'Solicited votes in the name of Ayyappa'; M Swaraj files petition in HC seeking annulment of K Babu's victory

KOCHI: CPM leader M Swaraj has filed a petition in the high court seeking annulment of Congress MLA K Babu's victory in the Thripunithura constituency in the assembly elections. In his petition, Swaraj alleged that Babu had solicited votes in the name of Sabarimala Ayyappan.

Swaraj also alleged that Babu had distributed election notices printed as 'One vote for Ayyappa' in the constituency. The notice included Lord Ayyappa's picture, K Babu's name, and the hand symbol of Congress. The petition alleges that K Babu propagated that if M Swaraj wins, it will be Ayyappa's defeat and used Ayyappa's name on the graffiti.