The Election Commission has strongly objected to claims circulating on social media that the DMK obtained official approval to distribute “model” Rs 8,000 coupons to the public for vote-seeking. The Commission said the claim is untrue and could mislead voters.
In its election manifesto, the DMK has proposed a scheme titled “Illatharasi Thittam”, under which homemakers would receive coupons worth Rs 8,000. The coupons are described as usable for purchasing household appliances such as washing machines, refrigerators, mixers and grinders.
According to the report, DMK workers have been distributing coupons door-to-door to build public confidence in the proposal. Flying squads have reportedly seized such coupons in several places, and in some areas objections from rival party workers have led to disputes.
The controversy intensified after a DMK supporter posted online that the party had received “proper permission” from the Election Commission for distributing the coupon model, and shared a letter claimed to be an approval document.
Responding to the post, the Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer clarified that the permission granted was only for broadcasting content in electronic media. The certificate does not apply to printed campaign materials such as pamphlets or handbills, which must comply with Section 127A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 and the Model Code of Conduct.
