On Thursday, the Supreme Court agreed to review if electronic evidence in CDs showing corrupt practices before the 2011 Tamil Nadu assembly election of M.K. Stalin was certified properly under Section 65B of the Indian Evidence Act. A Bench of Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Vijay Bishnoi will also decide if the CD contents are proven beyond reasonable doubt. The case is an appeal by S.S. Duraisamy who accused the DMK party of using money power and functionaries to influence voters unfairly in the Kolathur constituency. These are alleged corrupt practices under Section 123 of the Representation of the People Act. Earlier, the Madras High Court had rejected these allegations, citing insufficient evidence. The court stated the CDs lacked the 'basic' Section 65B certification. Duraisamy claimed the DMK used the so-called 'Thirumangalam Formula' — offering money through community feedings, newspapers with cash, courier services, and other means. A goods vehicle carrying boxes of cash was also mentioned. Despite these claims, the 2017 High Court ruling found no clear proof Mr. Stalin gave consent to bribe voters or members of self-help groups. It said, “there was no categorical averment that the first respondent (Mr. Stalin) had given his consent to his party functionaries.” The court also ruled that Stalin could not be held "vicariously liable" for his party's actions. About the alleged money distribution using the 'Thirumangalam Formula', the High Court noted, “there is no convincing, satisfactory, and acceptable proof produced on the side of the petitioner.” The Supreme Court's fresh examination could bring new clarity to this high-profile case. Published - January 22, 2026 11:38 pm IST