Allow deaf-mute to contest polls

CHENNAI: A clause in the Tamil Nadu Panchayats Act, which prevented the deaf-mute from contesting polls, has been challenged in the Madras High Court.L K Venkat, a physically challenged person and a law graduate, contended in his writ petition that in proviso 37(3) of the legislation, a person would be disqualified for election if on the last date of filing of nomination or on the date of election he was of unsound mind or a deaf-mute. He made a representation to the State Election Commissioner on October 4 regarding the exclusion. The petitioner said it was the State’s duty to give protection and encourage such persons by giving enough opportunity to them as part of confidence-building measures.These people do not need any sympathy, but only want recognition by way of equal opportunity. The legal provision was ultra vires of the Constitution, especially against Art 14, by denying equal opportunity. Madras High court has ordered notice on the writ petition.