Ice cream in Chennai gets creative this summer with torched popsicles and retro flavours
From bun-butter-jam ice cream scoops to lemon and cheese popsicles, Chennais frozen dessert makers are at their most creative in the sweltering summer. We explore the latest launches
Tamil Nadu teacher's unique video to capture happy student faces is viral
Tamil Nadu teachers unique video to capture happy student faces is viral
Man dies after car rams into a stationary lorry on ORR
Premier League | Everton deal Liverpool title blow with shock 2-0 derby victory
Everton's first derby victory at Goodison Park in more than 13 years prevented Liverpool from climbing level with Arsenal at the top of the league table.
New Delhis Seedhe Maut to showcase songs from Lunch Break in Bengaluru
New Delhi hip-hop duo Seedhe Maut, who will be in Bengaluru on April 27, will perform songs from their newest mixtape Lunch Break
BJP accuses Congress of circulating fake pamphlet
Co-convener of district BJP legal cell Deviprasad V. Samani said the pamphlet has been issued in the name of non-existent Bunt Brigade Dakshina Kannada
What affidavits reveal Jagan, Sharmila and Purandeswari have no car of their own
Pawan Kalyan is the pride owner of 11 vehicles, nine of them being cars, including Range Rover Sport that costs 5.47 crore; Naidu owns an Ambassador car purchased in 1994
Meta reports revenue jump as Zuckerberg sees stock volatility over AI plans
Meta reported revenue of around $36.5 billion, up 27% from last year, but CEO Mark Zuckerberg warned that the company might see stock volatility
JD(U) leader Saurabh Kumar shot dead in Patna
Police said that Saurabh Kumar was returning from a wedding reception function when the attack was carried out.
Crime and dagger: rediscovering the stories of Patricia Highsmith
With a new adaptation on television, the books of the high priestess of crime fiction are being read all over again to find out more about the talented Mr. Ripley, and also her other novels like Strangers on a Train
Three states get severe heatwave warning
The India Meteorological Department has forecast that heat wave to severe heat wave conditions are expected to persist over East and south Peninsular India for the next five days. On Tuesday, maximum temperatures ranged between 42-44C across many parts of Rayalaseema and isolated pockets over south Coastal Andhra Pradesh & Yanam and north Tamil Nadu. Temperatures were in the range of 40-42C across many parts of Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Gangetic West Bengal, Bihar, some parts of Coastal Andhra Pradesh, south Coastal Andhra Pradesh & Yanam, Odisha, East Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and East Uttar Pradesh.Isolated pockets experienced temperatures above normal by 3-5C over many parts of Gangetic West Bengal and Sikkim, and at isolated pockets over coastal Odisha, Coastal Andhra Pradesh & Yanam, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry & Karaikal, northeast Jharkhand, and east Bihar.Over the next 24 hours, no significant change in maximum temperatures is expected over Maharashtra, with a gradual rise by 3-4C thereafter. Similarly, a rise by 2-3C in maximum temperatures is likely over central and East India during the next 4-5 days. However, no significant change in maximum temperatures is expected over the rest of the country.Heat wave to severe heat wave conditions have been experienced in certain areas of Gangetic West Bengal, isolated places in Sub-Himalayan West Bengal & Sikkim, as well as in Odisha. Isolated places in Rayalaseema and North & South Interior Karnataka have also been affected by heat wave conditions. Odisha has been experiencing these conditions since April 15th, while Gangetic West Bengal has been affected since April 17th.Hot and humid weather is expected to prevail over Tripura, Kerala & Mahe, Coastal Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Assam & Meghalaya, Konkan & Goa, and south Coastal Andhra Pradesh & Yanam, according to IMD.IMD's red and orange alert for heatwaveGiven these conditions, certain areas have been categorized under different alert levels:Red alert Areas: Gangetic West Bengal - Where heatwave conditions are severe, and precautions need to be taken to avoid heat-related illnesses.Orange alert Areas: Odisha, Bihar, Coastal Andhra Pradesh & Yanam, Interior Karnataka, Rayalaseema - Where temperatures are high, and there is an increased likelihood of heat illness symptoms, particularly for vulnerable individuals.Yellow alert Areas: Jharkhand, Telangana, Coastal Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Konkan - Where temperatures are moderate but still pose a health concern, especially for vulnerable populations.In response to the heatwave conditions, the Tripura government has ordered the closure of all schools from April 24 to 27, given the rising temperatures and humidity levels. The state is experiencing temperatures around 3 degrees Celsius above normal, with forecasts indicating a further increase by the end of the current week. The government has declared the situation a state-specific disaster and is taking measures to raise public awareness through district-level disaster management authorities.
ECI in a fix of deployment of terminated govt employees for poll duty in West Bengal
The Calcutta High Court on Monday (April 22 ) directed the termination of appointments of 25,753 teachers and non-teaching staff in West Bengal government-sponsored and aided schools. The State government is likely to raise the issue of deployment of terminated employees deployed in the Lok Sabha elections before the Supreme Court to seek a stay on the Calcutta High Court order.
U.S. slams Russia for vetoing UNSC resolution on Outer Space Treaty
The resolution put a legally-binding obligation that countries should not be putting weapons of mass destruction (WMD), including nuclear weapons, in orbit.
Contaminated water troubles residents of Kannagi Nagar
CHENNAI: Residents of Kannagi Nagar are grappling with health issues owing to poor quality of drinking water supplied to their homes. For nearly two months now, they have been receiving water that exceeds permissible levels of total dissolved solids (TDS). According to metro water officials, the contamination is due to rust in the iron pipes through which water is supplied from the sumps. They added that the TDS levels in the water range from 700-1,000 ppm, while the permissible levels for potable water should be below 500 ppm. Not only is the water unfit for drinking and cooking, but also causes skin irritation and allergies when used for bathing, say residents. Kannagi Nagar has more than 23,000 families that were resettled in the houses built by the Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board (TNUHDB) and has a population of more than one lakh. When TNIE visited the area on Tuesday, the water from pipes at multiple locations was yellow in colour and salty. The residents also showed multiple cases of skin allergies on their bodies, which they said was due to the water. A group of residents who had come to meet the councillor regarding the issue said that they have been dealing with water issues since they moved there. Initially, we used to travel a long distance to get water. Now, the water we get near our homes is unusable. If we cook rice using this water, it goes bad within two hours. We have been forced to shift to water cans for cooking and drinking which has increased our household expenses. However, we have to continue to use the water for bathing and other purposes causing severe itching and allergies, said S Lakshmi, a resident. Sources said the water is supplied to the resettlement site from three sumps, with the largest having a capacity of 11 lakh litres. They added that the main sump has not been cleaned for many years, leading to accumulation of sediment up to 2.5 ft. Some residents said they were forced to use drinking water cans to bathe their children who are more susceptible to the allergies. While doctors give us ointments, they say that we would continue to have the problem since we use this water to bathe, said another resident. She added that a water can costs `30-35 and their family has to buy 10 cans every week. Metro water officials said that the water quality was affected due to the rust in the iron pipes and work to change them has started. The project has been pending since 2018. The pipes from the sump to the houses are rusty and in a bad condition. We received concurrence from TNUHDB and the work to replace them started in March. Once it is done, the problem will be solved, said an official. He also added that the sumps in the locality have been cleaned regularly. However, according to former AIADMK councillor TC Karuna, the water quality is bad due to maintenance issues at the Nemmeli desalination plant. The officials have said that to fix the problem, they have to receive parts from another country. I have been complaining to them continuously without any solution in sight, he said. He also alleged that the TDS level of the water has exceeded 1,000 ppm several times due to which the residents are getting allergies.
