Kerala

Kerala, a state on the southwestern Malabar Coast of India, has a unique political landscape that stands out within the Indian political spectrum. Known for its high literacy rates, progressive social policies, and political activism, Kerala's political profile is shaped by a vibrant democratic tradition and a history of electoral politics that swings between the Left and the Right, making it a significant study in contrast to many other Indian states.

The political scene in Kerala is predominantly marked by the competition between two major coalitions: the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the United Democratic Front (UDF). The LDF is led by the Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPI(M), and includes other left-wing parties, while the UDF is primarily led by the Indian National Congress, along with other centrist and right-leaning parties. This bipolar political structure has led to a pattern where power alternates between these two coalitions in state elections, reflecting a politically engaged and ideologically motivated electorate.

Kerala's political distinctiveness is also underscored by its history of land reforms, educational policies, and healthcare initiatives, which have contributed to its high human development indices. The state's commitment to social welfare is evident in its achievements in public health, education, and social security, often setting benchmarks for the rest of the country.

Moreover, Kerala has a strong tradition of political activism and mass movements, dating back to the struggle for independence and reform movements that aimed at caste and gender equality. The state's political culture is characterized by high levels of political participation and awareness among its citizens, which is reflected in the significant voter turnout during elections.

In recent years, Kerala has also seen the rise of identity politics, with various caste and religious groups asserting their influence. However, the state's political discourse remains largely focused on development issues, social justice, and secularism. The environmental and developmental challenges, such as those posed by climate change and sustainable development, are increasingly becoming part of the political conversation in Kerala.

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KERALA NEWS

Decode Politics: Why did Kerala HC halt Vijayan government’s Nava Keralam programme?

February 19, 2026 3:10 pm

Congress student leaders told court that CPI(M) issued circular to its cadres about the programme, involving survey of govt's welfare initiatives, before the Cabinet decision on it, showing its political intentions

Bars to be open till midnight in Kerala: Govt cites complaints over restrictions despite heavy licensing fee

February 18, 2026 8:42 pm

Previously, bars in non-tourist areas were only allowed to open between 11 am and 11 pm. Bars in five-star hotels can stay open till 3 am.

10 photographers attempt to capture the texture of God's Own Country

February 18, 2026 12:57 pm

The exhibition features 100 photographs that capture sights of the southern state's heritage, architecture, backwaters, festivals, rural life, coastal life, wildlife and spirituality.

Kerala High Court, Nava Keralam programme, Communist Party of India (Marxist),

Kerala High Court halts govt’s Rs 20 crore ‘Nava Keralam’ initiative following election campaigning allegations

February 17, 2026 6:36 pm

According to the state government, the programme is an essential welfare study intended to augment and facilitate development measures already undertaken.

Another death in a pit: Kerala biker falls to his death, days before leaving for job abroad

February 17, 2026 6:00 pm

Minister says action will be taken if PWD officials are found guilty of leaving the pit open

Why Sabarimala row has landed CPI(M), Vijayan govt in a double bind on poll eve

February 17, 2026 4:44 am

With SC set to hear review petitions on its 2018 verdict allowing the entry of women of all ages into Sabarimala shrine, Kerala CPI(M) secretary Govindan says the party and LDF govt can take different positions

Filmmaker who accused ex-Kerala MLA and director of sexual assault speaks: ‘When survivor remains anonymous, accused gets all the space’

February 16, 2026 6:46 am

Asha Achy Joseph had filed a complaint of sexual assault against former legislator and Malayalam film director P T Kunju Muhammad.

Kerala elderly woman refuse to allow scooter on footpath

Elderly woman in Kerala’s Kozhikode wins internet after refusing to allow scooter on footpath; video goes viral

February 13, 2026 4:42 pm

The viral video shows a scooter rider trying to dodge traffic by driving onto a footpath meant for walkers. Instead of stepping aside, the woman firmly positions herself in his way.

The minister further said that the Kerala government is currently working on a semi-high-speed rail corridor named the Silver Line.

Railway projects in Kerala: DPR survey for 7 high-speed projects sanctioned with 160 kmph speed potential

February 13, 2026 5:37 pm

Kerala Railway Projects Update: Ministry of Railways approved the survey to prepare the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for seven rail corridors in Kerala with the potential to support speeds of up to 160 kmph.

Pinarayi Vijayan to anchor CPI(M)’s Kerala hat-trick bid. But what comes next?

February 12, 2026 8:09 pm

Though neither the CPI(M) nor the Kerala CM has explicitly stated that he will contest again, not contesting the coming election makes little political sense. And, the party has said Vijayan is its face for the polls. However, the succession question continues to persist.

KERALA PHOTOS

Wayanad Landslide: 93 dead, Coast Guard dispatches equipment and dog teams for rescue ops

July 30, 2024 10:05 pm

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said 93 people have died and around 128 were injured in the massive landslides in the northern Wayanad district, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair.

Heavy rain, floods wreak havoc in part of India

June 08, 2024 1:43 pm

The southwest monsoon, which entered Maharashtra continued to pass over the state and has advanced into parts of central Arabian sea, parts of Karnataka, Maharashtra, Telangana, coastal Andhra Pradesh, central Bay of Bengal and northwest Bay of Bengal.

Kerala on high alert following Nipah outbreak

September 15, 2023 1:36 pm

Indian fans celebrate Argentina's long walk to World Cup victory

December 19, 2022 12:53 pm

Indian fans celebrate Argentina's win at the FIFA World Cup 2022, held in Qatar.

'Sea erosion, loss of traditional livelihood': Kerala fishermen up in arms against Adani Port project

August 22, 2022 10:32 pm

'Sea erosion, loss of traditional livelihood': Fishermen up in arms against Adani Port project

Orange alert issued in Kerala, heavy rainfall leads to waterlogging in the state

August 01, 2022 2:19 pm

An Orange alert has also been issued in eight districts for August 2, 12 for August 3 and 12 on August 4, according to an IMD district rainfall forecast.

Frost in Munnar as temperature dips below zero

February 02, 2022 9:11 pm

On February 2, Chundavurri estate, near Munnar recorded a temperature of minus 1-degree celsius.

In Pictures: Rahul Gandhi swimming with Kerala fishermen during his recent Kollam visit

February 26, 2021 10:36 am

During his recent visit to Kerala, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi interacted with the fishing community, ventured into the sea with the fishermen and took a stab at fishing.

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Air India Express flight from Dubai crashlands in Kozhikode | See pictures

August 08, 2020 12:02 pm

An Air India Express flight with 190 passengers on board skidded off the runway and split into two while trying to land at Kerala’s Kozhikode airport in heavy rain on Friday evening.