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Kerala's Sonia Gandhi Contesting Local Body Poll on BJP Ticket
The 34-year-old candidate, who is married to Subhash, a panchayat general secretary of the BJP, is contesting from Nallathanni ward of Munnar panchayat
Kerala High Court orders protection for 60 farmers from dispossession near Vellayani Lake
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
Kerala has declared public holidays on December 9 and 11, 2025, for its Local Body Elections. The staggered holidays, split by district, aim to ensure smooth polling and maximize voter turnout. Government offices, educational institutions, and private establishments are directed to grant paid leave to employees on their respective polling dates.
RiyadhKerala Flight Diverted to Mangaluru After Medical Emergency
The Airport authorities activated the emergency response protocol, mobilising the medical team and coordinating with CISF, immigration and customs officials
New complaint against suspended Congress MLA Mamkoottathil emerges on eve of bail hearing
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : A fresh complaint of alleged sexual assault has surfaced against suspended Congress MLA Rahul Mamkoottathil , a day before the principal district and sessions court is set to consider his anticipatory bail plea. The complaint has been filed by a 23-year-old woman from Bengaluru, who has written to the KPCC and senior Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, alleging that the Palakkad MLA assaulted her despite her repeated resistance. According to sources, the party leadership has handed over the complaint to police officials. The complainant alleges that the crime branch already has her details and has urged the Congress leadership to prevent him from holding any role involving public engagement, especially with women and children. She further states that Rahuls alleged proposal to her was a deliberate deception. Earlier, a case was registered against Mamkoottathilafter a woman accused him of sexual assault and forcing her to terminate a pregnancy. Youth Congress leader aproaches High Command seeking organisational probe against Rahul Mamkoottathil Mamkoottathil denied the allegations against him, calling them politically motivated, in an anticipatory bail petition filed in a court on the same day. The complainant had approached Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan with her grievance on Thursday, after which the case was registered. As per the FIR, Mamkoottathil assaulted the complainant and raped her on multiple occasions. A special investigation team has been constituted, and a lookout circular has been issued to prevent the accused from leaving the country. Mamkoottathil was suspended from the primary membership of the Congress on August 25. He had earlier resigned as Youth Congress state president after Malayalam actress Rini Ann George accused a young leader of misbehaviour, prompting protests by the BJP and the DYFI, the youth wing of the CPI(M). Subsequently, several women and a transgender person also levelled allegations against him. Mamkoottathil was elected as MLA in November last year in a bypoll to the Palakkad seat, following the election of former MLA Shafi Parambil to the Lok Sabha from Vatakara. The new allegations come at a time when the party is already under scrutiny over previous accusations levelled against the leader.
Kerala and Tamil Nadu join forces to mine mineral sand
KMMLs assessment is that obtaining ilmenite, the raw material for manufacturing titanium dioxide, from Tamil Nadu is profitable. Tamil Nadu has proposed that mining and value addition occur exclusively within its borders, aiming at enhancing production capacity for both States.
The apex court directed Kerala to make a representation with the ECI, detailing its reasons for an extension by December 3; the court urged the ECI to consider the representation of the State sympathetically and objectively in the next two days
SC Asks Election Commission To Consider Deferring SIR In Kerala Amid Local Body Polls
The Court noted that petitioners may submit their concerns to the ECI by tomorrow, and asked the Commission to review them and communicate its decision to the bench.
Excise seizes 30 litres of illicit liquor hidden inside family temple in Kerala's Neyyattinkara
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The excise team in Neyyattinkara seized 30 litres of illicit liquor that had been kept hidden among idols and photographs inside a family temple. The stash was found during inspections carried out as part of election-related enforcement. Officials said the accused, Arjunan, locally known as Potti, a resident of Punnakkad, Neyyattinkara, had been storing large quantities of liquor and supplying it to customers. The excise squad, acting on inputs, raided the premises and found the illegal trade being run under the cover of a place of worship. The inspection was led by Excise Inspector A. K. Ajayakumar and Preventive Officer M. S. Arun Kumar. Further investigation is under way.
Kerala Request To Extend SIR Form Deadline Just And Fair: Supreme Court
Terming a petition by the Kerala government to extend the date for submission of forms for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) just and fair, the Supreme Court on Tuesday advised the Election Commission to consider the proposal.
Theenmura returns to KCK Chennai, loaded with duck mappas, Kerala plum cake and nostalgia
Chef Regi Mathew revives the traditional Christian wedding spread with a six-course feast that features 18 classic dishes. We get into the Christmas spirit at Kappa Chaka Kandhari with lacy appams, grilled King prawns and black halwa
Masala Bond Row: Congress Says It Has No Faith in ED Notice Issued to Kerala CM
The masala bond issued through the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) involved gross corruption and must be investigated sooner or later, senior party leader Ramesh Chennithala told reporters here.
From Assam to Kerala: How Indian states got their names
India's diverse states bear names reflecting their rich cultural tapestry, drawing from local languages, Sanskrit, ancient kingdoms, and historical identities. From the 'Home of Snowy Mountains' in Himachal Pradesh to the 'Land of Five Rivers' in Punjab, each name tells a unique story of origin and heritage.
Malaysia Airlines increase Thiruvananthapuram-Kuala Lumpur service to daily flights
The increase in service will benefit passengers and tourists from Kerala as there is ample connectivity from Kuala Lumpur to various parts of the world including Australia and New Zealand
Activist Rahul Easwar continues hunger strike in remand, says wife Deepa
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Activist Rahul Easwar, who is currently under judicial remand, is continuing his hunger strike, his wife Deepa Rahul Easwar said on Tuesday. Deepa, who plans to visit him in jail today, said further decisions regarding the case would be taken after meeting him. According to her, Rahul refused the food and juice offered to him when he was taken to jail. He is moving forward with his fast, just like during the Sabarimala issue, she told reporters. Deepa alleged that the police arrived at their home without serving any prior notice. We informed the court that no notice was received. These are false cases. Even now, it is unclear which part of the video was cited to deny him bail, she said, adding that they were consulting lawyers on the next legal steps. She also said that while the initial charges were bailable, non-bailable sections were added later in the night. Police may seek custody. We will take further decisions after meeting Rahul. He has never done anything to hurt anyone. He is in jail for speaking out against inconsistencies in another persons claims, she said. Calling the arrest a protest for justice, Deepa questioned the prosecutions allegation that Rahul used objectionable language in the video. They claim he used a bad word but cannot specify which one. There is no clarity on whether he revealed the victims name or identity, she said. Deepa also referred to debates during the MeToo movement and argued that the incident highlights the need for a Mens Commission. The reputation of both women and men is equally important. I want my children to know I stood for what was right, she added.
