Distribution of welfare aid, gold rings to newborns and medical camps marked the 71st birth anniversary celebrations of late AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa by the ruling party across Tamil Nadu on Sunday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah hailed the late leader for her services to the people.

Chief Minister K Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam led the celebrations by cutting a 71-kg cake at the AIADMK headquarters here.

Later, they flagged off a propaganda van aimed at reaching out to the people with the "achievements of the AIADMK and the state government".

A compact disc of the party's propaganda songs, titled "Ammavin Arasu" (Jayalalithaa's government), was also released.

A photograph of Jayalalithaa with Prime Minister Narendra Modi (taken when she presented a memorandum to him years ago) was displayed, for the first time in the AIADMK headquarters premises, which already has a host of her photos, besides that of party founder M G Ramachandran.

When contacted, a party office executive said the photograph was among several other pictures put up for the Amma's anniversary celebrations.

It was put up in an effort to highlight the personality of Amma, who had friendly ties with leaders across the political spectrum, he said.

"The premises were decorated with photos of Amma with great leaders, including Anna (Dravidian icon), Thanthai Periyar (reformist leader), former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Mother Teresa," he told PTI, adding that Modi's photograph was one among them.

The photographs were displayed by the literary wing, coinciding with the 'Annadhanam,' (community feast) event at the headquarters premises for the anniversary, he added.

Panneerselvam and Palaniswami, the AIADMK coordinator and co-coordinator, garlanded a statue of Jayalalithaa at the party office, distributed sweets and released a souvenir marking the occasion.

Palaniswami also launched a state-wide drive to plant 71 lakh saplings.

Modi, whose party has entered into a pact with the AIADMK for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, in a tweet said: "Tributes to Jayalalithaa Ji on her birth anniversary. Her contribution towards the development of Tamil Nadu will be remembered for generations.

"A fine administrator and compassionate leader, her welfare measures benefited countless poor people."

Shah tweeted, "...Her passion and commitment to serve the poor and marginalised shaped millions of lives in Tamil Nadu. She will continue to be fondly remembered as Amma for generations."

Union minister Piyush Goyal, in a message, described Jayalalithaa as "the most respected and beloved Amma".

"Dr J. Jayalalithaa ji was someone I respect and someone whose radiant smiling face comes before my eyes as I talk to you," he tweeted after participating in a function here.

Senior AIADMK leader and Fisheries Minister D Jayakumar presented gold rings to the babies born on Sunday at a government hospital here.

A medical camp was held at the AIADMK headquarters, where diagnostic equipment were also brought in to detect heart ailments.

The party office wore a festive look and the premises were decked up with flowers and festoons.

The election propaganda committee, led by AIADMK propaganda secretary and Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker M Thambidurai, deliberated the modalities of taking forward the reach-out initiatives of the party.

The AIADMK praesidium chairman was given a sports utility vehicle by the party on the occasion for party work, a release said.

In Salem, Information Minister Kadambur Raju led the Jayalalithaa birth anniversary celebrations and distributed welfare assistance among people.

In neighbouring Puducherry, the local unit of the AIADMK celebrated the birth anniversary of the late leader by distributing welfare assistance among people.

Jayalalithaa passed away on December 5, 2016 after a prolonged illness.&nbsp;

Distribution of welfare aid, gold rings to newborns and medical camps marked the 71st birth anniversary celebrations of late AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa by the ruling party across Tamil Nadu on Sunday.

Distribution of welfare aid, gold rings to newborns and medical camps marked the 71st birth anniversary celebrations of late AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa by the ruling party across Tamil Nadu on Sunday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah hailed the late leader for her services to the people. Chief Minister K Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam led the celebrations by cutting a 71-kg cake at the AIADMK headquarters here. Later, they flagged off a propaganda van aimed at reaching out to the people with the "achievements of the AIADMK and the state government". A compact disc of the party's propaganda songs, titled "Ammavin Arasu" (Jayalalithaa's government), was also released. A photograph of Jayalalithaa with Prime Minister Narendra Modi (taken when she presented a memorandum to him years ago) was displayed, for the first time in the AIADMK headquarters premises, which already has a host of her photos, besides that of party founder M G Ramachandran. When contacted, a party office executive said the photograph was among several other pictures put up for the Amma's anniversary celebrations. It was put up in an effort to highlight the personality of Amma, who had friendly ties with leaders across the political spectrum, he said. "The premises were decorated with photos of Amma with great leaders, including Anna (Dravidian icon), Thanthai Periyar (reformist leader), former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Mother Teresa," he told PTI, adding that Modi's photograph was one among them. The photographs were displayed by the literary wing, coinciding with the 'Annadhanam,' (community feast) event at the headquarters premises for the anniversary, he added. Panneerselvam and Palaniswami, the AIADMK coordinator and co-coordinator, garlanded a statue of Jayalalithaa at the party office, distributed sweets and released a souvenir marking the occasion. Palaniswami also launched a state-wide drive to plant 71 lakh saplings. Modi, whose party has entered into a pact with the AIADMK for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, in a tweet said: "Tributes to Jayalalithaa Ji on her birth anniversary. Her contribution towards the development of Tamil Nadu will be remembered for generations. "A fine administrator and compassionate leader, her welfare measures benefited countless poor people." Shah tweeted, "...Her passion and commitment to serve the poor and marginalised shaped millions of lives in Tamil Nadu. She will continue to be fondly remembered as Amma for generations." Union minister Piyush Goyal, in a message, described Jayalalithaa as "the most respected and beloved Amma". "Dr J. Jayalalithaa ji was someone I respect and someone whose radiant smiling face comes before my eyes as I talk to you," he tweeted after participating in a function here. Senior AIADMK leader and Fisheries Minister D Jayakumar presented gold rings to the babies born on Sunday at a government hospital here. A medical camp was held at the AIADMK headquarters, where diagnostic equipment were also brought in to detect heart ailments. The party office wore a festive look and the premises were decked up with flowers and festoons. The election propaganda committee, led by AIADMK propaganda secretary and Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker M Thambidurai, deliberated the modalities of taking forward the reach-out initiatives of the party. The AIADMK praesidium chairman was given a sports utility vehicle by the party on the occasion for party work, a release said. In Salem, Information Minister Kadambur Raju led the Jayalalithaa birth anniversary celebrations and distributed welfare assistance among people. In neighbouring Puducherry, the local unit of the AIADMK celebrated the birth anniversary of the late leader by distributing welfare assistance among people. Jayalalithaa passed away on December 5, 2016 after a prolonged illness.

71-kg cake, gold rings marked Jayalalithaa's birth anniversary on Sunday

The ruling AIADMK Tuesday announced a poll alliance with the Pattali Makkal Katchi and allotted seven Lok Sabha seats to it for the forthcoming Parliamentary elections.

Announcing the deal in the presence of Chief Minister K Palaniswami, AIADMK coordinator and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam said it has also been decided that the PMK will be allocated a Rajya Sabha seat.

Under the deal, The PMK will be supporting the AIADMK in the bypolls expected to 21 Assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu, he said.

A formal agreement in this regard was signed between the leadership of&nbsp; 
the two parties in a city hotel.

PMK founder leader S Ramadoss described the coalition as "an alliance for people's welfare, a mega-coalition and a victorious alliance."

"To retrieve the rights of Tamil Nadu people, we have made a 10-point charter of demands," Ramadoss said.

The demands include declaring the Cauvery delta districts as a protected farm region, a caste-wise census be held in Tamil Nadu and seven Rajiv case convicts be set free.

"This coalition will be successful in all the 40 constituencies in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry," he said.

The rationale for aligning with the AIADMK will be explained by his son and former Union Health Minister Dr Anbumani Ramadoss later, he said.&nbsp;

The ruling AIADMK Tuesday announced a poll alliance with the Pattali Makkal Katchi and allotted seven Lok Sabha seats to it for the forthcoming Parliamentary elections.

The ruling AIADMK Tuesday announced a poll alliance with the Pattali Makkal Katchi and allotted seven Lok Sabha seats to it for the forthcoming Parliamentary elections. Announcing the deal in the presence of Chief Minister K Palaniswami, AIADMK coordinator and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam said it has also been decided that the PMK will be allocated a Rajya Sabha seat. Under the deal, The PMK will be supporting the AIADMK in the bypolls expected to 21 Assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu, he said. A formal agreement in this regard was signed between the leadership of the two parties in a city hotel. PMK founder leader S Ramadoss described the coalition as "an alliance for people's welfare, a mega-coalition and a victorious alliance." "To retrieve the rights of Tamil Nadu people, we have made a 10-point charter of demands," Ramadoss said. The demands include declaring the Cauvery delta districts as a protected farm region, a caste-wise census be held in Tamil Nadu and seven Rajiv case convicts be set free. "This coalition will be successful in all the 40 constituencies in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry," he said. The rationale for aligning with the AIADMK will be explained by his son and former Union Health Minister Dr Anbumani Ramadoss later, he said.

AIADMK announces poll alliance deal with PMK ahead of Lok Sabha elections

Ending weeks of speculation, Tamil Nadu's ruling party the AIADMK made two important alliance announcements in a day, &nbsp;offering 7 Lok Sabha seats and 1 Rajya Sabha seat to the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) and 5 Lok Sabha seats to the BJP.

The first announcement of 8 seats to the PMK came earlier in the day, after negotiations between the Aiadmk and PMK top brass, at a star hotel in Chennai. PMK gains electoral significance due to their strong Vanniyar vote bank in certain pockets of the state. In the past elections, they secured a 10-25% vote share in their strongholds.

It was expected that BJP President Amit Shah would visit Chennai today to firm up and make an announcement regarding the alliance. However, it was Union Minister Piyush Goyal would fly down to Chennai for the task. Piyush Goyal also made a visit to Chennai on 14th February to hold the initial round of talks.

Of the 40 seats spread across Tamil Nadu and &nbsp;Pondicherry, the AIADMK has offered 12 seats to its allies. Besides the BJP and PMK, the Aiadmk was said to be in talks with the DMDK, TMC and other smaller outfits. Which means that the AIADMK could part with a few more seats before finalizing their front.

The DMK was the party from Tamil Nadu to make the first move and express support for the Congress. However, talks are still said to be underway between the DMK and Congress, and no official announcement of their alliance has been made yet. Other parties such as the CPI, CPI(M), MDMK and VCK are also said to be inclined towards the DMK-Congress alliance.

Given that the AIADMK has made their announcement, it would be safe to say that the DMK alliance announcement will not be prolonged. Tamil Nadu will not witness the campaigns of veteran leaders such as Karunanidhi and Jayalalithaa, but an interesting election season awaits as the BJP makes attempts to foray into the heartland of Dravidian politics.

Ending weeks of speculation, Tamil Nadu's ruling party the AIADMK made two important alliance announcements in a day, offering 7 Lok Sabha seats and 1 Rajya Sabha seat to the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) and 5 Lok Sabha seats to the BJP.

Ending weeks of speculation, Tamil Nadu's ruling party the AIADMK made two important alliance announcements in a day, offering 7 Lok Sabha seats and 1 Rajya Sabha seat to the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) and 5 Lok Sabha seats to the BJP. The first announcement of 8 seats to the PMK came earlier in the day, after negotiations between the Aiadmk and PMK top brass, at a star hotel in Chennai. PMK gains electoral significance due to their strong Vanniyar vote bank in certain pockets of the state. In the past elections, they secured a 10-25% vote share in their strongholds. It was expected that BJP President Amit Shah would visit Chennai today to firm up and make an announcement regarding the alliance. However, it was Union Minister Piyush Goyal would fly down to Chennai for the task. Piyush Goyal also made a visit to Chennai on 14th February to hold the initial round of talks. Of the 40 seats spread across Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry, the AIADMK has offered 12 seats to its allies. Besides the BJP and PMK, the Aiadmk was said to be in talks with the DMDK, TMC and other smaller outfits. Which means that the AIADMK could part with a few more seats before finalizing their front. The DMK was the party from Tamil Nadu to make the first move and express support for the Congress. However, talks are still said to be underway between the DMK and Congress, and no official announcement of their alliance has been made yet. Other parties such as the CPI, CPI(M), MDMK and VCK are also said to be inclined towards the DMK-Congress alliance. Given that the AIADMK has made their announcement, it would be safe to say that the DMK alliance announcement will not be prolonged. Tamil Nadu will not witness the campaigns of veteran leaders such as Karunanidhi and Jayalalithaa, but an interesting election season awaits as the BJP makes attempts to foray into the heartland of Dravidian politics.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: After weeks of speculation, AIADMK announces alliance with BJP and PMK

After Bharatiya Janata Party confirmed its alliance with the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra, AIADMK in Tamil Nadu and the BJP on Tuesday sealed an alliance for the coming Lok Sabha elections.

The BJP is allocated five of the 40 seats in the state.

The announcement was made by AIADMK coordinator and deputy chief minister O Panneerselvam and Union Minister and senior BJP leader Piyush Goyal, party election in-charge for Tamil Nadu, who described it as a "mega alliance".

"Under the AIADMK-led alliance for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, BJP gets five Lok Sabha seats," said&nbsp;Panneerselvam.

He said as per the pact, the BJP would support AIADMK candidates in the coming Assembly by-elections in 21 constituencies.

This came after the second and final round of discussions held here by the two parties that also involved Chief Minister K Palaniswami.

Earlier in the day, the AIADMK clinched a deal with the PMK, offering the Vanniyar-based party seven out of 40 seats, including one in the neighbouring union territory of Puducherry.

In the 235-member Assembly, the AIADMK has 115 members followed by the DMK with 88, Congress eight, one of the IUML, one independent, the speaker and 20 vacant seats (18 disqualified and two dead). Besides, there is a nominated member.

(With inputs from agencies)

After Bharatiya Janata Party confirmed its alliance with the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra, AIADMK in Tamil Nadu and the BJP on Tuesday sealed an alliance for the coming Lok Sabha elections.

After Bharatiya Janata Party confirmed its alliance with the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra, AIADMK in Tamil Nadu and the BJP on Tuesday sealed an alliance for the coming Lok Sabha elections. The BJP is allocated five of the 40 seats in the state. The announcement was made by AIADMK coordinator and deputy chief minister O Panneerselvam and Union Minister and senior BJP leader Piyush Goyal, party election in-charge for Tamil Nadu, who described it as a "mega alliance". "Under the AIADMK-led alliance for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, BJP gets five Lok Sabha seats," said Panneerselvam. He said as per the pact, the BJP would support AIADMK candidates in the coming Assembly by-elections in 21 constituencies. This came after the second and final round of discussions held here by the two parties that also involved Chief Minister K Palaniswami. Earlier in the day, the AIADMK clinched a deal with the PMK, offering the Vanniyar-based party seven out of 40 seats, including one in the neighbouring union territory of Puducherry. In the 235-member Assembly, the AIADMK has 115 members followed by the DMK with 88, Congress eight, one of the IUML, one independent, the speaker and 20 vacant seats (18 disqualified and two dead). Besides, there is a nominated member. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls 2019: AIADMK partners with BJP in Tamil Nadu

The death of Ms Jayalalithaa, former Tamil Nadu chief minister and leader of the ADMK, has left a profound vacuum in the state’s politics. That this was followed by prolonged illness, and eventual demise, of M Karunanidhi, the supreme leader of the DMK, makes this vacuum even more disturbing. And what happens here matters as Tamil Nadu will play a crucial role in 2019 elections.

A question, which would have been unthinkable just a few years ago, is now doing the rounds: “Is there a political alternative for Tamil Nadu, away from the two Dravidian parties?”

A brief history of Tamil Nadu should be mentioned: Pre-1947: DK Party launched by Periyar. 1947-1967: Congress Party rules the state. 1967: DMK wins assembly elections. 1972: MGR leaves DMK to form the ADMK. 1987: Death of MGR, Jayalalithaa eventually takes over. 1987-2018: Political power alternates between DMK and ADMK, with the latter dominating.

That times change, as also the mood of the electorate, is not always appreciated by political parties. Let us trace the evolution of political ideas in Tamil Nadu during the past half-century. From 1947 to 67, when the Congress was the ruling party, the dominant political philosophy was Democratic Socialism. Between 1967 and 1972, DMK gave a new direction with the eradication of the caste system and establishing a strong Tamil identity. 
 
From 1972 to 1987, the ADMK pursued poverty alleviation and social justice. Again from 1987 to 2015, both DMK and ADMK, with the latter dominating, continued with further poverty alleviation and social justice. From 2015 till now, the ADMK effected a paradigm shift in the political narrative with the state-wide launch of the Amma canteen, which has been a big, bold attempt at food security in the state.

Coming up with new narratives is a big challenge that calls for imagination and foresight. Clearly, narratives do not drop from heaven. But they creep into the mind that has struggled to understand and cope with major problems. Here is a list of such problems/questions: With a million Indians entering the labour market every month, the country faces a formidable social and economic challenge, aggravated by the relentless march of technology. A problem crying out for an innovative response, such as the Congress Party’s 100-day National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme.

