KOZHIKODE: In what could be a seismic shift in North Kerala’s political landscape, a new survey report by renowned election strategist Sunil Kanugolu suggests a massive wave in favor of the United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kozhikode district for the upcoming Assembly elections.
The report, which has sent shockwaves through the ruling camp, predicts that the UDF is poised to capture 12 out of the 13 legislative seats in the district. This would be a dramatic reversal from the 2021 results, where the Left Democratic Front (LDF) maintained a dominant hold over the region.
The ‘Anvar Factor’ in Beypore
The most sensational finding of the Kanugolu report is the prediction for the Beypore constituency. Traditionally considered an impregnable fortress of the LDF—currently represented by Public Works Minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas—the survey suggests a historic upset.
According to the data, P.V. Anvar, the former Nilambur MLA who recently parted ways with the LDF to form his own political platform, is expected to clinch victory in Beypore. The report attributes this potential “giant-killing” to:
Anvar’s aggressive grassroots campaigning.
A consolidation of minority votes and anti-incumbency sentiments.
Internal fractures within the local LDF cadre following recent political controversies.Widespread Anti-Incumbency
The survey highlights a “suffocating” level of anti-incumbency against the state government across Kozhikode. Voted out in several traditional strongholds last time, the UDF is now seeing a resurgence in voter trust. The report indicates that even in constituencies where the LDF won by huge margins in the previous election, there is a visible shift in the “mood of the voter.”
Key Takeaways from the Report:
Category Forecast
Total Seats in Kozhikode 13
Predicted UDF Wins 12
Major Upset Beypore (P.V. Anvar victory)
Primary Driver Strong Anti-Government Sentiment
