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Positive travel sentiments tied to Kochi’s coastal beauty and tourist hotspots (general coverage).

Positive Travel Sentiments Grow Around Kochi’s Coastal Beauty and Tourist Hotspots Recent travel coverage and visitor feedback indicate a strong rise in positive travel sentiment toward Kochi, driven largely by the city’s coastal charm, scenic beauty, and diverse tourist attractions. Travel writers, bloggers, and tourism platforms have increasingly highlighted Kochi as a destination that offers a balanced mix of relaxation, culture, and urban convenience, making it appealing to both domestic and international travelers. Kochi’s coastline and waterfront experiences continue to be major draws. Locations such as Fort Kochi, Vypeen Island, and Cherai Beach are frequently praised for their serene atmosphere, clean stretches of sand, and picturesque sunsets. Visitors often describe these areas as ideal for slow travel, photography, and cultural exploration, especially compared to more crowded beach destinations. The iconic Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi remain one of the most photographed symbols of Kerala tourism. The city’s backwaters and waterways further enhance its appeal. Tourists have shown growing interest in short backwater cruises, island hopping, and sunset boat rides, which offer a peaceful contrast to the city’s busy streets. These experiences allow travelers to connect with nature while staying within close reach of urban amenities, a combination that has received positive reviews across travel platforms. Cultural and heritage attractions also contribute strongly to Kochi’s favorable travel image. Historic sites such as Mattancherry Palace, Jew Town, Paradesi Synagogue, and colonial-era streets are often highlighted in travel features for their rich storytelling and multicultural legacy. Events like art exhibitions, heritage walks, and cultural festivals further enhance the visitor experience, encouraging longer stays and repeat visits. Food tourism plays a growing role in shaping positive impressions of Kochi. Travelers frequently mention the city’s diverse culinary scene, ranging from traditional Kerala seafood and Malabar cuisine to contemporary cafés and international dining options. Local markets, street food areas, and waterfront restaurants are often cited as memorable parts of the Kochi travel experience. Improved connectivity through Cochin International Airport, better road networks, metro services, and ferry routes has also strengthened tourist confidence. Many visitors note the ease of moving between beaches, heritage zones, and commercial areas, making Kochi a convenient base for exploring central Kerala. Overall, travel sentiment around Kochi reflects a city that successfully blends natural beauty, cultural depth, and modern comfort. As positive word-of-mouth continues to spread through travel media and social platforms, Kochi is increasingly viewed as a welcoming coastal destination that offers meaningful experiences beyond conventional sightseeing, reinforcing its position as one of Kerala’s most attractive tourist hubs.

Positive travel sentiments tied to Kochi’s coastal beauty and tourist hotspots (general coverage). Read More »

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Cricket news impacting Kochi sports circuits and fan communities.

Cricket News Continues to Impact Kochi’s Sports Circuits and Fan Communities Recent developments in Indian and Kerala cricket have had a noticeable impact on Kochi’s sports circuits and its passionate fan communities, reinforcing the city’s long-standing connection with the game. Although Kochi may not currently host regular international matches, cricket remains deeply embedded in the city’s sporting culture through domestic tournaments, club cricket, fan gatherings, and grassroots training academies. Performances by Kerala players in Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, and the Indian Premier League (IPL) have generated strong interest among Kochi fans. Whenever Kerala cricketers make national headlines—through match-winning performances, team selections, or leadership roles—local cricket clubs, coaching centers, and fan groups in Kochi see a surge in engagement. Young aspirants closely follow these developments, viewing them as inspiration and motivation to pursue the sport seriously. IPL-related news also plays a major role in energizing Kochi’s cricket audience. Match results, player auctions, injuries, and team strategies are widely discussed across sports cafés, social media groups, and informal fan clubs in the city. Even without an active Kochi-based IPL franchise, the city continues to host screenings, debates, and fan meetups that reflect cricket’s strong entertainment value and emotional appeal. At the grassroots level, cricket news influences participation in local leagues, corporate tournaments, and school-level competitions across Kochi. Coaches and organizers report increased interest whenever major tournaments are underway, with young players eager to train harder and participate in competitive matches. Cricket academies in and around Kochi benefit from this momentum, as parents and students see the sport as both a passion and a potential career path. Fan communities in Kochi have also embraced digital platforms to stay connected with cricketing developments. Online discussions, live-score tracking, fantasy leagues, and social media debates have become integral to how fans engage with the game. These interactions strengthen community bonds and keep cricket relevant even outside stadium environments. Overall, cricket news continues to shape Kochi’s sports ecosystem by influencing fan culture, youth participation, and local sporting activities. The city’s consistent engagement with cricket reflects its role as a key sports-loving urban center in Kerala, where the game serves not just as entertainment, but as a shared cultural experience that connects generations and communities.

