Tiruppur, April 20, 2026: With the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections scheduled for April 23 fast approaching, allegations of a new QR code-based voter inducement system have surfaced in Tiruppur (South), raising serious concerns over electoral integrity.
According to ground inputs, operatives linked to the DMK and CM Stalin’s network are allegedly distributing printed vouchers embedded with QR codes to voters. These slips are reportedly handed out in the morning, with voter details such as voter ID and system generated serial number mapped through a backend software system.
The voter slips are allegedly being distributed by DMK cadre along with an Rs 8,000 voucher card, a UPI-linked QR code, and an EC voter slip. The Rs 8,000 voucher card is reportedly to be redeemed if the DMK comes into power, the UPI-linked QR code is said to be used before election day, and the voter slip is intended for use on voting day.
Verification and Direct Cash Transfers
Later in the day, another set of individuals—allegedly associated with the DMK contestans family—visit the same households to verify the QR codes. Upon confirmation, cash payments are made directly to voters, after which the slips are collected back.
This system is being described as a “sophisticated and scientific” method aimed at ensuring payments reach the intended voter while maintaining traceability and minimising leakages through middlemen.
This method is also perceived as threatening the recipients and forcing them to vote only for the DMK; otherwise, they may face intimidation.
Candidate Background and Political Context
The controversy centres around DMK candidate Dinesh Kumar, who resigned from his post as Mayor to contest from Tiruppur (South). The seat was earlier held by sitting DMK MLA Selvaraj, against whom allegations of corruption have been widely discussed at the local level.
Illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya Presence Raises Alarm
Parallel concerns are being raised over the presence of illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya settlements in Tiruppur.
In a recent development, police arrested several individuals found in possession of fake Aadhaar and voter ID cards, allegedly linked to illegal infiltrators.
These developments have triggered serious concerns over internal security and the integrity of the electoral process, with critics warning that such trends could undermine the functioning of the democratic election system.
