Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK Chief MK Stalin continues his attacks against the Centre-ruling Narendra Modi Government, by raising questions over the proposed delimitation process, which involves redrawing Lok Sabha constituencies to align with population changes.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The NDA government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi is systematically eroding the very foundations of Parliament. What should be a vibrant forum for debate and accountability is being reduced to a hollow ritual, a stage where members may not even get fair time to speak or represent their people," Stalin said in a social media post questioning the impending delimitation exercise. Stalin's remarks come a week ahead of the ruling BJP's proposed 3-day Parliament session between April 16th and 18th. Stalin questioned why there is a tearing hurry to convene a special session of Parliament right in the middle of five state elections.&nbsp;This proposal to increase seats is a direct contradiction of their own slogan of 'minimum government, maximum governance'. It will only inflate expenditure, burden taxpayers, and dilute the quality of parliamentary functioning, Stalin mentioned. He also raised objections that this proposed move goes against the spirit of Article 1 of the Constitution, which defines India as a Union of States. Ignoring the voices of states and bypassing meaningful consultation is not democratic - it is unitary overreach that undermines India’s federal and plural character, Stalin said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Emphasising what was recently mentioned by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Stalin said, the delimitation exercise will blatantly skew representation and tilt the balance of power in favour of northern states dominated by the Bharatiya Janata Party, while silencing the voice of South India. This is not a neutral exercise; it is a calculated political restructuring. Northern states stand to gain nearly double the seats, while the South’s share stagnates at around 24%. This is nothing short of penalising states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Keralam and Telangana for their success in population control, the Karnataka CM had said recently.&nbsp;&nbsp;Chief Ministers from Opposition-ruled Southern Indian states such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Telangana have been voicing out against the delimitation exercise, highlighting how it could affect the political representation of their states.&nbsp;&nbsp;Raising questions on the timing of the delimitation exercise, Stalin asked why such a far-reaching decision is being pushed in the middle of state elections. This appears to be yet another political manoeuvre aimed at shaping electoral narratives, much like earlier attempts to influence women voters ahead of the 2024 Parliament elections, Stalin alleged.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Let me be unequivocal: we strongly support 33% reservation for women. Our support is absolute. But it must be implemented without increasing seats and without punishing states that acted responsibly. If the intent is genuine, nothing prevents immediate implementation within the existing framework," read Stalin's social media post.&nbsp;Further, the DMK Chief also mentioned that there is complete opacity on the basis for delimitation, questioning whether it will rely on 1971 figures from a pre–population control era or the 2021 Census? Conflicting signals and vague assurances only deepen suspicion, Stalin added.&nbsp;&nbsp;"This move will also impose a massive financial burden on states, forcing them to expand or rebuild Legislative Assemblies, all without proper consultation. This is a direct assault on cooperative federalism. This is not reform, it is a unilateral, politically driven exercise designed to concentrate power, weaken Parliament, marginalise the South, and undermine social justice," he concluded.&nbsp; Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-fm-raises-sheikh-hasina-s-extradition-request-in-meet-with-eam-jaishankar-india-bats-for-constructive-engagement-1775719423001">Bangladesh FM raises Sheikh Hasina's extradition request in meet with EAM Jaishankar, India bats for 'constructive' engagement</a>

This proposal to increase seats is a direct contradiction of their own slogan of 'minimum government, maximum governance'. It will only inflate expenditure, burden taxpayers, and dilute the quality of parliamentary functioning, Stalin mentioned. 

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK Chief MK Stalin continues his attacks against the Centre-ruling Narendra Modi Government, by raising questions over the proposed delimitation process, which involves redrawing Lok Sabha constituencies to align with population changes. "The NDA government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi is systematically eroding the very foundations of Parliament. What should be a vibrant forum for debate and accountability is being reduced to a hollow ritual, a stage where members may not even get fair time to speak or represent their people," Stalin said in a social media post questioning the impending delimitation exercise. Stalin's remarks come a week ahead of the ruling BJP's proposed 3-day Parliament session between April 16th and 18th. Stalin questioned why there is a tearing hurry to convene a special session of Parliament right in the middle of five state elections. This proposal to increase seats is a direct contradiction of their own slogan of 'minimum government, maximum governance'. It will only inflate expenditure, burden taxpayers, and dilute the quality of parliamentary functioning, Stalin mentioned. He also raised objections that this proposed move goes against the spirit of Article 1 of the Constitution, which defines India as a Union of States. Ignoring the voices of states and bypassing meaningful consultation is not democratic - it is unitary overreach that undermines India’s federal and plural character, Stalin said. Emphasising what was recently mentioned by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Stalin said, the delimitation exercise will blatantly skew representation and tilt the balance of power in favour of northern states dominated by the Bharatiya Janata Party, while silencing the voice of South India. This is not a neutral exercise; it is a calculated political restructuring. Northern states stand to gain nearly double the seats, while the South’s share stagnates at around 24%. This is nothing short of penalising states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Keralam and Telangana for their success in population control, the Karnataka CM had said recently. Chief Ministers from Opposition-ruled Southern Indian states such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Telangana have been voicing out against the delimitation exercise, highlighting how it could affect the political representation of their states. Raising questions on the timing of the delimitation exercise, Stalin asked why such a far-reaching decision is being pushed in the middle of state elections. This appears to be yet another political manoeuvre aimed at shaping electoral narratives, much like earlier attempts to influence women voters ahead of the 2024 Parliament elections, Stalin alleged. "Let me be unequivocal: we strongly support 33% reservation for women. Our support is absolute. But it must be implemented without increasing seats and without punishing states that acted responsibly. If the intent is genuine, nothing prevents immediate implementation within the existing framework," read Stalin's social media post. Further, the DMK Chief also mentioned that there is complete opacity on the basis for delimitation, questioning whether it will rely on 1971 figures from a pre–population control era or the 2021 Census? Conflicting signals and vague assurances only deepen suspicion, Stalin added. "This move will also impose a massive financial burden on states, forcing them to expand or rebuild Legislative Assemblies, all without proper consultation. This is a direct assault on cooperative federalism. This is not reform, it is a unilateral, politically driven exercise designed to concentrate power, weaken Parliament, marginalise the South, and undermine social justice," he concluded. Also read: Bangladesh FM raises Sheikh Hasina's extradition request in meet with EAM Jaishankar, India bats for 'constructive' engagement

This proposal to increase seats is a direct contradiction of their own slogan of 'minimum government, maximum governance'. It will only inflate expenditure, burden taxpayers, and dilute the quality of parliamentary functioning, Stalin mentioned.&nbsp;

'We support 33% women's reservation; do it without punishing Southern states': MK Stalin to BJP

With barely two weeks to go for the polling day (Apr 23) in the state, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has effected a top-level bureaucratic reshuffle in Tamil Nadu. The ECI ordered the transfer of Chief Secretary N Muruganandam, IAS, replacing him with M. Sai Kumar, IAS. Similarly, Davidson Devasirvatham, IPS has been replaced with Sandeep Mittal, IPS, as Director, DVAC, and DGP, Armed Police. The two officials who have been transferred out must not be posted in Election-related roles till the polls are completed, the ECI had said. This move has not gone down well with DMK Chief and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin.&nbsp;&nbsp;Stalin condemned the Election Commission for what he called "one-sided, overreaching political action" and alleged that the poll overseer is functioning in favour of the Centre-ruling BJP. It is shameful that the ECI, which is meant to conduct free and fair polls, is carrying out BJP's. The Constitution has not granted powers and protection to the ECI for handling BJP's election work," Stalin said. &nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mk-stalin-questions-bjp-s-secrecy-over-delimitation-flags-danger-for-southern-states-1775631485880">MK Stalin questions BJP's secrecy over delimitation, flags danger for Southern states</a>&nbsp;BJP-ruled Assam is also going to the polls, but the Chief Secretary and DGP there have not been transferred. Similarly, Stalin pointed out that the DGP and Chief Secretary were not transferred when polls were held in Bihar, where BJP is ruling. Comparing those states with DMK-ruled state, Stalin said that the Election Commission was concerned only about the bureaucratic reshuffle in Tamil Nadu. ECI has replaced them at the instigation of the BJP, he alleged.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-polls-minorities-are-with-secular-tvk-says-actor-politician-vijay-1775644004046">Tamil Nadu polls: Minorities are with secular TVK, says actor-politician Vijay</a>&nbsp;Following the announcement of polls, the ECI had also taken major action in West Bengal, transferring out several top officials including the state's Chief Secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), Home Secretary, Kolkata Police Commissioner, among others.&nbsp;"It is unbecoming of the Election Commission to strive to aid the electoral malpractices that the BJP and their ally AIADMK, plan to perpetrate in Tamil Nadu," Stalin said, hitting out at the BJP for effecting transfers only in Opposition ruled states.&nbsp;&nbsp;All these actions show that even the Election Commission, the last hope of democracy, has turned saffron, Stalin added.No matter how many officials they replace, it is certain that the BJP will bite the dust and suffer a massive defeat in Tamil Nadu, expressed the Chief Minister who is seeking his second term.&nbsp; &nbsp;

ECI transfers Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary N. Muruganandam amid 2026 poll heat. CM MK Stalin slams the move as a "BJP plot" to manipulate the state election.