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Kerala Film Market Selects International Projects

Kerala Film Market Selects International Projects, Strengthening Global Cinema Ties The Kerala Film Market (KFM) has taken a significant step forward in positioning Kerala as an emerging hub for global cinema by selecting a diverse slate of international film projects for its latest edition. Organised alongside the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) by the Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC), the Film Market aims to create meaningful connections between filmmakers, producers, financiers, distributors, and festival programmers from across the world. This year’s selection process drew strong interest from filmmakers worldwide, with submissions received from multiple countries across Asia, Europe, and Australia. After a careful evaluation, a limited number of projects were chosen for the Project Market, representing a wide range of genres, languages, and storytelling styles. The selected projects include cross-border collaborations, independent narratives, and culturally rooted stories with strong international appeal, highlighting the market’s emphasis on artistic quality and global relevance. One of the key highlights of the Kerala Film Market is its project pitching platform, where filmmakers present their ideas directly to international producers and investors. These pitching sessions offer creators valuable opportunities to secure co-production deals, funding support, and global distribution partnerships. Industry experts have noted that such platforms are crucial for independent filmmakers, especially those seeking to take regional stories to international audiences. In addition to the main project selections, the Film Market introduced a curated video library and “Curator’s Pick” section, showcasing films at various stages of development. This initiative allows distributors and festival programmers to discover promising content beyond the pitching sessions, further expanding opportunities for selected filmmakers. The inclusion of documentaries, fiction features, and experimental works reflects the market’s inclusive and forward-looking approach. The Kerala Film Market also hosted industry discussions, masterclasses, and networking sessions, bringing together experienced professionals from the global film ecosystem. These interactions focused on topics such as international co-production models, film financing strategies, festival circuits, and the evolving role of streaming platforms. Such knowledge-sharing sessions have been widely appreciated for helping emerging filmmakers better understand the global film business. Officials associated with the event have emphasized that the Film Market is not only about business but also about cultural exchange and storytelling collaboration. By encouraging partnerships between Indian and international creators, the initiative supports fresh perspectives and helps regional cinema reach wider audiences without losing its cultural identity. The growing scale and ambition of the Kerala Film Market signal a broader transformation in Kerala’s film ecosystem. With consistent support, international participation, and a focus on quality storytelling, the market is steadily establishing itself as an important gateway for global cinema engagement. For Malayalam cinema and independent filmmakers across India, the Kerala Film Market represents a promising platform to connect local stories with the global stage.

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Local body polls show coastal issues shaping votes for parties like UDF and LDF around Kochi coastal panchayats.

