Case Filed Against ADMK for Distributing ‘Cheque-like’ Pamphlets of ₹2,000, ₹10,000 – Madras HC* *Petitioner*: Advocate Sundara Vadivel, Perungudi, Chennai *Filed in*: Madras High Court *Issue*: Alleged corrupt practice during 2026 Assembly election campaign

*Case Filed Against ADMK for Distributing ‘Cheque-like’ Pamphlets of ₹2,000, ₹10,000 – Madras HC*

*Petitioner*: Advocate Sundara Vadivel, Perungudi, Chennai
*Filed in*: Madras High Court
*Issue*: Alleged corrupt practice during 2026 Assembly election campaign

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*What’s the allegation?*
ADMK workers are campaigning by distributing *pamphlets printed to look like cheques* to voters, asking them to vote for ADMK candidates in the Assembly election.

*Printed on the pamphlets*:
– *₹2,000* mentioned like a cheque amount
– *₹10,000* mentioned like a cheque amount

*Why is it a legal issue?*
The petition states this act:
**Ground** **Explanation**
**1. Creates false impression** Makes people think **”you will get cash benefits if you vote for ADMK”**.
**2. Violates RP Act** Under **Section 123 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951**, offering gratification to voters is a **”Corrupt Practice”**.
**3. Damages democracy** If allowed, **public will lose faith in elections** and it will defeat democratic principles.
*What the petition asks for*
1. *Investigate* the distribution of cheque-like pamphlets and identify those involved.
2. *Take action* against persons distributing these pamphlets.
3. *Direct the Election Commission* to take steps to stop this practice immediately.

*Legal position*
*Section 123(1) RP Act, 1951 – “Bribery”*: Promising money, gifts, or any gratification to induce voters is illegal. If proved, the candidate’s *election can be voided* and they can be *disqualified for 6 years*.

Printing poll promises to look like bank cheques is argued to be an *indirect offer of money*, not just a policy announcement. Courts have held that the *form and context* matter – if it misleads voters into thinking it’s instant cash, it amounts to bribery.

*Current status – April 18, 2026*
With *TN Assembly polls on April 23, 2026*, the matter is urgent. The case is *expected to be heard soon*. The court may issue notice to the Election Commission and ADMK for a response.

*ADMK’s likely defence*: These pamphlets represent *election manifesto promises* like women’s financial assistance of ₹2,000/₹10,000 if voted to power. The cheque design is only a *campaign visual* and no cash was distributed.

The court will examine if the pamphlets cross the line from “promise” to “inducement”.