Supreme Court gives green light for Kerala to allot open prison land to BrahMos
BATL would be apportioned 180 acres, SSB 45 acres to set up a battalion headquarters and 32 acres for the forensic varsity
Thrissur Collector submits that works on the congested corridor, which began in September 2024, was not progressing as expected and that safety issues prevailed in the form of insufficient street lighting and inadequate hazard sign boards
Three forest officers missing during tiger census found safe after night-long search in Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Bringing an anxious overnight search to an end, the three forest officers who went missing during a tiger census in the ParuthipallyPeppara block were found safe on Tuesday morning, officials said. They were traced near Erattumukku around 8:30 am after a search that continued through the night. Section Forest Officer Vineetha, Beat Forest Officer Rajesh and Beat Forest Assistant Rajesh R had set out on Monday morning for fieldwork as part of the tiger census. They were scheduled to return to the camp shed at Pandippara by evening, but failed to return. According to Forest Department officials, the Rapid Response Team (RRT) and beat officers launched a search operation as soon as the officers were reported missing. All three were familiar with the terrain, and one of them, the beat forest assistant, had taken the same route during the previous tiger census. They are believed to have strayed off the trail during the survey. There had been communication through one of their mobile phones earlier in the day, but they stopped responding by evening, officials said. The officers were carrying GPS devices and walkie-talkies. As teams were preparing to extend the search into neighbouring Tamil Nadu forests on Tuesday morning, a breakthrough came when a forest watcher spotted the officers near Erattumukku around 8:30 am. Although the area is not a deep interior forest, the disappearance triggered considerable concern within the department. Further procedures are underway, the DFO said.
BJP Picks 'Sonia Gandhi' For Local Polls In Kerala's Munnar, Giving Congress A Headache
Sonia Gandhi, the BJP candidate from the Munnar panchayat, has become the focus of local interest.
Rajeev Chandrasekhar challenges Kerala CM over masala bond borrowing
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The BJP has intensified its attack on the Left government by placing the Masala Bond controversy alongside the Sabarimala gold scam as key themes in its election campaign. BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Tuesday publicly challenged Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan through posts on Facebook and X, raising pointed questions over the financial decisions linked to the Masala Bond issued by KIIFB. Chandrasekhar questioned why the state had borrowed Rs 2,100 crore from foreign markets at 9.5 per cent interest when cheaper borrowing options were available domestically, alleging that the move placed an unnecessary burden on taxpayers. He further claimed that the government had quietly paid Rs 21 crore as commission, demanding to know who benefited and why foreign intermediaries were involved when other states raise bonds within India without such charges. Masala bond notice triggers political debate days before local body polls Why did the Chief Minister go to London to raise money? Who received the Rs 21 crore commission? Why avoid Indian markets where interest rates are lower? Who bears the forex risk, and were FEMA approvals secured as mandated by law? Chandrasekhar asked, stressing that an honest government would have already addressed these concerns. He accused both the CPM and the Congress of lacking transparency, arguing that public funds cannot be treated as party resources shielded from scrutiny. He added that the Masala Bond and Sabarimala gold issues must be thoroughly investigated and not covered up. Party insiders confirmed that the BJP intends to foreground these two issues, projecting them as examples of alleged loot and financial mismanagement by the Left administration. While the CPM has dismissed the Enforcement Directorates notices relating to the Masala Bond as politically motivated, the BJP maintains that the matters require serious investigation by central agencies. KIIFB to repay Rs 2,150-crore masala bonds on schedule Despite the party reiterating development as its primary campaign plank, leaders say corruption will not be overlooked. We have already made it clear that our key goal is development. But that doesnt mean we will ignore the corruption of the Left government, said a senior BJP leader overseeing the states campaign. The Masala Bond issue is being raised across constituencies, and along with the Sabarimala gold scam and other controversies, it will become a major talking point in the coming days. With Chandrasekhar signalling that the BJP will resist any attempt to bury the Masala Bond and Sabarimala cases, party cadres are preparing to amplify both topics as key political weapons in the run-up to the polls.
Kerala local body polls: Rebel trouble haunts UDF in its Kannur stronghold
Rebel candidates are in the fray against both Congress and IUML nominees in the Corporation, prompting the latter to take disciplinary action against four activists. CPI(M) is presenting a team of new faces from diverse professional backgrounds, while the BJP has given priority to women candidates
Kerala local body polls: CPI(M) plays second fiddle to Kerala Congress (M) in Catholic heartland
In several seats across Central Travancore, CPI(M) is contesting without its iconic election symbol, while KC(M), despite being the junior partner, retains its two leaves symbol everywhere. Though CPI(M) terms it a move to appear inclusive, local leaders say voters in the Christian belt are unlikely to support the party symbol
Kerala local body polls: Will Sabarimala present a golden opportunity for Congress, BJP?
Ground-level reactions indicate a mixed and often a muted response, with many voters prioritising everyday concerns over religious controversies. As parties ramp up their campaigns, the actual impact of the Sabarimala issue on the election remains uncertain.
Failure to return employees PF deposits illegal, says rights panel
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Issuing a directive to the KSRTC managing director, State Human Rights Commission chairperson Justice Alexander Thomas said that it is illegal to delay the return of employees provident fund deposits remitted during their service period. The action follows a complaint that a retired employee of the Vikas Bhavan depot, who retired in May 2024, had not yet received his dues. The order states that the amount must be returned within two months. KSRTC had reportedly refused to release the PF amount citing that the complainant had taken a loan from HDFC Bank, which he needed to repay. In the explanation submitted before the rights panel, the chief law officer said that due to the financial crisis in the corporation, pension and other benefits could not be disbursed on time. The scheme prepared by the corporation for disbursing pension and related benefits has already been approved by the Kerala High Court. Benefits are being distributed accordingly, the report stated. It also claimed that PF amounts had been released to those who retired until May 2023. However, complainant P S Pradeep Kumar said the corporations claim was incorrect, as he had received information under the Right to Information Act that employees who retired after him had also been given their PF deposits.
Rallies, public meets must follow law & order: State election commissioner
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: State Election Commissioner A Shajahan has issued a directive stating that all campaign rallies and public meetings held as part of the local body elections must follow law and order as well as the relevant legal provisions and the directions issued by the High Court and the Supreme Court. Political parties and candidates must inform the local police in advance about the venue and timing of any public meeting so that the police can make the arrangements necessary for crowd and traffic control. Parties must ensure that their supporters do not disrupt or interfere with meetings or rallies organised by other parties. Distributing pamphlets, raising questions, or creating trouble either directly or indirectly at another partys event is prohibited. No party should conduct a rally through the venue where another partys meeting is in progress. Party workers must not remove wall posters or publicity materials put up by rival parties, the directive said. Before planning an event, parties and candidates must confirm that there are no prohibitory orders in force at the venue. If any such orders exist, they must be strictly obeyed unless prior permission for exemption is obtained from the authorities. Disrupting a public meeting, causing disorder, or instigating such acts can lead to imprisonment for up to three months or a fine of up to `1,000, or both. This applies to any political meeting held during the election period. Using loudspeakers or other sound equipment for meetings requires prior permission from the authorities. Sound systems may be used only within the noise limits set by law. For rallies, organisers must decide in advance the starting point, route, and ending point, and inform the police so that traffic arrangements can be made. They must also check whether any restrictions are in place along the route and comply with them unless officially exempted. Rallies must be planned in a way that they do not obstruct traffic. Very long rallies should be split into smaller groups to avoid congestion. Traffic rules must be followed without fail. All instructions issued by police on duty during rallies must be obeyed. If more than one party plans rallies along the same route at the same time, organisers must coordinate with each other to avoid clashes and traffic blocks, seeking help from local police if needed. Parties and candidates must ensure that participants do not carry items that could provoke violence. Carrying effigies of leaders of other parties, burning such effigies in public, or similar acts are punishable, the directive said further.
