As the state prepared for the second phase of local voting, open campaigning ended in seven northern districts on Tuesday (December 9, 2025). In Wayanad, colorful processions were held in major cities in the last few hours, with candidates and supporters of various parties taking to the streets. A rally with flags, balloons and banners canvassed for votes for the candidates as participants sang, danced and celebrated.
‘Kottikalasam’, the loud, festive culmination of the campaign, was held mainly in Kalpetta, Mananthavady and Sulthan Bathery. Following the State Election Commission order to avoid public nuisance, the festivities were mostly centered around the old and new bus stands in Kalpetta. Left Democratic Front (LDF) supporters gathered at the old bus stand, while United Democratic Front (UDF) supporters staged a rally from the new bus stand to Chungam.
Wayanad is witnessing close contest with LDF and UDF in several local bodies. While the UDF seems to have a slight edge, the LDF maintains a strong presence and is determined to make a comeback. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which has gained ground in some areas over the past five years, could play a key role in deciding the final distribution of seats.
Currently, the UDF controls 16 of the 23 grama panchayats and two of the three municipalities in Wayanad district. The four block panchayats are evenly divided between the LDF and the UDF, while the district panchayat seats are also evenly divided, though the UDF got an edge due to the draw in the previous elections.
Published – 09 Dec 2025 20:43 IST