Sollisai Sistahs: The all-women rap group challenging social norms in Tamil Nadu The New Indian Express
KOCHI: In the bustling streets of our cities exists a silent yet resilient community the homeless. Each day, they endure the unforgiving elements, from scorching heat to relentless downpours and blinding dust. Yet, during the daily struggles for survival, they have aspirations, hopes and dreams, even in the realm of politics. As the upcoming elections loom on the horizon, the homeless seek representation and recognition from those in power. Their expectations are simple yet profound assurance of the bare minimum like shelter and sustenance and policies that address their plight. TNIE delves into the narratives of those sidelined from society about their expectations, their choices, and whether they plan to participate in the voting process. Ravindran Nair, 76, TPuram I was a headload worker. Now, old, hence jobless and homeless. We get food delivered here every afternoon by some charities. When I get sick, I go to the local dispensary for medicines and come back to the street again. I still do not get my pension. I have asked several times and knockedon manydoors, but I was shooed away. My family member is a party worker, yet there is no help. No one has come to help, and no candidate has come asking about us. I have never defaultedon voting so far. But this time, I will not vote. Because no good is going to come to us no matter who gets power. Kunjumon, 51, Kochi Im originally from Kochi, I have a home there. Butsince my siblings and I dont get along, I am forced to live on the streets. Its hard to be here, the city is full of sound and dust. Its too hot. But what else can I do? But Ill be voting this time and its only because I dont want to waste my vote. Since I already have my name registered, Im just going to do it for the sake of it. There are several homeless people in Kochi city. Have the MPs and MLAs taken any steps to help them? We are seeing zero efforts from their side. None of the party members have approached us and asked about our concerns. I expected that at least during the campaign some would directly address our concerns. Arent we a part of society? Pic| B P Deepu Vijay 40, Tamil Nadu I consider myself a responsible citizen. So I travelled home to cast my vote. Many people like us sleep beneath the metro pillars in Kochi. This is what saves us from the heat and rain. I cant afford a place here because the advance amount itself would be quite hefty and it is difficult especially when we get work for barely three days a week. Our earnings arent enough to even satisfy our hunger. If the government helps us with the Aadhar card issue, then hopefully we can find a place to rest our heads. Rajashekaran 42, Tamil Nadu Im a daily wage labourer and do any job that could help me push through the day. I live on the streets mainly because it is difficult to get rooms here without an Aadhaar card. I hope the new representatives will bring some solution to this issue. Whoever wins should make sure that homeless people like us at least have an Aadhar card or at least provide us with shelter of some sort. I was planning to visit my village in Tamil Nadu to castmy vote. But I couldnt as my bag with all the IDS was stolen. Also, I dont have enough money to travel back home to apply for the documents. So I have dropped the plan. Raja, 80, Andhra Pradesh My wife Shubamma and I moved to Kerala because the situation back home was not favourable. We both beg for sustenance. Yes, we have a home and land back in our village, but it is difficult to make money there. We are too old to work on our land. In Kerala, even if we get Rs 10, we can live with it. Im planning to vote and the election in my constituency is next month. Since there are many in our place who do not even own a piece of land, my vote will go to those who can assure land to the poor people. Munni, 30s, Jharkhand My husband and I came to Kerala in search of work. Though he travelled home to vote in the previous elections, this time, it wont be possible. My child is sick and our priority is to take care of her. Thats all we are thinking about and we need money for it. Lachmi Devamma, 70s,Andhra Pradesh Im unwell and cannot travel home. I wasnt planning to vote since I dont even remember if I have an ID card or not. I sleep under the metro pillar every night. Its been four or five years since I came to Kochi and my life has been the same. The only way to earn a living in my old age is to beg. Im struggling here and the election wont change that. Nankusa, 60, Bihar Im from Bihar. Ive been in Kerala for at least 20 years. However, I dont think Ill be voting. Whats the point anyway? My expectations arent beyond one can fathom. Its just a basic right of every citizen a decent place to live. It would be good if the representatives consider us in their slew of promises. I dream of getting out of the street one day. Chandran Nair, 67, TPuram Voting is our right and I will surely exercise my franchise. I havea voter ID card too. A change is required to bring about a lot of opportunities for people and solace for senior citizens like us. No one even asks about us. We are denied whatever is our due. Now, many like me are on the streets. I am hoping for a changed politicalset-up, a new beginning. And for that reason, I will vote. I have researched a bit about the candidates. One ofthem shows some promise in my eyes. Vinod A P, 53, TPuram I am feeling hopeful this election. Maybe my vote can make a difference. I hope that the new government help me, my family and many like us. So far, there have been no changes in our living situation. We were just given vain promises and frameworksof projects that never happened. Especially in the past five years, nothing has happened. I am all set for April 26. Ram K, 40, Munnar I have been seeing many election campaigns around the city. Since I go to my hometown only occasionally, Im not aware of the election fervour back home. Here, one of the main attractions is the parody songs remixing film songs into election songs is fun to listen to.However, Im not keenon politics. At the end of the day, the objective is to find a safe space to sleep and have at least one meal. In the rush to akeendsmeet, theres no time for politics. Basheer, 78, Kakkanad I am a cobbler and travel to Kaloorevery dayas it is comparatively easier to run the business there. This has been my life for the past 55 years. My main concerns are finding a shelter and the rising prices. Everything, including basic grocery items, is unaffordable. Many MPs have come and gone, but none has ever tried to bring out a plan to construct a shelter or housing plan to accommodate people like us. Though the authorities are inconsiderate towards people like us, I would still vote in the coming elections. I believe that if there is a change in the Union government, then there will be a change in Kerala too. Compiled by Swathy Lekshmi Vikram, Niranjana K P, Aparna Nair & Mahima Anna Jacob
Question paper leak: UP police arrest FCI official in Chennai
CHENNAI: A Food Corporation of India (FCI) official was arrested by an Uttar Pradesh police team on Monday for his alleged connection to the constable recruitment question paper leak in UP in February this year. The suspect, Vijay Kannaujia (30) of Uttar Pradesh, had been working as assistant general manager at the Nungambakkam FCI office for the last eight months. The UP police nabbed him with assistance from Thousand Lights police. Kannaujia allegedly leaked the exam paper and answer keys for `8 to `10 lakh in return, police said. He was produced before a magistrate, and a transit warrant was obtained to take him to UP. Over 100 people have been arrested in connection with the scam so far.
