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Dileep alleges he was framed after ex-wife Manju Warrier sought probe into Kerala actor rape case
A concocted lie was framed against me by a then senior Police official and a team selected by her with the help of the prime accused. They also used the help of a section of the media and mediapersons to spread this false narrative he alleges
Three Assam men among Goa nightclub fire victims; families blame lack of jobs back home
Guwahati: Three persons from Assam were among the 25 people who had died in the Goa nightclub fire on Saturday, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said. The three victims Assam Rahul Tanti, Manojit Mal (both from Cachar district) and Diganta Patir (from Dhemaji district) were working as staff members. Deeply anguished by the tragic loss of lives in the Arpora fire incident in Goa, where three of our own lost their precious lives. Offering my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Praying for the swift recovery of all those injured, Sarma posted on X. Patirs mother told the media he went to Goa last year. He would always call me to enquire about our well-being, said the woman who stays at home along with her daughter. Patir's mother also claimed that both her sons were working in far-off states like Goa and Kerala, as there was no source of livelihood in Dhemaji, which is a flood and erosion-hit district of Assam. Patir's elder brother, who works in Kerala, has already left for Goa to collect the body. Neighbours appealed to the Assam government to bring the mortal remains to the state. The family is not in a position to bring the body. We are relying on the government. It has a scheme. We appeal to CM Sarma to bring the body, a neighbour said. The state government in October this year launched the Shraddhanjali scheme to provide complete assistance for dignified transportation of the mortal remains of people from Assam who lose their lives, anywhere outside the state. The scheme, approved by the state cabinet on June 22, will be implemented by the Special Branch of the Assam Police. Families or individuals seeking assistance can report such death cases through designated helpline numbers. Government of Assam, upon receiving a report of death and on verification, will ensure all logistical and other formalities to bring back the deceased to Assam for the final rites, Sarma had stated. The humanitarian initiative, which will cover the full cost of repatriating the mortal remains, aims to ease the financial and logistical burden on bereaved families. Deeply anguished by the tragic loss of lives in the Arpora fire incident in Goa, where three of our own, lost their precious lives. Shri Rahul Tanti, Cachar Shri Manojit Mal, Cachar Shri Diganta Patir, Dhemaji Offering my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) December 7, 2025 The bodies of Manojit Mal (24) and Rahul Tanti (60), both working in the nightclub kitchen, have been handed over to relatives who were also working in Goa. Mal and Tanti's family members have alleged that their children were forced to leave the village and the state, due to lack of livelihood opportunities back home. Both Mal and Tanti belong to the tea tribe community, and the villagers claimed that the condition of the tea gardens in Barak Valley was in a pathetic state, and so their children had to go to far-off places to earn a living. (With inputs from PTI)
Conspiracy Against Me: Actor Dileep Acquitted In 2017 Actress Rape Case
A Kerala court on Monday acquitted actor Dileep over the abduction and rape of an actress in 2017.
Kerala Court Acquits Dileep In Actress Sexual Assault Case, He Says 'Gratitude To All'
Actor Dileep was acquitted in the 2017 Kerala actress abduction and assault case, while accused 1 to 6 were found guilty of abducting, assaulting, and gang-raping the survivor.
Actor Dileep has been acquitted in the Kerala actress assault case after eight years of trial, with the court ruling that the prosecution failed to prove conspiracy allegations. The first six accused including Pulsar Suni were found guilty of gang rape, kidnapping and criminal conspiracy. Dileep attended the verdict hearing and celebratory scenes unfolded outside the court.
Actor Dileep acquitted in 2017 Kerala actor assault and abduction case
A Kerala court on Monday found actor Dileep, accused number eight, not guilty in the 2017 actor assault case. The case relates to the abduction and alleged sexual assault of a leading Malayalam actor inside her car for nearly two hours in Kochi on February 17, 2017. Dileep was accused no 8 in the case.
Dileep acquitted in Kerala actor rape case
Ernakulam Principal Sessions Judge acquits Dileep of the offences charged against him in the sensational case after the trial that lasted around eight years
Verdict Today in Kerala Actress Assault Case, Dileep Among Accused
District and Sessions Judge Honey M Varghese will deliver the judgment against 10 accused who remain on trial, excluding those discharged or who later turned approvers
The Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court will deliver its verdict on Monday in the high-profile actor abduction and rape case. Actor Dileep is accused of conspiring to hire a gang for the crime, which involved the alleged molestation of a Malayalam actress in 2017. The trial has been lengthy, with numerous witnesses examined and several turning hostile.
Former legislator P. T. Thomas and director P. Balachandrakumar played pivotal roles at different points during the eightyearold case
Kerala local body polls 2025: With over 100 young candidates, CMP hopes to make a comeback
As a political group with no community support and religious leanings, we are happy at the representation we got from the UDF. Though we have complaints with rebels from within the UDF camp in Wayanad, we are satisfied due to the increased representation in other districts
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: First-time voters will be accorded a warm reception on Tuesday as they arrive at the two model polling stations in the district to caste their vote in the local body elections. Besides, the model booths, set up on the southern and northern sides of Government LPS at Chemmaruthi, will have special facilities for persons with disabilities (PwDs), senior citizens, pregnant women and sick persons. They include wheelchairs, seats, first-aid, drinking water and clean toilets. Sick people, pregnant women and senior citizens and PwDs will have priority in queue. There will also be four Young polling stations, in Neyyattinkara, Nedumangad, Attingal and Varkala municipalities, where the polling officers will be youngsters. The highlight would be selfie points where youngsters can take photos. There will be Pink polling stations, where the staff will be women. They are booth 33-Medical College, booth 3-Medical College HS Staff room number 110, 58-Karamana, 04- Government Girls High School, 38-Nanthancode, 5-Holy Angels ISC main building, 42-Pangode, 02-Seventh Day School north portion, Pangode, 43-Thirumala, 08-Saraswathy Vidyalayam, Arappura, 50-Valiyasala, 06-LBS Institute, Poojappura, 86-Vanchiyoor, 05-St Josephs School, 89-Chakka, 06-Government UPS Chakka. Women arriving with infants will be given seating. First-time women voters will be given reception. The booths will be decorated with pink balloons. EVM commissioning Commissioning of all EVMs has been completed. Commissioning of machines under the Pothencode block division was held at St Xaviers College, Thumba. District Collector Anukumari, ADM Vineeth T K and training nodal officer Saji R S reviewed the commissioning. Election guide An election guide for the district was brought out by District Information Office and District Election Wing. It has details on all local self-government institutions, officers holding different positions, candidates, details of voters, model code of conduct, polling stations, distribution and collection centres. Inclusive space The two model booths, set up on the southern and northern sides of Govt LPS at Chemmaruthi, will have have facilities for persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and pregnant women
Conclave in Kerala to suggest changes to Centres labour code
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The one-day Labour Conclave, being convened to suggest changes towards the nationally implemented labour code, will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on December 19, at Hotel Lemon Tree here. Labour Minister V Sivankutty will preside over the event which is aimed at identifying the issues with the labour code in regard to Keralas labour market and how changes can be implemented to resolve them. The conclave will be attended by Finance Minister K N Balagopal, Law Minister P Rajeeve, national level trade union leaders, scholars, law experts, and academicians from across the country. Organised by the state government in association with the Kerala Institute of Labour and Employment (KILE), the conclave will have multi-faceted discussions regarding the state-specific aspect of the law. Top officials from the labour department have said that the suggestions and concerns put forward by the stakeholders will be consolidated and sent to the Union government and the President within a week or two of the conclave. We will be discussing how certain elements in the labour code are not suitable for our state, a senior official said. The sources from the labour department said all key trade unions have been invited to participate in the conclave. Ministers from non-BJP ruled states have also been invited to the event. Two sessions the implications of labour codes within the context of the states labour market and alternative strategies to address the adverse impact of the codes will be held at the conclave. The officials have also said that the people involved in drafting the codes are also likely to take part in the event to provide more insights. Earlier, Minister Sivankutty had said that the state will not implement the labour codes, after a meeting with the representatives of various trade union leaders.
Man held for murder of 65-year-old grandmother in Chavara
KOLLAM: A 65-year-old woman was found murdered inside her home in Chavara on Sunday night. Her grandson has been taken into police custody in connection with the incident. The deceased has been identified as Sulekha Beevi, a resident of Vattathara. The accused is her grandson, Shahnaz. Sulekhas body was discovered under a bed with her throat slit. Police said the incident came to light after Shahnazs mother returned home and could not find Sulekha Beevi. After questioning Shahnaz and searching the house, she reportedly found the body hidden under the bed. Chavara police reached the spot and began inquest procedures. Local residents told the investigators that Shahnaz had a history of creating trouble in the area. Police are also probing whether he was under the influence of drugs at the time of the crime. Interrogation of the accused is currently under way, and further investigation is ongoing.
Kerala Lottery Result Today, December 8, 2025 Live: Bhagyathara BT-32 Winning Numbers
Kerala Lottery Result Today Live Updates, 8-12-2025: Heres Guessing Numbers for Bhagyathara BT-32 for Monday, December 8. Check the full list of winning numbers from 3 pm.
30th International Film Festival of Kerala to open with Palestine film
Thiruvananthapuram: The 30th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) beginning here on December 12, will open with the film Palestine 36, directed by Annemarie Jacir. Historical drama portraying Palestinian uprising against British colonisation The film is an epic historical drama which portrays the Palestinian uprising against the British colonisation. The opening film takes its name 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 .
Congress leader Chennithala links Sabarimala gold theft to global smugglers
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Adding a new dimension to the Sabarimala gold theft row, Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala has alleged that international antique smugglers are part of the conspiracy. In a letter addressed to the special investigation team (SIT), dated Saturday, Chennithala said he received this information from a person in the know of these smugglers activities, which he later verified. The SIT will take a statement of the senior leader on Wednesday. Even though Chennithala mentioned that the informer is willing to furnish facts and figures before the SIT, no additional summons have been issued. In a complaint addressed to ADGP H Venkatesh, the Congress leader alleged that a deal worth Rs 500 crore was struck as part of a conspiracy between the devaswom board and antique smugglers. Calling it a tip of the iceberg, he adds that the Sabarimala gold theft is part of a well-orchestrated plan to plunder and smuggle priceless antiques, idols and other valuable articles from prominent Hindu temples. Chennithala said he has information about the involvement of certain ill-famed businessmen and organised rackets who have spent huge sums within the state for this purpose. The fact that the original gold and other items smuggled from Sabarimala have not been recovered is proof of the involvement of international rackets, he wrote, adding that the High Court observation that the theft resembles the operation of notorious antique smuggler Subhash Kapoor deserves more attention in this context.
Supreme Court to hear petition against Paliyekkara toll resumption
KOCHI: The Supreme Court is set to commence a crucial hearing on Monday in the appeal filed by KPCC secretary Shaji K Kodankandath, challenging the Kerala High Courts order that allowed the resumption of toll collection at the highly contentious Paliyekkara toll plaza on the Angamaly-Mannuthy stretch of National Highway 544. The plea is the latest in a prolonged battle that centres around the poor condition of the stretch and the concessionaires right to levy user fees. A severe traffic congestion, largely stemming from the ongoing construction of underpasses and other infrastructure work along the busy corridor, had earlier seen the High Court suspending toll collection on August 6. The court underscored a fundamental principle: the publics obligation to pay toll hinges on the road authority, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) in this case, ensuring a safe and obstruction-free experience. Subsequently, the NHAI and the concessionaire Guruvayoor Infrastructure Ltd challenged the High Courts order in the Supreme Court, which initially upheld the ban, emphatically stating that commuters cannot be compelled to pay tolls for poorly maintained roads. The apex court also noted that the citizen who pays the toll has the right to demand well-maintained roads. However, the legal landscape shifted on October 17 when the High Court, after receiving status reports and noting efforts by an interim traffic management committee, lifted the suspension of toll collection. Crucially, the High Court prevented the NHAI from collecting an enhanced toll from motorists until further orders, acknowledging that the matter was still under judicial watch due to continuing grievances. The latest appeal by Shaji Kodankandath challenges the allowance of the resumption of the toll. The resumption was permitted without fully guaranteeing safe and smooth passage for thousands of daily commuters. An expert committee, including the district collector, in its interim report submitted to the court, pointed out that tarring was not carried out in a scientific manner and that waterlogging persisted due to the unscientific construction of drains. Also, the petition included a plea that the toll should be cut in line with the traffic congestion, which was not considered by the High Court. Hence this petition, Shaji said.
