Never had links with Jamaat-e-Islami, did not seek their votes: Kerala CM
Thrissur: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday claimed that neither the CPI(M) nor the LDF has ever had any association with the Jamaat-e-Islami, rejecting opposition UDF allegations that the Left party and the Muslim outfit were political partners for decades. Vijayan said that the Left Front never had the misfortune of seeking votes from Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
St Johns Hospital in Bengaluru turns 50, doctors honoured
BENGALURU: St Johns Medical College Hospital marked its 50th anniversary on Friday with a Golden Jubilee event held at St Johns National Academy of Health Sciences Auditorium. Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy spoke about the institutions early development, noting that land for the hospital was acquired when the surrounding areas were still farmlands. He referred to the role of Christian missionary groups in setting up educational and health institutions. He remarked on St Johns policy of not retaining management quota seats and handing them over to the government, saying this practice distinguishes it from other private colleges. A Golden Jubilee souvenir was released. Doctors who completed more than 50 years of service at the institution were recognised, including Dr George DSouza, Dean, St Johns Medical College; Dr A Mohan, Department of Neurology; Dr Chandramouli KS, Department of General Medicine; Dr Vijay Joseph, Department of Plastic Surgery and Dr Ravindran GD, Department of Family Medicine. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao; Rev. Fr Jesudoss Rajamanickam, Director, St Johns Medical College Hospital; Most Rev. Andrews Mar Thazhath, President, CBCI and Metropolitan Archbishop of Thrissur; Most Rev. Victor Henry Thakur, Chairman, CBCI Society for Medical Education and Archbishop of Raipur; Most Rev. Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore, and others were present.
2017 Kerala actor abduction case: Pulsar Sunis jail letter pulls Dileep into shadow of conspiracy
KOCHI: In the days following the horrific assault inside a moving SUV in Kochi, Malayalam film industry insiders joined hands in grief and outrage. Among them was actor Dileep, who publicly expressed solidarity and vowed to support his colleagues pursuit of justice. But within months, that atmosphere of empathy would be overshadowed by a startling turn of events. A letter smuggled out of jail, beginning with the desperate plea, I need money, now triggered a chain of revelations that would eventually place Dileep in the shadow of suspicion. Penned by N S Sunil aka Pulsar Suni, the prime accused, and passed on through fellow inmates, the letter hinted at a prior connection and agreement between the two. Each new piece of evidence tightened the noose around Dileep, leading to his arrest on July 10, 2017 a development that stunned the public and shook the film fraternity. ...ever since I got involved... it feels like my life itself has come to an end, the letter further said. On June 3, the survivor issued a statement to the police, implicating Dileep for nurturing deep enmity towards her since 2012. He had been telling everyone that it was the survivor who had ruined his marriage to Manju Warrier. According to police records, Dileep told the survivor in a threatening tone that no one who stood against him in the industry had ever succeeded. As it turned out, Dileeps letter dated May 1, 2017 to the state police chief also rebounded on him. While objecting to Dileeps bail plea, the investigation team filed a report stating that his complaint to the DGP said that his friend, actor-director Nadirshah, received a phone call from a person claiming to be the friend of Suni. This was besides a letter that had been received on his drivers WhatsApp. Both the phone call and letter sought to extort money from Dileep, by threatening to implicate him in the case if he does not pony up. The investigation revealed that Suni had managed to get hold of a mobile phone and SIM card, through accused Vishnu, who was a fellow prisoner in Kakkanad district jail, which were used to make calls to Dileeps associates. It also came to light that the SIM card was stolen from Coimbatore. And, according to the confession of accused Sanal alias Mesthiri Sanal, the phone and SIM card were recovered from his house in Pathanamthitta. The probe further said the letter was originally written by accused Vipinlal in jail and handed over to Vishnu to be passed on to Dileep. The police report objecting to the bail plea of Dileep further said that when questioned in jail, Suni confessed to having entered into a criminal conspiracy with Dileep at their meeting in room 410 of Kochis Abad Plaza Hotel in March-April of 2016. They were both in the city in connection with the rehearsal for a stage show. This was confirmed using witness statements and hotel bills. The room was booked in the name of Dileep for the period from March 26 to April 7. There was a quarrel between Dileep and the victim over the latter having informed on him to Manju. This happened during the rehearsal in the presence of other members of the movie industry, the report stated. Police records stated that Suni confessed to having hatched the plot with Dileep at various shooting locations. The investigation into his statement revealed that the two had met at the Kinattingal Tennis Club in Thrissur, CIFT Junction on Willingdon Island, Ernakulam, and Thodupuzha Santhigiri College in connection with the shooting for the film Georgettans Pooram. Dileep argued that the case against him was the result of a deep-rooted conspiracy, and that it was without any basis. (to be continued) 2017 Kerala actor abduction case: No more, no less... only the truth
Ernakulam tops state in per capita GDDP
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ernakulam district retained the top slot in nominal Gross District Domestic Product (GDDP) figures for 2024-25 released by the economics and statistics department recently. The districts GDDP was Rs 1,67,661.90 crore (quick estimate), up from Rs 1,50,991.63 crore (provisional estimate) in the previous financial year. Residents in the district recorded the highest per capita GDDP of Rs 4,67,428. In terms of nominal GDDP, the value of goods and services produced in a district at current market prices, Ernakulam was followed by Thrissur (Rs 1,30,104.05 crore), Thiruvananthapuram (Rs 1,24,342.30 crore), Kollam (Rs 1,19,217.76 crore) and Malappuram (Rs 1,08,492.85 crore). All these districts had the same ranking in 2023-24 as well. At the bottom of the list was Wayanad with a GDDP of Rs 2,27,19.57 crore. Alappuzha came second in per capita GDDP, a key indicator of a districts economic health and peoples standard of living. The per capita GDDP, a districts GDDP divided by its population, helps in measuring the average income and economic output per person. Kollam recorded the third-highest per capita GDDP of Rs 4,41,719, followed by Kottayam (Rs 4,08,523) and Idukki (Rs 4,04,881). The lowest per capita GDDP was reported in the most populous district of Malappuram Rs 2,20,533. According to C Veeramani, director of the Centre for Development Studies, per capita GDDP is an indicator of a districts development and the residents standard of living. It reveals the inequality in income distribution among residents of different districts. Ideally, the gap between districts should be low, he told TNIE. Growth rate At 10%, Pathanamthitta recorded the highest year-over-year growth rate in per capita GDDP. The growth rate was based on the real GDDP or the total value of goods and prices produced in a district, adjusted for inflation. Kottayam, 8%, recorded the second highest growth rate and Malappuram the lowest, at 2%.
Keralas new local bodies face mounting waste crisis as key projects stall
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: When the new councils take charge in Keralas different local bodies later this month, most will have a common problem on their hands waste management. Kerala generates over 10,000 tonnes of solid waste every day. However, despite the state having systems in place to manage it, it still leaves a lot to be desired. Nearly 1,200 local bodies struggle manage the widening gap between waste generation and available infrastructure to handle it. Lack of land, stiff local resistance and several failed centralised waste management projects continue to hold the state back. Take for example the Rs 2,400-crore World Bank-funded project launched in 2021 to improve solid waste management in 93 urban local bodies. The initiative has come to a grinding halt due to the state governments inability to set up sanitary landfills essential for scientific waste processing. Over the past four years, the Kerala Solid Waste Management Project (KSWMP) tried establishing regional waste management facilities in Kasaragod, Palakkad, Thrissur, Kollam and Ernakulam, but failed. And, officials admit that without setting up regional sanitary landfills, the state cannot utilise the World Bank grant. Local bodies, ward members, residents and even MLAs are opposing waste management projects. Our repeated attempts to set up regional facilities, mandatory for utilising the World Bank grant, have failed. At Ambalamedu in Ernakulam, the local body refused approval to build a landfill due to strong local resistance. We had even prepared a `600-crore project benefiting around 22 surrounding local bodies, a senior government official said. The massive fire at the Brahmapuram waste plant in March 2023 that left Kochi and its suburbs choking for days, served as a turning point, pushing waste management to the top of the governments priority list. To strengthen the system, 38,312 Haritha Karma Sena members were deployed for door-to-door collection of non-biodegradable waste. Last year, they collected 1.5 lakh tonnes of such waste from households and establishments for safe disposal. Kerala generates 7,660 tonnes of biodegradable waste and 2,416 tonnes of non-biodegradable waste daily. However, despite efforts to promote decentralised processing at source, managing biodegradable waste remains a critical concern for most local bodies. Currently, many of them rely on pig farms. While source-level management systems exist in several areas, the department is adopting a hybrid strategy, introducing community-level waste treatment facilities to bridge gaps. To encourage residents to set up source-level systems, the government has announced a 5% exemption in property tax. A statewide survey is on to assess the status of source-level waste management facilities. Its findings will help identify gaps, understand operational realities and plan necessary interventions. Only households with functional waste management systems will be eligible for the exemption. Those unable or unwilling to set these up will be provided waste collection as a paid service, with user fees applicable, an official said. With only a few months left for its term to end, the Local Self-Government Department (LSGD) is gearing up to roll out a slew of initiatives aimed at achieving a garbage-free Kerala under its Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam 2.0 mission. LSGD Minister M B Rajesh told TNIE that the state has overcome the toughest phase of its waste management crisis and is now on a clear path forward. He also said Kerala will become a dumpsite-free state within the next two years. We took the Brahmapuram fire disaster as an opportunity to transform Kerala into a garbage-free state. We have achieved a lot. Now, we have a clear roadmap to move ahead sustainably. Four regional sanitary waste management facilities will become operational by April or May. Compressed biogas (CBG) plants in Palakkad are nearing completion, and work on the Kozhikode CBG plant will begin immediately, Rajesh said. Growing waste burden Kerala generates nearly four million tonnes of solid waste every year, with urban centres accounting for a major share. While biodegradable waste dominates the mix, the strain on waste management systems continues to grow. The figures below capture the scale of the challenge and the infrastructure in place to manage it
Farmer outfits seek written assurance from candidates
KOCHI: With the campaigning for local body elections entering the final stage, farmers organisations have demanded written assurance from candidates on safeguarding the rights of farmers to defend themselves from wild animal attacks. The Kerala Independent Farmers Association (KIFA) and the Catholic Congress have given a call to farmers in the high ranges to get the assurance duly signed by candidates in a prescribed format. The form has been distributed among farmers in the forest fringe areas of Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Palakkad, Thrissur, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Idukki, Pathanamthitta and Thiruvananthapuram. The form states that I (the candidate) and my party assure that we will support any farmer who takes defensive measures to stop wild animals entering farmlands outside the forest as per the provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act 11 (2), and will oppose any move to book criminal cases against them. We will take earnest efforts to make the government accept this stand. Initially some political parties had refused to sign the form. But the farmers declared that they will boycott the election if the candidates refuse to sign the form. Now candidates are willingly signing it and some candidates have taken the printouts on their own and and delivered them to the farmers. Our stand is that we will support only candidates who stand for the farmers cause. Besides we are putting up flex boards in all wards of forest fringe areas. The flex board carries the message that No vote for those who stand for wild animals, said KIFA chairman Alex Ozhukayil. The Catholic Congress has issued a statement urging farmers to demand candidates to declare their stand on issues affecting the farmers. We will respond to political parties who ignore the woes of farmers. The plan is to expose politicians who failed to implement the assurance on ensuring fair price to rubber and paddy farmers. Politicians are circulating spicy narratives to divert attention from the core issues. We will demand candidates to give a written assurance on ensuring protection under Section 11 (2) of Wildlife Protection act to farmers who defend themselves from wild animals raiding crops, said Catholic Congress global director Fr Philip Kaviyil. As many as 32 people were killed by wild elephants in 2025 while three others were mauled by tigers. The farmers are unable to cultivate crops due to increasing wild animal attacks. We want political parties to take a proactive stand to save farmers from wild animals, he said. Meanwhile, a senior forest official said some people are circulating exaggerated figures of deaths in wild animal attacks. Only 15 deaths have occurred in wild elephant attacks in 2025-26, which is lower that the previous years. The total number of deaths in wild animal conflicts this year is 21 and two of the victims were killed by tigers. There were four deaths in wild pig attacks. We have succeeded in bringing down the deaths due to snakebites which is 13 this year compared to 34 in the previous year, he said.