The long-held dream of linking the country’s major rivers. Where do we start and how do we go about it? Is the steady flow of subsidies from the state robbing the average citizen of his will to work? How do we counter this trend, without abandoning the core idea of social justice? Inter-state disputes are on the rise, eg. sharing of river waters. Can we not come up with an approach to such disputes that encourages spontaneous, inter-state cooperation? Should politics continue to be characterised by bitter, inter-party rivalry? Can we not move to an era of mutual respect, cooperation and power sharing? What about the monster of corruption, which seems to have buried its tentacles deep into the body politic? How do we slay this monster?

Tamil Nadu has witnessed much excitement lately with two superstars entering the political arena: Rajinikanth, and Kamal Haasan. That these two titans of Tamil cinema chose this precise, psychological moment to enter politics, after nearly half a century of dominance by the two Dravidian parties, points to a possible paradigm shift in the politics of this state — a discontinuity, if you like, with profound implications for the future of politics in the state.

The two Dravidian parties seem rather puzzled that their old slogans no longer elicit the same response as in the past. They are beginning to wonder whether there is more to political leadership than just organising protest rallies and rushing to the TV camera.

Tamil Nadu is at the crossroads, with a profound political vacuum blurring the vision of most players on the political stage. The state’s two major Dravidian parties seem to be discovering, rather suddenly, that their old slogans and narratives no longer have the same appeal to the electorate as in the past — a problem compounded by the entry of two titans of Tamil cinema into the political arena. Both these parties, as also others in the state’s political arena, need to re-invent themselves, and come up with new narratives, if they are to remain relevant.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-in-search-of-a-new-political-narrative-in-tamil-nadu-2719710">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The death of Ms Jayalalithaa, former Tamil Nadu chief minister and leader of the ADMK, has left a profound vacuum in the state’s politics. That this was followed by prolonged illness, and eventual demise, of M Karunanidhi, the supreme leader of the DMK, makes this vacuum even more disturbing.

The death of Ms Jayalalithaa, former Tamil Nadu chief minister and leader of the ADMK, has left a profound vacuum in the state’s politics. That this was followed by prolonged illness, and eventual demise, of M Karunanidhi, the supreme leader of the DMK, makes this vacuum even more disturbing. And what happens here matters as Tamil Nadu will play a crucial role in 2019 elections. A question, which would have been unthinkable just a few years ago, is now doing the rounds: “Is there a political alternative for Tamil Nadu, away from the two Dravidian parties?” A brief history of Tamil Nadu should be mentioned: Pre-1947: DK Party launched by Periyar. 1947-1967: Congress Party rules the state. 1967: DMK wins assembly elections. 1972: MGR leaves DMK to form the ADMK. 1987: Death of MGR, Jayalalithaa eventually takes over. 1987-2018: Political power alternates between DMK and ADMK, with the latter dominating. That times change, as also the mood of the electorate, is not always appreciated by political parties. Let us trace the evolution of political ideas in Tamil Nadu during the past half-century. From 1947 to 67, when the Congress was the ruling party, the dominant political philosophy was Democratic Socialism. Between 1967 and 1972, DMK gave a new direction with the eradication of the caste system and establishing a strong Tamil identity. From 1972 to 1987, the ADMK pursued poverty alleviation and social justice. Again from 1987 to 2015, both DMK and ADMK, with the latter dominating, continued with further poverty alleviation and social justice. From 2015 till now, the ADMK effected a paradigm shift in the political narrative with the state-wide launch of the Amma canteen, which has been a big, bold attempt at food security in the state. Coming up with new narratives is a big challenge that calls for imagination and foresight. Clearly, narratives do not drop from heaven. But they creep into the mind that has struggled to understand and cope with major problems. Here is a list of such problems/questions: With a million Indians entering the labour market every month, the country faces a formidable social and economic challenge, aggravated by the relentless march of technology. A problem crying out for an innovative response, such as the Congress Party’s 100-day National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme. The long-held dream of linking the country’s major rivers. Where do we start and how do we go about it? Is the steady flow of subsidies from the state robbing the average citizen of his will to work? How do we counter this trend, without abandoning the core idea of social justice? Inter-state disputes are on the rise, eg. sharing of river waters. Can we not come up with an approach to such disputes that encourages spontaneous, inter-state cooperation? Should politics continue to be characterised by bitter, inter-party rivalry? Can we not move to an era of mutual respect, cooperation and power sharing? What about the monster of corruption, which seems to have buried its tentacles deep into the body politic? How do we slay this monster? Tamil Nadu has witnessed much excitement lately with two superstars entering the political arena: Rajinikanth, and Kamal Haasan. That these two titans of Tamil cinema chose this precise, psychological moment to enter politics, after nearly half a century of dominance by the two Dravidian parties, points to a possible paradigm shift in the politics of this state — a discontinuity, if you like, with profound implications for the future of politics in the state. The two Dravidian parties seem rather puzzled that their old slogans no longer elicit the same response as in the past. They are beginning to wonder whether there is more to political leadership than just organising protest rallies and rushing to the TV camera. Tamil Nadu is at the crossroads, with a profound political vacuum blurring the vision of most players on the political stage. The state’s two major Dravidian parties seem to be discovering, rather suddenly, that their old slogans and narratives no longer have the same appeal to the electorate as in the past — a problem compounded by the entry of two titans of Tamil cinema into the political arena. Both these parties, as also others in the state’s political arena, need to re-invent themselves, and come up with new narratives, if they are to remain relevant. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

In search of a new political narrative in Tamil Nadu

AIADMK is likely to form an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, according to reports.

Speaking to WION, sources in the AIADMK, Tamil Nadu’s ruling party and the BJP have stated that an alliance between the two parties ahead of the Lok Sabha Elections could be announced on February 10 in Tiruppur in Southern Tamil Nadu, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to address a public rally.&nbsp;

The BJP source has hinted that most of the parties from Tamil Nadu, who were part of the NDA in 2014 could be retained in the alliance that is to be formed ahead of this year’s Lok Sabha Poll.&nbsp;

The source also added that “chances of the announcement being made soon was very bright”.&nbsp;

This comes at a time when the AIADMK is issuing applications (from February 4 - 10) to aspiring Lok Sabha candidates at a cost of Rs. 25000.&nbsp;

In the last few weeks, certain AIADMK leaders were critical of the BJP and expressed reservations about an alliance. They also said that the party cadre was against an alliance, as they claimed that the public mood was against the BJP in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

However, some leaders also issued clarifications saying that only the executive can decide.&nbsp;

At the unveiling of the Karunanidhi statue in Chennai, DMK president M K Stalin had proposed Rahul Gandhi as Prime Ministerial Candidate. With the DMK backing the Congress, the only major prospective ally in Tamil Nadu for the BJP is the AIADMK.

Speaking on the likely announcement of the alliance, senior journalist Kalyan Arun said, “this comes as no surprise. The only option for the AIADMK and BJP would be to ally with each other, as the Left parties in Tamil Nadu could also join hands with the Congress-DMK combine.”&nbsp;

Regarding the scenario, at the polls, he said, “it would be interesting to see how much of the AIADMK votes would be cut by the TTV Dinakaran-led AMMK. The BJP has not been very successful in the Southern States, and especially so in Tamil Nadu.”&nbsp;

In the run-up to the Prime Minister’s February 10 rally in Tiruppur, more details could emerge about the likely alliance and the smaller parties that could join hands with the AIADMK-BJP combine.

AIADMK is likely to form an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, according to reports. Speaking to WION, sources in the AIADMK, Tamil Nadu’s ruling party and the BJP have stated that an alliance between the two parties ahead of the Lok Sabha Elections could be announced on February 10 in Tiruppur in Southern Tamil Nadu, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to address a public rally.

AIADMK is likely to form an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, according to reports. Speaking to WION, sources in the AIADMK, Tamil Nadu’s ruling party and the BJP have stated that an alliance between the two parties ahead of the Lok Sabha Elections could be announced on February 10 in Tiruppur in Southern Tamil Nadu, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to address a public rally. The BJP source has hinted that most of the parties from Tamil Nadu, who were part of the NDA in 2014 could be retained in the alliance that is to be formed ahead of this year’s Lok Sabha Poll. The source also added that “chances of the announcement being made soon was very bright”. This comes at a time when the AIADMK is issuing applications (from February 4 - 10) to aspiring Lok Sabha candidates at a cost of Rs. 25000. In the last few weeks, certain AIADMK leaders were critical of the BJP and expressed reservations about an alliance. They also said that the party cadre was against an alliance, as they claimed that the public mood was against the BJP in Tamil Nadu. However, some leaders also issued clarifications saying that only the executive can decide. At the unveiling of the Karunanidhi statue in Chennai, DMK president M K Stalin had proposed Rahul Gandhi as Prime Ministerial Candidate. With the DMK backing the Congress, the only major prospective ally in Tamil Nadu for the BJP is the AIADMK. Speaking on the likely announcement of the alliance, senior journalist Kalyan Arun said, “this comes as no surprise. The only option for the AIADMK and BJP would be to ally with each other, as the Left parties in Tamil Nadu could also join hands with the Congress-DMK combine.” Regarding the scenario, at the polls, he said, “it would be interesting to see how much of the AIADMK votes would be cut by the TTV Dinakaran-led AMMK. The BJP has not been very successful in the Southern States, and especially so in Tamil Nadu.” In the run-up to the Prime Minister’s February 10 rally in Tiruppur, more details could emerge about the likely alliance and the smaller parties that could join hands with the AIADMK-BJP combine.

BJP-AIADMK alliance likely to be announced on February 10: Sources

Refuting allegations that "special treatment" was accorded to her in the Parappana Agrahara central prison at Bengaluru, an advocate representing ousted AIADMK leader V K Sasikala Monday said no prison rules were violated.

"Sasikala has not violated any rules of the Karnataka prisons manual anytime. She is wearing personal clothes as per the prison rules. The allegations are all wrong," Advocate A Ashokan told PTI.

According to RTI activist Narasimha Murthy, a 295-page report by retired IAS officer Vinay Kumar confirmed then DIG (Prisons) D Roopa's claims in July 2017 that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rti-activist-alleges-vk-sasikala-given-vip-treatment-in-jail-191584">Sasikala was given preferential treatment</a> and a separate kitchen functioned for her at the Parappana Agrahara Central Jail here.

"I have accessed the 295 pages report through an RTI query. The report confirms that Sasikala was given special treatment in the jail," Murthy had said on Sunday.

The reply was furnished by M R Shobha, Public Relations Officer of the Home Department.

Legal action would be taken after a copy of the report was issued to them, the advocate said.

Asked if he disregarded the RTI revelations, Ashokan said he cannot comment on it until the original report was out.

Based on the then DIG (Prisons) D Roopa's claims in July 2017 that Sasikala was given preferential treatment, the then Siddaramaiah government had ordered an inquiry by Vinay Kumar to probe the allegations.

Kumar had submitted his report to the government on November 17, 2017, but its contents were not made public.

Sasikala, close aide of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, the late Jayalalithaa, has been lodged at the Bengaluru prison ever since her conviction by the Supreme Court in February 2017 in the disproportionate assets case along with her two relatives V N Sudhakaran and Elavarasi, all serving a 4-year jail term.&nbsp;

Refuting allegations that "special treatment" was accorded to her in the Parappana Agrahara central prison at Bengaluru, an advocate representing ousted AIADMK leader V K Sasikala Monday said no prison rules were violated.

Refuting allegations that "special treatment" was accorded to her in the Parappana Agrahara central prison at Bengaluru, an advocate representing ousted AIADMK leader V K Sasikala Monday said no prison rules were violated. "Sasikala has not violated any rules of the Karnataka prisons manual anytime. She is wearing personal clothes as per the prison rules. The allegations are all wrong," Advocate A Ashokan told PTI. According to RTI activist Narasimha Murthy, a 295-page report by retired IAS officer Vinay Kumar confirmed then DIG (Prisons) D Roopa's claims in July 2017 that Sasikala was given preferential treatment and a separate kitchen functioned for her at the Parappana Agrahara Central Jail here. "I have accessed the 295 pages report through an RTI query. The report confirms that Sasikala was given special treatment in the jail," Murthy had said on Sunday. The reply was furnished by M R Shobha, Public Relations Officer of the Home Department. Legal action would be taken after a copy of the report was issued to them, the advocate said. Asked if he disregarded the RTI revelations, Ashokan said he cannot comment on it until the original report was out. Based on the then DIG (Prisons) D Roopa's claims in July 2017 that Sasikala was given preferential treatment, the then Siddaramaiah government had ordered an inquiry by Vinay Kumar to probe the allegations. Kumar had submitted his report to the government on November 17, 2017, but its contents were not made public. Sasikala, close aide of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, the late Jayalalithaa, has been lodged at the Bengaluru prison ever since her conviction by the Supreme Court in February 2017 in the disproportionate assets case along with her two relatives V N Sudhakaran and Elavarasi, all serving a 4-year jail term.

No 'special treatment' given to Sasikala in prison, says her advocate

RTI activist, N Murthy, on Sunday stated that allegations were levelled against Bengaluru central prison authorities for providing VIP treatment to jailed AIADMK leader VK Sasikala.&nbsp;

Murthy stated that five rooms in the prison were allotted to her when she was entitled to only one.&nbsp;

"There were allegations against jail authority that they allotted 5 rooms to Sasikala. She was entitled to 1 room but was given 4. In other 4 rooms, female convicts were staying up to 14 February 2017. Once Sasikala reached, they were sent out, all 5 were given to her," Murthy stated.

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RTI activist Narasimha Murthy: There's no provision for cooking food in prison but jail authorities deputed one convict to cook for Sasikala. In her case, system was ignored. People used to come in groups, go to her room directly &amp; stay for 3-4 hrs. There was violation of rules. <a href="https://t.co/jYjeRbMyOj">https://t.co/jYjeRbMyOj</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1086902576099004416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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He further added that one person was deputed to cook food for Sasikala when there was no such provision in the first place.&nbsp;

"There's no provision for cooking food in prison but jail authorities deputed one convict to cook for Sasikala. In her case, the system was ignored. People used to come in groups, go to her room directly and stay for 3-4 hours. There was a violation of rules," the activist added.

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Karnataka Deputy CM G Parameshwara on reports that Bengaluru central prison had extended special treatment to VK Sasikala: You should ask the Home Minister. I can't answer for him. I don't think so (when asked that it happened during his term as the Home Minister). <a href="https://t.co/rr8R4H9zQW">pic.twitter.com/rr8R4H9zQW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1086903219425562626?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Karnataka Deputy chief minister MG Parameshwara reacted to the reports saying that he can't answer for the Home Minister. He was asked to react to the reports as he was the Home Minister (state) for Karnataka at the time Sasikala was jailed.&nbsp;

"You should ask the Home Minister. I can't answer for him. I don't think so," he said.&nbsp;

Sasikala is lodged in Bengaluru's Parappana Agrahara Central Jail.&nbsp;

She was convicted by the Supreme Court in February 2017, in a disproportionate assets case and is serving a four-year sentence.

Sasikala was earlier granted five days of parole to visit her ailing husband who was discharged from hospital in November 2017. She was granted 15-day parole to attend the final rites of her husband Natarajan Maruthappa in March 2018.

 
&nbsp;

RTI activist, N Murthy, on Sunday stated that allegations were levelled against Bengaluru central prison authorities for providing VIP treatment to jailed AIADMK leader VK Sasikala.

RTI activist, N Murthy, on Sunday stated that allegations were levelled against Bengaluru central prison authorities for providing VIP treatment to jailed AIADMK leader VK Sasikala. Murthy stated that five rooms in the prison were allotted to her when she was entitled to only one. "There were allegations against jail authority that they allotted 5 rooms to Sasikala. She was entitled to 1 room but was given 4. In other 4 rooms, female convicts were staying up to 14 February 2017. Once Sasikala reached, they were sent out, all 5 were given to her," Murthy stated. RTI activist Narasimha Murthy: There's no provision for cooking food in prison but jail authorities deputed one convict to cook for Sasikala. In her case, system was ignored. People used to come in groups, go to her room directly & stay for 3-4 hrs. There was violation of rules. https://t.co/jYjeRbMyOj — ANI (@ANI) January 20, 2019 × He further added that one person was deputed to cook food for Sasikala when there was no such provision in the first place. "There's no provision for cooking food in prison but jail authorities deputed one convict to cook for Sasikala. In her case, the system was ignored. People used to come in groups, go to her room directly and stay for 3-4 hours. There was a violation of rules," the activist added. Karnataka Deputy CM G Parameshwara on reports that Bengaluru central prison had extended special treatment to VK Sasikala: You should ask the Home Minister. I can't answer for him. I don't think so (when asked that it happened during his term as the Home Minister). pic.twitter.com/rr8R4H9zQW — ANI (@ANI) January 20, 2019 × Meanwhile, Karnataka Deputy chief minister MG Parameshwara reacted to the reports saying that he can't answer for the Home Minister. He was asked to react to the reports as he was the Home Minister (state) for Karnataka at the time Sasikala was jailed. "You should ask the Home Minister. I can't answer for him. I don't think so," he said. Sasikala is lodged in Bengaluru's Parappana Agrahara Central Jail. She was convicted by the Supreme Court in February 2017, in a disproportionate assets case and is serving a four-year sentence. Sasikala was earlier granted five days of parole to visit her ailing husband who was discharged from hospital in November 2017. She was granted 15-day parole to attend the final rites of her husband Natarajan Maruthappa in March 2018.

