State Arts Fest returns to Thrissur after seven years; 64th edition starts Jan 7
THRISSUR: Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala will host the 64th Kerala State Arts Festival from January 7 to 11, after a gap of seven years. Education Minister V Sivankutty on Tuesday inaugurated the organising committee meeting at the Indoor Stadium here. In his inaugural speech, the minister made it clear that judges who participated three consecutive years in the arts festival would not be allowed to evaluate the performances this year. He added that the festival as in previous years, would be conducted by sticking to the time schedule as fair as possible. He also announced that a fresh order would be issued soon making (Onam, Christmas and Eid) celebration days at school to be working days where students do not have to wear their school uniform. He also declared that field trips should include all students regardless of their financial background. Otherwise, trips should not be conducted. I came across some complaints regarding the matter; when the entire class goes for a trip, some choose not to because of their financial situation. Such students should not be excluded and the school should take steps to ensure their participation, he added. He also sought cooperation from local bodies, schools and teachers in the district to make the youth festival a memorable event for all. During the festival days, we will have to serve food for many. Last time, there were days when we served food for about 24,000 people at a stretch. We are planning to make arrangements to buy vegetables from students itself by encouraging farming, so that we dont have to buy them from outside, he said. He urged the school authorities to take students to the festival venues for at least a day so that they could watch the performances. Revenue Minister K Rajan, who presided over the ceremony, noted that the 64th youth festival would be the best one the state ever had in all ways, right from organising it, to the performances. As the ever-rolling gold cup of the youth festival is still in Thrissur, we will work hard not to lose it this year either, he added. Higher Education Minister R Bindu, Public Education Department Director S Shanavas, Thrissur Municipal Corporation Mayor M K Varghese, Additional Secretary of Public Education Chithra S, MLA P Balachandran and District Collector Arjun Pandian attended.
Faulty voter list for Thrissur LS poll sparks political firestorm
Residents in many apartments stunned to discover that names had quietly made it to the voters list without the actual occupants knowing a thing about it. Congress, LDF demand Thrissur MP Suresh Gopis resignation.BJP leaders dismiss allegations as politically motivated
Protests and counter-protests over voter List fraud row in Thrissur
Model status for Thrissur employment exchange
Second in the State to receive designation. Minister Sivankutty launches the States first phase of smart card distribution for all registered jobseekers
Congress accuses Suresh Gopi of submitting false affidavit; files police complaint
The Congress party has accused Union Minister Suresh Gopi of providing false information to get his name on the Thrissur Lok Sabha constituency voters' list. A police complaint has been filed demanding a criminal case. Congress leaders allege Gopi falsely claimed residency. They also say his name remains on another voters' list.
Former Thrissur MP T.N. Prathapan files complaint seeking criminal probe against Suresh Gopi on charge of filing false affidavit claiming more than six months domicile in the Lok Sabha constituency ahead of filing nomination in 2024 polls
Whiff of a novel trend? Artificial flowers are reshaping Keralas festivals
KOZHIKODE: For generations, fresh flowers have played a major role in the vibrant festivals of Kerala. From the golden shower of the kani konna during Vishu to the intricate floral carpets, or pookalams, of Onam, these natural blooms are deep-rooted in Malayali culture. But in recent years, a new kind has been flowering -- one made of plastic and that promises convenience, affordability and a longer-lasting festive spirit. This shift from natures bounty to a more practical, reusable alternative is not just a trend -- its now a burgeoning cottage industry. Traders across the state have reported a significant surge in the popularity of these synthetic flowers, noting that they are washable, recyclable, and significantly cheaper than fresh flowers that are now mostly imported from neighbouring states. The pookalam, a centrepiece of the Onam celebration, has traditionally been a labour of love, a daily creative effort using flowers plucked from local gardens. But with the scarcity of native flowers such as thumba and thechi and the rise of urban living, this cherished tradition is becoming increasingly challenging. This is where entrepreneur Arvindakshan N K and his family from Thrissur stepped in. With the support of his wife, Jisha, and son, Aljith, Arvindakshan turned his company, Empire Creation, into a family business creating pre-assembled, artificial pookalams. We first tried this ten years ago, but the frame we used couldnt be folded, so it didnt take off, Arvindakshan said. The idea was revived recently when a customer asked for a pookalam mat, sparking the familys new venture. The new version, which uses a durable base and high-quality artificial flowers, can be easily rolled up for storage and reuse. The response has been nothing short of explosive. The familys social media channels, managed by Aljith, an automobile engineer, have been flooded with orders. In just one week, a single social media post garnered more than 800,000 views. Im finding more scope in this business, Aljith says, noting that hes attended several marketing courses to help grow the company. The family has already shipped more than 1,000 pookalams and is struggling to keep up with demand. We have been receiving orders from around the world, he said. Were getting more orders from outside India, Aljith explains. Weve had orders from the UK, Canada, Ireland, and the United States. The family was even challenged to make a pookalam six feet in diameter for a church in Ireland, a feat they accomplished despite not having created one over four feet. This global demand highlights a clear need within the Malayali diaspora. For families living in countries where fresh flowers are expensive or simply unavailable, these ready-made pookalams offer a perfect solution. They allow them to keep their traditions alive without the daily effort or the worry of wilting petals. They can be unrolled and placed in minutes, providing an instant connection to their homelands festive spirit. The raw materials, primarily artificial flowers from China, allow the family to keep costs down and pass the savings on to customers. Prices range from Rs 250 for a 1.5 ft pookalam to Rs 2,300 for a four-feet one. The family, which has been in the artificial-flower business for 15 years, is now facing the challenge of scaling up. With over 400 orders pending and a delivery issue to tackle, they have enlisted the help of friends to complete the backlog. While currently offering a single design, Empire Creation is planning to introduce more creations for the next season.
BJP Reports Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi 'Missing' After Congress Targets Suresh Gopi
Kerala BJP filed a missing person complaint against Priyanka Gandhi, claiming she has been absent for three months, similar to KSU's complaint against Thrissur MP Suresh Gopi.
Suresh Gopi missing, probe needed; KSU leader lodges complaint
THRISSUR: KSU district president Gokul Guruvayur has lodged a man-missing complaint with the Thrissur City police, seeking a probe into the disappearance of Union Minister and Thrissur MP Suresh Gopi. The police have not registered a case in that regard. In the complaint, the KSU leader alleged that Suresh Gopi went missing after the arrest of two Malayali nuns in Chhattisgarh. He urged the police to probe the whereabouts of the MP and to find those behind his disappearance. According to his social media handles, Suresh Gopi is currently in Manipur on official duty as the Union minister of state for tourism and petroleum and natural gas. Meanwhile, BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar brushed aside complaints that Suresh Gopi has been missing from his constituency. Everyone knows that when an MP becomes a Union minister, he will have additional responsibilities, Chandrasekhar said. Further, the BJP leader said he would soon meet the Malankara Orthodox Churchs Thrissur Diocese Metropolitan Mar Yuhanon Meletius. The bishop had indirectly targeted Suresh Gopi in a recent Facebook post, expressing concern that the one we chose and sent to Delhi is missing.
BJP switches strategy in Kerala, to play health card for LSG elections
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The BJP appears to be recalibrating its political strategy in Kerala, shifting its focus to the health sector as a key campaign topic ahead of the local body elections. Sources said the move comes as the party sidesteps the controversy over the recent attack on nuns and priests in Odisha, a BJP-ruled state, which has threatened to strain its Christian outreach and slow momentum in certain constituencies. Many party leaders termed the Thrissur Lok Sabha election charges baseless and stressed that more counter-strategies would be rolled out. On Saturday, BJP state general secretary S Suresh said in a meeting the party would strongly oppose what it sees as the state governments targeting of Dr Haris Chirakkal. Dr Haris has raised the voice of the common people of this state. Things have reached a stage where honest officials struggle to work under this regime. The BJP is moving forward with strong protests against this dangerous approach, Suresh said. Party sources said the focus on the health sector is a calculated move to spotlight issues with direct public relevance, such as access to quality healthcare and safeguarding honest officials, while steering clear of overexposure to sensitive matters like the Odisha incident. In Chhattisgarh, the BJP played a key role in securing the release of two jailed nuns, but several leaders conceded that internal disagreements have risen over whether such interventions would bring political gains. With Church leaders now voicing concerns over religious freedom and citing the Odisha attack, the party has chosen to approach the matter cautiously, a source said. For instance, at another press meet on Sunday, BJP general secretary Anoop Antony reiterated Sureshs stand on the Dr Haris issue but refrained from criticising the Church authorities. At the same time, the BJP is pushing back against the Congress and Left allegations of voters list manipulation in Thrissur. Leaders noted that the party had already released, on August 7, evidence of large-scale irregularities in the recently released draft voters list, alleging the involvement of government officials and the Left. Both the Left and the Congress are worried about the BJPs growing influence. Thus, they are raising Thrissur voters list manipulations with a hidden agenda. The Left government is behind the manipulations in the recently released voters list as they are certain of a huge setback in the upcoming local body polls, a prominent BJP leader claimed. Grassroots workers believe the health card could be more effective in connecting with voters, alongside issues in the education sector. If the BJP focuses on these sectors (education and health) in each locality, we can position ourselves as the only party capable of ensuring development, a party worker said. CPI, Cong leaders try to insult voters Thrissur: BJP state general secretary M T Ramesh on Sunday said CPI and Congress leaders could not yet accept the defeat in Lok Sabha election in Thrissur and were insulting the voters by their allegations of voters list tampering. Suresh Gopis victory in Thrissur is a result of collective efforts by BJP workers. The leaders of CPI, CPM and Congress are yet to come out of the shock. All this while, they were behind Thrissur Pooram. Now they have come up with voters list issues. We followed all the regulations while adding names to the list, he said.
