Mananthavady in Kerala’s Wayanad district is witnessing a high-stakes triangular contest as the Assembly elections approach. Sitting MLA O R Kelu of the LDF is seeking a third straight term, banking on a decade of development and welfare initiatives. The UDF’s Usha Vijayan is challenging the development narrative, highlighting gaps in healthcare and basic amenities, especially in tribal areas. Meanwhile, BJP candidate P Shyam Raj is pitching a fresh alternative, alleging neglect by both fronts and promising better implementation of central schemes.