Kerala Receives Widespread Rains; Yellow Alert in Seven Districts

Heavy rains (7 cm to 11 cm in 24 hours) are very likely to occur at one or two places in the state

Low-Pressure Over Bay Of Bengal Strengthens, May Intensify Into Cyclone Senyar

IMD warns a low-pressure system over Bay of Bengal may become Cyclonic Storm Senyar, bringing heavy rain to Andaman, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Sri Lanka.

Two nursing students die after being hit by Vande Bharat Express train in Bengaluru

The students hailed from Kerala and were pursuing their first-year BSc Nursing course

Two nursing students hit by Vande Bharat Express train on railway track in Bengaluru

The students are from Kerala

4 Sabarimala Pilgrims Killed as Car Falls Off Flyover in Karnataka

The victims, all friends, were on their way to Sabarimala in Kerala when the accident took place: Police

Man kills wife by hitting her with LPG cylinder in Kerala's Kollam

KOLLAM : A 45-year-old woman died after she was allegedly attacked by her husband using an LPG cylinder at Mangad here in the early hours of Monday, police said. The deceased has been identified as Kavitha, a resident near Apollo Junction, Karicode, Mangad. Police have arrested her husband, Madhusudhanan Pillai, who assaulted her following a quarrel at their house around midnight. According to the FIR, the incident took place at around 12.30 am when Pillai hit Kavitha multiple times on her head with a gas cylinder. The FIR also stated that the couple's daughter was present in the house at the time of the incident. Hearing loud noises, neighbours rushed to the house and alerted the police. Officers reached the spot and found Kavitha lying unconscious in the hall. A doctor was called to the location and confirmed her death. Pillai was arrested and shifted to the Kilikkollur police station, where a case of murder has been registered, officials said. The body has been shifted to a government hospital for postmortem.

Kerala: Man Kills Wife by Hitting Her with LPG Cylinder in Kollam

Police have arrested her husband, Madhusudhanan Pillai, who assaulted her following a quarrel at their house around midnight

Kerala Lottery Result Today, November 24, 2025 Live: Bhagyathara BT-30 Winning Numbers

Kerala Lottery Result Today Live Updates, 24-11-2025: Heres Guessing Numbers for Bhagyathara BT-30 for Monday, November 24. Check the full list of winning numbers from 3 pm.

Man found drowned at Papanasam beach

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A 53-year-old man from Puthenchanda in Varkala was found drowned at Papanasam beach on Sunday morning. The deceased, identified as Binukumar, was first spotted by a group of fishermen who had gone out to sea early in the day. They brought the body ashore and alerted the police. The police said preliminary indications point to suicide, though the conclusion is yet to be confirmed. Officers said he was reportedly under financial stress. Binukumar worked as a security guard and helper at a doctors clinic. He is survived by wife and two children. No missing person complaint had been filed. Relatives told the police that they had gone to attend a nearby wedding and that he had told them he would join later. The police said the condition of the body suggested he may have entered the sea either late at night or in the early hours of the morning. The coastal police reached the spot shortly after the fishermen recovered the body and passed the information to both Varkala and Ayiroor police stations. As the body was initially unidentified, officers checked recent missing-person reports within both station limits. After the inquest, the body was shifted to the mortuary.

CPM winning elections by threatening public: Sreelekha

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: BJP candidate in Sasthamangalam ward and former DGP R Sreelekha on Sunday alleged that the Communist party wins votes and governs the state by intimidating and threatening the public. In a Facebook post, she questioned whether there was anything wrong in making such a statement. Referring to Kannur, Sreelekha said, Reports claimed that there were no Opposition candidates in four LDF wards. The reason is clear: If anyone contests, they will be killed. This is their democracy. She also expressed concern over the incident in which a CPM candidate attacked the Thiruvananthapuram Press Club secretary and an independent candidate. Sreelekha also talked about the sudden announcement of a new candidate, Sreelatha V V, in the Sasthamangalam ward. The former DGP said she didnt know if the candidate was contesting as an independent or belonged to the CPI(ML), but claimed the intention was evident. According to her, voters might mistake the candidate for her due to the similarity in names, which would ultimately benefit the LDF.

Opposition accuses CPM of butchering democracy in Kannur, slams CM

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan on Sunday accused the CPM of using intimidation and goondaism to prevent rival candidates from contesting the local body polls. The CPM is butchering democracy by celebrating victories in Kannur even before the elections, he said in Thiruvananthapuram. Satheesan said CPM workers had threatened people who agreed to contest on UDF tickets, including in the state secretarys own ward. He criticised Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and CPM state secretary M V Govindan for lecturing others on anti-fascism while denying democracy and freedom in their own strongholds. He alleged that the CPMs activities in Kerala resembled a mafia-like pattern, worse than the party-dominated villages once seen in Bengal and Tripura. According to him, a section of election officials functioned like a CPM faction during the scrutiny of UDF nominations in several parts of Kannur district. In Malappattam, Kannapuram and Anthoor, CPM-linked groups threatened UDF candidates, he alleged. He also referred to cases in Ernakulam and Palakkad, including police allegedly delaying a UDF candidate from reaching the returning officer, and a CPM local leader in Attappadi allegedly threatening to abduct a rival candidate. Satheesan further accused the Election Commission of bias for accepting the nomination papers of four CPM candidates employed temporarily with the Khadi Board in Kannur and Kasaragod while rejecting a UDF candidate in Alangad on the same grounds. Satheesan said the UDF would challenge these decisions legally.

Congress demands removal of Malappattam poll officer

KANNUR: The Congress has alleged that CPM leaders in Kannur threatened UDF candidates and prevented them from filing nomination papers in several wards, leading to uncontested wins for the CPM. The party has also lodged a complaint with the chief electoral officer demanding the removal of the Malappattam election officer over alleged lapses. The Congress mandalam president said the UDF could not field candidates in all seats in Anthoor due to long-standing intimidation by the CPM. He alleged that the CPM maintains a stance that no UDF candidate should contest in the ward where the CPM state secretary resides. The Congress also accused former municipal chairperson P K Shyamala, wife of CPM state secretary M V Govindan, of leading efforts to prevent UDF candidates from entering the fray. CPM leaders rejected the accusations, stating that the Congress candidates withdrew voluntarily. Shyamala countered that the Congress was blaming the CPM for its own inability to field candidates. Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala criticised the CPM, saying that not allowing rival candidates to even submit the nomination papers amounts to fascism. KPCC president Sunny Joseph said the CPM won unopposed in certain wards only after threatening UDF candidates. Congress leaders alleged that in two wards each of Anthoor municipality and Malappattam panchayat, their candidates were unable to submit nominations due to CPM pressure.

UDF says no ties, but Welfare Party members contest as independents

KOZHIKODE: Even as the Congress-led UDF maintains that it will not enter into any formal electoral understanding with the Welfare Party of India (WPI), the ground reality across several wards in the region tells a starkly different political story. Welfare Party members, backed discreetly but decisively by UDF constituents and RMPI, are contesting as independents, reshaping traditional alliance boundaries ahead of the local body polls. The contradiction became sharply visible after noted social activist and long-time Welfare Party leader and its current secretary Fousiya Teacher announced her candidature in Ward 18 of Vadakara municipality, not under the party banner but as an independent. Her campaign has the open support of both the UDF and the RMPI. Similarly, a senior Welfare Party worker in Malappuram district, Asma Jalali is contesting in Koottilangadi panchayat as an independent candidate with UDF support. Earlier, the UDF had formally announced that it would not engage in seat-sharing or alliance arrangements with WPI, the political arm of Jamaat-e-Islami. Kozhikode DCC president K Praveen Kumar pointed out that the district committees stand was appropriate in the current context. Seat-sharing should be limited to UDF constituents and associate members, he said. Speaking to TNIE, Fousiya defended her decision to break from the party line. I decided to contest as an independent because I want all secular and democratic forces in Vadakara to unite against divisive politics. My decision is backed by the people, and supported by the UDF and the RMP purely on the strength of my work, not because of political negotiations, she said. She added that contesting independently ensures wider acceptance in a ward where coalition equations shift at the grassroots. While the UDF leadership remains cautious and defensive about its position, RMPI leaders have taken a more assertive stand. RMPI leader K S Hariharan openly questioned the hesitation to back Welfare Party candidates. Why should we not support the Welfare Party when the Election Commission itself has recognised them and granted registration? They are a lawful organisation. If they were associated with terrorism as some allege, the Election Commission would never have approved them. Supporting such candidates is not a mistake, he said. Welfare Party district general secretary Salih Kodapana, meanwhile, admitted that political pragmatism often overrides ideological rigidity at the grassroots. LSG polls create situations where we may not always be able to contest directly under our banner. Sometimes alliances become necessary. Things will be very different in assembly polls, he said. External support sometimes necessary Local body polls create situations where we may not always be able to contest directly under our banner. Sometimes alliances or external support become necessary, said WPI district general secretary

UDFs weakness not CPMs fault, says K K Ragesh

KANNUR: CPM district secretary K K Ragesh has said that the UDF and Congress should not try to blame the CPM for not having enough people to contest in the elections. He said the Congress has spread false claims across the state, including allegations regarding destruction of Mahatma Gandhis statue, and boasted about conquering Malappattam panchayat, while they themselves were unable to find even two candidates to file nominations in the panchayat. Instead of addressing their own shortcomings, Congress is attempting to shift the blame onto the CPM. They even circulated false news that the CPM had kidnapped a person who submitted nomination in Anthoor municipality, but when the police checked, the person was found safe at home, said Ragesh. He pointed out that in Anthoor municipality, five members of a single family are contesting in five different wards under the UDF banner. However, he said the UDF had to withdraw nominations in two wards simply because they could not find people to propose their candidates. In Kannapuram panchayat, a candidate sent their oath through WhatsApp instead of appearing before the returning officer. While a proposer can submit the nomination form on behalf of the candidate, the oath must be taken by the candidate in front of a gazetted officer, who must certify it. Since it was not followed, their nomination was cancelled. Fake signature forced a UDF candidate out of fray In Malappattam, Ragesh said, the candidate filed the nomination using a fake signature. Four earlier signatures were on record, and all of them differed from the one provided at the time of submitting the nomination papers. When the person came to sign, the signature did not match any of the previously given ones.