With barely two weeks to go for the polling day (Apr 23) in the state, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has effected a top-level bureaucratic reshuffle in Tamil Nadu. The ECI ordered the transfer of Chief Secretary N Muruganandam, IAS, replacing him with M. Sai Kumar, IAS. Similarly, Davidson Devasirvatham, IPS has been replaced with Sandeep Mittal, IPS, as Director, DVAC, and DGP, Armed Police. The two officials who have been transferred out must not be posted in Election-related roles till the polls are completed, the ECI had said. This move has not gone down well with DMK Chief and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin. Stalin condemned the Election Commission for what he called "one-sided, overreaching political action" and alleged that the poll overseer is functioning in favour of the Centre-ruling BJP. It is shameful that the ECI, which is meant to conduct free and fair polls, is carrying out BJP's. The Constitution has not granted powers and protection to the ECI for handling BJP's election work," Stalin said. Also read: MK Stalin questions BJP's secrecy over delimitation, flags danger for Southern states BJP-ruled Assam is also going to the polls, but the Chief Secretary and DGP there have not been transferred. Similarly, Stalin pointed out that the DGP and Chief Secretary were not transferred when polls were held in Bihar, where BJP is ruling. Comparing those states with DMK-ruled state, Stalin said that the Election Commission was concerned only about the bureaucratic reshuffle in Tamil Nadu. ECI has replaced them at the instigation of the BJP, he alleged. Also read: Tamil Nadu polls: Minorities are with secular TVK, says actor-politician Vijay Following the announcement of polls, the ECI had also taken major action in West Bengal, transferring out several top officials including the state's Chief Secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), Home Secretary, Kolkata Police Commissioner, among others. "It is unbecoming of the Election Commission to strive to aid the electoral malpractices that the BJP and their ally AIADMK, plan to perpetrate in Tamil Nadu," Stalin said, hitting out at the BJP for effecting transfers only in Opposition ruled states. All these actions show that even the Election Commission, the last hope of democracy, has turned saffron, Stalin added. No matter how many officials they replace, it is certain that the BJP will bite the dust and suffer a massive defeat in Tamil Nadu, expressed the Chief Minister who is seeking his second term.

ECI transfers Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary N. Muruganandam amid 2026 poll heat. CM MK Stalin slams the move as a "BJP plot" to manipulate the state election.

ECI transfers Tamil Nadu Chief Secy; MK Stalin says ECI working for BJP

Though the ruling DMK-led front and the opposition AIADMK-BJP front in Tamil Nadu appear to be different entities, they are one and the same. Both DMK(ruling in Tamil Nadu) and BJP(ruling India) are keen to stop the TVK, which wishes to work for public welfare and be with the masses, said actor-politician Vijay in Tamil Nadu's Tirunelveli district. Tamil Nadu goes to the polls on April 23rd. Making his electoral debut, actor-politician Vijay will be taking on the fronts led by the ruling DMK and the Opposition AIADMK. Chief Minister Stalin paid a few crores and got the Congress party to ally with them. However, the true Congress supporters are with us, Vijay claimed. Minority communities are with Vijay, because we(TVK) are truly secular. This has angered the BJP and DMK, Vijay claimed at one of his largest campaign events. &nbsp;You have created a situation where they cannot come to power. In the DMK-led front, even the allies won't vote for each other, that's how bad their condition is. In the BJP-AIADMK front, it is even worse, Vijay told his fans and followers. Hitting out at the ruling DMK, Vijay alleged that his campaign event would not have taken place if Chief Minister Stalin had truly been in power. They would have come up with some excuses to prevent this meeting. Right now, he is like a powerless Chief Minister who is running a caretaker government, Vijay said. Citing that established political parties had been placing roadblocks to stall his political journey, Vijay pointed fingers at his political opponents. "Everyone knows about the Karur stampede(where 41 people died in September 2025 at a TVK campaign event). They tried pinning the blame on me, but the people refused to believe them and they continued to be with me... They thought that halting the release of my film 'Jana Nayagan' would disturb me... You know who has done it, but even after that I am continuing my journey. In the name of Standard Operating Procedures, they introduced separate rules and regulations to prevent me from meeting the masses... DMK or BJP cannot separate me from the people," Vijay said. "There is only one Kamaraj, one Annadurai, one MGR... I know you have been yearning for that kind of leadership, that's why we have come into politics," Vijay said, taking the names of Tamil Nadu's popular Chief Ministers. I know the hardships that I had to face during the last 30-33 years to reach your homes and hearts. I started my political party after finding a place in your hearts". Urging supporters to vote for TVK candidates, Vijay stated that his party had not fielded billionaires or industrialists. Instead, we have fielded common people from humble backgrounds. Consider them as your own family and vote for them, Vijay told his supporters.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2026-puducherry-elections-key-constituencies-that-can-change-the-poll-game-1775639346295">2026 Puducherry Elections: Key constituencies that can change the poll game</a>

Chief Minister Stalin paid a few crores and got the Congress party to ally with them. However, the true Congress supporters are with us, Vijay claimed. Minority communities are with Vijay, because we(TVK) are truly secular.

Though the ruling DMK-led front and the opposition AIADMK-BJP front in Tamil Nadu appear to be different entities, they are one and the same. Both DMK(ruling in Tamil Nadu) and BJP(ruling India) are keen to stop the TVK, which wishes to work for public welfare and be with the masses, said actor-politician Vijay in Tamil Nadu's Tirunelveli district. Tamil Nadu goes to the polls on April 23rd. Making his electoral debut, actor-politician Vijay will be taking on the fronts led by the ruling DMK and the Opposition AIADMK. Chief Minister Stalin paid a few crores and got the Congress party to ally with them. However, the true Congress supporters are with us, Vijay claimed. Minority communities are with Vijay, because we(TVK) are truly secular. This has angered the BJP and DMK, Vijay claimed at one of his largest campaign events. You have created a situation where they cannot come to power. In the DMK-led front, even the allies won't vote for each other, that's how bad their condition is. In the BJP-AIADMK front, it is even worse, Vijay told his fans and followers. Hitting out at the ruling DMK, Vijay alleged that his campaign event would not have taken place if Chief Minister Stalin had truly been in power. They would have come up with some excuses to prevent this meeting. Right now, he is like a powerless Chief Minister who is running a caretaker government, Vijay said. Citing that established political parties had been placing roadblocks to stall his political journey, Vijay pointed fingers at his political opponents. "Everyone knows about the Karur stampede(where 41 people died in September 2025 at a TVK campaign event). They tried pinning the blame on me, but the people refused to believe them and they continued to be with me... They thought that halting the release of my film 'Jana Nayagan' would disturb me... You know who has done it, but even after that I am continuing my journey. In the name of Standard Operating Procedures, they introduced separate rules and regulations to prevent me from meeting the masses... DMK or BJP cannot separate me from the people," Vijay said. "There is only one Kamaraj, one Annadurai, one MGR... I know you have been yearning for that kind of leadership, that's why we have come into politics," Vijay said, taking the names of Tamil Nadu's popular Chief Ministers. I know the hardships that I had to face during the last 30-33 years to reach your homes and hearts. I started my political party after finding a place in your hearts". Urging supporters to vote for TVK candidates, Vijay stated that his party had not fielded billionaires or industrialists. Instead, we have fielded common people from humble backgrounds. Consider them as your own family and vote for them, Vijay told his supporters. Also read: 2026 Puducherry Elections: Key constituencies that can change the poll game

Chief Minister Stalin paid a few crores and got the Congress party to ally with them. However, the true Congress supporters are with us, Vijay claimed. Minority communities are with Vijay, because we(TVK) are truly secular.

