The final phase of Pathanamthitta’s local body elections is underway, spotlighting the Sabarimala gold misappropriation case. The arrest of CPI(M) leader and former legislator A. Padmakumar has become a hot topic. The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) and BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) use it to challenge the CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF). The LDF calls these arrests proof of a fair probe. The ruling LDF also highlights nearly 10 years of welfare and development work. Once a Congress stronghold, Pathanamthitta shifted towards LDF since 2015. In 2020, LDF won 12 of 16 divisions in the district panchayat. Kerala Congress (M) joined the Left coalition recently, boosting their chances. Currently, LDF controls most blocks, municipalities, and panchayats in the district. Still, Kerala Congress (B) opposes some LDF candidates over neglect complaints. UDF remains hopeful, counting on its experience and recent success in Lok Sabha polls. The party made last-minute candidate changes, causing some unrest. For example, the Congress State leadership intervened in the Angadi division to resolve disputes. UDF aims to win at least 30 panchayats and three municipalities by riding anti-incumbency sentiment. The NDA, surprised many by winning the Pandalam municipality and three panchayats last time. It wants to keep about 25% of votes in the Lok Sabha seat. The BJP settled differences with Bharath Dharma Jana Sena and is contesting 13 seats, while BDJS fights for four. The NDA hopes to win additional district panchayat seats but faces candidate shortages in some wards. The battle lines are drawn clearly in Pathanamthitta’s crucial local elections as parties jockey for power and influence.