2017 Kerala actor abduction case: No more, no less... only the truth
KOCHI: On February 17, 2017, she was in a pleasant mood when she left her home in Patturaikkal, near Thrissur, for a film shoot in Kochi. She boarded the SUV -- arranged by the production company Lal Creations -- at 7 pm, and was headed to Panampilly Nagar, according to the first information report (FIR). In one and a half hours, her whole world was to turn upside down. It all started when a gang of reportedly three hired gangsters who had been pursuing the actor in the van bearing the name of a catering firm rammed their vehicle into the SUV around 8:30 pm near Nedumbassery airport junction to create the scene of an accident. They had tracked her based on information provided by the SUVs driver, Martin. Two of the gangsters barged into the vehicle and covered her mouth with their palms. They threatened her and grabbed the actors mobile. When the vehicle reached Palarivattom, Martin and two gang members stepped out to make way for first accused N S Sunil aka Pulsar Suni, who had initially masked his face with a towel, and two other accomplices -- who entered the vehicle en route and held down the victim. With Suni at the wheel, Martin joined the gang in their van. Having made his way to Kakkanad, Suni stopped the vehicle near an isolated bridge. He then moved to the back seat and forced the actor to sit on his lap. Despite her protestations and appeals, he overpowered and sexually assaulted her from 8:30pm to 11pm. Suni also recorded visuals of the abuse on his cell phone. Final hearing in 2017 Kerala actor abduction case on May 21 According to the FIR, Suni threatened her, saying: If you cooperate for a two-to three-minute video, I will let you go wherever you want. If not, I will take you to the DD Retreat flat where many are waiting. I cant say what they will do once they get their hands on you. The ordeal ended when she was abandoned at Padamugal, near Kakkanad, the report said. After the brutal abuse, the actor proceeded to seek shelter at the house of Lal, who runs Lal Creations and was directing the movie she was working on. She reached the nearby residence completely terrified, collapsed into Lals arms, and began sobbing uncontrollably. Though Lal and his wife tried to console her after hearing about the incident, she was shattered and spent the night there. Meanwhile, Lal called late Congress MLA P T Thomas and movie producer Anto Joseph. They became instrumental in safeguarding her and initiating immediate action. They also encouraged her to file the complaint. Soon after, police officers arrived, and an FIR was registered. On February 20, members of the film industry assembled at Durbar Hall in Kochi to declare their solidarity with the actor. Masculinity is not something that should be imposed on women, veteran actor Mammootty said, pledging his support to ensure justice for the survivor. The abduction and assault are part of a criminal conspiracy, actor Manju Warrier said, addressing the gathering. In the days that followed, the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) emerged as a powerful voice, standing firmly with the actor. Kerala HC dismisses actor Dileep's request to transfer investigation to CBI Recounting Thomas intervention, his wife and MLA Uma Thomas said, That night, PT was preparing to go to bed after a late night when the phone rang. He hurried to go out again. Normally, he kept me in the loop, but this time he didnt say anything. He returned only at dawn, looking extremely distressed. He had remained awake throughout the night and seemed troubled, as if something had happened to his own daughter. She said based on the behaviour of the driver, Thomas grew suspicious and sensed a deeper conspiracy behind the assault. Uma said Thomas, who was witness number 10, was pressured from several quarters against giving a statement. But, he remained resolute, telling those who approached him that he would speak no more, no less... only the truth, she told TNIE. (to be continued) How can accused demand CBI probe, Kerala HC asks actor Dileep
Suresh Gopi defends Olympic event proposal in BJP manifesto
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Union Minister Suresh Gopi on Wednesday defended the proposal in BJPs manifesto for Thiruvanthapuram corporation to bring an Olympic event to the capital city, dismissing the criticism raised by General Education Minister V Sivankutty. When the Olympics is coming to India, Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur, Alappuzha, in fact all 14 districts must have their share of participation. When someone presents such a great dream of bringing an Olympic event venue to the state capital, it is unfair for a politician to dilute such an attempt, he said. He stressed that the Olympics could usher in a new era of economic mobilisation. Hosting such a grand event will generate significant revenue for the country. Regular tourism activities and cultural exchange programmes will naturally take place, he said, adding that politicians should not attempt to dilute such visionary proposals. Reiterating his stand on establishing AIIMS in Alappuzha, Suresh Gopi pointed to the districts current condition and said the decision aligns with the motto Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas (Together, for everyones growth, with everyones trust). I suggested Alappuzha because development must be ensured where it is most needed, he said. Later, the minister visited the Poonkulam colony in Thycaud to campaign for NDA candidate Kasthuri Anirudhan. When residents apprised him of their difficulties, he said, Change will happen, and it should start by you giving an opportunity for BJP. The BJP will ensure change, and development is the partys key goal. NDAs election manifesto for the corporation, released on November 30, ignited a political row after it proposed efforts to make the city one of the event venues for the 2036 Olympics. Leaders from both the UDF and LDF ridiculed the idea, with senior Left leaders like Minister Sivankutty calling it an attempt to mislead voters and Congress leader K Muraleedharan dismissing it as a hollow promise. BJP leaders, however, stood firm, with Rajeev Chandrasekhar and others, and now Suresh Gopi, also insisting the proposal is achievable. As the debate gained traction, several BJP leaders, including V V Rajesh and party ward councillor candidates, have begun highlighting the Olympics venue pledge prominently in their campaign meetings.
Keralas women leaders redefine local governance amid challenges, change
KOCHI: Man is defined as a human being and a woman as a female whenever she behaves as a human being she is said to imitate the male. - Simone de Beauvoir, The Second Sex When Kerala reserved 50% of local-body seats for women in 2010, it marked a watershed in governance. Today, the question is not about womens participation but about how their growing presence is changing local-body governance and influencing the everyday lives of common people. Their perspectives are reshaping how local projects are planned and implemented. But, whether this policy has empowered them as independent decision-makers remains a debate. In 2020, when Aswathy Vibi assumed office as president of Mattathur panchayat, in Thrissur, the projects being implemented by the local body were mostly limited to road development, canal cleaning, and streetlights. Three years on, the panchayat was running wellness clubs, anaemia screening and womens safety initiatives. Her interventions as a woman leader helped address several burning issues and improve the public health system. We conducted a gender status study in the panchayat. It was proposed and implemented because I am a woman and we have many women in governance. We found that women face health issues like anaemia. They have limited access to public spaces and open gyms. And so we launched wellness centres and clubs for them, she said, adding that though 10% of plan funds have historically been allocated for the welfare of women, utilisation has been called into question. In 2023, Mattathur was adjudged the third-best panchayat in the state. When, at the age of 21, Reshma Mariam Roy took charge as president of Aruvappulam panchayat, in Pathanamthitta, she created history as the youngest person in the state to do so. Being a peoples representative is about listening to their problems, grievances, complaints and even their joys. We must find legal and timely solutions and follow them up. We have to stand with them. They consider me one of their own, and I show the same commitment in return, she said. Aruvappulam went on to bag the prestigious Swaraj Trophy for the best gram panchayat in the district twice under her leadership. The state currently has over 530 local bodies helmed by women. There are more than 52% women candidates contesting in the upcoming local-body election. All three mainstream political parties have fielded more women candidates -- some even in general seats. Studies in the early years of womens reservation revealed a significant reduction in corruption in local bodies. We need to study if the trend continues. Women also have a say in natural resource utilisation. Now it is not about the number of women, but how these women are performing and contributing to the welfare and development of the state, said writer C S Chandrika. Once more women come to power, policy making will naturally become more sensitive, according to Dr Poornima Narayanan, researcher and economist. They have the experience and practical understanding to identify what changes policies need and how they can be improved. Women also tend to be more accessible and inclusive. By virtue of their gender, they bring certain perspectives and work accordingly. Women leaders understand needs and issues, and policy changes will follow, she said. The 73rd and 74th constitutional amendments mandate a minimum of 33% reservation for women in both rural and urban local bodies. The issue of proxy leadership, however, where elected women representatives are controlled by male relatives or party members, remains a major concern. Public perception has changed to an extent, but a section still believes women are not capable of governance, and male colleagues often reinforce this idea. Women are efficient in implementing projects, but there are clear limitations, said Sulfath M, head of the Equal Representation Movement. Women representatives often struggle due to the social and cultural expectations for them to take care of their families, mobility restrictions and limited access to technology. Self-help groups like Kudumbashree have helped in training and empowering women, making them capable of leading. Women were restricted from working with the public full time. People used to tell me not to stay late in office, saying managing family and work would be difficult. But my intention was to change that notion. But many women have limitations due to responsibilities to the family, said Aswathy. Poornima Narayan, a former councillor of Kochi corporation, added that it is encouraging to see increased participation of young women. Women are gaining greater recognition. We are seeing more young girls entering electoral politics, which is a positive change. But these women need to work independently and ensure there is no back-seat driving, she said.
