Updated on Friday, December 11, 2009, 00:30 IST Tags:Madras HC

Chennai: The Madras High Court today disposed of a petition seeking a direction to Election Commission not to exempt the Kalaignar Health Insurance Scheme from the election code of conduct for the Tiruchendur and Vandavasi assembly bypolls scheduled for December 19.

In its order, the First Bench headed by Chief Justice H L Gokhale noted the submission of counsel for the EC that the Commission had directed that no new cards be issued under the scheme. Only in case of emergencies appropriate assistance would be rendered on production of the income certificate.

Stating that in its view the clarification given by the Commission took care of the petitioner's grievance, the Bench disposed of the petition.

The petitioner, R Balasubramanian, an advocate, objected to the representation given by DMK members of Parliament to the Commission to consider exemption of the scheme in areas where by-elections were due and asked the EC not to pay heed to the representation.

If it was permitted, it would pave the way for corrupt practices by the ruling party.

PTI