Construction of breakwater at Muthalapozhi harbour gains pace
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The construction of breakwater as part of the Muthalapozhi harbour development project is progressing rapidly in Thiruvananthapuram. The `177-crore project, approved by the Union government under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), was launched in May this year with an aim to prevent the recurring accidents at the harbour mouth. According to the harbour engineering department, the casting of tetrapods for the breakwater is moving at a steady pace, and around 25m of the proposed 425m structure have already been completed. However, fishermen have expressed dissatisfaction over the halted dredging activities. A senior official of the department told TNIE that the plan is to complete at least 300m of the breakwater before May. The weather is favourable, and the government has decided to execute the work without further delay. The only major challenge is sourcing rubble for the breakwater. Around six lakh tonnes of rubble are required, and frequent quarrying bans imposed across the state during rough weather are slowing procurement. If everything goes to plan, we are hopeful of completing the project within the deadline, the official said. Located at the meeting point of Vamanapuram river and the Arabian Sea, Muthalapozhi is a hub for large-scale fishing activities in the district. As many as 160 large fishing vessels and about 400 small ones operate out of the harbour offering livelihood to 20,000 people. However, over 70 lives have perished in the area in the past eight years. As per the study conducted by the Central Water and Power Research Station, extending the breakwater is the only solution to mitigate the impact of the unscientific breakwater at the harbour, which is cited as the cause for growing accidents at the harbour mouth. However, the harbour department has failed to carry out dredging activities in a full fledged manner despite the launch of the project. Sajeev Salahudeen, vice-chairman of the Muthalapozhi Avakasa Samrakshana Samithi, alleged that the dredger brought from Azheekal in May for large-scale dredging is lying idle. Right now, the sea is not rough and the fishermen are able to venture into the sea without encountering major accidents. But things will get worse after a few months. We have been following this up with the authorities repeatedly who have been assuring us that dredging will begin immediately. However, nothing is happening on the ground. We are unable to protest because this is the only time of the year when we are able to go fishing in the sea. Else our families will starve, he said. Meanwhile, the harbour department officials said that dredging is not being carried out owing to the rough weather conditions. The dredger is fully functional and the sand bar at the harbour mouth needs to be removed. We attempted to do this work last week but couldnt risk doing it due to the rough sea alert. The machinery is very expensive and we are scared that the dredger will drift off into the sea and we wouldnt be able to recover it. We will launch the work immediately. The weather is favourable until mid-May, said the official. Besides the breakwater construction, the project also proposes technological, mechanical and electrical upgradation at the harbour. The construction of the toilet block which is part of the project is already underway and once the elections are over we will float the rest of the tenders. Around 9 tenders will be invited for various works including renovation of wharf, auction hall and other auxiliary structures, said the official.
Kerala Lottery Result Today, December 2, 2025 Live: Sthree Sakthi SS-496 Winning Numbers
Kerala Lottery Result Today Live Updates, 2-12-2025: Heres Guessing Numbers for Sthree Sakthi SS-496 for Tuesday, December 2. Check the full list of winning numbers from 3 pm.
Cuteness chori along the thin line between creative & cringe
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With the election season in full swing, voters across the state are weighing their choices. They are scanning candidates positions on development, welfare, neighbourhood issues, and party lines. Well, this usual stuff. But now, running parallel to these familiar considerations, another trend has emerged in the campaign space: rise of the glamour and cuteness quotient. Notably, a large number of young candidates, especially women, have stepped into the contest, and social media has catapulted many of them into instant micro-celebrities stealing hearts. Some are just out of college, or in the middle of a course. Troll pages, meme accounts, and short-form videos are celebrating candidates not for their politics, but for their looks, style, and on-camera appeal. Creators have also jumped in, pairing posters of young candidates, especially women, with syrupy background tracks in place of campaign songs or slogans. One meme doing the rounds shows boys alongside a candidate poster, wondering if there was any chance to vote in that panchayat where an attractive woman is contesting from. Another one shows men expressing disappointment over their ward not having the glamour quotient. On Instagram, a reel with the caption Now election days shows a smiling man getting swayed by a slide show of young women candidates representing various parties. Chakkara chundil thechu vechoru punchiri goes the background song. And this one has got 33 lakh views, 3.4 lakh shares, and over 1,200 comments. While some such memes and reels are creative and cute, others appear cringe and crass. And most of these trending candidates are well aware of this, and are clear about the boundaries. Social media does help connect with youngsters, but the way some troll pages turn women candidates into crush content or flirtatious reels is not right. While online, all I do is share posters and updates, says 23-year-old Absalna, LDF candidate from Chadayamangalam blocks Chingeli division. We are political representatives. A candidate should be recognised for their political stand, their ideas, their ability to serve society not their age, gender, or appearance. What worries me is how social media often sexualises women for fun. Twenty-five-year-old Swathy S Kumar, the NDABJP candidate from Edavacode ward, says she actively uses social media as part of her campaign. However, she is equally aware of its nasty side. Some memes and comments reflect a deep-rooted patriarchal mindset, she says. Moreover, when a woman wins, there will always be someone claiming that its because of her looks rather than her work. Swathy hopes candidates on-ground efforts are not marred by social media timepass. Many of these trolls use my posters, too. I just mark them not interested or report them. I just want to work with the people and improve our surroundings. Vyshna Suresh, the Congress candidate for the Muttada division of the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, echoes the same sentiment. Social media can help as well as harm, she says. However, it remains the only space where candidates can reach people across generations. She believes only a tiny fraction of users circulate trivialising memes. Honestly, Keralas voters are not that gullible. People here have a strong political culture. We are not that shallow as a society, she says. For Amal Sivadas, UDF candidate from Panakunnam ward in Mararikulam North grama panchayat, the trend is apolitical in nature, but youngsters alone cannot be blamed. Many youngsters are unaware of what is happening around them. Mocking them only pushes them further away from politics. We are now focusing on bringing them into the campaign, says the footballer. Political commentator J Prabhash attributes the social media trend to the demographic shift being witnessed. Local body elections have always been a training ground where parties groom young aspirants for bigger roles. However, what is different this time is the sheer number of newcomers in the fray, he notes. Moreover, when voters do not care much about ideology or morality, attention naturally shifts to other cues. Politics, in general, turns into a performance art at times. And glamour can become part of the show.