Local body election results in Kerala have revealed that coastal issues played a decisive role in shaping voting patterns in and around Kochi, particularly across coastal panchayats in Ernakulam district. Rather than voting strictly along party loyalties, residents of these regions appeared to base their choices on immediate environmental, livelihood, and infrastructure-related concerns that directly impact their daily lives. In coastal panchayats such as Chellanam, Elamkunnapuzha, Kadamakkudy, and surrounding areas, long-standing problems like severe sea erosion, repeated seawater intrusion into homes, damage to fishing infrastructure, and inadequate maintenance of sea walls dominated public discourse during the election period. Many residents expressed frustration over delayed or insufficient protective measures, which they felt threatened both their safety and livelihoods. This dissatisfaction translated into strong electoral support for the United Democratic Front (UDF), which emerged victorious in several of these regions by campaigning heavily on promises of practical solutions and better local governance. The election outcomes also highlighted how performance at the local leadership level can significantly influence voter behavior. In contrast to other coastal panchayats, areas such as Vypeen witnessed continued support for the Left Democratic Front (LDF), largely due to visible development initiatives and infrastructure improvements credited to the local MLA and governing bodies. This demonstrated that voters were willing to reward parties that delivered tangible results, even if broader dissatisfaction existed elsewhere. Beyond Kochi, similar patterns were observed across Kerala’s coastline, reinforcing the importance of grassroots issues in local elections. Concerns over fishermen’s welfare, environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and development planning emerged as key factors influencing electoral decisions. In many regions, traditional political narratives were overshadowed by demands for accountability, faster implementation of projects, and long-term solutions to recurring coastal problems. Political analysts note that these results signal a shift toward issue-based voting in Kerala’s coastal belts. The elections underscored that voters are increasingly evaluating parties based on their ability to respond to local challenges rather than relying solely on ideological alignment. For Kochi and its neighboring coastal panchayats, the verdict serves as a clear message to political parties that addressing environmental vulnerabilities and strengthening local governance will be crucial in maintaining public trust. Overall, the local body polls have reinforced the growing importance of coastal issues in Kerala’s political landscape. As climate-related challenges intensify and coastal communities face mounting pressures, the expectations placed on local governments are likely to increase, making effective governance and timely intervention key determinants in future electoral outcomes.

Local body polls show coastal issues shaping votes for parties like UDF and LDF around Kochi coastal panchayats. Read More »

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IT employee abducted and assaulted in Kochi—3 arrested after a bar altercation.

🔴 IT Employee Abducted and Assaulted in Kochi — Broader Impact, Investigation, and Public Reaction In a disturbing case that has gripped public attention in Kochi, a 27-year-old IT professional was allegedly abducted and brutally assaulted following a late-night dispute outside a city bar. The incident has not only led to multiple arrests but also sparked widespread discussions on public safety, the influence of celebrity culture in crime reporting, and the need for stronger preventive measures in urban spaces. 🗓 The Incident According to police reports, the victim — identified as Aliyarshah Salim, an IT employee from Aluva — was socializing with friends at a popular bar on Banerjee Road, Kochi, on the night of August 24, 2025, when a verbal dispute broke out between his group and another group present at the venue. The disagreement escalated quickly, moving outside the bar premises, where words turned physical and tempers flared. Investigators believe the initial clash involved allegations of misconduct and provocation, though the exact trigger is still being examined. Following the altercation, members of the other group allegedly followed Salim and his companions toward their vehicle near the Ernakulam North Bridge. Eyewitness accounts suggest the confrontation continued, resulting in what appears to have been a forcible abduction and assault. Police say the victim was beaten, pushed into a car against his will, and taken to a nearby secluded location, where the assault continued before he was eventually freed or escaped and reported the incident to authorities. 👮 Arrests and Police Action Law enforcement moved swiftly after Salim’s complaint. Kochi’s Ernakulam Town North Police tracked down and arrested three suspects — Mithun, Aneesh, and Sonamol — in connection with the assault. All three are residents of Kochi and have been taken into custody for questioning as the investigation progresses. Police are also exploring whether any other individuals were involved or present during the incident, continuing to review CCTV footage, mobile phone records, and witness statements. Senior officers have emphasized that the case is being handled with priority due to its serious nature and public interest. 🎬 Celebrity Angle and High-Profile Attention The case drew significant media scrutiny due to reported involvement, directly or indirectly, of South Indian actress Lakshmi Menon. According to some law enforcement sources, she was allegedly present with the group implicated in the altercation — though the exact nature of her participation is still unclear. Lakshmi Menon has stated through her legal team that she was not directly involved in the crime, and the Kerala High Court recently granted her interim protection from arrest while her anticipatory bail petition is under review. This legal protection means she is temporarily shielded from arrest until the court considers her plea in full. The involvement of a known personality has intensified public debate, with news coverage focusing on how celebrity presence can shape media narratives and influence public perception of criminal cases. 🧩 Ongoing Investigation As of now, police have not ruled out further arrests. Investigators are exploring multiple angles, including: Authorities have appealed to the public for additional evidence, especially CCTV clips or eyewitness accounts that could help reconstruct the timeline of events. 📢 Public Reaction and Societal Concerns The incident has sparked intense discussion on social media and among Kochi residents. Many have raised concerns about: Some local safety advocates noted that this case highlights broader urban safety weaknesses, especially during late-night hours around entertainment districts. There are calls for stronger enforcement of crowd control, better training for private security staff, and improved street lighting and surveillance to deter similar incidents. 🧠 What This Means for Kochi The assault case underscores the complexities of policing in a growing urban center like Kochi, where nightlife, digital connectivity, and celebrity culture intersect with everyday social life. It highlights the urgent need for coordinated community safety initiatives — from venue managers to city police — to ensure that entertainment and social spaces remain secure for all residents. As the legal process unfolds, the case continues to draw public attention, emphasizing both the challenges faced by city law enforcement and the importance of fair, thorough investigation and judicial proceedings.

