics on human health is still being studied, researchers point to mounting evidence that the particles can cause harmful effects, including immune system activation, inflammation, oxidative stress (damage caused by unstable molecules), disruption of gut microbiota and interference with fat metabolism, all of which may contribute to cancer development. The study also notes that elevated rates of GBC are not confined to the Gangetic belt alone, but are also seen in other regions with high levels of riverine microplastic pollution. With an estimated 21,000 new GBC cases reported in India per year, the findings are crucial for regions like Kerala, where plastic contamination is on the rise. Gallbladder cancer rates in Kerala remain relatively low compared to other parts of the country. However, oncologists have observed a steady increase in cases, said Dr Aju Mathew of the department of oncology, Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church Medical College, Kolenchery, one of the authors of the study. If pollution in our water bodies continues to grow, it could trigger a major health crisis, with cancer being one of the long-term consequences, he said, while emphasising the importance of pollution control, noting that the findings should serve as a warning. This study suggests polluted water bodies could increase the risk of gallbladder cancer. As a society, we must act to mitigate the health hazards posed by environmental pollution, he said. The study was co-authored by Dr Jeffrey Mathew Boby from the Department of medicine, Kozhikode Government Medical College. India generates around 15 million tonnes of plastic waste each year, of which only about 25% is recycled, according to a UNDP report (2018-24). The rest often ends up in the environment, where it breaks down into microplastics and even smaller nanoplastics (less than 100 nanometres in size). Several studies have shown how these particles enter the food chain through marine life, posing long-term risks to human health.
THRISSUR: In the last decade, around 10,000 people have been part of the Kerala Bird Monitoring Programme and uploaded seven lakh checklists (of birds observed during a 15-minute walk) -- spotting, identifying and documenting common and rare birds in Kerala. So far, 559 species have been recorded in the state, thanks to 34 NGOs and their coordinators, who became part of the initiative out of a sheer interest for birds and nature. It was in 2015 that the Kerala Agriculture University (KAU), backed by Bird Count India and other organisations, including the state forest department, launched the programme, primarily to publish a Bird Atlas -- the first such initiative in the country. Overcoming the challenges thrown up by the 2018 floods and the Covid lockdown, the atlas was published in 2021, in addition to the district atlases for Thrissur, Alappuzha, and Kozhikode. While consistent bird monitoring has been happening in Kerala since the 1990s, the advancement of technology and platforms like E-bird made it more convenient, says P O Nameer, dean of KAUs College of Climate Change and Environmental Science and an ornithologist. The citizen science-based bird monitoring programme enabled ecological conservation in more than one way. We were able to come up with a bird species chart for 1,000 panchayats in Kerala, while no other taxa has such a chart. We also have habitat-wise data from across the state, including on species that inhabit the coastline, those that live in forests, wetlands, etc. This data, collected over the years, can be used to understand ecologically important locations aka hotspots and help local bodies to chalk out development projects protecting such areas, Nameer points out. The participants of Kerala Bird Monitoring Programme Over the years, the documentation by individuals and groups of birdwatchers has played a major role in understanding the ecological value of locations across Kerala. By monitoring and studying the habitats of various species, the citizen science project has played a crucial role in ecological conservation. According to Manoj Karingamadathil, a birder and citizen scientist, To have a community of like-minded people and coordinate its activities is definitely a herculean task. The achievements of the surveys and programmes conducted under the citizen science project in birding are a result of this successful coordination. Through these projects, people from various strata of society became a part of a long-term process of monitoring birds, thereby understanding the changes in the biodiversity of their respective areas. Such communities not only monitor birds, but also invest their time in observing butterflies, dragonflies and fish, embracing nature, Manoj added. Activities under Bird Monitoring Programme Heronries survey: Documenting nesting sites of herons Wetland monitoring: Continuous survey of birds in wetlands, including Ramsar sites like Kole Wetlands and Vembanad Lake Seabird survey: Counting and studying seabirds in the sea Beach combing: Monitoring birds along the coastline Raptor monitoring: Survey of raptors like vultures and eagles Forest survey: Annual count of birds that inhabit major forest regions Redlisting: Process of understanding rare and endangered species
K-SOTTO to draw guidelines to promote swap-kidney transplant
KOCHI: As the number of patients awaiting donor kidneys and those undergoing dialysis treatment keep rising in the state, the Kerala State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (K-SOTTO) has adopted a significant step to promote swap-kidney transplants. As part of its efforts, the government body will prepare standardised guidelines and networks for such transplants and create public awareness. Even in cases where we have family members willing to donate the organ, transplantation may not be possible due to blood group incompatibility and immunological mismatch. In such a case, swap-kidney transplant is an option. We may have donors and recipients facing the same problem in other hospitals or cities. We communicate with them, check compatibility and move forward with transplant surgery, said Dr Noble Gracious, executive director of K-SOTTO. Around 30% of patients are on the list awaiting donors because of incompatibility. They have donors, but there is a mismatch. Swap-kidney transplants can help such patients. If we develop a mechanism, we can save many patients. By working out combinations, the possibilities of transplant will increase. Swap-kidney transplants with the right donor, and recipients can reduce the chances of infection and rejection risk and will reduce the cost of treatment, said Dr Feroz Azeez, consultant nephrologist at IQRAA and Aster MIMS Hospital, Kozhikode. In 2021, the Kerala High Court allowed swap-kidney transplants between non-relatives. There are risk factors involved. We need to convince the families about the benefits. Networking of patients and hospitals is possible with the registry and software available with K-SOTTO. What is more important is to educate the public, Dr Noble said, adding that proper guidelines standardising the process can help make the procedure transparent and accessible for the public. We have more than 2,000 patients waiting for a kidney transplant in the state. A swap transplant will be beneficial at least for some of them. Moreover, it helps reduce the number of patients undergoing dialysis treatment. If transplant surgery is conducted at an early stage after identifying a condition, the quality of life can be improved, Dr Noble added. The process requires coordination between hospitals, logistics services, and the willingness of the families of the parties. There should be coordination between surgeons and hospitals on sharing details of patients and willing donors. Logistics is another concern. Transplant centres should cooperate to promote swap-kidney transplants. Government monitoring can make the procedure more transparent, Dr Noble said, adding that changes in the legal framework can also contribute to bringing change.
