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Kerala HC stays further proceedings on ED show cause notice to CM Vijayan, others
The Kerala High Court has halted Enforcement Directorate proceedings against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The stay extends for three months. Former Finance Minister Thomas Isaac and KIIFB CEO K M Abraham also received similar relief. This order follows a joint plea challenging show cause notices.
Foundation stone laid for research centre at Keralas Bio 360 Life Sciences Park
Major step forward in Keralas efforts to emerge as a hub for biomedical and life sciences industries
Kerala Vice-Chancellors appointment row: Supreme Court praises Kerala Governor, CM for ending saga
Dr. Ciza Thomas and Dr. Saji Gopinathan were appointed as Vice-Chancellors of the APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University and the Kerala University of Digital Sciences, Innovation and Technology, respectively
Enhanced marine defence: Indian Navy commissions MH-60R Seahawk helicopters
NT Reporter | Vasco The Indian Navy on Wednesday commissioned INAS 335, the Ospreys, at INS Hansa, inducting the MH-60R Seahawk helicopter squadron as the first fully operational MH-60R unit on the Western Seaboard. This follows the commissioning of the first MH 60R Naval Air Squadron in Kochi, Kerala, in March 2024. Chief of Naval [] The post Enhanced marine defence: Indian Navy commissions MH-60R Seahawk helicopters appeared first on The Navhind Times .
Kerala organ trafficking case: NIA finds donors sent to Tajikistan besides Iran
Investigators said proceeds from the illegal trade were routed through bank accounts and converted into cryptocurrencies.
Cyber police book Kerala actor rape case convict for video revealing survivors identity
Video, believed to be shot when Martin Antony was out on bail, was shared on his Facebook page and began circulating widely on social media after a sessions court convicted the first six accused in the case earlier this month
Kerala Lottery Result Today Live: Karunya Plus KN-602 Winning Numbers For December 18, 2025
Kerala Lottery Result Today Live Updates, 18-12-2025: Heres Guessing Numbers for Karunya Plus KN-602 for Thursday, December 18. Check the full list of winning numbers from 3 pm.
Kerala cabinet clears relief measures, pay hikes and major development decisions
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state cabinet on Wednesday approved a range of welfare, administrative and infrastructure-related measures. The cabinet sanctioned an additional Rs 5 lakh from the Chief Ministers Distress Relief Fund to Bineesh M, a Harbour Rescue Guard from Kasaragod district who lost his leg in an accident during night patrol duty. This is in addition to the Rs 55,000 assistance granted earlier. In a move benefiting employees under the Scheduled Tribes Development Department, the cabinet approved an increase in honorarium for staff working in 18 Model Pre-Schools. Teachers will now receive Rs 13,000 per month, while ayas or helpers will get Rs 9,000. To strengthen healthcare infrastructure, the cabinet sanctioned posts for the first phase of the Institute of Organ Transplantation to be set up in Kozhikode. The approved posts include 14 professors, seven associate professors and 39 assistant professors. A transplant coordinator post will be retained at the Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram. The cabinet also approved the implementation of a pension scheme for employees of the Malabar Cancer Centre in association with LIC. Accepting the recommendation of the Kerala State Backward Classes Commission, the Cabinet decided to include the Balija, Kavarai, Gavara, Gavarai, Gavarai Naidu, Balija Naidu, Gajalu Balaija and Valai Chetty communities in the state OBC list. It also approved the opening of new regional offices of the Kerala State Minorities Development Corporation in Kottayam and Alappuzha. The cabinet granted exemption from stamp duty and registration fees for registering the lease agreement between KINFRA and BPCL for 74 acres of land in Palakkad for establishing a petroleum, oil and lubricants terminal and related facilities. It also approved increasing the retirement age of employees of Oushadhi from 58 to 60 years. Subject to conditions, the Cabinet approved a government guarantee for a Rs 190.22-crore loan through NABARD for constructing the second IT building at Kozhikode Cyberpark, along with an additional Rs 100-crore guarantee for the State Womens Development Corporation. Permission was also granted to purchase a bus for the Alappuzha Government Nursing College.
NREGA restructuring an execution order on poor: Social activist Aruna Roy
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Terming the restructuring of the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) one of the worst calamities that have hit the poor, social activist Aruna Roy commented that the change is an assault on democracy and an execution order on the poor citizens of the country. The peoples law, which was framed after years of formulation, rejection and examination, cannot be set aside by some law concocted in the ministry of rural development in a few weeks or months, she said. Roy was speaking at the book release of the Malayalam version of her book The RTI Story: Power to the People, published by Chintha Publications at the Press Club here on Wednesday. Mentioning the history of the Employment Guarantee Act, Roy opined that it was an extraordinary law, which was unanimously passed in the parliament. It had been described as the best anti-poverty programme in the world by subject experts from foreign countries, and had been discussed in the European parliament, South America, North America, Africa, Indonesia, she said. Launching an attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, she said that in his first statement in the parliament, Modi called NREGA responsible for the economic downfall in the country and RTI for policy paralysis. Speaking about the newly passed VB-GRAMG scheme, Local Self Governments Minister M B Rajesh said that more than the change in the name of the NREGA, the actual change is made in its content. The new structure will affect at least 22 lakh families will be affected by this. Of this, at least 90% are women, he said in his inaugural address.
Kerala moves closer to developing Indias first electric truck corridor
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala is preparing to become the first state in the country to set up an electric truck corridor. The proposed corridor will be along NH-66, one of the busiest highways in the state and a major route for transporting goods to ports and industries. The move is part of the Central governments PM E-DRIVE scheme, which aims to promote electric trucks and buses by setting up charging stations along highways. The scheme has an outlay of Rs 2,000 crore for charging infrastructure across the country. To take this forward, the Kerala State Electricity Board Ltd (KSEBL) and the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) have organised a high-level workshop in Thiruvananthapuram. Officials from various state departments, power utilities, electric vehicle companies, logistics firms and experts attended the meeting to plan how electric freight transport can be introduced in the state. At the event, Electricity Minister K Krishnankutty launched a new web portal developed by KSEBL. Through this portal, private landowners and charge point operators can offer suitable land for setting up fast-charging stations under the PM E-DRIVE scheme. This will help the state quickly identify locations and submit proposals to the Union Ministry of Heavy Industries for approval. KSEBL said this is the first such portal launched by any state in India. Kerala was among the first states to begin identifying land for charging stations even before the Centre issued detailed guidelines. After the guidelines were released, KSEBL was named the nodal agency and the process was sped up. The state already has a strong base for electric mobility. More than three lakh electric vehicles are registered in Kerala, and EVs account for over 10% of new vehicle sales. Officials said coordination between departments such as KSEBL, the Power Department, the Motor Vehicles Department and the EV Accelerator Cell has helped this growth.
Kerala opposes Centres Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala has opposed the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan (VBSA) Bill, 2025 , introduced by the Union Government in Parliament on the grounds that it transgresses upon basic regulations governing universities under the concurrent list. Higher Education Minister R Bindu told reporters here on Wednesday that the Bill, that provides for the establishment of an umbrella commission (VBSA) to replace the University Grants Commission (UGC), the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), and the National Council for Teachers Education (NCTE) - blatantly violates the autonomy of state-funded universities. This is an attempt by the Centre to bring higher education, that is presently in the concurrent list, to the Union list. The Bill lays down that that the three councils under the proposed commission that relate to regulation, accreditation and standards, will function as per the policies and decisions of the Union government, she said. The minister alleged that the Bill will pave way for the Union government to interfere in the curriculum and syllabus of universities funded by state governments. It will also facilitate the introduction of Indian Knowledge Systems, which the state has always resisted, into the higher education curriculum, she pointed out. The Bill has provisions to impose fines from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 2 crore on institutions that do not comply with the proposed commissions regulations. In short, the Bill enables the Commission to shut down higher educational institutions that do not follow its directives, the minister said. Bindu cautioned that implementation of the VBSA legislation could lead to a situation where states such as Kerala that oppose the Centres policies would be denied its due share of funds. She added that the state would organise protests against the Bill that aims to wreck the higher education sector.
