Kerala polls: UDF’s Dharmadam candidate alleges attack attempt during campaigning

Tensions flared in Dharmadam constituency in Kannur, Kerala, after an alleged attempt was made to assault UDF candidate V.P. Abdul Rasheed during election campaigning at Kaithapram in Anjarakandy on Sunday (March 29, 2026) night. 

According to the complaint filed by Mr. Rasheed, the incident occurred around 9:35 p.m. when a group allegedly led by CPI(M) workers intercepted the candidate’s campaign vehicle. The assailants allegedly blocked the road using a scooter, verbally abused Mr. Rasheed and his supporters, and attempted to physically attack them. A member of the campaign team was reportedly slapped, while a two-wheeler was damaged and its key forcibly taken away. 

Following the incident, UDF workers staged a protest in front of the Chakkrakkal police station under the leadership of Mr. Rasheed, demanding the arrest of the accused. 

The police have registered a case under Sections 126(2), 115(2), 285, 351(2) and 303(2) of the BNS.

In a separate incident in Taliparamba constituency, a campaign vehicle fitted with LED displays belonging to UDF-backed Independent candidate T.K. Govindan was allegedly attacked at Malappattam. Party leaders claimed that a group of CPI(M) activists attempted to vandalise the vehicle and assaulted Youth Congress workers who tried to intervene.

District Congress Committee president Martin George alleged that the attack was part of a “planned attempt by the CPI(M) to disrupt a peaceful election process.” He accused the ruling party of resorting to violence out of fear of electoral defeat and attempting to intimidate voters by targeting candidates and damaging campaign vehicles.

He urged the Election Commission of India to intervene and ensure action against those responsible.