Thu Dec 11 09:36:26 UTC 2025: News Article Summary:

Palakkad Civic Elections See Nearly 60% Voter Turnout Amidst Allegations of Foul Play

Palakkad, December 11, 2025 – Civic body elections in Palakkad district, Kerala, saw a substantial voter turnout of nearly 60% by 2:30 pm today. Out of a total of 2.43 million registered voters, 769,000 women and 683,000 men had cast their ballots. Pattambi municipality recorded the highest polling percentage (54.29%) while Palakkad municipality registered the lowest (40.68%).

The elections were not without controversy. The CPI(M) has accused an IUML worker of attempting to cast multiple votes, prompting a police investigation. Additionally, a UDF candidate alleges she and her family were attacked by CPI(M) workers at her home.

Voting commenced briskly at 7:00 am across 3,054 polling booths. Authorities deployed robust security measures, including approximately 4,500 police personnel and a Central paramilitary unit, particularly at the 284 designated sensitive polling stations. Vote counting is scheduled for Saturday.

Rewritten News Article:

High Turnout in Palakkad Civic Polls Marred by Violence and Allegations of Voter Fraud

Palakkad, India – December 11, 2025 – Local elections in Palakkad district drew a significant turnout today, with nearly 60% of registered voters casting their ballots by mid-afternoon. However, the elections were overshadowed by allegations of voter fraud and reports of violence, raising concerns about the integrity of the democratic process.

According to election officials, 769,000 women and 683,000 men participated in the voting process as of 2:30 PM. Pattambi municipality led the way with a 54.29% participation rate, while Palakkad municipality lagged behind at 40.68%.

The CPI(M) party has filed a formal complaint against an Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) worker, Tajudheen, accusing him of attempting to vote multiple times. Police have confirmed they are investigating the claim.

Adding to the turmoil, Sajita Vipin, a UDF candidate, reported a violent attack on her and her family by alleged CPI(M) activists. Vipin claimed her home was stormed, resulting in injuries to her husband, mother, and even her 11-month-old child.

Despite the controversies, the election process proceeded with heightened security measures. Over 4,500 police officers, supported by a central paramilitary unit, were deployed to safeguard the 3,054 polling stations. 284 of the voting locations were designated as particularly sensitive and had additional security.

The Election Commission has announced that vote counting is scheduled for Saturday, where the accuracy and validity of the electoral process will be under intense scrutiny in light of today’s events. The outcomes of these elections are expected to have a significant impact on local governance and political dynamics in the region.

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