TVK flags DMK ‘coupon’ campaign as poll violation

Trichy: Actor Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has objected to the DMK's campaign promoting its proposed Illatharasi scheme, alleging that coupon-style flyers are misleading voters and violate poll norms.The scheme promises ₹8,000 coupons to eligible families to purchase household appliances. TVK claimed the distribution of model coupons in rural areas is aimed at influencing women voters and urged the Election Commission of India (ECI) to treat it as a violation. DMK said it had obtained prior permission from the ECI for the campaign material. In rural areas, DMK workers are distributing flyers and pamphlets promoting alliance candidates. In Thirumalaisamudram panchayat in the Srirangam segment, workers circulated material highlighting six key manifesto promises along with a separate coupon-themed flyer listing products that could be purchased under the Illatharasi scheme. They also explained to women how the ₹8,000 token could be used to buy appliances such as televisions, washing machines, refrigerators and induction stoves. "The coupons are confusing rural women and encouraging them to support DMK. Even our leader has promised 8 grams of gold as marriage assistance—will the ECI allow us to distribute imitation jewellery to promote that?" said TVK's Srirangam candidate S Ramesh. Tensions were reported in Kumbakonam, where TVK functionaries allegedly tried to stop DMK workers from distributing the pamphlets, leading to a clash. A DMK functionary maintained that the coupons were only illustrative. "The scheme has not been implemented yet. There are no tie-ups with brands or showrooms. The flyer is just a model to explain the proposal," he said. TVK also alleged that complaints filed through the cVIGIL app were closed without resolution. However, Srirangam Returning Officer N Srinivasan said no violations were found. "Our teams visited the spot, but no distribution of actual coupons was reported. Only pamphlets appear to have been circulated," he said. MSID:: 130261452 413 |