In a state known for high political literacy and ideological mobilisation, the Congress' inability to quickly settle on a leader after securing a massive mandate has fed a narrative that the party remains excessively dependent on Delhi, deeply faction-ridden and vulnerable to internal sabotage
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted an early onset of the southwest monsoon over Kerala, expected around May 26. This marks the beginning of the crucial rainy season for India.
The Congress party's delay in naming the next Chief Minister of Kerala has drawn criticism, particularly from key ally IUML, which warns of potential political fallout from the prolonged uncertainty.
'What we are witnessing is a massive anti-incumbency wave that has cut across all social and political divides.'
V D Satheesan, a 61-year-old lawyer-turned-politician, has emerged as a prominent figure in Kerala politics, known for his aggressive opposition to the Left government and his role in revitalising the Congress party. His journey from student politics to a key leadership position highlights his strategic acumen and dedication to addressing local issues.
The BJP has made significant gains in the Kerala Assembly elections, securing three seats and marking a potential breakthrough in a state where it has traditionally struggled.
'He worked over time to become the natural claimant,' a senior UDF leader observed. 'Others had organisational stature, but Satheesan had momentum.' For the Congress, it may signal the beginning of a new leadership template -- one where performance, communication and grassroots credibility increasingly outweigh inherited power structures in deciding who leads the party into its next phase.
The Left Democratic Front's defeat in Kerala marks a historic moment as Left parties are without power in any state for the first time in decades, highlighting their diminishing political influence across India.
Kerala's voters are sophisticated, educated, and unforgiving. They have once again made it clear that no government is entitled to remain in power. The Congress would do well to remember this, points out Ramesh Menon.
Senior Congress leader Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan expressed confidence in V D Satheesan's ability to lead Kerala as Chief Minister, emphasising the need for a strong team to meet public expectations. He highlighted the importance of unity within the party and the focus on public welfare.
If current trends persist, the Congress risks becoming increasingly regionally concentrated, dependent on a handful of states rather than functioning as a truly pan-India political force.
Senior Congress leader Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan expressed confidence in V D Satheesan's ability to lead Kerala as Chief Minister, citing his vision, competence, and strength. Other Congress leaders have also expressed their views on the new CM.
Political parties in Kerala are making preparations for celebrations as the Assembly election results are set to be announced. Congress and UDF workers are preparing food and cultural programmes, while the BJP is also planning celebrations with laddoos and placards.
The Congress-led UDF has swept back to power in Kerala, sparking celebrations and discussions about forming the new government. Senior leaders are vying for the Chief Minister's post, while the defeated CPI(M)-led LDF grapples with the reasons for their loss after 10 years in power.
The world watches the Met Gala for the celebrities and the couture. But, for the last few years, one Indian brand from Kerala has quietly been creating the carpet that fashion's biggest stars pose on.
Two Bangladeshi women staying illegally in India have been arrested in Karyavattom, Kerala, suspected of involvement in a prostitution racket. The arrests followed a raid by Kazhakoottam police, acting on a tip-off from the Kerala Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS).
Two Bangladeshi women staying illegally in India have been arrested in Karyavattom, Kerala, suspected of involvement in a prostitution racket. The arrests followed a raid by Kazhakoottam police, acting on a tip-off from the Kerala Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS).
'They will have to adjust themselves to the new reality. Because if they don't understand this changed political perception, their future will be difficult.'
Kerala Blasters FC defeated Odisha FC 2-1 in a thrilling Indian Super League match, with Matias Hernandez scoring the decisive goal in stoppage time.
Student organisations in Malappuram, Kerala, staged protest marches to a school in Perinthalmanna following the alleged suicide of a 14-year-old boy. The boy's father alleges that teachers at the school mentally harassed him over his academic performance, leading to the tragic incident. School authorities deny the allegations.
Initial vote counting in the Kerala Assembly elections indicates a significant lead for the Congress-led UDF, suggesting a potential shift in power.
'Among the leaders whose names are going around, V D Satheesan is the leader who will fit this kind of situation.'
Diamond Harbour FC defeated Gokulam Kerala FC 5-2 in the Indian Football League, solidifying their position at the top of the table and pushing Gokulam Kerala closer to relegation.
The IMD has issued an orange alert for heatwave conditions in parts of Kerala, prompting authorities to urge caution. Maximum temperatures are expected to reach up to 41 degrees Celsius in some districts. Strict guidelines have been issued, including the suspension of vacation classes and rescheduling of working hours.
High levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation have been recorded across Kerala, prompting warnings from the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA). Residents are advised to take precautions to avoid prolonged exposure, especially during peak hours.
'We have lost 70-80 per cent of our business from foreign guests.'
A 24-year-old man died after allegedly being attacked following a brawl in Kattakada, Kerala. Police are investigating the incident and suspect a previous altercation may have led to the attack.
Police in Kasaragod, Kerala, have registered a case against the organisers of an alleged child marriage involving a 16-year-old girl. The investigation includes examining CCTV footage and questioning witnesses.
'Secularism or social development or social justice is no longer part of development, according to the youth in Kerala.' 'They are concerned about material wellbeing and material welfare, and they believe that Narendra Modi is capable to giving them that kind of development.' 'So, they don't have any ideological hesitation in voting for him.'
Kerala emerged as the overall champions at the Asmita Khelo India Women's League South Zone Track Cycling Championship, held in Karyavattom, securing a total of 35 medals. Tamil Nadu finished as runners-up, followed by Karnataka and Telangana.
Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has condemned the alleged suicide of a student, vowing a thorough investigation into claims of caste-based harassment and loan app involvement.
'...especially pressure on the rupee, the current account deficit, and foreign exchange outflows.' 'The key question over the next several months is whether the government can prevent external turbulence from feeding into domestic economic pessimism.'
'The BJP and its allies can decide the fate of many candidates.'
The IUML, a key ally of the Congress-led UDF in Kerala, anticipates a more unified Congress party after the assembly election results are announced, expressing disapproval of internal disputes over the chief ministerial candidate.
Seven live bullets were recovered from a bathroom of a railway hospital in Thiruvananthapuram. Police have taken the bullets into custody and launched an investigation to determine their origin, with preliminary assessments suggesting they may have been used by the Railway Protection Force.
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi has accused the ruling LDF in Kerala and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of being Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "B-team" and of secretly joining hands with the BJP, alleging a compromised leadership and lack of accountability.
Voters in Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry are voting in crucial assembly elections.
Congress leader K Muraleedharan criticises blaming communities for voting choices in Kerala, responding to BJP leaders' remarks about the Catholic church. He also expresses confidence in the UDF's prospects in the upcoming election and criticises the Election Commission's arrangements.
Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has condemned the alleged suicide of a BDS student following accusations of caste-based harassment. An investigation has been launched, and support pledged to the victim's family.
A review of the accuracy of various exit polls in predicting the outcomes of recent assembly elections in West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, and Tamil Nadu, highlighting the performance of different pollsters.
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