Keralas Opposition says SIR overburdens, but BJP says it complements

Over 6.5L pilgrims visit Sabarimala; spot booking curbs eased further

PATHANAMTHITTA: The heavy but streamlined inflow of devotees to Sabarimala continues as the mandalam season progresses. Despite rain, devotees had smooth darshan while the valiya nadapandal mostly witnessed a smaller crowd of pilgrims on Sunday. By 7pm on Sunday, 69,295 pilgrims had trekked up the hill shrine. In line with Saturdays directive to speed up the ascent of the 18 holy steps, the flow improved significantly, with around 80-85 pilgrims climbing the steps every minute. On Saturday alone, more than 86,000 people had offered prayers at the temple. With the latest figures, the total footfall has crossed 6.5 lakh since the temple opened for the season. Spot booking has been further eased to ensure more pilgrims receive darshan on time. The High Court had earlier permitted the authorities to revise the daily spot-booking limit based on real-time crowd. Accordingly, the Travancore Devaswom Board and the police are jointly assessing the situation and allowing bookings dynamically. Armbands help track children A safety armband introduced by the police to prevent children from getting lost in the crowd during the Sabarimala pilgrimage is yielding results. The police said all children below the age of 10 are provided the armband at Pampa, with the childs name as well as the mobile number of the accompanying guardian printed on it.

Kerala local body polls 2025: Symbols allotted to Kerala Congress (Skaria Thomas), Secular National Dravida Party and Socialist Republican Party

Kerala local body polls: Human-wildlife conflict emerges as a key poll narrative across forest-fringe regions

The issue affects 273 grama panchayats, with 30 of these classified as severe conflict zones, according to a Forest dept. study. While the LDF claims to have taken several steps to mitigate the problem, the UDF and NDA differ and see the Wild Life Protection (Kerala Amendment) Bill, 2025 as a poll ploy

Parasitic leech found off Kollam a likely threat to native fish health

KOLLAM: A parasitic marine leech previously found only along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts has been reported for the first time in Indian waters off the Kollam coast. The finding has raised concern among researchers about the parasites potential impact on fish health, fisheries productivity and the marine ecosystem. The species, Pontobdella muricata, was found among the trawl bycatch that landed at Sakthikulangara harbour. The specimen was found attached to the ventral side of a ray fish, confirming a new parasite-host association for a leech previously restricted to colder European waters. Researchers say the leech poses no direct threat to humans but warn that it could severely affect native fish populations. Even a single leech can cause lesions, draw blood and create wounds that allow secondary infections reducing fish health and market value, says the study. The finding has triggered concerns about what else may be silently shifting to Keralas waters. The current detection is limited to deepwater skates, but researchers warn that the shift in parasite distribution may indicate changing ocean conditions, altered migration routes or broader ecological imbalances. Our marine ecosystem is already under extreme stress due to global warming, pollution, deep-sea fishing and declining fish stocks. With fisheries under unprecedented pressure, the emergence of a new parasite is a red flag, said Sarlin Pathissery, head of the zoology department, Fatima Mata National College, Kollam, who led the study. The new parasite could harm fish populations in the long run, especially in waters already stressed by overfishing, warming seas and species degradation. But how exactly this will affect the fishing community and the wider environment requires in-depth study, she said. If such parasites spread to commercially important species, small fishers who depend on healthy, clean catch for their livelihood will be the most affected, the study notes. Impact of parasites may be huge, need further study The exceptionally high genetic similarity (more than 99%) between the Kollam specimen and populations from the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts underscores the need for focused comparative assessments to determine whether similar ecological or pathological effects may arise in Indian waters. Researchers argue that monitoring such hidden parasites is crucial not just for biodiversity records but to understand subtle ecological shifts that ultimately influence coastal livelihoods. The discovery of the parasite is a reminder that what is hiding under the ocean will reach the market fish stall and our homes sooner than we expect. These parasites may be small, but their impact could be huge. Thats why further study is needed, said Sandie Moris, a chemical engineering student at Government Engineering College, Thrissur, who assisted the study. Savio Morris, chemical engeneering student at TKM Engineering College, Kollam, and Sancia Moris of the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology, Germany, were also part of the study. It has been published in a peer reviewed international journal, Taylor & Francis Biodiversity. First time in Indian waters Its for the first time that parasitic marine leech, Pontobdella muricata, is found in Indian waters, says the study The species was previously found only along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts The leech could severely affect native fish populations

GST trap hinders renovation of Fort Kochis Chinese nets

KOCHI: The Chinese fishing nets, historic, cantilevered structures that define the coastline of Fort Kochi, are languishing in disrepair, their much-needed restoration stalled for years despite a Rs 2.40-crore grant. The urgency for restoration was underscored when a worn-out platform of one of the nets gave way, with 11 foreign visitors falling into the water last Friday. While the tourism department had entrusted the Kerala Industrial and Technology Consultancy Organisation (Kitco) with the task of refurbishing 11 nets, the fishermen-owners point towards the insistence of the latter in having a GST (Goods & Services Tax) account for receipt of the grant, and cite it as the reason for not carrying out the repair. In fact, the mishap involving the foreign tourists happened after a plywood plank, set up temporarily instead of hard wood, gave in, resulting in the collapse of the platform. Kitco, though, maintains that GST is mandatory for benefit of government funds, while promising that it will award a tender for urgent repairs in four weeks. The delay in the repair of the Chinese nets happened due to bureaucratic requirement for the owners to secure a GST account. Why do the poor fishermen need to take a GST account? They are not doing any large business or export. In fact, the non-repair has been affecting their livelihood for years, said K J Sohan, former Kochi mayor and a heritage enthusiast. Compounding the loss, the valuable teakwood and ironwood logs sourced years ago have started decaying. Following the continued insistence, the owners finally formed a collective Fish Net Association and secured a GST account. But, the owners lament that they have still not received the funds for repair. Chinese fishing net owners plead for quick release of fund In fact, some of the owners, who carried out basic repair work on the assurance of fund extension by Kitco, now finds themselves debt ridden and plead for quick release of the assured sum. I took a loan of nearly Rs 5 lakh for the basic restoration work of my Chinese net. It has been three years since I submitted the expense bills. We also secured a GST account and submitted the revised bills. But they have not cleared it yet. Now we are struggling to repay our loans and facing huge debt, rued Vincent, an owner. When contacted, a top Kitco official said, The chief technical examiner of the tourism department has cleared the revised bills. Since they have the GST account, the fund will be issued soon. The tax for the government fund needs to be deducted. In fact, we will start the repair in four weeks. There is a court directive to carry out the repair with the involvement of owners. A five-member high-power committee was formed by the tourism department, with the local MLA as convenor. There was a delay in getting the funds, but now all hurdles have been cleared, the Kitco official said, while admitting that the administrative sanction for the repair was given as early as 2015. Meanwhile, Kitco has initiated the process to refurbish the Chinese net platforms using sandalwood. The tender process for the same will be completed in two weeks and the work in another four weeks, the official said. According to GST expert K S Hariharan, as per existing provisions, a GST account is not strictly necessary for the owners to receive the restoration fund or loan, as they are currently not engaged in highly remunerative or export-related work. KITCOs insistence on a GST account may stem from foreseeing substantial tourism revenue from the restored nets. GST registration is only mandatory if a business revenue exceeds `20 lakh. Furthermore, once registered, the owners would be liable to pay tax, either 5% or 18%, based on their earnings. The owners, though, can take a GST account and afterwards cancel the same, he said.

Opposition mounts against UDFs tie-up with Welfare Party

KOZHIKODE: Pressure is mounting on the UDF not to have an alliance with the Welfare Party of India, the political wing of the Jamaat-e-Islami, even while the Congress-led front is going ahead with its plan of local-level adjustments with the party in the local body elections. The latest to raise voice against the tie-up is Abdul Hameed Faizy Ambalakadavu, the working secretary of the Sunni Yuvajana Sangam (SYS), who sought to remind the UDF that the Jamaat and Muslim Brotherhood are the two sides of the same coin. In a Facebook post on Sunday, Faizy said Jamaat had declared that the Muslims who cooperate with the democratic system or exercise their franchise would automatically be out of Islam. The same organisation later formed a political party to be a part of the same system by becoming an ally of different political fronts, he said. Faizy said this should be viewed seriously because the Jamaat is a cadre organisation that would not hesitate to resort to any strategy to achieve its aim. If the Jamaat is elected in Sunni-majority mahals, the organisation will convert the local body ward and mahal as its own, he said. Faizy recalled that the Solidarity Youth Movement, the youth organisation of the Jamaat, had carried the photos of leaders of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt during the protest march to the Kozhikode Airport last April. IUML has surrendered its Sunni ideology Faizy said the efforts from the part of certain persons to forge alliance with the Jamaat was the reason behind the issues in Samastha Kerala Jem-Iyyathul Ulama. Diluting the Samasthas stand that deviant groups should be kept at distance would lead to acceptance of the ideology of forces like Jamaat, he said. Meanwhile, the INL has expressed concern over the development of the Panakkad family members declaring the Jamaat candidates. Panakkad Syed Rasheed Ali Shihab Thangal had declared the candidates for Kodur panchayat in Malappuram, which included the names of Welfare Party members. INL state general secretary Kasim Irikkur said the incident marked a change in Kerala politics. The IUML has donated many seats to the Welfare Party neglecting the opposition from local-level leaders and workers, he said. Kasim added that the IUML has surrendered its Sunni ideology.