Pope nod for redrawing boundaries of twelve Syro-Malabar dioceses
KOCHI: Pope Leo XIV gave his approval to the Syro-Malabar Church Synods decision to redraw the boundaries of its 12 dioceses. The approval came during a meeting held between the Syro Malabar Church Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil and the Pope at the Vatican. Mar Joseph Pamplany, secretary of the Syro-Malabar Synod of Bishops, and Bishop Mar Stephen Chirappanath, the Major Archbishops Procurator in Rome, were also present with the Major Archbishop during the meeting. During the hour-long meeting, the Major Archbishop expressed the Churchs heartfelt gratitude to the Pope for granting four new provinces to the Syro-Malabar Church outside Kerala, allowing an Apostolic Visitation in the Gulf region, and approving the Synods decision to reorganise the boundaries of twelve dioceses. Mar Raphael Thattil informed the Pope that these decisions provide hope for the spiritual care of Syro-Malabar faithful globally and for the fulfillment of the Churchs missionary mission. Highlighting the valuable contributions made by the Syro-Malabar Church at various levels of the Universal Church and in missionary activities, the Pope recalled his closeness to the Syro-Malabar Church and his previous visits to Kerala. Alongside this, the Major Archbishop brought the current situation in the Archeparchy of Ernakulam-Angamaly to the attention of the Pope. The Pope emphasised the need for the faithful, priests, and religious of the Archeparchy to fully cooperate with the measures being taken to ensure communion.
IFFK: Six more international films await Centres approval
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Defusing the crisis related to the delay in giving censor exemption certificates for 19 international films, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting has issued the required documents for nine more films, while six more films are yet to receive the nod. Chalachithra Academy vice-chairperson Cuckoo Parameswaran said that only six more films remain to receive censor exemption certificates from the Union ministry, while all others have received the certificates. Naturally, the I&B ministry will be looking for any issues that will cause any conflict of interest with Indias international affairs. This is not a competition between I&B and Chalachithra Academy, she told TNIE . Meanwhile, sources from the academy said that, except for one film, screening of these 19 films was done only after obtaining the Union governments nod. On the other hand, criticisms are raised against the festivals procedural lapses. Film curator and 2022 IFFKs artistic director Deepika Suseelan wrote on Facebook that misrepresenting such lapses as political or ideological only diverts attention from the real issue. What is now being framed as an attack on freedom of expression is, in reality, a case of procedural failure followed by convenient posturing, she noted.
Sabarimala revenue touches Rs 210 crore in ongoing pilgrimage season
PATHANAMTHITTA: The total revenue generated during the ongoing Sabarimala pilgrimage season has reached Rs 210 crore, said Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president K Jayakumar on Wednesday. Of this, Rs 106 crore was earned from the sale of aravana. Compared to previous years, there has been a significant increase in revenue, he noted. Speaking to reporters at the Devaswom Guest House conference hall, Jayakumar said the pilgrimage season had progressed smoothly without major issues. Devotees as well as the media have largely described the experience as satisfactory, he added. As the Sabarimala pilgrimage season, which began on November 16, completes one month, the total number of devotees who have had darshan of Lord Ayyappa reached nearly 28 lakh on Wednesday. The number of pilgrims arriving through forest trekking routes has also increased this season, with a total of 46,690 devotees reaching Sannidhanam via the Azhuthakkadavu-Pampa route, while 74,473 pilgrims arriving through the Sathram route. Overall, 25,60,297 devotees reached Sabarimala from Pampa. Around 4,000 pilgrims reach the hill shrine daily through the Sathram forest path. Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing with the police and forest department to regulate this flow, including the introduction of special passes for those arriving via the Erumeli-Azhutha forest path. In response to complaints that advance deposits paid for accommodation were not being refunded, the TDB has decided to open a special refund counter at the accommodation office from Thursday. Many pilgrims were unable to collect their refunds earlier due to the heavy rush at counters.
A mother can claim maintenance from her son even if her husband is alive and provides support. The Kerala High Court upheld a Rs 5,000 monthly maintenance order for a 60-year-old mother. The court stated a son cannot avoid his duty to care for elderly parents due to his own family obligations.
Ambujakshi gears up to don garb of unique woman theyyam for 10th time
KANNUR: Sixty-two-year-old Ambujakshi M V is preparing for a rare and deeply significant ritual -- perform the Devakkoothu Theyyam. It is the only theyyam performed by women. In keeping with tradition, Ambujakashi -- a resident of Vengara in Pazhayangadi -- will perform the theyyam after completing a rigorous 41-day period of fasting and spiritual discipline. This is considered essential to attain the purity and devotion required to perform the Devakkoothu Theyyam, which holds a special place in the regions ritual heritage. The sacred performance is scheduled to take place at the Thekkumbadu Koolom Thazhekkavu Bhagavathy Temple in Cherukunnu, Kannur district, on December 20, drawing attention for its uniqueness and cultural importance. Im preparing to perform the Theyyam for the 10th time. The occasion is especially meaningful, as Devakkoothu Theyyam is the only theyyam performed by women, Ambujakshi tells TNIE . Sharing her journey towards performing Devakkoothu Theyyam, Ambujakshi described how the tradition was passed on to her within the family. Originally from Kannurs Kappad, she came to Vengara after marriage. Before Ambujakshi took it up, the ritual was performed by the wife of her father-in-laws younger brother. When she was no longer able to continue with it, she trained Ambujakshi in the art and rituals of the performance, with her husband, Kannan, and family lending strong support. Life feels very different now, as many people recognise me for performing theyyam, she says. Earlier, performing the ritual was simply part of my everyday life and attracted little attention. Today, however, Im widely known for my theyyam performances and recognised as a woman who performs this rare and traditional ritual. As part of the theyyam ritual, after observing the 41-day period of fasting at home, she stays at the kavu -- sacred grove -- for three days before the performance. Earlier, the Devakkoothu Theyyam was performed once every two years, but from 2019, the ritual has been performed every year.
Organ donations reach five-year high in Kerala; 21 contributions recorded this year
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Deceased organ donations in Kerala have climbed to a five-year peak, with 21 contributions recorded this year, signalling renewed public confidence in a programme that has often faced criticism. The two contributions were instrumental in pushing the tally to a record high of 21 this year. The surge was driven by the families of two donors who were declared brain-dead in separate accidents. Thiruvananthapuram native K Satheesh, principal of a Higher Secondary School, was one of them. Kozhikode native V K Sreebith, Law Secretary at the Women and Children Hospital, was the other. Both men, in their fifties, were declared brain-dead on December 12 and 13 respectively. Sreebiths children, Geethika S Sreebith, an MBBS student, and Rithu Geeth, a BTech student at IIT Kharagpur, insisted on donating their fathers organs to save lives. To expedite the process, they shifted him from Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram to a tertiary private hospital. The family even approached the Health Ministers office to ensure brain death certification and facilitate the donation. A programme rebounding from decline The deceased organ donor programme had hit a low in 2024, with only 11 donations. Public trust had eroded due to frivolous petitions against hospitals and doctors involved in brain death certification and transplantation, as well as misleading portrayals in cinema. This was in sharp contrast to 2015, when the programme recorded 76 donations. In response, the government empowered the Kerala State Organ and Tissue Transplantation Organisation (K-SOTTO), the nodal agency for transplantation, to restore credibility. Despite state efforts, government medical colleges remain underutilised in cadaver organ donation. Public attitude toward organ donation has changed for the better. People now realise that in cases of brain death, organ donation is the right path, said Dr Noble Gracious, executive director of K-SOTTO. Over the past year, K-SOTTO has conducted extensive awareness campaigns and organised brain death certification workshops for doctors. Yet, reluctance among medical professionals persists. There is a law and clear guidelines on brain death certification. But doctors remain hesitant to take responsibility. If ICU doctors adopt brain death certification as routine practice, Kerala will transform dramatically, Dr Noble emphasised. Despite state efforts, government medical colleges remain underutilised in cadaver organ donation. With the exception of institutions like Kottayam Medical College, progress has been limited. Over the past five years, private hospitals have consistently secured up to 20 donors annually, while government facilities managed only two.
