Ruling LDF clear leader in Kerala local body polls, BJP makes few gains

The ruling CPI(M)-led LDF in Kerala on Wednesday appeared to make a sweep of the local body polls in the state, while the BJP seemed to have made some gains, leading in Pandalam, the centre of protests against women's entry into Sabarimala, among others.

The Left front was leading in 514 grama panchayats, five corporations and 11 district panchayats, prompting Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to attribute the good show to the people of the state.

Opposition Congress-led UDF was in the second spot, leading in over 400 local bodies.

The Left front is also ahead in 108 block panchayats, Vijayan