Vote counting commenced at 8:00 AM across 140 centers in Kerala. Postal ballots were counted first, followed by EVM results starting at 8:30 AM.

In West Bengal, the counting involves 293 constituencies. Authorities reduced the number of counting centers from 108 to 77 for enhanced security.

The Supreme Court mandated that central government staff be present during the counting. This requirement aims to ensure transparency and adherence to security protocols.

Real-time results are available on results.eci.gov.in and through the ECINET app. Observers have been deployed to maintain oversight during the process.

The Trinamool Congress is actively engaged in monitoring the situation in West Bengal as results begin to unfold. The party has expressed concerns regarding potential irregularities.

Security measures include strict protocols and QR-code identification for counting centers in Kerala. Officials are implementing these measures to prevent any disruptions during the count.

As results come in, both state parties and national observers will scrutinize trends closely. The implications of these outcomes could significantly impact future political alignments.

The atmosphere remains tense as party workers await updates on their respective constituencies. The next significant update is expected shortly after the EVM results are announced.

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According to exit polls, the UDF is expected to secure 70-75 seats in the Kerala Assembly elections. Meanwhile, the Left Democratic Front (LDF) is projected to win 60-65 seats.

The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is anticipated to secure around 3-5 seats. The majority mark in the Kerala Assembly is 71 seats.

As of midday, voter turnout stood at 78.27%, reflecting significant engagement from the electorate. With a total of 140 Assembly seats, this election marks a critical moment for Kerala’s political landscape.

The UDF aims to replace the LDF government currently in power. This follows a historic verdict in the 2021 polls when the LDF broke Kerala’s long-standing pattern of alternating governments.

However, analysts caution that exit polls are just predictions based on surveys and can turn out to be wrong on the result day (May 4).

The UDF’s potential victory would signify a major shift in power dynamics within the state. Political observers are closely watching how these projections will translate into actual votes.

Both sides are preparing for possible outcomes as they await official results. The next ruling is expected on May 12.

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E.A. Rajendran, a prominent figure in Malayalam cinema and television, passed away at the age of 71 on March 26, 2026. He died at his residence in Pattathanam, Kollam, Kerala, after undergoing treatment for age-related ailments.

Born into a family with artistic roots, Rajendran began his journey in theatre and graduated from the National School of Drama in Delhi. His career spanned around sixty films and numerous television serials, where he was known for his versatile performances in both character and antagonist roles.

Rajendran’s career-defining return began with the film Kaliyattam, which marked a significant milestone in his acting journey. He was also the husband of Sandhya, sister of actor M. Mukesh, and is survived by his son, actor Divyadarshan.

In a previous interview, Rajendran shared, “I reduced weight as per the doctor’s advice to manage my sugar levels,” highlighting his commitment to health even amidst his struggles. He also mentioned, “My son is acting now, and we are also running a production company,” indicating his family’s ongoing involvement in the film industry.

Rajendran’s contributions extended beyond acting; he served as the Chairman of the State Horticulture Corporation, showcasing his diverse talents. His funeral rites are scheduled to be held on March 27, 2026, and his mortal remains will be taken to his native village in Thrithallur, Thrissur.

The news of his passing has sent shockwaves through the film community, as many remember him for his impactful roles and dedication to the craft. His legacy will undoubtedly live on through the works he left behind and the family he cherished.

As tributes pour in from fans and colleagues alike, the significance of Rajendran’s contributions to Malayalam cinema is being acknowledged, ensuring that his memory will remain alive in the hearts of many.

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“I had not received any official communication inviting him to the function and termed the move ‘political’ and ‘not befitting a democracy’.” These words from P A Mohammed Riyas, Kerala’s Public Works Department Minister, encapsulate the political tensions surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent event in Kochi, which was marked by the absence of key state officials.

On March 11, 2026, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and several ministers, including Riyas, did not attend the Prime Minister’s official function. This event was significant as it included the inauguration of various development projects, notably the six-lane expansion of National Highway 66.

