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We know how to bring debt under control, improve finances of Tamil Nadu: Palaniswami

On delimitation, the Union Minister for Home Affairs has clarified that not only Tamil Nadu but other States also will not be affected.I have also reiterated it. Tamil Nadus share will go up from 7.18% to 7.23%. This has disproved what Mr. Stalin has been saying: EdapaddiK.Palaniswami

The Hindu 18 Apr 2026 10:56 am

How Vijay's Young Fans Are Nudging Votes For TVK In Tamil Nadu Polls

Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026: Vijay's campaign slogans over the last few months have become a superhit among children.

NDTV 18 Apr 2026 10:28 am

Tragic Road Accident in Tamil Nadu Claims Nine Lives, Condolences from Modi and Kharge

New Delhi, April 18: A devastating road accident occurred late Friday night in Valparai, Tamil Nadu. A mini traveler van carrying a group of tourists from Malappuram district, Kerala, crashed at the 13th hairpin bend on the Pollachi-Valparai Ghat Road. The incident resulted in the deaths of nine individuals, with several others injured. Prime Minister ... Read more Tragic Road Accident in Tamil Nadu Claims Nine Lives, Condolences from Modi and Kharge

Morningstar 18 Apr 2026 10:00 am

Fire ignited by Stalin scorched Delhi's arrogance, severe blow to Modi, claims Tamil Nadu CM

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin declared a victory against the delimitation bill in Parliament. He stated this defeat has humbled Delhi's arrogance and significantly impacted the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Stalin predicted further electoral successes for his alliance in the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections on April 23.

The Economic Times 18 Apr 2026 9:39 am

Assembly Elections 2026 LIVE: Tamil Nadu gears up for intense day of campaigning

PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi to lead rallies across Tamil Nadu

The Hindu 18 Apr 2026 8:48 am

Case registered over QR code cash distribution by AIADMK

The Times of India 18 Apr 2026 5:34 am

Long-standing issues a poll plank in DMK stronghold

The Times of India 18 Apr 2026 5:29 am

No anti-incumbency in Velachery: MLA Aassan Maulaana

The Times of India 18 Apr 2026 5:29 am

Cash meant for voters seized

The Times of India 18 Apr 2026 5:14 am

Heres how candidates names are sequentially slotted on EVMs

The Times of India 18 Apr 2026 5:10 am

Teenager arrested for assaulting woman traffic cop

The Times of India 18 Apr 2026 4:29 am

TN has defeated Delhi, says Stalin

The Times of India 18 Apr 2026 3:54 am

ET Graphics: Bengal picture abhi bhi baaki hai; SIRs changing playbook

India's Election Commission is revising voter lists, removing over 5.98 crore names. The process, starting in Bihar, has changed significantly. Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala are now undergoing revisions. West Bengal's revision faced legal challenges, leading to mass deletions and judicial oversight. The exercise aims to ensure accurate voter rolls.

The Economic Times 18 Apr 2026 12:52 am

Sasikala criticises DMK and AIADMK for recklessly miring Tamil Nadu in financial morass

While her criticism of the DMK government over administrative failure was direct, Ms. Sasikala referred to the AIADMK as the previous regime, while charging both parties with saddling every unborn child with a loan of 2 lakh due to the freebie culture

The Hindu 18 Apr 2026 12:19 am

This victory is just a trailer: MK Stalin after 131st Amendment Bill failed to pass Lok Sabha

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin celebrated the defeat of the Women's Reservation Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha. He declared this a victory against Tamil Nadu and a preview of the upcoming state assembly elections. Stalin predicted a significant win for his party, DMK, in the 2026 polls. Opposition parties had also raised concerns about the bill's implementation timeline.

