The Times of India

AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami intensified his criticism of the DMK government, highlighting alleged failures in law and order, corruption, and dynastic politics. Campaigning in Sivakasi, he cited concerns over women's safety and pledged to eradicate drug peddling within three months if his party returns to power.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin launched his election campaign in Tiruvarur, emphasizing DMK's return to power for Tamil Nadu's protection and development. He framed the election as a contest between 'TN and Delhi,' accusing the BJP-AIADMK alliance of aiming to halt TN's growth and promising to implement DMK's manifesto pledges.

AIADMK faces internal turmoil as ticket allocations spark dissent. A Kallakurichi town secretary resigned citing stress, while a former Mayiladuthurai MLA stepped down from his post in protest. Another former district secretary criticized leaders for denying him a ticket, highlighting growing dissatisfaction within the party ranks.

In Tamil Nadu's upcoming elections, 21 constituencies will see alliance partners of DMK and AIADMK contest against each other without the major parties' symbols. This shift, influenced by smaller parties and actor Vijay's TVK, is expected to narrow victory margins. These seats offer opportunities for third fronts, though they face challenges in strongholds of established alliance partners.

Chennai's electorate faces critical issues of flooding, pollution, waste management, and river restoration as elections approach. While both AIADMK and DMK have initiated projects, significant challenges like incomplete works, legacy pollution, and persistent encroachments remain, impacting the city's liveability and quality of life.

Baranica, initially hesitant due to her underweight frame, transformed her initial caution into a passion for pole vaulting. Overcoming setbacks like an ACL injury and back pain, she recently broke the national record at 4.22m. Meanwhile, C Reegan, from a farming background, also set a national record at 5.3m, showcasing his raw power and mental fortitude.

Kakarla Mahesh acquired a rare World War 2-era Royal Air Force air compressor at a Madras University of Technology auction for Rs 2,500. The portable Bendix-Westinghous unit, likely used at the Sholavaram airstrip, was found in pristine condition and restored by Mahesh, who has a childhood connection to the location.

The train will stop at Perambur, Tiruvallur, Arakkonam, Katpadi, Jolarpet, Salem, Erode, Tirupur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam Town, Kottayam, Changanassery, Thiruvalla, Chengannur, Mavelikara, Kayamkulam and Kollam.

VCK president Thol Thirumavalavan explained his decision to contest the Assembly election while serving as an MP, aiming to advocate more effectively for marginalized communities in the state assembly. He cited other MPs also contesting elections and expressed confidence in his alliance's victory, emphasizing the need for unity against the BJP's increased presence in Tamil Nadu.

Actor-turned-politician Vijay launched his campaign with an emotional plea, declaring assets worth approximately Rs 624 crore. He criticized Chief Minister M K Stalin's administration, citing safety concerns and alleged corruption in departments like Tasmac. Vijay's campaign, marked by a strong attack on the ruling party, continued in Kolathur after a cancellation in Villivakkam due to security issues.

Chief Minister M K Stalin filed his nomination for a fourth term in Kolathur, declaring assets worth Rs 6.2 crore. He expressed confidence in a significant victory, citing unprecedented public support and highlighting his development contributions in a booklet. Stalin also emphasized the strength and ideological foundation of the DMK-led alliance, calling it a fight for Tamil Nadu's rights.

The Election Commission of India has allocated the 'cooker' symbol to AMMK for the upcoming Assembly election, allowing them to use it in 11 constituencies as part of the AIADMK-led NDA. This symbol, previously used by TTV Dhinakaran in a 2017 bypoll victory, was also allotted to AMMK for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

Seventeen passengers, including four children, were trapped for two hours in a lift at Puzhuthivakkam MRTS station, just weeks after its inauguration. Emergency contacts failed, forcing them to call for help. Fire and police services rescued everyone safely. Passengers expressed anger over alleged negligence, while railway officials cited overcrowding as the cause.