Jayanti Rajan, LDF candidate, lost the Panoor Assembly by-election in Kerala to UDF’s N.K. Sunil Kumar by a narrow margin of 3,869 votes. This defeat sparked protests by LDF workers in Panoor and surrounding areas.
Protests included road blockades, demonstrations, and alleged attacks on UDF workers and property. Reports indicate damage to vehicles and instances of stone-throwing. Police intervened to control the situation, using tear gas and force to disperse protestors. Several LDF workers were taken into custody.
The LDF alleges widespread electoral irregularities and demands a re-election. They cite issues with voter lists and suspect foul play. CPI(M) district secretary P. Mohanan accused the UDF of engaging in unfair practices.
The UDF attributes the win to the public’s dissatisfaction with the LDF government’s policies and the strong campaign led by Sunil Kumar. They dismiss the LDF’s allegations as attempts to discredit the democratic process.
The election was held due to the death of sitting MLA P.K. Abdu Rabb. Voter turnout was relatively low at 76.47%. The result is seen as a setback for the LDF, particularly given their recent successes in the local body and Lok Sabha elections.
The incident has heightened political tensions in the region. The police have registered cases against protestors and are investigating the alleged attacks. The UDF has called for a hartal (shutdown) in Panoor to protest the violence. The LDF continues to maintain that the election was not free and fair, and are considering further action. The narrow margin of defeat has intensified scrutiny of the election process and fueled accusations from both sides.