The Economic Times 17 Apr 2026 11:27 pm

Stalin Praises Unity of India Alliance, Thanks Leaders for Opposing Delimitation Bill

Chennai, April 17: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed appreciation for the unity among opposition parties under the India alliance on Friday. He thanked the leaders for their collective opposition to the central governments proposed delimitation bill. In a post on social media, Stalin specifically acknowledged opposition leader Rahul Gandhi for raising the issue ... Read more Stalin Praises Unity of India Alliance, Thanks Leaders for Opposing Delimitation Bill

Morningstar 17 Apr 2026 11:21 pm

We know how to bring the debt under control, improve the finances of Tamil Nadu, and implement all the welfare schemes completely, says the AIADMK general secretary

On delimitation, the Union Minister for Home Affairs has clarified that not only Tamil Nadu but other States also will not be affected.I have also reiterated it. Tamil Nadus share will go up from 7.18% to 7.23%. This has disproved what Mr. Stalin has been saying: EdapaddiK.Palaniswami

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 10:51 pm

Temple, worship too are relaxation; promote mental health: Madras high court

The court then imposed Rs 1 lakh cost on a petitioner, Jesudass Cornelius, who wanted a direction to the Tiruvallur district collector to maintain the land earmarked for public purposes in Veeraraghavan village, Thiruverkadu, as a park and playground. The judge imposed the cost, terming the petition as one filed with mala fide intent to trigger communal tension.

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 10:46 pm

When Vijay came knocking on voters doors in Perambur

The campaign was held at Jawahar Street in Bharathi Nagar, located next to the partys election office.

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 10:14 pm

Tragic Road Accident in Valparai Claims Nine Lives

Mumbai, April 17: A tragic incident occurred on Friday in Valparai, Tamil Nadu, involving a group of tourists from Malappuram, Kerala. The accident resulted in the deaths of nine individuals and left several others injured. The victims were part of a group of teachers and their families from Perinthalmanna, who had embarked on a holiday ... Read more Tragic Road Accident in Valparai Claims Nine Lives

Morningstar 17 Apr 2026 10:07 pm

Zoho moves defamation suit against Flexype Technologies for Rs 10crore damages

The suit has been posted for hearing on April 22.

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 9:58 pm

Chennai Poll Canvas: Chengalpattu | Rapid growth, uneven development

Chennai Poll Canvas is an election special programme from The Hindu, offering a comprehensive constituency roundup from in and around Chennai for the Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026.

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 9:51 pm

'This victory is just a trailer': Stalin reacts to Constitution Amendment Bill's defeat in Lok Sabha

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin celebrated the defeat of the Constitution Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha, calling it a victory for the state. He stated that Tamil Nadu fought for fairness in the delimitation process, not against it, and vowed to continue standing united against challenges to the state's rights and federal spirit.

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 9:45 pm

Anbumani didnt visit me when I was hospitalised in Chennai: Ramadoss

Ramadoss fainted during a campaign in Salem on Sunday (April 12) and was admitted to Apollo Hospitals. He was discharged on Thursday.

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 9:24 pm

AIADMK chief Palaniswami assures drug free TN if voted to power

Salem: AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami on Friday, April 17, assured a drug free Tamil Nadu if his party comes to power in the upcoming Assembly elections. During a poll campaign at Sangagiri here, he said, Students are addicted to drug abuse and time has come to put an end to it. Once the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 17 Apr 2026 9:17 pm

Tamil Nadu defeats Delhi: Stalin after Constitution Amendment Bills defeat in Lok Sabha

Mr. Stalin said: On April 23, we will defeat Delhis arrogance, together with slaves who support that arrogance.

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 9:11 pm

A vote for Udhayanidhi is a vote for Tamil Nadu, says Kamal Haasan

When it comes to Tamil Nadus sports ecosystem, one only thinks of Udhayanidhi, and it is our responsibility to make him win, he told supporters

The Hindu Businessline 17 Apr 2026 7:34 pm

Withdraw Delimitation Bill: Stalin

If, in the arrogance of their numerical strength, they push it through despite our opposition, they will have to face the consequences in Tamil Nadu: Stalin

Deccan Chronicle 17 Apr 2026 6:56 pm

BJP-AIADMK alliance should not be allowed to disturb Tamil Nadus communal harmony: Shanmugham

Despite the Constitution guaranteeing equal rights, attempts were being made to spread religious hatred and interfere in personal freedom, says the CPI(M) State Secretary

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 6:56 pm

TNNLU students protest after VC says women wearing shorts invites sexual harassment

Tiruchirappalli: Students of the Tamil Nadu National Law University (TNNLU) in Tiruchirappalli took strong exception to the advice given by the Vice Chancellor that sought to link women wearing shorts to inviting sexual harassment, prompting an overnight protest and demanding an apology from him. A source at the TNNLU termed VC V Nagarajs remark as Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 17 Apr 2026 6:54 pm

I have no experience in falling at someones feet to gain power: Udhayanidhi Stalin

Udhayanidhi made this attack on former chief minister and AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami while campaigning for DMK candidate K V K Sabari Karthikeyan in Kinathukadavu constituency in Coimbatore.

