Administrative and Geographical Composition
The Irikkur Assembly Constituency is made up of rural and semi-urban areas with lively local communities. It includes the Taliparamba Taluk Panchayats of Chengalayi, Eruvassy, Irikkur, Payyavoor, Sreekandapuram, Alakode, Naduvil, Udayagiri, and Ulikkal, with the vast majority of the land being used for agriculture.
Voter Participation and the Electorate
There were around 195,695 registered voters in the Irikkur seat in the 2021 Kerala Legislative Assembly election (including general, abroad, and service electors). There was a voter turnout of roughly 78%, showcasing the deep political affiliations.
Election History and Political Representation
Since its founding, Irikkur has been a political arena with a strong leaning towards the INC. Senior Congress leader KC Joseph represented Irikkur from 1982 to 2016. In the 2021 assembly election, Adv. Sajeev Joseph (INC) of UDF won the seat defeating LDF's Kerala Congress (M) candidate by a wide majority. The Kannur Lok Sabha Constituency, of which Irikkur is a part, is represented in the Parliament by K Sudhakaran of the Indian National Congress (INC).
Results of the 2021 Legislative Assembly Election
Adv. Sajeev Joseph of the Indian National Congress (INC) won the 2021 Kerala Assembly election in Irikkur with 76,764 votes, while his closest opponent, Saji Kuttiyanimattam of the Kerala Congress (M), received 66,754 votes, according to official figures from the Election Commission. Other contenders, such as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), along with NOTA, shared the remaining votes. With a margin of 10,010 votes, or roughly 6.56% of the total votes cast, Adv. Sajeev Joseph won the election, confirming the strong support of the United Democratic Front (UDF) in the Irikkur Assembly Constituency.
Key Attractions and Hotspots
- Paithalmala Hills, a steep location with rich vegetation and expansive views, is one of the area's most famous natural attractions. Paithalmala is a popular destination in northern Kerala for hikers and environmental lovers due to its beautiful trails and pleasant climate.
- Palakkayam Thattu, is situated in the foothills of the Western Ghats and is renowned for its tranquil surroundings and thrilling hiking paths. Picnics, treks, and immersive outdoor experiences are the main draws for visitors.
- Kanjirakolli and Kappimala, picturesque small locations, which are frequently less well-known but have a wealth of natural beauty, provide peaceful settings as well as chances for ecotourism, bird watching, and rural exploration.
- Mamanikkunnu Sri Mahadevi Temple, a well-known religious monument in the constituency that draws devotees and represents the cultural legacy of the area.
Important Issues & Development Concerns
- Infrastructure Development concerns
- Youth Employment and Engagement
- Sustainable Tourism
(Sreya Prasad)
