Thiruvananthapuram ,21 Dec (H.S.):The fifth edition of the Loka Kerala Sabha will be held in January 2026, with the event scheduled across three days—January 29, 30, and 31.

The inaugural ceremony will take place on January 29 at the Nishagandhi Auditorium in Thiruvananthapuram.

Following the opening ceremony, the plenary sessions and discussions will be held on January 30 and 31 at the Shankaranarayanan Thampi Hall in the State Legislative Assembly complex.

This edition marks the final Loka Kerala Sabha to be convened during the tenure of the second Pinarayi Vijayan government.

Interestingly, the dates coincide with the period of the Legislative Assembly’s budget session.

The Assembly will be given leave during this period to allow the premises to be used as a venue for the Sabha. Government estimates suggest that around ₹10 crore will be spent from the state treasury to organise the event.

The announcement of the schedule comes amid persistent criticism from the Opposition. Opposition parties have repeatedly questioned the relevance and benefits of the Sabha to the Non-Resident Keralite community, arguing that the initiative offers little tangible outcome.

With the state currently facing a severe financial crunch, the Opposition is expected to intensify protests over the expenditure and timing of this edition of the Loka Kerala Sabha.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman