“Dindigul Election Row: Postal Voting Disrupted by Party Workers Inside Polling Centre”

DINDIGUL, April 18, 2026 — Postal voting for election officials was disrupted at St. Mary’s Higher Secondary School in Dindigul on Saturday after functionaries from multiple political parties allegedly entered the polling premises and attempted to canvass support, prompting intervention by police and paramilitary forces.

Canvassing Inside Polling Centre Triggers Disruption

The incident occurred during postal voting for polling personnel across seven Assembly constituencies in the district. The process, conducted under the guidelines of the Election Commission of India, was interrupted when members of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) reportedly entered the venue and engaged in canvassing activities.

Officials present said cadres of the DMK and TVK initially entered the premises, followed by AIADMK members who arrived shortly after. The presence of rival party workers led to a confrontation and disrupted the controlled polling environment, in violation of election norms.

Police and Paramilitary Forces Restore Order

Security personnel deployed at the venue directed all political workers to vacate the premises immediately. While TVK members dispersed following initial warnings, DMK and AIADMK cadres gathered outside the school and blocked the adjoining road.

The situation escalated briefly as supporters raised slogans, prompting a second intervention by police and paramilitary forces to disperse the crowd and restore order. Authorities maintained heightened security in the area following the incident.

No injuries or arrests were reported as of Saturday evening.

Postal Voting Conducted Under Strict Guidelines

The postal voting process was organized for polling personnel, including Presiding Officers and Polling Officers, who will be on duty during election day. Election Commission guidelines mandate a strictly controlled environment at such centres, with a complete prohibition on canvassing or political activity within the premises.

Officials stated that arrangements had been made to ensure a smooth voting process, though the incident highlighted challenges in enforcing compliance.

Training Programmes for Poll Officials Underway

The voting exercise coincided with training sessions for election staff across the district. More than 11,000 officials participated in these programmes, which covered the operation of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) units, and polling procedures.

Participants were also briefed on their responsibilities, adherence to the Model Code of Conduct, and protocols for handling contingencies on polling day.

Authorities Reinforce Election Protocols

Following the disruption, officials reiterated that any political activity within polling premises constitutes a serious violation of Election Commission norms. Security measures at polling and training centres are expected to be strengthened to prevent similar incidents.

The episode underscores the importance of strict enforcement of electoral rules to ensure a free and fair voting process, particularly during sensitive procedures such as postal voting.