CPI(M), Congress to highlight voter fraud in Thrissur LS polls in campaign against BJP
M.A. Baby says ECI helped BJP booth agents add at least 30,000 bogus voters in Thrissur using fudged proof of domicile and forged identities. N.K. Premachandran, MP, says INDIA bloc allies will weigh impeaching the ECI members
Police security beefed up at Thrissur MP Suresh Gopis office amid protests
Thrissur Zoological Parks deer safari park construction inaugurated
Work on Pet Zoo and AI-powered virtual safari to begin this month, says Minister
Muthuva Sanghamam marks largest gathering since revival of tribal collective
IDUKKI: For decades, the Muthuvan tribal community, spread across the forested high ranges of Idukki, Thrissur, Ernakulam, Palakkad, and the KeralaTamil Nadu border, had the will to demand their rights but allegedly lacked a collective voice. That changed in 2024 with the revival of the Muthuvan Adivasi Samudaya Sangham, an organisation now uniting hundreds of settlements under one banner to protect their culture, secure their rights, and push for development. The impact of that revival was on full display at Muthuva Sanghamam 2025, a three-day gathering at Chembakathozhukudi in Chinnakkanal that concluded on Sunday. Around 3,000 Muthuvans from nearly 140 settlements came together in what leaders call the biggest event since the Sanghams rebirth, timed to mark the International Day of the Worlds Indigenous Peoples. This event shows what unity can achieve, said C. Rajendran, district panchayat member and state committee member of the Sangham. Our aim is to make our people aware of their rights and uphold our traditions. We have been treated as mere vote banks for too long. That will change, he said. The Sanghams roots date back to 1995, when tribal leaders, inspired by faculty at the Gangothri School in Suryanelli, formed the original collective. It thrived for over a decade before the schools closure and the absence of educated leaders in the community caused activities to stall. In 2024, tribal elders decided to revive the registered organisation instead of starting from scratch, expediting legal procedures and rekindling the network. Today, the Sangham has a structured governing body with two representatives from each settlement, area committees, and ooru committees led by tribal chiefs. Its efforts have been visible in recent protest programmes demanding infrastructure, healthcare, and legal justice. The Sanghams intervention was allegedly pivotal in prompting the Tamil Nadu government to order a judicial inquiry into the suspicious death of a 58-year-old tribal man from Suryanelli at the Udumalpet forest range office. At Muthuva Sanghamam, discussions ranged from forest rights, welfare schemes for tribes at the government level, education, financial empowerment, and infrastructure facilities at the settlement to womens issues. Cultural programmes, seminars, and a free medical camp by the National Ayush Mission added to the spirit of empowerment. Leaders hope the event will mark the beginning of sustained mobilisation across all districts. We are building more than an organisation, we are building a future where our voices are heard and our rights respected. This is only the beginning, Rajendran said. Kerala Police Academy director K. Sethuraman was the chief guest, Adimaly assistant tribal development officer M. Kandaswami inaugurated the meeting, and Munnar wildlife warden K. V. Harikrishnan delivered the tribal day message. Tribal poet Ashokan Marayur and journalist-writer M. J. Babu were also present.
BJP tampered with voters list in Thrissur in last Lok Sabha election, alleges Congress
THRISSUR: District Congress Committee president Joseph Tajet has alleged that Union Minister Suresh Gopi, his family members, his brother Subhash Gopi and his family added their names to the voters list in Thrissur Lok Sabha constituency though they were not permanent residents there. Sharing the list of such voters from other constituencies, Tajet sought a probe into the matter. The voters list tampering issues raised by Rahul Gandhi, actually began in Thrissur to ensure the victory of Suresh Gopi, who contested on BJP ticket. Though Congress raised its complaints before the election, the then district collector said if a persons name appears in the voters list, then he/she can vote. No scrutiny was held to address the complaints, he alleged. According to the Congress, in the voters list, the last few names added in the last days of the voters list renewal process were made by BJP taking advantage of the addresses of vacant apartment complexes in the city. The complaint filed by Congress before the LS election alleged that 13 names were added to the voters list using the permanent address of certain flats in the Sobha Saphire apartment at Kolazhy that were lying unoccupied. Two names were added using the address of flats 899 and 900 in Cheloor County Court at Ayyanthole. Both persons were not permanent residents at the flats. Six names in the voters list with address at Sakthi Apartments, Ayyanthole, 15 voters in Water Lily apartment, Panchikkal, Ayyanthole, two in Govindh Apartment, Ayyanthole, and eight in Sobha Top Plaza were also not permanent residents. As per the documents, all family members gave a house name Bharat Heritage in their address. They were taken on rent by Suresh Gopi when he stayed in Thrissur for poll campaign since 2021. After election, the houses were vacated as he could stay at Ramanilayam Guest House as a Union minister. We went to the flats and enquired about the people who submitted the address to be included in the voters list. Presently, none of them are staying here. Moreover, these names are not included in the voters list in the corporation. This itself indicates that the names were added to ensure Suresh Gopis victory, he alleged. Meanwhile, T N Prathapan, KPCC working president, filed a complaint seeking action against Booth Level Officers who failed to verify facts before adding new names to the list.
DCC president, LDF candidate allege large-scale voters list manipulation in Thrissur LS poll
Joseph Tajet accuses BJPs Suresh Gopi of orchestrating fraudulent entries; Sunilkumar questions returning officers role and claims deliberate misinformation
International workshop on research potential of Hortus Malabaricus begins in Thrissur
Meet to discuss the historical, ethnobotanical, and scientific relevance of Hortus Malabaricus the seminal 17th-century botanical work.
64-Year-Old Woman Pushed Off Running Train, Robbed In Kerala
The woman, along with her brother, was travelling to Thrissur in Kerala from Panvel in Maharashtra when the incident occurred.
Second edition of International Science Film Festival begins in Thrissur
Eminent scientist M.P. Parameswaran inaugurates the event at a function held at Thrissur Model Girls High School
CPI leaders demand shift from Congress to CPM amid criticism at district meet
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A section of leaders who attended the CPI Thiruvananthapuram district conference demanded the party state leadership to change the decision taken at Bhatinda Party Congress to end the support given to Congress and start an alliance with the CPM. The CPM treats the CPI like the way in which in-laws consider the parents of daughters who had decided to reside with them, a leader said. We had two chief ministers in the past. Now, it has come to such a level that the CPM tried its level best to prevent our victory in Thrissur parliament constituency, a delegate said. There was also severe criticism against the Left government and CPI ministers, especially G R Anil who is from the capital district. The LDF government has lost the nature of a left party. The government decision on various issues is not in tune with left policies. The CPM is trying to ignore the CPI whenever it gets a chance, the leaders said. Members also criticised the Horti Corp for selling vegetables at a higher price than the open market rate. They pointed out that while funds are being allocated to the Consumerfed which is under a CPM minister, the Civil Supplies department under a CPI minister is being ignored. Civil Supplies Minister G R Anil has failed to control the prices of 13 essential items. When consumers have the option to buy good quality coconut oil from the open market at a lesser rate, why should they buy it from Consumerfed at a higher rate? they asked. The leaders also asked the CPM to correct its position in view of the loss in Nilambur bypoll. Members also criticised state secretary Binoy Viswam for his stance on different issues. Is our party secretary a velichapadu (oracle)? Even he doesnt know the meaning of his own words. He should learn from former secretaries C K Chandrappan and Veliyam Bhargavan. The CPI leadership is afraid of CPM leaders. There is casteism in the state party. Even state executive member K Rajan is being ignored, they alleged.
Woman electrocuted, husband injured in Thrissur
CPI district secretary seeks judicial probe into Thrissur Lok Sabha election fraud
CPI leader slams Election Commission for taking lightly the malpractice complaints in voters list
Kerala LoP Alleges Voter Fraud In Thrissur Lok Sabha Constituency
Thrissur saw a historic win for the BJP in 2024, with actor-turned-politician Suresh Gopi defeating both the CPI(M)-led LDF and the Congress-led UDF
Special trains between Mangaluru and Thiruvananthapuram North ahead of Independence Day weekend
KASARAGOD: Kasaragod Southern Railway announced special trains between Mangaluru Junction and Thiruvananthapuram North to clear the rush of passengers during the Independence Day holidays. According to a statement from the zonal railway, Train No. 06041 Mangaluru Junction Thiruvananthapuram North Bi-Weekly Special Express will leave Mangaluru Junction at 7.30 p.m. on Aug. 14 and 16 (Thursday & Saturday) and reach Thiruvananthapuram North at 8.00 a.m., the next day. Train No.06042 Thiruvananthapuram North - Mangaluru Junction Bi-Weekly Special Express will leave Thiruvananthapuram North at 5.15 p.m. on August 15 and 17 and reach Mangaluru Junction at 6.30 a.m. the next day. The trains will have a coach composition of 01- Two-tier AC Coach, 02- Three-tier AC Coaches, 17-Sleeper class Coaches, & 02- Second Class Luggage cum Brake Vans. These trains will stop at Kasaragod, Kanhangad, Payyanur, Kannur, Thalassery, Vadakara, Kozhikode, Tirur, Shoranur, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam, Cherthala, Alappuzha, Ambalapuzha, Haripad, Kayamkulam, Sasthankota and Kollam.
