In a significant legal development, the Madras High Court in Bengaluru has directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to respond to allegations regarding a disputed postal ballot in the Tiruppattur assembly constituency during the recent Tamil Nadu elections. Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader KR Periyakaruppan lost to Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) candidate R Seenivasa Sethupathi by a mere one vote in the April 23 polls. Periyakaruppan contends that a postal ballot meant for his constituency was mistakenly sent to another Tiruppattur constituency in Tirupattur district, leading to its rejection. He filed a writ petition seeking accountability for this ballot, which he argues could potentially alter the election results. The court, comprising Justices L Victoria Gowri and N Senthilkumar, expressed concern over the ECI's silence on the matter, emphasizing the importance of addressing the complaint. Senior advocates representing Periyakaruppan highlighted the uniqueness of this case, comparing it to a postal error that could have significant implications for the election outcome. However, opposing counsel Abhishek Manu Singhvi argued that Periyakaruppan should file an election petition instead, as the ECI stated that results had already been declared. The court has scheduled further hearings on the matter.