MALAPPURAM: The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has once again demonstrated its dominance in the Malappuram assembly constituency, with P K Kunhalikutty securing a decisive victory in the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections. Kunhalikutty garnered 131,632 votes, reaffirming the party's stronghold in this crucial seat.
Constituency Profile
The Malappuram assembly constituency, ranked 40th among Kerala's 140 legislative seats, is a key part of the Malappuram Lok Sabha constituency. It encompasses the Malappuram Municipality and grama panchayats such as Marakkara and Vengara. With over 220,000 registered voters, the constituency has a predominantly Muslim demographic and consistently records voter turnout exceeding 78 percent.
Historical Election Performance
In the 2021 Kerala Assembly elections, IUML's P Ubaidulla won with 91,202 votes (55.2 percent), defeating CPI(M)'s P Abdul Rahman, who secured 56,994 votes (34.4 percent), by a margin of 34,208 votes. The 2016 election saw IUML's UA Latheef triumph with 88,248 votes (approximately 58 percent), beating the Left Democratic Front (LDF) candidate by over 37,000 votes. These victories underscore the IUML's unchallenged reign in Malappuram since the 1960s, barring a few interruptions.
2026 Election Dynamics
The 2026 election witnessed a fierce contest, with the LDF and National Democratic Alliance (NDA) attempting to disrupt the IUML's stronghold. However, deep-rooted community loyalty and the party's focus on development agendas ensured Kunhalikutty's victory. The high voter turnout reflected the electorate's engagement with issues such as minority aspirations and infrastructure development.
Key Factors Behind IUML's Success
- Community Loyalty: The Muslim-majority constituency has historically supported the IUML, which champions minority rights.
- Development Initiatives: The party's emphasis on local infrastructure and welfare schemes resonated with voters.
- Strong Candidate: P K Kunhalikutty, a veteran leader, brought experience and credibility to the campaign.
Implications for Kerala Politics
Kunhalikutty's victory cements the IUML's position as a linchpin of the United Democratic Front (UDF) in northern Kerala. As the state gears up for future electoral battles, Malappuram remains a citadel for the UDF, shaping the broader political narrative in Kerala.
Follow the latest election results 2026, live updates, winner lists, constituency-wise results, party-wise trends and full coverage for Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Kerala, Assam and Puducherry elections on Times of India.