RTI activist alleges VK Sasikala given VIP treatment in jail

Cracking the whip, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan on Wednesday suspended 24 members of AIADMK for five sitting days for continuously disrupting the House.

The Speaker invoked Rule 374(A) against the erring members after they did not heed to her repeated pleas for maintaining order in the House, Parliament sources said.

On Wednesday, some members even threw papers toward the Speaker's Chair.

The AIADMK members have been continuously creating uproar in the House and even displaying placards to protest against the proposed Mekedatu dam in Karnataka on Cauvery river.

The AIADMK claims that the dam will affect farmers in Tamil Nadu.

Commenting on the Mahajan's action, AIADMK leader M Thambidurai, who is also Deputy Speaker, said the protest is their democratic right.

"We are not questioning the Speaker's decision" but the government is not responding to the concerns raised "democratically by us," he said.

He alleged that the Central BJP-led government had given approval to Karnataka to build Mekedatu dam as it wants to get some seats in that state.

The Rule 374(A) reads: "... in the event of grave disorder occasioned by a member coming into the well of the House or abusing the Rules of the House persistently and willfully obstructing its business by shouting slogans or otherwise, such member shall, on being named by the Speaker, stand automatically suspended from the service of the House for five consecutive sittings or the remainder of the session, whichever is less..."Ever since the Winter Session began on December 11, the Lok Sabha has been witnessing repeated disruptions, because of which it has not been able to transact much business.&nbsp;

The Speaker invoked Rule 374(A) against the erring members after they did not heed to her repeated pleas for maintaining order in the House, Parliament sources said.

Cracking the whip, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan on Wednesday suspended 24 members of AIADMK for five sitting days for continuously disrupting the House. The Speaker invoked Rule 374(A) against the erring members after they did not heed to her repeated pleas for maintaining order in the House, Parliament sources said. On Wednesday, some members even threw papers toward the Speaker's Chair. The AIADMK members have been continuously creating uproar in the House and even displaying placards to protest against the proposed Mekedatu dam in Karnataka on Cauvery river. The AIADMK claims that the dam will affect farmers in Tamil Nadu. Commenting on the Mahajan's action, AIADMK leader M Thambidurai, who is also Deputy Speaker, said the protest is their democratic right. "We are not questioning the Speaker's decision" but the government is not responding to the concerns raised "democratically by us," he said. He alleged that the Central BJP-led government had given approval to Karnataka to build Mekedatu dam as it wants to get some seats in that state. The Rule 374(A) reads: "... in the event of grave disorder occasioned by a member coming into the well of the House or abusing the Rules of the House persistently and willfully obstructing its business by shouting slogans or otherwise, such member shall, on being named by the Speaker, stand automatically suspended from the service of the House for five consecutive sittings or the remainder of the session, whichever is less..."Ever since the Winter Session began on December 11, the Lok Sabha has been witnessing repeated disruptions, because of which it has not been able to transact much business.

Lok Sabha Speaker suspends 24 AIADMK members for five sittings for disrupting House

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/puducherry-cm-lashes-out-at-pm-for-delay-in-forming-cmb-134794">Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy </a>Saturday said his cabinet colleagues, legislators of the ruling Congress and its ally the DMK would participate in the demonstration at Jantar Mantar in Delhi on January 4 to urge the Centre grant statehood to the Union Territory.

Speaking to newsmen, the Chief Minister said leaders of Left parties, the VCK, MDMK, Pattali Makkal Katchi and other political outfits too would participate in the demonstration which is also aimed at asking the Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi to leave the Union Territory in view of her 'confrontation' with the elected government.

He said he has written to the leaders of the AINRC and AIADMK to participate in the agitation and that he was yet to get a reply from them.

Meanwhile, the AIADMK legislature wing leader A Anbalagan told newsmen that whenever Narayanasamy found the going unsmooth, he was taking up the statehood issue.

Anbalagan said the Chief Minister had already headed a delegation of MLAs to Delhi in July to urge the Centre to grant statehood and a memorandum was also submitted to Union Ministers.

''Nothing has happened so far, so how an agitation can be effective to get statehood,'' the AIADMK MLA wondered and recalled that during the UPA regime at the Centre statehood could have been granted to Puducherry.

Puducherry government had passed resolutions on more than 15 occasions in the Assembly persuading the Centre to grant Statehood and nothing had come about, Anbalagan said.

Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy Saturday said his cabinet colleagues, legislators of the ruling Congress and its ally the DMK would participate in the demonstration at Jantar Mantar in Delhi on January 4 to urge the Centre grant statehood to the Union Territory.

Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy Saturday said his cabinet colleagues, legislators of the ruling Congress and its ally the DMK would participate in the demonstration at Jantar Mantar in Delhi on January 4 to urge the Centre grant statehood to the Union Territory. Speaking to newsmen, the Chief Minister said leaders of Left parties, the VCK, MDMK, Pattali Makkal Katchi and other political outfits too would participate in the demonstration which is also aimed at asking the Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi to leave the Union Territory in view of her 'confrontation' with the elected government. He said he has written to the leaders of the AINRC and AIADMK to participate in the agitation and that he was yet to get a reply from them. Meanwhile, the AIADMK legislature wing leader A Anbalagan told newsmen that whenever Narayanasamy found the going unsmooth, he was taking up the statehood issue. Anbalagan said the Chief Minister had already headed a delegation of MLAs to Delhi in July to urge the Centre to grant statehood and a memorandum was also submitted to Union Ministers. ''Nothing has happened so far, so how an agitation can be effective to get statehood,'' the AIADMK MLA wondered and recalled that during the UPA regime at the Centre statehood could have been granted to Puducherry. Puducherry government had passed resolutions on more than 15 occasions in the Assembly persuading the Centre to grant Statehood and nothing had come about, Anbalagan said.

Demonstration to seek statehood for Puducherry on January 4: CM V Narayanasamy

Lok Sabha proceedings were again disrupted on Thursday as vociferous protests and sloganeering over various issues forced Speaker Sumitra Mahajan to adjourn the House till noon.

Despite repeated warnings from Mahajan, Congress, AIADMK and TDP members continued to stand in the Well of the House and sought to raise various issues, including Rafale deal.

Soon after the Question Hour began, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge wanted to raise the issue of Rafale deal but Mahajan said the matter can be raised during the Zero Hour.

Besides Congress members who were demanding a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the deal, those from AIADMK protested against the construction of a dam across Cauvery River. TDP members sought to raise issues related to Andhra Pradesh.

As more than 30 members from the three parties continued to shout slogans and displayed placards while standing in the Well, Mahajan's repeated requests asking them to go back to their seats did not yield any result.

"I am warning you. Go back to your seats... I will be naming you," a visibly peeved Mahajan told protesting members.

"I want justice for all...," the Speaker said as she wanted the proceedings to continue.

Kharge said the government should be directed to constitute a JPC to look into the Rafale deal.

One question was taken up during the Question Hour, which went on for around 15 minutes.

As the din continued, Mahajan adjourned the House till noon.&nbsp;

Lok Sabha proceedings were again disrupted on Thursday as vociferous protests and sloganeering over various issues forced Speaker Sumitra Mahajan to adjourn the House till noon.

Lok Sabha proceedings were again disrupted on Thursday as vociferous protests and sloganeering over various issues forced Speaker Sumitra Mahajan to adjourn the House till noon. Despite repeated warnings from Mahajan, Congress, AIADMK and TDP members continued to stand in the Well of the House and sought to raise various issues, including Rafale deal. Soon after the Question Hour began, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge wanted to raise the issue of Rafale deal but Mahajan said the matter can be raised during the Zero Hour. Besides Congress members who were demanding a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the deal, those from AIADMK protested against the construction of a dam across Cauvery River. TDP members sought to raise issues related to Andhra Pradesh. As more than 30 members from the three parties continued to shout slogans and displayed placards while standing in the Well, Mahajan's repeated requests asking them to go back to their seats did not yield any result. "I am warning you. Go back to your seats... I will be naming you," a visibly peeved Mahajan told protesting members. "I want justice for all...," the Speaker said as she wanted the proceedings to continue. Kharge said the government should be directed to constitute a JPC to look into the Rafale deal. One question was taken up during the Question Hour, which went on for around 15 minutes. As the din continued, Mahajan adjourned the House till noon.

Lok Sabha adjourned amid protests over Rafale deal, other issues

The Lok Sabha on Thursday passed Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2018, commonly known as the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/triple-talaq-debate-centre-says-dont-use-a-political-prism-opposition-wants-bill-to-go-to-parliament-panel-186835">Triple Talaq Bill after a heated discussion </a>in the lower house of Parliament.

The bill was passed with 245 votes in favour and 11 against.&nbsp;

During the debate in the Lok Sabha, the Congress and AIADMK staged a walkout as they had called for the bill to be sent to the joint select committee.

While the government reiterated the fresh Bill, which makes the practice of triple talaq among Muslims a penal offence, is about gender equality, the opposition wanted the proposed legislation to be sent to the select committee for detailed deliberations.

Earlier, moving the Bill for passage, Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the Bill was not against any community, religion or belief, rather it would ensure justice to women. Pointing out that 20 Islamic countries had banned triple talaq, Prasad asked why a secular nation like India could not have this.

The fresh Bill to make the practice of triple talaq among Muslims a penal offence was introduced in the Lok Sabha on December 17 to replace an ordinance issued in September.

Under the proposed law, giving instant triple talaq will be illegal and void, and will attract a jail term of three years for the husband. 
The fresh bill will supersede an earlier bill passed in Lok Sabha and pending in the Rajya Sabha.&nbsp;

The earlier bill was approved by the Lower House. But amid opposition by some parties in the upper house, the government had then cleared some amendments, including the introduction of a provision of bail, to make it more acceptable.

However, as the bill continued to face resistance in the Rajya Sabha, the government issued an ordinance in September, incorporating the amendments.

An ordinance has a life of six months. But from the day a session begins, it has to be replaced by a bill which should be passed by Parliament within 42 days (six weeks), else it lapses.

The government is at liberty to re-promulgate the ordinance if the bill fails to get through Parliament.

The Lok Sabha on Thursday passed Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2018, commonly known as the Triple Talaq Bill after a heated discussion in the lower house of Parliament.

The Lok Sabha on Thursday passed Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2018, commonly known as the Triple Talaq Bill after a heated discussion in the lower house of Parliament. The bill was passed with 245 votes in favour and 11 against. During the debate in the Lok Sabha, the Congress and AIADMK staged a walkout as they had called for the bill to be sent to the joint select committee. While the government reiterated the fresh Bill, which makes the practice of triple talaq among Muslims a penal offence, is about gender equality, the opposition wanted the proposed legislation to be sent to the select committee for detailed deliberations. Earlier, moving the Bill for passage, Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the Bill was not against any community, religion or belief, rather it would ensure justice to women. Pointing out that 20 Islamic countries had banned triple talaq, Prasad asked why a secular nation like India could not have this. The fresh Bill to make the practice of triple talaq among Muslims a penal offence was introduced in the Lok Sabha on December 17 to replace an ordinance issued in September. Under the proposed law, giving instant triple talaq will be illegal and void, and will attract a jail term of three years for the husband. The fresh bill will supersede an earlier bill passed in Lok Sabha and pending in the Rajya Sabha. The earlier bill was approved by the Lower House. But amid opposition by some parties in the upper house, the government had then cleared some amendments, including the introduction of a provision of bail, to make it more acceptable. However, as the bill continued to face resistance in the Rajya Sabha, the government issued an ordinance in September, incorporating the amendments. An ordinance has a life of six months. But from the day a session begins, it has to be replaced by a bill which should be passed by Parliament within 42 days (six weeks), else it lapses. The government is at liberty to re-promulgate the ordinance if the bill fails to get through Parliament.

Lok Sabha passes Triple Talaq Bill; Congress, AIADMK stage walkout

Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-deputy-cm-o-panneerselvams-brother-sacked-from-aiadmk-for-anti-party-185356"> O Pannerselvam’s brother</a>, who was sacked last week, was re-inducted into <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/aiadmk-dmk-protest-over-cauvery-rajya-sabha-adjourned-till-230-pm-185646">the AIADMK</a> following the “forget and forgive” policy, the ruling party said Wednesday.&nbsp;

However, this would not apply to deposed party leaders V K Sasikala and her nephew TTV Dhinakaran and they would never be re-inducted, senior AIADMK leader and state Fisheries Minister D Jayakumar told reporters here.

O Raja was re-inducted into the party only after he had expressed regret for his action, Jayakumar said but refused to divulge what kind of ‘anti-party activity’ actually prompted the leadership to sack him.

“If a sacked party functionary gives a (regret) letter, what the party will do– it will consider his regret and the request for re-induction,” he told reporters here.

He was responding to questions on Raja returning to the party fold in just about five days after his expulsion last week and said such things had happened during the time of the late AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa also.

Raja was re-inducted in line with the “forget and forgive policy,” Jayakumar added.

“This is not a big issue. He expressed regret and the party took a decision (accordingly to take him back),” the minister said.

Raja was removed from all posts and the AIADMK’s primary membership by AIADMK coordinator Panneerselvam and the joint coordinator, chief minister K Palaniswami, on December 19 for “going against the party’s policies and bringing disrepute to it.”

However, Raja was re-admitted Monday after he expressed regret for his action in person and through a letter, and requested that he be re-inducted into the party.

Asked if such a yardstick applied for Sasikala and her nephew Dhinakaran, Jayakumar replied in the negative.

“Anyone other than these two, if they express regret, will be taken back,” he said.

The AIADMK has already made it clear that even those siding with Dhinakaran post his fallout with chief minister Palaniswami last year, were welcome to return to the AIADMK, but the leader was not welcome.

Post his fallout, Dhinakaran had floated the Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam.

Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister O Pannerselvam’s brother, who was sacked last week, was re-inducted into the AIADMK following the “forget and forgive” policy, the ruling party said Wednesday.

Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister O Pannerselvam’s brother, who was sacked last week, was re-inducted into the AIADMK following the “forget and forgive” policy, the ruling party said Wednesday. However, this would not apply to deposed party leaders V K Sasikala and her nephew TTV Dhinakaran and they would never be re-inducted, senior AIADMK leader and state Fisheries Minister D Jayakumar told reporters here. O Raja was re-inducted into the party only after he had expressed regret for his action, Jayakumar said but refused to divulge what kind of ‘anti-party activity’ actually prompted the leadership to sack him. “If a sacked party functionary gives a (regret) letter, what the party will do– it will consider his regret and the request for re-induction,” he told reporters here. He was responding to questions on Raja returning to the party fold in just about five days after his expulsion last week and said such things had happened during the time of the late AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa also. Raja was re-inducted in line with the “forget and forgive policy,” Jayakumar added. “This is not a big issue. He expressed regret and the party took a decision (accordingly to take him back),” the minister said. Raja was removed from all posts and the AIADMK’s primary membership by AIADMK coordinator Panneerselvam and the joint coordinator, chief minister K Palaniswami, on December 19 for “going against the party’s policies and bringing disrepute to it.” However, Raja was re-admitted Monday after he expressed regret for his action in person and through a letter, and requested that he be re-inducted into the party. Asked if such a yardstick applied for Sasikala and her nephew Dhinakaran, Jayakumar replied in the negative. “Anyone other than these two, if they express regret, will be taken back,” he said. The AIADMK has already made it clear that even those siding with Dhinakaran post his fallout with chief minister Palaniswami last year, were welcome to return to the AIADMK, but the leader was not welcome. Post his fallout, Dhinakaran had floated the Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam.

O Raja was re-inducted following ‘forget and forgive’ policy: AIADMK politician D Jayakumar

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-adjourned-after-ruckus-over-rafale-cauvery-river-issue-185446">Rajya Sabha was adjourned</a> Friday till 2.30 pm as two Tamil parties&nbsp;the AIADMK and DMK continued their protest over the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cauvery-row-hd-kumaraswamy-meeting-pm-a-waste-of-time-says-djayakumar--145439">Cauvery River issue</a>, while the Opposition Congress and treasury benches sparred over the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-probe-needed-in-rafale-fighter-jet-deal-rules-supreme-court-183957">Rafale jet deal</a>.

As soon as the House met, Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu appealed to all members to cooperate in the smooth functioning of the House as the discussion on several urgent matters as well as the passage of important Bills were pending.

Naidu also said that he has admitted most of the notices for discussion on various issues and appealed to political parties for an honourable agreement for order in the House.

