EC directs covering pictures of leaves on small buses in TN

The EC held that since the MGR memorial entrance was constructed in 2012 before the coming into force of Model Code of Conduct, there was no need to interfere with it.

EC also said the usage of word 'Amma' as part of the name of a scheme and not accompanied by any picture of a politician need not be objected to on government premises/property.

As the EC had clarified its position on the objections, there was no need of passing any orders by the court, he said.

At this stage, senior counsel for petitioner R Viduthalai objected to the conclusion of EC with regard to MGR memorial and said public money was used for the purpose of propagating the symbol of ruling party on the government properties.

Advocate General A L Somayaji, who appeared for the Government, objected to the EC's decision to cover the two sets of leaves on the small buses suitably.  

The DMK also filed an additional affidavit stating that the petition would not have been filed if the registered symbol of AIADMK was exhibited by it at their party office or at the residence of their party cadres.

It alleged that when the public money was 'grossly misused and abused' by AIADMK, the Election Commission had failed to exercise its powers and became mere spectator.  

Justice Raja posted the matter to Monday for further hearing.