Tamil Nadu polls: Minorities are with secular TVK, says actor-politician Vijay

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK Chief MK Stalin stepped up his attacks against the Centre-ruling Narendra Modi Government, by raising questions over the proposed delimitation process, which involves redrawing Lok Sabha constituencies to align with population changes. Across Southern states, parties opposed to the BJP have expressed apprehension over this proposed move, citing that the southern region which has effectively controlled its population growth would lose parliamentary representation and political influence, while the populated northern states in the country would gain significantly."Why is the Union BJP Government shrouding the entire delimitation process in secrecy instead of coming clean on how it intends to carry it out? In 2001, former Prime Minister Vajpayee deferred delimitation for 25 years in the national interest. What is Prime Minister Modi’s answer to the just and reasonable demand of southern states to follow the same path today?," read Stalin's social media post.Referring to the ruling BJP's decision to convene a special 3-day Parliament session between April 16th and 18th, Stalin questioned why there is a tearing hurry to convene a special session of Parliament right in the middle of five state elections.Considering that Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Assam, West Bengal are going to the polls this month and its leaders would be busy with campaign-related activities, Opposition leaders had asked the Modi Government to convene the session only after April 29th. Pointing this out, Stalin asked: Why is the Union Government brushing aside the fair and reasoned demand of Opposition leaders to hold the special session only after April 29? What is it trying to hide?"Forcing through far reaching constitutional amendments without even convening an all party consultation is nothing short of dictatorship. The questions raised by the Opposition and the media are not being answered," Stalin alleged, demanding answers from the BJP. &nbsp;He added that the DMK will not stand by and watch any attempt that places the rights of southern states at stake while handing greater power to the North. &nbsp;"This is the future of the people who live here. Any decision taken without our consent, without even engaging with us, will not be accepted, come what may," concluded Stalin's post."Every state in the country stands to benefit from this(delimitation process); no state will suffer any disadvantage. Be it the northeast or South India, the parliamentary representation of regions where population growth has been successfully controlled will certainly not be diminished. We are devising a framework that ensures additional seats are created specifically for women, seats that are over and above the existing number of seats," Prime Minister Modi said recently. However, opposition parties continue are unconvinced and continue to raise objections.Following Prime Minister Modi's comments, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah voiced out that the issue has never been about whether the number of Lok Sabha seats of southern states increases. While every state may see an increase, the rate and scale of increase clearly favour BJP- dominated states, he said."Uttar Pradesh is expected to go from 80 to 120 seats (+40), Maharashtra from 48 to 72 (+24), Bihar from 40 to 60 (+20), Madhya Pradesh from 29 to 43 (+14), Rajasthan from 25 to 37(+12), and Gujarat from 26 to 39 (+13). In contrast, southern states see smaller gains. Karnataka rises from 28 to 42 (+14), Tamil Nadu from 39 to 59 (+20), Andhra Pradesh from 25 to 38 (+13), Telangana from 17 to 25 (+8), and Kerala from 20 to 30 (+10)," Siddaramaiah had shared about the North-South divide, expressing concerns."The numbers are telling. Five southern states together gain barely 63–66 additional seats, while just these seven BJP-dominated states gain about 128–131 seats - nearly double. Even after expanding the Lok Sabha to 816 seats, the collective share of southern states remains around 24% - unchanged and already modest. States that performed better in population control and governance are being penalised, and Karnataka - a key driver of national growth - risks being deliberately sidelined. If our share does not improve while the numerical dominance of larger states grows, what exactly is Karnataka gaining from this exercise, asked the Chief Minister.

Following Prime Minister Modi's comments, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah voiced out that the issue has never been about whether the number of Lok Sabha seats of southern states increases. 

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK Chief MK Stalin stepped up his attacks against the Centre-ruling Narendra Modi Government, by raising questions over the proposed delimitation process, which involves redrawing Lok Sabha constituencies to align with population changes. Across Southern states, parties opposed to the BJP have expressed apprehension over this proposed move, citing that the southern region which has effectively controlled its population growth would lose parliamentary representation and political influence, while the populated northern states in the country would gain significantly. "Why is the Union BJP Government shrouding the entire delimitation process in secrecy instead of coming clean on how it intends to carry it out? In 2001, former Prime Minister Vajpayee deferred delimitation for 25 years in the national interest. What is Prime Minister Modi’s answer to the just and reasonable demand of southern states to follow the same path today?," read Stalin's social media post. Referring to the ruling BJP's decision to convene a special 3-day Parliament session between April 16th and 18th, Stalin questioned why there is a tearing hurry to convene a special session of Parliament right in the middle of five state elections. Considering that Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Assam, West Bengal are going to the polls this month and its leaders would be busy with campaign-related activities, Opposition leaders had asked the Modi Government to convene the session only after April 29th. Pointing this out, Stalin asked: Why is the Union Government brushing aside the fair and reasoned demand of Opposition leaders to hold the special session only after April 29? What is it trying to hide? "Forcing through far reaching constitutional amendments without even convening an all party consultation is nothing short of dictatorship. The questions raised by the Opposition and the media are not being answered," Stalin alleged, demanding answers from the BJP. He added that the DMK will not stand by and watch any attempt that places the rights of southern states at stake while handing greater power to the North. "This is the future of the people who live here. Any decision taken without our consent, without even engaging with us, will not be accepted, come what may," concluded Stalin's post. "Every state in the country stands to benefit from this(delimitation process); no state will suffer any disadvantage. Be it the northeast or South India, the parliamentary representation of regions where population growth has been successfully controlled will certainly not be diminished. We are devising a framework that ensures additional seats are created specifically for women, seats that are over and above the existing number of seats," Prime Minister Modi said recently. However, opposition parties continue are unconvinced and continue to raise objections. Following Prime Minister Modi's comments, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah voiced out that the issue has never been about whether the number of Lok Sabha seats of southern states increases. While every state may see an increase, the rate and scale of increase clearly favour BJP- dominated states, he said. "Uttar Pradesh is expected to go from 80 to 120 seats (+40), Maharashtra from 48 to 72 (+24), Bihar from 40 to 60 (+20), Madhya Pradesh from 29 to 43 (+14), Rajasthan from 25 to 37(+12), and Gujarat from 26 to 39 (+13). In contrast, southern states see smaller gains. Karnataka rises from 28 to 42 (+14), Tamil Nadu from 39 to 59 (+20), Andhra Pradesh from 25 to 38 (+13), Telangana from 17 to 25 (+8), and Kerala from 20 to 30 (+10)," Siddaramaiah had shared about the North-South divide, expressing concerns. "The numbers are telling. Five southern states together gain barely 63–66 additional seats, while just these seven BJP-dominated states gain about 128–131 seats - nearly double. Even after expanding the Lok Sabha to 816 seats, the collective share of southern states remains around 24% - unchanged and already modest. States that performed better in population control and governance are being penalised, and Karnataka - a key driver of national growth - risks being deliberately sidelined. If our share does not improve while the numerical dominance of larger states grows, what exactly is Karnataka gaining from this exercise, asked the Chief Minister.

Following Prime Minister Modi's comments, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah voiced out that the issue has never been about whether the number of Lok Sabha seats of southern states increases.&nbsp;

MK Stalin questions BJP's secrecy over delimitation, flags danger for Southern states

