Kerala elections 2026: Officials probe IUML leader’s ‘free Gulf trip’ reward for voters

Malappuram: A controversial announcement by IUML state vice president C P Bava Haji has drawn attention in poll-bound Kerala. During an election convention in Thavanur, Bava Haji offered a 15-day free Gulf trip to local party functionaries, including mandalam and panchayat committee office-bearers, if they helped secure the highest vote margin for UDF candidate and District Congress Committee president V S Joy.

The package reportedly included return travel tickets, accommodation, and other expenses. Bava Haji urged party workers to focus on their respective booths and maximise the vote margin for the candidate.

Officials, including Malappuram District Collector Vinay Goyal, said the matter had come to their notice and further details were being collected. “I have talked to the district police chief. Further action will be decided after collecting more information and details,” Goyal stated. The incident is expected to be examined under election rules before any action is taken.

UDF sources clarified that the offer targeted party workers, not voters, aiming to maximise support for the candidate. V S Joy is contesting the Thavanur seat against sitting LDF independent MLA K T Jaleel in the April 9 polls.