LSG Polls: Advantage LDF overall, BJP, WPI, SDPI make gains

Thiruvananthapuram: As figures change hourly, LDF and UDF gain varying results in local body polls.

Latest results indicate a reinforcement of LDF's position across the state, despite the fears that recent controversies surrounding the gold smuggling and allied allegations would dint the prospects of the ruling front.

Surprising its arch-rival all along leading in Kozhikode's Onchiyam for hours, CPIM lost to RMP, say updates at this hour.

BJP opening account in Kannur Municipal Corporation remains a real surprise. NDA candidate PK Shaiju from Pallikunnu goes down in poll records as the first to make BJP's presence felt in the red bastion.

The BJP has also strengthened its position overall in the state, including capturing the Pandalam municipality with an absolute majority, from the LDF.

Another notable feature is the marginal gains made by SDPI and Welfare Party of India, which have won a total of 92 and 58 respectively in the entire state, at the time of writing this.

One result that stood out this time is the LDF victory in Pala municipality. The LDF captured the former Kerala Congress-M bastion from UDF, which had its sway ever since the birth of the municipality. The LDF victory comes as a trophy for the Kerala Congress faction of Jose K Mani, who recently fell out with the KC-Joseph faction and switched loyalty to LDF.

As for NDA, the situation this time shows better reach than before, making the alliance a stronger contender.

The local body polls gain importance as the Assembly polls are just months away. Many poll pundits believe trends this time could predict what holds for the parties in future.

Among the six corporations of the state, the LDF is leading in five and UDF in one, i.e. Kannur.

Though results are still pouring in, the overall trend shows a verdict in favour of the ruling front, with marginal variations here and there.