Vibrant ‘Kottikalasam’ marks conclusion of hectic campaigning in Kannur, Kasaragod

Campaigning for local body polls concluded across Kasaragod and Kannur on Tuesday (December 9, 2025) evening with energetic ‘Kottikalasam’, marking the final show of strength by candidates and workers of the three major political fronts, including Left Democratic Front (LDF), United Democratic Front (UDF), and National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

From busy town centres to rural pockets, political workers marched with drums, slogans, and flag-waving supporters as the 48-hours silence period began.

In Kannur district, the day largely remained peaceful. However, police had deployed a large force to ensure law and order situation, taking in view the previous election, which resulted in clashes between supporters of various parties during the Kottikalasam.

UDF supporters in high spirits.
| Photo Credit:
S.K. MOHAN

In Kannur, each major political front was assigned specific times, routes, and locations for its campaign rallies. The BJP’s rally moved from Prabhat Junction to Muneeswaram Temple, the CPI(M) held theirs from South Bazar to the old bus stand, while the UDF organised the Kottikalasam from Thana Junction to Kannur city.

It was no different in other sensitive areas such as Payyannur, Taliparamba, Koothuparamba, and Thalassery, where sufficient police forces were deployed to maintain control.

BJP activists holding the rally.
| Photo Credit:
S.K. MOHAN

In Kasaragod, the ‘Kottikalasam’ reached its peak at Kanhangad town, where all three fronts are expected to face a close contest in the local body elections. The event turned into a show of strength, with supporters dancing, waving flags, and music bands playing to woo the voters.

Though the district remained largely peaceful, skirmishes between the LDF, UDF, and BJP were reported in Trikaripur. UDF workers allegedly blocked BJP and LDF marches, leading to heated arguments and physical altercations. Traffic was disrupted for some time as the confrontation unfolded on the busy stretch, and police later intervened to restore order.

Across the two districts, candidates intensified door-to-door outreach throughout the day, wrapping up voter mobilisation efforts before the deadline. Rural stretches saw coordinated motor rallies, while major intersections in Kannur, Taliparamba, and Payyannur witnessed evening crowds gathering for the carnival-like finale.

Police personnel conducting a route march in Kannur Town as part of preparations for the local body elections.
| Photo Credit:
S.K. MOHAN

District election officials confirmed that campaign activities were halted on time and said preparations for polling are progressing smoothly. With the high-voltage campaign phase now over, attention shifts to whether the strong turnout by all fronts will result in close contests across several key wards in Kannur and Kasaragod.