Political parties based in Tamil Nadu have become nearly invisible in the lead-up to the upcoming Assembly elections in Kerala’ plantation sector. This marks a significant departure from the previous local body elections, where three major Tamil Nadu-based parties fielded candidates.
Despite aggressive campaigning, the parties—the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), and the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK)—failed to win a single panchayat ward in the district. Although they had established party offices and managed active campaigns in the Tamil-populated taluks of Devikulam and Peerumade, the total lack of electoral success appears to have derailed their long-term expansion plans in Kerala.
Ibrahimkutty Kallar, general secretary of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), said that the local body results signalled a clear preference among workers. “Plantation workers in the district are traditionally associated with State-based trade unions. The election results indicate that these workers continue to place their trust in Kerala’s established political parties,” Mr. Kallar said.
According to sources, the long-term goal of Tamil Nadu-based outfits was to build influence among the significant Tamil-speaking population in Kerala. Leaders estimate that Tamil voters constitute 38% of the electorate in Peerumade, 28% in Udumbanchola, and between 48% and 52% in the Devikulam constituency.
While these parties once showed promise—notably in 2016 when AIADMK’s R.M. Dhanalakshmi secured 11,613 votes finishing third in Devikulam. But that momentum has stalled.
‘Against fascist forces’
Riswan Koya K.S., Kerala spokesperson for the VCK, confirmed that the party would not contest in any seats in Kerala this Assembly election. “Our primary aim in this election is to ensure the defeat of fascist forces. The VCK will support candidates best positioned to prevent their victory. We will announce our official stand within three days following a committee meeting,” he said
Similarly, AIADMK joint secretary Palani Swami confirmed his party’s absence from the contest. “The AIADMK is currently allied with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and will work to support NDA candidates. In Devikulam, the AIADMK holds over 10,000 votes which will be polled in favour of the alliance,” said Mr. Swami.
Published – March 31, 2026 09:58 am IST
