V. Kunhikrishnan, who broke decades of Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] dominance in Payyannur in Kannur, has described the electoral verdict as a clear endorsement of the issues he raised within the party and a strong message for corrective action by the leadership.
In an interview with The Hindu, Mr. Kunhikrishnan said that the mandate reflected approval for his criticism and concerns, while also acknowledging a broader anti-incumbency factor across Kerala that might have influenced the outcome, including that in Payyannur. His victory in the constituency was significant as it came after overcoming the massive margin of nearly 50,000 votes secured by the CPI(M) in the previous election, a turnaround, he admitted, was beyond initial expectations.
Published – May 05, 2026 05:01 pm IST
