Analyzing the Role of Communal Politics in Shaping Electoral Outcomes: A Case Study of Malappuram District

This article investigates the force of communal politics on electoral results in Malappuram District and how these norms have impacted voting behavior and electoral outcomes over the last 30 years or so in that district. The study explores voter base patterns, the changing party-to-voter allegiances, and the sociopolitical context in which voting takes place with emphasis on the role of religious and communal identities. The analysis in this article demonstrates that communal politics is a key factor for voters based on collective identities. The authors of the article estimate that a substantial amount of voting behavior is driven by collective identities, often supporting identity-based trends in voting behavior. This study uses mixed methods, including a survey of voters, analysis of electoral data over time, as well as interviews with political analysts and community leaders. The article concludes that the force of identity voting remains prevalent in Malappuram District and carries a weight for political elections, campaigns, and governmental priorities.