## Kerala Assembly Poll 2026 – Dharmadam By-Election Results Summary
**Overall Trend:** The United Democratic Front (UDF) achieved a significant surge in Dharmadam, substantially reducing Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s previous majority. This by-election is viewed as a barometer for the 2026 Assembly elections.
**Dharmadam Constituency Result:**
* **UDF Candidate:** Shafi Parambil secured a victory with 69,844 votes.
* **LDF Candidate:** Dr. Mani C. Kappen received 52,283 votes.
* **BJP Candidate:** C. Nanu polled 14,482 votes.
* **UDF Winning Margin:** 17,561 votes.
**Comparison to 2021 Assembly Election:**
* **Pinarayi Vijayan’s 2021 Majority:** 37,324 votes.
* **Reduction in LDF Majority:** The LDF’s majority has decreased by 20,000+ votes.
* **UDF Vote Share Increase:** The UDF increased its vote share significantly, gaining over 13,000 votes compared to the 2021 election.
* **LDF Vote Share Decrease:** The LDF experienced a decrease in its vote share, losing over 6,000 votes.
* **BJP Vote Share Increase:** The BJP also saw an increase in its vote share, adding approximately 4,000 votes.
**Key Observations:**
* The UDF’s performance is considered unprecedented in Dharmadam, traditionally a stronghold for the LDF.
* Shafi Parambil’s victory is attributed to a strong campaign and consolidation of anti-government sentiment.
* The increased BJP vote share indicates a growing presence of the party in the constituency.
* The by-election result is interpreted as a warning sign for the LDF ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, suggesting a potential shift in voter preferences.
* The outcome highlights the UDF’s ability to effectively challenge the LDF in its traditional strongholds.