2017 Kerala actor abduction case: Vagaries and vicissitudes of justice
KOCHI: The case, already fraught with twists, turns, and explosive revelations, deepened into one of Keralas most unsettling judicial sagas. The prosecution claimed this was the first time in the history of criminal law that a quotation had been issued for committing rape. In another major development, a memory card containing crucial visuals of the assault, kept in the trial courts safe custody, was found to have been accessed multiple times without authorisation, with forensic reports confirming changes in its hash value. Allegations also surfaced that the accused had established contact with the trial judge, raising serious concerns about the fairness of the proceedings. In the early phase of the probe, prime accused Pulsar Suni misled sleuths with a fabricated story about dumping the primary phone, a crucial piece of evidence, into the Kochi backwaters from Goshree bridge. Five Navy divers searched for hours on February 27, 2017, but found nothing. To this day, the original phone and memory card have not been recovered. As the investigation progressed, the police arraigned actor Dileep. Surprisingly, his second wife Kavya Madhavan moved an anticipatory bail application, claiming Dileep did not know Suni by name or face. The petition said that filmmaker Sreekumar Menon, who had long-standing enmity with Dileep, could have influenced the accusations. The petition was disposed of after the prosecution clarified that Kavya was not an accused. In a bombshell disclosure in 2022, it was revealed that the memory card had been tampered with while in the courts custody. The Forensic Science Lab found that the card had been used on a Vivo mobile phone with an Android operating system, with apps such as Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram installed. It was accessed on January 9, 2018, December 13, 2018, and again on July 19, 2021. The High Court noted that the first two accesses occurred at odd hours with no connection to court proceedings and issued guidelines for handling sexually explicit evidence in trial courts. A later probe by the trial court found that Leena Rasheed, the then Judicial First Class Magistrate Court (JFCM) judge, Angamaly; Mahesh Mohan, senior clerk of the Principal and Sessions Court (now an HC judge); and Thajudeen, then sheristadar of the trial court, Ernakulam, had accessed the card. Further action on the report remains pending. In the subsequent investigation, based on revelations by late filmmaker Balachandra Kumar, former police officer R Sreelekha made statements in favour of Dileep, claiming he was innocent and falsely implicated. She also alleged that the mobile phone used by Suni in jail was supplied by the police to fabricate evidence and contradicted several findings of the investigation. Sreelekha, who served as director general of prisons during Dileeps custody, was questioned by police in this regard. Another surprising turn was when the survivor petitioned the HC, blaming trial court judge Honey M Varghese of bias and harbouring a hostile attitude, and seeking a new judge. Interestingly, judge Honey was appointed after the survivor had requested for a woman judge to oversee proceedings. However, after allegations of bias arose, both the survivor and the state government filed multiple petitions to transfer the case to a different court. But it was rejected. (Concluded) Milestones & millstones Three-phased investigation The first phase began on February 18, 2017, led by Vishal Johnson, then CI, Aluva. The probe was later taken over by Babukumar, then DySP, Aluva, who filed the final report against seven accused before the JFMC, Angamaly on April 18, 2017. A report for further investigation was submitted on May 18, 2017, indicating a wider criminal conspiracy. On the same day, Baiju Poulose M was appointed investigating officer. He continues in that role. Prosecutors move aside Two prosecutors resigned, citing issues with the trial judge. Special public prosecutor A Suresan stepped down in December 2020 after raising objections to allegedly derogatory remarks made by the judge. He was replaced by V N Anilkumar on January 3, 2021, who put in his papers during the cross-examination of prosecution witness 202. Following this, additional public prosecutor Sunil Kumar K B completed the examination of several witnesses until February 7, 2022. V Ajayakumar was appointed special public prosecutor on February 18, 2022. Three turn approvers Vipinlal (the 10th accused) and P K Aneesh (the 14th accused and then civil police officer) were pardoned by the CJM, Ernakulam, after they turned approvers. On February 17, 2021, the court also accepted the plea of another accused, Vishnu, to turn approver. Vishnu had allegedly arranged a mobile phone and SIM for the first accused, Pulsar Suni, while he was lodged in the Kakkanad jail. Prolonged cross-examination The cross-examination of the investigating officer, Baiju (witness number 261), lasted eight months and seven days, making it one of the longest cross-examinations of a police officer in the states history. Dileeps counsel examined him for 95 days. The Supreme Court expressed concern over the extended process. 28 witnesses, including actors, turn hostile Several film actors turned hostile, including Bhama, Bindu Panicker, Siddique, Edavela Babu, and producer Renjith, despite their initial statements helping the prosecution establish Dileeps alleged enmity towards the survivor and outline the conspiracy.Bhama and Siddique had initially told police that Dileep openly threatened the survivor at a rehearsal venue in Kochis Hotel Abad Plaza, even making remarks about setting her on fire. Both also acknowledged Dileeps anger over the survivors role in exposing his relationship with Kavya. They later retracted these statements.Babu had earlier deposed that the survivor submitted a written complaint to industry body AMMA against Dileep, alleging he denied her opportunities in films. However, during examination, Babu stated he did not remember such a complaint. Witness examined online The late filmmaker, Balachandra Kumar, who made crucial revelations against Dileep, was examined for 49 days. During the process, he fell ill, and for 37 of those days, his examination was conducted online. Accused A1 Sunil N S aka Pulsar Suni A2 Martin Antony A3 Manikandan B A4 Vijeesh VP A5 Salim H aka Vadival Salim A6 Pradeep A7 Charly Thomas A8 P Gopalakrishnan aka Dileep A9 Sanilkumar aka Mesthiri Sanil A10 Sarath G Nair Two accused, advocates Pratheesh Chacko and Raju Joseph, were discharged during the course of the trial. Three persons initially implicated in the case later turned approvers Charges Accused 1 to 6 and 8th faced trial for charges under Sections 120A (when two or more persons agree to do, or cause to be done: an illegal act), 120B (criminal conspiracy), 342 (wrongful confinement), 354 (assault or use of criminal force on a woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 354B (assault or use of criminal force to woman with intent to disrobe), 357 (assault or use of criminal force on any person), 376D (gang rape), 201 (causing disappearance of evidence), 366 (kidnapping or abducting a woman), 506 (i) (criminal intimidation), and 109 r/w 34 (aiding or abetting a crime) of IPC and Section 66E and 67A of IT Act Eighth accused Dileep was additionally charged under Sections 201 (aiding or abetting a crime) and 204 (destruction of document or electronic record to prevent its production as evidence) The seventh accused was charged under Section 212 (harbouring an offender) of IPC. The ninth accused was charged under Sections 120 B (criminal conspiracy and 109 (instigating or aiding a crime). The 10th accused faced trial for offence under Section 201 (causing disappearance of evidence of offence, or giving false information to screen offender)
A final good-bye that transcended boundaries of religion, tradition
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: On the premise of an ancestral home now rests a man who was born a Hindu, lived as a Muslim, and was loved by all! Yet, having chosen to convert to Islam in his middle age, the man from Mudapuram, in Chirayinkeezhu, never forced anyone in his family to follow in his path. On Sunday, the family of Abdul Rahman, 76, previously known as Suvarnan, bid farewell to him following Islamic practices. Heartwarming scenes unfolded at their home near the family temple, adding another chapter to the real stories from Kerala! After serving in the Indian Navy as a petty officer for a brief period, Suvarnan migrated to Saudi Arabia for employment. Interactions with friends there attracted him to the Quran and Islam. If something captures his interest, he would carry out thorough research about the subject and come to a conclusion. That happened here, too, when he decided to lead his life as a Muslim and changed his name to Abdul Rahman around 35 years back, says Suhas, Abduls son. Even though the extended families had their concerns about the conversion, he laid everything to rest through his friendly dealings with each and every one. Not even once did my father ask my siblings or me to choose Islam. All he stressed was to choose what we feel right, and today we give that space to our children too, Suhas said. While fighting cancer over the last two and a half years, Abdul asked his family to perform his last rites in the Islamic tradition. And when Abdul breathed his last on Saturday, his children sought help at nearby mosques. In no time, they were assured support of the Islamic fraternity. People from several masjids nearby arrived to bid farewell, said one of Suhas friends. And the crowd, included people from other faiths who flowed in large numbers to honour a man who lived a unique life. Hasan Musaliyar, who led the janazah prayers, hailed all the mourners. This is something I have not seen in my 20 years as imam. It was a sight where humanity was placed on a higher pedestal above religious boundaries, he said.
Panakkad family members remark on womens mosque entry sparks debate in Kerala
MALAPPURAM: A single remark from a young member of the influential Panakkad family has spiralled into a wave of cyber attacks, turning what began as a theological comment into a digital assault on a 16-year-old and her family. For days, social media platforms have been ablaze with targeted posts aimed at Fathima Nargis, daughter of Kerala Muslim Youth League president Sayyid Munavvar Ali Shihab Thangal and the Panakkad family itself. What was a very brave statement from a young mind has now exploded into one of the most hostile online and ideological flare-ups Keralas Muslim community has witnessed in recent times. The controversy began last week when Fathima responded to a question about restrictions on womens entry into Sunni mosques. Islam didnt say that women cannot enter masjids. It is some individuals, as part of certain culture, who made this rule. That should be changed. This will be part of a female revolution and I believe this change will come soon, she said. Once the Youth League shared her video and Munavvar Ali posted a newspaper clipping of the event, the reaction on social media turned fierce, with hundreds of accounts -- many anonymous -- piling on the teenager and the Panakkad family for her liberal upbringing. While both the EK and AP factions of the Samastha Kerala Jem-iyyathul Ulama criticised the remark, the AP groups responses became the primary fuel for cyber attackers. Hardline leaders and Sunni groups repeatedly shared posts portraying the Panakkad family as abandoning religious values, triggering coordinated hate towards the teen and her family. Among the most widely circulated attacks was a post by Vahab Saquafi Mambad of the AP wing: Now, beevis (women of Panakkad family) from the highest families are coming out demanding womens right to enter politics and compete! And now, they demand entry into Sunni mosques. Soon, they may even demand to become qazi of thousands of mosques. This post, amplified by dozens of accounts, became a rallying point for hostile comments. Munavvar Ali Thangal then issued a detailed clarification, emphasising his daughter was a minor who had been confronted with a complex questionunexpectedly. My daughter is 16. Her reply is not in line with the mainstream belief systems of Kerala or the rulings of the scholarly community. I request that this be seen as a hasty opinion by a child who has not attained the necessary religious study. As a father, I am correcting her statement with full responsibility, he wrote. His intervention did little to deter the cyber attacks, but it marked the first attempt to shift the focus back to the fact that a minor was at the receiving end of a massive online storm. After initial silence, the Samastha EK group backed Thangals clarification. EK leader Nazar Faizi Koodathai wrote, Islam has not said women are forbidden from entering mosques. But they are prohibited from attending Jumuah congregations with men. Women may pray at home, but can enter mosques under certain conditions. Many womens colleges have separate prayer spaces. He also reminded the community that ideological maturity should not be expected from a 16-year-old, calling the fathers correction commendable. But the AP faction escalated their criticism further. Rahmathulla Saqafi Elamaram said, If families allow their children to roam in liberal environments without sufficient religious learning, this is what happens. Parents must be careful especially those who are role models for the community, he said. Salafi organisations, meanwhile, openly supported Fathimas remark. Wisdom Islamic Organisation general secretary T K Ashraf said her statement was the correct Islamic position that deserves wide discussion. In Islamic matters, none of us have the right to turn truth into falsehood under pressure. Personal positions or relationships do not matter before principles, Ashraf said. Youth League national secretary Najma Thabsheera told TNIE , I have been seeing Fathima excel in public speaking from a very young age. She, with great knowledge, is clear in her vision. These scholars should understand one thing: if they have any hate towards the Panakkad family, it should not be taken out against a 16-year-old girl.
