The results of Kerala’s local body elections , counted on Saturday, have set the political tone ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, pointing to a clear erosion of support for the ruling CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF), a significant resurgence of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), and steady gains for the BJP-led NDA .

Historically viewed as a barometer for the Assembly polls that follow, the civic election outcome this time appears unfavourable for the Left at this stage, with setbacks recorded across districts, including in its long-held bastions. The Congress alliance has emerged as the principal gainer, while the BJP has consolidated its presence, particularly in urban centres, indicating that Kerala’s political contest may no longer remain strictly bipolar.

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