Kerala records 100 new HIV cases each month
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala, long considered a low-prevalence state for AIDS, is witnessing a worrying rise in HIV infections among young people aged 1524. Their share of new cases has climbed from 9% in 2022 to 15.4% in 2025, with an average of 100 new HIV-positive cases reported monthly. Data shows that 62.6% of infections are linked to unprotected sex with multiple partners, while 24.6% are associated with same-sex relations. Another 8.1% stems from infected needles. Migration for education and work has further heightened the risk. Despite ongoing interventions, the annual number of new cases remains steady at around 1,200, and currently, 23,608 people live with HIV in Kerala. A report by Kerala State AIDS Control Society (KSACS) found that the lifestyle of young people is contributing to the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. There seems to be a clear lapse in creating proper awareness about sexual health and hygiene. There is a need to increase awareness among youths. Many are unaware that even a single sexual encounter carries risk, said Reshmi Madhavan, Joint Director of the KSACS. She noted that campaigns have helped identify patients in high-risk groups and provide early treatment. KSACS has intensified awareness efforts with Red Ribbon volunteers, conducting campaigns in 210 schools and colleges using a specially designed KSRTC bus. Social media outreach has also grown, with more young people engaging silently with KSACS content. District-wise, Ernakulam reports the highest number of cases, followed by Thiruvananthapuram and Thrissur, while Wayanad records the lowest. Yet, concerns remain about underreporting. HIV is not a notifiable disease, and patients have the right not to disclose their status. With 72% of the public relying on private healthcare, actual numbers may be higher, Reshmi added. Currently, only 83% of people living with HIV in the state know their status, short of the UNAIDS 95-95-95 target for 2025, which aims that by 2025, 95% of all people living with HIV know their status, 95% of those diagnosed receive sustained antiretroviral therapy (ART), and 95% of those on ART achieve viral suppression. The state provides treatment through 18 centres (including three private), with nearly 18,000 patients receiving free daily ART. Additionally, 10,000 patients receive monthly financial support of Rs 1,000. HIV prevalence World : 4.08 crore India : 25 lakh Kerala : 23608 New cases 2022-23 : 1183 2023-24 : 1263 2024-25 : 1213 2025- 26 (till Oct) : 818 Total : 4477 Main Route of Transmission Heterosexual sex : 62.6% Homosexual/Bisexual sex : 24.6% Through infected needles/Syringes : 8.1%
BJP Kerala chief to contest from Nemom in 2026 Assembly elections
THRISSUR: BJP state chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Tuesday said that he would contest the 2026 assembly elections from Nemom constituency. He was speaking at the Meet the Press programme titled Vote Vibe of Thrissur Press Club. Nemom constituency in Thiruvananthapuram is an important one for BJP as its senior leader O Rajagopal had won the seat earlier. Currently, Minister V Sivankutty is the MLA from Nemom. Though there were reports that Rajeev was likely to contest in the assembly election, it is the first time he has revealed the name of the constituency from where he plans to contest. Urging people to give a chance to the NDA, Rajeev said that Vikasith Thrissur would be their promise. He also put forward certain schemes like doorstep governance through digital technology. He pointed out that in most local bodies in Kerala, at least 30 to 40 per cent of budget funds was being wasted, which should be avoided. To a question on AIIMS in Kerala, the BJP state chief responded that the state government didnt acquire the land for the institution.
Back to basics: With poll aspirations, five ex-MLAs look to retrace their steps in Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Taking their politics to the grassroots, five former MLAs are contesting the upcoming local-body elections. And, it looks to be back to the basics for Anil Akkara, K S Sabarinadhan, E M Augusthy, R Latha Devi, and K C Rajagopalan. Taking his campaign to the Sanskrit College ward of Adat grama panchayat, in Thrissur district, Anil is no stranger to local governance. He led the panchayat as president for two successive terms from 2000 and represented the same ward in 2005. His election as Congress MLA of Wadakkanchery in 2016 adds heft to his candidature. I am no stranger here. During my time, it was a model panchayat. But both the LDF and the BJP failed to preserve our legacy. This time, our focus is on rebuilding its former glory and ensuring development and progress, Anil said. Seeking the backing of the Maramon ward of Mezhuveli grama panchayat, in Pathanamthitta district, CPM veteran K C Rajagopalan is also banking on local ties. He had served as vice-president of the panchayat in 1979 and its president in 1988. Rajagopalan, who won the Aranmula assembly seat in 2006, had stepped down from active politics after turning 75 last December. Having dedicated myself to both small and large development projects in this panchayat over the years, I am a familiar face here. Though I have not held official positions recently, the strong encouragement from local residents and party workers willed me into the picture. I am determined to continue advancing welfare initiatives across all sectors, said Rajagopalan. Featuring in local-body polls for the first time, senior CPI leader Latha Devi is the LDF candidate in the Chadayamangalam division of Kollam district panchayat. A former MLA from the same region, she considers the contest a return to her political roots. Carrying the UDF banner in the Kowdiar ward of Thiruvananthapuram corporation, former Aruvikkara MLA Sabarinadhan has been projected as the Congress mayoral face. The party hopes his candidature will help revive its position in the capitals civic body. There is a strong desire among the people for change. We have the early-bird advantage, and being a familiar face adds trust and credibility. With high expectations all round, hopes are running high, said Sabarinadhan. Bringing his legislative experience to the local level, AICC member and three-time MLA Augusthy is contesting from the Irupathekkar ward of Kattappana municipality. He made it to the assembly from Udumbanchola in 1991 and 1996 and from Peermade in 2001. I began my journey as a panchayat member in Kattappana in 1978 and later held other positions. I consider local-body elections as important as assembly and Lok Sabha polls, Augusthy said. R Latha Devi LDF candidate in the Chadayamangalam division of Kollam district panchayat K S Sabarinadhan UDF candidate in Kowdiar ward of TPuram corporation K C Rajagopalan LDF candidate in Maramon ward of Mezhuveli grama panchayat in Pathanamthitta E M Augusthy UDF candidate in Irupathekkar ward of Kattappana municipality in Idukki Anil Akkara UDF candidate in Sanskrit College ward of Adat grama panchayat in Thrissur
Kerala local body polls 2025: National weightlifting champion steps into a new arena
Chitra Chandramohan to contest as the LDF candidate in the Valarkavu division of the Thrissur Corporation
Thrissur emerges as overall champions at State Special School Arts Festival
District Collector felicitates students, cash awards for all A-grade winners
Key accused in major MDMA case in Kerala arrested at airport while attempting to flee abroad
Manjeswaram police take into custody Thrissur native Shamsudheen who has been wanted for over a year
Kerala local body polls 2025: Thrissur sees a political pooram ahead of polls
LDFs development pitch, UDFs revival push, and BJPs expanding footprint are setting the stage for one of the most anticipated civic battle in the State
Karuvannur bank stalls ED move to return attached assets
KOCHI: Resolution continues to remain a mirage for the hapless depositors of the scam-hit Karuvannur Service Cooperative Bank in Thrissur. Even as the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which is probing the financial fraud, readies itself to return confiscated assets, bank officials are allegedly unwilling to accept possession a reluctance that has left depositors stuck in an endless wait for their own money. In its submission before the Special Court for PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act) cases, the ED stated that the bank is the primary aggrieved party in the alleged money-laundering offence, and that eligible customers are legally entitled to have their deposits restored once the attached properties are transferred to the bank. According to ED sources who spoke to TNIE, investigators have already identified proceeds of crime including cash, movable assets, and immovable properties which were subsequently attached. Four provisional attachment orders were issued under Section 5 of PMLA, covering assets worth Rs 128.82 crore. The agency stated that it is prepared to hand over the attached properties to the bank, enabling it to release fixed deposits to rightful claimants. The assets include properties mortgaged to the institution itself, which could directly contribute to repayment. The ED pointed out that under the Prevention of Money-Laundering (Restoration of Confiscated Property) Rules, 2016, the bank has the option to approach the court and seek formal restoration or release of these assets. Yet, no substantial step has been taken so far, it said. Speaking to TNIE, counsel for the ED said the banks unwillingness to take charge of assets ready for restitution has become a major hurdle in the resolution process. He noted that a similar restoration was executed in the case pertaining to the financial crime at Kandla Service Cooperative bank an investigation that began later, but was settled without friction. Bank can compensate depositors if all attached assets are restituted Responding to the allegations, counsel for the bank maintained that the institution is cooperating with the investigation and has already filed a counter to the EDs affidavit. We are waiting for the individuals named in the affidavit to file their responses. Several people have been accused in the complaint, and the court has given them an opportunity to respond, said Anil Nair, counsel for the bank. Sreelal R L, administrator of Karuvannur bank, told TNIE that the ED has offered to restitute properties worth around Rs 120 crore, but several of these assets have counter cases pending in various courts. Even if we receive them, we may still be unable to compensate depositors fully. What we are asking is for the ED to restitute properties that have no cases pending or no accused linked to them, he said. He said the bank is confident that it can compensate depositors if all the attached assets are restituted. Bank officials also reiterated that they are not in a position to return documents of loans already cleared by borrowers, owing to the impounding of the files. Meanwhile, depositors of the bank are preparing to approach the High Court seeking expeditious return of seized properties, as the resolution process continues to remain indefinitely stalled. ED-bank faceoff The ED chargesheet states the total proceeds of Karuvannur bank scam is Rs I344 crore, with the principal amount being Rs I180 crore. The central agency has offered to return assets worth Rs I128.82 crore. However, Karuvannur bank claims the offered assets have pending cases and appeals Bank says it can compensate depositors if all the attached assets are restituted Karuvannur trail The financial scam came to light when Sreekala E S, the secretary-in-charge of the bank, filed a complaint on July 14, 2021, alleging the former secretary and employees had swindled about `100 crore from the bank The case was transferred to the crime branch on July 21, 2021. Subsequently, the ED initiated proceedings under the PMLA, 2002, on August 2, 2021 The ED has arrested several persons, including former bank secretary Sunil Kumar T R, Wadakancherry municipal health standing committee chairman and CPM member Aravindakshan P R, and former senior accountant of bank C K Jils. It has also questioned former minister and CPM leader A C Moideen and former MP P K Biju in the case The ED uncovered serious lapses in the sanctioning of loans at the bank. It stated that there was deep-rooted conspiracy to embezzle money from the public and make gains for the party as well as its leaders
Fort Kochi to see bishop consecration after 25 years
KOCHI: Fort Kochi is preparing for the consecration of a new bishop after 25 years. Monsignor Antony Kattiparambil will be consecrated as the 36th bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Cochin on December 7. The ceremony will be held at the Parade Ground in Fort Kochi and will be presided over by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao, Archbishop of Goa and Daman. According to Diocesan Chancellor Fr Johney Xavier Puthukkattu, Fort Kochi has witnessed episcopal consecrations at intervals of 25 years over the past century, with the last one held in 2000. Cardinal Ferrao will serve as the principal consecrator, while Archbishop Joseph Kalathiparambil of Verapoly and Bishop Emeritus Joseph Kariyil of Cochin will be the co-consecrators. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 3.30pm. Fr Johney added that the presence of Cardinal Ferrao in the upcoming ceremony reflects the historic ties between the Cochin Diocese and Goa. The Diocese was established on February 4, 1557, by Pope Paul IV as a suffragan of the Archdiocese of Goa. Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli and around 30 bishops from the Latin, Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara Churches will attend the ceremony, along with priests, nuns and an estimated 12,000 believers from 51 parishes across Ernakulam and Alappuzha districts. The consecration will take place during Holy Mass, which will include the imposition of hands and anointing with chrism. Prayers and hymns will be recited in Latin, English and Malayalam. A choir of 170 singers selected from various parishes will be led by Fr Rafi Kootumkal and Fr Bibin George Thareparambil. The homily will be delivered by Thalassery Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplany. The Apostolic Nuncio, Syro-Malabar Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil, Thrissur Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath and Calicut Archbishop Varghese Chakkalakal will also address the gathering. The Diocese has arranged 20 seating sectors at Santa Cruz Square to accommodate the gathering. Volunteers will assist police in managing the crowd and traffic. E-toilets, a medical team and ambulances from Fatima Hospital, Perumpadappu, will be available at the venue.
