Polimer News Editor Velraj Confronts BDO Radha Over Negligence In Inspecting MLA’s DMK Flag-Bearing Car

Image Source: Polimer News

As India prepares for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections of 2024, the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) has been initiated following the announcement of voting dates on 16 March 2024 by the Election Commission of India (ECI). In an video/audio that has gone viral on social media with regard to the MCC, a journalist is heard confronting a Block Development Officer (BDO) who allegedly allowed MLA of Sankarankovil to pass without conducting any checks on his vehicle.

During a phone conversation on 26 March 2024, Polimer News editor Velraj confronted Electoral Flying Squad officer Radha, who was overseeing vehicle checks in the TN Pudhukudi area. Velraj questioned why Radha didn’t request the Sankarankovil MLA (E Raja) to remove the party flag from their car’s flagstaff. Radha explained that the MLA possessed a vehicle pass from the collector’s office, rendering such a request unnecessary, as confirmed by the collectorate. Velraj then inquired why Radha’s team hadn’t inspected the vehicle despite stopping it. Radha insisted that they had checked the car before allowing it to proceed. Velraj countered with evidence from video footage, asserting that Radha’s team had neglected to inspect the MLA’s car. He further questioned the rationale behind scrutinizing a government bus and its passengers, predominantly common citizens, rather than focusing on potential irregularities involving the MLA.

During their conversation, news editor Velraj questioned BDO Radha, “Why did you not ask to remove the flag from the MLA’s car?” Radha responded, “They have a vehicle pass for that, sir.” Velraj retorted, “If there is a vehicle pass, anyone can tie a flag?” Radha explained, “If collectorate conformed the pass, with the vehicle pass they have said that flag can be kept” Velraj pressed further, “Okay, why didn’t you check the car?” Radha insisted, “We did check the car, sir.” Velraj disagreed, stating, “No, you did not check the car. In the visuals, no one stepped out, the dickey wasn’t opened, none opened the door, and nothing was inspected.” Radha defended, “No sir, after seeing the MLA, after receiving it we sent them”  Velraj accused, “No, the MLA is giving you something like a chit, and you signed it before sending them.” Radha clarified, “I did not sign anything, it’s just the vehicle pass. I confirmed it with the collectorate and speaking to you.” Velraj persisted, “No no, getting a vehicle pass is different, if there is vehicle pass won’t they take the money in it? Who will carry the money for the elections?” Radha countered, “No sir, police have stopped the vehicle and checked”  Velraj disagreed, citing visuals as evidence, “You have not checked. Why didn’t you check the MLA’s vehicle? I need an explanation from you.” Radha promised, “Sir, the police is with me, I’ll speak to them and call you.” Velraj drew parallels, “You are stopping the government bus which is used by common people and check everyone’s bag, who will carry money for elections? Is it the MLA or the normal pubic? What is your answer? “

The news editor persisted, emphasizing that nobody had checked the vehicle and raising concerns about its contents, whether it was money or gifts. “I’m not the only one asking this; people are calling me, questioning how this could lead to a fair election,” the editor stated. A member of the public alleged that ₹5 crores were transported in the vehicle and complained that the official left without inspecting it. BDO Radha initially stated that the vehicle had been checked twice but later promised to call back.

On 26 March 2024, in Chennai alone, gold bars valued at ₹5.26 crore and ₹59.13 lakh were confiscated during raids conducted by the Election Flying Squad. It is disheartening that incidents like these, where MLA vehicles are not subjected to thorough checks, persist.

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