N.MARUTHU GANESH Vs. ELECTION COMMISSION OF INDIA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This writ petition is filed by one of the contesting candidates in No.11 Dr.Radhakrishnan Nagar Assembly Constituency. He seeks for a mandamus directing the respondents to deploy adequate number of CRPF personnel, to install CCTVs in all streets of the Constituency, to telecast live-webcasting of polling and counting in respect of the bye-election for No.11, Dr.Radhakrishnan Nagar Assembly Constituency, scheduled to be held on 21.12.2017 and to take all effective measurements to prevent illegal distribution of money and materials to the voters to ensure free and fair election.

(2.) The petitioner in support of the above relief filed an affidavit, wherein it is stated among other things that though there are nearly 10 companies of CRPF personnel deputed in the entire constituency, it is not sufficient to have full control over the constituency and in order to monitor the entire activities, installation of CCTV is also required and that for each and every street, CCTV shall have to be installed, as huge numbers of outsiders are involved in campaign activities in support of all candidates. It is also alleged in the affidavit that the ruling AIADMK party has brought outsiders for the purpose of distributing money to the voters. The petitioner also contended that he reliably learnt that number of persons are engaged by the ruling party with a view to bribe the voters and to capture the booths by creating law and order problem with the help of the State police by misusing and abusing the power. Therefore, he seeks for adequate deployment of CRPF personnel and installation of CCTVs as compulsory measure. An additional affidavit dated 18.12.2017, is also filed by the petitioner making various allegations and complaints with certain dates and events, regarding the alleged distribution of money to the voters.

(3.) When the matter is taken up today for admission, Mr.G.Rajagopal, learned Additional Solicitor General took notice for the respondents and presented a brief note signed by one Mr.Vijayaraghavan, Section Officer, Public (Election) Department as well as Mr.Niranjan Rajagopal, learned counsel for the respondents, indicating as to what are the steps taken by the Central Election Commission till this time to ensure that free and fair election will be conducted. The said brief note submitted before this Court reads as follows:-