20:26 hours, April 6th, 2026, is a moment that will remain etched in national history, as India's 500 Megawatt Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, successfully attained first criticality, which is the start of a controlled fission chain reaction.&nbsp; This marked India's long-awaited foray into the second stage of its three-stage Nuclear power programme. Envisioned in 1954 by eminent physicist Homi Jehangir Bhabha, India's three-stage Nuclear power programme is aimed at achieving energy security using the country's limited Uranium and vast Thorium reserves.A reactor going critical is the culmination of a long process; the PFBR has been in the works for more than two decades. Usually, there is a gap of several months between fuel being loaded into a nuclear reactor and the reactor going critical. During the months after fuel loading, a series of engineering and physics tests are carried out to validate a host of parameters. While criticality is a major step in the commencement of operations at a nuclear power plant, it does not mean that it has begun generating power at its full potential. Power generation is ramped up gradually in a phased manner.The technology development and design of PFBR was indigenously done by the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), an R&amp;D Centre of the Indian Government's Department of Atomic Energy. The PFBR was built and commissioned by Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Ltd (BHAVINI), a Government firm. India's top Nuclear sector officials were present as the reactor went critical: Dr Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, Dept of Atomic Energy &amp; Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission; &nbsp;Sreekumar G Pillai, Director, IGCAR; Allu Ananth, CMD-In-Charge, BHAVINI.<h2>What is India's three-stage nuclear programme?</h2>India’s 3-stage nuclear programme is a sequential strategy to convert uranium into plutonium and finally utilise thorium for generating sustainable nuclear energy.In the first stage, Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) use natural Uranium to generate electricity and produce Plutonium-239 as a by-product. At present, India has about two dozen PHWR Nuclear power plants, which contribute about 3percent of India's total power generation.The second stage employs Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs), which use Plutonium(by-product from the first stage) to generate more fissile material, while converting thorium into Uranium-233.In the third stage, advanced reactors utilise Uranium-233 along with Thorium to produce sustainable nuclear energy.In simple terms, India's Fast Breeder Reactors technology forms the vital bridge between the current fleet of pressurised heavy water reactors and the future deployment of Thorium-based reactors.This long-term strategy is particularly suited to India, which possesses minimal Uranium reserves but one of the world’s largest Thorium reserves. While the first stage is fully operational, the second stage has just begun and has a long way to go, while the third stage remains in the research phase.<h2>India's goal to expand nuclear power generation capacity</h2>At present, India has the capacity to generate about 8,780 megawatts of Nuclear energy from over two dozen facilities across the country. India's Nuclear power generation capacity is expected to increase to 22,380 MW by 2031-32 on progressive completion of projects under implementation, as per Government data. Thus, over the next decade, nuclear power generation is expected to increase threefold.

India’s 3-stage nuclear programme is a sequential strategy to convert uranium into plutonium and finally utilise thorium for generating sustainable nuclear energy.

20:26 hours, April 6th, 2026, is a moment that will remain etched in national history, as India's 500 Megawatt Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, successfully attained first criticality, which is the start of a controlled fission chain reaction. This marked India's long-awaited foray into the second stage of its three-stage Nuclear power programme. Envisioned in 1954 by eminent physicist Homi Jehangir Bhabha, India's three-stage Nuclear power programme is aimed at achieving energy security using the country's limited Uranium and vast Thorium reserves. A reactor going critical is the culmination of a long process; the PFBR has been in the works for more than two decades. Usually, there is a gap of several months between fuel being loaded into a nuclear reactor and the reactor going critical. During the months after fuel loading, a series of engineering and physics tests are carried out to validate a host of parameters. While criticality is a major step in the commencement of operations at a nuclear power plant, it does not mean that it has begun generating power at its full potential. Power generation is ramped up gradually in a phased manner. The technology development and design of PFBR was indigenously done by the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), an R&D Centre of the Indian Government's Department of Atomic Energy. The PFBR was built and commissioned by Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Ltd (BHAVINI), a Government firm. India's top Nuclear sector officials were present as the reactor went critical: Dr Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, Dept of Atomic Energy & Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission; Sreekumar G Pillai, Director, IGCAR; Allu Ananth, CMD-In-Charge, BHAVINI. What is India's three-stage nuclear programme? India’s 3-stage nuclear programme is a sequential strategy to convert uranium into plutonium and finally utilise thorium for generating sustainable nuclear energy. In the first stage, Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) use natural Uranium to generate electricity and produce Plutonium-239 as a by-product. At present, India has about two dozen PHWR Nuclear power plants, which contribute about 3percent of India's total power generation. The second stage employs Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs), which use Plutonium(by-product from the first stage) to generate more fissile material, while converting thorium into Uranium-233. In the third stage, advanced reactors utilise Uranium-233 along with Thorium to produce sustainable nuclear energy. In simple terms, India's Fast Breeder Reactors technology forms the vital bridge between the current fleet of pressurised heavy water reactors and the future deployment of Thorium-based reactors. This long-term strategy is particularly suited to India, which possesses minimal Uranium reserves but one of the world’s largest Thorium reserves. While the first stage is fully operational, the second stage has just begun and has a long way to go, while the third stage remains in the research phase. India's goal to expand nuclear power generation capacity At present, India has the capacity to generate about 8,780 megawatts of Nuclear energy from over two dozen facilities across the country. India's Nuclear power generation capacity is expected to increase to 22,380 MW by 2031-32 on progressive completion of projects under implementation, as per Government data. Thus, over the next decade, nuclear power generation is expected to increase threefold.

India’s 3-stage nuclear programme is a sequential strategy to convert uranium into plutonium and finally utilise thorium for generating sustainable nuclear energy.

At 20:26 hrs on Apr 6, 2026, India's most advanced nuclear reactor came to life

A district court in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, awarded death penalty to nine police personnel in connection with the custodial torture and resultant death of a father-son duo in the year 2020. The gruesome crime dates back to June 2020, when police personnel in Sathankulam, Thoothukudi district, took shopkeepers Jeyaraj and Benicks into custody for allegedly having violated COVID-19 lockdown norms. The father-son duo was brutally beaten in custody, left with severe injuries that led to their death in the following days.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-never-outshine-the-master-raghav-chadha-drops-cryptic-hint-as-aap-tensions-grow-1775484916197">‘Never outshine the master’: Raghav Chadha drops cryptic hint as AAP rift grows</a>The nine police personnel are: Inspector Sridhar; Sub-Inspectors Balakrishnan and Raghu Ganesh; and Murugan, Samadurai, Muthuraja, Chelladurai, Thomas Francis, and Veilumuthu.Observing that the case was an extremely rare one, the Judge, G Muthukumaran stated that the police personnel entrusted with upholding law and order, had themselves acted against the law. It was noted that the father-son due did not have any criminal case against them and that they were brutally assaulted while in police custody. The court also ordered a total compensation of Rs 1.40 crore, which the nine police personnel are required to pay to the bereaved family. The judge stressed that the punishment must be severe enough to ensure such horrors never recur.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/menaka-guruswamy-takes-oath-in-rajya-sabha-becomes-india-s-1st-openly-queer-mp-1775498332113">Menaka Guruswamy takes oath in Rajya Sabha, becomes India's 1st openly queer MP</a>The court held that this was a clear case of custodial violence, with evidence pointing out that the father and son were brutally assaulted while in police custody.&nbsp; Inspector Sridhar was found to have instigated the assault, with other personnel participating in the custodial violence and the cover-up attempt that followed.The case was initially probed by Tamil Nadu's CB-CID. Later, India's top probe agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) took over, based on directions from the Madras High Court. Over a 100 witnesses were examined in connection with this case, over the last five years. This incident and the chilling details that emerged, triggered massive outage at the time and drew further attention to the horrors of custodial violence that common people could be subject to.&nbsp;

Observing that the case was an extremely rare one, the Judge, G Muthukumaran stated that the police personnel entrusted with upholding law and order, had themselves acted against the law.

A district court in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, awarded death penalty to nine police personnel in connection with the custodial torture and resultant death of a father-son duo in the year 2020. The gruesome crime dates back to June 2020, when police personnel in Sathankulam, Thoothukudi district, took shopkeepers Jeyaraj and Benicks into custody for allegedly having violated COVID-19 lockdown norms. The father-son duo was brutally beaten in custody, left with severe injuries that led to their death in the following days. Also read | ‘Never outshine the master’: Raghav Chadha drops cryptic hint as AAP rift grows The nine police personnel are: Inspector Sridhar; Sub-Inspectors Balakrishnan and Raghu Ganesh; and Murugan, Samadurai, Muthuraja, Chelladurai, Thomas Francis, and Veilumuthu. Observing that the case was an extremely rare one, the Judge, G Muthukumaran stated that the police personnel entrusted with upholding law and order, had themselves acted against the law. It was noted that the father-son due did not have any criminal case against them and that they were brutally assaulted while in police custody. The court also ordered a total compensation of Rs 1.40 crore, which the nine police personnel are required to pay to the bereaved family. The judge stressed that the punishment must be severe enough to ensure such horrors never recur. Also read | Menaka Guruswamy takes oath in Rajya Sabha, becomes India's 1st openly queer MP The court held that this was a clear case of custodial violence, with evidence pointing out that the father and son were brutally assaulted while in police custody. Inspector Sridhar was found to have instigated the assault, with other personnel participating in the custodial violence and the cover-up attempt that followed. The case was initially probed by Tamil Nadu's CB-CID. Later, India's top probe agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) took over, based on directions from the Madras High Court. Over a 100 witnesses were examined in connection with this case, over the last five years. This incident and the chilling details that emerged, triggered massive outage at the time and drew further attention to the horrors of custodial violence that common people could be subject to.

