Karur Election Controversy: Opposition Alleges DMK Using Sheds to Confine Voters
In a significant development ahead of elections, opposition parties in Karur district have raised serious allegations against the ruling DMK, accusing them of constructing large sheds to confine voters and manipulate the electoral process. The complaint was formally submitted to District Election Officer and Collector K Ravi Kumar on Friday.
Formal Complaint with Photographic Evidence
Former AIADMK minister M R Vijayabhaskar led the delegation that submitted the complaint, accompanied by photographic evidence of the alleged structures. The opposition coalition included representatives from AIADMK-BJP, Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK), and Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). In response, the DMK has filed a counter-complaint against the allegations made by Vijayabhaskar, creating a tense political atmosphere in the district.
Detailed Allegations of Voter Manipulation
Vijayabhaskar presented a detailed account of the alleged scheme, stating: "DMK has erected large sheds without any permission. These sheds are enclosed with high walls and gates. We have submitted 48 photographs of such sheds, but there could be close to 100 sheds coming up, and work is underway to confine voters."
He further elaborated on the purported methodology: "DMK members have started collecting photos, Aadhaar cards, and other details from voters to decide who will be made to sit inside. Their plan is to brainwash one lakh voters by keeping them confined from the time of filing nominations until the day of voting." Vijayabhaskar confirmed they would escalate the matter to the election observer.
Opposition Parties Voice Unified Concerns
Multiple opposition parties echoed similar concerns about the alleged structures. An AIADMK district functionary revealed that complaints had been registered through the C-Vigil app but received unsatisfactory responses stating the areas were empty land with no sheds present. "There has been no proper action so far," the functionary expressed with frustration.
TVK's Karur West district secretary V P Mathiazhagan commented: "The presence of high walls suggests that activities like distributing money and confining voters will be carried out. The irony is that we do not get permission even for basic activities, while it appears the ruling party can do anything without restrictions. Our leadership is also watching this."
NTK's candidate for Kulithalai, S Nanmaran, provided historical context: "This is not the first time such structures have been erected. It was done during the Aravakurichi bypoll and later during the Erode bypoll, but on a smaller scale. These are not only meant for distributing money but also for confining voters and preventing them from attending the campaigns of other political parties."
Official Response and Investigation
District Revenue Officer G Vimal Raj confirmed that authorities have initiated an inquiry: "We have initiated an inquiry through the concerned officials to determine whether these sheds have come up on government or private land, and the purpose for which they were erected. A report will be submitted on March 21, and necessary action will be taken."
DMK's Defense and Counter-Allegations
Deputy Mayor P Saravanan defended the DMK's position when speaking to reporters: "Only nine sheds have been erected by DMK. In other places, other parties could have erected them. AIADMK is making allegations against DMK out of fear of defeat. They are not able to digest the developments Senthil Balaji has brought in."
The conflicting narratives have created a contentious pre-election environment in Karur, with both sides preparing for potential escalation as the investigation proceeds toward its March 21 reporting deadline.