The backdrop to this absence lies in a political row over Riyas’s exclusion from the event. Riyas expressed that he had not received any official invitation, which he described as a politically motivated decision. His sentiments were echoed by General Education Minister V Sivankutty, who called the exclusion “shocking” and “politically motivated.”

In addition to Riyas, State Ministers M B Rajesh and K Krishnankutty also opted out of the event, citing prior commitments. Rajesh stated, “I am not attending the PM’s programme. Yesterday, I came to know that my name was included in the list. I already have scheduled programmes in my constituency.”

On the other side, BJP leaders defended the protocol followed in inviting the Chief Minister, asserting that Riyas’s exclusion was unnecessary. BJP leader B Gopalakrishnan went further, alleging that the state government was attempting to consolidate Muslim votes by boycotting the Prime Minister’s event.

The National Highway development project, which was inaugurated during the event, has a history of revival following the Left Democratic Front government’s rise to power in 2016, thanks to Chief Minister Vijayan’s intervention. This project is notable as Kerala was the first state in India to directly invest in national highway development.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, the implications of this event and the reactions from both sides are likely to unfold in the coming days. The controversy surrounding the exclusion of Riyas and the absence of state ministers raises questions about the ongoing relationship between the Kerala government and the central administration.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further developments or statements from the involved parties. The situation remains fluid as both sides navigate the political ramifications of this incident.

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“I had not received any official communication inviting him to the function and termed the move ‘political’ and ‘not befitting a democracy’.” This statement by P A Mohammed Riyas, Kerala’s Public Works Department Minister, underscores the ongoing political tensions in the state following the recent official event attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Kochi.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and several ministers, including Riyas, did not attend the event, which was marked by controversy over Riyas’s exclusion. The Prime Minister inaugurated various development projects, notably the six-lane expansion of National Highway 66, a project that has been a focal point of state development since the Left Democratic Front government took power in 2016.

Riyas expressed his discontent, stating he had not received an invitation, which he interpreted as a politically motivated exclusion. His sentiments were echoed by General Education Minister V Sivankutty, who described the situation as “shocking” and “politically motivated”.

Other ministers, such as M B Rajesh and K Krishnankutty, also skipped the event, with Rajesh citing prior commitments in his constituency. He remarked, “I am not attending the PM’s programme. Yesterday, I came to know that my name was included in the list.”

The absence of these officials has sparked a debate about political protocol and the implications of such actions. BJP leaders have defended the invitation process, asserting that the Chief Minister was invited according to protocol and that Riyas’s exclusion was unnecessary.

BJP leader B Gopalakrishnan suggested that the state government’s decision to boycott the event was an attempt to consolidate Muslim votes, further complicating the political landscape in Kerala.

The National Highway development project, which includes significant stretches like the Thalappady-Chengala and Vengalam-Ramanattukara bypass, was revitalized after the LDF’s intervention, highlighting the importance of these projects to the state’s infrastructure.

As the political discourse continues, the implications of this event and the responses from both state and central government officials remain to be fully understood. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential follow-up actions or statements from the involved parties.

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As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for a significant PM event in Kochi, Kerala, expectations were high for the inauguration of national highway projects. This event is part of the Prime Minister’s campaign for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and was anticipated to showcase developmental progress in the state.

Change in Dynamics

However, a notable shift occurred when Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and several state ministers announced their decision to boycott the event. This boycott stems from the exclusion of Public Works Department Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas from the invitation list, which the Kerala government viewed as a breach of protocol.

Immediate Effects

The absence of key cabinet members, including Local Self Government Minister M.B. Rajesh, means the event will proceed without significant local government representation. Riyas criticized the exclusion, stating, “The PWD minister has been excluded, while the BJP state president has been invited,” highlighting the perceived political bias.

Expert Perspectives

Political analysts suggest that this boycott reflects deeper tensions between the state government and the central administration. Riyas emphasized that excluding the PWD minister is “not good for democracy,” indicating concerns over the implications of such actions on governance and representation.

Rajesh’s previous experiences with security issues during a PMO event also influenced his decision to skip this occasion. He remarked, “I was repeatedly asked by the security personnel to produce the Aadhaar card, despite they clearly knowing that I was the minister,” which raises questions about the treatment of state officials at federal events.