78 women, girls still untraced in Kerala; police to intensify efforts after Cherthala murders
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Even as shocking details emerge from Cherthala, Alappuzha, about serial missing and murder cases involving women, official statistics reveals that a total of 78 girls and women remain untraced in the state. In the wake of the Cherthala episode, state police have decided to redouble efforts to resolve as many missing cases as possible. Special teams will be formed, if required. According to police data accessed by TNIE, eight girls and 70 women remained untraced as of June this year. Some of the cases are long-pending and the department has instructed district police chiefs to closely scrutinise every case, sources said. Additional effort will be made to track those missing, they added. A senior officer with the law and order wing said the department has a robust mechanism to deal with cases of missing women and children. If local police fail to solve a case within six months, it is reviewed by the district police chief. Cases pending for a year are reviewed by the range DIG. There are enough auditing measures to assess the efficiency of the investigation in each case. We will ramp up our efforts to crack pending cases, the officer added. The missing girls are from Kollam Rural, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Ernakulam City, Ernakulam Rural, Thrissur Rural, Malappuram and Kozhikode City (one each). Ernakulam Rural (10) has seen the most number of women gone missing, followed by Thiruvananthapuram Rural (nine), and Alappuzha (seven). In the year to date, 3,678 women and girls have been reported missing in the state. The most number of cases were from Thiruvanathapuram Rural (403) -- involving 50 girls and 353 women. Of the total, 394 were traced, while nine women are still missing. Alappuzha reported the second most number of women and girls missing. As many as 282 persons -- 50 girls and 232 women -- have gone missing from the district. Of these, 49 girls and 225 women were located. Malappuram is third with 253 individuals -- 64 girls and 189 women -- reported missing this year. Of these, 249 -- 63 girls and 186 women -- were traced. Since 2022, 26,197 women and girls have been reported missing from the state, of which 25,979 were traced. When the numbers were adjusted against each other, 218 people were found unaccounted for. Police sources explained that in many missing cases, the subjects were later found to be dead. Such persons are not counted as having been traced. A senior police officer told TNIE that the number tends to be high in the state because cases as registered as soon as relatives of those missing file complaints. Most of the women and girls reported missing elope or leave their homes for some reason. They are mostly traced and let off after being produced before a magistrate. Only a very few people vanish into thin air; we are worried about their fate, the officer said.
CPI demands investigation into electoral fraud in Thrissur Lok Sabha polls
CPI leader V.S. Sunilkumar, who came second in the 2024 Thrissur LS election, says LDFs accusations of voter fraud had assumed gravity in the wake of Rahul Gandhi flagging tens of thousands of of fake voters in constituencies bagged by the BJP in many States
Art exhibition on Gandhis struggle against communalism
Event to begin on August 9, Quit India Day, at the Kerala Lalithakala Akademi courtyard in Thrissur
Seven months on, Kerala family awaits repatriation of son's remains from Russian frontline
THRISSUR: As the RussiaUkraine war continues with all its devastation, the family of Binil, who died while serving on the Russian frontline after falling prey to a trafficking racket, is still waiting to repatriate his mortal remains. It has been over seven months since reports from Russia confirmed the death of Binil. Since then, his family has been running from one office to another, hoping to see him one last time. Binil T B, a native of Wadakkanchery, took a flight to Russia on 24 April, 2024, along with his friends. They had been promised jobs as electricians in Moscow. But things allegedly took a turn for the worse soon after. Binil was moved to a military settlement, where his passport and documents were confiscated. In the initial days, they were instructed to supply food and essential items to the settlement. But by June 2024, they were sent to the frontline. Binil and Jain were assigned to one military regiment, while another group, including two Malayalis, Santhosh and Sandeep, was sent to a different location. Sandeep died in a shell attack in August 2025. According to Jain Kurien, who returned from Russia in May 2025, I saw him last in the morning on 5 January, 2025. On 6 January, I was transferred to another regiment and on the way, I saw him lying motionless following a drone attack. I was also injured in a similar attack on the way and was hospitalised. When Sandeep died, his body was brought to Moscow within two weeks of the incident. But in the case of Binil, we dont know where the mortal remains are kept, he said. Binils father Babu, a tailor, said, It has been difficult to manage things. I have been visiting all possible offices to bring my son back. I have gone to Thiruvananthapuram four times already, spoken to the authorities including Norka and the Russian Embassy. I also sent letters to the Ministry of External Affairs, MoS Suresh Gopi, the Chief Ministers Office, etc. However, we are yet to receive a positive reply as to when his body can be repatriated, said Babu, adding that he is not even able to focus on work. India demands Moscow to release citizens duped into fighting in Russian army after another death Joicy and Binil became parents to a son on 13 August, 2024. While the child will celebrate his first birthday this year, the family continues to live in uncertainty. Binil had not even seen his own son. Whether the one-year-old will ever see his father Binil, even in death, remains a question. Following instructions from the Indian Embassy, DNA samples of Binils family were taken at the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram. Working as a nurse in a private hospital, Joicy has been waiting for a positive response regarding Binils repatriation. We dont know what to do next, as all efforts to bring back his mortal remains have reached a dead end, said Joicy. When Binil left for Russia, Joicy was carrying their first child. The last communication we got was from the Thrissur District Collector, saying the DNA samples were sent to embassy authorities two weeks ago, added Babu. Norka Roots CEO Ajith Kollaserry responded that they were trying all possible ways to move things forward amid the ongoing war in Russia. There are limitations for using diplomatic channels due to the war. From what we know, the Russian military had reported that Binil was missing. After one year, the Russian military will file an affidavit in court there, based on which a death certificate can be issued. We are trying to repatriate his mortal remains, but there is no communication from the military so far, he said.
Chamakkala emerges top pick for KPCC treasurer post
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Jyoti Kumar Chamakkala is emerging the favourite for the post of KPCC treasurer as the final round of discussions on state Congress reorganisation is progressing in Delhi. If state president Sunny Joseph does not have any one else in mind, Jyoti Kumar is sure to occupy the office, that fell vacant in December 2022. It is the prerogative of the state chief to choose the leader for the key post. Jyoti Kumar was in charge of campaign expenses in Puthuppally, Palakkad and Nilambur and was appreciated for his handling of the job. An I group leader, he has the support of Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan as well as senior leader Ramesh Chennithala. Sunny has been meeting MPs, including Shashi Tharoor, in Delhi. After assuming charge, he has taken an inclusive approach, incorporating all warring factions in the party.The final decision on reorganisation will come only after consulting AICC general secretary in charge of Kerala Deepa Dasmunsi and secretaries V K Arivazhakan, P V Mohanan and Mansoor Ali Khan. According to sources, the number of Political Affairs Committee (PAC) members is likely to be increased from the current 36 to accommodate MPs who were not considered last time. Rajmohan Unnithan, V K Sreekandan and Dean Kuriakose did not find a berth then. The strength of PAC might be increased by four or five, a senior Congress leader told TNIE. However, finalising the list of DCC presidents is the major challenge before the leadership. A section of leaders has suggested replacing all DCC presidents except in Thrissur where the appointment was made recently. However, there is a strong sentiment that only under-performers should be changed. Some senior leaders have asked the KPCC president not to replace DCC presidents at a time when the local body election is nearing. The Wayanad, Alappuzha, Kottayam and Idukki DCCs have been facing criticism for their poor performance. Though KPCC vice-president N Sakthan has been given charge of Thiruvananthapuram DCC, there is a chance for former MLA K Sabarinathan. Sabari is close to K C Venugopal and maintains good relations with Chennithala. The leadership will also seek the opinion of K Muralidharan, who is in charge of the corporation election. In Kollam, Sooraj Ravi, son of former leader Thoppil Ravi, is being considered. He has the support of senior leader V M Sudheeran. In Pathanamthitta, incumbent Satheesh Kochuparambil is not in the list of favourite list of UDF convener Adoor Prakash who is pitching for Robin Peter. The number of KPCC general secretaries is likely to go up from 22 to around 40. The number of vice-presidents will be increased to 10 from four, and secretaries from 76 to 100, sources said.