Kerala cops request for officers info over MDMA seizure to further strain ties with customs
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The frosty ties between the police and the Commissionerate of Central GST, Excise and Customs are expected to worsen as the cops have served a notice on the latter seeking information of customs officers in connection with the probe into the seizure of 1.25 kg of MDMA in July. The MDMA was brought from Oman to Thiruvananthapuram airport and trafficked in a container carrying dates. Acting on a tip-off, the police tailed the vehicles and arrested four people in Attingal on July 9. In August, the Varkala DySP wrote to the customs seeking detailed information of officers who were on duty on the day, to ascertain whether the traffickers received any inside help. Since there was no response, notices were sent repeatedly, the latest a month back. This did not go down well with customs officials who felt the police were exceeding their powers. Customs sources said the police action was devoid of legal standing and meant to create a bad impression about the agency. When a flight lands, there will be around 300 passengers, who will be carrying around 600 bags. Its neither possible nor prudent to open and inspect every luggage. We go for intrusive checks of a person if we have any inputs, or if something suspicious comes up during baggage screening or frisking, said a source. The police justify the notices citing suspicions as to how the traffickers managed to evade every security measure at the airport. However, customs sources said organic items going through the baggage scanner are highlighted in a particular colour. Since the drug was placed with organic food items, it could not be detected. The customs policy is not to go for detailed inspection of all passengers by opening their luggage. Nowhere is that allowed. Harassing passengers in the name of inspections is something no customs agency in the world will attempt, said the source.
Over 10,000 prisoners in Keralas jails excluded from SIR
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: More than 10,000 prisoners lodged in jails across the state will not be part of the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, the office of the Chief Election Officer has said. The reason: SIR guidelines do not mention how to execute the process in the case of prisoners. Senior officials with the office of the CEO-Kerala said prisoners will not be considered for SIR as they are not ordinarily residents of their address since they are in jail. They will have to apply again for inclusion in electoral roll upon their release, the officials said, adding that the eligibility will be decided by the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO). As of October 20, there were more than 10,053 prisoners 9,802 men and 251 women housed in around 57 jail institutions in the state. They include 4,598 remand prisoners, 1,130 undertrials and 4,004 convicts. Being carried out based on the electoral rolls as of October 27, the SIR process in the state began on November 4. SIR guidelines only mention that individuals above 18, who are ordinarily residents of their address, and are otherwise not disqualified from voting, may be included in the process, said a higher official with the CEO office. With the current provisions, all prisoners convicts, remand prisoners and others will be excluded from the process, the official said. When a person is jailed, he/she is not permitted to vote. However, their names will not be removed from the electoral roll. As of October 20, there were more than 10,053 prisoners housed in around 57 jail institutions in the state. But since the conditions are different here and the prisoners cannot be treated as ordinarily residents of their address, we dont have a legal provision to accommodate them in the SIR process, the official said. They will have to reapply as a fresh voter to be part of the electoral roll, the final decision of which rests with the ERO, the official added. Complete denial of democratic rights: Karassery Speaking about the issue, writer and social activist M N Karassery said this is a complete denial of democratic rights. A person, sometimes a remand prisoner, may be found innocent within weeks or months after being arrested and jailed. It is immaterial whether they vote or not, but arent they supposed to have their names in the voters list? he said, adding that this could have long-standing implications. In India, a person can contest in an election even if he/she is in prison. But if you are off the electoral roll, your right to contest in an election gets challenged, he told TNIE .
Verdict in 2017 Kerala actor abduction, assault case today
KOCHI: Over eight years after the traumatic incident and nearly five years since the start of trial, the long-awaited verdict in the 2017 actor abduction and sexual assault case is set to be delivered at 11am on Monday. Ernakulam District and Principal Sessions Court judge Honey M Varghese will pass the verdict following extensive trial proceedings that commenced on January 30, 2020. Actor Dileep is the eighth accused in the case that shook Kerala. According to the prosecution, the survivor was abducted by a six-member gang and raped by first accused N S Sunil aka Pulsar Suni inside a moving car in Ernakulam on February 17, 2017. He also recorded the brutal assault on his mobile phone. Special public prosecutor V Ajakumar told TNIE the prosecution took all necessary steps to ensure the culprits were brought before the law. The prosecution produced all digital and documentary evidence, including CCTV visuals and material, to prove the offences levelled against the accused persons, he said, adding that the primary conspiracy was between Suni and actor Dileep to allegedly record videos of the sexual assault in order to defame and demoralise the survivor. After filing the chargesheet against the first six accused, the special investigation team moved against Dileep to establish the conspiracy. Dileep appeared before the team on July 5, 2017, and was questioned for around 12 hours. After gathering additional evidence, the police arrested him on July 10. He remained in jail for 86 days before being released on bail on October 3, 2017. According to the prosecution, Dileep believed the survivor had divulged to his wife Manju Warrier news of his relationship with Kavya Madhavan. The prosecution said its conspiracy case rests on a meticulous reconstruction of events, communications, custodial disclosures, and digital evidence, all of which point to a covert agreement between Dileep and Suni. The proceedings witnessed tensions, with both the prosecution and the victim filing petitions alleging bias by the trial judge. By the time 80 witnesses were examined, petitions seeking transfer of the case were filed, which were dismissed by the High Court. During the trial, 261 witnesses were examined.
Antony Kattiparambil ordained 36th bishop of Diocese of Cochin
KOCHI: Ending a one-and-a-half-year wait, Monsignor Antony Kattiparambil was on Sunday ordained bishop of the Roman Catholic Churchs Cochin diocese. The ceremony, held at the Parade Ground in Fort Kochi, was presided over by the Archbishop of Goa and Daman and seventh Patriarch of the East Indies, Cardinal Filipe Neri Antnio Sebastio do Rosrio Ferro. Antony Kattiparambil is the 36th bishop of the diocese, the churchs mother diocese in Kerala. The post remained vacant following the resignation of Bishop Joseph Kariyil on March 2, 2024. Bishop James Anaparambil of Alleppey was appointed administrator on October 12, 2024. Born in Mundamveli, Bishop Kattiparambil is the fifth Keralite and also the fifth Kochiite to lead the diocese since its establishment in 1557. The ceremony began with a procession from the bishops house to Santa Cruz Cathedral. Kattiparambil was accompanied by bishops in their ceremonial vestments, along with members of the clergy and the laity. The bishop-designate and staff laid a wreath at one of the remaining pillars of the first basilica, which was founded in 1505 and demolished by the British in 1806. Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferro was the main celebrant of the ordination ceremony. The metropolitan of Varappuzha archdiocese, Dr Joseph Kalathiparambil, and Bishop Kariyil were co-celebrants. Kattiparambil lays a wreath at one of the remaining pillars of the first basilica at Santa Cruz Cathedral in Kochi. The Vatican ambassador and nuncio to India, Archbishop Dr Leopoldo Girelli, head of the Syro-Malabar Church Raphael Thattil, president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of India Andrews Thazhath, and president of the Kerala Latin Catholic Bishops Conference Archbishop Varghese Chakkalakkal, delivered the benediction sermons. The bishop-designates classmate and metropolitan of the archdiocese of Thalassery, Joseph Pamplany, delivered the homily. In his oration, Mar Pamplany said, When I looked up the etymology of the name Antony, I came across a reference to the Greek anthos, which means flower or blossom... Bishop Kattiparambil is a native flower who was born in Kochi, bloomed in Kochi, exudes the fragrance of Kochi and carries the love for Kochi in his heart. Unlike the negative publicity that Catholic priests have been attracting for some time, the announcement of Bishop Kattiparambils ordination attracted a deluge of positive comments and posts on social media, he added. The ceremony ended with the celebration of Holy Mass by Bishop Kattiparambil, followed by benedictory addresses by Cardinal Girelli, Mar Thattil, Mar Thazhath and Archbishop Chakkalakal.
Kerala local body polls: Broad narratives and ground realities
KOCHI: This has been a local-body election in which local concerns have been swept up by broader narratives. Instead of the familiar neighbourhood chatter on roads, drainage, or local development, high-voltage, state-level storylines from the dramatic episodes involving MLA Rahul Mamkootathil to the contentious gold-theft allegations linked to Sabarimala have permeated even the tiniest wards. Yet, amid this political noise, analysts insist that the final verdict will still be shaped by ground realities. In the end, it is micro-issues, visible development outcomes, and the sense of direct accountability that guide voter choices. The stakes have never been higher for the LDF, UDF, and NDA, observes Prof Pramod C R with the department of political science at Thrissur Sree Kerala Varma College. With barely six months left for the assembly elections, he notes, this contest is widely viewed as the crucial semi-final. All three fronts are attempting to frame the polls through state-level narratives driven from the top, according to Pramod. The LDF moved early to set the tone, projecting the narrative of a historic third term long before the campaign season began. They are seeking a mandate for continuity and development, with MLAs aggressively reinforcing this message at the grassroots, he explains. The UDF, compelled to counter the LDFs development narrative, has shifted focus towards the governments perceived failures. While they hope to tap into anti-incumbency, the front is simultaneously grappling with organisational weaknesses and internal discord challenges that make presenting a unified message more difficult. Meanwhile, the NDA is treating this election as an extension of its performance in the last Lok Sabha election. Its strategy is unambiguous: Expand its vote share by capitalising on recent momentum, Pramod points out. In the end, it is micro-issues, visible development outcomes, and the sense of direct accountability that guide voter choices. But despite these loud, dramatic agendas, he cautions that they may not decisively influence voter behaviour. Ultimately, people vote based on what they can see and experience tangible improvements, accessible services, and developments that affect their daily lives, he emphasises. Prof Ravindranathan P, of the department of geopolitics and international relations at Manipal University, emphasises the importance of a candidates performance in local elections. People evaluate what the ward member does and how efficiently he manages to do it. In fact, accountability is high in local polls... they are able to hold the person accountable and may even ask or question him on his failures, whereas such accountability is limited for MLAs and MPs. Rural constituencies present a more layered terrain, according to him. Welfare delivery, agricultural sustainability, local employment, cooperative sector management, and the functioning of panchayats remain central, he added. Krishnakumar K K, senior fellow at the Centre for Socio-economic and Environmental Studies (CSES), notes that in Keralas local elections, the candidate is the most important factor. Because it happens in a small area, and the major factor that comes into play is his or her appeal, accessibility, willingness to involve in issues, etc., rather than polity or development manifesto. He emphasises that trust and credibility are crucial for the people, and the ward member serves as the last-mile connectivity between the state machinery and the people. The top-driven narratives finally do not matter in the most hyper-local wards, whereas as the unit of election gets bigger, the personal appeal of the member gets diluted and other elements like politics, development agenda, winnability of the political front, etc., start getting mattered. According to Krishnakumar, the job of a ward member or councilor is extremely challenging, with minimal honorarium and little appreciation. He states, They have to be at the beck and call of the people, and they gauge the member by his willingness to do even the smallest task. Despite the swirl of state politics, the final outcome will most likely hinge on the micro-performance and personal credibility of individual candidates. In the end, the ward members effectiveness matters the most. Were they able to bring funds? Make use of state schemes? Build roads? Distribute laptops? More importantly, were they present and responsive when people needed them? Pramod adds.
