image for illustration only | Photo credit: SK MOHAN
Tension flared in Dharmadam constituency in Kannur, Kerala after an alleged attempt was made to attack UDF candidate Vice President Abdul Rasheed during election campaigning at Kaithapram in Anjarakandy on Sunday (March 29, 2026) night.
According to the complaint filed by Mr Rasheed, the incident took place around 9.35 pm when a group allegedly led by CPI(M) workers intercepted the candidate’s campaign vehicle. The assailants allegedly blocked the road using a scooter, verbally abused Mr Rasheed and his supporters and attempted to physically assault them. A member of the campaign team was allegedly slapped while the two-wheeler was damaged and the key was forcibly taken from him.
Following the incident, UDF workers staged a protest outside the Chakkrakkal police station under the leadership of Mr. Rasheed and demanded the arrest of the accused.
The police registers the case according to Sections 126(2), 115(2), 285, 351(2) and 303(2) of the BNS.
In a separate incident in Taliparamba constituency, a campaign vehicle fitted with LED displays belonging to UDF-backed independent candidate TK Govindan was allegedly attacked in Malappattam. Party leaders alleged that a group of CPI(M) activists tried to vandalize the vehicle and attacked Youth Congress workers who tried to intervene.
District Congress Committee President Martin George claimed that the attack was part of “a planned attempt by the CPI(M) to disrupt the peaceful election process. He accused the ruling party of resorting to violence out of fear of electoral defeat and of trying to intimidate voters by targeting candidates and damaging election campaign vehicles.”
He urged the Election Commission of India to intervene and ensure action against those responsible.
Published – 30 March 2026 13:19 IST
