Udhayanidhi Stalin faces charges over minor’s role in Dharapuram campaign

Tiruppur District Police have registered a case against opposition leader Udhayanidhi Stalin for allegedly involving a minor in a campaign rally for the upcoming Dharapuram by-election. Authorities claim the incident, which occurred near the Periyar statue, violated strict Election Commission guidelines prohibiting children from participating in political activities.

Editorial·October 4, 2026·reads: 231

Udhayanidhi Stalin faces charges over minor’s role in Dharapuram campaign

During the event, a young boy was brought onto a campaign vehicle to address the crowd, where he reportedly made inflammatory remarks directed at Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay. This incident occurred while Stalin was canvassing in the Nochipalayam area to bolster support for DMK candidate Suganya. The police action follows complaints regarding the use of the child in a manner deemed insulting to the Chief Minister.

The Dharapuram by-election, set for October 6, carries significant political weight as it serves as a litmus test for Chief Minister Vijay’s administration. The seat became vacant after AIADMK MLA P. Sathyabama resigned shortly after her 2026 victory to join the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. Sathyabama is now seeking re-election as the TVK candidate in a crowded field that includes nominees from the DMK, AIADMK, CPI, and NTK. Securing a win here is essential for the TVK government to solidify its legislative standing.