Tensions rose in Thrissur after allegations surfaced that food parcels were being distributed to influence voters ahead of the assembly elections. The controversy has added a sharp edge to an already heated campaign in Thrissur district.
According to the LDF, the kits were distributed through a supermarket in Olarai targeting selected households in the tribal village of Sivaramapuram. Based on a complaint, the police intervened, closing the establishment and seizing approximately 50 sets from the premises. Locals, including women, reportedly came to collect the kits, which the LDF claims were offered in exchange for votes.
CPI leader VS Sunil Kumar alleged that the BJP had widely distributed kits and clothes across the constituency to “secure votes”.
“Under the leadership of the BJP, kits are being prepared in coordination with commercial establishments,” he said, pointing to what he described as an organized attempt to influence voters.
However, the owner of the supermarket said that a person named Radhakrishnan placed an order for around 75 sets, paid the bill and arranged for collection.
“I don’t know his political affiliation,” the owner said, adding that people who came into the store took the kits as directed.
Police and election officials arrived at the site soon after the problem came to light, leading to the closure of the supermarket as a precautionary measure.
The dispute also drew a reaction from the Congress leadership. DCC president Joseph Tajet called the episode “highly suspicious” and called for a detailed investigation.
“Similar attempts were made during the Lok Sabha elections. The Election Commission must investigate and identify those behind it,” he said.
Meanwhile, the BJP has strongly denied any involvement, saying the party has no connection with the distribution of supermarket goods.
With elections just days away, the incident has intensified political friction in Thrissur and raised fresh questions about the ethics of campaigning and how far parties can go in a fiercely contested election.
Published – 04 Apr 2026 20:39 IST
