Date:05/05/2009 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2009/05/05/stories/2009050550040100.htm

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Case registered against former Madurai Deputy Mayor

Special Correspondent

MADURAI: The Madurai City police on Monday registered a case of bribery against former Deputy Mayor M.Pandian and 32 others for allegedly distributing money for votes in a few wards.

The police said based on a complaint from a CPI (M) ward secretary, Mariappan, a case was registered.

According to the complainant, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam members, led by Mr.Pandian, Gopinathan and Rafiq, among others, distributed money sealed in covers to voters in wards 60, 61 and 62, “with police protection.”

Even after being informed about the distribution, the police did not take action and hence the election officials were approached, the complaint stated.

Enquiries were conducted and the Jaihindpuram police registered a bribery case against Mr.Pandian and his accomplices, the police said.

The City Police Commissioner said that Alagar of Karimedu, a DMK member, was arrested in a case of distribution of money for votes and remanded to judicial custody. Ten sealed envelopes, containing Rs.500 each, were recovered from him.

Chief Electoral Officer Naresh Gupta has sent a detailed report to the Election Commission after enquiring into complaints of money distribution in Madurai Lok Sabha constituency.

Jaihindpuram Inspector of Police (Law and Order), Vanamamalai, has been shifted to the police control room, an official said.

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) State committee requested the Election Commission to use its authority to ensure conduct of fair and free elections in Madurai.

In a statement here, State secretary N.Varadarajan said that it was unfortunate that no action had been taken against code violators though complaints had been made to the Commission, State Chief Electoral Officer and Election observers.