Use of banned food colours: safety squads intensify checks in Kozhikode
5 regional squads are part of inspections, which will cover food-based ventures near schools, colleges, and other educational institutions
Already plagued by staff shortage, transfer of senior doctors could hit Kozhikode MCH
M V Govindans goof-up leaves CPM red-faced on Nilambur bypoll eve
TPURAM/KOZHIKODE : An off-the-cuff remark by CPM state secretary M V Govindan on the eve of the Nilambur by-election has left the LDF camp embarrassed, forcing Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan himself to launch a fire-fighting mission. The UDF, which was on the defensive over its tie-up with the Welfare Party - the political wing of the Jamaat-e-Islami - was quick to sense the opportunity Govindan opened up by his remarks on the CPMs association with the RSS in opposing the Emergency in the 1970s. The UDF is relieved that the CPM-RSS ties took the spotlight on Wednesday, pushing its association with the Jamaat to the sidelines. After his remarks on the RSS, in a Malayalam channel, kicked up a controversy, Govindan convened a press conference to accuse the media of twisting his statements. History should be viewed in historical perspective. There is a concerted effort to create controversy over the statement I made about the Emergency 50 years ago, he said. Govindan asserted that the CPM has had no cooperation or understanding with the RSS till now. This was the case in the past, as it will be in the future... The CPM and the Janata Party, which was formed by dissolving various socialist parties, had an electoral understanding to fight the Emergency. The Janata Party and the Jan Sangha were two separate entities, he said. In damage-control mode, Pinarayi Vijayan says CPM never appeased RSS Sensing that things were getting out of hand, Pinarayi converted his press conference in Thiruvananthapuram into a salvage mission. Making his partys position clear, he said the CPM has never had any sort of agreement with the RSS. We have never appeased the RSS. However, we have seen certain individuals bowing to pictures of those revered by the RSS. We have also seen a former KPCC president boasting about providing protection to RSS shakhas, he said. Pinarayi said the CPM had never shied away from speaking its politics. The RSS has brutally murdered 215 of our comrades over the years... Have you ever seen the Congress condemning any of these murders? It was the Congress that had associated with the RSS and the Jan Sangh at the national and state levels, he alleged. Quoting from the book How Prime Ministers Decide, written by senior journalist Neeraja Chowdhury, the CM alleged that Indira Gandhi had received RSS support in the 1980 Parliament election, and Rajiv Gandhi had held discussions with RSS leaders. Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan termed Govindans statement significant. Before the formation of Janata Party, the CPM had associated with the Jan Sangh in 1975, and former general secretary P Sundarayya had resigned from his post protesting against the move. Even now an understanding between the CPM and the BJP exists. That is why BJP had, in the beginning, decided not to contest the Nilambur by-election, he added. Independent candidate P V Anvar said a nexus exists between the RSS and the CPM and this has come out in the open. I have been saying this for the past few months, he said.
Kerala HC says no to opening toilets at private petrol pumps for general public use
KOCHI: The Kerala High Court has directed the state government and local self-government institutions not to require that toilets in private petroleum retail outlets in Kerala be opened for public use. The court issued the order on a petition filed by the Petroleum Traders Welfare and Legal Service Society, an association of 300 retail outlet dealers, against a government order to convert their private toilets into public facilities. The petitioners contended that they were being forced to open the private toilets maintained by them at the outlets for the emergency needs of customers to the public. They also alleged that the Thiruvananthapuram corporation, as well as certain other local bodies, had pasted posters in some of the retail outlets to give the impression that the toilets are public toilets. The petitioners said treating toilets in private petroleum retail outlets, which are classified as high-risk zone, as public facilities would lead to unauthorised access. Also, chances of fire breaking out and other catastrophe are very high when a large number of people access the retail outlets in an unauthorised manner. Suman Chakravarthy, the standing counsel for the Thiruvananthapuram corporation, submitted that it is the duty of the dealers at the petrol pumps to ensure neat and safe toilet facilities for the public, and it is the duty of the LSG department to ensure that the dealers complied with it. In 2013, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways had issued a circular stating that drinking water and toilet facilities at such outlets shall be accessible to the public around the clock. Recently, the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Pathanamthitta, had ordered a petrol pump owner to pay Rs 1.65 lakh as compensation to a teacher for not letting her use the toilet on the premises. The complaint was lodged by C A Jayakumari, a resident of Ezhakulam in Pathanamthitta, against the owner of the filling station in Payyoli, Kozhikode.