Mayors step aside as assembly beckons
KOCHI : A student who has passed Class 10 cannot be admitted back to Class 8. General Education Minister V Sivankuttys recent quip, made while explaining why Thiruvananthapuram mayor Arya Rajendran is not being fielded in the upcoming local-body polls, has quickly become a metaphor for moving the needle on ascending the political ladder in the state. His comment suggested that politicians who have completed a full term are ready for the next stage, widely interpreted as a nod to Aryas prospects in the 2026 assembly election. Sivankuttys own political journey underscores the point. Long before he entered the assembly and became a minister, he served as mayor of Thiruvananthapuram from 1995 to 2000, one of the earliest examples of a local-body chief rising to state-level leadership. The CPMs V K C Mammed Koya, who later represented Beypore in the assembly, also took the same route after serving as mayor of Kozhikode. This trajectory is now becoming the norm rather than the exception. Kozhikode mayor Beena Philip, Kochi mayor M Anilkumar, and Thrissur mayor M K Varghese are also staying out of the fray, prompting widespread speculation that they are setting the stage for bigger battles. Anilkumars name is already under consideration for the Tripunithura constituency. Analysts say that this is part of a larger shift in political grooming within Kerala. With decades of decentralisation empowering municipalities and corporations, local bodies have become the states most effective leadership training ground. Earlier, student politics was the route to the assembly. Today, the panchayati raj system shapes political grooming, said senior journalist Jacob George. Past examples are clear. Former Thiruvananthapuram mayor V K Prashanth eased his way into the assembly. In Thrissur, former mayor R Bindu became a minister. In the Congress, Ernakulam MLA T J Vinod who spent 25 years as a councillor and later became deputy mayor says his years in local governance remain foundational. Local bodies are where the real training happens, he said. Experts welcome the trend. This is common worldwide, noted Dr D Dhanuraj of the Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR), a Kochi-based think-tank. Even in India, several leaders during the freedom struggle had served as mayors or deputy mayors. Local-level politicians should be promoted. They know the issues on the ground and can represent their constituencies more effectively, he said, adding that such a trend also helps strengthen a partys organisational base. Former legislator Sebastian Paul said mayors, who often oversee areas spanning multiple assembly constituencies, naturally gain a wide administrative perspective. With reservations limiting repeated mayoral terms, it is logical for them to move to the assembly, he said. As Kerala heads into the local-body elections, several mayors not on the ballot signals more than a reshuffle. It captures a clear political shift: Local bodies have become Keralas launch pads to the assembly and many of todays mayors may soon be graduating to their next class in state politics. Meanwhile, parties are also using this local-body election to promote a new generation. Across panchayats, municipalities, and corporations, CPM, Congress, and BJP have all fielded young candidates who are being groomed as future leaders. Party insiders say this is a deliberate move as senior mayors and councillors prepare to move up to the assembly, fresh faces are being placed at the grassroots to build the next rung of leadership.
With UDF, NDA snapping at LDFs heels, Guruvayur set for close fight
THRISSUR: In administering a temple town that attracts nearly 5 crore devotees annually, the task of running Guruvayur municipality can be at times overwhelming. With another local-body election round the corner, discussions in Guruvayur revolve around what political front can offer practical solutions to the problems faced by both residents and visitors. After the municipality was formed in 1995, it was the UDF that had the first go at governing it. But since 2000, it has been all the LDF. In the last five terms, the town has favoured the left, and with an increasing majority. However, the growing influence of the UDF and the NDA in recent years threatens to play spoilsport, and a close contest could be in the offing. Being a town with annual visitor numbers comparable to the entire population of Kerala, a major challenge we faced was management of waste. Through effective interventions, the LDF-led council introduced practical solutions that have changed the face of Guruvayur. Earlier, devotees to the temple couldnt walk barefoot through the town streets due to piles of waste and open defecation. But, now, the situation is entirely different. We have sanitation workers managing the waste over three shifts. Shavakotta, which used to be the dumping yard of Guruvayur, is now a childrens park, M Krishnadas, municipality chairman, told TNIE. Implementation of the Guruvayur drainage canal project, mooted 50 years ago, has been another milestone as far as Guruvayur is considered, he said. However, BJP councillor Shobha Harinarayanan questioned the claims. The canal project has been an utter failure as the Valiyathodu is still full of sewage and septage waste, despite spending crores. If the municipality could achieve anything, it was only because of central funds. The municipality and devaswom had at their disposal `100 crore under the Prasadam project, for which Guruvayur was selected. But, the LDF-led municipalitys lack a vision failed to put the money to good use, she said. BJP has two seats in the municipality, including Gurupavanapuri, where the Sree Krishna temple is situated. Since 2016, people in Guruvayur have been backing the development agenda of the BJP. This will reflect in the upcoming election, said Niveditha Subrahmanian, Thrissur West committee president. Meanwhile, the UDF is pinning its hopes on anti-incumbency following five terms of LDF rule. The Congress has been focused on reclaiming Guruvayur with grassroots-level work. We were the first to come up with the candidate list and launch campaigning. We are fully confident of overthrowing the LDF this time, as that is what the people desire, said R Ravikumar, UDF election committee chief coordinator in Guruvayur. While the LDF has several rebel candidates, UDF has only one. Following delimitation, the civic body now has 46 divisions -- up from the earlier 43. In an unusual scenario, the CPM local committee secretary even approached the court against the exercise, but the petition was rejected. Pending devpt projects Establishment of a sewage treatment plant in Guruvayur Expansion of the Guruvayur drainage canal Infrastructure upgrade, including improved facilities for pilgrims
NDA manifesto for Thrissur Corporation promises major development push
Suresh Gopi releases document outlining five key projects
NEP a 'weapon' to expose lies in compilation of history, says Union Minister Suresh Gopi
Interacting with people and party workers in his Lok Sabha constituency, Thrissur, Suresh Gopi alleged that the country's history had been distorted and portrayed in a wrong manner
In shifting sands of politics, faith is moving mountains
KOCHI: ... The futures in the air I can feel it everywhere Blowing with the wind of change... The Scorpions ballad on profound changes taking place in Europe in the early 1990s can hold a mirror to the evolving political picture in central Kerala. Winding ones way though Meenachil River-kissed Pala, Poonjar, and Bharananganam, the highlands of Idukki, and the gently rolling regions of Thrissur and Ernakulam, the shift is very evident -- and splashed across compound walls. Posters of candidates from traditional, influential Christian families now bear the lotus symbol. What was once considered odious has become a defining feature of this local body elections. In a development that is without precedent, the BJP has allotted nearly 1,900 seats to Christian candidates. And the shift isnt just numerical its psychological. The untouchability factor that kept the community away from the saffron party for decades is wearing thin, according to political observers. BJP state vice president Shone George is keen to highlight the momentum. In Christian belts such as Poonjar and Pala, around 60% of our candidates are Christians, he said. The feedback from house visits is remarkable. Families are warm, receptive many are big Narendra Modi fans now. While asserting that radical Islam has pushed Christians closer to the BJP, Shone concedes the party struggled to keep up with demand. We couldnt find enough Christian candidates everywhere. But KCYM members, Catholic Congress workers they are coming forward. This is just the beginning. This election marks a psychological break, according to political observer Milton Francis. The untouchability is gone. The acceptability of BJP candidates has grown sharply not just among affluent Christian families but even among Church leaders, he said. In the high ranges, Thrissur, Iritty, Nadapuram, Peravoor, and Taliparamba Christian votes are decisive. The BJP is fielding Christian candidates even in Kozhikode, reflecting how much the ground has shifted, he pointed out, adding that many families view Rajeev Chandrasekhar as an acceptable, professional, credible face of the party. The Catholic Congress, the official lay organisation of the Syro-Malabar Church, echoes the communitys evolving political posture. Its president, Rajeev Kochuparambil, says the organisation welcomes the new assertiveness of Christian voters. This time, there has been a sharp increase in the number of seats the BJP has allotted to Christian candidates, he said. Our stand is simple the communitys issues must be taken up by elected representatives. We are not opposed to any political party or front. But once elected, representatives must be willing to listen to our concerns. However, Apu John Joseph, Kerala Congress state chief coordinator and son of party supremo P J Joseph, argues that the BJPs sudden embrace of Christians is shallow. The arrest of two Kerala nuns in Chhattisgarh earlier this year, on allegations of forced conversion, exposed this, he said. The incident was a realisation that the BJPs newfound affection has no real grounds, Apu added. It reminded Christian leaders that the BJP is no friend of Christians. Those who were drifting towards them are now having second thoughts. Apu counters the BJPs narrative of Christian under-representation within the UDF. Four of our MPs Dean Kuriakose, Anto Antony, Hibi Eden, and Francis George are Catholic. Benny Behanan is Jacobite. Nearly 28% of UDF MPs are Christian, far above the communitys share of population, he said. Kerala Congress (Joseph) is contesting in 615 local-body seats this time, up from around 500 in 2020. Within the LDF, the Kerala Congress (M), which contested around 850 seats in 2020, is now fighting 930-plus seats. A political analyst says this more liberal seat allocation to Kerala Congress parties by both UDF and LDF can be attributed to the rising influence of the BJP within the Christian community. Both KC (M) and Kerala Congress have increased their footprint to thwart the BJPs moves to capture the Christian vote, he said. These parties sense that the BJP has made its way into spaces that were once exclusively theirs. A senior KC (M) leader, requesting anonymity, concurred. People are fed up with the Congress infighting. The untouchability factor is slipping away even traditional UDF voters are coming to us and the BJP, he said. Meanwhile, even smaller flash points such as the Munambam land dispute and the Palluruthy school hijab row sharpened the communitys anxieties on identity and institutional autonomy, issues the BJP has used to deepen its outreach. But, for the saffron party, this election is an opening. Local-body polls will set the trend, Shone insisted. We will go full steam by next years assembly election.
