Published May 04, 2026 | 1:25 AM ⚊ Updated May 04, 2026 | 1:25 AM
The United Democratic Front is widely tipped by exit polls to bring an end to Pinarayi Vijayan’s two consecutive terms in office.
Synopsis: Hours before vote counting in Kerala, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has removed his official designation from social media, prompting intrigue online. In a separate development, police seized explosive materials from Dharmadam, currently represented by Vijayan, and registered a case against a local resident.
Just hours before vote counting is set to begin in Kerala on the morning of Monday, 4 May, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan removed the designation “Chief Minister” from his official social media accounts, replacing it with “Politburo member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist),” prompting intrigue among netizens.
The change is being seen by some as a possible hint by the CPI(M) leader at the Assembly election outcome in advance.
The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) is widely tipped by exit polls to return to power after 10 years in opposition, ending Vijayan’s two consecutive terms in office.
Also Read: Kerala gears up for 4 May vote count: 15,000+ officials, 140 centres ready for smooth tallying
In a separate development, police recovered explosive materials from the Dharmadam constituency, currently represented by Vijayan. A case has been registered against a local resident, Nanu.
Acting on a tip-off, a team from the Edakkad Police raided a house in Thannada in the Meppoyil area and seized five country-made bombs and more than three kilograms of explosive powder.
Officials said the materials were allegedly being manufactured under the guise of firecracker production, adding that such illegal activity has increased in the region following restrictions on licensed firecracker shops.
(Edited by Dese Gowda)