Union Ministry of Environment grants conditional nod for Kozhikode-Wayanad tunnel project
KOZHIKODE: The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has granted conditional clearance to the proposed four-lane tunnel road project between Kozhikode and Wayanad. The Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) under the MoEFCC, in its meeting held on May 14 and 15, recommended implementation of the Anakkampoyil-Kalladi-Meppadi tunnel project with strict compliance to environmental conditions. Earlier, the State Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) had approved the proposal in March. With the Centres official nod, the project can now proceed to contract execution. The construction will be undertaken jointly by the Public Works Department (PWD), Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB), and Konkan Railway, said MLA Linto Joseph. The contract has been awarded to Bhopal-based Dilip Buildcon and Kolkata-based Royal Infrastructure through a tender process. The total project cost is estimated at Rs 2,134 crore. The 8.11-km tunnel will require 17.263 hectares of forest land. It will be equipped with modern safety and monitoring systems, including tunnel ventilation, fire extinguishing equipment, tunnel radio, CCTV surveillance, emergency call systems, and cross passages every 300 metres. Over-height vehicles will be detected and signalled to avoid their entry into the tunnel. The Union ministry has imposed 60 conditions to safeguard biodiversity and ensure geological stability. The ecologically sensitive project zone is home to several endangered species, including the Banasura laughingthrush (Banasura chilappan). The SEAC has mandated stringent conservation measures and also recommended to the government to establish the Appankappu elephant corridor. Given the regions vulnerability to landslides, the EAC has emphasised the need for detailed geological and landslide studies. Despite the green signal, environmental groups continue to oppose the project. Activists have raised concerns over its proximity to the landslide-prone areas of Mundakkai-Chooralmala and Puthumala in Meppadi. The latest landslide was reported on May 30 near the site of the 2024 Mundakkai-Chooralmala incident, following heavy rain, as confirmed by the Wayanad district collector. Meanwhile, members of the Wayanad Prakruthi Samrakshana Samithi and the Western Ghats Protection Council have conducted protest meetings and dharnas against the project.
Israel-Iran conflict hits Kerala-Gulf flight services, ticket rates skyrocket
KOZHIKODE: The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran has severely disrupted flight services from Kerala to several West Asian countries. Following the closure of Irans airspace, six flights between Gulf countries and Kannur were cancelled on Wednesday. Similar disruptions were reported at Kochi, Karipur and Thiruvananthapuram airports. Services to Dubai and Sharjah were the most affected. On Tuesday, two flights each between Abu Dhabi and Thiruvananthapuram, and Sharjah and Kozhikode, were cancelled. The situation escalated on Wednesday, with six flights from Kannur grounded. Additionally, four services each from Kozhikode, Kochi, and Thiruvananthapuram were called off. All cancelled flights were operated by Air India and Air India Express between Kerala and Sharjah - Dubai. Several other flights between Keralas four international airports and various GCC countries were delayed by hours. Authorities at Dubai International Airport had earlier warned of significant delays and cancellations due to airspace restrictions over Iran, Iraq, and Syria, urging passengers to check with airlines for the latest updates. However, Airports Authority of India has not issued any such advisory. Meanwhile, expatriate organisations, including the Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre (KMCC), and Kerala Pravasi Sangham have voiced concerns over a sharp spike in ticket prices amid the crisis. They alleged that passengers are being forced to pay exorbitant fares to travel to Gulf countries. As we know, the Israel-Iran conflict is affecting expatriates from Kerala severely. Many flights between Kerala and GCC countries, especially to Dubai and Sharjah, are being cancelled without prior notice. The most affected are Kannur and Karipur airports. Numerous Malayalis are stranded both in the Gulf and in Kerala due to these cancellations. We are planning protests against the airlines for cancelling services without any intimation, said KMCC state committee member Sainudheen Cheleri. Adding to the crisis is the summer vacation period in Gulf countries, during which airlines have reportedly hiked fares. Like every year, this steep hike is mostly targeted at Kerala. The increased fares, which began this week as part of the cancellation of flights, are expected to continue until mid-August. We are not sure when this conflict will end. However, the flight companies have already increased their fares aiming at school vacation in Gulf countries. We have raised the issues to the Central government many times. But no action was taken, said Kerala Pravasi Sangham state committee member C V Iqbal.
Plus One seat shortage: KSU activists picket DDEs office in Kozhikode
Wayanad tunnel project gets Union Ministry nod
It enables the State government to officially start the construction work of the 2,134-crore twin tube unidirectional four-lane tunnel road between Kozhikode and Wayanad districts. The tendering process has already been completed for the project, which will be implemented by Bhopal-based Dilip Buildcon Limited and Kolkata-based Royal Infrastructure.
Coastal areas in Kozhikode under sea erosion threat
Fishermen families say the construction of sea wall is pending on several vulnerable stretches
Rain claims two more lives, extensive damage in Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Rain-related incidents have claimed two more lives and caused widespread damage across the state. Extensive waterlogging was reported in Kasaragod and Kozhikode districts. The fatalities were reported from Kozhikode and Kasaragod, where a three-year-old child and a 63-year-old man drowned, respectively. Between June 15 and 17, the highest rainfall was recorded at Mundakkai in Wayanad with 594 mm, followed by Valamthodu in Malappuram with 572 mm. Several rivers, including the Manimala, Korapuzha, Nileswaram, Mogral, and Uppala, have breached danger levels. On Tuesday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Kannur and Kasaragod, and an orange alert for Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad. Though the intensity of rainfall has slightly decreased, the IMD has forecast isolated heavy rainfall on Wednesday. An orange alert has been issued for Kannur and Kasaragod, while a yellow alert is in place for Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea. Rain or thundershowers are likely to continue in many parts of the state until June 23. Strong surface winds, with speeds occasionally reaching 40-50 kmph, are expected to persist till Thursday.
