Idukki: As Kerala prepares for the State Assembly elections on April 9, a pre-poll survey conducted by Citizens Opinion Research and Evaluation (CORE) for Mathrubhumi provides an early glimpse of the political landscape.

The survey shows a closely fought battle in the Idukki Assembly constituency, with United Democratic Front (UDF) candidate Roy K Paulose taking a slight lead. According to the survey, Paulose of the Indian National Congress (INC) commands 46.36% voter support, followed closely by LDF’s Roshy Augustine of the Kerala Congress (M) at 43.56%. The NDA candidate, Adv. Pratheesh Prabha of BDJS stands at 10.08%, giving Paulose a marginal lead of 2.8%.

Also read | Kerala assembly elections: UDF and LDF face tough fights in Idukki, BJP pins hopes on Devikulam

Idukki has traditionally been a stronghold for the UDF, particularly the Congress, thanks to a mix of migrant-centric politics and longstanding communal alliances.

The UDF campaign has gained momentum with the return of Roy K Paulose, contesting after a hiatus of 38 years. His candidacy has injected new energy into the campaign.

Despite this, Roshy Augustine remains a formidable contender. His campaign capitalises on development projects and a personal rapport with voters that have historically helped Left candidates in the region.

The UDF will also need to manage internal discontent, particularly among Kerala Congress cadres, over ceding the seat to their ally, a factor that could influence the final outcome.

With the constituency witnessing such a close battle, the race in Idukki is expected to be one of the most closely watched in the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections.

Polling for the 2026 Kerala Legislative Assembly elections will be held on April 9, with the counting of votes on May 4. The tenure of the current assembly is set to conclude on May 23.