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 6:18 pm

Delimitation bill will be defeated in Parliament: Cong leader Chidambaram

SIVAGANGA (TAMIL NADU): Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Friday asserted that the proposed delimitation bill will be defeated in Parliament. Addressing reporters here, he said, Sonia Gandhi, Mamata Banerjee, M K Stalin, and Akhilesh Yadav will ensure its defeat, and added that the bill cannot be passed if all opposition leaders unite. Describing the []

Kashmir Reader 17 Apr 2026 6:09 pm

Over 865 Crore Seized During Elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal

New Delhi, April 17: Enforcement agencies have seized over 865 crore worth of materials during the ongoing assembly elections and by-elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. The Election Commission of India announced the election schedule for Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal on March 15, 2026. The Commission has issued strict directives ... Read more Over 865 Crore Seized During Elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal

Morningstar 17 Apr 2026 5:52 pm

Tamil Nadu Cabinet reshuffle: Senthilbalaji, three others sworn-in as Ministers

DMK legislators R. Rajendran, Govi. Chezhiaan and S.M. Nasar too were sworn-in as Ministers of the Tamil Nadu Cabinet.

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 5:28 pm

Caste calculus at play: How Tamil Nadus key communities could shape the electoral battle

Tamil Nadu elections are shaped by dominant caste blocs, including Vanniyars in the north, Gounders in the west, and Thevars in the south. Dalit and Nadar communities also hold significant sway in key pockets, influencing alliances and candidate selections across the state.

The Economic Times 17 Apr 2026 5:00 pm

Tamil Nadu election 2026: Residents associations flag ground-level problems in Chennai as poll battle intensifies

They want the govt. to hold regular meetings to resolve issues such as poor waste management, faulty road re-laying methods, traffic violations, lack of public safety and coordination among civic authorities. They demand improved underground sewerage system and protection of waterbodies

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 4:05 pm

Anbumani slams T.N. CM Stalin over false fear on delimitation

Dr. Anbumani welcomed assurances given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah that Tamil Nadus Lok Sabha constituencies will not be reduced

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 3:38 pm

BJP, opposition spar over Womens Reservation Act; delay in notification sparks row