INTERVIEW| Expect saffron surge in local body elections
KOCHI: Kerala has reached the threshold of a development era and the local body election results may herald a political change, says Bharath Dharma Jana Sena (BDJS) president and SNDP Yogam vice-president Thushar Vellappally. The NDA will wrest power in Thiruvananthapuram and Thrissur corporations and several municipalities, he told TNIE. Excerpts: Which factors will favour the NDA? NDA-ruled states in North India are witnessing a major transformation in human development while Kerala is lagging behind. Youngsters are leaving the state. The state is financially unstable. People anxious about Keralas future are looking at the NDA as an alternative. What is your development plan for local bodies? In local bodies where NDA is voted to power, we will present a development plan. We will identify schemes for each local body and initiate steps to get funds from the Centre. The state government has refused to implement several central schemes like the PM SHRI on political grounds. Do you think the Sabarimala issue will work in favour of the NDA? I think reports of gold theft at the temple may influence voters in some localities. The Ezhava community has been traditionally affiliated to CPM. Now, BJP is claiming there has been a change in their approach. The change in the communitys outlook has been phenomenal. As per an analysis by the BJP national leadership, around 35-40% of the Ezhavas have started shifting loyalty towards NDA. The formation of BDJS has provided them a platform to get into the national stream. Both NSS and SNDP Yogam general secretaries recently came out in support of the LDF government. Will this confuse members of the communities who are NDA supporters? The community leaders expressed their approval towards the positive initiatives of the government. They have not tried to mobilise votes for any particular party. How is the coordination among NDA allies after Rajeev Chandrasekhar took over as BJP state president? It is excellent. No other party had a president with such calibre. We have to accept his personality. I feel his positive approach will help BJP grow in the state.
LDF manifesto for Thrissur Corporation unveils vision for green city
With emphasis on environmental harmony and heritage protection, the manifesto positions the next phase of governance as one that can turn Thrissur into a nationally recognised model city
INTERVIEW| There is a visible change in approach towards BJP
KOCHI: The BJPs campaign for the local-body elections is focused on development issues, state general secretary Anoop Antony says in a conversation with TNIE, adding that political equations in the state has changed. Excerpts: The BJP has not been able to corner power in Kerala, where politics has been largely bipolar. What is your strategy for this election? The equations have changed. We have focused our campaign on development issues. There are concerns that have been neglected by both fronts. There is a visible change in the approach towards the BJP. There is a strong sentiment against the gold theft at Sabarimala and the state government is facing backlash from devotees. This will work in our favour. What are your expectations? In the previous election, we wrested control of 19 panchayats and two municipalities. This time round, the NDA will rule Thiruvananthapuram and Thrissur corporations, besides hundreds of panchayats and several municipalities. We are presenting a novel concept of new-age governance. The focus will be on weeding out corruption and bringing the benefits of hitherto unknown central schemes to the common man. We organised development seminars in all local bodies and compiled suggestions of projects to be taken up. We will be releasing the development documents for each local body within a week. What is special about BJPs election manifesto? In local bodies where the BJP will be in majority, the party will introduce a development blueprint within 45 days. The document will have details of development projects that will be implemented over the next five years. But people will also evaluate the partys performance... I accept there were internal issues in Palakkad and Pandalam. But those were resolved amicably without impacting governance. Palakkad is the first municipality in Kerala to be brought under blanket CCTV surveillance. Both Palakkad and Pandalam ensured that the benefits of central schemes reach the common man. We are fighting the election highlighting our achievements. The BJP has been trying to woo the Christian community. Do you believe the outreach will deliver results? There has been a change in the approach of the Christian community. We have fielded a large number of minority candidates this time. The shift in Christian votes will definitely benefit the NDA. The BJP is the single-largest party contesting this election as we have fielded candidates in 19,871 wards.
Rights panel tells govt. to disburse travel aid to HIV patients
The Commission issued the directive after an HIV patient from Malappuram complained that travelling to Thrissur to collect medicines was difficult without financial support
Labour Codes an attack equivalent to genocide on workers: Rajendran
Protest organised against Labour Codes in Thrissur
Leader of the Opposition calls upon workers to recapture the Thrissur Corporation with a commanding majority
How A Missing Gold Chain Led Cops To Kerala Woman's Killer - Her Daughter
A 75-year-old woman was murdered, allegedly by her daughter and her partner, over a gold chain in Kerala's Thrissur. Incidentally, it was the missing chain that led the cops to the daughter.
NIA court flags serious lapses in Viyyur High Security Prison
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The NIA Special Court, Ernakulam, has warned that the malfunctioning CCTV cameras at the High Security Prison, Viyyur, are a matter of concern, and may pose serious problems. The court sharply criticised Keralas prison administration after it emerged that only one out of 165 CCTV cameras have recording facilities. A report by the assistant engineer, PWD Electronics wing, Thrissur, claimed that only nine CCTV cameras are currently functional. However, the superintendents report stated that despite 165 cameras being installed, only one was operating and the others had not functioned since February 2024. The court directed the PWD to rectify the CCTV cameras immediately and file a time-bound compliance report. The court made the observation while hearing a petition filed by prisoner Manoj P M, who alleged custodial torture. After records revealed that the prisoner suffered torture in the high-security prison, Viyyur. While forwarding the petition and records to the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Thrissur, the NIA Court instructed the former to take further action against the jail authorities. Manoj had stated in the petition that he was brutally attacked by the jail officials in the high-security prison, Viyyur, on November 13 following which he suffered serious injuries. The court also rejected the prison authorities claims in their report that Manoj did not suffer any serious injuries. It noted that while the injured jail staff received treatment at Thrissur Medical College Hospital at 6.30pm on November 13, Manoj was shifted to Central Prison Poojappura, nearly 300km away. The report of the secretary of the District Legal Services Authority and the documents produced show that Manoj suffered injuries in the attack. Reports from the secretary of the District Legal Services Authority confirmed that Manoj sustained injuries. Forwarding the petition of Manoj to the Chief Judicial Magistrate for further action, the court asked the prison authorities to provide Manoj medical examination at Ernakulam General Hospital. The NIA Court ordered that Manoj be shifted to Central Prison, Thavanoor.
Uttarakhand turns to hydroseeding to tackle persistent landslides on Badrinath highway
DEHRADUN: Facing relentless landslides in one of India's top 10 most vulnerable districts, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is now turning to an advanced biological solution, hydroseeding, to stabilise a critical stretch of the Badrinath Highway near Kameda in Gauchar. This shift comes after earlier engineering interventions allegedly failed to contain the erosion that has long threatened this vital route. The 120-metre stretch near Kameda, located in the highly landslide-prone Rudraprayag district, experiences significant debris flow during the monsoon season. For over five years, the slope above the highway has continually shed soil, rocks and boulders, frequently disrupting traffic for hours. For more than five years, the slope here has been unstable. When the rains hit, large boulders roll onto the highway, stated a local resident, requesting anonymity due to the frequent closures. Previously, NHAI had attempted stabilisation using conventional engineering methods. Steel netting anchored by 6 to 8-inch iron rods (anchors) was installed into the slope before the monsoon. However, heavy rains led to substantial slippage, allegedly rendering the nets ineffective. Now, the focus has shifted to Hydroseeding Mulch, a technique involving the spraying of a mixture of seeds, water and fertiliser onto the slope. We are employing Hydroseeding Mulch to prevent further landslides in this steep terrain. We anticipate this method will be effective, said JP Sharma, Project Manager at RCC Developers, associated with the project. We are currently verifying the existing anchors before fully implementing this technique, as this method has proven successful in mountainous regions. Hydroseeding is an advanced bio-engineering technique designed to rapidly establish a protective layer of grass or vegetation on steep slopes, roadsides and mining areas. The mixture includes mulch fibres that bind the soil together, preventing erosion from heavy rain or wind, while the seeds germinate to create a living root structure for long-term stability. The urgency of this stabilisation effort is underscored by recent data classifying India's most vulnerable zones. Official sources confirm that Rudraprayag and Tehri Garhwal in Uttarakhand are among the top 10 most landslide-prone districts in the country. Apart from Rudraprayag and Tehri in Uttarakhand, the list of high-risk districts also includes: Kerala: Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram and Kozhikode. Jammu and Kashmir: Rajouri and Poonch. Sikkim: South and East Sikkim. The NHAI hopes that this biological intervention will finally stabilise the Badrinath route before the next monsoon season arrives.