TN: Edu department refuses to send government school students for B.Ed practical exam
COIMBATORE: The faculty members of the Government College of Education For Women in Coimbatore have alleged that the district school education department refuses to send government school students to attend the practical examination of Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) course students. They said that B.Ed students should showcase their teaching abilities to school students in front of an external examiner during the practical examination. A teaching staff told TNIE, Following Tamil Nadu Teacher Education University (TNTEU) announcement that practical examination would be conducted in March, we approached the Chief Educational Officer (CEO) R Balamurali seeking permission to send government school students to our college for the practical examination of second-year B.Ed students. However, the CEO said that he cannot send government school students to the college. Instead of this, the CEO suggested that the practical examination be conducted at the CCMA government higher secondary school (Woman) at Raja Street. Meanwhile, the practical examination was postponed by the TNTEU. However, the university is planning to conduct the practical examination for the students in July. But, as the CEO refuses to give permission, it will be a challenge to conduct the practical examination to B.Ed students, he said. CEO Balamurali told TNIE that considering student safety, they cannot send students outside and he said that practical exams can be conducted in the classroom at school. But another faculty member told TNIE that up until the previous year, approximately 30 students from CCMA School participated in the practical examination. He recalled that earlier they had provided transport facilities and students also came with their teachers to this examination. Practical examination should be conducted at the colleges only as per norm and it cannot be conducted at school as per the CEOs wish, the faculty member said. Therefore, the TNTEU should resolve this matter by issuing guidelines regarding student participation in practical exams through the school education department, he further urged.
Mudichur lake to turn into eco-fun zone by 25
CMDA's project at Mudichur lake, part of a larger redevelopment initiative, aims to enhance leisure options, address sewage issues, and boost the local economy by introducing special buses and flood mitigation measures.
Tamil Nadu farmers climb mobile tower amid protest at Jantar Mantar - The News Minute
Tamil Nadu farmers climb mobile tower amid protest at Jantar Mantar The News Minute
Three class 12 government school students drown in check dam in Coimbatore
COIMBATORE: Three class 12 students from a village in Coimbatore drowned while taking a bath in a check dam near Alandurai in the district on Wednesday. The deceased were identified as M Praveen (17), P Kavin (16) and V Dhakshan (17), who hailed from Perur Pachapalayam. They were accompanied by a friend, named Sanjay (21). The police said that the three deceased were studying in Class 12 at the Government Higher Secondary School at Theethipalayam. They, along with their friend, went to Perumal Kovil Pathy check dam near Alandurai on Wednesday around 4 pm. The four youths ventured into the check dam, which has more than ten feet of water, to take a bath. Police said Praveen, Kavin and Dhakshan did not know how to swim and drowned in the check dam. Sanjay alerted Fire and Rescue Services. Station Officer PN Anilkumar and Thondamuthur fire station launched a search for the drowned students. The fire brigades retrieved the bodies of the three students by 5.30 pm. The Alandurai police shifted the bodies of the deceased to the Coimbatore Medical College Hospital for post-mortem. Two kids drown in Tiruppur Two boys drowned while bathing in a pond at Uppalayam on Tuesday. The deceased were Gokul (8) and his classmate Aswhin (8). The families of both kids initiated a search and found their dresses and bicycles near a pond at East Uppalayam. A team of fire service personnel retrieved both the kids bodies from pond.
U.S. President Biden signs bill that will see TikTok sold or banned next year
As U.S. President Joe Biden has signed the bill, TikTok-parent ByteDance has less than a year to divest its ownership or see TikTok banned in the U.S.
One kg cocaine from Qatar seized at Chennai airport, man arrested
Chennai airport Customs seized 1kg cocaine worth 10 crore from Bharat Vasita, hidden in luggage sourced from Africa. Suspected to be part of an international drug racket, he awaits further investigation in judicial custody.
Tangedco issues directive to speed up processing applications of PMs 'Surya Ghar' scheme
CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (Tangedco) has issued directives to all superintending engineers to complete the inspection with regard to PMs Surya Ghar (rooftop solar) scheme. As of April 22, as many as 988 applications are pending for inspection in the state as per the national portal. The power utility also warned the officials, saying, If there is any delay in effecting the rooftop solar services, strict action will be taken against the engineers concerned. A senior official from Tangedco told TNIE, Due to election-related commitments, we had temporarily suspended the field visits. Nevertheless, efforts are under way to accelerate installations of rooftop solar across the state. Despite having nearly 40,000 applications under the PM rooftop solar scheme, only less than 10% of the applicants have received their panels. Measures are under way to speed up the remaining installations. Emphasising the necessity of bidirectional meters, the official also added, It is imperative to allocate bidirectional meters for all the roof-top solar services. So, we have apprised superintending engineers about reallocating available bidirectional meters from one division to another to ensure uninterrupted delivery. Highlighting consumer-related delays, another official explained, Though many consumers register enthusiastically on the national portal to get solar panels, upon inspection by Tangedco officials to assess feasibility, a significant number of them display disinterest, while some others request time to arrange payment. While urban residents exhibit eagerness to embrace rooftop solar on their houses, people in rural areas are not interested. Consequently, our focus is on spreading more awareness among rural communities, he added.
Carbon markets to bankroll TNs green projects
CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu government is looking at carbon markets to finance its green projects and to ensure local communities benefit from it, according to Supriya Sahu, secretary of the Environment, Climate Change, and Forest Department. Delivering her keynote address at the Conference on Carbon Neutrality organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) on Wednesday, the secretary said, We are the only state in the country with a Green Climate Fund. Though announced earlier, it is now being rolled out with the Tamil Nadu Infrastructure Finance Management Corporation (TNIFMC) acting as the fund manager for the Government of Tamil Nadu. TNIFMC would select industries and corporates to access the allocated funds which amount to over Rs 1,000 crore. Another Rs 1,000 crore has been allocated for the greenshoe option. To a query on whether any such projects have been identified, Sahu said that the state is currently in the process of identification. This is a strategic move. They (TN government) are planning to integrate with carbon markets, said Kavin Kumar Kandasamy, chief executive officer of ProClime, a firm that is providing recommendations to the state government on a pro bono basis in creating a robust carbon credit ecosystem. He said the state is way ahead when it comes to the energy quotient. Tamil Nadu is already into energy transition and now the state government is looking at community and climate, he added. Sources, on condition of anonymity, said that the state has zeroed in on seven to eight projects, which could potentially be funded through green credits, but did not provide any details. Firstly the project has to be listed on a registry after which it will be rated by a rating agency and then it gets approval, they added. Carbon markets and their credit system Carbon markets have two kinds of players: companies that are polluters and companies which are looking to decarbonise. A carbon credit is a generic term for a tradeable certificate or permit representing the right to emit a certain amount of carbon dioxide (usually 1 metric ton) or an equivalent amount of a different greenhouse gas. It is, in a sense, the basic trading unit for carbon markets. Countries or governments set carbon allowances or caps based on their targets for reducing emissions. Entities that reduce their emissions below these set limits, can sell their surplus allowance as carbon credits to those exceeding their emission limit.
Prayer for the son didnt work for the party
Powerful state parties dominate politics in Tamil Nadu, Andhra and Telangana. Even in Kerala, the two coalitions CPM-led LDF and Congressled UDF have crafted their unique regional identities. Among southern states, Karnataka stands out with...
TNSTC bus takes sharp turn, conductor and his rickety seat fly out, land on road
TIRUCHY: A conductor, who was sitting on the back seat of a government bus in Tiruchy, fell out of the moving vehicle along with the seat on Wednesday. The conductor, Murugesan (54), sustained minor injuries, said sources. The city bus was going from Tiruchy bus stand to K K Nagar and the incident happened when it crossed Kalaiyarangam Hall and turned right. The eye-witnesses said they were shocked to see the conductor being thrown out of the bus along with the seat. However, there were no major injury. He picked up the coins fallen from his bag and got into the bus, they added. Sources in TNSTC said the bus was more than 10 years old. They added that while the broken seat was put inside the same bus, the passengers were shifted to another bus. An official from TNSTCs technical department denied the incident initially and asserted that a seat did not fall from the bus. When the official was provided with the photo of it, he confirmed that the conductor sustained minor injuries and they are enquiring into the matter.
