Votes for the 2026 Assembly elections are being counted on Monday, with results expected in the coming hours. Early trends from Kerala place Kalpetta among the most closely watched constituencies, where UDF candidate T. Siddique has taken an initial lead of over 2,500 votes by 9 a.m.

Kalpetta is witnessing a three-cornered contest. Sitting MLA T. Siddique represents the Congress-led UDF, seeking a second term. He is challenged by P.K. Anilkumar of the RJD, contesting under the LDF banner, and NDA candidate Prasanth Malavayal of the BJP.

Initial counting indicates Siddique ahead, though margins remain fluid as rounds progress.

Campaign shaped by outreach and local identity

The campaign period saw contrasting strategies. Siddique focused on extensive grassroots outreach, combining public receptions with direct visits to households. His messaging centred on education support initiatives and long-pending infrastructure demands in Wayanad.

Anilkumar projected himself as a local figure with deep roots, relying on familiarity with voters and highlighting the LDF government's record, including rehabilitation efforts and development claims.

Malavayal adopted a quieter campaign, prioritising small-scale interactions and positioning himself as an alternative to both dominant fronts, while raising issues such as transport gaps and plantation distress.

Landslide rehabilitation dominates political narrative

The Mundakkai-Chooralmala landslide, which caused significant loss of life, remained central to the campaign. Rehabilitation efforts became a key political flashpoint, with both UDF and LDF presenting competing narratives on delivery and delays. The partially completed township project and concerns over exclusions from beneficiary lists featured prominently in voter discussions.