Chennai: With Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) deciding not to contest the Tamil Nadu Assembly election, some applicants who had paid the party’s “optional petition” fee have chosen to forgo refunds and instead support the party’s growth.
The MNM leadership had earlier announced that those seeking a ticket must pay ₹50,000 as a petition fee. A total of 60 party members and functionaries submitted petitions after paying the amount, expecting to be considered for MLA seats.
However, Kamal Haasan later announced that MNM would not enter the fray, citing a last-minute decision to protect the party’s distinct identity after the DMK pressed for MNM to contest under the “Rising Sun” symbol.
Following requests for refunds, MNM headquarters secretary Senthil Arumugam said, on Kamal Haasan’s instructions, that applicants could collect their money from April 8 to April 16. On Wednesday alone, 25 applicants emailed Kamal Haasan saying the ₹50,000 each need not be returned and could be used for the party’s development.
Party sources said it would become clear in the next couple of days how many of the remaining 35 applicants would seek refunds.