IUML aims for young women to lead the party: Jayanthi Rajan
KOZHIKODE: IUML has fielded young women leaders in the local body elections to groom them for future responsibilities, says national assistant secretary Jayanthi Rajan. In a chat with TNIE , she speaks about the partys election strategies and the disputes it saw in some local bodies. Edited excerpts: Has fielding young women leaders in the local body elections boosted IUMLs image? Definitely. IUML has been prioritising womens leadership. We fielded young leaders like Fathima Thahiliya, Najma Thabsheera and Ayisha Banu in the local body elections. The party aims for these young women to lead it in future. IUML is making an effort to provide proper representation to the new generation in grama, block and district panchayats as we mould them for future. What major changes were you able to bring as the first woman member of IUMLs national council? As the national secretary of Womens League and now as the IUML national assistant secretary, I was able to intervene in the organisational system of the League as much as I could. Whether I could bring changes is not for me to say, but for the workers and leaders to assess. However, the League has always given me the space to voice my opinions in consultations and discussions. IUML faced seat sharing disputes in Kozhikode corporation and in Wayanad. Does this indicate a rift between the leadership and party workers? Workers should be people who move forward by keeping organisational interests before personal interests. Like many parties, the League experienced minor disputes during candidate selection. The leaders intervened and resolved what they could. For us, the fact that educated and highly-qualified workers are coming forward as Muslim League candidates is a positive change. What are the major issues raised by IUML in Wayanad? Everything, from rising wild animal attacks, unemployment, building tax hike and regional issues to the failure of the LDF administration is being discussed in the election. In Wayanad, the focus is on the Brahmagiri deposit scam and Wayanad Medical Colleges development woes. Also, LDF failed to coordinate with various voluntary organisations and parties to implement disaster relief work. Even IUMLs own rehabilitation project was delayed by the government.
LDF, UDF draw up independent route to win Kizhakkambalam
KOCHI: Aiming to defeat the Kitex-backed Twenty20 party, which has dominated the Kizhakkambalam panchayat for the past 10 years, both the Congress-led UDF and the CPM-led LDF have fielded independent candidates to avoid a possible splitting of votes in the upcoming local body elections. Out of the total 21 wards, the CPM has fielded a candidate only in the Choorakode ward, while the Congress has candidates in four wards Choorakode, Kanamburam, Kummanode and Kunnathukudy. BJP has also fielded candidates in four wards Pukkattupady, Kanamburam, Choorakode and Kummanode. A total of 59 independent candidates are in the fray in the panchayat. Following the move, the Twenty20 party leadership alleged that the LDF and the UDF have fielded common independent candidates to defeat the Twenty20 candidates in the panchayat. V Gopakumar, state vice-president of Twenty20, told TNIE that the workers of both CPM and Congress are working together in the panchayat. Congress and CPM party workers are campaigning for the same independent candidates. In some wards, they have a common party election office too. The aim is to defeat the Twenty20 party candidates, he said. After this years delimitation exercise, the number of wards has increased to 21. Earlier, when asked about their candidates in the panchayat, UDF and LDF leaders had denied having any understanding or tie-up between the two fronts. Between 2010 and 2015, the UDF was in power in the local body. In 2015, Twenty20 wrested the panchayat by winning 17 out of 19 wards. In 2020, the party won in 18 wards. After this years delimitation exercise, the number of wards has increased to 21. Meanwhile, the SDPI has also fielded two candidates in the panchayat. In the 2015 elections, SDPI candidate Abdul Rahman had won from the Kavanguparambu ward. The Twenty20 party, launched in 2013 with a medical camp in the area, gained public support through a series of development and welfare initiatives in Kizhakkambalam. Gopakumar added that UDF and LDF have candidates in the other three Twenty20-ruled panchayats Aikkaranad, Mazhuvannoor and Kunnathunad.
PALAKKAD: As Kerala enters the final phase of preparations for the local body elections, a deep sense of unease is growing among Tamil-speaking minority communities particularly in Palakkad over what they describe as a systematic reduction in linguistic recognition. Community leaders warn that the state, despite its long-standing tradition of pluralism, appears to be retreating from a fundamental commitment towards linguistic minorities. In the 2020 elections, Tamil was printed alongside Malayalam in 375 wards across Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Palakkad, and Wayanad districts. However, for the upcoming polls, this number has fallen to 338. The sharpest decline is visible in Palakkad, where Tamil cultural and demographic presence is the most pronounced. Five years ago, Tamil ballots were used in 229 wards across eight panchayats. Now, that number has shrunk dramatically to 93 wards in just six panchayats. Even in Chittur-Tattamangalam municipality -- located in the Tamil linguistic minority heartland of Chittur taluk, a region officially recognised as such since 1956 -- Tamil was removed entirely from the ballot, although three wards were Tamil-inclusive in the previous elections. Similar is the in Kollam, where the number of Tamil-language ballot wards has been reduced from 12 to 10. Only Idukki bucks the trend, showing a marginal rise, from 224 wards to 229, although community organisations note that this increase is too small to offset the statewide decline. Meanwhile, the picture in Kasaragod is mixed. Kannada-speaking minorities have seen improvements at the panchayat level, with the number of Kannada-ballot wards rising from 228 across 18 panchayats in 2020 to 283 this year. Yet, even here, inclusivity appears inconsistent. Kasaragod municipality, which previously had 38 wards with Kannada ballots, now includes only 18, raising concerns that linguistic rights in urban centres are being diluted. Election Commission officials pointed out that all decisions were made after population-based verification, asserting that linguistic-minority wards were designated strictly on demographic grounds. But Tamil community leaders argue that the methodology fails to capture historical realities and lived experiences in regions where Tamil has been embedded in public life for generations. They note that recognising linguistic minorities requires more than mathematical formulas and that electoral participation becomes inequitable when language itself becomes a barrier. These concerns deepen when considering the continued absence of Tamil-language versions of essential election documents. Since 1956, several regions in Kerala have been officially acknowledged as Tamil linguistic minority areas. Yet the SIR enumeration form crucial for preparing electoral rolls continues to be issued only in Malayalam. Voter lists, procedural manuals, and related legal documents also remain monolingual, making it difficult for many Tamil-speaking voters, especially older citizens, to navigate the electoral system fully and independently. M Pechimuthu, general secretary of the Kerala State Tamil Protection Councils linguistic minority committee, voiced strong criticism of the situation. Denying Tamil versions of mandatory election materials is not merely an administrative lapse but a direct infringement on the dignity and democratic agency of linguistic minorities, Pechimuthu said. He stressed that communities recognised under law should not be placed at a structural disadvantage during elections, particularly in a state that often sets national standards for inclusivity. The ongoing reductions in Tamil ballot wards, especially in Palakkad where the Tamil population is most concentrated, have raised profound questions about linguistic justice and democratic representation. The issue is no longer limited to administrative decisions about ballot paper design; it touches upon the commitment of the state to honour long-standing legal protections and cultural identities. As Kerala readies itself for another electoral exercise, the debate surrounding linguistic inclusion has become far more than a technical matter. It has evolved into a broader conversation about the rights of minority communities to participate on equal terms-and about the responsibilities of democratic institutions to ensure that no citizen is forced to cast a vote in a language they cannot fully claim as their own.
Kerala actor rape case: Who all are the accused?
The Ernakulam Principal Sessions Judge, Honey M. Varghese, will pronounce the judgment on the day, thus marking the end of one of the prolonged and sensational criminal trials in Kerala.
Voters who participated in Campco society election in a spot
With the ink mark still visible, voters fear polling officials may mistake it for the ink used in the local body elections, potentially causing confusion
High-pitched campaign for local body polls ends in Ernakulam
Development takes centre stage with the Chief Ministers recent campaign speech in the city, in which he listedLDFgovernments achievements; Congress says his claims are far from reality
IUML leader clarifies daughters remarks on women entering mosques
Antony Kattiparambil ordained as 36th Bishop of Kochi
A case that shaped the socio-political discourse of Kerala
The Women in Cinema Collective, the K. Hema committee, formation of internal complaints committees on film sets and the governments decision to formulate a film policy are some of the aftermath of the case
12 cases of hepatitis A confirmed in Kalamassery in a month
Residents have been alerted through WhatsApp about this and advised to follow hygiene practices, says a health dept. official
Woman held while transporting ganja thrown from train
Drug peddlers resorted to the new method to evade intensified police checks at railway stations, says the police
Chargesheet filed against advocate in assault case
Thilakkam takes shine off LDFs campaign in Kozhikode Corporation
Thilakkam has landed the LDF in trouble after opposition parties complained that LDF councillors were distributing copies of the progress report to voters during campaigning, violating the poll code
Continuance in power helped LDF launch development works, claims Pinarayi Vijayan
The seven districts going to the polls on December 9 have a little over 1.32 crore voters, including 70.32 lakh female voters, 62.51 lakh male voters and 126 transgender voters. In all, 456 overseas electors are also eligible to vote on Tuesday.
Bloodywood to headline rock music festival in Thiruvananthapuram; Avial, other bands in line-up
Uforia 2025 will be held at the LuLu Mall Open Arena on December 20 from 4 p.m. onwards
All set for polling in Kottayam
Red-necked Phalarope spotted for the first time in Thrissurs offshore waters
Pelagic Bird Survey 2025 documents 37 species during deep-sea expedition
IFFK fervour takes over Thiruvananthapuram
Just one more week to go before the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) descends for the thirtieth time in Thiruvananthapuram. For this edition, the Kerala State Chalachithra Academy will be using one more screen to show films (Kripa 1) thus taking the total number to 16, says its secretary and executive director of IFFK, C Ajoy. This invariably also hints that there would be more screenings for enthusiasts to relish in the IFFK curated basket. In addition, two additional packages are also included in the curated list: one comprising chosen Suvarna Chakoram award winners up to 2020, and another package of 10 films on select IFFK lifetime achievement awardees. The usual packages of films to be shown at the festival include seven films in the Indian Cinema Now category, 14 films in the International Competition category, eight in the Kaleidoscope section, and 12 in the Malayalam Cinema Today category. To me, the highlight is the Ritwik Ghatak centenary package with gems like Meghe Dhaka Tara and Subarnarekha in the list. Quite a tribute on the veterans centenary year, says Jyotirmayi Manoj, who has been to IFFK several times. Unlike previous editions, she will be attending this years IFFK as a film school student. More in the focus segments include the retrospective on Saeed Mirza, which includes the iconic filmmakers noted takes such as Salim Langde Pe Mat Maro and Arvind Joshi Ki Ajeeb Dastan. Meghe Dhaka Tara, part of Ritwik Ghatak centenary package. Saeed Mirzas Nukkad and Albert Pinto ko Gussa Kyo Aaaya were so part of our growing up. The man deserves this, and we too deserve to watch him more, smiles Prasad K Balan, who is planning to visit Thiruvananthapuram for IFFK, taking a break from his sound designing work in Mumbai. Another retrospective in the IFFK bouquet this year is on Egyptian director Youssef Chahine, with the choicest among his 37 films being included. The anime trip continues this year too as Signatures in Motion, with a list of four award-winners from the Annecy Animation Film Festival, the exclusive fete for anime films being held in France since 1960. Striking in the list is Zaven Najjars hard-hitting adaptation of Ahmadou Kourouma's 2000 novel about the trials of a child soldier who gets caught up in civil wars in Liberia. The Spirit of Cinema award this year is for Kelly Fyffe-Marshall, a Canadian filmmaker who tells stories that shatter perceptions of Black people and contribute towards their social uplift, even while creating spaces that reflect healing and unity. When Morning Comes, her debut film that premiered at the TIFF 2022, is being shown at the IFFK. The presence of masters in IFFK continues with Indonesian director Garin Nugroho, whose five movies are being shown Bird Man Tale, A Poet: Unconcealed Poetry, Samsara, Whispers in the Dabdas, and Letter to an Angel. While IFFK is being given finishing touches, its regulars are gearing up to visit from different parts of the state and beyond. Hotels are being booked at a speed faster than last year, and city-based film buffs are gearing up to host their friends from other places. It is the time of the year when we get together. I have not missed even one festival since 2008, says Noufal Mariam Plathur from Kannur. The research associate at the University of Keralas Kariyavattom campus claims he has been offered an official pass this year, as his article that appeared in the magazine Yuvatara was selected as the best by the Chalachithra Academy. With the Academy giving finishing touches to IFFKs smooth functioning, the wait is now for the jury list as well as the eminent names who are to grace the occasion.
