3725 nominations in TN, maximum in Thousand Lights

Chennai, Apr 21 (UNI) A total of 3,725 candidates have filed their nominations for the May eight Assembly election in Tamil Nadu, state Chief Electoral Officer Naresh Gupta said today.

A maximum of 30 nominations have been filed in Thousand Lights constituency in the city, where DMK Deputy General Secretary M K Stalin is seeking re-election and a minimum of eight each in Ulundurpet, Nannilam and Orathanad.

Addressing a press conference here, Mr Gupta said a total of 2,829 candidates had filed their papers in 2001 Assembly elections.

Stating that registered parties would be given priority in allotment of free symbols, he said lots would be drawn if more than one person/party demanded the same symbol. As many as 71 free symbols were available and allotment would be completed by today, he added.

To a question, he ruled out chances of actor Vijaykanth's Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam getting a uniform symbol across the state.

Mr Gupta said sensitive polling stations identified by the police would be approved by respective election observers based on the parameters prescribed by the Election Commission.

Paramilitary forces would arrive here in the first week of May to provide security for the Assembly election, he said.

A three-member committee had been constituted to give approval to election propaganda films produced by political parties. The committee had viewed the propaganda films produced by the DMK and Jaya TV and would soon take a decision on them, he added.

Stating that affidavits filed by candidates declaring assets had been displayed for public view, he said if there was any objection or dispute, it would also be displayed on notice boards.

Mr Gupta said no Minister, sitting MLA or MP could act as a poll agent for the candidates.

UNI AKN AA RL BST1723