As UDF hopes to hold fortress, LDF and NDA look to breach Vellanad
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Vellanad panchayat - ranked the second-best in the state and 75th in the national Mission Antyodaya Rankings - is heading into the local body polls amid political friction. A traditional UDF bastion, the LDF has won here only twice (2000-05 and 2005-10), both by narrow margins, with the second term aided by the now-defunct Democratic Indira Congress (K). Calling Vellanad a protest-free panchayat, Congress leader and panchayat vice-president Vellanad Sreekantan said that the council had proactively resolved many key issues of the people here. One of our star schemes was the Vellanadan Vazha, a special variety of the banana tree which was provided widely to farmers here, he said. Claiming that the panchayat was able to allot its own buildings for veterinary and homoeo hospitals, as well as three anganwadis during their tenure, he also said that a fund of over Rs 25 lakh was spent for the construction of a park near Koovakkudy bridge a common suicide spot here. Calling the governments extreme-poverty eradication process a facade, he said that there were at least a 100 people on the panchayat premises who fall under this category. What more can we do when the government has made their announcement? Sreekantan asked. Alleging that the incumbent council reeks of corruption and favouritism, the CPM candidate in Uriyacode ward J Kumaradas said that tendencies are generally in favour of the party to easily win at least 14-16 seats here. There is a strong anti-incumbency feeling against the council here. Moreover, their senior leaders, including Vellanad Sasi, have switched to our party a move that has not only weakened the Congress, but will also help us gain more votes, he said. He also said the construction of a shopping complex is proceeding at a slow pace. As the site was earlier a playground, it has also caused trouble to children and youngsters in the area. Expecting a good competition in at least 12 seats after having arrived second in six of them last time, the BJP candidate in Changa ward M V Ranjith said that all accomplishments claimed by the panchayat were achieved utilising Central funds. Over Rs 17 crore was provided to the panchayat under the Shyam Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission in 2016, of which Rs 2 crore got lapsed, he said. Claiming that the LDF and UDF councils have not brought in significant projects to increase the panchayats revenue, Ranjith also said that the area does not have major challenges like others, which could have been the reason for its achievement in the Mission Antyodaya rankings. As a farmer and the state general secretary of Karshaka Morcha, I can clearly say that the councils claim of the Vellanadan Vazha is completely baseless. In fact, people have not even heard of it, he said.
Sadeers voice helping candidates hit the right notes
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Sadeer Karunyam is feeling a little flustered. For a man in his 40s who runs a recording studio near Venjaramoodu, what has got his goat is the fact that his clients are pestering him to prioritise their work even if it means jumping the line. Since the local-body polls were announced, Sadeers clients are all politicians, from across the spectrum. All of them want their work completed first. Some approach me in the morning, with the instruction to have their work done by the same evening. Even when I convey my inability to do so because of work assigned earlier by other candidates, many pester me. Its annoying, he says. In an election scenario, this is a common dilemma. But it blows up during local polls. Without a proper announcement using a sound system and speaker placed atop a running vehicle, election campaigns can seem incomplete. Pressing local issues peppered with general political and socio-economic concerns make for a good announcement, points out Sadeer. The introduction of candidates as the darling of the masses and the peoples face may appear trite, but there are still takers for these usages and no campaign announcement proceeds without these mentions, he adds. The recording itself is a laborious process. The script is prepared either by those who run the studio or by the candidate or party. The script is as important as the voice over as without rhyme, creativity, and to-the-point messaging it can sound superfluous, and add to the agony of the recordist. Candidates often come up with lengthy narratives. Recently, someone handed me a script that read: Sulochanakku aattin koodu, vidyakku veedu, madhuvinu chikilsa sahayam (goat shed for Sulochana, house for Vidya and medical aid for Madhu). Such announcements tend to backfire and attract ridicule. In such cases, the feedback is immediately shared and an alternative script is prepared. The writer should be aware of local issues, as well as the general political scenario. Writers prepare a party-wise theme bank by relying on political satire and news that appear in various media. An announcement usually lasts five-seven minutes. In the case of high-profile candidates and high-voltage contests, customised songs are also arranged. A song recorded with live orchestra can burn a hole in the wallet, with karaoke content costing much less. Technology has also left its imprint. Now, web and mobile applications are used to reduce costs. However, the quality of output is questionable. With candidates preferring pre-recorded announcements, running descriptions have mostly been pushed to the background. However, the scenario shifts towards the end of campaigning, when candidates target their rivals with specific allegations and counter criticism pointed at them. At this stage, there is no time for recorded answers. Live announcements come handy in such crunch situations, says Sadeer. I have had candidates offended by announcements seeking a personal explanation. That happens mostly in the case of scripts prepared by rival candidates and we have to placate them, he adds. Moreover, studios have to be very careful while recording as any content deemed illegal could invite legal action. Unlike live commentary, a recorded announcement is evidence of whatever has been said. That increases the risk, he points out. Another issue is payment. Some clients keep it due. In the case of candidates who lose, its more prudent to just forget it. It will never come, stresses Sadeer.
Ahead of hearing, Rahuls counsel files additional proof
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Even as police remained unsuccessful in tracking down Rahul Mamkootathil, who has been booked for raping a woman and forcing her to terminate her pregnancy, the beleaguered legislator has filed additional pieces of evidence via his counsel in sealed covers before the principal district and sessions court, which will hear his anticipatory bail plea on Wednesday. The current set of evidence, sources said, filed on Monday contained more WhatsApp text messages and audio and video files, accompanied by a certificate containing hash value of the records, details of the device used and the algorithm used to generate the hash. Legal sources said the accused submitted documents to further buttress his claim that he had a consensual relationship with the woman and the affair continued when she remained with her husband. In his plea, Rahul had claimed he and the complainant had a long-standing friendship. He said he entered into a friendship and later a sexual relationship with the woman knowing she was married. He denied allegations of assault and noted that he neither raped her nor forced her to undergo an abortion. Rahul had on Saturday through his advocate, submitted evidence in a pen drive to support his claims. In his petition, Rahul had stated that he should not be held responsible for the survivors pregnancy. To support this, he submitted photographs of the couple together during the period in which the assault is alleged to have happened, along with material that he claims shows the abortion was done on her own willingness and was not coerced. The third evidence was a WhatsApp chat where the woman was allegedly forced to file a complaint against Rahul by the head of the firm where she had worked. Rahul had alleged that the firm is politically aligned to BJP. Meanwhile, the police felt Rahul might still be enjoying patronage and support of a section of Congress workers and leaders. This, they felt, was the reason why they could not trace him despite using the entire police machinery. The investigators, meanwhile, expressed doubts that Rahul may have used the vehicle registered in the name of an actress to flee the district on Thursday after reports emerged of the victim meeting CM Pinarayi Vijayan.