Rookies who redefined rural development in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: They were once dismissed as too young, too inexperienced, too idealistic for the rough-and-tumble of grassroots administration. But over the past five years, a few in their 20s who took charge of grama panchayats across Kerala have not only proved sceptics wrong, but also left behind commendable achievements. As Kerala heads for another local body election, its stories offer a revealing glimpse into both the possibilities and the limitations of youth politics at the grassroots. TNIE spoke to some leaders who assumed office between 20 and 25 a cohort that brought freshness, visibility and vibrancy to local governance. Their track records show ambition and innovation, yet many are stepping away, citing one factor that continues to haunt young entrants: the painfully low honorarium that makes politics a financial burden rather than a career possibility. Reshma Mariam Roy From too young to double Swaraj Trophy winner When CPMs Reshma Mariam Roy became president of the Aruvappulam grama panchayat (Pathanamthitta) in 2020, she had turned 21 the minimum age to contest just a day before filing her nomination. She went on to lead her panchayat to two consecutive Swaraj Trophies, disproving assumptions about her inexperience. I was told running a panchayat is not childs play, Reshma said. But with the support of my colleagues and comrades, we transformed Aruvappulam into one of the districts best-performing panchayats, she said. This time, she is contesting for the district panchayat from Malayalapuzha, confident that younger generations bring a sharper focus on development, especially when paired with the experience of senior leaders. Johnys P Stephen Young leaders bow out due to low honorarium While some soared, others have quietly decided to step away from electoral politics - not due to disillusionment, but because they simply cannot afford it. One of them is Johnys P Stephen, who became Uzhavoor (Kottayam) panchayat president as a 22-year-old independent backed by the UDF. I contested while doing my MA in English, he said. During his tenure, he secured land for a long-delayed mini civil station project worth Rs 4 crore and launched a farmers market bringing together growers from every ward. But he is not contesting again. With just Rs 8,000 for a ward member and around Rs 15,000 for a president, survival becomes difficult, he said. Young members can do tremendous work, but the low honorarium pushes them out. The amount must be increased, he added. Radhika Madhavan Taking development to Adivasi hamlets At 23, CPMs Radhika Madhavan took charge of the Malampuzha grama panchayat (Palakkad) in 2020. She is staying in politics and is now contesting for the block panchayat. Her tenure saw major interventions in Adivasi belts: new health sub-centres in Elival and Anakkal (one inaugurated and one awaiting opening), a new building for a 31-year-old homeopathy dispensary, and extensive waste-management projects. Pipeline work to address drinking water shortage in remote tribal settlements has also been completed. Young people should enter local governance, but financial constraints discourage many, she said. I continue because of my commitment to the party and the people. Amrutha C Rebuilding a panchayat while completing degree CPMs Amrutha C, president of Ittiva grama panchayat (Kollam), also assumed office at 23 after completing her degree in Sociology. During her tenure, the 70-year-old panchayat building was demolished and rebuilt, and funds were allocated for an upcoming industrial centre to support future entrepreneurs. She is recontesting, this time from a ward (Padinjare Vayala) held by the BJP. I could continue my studies alongside my responsibilities, she said. This time too, I want to show that young leaders are not temporary placeholders. A generation willing to lead, if system lets them As Keralas political landscape prepares for another electoral cycle, these stories underline a stark reality: Young leaders are willing to take charge and are capable of delivering measurable development. But structural constraints especially low remuneration are forcing many to walk away. The kids on the block have proven they can run panchayats, win awards, and push long-stalled development projects into motion. Yet unless formal support systems improve, Kerala risks losing an emerging generation of grassroots leaders whose only demand is that public service should not come at the cost of personal survival

LDFs campaign will expose SIR as an attack on democracy and equality

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a quick chat with TNIE, CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam outlines LDFs united stand on key issues, from Sabarimala to welfare pensions. He stresses on Left unity, people-centric development, and resistance to BJPs ideological agenda. Excerpts: Do you think the recent controversy over the Sabarimala gold theft and the unresolved man-animal conflicts will hurt the LDF in the local body elections? From the very beginning, we have made it clear that we fully support the SIT investigation in the Sabarimala issue. The government will not shield anyone involved, and this must be communicated openly to the public throughout the campaign. On man-animal conflict, our position is straightforward: human life comes first. While we value biodiversity and recognise that animals are a part of the ecosystem, our priority is to protect people when their lives are threatened. You have opposed SIR strongly. How will you bring it into the campaign? SIR is a BJP-RSS scheme to deny voting rights to dalits, adivasis, and the poor. It stems from Golwalkars Bunch of Thoughts, which insists that only those who accept their version of religion and culture deserve citizenship. Their vision is rooted in chaturvarnya and Manusmriti, excluding marginalised communities. Weve already seen its impact in Bihar, where even the Election Commission acted like the BJPs executive committee. Our campaign will expose SIR as an attack on democracy and equality. On PM SHRI, differences between CPI and CPM lingered even after the government revised its stand. Will this affect LDFs campaign coordination? PM SHRI is not a minor issue; it touches ideology, politics, education, and values. From the start, the LDF approached it with unity. When the BJP tries to push its chaturvarnya-based agenda into education, the Left can only oppose it. Both CPI and CPM share this position, so the LDF has one clear stand. Though opponents and the press tried to portray a clash, we were confident of resolving it collectively. That unity is the strength of the LDF. This is not the victory of one party, but of all partners together, a political victory for both CPI and CPM. Will the increase in welfare pensions help LDF electorally? It will, but more importantly, it reflects our vision of development. The UDF once mocked us as a pension government, but we proudly stand by it. For us, development is not just highways and big projects, it is improving peoples lives and giving them hope. Yes, we are a pension and kit government, but for the poor. That shows clearly who we represent.

Malappurams Moscow: Red island in a sea of green

MALAPPURAM: Ever heard of a place called Moscow in Malappuram? In the political heartland of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), there exists an unlikely island of red -- ward 9 of Irimbiliyam panchayat, locally known as Moscow. For over three decades, this tiny communist pocket has stood firmly with left candidates, even as the rest of the panchayat remains unwaveringly loyal to the Muslim League. With elections around the corner, the CPMs deep roots are visible at every turn here, shaping a political identity that stands apart from its surroundings. It all began in the 1950s with a tailor named Ayyappan, says ward member and senior CPM leader Balachandran. He was a committed socialist with great knowledge of communism. His tailoring shop was at the junction, and people who came there heard him speak about the erstwhile Soviet Union, China, and communist movements. It was through Ayyappan chettan that the youth here first learned about communism. Many were attracted to the ideology. According to Balachandran, the turning point was in 1962, when a group of young comrades formed a club called the Vijaya Kala Samithi. They were the ones who named the place Moscow -- after the Soviet, and, now Russian, capital. As far as I can remember, until 2015, we had only communist members in this ward. We have created many clubs and youth groups under the CPM. There is a space called the Janakeeya Vedi at Moscow junction where people discuss politics and social issues. We are also building our purely crowdfunded party office, he said. Recalling a rare electoral setback, Balachandran said the CPM lost in 2015 by a small margin to Congress candidate Manjula. She hailed from a wealthy family. From what we know, money power influenced many voters. But we comfortably won the block panchayat seat. We still believe it was the candidates money power that tilted the result, he said. The reversal didnt last long. We were determined not to give up. Thats how the party decided to field me in 2020. I was ward member in 2005 before going on to become local committee secretary and area committee member. The party wanted the ward at any cost. We worked hard, met every voter, and I won by a comfortable margin, Balachandran noted. This time, Moscow is reserved for women. The CPM has fielded long-time comrade Divya Anand, a nursery school teacher and a familiar face among residents. We have already completed the first phase of campaigning. We are confident of continuing our legacy, he added. Enduring bastion Irimbiliyam panchayat is traditionally an IUML stronghold, with Congress also holding pockets of influence. Like most panchayats in Malappuram, CPM remains weak here except in a handful of wards, with Moscow being its most enduring bastion

Polls not just local battles in states oldest Thiruvanthapuram corporation

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The oldest municipal corporation in the state, Thiruvananthapuram where local polls are not just local battles but a way to higher levels of administration is all set to witness a tough contest this time. Over the years, the corporation has catapulted key figures to the legislative assembly, including General Education Minister V Sivankutty, who served as the mayor from 1995 to 2000, and Vattiyoorkkavu MLA V K Prasanth, who was the mayor from 2015 to 2019. While the LDF has been able to maintain its forte since the mid-90s, the entry of the BJP as a key third player effected a change in the corporations political dynamics. Having secured 51 seats in 2010, the LDF saw its tally fall to 43 in 2015, but bounced back to 51 seats in 2020. Five years down the line, the CPM-led fronts bold decision of picking a then 21-year-old Arya Rajendran as the mayor has brought in a mixed response. On the other hand, the UDF has been on a lean patch in the corporation. While the Congress-led front managed to win 41 seats in 2010, it was severely affected by the growth of the BJP in 2015, securing only 21 seats in 2015. And in 2020, the UDF struggled to get 10 seats. While the BJP made its entry in 1988 with six councillors, it maintained that figure in 2010. The BJP-led NDA rose to a surprising tally of 34 in 2015, and maintained the numbers in 2020, pushing the UDF to the third spot in both terms. However, LDF district secretary V Joy, MLA, expressed confidence of the front continuing on the winning path. None of the recent controversies will pose a hurdle for the LDF in these elections, he stressed. We are considering both UDF and BJP as equal political rivals here, Joy said. With the recent suicides, people have understood BJPs true colours, as the party has started using its mafia groups to threaten whoever opposes them, within or outside the party. We have a stand on the candidature of Vyshna Suresh, which we will clarify after the elections, he said, adding that it will not affect LDFs chances even in Muttada where Vyshna is the UDF candidate after her name was reinstated in the voters list. Riding on the early announcement of candidates, the UDF is hopeful of making a strong comeback in Thiruvananthapuram. Though fielding ex-MLA K S Sabarinadhan as the mayor candidate was a tactical move, internal feuds throughout the state have not projected, in general, a favourable image of the UDF. Thiruvananthapuram DCC president N Sakthan said the front will secure at least 40 seats this time. Given the triangular fight here, 40-odd seats will be enough to secure a majority, he said. He added that the Vyshna issue will reflect positively for the UDF statewide. Though star candidates like Asian Games medallist Padmini Thomas and former DGP R Sreelekha have added colour to its campaign, the NDA is yet to shake off the aftershocks of the suicides of two of its members. While Thirumala councillor K Anilkumar ended his life due to financial crises, mentioning that our people didnt support me in his suicide note, another young party member, Anand K Thampi, alleged that the party denied him the Thrikkannapuram seat and that BJP leaders in the ward have close ties with the sand mafia. Terming the suicides saddening and unfortunate, BJP district president V V Rajesh said, These polls discuss ground-level issues, for which we have plans. The term triangular contest can be applied only to certain wards, he added.