No toll for a month as NHAI faces HC heat on Paliyekkara in Kerala
KOCHI: The Kerala High Court on Wednesday suspended the collection of user fee at the Paliyekkara toll plaza for a month citing total apathy by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) in addressing public grievances, including traffic congestion caused by the construction works started by the authority. In that period, the Union government should take steps to address the peoples grievances, the court said. Residents in and around Paliyekkara, which lies on the Edappally-Mannuthy stretch of NH 544, hailed the order. Every year, they hike toll rates while no maintenance is being done. The HC order is a welcome step, said Sareesh, a resident of Puthukkad. A Division Bench comprising Justice A Muhamed Mustaque and Justice Harishankar V Menon issued the order on the petition filed by Congress worker Shaji J Kodankandath of Chembukavu, O J Janeesh of Mala and others against the toll collection. We note with concern the total apathy displayed by the NHAI in addressing the grievances raised, despite multiple opportunities having been made available to them from February 2025. Although the issue was repeatedly brought to their attention, no meaningful steps were taken to pursue redressal with the Central government. Hence, the collection of toll shall remain suspended until the Central government, in consultation with the NHAI, chief secretary and concessionaire, takes appropriate remedial action, the bench said. The Centre argued the issue is confined only to 4.8km and there are no other obstructions in remaining 65 km stretch. NHAI would earnestly take steps to resolve this issue at the earliest, it said. The public is obliged to pay user fee for using the highway, the bench said, adding it casts responsibility on NHAI to ensure smooth traffic without any barrier created by it or its agents (the concessionaires). NHAI ignored grievances of public: HC This relationship between the public and NHAI is bound by the tie of public trust, and the moment it is breached, the right to collect toll fees cannot be forced on public, it said. The HC said the NHAI ignored public interests and took their grievances lightly. The court cannot substitute the role of administrative authority of the Centre in deciding how fees be regulated or reduced in a situation like this; but at the same time the court can clearly hold that there is breach of public trust and the National Highways Authority cannot levy the fees till the grievances are addressed upholding the interest of the public, stated the order. On April 28, 2025, Thrissur District Collector Arjun Pandian had suspended toll collection at Paliyekkara as the NHAI failed to stick to the directions issued by the district administration. The police had also taken a stand against the NHAI and contract company, as managing traffic became tough for them.
Heavy Rain Forces Kerala School To Declare Holiday, Roof Collapses Hours Later
A major tragedy was narrowly averted on Wednesday after the ceiling of an auditorium at Kodaly Government Upper Primary School in Thrissur collapsed -- fortunately, on a day when the school was closed due to heavy rains.
Rain holiday prevents potential accident as school ceiling collapses in Kerala
Gypsum board ceiling of main hall at Kodali Government Lower Primary School in Thrissur collapses. However, no injuries reported
Archdiocese community vigil meet in Thrissur on Sept. 21
Bevco opens its first super premium outlet in Thrissur
Plans afoot to open similar modern liquor outlets in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam and Kozhikode.
Thrissur to host State School Kalolsavam from January 7 to 11
Sanskrit and Arabic literary festivals too will coincide with the school arts festival to be held at 25 venues. State school sports meet will be held at Thiruvananthapuram in an Olympic style from October 22 to 27.
Opposition leader of Thrissur Corporation alleges lapses in canal cleaning works
Heavy rain trigger widespread flooding across Thrissur district
Homes inundated; furniture, electric equipment damaged and traffic thrown into disarray; residents blame poor drainage and canal blockages
Kerala rains: Rivers and dams swell; IMD issues red alert in three districts
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Torrential overnight rains lashed Kerala, leading to widespread waterlogging and a significant rise in water levels across several rivers and dams on Tuesday. In response to the continuing downpour, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Ernakulam, Idukki, and Thrissur districts, warning of extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 20 cm within 24 hours. An orange alert was issued for five districts, indicating very heavy rainfall between 11 and 20 cm, while the remaining six districts were placed under a yellow alert, forecasting heavy rain between 6 and 11 cm. Several dams used for power generation and irrigation, particularly in Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, and Wayanad, reached the third stage of alert, signalling rising water levels that may require further precautionary measures. In Kochi, the impact of the rains was felt starkly when a private taxi, guided by a navigation app, plunged into an open canal that had been obscured by floodwaters. The driver escaped unharmed, according to police. The incident highlighted the dangers posed by unmarked infrastructure and poor visibility during extreme weather, as much of the city remained waterlogged following the heavy rains.
At open forum, junior artists object to agents cut
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ever seen crowds in movies and thought how they are arranged for the perfect shot? Rarely do audiences get to know the junior artists involved and their concerns. But an open forum at the Kerala Film Policy Conclave in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday saw junior artists raising their concerns on key issues they face, including compensation and lack of basic amenities. Junior artists suffer immense exploitation across the industry, said Movie Artists Association of Kerala (MAAK) state general secretary Hari Ottappalam. He cited basic issues such as the differentiation in food served to lead actors, technicians and junior artists, and a lack of proper drinking water or bathroom facilities on most sets. Worst is the fact that a major chunk of our remuneration is claimed by middlemen, who work as agents, he said. Junior artists are often arranged by coordinators through such agents, Hari said We are often allotted up to Rs 1,500, but end up getting just Rs 500-600, he said. We have our disagreements with the initial policy framework forwarded by the government, which empowers these agents, MAAK president Shaijunath P said. The plight of female junior artists is even more pathetic, said Shobhana Sundaran, an artist from Thrissur. For female artists, a clean toilet is more important than food, which is not available on many sets, she said. Adding that many continue to work as junior artists despite challenges due to lack of other work opportunities, she said that though they are often hired by trustworthy people, the situation, more often than not, ends up going south. While shooting of L2: Empuraan, we were left stranded at midnight without proper accommodation. It was arranged after several hours, she said. The film policy, which the government is looking to roll out within two months, is expected to address their issues as well. Meanwhile, Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA)officials refuted the claims. We provide food on film sets based solely on head count, without any discrimination, FEFKA Production Executives Union joint secretary Shaji Pattikkara told TNIE, adding that it is impractical not to assign agents for access to junior artists.
Kerala's Pazhayannur turns over a new leaf with moringa
THRISSUR: Moringa, the herbal plant with medicinal properties and nutrient-rich content, was not a popular dish in the past. However, as natural food items with medicinal properties found pride of place on Malaylis platter, moringa, which was largely ignored by many, is in great demand now. And reaping rich dividends from this new-found love for medicinal and nutrient-rich food, farmers who used to cultivate traditional vegetables are turning to the cultivation of medicinal plants on a largescale. The neighbourhood groups in Pazhayannur block have ventured into moringa farming. A pilot project that was launched by selecting 100 women for moringa farming is now spread to 600 clusters in Pazhayannur block panchayat. It was in 2024-25 that the panchayat selected 100 women interested in farming to take up moringa cultivation. The project was named Moringa Cluster. The farming was then launched on 3.5 acres of land spread across three wards of the block panchayat. Adequate training in moringa farming was provided for the farmers by Kudumbasree itself. A total of 120 saplings were planted on 1 acre of land. We were given training to nurture the saplings and the use of fertilisers. Now, I am able to meet my familys expenses with a steady income, shared Sujatha K Santhosh, a farmer in the Moringa Cluster. The procured moringa leaves are being sold to Ambika Soman, who runs a company that makes value-added products from the leaves, including moringa powder, moringa tablets etc. Presently, each member of Moringa Cluster gets an average income of Rs 16,000 per month from moringa leaves. Inspired by the success of the women farmers, the project has been extended after roping in 600 neighbourhood groups. These neighbourhood groups will also come up with products like moringa puttu powder, iddalipodi etc for the Onam season. Reshmi Sundaran, chairperson of Pazhayannur CDS, said that the success scripted through moringa farming here would be a model for other Kudumbashree groups to take up similar initiatives.
Bail for Kerala nuns a feather in the political cap of BJP and Rajeev?
