Sun Jan 25 15:36:09 UTC 2026: # Elathur Assembly Seat in Kerala Faces Multi-Cornered Contest as Elections Approach

The Story:
The Elathur constituency in Kozhikode, Kerala, a traditional stronghold of the Left Democratic Front (LDF), is bracing for a competitive multi-cornered contest in the upcoming Assembly elections. Currently held by the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)’s A.K. Saseendran, who has won three consecutive terms since 2011, the seat is witnessing renewed interest from the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], a major constituent of the LDF, to field its own candidate. The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) is also eyeing the seat, aiming to capitalize on local body election gains and anti-incumbency sentiment. Furthermore, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is seeking to increase its vote share and potentially turn the election into a triangular battle.

Key Points:

  • Elathur has been an NCP seat within the LDF since 2008, with A.K. Saseendran winning in 2011, 2016, and 2021.
  • The constituency has a predominantly Hindu population (75%), split between Thiyya and Nair communities, with over 20% Muslim population.
  • The LDF performed strongly in the December 2025 local body elections in key divisions and panchayats.
  • The CPI(M) is considering reclaiming the seat from the NCP, potentially offering the NCP an alternative constituency.
  • The Congress-led UDF aims to contest the seat directly after ceding it to the Kerala Democratic Party in the 2021 election.
  • The BJP secured 19.6% of the vote share in the 2021 election and seeks to increase it.

Critical Analysis:
The article highlights a shift in Kerala’s political dynamics within the Elathur constituency. The CPI(M)’s potential desire to reclaim the seat from its coalition partner, NCP, suggests a strategic consolidation of power within the LDF. The Congress party’s renewed interest and the BJP’s increasing vote share indicate a possible fragmentation of the traditional LDF dominance.

Key Takeaways:

  • The upcoming elections in Elathur will be a significant test of strength for all major political fronts in Kerala.
  • Internal dynamics within the LDF, particularly the CPI(M)’s ambitions, could reshape coalition politics in the region.
  • The Congress party’s strategy of contesting directly reflects a renewed focus on regaining lost ground.
  • The BJP’s continued growth poses a challenge to the traditional bi-polar political landscape.
  • The election outcome will likely influence future alliance formations and power-sharing arrangements in Kerala.

Impact Analysis:
The unfolding situation in Elathur has significant long-term implications for Kerala politics. If the CPI(M) successfully reclaims the seat, it could signal a broader trend of larger parties asserting dominance within coalitions. Conversely, a UDF victory would boost Congress morale and provide a roadmap for challenging LDF strongholds. The BJP’s performance will determine whether it can sustain its growth trajectory and become a viable third force in Kerala politics. Furthermore, the selection of women candidates in Kozhikode is under consideration, as indicated in the historical context provided, and may impact the future political landscape. This could lead to a more inclusive and representative government.

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