Thu Dec 11 02:12:06 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article rewrite:

Summary:

The text is a news report from The Hindu e-paper, dated December 11, 2025, covering the second and final phase of Kerala’s local body elections. Over 1.53 crore voters in seven northern districts are eligible to vote for representatives across 604 local bodies. The election is crucial for the major political fronts (LDF, UDF, and NDA). Stringent security measures were implemented, especially in vulnerable districts. Counting will occur on December 13th.

News Article:

Kerala Wraps Up Crucial Local Body Elections in Northern Districts

Kozhikode, India – December 11, 2025 – Polling concluded today in the second and final phase of Kerala’s pivotal three-tier local body elections. Over 1.53 crore registered voters across the northern districts of Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod cast their ballots to elect representatives for hundreds of local self-government institutions.

The voting process, which began at 7 a.m. and ended at 6 p.m., saw citizens exercising their right to vote for a diverse range of local governance positions. A total of 38,994 candidates competed for seats in 604 local bodies, including grama panchayats, block panchayats, district panchayats, municipalities, and corporations.

This election marks a significant battleground for the state’s major political fronts: the ruling CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF), the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Each front is vying for control over crucial local administrations.

“We have seen a strong voter turnout today, demonstrating the importance of local governance to the people of Kerala,” said a spokesperson for the State Election Commission.

Authorities implemented heightened security measures, designating over 2,000 polling booths as vulnerable or critical, particularly in Kannur and Malappuram districts. Polling personnel conducted mock votes prior to the start to ensure EVM functionality and transparency.

The counting of votes for both phases of the local body elections is scheduled for December 13th, at which point the future landscape of Kerala’s local governance will be determined.

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