Observing that the case was an extremely rare one, the Judge, G Muthukumaran, stated that the police personnel entrusted with upholding law and order, had themselves acted against the law.

Death penalty for nine cops in Tamil Nadu's father-son custodial torture, death

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be leading the campaign of the AIADMK-led NDA front in Tamil Nadu on 15th&nbsp;April in Kanyakumari, announced AIADMK Chief and the state's Opposition leader Edappadi K Palaniswami. He added that he would be campaigning alongside Modi. DMK-ruled Tamil Nadu goes to the polls on April 23rd.&nbsp;Kanyakumari is among the regions where the BJP and Congress often witness direct political battles, in a larger landscape dominated by Dravidian parties.&nbsp;On Monday, (April 6th), Palaniswami filed his nomination papers to contest from his home turf, the Edappadi Assembly constituency in Salem district. This marks the eighth consecutive time that he is contesting from his native, reaffirming his deep-rooted connect with the agrarian belt in Western Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-roadshow-in-nda-ruled-puducherry-polling-on-april-9th-1775231778373">PM Modi holds roadshow in NDA-ruled Puducherry; polling on April 9th</a>&nbsp;“I have filed my nomination to contest from Edappadi on behalf of the AIADMK, which leads the NDA alliance in Tamil Nadu. The mood among the people is clear and positive. The AIADMK-led alliance will win 210 seats and form a stable, people-oriented government,” Palaniswami stated.On Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK Chief MK Stalin’s attempts to portray the election as a contest between Tamil Nadu and Delhi (the BJP-led Union Government), Palaniswami termed it a diversionary tactic. “This is a Legislative Assembly election. The Chief Minister must first understand that. When governance fails, such distractions are used to mislead the people,” he countered.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-polls-bjp-releases-list-of-27-candidates-k-annamalai-not-included-1775213622805">Tamil Nadu polls: BJP releases list of 27 candidates; K Annamalai not included</a>&nbsp;Addressing questions on governance and development, EPS assured that all stalled welfare schemes that were initiated during the AIADMK regime would be revived.&nbsp;&nbsp;On corruption allegations against the DMK&nbsp;government, EPS pointed out that despite evidence-backed reports submitted by central agencies, no action had been taken. “Even after court directions, there has been inaction. This clearly exposes the lack of intent to uphold accountability. The AIADMK will pursue all such cases legally and ensure justice,” he said. &nbsp;

PM Narendra Modi to lead a massive NDA campaign rally in Kanyakumari on April 15. Catch the latest updates on the BJP’s strategy for the 2026 Tamil Nadu polls.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be leading the campaign of the AIADMK-led NDA front in Tamil Nadu on 15th April in Kanyakumari, announced AIADMK Chief and the state's Opposition leader Edappadi K Palaniswami. He added that he would be campaigning alongside Modi. DMK-ruled Tamil Nadu goes to the polls on April 23rd. Kanyakumari is among the regions where the BJP and Congress often witness direct political battles, in a larger landscape dominated by Dravidian parties. On Monday, (April 6th), Palaniswami filed his nomination papers to contest from his home turf, the Edappadi Assembly constituency in Salem district. This marks the eighth consecutive time that he is contesting from his native, reaffirming his deep-rooted connect with the agrarian belt in Western Tamil Nadu. Also read: PM Modi holds roadshow in NDA-ruled Puducherry; polling on April 9th “I have filed my nomination to contest from Edappadi on behalf of the AIADMK, which leads the NDA alliance in Tamil Nadu. The mood among the people is clear and positive. The AIADMK-led alliance will win 210 seats and form a stable, people-oriented government,” Palaniswami stated. On Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK Chief MK Stalin’s attempts to portray the election as a contest between Tamil Nadu and Delhi (the BJP-led Union Government), Palaniswami termed it a diversionary tactic. “This is a Legislative Assembly election. The Chief Minister must first understand that. When governance fails, such distractions are used to mislead the people,” he countered. Also read: Tamil Nadu polls: BJP releases list of 27 candidates; K Annamalai not included Addressing questions on governance and development, EPS assured that all stalled welfare schemes that were initiated during the AIADMK regime would be revived. On corruption allegations against the DMK government, EPS pointed out that despite evidence-backed reports submitted by central agencies, no action had been taken. “Even after court directions, there has been inaction. This clearly exposes the lack of intent to uphold accountability. The AIADMK will pursue all such cases legally and ensure justice,” he said.

PM Narendra Modi to lead a massive NDA campaign rally in Kanyakumari on April 15. Catch the latest updates on the BJP’s strategy for the 2026 Tamil Nadu polls.

Tamil Nadu Polls: PM Modi to lead NDA's campaign at Kanyakumari on April 15

With less than a week to go for the April 9th Assembly polls in the Union Territory of Puducherry, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held an hour-long roadshow on Friday, (April 3rd) evening. Modi was accompanied by N. Rangasamy, the Chief Minister of the Union Territory. BJP is part of the ruling NDA alliance led by the NR Congress in Puducherry, where the Congress-DMK alliance is in opposition.&nbsp;The battle for Puducherry’s 30-seat assembly is to be a three-cornered one, as actor-politician Vijay’s TVK party is making its electoral debut this time around. For the BJP, retaining power in Puducherry is politically significant, as it is an indicator of the party’s gradual growth in the Southern Indian states, where it has had a major presence only in Karnataka, and is part of the ruling coalition in Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier this week, Modi interacted with party workers in Puducherry via virtual mode, emphasising how booth-level strengthening is key to electoral success and called for coordinated efforts between the allies. Lashing out at the DMK-Congress combine, Modi alleged that they prioritised family interests, as opposed to the NDA that is committed to people-centric governance.&nbsp;The Prime Minister had also stressed upon the NDA’s ‘BEST Puducherry’ vision of focussing on Business, Education, Spirituality and Tourism for overall development. He spoke about the role of tourism in generating jobs and boosting the local economy, stating that efforts taken by the NDA government have helped promote tourism in the Union Territory. Easing of visa norms and visa-on-arrival facilities have helped boost tourism, he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;In opposition in Puducherry, the Congress party has been raising questions over whether the Modi Government at the Centre would fulfil Puducherry’s demand for statehood. Notably, Chief Minister Rangasamy had pressed the demand for statehood when Prime Minister Modi took part at an event there recently. Congress has also been attacking the NDA government over unfulfilled elected promises and for “betraying” the people.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed the NDA’s ‘BEST Puducherry’ vision of focussing on Business, Education, Spirituality and Tourism for overall development. He also spoke about the role of tourism in generating jobs and boosting the local economy.

With less than a week to go for the April 9th Assembly polls in the Union Territory of Puducherry, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held an hour-long roadshow on Friday, (April 3rd) evening. Modi was accompanied by N. Rangasamy, the Chief Minister of the Union Territory. BJP is part of the ruling NDA alliance led by the NR Congress in Puducherry, where the Congress-DMK alliance is in opposition. The battle for Puducherry’s 30-seat assembly is to be a three-cornered one, as actor-politician Vijay’s TVK party is making its electoral debut this time around. For the BJP, retaining power in Puducherry is politically significant, as it is an indicator of the party’s gradual growth in the Southern Indian states, where it has had a major presence only in Karnataka, and is part of the ruling coalition in Andhra Pradesh. Earlier this week, Modi interacted with party workers in Puducherry via virtual mode, emphasising how booth-level strengthening is key to electoral success and called for coordinated efforts between the allies. Lashing out at the DMK-Congress combine, Modi alleged that they prioritised family interests, as opposed to the NDA that is committed to people-centric governance. The Prime Minister had also stressed upon the NDA’s ‘BEST Puducherry’ vision of focussing on Business, Education, Spirituality and Tourism for overall development. He spoke about the role of tourism in generating jobs and boosting the local economy, stating that efforts taken by the NDA government have helped promote tourism in the Union Territory. Easing of visa norms and visa-on-arrival facilities have helped boost tourism, he added. In opposition in Puducherry, the Congress party has been raising questions over whether the Modi Government at the Centre would fulfil Puducherry’s demand for statehood. Notably, Chief Minister Rangasamy had pressed the demand for statehood when Prime Minister Modi took part at an event there recently. Congress has also been attacking the NDA government over unfulfilled elected promises and for “betraying” the people.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed the NDA’s ‘BEST Puducherry’ vision of focussing on Business, Education, Spirituality and Tourism for overall development. He also spoke about the role of tourism in generating jobs and boosting the local economy.