Struggling to counter Opposition attack, BJP launches SIR training for cadre

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With booth level officers (BLOs) and Opposition parties intensifying their stand against conducting the special intensive revision (SIR) during the local body election, the BJP has doubled down on its stance that the revision is essential to curb bogus voting. However, sources admit that the party is increasingly wary of the Opposition turning the hasty implementation of SIR into a political weapon, prompting the BJP to roll out urgent training sessions for its cadre. Senior leaders say the sessions are aimed at ensuring that the significance and necessity of SIR are clearly understood within the party. Both the UDF and LDF are spreading misinformation about SIR. Our workers need clarity so they can educate the public, a senior leader who attended a recent session said. Though BJP leaders like V Muraleedharan and state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar have repeatedly defended SIR as crucial, reports of BLOs being pressured and the rushed execution of the process have triggered discomfort among ground-level BJP workers. Some openly acknowledged they were struggling to explain the need for SIR at a time when the state is preparing for local body elections. The public is questioning the timing and intention behind SIR. Even though we highlight issues like bogus voting, cases such as the BLOs suicide and allegations of pressure from district officials are making it difficult for us to defend the process, a grassroots worker admitted. Party insiders say the leadership recognised this growing unease, pushing them to organise intensive SIR training camps. While the BJP had been banking on ongoing investigations -- including recent arrests in the Sabarimala scam -- to gain momentum ahead of elections, the counter-campaign against SIR is becoming a serious concern. Leaders fear the Left may use the issue to overshadow topics like Sabarimala that the BJP had hoped to foreground. The first training camp was held in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday, chaired by BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh. Senior leaders said similar camps will be conducted across the state in the coming days with national and state-level leaders chairing it. We stand firmly by our earlier position that SIR is necessary. More training sessions will ensure our cadre are fully prepared to counter misinformation. The doubts regarding SIR will be cleared for those attending the session. The ongoing allegations against SIR are part of Congress-CPM agenda, a senior BJP leader said.

Centre to support preservation of ancient manuscripts at temple

KOTTAYAM: In a major boost to the efforts to preserve the collection of palm leaf manuscripts and thaaliyola grantha (books made of palm leaf manuscripts) recovered from the attic of the Kumaranalloor Devi temple in Kottayam last year, the temple authorities have secured support from the Union government. The Sevadhi Museum and Indological Research Institute, established for the preservation of the manuscripts, has received approval from the Gyan Bharatam Mission under the Union Ministry of Culture, to become an independent research institute. Gyan Bharatam is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Culture for identifying, documenting, conserving, digitising, preserving, and promoting Indias vast manuscript heritage. Samar Nanda, joint secretary, Ministry of Culture, and Hari C T, administrator of Sevadhi, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on behalf of their respective parties. Indrajeet Singh, director, Gyan Bharatam Mission, handed over the MoU at a function held at the Gyan Bharatam Mission headquarters in New Delhi. Hari C T received the MoU on behalf of Sevadhi. The Gyan Bharatam Mission aims at the comprehensive development, conservation and digitisation of archival study and research. To support the mission, Sevadhi boasts a library, a complete palm leaf collection, and the expertise of a trained curator. An MoU has also been signed with two institutions for technology transfer, with Sevadhi classified as an independent research institution. The extensive collection of palm-leaf manuscripts found at the temple is preserved at the Sevadhi Museum and Indological Research Institute, located within the temple complex. Sevadhi is enriched by a large collection of 37,200 palm leaves, and many rare books on medicine, astronomy, architecture, poetry, etc. A book called Kumaranalloor Granthavari has been published on the contents of these palm leaves. The objective of the Sevadhi Research Institute is to preserve palm leaves, make them available to researchers, make archaeology a subject of study among students, and create awareness among people about the need to preserve their tradition and heritage. To achieve this objective, Sevadhi conducted a three-month course in Epigraphy and Manuscriptology. At the end of the course, an examination was conducted in collaboration with Alliance University, Bengaluru, and certificates were awarded to the participants. An MoU was also signed with Alliance University for conducting various courses. Believed to be three centuries old, these manuscripts are expected to shed light on the life and society of people who lived during the Royal era of Kottayam.

On the run, yet in the race: UDF fields fugitive fresh cut protest chief

KOZHIKODE: In a dramatic twist to the local body elections in Thamarassery, a fugitive Muslim League leader facing an international Look Out Circular (LOC) has emerged as the UDFs official candidate. Sainul Abideen, alias Babu Kudukkil, wanted in connection with last months violent clash at the Fresh Cut poultry waste treatment plant, filed his nomination for ward 11 on Thursday, despite being absconding for over a month. The police were caught off guard after learning that Babu, chairman of the protest committee against the plant, executed a covert re-entry into India solely to contest the polls. Investigators said he flew from his hideout in the UAE to Nepal, crossed into India by road to evade immigration checks, and then took a domestic flight to Kozhikode. Since the LOC does not apply to internal travel, he managed to sign nomination papers untracked. He left the district immediately after. The operation was allegedly facilitated by local party functionaries. The police have taken into custody Hafis Rahman, former IUML panchayat president, for coordinating Babus movements and arranging the meeting with a gazetted officer required for filing the nomination. The UDF and the Congress, meanwhile, are standing firmly by their choice. Panchayat president A Aravindan called the police case fabricated and described Babu as a victim and a leader who understands local issues. The area remains tense, with posters from families affected by the Fresh Cut plant asking parties not to seek votes. Babu faces LDFs Navas, another local resident, as police intensify efforts to nab the accused. Some victims of the Fresh Cut plant expressed their helpless situation through some posters. However, the protest committee has decided that staying aloof from the panchayat election will not benefit anything, said Thampi P P, protest committee leader. Despite police confidence in eventually apprehending the accused, the question now gripping Thamarassery is whether the fugitive candidate will risk a public appearance during the high-stakes campaign, or if his entire election bid will be conducted from the shadows.

Calicut University faces complaints over mix-ups in question papers

MALAPPURAM: The University of Calicut is facing serious allegations of irregularities in the question papers issued for the first-semester BCA, BSc (AI) and BA Journalism examinations. The complaints arose after errors were reported during the BCA and BSc (AI) exams held on November 14. The university usually sends the question papers online to colleges directly from the examination control room. According to students and teachers, the university reportedly sent a computer science paper to the BCA centres instead of the core paper. Teachers said there was no official circular regarding the mix-up. Instead, invigilators relied on voice messages circulated through WhatsApp groups, including an assurance that the correct paper would be uploaded soon. The original paper reportedly appeared in the system only after the 30-minute window permitted for corrections, a violation of the universitys guidelines, which prohibit question paper changes beyond the first half hour of the examination. For BSc (AI) students, the question paper of the subject Fundamentals of Computers and Computational Thinking reached colleges only at 2.45pm, despite the exam beginning at 2pm. Another complaint has surfaced from the BA Journalism department. The same question paper of the minor course Basics of Communication was allegedly used for examinations held on November 18 and 20.

Devotees Throng Suryaprabha and Chandraprabha Vahana Sevas at Tiruchanoor

The morning procession featured vibrant cultural performances, including Dolukunita, Bhimsa, Punita Natyam, peacock dance, Kerala folk dance and Dappu. Artistes dressed as mythological characters added colour and festivity to the spiritual ambience.

20 NDPS cases registered in special drive in Kochi

Man held for alleged murder of brother-in-law in Ernakulam

Rejection of nominationsdeals a blow to parties in Ernakulam

Cong. has taken the biggest hit with 4 of its official candidates losing chance to contest; DCC chief alleges that election officials colluded with ruling LDF to reject the partys candidates nominations

Konkani meet in Kerala demands Cinema Development Corp for Goa

Panaji: The Goa government should establish a Cinema Development Corporation to provide financial assistance and technical support for producing and distributing Konkani cinema, the 26th All India Konkani Sahitya Sammelan in Ernakulam, Kerala, has resolved. The sammelan, held on November 22-23, was organised by the All India Konkani Parishad. Another resolution urged the Goa government []

Local body polls | V.D. Satheesan slams rejection of nominations filed by UDF candidates

Suchitwa Mission launches intensive drive to enforce green protocol for local body polls

Kerala to approach courts if Bills are kept pending with Governor, President beyond reasonable time

In response to a Presidential Reference, the Supreme Court had indicated that only a limited judicial review was possible on Bills pending beyond reasonable time. The State government may have to be clear on when to initiate legal action as the SC did not elaborate on the reasonable time

CEOs given standing instructions to ensure welfare of govt employees after BLO deaths, say ECI sources

NEW DELHI: Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) have given standing instructions to ensure the welfare of government employees working under their administrative supervision, sources in the Election Commission of India (ECI) said. The clarification comes amid growing uproar over a number of deaths and suicides among Booth Level Officers (BLOs) in states where the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls is under way. They said that in line with the instructions issued to them, the CEOs are looking into the cases of reported deaths and seeking detailed reports from the respective District Collectors while investigating the cases. The sources said, the question of SIR work-related pressure should not be there, as each of the BLOs is given responsibility of distributing and collecting enumeration forms not more than 1,000, as for nearly 51 crore voters, there are five lakh BLOs in the field. However, since cases of deaths and suicides are being reported from West Bengal, Kerala, Gujarat and Rajastan, the CEOs and the District Returning Officers (DROs) are made responsible to ensure welfare of government employees working under their supervision, the sources said. During the past few days, cases of several deaths have been reported from different states. Ruling parties in the opposition-ruled states have demanded postponement of the exercise, as Congress president Mallikarjun Kharde termed the SIR as an imposed oppression and a deliberate ploy under which citizens are being harassed, which is reminiscent of demonetisation and the COVID-19 lockdown. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi alleged that chaos has been created across the country in the name of the SIR of electoral rolls. The result? Sixteen BLOs have lost their lives in three weeks. Heart attacks, stress, suicide - SIR is not a reform, it is an imposed oppression, he said in a post in Hindi on X. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee shot off a letter to Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar recently urging him to take immediate corrective measures to prevent loss of lives owing to SIR-related stress and work pressure. Now, I am compelled to write to you as the situation surrounding the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) has reached a deeply alarming stage. The manner in which this exercise is being forced upon officials and citizens, it is not only unplanned and chaotic, but also dangerous, the West Bengal CMO told the CEC in the letter. Hasty SIR implementation reminiscent of demonetisation and Covid lockdown, says Congress on BLO deaths

