Kerala election results: UDF leading in majority seats
What's the story
Emerging trends of the Assembly election counting show that the Congress-UDF is ahead in 90 seats in Kerala. Its rival, the CPI(M)-led LDF, was leading in 35 seats. These initial results are based on early counting and are likely to change as more rounds of counting are completed. The NDA was leading in two seats. Polling for the Assembly was conducted on April 9.
Contest
Three-way contest or traditional duopoly?
In Kerala, the 2026 assembly elections are shaping up to be a direct battle between the ruling LDF and the UDF. Meanwhile, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is focused on strengthening its presence in the southern state for the time being. With 140 seats on the line, 71 is the winning mark.
Tharoor speaks
Shashi Tharoor calls for change; focus on jobs, investment
In an interview with ANI, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor stated that Kerala's main priority should be a change in government and policy. He emphasized the necessity of revitalizing the state's economy and restoring investor confidence. Tharoor also expressed concern about the "disastrous fiscal situation" and stressed the importance of creating jobs to prevent the migration of youth.
CM trails
Kerala CM Vijayan leads Congress rival in Dharmadam
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, after trailing in the Dharmadam assembly constituency, has asserted his lead after the ninth round of counting. He now has 48,945 votes in his favor, leading Congress leader VP Abdul Rasheed by 2,892 votes. Meanwhile, CPI(M)'s KK Shailaja, the former health minister, is trailing in the Peravoor seat by 5,603 votes, after leading earlier rounds.