Chennai: The nomination papers of Arun Kumar, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) candidate for the Edappadi constituency, have been rejected, effectively removing the party from the electoral race in one of Tamil Nadu’s most significant constituencies. The rejection came during the scrutiny of nominations held today, following the conclusion of the filing deadline on April 6.
Reason for Rejection
According to reports, Arun Kumar’s nomination was dismissed because the individuals who proposed his candidacy could not be verified. Furthermore, the nomination papers of the substitute candidate fielded by the TVK were also rejected. With both the primary candidate and the substitute candidate’s nominations rejected, the TVK finds itself unable to contest the election in the Edappadi constituency.
Edappadi TVK candidate missing allegations
Earlier, Arun Kumar’s supporters had claimed that he left the premises stating he needed to retrieve documents requiring amendments. However, as he failed to return even after a considerable delay, they alleged that he had gone missing and could not be contacted. Party functionaries staged a protest by laying siege to the Tahsildar’s office. Since Arun Kumar has not yet returned, his nomination has been formally rejected.
Direct battle between DMK and AIADMK
With the TVK out of the contest, the Edappadi constituency is now set to witness a direct electoral battle between the AIADMK and the DMK. In this constituency, AIADMK General Secretary and former Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami is contesting for the eighth time. The rejection of the TVK candidate’s nomination in this high-profile constituency has created a stir in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.