Vizhinjam to play role in Keralas green hydrogen initiative

Plans afoot for regional green hydrogen ecosystem, with Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram as hubs, under the Hydrogen Valley Innovation Cluster (HVIC) initiative

Political fronts keen to boost panchayat tally in Ernakulam to win perception battle

Fronts in Ernakulam are counting on every institution to secure a win and shape a broader political narrative ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections

Local body poll results will serve as a direct assessment ofLDFgovt. performance:KPCCchief

Guruvayur Kesavans renovated statue unveiled

Vilayath Buddha movie review: mass masala aspirations brings down a film with a compelling core

Writer G.R. Indugopan, along with co-screenwriter Rajesh Pinnadan, banks more on the massy side of the things, much of which are familiar recreations from umpteen films of the genre

Man found dead in CPI(M) election office

Ragesh slams UDF

Local body polls 2025: postal ballots to be distributed to election officials

Gulf Air adds new services on Bahrain-Thiruvananthapuram route

Fire destroys kitchen, bedroom of houseboat in Kerala

Seat given to DCC secretary: local Congress leaders resign in protest in Thrissur

Sitting councillor resigns from party

Police introduce safety armband for children arriving at Sabarimala temple

UDF alleges non-disclosure of criminal case details by LDF candidate

Body of missing man recovered from Papanasam beach

SIT inches closer to fixing legal liability for chartering Sabarimala artefacts for private worship

Video footage show main suspect Unnikrishnan Potti offering puja to gold-plated panels covering the doorway of the sanctum sanctorum and the moulds of Dwarapalakas on the premises of wealthy patrons

Teacher convicted in Palathayi POCSO case dismissed from service

Tourists raise safety concerns over rising anti-social activities on Kuttiyadi pass

Kollam district school Kalolsavam from Nov. 25

Auto driver succumbs to injuries following wild boar crash at Kallara

Adah Sharma`s grandmother passes away, family to have memorial in Kerala

Adah, who shared a deep bond with her grandmother and often posted their joyful Party with Paati moments online, is devastated. She and her mother will hold a memorial service in their hometown in Kerala

Bar hotel employee found dead in Kannur

Army JCO who died in Poonch laid to rest with full honours in Kerala

One more death due to amoebic fever in Kozhikode

Gulf Air increases number of flights from Thiruvananthapuram to Bahrain

Exciting news for travelers from Thiruvananthapuram! Gulf Air has ramped up its flight schedule to Bahrain, boosting the number of weekly flights from four to a delightful seven. This expansion is a direct response to the bustling expatriate community in southern Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Anand Mahindra likes Kerala city and its architecture, buildings. 6 things to do see there

Industrialist Anand Mahindra highlighted Kochi's growing appeal, drawing attention to Fort Kochi's rich colonial history and cultural magnetism. The city offers immersive experiences like exploring local markets by tuk-tuk, witnessing iconic Chinese fishing nets, and appreciating Kathakali performances, the Dutch Palace, and the historic Jewish Synagogue.

Adah Sharma's beloved 'Paati' passes away, family to hold memorial service in Kerala

Actress Adah Sharma's grandmother passed away on Sunday. She breathed her last in Mumbai at 5:30 am. Admitted in the hospital for the last few weeks, she succumbed to Ulcerative Colitis and Diverticulitis. It is to be noted that Adah fondly referred to her grandmother as Paati. Adah is known to have shared an extremely close bond with her grandmother, sharing several joyful memories with her on social media - especially the viral Party with Paati videos.

The Kerala Story actress Adah Sharma's grandmother passes away

Actress Adah Sharma is heartbroken over the passing of her beloved grandmother, affectionately called 'Paati'. She succumbed to her long battle with ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis this morning. Living under the same roof, Adah often captured their delightful moments together, celebrating life in their special 'Party with Paati' tradition.

ATM cash van heist: Kerala to Goa how cops chased leads in five states

BENGALURU: Within 54 hours of the brazen cash robbery, three accused were identified and detained, Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh said here on Saturday. While Rs 5.76crore was recovered within 60 hours from the outskirts of the city, a bag containing Rs 53lakh was also seized from Hyderabad, Singh told a press conference. By the end of the first 24 hours, the accused persons and vehicles used in the heist had been identified through specific leads. One vehicle used in the crime was seized. As many as 200 police personnel, including 17 police inspectors, seven from the Central Crime Branch (CCB) and two Assistant Commissioners of Police, were part of the operation. Deputy Commissioners of Police, along with Joint Commissioners, supervised the entire investigation. Technical and field leads were pursued across Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Some teams also extended their search up to Goa, and more than 30 people have been questioned so far. CCTV footage, call detail records, vehicle movement patterns and local intelligence inputs were analysed continuously, the Commissioner added. DCP-South Lokesh B Jagalasar said three other accused in connection with the robbery were detained in Hyderabad. A bag of cash containing Rs 53 lakh was seized from them. Security lapses by CMS The probe into the Rs 7.11crore heist revealed that the Cash Management Services (CMS) firm had failed to follow key safety measures, and violated RBI guidelines. A senior police officer said that as per guidelines, cash-carrying vehicles should not use the same route or time repeatedly. Employees must be trained in cash handling, undergo proper background verification, and police should be informed if any custodial company employee is terminated. The GPS tracking system in the vehicle was also not functioning. There were lapses in staff deployment and security training, the officer added. Commissioner Singh told reporters, We have prepared a report on the violations committed by the company and will submit it to the authorities concerned. Daylight dacoit On November 19, a CMS Cash-In-Transit vehicle carrying Rs 7.11 crore was robbed. The gang, posing as RBI officers, claimed they wanted to inspect the vehicle. All four staffers inside the vehicle, except the driver, were asked to get down. They threatened the driver with a pistol, unloaded the cash boxes and stole the Digital Video Recorder. A case was registered at Siddapura police station.

Raipur Diary: : Chhattisgarh forest department tops All-India Forest Sports Meet for 13th year

State leads in all-India Forest Sports Meet For the 13th consecutive year, the Chhattisgarh forest department maintained its supremacy at the All India Forest Sports Meet held in Dehradun. The forest department won the overall Championship trophy. The states indomitable 253-member team led by APCCF Shalini Raina with the sterling spirit secured exceptional results with 74 gold medals and 578 Championship points to stand at Number-1 position in India. Kerala (31 Gold, 357 points) and Karnataka (25 Gold, 326 points) secured 2nd and 3rd places. Such a victory for the forest department team is far more than a sporting milestone, setting new benchmarks of excellence at the national level. Pandum Cafe: A coffee shop with a difference A unique Pandum Cafe in Bastar is not merely a coffee shop but a significant plan to rehabilitate surrendered Maoist cadres and victims of Naxal violence. Launched at the divisional headquarters in Jagdalpur, it provides to those who once picked up guns and engaged violence with sustainable livelihoods. CM Vishnu Deo Sai interacted with the hired enthusiastic team who began a new chapter of hope and reintegration after returning to the social mainstream. As a part of the state governments rehabilitation initiative, the move signifies an innovative effort reflecting a potent journey from conflict to cooperation. Youths here have had training. Aadhaar-enabled attendance from Dec 1 In an intended push towards ensuring transparency, punctuality and administrative efficiency, the state decided to roll-out mandatory Aadhaar-enabled Biometric Attendance System (AEBAS) across all departments operating from the state secretariat complex. The new practice will start from December 1. All employees can register their IN/OUT attendance on their smartphones using Aadhaar-enabled facial verification. This mobile-based system is designed to offer convenience while maintaining biometric integrity. And the wall-mounted, thumb-based biometric devices have been installed at all major entry points of the Secretariat. Ejaz Kaiser Our correspondent in Chhattisgarh ejaz@newindianexpress.com

Iconic Varkala cliff losing battle as govt-approved violations go on

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: At a time when Varkala is being celebrated globally after finding a place on the Unesco tentative list, the historic cliff is ironically facing one of its worst phases of destruction with even government-approved projects contributing to the violations. Allegedly, the government has granted approval for two major projects that have encouraged large-scale interventions on the fragile and fast-eroding cliff. The government has given approval for a `25-crore project under the Swadeshi Darshan scheme at Varkalas centuries-old Janardhana Swamy Temple. Despite repeated notices from the Varkala municipality, the tourism department continues to go ahead with piling, hill excavation and construction work. According to municipal authorities, they have already issued a stop memo for the project. It is learned that ULCCS (Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society), the executing agency, has demolished significant portions of the cliff to facilitate the work. We have our limitations because its a government project. The tourism department is yet to submit the mandatory application for approval from the local body. The project also lacks CRZ clearance, said a senior official of the Varkala municipality. Recently, the government also approved the construction of a boutique resort on the South Cliff under the single window clearance mechanism, introduced to ease business procedures. In contrast, the Varkala municipality itself has issued around 61 notices to various unauthorised structures and violations along the North Cliff. The repeated green lighting of such projects by higher authorities has put the municipality in an awkward position. The double standards have not gone down well with stakeholders who have been served notices. The law should be the same for everyone. If they want to clear all structures, then both the municipality and the government should knock down everything on the cliff. What is happening now is selective enforcement targeting small businesses operating on one or two cents of their own land, said E M Rasheed, owner of Hill Top Ayurvedic Beach Resort, one of the oldest tourism establishments on the cliff. He alleged that corruption among municipal officials is responsible for the mushrooming of unauthorised structures. Environmental activists have filed several complaints against the government-approved violations. Sanjeev S J of the Environmental Protection and Research Council (EPRC), who has submitted multiple complaints, said the Single Window Clearance system is being misused to push through violations on the South Cliff. Massive destruction is happening along the cliff with explicit government approval. The boutique resort with an infinity pool is coming up on the South Cliff without the landslide susceptibility analysis mandated by the disaster management authority, he alleged. He added that piling and demolition work is taking place dangerously close to the 2,000-year-old Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple. It is disheartening that the government itself is setting a precedent for violations instead of conserving and protecting the cliff, he said.