New Delhi, Apr 17: The BJP and opposition parties on Friday accused each other of playing politics over the implementation of the Womens Reservation Act, with the ruling party backing the move as a historic step, while the opposition said the government was sleeping over issuing a notification over the law. Opposition parties also alleged that the government is using the womens reservation to push an unconstitutional delimitation exercise. The Womens Reservation Act, 2023, which provides for a 33 per cent quota for women in legislatures, was brought into force on Thursday to operationalise amendments currently being discussed in Parliament. An official explained that bringing the law into force was essential as its proposed amendment will not have come into effect without that. The constitution amendment Bill became a law but did not become part of the Constitution as the government did not bring it into force. If a law does not come into force, how can its proposed amendment be implemented. Hence it was brought into force with effect from April 16, the official explained. The 2023 act was notified with effect from April 16 in the midst of the debate in Parliament to amend the same law for its implementation in 2029. The three Bills the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty-First Amendment) Bill, 2026, the Delimitation Bill, 2026, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026 are being debated in the Lok Sabha to enable implementation of the quota by 2029. BJP MP Dinesh Sharma hit out at the opposition, alleging its resistance is politically driven. The opposition has only one agenda -- opposition for the sake of it. The intent is only to oppose Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he told reporters in Parliament House complex. As far as delimitation is concerned, it can be passed by a simple majority. It is not a constitutional amendment of the kind being projected. The opposition is free to express its views, but on womens reservation, they should support it, he said. BJP MP Shashank Mani Tripathi defended the governments move, rejecting allegations of delay or political motive. The arguments about delay by the opposition or some southern states are completely wrong, he said. Due to reasons such as the Census, it cannot be implemented immediately. A proper mechanism has been worked out for implementation by 2029. There is no politics in this, Tripathi added. BJP MP Maya Naroliya termed the move a historic moment and credited Prime Minister Modi for giving women their due rights. Quoting the prime minister, she added, Those who did not support the fight for womens rights will not be forgiven by women. Congress MP K C Venugopal raised the delay in issuing the notification, calling it an evidence of the governments lack of sincerity. The Womens Reservation Bill was passed with consensus in 2023, but it was notified only Thursday night. They talk about womens empowerment, but a constitutional amendment passed in 2023 was brought into force only now. What technicality is this? Venugopal said. At least when you move an amendment, it is the duty of the government to ensure proper notification. On which legislation are you moving the amendment? he asked. He demanded wider consultations on the other bills under discussion and sought their withdrawal. Withdraw the bills, call an all-party meeting and arrive at a consensus. We are ready to support one-third reservation within the existing 543 seats, he said. Questioning government assurances in Parliament, he added, We have seen such assurances in the past as well. They are made on the floor of the House, but are not reflected in law. That is why we are asking if the government is serious, why dont you put it in the legislation? Congress MP Hibi Eden said the party supports the law but opposes linking it with delimitation. We supported the government unanimously in 2023. But we are not supporting the delimitation process being coupled with it.This is a blatant attack on the Constitution. Why this urgency now? Eden asked. JMM MP Mahua Maji too questioned the timing of the move. Why this special session now? The bill was passed unanimously in 2023 and everyone supported it. This looks like a political stunt. Elections are underway in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, and many leaders are engaged in campaigning. In such a situation, why this sudden urgency? Maji asked. CPI MP P Sandosh Kumar alleged that the government was misusing the issue. We support womens reservation, but why is it being used to hamper the interests of southern states? he said. When the basis of delimitation is the Census, and that process is yet to be completed, why is the government pushing it in this manner? Why is it creating a divide between northern and southern states? Kumar asked. TMC leader Kirti Azad also criticised the governments approach, alleging that it does not seem to know what it is doing. The bill was passed in 2023 with provisions for Census and delimitation. How can seat allocation be decided without following that process? What they say today, they contradict tomorrow. Such an important constitutional exercise cannot be handled in this manner, Azad added.

Greater Kashmir 17 Apr 2026 3:28 pm

Tamil Nadu election 2026: Spat between Centre and State takes a toll on quality of higher education

A total of 16 universities inT.N. continue to suffer without institutional heads, even as the hearing on a bill on giving power to the State Government to appoint V-Cs is on before the High Court

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 3:26 pm

Stalin stands exposed after PM Modis assurance on delimitation: Edappadi Palaniswami

Pointing out that the share of Tamil Nadu in the Lok Sabha would go up from 7.18% to 7.23%, Mr. Palaniswami, in an interview with The Hindu, said that this disproves what he [Mr. Stalin] has been saying.

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 3:15 pm

Tamil Nadu Election 2026: Seizures Exceed 800 Crore, Nearly Double from 2021

Chennai, April 17: The ongoing election atmosphere in Tamil Nadu has seen the seizure of approximately 800 crore in cash, valuables, and illegal items. This figure is nearly double compared to the 2021 assembly elections. According to election department officials, during the 2021 elections, 446.28 crore worth of gifts and precious metals were confiscated without ... Read more Tamil Nadu Election 2026: Seizures Exceed 800 Crore, Nearly Double from 2021

Morningstar 17 Apr 2026 2:23 pm

'Dosa, Idli, Sambhar, Chutney': CSK vs RCB rivalry intensifies as Thala's team files complaint with BCCI over DJ's song choice. Full controversy explained

Dosa, Idli, Sambhar, Chutney song: The rivalry between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) intensified after DJ played the song 'Dosa, Idli, Sambhar, Chutney'. The CSK has filed a complaint with the BCCI that the song was not in good taste and mocked the identity of Tamil Nadu. Earlier, RCB player Jitesh Sharma sang the same song ahead of a match that drew backlash from the CSK fans.