Making STRIDEs: Kerala's KTU hits inclusive innovation road to academic credits
KOCHI: In a decision that puts a stamp on the need for inclusive innovation, and, that too right at the university level, APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU) has formally integrated Social Technology & Research for Inclusive Design Excellence (STRIDE) into its official academic credit system --which was one of the mandates under its 2024 curriculum framework. From the next academic year, BTech, BDes, BBA and BCA students in colleges affiliated to KTU contributing to STRIDEs inclusive innovation ecosystem will earn academic credits towards the mandatory 120 activity points required for the completion of their degrees. The scheme is also applicable to students enrolled from the 2024 academic year-- as they fall under the specified curriculum framework. As per KTUs scheme handbook, the activity point system under the 2024 curriculum framework provides structured opportunities for students to build personal, professional, and societal competencies that complement their academic learning. To promote balanced and meaningful engagement, every student must earn a minimum of 120 activity points during the programme. These points are distributed across three activity groups, and students must earn at least 40 points from each group to fulfil the requirement of 3 activity credits mandated by the curriculum, the handbook says. This is where STRIDE steps in. The handbook states that students in group II stand to earn a maximum of 20 points by engaging in STRIDE innovation activity. Another advantage of the programme is that students will be awarded certificates issued by KDISC or authorised STRIDE programme officials. Under the industry exposure and innovation category, the STRIDE Designathon pathway awards five points for accepted ideas, ten points for top 100+ selection, 20 points for state-level finalists, and 35 points for state-level winners. According to Robin Tommy, executive director of STRIDE, KTU has made history by formally recognising inclusive innovation as a pathway to academic credits. STRIDE students dont just build prototypes -- they build dignity. When engineering students design and develop a 500 assistive device that replaces a 5,000 import and restores independence to a child with cerebral palsy, they learn something no textbook can teach. This is the future of engineering education, he said.
Revised timeline for NH-66 in Kerala pegs completion by mid-2026
KOCHI: The long-drawn-out widening of NH 66 in Kerala is now targeted for a phased completion between March and August 2026, with most major stretches unlikely to be ready before the upcoming assembly elections. Revised timelines released by the Ministry of road transport and highways (MoRTH) indicate that the bulk of the work will be completed only by the middle of next year. In a written reply to an unstarred question in the Lok Sabha on December 11, the ministry said work is under way on 16 stretches of NH 66 in Kerala, covering a total length of 422.8 km. The revised completion dates were fixed after reviewing physical progress and delays across packages. The project has been under intense scrutiny following a series of collapses and structural failures on under-construction stretches, raising concerns about construction quality and public safety. In early December, a section of the highway and an adjoining service road caved in near Mylakkadu in Chathannur, close to Kottiyam in Kollam district. Earlier, on May 19, a portion of NH 66 collapsed near Kooriyad in Malappuram district, with a retaining wall giving way and debris falling onto a service road built over reclaimed paddy land. Responding to a question by MP Adoor Prakash on the safety of road users during and after construction, the ministry said an expert committee has been appointed to examine vulnerable slopes and embankments along the NH-66 corridor in Kerala. Based on the committees recommendations, remedial measures are being carried out alongside ongoing work. The ministry also said penal action has been initiated against defaulting contractors and consultants, and that technical and safety audits will be conducted at identified vulnerable locations as required. According to the revised schedule, some of the more advanced stretches in north and central Kerala are expected to be completed between March and June 2026, while several key links in Kozhikode and south Kerala have timelines extending up to August 2026. Sections showing relatively lower progress have been given extended deadlines to accommodate additional safety and rectification works. MoRTH maintained that close monitoring mechanisms are now in place to prevent further structural failures and ensure compliance with design and safety standards. State-wise reviews are also being conducted more frequently to address site-specific challenges, including weak soil conditions and embankment stability. If the revised timelines hold, Kerala could see near-continuous six-lane connectivity along much of its coastal spine by mid-2026. Experts add the phased completion would still mark a significant milestone for mobility, logistics and road safety in the state.
With KLOO app to go live on Dec 23, only 190 of 1,298 Take a Break toilets meet basic standards
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A comprehensive survey by the Suchitwa Mission has revealed serious deficiencies in Keralas flagship Take a Break toilet complexes, with only 190 out of nearly 1,298 facilities managing to secure even a single-star rating. Alarmingly, 46 Take a Break complexes were found to be completely non-functional, raising concerns over maintenance lapses and the sustainability of the initiative that was envisioned as a model for clean, accessible public toilets along highways and major transit points. The survey was launched as part of the KLOO app initiative to give hygiene ratings for existing public toilets. We surveyed the Take a Break facilities and only around 190 could meet the scoring criteria. The primary objective of this initiative is to make available clean and hygienic toilets along key transport corridors across the state. A large majority of the public toilets have failed miserably to meet the criteria set by us owing to qualitative issues, said executive director U V Jose, Suchitwa Mission. He said that the survey results will help improve the conditions of public toilets. A large majority of public toilets are not strategically located and qualitative issues owing to poor operation and maintenance are a major challenge. Our survey results will help the local body upgrade the existing public toilets and meet the criteria, he added. The scoring criteria comprised 67 key parameters, and the toilets, public or private, need to obtain at least 40 marks for getting at least one star rating. The KLOO app will display these ratings, along with detailed information. Some of the key criteria were separate toilets for men and women, clean well-drained floors, no graffiti/staining, odour-free environment, parking facility, facilities for managing sanitary, solid, grey water and black water management. The KLOO app will display these ratings, along with detailed information such as availability of differently abled-friendly facilities, operating hours, gender-specific amenities, and whether the toilets are open to all or only to customers. In the second phase we will expand coverage to more regions and introduce additional services such as food ordering options through the same platform. We want the public to first start using the app. Based on its success, we will integrate more services. The citizens will be able to give their feedback about their experiences through the app. All facilities listed on KLOO will be free of cost for users, U V Jose said.
Opposition mounts attack on govt over G-Ram-G bill, says rights will be diluted
NEW DELHI: Mounting a sharp attack on the proposed legislation to replace MGNREGA, the Opposition parties on Wednesday accused the government of weakening the rights-based welfare scheme and for attempting to erase Mahatma Gandhis legacy. Initiating the debate on Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill (VB-G RAM G), Congress MP from Haryana, Jai Prakash, said the proposed law will create fresh financial liabilities for the states and deprive grassroots-level bodies such as the gram sabhas of their rights to decide on the work to be undertaken under the draft law. Opposing the bill, Congress MP Kodikunnil Suresh said that the provisions of the new bill are a blow to states like Kerala, which is already under financial strain due to Centres anti- state policies. Suresh also lamented the deletion of Mahatma Gandhis name from the title of the proposed Bill. However, the treasury benches mounted a strong defence with many citing the increase of working days from 100 to 125 days. Mahua Moitra of the Trinamool Congress said the provision of 60:40 basis of Centre-State expenditure-sharing would prove to be the death knell of the scheme. In an expenditure of `10,000 crore, the distribution of 60:40 Centre-State spending would be `6,000 crore and `4,000 crore. So, the state share has gone up by 430%, said Moitra. Quoting Gandhi, she said, By Ram Rajya I do not mean Hindu Raj, I mean divine Raj, the kingdom of God. Ram Rajya ensures equal rights for all, prince and pauper alike. It is the sovereignty of the people based on moral authority. The MP added, By changing the name and repealing the act you have destroyed Gandhi jis idea of Ram Rajya both in letter and in spirit. She pointed out that before the suspension of fund releases in 2022, Bengal was among the top performers of MGNREGA nationwide. Approximately 2.6 crore job card holders across 1.4 crore rural households were in Bengal. Since March 2022, the government has not released one single paisa to West Bengal. As of today the Centre has outstanding MGNREGA dues of `52,000 crore, Moitra said. When we went to meet the minister we were dragged out by the police, the Trinamool MP said.