PM Modi holds roadshow in NDA-ruled Puducherry; polling on April 9th

The Bharatiya Janata Party, an ally of the opposition AIADMK in Tamil Nadu, has released its list of 27 candidates who will be contesting the 23rd April Assembly poll. At present, the BJP has four MLAs in the 234-seat Tamil Nadu assembly. In the 2021 poll, the BJP had allied with the AIADMK and contested 20 seats, of which the saffron party ended up winning four. In Tamil Nadu, the ruling DMK is allied with the Congress, Left parties, and other outfits. The Opposition AIADMK is allied with the BJP, PMK, AMMK, and other outfits.&nbsp;Vanathi Srinivasan, an incumbent BJP MLA who managed to win against debutant actor-politician Kamal Haasan from Coimbatore South in 2021, has been assigned the Coimbatore North seat this time around.&nbsp;Union Minister L. Murugan, who once served as the Tamil Nadu BJP Chief, is being fielded from Avanashi constituency. In the 2021 poll, Murugan contested from the Dharapuram constituency and ended up losing to a DMK candidate. He was later appointed as a Union Minister.&nbsp;Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan, a former Tamil Nadu BJP Chief, was appointed to a gubernatorial role and later stepped down and rejoined the BJP to contest the 2024 Parliamentary polls, and is being fielded this time around. Tamilisai has been fielded from the Mylapore constituency in Chennai.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-challenging-sanatani-people-himanta-biswa-targets-kunki-chowdhury-over-mother-s-social-media-posts-ahead-of-assam-polls-1775203391965">‘Challenging Sanatani people’: Himanta Biswa targets Kunki Chowdhury over mother’s social media posts ahead of Assam polls</a>&nbsp;Incumbent Tamil Nadu BJP Chief Nainar Nagenthran, presently an MLA in the Tamil Nadu assembly and BJP's Legislative leader in the state assembly, has been fielded from the Sattur constituency. In 2021, Nagenthran won from the Tirunelveli constituency.&nbsp;Nagenthran was associated with the AIADMK and even served as a state minister, prior to joining the BJP. Nagenthran had contested the 2024 Lok Sabha polls from Tirunelveli, but ended up losing to a Congress candidate.&nbsp;MR Gandhi, a BJP MLA in the Tamil Nadu assembly who represents the Nagercoil constituency, has been re-assigned the seat.&nbsp;Vijayadharani, a Congress MLA representing the Vilavancode seat who resigned and joined the BJP, has been assigned the same seat.&nbsp;Former Tamil Nadu BJP Chief and Retired Police Officer K. Annamalai has not been assigned a seat this time. Annamalai had contested unsuccessfully in two elections so far: the 2021 assembly poll from Aravakurichi and in the 2024 Parliamentary poll from Coimbatore. Sharing the candidates' list on social media, Annamalai congratulated his party colleagues and said, "They carry the support of every brother &amp; sister of TN who is tired of corruption, complacency, and the DMK's betrayal".&nbsp;I, as a Karyakarta(party worker) will stand shoulder to shoulder &amp; campaign for all our winning BJP &amp; other NDA candidates, with the aim of the NDA winning 210 seats in the upcoming assembly elections, he added.

Former Tamil Nadu BJP Chief and Retired Police Officer K. Annamalai has not been assigned a seat this time. Annamalai had contested unsuccessfully in two elections so far: the 2021 assembly poll from Aravakurichi and in the 2024 Parliamentary poll from Coimbatore.

The Bharatiya Janata Party, an ally of the opposition AIADMK in Tamil Nadu, has released its list of 27 candidates who will be contesting the 23rd April Assembly poll. At present, the BJP has four MLAs in the 234-seat Tamil Nadu assembly. In the 2021 poll, the BJP had allied with the AIADMK and contested 20 seats, of which the saffron party ended up winning four. In Tamil Nadu, the ruling DMK is allied with the Congress, Left parties, and other outfits. The Opposition AIADMK is allied with the BJP, PMK, AMMK, and other outfits. Vanathi Srinivasan, an incumbent BJP MLA who managed to win against debutant actor-politician Kamal Haasan from Coimbatore South in 2021, has been assigned the Coimbatore North seat this time around. Union Minister L. Murugan, who once served as the Tamil Nadu BJP Chief, is being fielded from Avanashi constituency. In the 2021 poll, Murugan contested from the Dharapuram constituency and ended up losing to a DMK candidate. He was later appointed as a Union Minister. Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan, a former Tamil Nadu BJP Chief, was appointed to a gubernatorial role and later stepped down and rejoined the BJP to contest the 2024 Parliamentary polls, and is being fielded this time around. Tamilisai has been fielded from the Mylapore constituency in Chennai. Also Read: ‘Challenging Sanatani people’: Himanta Biswa targets Kunki Chowdhury over mother’s social media posts ahead of Assam polls Incumbent Tamil Nadu BJP Chief Nainar Nagenthran, presently an MLA in the Tamil Nadu assembly and BJP's Legislative leader in the state assembly, has been fielded from the Sattur constituency. In 2021, Nagenthran won from the Tirunelveli constituency. Nagenthran was associated with the AIADMK and even served as a state minister, prior to joining the BJP. Nagenthran had contested the 2024 Lok Sabha polls from Tirunelveli, but ended up losing to a Congress candidate. MR Gandhi, a BJP MLA in the Tamil Nadu assembly who represents the Nagercoil constituency, has been re-assigned the seat. Vijayadharani, a Congress MLA representing the Vilavancode seat who resigned and joined the BJP, has been assigned the same seat. Former Tamil Nadu BJP Chief and Retired Police Officer K. Annamalai has not been assigned a seat this time. Annamalai had contested unsuccessfully in two elections so far: the 2021 assembly poll from Aravakurichi and in the 2024 Parliamentary poll from Coimbatore. Sharing the candidates' list on social media, Annamalai congratulated his party colleagues and said, "They carry the support of every brother & sister of TN who is tired of corruption, complacency, and the DMK's betrayal". I, as a Karyakarta(party worker) will stand shoulder to shoulder & campaign for all our winning BJP & other NDA candidates, with the aim of the NDA winning 210 seats in the upcoming assembly elections, he added.

Former Tamil Nadu BJP Chief and Retired Police Officer K. Annamalai has not been assigned a seat this time. Annamalai had contested unsuccessfully in two elections so far: the 2021 assembly poll from Aravakurichi and in the 2024 Parliamentary poll from Coimbatore.

Tamil Nadu polls: BJP releases list of 27 candidates; K Annamalai not included

Amid massive crowds, actor-politician Vijay filed his nomination to contest in the Tamil Nadu elections from the Trichy East constituency. Vijay has chosen to make his electoral debut from two seats: Perambur in Chennai and Trichy East. Up against major alliances led by the ruling DMK and Opposition AIADMK, Vijay's TVK party is contesting alone in all 234 seats across the state. In Tamil Nadu, AIADMK leads the NDA, which comprises the BJP, many small parties. DMK leads the Secular Progressive Allaince comprising the Congress, Left parties other outfits. &nbsp;Before starting his campaign speech, Vijay garlanded a statue of AIADMK founder and actor-politician MG Ramachandran, among the most iconic leaders in Tamil Nadu's political landscape. As Chief Minister, MGR ruled Tamil Nadu for three consecutive terms between 1977 and 1987.Addressing his fans and supporters, Vijay asked them about the ongoing LPG cylinder shortage, questioning whether bookings were being accepted, whether the issue is being resolved. "Because of the LPG crisis, tea shops and hotels are shut, I know that people are bearing pain and losses. Had they(Union BJP Government) been alert enough, the situation could have been under control. Had the (DMK Government in Tamil Nadu) taken precautions, at least our state would have been better placed. Both BJP and DMK are cause for Gas shortage," Vijay said.If you ask Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin about the LPG crisis, he will wash his hands off the matter. However, when there is a problem pertaining to his house (family or party), he flies to Delhi to seek a solution. Why don't you fly to Delhi for this, VIjay asked rhetorically.Lashing out at the DMK's unfulfilled election promises, Vijay asked what had happened to the promised Rs.100 subsidy on LPG cylinders, promises of abolishing NEET Medical Entrance Exam, promises regarding rations, among others. "Whatever he(Stalin) cannot do, he will announace those as promises and cheat people. We(TVK) wont do that, we understand people's needs and work accordingly," Vijay said.Empahsizing that his party's primary focus would be on education, rations, medical facilities, drinking water, bus transport, roads, among others, Vijay stated that his party would also offer a slew of women-centric welfare mesures. "We will offer 6 LPG cylinders for free, women getting married will get one sovereign gold and a silk saree, Rs.2500 will be provided as an assistance for women heads of a household, women can undertake bus travel anyhwhere across Tamil Nadu at no cost," Vijay outlined his poll promises.Portraying himself as the victim of political conspiracies by the established political parties, Vijay alleged that they were ganging up against him. He referred to the Karur stampede where 41 people had died at his political rally, and his indefinitely delayed 'Jana Nayagan' film release to cite that he is being targeted. "They are all cheating and looting. Don't trust DMK or BJP, they are all the same. Support TVK and TN will prosper," Vijay said. For several months, Vijay had significantly toned down his criticizm of the BJP, while continuing his relentless attacks on the DMK. His campaign in Trichy shows that Vijay is now attacking both the Central and the State ruling party.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Lashing out at the DMKs unfulfilled election promises, Vijay asked what had happened to the promised Rs.100 subsidy on LPG cylinders, promises of abolishing NEET Medical Entrance Exam, promises regarding rations, among others. 

