DMK leader Kanimozhi, whose residence was raided by IT Department earlier in the evening, said in a statement that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was using the EC to threaten her party. On Tuesday, Income tax and Election Commission officials began searches at the Tuticorin residence of DMK leader Kanimozhi based on information from the district collector. However, there was no information from either EC or I-T officials about any cash or documents being seized in the searches.

also read:Election Commission team searched BS Yeddyurappa's luggage 

Kanimozhi said the officials left after they found nothing at her home and accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of trying to threaten opponents into submission. “These incidents only confirm that Modi is using the Election Commission to threaten us,” said the DMK leader. “We will not be cowed down by these incidents and will emerge victoriously.” Kanimozhi added, “The ruling party is afraid of our victory. They are carrying out these raids to tarnish the image of the DMK.”

The raids on Kanimozhi, who is contesting from the Thoothukudi Lok Sabha seat, comes just 48 hours before Tamil Nadu votes on April 18. Kanimozhi was present in the house when the raids were being conducted and she cooperated with the central team but nothing was found. Dozens of DMK supporters protested, raising slogans against PM Modi, as the raids were going on.

also read: Voting in Vellore rescinded, voting in Tripura East constituency deferred to April 23