An Independent candidate has been allotted ‘nagara,' the common symbol of the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam, in Srirangam Assembly constituency, from where AIADMK general secretary Jayalalithaa is contesting.
P. Ravi was allotted ‘nagara' after draw of lots. Four Independents had sought the symbol.
The allotment was made notwithstanding objections from the AIADMK.
The DMDK is part of the AIADMK-led alliance. AIADMK advocates and Ms. Jayalalithaa's chief agent submitted a letter to the Returning Officer contending that the symbol should not be allotted to Independents.
Referred to observer
Following protracted discussions with Returning Officer P. Gunasekaran and other officials, the matter was referred to Sumer Singh Gurjar, Election Observer for the constituency.
The officials maintained that as per the Election Commission order the ‘nagara' symbol can be allotted to others in constituencies where the DMDK is not contesting.
Following this, a draw of lots was conducted as Mr.Ravi and three other Independents had sought the nagara symbol.
Ms.Jayalalithaa is pitted against the DMK's N.Anand in the constituency.
A total of 23 candidates are in the fray in the constituency.
