Kochi, Dec. 9 -- Polling in the 10th ward of Pampakuda Grama Panchayat has been postponed after Congress candidate C S Babu passed away unexpectedly early on Tuesday, prompting an immediate halt to the election process.
The 59-year-old candidate reportedly collapsed at his residence around 3 am this morning. Despite immediate medical attention and being rushed to a nearby hospital, he was declared dead. Authorities have stated that the exact cause of death is under investigation.
In accordance with election rules, the District Election Officer announced that polling in the 10th ward cannot proceed as scheduled. However, elections for the remaining wards of Pampakuda Panchayat, as well as block and district panchayat elections in the area,...