MDMK Takes Legal Action Against Election Commission
The Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) has launched legal proceedings against the Election Commission of India (ECI). The proceedings were initiated in response to recent actions taken by the ECI which the MDMK is challenging. The news was disclosed exclusively through our sources.
Background
In the Madras High Court, the MDMK has filed a writ petition. The crux involves their demand for the ‘top’ electoral symbol for the upcoming 2024 Parliamentary and 2026 Assemblyelections. The tension between the MDMK and ECI escalated after MDMK’s de-recognition as a state party in 2010. This decision was based on the MDMK’s electoral performance in the 2006 Assembly and 2009 general elections.
The Case Details
In the contested elections, the MDMK secured less than the 6% of valid votes that are stipulated as the minimum requirement by the ECI. Yet, the party has argued that their exact percentage of the votes was 5.99% in the 2006 Assembly elections. Given the minor decimal difference, they contest that the votes should be rounded up to 6%.
Party’s Stand
Scheduled Hearing
The upcoming hearings for the petition have been scheduled on March 1, 2024. The Second Division Bench of the court, comprising of Justices R. Mahadevan and Mohammed Shaffiq, will preside over the proceedings.
Conclusion
The MDMK’s move to legally challenge the ECI’s recognition has further complicated the political milieu before the elections. The unfolding events, however, draw attention to the party’s undeterred resilience in securing its identity as a valid state party ahead of the elections. The developments shall be followed and updates will be provided from our sources.
