Madras High Court to Hear Election Challenge Against Udhayanidhi Stalin

The Madras High Court has dismissed applications by Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin to throw out an election petition challenging his win from the Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni Assembly constituency. Justice G. Arul Murugan decided to move forward with the trial and told the applicant to submit his reply statement by December 11, 2026.

The Legal Dispute

The petition was filed by P. Milany from Theni district, who had contested the seat as an Independent and secured 30 votes. He challenged the victory by raising claims about alleged suppression of assets in the election affidavit and improper acceptance of the nomination form due to problems with the notary public's attestation. Mr. Udhayanidhi denied all these charges.

Limitation Period

Mr. Udhayanidhi argued that the petition should be dismissed because it was filed on the 46th day, claiming the day the result was declared should be counted in the 45-day time limit. Justice Murugan rejected this argument, pointing to a Supreme Court ruling in Tarun Prasad Chatterjee versus Dinanath Sharma which states that the day of the result must be excluded. The judge noted that another case cited by the defense was not relevant to this rule.

Election Results

During the polls, Mr. Udhayanidhi secured 62,992 votes to win the seat. His closest rival, D. Selvam of the TVK, received 55,852 votes.

Context

Election petitions are formal legal challenges brought against the victory of a candidate after polls are completed. Courts examine whether rules were followed during the nomination and voting process before deciding on the final outcome.