Kozhikode | The hearing in the High Court will begin on the 26th of this month in the petition filed challenging the victory of Muslim League’s Najib Kanthapuram in the Perinthalmanna constituency in the last assembly elections. The court heard the case on September 14 after Ona Vadhi and adjourned it to September 26. The case was moved after Najeeb Kanthapuram’s lawyer sought more time. KPM Mustafa Adv. Approached the High Court through S Sreekumar. Adv. Krishnanunni appeared for Najeeb Kanthapuram.
Najeeb Kanthapuram won by 38 votes over the LDF independent candidate Mustafa in the Perinthalmanna constituency, where the League had a majority of more than 16,000 in the past. Postal votes of those over 80 were set aside during counting due to lack of serial number and signature. As the UDF candidate came close to victory, the LDF requested in writing that these votes should be counted, but the returning officer refused.
The Electoral Officer informed that if there is a complaint, he can approach the court. Due to various reasons including Corona, the case was considered for a long time and the verdict in the case was delayed. Meanwhile, Justice K Haripal, who was supposed to hear the case, retired from the High Court. A bench comprising Justice Badruddin is now hearing the case.