Tamil Nadu: Wounded tigress found dead in private rubber estate
KANNIYAKUMARI: A 12-year-old tigress, which was found in an injured state at a private rubber estate in Kulasekaram forest range in Kanniyakumari district, was later found dead on Wednesday. The tigress was spotted with injuries inflicted by porcupine quills. According to sources, a rubber tapper, Bhoothalingam (63) from Thittavilai of Thirunanthikarai went to tap rubber at the estate at Kakkachal on Wednesday morning. Around 7.30 am, the injured tigress startled the worker, and he was injured. As he raised an alarm, locals rushed him to a hospital. Forest department officials said that another man fell from his two-wheeler upon spotting the tigress and was injured. The tigress was later found dead. District forest officer E Prasanth said that the big cat had been injured by porcupine quills, due to which it eventually passed away. A team of veterinary doctors performed a postmortem examination, following which the tigress was cremated near Pechiparai Zero Point.
Madurai celebrates Chithirai festival with traditional Kallalagar procession amidst rituals
MADURAI: With just days to go before the ongoing Chithirai festival concludes in Madurai on April 28, Lord Kallalagar's procession arrived at the Thenoor mandapam for further rituals on Wednesday. Thousands of people thronged Vandiyur to spectate the ceremony wherein the deity lifts the curse of sage Manduga. The Kallalagar procession is one of the most significant events during the Chithirai festival, when several people throng the Vaigai to partake in the rituals. Apart from the deities entering Vaigai river, the other highlight of the festival is the act at Thenoor Mandabam, where Kallalagar lifts the curse of sage Manduga, in addition to showing all 10 'avatharam' of Lord Vishnu on Manduga's request. Earlier on Wednesday, the procession reached the Vandiyur Veera Ragava Perumal temple after a pooja. Lord Kallalagar mounted his golden sesha vahana and proceeded towards Thenoor Mandabam. Following which lord Kallalagar made it to the Ramarayar Mandabam in Garuda Vahana by night of Wednesday. On Thursday, the deity will be on mohini alangaram, to begin his journey back to the Alagar hills, where he is expected to reach by April 27, while the festival is to conclude the next day. People in large pockets thronged the Thenoor Mandabam and Ramarayar Mandabam for dharshan. The event of Lord Kallalagar showing dasavatharam and lifting the curse takes place once in a year. It is believed that witnessing the event would bring prosperity. So, every year we visit the Ramarayar Mandabam to take part in the event, said Manoj, resident of Vandiyur. 1,200 MT garbage cleaned during Chithirai Over the course of 11 days, starting April 12, the Madurai city corporation has cleaned up about 1,200 MT (metric tonnes) of waste from the event venue. Corporation official sources said that 2,874 sanitation workers had been deployed across three shifts to clean the event venues. The corporation had also issued notice to 203 venues, where annadhanam was conducted. Between April 12 and 23, the corporation cleaned about 1,200 Mt of waste. Officials added that 60 special camps (25 for Meenakshi temple festival and 35 for Kallalagar temple festival) have been held, with 282 workers being deputed to these camps. About 2,800 person got treated at these camps, said the official, and appreciated the workers for their efforts.
MDH, Everest masala row: India inspects spice makers over alleged contamination
India's spices export regulator said it had sought data on MDH and Everest exports from relevant authorities in both countries and was working with the companies to find the oot cause of the issue.
Longstanding feud led to TN womans murder, not politics
CUDDALORE: Days after contradictory claims were made regarding the death of 43-year-old J Gomathi of Pakkirimaniyam village in Cuddalore district on the polling day on Friday, TNIE, after exhaustive interviews with a number of people including the womans brother-in-law K Jaishankar and a few other relatives, found that the murder was because of longstanding personal enmity between two groups and was not politically motivated. Over the last two days, the Tamil Nadu police had filed cases against at least four people, including state BJP chief K Annamalai, for sharing social media posts that claimed that the woman was murdered for voting for the saffron party in the Lok Sabha poll. The Cuddalore district police, in a statement on Tuesday, had rejected the allegation and said the murder was due to existing enmity between two groups. When TNIE visited Pakkirimaniyam on Wednesday, tension has not eased in the village located close to Srimushnam town in Cuddalore district. Police have been deployed in considerable numbers in the village of 150 households that comes under Ramapuram panchayat. Most of the families in the village, including the victim and the accused, belong to the Vanniyar community. TNIE had to overcome various police restrictions to meet the families. The only occupants remaining at Gomathis house were an elderly couple, as other family members had gone to the police station. Enmity regarding land reason for murder: Cops Jaishankar, a PMK functionary who is the brother-in-law of Gomathi and vice-president of Ramapuram panchayat, said the key issue was a dispute over 33 cents of poramboke land, a part of which was allegedly registered in the name of J Kalaimani, the main accused in Gomathis murder, through illegal means. Additionally, the election of Jaishankars wife as a ward member and later as vice-president enraged B Pandian, another accused in the murder case and an acquaintance of Kalaimani, as neither he nor his family members could get the post. Speaking to TNIE, Jaishankar said he had tried to reclaim the encroached land for establishing a government veterinary clinic. This led to a confrontation between him and Kalaimani in 2021 and a case was registered against Kalaimani at that time. These individuals were waiting for an opportunity to confront me, Jaishankar told TNIE. He recounted how he and his daughter were taunted by Kalaimani en route to the polling booth. They were generally teasing us. It was not about election or voting, he said. Though Jaishankar left the spot, the quarrel continued between his brother Jaikumar, the husband of Gomathi, and the couples two sons Jaiprakash and Sathish Kumar, and the attackers near a banyan tree. The three men were later attacked with wooden objects by Kalaimani and his associates. Gomathi, who had no knowledge of the quarrel and was returning from agricultural work, tried to intervene to protect her sons, and was attacked by the gang. She sustained injuries and was pronounced dead later at the PHC in Andimadam in Ariyalur district. Jaikumar sustained fractures in his hand and leg while his two sons sustained injuries in their heads and are under treatment at a hospital in Vriddachalam. Jaikumar, declined to comment citing the ongoing controversy and his health. I have spoken about it to several people and facing troubles because of it. I am also not feeling well due to injuries, he told TNIE. After police booked a case against BJP chief Annamalai for spreading rumours about the murder, he released another video in which a person, later identified as BJP president of Cuddalore west district K Maruthai, was seen purportedly asking some questions to Jaikumar. Repeated attempts by TNIE to reach Maruthai for his comments went in vain. Another close relative of Gomathi said she and Jaikumar were added as members of BJP by another person in the village by giving missed calls to a party number However, he was never an active member of the party, and politics had nothing to do with her murder. Ever since Jaishankar opposed encroachments, the accused and their families have been picking fights with us without cause, the relative said. While the village is considered a stronghold of the PMK, a few neighbours of Gomathi said the accused families resided close to Gomathis house and claimed to be members of the DMK. They do not hold any significant positions in the DMK, but tried to project themselves as prominent local functionaries of the party, a neighbour said. A press statement from the Cuddalore district superintendent of police on Tuesday night reiterated that there was no political motive behind the murder. Based on the statements of 15 villagers, including 10 eyewitnesses, the accused were arrested. Enmity regarding land was the reason and the rumours are unfounded, the police statement said. Fight over land dispute, says kin Jaishankar, a PMK functionary who is the brother-in-law of the murder victim and husband of the vice-president of the Ramapuram panchayat, said the key issue was a dispute over 33 cents of poramboke land, a part of which was allegedly registered in the name of J Kalaimani, the main accused in the murder case, through illegal means
EdCET 2024 notification released, May 15 is last date to apply
The examination will be held in 36 centres across Andhra Pradesh on June 8 between 9 am and 11 am.