The Economic Times 17 Apr 2026 1:29 pm

Swelect Energy gains on commissioning newly erected 110/33 KV Pooling Sub Station in Tamil Nadu

Mumbai, April 17 (Udaipur Kiran): Swelect Energy Systems is currently trading at Rs. 648.15, up by 8.20 points or 1.28% from its previous closing of Rs. 639.95 on the BSE. The scrip opened at Rs. 652.75 and has touched a high and low of Rs. 657.70 and Rs. 639.85 respectively. So far 1775 shares were ... Read more Swelect Energy gains on commissioning newly erected 110/33 KV Pooling Sub Station in Tamil Nadu

Udaipur Kiran 17 Apr 2026 12:53 pm

Vijay couldn't protect Jana Nayagan, claims he can protect Tamil Nadu: Rajya Sabha MP

Vijay couldn't protect Jana Nayagan, claims he can protect Tamil Nadu: Rajya Sabha MP

India Today 17 Apr 2026 11:33 am

Tamil Nadu Elections 2026: Seizures Exceed 800 Crores, Nearly Double from 2021

Chennai, April 17: The ongoing election atmosphere in Tamil Nadu has seen the seizure of approximately 800 crores worth of cash, valuables, and illegal items so far. This figure is nearly double compared to the 2021 assembly elections. According to election department officials, during the 2021 elections, 446.28 crores worth of gifts and precious metals ... Read more Tamil Nadu Elections 2026: Seizures Exceed 800 Crores, Nearly Double from 2021

Morningstar 17 Apr 2026 11:30 am

MK Stalin Criticizes Center Over Controversial Delimitation Bill

Chennai, April 17: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has launched a fierce attack on the central government regarding the delimitation bill. In a post shared on the social media platform X, he stated that this is a decisive moment for Tamil Nadus politics, and today will reveal the outcome of their struggle against the ... Read more MK Stalin Criticizes Center Over Controversial Delimitation Bill

Morningstar 17 Apr 2026 11:25 am

Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections: Voters urged to keep conscience and palms clean

InTambaramandThiruneermalai, resident associations and activist groups run campaigns to prevent voters from accepting cash for votes

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 10:57 am

Perils of selective political reporting: the case of Tamil Nadus finances

The rising prominence of social media warrants a closer look at the shifts in political reporting. An example is Union Minister Piyush Goyals recent claim on Tamil Nadus debt burden, which highlights the limits of citing debt without accounting for other factors

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 10:22 am

BJP: Stalin burned Delimitation Bill copy for election gains

Hyderabad: Taking exception to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin burning a copy of the delimitation bill, Telangana BJP leader Marri Shashidhar Reddy has alleged that the protests by DMK were orchestrated with an eye on the Assembly elections next week. In a statement in Hyderabad, Reddy, a former vice chairman of the National Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 17 Apr 2026 10:07 am

Assembly Elections 2026 LIVE: ECI begins EVM-VVPAT commissioning for Tamil Nadu and West Bengal phase-1 polls

The commissioning began in the presence of the candidates or their authorised representatives as well as General Observers, according to the release

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 7:12 am

Angling for fishers votes, DMK and AIADMK ramp up outreach

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 5:28 am

Why Chennai ballots are crowded with micro parties

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 4:48 am

Trains to West Bengal packed as workers head home to vote

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 4:48 am

3 more nabbed for attacking college girl in Chennai

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 4:44 am

Paint meets protest at this dalit art exhibition in Chennai

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 4:44 am

EPS with BJP for personal gain: Mutharasan

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 4:44 am

People must oust DMK: Sasikala

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 4:29 am

Annamalai attacks DMK over promises

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 4:28 am

Its raining freebies in Vijays manifesto

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 4:13 am

FIR filed against GST officer in DA case

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 3:53 am

Madras HC prohibits circulation of Jana Nayagan

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 3:38 am

TN college campuses immune to poll fever

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 3:17 am

LPG shortage keeps autos off Chennai roads

The Times of India 17 Apr 2026 3:17 am

Tamil Nadu election 2026: Vijay releases TVK manifesto; criticises Dravidian majors poll promises