However, Naidu's plea went unheeded as AIADMK and DMK members trooped into the well of the House with placards soon after listed papers and reports were tabled. Members of AAP were also seen in the well-carrying placards, demanding an end to the sealing drive in the national capital.

Meanwhile, Naidu asked senior Congress leader Anand Sharma to put forward his views.

Sharma said his party was ready for a discussion on all important issues and demanded an immediate debate on the imposition of President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir under Article 356 of the Constitution.

Sharma also said that his party was ready to discuss the issue of purchase of Rafale jets from French company Dassault but the government should agree for a probe into the deal by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC).

To this, Naidu said the government is also willing to discuss the issue.

Minister of State for Parliament Affairs Vijay Goel said the government is ready to discuss all issues including Rafale but the "opposition is running away".

Goel also informed that he had met Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad and leaders of other parties in an effort to end the stalemate in the House.

As protesting members continued displaying placards, Naidu said he has received suggestions against members who are entering into the well of the House.

"I will not be happy to take action," he said, adding that if action against members would be taken it would be irrespective of party affiliation.

The Chairman later adjourned the House till 2.30 pm.

As per the listed business, the House is scheduled to take up private members' business (resolutions).

The House has witnessed disruptions for the 8th working day over Cauvery, Rafale and other issues.

The Rajya Sabha was adjourned Friday till 2.30 pm as two Tamil parties the AIADMK and DMK continued their protest over the Cauvery River issue, while the Opposition Congress and treasury benches sparred over the Rafale jet deal.

The Rajya Sabha was adjourned Friday till 2.30 pm as two Tamil parties the AIADMK and DMK continued their protest over the Cauvery River issue, while the Opposition Congress and treasury benches sparred over the Rafale jet deal. As soon as the House met, Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu appealed to all members to cooperate in the smooth functioning of the House as the discussion on several urgent matters as well as the passage of important Bills were pending. Naidu also said that he has admitted most of the notices for discussion on various issues and appealed to political parties for an honourable agreement for order in the House. However, Naidu's plea went unheeded as AIADMK and DMK members trooped into the well of the House with placards soon after listed papers and reports were tabled. Members of AAP were also seen in the well-carrying placards, demanding an end to the sealing drive in the national capital. Meanwhile, Naidu asked senior Congress leader Anand Sharma to put forward his views. Sharma said his party was ready for a discussion on all important issues and demanded an immediate debate on the imposition of President's Rule in Jammu and Kashmir under Article 356 of the Constitution. Sharma also said that his party was ready to discuss the issue of purchase of Rafale jets from French company Dassault but the government should agree for a probe into the deal by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). To this, Naidu said the government is also willing to discuss the issue. Minister of State for Parliament Affairs Vijay Goel said the government is ready to discuss all issues including Rafale but the "opposition is running away". Goel also informed that he had met Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad and leaders of other parties in an effort to end the stalemate in the House. As protesting members continued displaying placards, Naidu said he has received suggestions against members who are entering into the well of the House. "I will not be happy to take action," he said, adding that if action against members would be taken it would be irrespective of party affiliation. The Chairman later adjourned the House till 2.30 pm. As per the listed business, the House is scheduled to take up private members' business (resolutions). The House has witnessed disruptions for the 8th working day over Cauvery, Rafale and other issues.

Rajya Sabha  adjourned after AIADMK, DMK protest over Cauvery issue

The Rajya Sabha was Thursday adjourned for the day without transacting any business after ruckus in the House over the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/arun-jaitley-rules-out-setting-up-jpc-on-rafale-deal-184589"> Rafale fighter jet deal</a> and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cauvery-row-hd-kumaraswamy-meeting-pm-a-waste-of-time-says-djayakumar--145439">Cauvery river issue</a>.

Soon after the House met for the day, slogan-shouting members of Tamil parties - AIADMK and DMK -- trooped into the well of the House over the Cauvery issue.

Opposition Congress members also shouted slogans and held placards seeking a probe by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) into the purchase of Rafale jets from France.

Treasury benches countered Congress members with slogans demanding an apology from Congress President Rahul Gandhi following the Supreme Court clean chit to the Rafale deal.

Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu said all issues can be discussed and members should allow the House to function.

"Many issues are pending. Important bills are there. We have to discuss about (devastation caused by) cyclones (in some states)," he said.

He said a notice has been given on the Rafale deal. "We can discuss Rafale deal too. The government has given in writing that it has no objection to a discussion on Rafale."

Besides discussions on distress in the agriculture sector and price rise are also slated, he said.

"The entire country is agitated about the way the House is functioning. The whole country is watching," he said before adjourning the proceedings for the day.

Earlier, Naidu said he had gone into the records after Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Vijay Goel had on Wednesday demanded that Congress deputy leader Anand Sharma withdraw his remarks about him.

Naidu said Sharma had on December 18, while raising a point of order, stated that Goel had sought an apology from Rahul Gandhi, who is a member of the Lok Sabha, over the Rafale issue.

However, Goel had on December 19 stated that he made no reference to Rahul Gandhi and Anand Sharma should withdraw his remarks, Naidu said, adding he went through the records carefully and found that Goel had not referred to Gandhi.

"Therefore the averment made by Goel is correct," he said.

Sharma said he respects the ruling of the Chair but there were a din and commotion in the House and ruling party members were standing and shouting slogans seeking an apology from Gandhi.

Naidu, however, said the record is straight.

"Statement made by Goel seems to be correct," Naidu said.&nbsp;

The Rajya Sabha was Thursday adjourned for the day without transacting any business after ruckus in the House over the Rafale fighter jet deal and Cauvery river issue.

The Rajya Sabha was Thursday adjourned for the day without transacting any business after ruckus in the House over the Rafale fighter jet deal and Cauvery river issue. Soon after the House met for the day, slogan-shouting members of Tamil parties - AIADMK and DMK -- trooped into the well of the House over the Cauvery issue. Opposition Congress members also shouted slogans and held placards seeking a probe by the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) into the purchase of Rafale jets from France. Treasury benches countered Congress members with slogans demanding an apology from Congress President Rahul Gandhi following the Supreme Court clean chit to the Rafale deal. Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu said all issues can be discussed and members should allow the House to function. "Many issues are pending. Important bills are there. We have to discuss about (devastation caused by) cyclones (in some states)," he said. He said a notice has been given on the Rafale deal. "We can discuss Rafale deal too. The government has given in writing that it has no objection to a discussion on Rafale." Besides discussions on distress in the agriculture sector and price rise are also slated, he said. "The entire country is agitated about the way the House is functioning. The whole country is watching," he said before adjourning the proceedings for the day. Earlier, Naidu said he had gone into the records after Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Vijay Goel had on Wednesday demanded that Congress deputy leader Anand Sharma withdraw his remarks about him. Naidu said Sharma had on December 18, while raising a point of order, stated that Goel had sought an apology from Rahul Gandhi, who is a member of the Lok Sabha, over the Rafale issue. However, Goel had on December 19 stated that he made no reference to Rahul Gandhi and Anand Sharma should withdraw his remarks, Naidu said, adding he went through the records carefully and found that Goel had not referred to Gandhi. "Therefore the averment made by Goel is correct," he said. Sharma said he respects the ruling of the Chair but there were a din and commotion in the House and ruling party members were standing and shouting slogans seeking an apology from Gandhi. Naidu, however, said the record is straight. "Statement made by Goel seems to be correct," Naidu said.

Rajya Sabha adjourned after ruckus over Rafale, Cauvery river issue

The ruling AIADMK Wednesday sacked its coordinator and Tamil Nadu deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam's brother O Raja from the party for alleged anti-party activities.

The party welcomed the action, saying it showed that the leadership would not tolerate any indiscipline, irrespective of the person's status.

The decision to sack Raja, a former panchayat body chief hailing from Theni district, was announced by Panneerselvam and Joint Coordinator K Palaniswami.

Palaniswami is the Chief Minister of the state, while Panneerselvam is his deputy.

Raja's sacking came hours after he took over as the district chief of a milk producers' union in Madurai.

The two leaders, in a short statement, said that Raja has been sacked from all posts, including the AIADMK's primary membership.

The action was taken "for going against the party's policies and bringing disrepute to it," they added.

"From today onwards, Raja is being removed from all posts, including the primary membership," they said.

Raja had violated party discipline, the two leaders said and urged AIADMK workers not to have any contact with him.

Meanwhile, Jayakumar said that the action against Raja would serve as a warning to anyone who tries to go against the party, which was a "disciplined" organisation.

"When somebody does anti-party activities in a disciplined organisation like the AIADMK, they have to be sacked. There is no place for sibling relationship here," he said, responding to reporters' queries about Panneerselvam acting against his younger brother.

"It is a welcome thing that action has been taken by (Panneerselvam) despite Raja being his younger brother...This will be a lesson for others too," he added.

The chief minister and his deputy "have made it clear" that anyone who goes against the party would face action, he said, adding, that was evident from today's move.

Jayakumar, state Fisheries Minister, however declined to reveal what kind of alleged anti-party activity Raja had done that warranted his expulsion.&nbsp;

The ruling AIADMK Wednesday sacked its coordinator and Tamil Nadu deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam's brother O Raja from the party for alleged anti-party activities.

The ruling AIADMK Wednesday sacked its coordinator and Tamil Nadu deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam's brother O Raja from the party for alleged anti-party activities. The party welcomed the action, saying it showed that the leadership would not tolerate any indiscipline, irrespective of the person's status. The decision to sack Raja, a former panchayat body chief hailing from Theni district, was announced by Panneerselvam and Joint Coordinator K Palaniswami. Palaniswami is the Chief Minister of the state, while Panneerselvam is his deputy. Raja's sacking came hours after he took over as the district chief of a milk producers' union in Madurai. The two leaders, in a short statement, said that Raja has been sacked from all posts, including the AIADMK's primary membership. The action was taken "for going against the party's policies and bringing disrepute to it," they added. "From today onwards, Raja is being removed from all posts, including the primary membership," they said. Raja had violated party discipline, the two leaders said and urged AIADMK workers not to have any contact with him. Meanwhile, Jayakumar said that the action against Raja would serve as a warning to anyone who tries to go against the party, which was a "disciplined" organisation. "When somebody does anti-party activities in a disciplined organisation like the AIADMK, they have to be sacked. There is no place for sibling relationship here," he said, responding to reporters' queries about Panneerselvam acting against his younger brother. "It is a welcome thing that action has been taken by (Panneerselvam) despite Raja being his younger brother...This will be a lesson for others too," he added. The chief minister and his deputy "have made it clear" that anyone who goes against the party would face action, he said, adding, that was evident from today's move. Jayakumar, state Fisheries Minister, however declined to reveal what kind of alleged anti-party activity Raja had done that warranted his expulsion.

Tamil Nadu: Deputy CM O Panneerselvam's brother sacked from AIADMK for 'anti-party' activities

Rajya Sabha could not function for fifth consecutive day of Winter Session as the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-issue-rocks-rajya-sabha-house-adjourned-till-monday-184026">House was adjourned after heated exchanges</a> between the BJP and Congress members on Rafale deal while the AIADMK and DMK protested over Cauvery issue.

As the House met Tuesday morning, Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu informed the members that various notices on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/andhra-pradesh-on-alert-as-cyclone-phethai-approaches-several-trains-cancelled-184746">urgent matters</a>, ranging from <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/odisha-evacuates-11600-people-as-cyclone-phethai-makes-landfall-in-andhra-pradesh-184904">cyclones affecting lives</a> in some states to price rise to agriculture crisis, have been admitted for discussion.

Naidu, who had adjourned the proceedings for the entire day on Monday amid uproar over Rafale, Cauvery and other issues, appealed to the members to let the House run its business.

The Chairman said that he was going through a privilege notice given by the Opposition.

However, soon after the papers were laid by the ministers, members from the two major political parties of Tamil Nadu — AIADMK and DMK —trooped into the Well of the House, carrying placards and shouting slogans against the construction of a dam on Cauvery river.

Some members from Andhra Pradesh were also seen displaying placards demanding special status for the state.

Amid sloganeering, Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad said the privilege motion against the government on the Rafale jet deal should be accepted as the matter is agitating the minds of the people.

Azad alleged the government has misled Parliament and the Supreme Court on the issue, triggering vociferous protests from the treasury benches.

The senior Congress leader said the government has no right to continue in office and "should go".

Naidu, however, said that the Chair should be allowed to take a view on the Privilege notice.

The Congress had given the notice demanding an explanation from the government on why it provided the Supreme Court "wrong" information on the purchase of Rafale fighter jet from a French company.

Countering Azad, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Vijay Goel said the government was ready to discuss all issues, including Rafale.

He demanded that the Congress apologise in the wake of the apex court's refusal to order a SIT probe in Rafale deal and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sajjan-kumar-resigns-from-congress-primary-membership-writes-to-rahul-gandhi-184982">Sajjan Kumar's</a> conviction by the Delhi High Court in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case.

As slogan shouting by the AIADMK and DMK members continued in the Well of the House, Naidu adjourned the House till 2 PM.

When the House resumed in the afternoon again, Naidu proposed to discuss calling the attention of the Minister of Home Affairs on the situation arising due to the devastation caused by cyclones Gaja and Titli in some states and the action taken by the government in this regard.

However, senior Congress leader Anand Sharma raised a point of order saying that Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs had referred to Rahul Gandhi and it is against the rule to demand his apology because he is a member of other House.

Soon after, the ruling party member again started raising slogans and demanded an apology from Gandhi while some of the AIADMK and DMK members trooped into the well to protest over Cauvery issue.

Naidu said that there is no point of order in the matter and asked the member to discuss the serious issues mainly related to farmers which are a problem not only in Tamil Naidu but across the country.

Rajya Sabha proceedings have been disrupted since the session started last week on issues like Rafale, the dam on Cauvery river and the demand for special status to Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

Rajya Sabha could not function for fifth consecutive day of Winter Session as the House was adjourned after heated exchanges between the BJP and Congress members on Rafale deal while the AIADMK and DMK protested over Cauvery issue.

Rajya Sabha could not function for fifth consecutive day of Winter Session as the House was adjourned after heated exchanges between the BJP and Congress members on Rafale deal while the AIADMK and DMK protested over Cauvery issue. As the House met Tuesday morning, Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu informed the members that various notices on urgent matters, ranging from cyclones affecting lives in some states to price rise to agriculture crisis, have been admitted for discussion. Naidu, who had adjourned the proceedings for the entire day on Monday amid uproar over Rafale, Cauvery and other issues, appealed to the members to let the House run its business. The Chairman said that he was going through a privilege notice given by the Opposition. However, soon after the papers were laid by the ministers, members from the two major political parties of Tamil Nadu — AIADMK and DMK —trooped into the Well of the House, carrying placards and shouting slogans against the construction of a dam on Cauvery river. Some members from Andhra Pradesh were also seen displaying placards demanding special status for the state. Amid sloganeering, Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad said the privilege motion against the government on the Rafale jet deal should be accepted as the matter is agitating the minds of the people. Azad alleged the government has misled Parliament and the Supreme Court on the issue, triggering vociferous protests from the treasury benches. The senior Congress leader said the government has no right to continue in office and "should go". Naidu, however, said that the Chair should be allowed to take a view on the Privilege notice. The Congress had given the notice demanding an explanation from the government on why it provided the Supreme Court "wrong" information on the purchase of Rafale fighter jet from a French company. Countering Azad, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Vijay Goel said the government was ready to discuss all issues, including Rafale. He demanded that the Congress apologise in the wake of the apex court's refusal to order a SIT probe in Rafale deal and Sajjan Kumar's conviction by the Delhi High Court in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case. As slogan shouting by the AIADMK and DMK members continued in the Well of the House, Naidu adjourned the House till 2 PM. When the House resumed in the afternoon again, Naidu proposed to discuss calling the attention of the Minister of Home Affairs on the situation arising due to the devastation caused by cyclones Gaja and Titli in some states and the action taken by the government in this regard. However, senior Congress leader Anand Sharma raised a point of order saying that Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs had referred to Rahul Gandhi and it is against the rule to demand his apology because he is a member of other House. Soon after, the ruling party member again started raising slogans and demanded an apology from Gandhi while some of the AIADMK and DMK members trooped into the well to protest over Cauvery issue. Naidu said that there is no point of order in the matter and asked the member to discuss the serious issues mainly related to farmers which are a problem not only in Tamil Naidu but across the country. Rajya Sabha proceedings have been disrupted since the session started last week on issues like Rafale, the dam on Cauvery river and the demand for special status to Andhra Pradesh.

For fifth consecutive day, Rajya Sabha disrupted over Rafale, Cauvery

The Supreme Court order on the Rafale jet deal issue Friday rocked the Rajya Sabha which witnessed intense sloganeering by the ruling BJP and opposition Congress members leading to adjournment of House proceedings.

Amid noisy protests, Leader of the House and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley was heard saying that the Opposition has been demanding a debate on the jet deal and so the question hour should be suspended to take up the issue.

Besides the two major parties, members of the AIADMK and the Samajwadi Party too raised slogans in support of their respective demands.