Kerala LoP Satheesan raises CM Pinarayis comment on Holy Relic to corner Left front
MALAPPURAM: In a tactical move on the last day of campaign for the Nilambur bypoll, leader of the Opposition V D Satheesan has recalled Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayans remarks on the holy relic, which is an emotional issue for the Kanthapuram faction of the Sunnis. Just before the Piravom by-election, Pinarayi who was then the CPM state secretary said that the nails and the hair of a person should be treated as body waste. He will not say it here (Nilambur), Satheesan told a press conference on Tuesday. Satheesan deliberately raked up the issue to put the Kanthapuram Sunnis on the defensive because they have been very vocal in attacking the UDF for accepting the support of the Jamaat-e-Islami in the Nilambur by-poll. The scholars from the Kanthapuram group have blasted Satheesan for giving a clean chit to the Jamaat. They questioned the Opposition leaders statement that the Jamaat has backtracked from its earlier stand on theocracy. It may be recalled that there was a hue and cry when Kanthapuram brought what he claimed as the holy hair of Prophet Muhammad. Other Muslim organisations, especially the rival faction of Sunnis, asserted that it was a fake relic and challenged the Sunni leader to prove the authenticity of the relic. Pinarayi made the remark that hair and nails are body waste at a seminar in Kozhikode in 2012. The Kanthapuram group had reacted strongly against Pinarayi at that time, saying that the issue is out of the purview of politicians. Satheesans attempt is to remind the Kanthapuram group about the controversy. Satheesan also said at the press conference that the CPM has the habit of picking up certain issues and figures that are convenient to the party. At one point CPM raised the photographs of Saddam Hussein and Yasser Arafat. In Thiruvananthapuram they used the photos of Chattambi Swamikal and Mannath Padmanabhan. In some parts of Kottayam, the party used the photos of Mannam and in others that of Mother Teresa, he said.
UDF councillors suspension triggers chaos in Kozhikode Corpn. meeting
Heavy rain, wind continue to cause widespread damage in Kozhikode
Explore therapeutic benefits of self-expression at this workshop
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a world where sharing often boils down to a caption or status update, finding someone who truly listens to your happiness, fears, or doubts feels rarer than ever. Real friendships are harder to form, and people seem increasingly guarded. Perhaps thats why journaling has found new life. Of course, weve all had those classic Dear Diary days a little scribble here, a secret there. But journaling today is more expressive, more intimate. Its no longer just about writing down thoughts. Its about tucking in a dried flower a friend gave you, pasting that first solo bus ticket, or keeping a chocolate wrapper that meant something. To explore this creative, open-ended form of journaling, a three-hour mindful workshop is being introduced in Thiruvananthapuram for the first time on June 29. It will be led by Meera Nazer, a lawyer, economist, and one of the pioneers of journaling workshops in cities like Kochi, Kozhikode, and Bangalore. I used to journal as a child, in a playful way, Meera shares. You know how, around New Year, we get leftover diaries of our parents? Id scribble in them without any pattern. The workshops took shape much later, in 2023, during her breast cancer journey. When I was diagnosed, people around me started looking at me like I was fragile, like I was going to die, she recalls. Ive always been loud and outspoken, and people assumed I would lose all that. I wasnt scared, I was angry. Angry that even in 2023, with all the medical progress, people still saw cancer as a death sentence. Meera Nazer While undergoing chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation, she turned to her journal. Those pages became my refuge. A place where I could be completely honest. That space kept me sane through the darkest tunnel of my life. Journaling made me realise this is a life skill. Everyone should know how to be honest with themselves. She also wants to bust the myth that journaling is only for people who write well or are naturally artsy. Instagram made it seem like you need aesthetic skills. That your life has to be colourful enough to write about. But no, I want people to reclaim art. Art is not just what hangs in museums. Its in your daily life. Everyone can make their own version of it. Her workshops began with a simple idea she shared with Thudippu Dance Foundation in Kochi. They told me, Just give it a shot. So I did. Since then, shes conducted 11 workshops across Kochi, Kozhikode, and Bangalore. Now, Thiruvananthapuram is on the list on June 29, from 3pm to 6pm at The Reading Room. People can doodle, draw, paint, paste, gossip, and express themselves without filters, in any form they like, says Meera. What makes these workshops special, she says, is the presence of homemakers. They come up to me and say, I dont know anything about journaling. And I tell them, thats why Im here. This isnt your typical mental health workshop. I call it an informed gossip session, she smiles. People say this is a space where they can decorate their emotions. The event is open to anyone aged 15 and above. In addition, Meera is bringing another initiative to the capital city: The Feminist Reading Circle on June 28, also at The Reading Room.