Tamil Nadu: Dindigul, Salem on top in stopping child marriages
KRISHNAGIRI: Dindigul and Salem districts are among the top districts in stopping child marriages in Tamil Nadu for the last three years from January 2021 to February 2024, revealed data accessed by way of Right to Information Act from the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department. However, the Community Service Registers (CSRs) and First Information Reports (FIRs) filed on child marriage cases were far less than the actual number of incidents that were stopped following the interference of authorities, the data showed. This was revealed in the RTI data accessed by advocate and child rights activist, S Prabakar, from the Commissionerate of Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department, for the past three years. It was also revealed after authorities stopped child marriage incidents, police complaints on the cases were not registered by district authorities concerned, and some districts are filling the cases after the incident. In 2021 from January to December, 2,638 child marriages were stopped in Tamil Nadu, in which CSR or FIR filed only 707 cases, which is just 26.80%. Similarly, in 2022 from January to December, 2, 401 child marriages were stopped in which CSR or FIR was filed on 881 cases, which is 36.69%. And in 2023 from January to December, 1,961 child marriages were stopped, in which 973 cases were registered as CSR or FIR, which is 49.62 %. Similarly, in January and February 2024, 347 child marriages were stopped, of which 128 complaints were registered as CSR or FIR, which is 36.89%, explained Prabakar. He said, More FIRs will reduce child marriage and teenage pregnancy cases in Tamil Nadu. Apart from stopping child marriages, the district administration should make efforts to file cases against people. Salem Collector R Brindha Devi told TNIE that they are working on the issue and taking steps to reduce child marriage, and even recently career guidance programme was conducted for higher secondary school students. Dindigul district Collector MN Poongodi was unavailable for comments. However, Dindigul District Social Welfare Officer G Pushpakala told TNIE, In 2023, the number of child marriages stopped was 121; however CSR or FIR was filed only on 44 cases. We are taking steps to make CSR or FIR for 10 more cases for the year 2023. In many cases after stopping child marriage, there are no sufficient documents to file police complaint against them and in few cases, members of families where child marriages were stopped fled to other districts. Theni collector RV Shajeevana was unavailable for comment. An official from Theni district collectorate asked TNIE to contact the Collector after the counting of votes for the Lok Sabha election because the collector was busy with election duty and could not talk to the media on certain topics.
Weeks before polls, candidates take fancy to MGNREGA workers
Workers who usually earn 300 a day for their labour are now offered 600, three free meals and liquor every day, if they joined the candidates in their election campaign, carry their party flags and shout slogans
Tamil Nadu: 20 men sentenced to life in Villupuram double murder case
VILUPURAM: The Villupuram court has slapped life imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 each on 20 persons in connection with a double murder near Thiruvennainallur back in 2015. The case pertains to the murder of P Kulasekaran (40) and his friend K Kathavarayan (50) of Kannarampattu village by P Govindaraja (75) and a gang following a dispute over using a Poramboke land. At the time of local body elections on November 4, 2005, Govindaraj and 25 others attacked Kulasekaran and Kathavarayan with machetes, resulting in their death. Thiruvennainallur police initiated legal proceedings against 26 persons, out of whom six died during the course of the trial at the principal district court. The judgment was delivered on Tuesday evening by Judge S Rajasimmavarmman. Following the verdict, the accused were taken to the Central Prison in Cuddalore. Among the convicted, Govindaraj is a lawyer and S Mohandas is a policeman.
Tamil Nadu temple trustees booked for misappropriation of funds
PUDUCHERRY: Following a court directive, the Odiansalai police registered a criminal case against seven individuals, including trustees of Sri Angala Parameswari Temple in Vambakeerapalayam for alleged misappropriation of temple funds. A petition filed by M Narasimhan and S Velu from the fishing village claimed that the trustees had stolen a portion of the money donated for the temple festival, besides extorting money from adjacent villages and fishermen. On April 1, Chief Judicial Magistrate K Mohan passed the orders while disposing of the duo's petition, directing the police to register a First Information Report (FIR) and investigate the allegations. The police registered cases against V Mariyappan (52), V Rajkumar (48), T Thanikasalam (60), R Vazhumuni (40), K Karthik (41), N Madan (50) and Panneer (alias) Swaminathan (55) under the Sections 403, 506 (ii), 379, 420 and 34 of the Indian Penal Code. The festival for the deeply-revered temple is funded through contributions collected by a village committee and voluntary devotees. Many smaller temples like Sri Thulukanathamman, Sri Vazhi Mariamman and Sri Vedhavaneshwarar temples jointly organise functions under the aegis of the Sri Angalamman Parameswari Temple, its committee used to look after the administration of said temples as well. The complainants alleged that the donations reported by the committee -- Rs 85.75 lakh for 2021 and Rs 30.54 lakh for 2022 -- were substantially lower than the actual amount, accusing its members of misappropriating funds. Citing their donations, the duo said that the local fishermen, as a customary action, offer donations to the tune of lakhs of rupees for the festival. Upon inquiry, the Revenue Department officials had directed the police to register an FIR, which was not filed despite our repeated petitions, the duo claimed.
Refrigerator blast sparks off house fire in Tamil Nadu's Ranipet
RANIPET: Fire erupted from the house of a 46-year-old woman in Melnelli near Kalavai in Ranipet, during the wee hours of Wednesday, reportedly triggered by the explosion of a refrigerator. No injuries or fatalities were reported, as the entire family was asleep on the rooftop during the time of the incident. The police said that on Tuesday night, the family -- Rose (46), her son Manikandan (29), daughter-in-law Rekha (29), granddaughter Sandhiya (4) and grandson Sanjay (6) -- moved to sleep on the rooftop, while Rose slept outside the house, to escape the sweltering heat. Around 12.45 am, Rose and Manikandan sensed something burning and discovered the wires behind the refrigerator on fire. The family members moved the gas cylinder outside and alerted the Fire and Rescue Services Department. Despite their efforts, the refrigerator exploded, causing the fire to spread throughout the house. Once again, the family contacted the fire department, however, managed to extinguish the flames before the rescue personnel arrived. Manikandan, who is a daily-wage labourer, said, We contacted the fire department twice, and each time they asked for our address and details. They arrived 45 minutes later, by which time we had already extinguished the fire. However, they assisted us in salvaging our belongings. The fridge that exploded causing fire to spread through the house. Initial investigation by the police suggested that an electrical short circuit triggered the fire. District Councillor Sivakumar offered assistance to the family, providing them with clothing, vegetables, and rice. The family reportedly lost to the fire, a sovereign of gold, clothes, two sacks of groundnut, debit cards, a few identity cards, and a television that was not in a working condition.
