The controversy surrounding India’s Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has spread to the Tamil Nadu by-election.
DMK leader M.K. Stalin confronted actor-politician Thalapathy Vijay, questioning his alleged fear of the BJP.
Stalin urged Vijay to uphold democratic standards and avoid cheap politics.
Stalin’s Challenge to Vijay
Speaking at a rally in Dharamapuram for the upcoming by-election, Stalin accused Vijay of avoiding questions on the CEC issue.
He demanded to know why Vijay feared discussing the matter that national leaders were openly addressing.
Stalin questioned whether Vijay’s hesitation stemmed from fear of the BJP.
He referenced the PTI report about Stalin’s campaign in the Dharamapuram assembly constituency.
Stalin asked if Vijay was afraid of the BJP despite being a chief minister.
Background of the CEC Controversy
The CEC controversy involving Gyanesh Kumar involves allegations of vote theft during the SIR process, according to opposition leaders.
Stalin noted that while the issue had been debated in Delhi and Mumbai, Vijay’s situation was different.
He pointed out that Vijay had won an election after the SIR process.
The opposition leaders argue that vote theft occurred during the SIR.
However, Stalin said Vijay’s case was separate because he won post-SIR elections.
Advice on Political Conduct
Stalin criticized Vijay for diminishing the dignity of the Legislative Assembly.
He said Vijay had turned it into a place where detainees’ suffering under MISA law was mocked.
The Chief Minister should behave in a way that earns respect, Stalin advised.
He urged Vijay to act like a Chief Minister, not a cheap minister.
Stalin reminded Vijay to maintain the decorum of high office.
Campaign Activities Ahead of October 6 By-Election
With voting scheduled for October 6, both TVK and DMK have intensified their campaigns.
Vijay’s roadshow began in Mamandur, passing through Karunguzhi, Madurandakam, Perumbakkam, and Melmaruvathur before ending in Achirupakkam.
Long queues formed on the National Highway as people sought a glimpse of the actor-turned-politician.
Stalin’s roadshow started at the Amravati statue, moved along Polachi road, covered about 2.5 kilometers, and ended near the Dharamapuram police station.
Both leaders held rallies on Friday to mobilize their supporters.