KSEB demand to return land may delay TECOMs SmartCity Kochi exit
KOCHI: A year after Dubai Holding-owned TECOM Investments formally conveyed its intention to exit the SmartCity Kochi (SCK) project, a long-standing dispute threatens to complicate the process: the Kerala State Electricity Board Ltd (KSEBL) is seeking the return of more than 100 acres it had contributed to the project. KSEBL says it acquired the land for Rs 83.2 crore between 1991 and 1997, but the state government only paid Rs 7.57 crore when it was acquired for the SmartCity IT park. With the government now exploring options for TECOMs exit, KSEBLs demand has come as a major hurdle. An expert committee, comprising the director of the Kerala State IT Mission, CEO of Infopark, and Dr Baju George, managing director of Overseas Keralites Investment & Holding Ltd (OKIH), had been tasked with recommending an exit formula. But officials admit that multiple unresolved issues, including KSEBLs stipulation, continue to stall progress. A letter dated December 12, 2024, accessed by TNIE, shows KSEBL reminding the government that the disputed 100.65 acres were part of the 194.95 acres it owned in Brahmapuram. After the land was transferred to the revenue department through a government order, the state valued it at Rs 7.57 crore, a figure KSEBL protested through missives in 2017, 2018, and 2019. Appeals to the Ernakulam district collector to revise the valuation also went unheeded, the letter states. Nothing has changed, even now, said a former senior KSEB official involved in the matter. He noted that despite citing genuine operational needs, the utility has not been able to reclaim the land. KSEBL says the 100.65 acres, part of SCKs total land parcel of 246 acres, is essential for developing large battery energy storage system (BESS) substations to meet Ernakulams rising power demand. We plan to set up around 3,000 MW/12,000 MWh of storage capacity over the next five years. Even after using all available land near substations, the requirement remains unmet, the letter said. The IT department, however, disputes KSEBLs claim. SmartCity is up and running, and the land belongs to the IT department. It was handed over on a 99-year lease, an official said. State IT special secretary Seeram Sambasiva Rao said the disagreement was only over land valuation, which he added has been resolved. But the former KSEB official insists the core demand was for the land to be returned, not merely revalued, a matter he says remains unresolved. The dispute, officials admit, could delay TECOMs exit.
Masala bond notice triggers political debate days before local body polls
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With just days to go for the local body elections, the Enforcement Directorates notice to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has kicked off a political debate. Notices were also served on former finance minister and vice-chairperson of KIIFB Thomas Isaac and CEO K M Abraham alleging FEMA violation in the utilisation of funds. Opposition Leader V D Satheesan reiterated his partys stand that there was massive corruption and serious rule violations in the masala bond issue. Masala bonds were floated for a high interest rate of 9.723 pc, neglecting low interest loans available in the market. Rs 1045 crore was the interest for Rs 2150 crore mobilised. However, he raised suspicion over the real intention behind the notice. The present notice is to threaten the CPM and the CM in the wake of the LSG polls. In Kerala, the ED threatens CM by sending notices whereas in other states it hunts BJPs political enemies, he said. Terming the notice a joke, Congress state president Sunny Joseph alleged that it was a classic example of nexus between the central and state governments ahead of the elections. The notice is part of a deliberate attempt to divert public attention from the controversies surrounding Sabarimala and other issues haunting the LDF government. Finance Minister K N Balagopal said the notices were aimed at creating a controversy during election time. It also disproved the allegations of nexus between the BJP and the CPM. CPM state Secretary M V Govindan criticised the Congress double stand. The Congress would call it political vendetta when their leaders are summoned by the ED. But it takes a different stand in cases involving the CPM. We have always stood against the ED being misused against political parties, he said. Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala slammed the LDF government stating that the KIIFB masala bond was not a public issue but a private deal that benefitted the Canadian company CDPQ which holds crucial shares in SNC - Lavalin company. Thus, it percolates to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who is one among the accused in Lavalin case.
Kerala is considering five-day work week in govt offices
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government is once again considering the introduction of a five-day work week in all government offices. However, service organisations have reacted with caution to the plan, warning that any attempt to curtail employees rights, including leave entitlements, would be strongly opposed. The Chief Secretary has convened a virtual meeting with representatives of service organisations at 5pm on December 5 to discuss the matter. The proposal, first considered two years ago, was withdrawn after strong opposition from service organisations, including Left outfits, which alleged the government intended to cut down leave entitles. According to government sources, the public administration department revived the discussion after Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, during a meeting on the rising drug abuse problem in the state, stressed the need for parents to spend more time with their children as part of prevention strategies. This time, the government appears to be moving more cautiously. In the letters sent to office-bearers of service organisations, it did not include any draft proposal. Instead, unions have been asked to submit their opinions and suggestions via email on or before December 5. The Opposition-aligned service organisations argue that the absence of a draft proposal raises questions about the governments intention. The pro-Congress Kerala Secretariat Employees Association (KSA) and NGO Association have welcomed the proposal in-principle. We will not compromise on rights of employees However, we will not compromise on employees rights, including casual leaves, said KSA president Ershad M S. He noted that the employees had previously rejected the proposal as it sought to reduce the number of casual leaves. A five-day work is a good idea. We can also discuss adjusting office timings to ensure working hours are covered, he said. Government offices currently function from 10.15am to 5.15pm in cities and 10am to 5pm in rural areas. Employees are entitled to 20 casual leaves annually. There was also a proposal earlier to make the fourth Saturday a holiday, but that too was dropped when the government attempted to interfere with employees rights, Ershad added. NGO Association president Jaffar Khan A M said service organisations cannot offer meaningful feedback without receiving the proposal and sufficient time to study it. An issue of this importance should not be discussed online. It requires an offline meeting with a proper draft. Employees are currently engaged in Election Commission duties for SIR and work till evening. Holding an online meeting at 5pm makes it even more difficult, he said. Pro-CPM organisations, including Kerala Secretariat Employees Association (KSEA) and NGO Union and other organisations, have welcomed the proposal. We are yet to discuss the matter, said KSEA general secretary S S Deepu. NGO Union general secretary Ajith Kumar M A said that it would give its opinion after receiving the government proposal. When it was proposed earlier, e-governance was not very popular in government offices. Now local self-government institutions and the revenue department are issuing certificates throughe-governance system, making it easier for employees to work offline too, said a NGO Union leader.
Sabarimala revenue soars 33% to Rs 92 crore in first 15 days
PATHANAMTHITTA: Sabarimala hill shrine has registered a total revenue of Rs 92 crore in the first 15 days of the Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season this year. This marks a 33.33% growth compared to the Rs 69 crore recorded during the corresponding period last year. A major chunk of the earnings continues to come from the sale of aravana payasam, which alone fetched Rs 47 crore. The figures till November 30 showed a 46.86% increase in revenue from aravana sales compared to Rs 32 crore during the first 15 days of the previous season. Revenue from appam sales stood at Rs 3.5 crore, nearly matching last years figures for the same period. Income from kanikka (offerings) has also seen steady growth -- from Rs 22 crore in 2024 to Rs 26 crore this season. Nearly 13 lakh pilgrims visited Sabarimala till November 30, reflecting the consistently high footfall during the mandala pilgrimage period. After a brief lull over the weekend, pilgrim inflow surged again on Monday (16th day), with 80,328 devotees climbing the hill between 12am and 7pm alone. With this, the total number of pilgrims who have offered darshan in the first 16 days of the season reached 13,36,388. On Saturday and Sunday, the rush had dropped significantly, with the nadappanthal remaining largely free of crowds. This allowed weekend pilgrims to have darshan with minimal waiting time. The situation changed on Monday afternoon as footfall began rising steadily. By evening, the nadappanthal was filled to capacity. Anticipating the post-holiday surge, authorities had already strengthened crowd-management arrangements.
