The Dindigul District Congress Committee has formally requested the disqualification of a Dindigul Corporation councillor who switched allegiance to the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) earlier this month. In a representation submitted to the Dindigul Corporation Commissioner on May 18, district Congress committee president Durai Manikandan outlined the case against ward 21 councillor J Karthik.
Background of the Case
According to the representation, Karthik contested the 2022 corporation election as an authorized Congress candidate, using the party's hand symbol, and won the seat. However, on May 6, he joined the DMK, a rival political party. The Congress letter further noted that Karthik had previously sent a letter to the Congress leadership on October 8, 2024, via post on his letterhead, requesting to be relieved from his party post and primary membership.
Legal Grounds for Disqualification
Citing provisions under the Tenth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which deals with anti-defection, along with local body election rules, the Congress party urged the commissioner to initiate action to disqualify Karthik from his councillor position. The party argued that his actions constitute defection, warranting disqualification under the law.
Evidence Submitted
The Congress committee enclosed several pieces of evidence with the representation, including copies of the letter sent by Karthik to the leadership, photographs related to his induction into the DMK, and newspaper reports covering the development. These documents aim to substantiate the claim of defection and support the demand for disqualification.
The Dindigul District Congress Committee remains firm in its stance that Karthik's shift to the DMK violates the principles of political loyalty and electoral integrity. The commissioner's response to this representation is awaited, as the case could set a precedent for handling similar defections in local bodies.
