By-poll amidst tight security: DMK, AIADMK cross swords again

Madurai, Oct 10 (UNI) The stage is set for the by-election to Madurai Central Assembly constituency tomorrow amidst tight security in the wake of prepoll violence.

S S Ghouse Basha of the ruling DMK and V V Rajan Chellappa of the opposition AIADMK are the main contenders for the seat. The fledgeling Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) formed by filmstar Vijaykant during the elections to Tamil Nadu assembly in May this year, is fielding M R Pannerselvam. The other 16 candidates in fray are either Independents or those representing minor political parties.

The seat has fallen vacant due to the death of the DMK MLA P T R Palanivel Rajan who won the assembly election in May.

Elaborate security arrangements have been put in place for the conduct of free and fair polling in 154 polling stations, declared as sensitive. The constituency has 1.32 lakh voters, with women accounting for 65,898.

Following apprehensions over a free and fair poll, the Election Commission has deployed three companies of paramilitary forces in the constituency.

Eds : Pls pick up suitably from earlier series..

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