Tamil Nadu CM Vijay’s Appeal to Children Sparks Legal Inquiry Over Electoral Practices A public interest litigation (PIL) petition has been filed in the Madras High Court, demanding an investigation by the Election Commission of India (ECI) into allegations that Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay exploited children for electoral propaganda during the 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections. The petition, filed by advocate L. Vasuki through her counsel Kanimozhi Mathi, also seeks an inquiry into claims of cash distribution by DMK and AIADMK members to influence voters in key constituencies. The case highlights concerns over the integrity of the electoral process and the use of minors in political campaigns. The PIL alleges that Vijay, leader of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party, made an appeal to children during his campaign for the April 23, 2026, polls, urging them to ensure their adult family members voted for his party. The petition argues that this appeal constitutes the "exploitation of minor children for electoral propaganda and indirect voter influence." The TN Commission for Protection of Child Rights has reportedly recommended legal action against Vijay for using children to sway electoral outcomes. The case also addresses broader allegations of electoral malpractice by major parties. According to the petition, an anti-corruption organization, Arappor Iyakkam, submitted a representation to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) on April 22, 2026, highlighting cash distribution by DMK and AIADMK members in the Alangulam, Mylapore, and Tirumangalam constituencies. The petitioner claims that despite the gravity of these allegations, no transparent or effective inquiry has been initiated by the ECI or CEO.#madras_high_court #election_commission_of_india #tamilaga_vettri_kazhagam #tamil_nadu_cm_vijay #arappor_iyakkam
