CEO seeks reports from DGP, collector on ‘cash-for-vote’ video

Chennai: Chief electoral officer Satyabrata Sahoo has sought reports from DGP C Sylendra Babu and Erode district collector H Krishnanunni, who is also the district election officer, in response to the BJP’s petition seeking action against the alleged plan of the DMK to distribute cash to secure votes in Erode East assembly constituency.The party had submitted a pen drive to the CEO on the alleged interaction between minister K N Nehru and Congress candidate E V K S Elangovan on the ‘DMK front’s plan to distribute money’ at an all-party meeting in the constituency recently. “The CEO has asked for reports on the complaint given by the BJP. Action will be initiated upon receiving reports,” a source said. The BJP had alleged that the recorded clippings were proof of gross abuse of power by senior ministers, holding constitutional posts. It urged the Election Commission to ensure that the election was held in a free and fair manner.