Kerala actor assault case: SIT probed if Kavya had role in Sunis madam claim
KOCHI: While the trial court observed that the prosecution was duty-bound to examine prime accused Pulsar Sunis claim about a madam, the chargesheet filed on July 22, 2022, indicated that the special investigation team (SIT) had probed the alleged role of actor Dileeps wife, Kavya Madhavan, in the 2017 actor abduction case. We dont understand why the court made a sweeping observation suggesting that the investigation team did not look into the so-called madam. In addition to investigating about the madam, we also probed Sunis relationship with Kavya, his close acquaintance Sreelakshmi, and their common friend Shiny, a top source with the probe team told TNIE . In her first statement, the survivor said that Suni told her he had received a quotation and that it was given by a woman. When the survivor asked who it was, Suni replied that she already knew the woman and added that she would certainly know who her enemies were. This itself raised suspicion that the madam could be Kavya, and further indications also emerged as the investigation progressed, the officer said. Meanwhile, crime branch DySP Byju Paulose, the investigating officer in the case, said Suni himself had given statements about his association with Kavya and admitted that he had worked as her driver. Actor abduction and rape case: Who is madam behind quotation? One of the witnesses, who functioned as a call driver for Kavya, stated that he had assigned Suni to drive her to a function in Thrissur. Suni revealed that it was not a one-time assignment and that he had served as her driver on several occasions, after being contacted by her directly, Byju said. The officer also said that after committing the heinous act, instead of contacting his close acquaintance who had called him multiple times, Suni first attempted to visit the shop co-owned by Kavya, in search of her and Dileep. However, he added that although Kavyas involvement was suspected, she was not named as an accused as no strong material evidence was found to substantiate the allegation. Further, a senior police officer who supervised the investigation pointed to a voice clip in which actor Dileep told witness Balachandrakumar, This punishment was not meant for me but for another woman. I was punished after repeatedly trying to save her. The clip was subjected to scientific examination at a forensic science laboratory, was identified by witnesses, and produced before the court. Despite its evidentiary value, the court excluded it, citing doubts over the credibility of the witness, the officer said.
The Messi mess definitely did not take us by total surprise. For we, the citizens of this country, have witnessed far worse. We are a nation of hotheads. We can riot and wreak havoc at the drop of a hat and when we do, we become such a formidable force of destruction that no superhero plot can compare. Our busy streets can become World War model battlegrounds and hitherto harmless stones and sticks cluttering our roadsides can turn into lethal missiles. How else can one vent out pent up frustrations from a lifetime of trying to adjust to the glaring faults in our system? Now, combine that anger with a sport that consumes the world and the Messi visit fiasco can be easily understood. The football fever grips India every once in a while, despite being a cricket obsessed country. In the states of Kerala, Goa, and West Bengal however, the sport is a way of life. Entire villages are painted in team colours and the arrival of the FIFA World Cup is enough to convert friendly fans into die-hard fanatics. Every local walks around adorning the colours of his Club. These Clubs logos and designs certainly have a history and an artist who created that history. Guillermo Laborde, an Uruguayan painter, sculptor and designer was one of the founders of the Planismo Movement, a distinctive art style characterised by bold colours and flattened forms. It was this style that was used in his iconic poster design for the inaugural FIFA World Cup in 1930. Featuring a lone goalkeeper, layered typography, and an emphasis on the drama of the sport, the poster is proof of the artists extraordinary skill and eternally remains not just an immensely prized memorabilia, but also a high standard for aesthetics in sports. Fred Gehrke was an American football player, who had majored in art in college. In 1948, he came up with an idea to paint his teams (the Los Angeles Rams) plain helmet with yellow ram horns on a blue background. His coach approved the design after seeing a sample and offered Gehrke money to paint the rest of the 75 helmets. The painstaking effort paid off and he received a standing ovation from the stunned spectators when the helmets made their debut. His innovation was a revolution in sports identity design. The work of Italian artist, Piero Gratton, is considered a masterpiece in football logo design which ultimately steered team identities away from traditional heraldic crests. He redesigned the crest of Italian Football club AS Roma, thus changing the course of the clubs identity forever. His iconic Lupetto logo, a wolfs head in black with a red eye and a yellow-red border was minimalism at its best. Decades after it was created, the Lupetto still inspires with its cult-like aura. So, while we go about worshipping our players and the sport, take a moment to also notice the art that quietly lends itself to crafting these personas.
Five senate members in Calicut varsity to lose their membership
HC seeks input on Suraj Lama from CIAL
Two emerge as strong contenders for N. Paravur municipal chairperson post
The main criteria for consideration for all posts are seniority and long-term affiliation with the United Democratic Front
Ten sentenced to imprisonment in attempt-to-murder case
Activists urge Forest department to end unnecessary capture of wild animals
Woman loses 6.3 crore in alleged cyber fraud
Despite conflicts, we used the bureaucracys experience to implement policies: Shailaja
At the launch of the Tamil translation of her book, the former Kerala Health Ministerspoke of her association with then Health Secretary and their work to implement the e-Health Project in Kerala
Syro-Malabar panel flags misuse of anti-conversion laws
1.9-crore penalty imposed for violation of waste management norms in Kochi
SEC to hold workshop on EVMs in Kochi
Vijay Hazare Trophy: KL Rahul And Prasidh Krishna Named In Karnatakas Squad
Vijay Hazare Trophy: The Indian duo of wicketkeeper-batter K.L. Rahul and fast-bowler Prasidh Krishna have been named in Karnatakas squad for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy. Defending champions Karnataka will play its Group A fixtures in Ahmedabad, starting on December 24. The addition of Rahul, who recently captained India in the ODI leg of the South Africa tour, where they won 2-1, and Prasidh adds further experience to the side led by Mayank Agarwal. Karun Nair has been appointed as the vice-captain following his strong performances in the Ranji Trophy. Pacers Vidwath Kaverappa and Vidyadhar Patel, though not listed in the main squad, will travel with the team to Ahmedabad and remain available for match duty. Young batters Harshil Dharmani and Dhruv Prabhakar, who also bowls handy off-spin, have earned call-ups after impressive outings in the U23 50-over competition last month. Left-arm spinner Shreesha Achar has been included as the squads lone specialist slow bowler. Yere Goud will be the head coach, while Mansur Ali Khan and Shabarish Mohan will serve as bowling and fielding coaches, respectively. Karnatakas Group A opponents include Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Pondicherry, Kerala, and Tripura. Pacers Vidwath Kaverappa and Vidyadhar Patel, though not listed in the main squad, will travel with the team to Ahmedabad and remain available for match duty. Young batters Harshil Dharmani and Dhruv Prabhakar, who also bowls handy off-spin, have earned call-ups after impressive outings in the U23 50-over competition last month. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Karnataka squad: Mayank Agarwal (captain), Karun Nair (vice-captain), Devdutt Padikkal, Ravichandran Smaran, KL Shrijith, Abhinav Manohar, Shreyas Gopal, V. Vyshak, Manvanth Kumar, Shreesha Achar, Abhilash Shetty, B.R. Sharath, Harshil Dharmani, Dhruv Prabhakar, KL Rahul, and Prasidh Krishna. Article Source: IANS
INAS 335 `Ospreys` commissioned at INS Hansa in Goa
The commissioning of INAS 335 marks a major step in strengthening the Navys aviation and maritime combat capabilities. The first MH-60R squadron was commissioned earlier at Kochi, Kerala, in March 2024, the statement said
Kerala police book unknown persons over Ayyappa parody song 'pottiye' circulated during polls