Lose yourself in Sufi meditation bliss at Rumi Retreat
KOZHIKODE: The Sufi Foundation of India is arranging a retreat in Kozhikode on June 21 for those who want to immerse themselves in the bliss of Sufi meditation and learn how to practice it in daily life. Titled Rumi Retreat, the programme spanning an entire day will be led by meditation master Siddiq Muhammad and Sufi musician and retreater Sameer Binsi. Mystic and poet Jalaluddin Rumi is known to the people of Kerala as an author. However, there is a Sufi path known by his name that is seldom discussed here. Rumi Retreat will perhaps be the first event of its kind in the country. Our order is modelled on the ones in the US, said Siddiq. There are many Sufi tariqas in Kerala that follow different paths. Ours is unique as there are no caste, gender or religious segregations. Anyone can join it and experience bliss, he said. Siddiq said he was attracted to the verses of Rumi through the works of Guru Nitya Chaitanya Yati, who translated his work Masnavi into Malayalam. Guru had stated that for 40 years, Rumis book was with him everywhere he travelled. I learned the Persian language to understand the book in its original form and translated into Malayalam. For the past five years, I have been engaged in a programme called Masnavi Mananam and have completed around 1,000 classes, Siddiq said. Samir Binsi has been in the world Sufi music for over 20 years, giving vocal rendering to classical Sufi poems besides the works of Mansoor Hallaj, Ibnu Arabi, Amir Khusru and Icha Mastan. He has been instrumental in popularising Sufi music to the new generation.Rumi had initiated the seeker to meditation mainly through three techniques. First is Maarife Masnavi that opens the eyes to eternal light. The second is Sama, the Sufi music retreat, that equips the ear to listen to cosmic silence. And the third is Raqs, the Sufi whirling dance that takes to the culmination of meditation, Siddiq said. Siddiq believes those who oppose the Sufi path are unable to understand the finer aspects of religions and are stuck to literal readings of the scriptures. The language and philosophy of mystics remain incomprehensible to the followers of priestly religions. It is this misunderstanding that led to the killings of Socrates, Jesus, Imam Hussein and Hallaj, he said. After the completion of the Rumi Retreat, the organisers are planning to hold a three-day programme in August.
2010 Mangaluru plane crash victims kin continue battle for compensation
KOZHIKODE: Fifteen years after the tragic Mangaluru air disaster, families of the victims continue to wage an uphill legal battle demanding rightful compensation as mandated under the Montreal Convention. Despite initial assurances of Rs 75 lakh per deceased passenger, many kin allege they have received only a fraction of the legally entitled amount, forcing them to seek justice through the judiciary. The 2010 crash of Air India Express Flight IX-812, a Boeing 737-800 arriving from Dubai, remains one of Indias deadliest air disasters. The aircraft overshot the table-top runway at Mangaluru International Airport and plunged into a gorge, killing 158 of the 166 passengers and crew on board. Krishnan, one of the bereaved family members and a petitioner in a case before the Kerala High Court, expressed anguish over the meagre payouts. We lost everything that day including our loved ones, our savings, and our future. Yet the compensation offered is a mere token. Its an insult to our loss, he said. Alongside him, Mayankutty and dozens of others have also filed legal petitions contesting the compensation process. According to Narayanan Killingom, president of Mangaluru Air Crash Victims Families Association, the airline has yet to disburse the full statutory or no-fault liability amount under the Montreal Convention. My brother Gangadharan worked as a truck driver in Dubai. His death devastated our family. We were promised `75 lakh, but later negotiations reduced that. For the families of the deceased, these negotiations should never have applied, Narayanan said. He confirmed that 42 families remain in legal pursuit of the balance compensation. Compensation discrepancies and legal loopholes Under the Montreal Convention of 1999 ratified by India and incorporated into Indian law via the Carriage by Air (Amendment) Act, 2009, victims next of kin are automatically entitled to up to 100,000 Special Drawing Rights, an international currency basket defined by the IMF, amounting to roughly Rs 1.52 crore at present exchange rates. This automatic entitlement is classified as strict liability, requiring no proof of fault on the airlines part. Beyond this limit, families can claim additional damages if they can demonstrate negligence or fault by the carrier. However, the onus of disproving fault lies with the airline. In many cases, the airlines have resisted higher payouts by settling quickly and quietly with economically weaker families, offering them reduced compensation in exchange for signing waivers. In some cases, families were pressured into accepting `30-40 lakh as full and final settlements. A few families managed to negotiate higher amounts, reportedly up to `3 crore. In a stark contrast, it is believed the pilots family received over `8 crore from the insurers. Legal complexities and delays The legal proceedings surrounding the compensation have been prolonged and complicated. One of the key cases still under review by the Supreme Court involves the kin of Mohammed Salam, a native of Kasaragod, who died in the crash. The lawsuit seeks second-tier compensation, citing negligence and procedural lapses by the airline and its crew. A legal expert on air safety cases explained, Article 17(1) of the Montreal Convention clearly holds the carrier liable for death or injury. The law allows for unlimited liability if negligence is established. However, final compensation depends on multiple factors, including employment status, income level, age, marital status, dependents, and more. Many families had initially accepted `10 lakh as interim compensation under Section 28 of Schedule III of the Carriage by Air Act. But this amount is deducted from the final settlement, often leaving families with little recourse once theyve unknowingly agreed to low-ball offers. Deadly disaster The 2010 crash of Air India Express Flight IX-812, a Boeing 737-800 arriving from Dubai, remains one of Indias deadliest air disasters The aircraft overshot the table-top runway at Mangaluru International Airport and plunged into a gorge 158 of the 166 passengers and crew on board the aircraft were killed
