Bengaluru: A Central Reserve Police Force soldier posted the photo of him voting for Sumalatha in the Lok Sabha election along with the picture of the ballot paper on Facebook. This post was not only liked by Sumalatha but was also shared by her on her Facebook page.

According to rules, making one's vote public is an offence in India. The Election Commission has not taken any action yet.

Though controversy has always surrounded the Mandya election, the action of the policeman and Sumalatha has not drawn any complaints from her key opponent Nikhil Kumaraswamy.

Raja Nayak, a CRPF man had posted the photo of the ballot paper which showed that he voted for Sumalatha Ambareesh with a message stating: "I am celebrating Ugadi by posting my first vote for Sumalatha Ma'am and wishing her a win with a huge lead. My request to the people of Mandya is that our region should develop. Many farmers have committed suicide in Mandya. This should stop. Even soldiers should be benefitted. Ambareesh has contributed a lot to Mandya. Keeping that in mind vote for Sumalatha and help her win the election. Show some self respect."

This post was shared by Sumalatha with a message: "I am grateful for the love you have showed me brother Nayak. This kind of support and love is the one giving me strength to continue my struggle. Your post is encouraging and I too hope that people of Mandya will surely fulfil your wishes. I will bring changes in Mandya in such a way that it will not harm the ideals of Amabreesh and the people of Mandya and will strive for its development."

According to the Election Commission website, those serving in armed forces including Army, Navy and Air Force, members of the armed police force posted outside the state, government of India employees posted outside India can vote through the postal ballot.

Even voters on election duty including polling agents, polling officers, presiding officers or other public servants can vote through postal ballots if they cannot make it to their respective polling booths due to election duty.