Rebels set to spoil party for all three fronts
Hundreds of political leaders appear to have taken their cue from M.K. Varghese, a Congress rebel-turned-Independent, who became Mayor of the Thrissur Corporation with the support of the Left Democratic Front, and have thrown their hats into the ring against the official candidates of their own parties
SIR: over 50% of enumeration forms collected, 35% of them fully digitised in Thrissur
District Election Officer and Collector Arjun Pandian visits the dedicated camp set up for receiving and digitising these forms
72,005 in the fray for local body elections in Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A total of 72,005 candidates are officially in the fray across the state for the upcoming local body elections, as per provisional data released by the State Election Commission late on Monday. The final picture of the candidates became clear after the deadline for withdrawal of nominations ended on Monday. The list of candidates includes 37,786 women, 34,218 men and one transgender person. Meanwhile, all major fronts are facing the menace of rebel candidates who have refused to withdraw their candidature despite efforts by party leadership to mollify them. While the LDF and the UDF have five rebel candidates each in Thiruvananthapruam corporation, 11 rebels are causing headache to the Congress-led front in Kochi corporation. Six-time BJP councillor Shyamala S Prabhu, who turned a rebel this time, is taking on the official candidate of the saffron alliance in Kochi corporations Cherlai ward. While the UDF has six rebel candidates in the fray in Thrissur corporation, four rebel candidates are poised to play spoilsport for the LDF that rules the civic body. The BJP-led NDA too has a rebel candidate in Vadookara ward, its sitting seat in Thrissur corporation. Kannur, the lone UDF-ruled corporation, has rebel trouble for the Congress-led front in three seats. A CPM rebel candidate in Kannur corporation withdrew his candidature on Monday, offering relief to the LDF. Relief for Wayanad UDF as YC rebel withdraws The UDF in Wayanad heaved a sigh of relief after Youth Congress leader Jasheer Pallivayal, who had entered the fray as a rebel for the district panchayat, withdrew his nomination on Monday following last-minute intervention by senior party leaders. In Alappuzha district panchayats Ambalappuzha division, the conflict within the UDF over the seat has been resolved, with the IUML agreeing to withdraw its rebel candidate at the last minute. The LDF has already secured 14 seats unchallenged. In Kannur, LDF secured two additional unopposed victories in Anthoor municipality after the nomination papers of UDF candidates were rejected during fresh scrutiny on Monday. With this, five LDF candidates have been elected unopposed in the civic body.
Kerala HC for app to alert public about missing Bengaluru native
KOCHI: In a significant decision to help locate Suraj Lama, a Bengaluru native who went missing in Kochi soon after being deported from Kuwait last month, the Kerala High Court has asked the state government to develop a mobile app that can issue a unified alert containing his details to various social media platforms. The court issued the directive while considering a habeas corpus petition filed by Santon Lama, Surajs son. It noted that the app should be created in coordination with the Kerala Police Cyberdome and Meta, the parent company of Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram. During the hearing on November 21, the court directed the states counsel to develop an application capable of circulating a unified WhatsApp message across social media platforms, ensuring it reaches users across cyberspace, especially within Kerala, said a source with the Kerala State Legal Services Authority (KeLSA), which is providing legal assistance to Santon. As per the plan, the app will send a unified alert mentioning details of Suraj, the time of his disappearance and other information to all social media platforms. The app will not be for public use. Meanwhile, Santons counsel said the state government had informed the court that missing person posters, including Surajs photograph, had been displayed at major pilgrim centres, including Sabarimala. The government also said they had arranged for public announcements about Suraj during the morning and evening sessions at Sabarimala, the counsel said. Aluva DySP T R Rajesh, who is heading the special investigation team (SIT) formed to trace Lama, said they had covered almost entire Ernakulam and Thrissur. We are once again carrying out searches focused on medical colleges, shelter homes and locations that that may have been missed earlier. We are also checking unidentified bodies, he said. Rajesh said the SIT has proposed additional measures, including issuing alerts during phone calls. When contacted, Santon told TNIE that he was thankful to all involved in the search of his father.
Parasitic leech found off Kollam a likely threat to native fish health
KOLLAM: A parasitic marine leech previously found only along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts has been reported for the first time in Indian waters off the Kollam coast. The finding has raised concern among researchers about the parasites potential impact on fish health, fisheries productivity and the marine ecosystem. The species, Pontobdella muricata, was found among the trawl bycatch that landed at Sakthikulangara harbour. The specimen was found attached to the ventral side of a ray fish, confirming a new parasite-host association for a leech previously restricted to colder European waters. Researchers say the leech poses no direct threat to humans but warn that it could severely affect native fish populations. Even a single leech can cause lesions, draw blood and create wounds that allow secondary infections reducing fish health and market value, says the study. The finding has triggered concerns about what else may be silently shifting to Keralas waters. The current detection is limited to deepwater skates, but researchers warn that the shift in parasite distribution may indicate changing ocean conditions, altered migration routes or broader ecological imbalances. Our marine ecosystem is already under extreme stress due to global warming, pollution, deep-sea fishing and declining fish stocks. With fisheries under unprecedented pressure, the emergence of a new parasite is a red flag, said Sarlin Pathissery, head of the zoology department, Fatima Mata National College, Kollam, who led the study. The new parasite could harm fish populations in the long run, especially in waters already stressed by overfishing, warming seas and species degradation. But how exactly this will affect the fishing community and the wider environment requires in-depth study, she said. If such parasites spread to commercially important species, small fishers who depend on healthy, clean catch for their livelihood will be the most affected, the study notes. Impact of parasites may be huge, need further study The exceptionally high genetic similarity (more than 99%) between the Kollam specimen and populations from the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts underscores the need for focused comparative assessments to determine whether similar ecological or pathological effects may arise in Indian waters. Researchers argue that monitoring such hidden parasites is crucial not just for biodiversity records but to understand subtle ecological shifts that ultimately influence coastal livelihoods. The discovery of the parasite is a reminder that what is hiding under the ocean will reach the market fish stall and our homes sooner than we expect. These parasites may be small, but their impact could be huge. Thats why further study is needed, said Sandie Moris, a chemical engineering student at Government Engineering College, Thrissur, who assisted the study. Savio Morris, chemical engeneering student at TKM Engineering College, Kollam, and Sancia Moris of the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology, Germany, were also part of the study. It has been published in a peer reviewed international journal, Taylor & Francis Biodiversity. First time in Indian waters Its for the first time that parasitic marine leech, Pontobdella muricata, is found in Indian waters, says the study The species was previously found only along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts The leech could severely affect native fish populations
Seat given to DCC secretary: local Congress leaders resign in protest in Thrissur
Sitting councillor resigns from party
Gandhian ideals regain relevance, says Hassan
Dr. Kalpatta Balakrishnan remembrance meet held in Thrissur
Clashes erupt after wedding procession blocks road in Thrissur
LDF faces internal rift in Thrissur Corporation over seat allocation
Kerala Congress (M) fields rebel candidates in three general divisions
Trip on vintage charm with Vrischikolsavam in Tripunithura
Every year, the sleepy town of Tripunithura is jolted into a socio-cultural melange with the onset of Vrischikolsavam , the festival held in the Malayalam month of Vrischikam (NovemberDecember). Held at the Poornathrayeesa Temple, this years eight-day festival began on November 19. It will conclude with the aarattu on November 26. It is believed that when the Perumpadappu Swaroopam (the erstwhile kingdom of Cochin) shifted its capital from earlier centres such as Mahodayapuram and later Thrissur to Tripunithura around the 14th century, the worship of Poornathrayeesa (Lord Krishna) acquired deeper political and familial significance, establishing the deity as the family god of the Cochin royal house. The temples annual Vrischikam festival subsequently evolved into the Rajotsavam , the official royal festival of the Cochin kingdom. Over the years, the festival has grown beyond its religious and royal origins to become a hotspot for Keralas major temple art forms, widening its popularity across communities. The temple premises transform into a vibrant 24-hour stage where performances unfold around the clock. Each day offers a curated roster featuring Panchari Melam and Thayambaka, Kathakali, Ottanthullal, and classical vocal and instrumental concerts. The ensemble Panchari Melam sets the primary auditory tone of the festival, giving the processions their momentum. This is also where a Tripunithura native often encounters a long-lost friend, a distant relative or gains new ulsavam buddies. Vrischikolsavam is anchored as much in musical rigour as in visual pageantry. Connoisseurs mark their calendars for specific melams often led by renowned maestros. Discussions on kalapramanam (tempo) and nadasoukhyam (tonal richness) continue long after the last beat of the chenda. The festival concludes on the eighth day with the aarattu at the Chakkamkulangara Temple, where the idol is taken for a ceremonial bath.