He asserts that his party has only promised what was possible, practical, and implementable if voted to power

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 3:02 am

State short-staffed after eight senior officers deputed to poll-bound states

By Our Reporter SHILLONG, April 16: The deputation of as many as eight senior IAS and IPS officers from Meghalaya to the election-bound states of West Bengal and Tamil Nadu has severely disrupted administrative work in several key departments. The IAS officers sent as Election Observers include Swapnil Tembe, Garod L.S.N. Dykes, David D. Sangma, []

The Shillong Times 17 Apr 2026 2:34 am

How Scheduled Castes in Tirunelveli empowered themselves by establishing schools

The community established schools not only inTirunelvelidistrict but also in other parts of Tamil Nadu.Now, there are 28 schools originally established by the community that are functioning as government-aided primary schools inTirunelveli

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 1:56 am

Tamil Nadu Assembly election 2026: Congress and BJP in direct fight in the parched Aranthangi constituency

The constituency has a 42-km-long coastline stretching from Kattumavadi to Enathi with 32 fishing hamlets; poor roads, acute drinking water shortage and lack of industries are the main issues facing the people

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 1:50 am

Tamil Nadu election 2026: How a stool makes a huge difference at polling booth

Members of Tamil Nadu Dwarfism Association have reiterated a set a demands they have always made when the hustings is round the corner

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 1:46 am

Alliterative expression as the Dravidian movements political weapon

Alliterative slogans shaped Tamil Nadu politics, with leaders like Annadurai and Karunanidhi using them to connect with the masses and win support

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 1:23 am

Tamil Nadu election 2026: Cleanliness, safety, housing top agenda of many women candidates in Chennai

NTKsAyeshasays traffic congestion has to be addressed immediately inTriplicane; AIADMKs Gokula Indira seeks increased patrol for womens safety and designated spaces for food carts

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 1:22 am

Edappadi Palaniswami will be punished for his betrayalon May 4: Tamil Nadu CM Stalin

On the allegation of Palaniswami that DMK is speaking against womens reservation, Stalin says the matter is about delimitation, not reservation; points out that danger is surrounding Tamil Nadu and that history is giving EPS one last chance to speak against the BJP

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 12:48 am

South's LS seats, political weight to rise: Govt

Union Home Minister Amit Shah assured southern states their representation will rise with Lok Sabha expansion to 816 seats. He stated Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala will see increased seats and political weight. Shah also clarified that reservation for Muslim women based on religion is unconstitutional. Bills related to women's reservation and delimitation were introduced.

