Wealth divide widens as candidates like Rajeev Chandrasekhar and P V Anvar feature among top earners
April 7, 2026: As Kerala heads into the Assembly elections, an analysis of 863 candidates across 140 constituencies reveals a sharp disparity in declared assets, ranging from modest incomes to massive wealth. Nearly 39% of candidates fall in the crorepati category in 2026, marking a significant rise from 27% in the 2021 elections. Out of the total candidates analysed, 221 have declared assets exceeding ₹1 crore, reflecting a growing trend of wealthy contestants in the state’s political landscape.
Among the richest candidates, Reji Cheriyan tops the list with assets exceeding ₹218 crore, largely comprising immovable properties. He is followed by BJP candidate Chenkal Rajasekharan, a hotelier and educationist with assets worth ₹116 crore. Senior BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar ranks third with ₹111 crore, driven mainly by investments such as shares, bonds, and business holdings. Kerala Congress candidate Shibu Theckumpuram has declared assets of over ₹68 crore.
Rounding out the top five is P V Anvar with assets exceeding ₹65 crore. The data highlights the widening financial gap among candidates contesting the elections, underlining how economic strength continues to play a significant role in shaping electoral competition in one of India’s most politically engaged states.