Kerala Elections: Ex-CPI-M Rebel Kunjikrishnan Alleges Bogus Voting in Payyannur
Synopsis
In the lead-up to Kerala's Assembly elections, ex-CPI-M member V. Kunjikrishnan raises serious allegations about voter fraud in Payyannur, claiming the electoral roll includes deceased and absent voters. His complaints could challenge the integrity of the election process.
Key Takeaways
Electoral Integrity Under Scrutiny: Kunjikrishnan's allegations point to serious concerns regarding the legitimacy of the electoral roll.
Political Rivalry: The contest between Kunjikrishnan and the incumbent MLA reflects deep-rooted political tensions.
Support from UDF: Kunjikrishnan's backing by the UDF signifies a strategic alliance against CPI-M.
Potential Legal Actions: Kunjikrishnan is prepared to challenge the integrity of the election process through legal means.
Impact on Future Elections: The outcome in Payyannur may influence broader electoral strategies in Kerala.
Payyannur (Kerala), April 6 (NationPress) As the Kerala Assembly elections approach this Thursday, the Payyannur constituency in the Kannur district has transformed into a politically intense arena, characterized by dissent, accusations of electoral fraud, and a high-stakes rivalry among former allies.
Independent candidate V. Kunjikrishnan, previously a dedicated CPI-M member and a significant figure within its Kannur district committee, has formally approached the District Election Officer with claims of extensive discrepancies in the electoral roll.
He asserts that the voters' list still includes names of deceased individuals and those who have relocated, raising alarms about potential bogus voting.
Kunjikrishnan's complaint highlights the negligence of Booth Level Officers (BLOs), accusing them of neglecting to eliminate ineligible names.
Additionally, he alleges that some BLOs, purportedly swayed by Leftist affiliations, have allowed these names to persist, thereby enabling fraudulent voting practices.
The complaint also alleges the existence of fake voter ID cards being produced at secret locations in and around Payyannur.
Kunjikrishnan has prepared a list of these voters prior to filing his complaint and has cautioned that he will seek legal action if votes are found to have been cast under the names of deceased or absent individuals.
Emphasizing the importance of electoral integrity, he insists that the election process must be genuinely free and fair.
The significance of his candidacy adds an intriguing layer to this contest.
Once expelled from the CPI-M following his allegations surrounding a martyrs’ fund collection, which led to a contentious split with the party leadership, Kunjikrishnan has received backing from the United Democratic Front (UDF). Senior leader and RSP veteran Shibu Baby John has stepped in to support him, effectively surrendering the party’s position in Payyannur.
This development sets the stage for a fierce showdown between Kunjikrishnan and current CPI-M MLA T.I. Madhusoodhan, who won a historic victory with a margin exceeding 49,000 votes in the 2021 elections.
What was once a bastion of party cohesion has now devolved into a contest defined by personal and political rivalries.
As polling day draws near, Payyannur represents a microcosm of Kerala’s evolving political dynamics, where internal dissent, opposition strategies, and allegations of malpractice converge in a fiercely contested electoral battle.
Point of View
The developments in Payyannur highlight significant electoral integrity issues, bringing attention to potential malpractice that could undermine the democratic process in Kerala. The rivalry between Kunjikrishnan and the CPI-M is emblematic of broader political shifts within the state.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What allegations did Kunjikrishnan make?
Kunjikrishnan alleged that the electoral roll contains names of deceased individuals and those who have moved away, which raises concerns about fraudulent voting.
Who is Kunjikrishnan?
V. Kunjikrishnan is an independent candidate and former CPI-M functionary who has accused the party of electoral malpractice.
What support has Kunjikrishnan received?
He has gained support from the United Democratic Front (UDF), with senior leader Shibu Baby John backing his candidacy in Payyannur.
What is the political significance of this election?
The election in Payyannur reflects shifting political dynamics in Kerala, showcasing internal party conflicts and the impact of individual candidates on electoral outcomes.
How has Kunjikrishnan threatened to respond to the alleged fraud?
He has warned that he will take legal action if any votes are cast in the names of deceased or absent individuals.
