Manjeshwar election: Former Kerala BJP chief K Surendran loses to UDF’s Ashraf by over 29,000 votes

Counting in the Manjeshwar Assembly constituency concluded with A K M Ashraf of the UDF declared winner. K Surendran of the NDA finished second, while K R Jayananda of the LDF came third.

A K M Ashraf secured 96,948 votes and won the seat. He defeated his nearest rival, K Surendran, by a margin of 29,252 votes.

K Surendran polled 67,696 votes, finishing second for the NDA. K R Jayananda of the LDF secured 21,212 votes.

The campaign began on a tense note after a smaller party withdrew its candidate amid concerns over a split in minority votes. The IUML focused on governance issues and national policy debates, while the BJP foregrounded development and regional growth. The LDF positioned itself around welfare measures and outreach to linguistic minorities, including Kannadiga voters in this border constituency.

What shaped the campaign

Manjeshwar’s voter base has expanded by around 8,400 following a recent revision, altering local calculations. Reports from the ground indicated a rise in minority voters, which could influence the outcome. At the same time, disruptions in international travel linked to the West Asian situation were seen as a factor that might affect turnout among overseas voters.

Local issues also featured prominently. Ashraf’s interventions on infrastructure concerns, including toll-related matters on National Highway 66, were highlighted during the campaign. Meanwhile, sections of Kannadiga voters were seen weighing their options amid competing outreach efforts.

Past results and current outlook

The constituency has a history of narrow margins. In 2021, Ashraf defeated Surendran by a slim margin after a high turnout of around 77%. In 2016, the BJP had lost the seat by just 89 votes.

A pre-poll projection by Mathrubhumi indicated a lead for the UDF, placing Ashraf ahead with 40.54% support, followed by Surendran at 37.1% and Jayananda at 22.36%. 

Manjeshwar remained one of the seats closely watched sear as Kerala’s electoral verdict unfolded.