Election Commission resumes hearing in AIADMK symbol row

New Delhi: The Election Commission on Friday resumed hearing in the AIADMK symbol row with both factions present at the EC along with their lawyers.

Earlier in the day, in a setback to the faction led by T.T.V. Dinakaran, the Supreme Court refused to stay the hearing at EC. 

Dinakaran had approached the Supreme Court seeking a stay and more time to file affidavits in the case after his bid in the Madras High Court seeking more time failed. The court had asked the EC to conclude its hearings and decide the case by October end.

The Supreme Court on Friday extended the deadline to dispose of the case till November 10. 

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palanisamy and Deputy Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam have told the EC that their respective factions have merged to become a united AIADMK and therefore should be given the two leaves symbol.

Meanwhile, late Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa`s niece Deepa Jayakumar has sent representatives to EC to withdraw her claim on the party symbol.