Payyanur, in Kannur district, has a mix of urban centres and rural villages, with a literacy-driven electorate. Registered voters numbered around 2.3 lakh in 2021.The 2021 elections saw CPI(M) candidate T. I. Madhusoodanan (LDF) defeat UDF rival by a margin of 3,500 votes. Payyanur is traditionally a left-leaning stronghold, though BJP has been attempting expansion.