Adding more merry to the festive season, the countdown to the countrys biggest art carnival has begun. The sixth edition of the 110-day Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB), titled For the Time Being, will open on December 12. TNIE walked the Biennale route in the Fort Kochi - Mattancherry area to get a sense of how preparations are shaping up for the mega festival. There is indeed an air of excitement and suspense around the venues. Artists, officials, contractors, architects, and workers are racing to ready all venues for the opening day. Tourists, meanwhile, pause to enquire about the goings-on. Hearing hammering and welding sounds from the heritage structure of Arthshila Kochi, a German tourist asks whether a renovation was under way. No, its the Kochi Biennale, replies a young volunteer, who goes on to explain the nitty gritty. Though initially disappointed that he would miss the event because of his holiday schedule, the tourist brightens up upon learning the Biennale runs until March. Oh, so I will plan another trip I will be back here, he beams. This years Biennale will showcase 66 artist projects from more than 25 countries, under the curatorial direction of Nikhil Chopra with HH Art Space, Goa. Eight venues will host the highlight exhibitions. A highlight is the display of works at St Andrew Parish Hall (Students Biennale), Fort Kochi, by young artists from the northeast, curated by the Anga Art Collective. St Andrew Parish Hall (Students Biennale), Fort Kochi This heritage hall will host budding artists from across India, transforming its corners, walls, and floors with their creations. A key highlight is the display of works by young artists from the northeast, curated by the Anga Art Collective. Introducing two young women artists from Arunachal Pradeshs Adi tribe in Upper Siang district, the curator notes that their project addresses menstrual issues. Overall, there will be 10 projects from the northeast. Another standout is an interactive project on Naturalism by Mahalakshmi, an MFA student from Chennai. Additional Students Biennale venues include BMS Warehouse, SPACE, Arthshila, and VKL Warehouse. The hall will also feature invitation projects. Arthshila Kochi (Students Biennale), Fort Kochi This revitalised heritage structure on Parade Road will house installations, new media works, documentary projects, and site-responsive pieces. Students Biennale projects here explore material ecologies, migration, digital identities, and climate anxieties concerns resonating strongly with emerging artists across the subcontinent. David Hall, Fort Kochi Built around 1695 by the Dutch East India Company as the residence of Governor Hendrik Adriaan van Rheede tot Drakenstein, David Hall will soon feature artwork by an artist from Nairobi. The project is curated by the Nairobi Contemporary Art Institute (NCAI). The building later took its name from Jewish businessman David Koder. Other invitation venues include Space, Simi Warehouse, Oottupura, Jail of Freedom Struggle, and Devassy Jose & Sons, which will also host residencies. Arthshila Kochi (Students Biennale), Fort Kochi, where Students' Bienale projects will be shown. Anand Warehouse Pepper House, Fort Kochi A central courtyard installation by Utsa Hazarika an artist and writer based in New York will anchor the space. Her research-driven practice spans video, installation, and sculpture. Anand Warehouse, Mattancherry A major draw here will be Parliament of Ghosts by Ibrahim Mahama, known for large-scale collaborative installations, drawings, and sculptures. The project is being realised with the labour of Mattancherry women and materials sourced from local furniture shops. It is supported by the Sandeep and Gitanjali Maini Foundation. Nine artists will exhibit at this venue. Simi Warehouse, Mattancherry Alice Yard, a contemporary art collective from Trinidad and Tobago, will present An Instigators Handbook for Play, Friendship, Generosity and Autonomy. Devassy Jose Building. SPACE, Mattancherry Artists Jyoti Bhatt and Sujith S N will feature as part of the KMB exhibition here, alongside invitation and Students Biennale projects. Cube Art Space, Mattancherry This venue will host the final work by celebrated artist Vivan Sundaram, who passed away in 2023 Six Stations of a Life Pursued, a photography-based installation. It is structured as a journey marked by six stations, each a pause to release pain, witness beauty, confront horror, relinquish memory, and reclaim life. Aspinwall House & Directors Bungalow, Fort Kochi The Biennales most prestigious venue is nearing completion and promises to impress visitors. Installations and projects are being set up in the coir godown and the directors bungalow, while the garden will feature three outdoor installations, each presenting distinct concepts and visions. Twenty-five artists will exhibit here. Srishti Hall. The Pavilion, Bastion Bungalow, Fort Kochi Expected to be one of the liveliest venues, this Pavilion will host performances, sessions, and talks, and can accommodate around 250 people. Adjacent to it is a dedicated space for the Art by Children (ABC) project, which will also run near the Fort Kochi Water Metro terminal. New additions Other noteworthy venues include Willingdon Island Warehouse, hosting 12 artists including Marina Abramovi and Sabitha Kadannappally, and Durbar Hall, where works by Gulam Mohammed Sheikh will be shown, curated by the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art.
In play in the first phase of polling on Tuesday are three Municipal Corporations, 39 municipalities, seven district panchayats, 75 block panchayats, and 471 grama panchayats spanning Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Alappuzha and Ernakulam districts
Idukki campaigns blend Tamil and Malayalam for Kottikalasham
Mattannur, Kannur Cantonment remain quiet as State gears up for local body polls
Mattannur is exempt as its governing council has two more years left in its term, while residents of the Kannur Cantonment do not have voting rights in local body polls
IFFK 2025: Palestine 36 to be opening film, Mohammad Rasoulof to head jury
The championship will be formally inaugurated on Dec. 9 and will conclude on Dec. 13
Kerala local body elections: 22.54 lakh voters to exercise franchise in Kollam
R. Vasanthagopal awarded DLitt
Kerala CM Accepts KC Venugopal's Public Debate Challenge
Venugopal's statement was followed by the Left veteran's recent criticism that the UDF MPs had failed to raise Kerala's development issues in Parliament and took a stand against the state's interests on many occasions
'I'm Ready': Kerala CM Accepts KC Venugopal's Debate Challenge On UDF Performance
Pinarayi Vijayan accepted KC Venugopals challenge for a public debate on UDF MPs performance. He accused them of undermining Keralas interests.
At present, only election officials are eligible for postal ballots in the local body polls in Kerala
Researchers chosen for Dr. Hisham Endowment Award 2025
Kerala among top States in services employment: NITI Aayog report
As per the study, 48.5% of Keralas workforce is engaged in services as of 2023-24. This is far above the national average of 29.7%
Kerala Lottery Live Today: Samrudhi SM-32 Winning Numbers For December 7, 2025
Kerala Lottery Result Today Live Updates, 7-12-2025: Heres full list of winning numbers for Samrudhi SM-32 lottery for Sunday, December 7.
Industrialist Anand Mahindra recently visited the Kadamakkudy Islands, fulfilling a personal resolution to experience their renowned natural beauty. He found the region remarkably unspoiled, with vast backwaters and abundant birdlife creating a calming and hypnotic atmosphere. The fourteen-island cluster, located near Kochi, offers a tranquil rural retreat showcasing traditional livelihoods and a harmonious blend of land and lagoon.
Court to deliver verdict in actor Dileep rape case on December 8
The case had attracted wide attention as a young woman actor was allegedly abducted and raped inside a moving car, and actor Dileep was arraigned as an accused in the case
Sabarimala gold theft: Ramesh Chennithala alleges involvement of international antique smugglers
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Former home minister and senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala has raised a new allegation that international antique smugglers are part of the Sabarimala gold theft. In a letter addressed to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) dated Saturday, the leader states that he received this information from someone with knowledge of these smugglers' activities. Alleging that a deal worth 500 crores had already taken place in the issue, he states in the letter that the Sabarimala gold theft is part of a conspiracy between the Devaswom board and antique smugglers. Mentioning that the informer is not ready to disclose the details before the public, but is willing to furnish facts and figures before the SIT whenever called upon. Chennithala also states that he has checked the informer's version and has found it to be true. Calling the Sabarimala gold theft a tip of the iceberg, the leader also states that he has received information about the involvement of 'certain ill-famed businessmen and organised rackets' who have spent huge sums within the State for this purpose. Chennithala calls this a 'well-orchestrated plan to plunder and smuggle priceless antiques, idols and other valuable articles from prominent Hindu temples' in the letter. Alleging that the non-recovery of the original gold and other smuggled items from Sabarimala is proof of involvement of international rackets, he mentions that the High Court observation that the gold theft resembles the operation of notorious antique smuggler Subhash Kapoor, and the case deserves more attention in this context. ED approaches court seeking copies of documents in Sabarimala gold loss case
Roshan Mathews fiery character poster from `Chatha Pacha` released
Roshan Mathew marks 10 years in cinema with a powerful new avatar in Chatha Pacha, as the makers unveil his intense first-look poster. The upcoming action film promises a mad, vibrant world rooted in Keralas wrestling culture
Actress assault case; Dileeps Mental stress message to CM
Hours before a crucial verdict, new trial details emerged in the Kerala actress assault case. Actor Dileep sent a message to CM Pinarayi Vijayan five days post-assault, citing extreme mental stress despite innocence. Prosecution argues this outreach, along with contacting police, stemmed from fear of exposure, linking it to a personal relationship dispute as the alleged motive.
Fire destroys over ten fishing boats in Ashtamudi Lake in Kerala, probe ordered
KOLLAM: A massive fire gutted over ten fishing boats anchored in Ashtamudi Lake at Kureepuzha early Sunday, causing heavy losses to local fishermen, though no casualties were reported. According to residents, the blaze may have been triggered by a cooking gas cylinder explosion on one of the boats. Six Fire and Rescue Services units from Kollam reached the spot and brought the blaze under control by around 7 am. Residents first spotted the fire around 1:30 am, and said around 14 boats anchored in a row caught fire. To contain the damage, locals untied the burning boats and pushed them into the lake. Visuals showed several boats drifting while engulfed in flames. Nine traditional boats and one fibre boat were completely gutted, while a few others reportedly sank. Fire officials said the cause of the fire is still being probed. Locals alleged a delayed response due to poor road access, adding that this is the third such incident in the area. Kollam District Collector N Devidas, who visited the site, ordered an inquiry and said around ten boats, including one owned by a local man, Lawrance, and others belonging to fishermen from Pozhiyoor, were destroyed.
In play in the first phase of polling on Tuesday (December 9) are three Municipal Corporations, 39 municipalities, seven district panchayats and 75 block panchayats
Kerala actress assault case: 8-year timeline of the trial
TRIGGER WARNING: The article contains references to rape and abuse.On February 17, 2017, a leading Malayalam actress was abducted while travelling to a film set in Thrissur. A group of men assaulted her inside a moving vehicle and recorded videos of the attack. The actor reported the crime the very next day. This alone was groundbreaking as her courage became the first crack in an industry that operated with silence and fear.
Kerala: Massive fire destroys over 10 fishing boats in Kollam; no casualties reported
A fire broke out before dawn on Sunday at a boat-anchoring point on Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam, destroying more than ten fishing boats. The blaze started around 2:30 am near Kureepuzha church, close to the Ayyankovil temple. Officials said the cause is still not known, but no injuries were reported.
Kerala Lottery Result Today, December 7, 2025 Live: Samrudhi SM-32 Winning Numbers
Kerala Lottery Result Today Live Updates, 7-12-2025: Heres Guessing Numbers for Samrudhi SM-32 for Sunday, December 7. Check the full list of winning numbers from 3 pm.
BJP seeks central probe into alleged corruption in corporation
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Saturday said the party has sent letters to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the Ministry of Home Affairs, demanding a detailed inquiry into what it alleges is large-scale corruption and financial irregularities in the CPM-led Thiruvananthapuram Corporation. Chandrasekhar said the CPM, which has governed the corporation for the past 10 years, spent nearly `20,000 crore in the name of development, yet the city continues to struggle with basic civic issues. Despite spending such a massive amount, Thiruvananthapuram still suffers from unresolved waste management, sewage and drainage failures, streetlight issues, and poor road conditions. There is no doubt that corruption is the reason, he said. He added that the corporation received around Rs 1,000 crore from the Union government over the last five years, but there is little visible progress. The party has requested a comprehensive central agency investigation into these alleged irregularities. The complaint lists several concerns, including the purchase of 50 electric vehicles for waste management, alleged corruption in procuring 1,629 laptops for children in the coastal fishing community between 2018 and 2024, the spending of `2.24 crore under the pretext of addressing the stray dog issue, d suspected irregularities in the Rs 1,000-crore Smart City project. Chandrasekhar also made an open appeal to the chief minister, urging him to address the larger issues facing the state. He said the chief minister must speak openly about the development stagnation, corruption in local bodies, unemployment, price rise, and the overall financial mismanagement that is affecting ordinary citizens. This corruption carried out in the name of development cannot be allowed to continue, he said. Senior BJP leader S Suresh said the party would ensure accountability. We will ensure action against the Marxist leadership that looted the Thiruvananthapuram corporation. From V Sivankutty to Arya Rajendran, it has been a continuous chain of CPM mayors engaged in corruption in the city. We are expecting the Union government to initiate a probe into these financial irregularities, Suresh said.
