Idukki Elections Go Tamil Nadu Style Amid Rising Tamil Voter Influence
November 29, 2025
Idukki’s local body elections have taken a Tamil Nadu twist. In Tamil-majority belts like Kanthallur, Vattavada, and Devikulam, election campaigns play Tamil film songs and use Tamil-only posters and speeches. Campaigns now mirror Tamil Nadu's vibrant style, moving away from Kerala's usual look. Leaders like former Vattavada panchayat president R. Ramaraj say nearly all voters there are Tamil-origin and understand Tamil better than Malayalam. The UDF’s K. Krishnamurthy confirms many voters speak and write Tamil more fluently. Three Tamil Nadu parties—AIADMK, DMK, and VCK—are actively contesting seats in Idukki. Tamil voters form a big chunk: 38% in Peerumade, 28% in Udumbanchola, and nearly half in Devikulam assembly constituencies. DMK is contesting 22 seats, AIADMK 28 seats including 10 in Devikulam panchayat, and VCK 15 seats where they have good chances. This shift shows the growing Tamil influence in Idukki's election scene. In 2019, AIADMK's Praveena S. won as Peerumade panchayat president with UDF backing, signaling the start of this trend.
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Tags:
Idukki Elections
Tamil Nadu Model
Tamil Voters
Aiadmk
Dmk
Vck
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