Alleging that a false complaint of violation of the model code of conduct was registered against its candidate for the Yercaud Assembly seat V. Maran, the DMK on Saturday demanded removal of District Collector and Election Officer K. Maharabushanam, expressing apprehension that the Collector would not conduct the by-election in a fair manner.
Addressing reporters here, party district secretary S.R. Sivalingam criticised the First Information Report (FIR) filed by the Vazhapadi Police against Mr. Maran.
He alleged that the Collector had forced the Vazhapadi Village Administrative Officer P. Ayyanar to file a complaint that was supported by Superintendent of Police R. Sakthivel.
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Mr. Sivalingam said the Collector favoured the ruling party and that the DMK had lost confidence in him. “We will take it up with Chief Electoral Officer Praveen Kumar,” he added.
He also refuted the VAO’s claim that Mr. Maran had used more than ten vehicles during the campaign on October 22. The campaign began only on October 24 at Masanaickenpatti. “There is a huge support for us among the public. Hence, the false case was registered,” he said.
Mr. Sivalingam said “though we have submitted as proof photographs of Health Minister K.C. Veeramani visiting Government Mohan Kumaramangalam Medical College Hospital on October 14, violating the Model Code of Conduct, no action has been taken so far.” Mr. Sivalingam alleged that the Minister had canvassed votes among the patients
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“Now, they have taken action against our candidate without any proof. The issue of the Minister’s visit will once again be taken up with the Election Commission,” he said.
When contacted for his reactions, the Collector refused to comment.