UDF Candidate Fathima Thahiliya Faces Heat In Kozhikode Over Strong Room Controversy
Kozhikode: A fresh political controversy has erupted in Kerala’s Kozhikode district, placing UDF candidate Fathima Thahiliya at the centre of criticism following the opening of a store room near a strong room at the counting centre.
The incident has triggered sharp reactions within both the United Democratic Front (UDF) and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), with leaders expressing deep dissatisfaction over her handling of the situation.
The controversy began after officials, led by the Perambra returning officer, opened a store room adjacent to the strong room at JDT Islam School, where voting machines from multiple constituencies are kept under tight security.
The move quickly sparked protests from UDF leaders, who alleged that the room was opened without informing candidates or their agents, raising concerns over transparency and election protocol.
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However, the situation took a turn when Fathima Thahiliya revealed that she had been informed about the opening of the store room earlier in the morning.
This disclosure reportedly upset UDF leadership, as she had not shared the information with key leaders, including district Congress leadership and League officials, before heading to the counting centre.
Senior leaders within the IUML, including district president M. A. Razak, did not hide their displeasure.
He indicated that Thahiliya may have acted in haste without proper consultation, stressing the need for better coordination in sensitive election matters.
Similarly, DCC president K. Praveen Kumar expressed concern and hinted at strong protest measures demanding accountability from election authorities.
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The incident has also escalated administratively, with complaints filed against the returning officer. The State Chief Electoral Officer has sought a detailed report from the district administration, signalling the seriousness of the issue.
The strong room facility at JDT Islam School houses voting machines from several constituencies, including Koyilandy, Kundamangalam, Kozhikode North, Kozhikode South, Perambra, and Balussery.
A public viewing system installed for monitoring reportedly captured the store room being opened, which alerted party workers and triggered the controversy.
(With inputs from Mathrubhumi News)