Kerala police target buyers in leaked cinema CCTV footage probe
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a move to address the alarming situation of CCTV footage from cinemas being leaked and sold online, the Kerala cyber police are now targeting the buyers of these visuals. Visuals from the state government-owned Kairali, Nila, and Sree cinema complex of the capital city were leaked into porn channels on Telegram and X, raising widespread privacy concerns. Speaking about the issue, Cyber operations SP Ankit Asokan said that a proactive search was ongoing in the incident. These videos have mostly been leaked through private Telegram chats. We are trying to trace the people who purchased this, he said. He also added that strict instructions had been given to Kerala State Film Development corporation (KSFDC) officials to secure their CCTV data using passwords. The official said nothing more can be revealed as the investigation is under way. Mentioning that an internal enquiry is going on from the side of the KSFDC, its managing director, Priyadarshan P S, said that visuals from private cinemas had also been leaked as part of this. Currently, we only store the visuals which are a maximum of two-months-old, but the visuals which got leaked are from the year 2023 t0 2024. This could mean that the visuals were leaked much before, he said. Priyadarhsan added that they first noticed this when police officials reached out to them, stating that the videos from cinemas were leaked. He said that a complaint was filed to higher police officials on Thursday itself. Possibilities of net video recording and the CCTV data getting hacked also need to be looked into, he said. In light of the recent incident, KSFDC has issued an internal circular to the theatre operators to prevent similar incidents in future. Inside sources said that instructions included strengthening of passwords and other technical and personnel instructions.
Will ask for special team to probe suicide of BJP leaders, says Kerala minister Sivankutty
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: General Education Minister V Sivankutty has said that he will request Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to depute a special team to probe the suicide of two BJP leaders in Thiruvananthapuram. The families of councillor Thirumala Anil and Anand K Thampi are in despair and disagreement with the BJP leadership. Being their MLA, I will seek a special team to probe the deaths, the minister said in a press conference here on Saturday. Alleging that Anils family members had handed over complaints regarding this to BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar, he said that no action was taken on this. Sivankutty also said that the new corruption allegations, which surfaced days before the election, are the BJP leaders excuse to turn his face away from the complaints given by the family of the deceased councillor. Having received these complaints, how can Rajeev Chandrasekhar evade responsibility? he asked. Launching a scathing attack on Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Sivankutty said that the recent corruption allegations he made against the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation are coming out of fear of failure. BJP will fail in half of the sitting seats in the corporation. LDF will secure a win in 75 seats, he said. The minister, who mentioned that the BJP leader is making baseless allegations against the corporation, also criticised that the BJP state chief is clueless about the basic details of these schemes.
AI Christian Housewife turns up heat on Congress, LDF ahead of polls
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With the first phase of local body elections only days away, Sangh Parivar strategists have launched an AI-driven outreach campaign targeting Christian voters. The initial phase of polling, scheduled for December 9, will cover seven districts with substantial Christian populations such as Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Alappuzha and Ernakulam. The AI-generated campaign video circulated discreetly, accuses the Congress of neglecting the Christian community and the LDF of appeasement politics. Though the video did not claim any authorship, apparently to avoid any potential election code violation, it elaborates on why sections of the Christian community are beginning to view the BJP more favourably. In the video, an AI-generated Christian housewife alleges that following the deaths of senior leaders K Karunakaran and Oommen Chandy, and K M Mani along with the withdrawal of A K Antony from active politics, the community has become orphaned. The video claims that the declining Christian population, youth migration and the vacant homes have deepened the communitys insecurity. The Congress is even objecting to EWS (Economically weaker section) reservation for Christians. Congress did not raise a finger when a Bishop was manhandled, it said. It further questions Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan for what it describes as his justification of Jamaat-e-Islami, while highlighting issues such as the Munambam waqf land dispute and the hijab row at a school run by a Christian management. It asserts that BJP alone stood by the community in these matters. In Kerala, the RSS is also said to be playing a key role through long-term social engineering aimed at fostering closer ties with Christian community. A senior leader told TNIE on condition of anonymity that the RSS has been holding discussions with Church representatives for over three years. The church and RSS have decided not to publicise these dialogues. This is an extension of the engagement that began when K S Sudarshan was the Sarsanghchalak. The current Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat, declared in Bengaluru in November first week that the RSS would initiate dialogues to end divisions in society. Discussions are under way with all sections, including Pentecostal groups, he said. According to him, while RSS was represented in these talks by its official functionaries, the Church participated through trusted community leaders to avoid political controversy. We have now asked our cadres to actively reach out to the Christian community. In turn, the Church is encouraging its laity to reassess its perception about RSS, he added. A senior BJP office-bearer said, through the references in the video, the party is positioning itself as the only credible alternative for Christian voters. In Thiruvananthapuram we are close to seizing power, he said. In Kollam and Alappuzha districts, we will have good advancement in Karunagappally and Kayamkulam respectively. The outreach programme and the confidence we have built with the Churches are expected to reflect in Kottayam, Idukki, Pathanamthitta and Ernakulam as well. The BJP has fielded the maximum number of Christian candidates in the local body polls outperforming the Congress and Kerala Congress parties. However, various churches denied while some declined to speak about the dialogue between them and RSS.
Political parties demand further extension of SIR time-frame in Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Terming the Election Commission of Indias extended time-frame for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the state as inadequate, major political parties, except the BJP, have demanded further extension of the enumeration deadline at least till the end of December. The political parties made the demand at a meeting convened by Chief Electoral Officer (CEO)-Kerala Rathan U Kelkar here on Saturday. Representatives of the CPM, Congress and IUML expressed concern over the 20.75 lakh voters whose enumeration forms have yet not been collected. M Vijayakumar of the CPM expressed doubts over the exact number of voters who have been left out. While CPIs Sathyan Mokeri questioned the undue haste on the part of the ECI, M K Rahman of the Congress cautioned that at least 34 lakh voters will be expelled from the draft electoral roll. IUMLs Mohammed Shah pointed out that the time-frame from December 23 to February 4 during which Electoral Registration Officers will conduct hearings on complaints of voters would not be sufficient to complete the exercise. BJPs J R Padmakumar demanded that proper hearing should be conducted before any voters are excluded from the electoral roll.
Crime branch probes claims linking Dileep to Pulsar Suni, threats to investigators
KOCHI: On November 25, 2021, while the trial in the case was progressing, fresh trouble surfaced for the eighth accused, actor Dileep. Filmmaker P Balachandra Kumar levelled grave allegations, claiming that Dileep possessed a copy of the visuals of the assault captured by prime accused Pulsar Suni. He also alleged a close relationship between the two and accused Dileep of conspiring to endanger the lives of investigating officers. The revelations led the Crime Branch to register a fresh case against Dileep and others. In a petition submitted to the chief minister, Kumar said he visited Dileep at his Padmasarovaram residence in Aluva on December 26, 2016, to discuss a movie. On that day, he happened to travel with Suni, who was at the house along with Anoop, Dileeps brother, in a red Maruti Swift car. Anoop introduced Suni to him during the trip. From Anoops words, I understood that the young man had a lot of money with him and was taking it somewhere, Kumar stated. He also referred to a deliberation he had with Dileep on Suni, when the actor allegedly revealed certain details about the sexual assault. They met again on April 15, 2017, in Thiruvananthapuram as part of talks over the movie Professor Dinkan. When Kumar brought up Suni, Dileep reportedly responded saying that nothing happened, before going on to describe the abuse in detail, as though he had witnessed it firsthand. Dileep also instructed the director not to disclose the fact that Suni had visited his residence. In his plea, Balachandrakumar said that on September 12, Anoop, over a WhatsApp call, relayed the desire of Dileep, who was then in jail, to meet him. He met Dileep at Aluva sub jail the next day. Emerging from the meeting, he found Dileeps brother and brother-in-law waiting outside, and the latter handed him `50,000. According to Kumar, Anoop messaged him again, on October 6, to convey Dileeps intention to hold another meeting. The two met at a house in North Paravoor, and spent the entire day together. Dileep repeated the warning not to disclose that Suni had been to his house. The petitioner further stated that he visited Dileep on the morning of November 15 for discussions on a film. During their conversation, Dileeps friend Baiju arrived and the conversation veered toward the clips. Growing suspicious, Kumar recorded parts of the exchange, claiming that the recording pertained to offences in this case. He also recorded a phone conversation between Dileep and Anoop where they talked about how a witness had been influenced and that `5 lakh had been spent for this purpose. Dileep allegedly said that he could have easily coughed up `1.5 crore. Hearing this, his brother-in-law Suraj remarked that Suni could have collected the money from any place of his choice. Another friend of Dileep arrived and discussed the investigation and a plot to attack Suni and his gang on their release from jail. The filmmaker said that on the same day, a person who had come to meet Dileep entered the room with a tablet. Dileep, Suraj, Anoop, and another man named Appu watched a video, and Dileep invited Balachandrakumar to view it, saying it showed the cruel deeds of Pulsar Suni. In his petition to the CM, Kumar expressed the fear that Dileep or his associates may kill him, and that the actors manager had urged him not to reveal anything for his own safety. He produced a pen drive containing 24 voice clips to substantiate his allegations. Based on his revelations, the ADGP (crimes) of the crime branch headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram registered a case on January 9, 2022. The crime branch found that within days of Kumars disclosure, Dileep and others had discontinued using their mobile phones, concealed them and begun using new ones. Dileep deliberately withheld a phone he had used for 221 days, during which time he had made 2,075 calls, claiming it was not in his possession. Investigators identified 81 points from Kumars statements and collected evidence connecting them. Dileep and five others were booked under sections 116 (abetment), 118 (concealing design to commit offence), 506 (criminal intimidation) and 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the IPC. Following the revelations, the survivor approached the High Court, submitting that further investigation was necessary to arrive at the truth. (to be concluded)
Kerala HC restrains police from arresting Rahul Mamkootathil
KOCHI: The Kerala High Court on Saturday restrained the police from arresting Rahul Mamkootathil, MLA, until December 15 in a case registered against him for allegedly raping a woman and forcing her to terminate her pregnancy. When the anticipatory bail plea came up for hearing, Justice K Babu said the matter would be posted for a detailed hearing. During the pendency of the case, I will not permit the police to arrest the petitioner because he has raised serious contentions, the court observed. No man shall be condemned unless heard. When a matter is pending before a constitutional court, he will not be arrested. The petitioners case is that it was a consensual relationship. And admittedly, there is a consensual relationship, Justice Babu added. Though T A Shaji, Director General of Prosecution opposed the order, the court declined to accept it and posted the hearing of the case to December 15. The petitioner argued that political motives are influencing the case, particularly with elections approaching.
