Enjoy the match: Madras High Court refuses PIL to stop IPL matches during TN elections

The Madras High Court on Monday refused to entertain a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking directions to regulate Indian Premier League (IPL) matches in Tamil Nadu during the election period. [Prabhakaran v. Chief Election Commissioner]

A Bench of Chief Justice SA Dharmadhikari and Justice Arul Murugan held that the plea was based on mere apprehension and that the Election Commission of India (ECI) is not competent to deal with any violations.

The plea had sought directions to either hold IPL matches after the elections or ensure strict enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct. It also sought a ban on display of political symbols and campaign material at match venues.

The Court said that if there is any violation of the Model Code of Conduct, the Election Commission will take care of it. It added that several judgments have already recognised the Commission’s role.

The Bench noted that one IPL match had already taken place without any issue.

“It’s a mere apprehension. One match is over. If you are not able to point out anything, what happens? You saw the match or not? What happened? Nothing happened,” the Court remarked.

In a lighter moment, the Court added,

“You enjoyed the match. Enjoy the second match also.”

At the same time, the Court clarified that citizens are free to approach the Election Commission with any grievance.

The petitioner chose to eventually withdraw the plea.