NTK Candidate Alleges Cash and Gift Distribution in Dharapuram
NTK candidate Karthika accuses TVK workers of distributing cash, silver coins, and gifts to voters ahead of the Dharapuram Assembly by-election.
In a dramatic turn of events ahead of the Dharapuram Assembly by-election, Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) candidate Karthika has leveled serious allegations against Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) workers. The candidate claims that voters are being bribed with significant amounts of cash and various luxury items to influence the electoral outcome.
Shocking Claims of Bribery and Gifts
During a heated confrontation at the election office, Karthika detailed the specific items she claims are being used to lure voters. According to the NTK candidate, the distribution includes:
- Cash: Amounts as high as Rs 6,000 per person.
- Household Items: Tiffin boxes.
- Valuables: Silver coins.
- Trophies: A "Victory Cup" used as a promotional gift.
Karthika asserted that she possesses photographic evidence on her mobile phone that proves these transactions are taking place, highlighting the scale of the alleged misconduct.
Allegations of Official Bias and Negligence
The NTK candidate and her party functionaries visited the Dharapuram election office to lodge a formal complaint, expressing deep dissatisfaction with the conduct of the local authorities. Karthika accused Returning Officer Felix Raja of failing to act in a fair and impartial manner.
The party members raised several grievances regarding the administration, including:
- Lack of Responsiveness: Allegations that election officials failed to answer phone calls when incidents of distribution were reported in real-time.
- Selective Enforcement: The NTK members questioned why an NTK banner was removed ahead of the Chief Minister's visit, accusing officials of acting with a clear bias.
- Failure to Seize Materials: Karthika noted that despite the ongoing distribution of cash and gifts, the authorities have failed to seize any of the illegal materials.
Democracy Under Threat
Speaking to reporters after leaving the election office, Karthika expressed grave concerns about the integrity of the democratic process in the constituency. She questioned how a free and fair election could possibly be conducted if such blatant distribution of wealth and gifts is allowed to continue unchecked.
"The issue of protecting democracy should be taken seriously," she stated, emphasizing that the authorities must take immediate action to prevent further interference in the electoral process.
The NTK has confirmed that a formal complaint has also been lodged with the Chief Electoral Officer to ensure the matter is investigated at a higher level.