The VCK on Monday submitted a representation to the Chief Electoral Officer, seeking re-polling at the polling booths in Ponparappi in the Chidambaram Lok Sabha constituency, on the ground that over 200 Dalits were prevented from casting their vote.
In his representation, VCK president Thol. Thirumavalavan, who is also the party's candidate in the Chidambaram constituency, alleged that over 200 Dalits were prevented by PMK workers from exercising their franchise.
Though he had raised the issue with election officials on the day of polling itself, and had sought re-polling in the booths in Ponparappi, he was told that re-polling cannot be conducted, the VCK leader said.
Citing the First Information Report (FIR) registered in the Senthurai Police Station under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, the Tamil Nadu Property Prevention of Damage and Loss Act, 1992 and the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Women Act, 1998, Mr. Thirumavalavan contended that the atmosphere was not favourable for polling in the booths.
Citing Section 57 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which pertains to adjournment of poll in emergencies, Mr. Thirumavalavan contended that the situation warranted adjournment of polls and further argued that re-polling should be held in the booths at Ponparappi.
When asked about the representation, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Satyabrata Sahoo said a report would be sought from the District Election Officer for taking further action on the issue.
In a representation to the Chief Electoral Officer, the MNM’s candidate for the Perambur Assembly bypoll, U. Priyadarshini, sought re-polling in one of the booths in the Perambur Assembly constituency, citing an incident in which money was allegedly distributed to people by an AIADMK functionary on the night before polling day.