The Madras High Court on Tuesday passed an interim order restraining TVK MLA Srinivasa Sethupathi from participating in the floor test of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, scheduled for May 13. The decision comes in the wake of serious allegations of tampering with postal ballots.
Court's Interim Order
Justice S. Vaidyanathan, hearing a petition filed by the opposition AIADMK, directed that the MLA shall not take part in the trust vote until further orders. The court observed that prima facie evidence indicated irregularities in the handling of postal ballots, which could influence the outcome of the floor test.
The judge remarked, "The sanctity of the electoral process must be preserved. Any manipulation of postal ballots undermines democratic principles." The court has sought a detailed report from the Election Commission regarding the alleged tampering.
Allegations of Tampering
The AIADMK's petition alleged that Sethupathi and his associates were involved in tampering with postal ballots in the recent by-elections. The party claimed that the MLA had illegally collected and altered postal ballots to favor the ruling party. The Election Commission has been asked to submit its findings within a week.
Sethupathi, a first-time MLA from the TVK party, has denied the allegations, calling them politically motivated. His counsel argued that the floor test is a constitutional necessity and that barring him would set a dangerous precedent.
Political Implications
The floor test is crucial for the ruling coalition, which holds a slim majority. With Sethupathi's absence, the government's numbers could be affected. The opposition has welcomed the court's order, stating that it upholds the rule of law.
The case will be heard next on May 16, when the court is expected to give further directions. Until then, the MLA remains barred from the assembly proceedings.