Lack of furniture: 700 books stacked on chairs at State Central Library in Thiruvananthapuram

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Giving a bitter sight to book lovers in the capital city, over 700 books have been placed on low-lying chairs and platforms in the Malayalam section of the State Central Library here. When asked about the situation, the authorities stated that the books mostly new had been kept there for nearly a month. However, officials attributed this to the lack of furniture in the library. Even though we have been receiving many books, we do not have enough furniture or racks to keep them, an official said. We even tried to stack them in two rows, but that does not serve the purpose of a library. Moreover, the piles even began falling over the readers. Despite several requests, no new furniture had been provided. As a result, the staff had to shift racks from other parts of the library to accommodate the books, a delay the official attributed to possible bureaucratic issues. The state librarian declined to comment on the matter. While authorities attempted to play down the issue, book lovers argue that this is not just an insult to books but also a sign of disrespect to the readers. Especially during this rainy season, books are very likely to get damp. The library is a place that many underprivileged students rely on, said Aparna S, a post-graduate student and a regular visitor. Aardra A S, a literature student from University College, said that it was very sad to see a space she is emotionally attached to treat books this way. The main purpose of a library is to keep the books sacred. But if they are being kept this way, then there is no point in discussing it further, she said.

Rain likely across Kerala; yellow alerts in 7 districts on November 23

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued yellow alerts for seven districts Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Idukki for Sunday. The IMD has forecast rain or thundershowers across many parts of Kerala over the next six days. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea till Monday. Alert issued Sunday: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Idukki Monday: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Palakkad and Malappuram Tuesday: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Idukki Wednesday: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Idukki

Kerala SIR: List of over 1 lakh untraceable voters to be out

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With the enumeration forms for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls being distributed to 99.5% of the 2.78 crore voters in the state, the office of the Chief Electoral Officer-Kerala has decided to publish the list of 1.29 lakh voters who remained untraceable owing to various reasons. This constituted 0.47% of the total electorate. Addressing a news conference here on the sidelines of a meeting with representatives of various political parties, CEO-Kerala Rathan U Kelkar said the 1.29 lakh untraceable voters included those who were found to be dead, had permanently shifted their residence, remained absent for a long period or also those who had already enrolled their names in other places. We will publish the names of voters whose enumeration forms have not been returned due to various reasons. This will enable eligible voters as well as the Booth Level Agents (BLAs) of political parties to rectify the issues before the enumeration process ends on December 4, Kelkar said. The official added that collection hubs have been organised at the booth level for voters to return the filled forms to the BLOs. According to Kelkar, around 70% of the enumeration forms have been returned to BLOs. Of these, digitisation has been completed in 31.42 lakh forms (11.28% of the total forms) and the entire process is expected to be completed soon. The official said that voters who have not yet received the enumeration forms should contact the toll-free voter helpline number 1950 or contact their respective BLOs whose contact numbers have been provided booth-wise in CEO-Keralas website. Political parties flay process Meanwhile, political parties in the state, except the BJP, raised concerns over the haste in which the SIR was being conducted in the state. Alleging that SIR was being carried out without addressing peoples concerns, M Vijayakumar of the CPM said no relaxation of the SIR schedule has been provided even though the Supreme Court is considering the legality of conducting the exercise. The Congress and the IUML also raised objections to the pace at which the revision is being carried out. Muhammed Shah of the IUML said BLOs were being asked to hurriedly complete the exercise by November 25 even though the EC-stipulated deadline is December 4. He alleged that it was being done to present before the Supreme Court that 80% of the enumeration forms have been collected back from the voters by November 25.

Two transgender nominees can contest from womens seats: Election Commission

ALAPPUZHA/THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a significant acknowledgement of gender self-identification in the local body polls, two trans women Arunima M Kurup in Alappuzha and Ameya Prasad in Thiruvananthapuram have been cleared to contest from women-reserved seats after days of uncertainty and scrutiny over their eligibility. The State Election Commission on Saturday granted permission to Arunima, 26, to contest from the women-reserved Vayalar division of Alappuzha district panchayat, ending prolonged speculation. Confusion had risen soon after the Congress announced her candidature, with opponents alleging she was ineligible as a trans woman. However, Arunima furnished an affidavit declaring she is a woman, supported by her voter ID, Aadhaar card and other records that list her gender as female. She also clarified that she had undergone gender-affirming surgery years ago and is legally recognised as a woman. Citing Supreme Court rulings and Union government provisions on the right to gender self-identification, the presiding officer approved her nomination. A native of Kanjikuzhi, Arunima is the state general secretary of KSU and the first president of the Kerala Pradesh Transgender Congress. In Thiruvananthapuram, UDF candidate Ameya Prasad has similarly been confirmed eligible to contest from the women-reserved Pothencode division of the district panchayat. Her nomination, too, had come under scrutiny after officials noted that transgender candidates can contest only in general seats. With her voter ID listing her gender as transgender, Ameya approached the High Court, which clarified that the returning officer could decide on her eligibility. After verification, the officer accepted her documents identifying her as a woman and approved her candidature. Ameya has already begun campaigning in Pothencode as scrutiny of nominations concluded on Saturday.

Art which is not in conversation with time and place is useless: T M Krishna

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Mentioning that the essence of being an artist is to be honest to oneself and his surroundings, veteran Carnatic vocalist T M Krishna said that art which does not engage with time is useless. If an artists art is not in conversation with the time, place and environment they live in, it is not art, he said after receiving the fifth P Govinda Pillai Memorial National Award at the Senate Hall here on Saturday. Talking about traditional musicians like Thyagaraja Swamikal and Muthuswami Dikshitar, Krishna said that they too engaged with their times, though he may not agree with them. Presenting the award to the acclaimed singer, CPM national general secretary M A Baby said that Krishna widened the creative boundaries of Carnatic music, without leaving behind its scientific aspects. T M Krishna is a person who liberated the stringent procedures and rigid customs of Carnatic music, he said. Calling him a musical magician, Baby also added that Krishna was effectively able to cater the art to todays evolving audience. Bestowed in the name of veteran CPM leader P Govinda Pillai, the award was previously won by Adv Prasanth Bhushan, journalist N Ram, writer Arundhati Roy and historian Romila Thapar. The programme, which began with a musical performance by Krishna, was presided over by former speaker M Vijayakumar. The award presentation ceremony was also attended by General Education Minister V Sivankutty, CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam, TRIDA chairman K C Vikraman, P Govinda Pillais children R Parvathidevi and M G Radhakrishnan, among others.

Pilgrims rush contained in Sabarimala, govt to raise darshan slots

KOTTAYAM: Having brought the rush of pilgrims under control, the government on Saturday decided to adjust spot booking at the Sabarimala hill shrine according to daily crowd flow. A high-level meeting convened by Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan in Pampa also decided to increase the number of devotees ascending the holy steps to 85 per minute from the current 75 to let more pilgrims have darshan. The meeting, attended by Devaswom secretary M G Rajamanickam and Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president K Jayakumar, also addressed the need to improve existing crowd-management strategies. To expedite pilgrim movement, it was decided to deploy more experienced police personnel. Spot booking slots were capped at 5,000 until Monday after heavy influx of pilgrims threw crowd control measures haywire on November 18, the second day of the Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season. As many as 53.6 lakh pilgrims visited Sabarimala during the pilgrimage season last year, and the turnout is expected to be higher this time. As per estimates, nearly five lakh pilgrims have visited Sabarimala since the start of the pilgrimage season on November 16. On November 21 alone, 72,037 devotees had darshan by 7pm. KSRTCs daily income from the Nilakkal-Pampa chain services rose to Rs 60 lakh. TDB asked to give Rs 20 lakh to police department Saturdays meeting mandated a joint daily review session at Sannidhanam led by the Sabarimala ADM and attended by representatives from the TDB, departments of police, health, fire and rescue services, forest and public works besides Kerala Water Authority. Issues identified at the sessions must be resolved promptly. Similar review meetings will be regularly conducted at Pampa and Nilakkal. The TDB will take a final decision on darshan timings at Sannidhanam following thorough consultations. The meeting asked the health department to establish an echocardiogram facility at Sannidhanam health centre, and also emphasised the need for enhanced coordination among police teams operating at Sannidhanam, Pampa and Nilakkal. Efforts will be made to improve the efficiency of the integrated control room at Pampa. Immediate measures will be taken to ensure the full utilisation of parking facilities at Nilakkal. Large LED display walls will be installed at Pampa and Nilakkal to provide real-time information to pilgrims. More personnel will be deployed urgently to ensure round-the-clock cleaning of toilets; supervisors will be appointed to monitor this. More bio-toilets will be set up and drinking water supply will be enhanced with deployment of additional staff. Issues related to dolly service operations will be addressed. Adequate lighting and drinking water will be ensured along the forest route. Necessary arrangements will be made at Erumely, with a special review meeting scheduled on November 27. Quality of food provided to officials on duty will be improved. The TDB has been directed to provide Rs 20 lakh in advance to police dept as is usual practice. Health check-ups will be made mandatory for hotel staff at Sannidhanam, and health cards issued. Fire force has been instructed to conduct preventive inspections in all hotels. The meeting also stressed the need for better coordination between KSRTC and police. Meanwhile, a 140-member Rapid Action Force (RAF) unit led by a deputy commander was stationed at Sannidhanam and Marakkoottam. They would operate in three shifts with 32 personnel each, supported by a 10-member Quick Response Team on 24-hour standby for emergencies.