Jamaat-e-Islami has lost its relevance, should disband: Sunni weekly
KOZHIKODE: Sunnis led by Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musaliyar have asked the Jamaat-e-Islami to disband the organisation and become a part of the Muslim mainstream as it has disowned the idea of theocracy (Hakkimiyya) put forward by its founder Syed Abul Ala Maududi. The editorial in the latest issue of the Risala weekly said the Jamaat-e-Islami has lost its relevance both ideologically and organisationally. What differentiated the Jamaat from traditional Muslim organisations was the idea of Hakkimiyya that it propounded, the editorial said. It said Maududi reached the dangerous position that Indian Muslims are out of Islam as they accepted the democratic system in the country, which the Jamaat considered ungodly. The crux of the Jamaat argument is that a person would lose his Islam if he accepts any system other than Islam, the editorial said, adding that the Jamaat was formed after severing all ties with traditional Islam. But now, the Jamaat leadership says they no longer follow the theory of Hakkimiyya and that they dont agree with all the things Maududi said., it said. The editorial said such assertions mean the Jamaat is returning to path of traditional Islam. Jamaat-e-Islami poses a threat to society: CM Pinarayi Vijayan
Three dead, widespread damage as heavy rain batters Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Heavy rain and strong winds have led to three fatalities and widespread damage, especially in the northern districts of Kerala. The casualties were reported in Alappuzha, Palakkad, and Kasaragod. Several homes were damaged, power outages were widespread, and waterlogging affected vast areas in Kozhikode, Malappuram, Kasaragod, Wayanad, and Kannur districts, all of which were placed under a red alert on Monday. Coastal erosion caused significant damage to houses in Kannamali in Ernakulam. In response to continued downpours, authorities opened the shutters of the Ponmudi Dam in Idukki. They have issued a warning to residents living along the Panniyar River, a tributary of Periyar to remain vigilant. Water levels of rivers such as Manimala, Bharathapuzha, Nileswaram, Mogral, and Uppala have exceeded dangerous levels. The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated locations for the next two days. An orange alert has been issued for Kannur and Kasaragod, while a yellow alert is in place for Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad on Tuesday. Coastal areas can expect strong winds, with speeds reaching 40-50 km/h. Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea due to the squally weather and high wave alert. Rain and thunderstorms are likely to persist across the state until June 22.
KMRL enters eighth year with plans for tramway, metro expansion
In-principle approval granted for feasibility study of proposed elevated tramway from High Court to Thevara; metro system planned for Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode, with Water Metro model set to expand to 21 locations nationwide
Change in leadership likely at SFI all-India meet in Kozhikode
Identity cards made mandatory for migrant fishers in Kozhikode
Kerala monsoon havoc: Floods disrupt life in northern districts, rail services hit
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Incessant monsoon rains continued to wreak havoc in Kerala on Monday, disrupting normal life, including road and rail traffic. Northern districts bore the brunt of the rainfall, witnessing rising water levels in rivers and other water bodies. Several residents were forced to evacuate to relief camps in districts, including Kannur and Kasaragod as flood water entered their homes. In Kannur, people were seen wading through knee-deep water to reach safer places since Sunday evening. Children and elderly people were already shifted to relatives' houses. We are now moving to a relief camp opened nearby, a resident said. He lamented that frequent waterlogging following rains has made their lives miserable, preventing children from attending school and adults from going to work. In the Kakkad area of Kannur, an arterial road was completely submerged, bringing traffic to a standstill. Commuters, unaware of the situation, struggled to push their two-wheelers through knee-deep water on the road. Four dead as heavy rain causes widespread damage across Kerala In Kasaragod, major rivers including Thejaswini Puzha are in spate, prompting authorities to issue warnings against venturing into water bodies. At least 10 families were moved to relief camps in the Vellarikund area in the district, authorities said. In the southern district of Pathanamthitta, a man sustained injuries after a tree uprooted by heavy rains and gusty winds fell on his house in Malayalapuzha on Sunday evening. Heavy rainfall caused significant delays in rail traffic across the state. According to authorities, several trains, including Venad and Malabar Expresses and passenger trains, were running behind schedule. According to India Meteorological Department (IMD), the southwest monsoon remained active over Kerala, bringing widespread rainfall across the state and Lakshadweep. Extremely heavy rainfall of 21 cm was recorded in Thennala (Malappuram district), while Vadakara in Kozhikode received 18 cm and multiple locations in Kasaragod and Kannur reported 1516 cm. A total of 127 stations reported rainfall, with one location experiencing extremely heavy rain, 19 with very heavy rain, and 33 reporting heavy rainfall, it said. Gusty winds were also reported, peaking at 80 kmph in Idukki, followed by 61 kmph in Kottayam and Wayanad. Moderate rainfall and gusty wind speed reaching 50 kmph is likely to occur at one or two places in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod districts in the coming hours, IMD added.