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The release of the two Catholic nuns after nine days of imprisonment in Chhattisgarh has come as a relief for both the Church and the state BJP. The fact that it was realised following the intervention of the prime ministers office (PMO) is being viewed as a feather in party state chief Rajeev Chandrasekhars political cap. TNIE was the first to report the PMOs intervention. The entire episode is now expected to function as a catalyst in Rajeevs efforts to intensify his partys Christian outreach programme in central Kerala in the coming days. For the Catholic Church, with its larger interest in the pan-Indian socio-political sphere, it has reiterated the need for friends in high places, especially in times of crises. In that sense the whole episode has been a give-and-take, a Church official told on condition of anonymity. If the mission had failed it would have cast a shadow on Rajeev. It ended up proving his close ties to the corridors of power in Delhi. According to sources in the BJP national leadership, the PMO intervened because the Christian outreach was Modis idea to begin with with an eye on elections. At the BJP parliamentary board meeting ahead of the 2019 general election, Modi rejected the candidate list submitted by the then state leadership because it did not include any Christians, a party leader said. Alphons Kannanthanams name was included later. In the run-up to the 2021 assembly election, the BJP central leadership instructed the state unit to hold talks with the Jacobite Church, he said. Though the state leadership is of the view that the BJP stands to gain from how the chapter involving the nuns was handled, a section within the party and other Sangh parivar organisations believes that the BJP failed to protect the sentiments of Hindu masses. Many Sangh organisations publicly denounced the efforts of Rajeev. Whenever the BJP surrendered its core Hindutva ideology, its workers and the Hindu masses voted against it, a RSS leader said. We have seen several examples nationally. Kerala has changed a lot. We now have a more radical Hindu upper middle class and middle class. In Kerala, it is the Congress which professes soft Hindutva and still enjoys the faith of minorities. This will continue to be the main threat for the BJP, he added. Considering the fact that the Christian factor in the victory of Suresh Gopi in Thrissur was minimal, the next few months will be crucial for both BJP and Rajeev considering the upcoming assembly election. We will have to counter the campaigns of both the UDF, the LDF and the media, a BJP office-bearer said. The Congress has a Catholic as KPCC president. What is crucial is how the Christian community views the whole issue. Does the fate that befell the CPM in the 2024 Lok Sabha election now await the BJP? We all knew though it was the CPM which had openly voiced support for the Muslim community on CAA, in the end the minority votes went to the Congress. The CPM lost its Hindu vote, too, he said. ORTHODOX CHURCH HEAD SEEKS STRICT ACTION AGAINST BAJRANG DAL KOTTAYAM: Catholicos Baselios Marthoma Mathews III, the supreme head of the Malankara Orthodox Church, has said the bail granted for the two Keralite nuns, who were arrested and remanded in Chhattisgarh, was a great relief. He called for stringent action against the Bajrang Dal activists involved in their detention and mistreatment. It is a relief that the nuns were granted bail after nine days of unjust detention. However, those responsible for their wrongful treatment remain at large. The Chhattisgarh government must charge a case against the extremists who detained the nuns and assaulted them in public, he said. The Catholicos emphasised that while the granting of bail is a positive development, it is merely a preliminary step in the pursuit of justice. The false case against the nuns should be quashed entirely. Only then will the nuns get justice. Only then will the stain on the culture of Arsha Bharata be removed, he added. CBCI prez welcomes bail, urges govts to end mob trials THRISSUR: Mar Andrews Thazhath, president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of India and Archbishop of Thrissur, on Saturday expressed happiness over the release of the Kerala-based nuns who were granted bail in Chhattisgarh. He urged the Centre to intervene to prevent similar incidents in the future. Two nuns from Kerala were jailed in Chhattisgarh for engaging in charity work. They were imprisoned based on false accusations of human trafficking and forced conversion. Steps must be taken to dispose of the case at the earliest, as all charges are baseless, he said. He also called on authorities to ensure the protection of minority rights across the country. He urged both the state and Centre to put an end to mob trials by extremist groups.
Monsoon normal in Kerala despite 9% deficit: IMD
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala received 1,190.5 mm of rainfall between June 1 and July 31, against the normal rainfall of 1,301.7 mm marking a 9% shortfall. Most districts experienced normal monsoon with only three recording a deficit of over 20%: Malappuram (21%), Idukki (29%), and Wayanad (38%). According to IMD data, Kerala received rainfall within the normal range. In 2023, the state experienced a 35% rainfall deficiency during June-July period. In 2024, the deficit came in at 4%. IMD director Neetha K Gopal said monsoon rainfall in June and July has been within the normal category. Though there is a 9% deficit, the monsoon was not bad as the rainfall was evenly distributed, she told TNIE . The agency has also predicted below-normal rainfall in August and September. There will be rain over the next two months but average may be below normal, she added. Silver Lining Year - Rainfall received* - Deficit 2025 - 1,190.5 mm - 9% 2024 - 1,249.7 mm - 4% 2023 - 852.0 mm - 35% * Normal: 1,301.7 mm District-wise data* Kannur - 2,121.5 mm (1,787.3 mm) Kasaragod - 1,940.9 mm (1,948.1 mm) Kozhikode - 1,502 mm (1,757.2 mm) Wayanad - 986.1 mm (1,603.3 mm) Malappuram - 1,036.4 mm (1,284.2 mm) Thrissur - 1,360.1 mm (1,388 mm) Kottayam - 1,056.5 mm (1,199.3 mm) Idukki - 1,116.3 mm (1,561.6 mm) Palakkad - 947.2 mm (991.6 mm) Ernakulam - 1268.6 mm (1,361 mm) PThitta - 1,066.8 mm (978 mm) Alappuzha - 1,065.1 mm (1,026.8 mm) Kollam - 789.1 mm (766.8 mm) TPuram - 510.5 mm (507.8mm) Actual and (normal) rainfall between June 1 to July 31
Student Police Cadet, one of Keralas most exemplary initiatives, says Minister
Bindu inaugurates SPC Day, launches new units in Thrissur Rural police district
Need permit? Roll out new private buses adhering to emission norms
KOCHI: In a move aimed at phasing out rickety private buses, the motor vehicle department (MVD) will henceforth issue fresh permits only to private players willing to operate new buses that adhere to Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) emission norms. New permits will be issued only to new private buses. Weve discussed the matter with major private bus associations which agreed to the condition. A government order (GO) in this regard will be out in a few days, Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar told TNIE. The authorities will also curtail the issuance of temporary permits. Many are operating old buses using temporary permits, which is a safety concern. Private operators should now bring new buses adhering to the emission norms set by the Union government, like Bharat VI, the minister pointed out. He said many NRIs have complained of lobbies giving false assurances that temporary licences could be acquired with old buses and new permits received later. That wont happen now, Ganesh said. While Kerala was the first state to limit the shelf life of buses to 15 years, the state later raised the age limit of buses to 20 years, and further to 22, considering the request of private bus owners. That even as the Union government decided to de-register and scrap all vehicles older than 15 years. Geo-fencing to curb speeding The minister said the transport department will soon introduce geo-fencing technology at select points to curb competitive running among private buses. The system will trigger alerts when a bus enters or exits select points or exceeds a speed limit within a specific zone. Often, private buses operate by violating the given schedule and indulge in competitive driving, eyeing more passengers and money. The virtual boundaries will be created using a QR code and chip. The department has been allocated Rs 2 crore from the road safety fund to implement the system, Ganesh said. The initiative will be first introduced in the Palakkad-Thrissur section. Weve held discussions with the three main bus organisations. Two of them have agreed and weve asked the third too to cooperate. If buses violate the time-schedule, the organisation concerned will have to remit the fine, the minister said. When asked whether the measures would be implemented in Kochi, where the issue is rampant, Ganesh replied, Well first introduce them on a trial basis on routes where private buses operate, largely. If the organisations in a particular region refuse to implement it, the department will introduce geo-fencing.
Arrest of nuns in Chhattisgarh: Rajeev Chandrasekhar meets Thrissur Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath
THRISSUR: BJP state chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Friday visited Thrissur Archbishop and president of Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI), Mar Andrews Thazhath, and assured all support for the release of two Malayali nuns arrested in Chhattisgarh . Speaking to the press after the meeting, Mar Thazhath said this was not the first case of arrest involving nuns. There should be a mechanism to ensure justice for the nuns who conduct social work and charity. He added that the Church welcomed the support extended by all, irrespective of political inclinations. Minority rights should be protected across the country, he said. The BJP has been following up the case since the moment it was brought to our notice. Judiciary and the legal system will take their own time. But, it is assured that the Chhattisgarh government would not oppose the nuns bail plea when it comes up before the court. Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah had personally communicated it to me, and I visited Mar Andrews Thazhath to communicate this to him, Rajeev said. It was a misunderstanding which led to the arrest of the nuns, he said. Two nuns Vandana Francis and Preeta Mary were arrested by Durg police as they were accompanied by tribal girls from Chhattisgarh. They were accused of human trafficking and conversion. However, it is reported that the girls were taken out of their homes for jobs with their consent as they were above 18 years and with their parents knowledge. The girls follow Christian faith. However, while taking human resources from Chhattisgarh, agents or employers are supposed to register it on a portal even if it is within the state. In this case, this registration was not done, he added.
