Chennai, March 31: A political controversy has erupted in Tamil Nadu after police registered a case against a candidate of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) over allegations of sexual harassment. The accused, Prakash alias Kutty, who has been nominated as the party’s candidate from the Poonamallee Assembly constituency, is currently under investigation by police in Tiruvallur district.
According to police officials, the case was registered following a complaint filed by a woman who is reportedly an executive member of the party. Based on her statement, Tiruvallur Town Police registered a case against Prakash under multiple legal provisions, including Section 6, and initiated a preliminary inquiry.
Allegations Linked to Wedding Reception Event
The complainant alleged that the incident took place around six months ago during a wedding reception held in Tiruvallur. The event was reportedly attended by several senior leaders of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, including the party’s general secretary Anand and several district-level office bearers.
In her complaint, the woman claimed that Prakash sexually harassed her during the function. She also stated that she had immediately raised the issue with the party leadership after the incident occurred.
According to her statement, party leaders assured her that appropriate action would be taken. However, she alleged that no concrete steps were taken by the leadership despite the seriousness of the complaint.
Complaint Filed With District Police
The matter resurfaced on Monday when the woman, accompanied by her husband, approached the office of the Superintendent of Police in Tiruvallur district and submitted a formal written complaint detailing the alleged harassment.
Following the complaint, the Tiruvallur Town Police registered a case and began questioning the complainant as part of the investigation process. Police officials confirmed that preliminary inquiries are underway and further legal action will depend on the findings of the probe.
Accused Family Denies Allegations
Meanwhile, the controversy deepened after Prakash’s family strongly rejected the allegations. His wife filed a counter-complaint with district police claiming that the accusations are false and politically motivated.
She alleged that the complainant fabricated the charges after she was not given a position within the party. According to the family, the complaint is part of an attempt to damage Prakash’s reputation ahead of the upcoming elections.
Political Sensitivity Ahead of Elections
The case has gained political attention because it surfaced shortly after TVK leader Vijay announced the party’s list of candidates for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Prakash was named as the party’s nominee from the Poonamallee constituency.
With the elections approaching, the controversy is expected to trigger political reactions and intensify scrutiny of candidates. Police officials have stated that the investigation will continue and appropriate action will be taken based on the evidence gathered.
As the probe progresses, the case could become a significant issue in the political discourse surrounding the upcoming elections in Tamil Nadu.