Chief Electoral Officer Directs Action Against VAO for Campaigning for Wife
In a significant development during the ongoing election season in Tamil Nadu, Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik has issued a directive to the Pudukottai district administration to take necessary action against Village Administrative Officer S Madeswaran. This order comes after Madeswaran was found actively campaigning for his wife, Revathy, who is a DMK candidate contesting from the Yercaud assembly constituency in Salem district.
Viral Video Sparks Election Code Violation Investigation
A video capturing Madeswaran, who serves as a VAO in Pudukottai district, engaging in campaign activities for his wife went viral across various social media platforms. According to an election department official based in Yercaud, Madeswaran had initially sought the DMK ticket for himself in the Yercaud constituency. However, the party ultimately decided to nominate his wife as its candidate instead.
The official further revealed that Madeswaran had accompanied Revathy to the constituency and participated extensively in door-to-door canvassing alongside party workers. This involvement raised serious concerns about potential violations of the model code of conduct, which strictly prohibits government officials from engaging in political campaigning.
District Election Officer Reports Incident to Higher Authorities
Upon learning about the viral video, Salem District Election Officer and Collector A Arun Thamburaj promptly sent a detailed report to Chief Electoral Officer Archana Patnaik. In response, Patnaik directed the Pudukottai district administration to initiate appropriate action against Madeswaran for his conduct.
Arun Thamburaj confirmed that officials have instructed Madeswaran to immediately cease all participation in campaigning activities. Attempts to contact Madeswaran for his comments on the matter have been unsuccessful, as his phone remained switched off at the time of reporting.
This incident highlights the vigilance of election authorities in enforcing ethical standards and ensuring a level playing field during elections. The swift action underscores the commitment to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process in Tamil Nadu.