No sooner the House assembled for the Zero hour, members of the Samajwadi Party raised slogans relating to the recent violence in UP's Bulandshahar district while AIADMK members trooped into the well over the Cauvery river water issue.

Buoyed by the clean chit given by the Supreme Court on the Rafale jet deal, members of treasury benches were heard raising slogans demanding an apology from Congress President Rahul Gandhi for his alleged lies on the issue.

Congress members too entered the Well of the House to demand a probe by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) into the purchase of jets from the French company Dassault.

Amidst uproar, the members were heard raising slogans -"We want JPC" and "Chowikdar Chor Hai".

BJP members were heard shouting slogans like 'Rahul Gandhi Jhootha Hai' (Rahul Gandhi is a liar).

The uproar started as soon as the proceedings began following which Deputy Chairman Harivansh first adjourned the House till 1130 hours.

However, as the protests intensified, he adjourned the Rajya Sabha till Monday after his repeated attempts to bring order in the House failed.

Before adjourning the House for the day, Harivansh tried to run the Zero Hour proceedings smoothly and some of the members even read out mentions amid uproar.

Unlike other days, there was ruckus in the House even when ministers were laying listed paper on the table of the House.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court order on the Rafale jet deal issue Friday rocked the Rajya Sabha which witnessed intense sloganeering by the ruling BJP and opposition Congress members leading to adjournment of House proceedings.

The Supreme Court order on the Rafale jet deal issue Friday rocked the Rajya Sabha which witnessed intense sloganeering by the ruling BJP and opposition Congress members leading to adjournment of House proceedings. Amid noisy protests, Leader of the House and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley was heard saying that the Opposition has been demanding a debate on the jet deal and so the question hour should be suspended to take up the issue. Besides the two major parties, members of the AIADMK and the Samajwadi Party too raised slogans in support of their respective demands. No sooner the House assembled for the Zero hour, members of the Samajwadi Party raised slogans relating to the recent violence in UP's Bulandshahar district while AIADMK members trooped into the well over the Cauvery river water issue. Buoyed by the clean chit given by the Supreme Court on the Rafale jet deal, members of treasury benches were heard raising slogans demanding an apology from Congress President Rahul Gandhi for his alleged lies on the issue. Congress members too entered the Well of the House to demand a probe by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) into the purchase of jets from the French company Dassault. Amidst uproar, the members were heard raising slogans -"We want JPC" and "Chowikdar Chor Hai". BJP members were heard shouting slogans like 'Rahul Gandhi Jhootha Hai' (Rahul Gandhi is a liar). The uproar started as soon as the proceedings began following which Deputy Chairman Harivansh first adjourned the House till 1130 hours. However, as the protests intensified, he adjourned the Rajya Sabha till Monday after his repeated attempts to bring order in the House failed. Before adjourning the House for the day, Harivansh tried to run the Zero Hour proceedings smoothly and some of the members even read out mentions amid uproar. Unlike other days, there was ruckus in the House even when ministers were laying listed paper on the table of the House.

Rafale deal issue rocks Rajya Sabha; House adjourned till Monday

As protest around Vijay's new film 'Sarkar' grew in several parts of Tamil Nadu, the film's director AR Murugadoss on Friday moved the Madras High Court seeking anticipatory bail. The court will hear the matter later in the day. 
 
A political thriller, `Sarkar` <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/vijay-starrer-sarkar-faces-protest-from-aiadmk-over-references-to-jayalalithaa-176260">has run into trouble over some scenes</a> that allegedly criticise the previous Tamil Nadu government led by the late J Jayalalithaa. 
 
On Thursday, the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) workers tore the posters of the movie in Coimbatore, Madurai and Chennai.&nbsp; 
 
The protestors demanded the removal of certain scenes from the movie.The agitated protestors also vandalized theatres where the movie was being screened. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/vijays-sarkar-topples-prabhas-baahubali-as-it-enters-rs-100-crore-in-just-two-days-176374">Also read:&nbsp;Vijay's 'Sarkar' topples Prabhas' 'Baahubali' as it enters Rs 100 crore in just two days</a> 
 
Tamil Nadu Law minister C.V. Shanmugam has also condemned Vijay`s recent release for allegedly attempting to instigate violence and also said that it is not less than a terrorist instigating people for violence. 
 
The film, which released on November 7, minted over Rs. 100 crores within two days of its opening.&nbsp;

(With ANI inputs)

As protest around Vijay's new film 'Sarkar' grew in several parts of Tamil Nadu, the film's director AR Murugadoss on Friday moved the Madras High Court seeking anticipatory bail.

As protest around Vijay's new film 'Sarkar' grew in several parts of Tamil Nadu, the film's director AR Murugadoss on Friday moved the Madras High Court seeking anticipatory bail. The court will hear the matter later in the day. A political thriller, `Sarkar` has run into trouble over some scenes that allegedly criticise the previous Tamil Nadu government led by the late J Jayalalithaa. On Thursday, the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) workers tore the posters of the movie in Coimbatore, Madurai and Chennai. The protestors demanded the removal of certain scenes from the movie.The agitated protestors also vandalized theatres where the movie was being screened. Also read: Vijay's 'Sarkar' topples Prabhas' 'Baahubali' as it enters Rs 100 crore in just two days Tamil Nadu Law minister C.V. Shanmugam has also condemned Vijay`s recent release for allegedly attempting to instigate violence and also said that it is not less than a terrorist instigating people for violence. The film, which released on November 7, minted over Rs. 100 crores within two days of its opening. (With ANI inputs)

'Sarkar' director AR Murugadoss applies for anticipatory bail

After labelling them as betrayers, the AIADMK has extended an olive branch to its 18 disqualified MLAs, asking them to jump on to the ruling party bandwagon and flayed AMMK leader T T V Dhinakaran for "misleading" them.

Asking the debarred MLAs and other Dhinakaran loyalists who moved away from AIADMK to revert to the parent party, the top leadership Saturday asked them to "understand the reality" of the Madras High Court judgement that upheld their disqualification.

The court's fair judgement has enthused party workers and the people of Tamil Nadu, the party said.

People were confident that the AIADMK government would continue to roll out welfare measures and "the angel of justice has paved a path for us to work together (again)" to meet the aspirations of the people, it said.

"We invite you with love and affection to again join the massive people's movement nurtured by Puratchi Thalaivar MGR and Puratchi Thalaivi Amma," party coordinator and co-ordinator O Panneerselvam and K Palaniswami respectively said.

In an open letter to cadres, the top duo, refraining from naming Dhinakaran or his loyalists, including the 18 debarred MLAs, said party functionaries had chosen to travel in an "alternative path as a result of being misled and due to some bitterness."

Seeking to assuage feathers ruffled by the legal wrangle, the Chief Minister and his deputy quoted a Tamil proverb which says love does not erode, despite quarrels or fights and added that all of them were "children of one mother, bonded by brotherhood and love."

When party workers ignored differences and worked together, the AIADMK would grow manifold and vanquish its political rivals, they said.

Both the party and the power of governance were only tools to serve the people and "none of us have a thought of working for posts. Our only goal is to serve the people. Since the court ruling helps us achieve our goal, we welcome and celebrate it."

Palaniswami, speaking to reporters at Coimbatore earlier on Saturday had said that (without naming the disqualified MLAs) 'betrayers' and 'enemies' had been given a befitting lesson by the Madras High Court.

A key Dhinakaran loyalist and one of the disqualified MLAs, P Vetrivel, ruled out considering going back to the ruling camp.&nbsp;

He told PTI that they would retrieve the AIADMK by going to the people and facing the polls.

After labelling them as betrayers, the AIADMK has extended an olive branch to its 18 disqualified MLAs, asking them to jump on to the ruling party bandwagon and flayed AMMK leader T T V Dhinakaran for "misleading" them.

After labelling them as betrayers, the AIADMK has extended an olive branch to its 18 disqualified MLAs, asking them to jump on to the ruling party bandwagon and flayed AMMK leader T T V Dhinakaran for "misleading" them. Asking the debarred MLAs and other Dhinakaran loyalists who moved away from AIADMK to revert to the parent party, the top leadership Saturday asked them to "understand the reality" of the Madras High Court judgement that upheld their disqualification. The court's fair judgement has enthused party workers and the people of Tamil Nadu, the party said. People were confident that the AIADMK government would continue to roll out welfare measures and "the angel of justice has paved a path for us to work together (again)" to meet the aspirations of the people, it said. "We invite you with love and affection to again join the massive people's movement nurtured by Puratchi Thalaivar MGR and Puratchi Thalaivi Amma," party coordinator and co-ordinator O Panneerselvam and K Palaniswami respectively said. In an open letter to cadres, the top duo, refraining from naming Dhinakaran or his loyalists, including the 18 debarred MLAs, said party functionaries had chosen to travel in an "alternative path as a result of being misled and due to some bitterness." Seeking to assuage feathers ruffled by the legal wrangle, the Chief Minister and his deputy quoted a Tamil proverb which says love does not erode, despite quarrels or fights and added that all of them were "children of one mother, bonded by brotherhood and love." When party workers ignored differences and worked together, the AIADMK would grow manifold and vanquish its political rivals, they said. Both the party and the power of governance were only tools to serve the people and "none of us have a thought of working for posts. Our only goal is to serve the people. Since the court ruling helps us achieve our goal, we welcome and celebrate it." Palaniswami, speaking to reporters at Coimbatore earlier on Saturday had said that (without naming the disqualified MLAs) 'betrayers' and 'enemies' had been given a befitting lesson by the Madras High Court. A key Dhinakaran loyalist and one of the disqualified MLAs, P Vetrivel, ruled out considering going back to the ruling camp. He told PTI that they would retrieve the AIADMK by going to the people and facing the polls.

AIADMK offers olive branch to Dhinakaran loyalists

Edappadi K Palaniswami government in Tamil Nadu has got a temporary breather of sorts with Justice M Sathyanarayanan, the third judge of Madras High Court upholding validity of Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal’s September 18, 2017 order disqualifying 18 AIADMK MLAs, owing allegiance to TTV Dhinakaran, for submitting a memorandum seeking change of chief minister to the then Governor.

With the upholding of the disqualification of the 18 MLAs, the ruling AIADMK government need not worry about the floor test in the Assembly. As on date, the AIADMK enjoys the support of 112 MLAs including Speaker. The total strength of the House has come down to 214 members from 234 following the disqualification of 18 MLAs and death of two legislators – M Karunanidhi (Tiruvarur) and AK Bose of AIADMK (Thiruparankundran).

In the House of 214, the Palaniswami government required a simple majority of 107 members to survive any floor test. Speaker has also issued a notice to the four sitting AIADMK MLAs – E Rathinasabapathy, VT Kalaiselvan, A Prabhu and S Karunas joining the TTV Dhinakaran camp. Two others MLAs U Thaiyarasu and Thamimun Ansari who won the election in the AIADMK symbol have not clearly spelt out their allegiance.

Although the AIADMK government has got a temporary relief in the guise of the court verdict, the future course of action by the disqualified MLAs would decide the stability of the government. In the case the disqualified legislators decided to face the bypoll, the AIADMK’s dual leadership of Palaniswami and deputy chief minister O Panneerselvam would be put to test with the election results deciding the future as well.

One of the disqualified MLA Thanga Tamil Selvan who is camping with other 16 disqualified legislators in Courtallam resort, hinted that they may not go for an appeal and instead face the bypolls. Asked about Thanga Thamil Selvan's view that the disqualified MLAs would not challenge the HC verdict, TTV Dhinakaran said, "It is his views. We will take a final decision on whether to challenge the verdict or face the by-election in a day or two."

"We did not expect this verdict. We will consult the disqualified MLAs on further course of action. If they agree to go for an appeal, we will do so or otherwise we will decide as per the views of the disqualified MLAs,” he said, adding that he would be meeting the disqualified MLAs at Courtallam within a day or two to decide about the next move.

After holding consultation with senior party leaders at the party headquarters, AIADMK co-coordinator and chief minister Palaniswami said that his party is already prepared to face the bypolls anytime. He said that as and when the election commission holds by-elections to the 18 assembly seats, his party would win all the seats.

DMK President MK Stalin who chaired the meeting of his parties district secretaries here asked the Election Commission of India to hold by-elections to all the 20 Assembly seats which are remaining vacant at the earliest. “We are not bothered about the outcome of the court verdict as it is a feud between two camps of AIADMK. After the verdict, 18 seats did not have people’s representatives like in the case of two other seats - Tiruvarur and Thiruparankundran. I appeal to the Election Commission to hold by-elections to all the 20 seats immediately as people eager to vote for the DMK,” he told reporters at DMK headquarters Anna Arivalayam.

On June 14, the first bench of the Madras HC passed a split verdict, with the then Chief Justice, Justice Indira Banerjee, upholding the decision of the assembly speaker in disqualifying the MLAs under the anti-defection law while the second judge, Justice M Sundar, differed and set aside the disqualification order.

Subsequently, the senior most judge of the high court, Justice Huluvadi G Ramesh, appointed Justice S Vimala as the third judge to decide the case. Aggrieved over the choice of judge, one of the disqualified legislators approached the Supreme Court seeking to transfer the case to itself. On June 27, a vacation bench of the Supreme Court nominated Justice Sathyanarayanan as the third judge.

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/report-why-madras-high-court-s-verdict-means-little-cheer-for-eps-ops-camp-2679162">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Edappadi K Palaniswami government in Tamil Nadu has got a temporary breather of sorts with Justice M Sathyanarayanan, the third judge of Madras High Court upholding validity of Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal’s September 18, 2017 order disqualifying 18 AIADMK MLAs, owing allegiance to TTV Dhinakaran, for submitting a memorandum seeking change of chief minister to the then Governor.

Edappadi K Palaniswami government in Tamil Nadu has got a temporary breather of sorts with Justice M Sathyanarayanan, the third judge of Madras High Court upholding validity of Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal’s September 18, 2017 order disqualifying 18 AIADMK MLAs, owing allegiance to TTV Dhinakaran, for submitting a memorandum seeking change of chief minister to the then Governor. With the upholding of the disqualification of the 18 MLAs, the ruling AIADMK government need not worry about the floor test in the Assembly. As on date, the AIADMK enjoys the support of 112 MLAs including Speaker. The total strength of the House has come down to 214 members from 234 following the disqualification of 18 MLAs and death of two legislators – M Karunanidhi (Tiruvarur) and AK Bose of AIADMK (Thiruparankundran). In the House of 214, the Palaniswami government required a simple majority of 107 members to survive any floor test. Speaker has also issued a notice to the four sitting AIADMK MLAs – E Rathinasabapathy, VT Kalaiselvan, A Prabhu and S Karunas joining the TTV Dhinakaran camp. Two others MLAs U Thaiyarasu and Thamimun Ansari who won the election in the AIADMK symbol have not clearly spelt out their allegiance. Although the AIADMK government has got a temporary relief in the guise of the court verdict, the future course of action by the disqualified MLAs would decide the stability of the government. In the case the disqualified legislators decided to face the bypoll, the AIADMK’s dual leadership of Palaniswami and deputy chief minister O Panneerselvam would be put to test with the election results deciding the future as well. One of the disqualified MLA Thanga Tamil Selvan who is camping with other 16 disqualified legislators in Courtallam resort, hinted that they may not go for an appeal and instead face the bypolls. Asked about Thanga Thamil Selvan's view that the disqualified MLAs would not challenge the HC verdict, TTV Dhinakaran said, "It is his views. We will take a final decision on whether to challenge the verdict or face the by-election in a day or two." "We did not expect this verdict. We will consult the disqualified MLAs on further course of action. If they agree to go for an appeal, we will do so or otherwise we will decide as per the views of the disqualified MLAs,” he said, adding that he would be meeting the disqualified MLAs at Courtallam within a day or two to decide about the next move. After holding consultation with senior party leaders at the party headquarters, AIADMK co-coordinator and chief minister Palaniswami said that his party is already prepared to face the bypolls anytime. He said that as and when the election commission holds by-elections to the 18 assembly seats, his party would win all the seats. DMK President MK Stalin who chaired the meeting of his parties district secretaries here asked the Election Commission of India to hold by-elections to all the 20 Assembly seats which are remaining vacant at the earliest. “We are not bothered about the outcome of the court verdict as it is a feud between two camps of AIADMK. After the verdict, 18 seats did not have people’s representatives like in the case of two other seats - Tiruvarur and Thiruparankundran. I appeal to the Election Commission to hold by-elections to all the 20 seats immediately as people eager to vote for the DMK,” he told reporters at DMK headquarters Anna Arivalayam. On June 14, the first bench of the Madras HC passed a split verdict, with the then Chief Justice, Justice Indira Banerjee, upholding the decision of the assembly speaker in disqualifying the MLAs under the anti-defection law while the second judge, Justice M Sundar, differed and set aside the disqualification order. Subsequently, the senior most judge of the high court, Justice Huluvadi G Ramesh, appointed Justice S Vimala as the third judge to decide the case. Aggrieved over the choice of judge, one of the disqualified legislators approached the Supreme Court seeking to transfer the case to itself. On June 27, a vacation bench of the Supreme Court nominated Justice Sathyanarayanan as the third judge. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Why Madras high court's verdict means little cheer for EPS-OPS camp

The valedictory function of late leader M G Ramachandran's birth centenary Sunday saw DMK bashing by Chief Minister K Palaniswami and his deputy O Panneerselvam, highlighting 'achievements' of ruling AIADMK.

