The Election Commission has filed a criminal case against Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Karunanidhi's son M K Stalin after Stalin was shown on the television giving money to the voters during campaigning.

The Election Commission has also given a notice to Jayalalitha's party for the similar action of bribing the voters.

The DMK said that giving money to parents after roadside christening ceremonies is a common practice. To testify its complaint, the opposition AIADMK, televised it as an illegal means being adopted by the ruling DMK to woo voters in Thirumangalam.

AIADMK General Secretary, J Jayalalithaa insisted and said, "This is only of the many illegal methods being adopted by the DMK to ensure their candidate`s victory in this prestigious fight."

On this DMK spokesperson, R Shanmughasundaram, retorted and said, "It`s a custom in rural areas to give money when an arti is done or babies named."  

The Election Commission is examining the evidence against Stalin and is also filing cases against the AIADMK for bribing the voters.

Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer, Naresh Gupta, said, "Any distribution of money or articles like dhoties or even serving of food is a violation of the model code. As far as this specific case is concerned, the EC will look into it."

The by poll on Friday will be held under tight security. 8 companies of para military forces shall be deployed. The by poll is being seen as a prestigious battle between the two champion Dravidian, in wake of the Parliamentary election.

The DMK has put up a united front with both the brothers, Azhagiri, Madurai strongman, and the heir apparent, Stalin, after they resolved their differences and decided to campaign together.