Fake traffic e-challan scam hoodwinks unsuspecting vehicle owners in Kerala
KOZHIKODE: The message came at 7:45pm on a weekday. Kozhikode native Preetha Shivan, who had just returned home from work, glanced at her phone and froze. Your traffic violation fine hasnt been paid. Please settle it at once to avoid extra charges or legal action, dont wait for consequences! read the SMS. Worried she may have unknowingly violated a rule, Preetha clicked the link attached, and provided her account details. Within minutes, Rs 1,000 was debited, not by the Motor Vehicles Department, but a scammer operating from a private number she never thought to verify. I thought it was real because the page looked exactly like the governments challan site, Preetha recalls. The amount was not too high, so I paid it quickly. Only later did I realise I had been cheated. Her story is becoming frighteningly common in Kerala, which is witnessing an alarming rise in cyber fraud, from fake profiles of district collectors to calls from impostors posing as cyber police. Now, a new scam is gaining ground: fake traffic violation penalty alerts, sent via SMS or WhatsApp. The message appears routine, much like the official e-challan notification many vehicle owners are familiar with. However, hidden beneath is a meticulously-built trap. When recipients click the link, they are taken to a webpage mirroring the official e-challan portal. The colours, fonts, wording and layout bear a striking resemblance to the genuine Digital Traffic/Transport Enforcement Solution page. Users are prompted to enter their vehicle number and driving licence details. The website then generates a convincing overspeeding alert and directs them to pay online. In several cases, the payment is small, Rs 500 to Rs 2,000, making it easier for victims to fall for it. Social media influencer Nikhil S, who has a substantial following in Kerala, was one of the early victims who decided to speak up. I clicked the link as the entire page looked genuine. Even the fonts were the same as the real government site, he said. Only when I looked closely at the message later did I realise it was a private number not an official department sender ID. Nikhil immediately took to social media to warn others, and his posts were widely shared across Kerala. People think only the careless fall for the cyber scams. Thats not true. These pages are designed so cleverly that anyone can fall for them, he added. If my experience can save even one person from losing money, its worth sharing. His post prompted several others to share similar experiences. Cyber officers in Kerala say they have received numerous complaints, though the exact number of victims is unknown as many simply write off small losses. The officials say no government department sends link-based challan payment messages. All genuine traffic fines in Kerala must be checked either through the MoRTH portal or the official Kerala Police e-challan platform. Scammers are exploiting fear and urgency, a senior cyber cell officer explains. The moment people see the words penalty or legal action, they click without thinking. That is exactly what the criminals want, said an official.
Kerala college joins Indias push for self-reliance in chip production
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As part of initiatives to achieve self reliance in the semiconductor sector, two application-specific integrated circuit (IC) chips designed by a college in Kerala have been successfully fabricated at the Union governments Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) in Punjab. The chips, relating to advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) in vehicles, were designed at IHRD Model Engineering College (MEC), Kochi. The fabricated chips were handed over to the MEC project team by Union Minister of Electronics & IT Ashwini Vaishnaw at SCL last week. Even though IC chips are widely designed in India, their fabrication is mostly carried out outside the country. The completion of the entire process from design to fabrication within India is part of efforts at building a self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem in the country. According to IHRD director V A Arun Kumar, the chips were designed by MEC as part of the Chips to Startup project of the central ministry. The college received approval for the five-year-long research project on January 15, 2024, with a grant of `86 lakh. The two fabricated IC chips are designed for object detection and object tracking. They are developed as the initial phase of the ongoing research project on ADAS, explained Jobymol Jacob, chief investigator of the project and head of the electronics engineering department at MEC. Faculty members Jagdeesh Kumar P, Rashid ME, research scholars, project staff and MTech and BTech students of the institution are also part of the project team. According to Jobymol, the project employs AI to assess data collected by cameras, radar and LiDAR (light detection and ranging) to detect and also track moving objects so as to make necessary decisions. Besides MEC, six other institutions in the state are undertaking research under the Chips to Startup programme. It is noteworthy that our team was able to complete the design of the two crucial chips in 16 months and cross the fabrication stage in 22 months, Jobymol said. The development of the first set of chips has come as a shot in the arm for the MEC team, that has plans to design similar units as part of their research project.
Dweeps new online platform to make booking ship seats a breeze
KOCHI: The union territory of Lakshadweep is on the cusp of a major digital transformation in its maritime travel sector. The authorities have announced the upcoming launch of a sophisticated, feature-rich passenger ticket booking platform for its lifeline vessel services. Scheduled to go live on December 5, the new system aims to drastically improve the experience for both islanders and tourists by enhancing convenience, transparency, and access to tickets for travel between the islands and the mainland. Ticket booking for all passenger vessels on new portal www.lakshadweep.irctc.co.in will go live from December 5, with the release of tickets for voyages commencing from December 14. However, cargo ticketing will continue to remain on the current NIC portal, the department of port, shipping and aviation (Lakshadweep Administration) said in its latest notice. The IRCTC app Sail to Lakshadweep will also be launched on the day. The vessel service, connecting the archipelagos 10 inhabited islands with each other and the mainland ports like Kochi and Mangaluru, is the primary mode of transportation for the local population and hundreds of tourists. The existing booking process, while functional, is often challenging for users. The new platform, which is an improvement on the current e-ticketing solution, is specifically designed to address the same. The new platform promises a host of added features, enhancing security, user-friendliness, and transparency. Managed by IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation), it facilitates multiple payment options and multilingual support, said Shakeel Ahamed, assistant director (ports), Kavaratti. Once registered, the users will receive timely notifications. There were a lot of complaints regarding live updates of ship services. Sometimes, cancellations need to be done due to factors like weather conditions. The commuters using the app will be given real-time updates regarding the services, besides seat availability. This transparency is expected to significantly mitigate the long-standing issues of ticket scarcity and unauthorised reselling, the official added. A wider array of secure digital payment gateways will be integrated in the ticket booking platform, accommodating credit/debit cards, net banking, and UPI. How to book via app Download the app from Google Play and install Register with basic details to gain access to all services Ship and seat selection: Submit journey details to view available seats and assign to passengers in passenger list Enter contact information and pay securely using preferred payment method to confirm your ticket booking Complete web check-in using registered mobile number and PNR number to add luggage details and download the boarding pass
ED notice to Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, chief principal secretary KM Abraham
The ED has issued show-cause notices to Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, his chief principal secretary, and former finance minister in a Rs 467 crore FEMA violation case. The notices relate to KIIFB's alleged misuse of funds raised through masala bonds for land purchase, which is prohibited under RBI directives.
Finally Lottulodukku and Gulgulmaal win something, albeit on a cricket turf
Over 50 regular local cricketers, split into eight teams, decided to get creative with team names for the seventh edition of their locally held tournament at a turf in Kochi
This is a basic health requirement which finds little or no mention in the election manifestos of even major political parties, says former Kerala University V-C B. Ekbal
Candidate and family attacked in Kadinamkulam
30 young champions honoured as NSMC 2025 concludes
New HIV infections going up steadily in 15-24 year group in Kerala
62.6% of the individuals who contracted HIV in the past three years in Kerala got the infection through unsafe heterosexual sex involving multiple partners
Victoria College alumni launches career initiative for students
Masala bond one of the biggest scams in Kerala: Chennithala
Rahul Easwar remanded; police seize laptop
Thiruvananthapuram Cyber Police book him under various Sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with provisions of the Information Technology Act
2 Elderly Women Suffer Facial Injuries In Stray Dog Attack In Kerala
Two elderly women were attacked by a stray dog in Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram on Monday, leaving them with serious facial injuries.