Denying DMK's barb that the MGR events were 'extravagant,' Palaniswami said these functions were not "pompous" as made out, but people-centric and aligned towards taking welfare measures for their benefit.

"Every (MGR) event is centred around work for the people."

Stalin had dubbed the events as "pompous," accused the government of seeking political mileage from the events and for attacking his party and its late patriarch M Karunanidhi and said he would not participate in the function.

AMMK leader T T V Dhinakaran too had said he would not participate.

Palaniswami said Stalin was always in the habit of uttering lies about the AIADMK government.

"Whatever he utters to reporters are lies... He claims that nothing (welfare schemes) has been implemented during our rule" when the fact was that a slew of measures have been implemented, he said.

Citing incidents of violence involving DMK workers, including that of a party functionary beating up a hotel owner and another attacking a woman at a beauty parlour (video clips of which went viral), he asked if Stalin condemned them.

Stalin had visited the restaurant owner and pacified him and disciplinary action was taken against the functionary.

Marking the culmination of the centenary events, the Chief Minister announced a slew of projects for Chennai worth Rs 18.79 crore,including a world class international airport near Chennai.

The centenary events were held in 31 districts by the government, beginning at Madurai on June 30, 2017 and the valedictory function was held here Sunday.

Emphasising that welfare schemes were implemented at all MGR events in 31 districts, Palaniswami, without naming any party, said slander was spread and efforts made to halt the celebrations by some who were unable to stomach such good work being done for the people.

"They faced failure in that too. I am happy that the event was held in a grand manner, overcoming all opposition.

Palaniswami said Rs 10,884.42 crore worth of projects were implemented during the MGR events in 31 districts.

Palaniswami had inaugurated over Rs 5,140.10 crore worth of projects and laid foundation stones for Rs 5,747.24 crore worth of new projects, distributed Rs 5,464.79 worth welfare assistance to 8,26,392 beneficiaries in connection with MGR centenary events.

The Chief Minister said government orders had been issued for 434 of 547 announcements made during the centenary events and work was on for another 391 projects, out of which 43 had been completed.

Earlier in the day, the Madras High Court directed removal of all unauthorised banners in connection with the event.

Last year an activist had moved the court against bringing school children to the MGR centenary events and an injuction was granted restraining it.

Priding himself as an ordinary party worker from a farming family, Palaniswami said such a rise was possible only in the AIADMK.

Deputy Chief Minister Pannerselveam claimed that 10 lakh people participated in the valedictory function.

On Stalin's barb that the MGR events targeted his party and its late leader Karunanidhi, he said they had to mention the 'betrayals' of the then DMK government on issues like Cauvery, while speaking of the achievements of late AIADMK leaders MGR and Jayalalithaa.

"How can we avoid mentioning betrayal of DMK on Cauvery, the Sri Lankan Tamils issue and ceding of Katchatheevu islet when that party was in power?" he asked.

Referring to the killings of Tamil people in Sri Lanka (in 2009, during the civil war) when DMK and its ally Congress were in power at the State and Centre respectively, he said no efforts were taken to halt it.

He recalled various steps taken by Jayalalithaa like seeking economic sanction against Sri Lanka and said the then Chief Minister Karunanidhi observed a fast for a few hours in 2009 and announced that the war has ended.

"The Sri Lankan Tamils, believing his word that the war had ended after his three hour fast here for their cause,came out of hiding only to be killed," he alleged.

He also cited ceding of Katchatheevu islet to Sri Lanka and legal efforts by Jayalalithaa to try and retrieve it.

"Is speaking about such historical facts wrong?" he asked.

All parties who opposed DMK over the Sri Lankan issue in 2009 were now maintaining silence as they are going to strike an alliance with the main opposition party, he said.

Panneerselvam also slammed Dhinakaran, a rival to the welfare legacy of Jayalalithaa.

Notwithstanding any "mega coalition" to be propped up by the DMK and any "conspiracy," it is the AIADMK that will emerge victorious at the future hustings, he said.

The valedictory function of late leader M G Ramachandran's birth centenary Sunday saw DMK bashing by Chief Minister K Palaniswami and his deputy O Panneerselvam, highlighting 'achievements' of ruling AIADMK.

The valedictory function of late leader M G Ramachandran's birth centenary Sunday saw DMK bashing by Chief Minister K Palaniswami and his deputy O Panneerselvam, highlighting 'achievements' of ruling AIADMK. Denying DMK's barb that the MGR events were 'extravagant,' Palaniswami said these functions were not "pompous" as made out, but people-centric and aligned towards taking welfare measures for their benefit. "Every (MGR) event is centred around work for the people." Stalin had dubbed the events as "pompous," accused the government of seeking political mileage from the events and for attacking his party and its late patriarch M Karunanidhi and said he would not participate in the function. AMMK leader T T V Dhinakaran too had said he would not participate. Palaniswami said Stalin was always in the habit of uttering lies about the AIADMK government. "Whatever he utters to reporters are lies... He claims that nothing (welfare schemes) has been implemented during our rule" when the fact was that a slew of measures have been implemented, he said. Citing incidents of violence involving DMK workers, including that of a party functionary beating up a hotel owner and another attacking a woman at a beauty parlour (video clips of which went viral), he asked if Stalin condemned them. Stalin had visited the restaurant owner and pacified him and disciplinary action was taken against the functionary. Marking the culmination of the centenary events, the Chief Minister announced a slew of projects for Chennai worth Rs 18.79 crore,including a world class international airport near Chennai. The centenary events were held in 31 districts by the government, beginning at Madurai on June 30, 2017 and the valedictory function was held here Sunday. Emphasising that welfare schemes were implemented at all MGR events in 31 districts, Palaniswami, without naming any party, said slander was spread and efforts made to halt the celebrations by some who were unable to stomach such good work being done for the people. "They faced failure in that too. I am happy that the event was held in a grand manner, overcoming all opposition. Palaniswami said Rs 10,884.42 crore worth of projects were implemented during the MGR events in 31 districts. Palaniswami had inaugurated over Rs 5,140.10 crore worth of projects and laid foundation stones for Rs 5,747.24 crore worth of new projects, distributed Rs 5,464.79 worth welfare assistance to 8,26,392 beneficiaries in connection with MGR centenary events. The Chief Minister said government orders had been issued for 434 of 547 announcements made during the centenary events and work was on for another 391 projects, out of which 43 had been completed. Earlier in the day, the Madras High Court directed removal of all unauthorised banners in connection with the event. Last year an activist had moved the court against bringing school children to the MGR centenary events and an injuction was granted restraining it. Priding himself as an ordinary party worker from a farming family, Palaniswami said such a rise was possible only in the AIADMK. Deputy Chief Minister Pannerselveam claimed that 10 lakh people participated in the valedictory function. On Stalin's barb that the MGR events targeted his party and its late leader Karunanidhi, he said they had to mention the 'betrayals' of the then DMK government on issues like Cauvery, while speaking of the achievements of late AIADMK leaders MGR and Jayalalithaa. "How can we avoid mentioning betrayal of DMK on Cauvery, the Sri Lankan Tamils issue and ceding of Katchatheevu islet when that party was in power?" he asked. Referring to the killings of Tamil people in Sri Lanka (in 2009, during the civil war) when DMK and its ally Congress were in power at the State and Centre respectively, he said no efforts were taken to halt it. He recalled various steps taken by Jayalalithaa like seeking economic sanction against Sri Lanka and said the then Chief Minister Karunanidhi observed a fast for a few hours in 2009 and announced that the war has ended. "The Sri Lankan Tamils, believing his word that the war had ended after his three hour fast here for their cause,came out of hiding only to be killed," he alleged. He also cited ceding of Katchatheevu islet to Sri Lanka and legal efforts by Jayalalithaa to try and retrieve it. "Is speaking about such historical facts wrong?" he asked. All parties who opposed DMK over the Sri Lankan issue in 2009 were now maintaining silence as they are going to strike an alliance with the main opposition party, he said. Panneerselvam also slammed Dhinakaran, a rival to the welfare legacy of Jayalalithaa. Notwithstanding any "mega coalition" to be propped up by the DMK and any "conspiracy," it is the AIADMK that will emerge victorious at the future hustings, he said.

MGR event ends with grand finale; chief minister,deputy train guns on DMK

In a relief to the Palaniswami government, the Madras Court on Thursday delivered a split verdict on petitions challenging disqualification of 18 AIADMK MLAs loyal to sidelined leader TTV Dhinakaran.

In the keenly-awaited judgement, Chief Justice Indira Banerjee upheld the September 18 last order of Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal disqualifying the MLAs, while Justice M Sundar disagreed with her and struck it down.

"In my opinion, Speaker's decision is not unreasonable," she said.

The senior-most judge after her will decide the judge who would hear the matter afresh, Justice Banerjee said.

She also said status quo would continue till the third judge gave his order.

Justice Sundar in his order said, "I respectfully submit that I disagree with the opinion of the CJ and hereby set aside the order passed by the Speaker."

The split verdict has come as a big relief to the AIADMK government headed by Chief Minister K Palaniswami as any possible threat to its stability has been averted for now.

The bench was passing orders on petitions filed by the 18 MLAs challenging their disqualification by the Speaker under the anti-defection law.

The MLAs were disqualified after they had called on the state governor on August 22 last year expressing lack of confidence in the leadership of Palaniswami and seeking a change of guard.

Their meeting had come a day after then rival factions led by Palaniswami and his now deputy Panneerselvam merged their factions after deposing Dhinaknaran as the AIADMK deputy general secretary amid the intense power struggle in the ruling party after the demise of its supremo Jayalalithaa in December 2016.

A unanimous court ruling adverse to the government would have intensified the power struggle between the Dhinakaran, now chief of Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam, and the ruling party led by top leaders Palaniswami and O Panneerselvam.

In the 234-member assembly, the ruling AIADMK has a strength of 116 MLAs excluding the Speaker but including S Karunaas (Mukkulathor Pulipadai), M Thamimun Ansari (Manithaneya Jananayaga Katchi) and U Thaniyarasu (Tamil Nadu Kongu Ilaignar Peravai), who had won on the ruling party's two leaves symbol in 2016 polls.

While 18 MLAs owing allegiance to Dhinakaran were disqualified, the DMK has 89 MLAs, its allies Congress 8 and the IUML one in the 234-member House.

Dhinakaran got elected from RK Nagar last year and he is the lone independent member of the House.

Dhinakaran, the nephew of deposed party leader V K Sasikala, had been maintaining that the Palaniswami government would not last long.

Opposition DMK has been claiming that with the disqualification of the MLAs, the Palaniswami government had been reduced to a minority.&nbsp

In the keenly-awaited judgement, Chief Justice Indira Banerjee upheld the September 18 last order of Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal disqualifying the MLAs

In a relief to the Palaniswami government, the Madras Court on Thursday delivered a split verdict on petitions challenging disqualification of 18 AIADMK MLAs loyal to sidelined leader TTV Dhinakaran. In the keenly-awaited judgement, Chief Justice Indira Banerjee upheld the September 18 last order of Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal disqualifying the MLAs, while Justice M Sundar disagreed with her and struck it down. "In my opinion, Speaker's decision is not unreasonable," she said. The senior-most judge after her will decide the judge who would hear the matter afresh, Justice Banerjee said. She also said status quo would continue till the third judge gave his order. Justice Sundar in his order said, "I respectfully submit that I disagree with the opinion of the CJ and hereby set aside the order passed by the Speaker." The split verdict has come as a big relief to the AIADMK government headed by Chief Minister K Palaniswami as any possible threat to its stability has been averted for now. The bench was passing orders on petitions filed by the 18 MLAs challenging their disqualification by the Speaker under the anti-defection law. The MLAs were disqualified after they had called on the state governor on August 22 last year expressing lack of confidence in the leadership of Palaniswami and seeking a change of guard. Their meeting had come a day after then rival factions led by Palaniswami and his now deputy Panneerselvam merged their factions after deposing Dhinaknaran as the AIADMK deputy general secretary amid the intense power struggle in the ruling party after the demise of its supremo Jayalalithaa in December 2016. A unanimous court ruling adverse to the government would have intensified the power struggle between the Dhinakaran, now chief of Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam, and the ruling party led by top leaders Palaniswami and O Panneerselvam. In the 234-member assembly, the ruling AIADMK has a strength of 116 MLAs excluding the Speaker but including S Karunaas (Mukkulathor Pulipadai), M Thamimun Ansari (Manithaneya Jananayaga Katchi) and U Thaniyarasu (Tamil Nadu Kongu Ilaignar Peravai), who had won on the ruling party's two leaves symbol in 2016 polls. While 18 MLAs owing allegiance to Dhinakaran were disqualified, the DMK has 89 MLAs, its allies Congress 8 and the IUML one in the 234-member House. Dhinakaran got elected from RK Nagar last year and he is the lone independent member of the House. Dhinakaran, the nephew of deposed party leader V K Sasikala, had been maintaining that the Palaniswami government would not last long. Opposition DMK has been claiming that with the disqualification of the MLAs, the Palaniswami government had been reduced to a minority.

Tamil Nadu: High Court delivers split verdict on disqualification of 18 AIADMK MLAs

Days after the much-hyped release of Rajinikanth starrer 'Kaala,' AIADMK senior leader and Tamil Nadu Minister D Jayakumar today said a movie's success does not guarantee success in politics.

"Nobody can be accepted as a leader..Only on the basis of the success of a movie," he told reporters here.

With the Tamil superstar's June 7 movie release in over 2,000 screens worldwide witnessing impressive openings, according to the flick's publicist, Jayakumar said a person is recognised only for his welfare work for the public.

"People accept a person as a leader, based on the policies and goals and for the work done by being on their side," he said, without naming anyone while answering a question over stars and their entry into politics.

"This is the yardstick and there is nothing else," he said, adding fans decide the success of a movie, which has got nothing to do with politics.

'Kaala', that shines light on the struggles of the oppressed people to secure their rights, is viewed by the actor's fans as giving him a better foothold when he enters politics.

The Minister's remark assumes significance not only because of Rajinikanth's fans' high hopes from Kaala, but also over top actor Kamal Haasan's Vishwaroopam 2's release expectations, the production of which was already over.

Haasan, who launched his political party Makkal Needhi Maiam in February this year, is set to release the trailer for Vishwaroopam 2, a sequel to Vishwaroopam, on June 11.

The spy thriller is produced in Tamil, Hindi and dubbed in Telugu.

Kaala has hit 650 screens in Tamil Nadu, 600 in Andhra Pradesh, 243 in neighbouring Kerala and 126 in Karnataka, where the movie saw a delayed release due to protests and 1,000 overseas releases, the publicist told PTI.

Notably, it was the AIADMK which backed Rajinikanth recently for his "graveyard" and "anti-socials" remark after visiting the injured in Tuticorin anti-Sterlite violence.

The actor, who had last year announced that he would float a political party, said anti-social elements had infiltrated the protest by locals demanding closure of Sterlite's copper smelter unit in the southern port town.

He had also remarked that too many protests would turn Tamil Nadu into a 'graveyard.'

Violence and police firing on May 22 and 23 resulted in the deaths of 13 persons.

The ruling AIADMK, apart from this issue, has been quite critical of the actor on other matters.

AIADMK mouthpiece "Namathu Puratchi Thalaivi Amma" had days ago pointed out that the actor had praised late Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa for dealing with anti-social elements with an "iron fist."

"Superstar Rajinikanth has spoken frankly with conscience... He has endorsed Chief Minister K Palaniswami's statement that anti-social elements had infiltrated the protesters,"it said,adding the actor's remarks were "welcome."

DMK and other opposition parties in Tamil Nadu, however, had lashed out at Rajinikanth for his anti-socials comment.

