Chennai, July 14:
The DMK on Monday submitted a fresh representation to Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, alleging that the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is encouraging horse-trading by inducing Opposition MLAs to resign and join the party.
The petition, submitted by DMK organising secretary R S Bharathi, cited recent political developments, including statements by former AIADMK MLA M R Vijayabaskar, who resigned from the Assembly before joining the TVK. Bharathi alleged that Vijayabaskar had publicly admitted that the ruling party had approached him prior to his resignation.
āThe statement clearly indicates that the resignation of MLAs has taken place through inducements, including promises of electoral support, monetary assistance and governmental favours,ā the representation stated.
The DMK also referred to earlier remarks attributed to MDMK chief Vaikoālater retractedāregarding alleged assurances of campaign support to MLAs who resign and re-contest.
Further, Bharathi alleged that MLAs who refused to switch sides were being subjected to criminal cases and arrests, terming it a misuse of state machinery.
Citing the Supreme Courtās judgment in Lalita Kumari vs Government of Uttar Pradesh, the DMK said registration of an FIR is mandatory when information discloses a cognisable offence, irrespective of the status of the accused. āThe law admits no exception based on the position of the accused, including that of a Chief Minister,ā the representation noted.
The party urged the Governor to take cognisance of the material submitted and direct the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) to register an FIR and initiate appropriate legal action.