Green campaign flash mob sparks communal standoff in Kasaragod

KASARGOD: The flash mob organised by District Suchitwa Mission and Kumbashree Mission for green election campaign ended up triggering a communal clash, albeit unintentionally at Ulliyathadka near Kasaragod town on Friday. Kasaragod police booked 50 people for unlawful assembly and rioting. Three have been taken into custody so far. District Collector K Inbasekar flagged off Haritha Sandesh Yatra, a green campaign to ensure eco-friendly norms in 2025 local body elections, at the collectors office on Friday. Followed by the inauguration, the flash mob team headed to selected places to perform and sensitise people to follow green norms during the elections. Around noon, the flash mob team arrived at Madhur grama panchayat office. Meanwhile, there was a prayer meet (Jummah) under way at a mosque nearby since it was Friday. At the same time, there were BJP workers gathered at Madhur grama panchayat since it was the last day to file nomination for local body elections. When the flash mob happened, a section of people from the mosque opposed it, assuming that it was a BJP programme. Kudumbashree Mission coordinator Ratheesh Kumar said that somebody switched off the audio system citing prayers and the flash mob crew dispersed, heading to the next destination. We were unaware of such a situation brewing over the flash mob we conducted because our crew left from the spot immediately after that, he said. Though the flash mob crew left, tension continued to simmer since there were BJP workers present on the spot. According to the FIR filed by police, the police team received information about the tension around 1.30pm, there were two sections of people one wearing ordinary shirts standing on the north side and the other group wearing saffron bracelets standing on the south side. The group clad in ordinary shirts shouted at the saffron bracelet wearing group, Why are you Hindus conducting a programme when our Jummah prayers are happening, but the other group responded that it was not Hindu or BJP but some government programme. But the Muslim group continued shouting with communal slurs and started advancing towards Hindu group and assaulting them. Upon seeing the police, the people gathered in the spot were scattered and the police team, not sufficient in number, did not engage further since apprehending anyone would escalate the situation further, according to the police official heading the team. Kasaragod SHO Nalinakshan said that there were anti-social elements in the Muslim group which found an opportunity for a clash. The ones who came for prayers continued with it, but the anti-social elements in the group started creating the riot, said the official. They have arrested three persons so far and all of them have pending cases against them. We are looking for others, he added. The Kasaragod police booked 50 people under BNS sections 189(2),191(2),191(3),196,190 for unlawful assembly, rioting and promoting enmity between different groups.

Malayali soldier falls into gorge in Poonch, dies

MALAPPURAM: Junior Commissioned Officer Sajeesh K, 48, a Malayali soldier from Cherukunnu, Malappuram, died after falling into a gorge while on patrol at Behramgalla in Jammus Poonch district around 4 pm on Friday. Army personnel launched a rescue operation soon after the incident, but Sajeesh had died by then. His body was brought to Cherukunnu by 10 pm on Saturday. The body was kept at his residence, where the public can pay homage from 7.30 am to 9.30 am on Sunday. After an official guard of honour, the cremation will be held on the house premises. Sajeesh had served in the Army for 27 years. He had rejoined duty just two months ago after a vacation. He is survived by wife Roshini, and two children. The Armys White Knight Corps paid tributes to the fallen soldier. General Officer Commanding White Knight Corps and all ranks pay solemn tribute to Subedar (operator) Sajeesh K, who made the supreme sacrifice, while on an area domination patrol on November 21. We stand with the bereaved family in this hour of grief, the Army said.

Judicial officer moves SC against High Courts disciplinary action

KOCHI: A judicial officer in Kerala has approached the Supreme Court challenging the disciplinary action initiated against her by the Kerala High Court for stopping the proceedings in 1,910 cases. The petitioner, Sony A S, who served as the Judicial First Class Magistrate III in Kollam from August 1, 2016 to December 31, 2016 had allegedly disposed of 1,910 cases indiscriminately, without recording any reason. A Division Bench of the Supreme Court consisting Justice Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta has sought a response from the state government on her plea challenging the two orders issued by Kerala High Court upholding the disciplinary penalty and rejecting her request to restore her seniority. Sony A S, while serving as the JFCM in Kollam had invoked her powers under Section 258 of the Code of Criminal Procedure to stop the proceedings in the cases involving minor offences like rash driving. The petitioner argued that the orders were passed in good faith to reduce the backlog in accordance with administrative directions encouraging magistrates to prioritise contested trials. She said the Registrar of Kerala High Court had issued appreciation letters for reducing backlog. However, in September 2018, she was served a charge memo alleging deliberate disobedience of an office memorandum. The disciplinary proceedings culminated in withholding two increments with cumulative effect in April 2022. Sony said her probation was already delayed by several years and the penalty further affected her seniority and promotion prospects. She argued that the action was contrary to the Judges (Protection) Act, 1985 and the Kerala Judicial Officers Protection Act 1963, which safeguard the judges from disciplinary or civil action for acts done in good faith while discharging judicial functions.

Grazing buffaloes stray on to NH, firefighters herd them to safety

KASARGOD: The Fire and Rescue Services in Kasaragod carried out a safety operation on Saturday after a herd of buffaloes strayed onto the national highway. A six-member team, along with patrolling staff of the contracting company of the highway construction, walked with the animals for over four kilometres, herding them to safety. The buffaloes, owned by five residents of Eriyal near Mogral Puthur, had been released for grazing as usual. However, 12 buffaloes broke away, entered the highway through an opening in the parapet wall near Adkathbail, and began running amid speeding traffic. A two-wheeler rider who encountered the animals alerted the Fire and Rescue Services office around 2.45pm. A team led by senior fire officer V N Venugopal was dispatched. We found them on the flyover and had to guide them nearly 4km to an opening at Anangoor, said Venugopal. The team then moved the animals to an open field and secured them with ropes. The Kasaragod Town police said the buffalo owners were taken into custody for endangering public safety.

Rebels, turncoats pose headache for fronts in Kerala local body elections

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Local body polls often act as a launch pad for new political faces, making them a keenly watched affair. These elections spawn leaders, disruptors, and at times kingmakers. Unlike general elections, voters are often kinder to those hopping from one party to another, finding fault with the policies they had espoused earlier, and contesting on a new label. The cabin of democracy during local body polls is so accommodating that there is room for turncoats and rebels. It is no different this time either. The three major political fronts LDF, UDF and NDA are having to deal with aspirants who can upset their apple cart. In Thiruvananthapuram corporation, where the LDF is locked in a seesaw fight with the NDA to retain power, intra-party feud in at least two divisions are giving the left coalition a headache. Former Desabhimani Thiruvananthapuram bureau chief K Sreekandan, a party member for the past four decades, is contesting from Ulloor ward, an LDF bastion, as an independent. He decided to throw down the gauntlet after the CPM agreed on another candidate. The bitterness prompted Sreekandan to come out against former minister and party strongman Kadakampally Surendran, accusing him of a deal with the BJP. In Chempazhanthy, former CPM local committee member Annie Asokan is contesting as a rebel candidate. The Kazhakoottam block panchayat president from 2004 to 2010, she chose to be a rebel after the party opted for Sheela Mohanan. Annies ire was also directed against Kadakampally. In CPMs sitting ward of Vazhottukonam, former CPM branch secretary K V Mohanan is contesting as a rebel candidate. His justification of going against the party is that a person having real estate interests has been picked as the candidate. For the UDF, too, which is trying to offset the previous electoral losses, is also bogged down by defections. K Maheswaran Nair, a former Leader of Opposition in the corporation and a four-time councillor from the Poojappura ward, has joined the BJP and is contesting from Punnakkamugal. Former Congress leader Padmini Thomas, who had joined the saffron party, is the NDA candidate in the Palayam ward. Another former Congress leader, Thampanoor Satheesh, is in the fray in Thampanoor for the NDA. In Kochi corporation, defection has been the order of the day. In the previous elections, the LDF won 33 seats and managed to garner the support of two independent candidates to grab power in the 74-member council. The UDF won 31 seats, while the NDA and independent candidates won five each. Muslim League rebel T K Ashraf, who had supported the LDF last time and was given the health standing committee chairperson post in return, has made a homecoming and has been fielded as the UDF candidate from North Kaloor. P M Harris, a League councillor and a former public workbns standing committee chairperson, is the LDF candidate against Ashraf. On its part, the LDF has fielded six former UDF councillors to retain power. In Vyttila division, CPM former area committee member V P Chandran has been fielded as an independent candidate by the UDF. In a tit-for-tat response, former KPCC member A B Sabu was fielded by the CPM as their candidate. Thoppumpady councillor Sheeba Durom, who was suspended from the Congress party in 2023, will now contest the election on behalf of the LDF from the same ward. Gracy Joseph, the LDF candidate in Kathrikadavu division, was a UDF councillor and was suspended by the Ernakulam District Congress Committee (DCC) in 2020. Another candidate, M B Muraleedharan, contesting from Vennala, was a three-term Congress councillor and was also the UDF parliamentary party secretary. Former Congress councillor Mary Calista Prakashan, who represented the Mundamveli division, is contesting from the same ward on a CPM ticket this time. Malini Kurup, a three-term councillor, has already left the Congress after being denied the Girinagar seat. This came as a shocker for the Congress which had witnessed its Vyttila councillor Sunitha Dixon joining the BJP and declared as its candidate in Ponnurunni East. Devankulangara councillor Santha Vijayan too defected. In Thrissur corporation, which has a rich history of turncoats becoming kingmakers, there is no dearth of rebels and turncoats this time too. Mayor M K Varghese himself was a Congress rebel candidate after the party denied him a seat in 2020. Varghese won the election and pledged support to the LDF, which cobbled up votes barely enough to catapult it to power. Varghese entered into a pact with the LDF and became the mayor. Former deputy mayor and LDF councillor for 15 years, Beena Murali has announced that she will contest from Krishnapuram as an independent. She had resigned from the CPI after being refused a seat. Janata Dal (S) councillor Sheeba Babu has now joined the BJP and will contest as the party candidate from Kalathode. The BJP too has to endure rebel woes as I Lalithambika, the partys councillor from Kuttankulangara, has deserted the ship. She is contesting as a CPI-backed independent from the same division. UDFs Kuriachira councillor Nimmy Rappai has left the Congress and is now contesting as an LDF-backed candidate. In Kannur corporation, the spotlight for the past 10 years was on P K Ragesh, a rebel Congress leader. He helped shape the corporations political landscape by helping to elect its first mayor, E. P. Latha of the LDF, in 2015. At the time, the UDF and the LDF had won 27 seats each in the 55-member council, while Ragesh secured a seat as an independent after breaking away from the Congress. By extending his support to the LDF, he was made the deputy mayor. However, in 2019, he shifted his stance by successfully backing a UDF-led no-confidence motion against Latha. Later that year, following compromise talks initiated by K Sudhakaran, he rejoined the Congress, paving the way for Congress leader Suma Balakrishnan to become the mayor while he retained the post of deputy mayor. He was expelled in 2023 from the party due to an internal feud. Now, he is working through the Rajivji Cultural Forum, which plans to field candidates in several wards of the corporation under the banner of Aikya Janadhipathya Samrakshana Samithi. Senior leaders who switched sides Former Congress leader K. Maheswaran Nair, ex-Leader of the Opposition in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation. Now contesting as NDA candidate Thampanoor Satheesh, once a close aide of K Karunakaran, is now contesting for the NDA from Thampanoor Former rebel Congress leader P K Ragesh became deputy mayor under the LDF regime. Now, he leads Aikya Janadhipathya Samrakshana Samithi LDF candidate in Kathrikadavu, Gracy Joseph, was earlier a UDF councillor. She was suspended from Congress in 2020 Muslim League rebel T K Ashraf had supported LDF last time. He has made a homecoming and is now the UDF candidate from North Kaloor in Kochi Thrissurs ex-deputy mayor, CPIs Beena Murali, is contesting from Krishnapuram as an independent CPM former area committee member V P Chandran has been fielded as an independent candidate by the UDF in the Vyttila division of the Kochi corporation Forgiving voters Unlike general elections, voters are often kinder to those hopping from one party to another, finding fault with the policies they had espoused earlier, and contesting on a new label during local body polls

