The Times of India

For three decades, Rajesh Ravichandran has dug graves, inheriting the work from his father within the marginalized vettiyan community. Despite facing social discrimination and lacking permanent jobs, pensions, or safety gear, these workers perform a vital, yet stigmatized, service, often exposed to severe health risks.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has announced a 2% dearness allowance hike for state government employees and teachers, raising it from 58% to 60% effective January 1. This decision, benefiting approximately 16 lakh individuals, aligns with the Union government's revision and will incur an additional annual expenditure of 1,230 crore for the state exchequer.

Seventeen foreign nationals, including a woman, are in police custody after immigration officials intercepted them at Chennai and Madurai airports. Suspected of voting in Tamil Nadu's Assembly elections using fraudulent documents, these individuals were identified by indelible ink marks on their fingers. Investigations are underway, with initial reports suggesting votes were cast in Perambur and KK Nagar.

TVK MLA VMS Mustafa's remarks endorsing DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin's call to abolish Sanatan have sparked a political controversy in Tamil Nadu. Mustafa stated that his party also subscribes to the ideals of Periyar and Ambedkar, aiming to eradicate Sanatana. These comments come after Udhayanidhi reignited the debate in the Assembly, drawing criticism from the BJP.

India celebrates the return of stolen idols, but a deal with the Smithsonian to lend back the Thiruthuraipoondi Nataraja raises questions. The article argues that a consecrated deity is not state property and cannot be legally lent by the government. This arrangement risks undermining the principle of true restitution for devotees.

Justice Swarna Kanta Sharma's recusal controversy highlights the principle that justice must be seen to be done. Despite a litigant's concerns about potential bias due to her children practicing in the same court, the judge refused to step aside. This situation raises questions about perceptions of impartiality and the importance of maintaining public confidence in the judiciary.

The Tata Group-owned carrier on Wednesday announced a series of cuts and suspensions across international routes between June and Aug 2026 owing to continued airspace restrictions in certain regions and record-high jet fuel prices impacting long-haul and international operations.

Tamil Nadu and Chennai region witnessed a dip in this year's CBSE results, with the state recording a 95.25% pass rate, falling to fourth place nationally. The Chennai region also saw a decline to 93.84%. Girls outperformed boys across both state and regional performances. Kendriya Vidyalaya schools led the Chennai region with a near-perfect pass rate.

Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's government swiftly revoked the appointment of astrologer Rickey Radhan Pandit Vettrivel as Officer on Special Duty within 24 hours. The decision followed widespread political backlash from opposition parties and even allies, who questioned the appointment of an astrologer to an official government role, citing concerns over secularism and scientific temper.

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government, led by CM Vijay, successfully won the floor test with 144 votes in the Legislative Assembly. Despite facing opposition and abstentions, the government secured support from various parties and independent MLAs. CM Vijay pledged to govern for all sections, upholding secular and social justice principles.

A significant faction of AIADMK MLAs, reportedly 28 out of 47, are considering joining the Vijay-led government after supporting a confidence vote. While the group claims a deal for ministerial berths, sources within the Vijay camp deny any firm commitment. This move follows internal party disputes over leadership and whip appointments.

This summer, adventure sports are taking off as thrill-seekers, newcomers, and families look to break free from conventional vacationing. Whether it's surfing the waves or experiencing the adrenaline rush of paramotoring, activity providers are noting an impressive surge in bookings.

R Annapoorani, who scored 428 in Class XII while working as a domestic helper, has been offered admission to Ethiraj College for Women. The college chairman provided a full fee waiver scholarship for her BSc Computer Science with AI program. This initiative highlights the college's commitment to supporting determined students facing challenging circumstances.

Madras High Court has barred TVK MLA Srinivasa Sethupathi, who won by a single vote in Tirupattur, from participating in the upcoming floor test. The court cited the potential impact of his disputed vote on the state's constitutional governance. The MLA has appealed the order to the Supreme Court.

A faction of AIADMK MLAs has defied party leader Edappadi Palaniswami, announcing support for Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's government and quitting the NDA alliance. This move raises questions about disqualification under anti-defection laws, as their actions may be construed as voluntarily giving up party membership, even without a formal merger.

India's NEET-2026 medical entrance exam was cancelled due to a paper leak, impacting over 23 lakh students and reigniting concerns about the National Testing Agency's systemic dysfunction. This recurring issue has led to significant uncertainty for students, disrupted academic calendars, and strained hospital services, prompting calls for accountability and reforms.

AIADMK faces a deepening power struggle as senior leaders and MLAs convene meetings amid electoral setbacks. Factions led by Edappadi K Palaniswami and S P Velumani are vying for legislature party leadership, with competing claims submitted to the pro-tem Speaker. This marks the third major split threat in the party's history.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has ordered the closure of 717 TASMAC liquor outlets within two weeks. These shops are located within 500 meters of places of worship, educational institutions, and bus stands across the state. The directive follows a statewide inspection aimed at stricter regulation and addressing public concerns.