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Crimes against women on the rise in Kochi, with recent NCRB data showing increasing offences.

Crimes Against Women on the Rise in Kochi: NCRB Data Raises Serious Concerns Recent data released by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) has highlighted a troubling rise in crimes against women in Kochi, bringing renewed attention to issues of safety, justice, and social accountability in the city. While Kochi is often viewed as one of Kerala’s most progressive and urban centers, the figures reveal that women continue to face significant risks both within private spaces and in public life. According to the NCRB’s latest “Crime in India” report, Kochi recorded a notable increase in registered cases involving offences such as cruelty by husbands or relatives, assault with intent to outrage modesty, and other forms of gender-based violence. Among these, domestic cruelty remains one of the most frequently reported crimes, underscoring the persistent problem of abuse within households. Experts note that domestic violence often remains hidden for long periods, with many women seeking legal help only after prolonged suffering. The data also indicates a rise in cases related to harassment and physical assault, suggesting that women continue to face threats to personal safety in everyday settings. Legal experts and women’s rights activists caution that while higher numbers may partially reflect improved reporting and awareness, they also point to deeper social and cultural issues that cannot be ignored. Many survivors still face pressure from families or communities to remain silent, and stigma continues to discourage timely reporting in several cases. Former members of the Kerala Women’s Commission and social workers have emphasized that economic dependency, fear of social backlash, and lack of immediate support often prevent women from approaching authorities. Even in urban areas like Kochi, where access to police stations and legal aid is relatively better, survivors may struggle with lengthy legal procedures and emotional stress, making justice feel distant and exhausting. Law enforcement officials have acknowledged the seriousness of the trend and stressed the need for stronger preventive measures. Police initiatives such as women-friendly help desks, increased patrolling, and awareness campaigns are in place, but experts argue that enforcement alone is not enough. Long-term solutions require education, community engagement, and changes in societal attitudes toward gender equality and respect. The rise in reported crimes has also intensified public debate on the effectiveness of existing laws and support systems. Advocates are calling for faster trials, survivor-centric legal processes, better counselling services, and safe spaces where women can seek help without fear. There is also growing emphasis on addressing newer forms of abuse, including cyber harassment and online intimidation, which often go underreported. Overall, the NCRB data serves as a stark reminder that progress in infrastructure and development must be matched by progress in social safety and justice. For Kochi, the challenge lies not only in responding to crimes after they occur but in creating an environment where women feel safe, supported, and empowered to live without fear. The conversation sparked by these figures is an important step, but sustained action from authorities, communities, and institutions will be crucial in turning concern into meaningful change.

Crimes against women on the rise in Kochi, with recent NCRB data showing increasing offences. Read More »

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Local news shows Kochi attractions featured in cultural news highlights like art and community events.