Established under a strategic collaboration between Starbucks Coffee Company & Tata Starbucks, the FSP aims to empower 10,000 Indian coffee farmers by 2030 Starbucks will open its 500th coffeehouse in India this week in Delhi NCR a Starbucks Reserve location offering a premium and immersive coffee experience Reaffirming its long-term commitment to India, and its plans to deepen its coffee leadership in the market, Starbucks Coffee Company today announced the establishment of a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP). In collaboration with Tata Starbucks Private Limited, the FSP will connect local agronomists and farmers to global farming best practices through open-source agronomy. Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Starbucks re-affirm coffee leadership and announce a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP) to strengthen the coffee value chain from Bean to Cup Strengthening Indias coffee value chain from bean to cup Starbucks Coffee Trading Company, SARL (SCTC), Starbucks global procurement and trading subsidiary, will collaborate closely with Tata Starbucks to empower 10,000 farmers by 2030. The FSP based in Karnataka will combine Tata Starbucks deep local knowledge, Indias coffee-growing heritage, and decades of Starbucks global agronomy expertise. It will support farmers from Indias key coffee growing states including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala to strengthen connections with Starbucks global network, drive innovation, and share best practices in farming and sustainability to ensure a sustainable future for India coffee. The FSP will set up technical model farms in partnership with farmers in India, incorporating global learnings, to embed best practices in coffee agronomy and test sustainable solutions. The FSP in India will serve as a hub for testing new varietals, provide knowledge on innovative farming techniques aligned to Indian practices and conditions, and share insights about other agroforestry initiatives to improve coffee quality, productivity and climate resiliency. The goal is to build upon traditional methods to help farmers improve both the quality of their crops and their profitability. The FSP will work closely with existing centers of excellence within the Starbucks global network. This includes partnering with Farmer Support Centers (FSC) in coffee-growing regions around the world, where agronomists collaborate directly with farmers on research, and learning from existing model farms within Starbucks supply chain. This network includes FSCs in the APAC region in North Sumatra, Indonesia and Yunnan, China and Hacienda Alsacia in Costa Rica, Starbucks first company-operated coffee farm and headquarters to the Starbucks Costa Rica Farmer Support Center and Starbucks Global Research and Development team. Through the FSP, Indian farmers will also benefit from Starbucks 2026 global digital training tools, which will offer detailed online modules on agronomy, coffee quality, and C.A.F.E. (Coffee and Farmer Equity) practices to foster ethical sourcing and ultimately enhance productivity and sustainability. It will also educate farmers about Regen-Ag (regenerative agriculture) practices and methods to reduce carbon, water, and waste footprints, and contribute to agroforestry and social development initiatives. The FSP will develop projects across the key Starbucks commitments of unlocking coffee productivity, increasing farm profitability and building climate resiliency over the next 5 years. To build capability and strengthen Indias entire coffee value chain, Tata Starbucks will also donate one million high-yield variety Arabica seedlings to farmers over the next five years. During his visit to India this week, Brian Niccol, chairman and chief executive officer of Starbucks said, India is one of our fastest-growing markets. Were partnering with Tata to shape the future of coffee in India, including supporting farmers, empowering communities, and delivering the highest quality offerings to our customers. Its a long-term commitment to build a stronger, more sustainable coffee ecosystem that benefits everyone, from bean to cup . Sunil D'Souza, Managing Director & CEO at Tata Consumer Products said, Through the past decade, together, Tata Consumer Products and Starbucks, have helped shape Indias thriving coffee culture and industry. With this new initiative, we are pleased to pair Starbucks global agronomy expertise with Tatas footprint in India to drive tangible impact and pave the way for the future of responsible coffee farming in India . Re-affirming Starbucks coffee leadership through differentiated and elevated experiences Since its inception in 2012 as a joint venture between Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Consumer Products, Tata Starbucks has been dedicated to delivering the unique Starbucks Experience to customers in India. This has set the stage for Indias ever evolving and dynamic coffee culture. This week, Tata Starbucks will celebrate the opening of its 500th coffeehouse in India, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey and reaffirming its long-term commitment to the market. As one of Starbucks fastest-growing international markets, India remains central to the companys plans for strategic and sustainable expansion, with continued focus on job creation and meaningful development opportunities for its partners (employees). The 500th coffeehouse will be the second location to offer a Starbucks Reserve coffee experience in Delhi NCR, engaging coffee enthusiasts with an immersive experience that showcases Starbucks coffee craft, heritage, and storytelling. The coffeehouse and its Starbucks Reserve experience underscore Tata Starbucks commitment to elevating Indias coffee craftsmanship through elevated store design, handcrafted beverages, and locally inspired innovations. As part of the global strategy to make Starbucks a welcoming coffeehouse where people gather to enjoy the finest coffee handcrafted by skilled baristas, Tata Starbucks will continue to focus on creating a differentiated and elevated coffee forward experience in India. It invites customers to experience the full flavor profile it offers - serving the worlds finest coffee and elevated offerings in a welcoming coffeehouse environment that has made it a beloved part of Indias coffee landscape. Sushant Dash, chief executive officer of Tata Starbucks said, As the largest specialty coffee player in India, we are proud to bring the Farmer Support Partnership in collaboration with SCTC, a meaningful step toward strengthening Indias coffee-growing community and securing the future of high-quality Arabica. Our commitment to India extends beyond growth, to investing in farmers, partners (employees) and customers to continue building a vibrant coffee culture. We will continue to serve the finest Arabica coffee from India and around the world, brought to life through the warm, welcoming third place experience that defines Starbucks . About Starbucks Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with more than 40,000 stores worldwide, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at about.starbucks.com or starbucks.com . About Tata Starbucks Private Limited Starbucks entered the Indian market in October 2012 through a 50/50 Joint Venture with Tata Consumer Products Limited and currently operates more than 497 stores in India across 81 cities, Agra, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Alibaug, Amritsar, Anand, Aurangabad, Bangalore, Bhatinda, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Calicut, Chandigarh, Chennai, Dehradun, Faridabad, Gandhinagar, Ghaziabad, Goa, Guntur, Gurgaon, Guwahati, Gwalior Haridwar, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Indore, Jaipur, Jalandhar, Jodhpur, Kanpur, Kochi, Kolhapur, Kolkata, Lonavala, Lucknow, Ludhiana, Mangalore, Meerut, Mumbai, Mussoorie, Mysore, Nagpur, Nashik, New Delhi, Noida, Pathankot, Patiala, Pondicherry, Pune, Raipur, Siliguri, Sonipat, Surat, Thrissur, Trivandrum, Udaipur, Vadodara, Vapi, Varanasi, Vijayawada, Varanasi and Vizag are cities in India. through a network of over 4,437 passionate partners (employees). Starbucks stores are operated by the joint venture, Tata Starbucks Private Limited, and branded as Starbucks Coffee - A TATA Alliance.
164 of 165 CCTVs faulty at Viyyur prison, admits superintendent in court
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a stunning disclosure, the superintendent of Viyyur high-security prison admitted that 164 of the facilitys 165 CCTV cameras are defunct, leaving the prison without meaningful surveillance for over a year. Rajesh Kumar R S made the revelation before the Ernakulam NIA special court on Thursday. Installed on February 28, 2019, the cameras stopped working after the five-year warranty expired. The assistant engineer of PWDs electronics division in Thrissur reported that both the network switch and cameras are damaged, rendering the entire system useless. The court was hearing a petition filed by NIA case undertrial Manoj P M, in which he alleged that he and fellow inmate Azharuddin were brutally assaulted by prison staff following an altercation with the warden on November 13. When the court sought CCTV footage, the superintendent submitted that since the cameras are malfunctioning he could not produce it. The medical records submitted before the court also purported to throw light on the systematic legal and human rights violations at the facility. According to the petition, around 15 jail officials dragged the two prisoners out of their cells after 6pm, in violation of prison regulations that prohibit removal after lock-up. They were allegedly beaten, denied medical treatment, and transferred before dawn the next day -- Manoj to Poojappura central prison and Azharuddin to Kannur central prison -- though a Thrissur district hospital doctor advised further treatment for Manoj. Manoj claims that he was further beaten up by Poojappura prison staff. He was reportedly admitted to Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital, after he began a hunger strike. The medical reports submitted to the court state that the patient sustained trauma to head and abdomen around 5pm on November 13. He had sustained severe injuries including subcutaneous hematoma to left premaxillary, left frontal and left periorbital region. He also alleged that while his plea to file a complaint was denied, a counter complaint was registered against him for allegedly assaulting prison staff. Unimpressed by the explanations of both the superintendents of Viyyur and Poojappura prisons after they failed to produce Manoj on a video call, the two-member NIA court on Thursday directed the superintendent of Viyyur prison to appear in person on November 24. The superintendents of central prison Poojappura shall produce the accused personally on the 24th, the order said.
Kerala leaders say grassroots politics shapes stronger ministers, legislators
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: It is not the MLA or minister you call when a water pipeline ruptures or a death occurs in the locality. Neighbourhood concerns tend to be the domain of ward members or councillors. But, these representatives may not always remain the guy next door. Local-body polls have given rise to several prominent political figures in Kerala. From panchayats and municipalities, to halls of assembly and Parliament, TNIE talks to some of the key figures whose political careers began at the institutions of grassroots democracy. General Education Minister V Sivankutty, who was the Thiruvananthapuram corporation mayor from 1995 to 2000, termed the local-body polls the toughest political test. The key is in fostering personal ties with voters. Here, politics takes a back seat. People mostly vote for individuals. Your voters are your extended family, he said. Higher Education Minister R Bindu, who served as Thrissur mayor (2005-10), said the experience one gains by working as a representative in a local body is unmatched, adding that it serves as a guide for all politicians. In my ten years in Thrissur corporation, I have directly interacted with people living in slums, erstwhile colonies, and many more. When you are part of local bodies, you understand the issues of commoners. The experience has helped me in my tenure as a minister, she added. A legislator who has had a stint in a local body knows how to combine peoples issues with the development needs of the state or country, Bindu said. My tenure as mayor helped me understand the dynamics between local bodies and government, and how they plan and execute projects, she added. Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan, who was a member of the Pampady grama panchayat, in the 1988-93 period, said his days as a panchayat member taught him how people must be accorded prime priority in a democracy, and that politicians work for the welfare of these citizens. Unlike legislative assemblies or the Lok Sabha, local bodies deal directly with people, which gives its members a hands-on idea of their views and desires. Once the youngest municipal chairman in the state on being named to lead the Angamaly civic body in 1979, Congress leader K Babu recounted how others had doubts when a 28-year-old was placed in that position. People naturally expect a seasoned politician to hold the office. However, when I was elected, I decided to interact with people from diverse backgrounds, which later strengthened my political journey, he said. The Tripunithura MLA said there was the larger trend of local-body members contesting assembly or Lok Sabha polls, which has given way to fresh faces being named as candidates. Kollam MP and RSP leader N K Premachandran fondly recalled his days as the panchayat member of Navaikulam -- which according to him laid the founding stone of his political career. The best takeaway from being the member of a local body is the ability to distinguish what is good and bad for people, especially when it comes to ministerial positions, Premachandran said. Speaking of his tenure as Thiruvananthapuram mayor (2015-19), Vattiyoorkavu MLA V K Prasanth said ground work is key in politics. People should understand that we work for them, which is what I did being part of flood-relief activities. When your work is seen, they will help you help them, he remarked. The teamwork and coordination do not happen overnight, but is the result of years of effort, said Prasanth. My stint in the corporation was a mix of ground-level interaction and office work, both of which have helped me in my political journey, he added.