TN: Petrol bomb hurled at advocate's house, 15 of PDS rice smuggling gang booked
THOOTHUKUDI: A day after a gang, engaged in smuggling PDS rice, hurled petrol bombs at an advocate's house in Kovilpatti, 15 of its members were booked in two cases on Wednesday. Sources said that the primary accused, Pampu Karthick (27), is a member of the DMK party. Sources said, Karthick (27) is involved in smuggling ration rice, and has been engaging minor boys to deport bags of rice. This came to light a few days ago, when one minor belonging to Rajiv Nagar refused to do the work, following which Karthick attacked him. Mariselvam, an advocate living in the same locality, had questioned Karthick over attacking the boy, added sources. In the meantime, flying squad officials had seized PDS rice from Virudhunagar, which was said to have been smuggled by Karthick. The gang led by Karthick suspected Mariselvam of sharing details of smuggling routes to officials, and allegedly hurled petrol bombs at his house in the wee hours of Tuesday. The gang also damaged the street and vehicles belonging to other neighbours in the area. They also ransacked the load vehicle, belonging to Mariselvam, parked seven km away from his house at a garden on Oothupatti road. It may be noted that the issue was posted online by state BJP president K Annamalai as well as former chief minister O Panneerselvam, both of who sought action against the accused. Speaking to TNIE, Mariselvam said that over 21 people had barged into his house on Tuesday, but he was able to identify only 15 of them. Police sources said that two FIRs have been registered in this regard; one at Kovilpatti West police station for hurling a petrol bomb at the advocate's house, and another at Koppampatti police station, where the gang had ransacked a complainant's farm. We have collected CCTV footage and further investigation is on, said the police. Over 10 criminal cases, including smuggling of ganja and PDS rice, are pending against Karthick, sources said, and added that he is yet to be brought to book.
Senior Yakshagana bhagavatha Subrahmanya Dhareshwara passes away
A Karnataka Rajyotsava awardee, Dhareshwara was a professional bhagavatha in Yakshagana melas like Amrutheswari, Hiremahalingeshwara, Panchalinga and Perdoor
Tamil Nadu SETC crew urge government to fill vacancies at Thoothukudi depot
THOOTHUKUDI: Citing staff crunch in the technical department of Thoothukudi's SETC depot as having hampered work and inconvenienced passengers, workers of the State Express Transport Corporation (SETC), attached to the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), have urged the state government to fill up all 34 vacancies on a war footing. A resolution regarding the same was passed during a monthly meeting of CITU members, led by the depot's CITU president G Dharmaraj. According to the resolution, the Thoothukudi unit of SETC operates 76 buses on 40 different routes, including inter-state buses to Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Karnataka. As many as 11 staff are working with the technical department as against the allotted strength of 45. The shortage has led to increased workload and inadequate operations. This has also caused friction between the staff and the superiors, added the resolution, requesting the state government to fill up the vacancies to ensure proper operation of buses. A member staff, Kathiresan, told TNIE that SETC buses mainly ply to locations exceeding 450 km, with the longest-covered route being the Tiruchendur-Tirupathi bus route, which travels 1,500 km. The poor mechanics in the technical department has hampered the maintenance works of all 76 buses. Engine oil, radiator checking, transmission, electrical works, alignment and tyre rotation, and other regular maintenance works have been delayed or even skipped at times, he said. The lack of technical staff has also increased the instances of buses breaking down, which has inconvenienced passengers and the bus crew alike. The buses are not operated as per the schedule as these leave the depots very late, Kathiresan pointed out. Over 10 apprenticeship interns are working to assist the existing technical staff, however, they can not be relied on. The state government should appoint new staff, as the vacancies have been there for the past 10 years, Kathiresan added.
Four hurl petrol bomb at Ambedkar statue in TN; held
CUDDALORE: Four youth were arrested after the petrol bomb they allegedly hurled at an Ambedkar statue missed its target and exploded after falling into the compound of a panchayat office at Ambalavananpettai Colony in the district. The suspects have been identified as P Sathishkumar (29), G Krishnakumar (21), M Vijayaraj (22), and V Vetrivel (23) of Ambalavananpettai village and belonging to a caste Hindu community. Sources said the incident happened on Tuesday night when the youth were returning home after attending a temple festival. Police said all four were in a drunken state at the time. While returning from the temple they made the petrol bomb by filling petrol, taken from their bike, in a bottle they were carrying. Following an inquiry, the police filed cases against the accused under three sections of the Indian Penal Code, section 3, 4(a) of the Explosives Substances Act, 1908, and three sections of the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Police said measures are being taken to remand the accused after court proceedings by Wednesday night. Superintendent of Police R Rajaram inspected the spot and deployed police personnel in the village as a precautionary measure. In response to the incident, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) cadre, led by Cuddalore Corporation Deputy Mayor P Thamaraiselvan, staged a protest near the Ambedkar statue and urged the authorities to invoke the Goondas Act against the suspects.
Madras HC directs Tamil Nadu government to submit report on Vallalar centre site
CHENNAI: The Madras High Courts first bench consisting of Chief Justice S V Gangapurwala and Justice J Sathya Narayana Prasad on Wednesday directed the Tamil Nadu government to submit a report prepared by a team of archaeological experts on the site proposed for the construction of the Vallalar International Centre in Vadalur. When the petition seeking a direction to the state government to drop the plan to construct the centre at the Peruveli arena located adjacent to the Sathya Gnana Sabhai came up for hearing, the state government, represented by advocate general PS Raman, submitted details on the facilities to come up at the centre, as directed by the court during the previous hearing. The state, while pointing out that an official of the archaeology department has already inspected the site, assured that any structure of archaeological significance, if found during construction, would be preserved. However, the CJ observed that it would be better if a team of archaeological experts assessed the site and submitted a report and directed the government accordingly. The state government replied that it will constitute a team of three experts to perform the study. The bench also transferred the case to the special bench hearing cases related to temples.
'Reply to plea on circular against bullock cart races': Madras HC tells TN government
MADURAI: The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court on Wednesday directed the state government to file a counter affidavit on a petition seeking a stay on the circular issued by the Director General of Police, imposing various conditions to grant permission to conduct bullock cart races. 'Tamil Nadu Param Pariya Veera Vilayattu Mattu Vandi Kaalaigal' State Welfare Association president M Kannan sought an interim stay of the circular as the DGP has no power to issue any conditions. Only the central and state governments are empowered to impose such conditions and frame rules as per sections 37 and 38 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 2016, the petitioner stated. Some of the conditions are arbitrary, impracticable and do not abide by the guidelines formulated by the Supreme Court. The petitioner said that the top court did not impose restrictions to conduct the race on highways, but the circular states that the races should be conducted only on village roads or mud tracks laid on empty fields, which is unreasonable and impractical as nearly all roads in all villages have become state highways. The circular also states that organisers have to obtain permission from the district administration and police fifteen days in advance, where the top court prescribed 10 days. Moreover, the conditions in the circular were not mentioned in the Tamil Nadu Prevention of Cruelty of Animals (Conduct of Jallikattu) Rules, 2017. Hence, the regulatory authorities cannot form new rules but only act in furtherance of the existing rules and policies of the government. A division bench of Justices R Suresh Kumar and G Arul Murugan said that while some of the conditions could be accepted, others may not. Instead of staying the circular, the court directed that if any new applications seeking permission to conduct bullock cart, rekla or horse races are sought, the same shall be considered and decided based on the existing rules and conditions. The court adjourned the case to June 18.