Kochi Attractions Take Center Stage in Cultural and Community News Local news coverage increasingly highlights Kochi’s attractions as vibrant spaces for cultural expression, artistic innovation, and community engagement. Beyond its natural beauty and historic landmarks, Kochi is being recognized as a living cultural landscape where heritage, creativity, and everyday life intersect. From internationally celebrated art festivals to grassroots community initiatives, the city continues to strengthen its identity as one of Kerala’s most culturally active destinations. One of the strongest contributors to this recognition is Kochi’s thriving art scene, anchored by iconic locations such as Fort Kochi, Mattancherry, and heritage waterfront areas. These spaces regularly transform into open cultural platforms hosting exhibitions, performances, workshops, and interactive installations. Such events attract not only tourists but also local residents, encouraging meaningful participation and fostering a shared sense of cultural ownership. Large-scale events like contemporary art exhibitions and heritage festivals have brought global attention to Kochi, positioning the city on the international cultural map. These festivals showcase a blend of traditional art forms and modern creative expressions, allowing visitors to experience Kochi beyond conventional sightseeing. Local news reports emphasize how these events boost tourism while preserving the city’s historical character and artistic roots. Community-driven cultural programs are equally gaining prominence. Local collectives, artists, and organizations are organizing neighborhood art walks, storytelling sessions, craft workshops, and wellness-focused cultural activities. These initiatives promote inclusivity by engaging people of all age groups and backgrounds, strengthening community bonds and encouraging sustainable cultural tourism. News coverage often highlights how such events empower local artisans, performers, and small businesses. Seasonal celebrations and festive gatherings further enhance Kochi’s cultural appeal. During peak tourist months, streets, heritage zones, and public spaces come alive with music, dance, food festivals, and street art. These events not only enhance visitor experiences but also create economic opportunities for local vendors and creative professionals, reinforcing Kochi’s reputation as a city that celebrates culture in everyday life. Overall, the growing presence of Kochi attractions in cultural news reflects the city’s evolution from a traditional tourist destination into a dynamic cultural hub. By combining heritage conservation, contemporary art, and community participation, Kochi continues to offer experiences that are authentic, engaging, and socially meaningful. This sustained cultural visibility strengthens Kochi’s position as a leading example of how cities can use art and community events to shape identity, promote tourism, and enrich urban life.

Local news shows Kochi attractions featured in cultural news highlights like art and community events. Read More »

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Although not Kochi-specific, general Kerala sports events have strong local fan engagement.

Strong Fan Engagement Continues Across Kerala Sports Events Although many recent sporting events in Kerala are not confined specifically to Kochi, they continue to attract strong local fan engagement, reflecting the state’s deep-rooted passion for sports. From football and cricket to school-level athletics and traditional competitions, sports remain an integral part of Kerala’s social and cultural life. Football, in particular, enjoys an unmatched following across the state. Regional leagues, exhibition matches, and tournaments regularly draw enthusiastic crowds, both in stadiums and through digital platforms. Support for teams like Kerala Blasters FC extends far beyond match days, with fan clubs, social media discussions, and community events keeping the football spirit alive year-round. Even matches held outside Kochi see strong viewership and fan participation from the city, highlighting Kochi’s role as a major hub of football fandom. At the grassroots level, school and college sports events continue to witness large turnouts from families, teachers, and local residents. Competitions such as state-level school sports meets and youth tournaments foster a strong sense of community pride, with young athletes receiving encouragement from packed stands and local supporters. These events play a vital role in nurturing future talent while strengthening the connection between sports and everyday life in Kerala. Kerala’s sporting culture is also shaped by traditional and community-based events. Boat races, local tournaments, and festive sports gatherings draw spectators from nearby towns and cities, including Kochi. These events blend competition with celebration, attracting diverse audiences and reinforcing the emotional bond between sports and cultural identity. Digital engagement has further amplified fan involvement. Live streaming, social media discussions, and online fan forums have enabled supporters to stay connected with teams and players regardless of location. This growing digital presence has expanded the reach of Kerala sports, allowing fans from Kochi and other regions to actively participate even when they cannot attend events in person. Overall, the continued enthusiasm for sports across Kerala demonstrates the state’s enduring love for athletic competition. Whether through stadium cheers, community gatherings, or online engagement, local fans remain deeply invested, ensuring that sports continue to thrive as a powerful unifying force across Kerala, with Kochi playing a central role in this vibrant sporting ecosystem.