With the Tamil superstar's June 7 movie release in over 2,000 screens worldwide witnessing impressive openings, according to the flick's publicist, Jayakumar said a person is recognised only for his welfare work for the public

Days after the much-hyped release of Rajinikanth starrer 'Kaala,' AIADMK senior leader and Tamil Nadu Minister D Jayakumar today said a movie's success does not guarantee success in politics. "Nobody can be accepted as a leader..Only on the basis of the success of a movie," he told reporters here. With the Tamil superstar's June 7 movie release in over 2,000 screens worldwide witnessing impressive openings, according to the flick's publicist, Jayakumar said a person is recognised only for his welfare work for the public. "People accept a person as a leader, based on the policies and goals and for the work done by being on their side," he said, without naming anyone while answering a question over stars and their entry into politics. "This is the yardstick and there is nothing else," he said, adding fans decide the success of a movie, which has got nothing to do with politics. 'Kaala', that shines light on the struggles of the oppressed people to secure their rights, is viewed by the actor's fans as giving him a better foothold when he enters politics. The Minister's remark assumes significance not only because of Rajinikanth's fans' high hopes from Kaala, but also over top actor Kamal Haasan's Vishwaroopam 2's release expectations, the production of which was already over. Haasan, who launched his political party Makkal Needhi Maiam in February this year, is set to release the trailer for Vishwaroopam 2, a sequel to Vishwaroopam, on June 11. The spy thriller is produced in Tamil, Hindi and dubbed in Telugu. Kaala has hit 650 screens in Tamil Nadu, 600 in Andhra Pradesh, 243 in neighbouring Kerala and 126 in Karnataka, where the movie saw a delayed release due to protests and 1,000 overseas releases, the publicist told PTI. Notably, it was the AIADMK which backed Rajinikanth recently for his "graveyard" and "anti-socials" remark after visiting the injured in Tuticorin anti-Sterlite violence. The actor, who had last year announced that he would float a political party, said anti-social elements had infiltrated the protest by locals demanding closure of Sterlite's copper smelter unit in the southern port town. He had also remarked that too many protests would turn Tamil Nadu into a 'graveyard.' Violence and police firing on May 22 and 23 resulted in the deaths of 13 persons. The ruling AIADMK, apart from this issue, has been quite critical of the actor on other matters. AIADMK mouthpiece "Namathu Puratchi Thalaivi Amma" had days ago pointed out that the actor had praised late Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa for dealing with anti-social elements with an "iron fist." "Superstar Rajinikanth has spoken frankly with conscience... He has endorsed Chief Minister K Palaniswami's statement that anti-social elements had infiltrated the protesters,"it said,adding the actor's remarks were "welcome." DMK and other opposition parties in Tamil Nadu, however, had lashed out at Rajinikanth for his anti-socials comment.

'Kaala' cannot fix Rajinikanth's political win, taunts AIADMK

The violent protests and police firing in Tuticorin that claimed 13 lives rocked the Tamil Nadu assembly on Tuesday with Chief Minister K Palaniswami maintaining that police action was "unavoidable" even as the main opposition DMK staged a walked out over the issue.

On the violent incidents that occurred on May 22 in Tuticorin, Palaniswami said measures like tear gas and baton-charge were used against those who indulged in violence.

"In unavoidable circumstances, police personnel were forced to take action," he said in a report tabled in the House in an apparent reference to the police firings.

He appealed to the people of Tuticorin not to succumb to instigations by anyone and cooperate for continuation of peace.

Soon after the question hour, Leader of the Opposition, M K Stalin, attired in black, targeted the government for issuing a government order (GO) for the closure of the Vedanta group's copper plant in Tuticorin rather than convening the Cabinet and taking a policy decision in this regard.

Calling the issuance of GO an "eye wash," tantamount to signalling the Sterlite management to approach the court, the DMK leader said the move was similar to what was done in 2013 in the issue.

The Tamil Nadu government had yesterday ordered the state Pollution Control Board to seal and "permanently" close the Sterlite Copper plant following last week's protests, over pollution concerns, during which 13 people were killed in police firing. 
Yesterday, Stalin had said that following a similar closure in 2013, the plant had reopened later.

Blaming the state government for not holding talks with the people and seeking the resignation of Chief Minister K Palaniswami, the DMK working president said his party will boycott the House proceedings till the plant was "permanently closed."

Later, he led his party colleagues, in staging a walkout, who shouted slogans seeking the resignation of Chief Minister K Palaniswami.

All the DMK members present were dressed in black, which they said was to signify their protest and grief over the firings.

The opposition party declined to toe the government line that the unit was closed permanently.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister condoled the deaths of 13 persons and tabled a five-page report detailing the violence and steps taken by the government in this regard.

Congress legislature party leader K Ramasamy said the probe into the incidents should be done properly or must be transferred to the CBI.

He also wanted unconditional withdrawal of all cases in this regard.

Asking the government to own up responsibility over the loss of 13 lives, he said the government should resign.

Large-scale violence on May 22 against the Sterlite copper plant in Tuticorin and police firing led to the death of 12 people.

The next day saw one more youth succumbing to injuries sustained in police firing.&nbsp

On the violent incidents that occurred on May 22 in Tuticorin, Palaniswami said measures like tear gas and baton-charge were used against those who indulged in violence

The violent protests and police firing in Tuticorin that claimed 13 lives rocked the Tamil Nadu assembly on Tuesday with Chief Minister K Palaniswami maintaining that police action was "unavoidable" even as the main opposition DMK staged a walked out over the issue. On the violent incidents that occurred on May 22 in Tuticorin, Palaniswami said measures like tear gas and baton-charge were used against those who indulged in violence. "In unavoidable circumstances, police personnel were forced to take action," he said in a report tabled in the House in an apparent reference to the police firings. He appealed to the people of Tuticorin not to succumb to instigations by anyone and cooperate for continuation of peace. Soon after the question hour, Leader of the Opposition, M K Stalin, attired in black, targeted the government for issuing a government order (GO) for the closure of the Vedanta group's copper plant in Tuticorin rather than convening the Cabinet and taking a policy decision in this regard. Calling the issuance of GO an "eye wash," tantamount to signalling the Sterlite management to approach the court, the DMK leader said the move was similar to what was done in 2013 in the issue. The Tamil Nadu government had yesterday ordered the state Pollution Control Board to seal and "permanently" close the Sterlite Copper plant following last week's protests, over pollution concerns, during which 13 people were killed in police firing. Yesterday, Stalin had said that following a similar closure in 2013, the plant had reopened later. Blaming the state government for not holding talks with the people and seeking the resignation of Chief Minister K Palaniswami, the DMK working president said his party will boycott the House proceedings till the plant was "permanently closed." Later, he led his party colleagues, in staging a walkout, who shouted slogans seeking the resignation of Chief Minister K Palaniswami. All the DMK members present were dressed in black, which they said was to signify their protest and grief over the firings. The opposition party declined to toe the government line that the unit was closed permanently. Meanwhile, Chief Minister condoled the deaths of 13 persons and tabled a five-page report detailing the violence and steps taken by the government in this regard. Congress legislature party leader K Ramasamy said the probe into the incidents should be done properly or must be transferred to the CBI. He also wanted unconditional withdrawal of all cases in this regard. Asking the government to own up responsibility over the loss of 13 lives, he said the government should resign. Large-scale violence on May 22 against the Sterlite copper plant in Tuticorin and police firing led to the death of 12 people. The next day saw one more youth succumbing to injuries sustained in police firing.

Tuticorin violence rocks Tamil Nadu assembly, CM says police action 'unavoidable'; DMK stages walkout

The DMK has called the deaths of 11 protesters in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin a "Jallianwala Bagh-type massacre".&nbsp;

The comment was made&nbsp;by DMK leader Saravanan, who also called Tamil Nadu a "police state" and a "fascist regime".&nbsp;

“A recent survey shows that maximum protests happen in TN. That’s because of the inefficiency of the government. This is a Jallianwala Bagh-type of massacre. The government should pack up and go," news reports quoted Sarvanan as saying. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Stalin, the DMK's Working President, also slammed the government.&nbsp;

"Who ordered the police firing on protestors? Why were automatic weapons used to disperse the crowd and under what law is this permitted? Why were rubber/ plastic bullets or other means NOT used to avoid fatal injuries? Why was no warning given before firing?" he tweeted.&nbsp; 
 
Police allegedly used assault rifles to shoot at protesters in Tutincorin.&nbsp;

Thousands of people had hit the streets of Thootukudi (earlier called Tuticorin) Tuesday. They were protesting against a Sterlite copper-smelting plant which they say has caused immense environmental damage. They also allege the plant has caused an outbreak of disease in the area.&nbsp;

Sterlite is owned by the Vedanta group.&nbsp;

The protests against the plant have been going on for years. In 2013, the Supreme Court ordered the company to pay a Rs 100-crore fine.&nbsp;

The protests against the plant erupted again in February when it announced that it was doubling its capacity.&nbsp;

Tuesday had been the 100th consecutive day of protest.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court stayed the plant's planned expansion.

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Why was there not adequate police presence to maintain law and order during <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SterliteProtest?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SterliteProtest</a>? Is it accurate to say that there was a total failure of State intelligence which led to these unfortunate deaths? Did IG-Intelligence brief police and <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOTamilNadu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CMOTamilNadu</a> on the situation?
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And the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has asked the Tamil Nadu government for a report on the killings.&nbsp;

The National Human Rights Commission has also issued notices to the Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police and asked for reports within two weeks

 
&nbsp;

The comment was made by DMK leader Saravanan, who also called Tamil Nadu a 'police state' and a 'fascist regime'

The DMK has called the deaths of 11 protesters in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin a "Jallianwala Bagh-type massacre". The comment was made by DMK leader Saravanan, who also called Tamil Nadu a "police state" and a "fascist regime". “A recent survey shows that maximum protests happen in TN. That’s because of the inefficiency of the government. This is a Jallianwala Bagh-type of massacre. The government should pack up and go," news reports quoted Sarvanan as saying. Stalin, the DMK's Working President, also slammed the government. "Who ordered the police firing on protestors? Why were automatic weapons used to disperse the crowd and under what law is this permitted? Why were rubber/ plastic bullets or other means NOT used to avoid fatal injuries? Why was no warning given before firing?" he tweeted. Police allegedly used assault rifles to shoot at protesters in Tutincorin. Thousands of people had hit the streets of Thootukudi (earlier called Tuticorin) Tuesday. They were protesting against a Sterlite copper-smelting plant which they say has caused immense environmental damage. They also allege the plant has caused an outbreak of disease in the area. Sterlite is owned by the Vedanta group. The protests against the plant have been going on for years. In 2013, the Supreme Court ordered the company to pay a Rs 100-crore fine. The protests against the plant erupted again in February when it announced that it was doubling its capacity. Tuesday had been the 100th consecutive day of protest. On Wednesday, the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court stayed the plant's planned expansion. Why was there not adequate police presence to maintain law and order during #SterliteProtest? Is it accurate to say that there was a total failure of State intelligence which led to these unfortunate deaths? Did IG-Intelligence brief police and @CMOTamilNadu on the situation? — M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) May 23, 2018 × And the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has asked the Tamil Nadu government for a report on the killings. The National Human Rights Commission has also issued notices to the Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police and asked for reports within two weeks

'Jallianwala Bagh-type massacre,' says DMK after 11 killed in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin

In politically significant remarks, the ruling AIADMK on Sunday said that signs of it&nbsp;working with the BJP like a "double-barrelled gun" in the political arena were visible and "no one can sever ties" between the two parties.

This is a major departure from the AIADMK's policy under late party supremo J Jayalalithaa who kept the saffron party at the arm's length when it came electoral alliance.&nbsp;

Coming down stronly on principal opposition DMK-led persistent protests over the Cauvery imbroglio, the AIADMK said "whatever be the number of protests and demonstrations, no one can sever the ties between the AIADMK and the BJP."

No one can weaken the bond between "the Central and the State governments" either, the AIADMK said in its Tamil mouthpiece "Namadhu Puratchi Thalaivi Amma."

The state's ruling party said the protests by the DMK, its allies and friendly parties on the Cauvery issue were only aimed at spoiling the warmth between it and the BJP, reported news agency PTI.

"The signs are (increasingly) becoming visible for the AIADMK and the BJP to work like a double-barrelled gun in Indian politics. The pathway is clear," the daily said while emphasising upon the need for the leadership of the two parties to chart out a roadmap for the purpose.

"A roadmap for it should be thrashed out by the high commands of both the parties. That is the need of the hour," the AIADMK mouthpiece added.

"The state and the Central regimes led by the AIADMK and the BJP respectively are working responsibly and are headed towards a final resolution of the issue," the daily said, referring to the Cauvery issue.

Under such circumstances, the AIADMK said, the main opposition DMK was holding "unnecessary protests" as it was "apprehensive" that the State and the Central governments, working in cohesion, would succeed in resolving the Cauvery issue.

Mocking the DMK for holding protests which did not enjoy the "people's support," the AIADMK hit out at its arch-rival for trying to get an appointment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi now on the issue after attempting to show black flags to him recently.

Asking if it was an act of "political civility," the AIADMK mouthpiece said no other party could indulge in such politics burying its self-respect.

The AIADMK said its government allowed protests like black flag demonstrations keeping democratic ethos in mind.

The daily, however, asked if the protesters succeeded in showing even a single black flag to Prime Minister Modi.

Notably, the AIADMK's assertion comes days after asking the Centre to change its mindset over the Cauvery issue.

The ruling party, after holding a day-long fast across Tamil Nadu on the issue earlier this month, has announced rallies between April 25 and 29 in the delta region to press the Centre to implement the Supreme Court verdict on the matter.

Following the February 16 Supreme Court verdict, Tamil Nadu has been insisting that the court's order to the Centre to formulate a "scheme" referred to the setting up of the CMB and the Cauvery Water Regulatory Committee (CWRC).

No one can weaken the bond between "the Central and the State governments" either, the AIADMK said in its Tamil mouthpiece "Namadhu Puratchi Thalaivi Amma."

In politically significant remarks, the ruling AIADMK on Sunday said that signs of it working with the BJP like a "double-barrelled gun" in the political arena were visible and "no one can sever ties" between the two parties. This is a major departure from the AIADMK's policy under late party supremo J Jayalalithaa who kept the saffron party at the arm's length when it came electoral alliance. Coming down stronly on principal opposition DMK-led persistent protests over the Cauvery imbroglio, the AIADMK said "whatever be the number of protests and demonstrations, no one can sever the ties between the AIADMK and the BJP." No one can weaken the bond between "the Central and the State governments" either, the AIADMK said in its Tamil mouthpiece "Namadhu Puratchi Thalaivi Amma." The state's ruling party said the protests by the DMK, its allies and friendly parties on the Cauvery issue were only aimed at spoiling the warmth between it and the BJP, reported news agency PTI. "The signs are (increasingly) becoming visible for the AIADMK and the BJP to work like a double-barrelled gun in Indian politics. The pathway is clear," the daily said while emphasising upon the need for the leadership of the two parties to chart out a roadmap for the purpose. "A roadmap for it should be thrashed out by the high commands of both the parties. That is the need of the hour," the AIADMK mouthpiece added. "The state and the Central regimes led by the AIADMK and the BJP respectively are working responsibly and are headed towards a final resolution of the issue," the daily said, referring to the Cauvery issue. Under such circumstances, the AIADMK said, the main opposition DMK was holding "unnecessary protests" as it was "apprehensive" that the State and the Central governments, working in cohesion, would succeed in resolving the Cauvery issue. Mocking the DMK for holding protests which did not enjoy the "people's support," the AIADMK hit out at its arch-rival for trying to get an appointment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi now on the issue after attempting to show black flags to him recently. Asking if it was an act of "political civility," the AIADMK mouthpiece said no other party could indulge in such politics burying its self-respect. The AIADMK said its government allowed protests like black flag demonstrations keeping democratic ethos in mind. The daily, however, asked if the protesters succeeded in showing even a single black flag to Prime Minister Modi. Notably, the AIADMK's assertion comes days after asking the Centre to change its mindset over the Cauvery issue. The ruling party, after holding a day-long fast across Tamil Nadu on the issue earlier this month, has announced rallies between April 25 and 29 in the delta region to press the Centre to implement the Supreme Court verdict on the matter. Following the February 16 Supreme Court verdict, Tamil Nadu has been insisting that the court's order to the Centre to formulate a "scheme" referred to the setting up of the CMB and the Cauvery Water Regulatory Committee (CWRC).

Signs visible for joining hands with BJP, says AIADMK

Ruling AIADMK today said it would hold state-wide public meetings on the Cauvery issue between April 25 and 29 to urge the Centre to implement the Supreme Court verdict to ensure water for irrigation in the Delta districts.

The "massive" public meetings would be held in Cauvery Delta districts of Tamil Nadu and top leaders, including Chief Minister K Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam will address them.

The move to further mount pressure over the Centre by the ruling AIADMK comes following a "Cauvery Rights Retrieval Rally" held by arch rival DMK and its friendly parties between April 7 and 12 covering the same Cauvery delta region.

Panneerselvam and Palaniswami, party coordinator and co-coordinator respectively, in a party release here appealed to AIADMK functionaries, workers and the general public to take part in the mega rallies.

The AIADMK, which staged a state-wide fast on April 3, seeking constitution of the Cauvery Management Board (CMB) and to condemn the Centre on the issue said "the massive public meetings will be held to urge the Centre to implement the Supreme Court verdict."

It said implementation of the verdict was imperative to release water for irrigation to delta districts from the Mettur reservoir on June 12.

On April 3, ending the day long fast, Chief Minister Palaniswami had said, "We will fight, get justice and win."

The hunger strike by '15 lakh' party cadres was reflective of the aspirations of the people and farmers on the issue, he had said.