Kerala buffeted by rising wave of public obscenity, indecency
KOZHIKODE: That began as a routine weekend commute for Sreeja (name changed) from Kottiyam to Kollam on a KSRTC bus quickly devolved into a deeply distressing ordeal. Looking forward to reuniting with her family after a week of work, Sreeja found her journey abruptly interrupted by a man in his early 40s brazenly masturbating across from her, his gaze fixed on her. Despite her profound discomfort, Sreeja, unwilling to let the incident pass, summoned the courage to capture the perpetrators action on video. Her resolve stemmed from a fierce desire to expose a pervasive societal ill where victims, particularly women, are often blamed despite being the ones subjected to harassment. The incident echoed a recent online backlash against two sisters who were viciously trolled for slapping an elderly man who had allegedly groped one of them on a public bus. These alarming occurrences highlight a disturbing trend in Kerala: a surge in public indecency, including public masturbation, flashing, and other obscene acts. Shockingly, instead of condemnation, such acts often seem to garner a perverse acceptance in certain sections of society. District-wise data with the State Crime Records Bureau (SCRB) for May 2024-25 shows Kozhikode leading the way with 193 cases of public nudity and masturbation. It was followed by Ernakulam (157), Thiruvananthapuram (123), Kasaragod (98), Kollam (76), Malappuram (74), Palakkad (67), Alappuzha (66), and Kottayam (54). Pathanamthitta (43), Kannur (35), Idukki (33), Wayanad (29), and Thrissur (24) brought up the rear. Legal loopholes Despite the worrying numbers, a glaring loophole in the legal framework continues to empower perpetrators: the absence of specific laws directly addressing flashing or public masturbation. This legal void often hinders the formal registration of cases. Police sources indicate that while victims sometimes bravely come forward with video evidence, many hesitate to pursue further legal action due to fears of protracted legal battles. The silence surrounding the issue has prevented the enactment of specific legislation. While laws have been amended over the years to address crimes like voyeurism and stalking with specific punishments, public masturbation remains a murky area. The lack of a dedicated law ensures that theres no precise data on the true scale of the problem. However, social media platforms and online blogs are increasingly amplifying voices on the issue -- a chorus demanding urgent attention that cannot be ignored. Rohit Raj, a lawyer based in Kozhikode, emphasised the profound impact of such acts. Incidents of street harassment such as sexually explicit comments, public masturbation, and stalking are unfortunately common, he said. While not physically violent, being masturbated at is deeply personally violating. Public masturbation, unlike private acts, is not protected free expression; it is a grossly indecent act that outrages a womans modesty. He added that such acts encompass indecent exposure, assault, offenses against public order, and violations of womens civil rights. He reiterated that although public masturbation broadly fell under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 354, 509, 268, 355 -- and their current corresponding sections 73, 77, 285, and 124 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) -- the absence of a specific law leads to under-reporting and very few convictions. Psychological underpinnings Shedding light on the psychological underpinnings of such behaviour, noted psychiatrist Reena Ravi said that individuals suffering from paraphilia are likely to masturbate in public. Paraphilia is a condition characterised by intense fetishes towards unusual objects. When a person with paraphilia masturbates publicly, it inherently harms the object of their fetish, often women. Reena added that public masturbators may also exhibit signs of regression, a psychopathological condition involving behaviour like extreme passivity, social withdrawal, aggression, and open masturbation. Exhibitionism, a form of paraphilia, involves exposing genitals to unsuspecting strangers for sexual arousal. She recounts a case where a man confessed that the presence of a woman made the act more realistic for him, imagining her participation in coitus. Dr Reena acknowledged that exhibitionism, including public masturbation, is a recognised medical condition, but cautions that some individuals may exploit this diagnosis to evade legal consequences. A call for action The issue of public masturbation has been long ignored and strategically sidelined, leading to the trivialisation of womens experiences of sexual harassment, according to Aparna Baiju, a college professor and womens rights activist. She argued that instead of trying to fit these offences into existing categories such as indecent exposure, lawmakers must create a distinct legal category with punishments commensurate with the gravity of the offence. A law should be made that covers indecent exposure, outraging the modesty of a woman, along with other relevant charges for the purpose of punishment, prevention, public protection, and social standards, she asserted. We hear of incidents on social media and from friends all the time, but rarely do they reach the courts, she remarked. She cited the experience of a woman from Kochi who, despite bravely exposing a man named Savad on a bus, endured severe cyber-bullying. While that woman was strong enough to withstand the onslaught, many others suffer in silence. The attitude that public masturbation is not a serious crime further emboldens perpetrators, Aparna said, attributing this to a cultural tendency to bury embarrassing sexual advances under the carpet. She pointed to global examples, noting that public masturbation can lead to a 14-day prison sentence in the UK, and 32 days in Indonesia. Our country can begin by at least talking about why it is wrong and dehumanising, Aparna said. Public spaces belong to all citizens, including women, she added. Sex education, the panacea
Nuns Arrest Due To Misunderstanding, They Will Get Bail Soon: Rajeev Chandrasekhar
Thrissur (Kerala), Aug 1: BJP state chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Friday said the arrest of two nuns in Chhattisgarh over allegations of human trafficking and forced conversion were due to a misunderstanding and that they will be released on bail soon. Chandrasekhar made the statement after meeting with Archbishop of Trichur Andrews Thazhath, the president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI), to brief him that the Prime Minister and Union Home Minister have assured the nuns would be [] The post Nuns Arrest Due To Misunderstanding, They Will Get Bail Soon: Rajeev Chandrasekhar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Rajeev Chandrasekhar says PM has assured that bail process will not be hindered
Kerala to launch bottle return scheme through Bevco to curb plastic menace
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In an effort to curb plastic menace, the state government is all set to introduce a deposit -return scheme through the Beverages Corporation (Bevco). The initiative will be rolled out on a pilot basis in Thiruvananthapuram and Kannur this September. An amount of Rs 20 will be collected as deposit and QR code-enabled bottles can be returned in the respective outlets from where it is purchased. Annually 70 crore bottles are sold via Bevco annually, of which 56 crore are plastic bottles. Excise Minister M B Rajesh on Thursday, said the Tamil Nadu government has successfully implemented this scheme. He said the consumer will have to pay Rs 20 as deposit at the outlet while purchasing liquor bottles and the scheme aims to reduce littering of non-biodegradable bottles by incentivising consumers to return them. He said that the initiative is expected to reduce the volume of discarded bottles. The scheme is implemented jointly by Bevco and Clean Kerala Company Ltd (CKCL). CKCL will handle the logistics and ensure processing or recycling of the returned bottles. The minister said that the first-ever super premium outlet of Bevco will become operational in Thrissur with 4000 sq ft built-up space from August 5. Four more super premium outlets will be opened soon, he added. The super premium outlet will sell liquor brands that cost above Rs 900.
Historic clock tower ticks again after years of silence at Thrissur Collectorate
The revival effort began in March this year, when District Collector Arjun Pandian took note of the deteriorated condition of the clock tower
Kerala HC expresses concern over continuing traffic snarl-ups on Edappally-Thrissur NH-544 corridor
Court adjourns to Monday plea by motorists to stop toll collection at Paliyekkara until flyovers and underpasses are built
Southern Railway announces multiple Onam special trains to clear holiday rush
KOZHIKODE: Southern Railway has announced special trains for the Onam festival to clear the expected rush of passengers during the festive season. According to a statement from the zonal railway, Train No. 06119 Dr MGR Chennai Central Kollam Weekly Express Special will depart Dr MGR Chennai Central at 3.10 p.m. on 27 August, 3 and 10 September (Wednesdays) and will reach Kollam at 6.40 a.m. the following day. In the return direction, Train No. 06120 Kollam Dr MGR Chennai Central Weekly Express Special will depart Kollam at 10.40 a.m. on 28 August, 4 and 11 September (Thursdays) and will reach Dr MGR Chennai Central at 3.30 a.m. the following day. These trains will have a coach composition of 15 AC Three Tier Economy Coaches and 2 Luggage-cum-Brake Vans. The trains will stop at Perambur, Thiruvallur, Arakkonam, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam North, Kottayam, Changanassery, Tiruvalla, Chengannur, Mavelikara, Kayankulam, Karunagapalli and Sasthankotta. Train No. 06041 Mangaluru Jn Thiruvananthapuram North Bi-Weekly Express Special will leave Mangaluru Jn at 7.30 p.m. on 21, 23, 28 and 30 August and 4, 6, 11 and 13 September (Thursdays and Saturdays), and will reach Thiruvananthapuram North at 8 a.m. the next day. In the return direction, Train No. 06042 Thiruvananthapuram North Mangaluru Jn Bi-Weekly Express Special will depart Thiruvananthapuram North at 5.15 p.m. on 22, 24, 29 and 31 August and 5, 7, 12 and 14 September (Fridays and Sundays), and will arrive at Mangaluru Jn at 6.30 a.m. the next day. These trains will have a coach composition of 1 AC Two Tier Coach, 2 AC Three Tier Coaches, 17 Sleeper Class Coaches, and 2 Luggage-cum-Brake Vans. The trains will halt at Kasaragod, Kanhangad, Payyanur, Kannur, Thalassery, Vadakara, Kozhikode, Tirur, Shoranur, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam Junction, Cherthala, Alappuzha, Ambalapuzha, Haripad, Kayankulam, Karunagapalli, Sasthankotta and Kollam. Train No. 06047 Mangaluru Jn Kollam Weekly Express Special will depart Mangaluru Jn at 11.15 p.m. on 25 August, 1 and 8 September (Mondays) and will reach Kollam at 10.20 a.m. the next day. In the return direction, Train No. 06048 Kollam Mangaluru Jn Weekly Express Special will depart Kollam at 5.10 p.m. on 26 August and 2 and 9 September (Tuesdays) and will reach Mangaluru Jn at 5.30 a.m. the following day. These trains will have a coach composition of 1 AC Two Tier Coach, 2 AC Three Tier Coaches, 17 Sleeper Class Coaches, and 2 Luggage-cum-Brake Vans. They will stop at Kasaragod, Kanhangad, Payyanur, Kannur, Thalassery, Vadakara, Kozhikode, Tirur, Shoranur, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam Town, Kottayam, Changanassery, Tiruvalla, Chengannur, Mavelikara, Kayankulam, Karunagapalli and Sasthankotta. Advance reservations for these trains will commence at 8 a.m. on 1 August.
