Today, the Madras High Court refused to hear a public interest litigation seeking regulation of IPL matches in Tamil Nadu during the election period.

In the case a Bench led by Chief Justice SA Dharmadhikari and Justice Arul Murugan held that the plea was based on mere apprehension and did not warrant court intervention.

The petitioner had asked the Court to either postpone IPL matches until after elections or ensure strict implementation of the Model Code of Conduct. He also sought a ban on political symbols and campaign material at match venues.

However, the Court observed that handling such concerns falls within the domain of the Election Commission of India. It said that if any violation of the Model Code occurs, the Commission is fully capable of taking action.

The Bench also pointed out that one IPL match had already been held without any issues, questioning the basis of the petitioner’s concerns.

Calling the plea speculative, the Court remarked that there was no concrete instance of violation to justify interference.

Further, the judges even told the petitioner, “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 if they notice any actual violation.

Following the Court’s observations, the petitioner chose to withdraw the plea.

Case Title: Prabhakaran v. Chief Election Commissioner