Tue Nov 18 10:33:11 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

Anand K. Thampi, a man found dead in Thiruvananthapuram, allegedly committed suicide after being denied a BJP ticket for upcoming local body polls. While the BJP denies he was a member at the time of his death, the Shiv Sena (UBT) claims he was a long-time BJP worker who briefly joined them in protest before his death. The Shiv Sena (UBT) is calling for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death, citing his dedication to the BJP even on the day he died. A purported suicide note blames local BJP and RSS leaders for blocking his candidacy due to alleged ties with the sand mafia.

News Article:

Controversy Erupts Over Death of Kerala Man Amid Local Election Ticket Dispute

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, INDIA – November 18, 2025 – The death of Anand K. Thampi, 40, has sparked a political controversy in Kerala, with accusations flying between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiv Sena (UBT) regarding his affiliations and the circumstances surrounding his alleged suicide. Thampi was found dead on Saturday, November 15th, reportedly after being denied a BJP ticket for the upcoming local body elections.

The BJP has denied any connection to Thampi at the time of his death, with State general secretary S. Suresh claiming he had joined the Shiv Sena (UBT). However, the Shiv Sena (UBT) refutes this, asserting that Thampi was a long-time BJP worker who only briefly aligned with them in protest of the BJP’s decision.

“He has always been a committed worker of the BJP. Even on the day of his death, he was busy meeting people and canvassing for votes in the Thrikkannapuram ward,” stated Peringamala Aji, State secretary of the Shiv Sena (UBT), during a press conference on Tuesday. Aji demanded a comprehensive investigation into Thampi’s death, arguing the BJP bears responsibility.

According to a purported WhatsApp message left by Thampi, he decided to run as an Independent after being denied the BJP ticket. The message alleges that his candidacy was blocked by local BJP and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leaders with ties to the sand mafia, who preferred a candidate with similar links. The message further stipulated that no BJP or RSS workers be allowed to view his body.

The BJP has accused other political parties of exploiting Thampi’s death for political gain. The incident has raised concerns about internal politics within the BJP and the influence of alleged criminal elements on local elections.

Helpline: (Suicide prevention helpline details omitted as the current model is not a real-time, authoritative source on crisis hotline information. In a real news report, this would be included.)

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