Madras HC Seeks ECI Response On Vijay’s Alleged Use Of Children In Campaign

On May 21, 2026, a vacation bench of Justices G.R. Swaminathan and V. Lakshminarayanan directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to respond by May 29 to a PIL filed by advocate L. Vasuki from Cuddalore. The petition raises concerns about electoral integrity, citing both the use of minors in campaigning and widespread bribery allegations. 

Allegations Against CM Vijay

• During a campaign speech at YMCA Grounds, Chennai on April 21, 2026, Vijay allegedly urged children to ensure adults in their families voted for his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party.
• The petitioner argued this amounted to “exploitation of minor children for electoral propaganda” and undue influence under Section 123 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
• Videos circulated on social media showed children pressuring parents and relatives to vote for TVK.
• The Tamil Nadu Commission for Protection of Child Rights recommended legal action against Vijay for using minors to influence electoral outcomes. 

Cash-For-Votes Allegations

• The PIL also alleged cash distribution by DMK and AIADMK in constituencies including Mylapore, Alangulam, and Thirumangalam.
• Reports of discriminatory cash distribution and public protests were cited as evidence of corrupt practices.
• Anti-corruption group Arappor Iyakkam had earlier petitioned the Chief Electoral Officer to rescind polls in affected constituencies. 

Court Proceedings

• The High Court questioned whether political parties themselves could be disqualified for corrupt practices, beyond individual candidates.
• Notices were issued to CM Vijay, DMK president M.K. Stalin, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami, the ECI, and the Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer.
• The matter has been posted for further hearing on May 29, 2026. 

Electoral Integrity Highlights

•⁠  ⁠CM Vijay accused of appealing to children to influence family votes

•⁠  ⁠PIL filed in Madras High Court by advocate L. Vasuki

•⁠  ⁠Court seeks ECI response by May 29, 2026

•⁠  ⁠Child rights commission recommends legal action against Vijay

•⁠  ⁠Allegations of cash-for-votes against DMK and AIADMK in multiple constituencies

•⁠  ⁠Court raises question of whether parties can be disqualified for corrupt practices

Sources: The Hindu, Bar and Bench, Mathrubhumi English, Zee News, Rediff.com