Fringe political players eye local gains in Kerala, challenging Keralas dominant fronts
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Meet the political parties that command other states but barely make a blip on Keralas electoral radar. Branded as fringe actors, the modest seat tallies of such parties are often mocked when set against the states entrenched fronts. Yet political observers caution that dismissing them outright may be a mistake. Their strength in select strongholds could send out quiet tremors capable of nudging the trajectories of Keralas major political fronts. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leads the pack in terms of the sheer number of candidates fielded in the upcoming local body election. The party, that once ruled Delhi and is now in power in Punjab, had entered the civic election arena in 2015 with around 80 candidates but failed to open its account. AAP first tasted success in 2023 when its candidate won a panchayat ward in Idukki in a bypoll. In the upcoming civic polls, AAP has fielded a total of 380 candidates across various local bodies in all districts. We will put up an impressive performance in this local body election and are particularly confident of winning seats in Kozhikode and Kochi corporations and a district panchayat division in Idukki, said Vinod Mathew Wilson, AAP state president. AAP could be an alternative for voters who are averse to the ideologies and practices of the three major fronts. But it would be a form of negative voting that is not beneficial in the long run. Instead, AAP should offer positive alternatives such as revival of the anti-corruption plank on which it was originally based, and taking up issues facing the marginalised sections and the downtrodden to stay relevant, opined Prof M N Karassery, political observer and social critic. Meanwhile, DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam), the ruling party in neighbouring Tamil Nadu, is upbeat about a rousing performance in the local body election in Kerala. The party, led by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin, has fielded candidates in 23 wards. Of these, nine candidates are in Kollams Punalur municipality and one in Thenmala grama panchayat while.the remaining 13 have been fielded in Devikulam and Peermade taluks of Idukki. It is for the first time that DMK is contesting under the partys official rising sun symbol in Kerala, and we are confident of a good show this time around, said K R Murugesan, DMK Kerala state secretary. Punalur has been a stronghold of the Dravidian party for many years. Notably, in the 2023 election to Punalur Service Cooperative Bank that falls under the municipal limits, all 13 candidates fielded by the DMK came second, pushing the UDF to third spot. AIADMK (All Indian Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam), the main opposition party in Tamil Nadu, has been a player in Keralas electoral scene for the past few decades. As the partys official two-leaves symbol has been reserved for Kerala Congress (M) in the state, the partys candidates have been contesting under the hat symbol. As many as 30 AIADMK candidates are contesting the upcoming local body election, mostly in its strongholds in Idukki and Palakkad. We have renewed our ties with the BJP-led NDA alliance in Tamil Nadu but in Kerala we have decided to go it alone. In the two wards where our candidates are contesting in Thiruvananthapuram district, the BJP is also in the fray, pointed out Haribabu V Pillai, Kerala state secretary, AIADMK. He added that the party would put up an impressive performance in Idukki and Palakkad districts where it has fielded candidates in 16 and 12 wards respectively. We are hopeful of improving our tally in 2015 when we won as many as six wards, he added. Meanwhile, a section of political analysts are of the view that other-state parties see the local body election in Kerala as part of a larger game-plan. For many such parties, fielding candidates is primarily part of reviving their cadre ahead of the assembly election. Though they may not win the seats they contest, the votes they poll would be shown as a sign of strength in certain pockets and used as a bargaining chip against major fronts in the upcoming elections, opined A Jayashankar, political commentator. It is more of a spoiler effect that parties from other states pose in their strongholds in Kerala, Jayasankar said. In areas where linguistic minorities are a sizeable number, disillusionment with the LDF and UDF favours such fringe parties, he said. Most of these voters would have been taken for a ride in successive elections by the dominant fronts and they would naturally be on the lookout for a platform to express their resentment. Whether their favoured candidate would win the election is a different question altogether, he remarked. Meanwhile, the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC), that has made inroads into the migrant population and also minorities in the states hilly areas, has opted out of the fray this time around. Owing to differences between the state unit and its newly appointed state convener P V Anvar, the partys symbol has been frozen by the poll panel. AITC state president C G Unni dismissed claims that independents backed by AITC are contesting the civic elections. The party will face the elections officially only after its internal elections are completed, he added. AIADMK Total candidates THIRUVANANTHAPURAM TPuram municipal corporation: 1 (Medical College ward) Neyyattinkara municipality: 1 (Perumpazhuthoor ward) PALAKKAD Palakkad town & Kozhinjamapara panchayat: 12 candidates IDUKKI Devikulam, Marayoor & Munnar areas: 16 candidates DMK Total candidates KOLLAM (10) Punalur municipality: 9 wards Thenmala grama panchayat: 1 ward IDUKKI (13) Devikulam taluk: 7 Peermade taluk: 6
INTERVIEW|Our language is male-centric, and that needs to be corrected
K R Meera, one of the most powerful literary voices of our times, continues to probe the politics of gender and power through her writings. Known for landmark works like Aarachaar, she now returns with Kalachi, a novel exploring patriarchy, discrimination, and individuality. In an interaction with TNIE , she talks about her writing process and the inseparability of politics from a writers life. Edited excerpts You were one of the early women journalists in Malayalam. How did that journey begin? I wanted to become a writer. When I was around 17, I felt I didnt have the talent to become one. Because there were many prominent writers then, and I wondered what space I would have among them. Reportage by Anita Pratap and Chitra Subramaniam had inspired me. I wanted to try something new, and journalism felt right for me. Immediately after my course, I got selected to Manorama. Could you recall those days? The journalism field has the most narcissistic men. When I went there, the general perspective was: Why are girls here? Except for a few, such as Mammen Mathew, Jose Panchippuram and Thomas Jacob. When I think about it now, the presence of a woman made some of them uncomfortable. I used to leave the office at 9.30pm, and they would feel relieved. There were also practical difficulties, like finding a place to stay. However, it was a good experience. Once we start working, its men first always. It took time for me to claim my space. Have newsrooms changed now? Have they? For things to truly change, the mindset of the men who make key decisions has to change. If it has changed, thats good. In writing also, men were more prominent. Except the likes of Madhavikutty Sarah Joseph, Gracy teacher and Chandramathi teacher Why do we forget them? The problem is that when we are asked to list the ten best writers, we include nine men and add one woman just for the sake of inclusion. Your first story came out in 2000. It has now been 25 years of writing. How do you see your writing career at this point? For me, the process of writing is about discovering new ideas and finding the right language to express them. I dont think writing is a marathon where you must achieve something within a set time. It is not a competition where you climb to the top and break an earthen pot, like in uriyadi. Writing, for me, is an organic journey there is no final destination, no fixed goal. You took the risk of quitting a secure job to focus entirely on writing. How did you find the courage to do that? It wasnt a planned decision. You could say it came from my demanding, ego-driven and somewhat adamant nature. I was quite certain that I wouldnt go hungry. I knew I could earn through writing. Whether in journalism or literature, it has traditionally been a mans world No, I dont see it that way. I always feel that whatever a man has written was first told to him by a talented woman (laughs). There is often pressure on women to prove themselves. Have you ever felt that pressure? Yes I have always felt that I must be the best at whatever I do whether it is writing or anything else. I was conditioned that way from childhood, and I cannot escape it. Every day, I feel the pressure to prove myself to my peers through my talent and hard work. Who are your readers? Do you think from the perspective of a reader when you write? No we dont know who the reader is. When writing an article, we may have some sense, but in fiction, we cannot know. Every time, we only hope that new readers will be drawn in. I wish, whoever the readers are, they become better human beings, with a deeper understanding. But it cannot always be achieved. Now that you are a pan-Indian writer, is there any pressure to write on subjects that appeal to readers across India? No, no pressure at all. We cannot write like that. I cannot decide that I will write a pan-Indian novel. I wish to write something that no other writer has attempted or approached before. I never intend my novels to be set outside Kerala, but when I look for the situations that a story demands, sometimes they naturally lead me outside the state. Has journalism influenced your stories or the process of writing? Journalism influences my life itself. I am eternally haunted by the spirit of a murdered journalist inside me (laughs). It makes me want to wander and travel all the time. Could you tell us about your process of research and writing? Sometimes I feel there is someone else writing it for me in my head. And there is a certain magic that happens when I sit in front of the wide screen. I remember many things I thought I had forgotten, and even things I didnt know I knew. That is the joy of writing finding these things and the coincidences along the way. You once remarked you were a woman who writes, not a woman writer. How do you differentiate? My issue is with the word writer. In Malayalam, it translates into a term that inherently means a man who writes. Similarly, reader translates to a man who reads. Everything is gendered that way. Our language is male-centric, and that needs to be corrected. Isnt the experience of writing different for men and women? Dont these terms also reflect those different experiences? And should that be seen as a problem? Sometimes I think yes it is time we acknowledge this issue. A man can often write without worrying about the responsibilities of his children. This is changing now, but only if we recognise the inequality can we fix it. For equality to exist, we must also find a language that is equally efficient. Theres a politics that urges us to speak about unconventional lives, to dismantle patriarchy and we do speak about it. But unless such ideas enter everyday language, we will remain stuck in the mundane. Today, many men also take responsibility for their children. When you talk about a mens commission, these aspects should also be addressed. Some activists have been demanding a mens commission Individuals do not affect me. As a writer, all I can do is talk about the larger politics. Is a mens commission needed? Yes, it is necessary. Men must be educated about societal changes and trained to embrace them especially the changing dynamics of family life. A commission can help with that. But the current demand is for a commission to protect men from harassment... Thats because they dont understand the difference between harassment and the loss of privileges they once enjoyed. Those who demand a mens commission believe that men face more harassment today. For them, the loss of privileges amounts to harassment. What can we do except educate them? We must tell them: This is not harassment. These were privileges you enjoyed till now privileges created by earlier generations and used to suppress another section of people who also had equal rights. You must let go of them. Women characters in your works are complex and powerful, with the quality of reclaiming power Are they powerful? That is not power. As Simone de Beauvoir said, feminism is not about snatching power from men, but about dismantling the very idea of power. My characters do exactly that. They do not compete for power. Instead, they explore how beautiful the world could be if the notion of power itself disappeared if toxic masculinity disappeared. Does religion play a major role in this? Yes. Where does religion come from? It comes from the family. Religion always attacks from within. I have written about this in Kalachi. Is that why some say the family is a fascist unit? Yes. I believe family is the smallest unit of fascism. The first lessons of oppression and suppression are taught by the family. A family in its current form does more harm than good. How should an ideal family be? An ideal family is one where everyone gets the opportunity to grow, and no one suffers any form of violence verbal, physical, emotional, or spiritual. Todays family structure is built on strict distribution of power. Naturally, people carry the same structure into society because it is familiar and convenient. Have you ever felt marriage is a kind of restriction? (Smiles) Signing any paper is restrictive. I was speaking about the institution of marriage. I do not agree with the current model of marriage. Is gender a mere social construct, or is there a biological element? You shouldnt ask such a complex question to a mere writer like me (smiles). How much has writing helped you towards liberation? Writing has been my only real path to liberation. Everywhere you go, the life of a poor woman is full of restrictions. Is a womans life really that difficult? As long as the BJP rules at the Centre, I would prefer to be a man. Right-wing ideology still treats women as second-class citizens. Is it right for writers to support political parties? You were seen campaigning during the Nilambur by-election. Arent writers political beings? Is any work truly apolitical? Writing is also a livelihood. I dont care whether Congress or RSS supporters read my books. All writers are activists in some way. Every story is an attempt to fill water into broken pots. Is motherhood an outdated concept? I cannot say that. The problem arises when motherhood is imposed through fear or pressure. The real issue is that society views a woman only as a field for producing heirs. How was it in your experience? I was never someone who longed for motherhood. As a child, I always doubted whether I could be a good mother. I am absent-minded. When I finally became a mother, I saw it with a certain detachment. Had I not become a mother, I might have believed a child had been saved from me. I was terrified during pregnancy because I carried a life inside me, because I was responsible for its safety, and because I doubted my own strength to handle it. I lived with the constant fear that my mistakes might harm my child. Motherhood is a big lie. It is glorified. It is the sum of mechanisms created by every society to confine a womans entire life to one function reproduction. Isnt it mostly women themselves who celebrate motherhood? For whom is this celebration? It is a way of putting all the blame on women. Society is built by men. Women exist within households run by members of that society. They