The cyber crime wing of the Kerala Police has registered a case against unknown persons over a parody song titled Pottiye Kettiye that circulated during the recent local body elections in the state and allegedly hurt religious sentiments, PTI reported. The parody, based on a popular devotional song dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, makes references to the Sabarimala gold loss case and the alleged role of prime accused Unnikrishnan Potty. According to PTI, the complaint was received on Tuesday by State Police Chief Ravada Chandrasekhar, who forwarded it to Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) H Venkatesh for necessary action. The matter was subsequently referred to the cyber crime police station in Thiruvananthapuram, which registered an FIR under Sections 299 (deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings) and 353 (statements conducing to public mischief) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita against unknown persons. Who all are to be booked in the case will be determined during the course of the investigation, a cyber crime officer was quoted as saying by PTI . The complaint was filed by an office-bearer of Thiruvabharanapatha Samrakshana Samiti, a religious organisation based in Pandalam in Pathanamthitta district. The parody, which was allegedly used by the UDF and the BJP during their election campaigns, has also triggered a political controversy. PTI reported that the ruling CPI(M) is considering filing a complaint with election authorities. LDF convener T P Ramakrishnan said action should be taken if the song had hurt religious sentiments. Congress general secretary K C Venugopal dismissed the political impact of the song, saying elections were not won through such means and that several parody songs targeting political leaders in the past had not influenced poll outcomes. He accused the Left of viewing the issue through a communal lens rather than introspecting on its electoral performance. Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Assembly V D Satheesan pointed out that the CPI(M) had itself used a parody of the same devotional song over a decade ago to target then Chief Minister K Karunakaran. At that time, there was no concern about hurting devotees sentiments. The concern has arisen now because the parody refers to the alleged theft of Lord Ayyappas gold, he said, according to PTI. Meanwhile, Danish, a Malappuram native who sang the viral parody, told a television channel that he was unaware of any legal violations and said the song had not offended devotees. PTI quoted him as saying that many pilgrims travelling to Sabarimala had played the song during their journeys and that it had upset only those facing allegations in the case. (With inputs from PTI)
Should've Played In Kerala: Tharoor After India vs South Africa Lucknow T20 Called Off Due To Fog
The Air Quality Index (AQI) remained in the hazardous range, above 400 in Lucknow on Wednesday, raising serious questions about the BCCIs commitment to players welfare.
Waiting in vain: Tharoor reacts to IND-SA match cancellation; cites Kerala's AQI
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor criticized hosting the India-South Africa T20I in Lucknow due to severe air pollution and dense fog, leading to its cancellation. He suggested Thiruvananthapuram as a better alternative with significantly improved air quality. The match was called off after repeated delays due to poor visibility, impacting cricket fans.
First phase of Organ Transplantation Institute to be launched soon
Nod for leasing 5 acres to Central Forensic Science Laboratory
IFFK proceeds with more censor exempted films being screened
Bevco invites tenders to set up automated bottle collection machines at outlets
State government had earlier accorded sanction to charge 20 per bottle of liquor and to refund 20 to the customers on return of empty bottle
New case against actor rape case convict
Changes to MGNREGS will impose additional burden of 1,600-2,000 crore on Kerala: Balagopal
D.K. Srivastava, Chief Policy Advisor at Ernst & Young, delivers 9th I.S. Gulati Memorial Lecture
Tropical forestry conclave marks end of KFRIs golden jubilee celebrations
Exhibition of forest research-related equipment and technologies, gathering of medicinal plant cultivators from South India, meeting of representatives from forest conservation research institutions, and inauguration of new facilities and release of publications to be part of conclave
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala Finance Minister K N Balagopal has stated that the recent changes introduced by the Central Government in the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) will impose an additional financial burden of Rs 16002000 crore annually on the state. Currently, the Centre bears 90 per cent of the schemes expenditure. With the contribution reduced to 60 per cent, the state will be forced to shoulder a significantly higher share. Last year, the Centre provided Rs 4838 crore for the scheme. Kerala, he noted, has been performing exceptionally well in implementing MGNREGS. Speaking while presiding over the 9th I SGulati Memorial Lecture, the Minister emphasised that frequent policy changes by the Centre in the financial domain make it difficult for states like Kerala to move forward. He described such measures as creating severe crises for the state. Congress slams Centre over MGNREGA renaming; calls move attempt to 'erase' Gandhis legacy At the national level, the Centres share of total revenue averages 53 per cent, whereas for Kerala it is only 25 per cent. Kerala faces unique challenges, being the state with the highest proportion of elderly citizens in India. Despite this, the Centre continues to impose measures that financially squeeze the state. The Minister added that Kerala has managed to sustain itself largely due to its ability to raise tax revenues. He stressed that India is a union of states, where both the Centre and states should have equal importance. However, by centralising greater financial powers, the Centre is undermining the federal structure. Delivering the memorial lecture, Professor D K Srivastava, Chief Policy Advisor at Ernst & Young, Member 12th Finance Commission, highlighted that equity in financial transfers between the Centre and states must be prioritised. He pointed out that disparities in revenue and expenditure across states remain a major challenge, and urged Finance Commissions to address this issue. While inter-state disparities are still significant, he noted that they are gradually narrowing, which is encouraging. Policy interventions, he said, are essential to further reduce these gaps. While there is fiscal equalisation in terms of outcomes like education, health, and consumption, among others, income inequality across states has increased. This has been attributed to an increase in profit-driven private investment. He called for addressing appropriate policy measures to arrest these trends. Former Finance Minister Dr T M Thomas Isaac, who moderated the session, remarked that equity must be the guiding principle in resource allocation to states. He observed that disparities in per capita income and private investment across states are widening. He added that backward states could adopt Keralas model in several areas to improve their performance. The event was organised by the Gulati Institute of Finance and Taxation (GIFT). Director Prof. K.J. Joseph delivered the welcome address. Among those present were I.S. Gulatis wife, Leela Gulati, Ajay Narayan Jha, Dr Mridul Eapen, Dr A.V. Jose, Ritin Roy, and Professor Pulin Nayak. Dr Renjith PS, assistant professor, delivered the vote of thanks. 'RAM G Bill will weaken MGNREGA,' says Priyanka, calls Modi govt obsessive over renaming
With no clear majority, hectic parleys on to form Alappuzha municipal council
In the 53-member council, UDF has 23 seats, LDF with 22, and NDA five. PDP, SDPI, and an Independent have one seat each. UDF and LDF are vying for the support of the Independent councillor
New MD for Kerala Paper Products Limited
Bill to set up higher education panel will destroy States institutions: Minister
Community balance emerges as key factor for Mayor selection in Thrissur Corporation
IFFK 2025: A useful ghost is more than just a ghost story
IFFK 2025: Kerala Govt Defies Centre, Screens 'Battleship Potemkin' and 18 Films Without CBFC Nod
IFFK 2025: Kerala Govt Defies Centre, Screens 'Battleship Potemkin' and 18 Films Without CBFC Nod
Court finds Mohanlal-starrer Karmayodha plagiarised, orders 30 lakh compensation
Court declares that the story, screenplay, and dialogues of Karmayodha are the exclusive original works of Reji Mathew
Despite State-Centre understanding, Sabari rail remains a non-starter
The project has not made any headway with the Railways requesting Kerala to give clear acceptance to share 50% of the cost instead of conditional acceptance.
V-C postings: K.C. Venugopal sees tacit understanding between Governor, govt.
