Loud speakers that have been renting the air in Pudukottai for about a month fell silent on Sunday as the campaigning for the June 12 bypoll came to a close. Ministers and other key functionaries of the AIADMK and the DMDK, friends-turned-foes that have put up candidates in the by-election, left the constituency.
For the past one month, loud speakers were blaring on all days at every nook and corner of the constituency for more than ten hours. At 5 pm on Sunday, silence descended on the constituency.
According to a press release from Collector V Kalaiyarasi, all political functionaries and non-resident cadre from outside Pudukottai constituency had been asked to vacate the constituency. A special police team would conduct surprise checks in marriage halls, lodges and other places. She said no party or individual would be allowed to convene meetings or processions till the election process was completed.
She also warned of strict action if anyone was found violating the model code of conduct. A special check post had been erected to monitor the movement of vehicles at all entry points.
AIADMK candidate Karthick Thondaiman concluded his campaign at Thilagar Thidal in Pudukottai town. The DMDK candidate ended his campaign with a public meeting held at Chinnappa park, which was addressed by party leader Vijayakanth. The IJK candidate N Srinivasan ended his campaign at the old bus stand in Pudukkottai.