‘Star’ names Major Ravi and Pisharody launch campaigns

KOCHI: Two ‘star’ candidates — Ramesh Pisharody of UDF and Major Ravi of NDA — have begun their election campaigns in Palakkad.Expressing confidence of a UDF win, Pisharody said that it was a homecoming for him.

“I am really glad to contest as a Congress candidate on its official symbol. I am a native of Kuzhalmannam in Palakkad.

We moved to Kochi after my father joined a paper company at Velloor following his retirement from the air force,” Pisharody said.He told reporters that he does not have a specific strategy for the election campaign. “I don’t need to introduce myself to people. I believe this will help me a lot compared to other candidates,” he said.

Pisharody clarified that he never backed Palakkad MLA Rahul Mamkootathil after police booked him in a sexual assault case.Meanwhile, Major Ravi, who is the NDA candidate from Ottapalam, is set to organize a major roadshow on Friday. “I am grateful at the warm reception at Ottapalam and the energetic road show in the assembly constituency yesterday (Wednesday). Thanks to BJP supporters and the public for their support. Let’s work together to make Ottapalam a better place for all,” Major Ravi said. Addressing voters, he said that if he wins, he will guarantee he will convince Prime Minister Narendra Modi to help in the development programmes in his constituency.

Elections 2026 mark a pivotal year for democratic processes across various regions in India and globally. This includes key state assembly elections, local body polls, and by-elections that could significantly impact national-level politics. Get real-time updates, important dates, voting procedures, and verified news — all in one place. Whether you're tracking results or exploring candidate profiles, this is your go-to hub for Elections 2026.