LDF workers attended an election campaign rally in Kannur on 9 December 2025, the last day of campaigning before the elections. | Photo credit: SK MOHAN
The local poll campaign concluded in Kasaragod and Kannur on Tuesday (December 9, 2025) evening with a spirited ‘Kottikalasam’, signifying a final show of strength by candidates and workers of the three main political fronts, including the Left Democratic Front (LDF), United Democratic Front (UDF) and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
From bustling city centers to rural pockets, political workers marched with drums, slogans and flag-waving supporters as the 48-hour period of silence began.
The day was largely calm in Kannur district. However, the police deployed heavy force to ensure law and order, in view of previous elections that resulted in clashes between supporters of different parties during Kottikalasam.
UDF supporters in high spirits. | Photo credit: SK MOHAN
In Kannur, each major political front has been allotted specific times, routes and locations for their election rallies. BJP’s rally moved from Prabhat Junction to Muneeswaram Temple, CPI(M) held its from South Bazar to Old Bus Stand while UDF organized Kottikalasam from Thana Junction to Kannur city.
It was no different in other sensitive areas like Payyannur, Taliparamba, Koothuparamba and Thalassery where sufficient police force was deployed to maintain control.
BJP activists holding a rally. | Photo credit: SK MOHAN
In Kasaragod, ‘Kottikalasam’ reached its peak in Kanhangad town where all the three fronts are expected to face a tight fight in the local body elections. The event turned into a show of force, with supporters dancing, waving flags and bands playing to woo voters.
Although the area remained largely peaceful, clashes between LDF, UDF and BJP were reported in Trikaripur. UDF workers reportedly blocked BJP and LDF marches, leading to heated arguments and physical altercations. Traffic was disrupted for some time as a confrontation developed on the busy stretch and later police intervened to restore order.
In both districts, candidates stepped up door-to-door outreach throughout the day, ending efforts to mobilize voters before the deadline. Rural stretches witnessed coordinated motor rallies while major junctions in Kannur, Taliparamba and Payyannur witnessed evening crowds gathered for the carnival finale.
Police personnel taking out a march in Kannur city in preparation for local body elections. | Photo credit: SK MOHAN
District election officials confirmed that the campaign was stopped on time and said preparations for the polls were going smoothly. With the high-voltage campaign phase over, the focus shifts to whether the high turnout on all fronts will result in close contests in several key wards in Kannur and Kasaragod.
Published – 09 Dec 2025 21:30 IST
