Palakkad, April 4 -- The Palakkad Assembly constituency is arguably the most high-profile and unpredictable seat in the April 2026 Kerala Assembly Elections.

Known as the "Gateway to Kerala," it has shifted from a traditional UDF-LDF toss-up into a fierce three-way battleground where the BJP now holds significant municipal power.

Palakkad is unique in Kerala for its urban-rural mix and its proximity to the Tamil Nadu border, which influences its linguistic and cultural makeup.

From the United Democratic Front, Ramesh Pisharody, a popular actor and television personality, has been fielded in their stronghold.

Pisharody's candidacy marks a strategic shift for the Congress party following the suspension of the incumbent MLA, Rahul Mamkoo...