When a top police officer had to play love doctor
Police interventions often mean probes, crackdowns, apprehensions, and arrests. But sometimes, resolving familial disputes between complainants is also part of maintaining law and order. Here, the assistant commandant M K Hariprasad of India Reserve Battalion, recounts a case that reached him a couple of years ago, which involved a young couple and their growing disenfranchisement with each other after a misstep. Inside his quiet cabin, neither Shruthi (name changed) nor her husband spoke. The man was visibly injured, his head wrapped in bandages. As Hariprasad, whos also a trained counsellor, stepped in, Shruthi made it clear that she had no intention of continuing the relationship. The issue started at a college friends get-together. As a former student of a womens college in Thrissur, she cherished the close-knit bond she shared with her classmates. Through an old WhatsApp group, the idea of an informal reunion came up. After days of discussions, the group finally decided on a friends house for the meet-up. As laughter echoed and memories of college days came flooding back, the conversation unexpectedly turned to love and love after marriage. Here, most of the women, including Shruthi, found themselves echoing a common sentiment that the love they once received from their partners during their initial days of the relationship had faded over time. But Priya (name changed) spoke up with a hint of mischief and pride that she still received more love and care than ever, and that it wasnt from her husband but from her boyfriend, Shankar (name changed). Later, she went on to describe him as charming, attentive, and stylish. Here, in the light-hearted mood and under the mild intoxication of celebratory drinks, the others playfully urged Priya to invite her mystery man to the gathering. As the demand turned into a sort of dare, Priya made a call to her boyfriend. Shankar arrived not long after, dashing and confident in a luxury car. But within seconds, the scene turned electric with shock, because the man Priya introduced as her boyfriend was none other than Shruthis husband, Hariprasad says. Here, Shruthis response was instantaneous and violent. In a flash of rage, she grabbed a flower pot from the living room and struck her husband on the head, causing a serious injury, he adds. Later, in his cabin, after listening carefully to both sides, Hariprasad expressed his support for Shruthi, stating that her reaction was completely natural for someone who felt betrayed in a relationship. At the same time, he gently encouraged her to consider forgiveness, at least once, suggesting that offering a second chance could lead to meaningful change in their relationship. Shankar, meanwhile, broke down in tears before his wife and the officer, pleading for a second chance. It prompted Shruthi to reconsider her decision to end the relationship. Here, Hariprasad acknowledged her willingness to rethink and commended her maturity in doing so, and wished them both a better and more understanding family life ahead. Before concluding the session, he gave the familiar assurance of a police officer, i.e. if such behaviour was repeated from Shankars side, strict action would follow. Hariprasad also noted that a wide range of complaints reach the police every day, and a significant number among them involve relationship issues that often originate in online spaces and later turned into complex situations. In the digital space, its essential that we all adhere to healthy norms and remain cautious and wise in our interactions, he emphasises. He also urged people not to hesitate in approaching the police with any concern, be it related to law and order or personal matters.
Malayalam Rapper Vedan booked for rape after doctors complaint
KOCHI: Malayalam rap singer Hirandas Murali, popularly known as Vedan, has landed in fresh controversy after a young doctor filed a rape complaint against him. The Thrikkakara police on Wednesday registered a case against the 30-year-old singer, a native of Thrissur. According to the police, the complainant befriended Vedan through Instagram in 2021. Later that year, he allegedly visited her residence and sexually assaulted her. When she considered approaching the police, Vedan reportedly promised to marry her, following which he continued to sexually abuse her without consent. In her complaint, the woman alleged that she was raped on five occasions. Since 2023, the accused allegedly began to distance himself from her, which pushed the victim into emotional trauma. Police said she recently gained the courage to come forward with the complaint. A detailed statement will be recorded soon, and the police will also move court to record her confidential statement. Meanwhile, Vedan has denied the allegations, claiming that the complaint is part of a conspiracy against him. He said he has evidence to support his claims and will soon approach the court seeking anticipatory bail. This is not the first time the rapper has faced legal trouble. Another young woman had raised similar sexual assault complaint against him. He was also arrested in cases under NDPS Act and Wildlife Protection Act for possession of ganja and for wearing a leopard tooth , respectively.
Kerala Kalamandalam marks 60 years of Kutiyattam legacy with global festival
CHERUTHURUTHY/THRISSUR: Sixty years ago, a quiet cultural revolution unfolded in the heart of Kerala. In 1965, Kerala Kalamandalam etched its name in the annals of art history by becoming the first public institution to introduce Koothu and Kutiyattamthe worlds oldest surviving Sanskrit theatre tradition, as academic disciplines. This landmark decision, under the stewardship of legendary maestro Guru Painkulam Ramachakyar, would go on to rescue an ancient ritual art from the fading shadows of obscurity. Now, in 2025, Kerala Kalamandalam is set to mark this extraordinary legacy with a grand celebration - the International Festival of Kutiyattam (IFK-2025). The five-day global gathering that began on Tuesday (from July 29 to August 2), promises to be both a tribute and a forward-looking exploration of an art form that continues to evolve. Kutiyattam, once performed in temple theatres for select audiences, is a complex blend of classical Sanskrit drama, stylised gestures (mudras), facial expressions (rasas), and musical accompaniment. Passed down through generations of Chakyars and Nangiars, the form teetered on the edge of extinction by the mid-20th century. Enter Guru Painkulam Ramachakyar - an artist and reformer - who, through Kerala Kalamandalam, opened the art to institutional training, public performance, and academic inquiry. His vision democratised Kutiyattam, balancing its sacred depth with contemporary relevance. Today, his legacy lives on not only through his disciples but also through a new wave of practitioners, scholars, and cultural custodians. Themed Kutiyattam: Past, Present & Future, the International Festival of Kutiyattam will feature daily performances by some of the most respected names in the field. Among the star performers are Padma Shri Kalamandalam Sivan Namboodiri, Ammannur Kuttan Chakyar, Kalamandalam Rama Chakyar, Kalamandalam Girija, Kalamandalam Eswaranunni, Usha Nangiar, and Kapila - each a stalwart who has contributed to Kutiyattams artistic refinement and international acclaim. Scholarly sessions will complement the performances, fostering debate, dialogue, and demonstration. More than a heritage performance, Kutiyattam is today a living, breathing tradition that continues to engage new audiences.
LDF, UDF delegations in Chhattisgarh protest over arrest of Malayali nuns
KOCHI: Amid rising political tension over the arrest of two Catholic nuns hailing from Kerala, delegations of LDF and UDF arrived at Durg in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday. While the UDF delegation could meet Sr Vandana and Sr Peethy Mary, the LDF team was asked to return on Wednesday. Angamaly MLA Roji M John, Kollam MP N K Premachandran, Chalakudy MP Benny Behanan, Kottayam MP Francis George and Saji Joseph comprised the UDF delegation. The LDF delegation, led by Brinda Karat and including Rajya Sabha MPs Jose K Mani, A A Rahim, P P Suneer and John Brittas and Alathur MP K Radhakrishnan, is scheduled to meet the nuns between 9am and 10am. Francis told TNIE that they were not allowed to meet the nuns initially. This led the UDF delegation to stage an impromptu dharna in front of the police station. The police prevented us from entering the station and told us to come the next day. However, we came to know BJP leaders Anoop Antony and Shone George had been allowed to meet the nuns earlier. They are the reason why we were turned away, alleged Francis. Following this, the UDF leaders contacted former Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel He ensured that we meet the nuns. The nuns are doing okay under the current circumstances. We talked to them. Though emotionally traumatised, they have not been harmed physically. But that cant be said about the man who had accompanied the three girls. He suffered physical harm, said the UDF MP. Meanwhile, the LDF delegation arrived at Durg only in the evening. We arrived late and were told that the visiting time was over. We have been asked to come between 9am and 10am on Wednesday. We will be talking to the nuns and also their family members, who have arrived here, to coordinate the next legal steps that need to be taken. A bail application will be moved on Wednesday, Jose K Mani told TNIE. Kerala BJP distances itself from Chhattisgarh CMs claims; backs nuns accused of conversion Church outfits protest against arrest of nuns Various Church organisations staged protests in Ernakulam and Thrissur on Tuesday against the arrest of two nuns in Chhattisgarh. In Kochi, the Kerala Latin Catholic Association (KLCA) took out a protest march, condemning the arrests as being based on false charges. The protestors termed the incident an encroachment on the Constitution and accused the Chhattisgarh government of enabling communal forces. The KLCA also called for strong intervention from the Central government in the matter. In Thrissur, a protest march was held under the aegis of the Syro-Malabar Churchs Thrissur archdiocese. Muraleedharan alleges attempts to target BJP Senior BJP leader V Muraleedharan has come out against attempts to target the BJP in the arrest of nuns in Chhattisgarh. At a political explanation meeting at Pallithura here, Muraleedharan alleged a conspiracy behind the allegations targeting the BJP.