Heavy rain, gusty winds lash Kozhikode district of Kerala
Kozhikode on red alert. District Collector has declared a holiday for all educational institutions for Monday
Four dead as heavy rain causes widespread damage across Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Intense rain on Sunday caused widespread devastation, resulting in four fatalities across Kerala. The deaths were reported in Azhikkal (Thrissur), Konni (Pathanamthitta), Chathamangalam (Kozhikode), and Cheruvally (Kottayam). In view of the inclement weather, district collectors from Kasaragod, Wayanad, Malappuram, Kannur, Palakkad, Idukki, Ernakulam and Thrissur declared a holiday for all educational institutions on Monday. This includes schools, professional colleges, tuition centres, madrasas, and anganwadis. Interviews and examinations will proceed as scheduled. Wayanad saw the heaviest rainfall, with Alattil receiving 178 mm and Padinjarathara 162 mm. Irimbiliyam in Malappuram (161 mm) and Madur in Kasaragod (157 mm) also recorded significant rainfall. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued red alert warning for Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasargod on Sunday. With rivers in spate, authorities have issued flood warnings. People living along the banks of the rivers in Neeleswaram, Karyangode, Uppala, and Mogral in Kasaragod, and along the banks of the Achankovil and Manimala rivers in Pathanamthitta district, as well as along the Karamana river in Thiruvananthapuram district, are advised to exercise caution. Red alert IMD has forecast continued heavy rainfall for Monday, issuing a red alert for Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts. An orange alert has been issued for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, and Palakkad districts. The IMD warned that districts under red alert could experience very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, with isolated locations receiving more than 12 cm of rain within the next 24 hours. These conditions are likely to cause traffic disruptions, tree uprootings, flash floods, landslides, and potential damage to vulnerable structures. According to the IMD, rain or thundershowers are expected to occur in many places across the state until June 21. Strong surface winds, reaching speeds of 50-60 km/h, are also anticipated intermittently on Monday. Fishermen have been urged not to venture into the sea until June 19, as a high wave warning remains in effect along the Kerala coast through Monday night. The IMD attributes the heavy rainfall to cyclonic circulations over the Northwest Bay of Bengal and South Madhya Maharashtra, coupled with strong Westerly winds over Kerala and the Lakshadweep area at lower tropospheric levels. Rail traffic affected The rail traffic in the Thiruvananthapuram-Kollam route was affected after a tree fell on the track at Polayathodu on Sunday night
Squads remain alert as water level rises in rivers in Kozhikode
Entry to water tourism destinations in the district to be restricted
Mangaluru and Karipur air crash survivors recount horrors of near death
KOZHIKODE: The rain had just begun to fall lightly that morning in May 2010 as Flight IX-812 descended towards Mangalore airport. For the 166 people on board, home was just minutes away. But within seconds, that hopeful descent turned into catastrophe -- a misjudged landing, a fuselage torn apart, fire, screams, and chaos. Fifteen years have passed. For some, time has dulled the pain; for others, memories are etched as deep as the burning metal of that ill-fated aircraft. Survivors of the Mangaluru and Kozhikode air crashes carry not just scars on their bodies but grief in their hearts. These are not just disaster statistics. These are men and women who lived to tell stories of survival, pain and betrayal. A morning that changed everything On May 22, 2010, Air India Express Flight IX-812 from Dubai overshot the tabletop runway at Mangalore airport. It crashed into a valley and burst into flames. 158 people perished. Only eight survived. Uduma native Krishnan Koolikunnu, was one of them. Now 62, he runs a small grocery shop in his village in Kasaragod. At that moment, I thought it was the end. I saw my childrens faces flash before me, he says. I felt something was off just before landing. The plane was too fast. Then came the screech, a sound like metal scraping over rocks. It all went dark. He remembers a small crack in the planes body, his gateway to life. I pulled off the seatbelt and crawled through that gap. Outside, it was forest and fog. I ran and I didnt even know what I was running from. Krishnan was joined in survival by K P Mayankutty, another survivor and a native of Kannur district. His seat, 22F, is etched in his memory. All survivors were seated on the same side. I saw the fireball coming. I heard children screaming for their parents, Mayankutty said during a conversation with TNIE. That sound still wakes me up. The aftermath was even more harrowing. Wenlock Hospital in Mangaluru became a scene of heartbreaking reunions and unimaginable grief. There were 19 children and four infants on that flight, said a former nurse at the hospital. Some bodies were beyond recognition. Families were asked to identify loved ones by jewellery or tattoos. The crash not only tore families apart but plunged survivors into financial ruin and legal limbo. Mayankutty, who had worked as a PR officer for Emirates Shipping, lost his job after the accident and now works at half his previous salary in a real estate company in Umm al-Quwain. We were promised jobs, compensation, counselling. We received nothing but hollow assurances. Yet another tragedy: Kozhikode 2020 A decade later, on August 7, 2020, tragedy struck again. An Air India Express flight skidded off the rain-slick tabletop runway at Kozhikodes Karipur airport, killing 21 people. Shahala Shajahan, a survivor now residing in Dubai with her husband, recounts the events. It felt like the sky was collapsing. Everyone was screaming. I couldnt move. I was pinned under the seats, Shahala now residing in Dubai with her husband recounted. But the local people didnt wait. They rushed in, pulled us out of burning metal. They were our angels. Despite the quicker emergency response at Karipur, survivors speak of the trauma that lingers. Some suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), others avoid travel altogether. None have received sustained psychological support. I was supposed to give my wife a gold necklace for our 25th anniversary. I lost that in the fire, Mayankutty shares. But I gave her myself. I survived. That was my gift. Yet, survival came at a cost. Survivors were paraded, promised help by politicians, but nothing changed. Many of us lost jobs, families fell apart. Theres no system to support those who survive air tragedies. It was supposed to be a celebration, a return home. But it turned into a lifelong nightmare. We are alive, says Krishnan, but every day since then has been a fight to truly live again.
