Tamil Nadu-based political parties have become almost invisible ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in the Kerala plantation sector. This marks a significant departure from previous local body elections, where the three major parties based in Tamil Nadu fielded candidates.
Despite campaigning aggressively, the parties — All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) — failed to win a single panchayat body in the district. Although they have established party offices and run active campaigns in the Tamil taluks of Devikulam and Peerumada, the utter lack of electoral success seems to have derailed their long-term expansion plans in Kerala.
Ibrahimkutty Kallar, general secretary of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), said the results of the local body signaled a clear preference among workers. “Plantation workers in the district are traditionally associated with state unions. The election results indicate that these workers continue to trust Kerala’s established political parties,” Kallar said.
According to sources, the Tamil Nadu-based outfit’s long-term goal was to build influence among Kerala’s significant Tamil population. Leaders estimate that Tamil voters constitute 38% of the electorate in Peerumada, 28% in Udumbanchola and between 48% and 52% in the Devikulam constituency.
Although these parties once showed promise – notably in 2016 when AIADMK’s RM Dhanalakshmi polled 11,613 votes and came third in Devikulam. But that momentum has stalled.
“Against Fascist Forces”
Riswan Koya KS, VCK spokesperson in Kerala confirmed that the party will not contest any seats in Kerala in this Assembly election. “Our primary goal in these elections is to ensure the defeat of fascist forces. The VCK will support the candidates who are best positioned to prevent their victory. We will announce our official position within three days of the committee meeting,” he said.
Similarly, AIADMK joint secretary Palani Swami confirmed his party’s absence from the contest. “The AIADMK is currently an ally of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and will work to support the NDA candidates. In Devikulam, the AIADMK has over 10,000 votes which will be polled in favor of the alliance,” Mr. Swami said.
Published – 31 March 2026 09:58 IST