CPI(M) unleashing violence across State: Satheesan
Police officer suspended on charge of sexually harassing colleague
Local body polls: voting in three wards on January 12
Draft anti-ragging legislation to be finalised in 45 days, govt. tells Kerala HC
Following a PIL, the HC had on October 30 directed the State government to complete within four weeks steps for tabling the Kerala Prohibition of Ragging (Amendment) Bill, 2025, before the Assembly
Kerala SIR house-to-house enumeration phase to end on December 18
Unsafe preservative levels in cakes: Food Safety department starts crack down
Legal proceedings launched and cases registered against manufacturers after 10 out of 32 cake samples found to be unsafe
A political parody set to the tune of an Ayyappa devotional song triggers controversy in Kerala
Police seek legal opinion and launch a preliminary investigation to verify if the complaint by devotees' forum reveals a cognisable offence. The Opposition had used the song extensively during the local body campaign
Three-day international conference on interdisciplinary sciences at Newman College
E-double-deckers soon for Thrissur and Kozhikode
PM E-DRIVE scheme: after passenger vehicles, Kerala eyeing freight electrification
State in the process of laying groundwork for establishing high-capacity charging infrastructure and related facilities for e-trucks along freight corridors
Kerala honours families of Goa liberation fighters
Families of freedom fighters from Kerala who took part in the Goa Liberation Movement will be honoured at a special function at Lok Bhavan on Friday. The programme, scheduled for 4 pm on the occasion of Goa Liberation Day, will be attended by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, a Lok Bhavan statement said on Wednesday
Bid to protect Rice bowl of Vadakara as a community reserve
Project aims at conserving Cherandathur Chira, a nearly 600 acre wetland, in Maniyur grama panchayat in Kozhikode that serves as a habitat for several migratory birds
Alappuzha bishop calls for 'Care for Creation in Christmas message
He urges the faithful to adopt eco-friendly practices in daily life and public celebrations
Sabarimala gold theft case: SIT arrests former administrative officer S Sreekumar
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The special investigation team has former Sabarimala administrative officer S Sreekumar in connection with theft of gold-plated sheets from the dwarapalaka idols. Sreekumar, who was the administrative officer when the alleged offence took place, was arrested after his anticipatory bail plea was dismissed by the High Court. Following that, the SIT summoned him to the office and registered his arrest. This is the seventh arrest in the case. After TDB's former chief K Padmakumar, was arrested, there was an allegation that the police had slowed down the probe in the wake of the local body polls. Sreekumar will be produced before the Kollam Vigilance court.
P. Mujeeb Rahman, however, says JIH former State Amir T.K. Arif Ali conducted talks with Pinarayi ahead of Kerala Assembly polls in March 2011 at Alappuzha government guesthouse
On Tuesday, the I&B ministry gave the green signal to the screening of four out of 19 movies, including Beef, Once Upon a Time in Gaza, Eagles of the Republic, and Heart of the Wolf.
The Kerala University of Health Sciences (KUHS) has announced the examination timetable for B.Pharm students under the 2017 scheme. The Seventh Semester B.Pharm Degree Supplementary theory examinations will be conducted from December 29, 2025, to January 7, 2026. In addition, the Fourth Semester B.Pharm Degree Practical Examinations (Regular/Supplementary) are scheduled for NovemberDecember 2025 across designated examination zones and affiliated colleges in Kerala.
Two youths killed in motorcycle accident near Kozhikode beach in Kerala
Two others who sustained grave injuries in the accident admitted to Kozhikode Medical College Hospital
Efforts on to tranquillize roaming tiger in Wayanad village
Rapid action team camping at the spot to coordinate operation to capture tiger. Cage traps to be set up
In a letter to Bhagyalakshmi, union president Shoby Thilakan says executive committee has accepted her resignation with pain
Muhammad Diligent Blesslee nabbed from Thiruvananthapuram airport
Vizhinjam Port expansion phase 2 from mid-January
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The second phase of expansion at the Vizhinjam International Port will begin in the second week of January, Ports Minister V N Vasavan announced after a review meeting on Tuesday. He said the exact date would be finalised after consultations with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the Adani Group. Preparations for the upcoming phases of construction have already been completed. The Rs 10,000-crore investment by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd. (APSEZ) will significantly enhance the ports infrastructure. The existing 800-m berth will be extended by 1,200 m to create a 2,000-m berth, enabling multiple ultra-large vessels to load and unload simultaneously. The 2.96-km breakwater will be lengthened by 920 m , taking its total stretch beyond 3.9 km. According to the revised contract, the phases II-IV must be completed by 2028, advancing the timeline from the original 2045 deadline. The minister also announced that the temporary approach road has been completed and will be inaugurated in January, opening the way for road-based cargo transport. Vizhinjam recently received Inland Container Port/Depot (ICP) status, alongside ports in Gujarat and Kolkata, which will pave the way for new tourism facilities in collaboration with the tourism department. To accommodate cruise ships, 50 hectares of land will be acquired for yard development, customs, security systems, and allied infrastructure, while dredging operations will be undertaken directly from the sea to support berth construction. Railway connectivity is also planned, with a 10.7-km track including a 9.2-metre tunnel. Land acquisition is progressing and construction is expected to begin soon. Road connectivity to the national highway has already been approved, including a cloverleaf interchange to support large-scale business operations. Vizhinjam completed its first year of commercial operations on December 3. Against a target of 1 million containers, the port handled 1.325 million containers through 616 ships. As of Tuesday, 636 ships had docked, pushing the total to nearly 1.4 million containers. The port became the first in India to handle more than 40 ultra-large container ships measuring 399 metres in length. More than 155 ships exceeding 300 metres and 45 ships with drafts over 16 metres also arrived at Vizhinjam. The government earned Rs 97 crore in tax revenue from operations. A standout achievement has been Vizhinjams ability to attract vessels that had never docked in Asia before, including some of the worlds largest ships such as MSC Turkiye, MSC Irena and MSC Verona. Ambitious plans Existing 800-m berth to be extended by 1,200 m to create a 2,000-m berth, enabling multiple ultra-large vessels to load and unload simultaneously 2.96-km breakwater to be lengthened by 920m Revised contract says phases II-IV must be completed by 2028, advancing it from the original 2045 deadline
Sabarimala gold theft case: Padmakumars remand extended by two weeks
KOLLAM: The judicial remand of A Padmakumar, former Travancore Devaswom Board president, in the case related to the theft of gold plating from the Dwarapalaka sculptures at the Sabarimala temple has been extended by two weeks. The remand period in the related case regarding theft of gold from the door panel of the sanctum sanctorum ends on Thursday. Padmakumars bail plea in the Dwarapalaka case will be considered on December 22. The court has directed the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to submit a report in the matter. Meanwhile, Unnikrishnan Potty and Murari Babu, who were released from SIT custody recently, were produced before the court and remanded in judicial custody. Murari has been remanded in the Dwarapalaka gold plating theft case, while Potty has been remanded in the door panel gold theft case. The SIT sought their custody for further questioning based on newly obtained evidence. Public Prosecutor Siju Rajan appeared for the prosecution. The Enforcement Directorates (ED) application seeking certified copies of records related to the Sabarimala gold theft case will be considered on Tuesday. The SIT has opposed a parallel investigation, maintaining that a separate probe by the ED is unnecessary while its investigation is ongoing. Sabarimala gold theft case: Two remanded in SIT custody The ED submitted that the request was for copies of FIRs, remand reports, statements of the accused, and seized documents, and that access to these records would facilitate further proceedings. The ED retains the power to initiate a case independently. SIT records statement of NRK businessman TPuram: The SIT has recorded the statement of a businessman in connection with its probe into the gold theft case. Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala had told the SIT that the businessman, a non-resident Keralite (NRK), had told him about the involvement of international rackets, engaged in antique trafficking, behind the theft. Following this, the man was asked to get his statement recorded. Sources said the person, whose identity is under wraps, told the SIT about the operations of transnational rackets involved in sale of stolen temple artefacts and their suspected role in the Sabarimala case.
