Veena

Southern Kerala witnessed a significant political shift in the 2026 assembly polls, with the LDF losing 24 seats in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, and Alappuzha compared to 2021. This decline, marked by ministerial defeats and disintegration of traditional vote banks, points to anti-incumbency, leadership vulnerabilities, and evolving social coalitions.

Kerala's 2026 Assembly elections are shaping into a multi-cornered battle, with 20 key constituencies defining the real contest. These seats, marked by urban change, coastal pressures, and high-profile candidates, will be decisive in determining the state's political direction.

In Kerala's Vattiyoorkavu, K. Muraleedharan of the INC secured victory over CPI(M)'s Adv. VK Prasanth by 5,425 votes. This urban constituency, facing issues like traffic congestion, water scarcity, and unemployment, is set for a contest between V. K. Prasanth (CPI(M)), K. Muraleedharan (INC), and R. Sreelekha (BJP) in the upcoming 2026 elections.

A chilling case unfolded in Koderma where 14-year-old Chandan Kumar became a target of his brother-in-law, Suraj Yadav, who orchestrated his kidnapping to sway Chandan's family into accepting his marriage proposal to his sister-in-law. Thanks to a dedicated police effort, Chandan was rescued, and Suraj, along with two accomplices, was arrested.

Eleven women secured seats in the state legislative assembly, with six being first-time winners and four returning for a second term. Geetha Gopi, a three-time winner, is the most experienced among them. Notable victories included Usha Vijayan and Vidya Balakrishnan defeating sitting male ministers, and Fathima Tahaliya unseating the LDF convenor.

Kerala's Health Minister Veena George warns of rising amoebic meningoencephalitis cases this summer. She urges strict hygiene, including avoiding contaminated water for bathing and nasal rinsing, and proper water source chlorination. Prompt medical attention for meningitis symptoms is crucial. The state has significantly reduced mortality rates through early detection and expert care.

A significant political shift is unfolding in Kerala as the UDF surges past the 100-seat mark, leading in 102 constituencies. The ruling LDF trails with 37 seats, and the NDA is confined to a single seat. Several ministers are trailing, while some UDF leaders secure substantial leads, indicating a strong comeback for the front.

In a dazzling display of talent, Star Singer contestants Theertha Sathyan and Krishnasree captivated the audience with their semi-classical masterpiece 'Angopangam' during the intense Do or Die round. Their impeccable harmonies prompted judges Sithara Krishnakumar and Vidhu Prathap to rise in appreciation, while the surprise Golden Star from the legendary KS Chithra left everyone astounded.