Thrissur Ragam theatre operator stabbed outside home
Kerala local body polls: UDF poised for a comeback in Thrissur, says Rajan J. Pallan
Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Thrissur Corporation says a strong and unmistakable wave is rising in favour of the Congress and voters are ready to correct what he calls the slip between the lip and the cup in the last election
With new-found confidence, Kerala youth is a 311 storm sweeping bodybuilding arena
MALAPPURAM: At 3 ft 11 in, Abhijith P P is redefining conventional concepts of physique and body aesthetics. A two-time Mr Malappuram, former Mr Kerala, and recent Mr South India titleholder in the para bodybuilding category, Abhijith turned a lifetime of bullying into fuel for an extraordinary journey. Beyond the competitive stage, 21-year-old uses social media to inspire thousands, sharing his transformation and urging others to rise above their insecurities. Bodybuilding, he says, gave him a life he never thought possible. I was a very reserved person. Many of my relatives and neighbours thought I was worthless because of my stature. It affected my confidence, he recalls. In 2022, I started my BCom at Zamorins Guruvayurappan College. Even then, after classes, I spent most of my time at home. That changed when two neighbours, Sharath and Bibin both fitness freaks encouraged him to join a gym. That was the turning point of my life, says Abhijith, who hails from Chelari, Malappuram. The transformation was swift and empowering. In the first month itself, I could see my body changing. Muscles were building, giving shape to my physique. To motivate me further, the gym owners asked me to participate in a district-level competition. I went without any expectations, but I won first prize. And I never looked back. He has secured sponsorships for supplements, easing the financial burden of taking up the sport. Since then, bodybuilding has been his singular focus. He has secured sponsorships for supplements, easing the financial burden of taking up the sport. Bodybuilding totally changed my life. From being shy and introverted, I began talking to people. During my college days, students who once ignored me started approaching me. Even relatives and neighbours who thought I would be a burden to my parents now look at me with respect. That respect is the biggest prize bodybuilding has given me. With renewed confidence and a growing list of achievements, Abhijith has now set his eyes set on the Mr India competition, scheduled to be held in Thrissur on January 31, 2026.
Thrissur Revenue District School Arts Festival begins at Irinjalakuda
Shifting loyalties continue to shake up Thrissur ahead of local body elections
Rebels emerge across parties as denial of seats and internal rifts trigger mass resignations. What began as sporadic rumblings of discontent has now grown into a district-wide wave of political realignments, setting the stage for one of Thrissurs most unpredictable and fiercely contested local body elections in recent memory
Official Suspended For Sharing Video Of Dead Deer At Newly Opened Kerala Zoo
A week after at least 10 deer were killed by stray dogs at Kerala's newly inaugurated Puthur Zoological Park in Thrissur due to a major security lapse, the state's Forest Department suspended an official for allegedly sharing footage of the dead deer
Thrissur Revenue District School arts festival from Nov 18 to 21 in Irinjalakuda
Equal representation drive demands action, not excuses, from Keralas political leadership
State convention of Thulya Pradinithya Prasthanam organised at the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Hall in Thrissur
Back-to-back exits haunt the Congress in Thrissur
Two district-level leaders quit the party, unhappy with denial of party ticket in the local body election. Another leader resigns from all party positions
Colourful rally marks Childrens Day in Thrissur
Childrens president, prime minister, and speaker take part in festivities. A special stamp released on the occasion
LDF councillor joins BJP in Thrissur Corporation
Sheeba Babu will contest as BJP candidate from Krishnapuram division
Kozhikode Mayor Beena Philip and Kochi Mayor M. Anilkumar express a desire to return to organisational roles in their parties, while Thrissur Mayor M.K. Varghese hints at political ambitions. Thiruvananthapuram Mayor Arya Rajendran also appears to be primed for a larger political assignment
10 Deer Killed By Stray Dogs At Newly Opened Kerala Zoo
A major security lapse was reported at Kerala's newly inaugurated Puthur Zoological Park in Thrissur, where at least 10 deer were killed by stray dogs.
SIR: Thrissur District Election Office collaborates with food delivery partners
SFI, KSU clash at Thrissur college over SIR banner
Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Alappuzha and Ernakulam will go to polls on December 9. Thrissur, Malappuram, Wayanad, Palakkad, Kannur, Kasaragod, Kannur and Kozhikode on December 11
Kumki elephants brought in to drive away rogue tusker in Kerala's Thrissur
The wild elephant has been frequently straying into Irumpupalam region at Kuthiran for past two weeks, creating panic among residents
Remand prisoner escapes police custody in Thrissur
Kerala State Awards 2025: From Mammootty to Shamla Hamza, here's all the winners!
The Kerala State Film Awards 2025 brought together Malayalam cinemas finest, honouring talent, creativity, and powerful storytelling. The event, also known as State Film Awards 2025, was filled with anticipation and excitement as industry icons gathered in Thrissur.
Rajan exhorts all to be part of the journey towards Nava Keralam
Minister inaugurates the Vision 2031 Cultural Seminar organised by the Department of Culture in Thrissur
BJP invites Thrissur Mayor M.K. Varghese to its fold
Mayor had said that he would not contest the upcoming elections or campaign for the Left Democratic Front. He also said he was open to working with those who shared his vision
Minister for Cultural Affairs Saji Cherian will announce the awards for 2024 at a press conference in Thrissur at 3.30 p.m.
Thrissur completes preparations for SIR of voters list
The Election Commission has scheduled the form distribution and collection period from November 4 to December 4.
Railway Ministry approves Vande Bharat service between Bengaluru and Ernakulam, via Coimbatore
The train will stop at Krishnarajapuram, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Coimbatore, Palakkad, and Thrissur, Says the Railway Board communication
Over 10,000 families get land titles across the State
Revenue Minister K. Rajan inaugurates a State-level Pattaya Mela in Thrissur. A total of 1,349 pattayams distributed across Thrissur district and 225 handed over personally by the Minister at the Town Hall.
Cultural fete of Bhavans schools in Thrissur on November 1
Higher secondary students from 25 Bhavans schools across the State will compete in 23 on-stage and off-stage events across 15 venues. Around 450 students will participate.
CM opens countrys first designer zoo and Asias second largest at Puthur
Built on 338 acres, the world-class Thrissur Zoological park redefines the idea of a zoo from cages to coexistence. Designed by Australian architect Jon Coe, the park boasts nine zones that showcase diverse ecosystems.
Old Facebook post on Kochi Metro link to Thrissur resurfaces as Suresh Gopi denies earlier claim
Never said AIIMS will come to Thrissur, says Suresh Gopi
He clarifies that he never promised a metro rail service forThrissur
Thiruvananthapuram makes a big splash at State School Sports Meet.
Thiruvananthapuram garnered 649 points to finish way ahead of Thrissur (149 ponts) and Ernakulam (133) in the points table.
Major robbery on ThrissurPalakkad National Highway; bus owner robbed of 75 lakh
Gang arrived in a car and escaped with the cash; police suspect insider involvement
Isolated heavy showers to continue in Kerala; yellow alert for six districts on October 26
Yellow alert for Kasaragod, Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Malappuram and Thrissur
Rains Batter Kerala, Trigger Mudslides and Dam Alerts
Heavy downpour continues across Palakkad, Idukki, and Thrissur; authorities open dam shutters as water levels reach danger marks
CM to inaugurate Thrissur Zoological Park on Oct. 28
Thrissur declared free from extreme poverty
A total of 5,013 families in Thrissur district have now been officially declared free from extreme poverty
State governments stand on PM SHRI scheme a disgrace, says AISF
AISF stages protest in Thrissur against the State signing the PM SHRI agreement
Celebrating the theme Diversity and Resistance, the week-long festival will showcase over 52 films
Video: Teen Jumps Signal, Hits Senior Citizen With Bike In Kerala, Arrested
A 19-year-old man was arrested after his two-wheeler knocked down a 68-year-old woman when he tried to jump the traffic signal, in Kerala's Thrissur last week.
11 districts in Kerala brace for intense rains on October 21
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad
Hours-long traffic snarl-up brings Amballur in Thrissur to a grinding halt
Congestion on the national highway, which began in the afternoon, persisted well into the evening, leaving hundreds of motorists frustrated and exhausted
BBA student in Bengaluru ends life allegedly due to harassment by her senior
Based on the complaint filed by Abdul Nazeer, a civil contractor at Virajpet in Kodagu district, the Bagaluru police have registered a case of abetment to suicide against the accused, identified as Refaas, a native of Thrissur, Kerala., for further investigation.
Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa Temple Has A New Chief Priest
Prasad E D from Thrissur has been selected on Saturday as the new 'melsanthi' (chief priest) of the famed Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple.
Sabarimala Temple gets new 'melsanthi'
Prasad E D from Thrissur has been appointed as the new chief priest of the Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple ahead of the annual pilgrimage season. Manu Namboothiri M G will serve as the melsanthi for the Malikappuram shrine. The selections were made through a traditional draw conducted by children from the Pandalam royal family.
Petitioners disappointed at HC decision to lift toll collection ban at Paliyekkara
Petitioners plan to explore scope of moving Supreme Court and say suspension period had been a lesson for both the National Highways Authority of India and the contractor. The order came even as the Thrissur-Angamaly stretch of the NH continues to witness heavy congestion
Customs to release seized cars of Dulquer, Thrissur native