Actor assault case: Survivor meets Kerala CM; govt to appeal verdict
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Four days after the verdict in the actor assault case, the survivor met Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan at his official residence at Cliff House on Tuesday. At the meeting, the CM is learnt to have assured her of the governments support, stating that the people of Kerala stand with her. He also said the government would file an appeal at the earliest against the trial courts verdict. He also made it clear that the government would take appropriate action in connection with the video released by second accused Martin. Prosecutors have already initiated steps to move an appeal against the trial courts verdict, it is learnt.
Kerala Lottery Result Today, December 17, 2025 Live: DhanaLekshmi DL-31 Winning Numbers
Kerala Lottery Result Today Live Updates, 17-12-2025: Heres Guessing Numbers for DhanaLekshmi DL-31 for Wednesday, December 17. Check the full list of winning numbers from 3 pm.
Will remain with LDF: Kerala Congress (M) chairman Jose K Mani
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Amid speculations of Kerala Congress (M) considering options to quit the LDF in the wake of the fronts poor performance in the local body polls, party chairman Jose K Mani made it categorically clear that the party will continue with the LDF. Speaking to the media here, he also rejected reports of his partys poor performance in the polls. The KC(M) has just one stance. We shall remain with the Left front, he said. He also rejected reports about KC(M)s performance. Last time we won in ten seats in Pala municipality. This time too we won an equal number of seats. We are still the single largest party there. In Pala assembly constituency, LDF got a lead of 2198 votes. In Thodupuzha municipality, the Joseph group won only in two seats. Not even once has the Joseph group got a municipal chairman post. But KC(M) got chairmanship thrice, Jose K Mani said. Referring to the recent poll verdicts, Jose Mani said the party hasnt lost its strength, and was able to maintain political status quo.
LDF plan to corner BJP over members suicides backfires
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A day after the local body election results, a flex appeared at Thirumala junction We dedicate this victory to our Ani chettan. The person mentioned was Thirumala Anil, a BJP councillor who died by suicide due to financial issues in the cooperative bank he led, two months before the local body polls. However, despite ambiguity over who the voters would choose, the public decided to side with the BJP. Even in neighbouring Thrikkannapuram ward, where BJP member Anand K Thampi ended his life after he was denied a seat, the party gave a fierce competition to LDF, clearly indicating that the LDFs campaign to cash in on the suicides for political mileage backfired miserably. Both suicides took place in the Nemom assembly constituency, represented by General Education Minister V Sivankutty. Though Sivankutty made prompt efforts to express condolences and raised demand for a special probe into the suicides, CPMs efforts to project BJP as a cruel outfit didnt cut ice with voters due to multiple reasons. In fact, the issue didnt figure in door-to-door campaigning at all. Anil, who had been contesting in Thirumala and Thrikkannapuram wards since 2010, was a public figure dear to people irrespective of political affiliations. He entered the council from Thrikkannapuram ward in 2015 and from Thirumala in 2020. In spite of Anils final statement that the party didnt support him in times of crisis, BJP chose not to target him. In the election, BJP fielded P S Devima, the sitting councillor from neighbouring Valiyavila ward, in Thirumala. Not only did the party acknowledge Anils contributions, but also projected Devima as his successor through announcements, helping her secure a win with over 800 votes. On the other hand, BJP managed to ride over the issues raised by Anand during campaigning in Thrikkannapuram ward, but lost to LDF by a small margin. While Anand, in his suicide note, alleged that key BJP leaders in the ward had close ties with the soil mafia, CPM failed to take up the issue. However, the trend indicates BJP is improving its standing in the area, which falls under the assembly constituency from where BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar has announced he will contest in the 2026 assembly elections.
Lost in time, Dracula returns to Kerala after half a century
KOCHI: After decades in the shadows, the Malayalam translation of Bram Stokers Dracula first published in 1975 will return to print in January 2026. For publisher Rayan Pushpanath, the rediscovery of the long-lost book felt less like routine archival work and more like cracking a cold case. Written by his grandfather, legendary Malayalam crime and horror writer Kottayam Pushpanath, the translation had virtually vanished from circulation. No major library had a copy. Collectors drew blanks. Even detailed bibliographies listed the book, but none could produce it. Yet this missing volume was no ordinary translation. It was the spark that opened the door to gothic horror for generations of Malayali readers and quietly reshaped popular fiction in the state. Printed in 1975, Dracula arrived in Kerala at a time when Malayalam popular literature was dominated by social novels, family sagas and romantic melodrama. For readers who had never encountered a full-fledged gothic horror novel, it was a revelation. Fear, mood and the supernatural suddenly became part of mainstream reading, recalls Rayan. Pushpanaths engagement with Dracula did not end with translation. The book became the foundation for what can now be described as the Malayalam Dracula universe. Over the years, he wrote nearly 10 interconnected novels, including Dracula Asiayil , Draculayude Makal , Dracula Unarunnu , Dracula Brazilil and Dracula Kotta . In these works, the vampire count was uprooted from Victorian England and placed in Indian and global settings, encountering local folklore, belief systems and anxieties. Long before people spoke about cinematic universes or franchise storytelling, my grandfather was doing it through novels, says Rayan. Holding the 1975 edition for first time was an emotional moment He took a Western myth and made it intimate, local and recognisably ours, says Rayan. In these stories, Dracula could walk through mist-covered hills reminiscent of Kerala, confront Eastern mysticism, or surface in unfamiliar geographies without losing his gothic core. Pushpanath did not merely adapt Stokers creation; he reimagined it, reclaiming the myth for a Malayalam-reading audience. Decades later, this literary experiment drew international attention. In 2025, British author Ann Morgan, known for A Year of Reading the World , highlighted Dracula Asiayil in her book Relearning to Read . She described it as a fascinating cultural phenomenon, noting how a Western character was reshaped through Indian emotional logic and narrative traditions. For Rayan, the recognition was affirming rather than surprising. For Kerala readers, Dracula became part of shared cultural memory. As familiar as popular fictional heroes, and as thrilling as stories told around a campfire, he says. Yet the absence of the original 1975 translation remained a troubling gap. It felt symbolic. As if the first chapter of a very large story had been torn out. The search for the book spanned seven years, taking him to libraries, ancestral homes, book fairs and private collections. The explanation he heard repeatedly was the same: the book had been borrowed endlessly, read until it fell apart, and never returned. It didnt disappear because people ignored it. It disappeared because people loved it, says Rayan. The breakthrough came in 2024 at a book fair in Kannur, when a collector casually confirmed he had a copy. Holding the fragile 1975 edition for the first time was an emotional moment. I wasnt just holding a book, Rayan recalls. I was holding a piece of my grandfathers imagination, travelling across generations. The rediscovery has now led to a carefully planned reprint, bringing the original translation back to readers after half a century.
Kerala govt, Governor reach consensus; Saji Gopinath, Ciza Thomas appointed VCs
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: After months-long standoff, Governor Rajendra Arlekar and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan have finally reached a consensus on the appointment of vice chancellors (VC) to two universities. The governors secretariat on Tuesday issued orders appointing Ciza Thomas as VC of APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU) and Saji Gopinath as VC of Digital University Kerala (DUK). Ciza Thomas and Saji Gopinath were the candidates preferred by the governor and the state government, respectively. The consensus comes in the wake of the Supreme Courts latest directive to the Dhulia committee to select VCs on its own. Following the governor-government standoff, the Supreme Court had constituted search-cum-selection committees headed by Justice (Rtd) Sudhanshu Dhulia to shortlist VC candidates. As per the courts directive, the panel was to shortlist four or five names for each university. The CM was asked to recommend the shortlisted names in the order of his preference. However, the governor did not accept the names recommended by the CM C Sathish Kumar for KTU and Saji Gopinath for DUK. Final decision taken at governor-CM meet The governors preferred candidates were Ciza Thomas and Priya Chandran, respectively. On December 11, the SC reviewed the development and directed the Dhulia committee to submit a final recommendation. The committee was asked to consider the CMs letter and the Governors reply, and pick one final name for each university. The court directed the committee to submit its report on December 17 so that the matter would be heard the next day. As the governor and government were wary over the committees selections, both camps agreed for a consensus. The final decision was taken at a meeting between the CM and the governor at the Lok Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday. According to the Lok Bhavan, the decision will be conveyed to the Dhulia committee.
