Velachery MLA Challenges Disqualification Notice in Madras High Court

Speedy summary

• Velachery MLA Aassan Maulaana J.M.H. has approached the Madras High Court challenging a show-cause notice by the Election Commission of India (ECI).
• The notice, issued on March 16, 2023, questions alleged discrepancies in his election expenditure disclosure for the 2021 Assembly elections.
• ECI cited Sections 77 adn 78 of the Portrayal of the People Act,requiring candidates to maintain and submit accurate accounts of election expenses within prescribed timelines.
• The District election Officer reported that Mr. Maulaana did not disclose ₹33.05 lakh spent on advertising featuring his photo soliciting votes in two vernacular newspapers during March 27-28, 2021.
• While Mr. Maulaana claims these expenses were borne by Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) as part of a broader campaign featuring multiple alliance candidates during Rahul Gandhi’s visit to Tamil Nadu, this explanation was dismissed by the DEO and ECI proceeded wiht issuing notices under Section 10A for potential disqualification from contesting future elections for three years if non-compliance is proven.
• The Madras High Court issued notice to ECI asking them to file a counter affidavit within two weeks after hearing senior counsel P. Wilson representing Mr. Maulaana on September 12, 2025.

Indian Opinion Analysis

This case underscores critical aspects around accountability in political campaigns and adherence to electoral clarity mandates under Indian law like Sections 77 &78 of the Representation of the people Act,1951 Many MLA spending-abst usmisallocating disclosures however key challenge duties fact pattern timely Notice overlap