PERINTHALMANNA: In a significant electoral outcome, IUML's Najeeb Kanthapuram has secured a decisive victory in the Perinthalmanna Assembly constituency in the 2026 Kerala elections, garnering 1,04,888 votes. This win reinforces the Indian Union Muslim League's stronghold in this crucial seat located in the Malappuram district.
Constituency Overview
Perinthalmanna is the 38th seat in Kerala's 140-member legislative assembly and forms an integral part of the Malappuram Lok Sabha segment. Known for its vibrant political contests, the constituency attracts over 200,000 voters from diverse communities, including a significant Muslim population. Voter turnout has consistently exceeded 74 percent in recent elections, reflecting high political engagement. The constituency encompasses Perinthalmanna Municipality and surrounding panchayats, and it is a general seat that mirrors the intense rivalry between the United Democratic Front (UDF) and the Left Democratic Front (LDF), typical of north Kerala politics.
Historical Election Results
In the 2021 Kerala Assembly polls, Najeeb Kanthapuram had won with 76,530 votes, securing 46.2 percent of the vote share. His victory margin was narrow, amidst heightened competition from 215,000 electors. The 2016 election saw IUML's K.P. Najeeb also victorious with approximately 68,000 votes (44.5 percent), defeating CPI(M)-backed candidates by over 10,000 votes from nearly 190,000 voters. These results underscore the razor-thin margins that characterize this seat and the resilient hold of the IUML despite LDF inroads.
Political Dynamics and 2026 Context
As the 2026 elections approached, Perinthalmanna remained a high-stakes arena. The IUML's organizational prowess faced aggressive pushes from the LDF on development and welfare issues. Local dynamics, including minority consolidation and urban growth, played a decisive role in shaping the electoral outcome. Najeeb Kanthapuram's victory with 1,04,888 votes not only highlights his personal popularity but also the party's ability to mobilize its base effectively. The LDF, despite its efforts, could not overturn the UDF's advantage in this constituency.
The 2026 election results across Kerala have been closely watched, with Perinthalmanna being a key battleground. The IUML's win here is a boost for the UDF alliance, as the party continues to be a dominant force in Malappuram district. The high voter turnout and the clear mandate for Najeeb Kanthapuram indicate that the electorate prioritized stability and representation over alternative narratives.
Follow the latest election results 2026, live updates, winner lists, constituency-wise results, party-wise trends and full coverage for Tamil Nadu election results, West Bengal election results, Kerala election results, Assam election results and Puducherry election results on Times of India.
