Sat Dec 27 20:04:14 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

The Left Democratic Front (LDF) candidate, Sabu Abraham, has been elected as the Kasaragod district panchayat president. The election was marred by controversy after a United Democratic Front (UDF) member, Irfan Iqbal, was not allowed to vote due to arriving late, leading to protests and accusations of denied democratic rights. Despite the UDF’s objections, the District Collector maintained that the election followed all established procedures. The LDF secured the victory with nine votes, while the UDF garnered seven. A BJP member abstained.

News Article:

LDF’s Sabu Abraham Wins Kasaragod Panchayat Presidency Amid UDF Protest

KASARAGOD, December 28, 2025 – Sabu Abraham of the Left Democratic Front (LDF) was elected as the Kasaragod district panchayat president on Saturday, December 27th, in a vote overshadowed by controversy. The election, held earlier today, saw dramatic scenes unfold as a United Democratic Front (UDF) member was barred from voting, sparking immediate protests.

The dispute arose when Irfan Iqbal, a UDF representative, was reportedly four minutes late for the commencement of voting. District Collector K. Inbasekar upheld the rule that members must be present before voting begins, denying Iqbal access to the voting room.

“The election was conducted strictly in accordance with the Representation of the People Act and the guidelines of the State Election Commission,” stated Collector Inbasekar, dismissing allegations of procedural violations as unfounded.

The vote count saw Abraham secure nine votes, defeating Congress candidate J.S. Somasekara who received seven. A BJP member abstained from the vote, effectively solidifying the LDF victory.

Following the declaration, Sabu Abraham, representing the Kuttikol division, was sworn in by the District Collector.

Outraged UDF members and workers staged a protest outside the election venue, claiming their democratic rights had been violated. The district administration has reiterated that all actions were taken strictly in accordance with established procedures. The controversy is likely to continue to be debated in the coming days.

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