The Economic Times 17 Apr 2026 12:20 am

No reduction in southern seats: Amit Shah

New Delhi, Apr 16:Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday sought to allay concerns over the proposed delimitation exercise, asserting that the number of parliamentary seats in southern states will not be reduced even as the Centre moves to significantly expand the Lok Sabha. Addressing concerns surrounding the ongoing delimitation process, Shah said the exercise would be carried out strictly in accordance with existing legal provisions. The Delimitation Commission law is strictly in accordance with the existing (old) law. There is no change. It will not impact the ongoing elections, he said. Shah said that the proposed expansion of the Lok Sabha from the current 543 seats to 816 represents a nearly 50 percent increase, aimed at better representation of the population without disadvantaging any region. The number of seats in the southern states will not be reduced, Shah said, amid apprehensions from several states over a possible shift in political balance. He said that a completely false narrative was being spread that the representation of southern states would go down in the Lok Sabha after its strength is increased to 816 seats following the implementation of women's reservation and delimitation of constituencies. Intervening in the debate in Lok Sabha on the three bills introduced for amendment of the women's quota law and to set up a delimitation commission, Shah said the fact is that the number of seats will go up and power will grow. He said the number of Lok Sabha seats in the five southern states will go up from the present 129 to 195 seats while the percentage of power will increase from 23.76 per cent to 23.87 or almost 24 percent. Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka will increase to 42 from the present 28; in Andhra Pradesh, the number of Lok Sabha sets will increase to 38 from 25; in Telangana, it will be 26 from present 17; in Tamil Nadu, the number of Lok Sabha seats will go up to 59 from the present 39; and in Kerala, it will be 30 seats from the present 20, he said. Shah strongly rejected the opposition suggestion that the government will indulge in some kind of mischief during the delimitation exercise, saying the NDA government has not made any changes in the existing law. The delimitation bill is exactly like the previous law brought by your government. There is no change, not even a comma or a full stop, he said. Explaining how the total number of seats in the new Lok Sabha is fixed at 816, the Home Minister said it is exactly 50 percent more than the current total seats. On the issue of caste enumeration, the Home Minister said that the government had already taken a decision to conduct a caste census as part of the ongoing population census exercise. Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Cabinet has decided to conduct a caste census. The ongoing census is being conducted on the basis of caste enumeration. There is no need to spread confusion, he said. Shah said on that Muslims will not be given reservation on the basis of religion as such a quota would be unconstitutional. The question of providing reservation to Muslim women on the basis of religion does not even arise. Our Constitution does not allow at all to give reservation on the basis of religion. I want to make it clear our government's resolve that Muslims will not be given reservation on the basis of religion. Such reservation is unconstitutional, he said after the Samajwadi Party's Akhilesh Yadav and Dharmendra Yadav spoke in favour of giving a quota to Muslims. The Home Minister said the Samajwadi Party members were saying that they would place the demand for a caste census but he would like to inform them that the government had already taken a decision to carry out the caste census and it would be carried out along with the population enumeration. Right now, the counting of households is underway and the households do not have any caste. If the Samajwadi Party had its way, they would determine the caste of households as well, he said. Shah also said if the Samajwadi Party gives all its tickets to Muslim women, where do we have any objection, we have no objections at all. He said that during the population enumeration, the census authorities would keep a provision for caste enumeration, which I personally want too. I want to make it clear that this census will be conducted along with caste enumeration, the Home Minister said. Shahs remarks come at a time when the Centres proposed delimitation plan and census-related announcements have triggered widespread political debate, particularly over representation, federal balance, and data transparency. The government has maintained that both exercises are aimed at strengthening democratic representation and ensuring equitable policy planning based on updated demographic data. (With PTI inputs)

Greater Kashmir 17 Apr 2026 12:13 am

Tamil Nadu Polls: Targeting BJP, not AIADMK, as it sets agenda, shapes narrative, says PTR

Tamil Nadu's IT Minister Palanivel Thiaga Rajan highlights the DMK's focus on the BJP in upcoming polls. He addresses concerns over Hindi imposition and the sustainability of welfare schemes. Rajan criticizes the central government's attempts to homogenize and control states, emphasizing the importance of federalism and states' rights. He also expresses disappointment with the state's administrative processes.

The Economic Times 17 Apr 2026 12:12 am

Tamil Nadu Polls: Beyond caste lines, the rise of TVK's Vijay explained

Tamil Nadu's film stars find political success often linked to their caste-neutral identities. Actors like Vijay and Rajinikanth appeal across communities due to their perceived lack of caste affiliation. This neutrality helps them overcome the deep-rooted caste divisions prevalent in the state's politics and film industry. Even prominent figures struggle when caste baggage is present.

The Economic Times 17 Apr 2026 12:08 am

More women in the fray, but Tamil Nadu polls remain overwhelmingly male

From just 11 women candidates in 1967, accounting for 1.41% of the total number of candidates, the figure has risen to 443 in 2026, making up 11.01% of the contestants. Though the increase is notable, proportionally, women continue to occupy only a small share of the candidate pool

The Hindu 17 Apr 2026 12:03 am

Delimitation bill makes Tamils refugees in their own land: Stalin

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin burned a copy of the proposed delimitation bill, labeling it a lack law and accusing the Centre of attempting to make Tamils efugees in their own state. This act in Namakkal marked the formal launch of a statewide agitation against the move, with Stalin drawing parallels to past anti-Hindi protests.

The Economic Times 16 Apr 2026 11:58 pm