As Tamil Nadu gears up for its assembly polls, the BJP has sounded the alarm over alleged political pamphleteering within church premises. Spokesperson A.N.S. Prasad urged the Election Commission on Sunday to launch a swift inquiry, claiming DMK-backing materials are being handed out to congregations.
These flyers, according to Prasad, evaluate and promote certain parties and hopefuls, risking religious polarization of the electorate. In his statement, he labeled it a ‘serious concern’ that flouts key electoral laws.
Drawing on the 1951 Representation of the People Act, Prasad cited provisions against religion-based appeals that foster enmity. ‘Places of worship must remain apolitical; turning them into campaign arenas erodes public trust,’ he asserted.
Finger-pointing extended to the Tamil Nadu Bishops’ Council, purportedly behind the effort. Prasad also sought scrutiny under foreign funding regulations, hinting at external influences tainting the polls.
He pushed for an SIT-led investigation covering all angles, from pamphlet origins to dissemination tactics. Strict penalties, including candidate disqualifications, should follow if violations are confirmed, the statement demanded.
No word yet from the ECI as the April 23 voting date looms. This flare-up highlights persistent tensions over religious neutrality in elections, with the BJP positioning itself as a guardian of electoral purity.
In a state known for its intricate political alliances and cultural divides, such allegations could reshape the final campaign narrative, compelling voters to scrutinize institutional roles in democracy.