Separated by borders, united by heart: Pakistan teen gets Indian's organ
Ayesha Rashan, 19, underwent a heart transplant at Chennai's MGM Healthcare from a 69-year-old donor. Supported by family and NGO, the surgery was successful despite challenges. She aspires to become a fashion designer after finishing schooling in Karachi.
'Revenue from all 4.5k songs subject to appeal outcome': Madras HC in Ilaiyaraaja case
CHENNAI: The Madras High Court on Wednesday passed an interim order stating that all revenue accrued through commercial exploitation of over 4,500 songs composed by music director Ilaiyaraaja would be subject to the outcome of an appeal filed by Echo Recording Private Limited challenging his rights over the songs. A division bench of Justice R Mahadevan and Justice Mohammed Shaffiq passed the interim order while adjourning the appeal filed by the company to June. On the argument of Ilaiyaraajas counsel that the composer would continue to hold the rights over his songs, the court wondered if the composer could claim rights over the lyrics of the songs too since they were penned by others or restrict his claim only to the composition. The bench observed that the songs would not carry much value without the lyrics. Senior advocate Satish Parasaran, appearing for the composer, submitted that the lyricists of the songs would receive royalty irrespective of the songs being commercially exploited either by the composer or by the producer. Echo Recording Private Limited had filed the appeal against the order of a single judge. According to the appeal, the order permitted Ilayaraaja to exploit the rights over his songs although such a right has not been provided under the Copyrights Act. The company argued that as per the legislative framework in India, music directors would lose their right over the songs once they receive remuneration for their work from the producer of the film. The organisation had bought the rights of around 4,500 songs from the producers of all the movies concerned and had been commercially exploiting them until Ilaiyaraaja moved the HC against the company, the appeal said. Based on the order of the single judge, the music composer gave license to another music company for the 4,500 songs and was commercially exploiting them apart from receiving royalties from Echo Recording Private limited, the counsel for the company alleged.
Indian prodigy D Gukesh returns triumphant to cheering crowds in Chennai
Indian prodigy D Gukesh returns triumphant to cheering crowds in Chennai History-making teen Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh was swamped by fans as he returned to an enthusiastic reception here on Thursday after becoming the youngest challenger to the world title following his triumph at the prestigious Candidates Chess Tournament in Toronto. Hundreds of students from the Velammal Vidyalaya, the school where Gukesh studies, lined up at the airport at least one hour before his flight landed to greet the 17-year-old chess prodigy. A sizeable general crowd also built up as his arrival time drew closer and the area around the arrival gate was jam-packed in no time. The youngster walked out at around 3am and he was immediately flanked by the jubilant mass. In no time, he had garlands around his neck even as the police jostled to escort him out safely. ''I feel very happy for this homecoming, this is a special achievement. I was in a good space since the beginning of the tournament, I had full confidence that I will emerge top in this tournament and luck was on my side as well,'' Gukesh said while talking to the media at the airport. ''It's good to see so many people enjoy chess...I thank the Tamil Nadu government. I thank my Appa, Amma, coach, friends, family, sponsor and my school for being alongside me and playing an amazing role in helping me win this tournament,'' he added. His mother Padma, who is a microbiologist, was there to receive him along with some other members of the family and the young champion had a huge smile on his face the moment he spotted her in the crowd. They exchanged a hug after greeting each other. Gukesh's father Rajinikanth, who is an ENT surgeon but quit his practice to support him, had travelled with the teen to Toronto for the tournament. On Monday, Gukesh became the first Indian after the great Viswanathan Anand to win the Candidates Tournament, which is held specifically to decide the challenger for the reigning world champion. He became the youngest ever challenger for the title, bettering the record created by the legendary Garry Kasparov 40 years ago. The triumph entitles Gukesh to a clash against reigning world champion Ding Liren of China in the last quarter of the year. Kasparov had lauded Gukesh's performance, describing it as ''the Indian earthquake in Toronto''. He had also said that the Indian performance at the Candidates marked a ''tectonic shift'' in the sport's global world order. Among the players Gukesh beat in Candidates was the 18-year-old R Praggnanandhaa, another prodigal talent to emerge from the city. In all, five Indians, three men and two women, competed in the tournament. Gukesh has been making waves for quite a while now. He became India's youngest Grandmaster at 12 years, seven months and 17 days in January 2019. Currently, he has a FIDE rating of 2743, while his peak rating happens to be 2758, which he attained last September. Gukesh is 16th in the FIDE Rankings at present, while his best ranking to date happens to be eighth, which he reached last September. Among his top recent performances was a silver medal at the Hangzhou Asian Games last year in the men's team category.
'Will uplift lives of OBCs, Dalits when INDIA gets power': M K Stalin
CHENNAI: Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed his optimism in the ability of the INDIA bloc to fulfil its pledges for uplifting OBC, SC, and ST communities when it comes to power in the centre. He said this in a message delivered at the Social Justice Conference of the Samruddha Bharat Foundation in New Delhi on Wednesday. The message, underscoring Tamil Nadus significant strides in advancing social justice, was conveyed by DMKs Rajya Sabha MP P Wilson. Stalin emphasised on the states historic role, tracing back to the Justice Party Government of 1921, which pioneered reservations for the underprivileged through the communal government order. He further recalled the protests for reservations held in the erstwhile Madras Presidency. Post-independence, amidst threats to the reservation system, the resolute protests by the Dravidian Movement...catalysed the first amendment of our Constitution. The chief minister noted Tamil Nadus progressive policies, like the implementation of a 69% reservation for OBCs and SC/STs, which surpasses the 50% limit, and the reservation of 7.5% seats in professional courses for government school students. Furthermore, he mentioned the recent resolution passed by the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, urging the Union government to extend reservations to Scheduled Caste members who have converted to Christianity. He also shared his happiness over the Congress partys election manifesto, which echoes the DMK partys principles.
