Sizeable presence of religious minorities, increasing domination of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in areas bordering Karnataka, and the perpetual backwardness of the district are key issues that will decide the outcome in the Kasaragod district panchayat elections.
The LDF, which had scripted a hat trick victory in the 2000, 2005 and 2010 elections, is now facing stiff challenge, thanks to the presence of BJP-SNDP tie-up in select pockets and formation of a new Civil Station ward incorporating areas from Kumbla and Chengala divisions where the IUML has an unassailable vote share. Nearly 44 per cent of the district belongs to minority communities (Muslims 37 per cent and Christians 7 per cent as per 2011 census). The way they vote would certainly be a deciding factor in the election, especially given the dominant role that the BJP seeks to play in the district. The nearly 4 per cent Maratha community mostly settled in the remote and hilly hamlets too would play a major role in the poll outcome.
The UDF, which had won six seats in the last poll, is upbeat this time as it hopes to bag the Civil Station ward. It has also set its eyes on Delampady. It is also optimistic about winning the Edaneer division.
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The LDF is betting heavily on the dissensions in the UDF-dominated Chittarikkal. The BJP, on the other hand, is hoping to gain the new generation and neutral votes.