V. Kunhikrishnan's Bold Move: Independent Candidacy Shakes Up Kerala's Payyannur Elections

V. Kunhikrishnan, a former CPI-M leader, has announced his independent candidacy for the Payyannur Assembly elections, challenging the incumbent T. I. Madhusoodanan. His expulsion from the party over financial disputes has sparked significant political interest, raising questions about potential support from Congress. This election could redefine the political landscape in a traditional Left bastion, making it a closely watched contest in northern Kerala.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 16, 2026, 12:47 IST

Political Turmoil in Payyannur

In a significant political shift, V. Kunhikrishnan, a former prominent leader of the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M), has declared his intention to run as an Independent candidate in the upcoming Assembly elections for the Payyannur constituency in northern Kerala.

Kunhikrishnan, who was once a beloved grassroots figure in Kannur, has been embroiled in a contentious dispute with the local CPI-M leadership over allegations of financial misconduct related to a martyrs’ memorial fund.

The conflict escalated when Kunhikrishnan released a book outlining his perspective on the situation, accusing certain party officials of manipulating the circumstances surrounding his expulsion.

His removal from the party marks the end of a long-standing affiliation with the CPI-M, particularly in a region where the party has historically held strong influence.

In announcing his independent candidacy, Kunhikrishnan expressed his commitment to directly engage with the electorate of Payyannur.

He stated, “I plan to meet every voter in the area to garner their support. Throughout my campaign, I will clarify the reasons behind my decision to run independently.”

Kunhikrishnan is set to challenge the incumbent CPI-M legislator, T. I. Madhusoodanan, whom he has accused of orchestrating the events leading to his ousting.

This election is particularly noteworthy as Payyannur has been a stronghold for the Left, with internal party dynamics often influencing electoral results, and the CPI-M has never lost this seat.

In the previous Assembly elections of 2021, Madhusoodanan won decisively, securing the seat by over 49,000 votes.

However, Kunhikrishnan's independent candidacy introduces a new variable, potentially fragmenting the traditional Left voter base.

Political analysts are keenly observing the Congress party's position, which contests this seat as part of the United Democratic Front (UDF).

Speculation is rising regarding whether Congress will provide either covert or overt support to Kunhikrishnan to undermine the CPI-M's chances.

Should such backing occur, experts believe that the contest in Payyannur could evolve into one of the most scrutinized electoral battles in northern Kerala.