Mere status as a celebrity does not entitle preferential treatment for inclusion in the electoral roll

Court dismisses plea of celebrity petitioner for inclusion in voters list, emphasizes equality under law.

In a significant ruling, the Kerala High Court has dismissed a writ petition filed by V.M. Vinu, who claimed preferential treatment for inclusion in the electoral roll due to his celebrity status. The case, presided over by Justice P.V. Kunhikrishnan, highlighted the principle that all citizens, regardless of their social standing, are subject to the same legal processes in electoral matters.

The petitioner, V.M. Vinu, had approached the court after his name was not included in the final voters list for the Malaparambu Division of the Kozhikode Corporation. Despite being approached by leaders of the United Democratic Front (UDF) to contest in the upcoming elections, Vinu's candidacy was thwarted by his absence from the electoral roll.

The court noted that the preparation of the electoral roll began on July 19, 2025, with multiple stages allowing citizens to object or verify their inclusion. Preliminary and revised final lists were published on September 2 and October 25, 2025, respectively. Additionally, the State Election Commission provided another opportunity for objections on November 4 and 5, 2025. The petitioner failed to object or ensure his name was included at each of these stages.

Justice Kunhikrishnan emphasized that the petitioner, despite his celebrity status, is considered an ordinary citizen under the law and cannot demand special treatment. The court found no merit in Vinu's claim that his exclusion was due to political rivalry, stating that the fault lay with the petitioner for not availing the opportunities provided.

The judgment reiterates the importance of adhering to statutory procedures in electoral matters, reinforcing the idea that democratic processes are designed to be equitable and inclusive for all citizens without bias or preference.

The court's decision underscores the fundamental democratic principle that every citizen is subject to the same electoral laws and procedures, thereby dismissing the notion of preferential treatment based on social or celebrity status.

Bottom Line:

Inclusion in the voters list for election - Mere status as a celebrity does not entitle preferential treatment for inclusion in the electoral roll.

Statutory provision(s): Representation of People Act, 1950

V.M. Vinu v. State Election Commission Vikas Bhavan, (Kerala) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2811113