In a closely watched by-election in Kerala’s Nilambur assembly constituency, the Congress has secured a significant win, reclaiming the seat from the Left Democratic Front (LDF). Congress candidate Aryadan Shoukath emerged victorious, defeating CPI(M)’s M Swaraj by approximately 10,000 votes, as counting concluded today.
After winning the bypolls, Shoukath said the victory is “really against the state government.”
“I already said that there is an anti-incumbency. For the past years, Nilambur has been suffering from negligence by the state government. This victory is against Left Government. People of Kerala are suffering and this is the reflection of their
#WATCH | After winning Nilambur Assembly by-elections, Congress’ Aryadan Shoukath says, “This victory is really against the state government. I already said that there is an anti-incumbency. For the past years, Nilambur has been suffering from negligence by the state government.… https://t.co/P68HAzixvn pic.twitter.com/5HZBTBRhIU
— ANI (@ANI) June 23, 2025
The seat was represented by Shoukath’s father, late Congress veteran Aryadan Muhammed, from 1987 to 2016.
The by-election was necessitated following the resignation of two-time MLA P V Anvar, an Independent legislator backed by the CPI(M). Interestingly, Anvar entered the fray once again as an Independent, adding intrigue to the high-stakes contest.
Despite his presence in the race, the battle largely played out between the Congress and CPI(M), with the United Democratic Front (UDF) candidate Shoukath gaining steady momentum throughout the campaign.
High Voter Turnout In Wayanad Stronghold
The Nilambur assembly segment, located in Priyanka Gandhi’s Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency, witnessed an impressive 75.87% voter turnout, reflecting strong public engagement in the electoral process.
This by-election win is seen as a boost for the Congress in Kerala, especially as the state gears up for future electoral battles. The victory reinforces UDF’s presence in the region and marks a symbolic shift from LDF influence in Nilambur.
Aryadan Shoukath, known for his social work and political activism, is expected to be sworn in as MLA shortly.
