History of LSGI
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Sreekantapuram, located in Kannur district of Kerala, has a rich historical legacy dating back to ancient times. The region was part of the territory ruled by the Mooshika Dynasty. Historical traditions suggest that the name “Sreekantapuram” is derived from a Mushika ruler named Sreekanthan, under whose reign the settlement developed as an important habitation.
Situated along the banks of the Valapattanam River, the area emerged as a strategic inland settlement connected to trade and cultural routes of North Malabar.
Sreekantapuram is considered one of the early centres of the spread of Islam in Kerala, alongside historic locations like Kodungallur. Oral and historical accounts indicate that the arrival of Islam in this region dates back to the period of Prophet Muhammad.
Tradition associates the spread of Islam in this region with Malik Dinar and his companions, who are believed to have travelled through the Valapattanam river route and established early mosques in nearby areas such as Pazhayangadi. The presence of ancient illams (traditional family settlements) like Kunnathillam, Bappanillam, Melakillam, and Thuyyadillam reflects the socio-political structure of the region during early periods.
The area also preserves the cultural heritage of North Kerala, including traditional art forms such as Theyyam and a long-standing tradition of communal harmony.
Colonial and Pre-Independence Phase
Sreekantapuram and its surrounding areas were part of the larger Malabar region that came under various ruling powers, including local chieftains and later colonial administration. The region also witnessed socio-political movements, including agrarian struggles such as the Kavumbai protest, reflecting resistance against feudal systems and colonial influences.
The modern administrative history of Sreekantapuram began with the implementation of the Madras Village Panchayats Act in 1955. During this period, the region comprised three Grama Panchayats—Sreekantapuram, Nediyenga, and Kanjileri.
With the enactment of the Kerala Panchayat Raj Act, these panchayats were merged to form a unified Sreekantapuram Grama Panchayat. The first Panchayat election was conducted in 1962, marking the beginning of democratic decentralised governance in the area, with Sri N. C. Varghese serving as the first Panchayat President.
Formation of Municipality (2015)
A major milestone in the administrative evolution was achieved on 1 November 2015, when Sreekantapuram was upgraded to a Municipality. Today, it is a Grade III Municipality with 31 wards, functioning under the framework of Kerala’s urban local self-government system.
The Municipality is part of the Taliparamba Taluk and falls within the Irikkur Assembly Constituency of the Kannur Lok Sabha constituency.
Contemporary Significance
In the present day, Sreekantapuram Municipality stands as a growing urban centre in eastern Kannur, known for:
Strong local governance and civic administration
Educational institutions and public infrastructure
Agricultural prominence, especially rubber cultivation
Cultural heritage and social harmony
Its transformation from an ancient settlement under dynastic rule to a modern municipality reflects the broader evolution of local self-governance in Kerala.
Major educational institutions
S.E.S. College, Sreekantapuram
Srikantapuram Government Higher Secondary School
Marygiri Senior Secondary School
Sal Sabeel English Medium School
Sreekantapuram Public School
P.K. M. B. Ed College, Madambam
Kottur Government ITI, Srikantapuram
Little Flower School, Kottoor
Nedungom Government Higher Secondary School
Major government institutions
Municipal Office, Sreekantapuram
Village Office, Sreekantapuram
Police Station, Sreekantapuram
Excise Range Office, Sreekantapuram
Post Office, Srikanthapuram
Sub-Treasury, Srikanthapuram
Sub-Registrar's Office, Sreekantapuram
KSEB Electrical Circle Office, Srikanthapuram
Krishi Bhavan, Sreekantapuram
Irikkur MLA Office, Sreekantapuram
BSNL Telephone Exchange Office, Srikantapuram
Government Higher Secondary School, Sreekantapuram
Community Hall, Srikanthapuram
