Will DMK change tainted candidates?

Chennai: The DMK on Tuesday called for fresh applications to contest the by-elections for the three constituencies, Aravakurichi, Thanjavur and Thiruparankundram, raising the possibility of the principal opposition party changing its candidates for Aravakurichi and Thanjavur, who also face charges of money distribution.

Despite the Election Commission making it clear that the candidates who faced allegations of poll violations could contest again, the DMK had not re-nominated the same nominees immediately. The party had so far denied the charges against their candidates K.C. Palanisamy (Aravakurichi) and B. Anjugam (Thanjavur) and such allegations had not been proved against any of the DMK nominees.

However, the party's announcement is a clear indication that it would have a fresh look at other nominees by inviting applications for the bypoll contest. The party would like to steer clear of money distribution controversies and a new candidate would help it claim high moral ground. But, partymen at the local level at Aravakurichi are eager to work for Palanisamy, who used to spend money freely.

In a statement here, DMK general secretary K. Anbazhagan said the aspirants for the three constituencies should submit their applications on or before October 20 at the party headquarters, DMK general secretary K. Anbazhagan said, in a press release here. Interview for candidate selection would be held on October 21, he said and added that the application would be '25,000 for each aspirant. Palanisamy had said he would contest the polls, if he was given another chance, but it is not known if he would submit an application.