Amid massive crowds, actor-politician Vijay filed his nomination to contest in the Tamil Nadu elections from the Trichy East constituency. Vijay has chosen to make his electoral debut from two seats: Perambur in Chennai and Trichy East. Up against major alliances led by the ruling DMK and Opposition AIADMK, Vijay's TVK party is contesting alone in all 234 seats across the state. In Tamil Nadu, AIADMK leads the NDA, which comprises the BJP, many small parties. DMK leads the Secular Progressive Allaince comprising the Congress, Left parties other outfits. Before starting his campaign speech, Vijay garlanded a statue of AIADMK founder and actor-politician MG Ramachandran, among the most iconic leaders in Tamil Nadu's political landscape. As Chief Minister, MGR ruled Tamil Nadu for three consecutive terms between 1977 and 1987. Addressing his fans and supporters, Vijay asked them about the ongoing LPG cylinder shortage, questioning whether bookings were being accepted, whether the issue is being resolved. "Because of the LPG crisis, tea shops and hotels are shut, I know that people are bearing pain and losses. Had they(Union BJP Government) been alert enough, the situation could have been under control. Had the (DMK Government in Tamil Nadu) taken precautions, at least our state would have been better placed. Both BJP and DMK are cause for Gas shortage," Vijay said. If you ask Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin about the LPG crisis, he will wash his hands off the matter. However, when there is a problem pertaining to his house (family or party), he flies to Delhi to seek a solution. Why don't you fly to Delhi for this, VIjay asked rhetorically. Lashing out at the DMK's unfulfilled election promises, Vijay asked what had happened to the promised Rs.100 subsidy on LPG cylinders, promises of abolishing NEET Medical Entrance Exam, promises regarding rations, among others. "Whatever he(Stalin) cannot do, he will announace those as promises and cheat people. We(TVK) wont do that, we understand people's needs and work accordingly," Vijay said. Empahsizing that his party's primary focus would be on education, rations, medical facilities, drinking water, bus transport, roads, among others, Vijay stated that his party would also offer a slew of women-centric welfare mesures. "We will offer 6 LPG cylinders for free, women getting married will get one sovereign gold and a silk saree, Rs.2500 will be provided as an assistance for women heads of a household, women can undertake bus travel anyhwhere across Tamil Nadu at no cost," Vijay outlined his poll promises. Portraying himself as the victim of political conspiracies by the established political parties, Vijay alleged that they were ganging up against him. He referred to the Karur stampede where 41 people had died at his political rally, and his indefinitely delayed 'Jana Nayagan' film release to cite that he is being targeted. "They are all cheating and looting. Don't trust DMK or BJP, they are all the same. Support TVK and TN will prosper," Vijay said. For several months, Vijay had significantly toned down his criticizm of the BJP, while continuing his relentless attacks on the DMK. His campaign in Trichy shows that Vijay is now attacking both the Central and the State ruling party.

Lashing out at the DMK's unfulfilled election promises, Vijay asked what had happened to the promised Rs.100 subsidy on LPG cylinders, promises of abolishing NEET Medical Entrance Exam, promises regarding rations, among others.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu polls: Don't trust DMK or BJP, they are the same, says actor-politician Vijay

The Indian government’s venture capital fund meant for the space sector, which was approved in October 2024, is expected to begin investments only from April 2027, the country's Space Minister revealed in Parliament. The ₹1,000 crore (approx. $107 million) fund was announced in October 2024, following the approval of the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It was officially touted that the fund would “support 40 space startups, accelerate private industry’s growth, drive advancements in space technology, support ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-reliant India)”.&nbsp;As per the official announcement, the ₹1,000 crore sum was to be disbursed in a phased manner between 2025 and 2030. The government planned to invest the sum as follows: ₹150cr in FY2025-26, ₹250cr each in FY2026-27, FY2027-28, FY2028-29, and ₹100cr in FY2029-30.&nbsp;With FY2025-26 having come to a close, the first tranche of ₹150crore remains unspent. Given that the fund is expected to commence after April 2027, it is evident that the ₹250cr allocation for 2026-27 will also remain unspent. In total, the 400cr that was to be invested in the first two years remains unspent, affecting the overall progress of the first-of-its-kind Government initiative.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Allocation of funds for the private space industry are most crucial and important. Their timely and early manifestation is very critical for the nascent and fragile startups to grow and prosper,” an industry representative told this author on the condition of anonymity.&nbsp;&nbsp;While the Space VC fund was established under the aegis of India's space sector regulator and Government body IN-SPACE, SIDBI Venture Capital Limited (SVCL) has been made the investment manager. The Fund received SEBI’s registration on October 31, 2025 and declared its initial closing on November 10, 2025 at ₹1,005 crores. Subsequently, post SEBI registration activities, appointment of the custodian, registration with depositories for issuance of AIF units, and constitution of the Screening Committee and Investment Committee (IC), were completed, Minister Jitendra Singh revealed in Parliament.&nbsp;"Subsequently, post SEBI registration activities including appointment of the custodian, registration with depositories for issuance of AIF units, and constitution of the Screening Committee and Investment Committee (IC), were completed. In parallel, evaluation of Space startups has been continuing and four proposals are at an advanced stage following the Pre-IC approval," stated the Parliament reply.&nbsp;&nbsp;Given the nascent stage of the Space tech ecosystem, particularly in cases where startups have had limited or no prior exposure to institutional investors, there is a need felt to provide handholding to such startups, in order for them to organize their data better and share the requisite information with SVCL for the sanction process, it was added.&nbsp;&nbsp;With the handholding, SVCL is hopeful to complete the detailed appraisal shortly and place it before the Investment Committee for its consideration. It is expected that SVCL will be in a position to fund the approved startups in the first quarter of FY2027 after satisfactory completion of the third party due-diligence and execution of definitive documentation, concluded the Minister's reply in Parliament.&nbsp;&nbsp;Until the year 2020, the Indian space sector was a Government monopoly, where only the Government-run space agency ISRO could build and launch rockets, satellites, offer associated services. As part of space sector reforms rolled out in the year 2020, the Government established IN-SPACE to promote and oversee private sector participation in end-to-end space activities.&nbsp;According to the Government, the space VC fund aims to address the critical need for risk capital, as traditional lenders are hesitant to fund startups in this high-tech sector. With nearly 250 space startups emerging across the value chain, timely financial support is crucial to ensure their growth and prevent talent loss overseas, reads the Government's vision. This government-backed fund was meant to boost investor confidence, attract private capital, and signal the government's commitment to advancing space reforms. However, the significantly delayed deployment of the fund is a serious cause for concern in the industry.

Until 2020, the Indian space sector was a government monopoly, where only ISRO could build and launch rockets and satellites and offer associated services. After space sector reforms in 2020, IN-SPACE was established to promote and oversee private sector participation in space activities.