Although not Kochi-specific, general Kerala sports events have strong local fan engagement. Read More »

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Dominic and the Ladies’ Purse OTT Release Confirmed

Dominic and the Ladies’ Purse OTT Release Confirmed After months of anticipation, the Malayalam mystery-comedy thriller Dominic and the Ladies’ Purse is finally set for its digital premiere, giving the film a second life beyond theatres. Starring veteran actor Mammootty in the lead, the movie will begin streaming on ZEE5 from December 19, 2025, nearly eleven months after its theatrical release. Directed by Gautham Vasudev Menon in his Malayalam directorial debut, the film generated significant curiosity even before its release due to the unusual collaboration and genre combination. Despite a moderate response at the box office, the film attracted attention for its concept, performances, and narrative style, leading many to believe it would find a stronger audience on OTT platforms. In the film, Mammootty plays Dominic, a former police officer who now runs a private detective agency. The storyline begins with a seemingly simple task — tracing the owner of a lost ladies’ purse — but gradually unfolds into a layered mystery involving missing individuals, hidden motives, and unexpected revelations. The film blends investigation, humor, and emotional undertones, staying true to Gautham Menon’s signature storytelling while adapting to Malayalam sensibilities. The supporting cast includes Gokul Suresh, Sushmitha Bhat, Viji Venkatesh, Siddique, Vineeth, and Vijay Babu, all of whom contribute to the film’s ensemble-driven narrative. Mammootty’s restrained and grounded portrayal of Dominic has been widely appreciated, especially by viewers who enjoy character-oriented thrillers rather than high-octane action. With its OTT release confirmed, audiences who missed the film in theatres now have an opportunity to experience it at home. Industry observers believe the film’s conversational tone, mystery elements, and episodic feel make it well-suited for digital viewing, where content often finds renewed appreciation through word of mouth. The OTT release also highlights a growing trend in Malayalam cinema, where films that may not perform strongly at the box office often gain a broader and more diverse audience through streaming platforms. As Dominic and the Ladies’ Purse arrives on OTT, expectations are high that the film will receive fresh attention and a re-evaluation from viewers across regions.

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Post-poll tensions continue in Kerala with reports of political unrest after recent civic polls.

🗳️ Post-Poll Tensions Continue in Kerala After Local Body Elections Following the announcement of the 2025 Kerala local body election results on December 13, political tensions and unrest have continued across parts of the state, especially in northern districts and key political strongholds. 📊 Election Outcome and Political Shift The local body elections, held in two phases on December 9 and 11, saw the United Democratic Front (UDF) making significant gains across many districts, particularly in coastal and traditional UDF areas. The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) also recorded its strongest performance in recent years, expanding its influence beyond its traditional stronghold. In a notable development, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) achieved an unprecedented victory in the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation, winning the largest number of seats there—marking the first time the party has taken control in the state capital’s civic body. Analysts say this result reflects a shift toward more triangular politics in Kerala, moving beyond the traditional UDF-LDF duopoly. However, the Left Democratic Front (LDF), including the Communist Party of India (Marxist), suffered setbacks in many areas. Although it managed to retain power in some local bodies such as the Kozhikode Corporation, its overall performance lagged compared to the UDF across the state. 🔥 Post-Poll Violence and Clashes In several northern districts including Kannur, Kozhikode, and Kasaragod, post-poll violence erupted shortly after the results were announced. Reports indicate clashes between party workers from different fronts—particularly between LDF (mainly CPM) and UDF activists. Key incidents included: Police and law enforcement responded by registering multiple cases against participants from all parties involved and deploying additional forces to restore peace and order. 🗣 Political Reactions and Statements Senior leaders from different fronts have reacted strongly to the unrest. Opposition leaders criticized the ruling coalition for alleged incidents of intimidation and called for strict action against those who instigated violence. Meanwhile, Congress leadership has underscored its effort to prevent the BJP from gaining further political ground in Kerala, asserting that secular forces must unite to preserve the state’s traditional political balance. These events come amidst heightened political activity ahead of future state elections, making the outcomes and their aftermath significant for Kerala’s political landscape. 🧠 What This Means for Kerala

Post-poll tensions continue in Kerala with reports of political unrest after recent civic polls. Read More »