Kerala assembly election results 2026: Congress’ Christian candidate VS Joy wins in Muslim-dominated Malappuram

MALAPPURAM: Congress’ Christian candidate V S Joy has made history by winning the Thavanur Assembly seat in Malappuram district, a region traditionally regarded as a Muslim stronghold.Joy’s victory is being viewed as a significant political milestone, especially in Thavanur, where K T Jaleel, contesting as an Independent, had maintained a stronghold since 2011. The result is also being interpreted as a reflection of shifting electoral dynamics in the constituency.Senior IUML leader P K Kunhalikutty hailed the win as a “remarkable achievement,” calling it an example of Kerala’s enduring secular values. He said the outcome underlined the inclusive nature of the electorate in the state.Kunhalikutty, who contested from Malappuram constituency, also expressed confidence that the United Democratic Front (UDF) would secure around 100 seats in the Assembly, indicating a strong showing for the Congress-led alliance.“The Congress, which leads the UDF, will initiate discussions. Later, there will be talks with all ally parties. That is the procedure followed, and further steps will be taken accordingly,” he said.As counting trends continue to unfold, Joy’s win in Thavanur stands out as one of the most symbolic victories of the election, highlighting both a political shift and the resilience of secular politics in Kerala.