The DMK, known for its history of alleged electoral malpractices, faces serious allegations as an Assistant Expenditure Observer (AEO), P Saravanan, in the Nilgiris Lok Sabha constituency, wrote to Tamil Nadu’s Chief Electoral Officer, Satyabrata Sahoo, alleging coercion to reduce the recorded expenditure of DMK candidate A Raja. Saravanan claimed discrepancies in the shadow observation register (SOR), indicating a significant difference in Raja’s expenditure.
The accusations come amidst a charged electoral atmosphere in Coimbatore, where BJP leader Annamalai is reportedly gaining ground. Sensing defeat, A Raja and the DMK are allegedly attempting to sow chaos and confusion. CM Stalin’s son-in-law, Sabareean, has been actively involved in the campaigning and distribution of cash and gifts in the constituency.
However, M Aruna, the Returning Officer and DM of Nilgiris, denied the allegations, stating that Saravanan is one of six AEOs monitoring candidate expenditure. Aruna refuted claims of pressuring Saravanan to lower Raja’s expenditure, attributing any discrepancies to errors in the records.
According to the election expenditure report, there is a significant disparity of Rs 41,00,649 between Raja’s expenditure register and the SOR, with expenses cited for items such as flags, pamphlets, and mike sets. Raja disputed the expenses listed in the SOR and called for a fair determination of the amount. Similarly, there was a Rs 12,78,528 difference in the expenditure records of BJP candidate L Murugan.
The Election Commission of India has set a maximum expenditure limit of Rs 95 lakh for each Lok Sabha candidate. The discrepancies raise concerns about transparency and fairness in the electoral process, prompting calls for a thorough investigation and accountability.
Saravanan alleged that the RO repeatedly harassed him to reduce the expenditure recorded in the shadow observation register (SOR) for Raja. He accused the RO of acting as a mouthpiece for the candidate and intimidating him into altering expenditure amounts. Saravanan claimed that on April 9, all records related to Raja’s expenditure were forcibly taken from him, and he was warned to comply under threat of violence.
Expressing concern over the violation of his rights as an AEO, Saravanan appealed for urgent intervention from the Election Commission to ensure a free and fair election process. CEO Satyabrata Sahoo acknowledged the issue and stated that further steps would be taken based on reports from concerned officials.
The allegations shed light on the lengths to which the DMK allegedly goes to secure victory for its star candidates, employing tactics of intimidation and coercion. Reports suggest that government officials are lured by cash offers, promotions, and favourable transfers to support the party’s agenda.
In a related incident, last month, an election flying squad officer was suspended for laxity in duty while inspecting DMK candidate A Raja’s cavalcade, which reportedly contained several suitcases and holdalls. The decision was made following a personal spot inquiry by the expenditure observer and an examination of videos showing casual and superficial checking by the flying squad team.
These developments have raised concerns among opposition leaders, who advocate for the appointment of poll officers from other states and the deployment of paramilitary forces to prevent electoral fraud. Some government employees, disillusioned by unaddressed grievances despite supporting the DMK in previous elections, have expressed regret over their decision.
The allegations underscore the need for stringent measures to uphold electoral integrity and prevent undue influence in the democratic process. As the state gears up for upcoming polls, authorities are urged to ensure transparency, accountability, and fairness to uphold the sanctity of democracy.
