Kerala Assembly Polls 2026: CPI(M) Retains Kottarakara Seat by Narrow Margin

K.N. Balagopal, the CPI(M) candidate, has retained his seat in Kottarakara by a narrow margin, sparking allegations of vote-trading deals between the CPI(M) and BJP. Kodikunnil Suresh, MP, has alleged that the CPI(M) assisted the BJP in Chathannur in exchange for saffron support in Kottarakara.

The UDF is facing internal turmoil over suspected betrayal from within its own ranks, with the party's panchayat chairperson, Biju Philip, resigning from his post amid furious allegations from workers.

The CPI(M) leadership has rejected these accusations, dismissing them as a face-saving tactic by the UDF to mask their own internal failures. CPI(M) district secretary S. Sudevan has characterized the allegations as entirely baseless, pointing out that the LDF has consistently maintained dominance in the Neduvathur panchayat over the years.

The immediate next steps will involve the UDF's internal review of the election results, with party leaders expected to discuss the allegations of betrayal and the party's overall performance in the Kerala Assembly polls 2026. The CPI(M) is also expected to continue its efforts to consolidate its position in the state, following its narrow victory in Kottarakara.