Kerala Assembly Poll 2026: Kit row rocks Thrissur as campaign heats up

Tensions have spiked in Thrissur after allegations surfaced that food kits were distributed to influence voters ahead of the Assembly elections

Tensions have spiked in Thrissur after allegations surfaced that food kits were distributed to influence voters ahead of the Assembly elections. The controversy has added a sharp edge to an already heated campaign in Thrissur district.

According to the LDF, kits were being distributed through a supermarket in Olarai, targeting select households at Sivaramapuram tribal hamlet. Acting on the complaint, the police intervened and shut down the outlet, seizing around 50 kits from the premises. Locals, including women, had reportedly arrived to collect the kits, which the LDF claims were offered in exchange for votes.

CPI leader V. S. Sunil Kumar alleged that the BJP was distributing kits and clothing widely across the constituency to “secure votes.”

“Under BJP leadership, kits are being prepared in coordination with commercial establishments,” he said, pointing to what he described as an organised attempt to influence the electorate.

The supermarket owner, however, stated that an individual named Radhakrishnan had placed an order for around 75 kits, paid the bill, and arranged for collection.

Also read: Assembly elections LIVE