Cyclone likely to form over Bay of Bengal, IMD warns of heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. Check latest update

Cyclone in Bay of Bengal: A low-pressure area has formed over the Bay of Bengal and is expected to intensify into a depression by November 24. The system may further strengthen over the southwest Bay of Bengal in the subsequent 48 hours. Heavy rainfall is forecast for Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, coastal Karnataka and Lakshadweep.

Onchiyam where CPM, RMP are locked in a bitter turf war

KOZHIKODE: As Kerala inches closer to the local body elections, all eyes are once again on Onchiyam, the politically charged panchayat that has long been synonymous with red flags, ideological clashes, and the lingering shadow of a political murder that reshaped the Left in Kerala. For decades, Onchiyam was considered an unshakable fortress of CPM. But that changed in 2010 when the Revolutionary Marxist Party (RMP), born out of rebellion and blood, captured power following the brutal killing of its founder, T P Chandrasekharan, a former CPM leader who was expelled from the party. Since then, the RMP and the CPM have been locked in a bitter turf war for control over this small but politically symbolic panchayat. Once a CPM bastion, Onchiyam transformed into the RMPs ideological capital after Chandrasekharans murder in 2012. His widow, K K Rema, rose from tragedy to political prominence, representing the RMP in the state assembly. RMP has strengthened its roots in Onchiyam. Development has been visible, especially since K K Rema became an MLA. The CPM no longer has the same influence here, according to the local residents. But for some others, There hasnt been any real development in 15 years. Whatever work happened benefited their own people. The CPM will bring discipline and structure back if they return. RMP MLA K K Rema, who has become the face of anti-CPM Left politics, exudes confidence as she campaigns through Onchiyam. The development visible in Onchiyam is both from the panchayats work and my initiatives as an MLA. In this digital age, no one can mislead voters. CPM can show gimmicks at the end of their tenure, but the truth is visible, even in their own panchayats. RMP has set an example of transparent governance. I am confident we will win more seats than before, said Rema. The Left ideology no longer exists within the CPM. They have aligned with capitalist and communal forces. What ideals do they have left to tell voters? Their campaign is filled with fake propaganda on social media. But people are not fools. They can see whats been done, and they will deliver a verdict based on facts. The Left will face a historic defeat in Onchiyam and across Kerala. Responding sharply to Remas remarks, T P Bineesh, CPM Onchiyam area secretary, asserted that the LDF is poised for a comeback. There is no doubt, the LDF will recapture the Onchiyam panchayat. The party has grown politically in this region. In the last election, CPM lost by a narrow margin, but the people have seen our continuous grassroots work. We are confident of a massive return, he said. Bineesh emphasised that the CPM campaign focuses on peoples welfare, not personalities. We are not concerned about what the MLA or opponents say. Our politics connects with ordinary people, not through social media but through direct engagement. The people of Onchiyam know who truly represents their interests, and that clarity will be reflected in the ballot box, he added.

INTERVIEW| People will see stagnation in development under Pinarayi govt

MALAPPURAM: In the thick of an intense local body election season, IUML State President Sayyid Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal speaks to TNIE about UDFs preparedness, seat-sharing debates, P V Anvars likely entry to the UDF, and why these elections could become a referendum on the Pinarayi Vijayan government. Excerpts The nomination process is over and the stage is set for the local body elections. How prepared are the Muslim League and the UDF? The UDF and the Muslim League are fully prepared. Our candidates have already completed the first phase of campaigning. With nomination and scrutiny processes completed, the election picture is now clear. Candidates are in the field fully energised. There were some issues regarding seat allocation within the UDF in both north and south Kerala... Naturally, there will be discussions and disagreements while finalising seat sharing. However, all issues were resolved before the nomination day itself. Now, the UDF is moving forward with complete unity. What about P V Anvar? Will there be a decision soon on his entry into the UDF? The IUML has always maintained that he should be included in the UDF. After the Nilambur bypoll, the political scenario changed significantly and he took a firm stand in favour of joining the UDF. We expect a positive decision from the Congress and the UDF as a whole by November 24. The LDF is using the UDF-WPI ties in certain local bodies as a campaign weapon.. . There is no official tie-up at the state level. What exists are local, issue-based arrangements that are necessary in certain panchayats and municipalities. In fact, the CPM also maintains similar ties with the Welfare Party in several local bodies. The only difference is that they keep it under wraps. So, will these elections turn into a referendum on the performance of the Pinarayi Vijayan government? Certainly. There is no doubt about that. The public will express their resentment towards the government through these elections. Unlike assembly elections, local body polls are closely linked to development activities in each panchayat and ward. People will clearly see the stagnation in development under the Pinarayi government.

NIA to probe wider conspiracy in 2010 Kerala professor hand-chopping case

KOCHI: Nearly 15 years after the brutal hand-chopping attack on college professor T J Joseph, and the arrest of first accused Savad last year, the National Investigation Agency is set to carry out further investigation to determine whether more members of the banned Popular Front of India (PFI) were involved in the heinous assault. According to NIA, the custodial interrogation of Savad, who allegedly severed the professors right palm, had exposed a network of alleged PFI operatives who sheltered and arranged employment to him in Tamil Nadu and Kerala while he was on the run. Further investigation is necessary to secure additional scientific evidence and ascertain the role of other individuals in the wider conspiracy that may have fuelled the attack, the agency told the NIA Special Court in Ernakulam on Thursday. The court accepted the agencys Kochi units request. As per the NIA chargesheet, the accused attacked Joseph, former Malayalam professor at Newman College, Thodupuzha, on July 4, 2010. It said Savad chopped off the victims right palm and threw it away in the nearby compound as part of executing their radical belief. While chopping off the hand, Savad uttered that This hand that insults Islam will not be used in future, the NIA chargesheet said. After nearly 14 years on the run, Savad was arrested by the NIA on January 10, 2024 from Kannur, where he was living under the pseudonym Shajahan. The NIA had filed a chargesheet against 27 accused persons under various sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, Explosive Substances Act and Indian Penal Code. After the trial, the NIA Special Court in Ernakulam convicted 19 accused in 2023. Since Savad was absconding, the case against him was split up and refiled. Trial of Savad and Shaffer pending In its latest submission, the NIA said after the crucial arrest, the investigation found that Shaffer C, a PFI cadre, willfully arranged shelter and provided other logistics support to Savad at Chakkad and Mattannur in Kannur from 2020 till his arrest. He was arraigned as the 55th accused and remanded in judicial custody. Savads custodial interrogation revealed that PFI cadre/leaders arranged shelter and secured employment for him at Pandrimalai in Dindigul, Tamil Nadu, and in Kannur. Savads lawyer termed the NIAs move a tactics to delay his pending trial. The trial of Shaffer is also pending. Recap July 4, 2010: Seven PFI members attack Malayalam prof T J Joseph, chop off his right wrist for allegedly hurting religious sentiments 2015 & 2023: A Total 19 accused were convicted by NIA court; trial was held in two phases January 10, 2024: First accused Savad arrested from Kannur after nearly 14 years; trial pending

Over 5.75 lakh devotees visit Sabarimala temple in first week of pilgrimage season

KOCHI (Kerala), Nov 22: Over 5.75 lakh devotees have visited the Sabarimala temple since it opened for the mandala-makaravilakku season on November 16, authorities said on Saturday. A press release from the Information and Public Relations Department said that as of 7 pm on Saturday, more than 5.75 lakh pilgrims had visited the hill shrine. On Saturday alone, 72,845 devotees reached the sannidhanam till 7 pm. While the flow of devotees continues without interruption, all arrangements for smooth darshan have [] The post Over 5.75 lakh devotees visit Sabarimala temple in first week of pilgrimage season appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Experts call for strengthening wetland monitoring

SI, two others booked for alleged blackmailing, extortion of money in Kochi

District Police Chief (Kochi City) Putta Vimaladitya has sought an internal report on the incident

Ernakulam Revenue District School Kalolsavam to start on Nov. 25

The festival will see the participation of over 8,000 students

Battle for the ballot a burden on the pocket

Though the State Election Commission has set a ceiling of 1.5 lakh as election expenses for candidates in district panchayats and Corporations, the real cost overshoots the limit by a huge margin. Parties bear a portion of the expenses, but the candidate has to shoulder the actual burden

Munnar hopes for stability after a term of defections, power struggle

Grama panchayat sees five different presidents in the past five years. Though UDF won the poll in 2020 with 11 seats and LDF 10 seats, two of its members defected to the in 2022 bringing the panchayat under LDF control. The was followed by a series of defections and power struggle

Stamp of election on T-shirts, caps