Kerala monsoon intensifies; red alert for five districts today
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: After a brief lull, the monsoon has intensified across Kerala, with damage reported from various parts of the state on Saturday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for five districts Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod on Sunday. The weather department has warned of heavy rain, flash floods, landslides, and flooding. The northern districts bore the brunt of the intense rainfall on Saturday. Quarrying, excavation, mining, well construction, and sand extraction activities have been temporarily suspended in Kozhikode district. Meanwhile, entry to all water bodies, including waterfalls, riverbanks, and beaches, has been completely banned. A two-storey building collapsed in Mankavu, but fortunately, no casualties were reported. Following the red alert in Wayanad, the district collector has declared a holiday on Sunday for madrasas, tuition centres, and special classes. However, residential schools and colleges remain open. In Kannur, heavy rain caused severe leakage in the childrens ward of Thalassery General Hospital, forcing the closure of its intensive care unit (ICU). Critically ill children were shifted to hospitals in Kannur and Pariyaram. The leak, which began in the childrens ward, has spread to other critical areas, including the dialysis unit and the mortuary. The ICU, which accommodates five children, was the worst affected. The IMD has also issued red alerts for Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad on Monday, and for Malappuram and Kozhikode on Tuesday. An orange alert is in place for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Palakkad on Sunday. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely at several places in the state until 16 June. A wind warning has also been issued, with strong surface winds reaching speeds of 50 to 60 km/h expected over Kerala and Lakshadweep until 16 June. Thiruvananthapuram has experienced continuous heavy rain since Friday night, recording 13 mm on Saturday. Although only a yellow alert was initially in place, early heavy downpours prompted the IMD to advise the public to remain vigilant. Hilly regions experienced intense rainfall, and coastal erosion has been reported in several areas. In Perumathura, strong winds blew the metal sheet roofing off a house, which landed on a busy road. Fortunately, there were no injuries. An orange alert remains in effect for Sunday, with rising water levels reported in the Pallickal and Vamanapuram rivers. Residents near the Vamanapuram riverbanks have been advised to stay alert. The IMD has also warned of high waves and sea surges along the Kerala coast on Sunday, with an orange alert issued from Kappil to Pozhiyoor. Fishermen and coastal residents have been urged to exercise extreme caution.
Deepniya from Perambra tops Kerala in NEET UG 2025
KOZHIKODE: Deepniya D B, a native of Perambra, Kozhikode, has made the whole of Kerala proud when the NEET UG exam results were announced on Saturday. Out of 1,17,255 students who appeared from Kerala, 78,385 qualified. Deepniya, who secured 109th rank is the topper from Kerala. Deepniya studied at Avala Government Higher Secondary School. She studied in Malayalam medium since the first standard. Her academic journey and success are a source of pride for the general education sector in Kerala. She did her NEET training under Brilliant Study Centre, Pala. While studying in school, Deepniya had secured an A grade in Malayalam essay writing at the State School Kalolsavam. She has also won prizes at the district and state level in many quiz and arts events. I started dreaming of becoming a doctor when I was in Plus II. When I reached Plus I, I decided to prepare for NEET. In the first attempt, the rank was somewhere in the 29000 range and I decided to repeat the test without getting discouraged and joined the Kozhikode centre of Pala Brilliant Study Centre. I didnt expect that I would get a rank in the next attempt. Im excited and looking forward to the admission procedures, said Deepniya. The notification to update marks to generate Kerala Rank List is expected within few days, after which the official list will be published. Deepniyas dream is to get admission in Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research. Her parents are teachers at Avala Government Higher Secondary School where Deepniya studied. Her father Dineshan is a maths teacher in higher secondary. Her mother Biji is a maths teacher in the High School. Her brother Deepdev is an 8th grade student in the same school. A total of 73,328 candidates have qualified the NEET-UG exam from Kerala. Besides Deepniya, the other toppers from the state are: Sheffin Mansoor K P (All India Rank - 200), Sabeeha Bai (213), N R Ramanath (274), Chelsey S Therese (290), Goutham T S (426), Anujith A P (462) and Harsh G Hari (480).
Two-day CME conference begins at Kozhikode medical college
Heavy rain: Ban imposed on quarrying in Kozhikode district
Entry of tourists to be restricted to all water tourism spots until further notice
It's Deja Vu for Kozhikode, Mangaluru plane crash survivors
Air India Boeing 787-8 crash in Ahmedabad has brought back all traumatic memories.
Kozhikode plane crash survivor says Ahmedabad tragedy brings horrendous memories back
A Keralite man, Ashique, recounts his harrowing experience surviving the 2020 Kozhikode plane crash, triggered by the recent Ahmedabad air disaster. The Air India Express flight from Dubai overshot the runway amid heavy rain, killing 21.
Astronomy gallery to be opened in Kozhikode on June 14
The state-of-the-art gallery at the Regional Science Centre and Planetarium was built at a cost of 1.5 crore
Commission receives 782 complaints on ward delimitation in Keralas block panchayats
Hearings will be held in Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kozhikode from June 21
Police detain man for stealing 40 lakh from bank employee in Keralas Kozhikode
He was detained following a flash inspection conducted at one of his suspected hideouts near Thenhipalam in Malappuram
Probe under way into cops alleged link with sex racket in Kozhikode
The two accused police drivers have been placed under suspension
Sunny Joseph meets Samasthas Jifri Thangal in Kozhikode