carry out mens beliefs, desires, and decisions. Women today are not treated as full social beings. Are you a man-hater? I want to see everyone simply as human. Many men have a problem with confident, strong women It is not about strength. Men are not interested in women who do not obey, respect, or acknowledge men as superior. It is a mindset. If you read Ghathakan, you will see that I say masculinity is not related to men it is related to power and mindset. It is the resistance to sharing power that leads to unhealthy and negative behaviour, whether from men, women, or transgender persons. So, are you saying it is not about gender? The problem with patriarchy is that it creates divisions higher women, lower women, higher men, lower men and then caste and religion get woven into it. It becomes a complicated structure. There is a notion that women writers here have a Madhavikutty hangover. But your style was different was that a conscious decision? I start writing only when I have a story that hasnt been told before. Yes, I was conscious of that. I have no interest in repeating what others have already written. What do you feel after finishing a book? I become restless. I start thinking: I shouldnt have written this. This isnt what I intended. Is it good enough? I cannot assess it objectively. But once it is published, I feel relaxed. Is writing an act of self-expression or rebellion for you? Both. There is expression, and there is rebellion something that may not always be possible in reality. Any contemporary authors who excite you? Harish is a good writer. Rajasree, Soniya, Athira, Mini, and many others. There are many; I may have missed some names. Do you plan to write in English? No. Malayalam is my strength. I already handle two languages Malayalam and the English used in translation contexts. How is your writing process? I prefer to see the sky, walk around, and observe. I need to go outside to write. Editing can be done at home. Qabar and Ghathakan were written at home, but distractions are constant. Though you dont have homemaker responsibilities? The problem is that everyone at home feels entitled to a womans time. A womans life is never fully her own no matter who it is, even if shes the prime minister. Your writing often shows layers realism, grounded tones, surreal elements. How did your style develop? Were you inspired by any writers? Gabriel Garcia Marquez is one of my pole stars. I have always carried a sense of dissatisfaction with the world around me, and that naturally pushes me toward imagining another kind of life. Maybe thats why surreal or magical elements slip into my writing. Honestly, I think the problem might be with me (laughs). Theres a growing discussion that young people are moving away from reading. Whats your take? I have been hearing this since my own childhood. Every generation says the same thing. At any point in history, people who love reading will read, and those who dont simply wont. Does something called serious reading still exist today? Did it ever really exist (laughs)? Ideas like greatest literature, deep reading, or serious reading feel outdated now. Often, the people who preach deep reading lead shallow lives. Do you believe that a woman understands another woman better? No. An individual understands another individual. Thats the truth. We need to remove the labels of man and woman and see each other as people only then can we truly understand one another. Theres a belief that the best female characters are written by men. Do you agree? These are just generational beliefs. Theres no truth in them. People might feel that way about writers like Uroob. But I am not ready to agree with it (laughs). Because there is a myopic male perspective in all those writings. They write the kind of women they want to see, based on their own limited experiences. How can you understand an elephant by only looking at its trunk or tail? And when it comes to men has any writer truly depicted a complete man? Men dont fully reveal themselves to anyone. When we write, we write about experience, joy, lack of privilege, and so on. There are women who live life on their own terms, but even then, people ask whether that is the life they truly wanted. But do we ever ask men these questions? Men have social privilege, women dont. Inequality begins right there. Is that why, in a conversation, you said all good writings were feminist writings? Yes, of course. Anyone who believes in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution is a feminist. The values in the Preamble are essentially the basics of feminism. Its that simple. If you believe in that, you are, by default, a feminist. How important is political correctness in life and in the creative world? Political correctness is nothing but the correctness of humanity. The correctness shifts with time. Once we say something is anti-human, we must progress towards betterment, not drag it back to where it once was. I try to be careful. I also care about correcting mistakes made unknowingly. How do you feel after completing 25 years as a full-time writer? Surprise (smiles) that I swam in this sea, in this vast world. Whats your take on Kerala society do you believe there is progress? After this Left government took over, I have felt they have tried to take feminist ideas to the people. That makes me happy. It reaches young boys and girls. There is a group of people who want to live simply as humans. Changes that we see in cinema, too, are wonderful. Kerala will change. Are you unhappy that you are a writer? Being a writer is not an unhappy thing. I like writing. I am happy writing. But I dont like many things that come with it. Do you miss journalism? Always. I used to think I could have changed things (laughs). Hunting for stories and writing reports energise you. Fiction drains you. TNIE team: Kiran Prakash, Cithara Paul, Rajesh Abraham, Anil S, Rajesh Ravi, Anna Jose, Manisha V C S, Harikrishna B A Sanesh (photos) Pranav V P (video)
INTERVIEW| With the LDF, we have achieved a lot more for Christians
KOTTAYAM: KC(M) is LDFs trump card in central Travancore and the Christian belts across the state. In an interview to TNIE , party chairman Jose K Mani says he is confident that they can play a major role in maintaining the fronts hegemony in the local-body polls. Edited excerpts: This is KC(M)s second LSG poll as part of LDF. Are you satisfied with seat distribution? The previous local-body elections took place shortly after KC(M) joined the left front, which limited the scope for detailed discussions on seat sharing. This time, the party was able to engage in comprehensive talks, allowing for seat adjustments based on the strength of each constituent. With an increase in number of wards, there was ample opportunity for negotiations, and we received our fair share. KC(M) and CPM are contesting nine seats each in Kottayam district panchayat. Despite your party being eligible for 10 seats, LDF selected an independent for the tenth seat. Does the CPM not want KC(M) to lead in Kottayam? Such arguments are unfounded. The independent candidate is a strategic move to attract a broader voter base, including neutral voters. Moreover, it is KC(M)s independent candidate, and not LDFs common candidate. What is your primary poll plank? There are a lot of things to highlight, but we focus on benefits received by each family from the welfare measures of the LDF government. These include pensions, `1,000 aid to women aged 35-60, LIFE Mission houses, treatment assistance, etc. Additionally, there is the increased honorarium for ASHA workers and Anganwadi teachers. Will the Sabarimala gold theft case affect the fronts chances? It is indeed a serious issue. However, the governments response has been decisive and transparent. The Christian community is dissatisfied with the LDF over various issues, including Munambam, recruitment of teachers in aided schools, wild-animal attacks, etc. Will this affect your prospects? We have been able to achieve a lot more for Christians with the LDF. Initiatives such as providing ration cards for nuns, implementing a 10% reservation for economically weaker sections in unreserved categories, and enacting the Wildlife (Amendment) Bill and approval for the Land Assignment Amendment Rules were realised through LDFs efforts. The community recognises and appreciates these efforts. BJP has been trying to woo Christian communities. Will this affect KC(M)? The BJPs efforts to engage with the community have been ongoing for some time. While church leaders may extend hospitality to leaders from every party, this does not indicate a shift in allegiance. Will KC(M) stake claim for more seats in the upcoming assembly election, if the party performs well in the LSG polls? KC(M) has consistently engaged with public issues, which positions the party to rightfully claim its deserved share. UDF leaders reiterate the possibility of expansion of the front. Is KC(M) considering switching alliances? It is a pleasure to know that KC(M) has been recognised across the board. However, we are satisfied with the LDF and there is no question of switching alliance. Claims by some UDF leaders on discussions with KC(M) are unfounded and appear to be attempts to sow confusion among the public, which will not succeed.
BJPs quiet gains may unsettle LDF-UDF duopoly in Tiruvalla
PATHANAMTHITTA: Amid the tug-of-war between the LDF and the UDF for control of Tiruvalla municipality, the BJP has been steadily and silently making gains in the region, turning the Pathanamthitta political landscape into one to watch. In the 2020 civic polls, the municipality ended with a fractured mandate with UDF winning 16, LDF 15, BJP 6, SDPI 1, and one seat going to an independent. The UDF managed to retain power, with Congress Bindu Jayakumar elected chairperson, but the coalition started to crumble, soon after. According to the seat-sharing arrangement, the Kerala Congress was to get to name a chairperson after the first term. However, Bindu refused to honour the pact, and KC (Joseph) member Shanthamma Varghese crossed over to the left camp, dramatically shifting the arithmetic and handing the municipality to the LDF. The LDF rule, however, lasted only eight months. Marking its return to power, the UDF elected Congress councillor Anu George as chairperson. But fresh tensions surfaced when Anu refused to hand over the chair at the end of the agreed term, triggering discontent within the front. The subsequent vice-chairmans election only deepened the crisis, with invalid votes cast by former chairpersons derailing a seemingly certain UDF victory. With the civic body yet again caught in factional turbulence, the question of stability remains unresolved. While the UDF and LDF remained locked in a cycle of allegations and counter-allegations, the BJP expanded its footprint in the municipality. In Tiruvallas Kaviyoor grama panchayat, BJP won six of the 14 seats, securing governance in the process. Moreover, apart from improving its seat count in the municipality by two, the party doubled its vote share. These results are being read by political observers as a strategic breakthrough for the party in a region with a sizeable non-resident Keralite (NRK) population and traditionally strong presence of KC groups, whose vote base is predominantly the Nair community and Syrian Christians. The BJP has been working with patience and precision in the panchayats around Tiruvalla municipality. Recent issues, especially the Sabarimala gold theft case, will have a direct impact on elections and the CPM will pay the price. The Congress, which is already battling the Rahul Mamkootathil issue, has lost its moral standing. People are now more aware of development-related concerns and are choosing to support the party, BJP district president V A Sooraj said. The partys steady gains in adjoining local bodies are being viewed as the most significant political takeaway in Pathanamthitta since the last local polls. The numbers may not yet place the saffron party in a position to take the municipality on its own. But the shift is hard to ignore. If the present trend continues, analysts warn that the next election in Tiruvalla may no longer be a straight LDF-UDF contest.
Kerala CM holds NHAI accountable for NH 66 cave-in; contractor suspended for one month
THRISSUR/KOLLAM : Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday urged the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to take full responsibility for the incident in which a section of the under-construction NH 66 stretch caved in near Kottiyam in Kollam. Stating that the Kerala government and public works department (PWD) has no role in NH construction, Pinarayi said: The work on NH 66 is fully monitored by NHAI. They have their own system for it. The portion of the road that was destroyed should be reconstructed properly, he said at the Meet-the-Press programme at the Thrissur Press Club. He said the state government and PWD were helpless in the matter, other than seeking NHAIs intervention. Meanwhile, the Union government has taken strict action against the contracting company Sivalaya Constructions responsible for NH development on Kollam-Mylakkad stretch. NHAI sources said, the firm has been barred for one month from participating in any contracting processes. A show-cause notice has been issued, asking why the company should not be permanently blacklisted for the lapse, said a source. The project manager and resident engineer appointed by the contractor have been removed from their positions. Speaking in Thrissur, Pinarayi said: Usually, when a road is being constructed, NHAI is in charge of everything right from design. We cannot interfere in such aspects. Central PWD to conduct inspection at damaged stretch Around four days ago, I spoke to the NHAI regional director. We cannot interfere in their procedures, but we sought to know when the construction work would be completed. Meetings are held for understanding the progress of the work, Pinarayi said. Asked about the technical aspects of whether the NH 66 construction is being carried out in keeping with the terrain, the CM said it was NHAI that carried out the technical tests before construction work. Just because a portion of the road was destroyed, we should not ignore the fact that the work on the remaining stretches has been continuing without any issues, he added. Meanwhile, a team from the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) will conduct an inspection at the damaged stretch. Public Works Minister P A Mohamed Riyas had written to the Union Government seeking urgent action. CPWD officials will inspect the site to determine whether there were faults in the retaining walls design, an NHAI source said. In addition, a three-member NHAI team is also expected to carry out a separate inspection on Sunday.
Local body polls too complex to be a referendum on LDF government in Kerala
An analysis of the previous three-tier local body elections reveals that regional issues and candidates outweigh State-level political dynamics, particularly in the grama panchayats and block panchayats. State politics, however, is reflected in the district panchayat divisions, municipalities, and Corporations
Police objects to transferring Kodakara heist case to PMLA court
The case, involving a 3.5 crore robbery on April 3, 2021 allegedly for funding a poll campaign, has resulted in 23 arrests and recoveries exceeding 1.5 crore.
Honey Rose: I want to prove myself as an actor with Rachel
Honey Rose hopes that with Rachel she will be perceived differently as an actor
ED trying to sabotage Kodakara hawala case: CPI
K.G. Shivanandan alleges the ED derailed the probe, ignored key witnesses, and acted as a political tool of the BJP
Study recommends management plan for Edappally, Thevara-Perandoor canals
NH collapse in Kollam: Centre begins steps to blacklist construction firm
An expert committee to visit the site soon, and further action will be taken based on the panels report
Baby boy found in Thiruvananthapuram Ammathottil
