Actor Anjali Nair, the NDA candidate from Thripunithura Assembly constituency, had her petition to change her name on ballot labels and EVMs from ‘Anjali P.V.’ to ‘Anjali Nair’ rejected on Saturday, April 4, 2026. Returning Officer Rakesh V.R. issued the order following directions from the Kerala High Court to decide urgently. She argued that the screen name would prevent voter confusion.
Anjali Nair, an actor contesting as the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate from the Thripunithura Assembly constituency, filed her nomination on March 23 under the name ‘Anjali P.V.’ as per the electoral roll. She sought to use her widely recognised screen name ‘Anjali Nair’ on ballot labels and electronic voting machines (EVMs), arguing it matched her campaign materials and would avoid confusing voters.
The Kerala High Court directed the Returning Officer to urgently consider the plea. Rakesh V.R., the Returning Officer, rejected it on April 4, 2026, citing procedural rules.
Under Rule 8(2) of the Conduct of Election Rules, such requests must be made before the finalisation of the list of candidates, the order stated. With postal and home voting already underway, altering EVMs was administratively impossible, it added. Photographs and party symbols on ballots would minimise any risk of voter confusion, the Returning Officer noted.
The Twenty20 party alleged in a statement that the rejection stemmed from political motives. The candidate said she would consult her party before deciding on next steps.
