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In a significant conclusion to the eight-year-long legal battle, the Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court on December 12, 2025, sentenced the six primary convicts in the 2017 actor assault case to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment. The convicts, including prime accused Pulsar Suni, were found guilty of gang rape, criminal conspiracy, and kidnapping, with the judge describing the act as a “supreme violation of dignity.” While the court awarded the minimum prescribed sentence for gang rape, it also ordered a compensation of ₹5 lakh to be paid to the survivor. Notably, this sentencing followed the acquittal of actor Dileep on December 8, as the prosecution failed to establish his role in the alleged conspiracy. The Kerala government has already expressed its intention to appeal the acquittal in higher courts, ensuring that the case remains a focal point of public discourse in Thrissur and across the state.

Today, December 13, 2025, the “Krishnaparvam” Kathakali Fest is being held at the Sreebhadram Auditorium in Paliakkara, Thrissur, to celebrate the 84th birthday (Sathabhishekam) of legendary maestro Sadanam Krishnankutty. The day-night event features scholarly talks, demonstrations, and grand performances, including select scenes from the classical play Nalacharitham across all four days of the story. Renowned artists like Kalamandalam Krishnakumar and Margi Vijayakumar are joining the celebrations to honor Krishnankutty’s 68-year-long dedication to the art form. Organised by the Sreebhadram Kalaswadaka Samithi, the fest serves as a prestigious gathering for art connoisseurs in the “Cultural Capital.” This milestone event highlights the maestro’s versatile mastery over various Kathakali characters, from the noble Pacha to the villainous Katthi roles.

Following an explosive attack on a CPM worker in North Punnayur, the Vadakkekad police have arrested two UDF activists, identified as Azeez and Ashraf. The incident occurred late Thursday night when the accused allegedly hurled a crude explosive (gundu) at Ibrahim Babu while he was standing in his courtyard, resulting in an eye injury. Authorities reported that the attackers created a “terror-like atmosphere” in the area, even targeting a ward member earlier that evening. Both individuals have been remanded by the court as part of the police crackdown on election-related violence. Security remains heightened in the region to prevent further clashes as counting for the local body elections continues today.

To ensure public order during the high-stakes local body election counting, Thrissur district has been placed under a comprehensive security blanket with over 2,000 police personnel deployed at key centers. A mandatory “Dry Day” is in effect across the city, prohibiting the sale and distribution of alcohol to prevent any untoward incidents during political celebrations. Special strike forces are patrolling sensitive areas, particularly around the Swaraj Round and counting stations like the Government Engineering College. Prohibitory orders have also been issued for victory rallies in specific wards to maintain communal and political harmony. Authorities have warned of strict legal action against anyone found violating these safety protocols or engaging in provocative behavior.

In a historic shift for the “Cultural Capital,” early counting trends show the UDF (United Democratic Front) poised to reclaim the Thrissur Corporation after a ten-year hiatus. The coalition is leading in a significant majority of the 55 wards, effectively ending the LDF’s long-standing dominance in the civic body. This resurgence is being viewed as a major political comeback, largely attributed to localized campaigning and a focus on urban infrastructure issues. As celebrations erupt across the Swaraj Round, security has been tightened to ensure victory marches remain peaceful. The final official declaration is expected by late evening, potentially marking a new era for Thrissur’s municipal administration.