Couple booked for alleged bid to extort 30 crore from IT firm owner
The accused are Swetha Babu and her husband Krishnaraj of Thrissur. The case was registered on a complaint by Venu Gopalakrishnan who runs a company at Infopark Kochi
Protest in Thrissur against unjust arrest of nuns in Chhattisgarh
Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath says stir will continue until nuns are released
Thrissur court acquits two nuns in human trafficking case
Court finds that the girls were brought from their villages with the full consent of their parents and also in accordance with the girls own wishes
Pooram row: Police HQ returns file on Ajith Kumar without remarks
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Police Headquarters (PHQ) has returned to the state government the report of former State Police Chief Shaik Darvesh Saheb on ADGP M R Ajith Kumars alleged lapses during the 2024 Thrissur Pooram, without adding any remarks. The file was returned to the government last week as incumbent Police Chief Ravada A Chandrasekhar took a stand that there was no ground for him to add any remarks on the report, which was prepared by his predecessor after a detailed inquiry. Earlier, the state government had forwarded Shaiks report to the PHQ seeking remarks of the new head of the force. The move of the state government had appeared outlandish as the report was prepared after a detailed probe by the former police chief, who is senior to Ravada. Sources said the PHQ took a stand that it had no locus standi to give remarks on Shaiks report as the current police chief was never part of any investigation conducted against Ajith. The act of the state government referring the report to the PHQ had raised a few eyebrows. Many felt it was part of the ploy to delay acting on Shaiks report, which reportedly carried critical remarks against Ajith. If Ravada had given remarks suggesting a mild action against the officer, it could have given the government an excuse to go soft on the officer, sources felt. Shaik had filed his report with the government in the last week of June, just days before his retirement, where he reportedly stated that there were lapses from Ajiths part during the pooram. Revenue Minister K Rajan had testified that when the pooram faced disruption, he tried to reach Ajith over phone and that he did not respond. Kerala government approves promotion of ADGP M R Ajith Kumar to DGP rank despite ongoing probe Responding to this, the officer stated before the police chief that when the minister telephoned him, he had returned to his room after overseeing all security preparations and fallen asleep, because of which he did not see the calls. The report said the officers reply showed his failure in performing responsibilities. After Shaik filed the report with the government, the Additional Chief Secretary (Home) noted in the file that the matter was serious and forwarded it to the chief minister for action. Ajith was caught in the eye of the storm ever since former Nilambur legislator P V Anvar raised a slew of serious allegations against him, including allegedly hobnobbing with the RSS leaders to disrupt Thrissur Pooram. The opposition parties and a section of CPI leaders too had seconded the allegation and opined that the Pooram was sabotaged to give electoral gains for the NDA candidate in the Lok Sabha polls. Ajith appointed excise commissioner amid tractor row The government has appointed ADGP M R Ajith Kumar as the new excise commissioner as incumbent commissioner Mahipal Yadav, who is set to retire in August, has gone on commuted leave due to medical issues. Transfer of Ajith outside the police force comes at a time when he is embroiled in a row over his use of tractor in Sabarimala during a personal visit. The state government in May had transferred Ajith, who was ADGP (Armed Battalion), and posted him as excise commissioner. However, the transfer of Ajith and three other IPS officers was reversed after some of them expressed reservations.
Kerala records 66 electrocution deaths in four months amid safety failures
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state has reported a worrying spike in electrical accident deaths, with 66 people losing their lives between April 1 and July 20 this year. Among them, eight deaths were caused by snapped power lines alone. This number -- in just four months -- matches the total from the previous financial year and far exceeds earlier figures. In 2022-23, there were 12 such deaths in the entire year, and eight in 2023-24. Malappuram has reported the highest number of snapped wire deaths this year, with three cases. Kozhikode reported two while Ernakulam, Kollam, and Thrissur reported one each. G Vinod, chief electrical inspector with the state electrical inspectorate, has pointed to the absence of spacers as a major reason for snapped conductors. These spacers are designed to keep wires apart and prevent them from falling to the ground. Their absence has made the lines more vulnerable, especially during rain and wind, Vinod told TNIE. Other major causes of death include accidental contact with live wires, negligence in following safety protocols, faulty appliances, unauthorised electrical work, temporary wiring, and overhead line crossings. Another persistent danger is the lack of Residual Current Circuit Breakers (RCCBs) or Earth Leakage Circuit Breakers (ELCBs) in many households. These devices can prevent electrocution by detecting current leakage and automatically cutting off power. Although made mandatory in 2023, many older homes still lack them, the officer pointed out. Even after July 20, the fatalities have continued. Over the past two days, four more people died in separate incidents across the state. In Kasaragod, an elderly dairy farmer was electrocuted by a fallen power line in his field.
Thrissur Rural police nab attempted murder accused from Gundlupet hideout
Acting on intelligence inputs, a special team tracked the accused to a secluded farmhouse in Shivapura, near Gundlupet, where they had been hiding for the past five days
Houses damaged as trees fall on them in heavy rain in Thrissur
District administration opens three relief camps, where 132 people from 33 families are currently housed. Authorities asked to take pre-emptive measures against landslides and manage dam openings with utmost caution
Kerala reels under heavy rain; IMD issues 'red alert' in three districts
Heavy rains have triggered widespread damage across Kerala, prompting a 'red alert' in Ernakulam, Idukki, and Thrissur due to expected extremely heavy rainfall. An 'orange alert' is in place for several other districts, with warnings issued for rising river levels and potential sea surges along the coasts. Authorities advise caution and vigilance for residents in affected areas.
Collector reviews monsoon preparedness in Thrissur
Collector gave instructions to ensure continuous maintenance and repairs of potholes on roads to guarantee commuter safety
Film screenings as tribute to Shaji N. Karun in Thrissur
Anti-rabies vaccination drive for stray dogs in Tholur panchayat in Thrissur
Initiative is supported by panchayats project funds. Veterinary team covers various wards of panchayat and administers vaccines to over a hundred stray dogs
Thrissur Corporation begins culling of violent wild boars following public complaints
Heavy security in place in Thrissur for Karkidaka Vavu Bali ceremonies
Over 500 police personnel deployed across 87 locations; scuba diving and rescue teams, ambulances, and emergency response units will be stationed at all major venues
Thrissur elephant squad members to attend national training camp in Gujarat
In his complaint, A. A. Muhammad Hashim had stated that he had seen TV visuals of Suresh Gopi wearing the ornament at two functions, one in Thrissur and another in Kannur
Three held in share market fraud worth crores in Thrissur
IMD declares orange alert in nine districts in Kerala on July 20
The IMD issued orange alert for Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasargode.
Bank manager killed in accident in Thrissur
Accident raises questions about road safety and condition of roadsin the district
Peer educators help adolescents face life with confidence, empathy and knowledge
Under the Peer Educator Project launched by Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram, teens are being empowered to guide their peers. As a pilot project, 200 students across four blocks in Thrissur district were trained, with support from health inspectors and junior public health nurses
Kerala rains: IMD warns of heavy rainfall and gusty winds; red alert for five districts
Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod are on red alert on Saturday, while Thrissur, Palakkad, Ernakulam and Idukki are on orange alert
Kerala municipalities improve rankings in national cleanliness survey, eight in top 100
At the top of municipalities from the State was Kochi Corporation at rank 50 among all local bodies in the country. The other municipalities from Kerala among the top 100 areMattannur (rank 53), Thrissur Corporation (58), Kozhikode Corporation (70), Alappuzha municipality (80), Guruvayur municipality (82), Thiruvananthapuram Corporation (89) and Kollam
Thousands gather to witness jumbo feast at Vadakkumnathan temple
Malayalam month of Karkidakam begins with grand Aanayoottu and Gajapuja ritualsin Thrissur
Kerala Home department endorses SPCs report on Thrissur Pooram disruption controversy
The then State Police Chiefs report states a sequence of preventable oversights on the part of State law enforcement and certain sections of temple management contributed to public dissatisfaction over conduct of Thrissur Pooram ahead of 2024 Lok Sabha elections
Govt. wants to ensure land for all eligible families: Minister
978 land titles distributed at Thrissur Taluk-level tile deed adalat
CPI Thrissur district meet concludes; K.G. Sivanandan new district secretary
CPI district meet demands reinstatement of Planning Commission
Three-day National Percussion Festival kicks off in Thrissur
Festival organised by Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akdemi offers a grand celebration of rhythm, sound, and tradition under one roof
Chaldean Syrian Church Archbishop Mar Aprem Metropolitan laid to rest in Thrissur with State honours
The final burial rites were held at Kuruvilaachan Church by 2 p.m. Archbishop Mar Awgin Kuriakose led the service. Mar Aprem was laid to rest near the tombs of his predecessors in a specially prepared tomb
Woman who sustained burns in gas leak dies
Jayashree, 60, of Vellangallur in Thrissur had sustained over 95% burns
IIT alumni to host PALS roadshow in Thrissur on July 12
Bid to transform engineering education in Kerala
Gas leak triggers explosion, elderly couple suffer serious burns in Thrissur
Private bus strike near total in Thrissur
Offices and schools remained open, prompting commuters, including students and employees, to rely heavily on KSRTC and private vehicles to reach their destinations.
However, Crime Branch officials say the agency preferred to keep the time or where they questionedSuresh Gopi confidential for now, given the politically sensitive nature of the probe
Possession of suspected leopard tooth: Union Minister Suresh Gopi to be summoned
The Forest department will issue a notice to actor asking him to produce a pendant which he was seen wearing, and appear before the Divisional Forest Officer, Thrissur, to ascertain whether it is a wildlife trophy. Future course of action will be decided after obtaining his statement, says an officer
Thrissur to host State School Arts Festival