Wayanad: Left, BJP hopes to prick Rahuls balloon
KOCHI: Wayanad offers an interesting paradox. It is probably the only constituency in India where one cannot see Congress flags flutter at any party convention even though its candidate is none other than Rahul Gandhi. It is also one constituency in Kerala where nobody is unsure of who the winner would be. And in this paradox lies the story of this picturesque constituency, considered the safest Congress seat in the country. Clearly, bitter lessons the party learnt in 2019, when Rahul contested from Wayanad for the first time, prompted the Congress to avoid its own, as well as ally IUMLs, flags this time. That Rahul took refuge in Wayanad, where the Muslim League calls the shots, was something the BJP had gone to town with in 2019. Visuals of Rahul campaigning amid a sea of League flags went viral. And that had seriously impacted the Congress fortunes in north India. No flags will be used in Rahul Gandhi's poll campaign in Wayanad: M M Hassan The Congress, hence, has been extremely careful this time. Instead of flags, it has been using balloons in shades of saffron, green and white. It is the demography of Wayanad constituency Muslims form 35% of population and Christians 13% that makes it a safe bet for the Congress. Rahul had won with a margin of 4,31,770 votes in 2019, a record in Kerala. Despite the desperate efforts of the Congress to underplay the Muslim connection, the BJP has not allowed it to go unnoticed. Every top BJP leader who came to Wayanad made it a point to take a dig at Rahul for contesting from a place where the majority is in minority. Though there is no hype around Rahuls candidature this time compared with 2019, ironically, it is this same factor, which the BJP has been harping on, that will help him this time as well. Decoding Rahul Gandhi's face-off against Annie Raja in Wayanad and what it says about the India bloc If there was someone who had ardently hoped that Rahul would not be contesting from Wayanad this time, it would be Annie Raja. A feisty face of the CPI and also a close friend of Rahul Annie was the first to hit the campaign trail. Her name was announced at a time when there was speculation that Rahul would not be contesting from Wayanad, as there was stiff opposition from the CPM and the CPI against him running against an INDIA bloc ally. However, the state Congress unit relentlessly pleaded with Rahul to contest again from the same constituency. Moreover, the lack of such a sure-shot safe seat elsewhere in the country also may have prompted Rahul to choose Wayanad yet again. Gandhi awe factor is no longer visible in Wayanad Clearly displeased, the Left has been grumbling over the move ever since. Annie, though taken aback by Rahuls candidature, is expected to garner more votes than any previous Left candidate in the constituency because of her national stature and innate ability to connect with people. Her native, religious roots could also work to her advantage her family was among the early Christian settlers in the high ranges of north Kerala. Kerala: BJP fields its state president Surendran against Rahul Gandhi, CPI's Annie Raja in Wayanad The candidature of BJP state president K Surendran was a surprise. It has indeed spiced up the fight in Wayanad. That the BJP central leadership decided to field its state president in a constituency where the party has minimal reach its vote share has never crossed 9% in any of the elections is still intriguing to many. Several star campaigners of the BJP including Union minister Smriti Irani, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, and Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai arrived in Wayanad to campaign for Surendran. It is another story that these VIP visits were more about Rahul and less about Surendran as all of them used the opportunity to take potshots at the Nehru-Gandhi scion. Though Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been saying the Congress shehzada will lose from Wayanad this time, nobody not even Surendran would have realistic expectations of such an outcome. Rahuls opponents, however, would be eyeing a dip in his victory margin. A moral victory of sorts. And that does not seem unlikely, as the Gandhi awe factor is no longer visible in Wayanad.
Lok Sabha elections 2024 LIVE updates | Phase 2 campaign ends ahead of voting
88 constituencies across 13 States are going to the polls in phase 2
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Uday Srinivas files nomination as JSPs Kakinada Lok Sabha contestant
Modi works for welfare of all, including Muslims
Online payment for recounting, re-evaluation of applications till May 2
Candidates are required to pay 100 per paper for recounting, and 600 per paper for scanned copy cum re-verification of answer scripts
Video: Tamil Nadu farmers take protest to new heights, climb mobile tower in Delhi - MSN
Video: Tamil Nadu farmers take protest to new heights, climb mobile tower in Delhi MSN
CREDAI gets new president, office-bearers
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At 93, she is the longest surviving bypass patient in the country
IAS officer MGR chose to clean up TNPSC dead
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Day 13: Kallazhagar liberates Mandooga - The Times of India
Day 13: Kallazhagar liberates Mandooga The Times of India
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Now, book local train tickets from your home
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A hundred years ago| Indian Railway orders in England
Prodigy D Gukesh Receives Triumphant Welcome in Chennai After Historic Chess Victory
Prodigy D Gukesh Receives Triumphant Welcome in Chennai After Historic Chess Victory History-making teen Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh was swamped by fans as he returned to the country here on Thursday after becoming the youngest challenger to the world title by winning the Candidates Chess Tournament in Toronto. Hundreds of students from the Velammal Vidyalaya, the school where Gukesh studies, lined up at the airport at least one hour before his flight landed to greet their 17-year-old fellow student. A sizeable general crowd also built up as his arrival time drew closer and the area around the arrival gate was jam-packed in no time. The youngster walked out at around 3am and he was immediately flanked by the jubilant mass. In no time, he had garlands around his neck even as the police jostled to escort him out safely. ''I feel very happy for this homecoming, this is a special achievement. I was in a good space since the beginning of the tournament, I had full confidence that I will emerge top in this tournament and luck was on my side as well,'' Gukesh said while talking to the media at the airport. ''It's good to see so many people enjoy chess...I thank the Tamil Nadu government. I thank my Appa, Amma, coach, friends, family, sponsor and my school for being alongside me and playing an amazing role in helping me win this tournament,'' he added. On Monday, Gukesh became the first Indian after the great Viswanathan Anand to win the Candidates Tournament, which is held specifically to decide the challenger for the reigning world champion. He became the youngest ever challenger for the title, bettering the record created by the legendary Garry Kasparov 40 years ago. The triumph entitles Gukesh to a clash against reigning world champion Ding Liren of China in the last quarter of the year. Among the players Gukesh beat in Candidates was the 18-year-old R Praggnanandhaa, another prodigal talent to emerge from the city. Gukesh has been making waves for quite a while now. He became India's youngest Grandmaster at 12 years, seven months and 17 days in January 2019. Currently, he has a FIDE rating of 2743, while his peak rating happens to be 2758, which he attained last September. Gukesh is 16th in the FIDE Rankings at present, while his best ranking to date happens to be eighth, which he reached last September. Among his top recent performances was a silver medal at the Hangzhou Asian Games last year in the men's team category.
Communal politics does not work in rural India, says Rohini Khadse
Jayant Patil, Rohini Khadse and Sanjay Raut in Jalgaon file nominations for Shriram Patils candidature for the Raver Lok Sabha constituency and Karan Pawarfor Jalgaon Lok Sabha Constituency candidature
In a tough fight, Om Birla faces off with ex-BJP member in Kota
Despite 83% of the regions land being irrigated by river waters, farmers are suffering because of constant increase in input costs, and the Chambal canal network that has not been expanded
Tripura tribals block roads to demand drinking water
In Thungcharai, under the Panisagar subdivision, residents have threatened to boycott the Lok Sabha elections if their village does not receive drinking water immediately.
Congress wants to undermine SC, ST, OBC reservation by giving it to minorities, says YogiAdityanath
Mr. Adityanath also alleged that the Congress party posed a threat to national interest by wanting to implement Sharia law in India
Government to roll out new test to diagnose special learning disabilities in adults
This comes after a petition in the Supreme Court challenged the absence of such diagnostic methods for testing SLDs in adults, which prevented them from securing disability certificates required to claim benefits
The reality of the Swachh Bharat Mission
A scheme fully owned by the state has become a toolkit for privatisation of public health services and continues caste discrimination
ICC ropes in Usain Bolt as T20 World Cup ambassador
Bolt currently holds world records in the 100m, 200m and 4x100m with times of 9.58 secs, 19.19 secs and 36.84 secs
ECI gives go-ahead to MCD mayoral elections
Atishi denied meeting with CM: AAP; Tihar rebuts claim
AAP leader Sanjay Singh says Kejriwal being treated like a terrorist, will write to PM Modi over it; senior jail official says only 2 meetings allowed every week, Finance Minister given time on April 29
Girl, 6, sexually assaulted in Delhi by tuition teachers son
