DCC chief alleges bid to subvert poll process in Kannur

District Congress Committee president Martin George on Thursday (April 2, 2026) accused the district administration of appointing officials with alleged political leanings to subvert the poll process in Kannur.

Addressing a press conference, Mr. George claimed that special posts were created and filled with officers seen as favourable to the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], with the backing of District Collector. He urged the Election Commission of India (ECI) to take serious note of the issue.

Referring to the appointment of Sibi N. as Deputy Collector (Election) eight days before the poll announcement, Mr. George said it indicated bias. He claimed the officer was the spouse of Shiju Khan, a leader of the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI), and alleged the move was aimed at influencing the electoral process.

Mr. George further alleged that soon after the election announcement on March 15, only individuals affiliated with organisations supporting the LDF were appointed as liaison officers for ECI observers.