LDF to review local body poll results in January
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The LDF, at its first meeting after the local body elections, on Tuesday, decided to take up a detailed discussion on the poll outcome in the first week of January. At the meeting, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and CPM state secretary M V Govindan did not comment on the election results, leaving the matter to LDF convenor T P Ramakrishnan. He told the leaders that the issue would be taken up after the constituent parties complete their organisational reviews. CPM has decided to convene its state secretariat on December 27 and state committee meetings on December 28 and 29. CPI will hold its state executive on December 29, followed by state council on December 30.
High command to call shots as Congress gears up for Kerala Assembly election
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Sensing a chance to come back to power in Kerala, the Congress high command is set to play a more decisive role in the partys state unit in the run-up to the 2026 assembly election. Following its unprecedented, direct intervention in the recently concluded local body elections, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) is expected to exercise a strong say in key aspects of the assembly polls. Sources said the high command would play an active role in framing strict criteria for candidate selection, overseeing campaign strategies and directly monitoring the disbursal of election funds to candidates. According to them, the approach is aimed at addressing long-standing organisational weakness and internal factionalism in the state Congress. This was the first time in the history of Congress that the AICC scrutinised a local body election in any state, AICC organisational general secretary K C Venugopal told TNIE. Usually, it is the assembly and parliament elections that receive our attention. We have never paid such close attention to an election before. We will continue with this format, he said. Aware of the LDFs organisational advantage and the internal rift within the state Congress, the high command had charted a work plan as early as 2024. During LSG polls, the involvement of AICC general secretary in-charge of Kerala, Deepa Dasmunsi, and Venugopal ranged from coordinating voter enrolment drives to intervening in local disputes and resolving organisational issues across districts. AICC had arranged funds for all candidates in local body elections This election, the state leadership and grassroots party members worked together, said Deepa Dasmunsi. The central leaderships hands-on approach is seen within the party as a template for the assembly election. The high command has conveyed a clear message to state leaders that candidate selection will be strictly on merit, leaving little room for groupism or seniority-based claims. At a meeting held in New Delhi soon after the current KPCC leadership assumed office, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi had reportedly told leaders bluntly that the Congress would not project a chief ministerial candidate ahead of the assembly election. The decision, he said, would be taken by the high command after the polls. This was later clarified by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, who said the legislative party would elect its leader. Party sources said the local body election preparations were a dress rehearsal for the assembly election. They pointed out that Venugopals suggestion at the 2024 Wayanad Chinthan Shivir that candidates be selected solely by the ward committees concerned proved to be a game changer. He also encouraged leaders such as K S Sabarinadhan and several former MLAs, to contest the local body election to signal the partys seriousness. While the KPCC president and leader of opposition led the campaign, Venugopal held grassroots-level meetings in all districts, said sources. A senior leader described Deepa Dasmunsi as a resident AICC general secretary, noting she remained in the state for extended periods and travelled extensively. Thus, this election turned out to be a victory of Team KPCC and Team UDF, said KPCC working president A P Anil Kumar. According to sources, this was also the first time the AICC arranged funds for all candidates in a three-tier system election. Candidates in the district panchayats received Rs 1 lakh each, those in corporations Rs 60,000, in municipalities Rs 10,000 and in block panchayats Rs 25,000. In corporation wards, where candidates were considered highly winnable, additional funds were provided by the AICC, they said.
Kerala BJP almost settled on Sreelekha as Thiruvananthapuram mayor
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar is likely to hold crucial discussions with the partys central leadership in New Delhi on Wednesday or Thursday to finalise the BJPs mayoral candidate for the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation. Sources said the state leadership has almost settled on R Sreelekha for the post, with the final call to be taken after consultations with the central leadership, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Party insiders said projecting Sreelekha as the mayoral face would give a political boost to the BJP and strengthen its push to bring women to leadership positions. While the move earlier posed a challenge since senior leader V V Rajesh would be unable to become deputy mayor as the post is reserved for a woman councillor, sources said the party now sees it as an opportunity to place two women at the helm of the corporation and project it as a model of Nari Shakti (women power). If the central leadership gives the green signal, the BJP is expected to announce its mayoral candidate in the coming days. Alongside the decision on the mayor, the leadership is also likely to conduct a detailed review of the partys setbacks in Thrissur and other regions. By choosing Keralas first woman IPS officer as its mayoral candidate, sources said BJP also aims to send out a strong anti-corruption message. Several party leaders believe that having a former top police officer at the helm would strengthen the BJPs efforts to highlight alleged irregularities during the over four-decade-long LDF rule of the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation. BJP leaders have repeatedly said they would expose alleged scams during the tenures of V Sivankutty and Arya Rajendran. Sources said that if Sreelekhas candidature is approved, senior leader V V Rajesh and former Sasthamangalam councillor S Madhusoodanan Nair are likely to be entrusted with key responsibilities. Party leaders acknowledged Madhusoodanan Nairs role in Sreelekhas victory from Sasthamangalam, with some senior leaders, including Rajeev Chandrasekhar, said to be unhappy over the defeat of the experienced councillor to K S Sabarinathan. We cannot ignore the contribution of S Madhusoodanan Nair in Sreelekhas victory. The central leadership will factor this in, and many of us are expecting a major announcement by Friday or Saturday, a senior BJP leader said. Senior leaders also said the central leadership is closely monitoring developments in the state capital, as the Thiruvananthapuram mayor will be the first BJP mayor of a state capital. This mayor post will attract national attention. Every step taken in the capital will be closely watched across the country. The central leadership is fully aware of this, and the Prime Minister personally assured support to the partys efforts in Thiruvananthapuram, another senior BJP leader said. Push for Nari Shakti model Party insiders said projecting Sreelekha as the mayoral face would give a political boost to the BJP and strengthen its push to bring women to leadership positions. While the move earlier posed a challenge since senior leader V V Rajesh would be unable to become deputy mayor as the post is reserved for a woman councillor, sources said the party now sees it as an opportunity to place two women at the helm of the corporation and project it as a model of Nari Shakti (women power)
UDF candidate dies by suicide after poll defeat in Kerala's Aruvikkara
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A UDF candidate who was reportedly distressed over his defeat in the local body elections died by suicide in Aruvikkara grama panchayat. Vijayakumar, 59, the UDF candidate from Manambooru ward, passed away while undergoing treatment at a private hospital here on Tuesday. Vijayakumar had ended up in the third place in Manambooru ward, securing 149 votes. The BJP won the ward. On Saturday, Vijayakumar allegedly attempted to take his own life by hanging on a tree near his house. His son noticed and rushed him to hospital. He was admitted to the ICU, but his condition deteriorated and he died on Tuesday. (If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050, Tele Manas - 14416 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline - 02225521111, which is available Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm.)
Kerala Legislature International Book Fest to begin on January 7
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala Assembly will host the fourth edition of the Kerala Legislature International Book Festival (KLIBF 4) at the Assembly premises from January 7 to 13. The week-long event will be open to the public with free entry. More than 200 publishers are expected to participate, setting up over 250 stalls across the complex. Visitors will also be given the rare opportunity to tour the Assembly Hall and the Legislative Museum during the festival. The event will bring together renowned writers, journalists, and socio-cultural activists, including Taslima Nasrin, Chulaananda Samaranayake and Banu Mushtaq, along with leading Malayalam authors. Book launches, discussions, panel dialogues, author interactions, interviews, and lectures will be held across six venues. A Students Corner will host interactions between eminent personalities and students, while puppet shows, magic shows, and childrens programmes will add to the excitement. A special highlight of this years edition will be the performance of Theyyam scheduled from January 8 to 12.
