The Times of India

DMK is intensifying efforts in Western Tamil Nadu, a traditional stronghold of AIADMK, by focusing on development, caste outreach, and welfare. Despite AIADMK's regional advantage with leaders like Edappadi K. Palaniswami, DMK is deploying key figures and targeting specific communities. The contest is becoming more competitive, with new alliances and emerging parties adding complexity to the political landscape.

Roshini S, a 28-year-old social activist, is the NTK candidate for Villivakkam in the upcoming state assembly polls, aiming to be the first transwoman elected. She focuses on issues like education, women's empowerment, cultural preservation, and environmental protection. Roshini connects with voters as a sister, emphasizing her commitment to the community's future.

A 36-year-old Sri Lankan television actress, Subhashini, died by suicide in her Chennai apartment on Sunday night. Police reported the incident occurred during a video call with her husband, following a domestic dispute. The couple, married in April 2024, had been living in Bengaluru. An RDO inquiry has been ordered due to the recent marriage.

Income Tax officials are conducting searches across 15 locations in Chennai and Puducherry linked to DMK functionary Jaffer Sadiq, arrested by the NCB for alleged drug smuggling. These raids, based on new information about significant tax evasion, are happening while the model code of conduct is in effect.

In a bid to energize the electorate, the BJP has unveiled a vibrant manifesto for Puducherry, featuring enticing offerings such as complimentary LPG cylinders during festive seasons and electric scooters for exceptional female students graduating from Class XII.

The anticipated consolidation of Thevar votes in southern districts has fragmented, with key leaders aligning with different parties. This political realignment occurs as AIADMK seeks to regain ground, while DMK strengthens its position by inducting expelled AIADMK leaders. The presence of new political entities and community votes further complicates the electoral landscape.

Its not easy for a full-time politician to find time for leisure time activities, especially in the run-up to the assembly election. But here is what some of TNs changemakers are up to when theyre not in the public eye

As the electoral atmosphere heats up in Chepauk-Triplicane, the spotlight is on Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin, who enjoys a robust support base. While the DMK radiates confidence with backing from a steadfast Muslim constituency and various welfare initiatives, it still faces lingering concerns such as persistent parking issues and the rising cattle threat.

P Chidambaram, the ex-Union Finance Minister, has raised concerns about a potential constitutional amendment by the BJP government aiming to increase Parliament seats to an ambitious 816. He argues that this strategy coincides with the upcoming elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, hinting that it could facilitate the passage of legislation in the absence of campaigning MPs.

In a passionate display of solidarity, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and his allies have denounced the personal jabs made by AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami against the revered late M. Karunanidhi. With vigor, Vaiko and M. Veerapandian came to Stalin's defense, praising Karunanidhi's enduring spirit while criticizing EPS for stooping to personal attacks rather than engaging in meaningful political discourse.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Tamil Nadu BJP leaders, urging them to challenge the DMK government on its financial management and the utilization of central funds. The meeting focused on developing a strong counter-narrative for the upcoming election campaign, addressing issues like language sentiment and fund allocation. Senior leaders were encouraged to boost the party's electoral performance.

In a striking announcement, Union Minister Piyush Goyal has pointed to a dire financial situation in Tamil Nadu, claiming the state's treasury is depleted and teetering on the brink of bankruptcy under the DMK administration. He criticized the government for alleged financial mismanagement and corruption, asserting that the state's debt has ballooned significantly.

During a lively debate at a recent political rally, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin confronted Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the controversial language policy. Stalin vocalized his concerns, alleging that the BJP's push for Hindi is a veiled attempt to overshadow regional languages.

The returnees said they were unsure of their destiny till the very moment they landed in Tamil Nadu.

He said the choice of Jothimani was a mark of respect to Illayaperumal, who had fought against caste discrimination.

The deceased have been identified as M Saravanan, a cab driver from St Thomas Mount in Chennai, and S Seenivasan, 47, of Pamban Road in Madurai.

In a bold move leading up to the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly elections, the BJP has rolled out its candidate lineup, showcasing influential figures such as Nainar Nagenthran and Tamilisai Soundararajan. Interestingly, K Annamalai, the former state president, has been left off the list.

As elections approach, political campaigns are transcending religious and caste boundaries. Leaders from various parties are seen participating in religious ceremonies across different faiths and visiting community memorials. This strategic shift aims to consolidate a significant minority vote and appeal to all segments of the electorate.