Kerala Assembly elections 2026: Tamil-speaking electorate holds key to Devikulam constituency

Devikulam, a constituency in the hilly district of Idukki in which the tourism hub of Munnar is located, is witnessing a “battle of Rajas” where voters will decide which “Raja” wears the crown on May 4 when the results of the Assembly elections will be declared.

Three candidates with “Raja” in their names are in the fray: United Democratic Front (UDF) candidate F. Raja, Left Democratic Front (LDF) nominee A. Raja, and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA)’s S. Rajendran. Local voters must take extra care to identify their preferred candidate, given the similarity in names. 

All three fronts have fielded three Tamil-speaking candidates to represent the significant population of marginal Tamil voters in the region. Unlike other constituencies in the State, the campaign materials and posters in Devikulam are almost entirely in Tamil. Campaign announcements are frequently paired with vintage Tamil film songs to resonate with the local community. 

Historically, the seat has swung between the UDF and the LDF, with the NDA maintaining a minimal presence in the plantation sector. However, the political landscape shifted dramatically after S. Rajendran, a three-time MLA and senior CPI(M) leader, moved to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to run as the NDA candidate. 

Senthil Kumar M., a political observer, said that Mr. Rajendran’s entry has disrupted the traditional dynamics. “Rajendran will be an influential factor. His deep relationship with plantation workers and his experience as a three-time MLA are significant advantages. However, the LDF maintains deep roots in Devikulam and the sitting MLA, A. Raja is a people-friendly candidate, and the UDF’s F. Raja benefits from coming from an established political family. For these reasons, this election will be a triangular competition,” Mr. Kumar observed. 

CPI(M) veteran M.M. Mani expressed confidence in an LDF victory. “The Rajendran factor will not affect Raja’s chances. The party gave him many opportunities, but he wanted to remain an MLA indefinitely, which the party opposed. The people see the real picture,” Mr Mani said. 

Meanwhile, Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) general Secretary Ibrahimkutty Kallar argued that local body election results are a clear indicator that the UDF will reclaim the seat. 

Issues remain unaddressed

Despite the political manoeuvring, residents say their core issues remain unaddressed. A 65-year-old man who runs a tea shop on the Munnar-Vattavada route at Yellappetty, said that despite retiring, he still lives in a “layam“ (line housing). “We have elected both parties over the years, but our lives haven’t changed. Owning a home and land is still a distant dream,” he said. But he showers praises on Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for being a “good administrator”. 

Local youths also highlighted persistent problems, including hours-long traffic congestion, the lack of a proper hospital, and limited higher education opportunities in Munnar.