The Indian government’s venture capital fund meant for the space sector, which was approved in October 2024, is expected to begin investments only from April 2027, the country's Space Minister revealed in Parliament. The ₹1,000 crore (approx. $107 million) fund was announced in October 2024, following the approval of the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It was officially touted that the fund would “support 40 space startups, accelerate private industry’s growth, drive advancements in space technology, support ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-reliant India)”. As per the official announcement, the ₹1,000 crore sum was to be disbursed in a phased manner between 2025 and 2030. The government planned to invest the sum as follows: ₹150cr in FY2025-26, ₹250cr each in FY2026-27, FY2027-28, FY2028-29, and ₹100cr in FY2029-30. With FY2025-26 having come to a close, the first tranche of ₹150crore remains unspent. Given that the fund is expected to commence after April 2027, it is evident that the ₹250cr allocation for 2026-27 will also remain unspent. In total, the 400cr that was to be invested in the first two years remains unspent, affecting the overall progress of the first-of-its-kind Government initiative. “Allocation of funds for the private space industry are most crucial and important. Their timely and early manifestation is very critical for the nascent and fragile startups to grow and prosper,” an industry representative told this author on the condition of anonymity. While the Space VC fund was established under the aegis of India's space sector regulator and Government body IN-SPACE, SIDBI Venture Capital Limited (SVCL) has been made the investment manager. The Fund received SEBI’s registration on October 31, 2025 and declared its initial closing on November 10, 2025 at ₹1,005 crores. Subsequently, post SEBI registration activities, appointment of the custodian, registration with depositories for issuance of AIF units, and constitution of the Screening Committee and Investment Committee (IC), were completed, Minister Jitendra Singh revealed in Parliament. "Subsequently, post SEBI registration activities including appointment of the custodian, registration with depositories for issuance of AIF units, and constitution of the Screening Committee and Investment Committee (IC), were completed. In parallel, evaluation of Space startups has been continuing and four proposals are at an advanced stage following the Pre-IC approval," stated the Parliament reply. Given the nascent stage of the Space tech ecosystem, particularly in cases where startups have had limited or no prior exposure to institutional investors, there is a need felt to provide handholding to such startups, in order for them to organize their data better and share the requisite information with SVCL for the sanction process, it was added. With the handholding, SVCL is hopeful to complete the detailed appraisal shortly and place it before the Investment Committee for its consideration. It is expected that SVCL will be in a position to fund the approved startups in the first quarter of FY2027 after satisfactory completion of the third party due-diligence and execution of definitive documentation, concluded the Minister's reply in Parliament. Until the year 2020, the Indian space sector was a Government monopoly, where only the Government-run space agency ISRO could build and launch rockets, satellites, offer associated services. As part of space sector reforms rolled out in the year 2020, the Government established IN-SPACE to promote and oversee private sector participation in end-to-end space activities. According to the Government, the space VC fund aims to address the critical need for risk capital, as traditional lenders are hesitant to fund startups in this high-tech sector. With nearly 250 space startups emerging across the value chain, timely financial support is crucial to ensure their growth and prevent talent loss overseas, reads the Government's vision. This government-backed fund was meant to boost investor confidence, attract private capital, and signal the government's commitment to advancing space reforms. However, the significantly delayed deployment of the fund is a serious cause for concern in the industry.

Until 2020, the Indian space sector was a government monopoly, where only ISRO could build and launch rockets and satellites and offer associated services. After space sector reforms in 2020, IN-SPACE was established to promote and oversee private sector participation in space activities.

Approved in 2024, Indian Govt’s ₹1000cr Space VC fund delayed till 2027

Taking forward his 'Tamil Nadu(DMK) versus Delhi(BJP)' campaign narrative in poll-bound Tamil Nadu, DMK Chief and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin alleged that the Union BJP Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi had not done anything for the southern Indian State. "The AIIMS hospital in Madurai has not been completed; Metro rail projects for Madurai, Coimbatore, Trichy have not been approved; permission has not been granted for the Hosur airport," Stalin said in Trichy. The BJP is part of the AIADMK-led NDA front in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hitting out at Tamil Nadu's Opposition leader and AIADMK Chief Edappadi Palaniswami, Stalin said, "Palaniswami only cares about securing his own position, he has become a footrest of the BJP. Palaniswami has become a Sanghi. He has pawned off his party to the BJP, in order to escape from corruption cases. Likewise, he will pawn off or entirely sell Tamil Nadu to Delhi," Stalin alleged. He urged his supporters to set aside their differences and vote for the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance. "If the NDA comes to power in Tamil Nadu, they will not even hesitate to rename our state to Dakshin Pradesh," Stalin said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-leaders-led-by-union-minister-piyush-goyal-release-a-chargesheet-against-tamil-nadu-s-ruling-dmk-1775027870500">BJP leaders led by Union Minister Piyush Goyal release a 'chargesheet' against Tamil Nadu's ruling DMK</a>&nbsp;Training his guns on the BJP, which he has been portraying as DMK's main rival, Stalin said that the people of Tamil Nadu would give less votes to BJP than the None of the Above(NOTA) option, if BJP contested directly. That is why the BJP has tied up with the AIADMK, Stalin reasoned.&nbsp;Responding &nbsp;to the BJP's campaign of deteriorating law and order and women's safety in DMK-ruled Tamil Nadu, Stalin said that Tamil Nadu is the state where the most women go to work. "You should talk about women's safety in the BJP-ruled states. Tamil Nadu should remain Tamil Nadu and not become like violence-hit states such as Manipur and Uttar Pradesh," Stalin stated.&nbsp;Highlighting the DMK Manifesto, which he terms was the talk of the town, Stalin said that women heads of households would receive a monthly financial assistance of Rs.2,000 from the government; college-going women would receive a monthly assistance of Rs.1,500, the breakfast scheme in government schools would cover students until 8th&nbsp;grade; homemakers would be granted vouchers worth Rs.8,000 to purchase home appliances of their choice, among others.&nbsp; &nbsp;

In a high-decibel campaign speech in Trichy, CM MK Stalin warned that the NDA government seeks to erase the state's identity by renaming it 'Dakshin Pradesh.' Stalin urged voters to boycott the AIADMK-BJP alliance to protect the rights and name of Tamil Nadu.

Taking forward his 'Tamil Nadu(DMK) versus Delhi(BJP)' campaign narrative in poll-bound Tamil Nadu, DMK Chief and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin alleged that the Union BJP Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi had not done anything for the southern Indian State. "The AIIMS hospital in Madurai has not been completed; Metro rail projects for Madurai, Coimbatore, Trichy have not been approved; permission has not been granted for the Hosur airport," Stalin said in Trichy. The BJP is part of the AIADMK-led NDA front in Tamil Nadu. Hitting out at Tamil Nadu's Opposition leader and AIADMK Chief Edappadi Palaniswami, Stalin said, "Palaniswami only cares about securing his own position, he has become a footrest of the BJP. Palaniswami has become a Sanghi. He has pawned off his party to the BJP, in order to escape from corruption cases. Likewise, he will pawn off or entirely sell Tamil Nadu to Delhi," Stalin alleged. He urged his supporters to set aside their differences and vote for the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance. "If the NDA comes to power in Tamil Nadu, they will not even hesitate to rename our state to Dakshin Pradesh," Stalin said. Also read: BJP leaders led by Union Minister Piyush Goyal release a 'chargesheet' against Tamil Nadu's ruling DMK Training his guns on the BJP, which he has been portraying as DMK's main rival, Stalin said that the people of Tamil Nadu would give less votes to BJP than the None of the Above(NOTA) option, if BJP contested directly. That is why the BJP has tied up with the AIADMK, Stalin reasoned. Responding to the BJP's campaign of deteriorating law and order and women's safety in DMK-ruled Tamil Nadu, Stalin said that Tamil Nadu is the state where the most women go to work. "You should talk about women's safety in the BJP-ruled states. Tamil Nadu should remain Tamil Nadu and not become like violence-hit states such as Manipur and Uttar Pradesh," Stalin stated. Highlighting the DMK Manifesto, which he terms was the talk of the town, Stalin said that women heads of households would receive a monthly financial assistance of Rs.2,000 from the government; college-going women would receive a monthly assistance of Rs.1,500, the breakfast scheme in government schools would cover students until 8th grade; homemakers would be granted vouchers worth Rs.8,000 to purchase home appliances of their choice, among others.

In a high-decibel campaign speech in Trichy, CM MK Stalin warned that the NDA government seeks to erase the state's identity by renaming it 'Dakshin Pradesh.' Stalin urged voters to boycott the AIADMK-BJP alliance to protect the rights and name of Tamil Nadu.

NDA govt won't hesitate to rename Tamil Nadu as 'Dakshin Pradesh': MK Stalin

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