Steps to ensure pedestrian safety on zebra crossing
MVD officers have been instructed to cancel driving licences of drivers who violate pedestrian safety at zebra crossings
Kerala Lawyer Stabs Father To Death, Injures Mother Critically: Cops
The village of Pullukulangara in Kerala's Alappuzha district was left reeling in shock after a son allegedly murdered his father and critically injured his mother.
A normal winter on the cards for Kerala in December
Minimum temperature has dropped below the 20 Celsius mark in many places in the State in the past few days, which is 3 to 4 C lower than the normal during the season
Show-cause notice on KIIFB masala bonds based on false figures, misrepresentation: CEO
IUML candidate takes on former party colleague and now CPI(M) candidate in Kaloor North division
The UDF candidate, T.K. Asharaf, who won the last election as an Independent, has since returned to the IUML and is now contesting as its official candidate; the LDF candidate, P.M. Harris, who won from the division as an IUML candidate in 2015, has since joined the CPI(M); and T.P. Pradeep Kumar of the BDJS makes it a predominantly three-cornered contest
Operation Cy-Hunt: Kozhikode police identify new suspects in online scams
Autonomous status for MES Kalladi College in Palakkad
South zone nodal officer of Kerala's deceased donor organ donation programme resigns
Government has initiated disciplinary measures against M.K. Mohandas for portraying K-SOTTO in a bad light on social media
Complaints mount over fleecing of pilgrims in Erumely
Voter indifference chugs along proposed Sabari rail route
Revival of project was expected to be a key poll plank in the local bodies in three districts, mainly the eastern regions of Ernakulam, but political parties remain silent about it with no clarity yet on when land acquisition for the ambitious project will restart
Thiruvalla MLA eligible for inclusion on revised voter list
Mathew T. Thomass name missing from the voter list being used for the SIR verification process. Since his fathers name is on the original register, the MLAs name can be included on the revised list, says Collector
Artistes push for free open stages as poll campaigns heat up in Kozhikode
Riding on pilgrim influx, income from Sabarimala surges
Government not averse to taking up discussion on SIR, electoral reforms: Kiren Rijiju
NEW DELHI: Union parliamentary affairs minister, Kiren Rijiju, on Monday stated in Rajya Sabha that the Government is not averse to holding a detailed discussion on the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Clarifying the Governments stand on the Oppositions insistence, he said that their request for a debate on the issue is already under active consideration. However, Rijiju urged the Opposition members not to press for a strict timeline for conducting the discussion. Nobody is undermining any matter which was brought out by the Opposition party yesterday in the all-party meeting or Business Advisory Committee (BAC) today. What I am saying is, it is under the consideration of the governmentif you put a condition that it has to be taken up today itself, then it becomes difficult, because you have to give certain space, Rijiju said. The minister also said that certain parties raised matters other than the SIR and stressed the need to protect their rights as well. However, I am saying again, the matter is related to whatever you call it, special intensive revision or electoral reforms or whatever. I have stated before the beginning of the winter session that the Government is not averse to taking up discussion on anything, said Rijiju. As the Opposition continued insisting on a timeline referring to his remarks at the BAC that he would respond by Sunday 9 pm, the minister said, Please give us some time while there are other businesses, which are listed, that can be taken up. The demand, which you have put forward, has not been rejected. So, don't presume that the government is not ready to discuss any matter. Please do not put a condition on the timeline, the minister added. On this, Trinamool Congress (TMC) floor leader Derek O'Brien retorted sharply. Problem is not the timeline but the trust deficit, he shouted back. As the Upper House welcomed Radhakrishnan on his first day of conducting the House proceedings, O'Brien called for the start of a discussion on electoral reforms with immediate effect, while the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPM) MP John Brittas said the Parliamentary Affairs Minister should honour his words and the House should hold a discussion on electoral reforms. Earlier, Leader of Opposition and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge demanded that the discussion should start immediately. He also asked the ruling party not to divide opposition parties. Don't divide us. If you try to divide us, we will be stronger, he said. Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha chairman CP Radhakrishnan disallowed the notices given by nine Opposition members on several issues, including a discussion on SIR under rule 267, leading to protests by them. The Chairman later asked members to raise their Zero Hour mentions. The Election Commission of India (ECI) had announced SIR in West Bengal, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Chhattisgarh, and Goa. Among these, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, and West Bengal will go to the polls in 2026. In Assam, where polls are also due in 2026, the revision of electoral rolls was announced separately.
Kerala government orders rollback of UGC, AICTE incentive increments
State introduces reform mandating that UGC/AICTE pay revisions be sanctioned only after scrutiny by Finance department committee
The MoU enables joint supervision of research scholars, student internships, access to national research facilities, participation in research cruises, polar expeditions, and ocean observation missions
State BJP president approaches Kerala HC, seeking CBI probe into Sabarimala gold theft
Rajeev Chandrasekhar says since several persons and establishments from different States are involved in the scam, a Central agency like the CBI would facilitate a comprehensive investigation
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Free entry for differently-abled persons at Science centre on Dec. 3
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Rahul Easwar, arrested for 'defaming' rape survivor, remanded to 14 days judicial custody
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Rahul Easwar, who was arrested for allegedly insulting the modesty of the woman who had filed a rape complaint against Rahul Mamkootathil MLA, was remanded to 14 days' judicial custody by the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Court here on Monday. The court noted that the allegation was serious in nature and since the investigation is at the nascent stage, letting Rahul out on bail would send a wrong message to the public. He was shifted to Poojappura district jail. Rahul told the media that the police lied before the court and he will go on a hunger strike in prison. Earlier, while being taken to his house by the cops for recovering his laptop, which was reportedly used to edit and upload content against the victim, Rahul had alleged that the cops wanted him to do posts criticizing Mamkootathil. The cyber police on Sunday arrested activist Rahul Easwar and booked four others, including Congress leader Sandeep Warrier, for allegedly unleashing a cyber attack against the woman, who had filed a complaint of rape and forceful termination of pregnancy against Rahul Mamkootathil MLA. Rahul was detained on Sunday afternoon and his arrest was recorded later in the night after sustained interrogation. He was initially booked under BNS sections 72 and 79 and IT Act sections 43 and 46 -- for insulting the modesty of woman and revealing identity of survivor. Will continue speaking for Rahul Mamkootathil, says Rahul Easwar Later, additional non-bailable sections were added. The cyber cops sprang into action and registered cases against five people after a massive cyber attack was reported against the complainant. The three others who were booked are Mahila Congress leader Renjitha Pulickan, Deepa Joseph, and Deepa Mathew. The police action came following the complaint registered by the survivor, who had alleged that her personal details were being circulated on social media. As per the FIR, the accused shared the details of the woman, including her photographs, on Facebook and YouTube. Same sections have been invoked against all the accused.Rahul had courted controversy after allegedly making statements that outraged modesty of women on social media as well as during TV channel discussions. Sandeep was caught in a fix after allegedly posting the picture of the woman on his Facebook page. The cyber police decided to ramp up action against the cyber attackers after the victim was subjected to massive cyber attacks. The police sources said instructions have been given to the district police chiefs, under whom the cyber stations function, to effectively monitor cyberspace and take action against those who post demeaning content against the rape survivor.
