Mon Nov 24 16:17:47 UTC 2025: Summary:

The article reports on the struggles of political parties in the Kozhikode district of India to manage rebel candidates in upcoming local body elections. Despite negotiations, many rebels are still in the running, posing a threat to official candidates, particularly within the United Democratic Front (UDF). Both the Congress and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) are grappling with rebel candidates in multiple wards and panchayats. The Left Democratic Front (LDF) is also facing similar issues, though to a lesser extent. The article notes that the deadline for withdrawing nominations has passed, and parties are now issuing ultimatums to rebels while preparing for potential disciplinary action.

News Article:

Kozhikode Elections Marred by Rebel Candidates, Parties Scramble for Damage Control

Kozhikode, India – November 24, 2025 – As the deadline for withdrawing nominations passed, political parties in Kozhikode district are facing a significant challenge from rebel candidates threatening to undermine official nominees in the upcoming local body elections.

The United Democratic Front (UDF) is reportedly the hardest hit, with the Congress and Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) struggling to contain internal dissent in multiple wards and panchayats. Official candidates face challenges in areas like Feroke municipality, Kunnamangalam block panchayat, and Kozhikode Corporation.

While some candidates withdrew following negotiations, many rebels remain in the race. The Congress has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to rebel candidates, warning of disciplinary action if they fail to support official nominees.

The Left Democratic Front (LDF) is also grappling with similar issues in select panchayats. A notable instance involves the withdrawal of the official CPI candidate in Nadapuram panchayat after a CPI(M) rebel was declared the official LDF candidate.

The presence of these rebels highlights the deep divisions within the parties and raises concerns about the potential impact on election outcomes. With 9,977 nominations filed and the deadline for withdrawal passed, Kozhikode’s political landscape remains tense as parties navigate this internal crisis.

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