'One of the worst elections TN has seen': Activist flags massive cash flow

“This is probably one of the worst elections Tamil Nadu has seen,” said activist Jairam Venkatesan, alleging massive cash-for-votes and a “complete failure” of enforcement by the Election Commission.

As voter turnout surged in the 2026 Assembly polls, serious questions are being raised about money power, electoral integrity, and the role of authorities. The Federal spoke to Jairam Venkatesan, convener of the ‘My Vote Is Not For Sale’ campaign, on complaints filed with the Election Commission and the growing scale of voter bribery.

What is the complaint you have filed with the Election Commission?

We have raised a complaint with the Election Commission for three constituencies — Mylapore, Alangulam, and Thirumangalam.

In Mylapore, it is a very clear-cut case. The Election Commission itself conducted a search at the residence of a person named Sathya Murthy, who is said to be an aide of a DMK candidate. They recovered ₹79 lakh and found evidence suggesting money had been distributed to voters in crores, along with voter lists. This is prima facie evidence that voters were influenced.

In the past, in cases like Vellore, elections were cancelled even when money was recovered from associates. Here, the evidence is much stronger. So, we expected the Election Commission to cancel the election in Mylapore.

Why do you think the Election Commission has not acted yet?

If the Election Commission has found such clear evidence and still not cancelled the election, it raises serious questions about whether it is committed to conducting free and fair elections.

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I am hearing claims that they believe another party might benefit from this seat, but I don’t want to confirm that. However, if that is true, it raises concerns about whether the Commission is acting independently.

What about the other two constituencies mentioned in your complaint?

In Alangulam, there is a video of an AIADMK candidate, Prabhakaran, explaining how money should be distributed to voters and even displaying cash.

In Thirumangalam, a WhatsApp audio from a local functionary’s family member claims that ₹1,000 was distributed to each household and urges people to vote for a specific candidate. These are clear pieces of evidence showing organised voter influence.

Is there a standard procedure after such seizures?

Yes, there is a standard procedure. When money is seized, it is handed over to the Income Tax department, which conducts an inquiry and submits a report. Based on that, the Election Commission can recommend cancellation of the election in that constituency.

This has happened in the past. But here, despite stronger evidence, no such action has been taken.

Has cash-for-votes increased over the years?

Yes, massively. In 2011, the typical amount was ₹200–₹500 per household. Even in 2021, that was largely the case, except in by-elections. But in 2026, the minimum we are hearing is ₹1,000 per voter. In many places, it is ₹3,000–₹5,000. There are also reports of gifts like gold items being distributed.

This is happening across parties — DMK, AIADMK, BJP, and others. The scale is unprecedented.

Do you believe this is one of the worst elections in Tamil Nadu?

Yes, absolutely. This is probably one of the worst elections Tamil Nadu has seen in its history.

The Election Commission’s preparedness has been abysmal. They focused on checking vehicles on the main roads but failed to monitor interior areas where money distribution actually happens.

What reforms do you think are needed?

We need major electoral reforms. For example, there should be a ban on new cash transfers or gift schemes at least six months before elections.

Also, the Election Commission should be given powers to disqualify candidates if there is clear evidence of bribery.

Also read: Tamil Nadu polls: 'Vijay’s TVK may get 25 pc votes, boost DMK's chances'

Currently, they can only cancel elections, not disqualify candidates.

Has enforcement by authorities been effective?

No, enforcement has completely failed. The helpline system was poorly managed. Complaints were not properly recorded or followed up.

Even when money is seized, it is just the tip of the iceberg. If ₹200 crore is caught, thousands of crores are actually being distributed.

What about awareness among voters?

Many people don’t even know that accepting money for votes is illegal. There is a one-year imprisonment for both giving and receiving bribes.

When we conducted ground campaigns, 8–9 out of 10 people said they feel guilty about taking money. They know it is wrong, but they still take it.

This shows the need for large-scale awareness campaigns.

Is money influencing voter loyalty?

Yes, and that is the most dangerous trend. Political parties are increasing the amount of money to ensure loyalty.

If even 5–10% of voters start voting purely based on money, elections will lose all meaning. The party with the most money will always win.

What is at stake for democracy?

It is not just about which party wins or loses. It is about the people losing.

If this trend continues, democracy itself becomes meaningless. We are moving towards a system where money decides elections, not people’s will.

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