Will the Nilambur Bypoll in Kerala Spark a Fierce Battle Between LDF and UDF?
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Synopsis
The upcoming bypoll in Nilambur, Kerala, promises to be a formidable contest between the LDF and UDF. With the resignation of P.V. Anvar, political dynamics are shifting. As preparations intensify, both parties aim to secure the crucial seat. Key dates and historical context set the stage for a thrilling electoral showdown.
Key Takeaways
- The Nilambur bypoll is a crucial electoral event in Kerala.
- P.V. Anvar's resignation has altered the political landscape.
- The UDF and LDF are preparing for a competitive contest.
- Voter sentiment will be pivotal in determining the outcome.
- Key dates will guide the electoral process.
Thiruvananthapuram, May 25 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) revealed on Sunday the timeline for byelections across five Assembly constituencies in four different states, including the Nilambur constituency in Kerala.
The bypoll for Nilambur is set for June 19, with the vote counting anticipated on June 23. The official gazette notification for these elections will be published on May 26.
This by-election was prompted by the resignation of the sitting MLA P.V. Anvar, who had previously secured the seat as an LDF-supported Independent candidate during the 2021 Kerala Assembly elections.
In 2024, Anvar experienced a significant clash with the CPI(M) and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, following serious claims he made against high-ranking police officials, including M.R. Ajithkumar, Sujith Das, and P.K. Sasi, who serves as the Chief Minister’s political secretary.
Anvar lodged complaints with the Chief Minister, expressing profound dissatisfaction with the state leadership's response.
Discontented with the perceived inaction, he subsequently switched allegiance to the Trinamool Congress and officially resigned from his MLA position in January of this year.
With the seat now open, various political factions have initiated preparations for the impending bypoll.
The United Democratic Front (UDF) has taken an early initiative, starting groundwork in the Nilambur constituency. Recent electoral trends have exhibited mixed results for both major coalitions in Kerala.
While the UDF and LDF (Left Democratic Front) retained their respective seats in the Palakkad and Chelakkara bypolls in 2024, the UDF had previously achieved a significant victory in the 2022 Thrikkakkara bypoll, where Uma Thomas emerged victorious with a record majority.
Nilambur has witnessed a shift in political loyalties following the departure of two-time LDF-supported Independent MLA P.V. Anvar.
His resignation has ignited a high-stakes contest, with the UDF striving to regain lost ground while the LDF seeks to maintain its influence.
Kerala has seen numerous important bypolls over recent years, including those conducted in 2019 in Pala, Manjeshwar, Ernakulam, Vattiyoorkavu, Konni, and Aroor.
Besides Nilambur, by-elections are also scheduled for June 19 in four other Assembly constituencies nationwide: Kadi and Visavadar in Gujarat, Ludhiana West in Punjab, and Kaliganj in West Bengal.
Key Dates: Gazette Notification on May 26; Last Date for Nominations is June 2; Scrutiny of Nominations: June 3; Last Date for Withdrawal: June 5; Polling Date: June 19; Counting of Votes: June 23; Completion of Election Process: June 25.
Point of View
It’s essential to recognize the implications of the Nilambur bypoll amid Kerala’s shifting political alliances. With the UDF and LDF both vying for dominance, the results will likely influence future electoral strategies and governance in the state. This bypoll reflects broader trends in Indian politics, illustrating the dynamic nature of voter sentiment and party loyalty.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Nilambur bypoll scheduled?
The Nilambur bypoll is scheduled for June 19.
What prompted the by-election in Nilambur?
The by-election was prompted by the resignation of MLA P.V. Anvar.
What are the key dates for the Nilambur bypoll process?
Key dates include the gazette notification on May 26, last date for nominations on June 2, polling on June 19, and counting of votes on June 23.
Which political parties are contesting in Nilambur?
The main parties contesting in the Nilambur bypoll are the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the United Democratic Front (UDF).
What was P.V. Anvar's political affiliation before resigning?
P.V. Anvar was an Independent candidate backed by the LDF before his resignation.