Context of the Boycott

This political standoff occurs against the backdrop of the finalization of candidates for the upcoming Assembly elections, making the PM event not just a developmental milestone but also a politically charged gathering. The Kerala government has invested ₹5600 crore in ongoing national highway expansion projects, underscoring the importance of infrastructure in the region.

Looking Ahead

As the PM is scheduled to spend approximately four hours in Kerala, the event will include the inauguration of key development projects and an NDA rally. The absence of state ministers could affect the local perception of the event and the central government’s initiatives in Kerala.

With the political landscape shifting rapidly, the implications of this boycott may resonate beyond the immediate event, influencing public sentiment and electoral outcomes in the state.

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“The police failed to record the accuser’s statement or ensure her safety,” stated V.D. Satheeshan, highlighting the serious allegations against Ganesh Kumar that surfaced publicly on March 9, 2026. Bindhu Menon has accused Kumar of infidelity and domestic harassment, claiming she caught him ‘red-handed’ with another woman on March 7, 2026.

In response to the allegations, Ganesh Kumar has denied any wrongdoing, attributing the claims to a political witch-hunt. “My personal life is mine. The people of Pathanapuram know me well like the back of their hand,” he asserted, emphasizing his long-standing political career as an MLA for five consecutive terms.

Menon’s accusations have led to significant political repercussions, with Jeby Mather, an MP, calling for Kumar’s ousting from the Cabinet. Additionally, the Kerala Students Union has petitioned the State Police Chief to take action against Kumar for domestic violence.

Kumar has also criticized R Sreelekha for what he perceives as interference in his personal life, questioning, “Who is Sreelekha, after all, to interfere in my personal life?” This statement reflects the heightened tensions surrounding the incident.

As the situation unfolds, V.D. Satheeshan has demanded an explanation from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan regarding the police’s inaction in addressing the allegations. The political landscape in Kerala is becoming increasingly charged as various factions respond to the controversy.

Bindhu Menon has further alleged that Kumar’s staff attempted to take her mobile phone during the incident, adding another layer to the accusations. Kumar, however, has claimed that he has been honest about his affairs, suggesting that the allegations are part of a broader smear campaign coinciding with Assembly election cycles.

Details remain unconfirmed as the political fallout continues to develop, with various stakeholders in Kerala closely monitoring the situation. The coming days may see further actions taken by political figures and law enforcement as the allegations are scrutinized.

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The Perumbalam Bridge, dedicated to the nation by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, stands as the longest bridge built across Vembanad Lake in Kerala. This infrastructure project, which cost Rs 100 crore, was funded by the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) and is expected to significantly improve travel for approximately 12,000 residents of Perumbalam Island.

Spanning 1157 meters in length and 11 meters in width, the bridge features three rainbow-colored bowstring arches at its center, adding an aesthetic appeal to its functional design. It connects Perumbalam Island with the Arookutty panchayat, addressing a long-standing demand from the local community for better connectivity.

What led to the construction of the bridge?

The bridge’s construction was driven by the persistent requests of the residents of Perumbalam Island, who have long sought improved access to the mainland. Chief Minister Vijayan emphasized the importance of the project, stating, “If the LDF government is not in power, who would have taken care of the people of Perumbalam?” This statement reflects the political context surrounding the bridge’s development.

Vijayan further noted, “The sought-after bridge has now become a reality only because the Left government is in power,” highlighting the political implications of the project. The bridge not only serves as a vital transportation link but also symbolizes the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of its constituents.

What are the features of the bridge?

The Perumbalam Bridge includes 1.5-meter-wide pedestrian walkways on both sides, ensuring safety for those traveling on foot. This feature is particularly important for the local population, enhancing accessibility and encouraging pedestrian movement.

As the bridge opens to traffic, it is anticipated to ease the daily commute for residents, potentially transforming the economic landscape of Perumbalam Island. However, details remain unconfirmed regarding the long-term impact on local businesses and tourism.

In summary, the Perumbalam Bridge represents a significant advancement in infrastructure for the region, promising to enhance connectivity and improve the quality of life for its residents.

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