Kerala Assembly elections 2026: In Kalamassery, emotions meet electioneering as candidates knock doors

Emotions and campaign strategies intertwine as candidates engage with voters in the Kalamassery assembly elections ahead of 2026.

At Chenakkala near HMT Junction in Kalamassery, the CPI(M)’s P. Rajeeve briefly paused his campaign for an emotional visit to ‘Ushus’, a modest brick-red house, where he met his former teacher, 94-year-old E.K. Gangadharan. The nonagenarian, who taught Rajeeve at Government Polytechnic College, Kalamassery, waited eagerly despite frailty, handed over a cash contribution, and blessed his former student.

“My father had a hospital appointment in the morning, but he chose to wait till Mr. Rajeeve passed by. He is so fond of Mr. Rajeeve, who makes it a point to visit us every time he comes here,” said his daughter Nanditha.

UDF’s V.E. Abdul Gafoor at Kadungalloor. | Photo Credit: THULASI KAKKAT

keralaSuch moments punctuated the closely watched Kalamassery contest. Chenakkala was the fifth stop of Mr. Rajeeve’s Friday (March 27, 2026) roadshow. He earlier received a reception at Pallilamkara, where his stump speech focussed on development initiatives, including upgrades to the Government Medical College Hospital, anganwadis, schools, higher education institutions, and new industrial units.

“Once the proposed Judicial City becomes a reality, metro connectivity will have to be expanded. HMT Junction road has to be widened to six lane, and Seaport-Airport Road will require a flyover. All these development works require continuity,” he said.

NDA’s M.P. Binu meets voters. | Photo Credit: THULASI KAKKAT