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Activist Held For Defaming Complainant In Kerala MLA Rape Case, Sent To 14-Day Judicial Custody
Activist Rahul Easwar was taken into custody for allegedly defaming and disclosing the identity of the woman who has accused Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil of rape.
New question paper pattern for Christmas exams too
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Rahul Mamkootathil issue revived to cover up Sabarimala, says BJP State chief
7 hill stations near Kerala for that much-needed winter break in December
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Bomb threat at Kerala CM's official residence Cliff House turns out to be hoax
THIRUVANATHAPURAM: The Chief Ministers official residence, Cliff House, received a bomb threat on Monday. The threat message was sent to the Chief Ministers private secretary via email. A similar threat message was also received at the South Indian Bank branch at Palayam. Police, along with bomb squads and canine units, conducted thorough inspections at both places. However, no suspicious objects were found during the searches. This follows a series of similar threats received by many places in the city this year. Although multiple cases have been registered, police have not yet been able to identify who is behind the threats. Hoax bomb threats were sent to major locations such as the central railway station, airport, collectorate, district court, luxury hotels, and the secretariat this year. The threats have primarily come in the form of emails claiming that bombs have been planted. While all alerts have turned out to be false, they have necessitated extensive inspections, straining the resources of police and emergency services. Law and order DCP T Farish said there are similarities in the content of the messages, but no common lead has yet been identified. The citys cyber crime police have been facing challenges in tracing the perpetrators due to the use of @outlook.com and @hotline.com email extensions. Officials said the threats appear to be designed to incite public panic.
GCTO accuses Kannur University of violating norms by fixing exams on Saturdays
Government norms allow only five working days a week, with Saturdays becoming working days only in emergencies, it says
More details of financial mismanagement in Kerala BJP-controlled cooperative society surface
BJP State general secretary S. Suresh had on November 19 dismissed the allegations when a part of the order became public. However, detailed report of 25 pages has details contradicting his assertions
Will continue speaking for Rahul Mamkootathil, says Rahul Easwar
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The police on Monday took activist Rahul Easwar to his residence at Powdikonam to recover the laptop that was used to upload social media posts, which allegedly revealed the identity of the woman who had filed a rape complaint against Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil. Rahul was arrested on Sunday night on the complaint of the victim, after which he was charged under non-bailable sections. When the cops reached Rahul's residence, the latter told the media that the police want him to stop talking for Rahul Mamkootathil. He also said he will continue talking for the Palakkad MLA. Rahul's wife, Deepa Rahul Easwar, who was present when the police arrived, said the cops searched the house for a device and she was not particularly aware of what it was. The police suspect that the social media posts were edited and uploaded from the laptop. They felt recovering it was crucial for further probe. A case was registered against Mamkoottathil after a woman accused him of sexual assault and forcing her to terminate a pregnancy. Mamkoottathil denied the allegations against him, calling them politically motivated, in an anticipatory bail petition filed in a court on the same day. The complainant had approached Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan with her grievance, after which the case was registered. As per the FIR, Mamkoottathil assaulted the complainant and raped her on multiple occasions. A special investigation team has been constituted, and a lookout circular has been issued to prevent the accused from leaving the country. Mamkoottathil was suspended from the primary membership of the Congress on August 25. He had earlier resigned as Youth Congress state president after Malayalam actress Rini Ann George accused a young leader of misbehaviour, prompting protests by the BJP and the DYFI, the youth wing of the CPI(M). Subsequently, several women and a transgender person also levelled allegations against him. Mamkoottathil was elected as MLA in November last year in a bypoll to the Palakkad seat, following the election of former MLA Shafi Parambil to the Lok Sabha from Vatakara.
Centre Confirms Kerala's Entry Into PM-SHRI, Withdrawal Rules Still Unclear
The minister reiterated that PM-SHRI is a centrally sponsored scheme aimed at upgrading existing government schools into exemplar institutions aligned with NEP 2020.
Video: Elephant Charges At Ambulance Carrying Injured Worker In Kerala
An ambulance carrying an injured migrant worker in Kerala's Idukki district had a close call after a lone elephant charged at the vehicle.
Bomb Threats To Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayans House, Private Bank Turn Out To Be Hoax
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's residence and a Palayam bank were searched after a bomb threat email, later found to be a hoax.
Kerala Lottery Result Today, December 1, 2025: Bhagyathara BT-31 Winning Numbers
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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
Congress vs Tharoor: MP skips partys key huddle; cites travel hurdle
Shashi Tharoor missed a key Congress strategy meeting ahead of Parliament's Winter Session, citing travel from Kerala with his elderly mother. This follows previous absences and public praise for Prime Minister Modi, intensifying friction within the party since his presidential election bid.
Aster DM Healthcare , one of India’s largest healthcare providers, is rapidly advancing the future of surgical care in India, driven by the widespread adoption of robotic-assisted surgery across its network of hospitals. Surgeons at Aster DM Healthcare utilise next-generation robotic systems to deliver safer, faster and more precise surgical outcomes Within Aster’s India network—including Aster Medcity, Aster Whitefield, Aster RV, Aster CMI and others—robotic-assisted surgery is used across urology, oncology, gynaecology and orthopaedics, while expanding into liver and kidney transplants and neurosurgery. With 1,900 robotic surgeries last year and 1,300 already this fiscal, growth is strong. Supported by Da Vinci and SSI Mantra platforms, Aster ensures equitable, high-quality, precision-led care across metro and non-metro locations in India today and beyond. Prof. Dr. Somashekar, Chairman – Medical Advisory Board, Aster DM Healthcare (GCC & India) and Global Director – Aster International Institute of Oncology , said, “ Robotic-assisted surgery represents one of the most meaningful advancements in modern healthcare, not just for its precision but for the dignity and comfort it restores to patients. At Aster, we have paired cutting-edge robotic platforms with strong clinical training to ensure these technologies truly elevate patient outcomes. The future of surgery lies in this balance — where innovation enhances the surgeon’s capability while compassionate care remains at the heart of every decision. ” A recent milestone underscoring this commitment was Kerala’s first robotic-assisted coronary artery bypass surgery, performed at Aster Medcity. The procedure, paired with the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol, resulted in smaller incisions, faster recovery, minimal scarring, and a reduced risk of post-operative complications—demonstrating the transformative impact of robotics in high-end cardiac care. As Aster continues to integrate robotics responsibly and compassionately across its hospitals, the organisation is shaping a new era of surgical excellence—one where cutting-edge innovation meets empathetic, patient-centric care. About Aster DM Healthcare, India Aster DM Healthcare Limited is one of the largest healthcare service providers operating in India with a strong presence across primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary healthcare through 20 hospitals with 5,199 beds, 10 clinics, 203 pharmacies (Operated by Alfaone Retail Pharmacies Private Limited under brand license from Aster), and 283 labs and patient experience centers across 5 states in India, delivering a simple yet strong promise to different stakeholders: “We’ll Treat You Well.”