Facing a high pitch campaign and relentless attack from DMK and other opposition parties on the Cauvery issue for its alleged inaction, AIADMK said Palaniswami will address a grand public rally on April 28 at Tiruvarur in the heart of the Cauvery delta region.

On the same day, Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker and party's propaganda secretary M Thambidurai will address a rally at Karur.

Deputy Chief Minister and party coordinator O Panneerselvam will address a similar meeting on April 25 at Nagapattinam district.

State Ministers, including Food Minister R Kamaraj, Local Administration Minister S P Velumani, Fisheries Minister D Jayakumar will take part in the rallies, the AIADMK said.

The AIADMK rallies also come against the backdrop of the DMK-led opposition parties' proposed human chain demonstrations in all 32 districts of Tamil Nadu on April 23 to urge the Centre to immediately set up the CMB.&nbsp

The "massive" public meetings would be held in Cauvery Delta districts of Tamil Nadu and top leaders, including Chief Minister K Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam will address them.

Ruling AIADMK today said it would hold state-wide public meetings on the Cauvery issue between April 25 and 29 to urge the Centre to implement the Supreme Court verdict to ensure water for irrigation in the Delta districts. The "massive" public meetings would be held in Cauvery Delta districts of Tamil Nadu and top leaders, including Chief Minister K Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam will address them. The move to further mount pressure over the Centre by the ruling AIADMK comes following a "Cauvery Rights Retrieval Rally" held by arch rival DMK and its friendly parties between April 7 and 12 covering the same Cauvery delta region. Panneerselvam and Palaniswami, party coordinator and co-coordinator respectively, in a party release here appealed to AIADMK functionaries, workers and the general public to take part in the mega rallies. The AIADMK, which staged a state-wide fast on April 3, seeking constitution of the Cauvery Management Board (CMB) and to condemn the Centre on the issue said "the massive public meetings will be held to urge the Centre to implement the Supreme Court verdict." It said implementation of the verdict was imperative to release water for irrigation to delta districts from the Mettur reservoir on June 12. On April 3, ending the day long fast, Chief Minister Palaniswami had said, "We will fight, get justice and win." The hunger strike by '15 lakh' party cadres was reflective of the aspirations of the people and farmers on the issue, he had said. Facing a high pitch campaign and relentless attack from DMK and other opposition parties on the Cauvery issue for its alleged inaction, AIADMK said Palaniswami will address a grand public rally on April 28 at Tiruvarur in the heart of the Cauvery delta region. On the same day, Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker and party's propaganda secretary M Thambidurai will address a rally at Karur. Deputy Chief Minister and party coordinator O Panneerselvam will address a similar meeting on April 25 at Nagapattinam district. State Ministers, including Food Minister R Kamaraj, Local Administration Minister S P Velumani, Fisheries Minister D Jayakumar will take part in the rallies, the AIADMK said. The AIADMK rallies also come against the backdrop of the DMK-led opposition parties' proposed human chain demonstrations in all 32 districts of Tamil Nadu on April 23 to urge the Centre to immediately set up the CMB.

Cauvery issue: AIADMK to step up pressure, to hold rallies across Tamil Nadu

Two DMK workers allegedly made self-immolation bids in Coimbatore on Monday amid a state-wide stir for setting up Cauvery Management Board to implement the Supreme Court's verdict on water allocation among the riparian states.

Amid protests across Tamil Nadu, the Supreme Court Monday agreed to hear a contempt plea of the state against the Centre on April 9 on the Cauvery issue, while Governor Banwarilal Purohit left for Delhi.

According to sources, he left for the National capital on an official visit.

The Supreme Court bench, comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud said,"We understand Tamil Nadu's difficulty of not getting water. We will resolve the issue. List the matter for April 9."

Tamil Nadu had sought contempt action against the Centre for "failure" to frame the scheme for constituting the Cauvery Management Board and Cauvery Water Regulation Committee within six weeks, as directed by the apex court on February 16.

The pro-CMB stir, being spearheaded by DMK and a slew of pro-Tamil outfits, saw a slew of sit-ins and demonstrations by students and others at various places, including Chennai, Tiruvarur and Madurai.

According to police, over 1,000 persons were detained across the state in connection with protests and were released later in the day.

The two DMK activists, identified as P T Murugesan and Singai Sadashivam, doused themselves with kerosene and tried to set themselves ablaze at Coimbatore. They were however overpowered by policemen present at the spot and whisked away to a nearby police station.

PMK founder leader Dr S Ramadoss Monday announced his party's support for tomorrow's call for shutdown by farmers organisations and traders, besides DMK-led opposition parties' bandh on April 5. He said his party would support all Cauvery related protests.

Tuesday, the ruling AIADMK cadres will observe a fast, seeking constitution of the CMB.

Major Opposition affiliated trade unions, including LPF (DMK), and AITUC (CPI) meanwhile have decided to support the April 5 bandh.

Local DMK leaders led the protests across Tamil Nadu for immediate constitution of the CMB in keeping with party chief M K Stalin's statement Sunday that protests would continue till the Board was set up.

In Chennai, the demonstrations were held by DMK workers at several places, including Saidapet where former city Mayor M Subramanian led the stir.

Demonstrations were also held in Thanjavur,the hub of the Cauvery delta region, by cadres of various outfits, including DMK, Congress and the Left parties. Over a dozen pro-Tamil outfits, including DVK and Adi Tamizhar Katchi and cadres of Left parties held protests in Madurai.

DMK has asked its party functionaries to continue "democratic protests till April 4."

Hitting out at the BJP-led Centre for "trampling the rights of Tamil Nadu" on the Cauvery issue, it condemned the ruling AIADMK for "not mounting pressure on the Union government."

Rail blockades were staged at various places, including Coimbatore, Tiruchirappalli and Pudukottai by agitating cadres of opposition parties and pro-Tamil outfits.

Demonstrations were also held in front of Central government offices in several cities like Chennai, Erode and the neighbouring Puducherry.

In Puducherry, the demonstration was held by activists of Dravidar Viduthalai Kazhagam,a pro-Tamil outfit. Nearly 200 farmers and youths from various organisations staged a rail roko at Tirupur railway station and were removed by police.

Puducherry Lt Governor Kiran Bedi today wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to set up CMB and Cauvery Water Regulatory Committee.

During the protest in Chennai by the 'May 17 Movement,' a pro-Tamil outfit, some of its cadres allegedly hurled sandals at the signboard of "Shasthri Bhavan" housing several Central government offices, briefly triggering anxiety.

BJP Tamil Nadu unit president Tamilisai Soundararajan meanwhile blamed DMK for enacting "dramas" on the Cauvery issue.

Speaking to reporters at Tiruvannamalai, she dared party Rajya Sabha MP Kanimozhi to resign her post rather than hold protests.

The protesters blamed BJP's Tamil Nadu unit for not "taking steps" to bring pressure on its party-led government at the Centre for setting up the CMB.

The DMK-led opposition parties had yesterday called for a state-wide shutdown on April 5, seeking constitution of CMB.

Both the Centre and the Tamil Nadu government had on March 31 moved the Supreme Court over CMB. The top court had granted six weeks to the Centre to formulate a scheme to ensure compliance of its order.

Amid protests across Tamil Nadu, the Supreme Court Monday agreed to hear a contempt plea of the state against the Centre on April 9 on the Cauvery issue, while Governor Banwarilal Purohit left for Delhi.

Two DMK workers allegedly made self-immolation bids in Coimbatore on Monday amid a state-wide stir for setting up Cauvery Management Board to implement the Supreme Court's verdict on water allocation among the riparian states. Amid protests across Tamil Nadu, the Supreme Court Monday agreed to hear a contempt plea of the state against the Centre on April 9 on the Cauvery issue, while Governor Banwarilal Purohit left for Delhi. According to sources, he left for the National capital on an official visit. The Supreme Court bench, comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud said,"We understand Tamil Nadu's difficulty of not getting water. We will resolve the issue. List the matter for April 9." Tamil Nadu had sought contempt action against the Centre for "failure" to frame the scheme for constituting the Cauvery Management Board and Cauvery Water Regulation Committee within six weeks, as directed by the apex court on February 16. The pro-CMB stir, being spearheaded by DMK and a slew of pro-Tamil outfits, saw a slew of sit-ins and demonstrations by students and others at various places, including Chennai, Tiruvarur and Madurai. According to police, over 1,000 persons were detained across the state in connection with protests and were released later in the day. The two DMK activists, identified as P T Murugesan and Singai Sadashivam, doused themselves with kerosene and tried to set themselves ablaze at Coimbatore. They were however overpowered by policemen present at the spot and whisked away to a nearby police station. PMK founder leader Dr S Ramadoss Monday announced his party's support for tomorrow's call for shutdown by farmers organisations and traders, besides DMK-led opposition parties' bandh on April 5. He said his party would support all Cauvery related protests. Tuesday, the ruling AIADMK cadres will observe a fast, seeking constitution of the CMB. Major Opposition affiliated trade unions, including LPF (DMK), and AITUC (CPI) meanwhile have decided to support the April 5 bandh. Local DMK leaders led the protests across Tamil Nadu for immediate constitution of the CMB in keeping with party chief M K Stalin's statement Sunday that protests would continue till the Board was set up. In Chennai, the demonstrations were held by DMK workers at several places, including Saidapet where former city Mayor M Subramanian led the stir. Demonstrations were also held in Thanjavur,the hub of the Cauvery delta region, by cadres of various outfits, including DMK, Congress and the Left parties. Over a dozen pro-Tamil outfits, including DVK and Adi Tamizhar Katchi and cadres of Left parties held protests in Madurai. DMK has asked its party functionaries to continue "democratic protests till April 4." Hitting out at the BJP-led Centre for "trampling the rights of Tamil Nadu" on the Cauvery issue, it condemned the ruling AIADMK for "not mounting pressure on the Union government." Rail blockades were staged at various places, including Coimbatore, Tiruchirappalli and Pudukottai by agitating cadres of opposition parties and pro-Tamil outfits. Demonstrations were also held in front of Central government offices in several cities like Chennai, Erode and the neighbouring Puducherry. In Puducherry, the demonstration was held by activists of Dravidar Viduthalai Kazhagam,a pro-Tamil outfit. Nearly 200 farmers and youths from various organisations staged a rail roko at Tirupur railway station and were removed by police. Puducherry Lt Governor Kiran Bedi today wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to set up CMB and Cauvery Water Regulatory Committee. During the protest in Chennai by the 'May 17 Movement,' a pro-Tamil outfit, some of its cadres allegedly hurled sandals at the signboard of "Shasthri Bhavan" housing several Central government offices, briefly triggering anxiety. BJP Tamil Nadu unit president Tamilisai Soundararajan meanwhile blamed DMK for enacting "dramas" on the Cauvery issue. Speaking to reporters at Tiruvannamalai, she dared party Rajya Sabha MP Kanimozhi to resign her post rather than hold protests. The protesters blamed BJP's Tamil Nadu unit for not "taking steps" to bring pressure on its party-led government at the Centre for setting up the CMB. The DMK-led opposition parties had yesterday called for a state-wide shutdown on April 5, seeking constitution of CMB. Both the Centre and the Tamil Nadu government had on March 31 moved the Supreme Court over CMB. The top court had granted six weeks to the Centre to formulate a scheme to ensure compliance of its order.

Protests engulf Tamil Nadu for Cauvery Board, Supreme Court to hear state's plea

Engulfed in a series of protests over the set up of the Cauvery Management Board, Tamil Nadu witnessed protest from the ruling AIADMK and opposition DMK parties today.

Following the protest, the state police detained TTV Dhinakaran over his attempt to gherao Trichy airport along with his supporters.

The opposition parties led by DMK stopped a train in Coimbatore demanding the formation of the board.

The deputy chief minister of the state, O Panneerselvam said that they will continue to stage protest until the Cauvery&nbsp;Management Board is formed.

The ruling party AIADMK also organised a statewide hunger strike.

The widespread protests in the state led&nbsp;to the disruption of&nbsp;the Lok Sabha proceedings for the 19th consecutive day.

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Tamil Nadu police detained TTV Dhinakaran after he tried to gherao Trichy airport along with his supporters over <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cauvery?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cauvery</a> issue. (File pic) <a href="https://t.co/CaV3Kf621N">pic.twitter.com/CaV3Kf621N</a>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> opposition parties led by DMK stop a train in Coimbatore demanding the formation of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CauveryMangementBoard?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CauveryMangementBoard</a> <a href="https://t.co/ChmpukIIk1">pic.twitter.com/ChmpukIIk1</a>
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Till the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CauveryMangementBoard?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CauveryMangementBoard</a> is not formed, our protest will not end. We will continue to protest till we get justice- O Panneerselvam,Tamil Nadu Deputy CM <a href="https://t.co/UGqzyw6pKC">pic.twitter.com/UGqzyw6pKC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/981150841389363200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The&nbsp;protest was organised by parties over the government's failure to set up a Cauvery Management Board (CMB) despite the conclusion of a Supreme Court deadline.

The deadline for the central government to set up the Cauvery Management Board was March 29, six weeks from the top court's February 16 order.

Tamil Nadu's demand for the set up of the Cauvery management board came after the apex court&nbsp;reduced the Tamil Nadu's share of Cauvery water from 177.25 thousand million cubic feet (TMC), less than the 192 TMC allocated by a tribunal in 2007.&nbsp;

The deputy chief minister of the state, O Panneerselvam said that they will continue to stage protest until the Cauvery Management Board is formed

Engulfed in a series of protests over the set up of the Cauvery Management Board, Tamil Nadu witnessed protest from the ruling AIADMK and opposition DMK parties today. Following the protest, the state police detained TTV Dhinakaran over his attempt to gherao Trichy airport along with his supporters. The opposition parties led by DMK stopped a train in Coimbatore demanding the formation of the board. The deputy chief minister of the state, O Panneerselvam said that they will continue to stage protest until the Cauvery Management Board is formed. The ruling party AIADMK also organised a statewide hunger strike. The widespread protests in the state led to the disruption of the Lok Sabha proceedings for the 19th consecutive day. Tamil Nadu police detained TTV Dhinakaran after he tried to gherao Trichy airport along with his supporters over #Cauvery issue. (File pic) pic.twitter.com/CaV3Kf621N — ANI (@ANI) April 3, 2018 × #TamilNadu opposition parties led by DMK stop a train in Coimbatore demanding the formation of #CauveryMangementBoard pic.twitter.com/ChmpukIIk1 — ANI (@ANI) April 3, 2018 × Till the #CauveryMangementBoard is not formed, our protest will not end. We will continue to protest till we get justice- O Panneerselvam,Tamil Nadu Deputy CM pic.twitter.com/UGqzyw6pKC — ANI (@ANI) April 3, 2018 × The protest was organised by parties over the government's failure to set up a Cauvery Management Board (CMB) despite the conclusion of a Supreme Court deadline. The deadline for the central government to set up the Cauvery Management Board was March 29, six weeks from the top court's February 16 order. Tamil Nadu's demand for the set up of the Cauvery management board came after the apex court reduced the Tamil Nadu's share of Cauvery water from 177.25 thousand million cubic feet (TMC), less than the 192 TMC allocated by a tribunal in 2007.

Tamil Nadu continues to protest over Cauvery Management Board, police detains TTV Dhinakaran

In what appears to be a bid to shift the political onus on DMK on the Cauvery issue, senior AIADMK leader M Thambidurai on Sunday said his party would consider moving a no-trust motion in Parliament against the NDA government if Congress supported it.

"Stalin says AIADMK should bring a no-trust motion (on Cauvery issue). We are ready to bring it," he told reporters at the airport.

In the same breath, the Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker said Congress support was needed to facilitate such an initiative.

"Let Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi issue a statement (indicating support), they (DMK) are in alliance with them (Congress)... Only if they (Congress) support, we will get the (requisite) numbers," he said.

Seeking to make his party's position clear,Thambidruai, a senior AIADMK leader from Western Tamil Nadu, said such a no-trust move would, however, be only for the Cauvery issue.

"Only on the Cauvery issue... Not for any other general issue. To urge constitution of the Cauvery Management Board, and since the Centre has failed to do that, we will consider that if other parties like Congress support it."

Thambidurai's assertion comes against the backdrop of Congress ruled Karnataka going to the polls next month, where Cauvery is an emotive issue like in Tamil Nadu.

Days ago, Stalin had demanded that the ruling AIADMK support the no-trust move of the TDP to mount pressure on the Centre to set up the Cauvery Management Board.

DMK, the principal opposition party in Tamil Nadu, has been relentless in its attack on the ruling AIADMK over Cauvery.

The Stalin-led party said it would hold continuous protests like the one today at Valluvar Kottam here, till the CMB was constituted.

With the support of its ally the Congress, and friendly parties, including CPI, CPI(M), DMK has also announced a state-wide shutdown on April 5.

Farmers organisations and a traders body have given a bandh call on April 3 over the Cauvery issue and on the same day ruling AIADMK will hold hunger strike across Tamil Nadu.

Barring Chief Minister K Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam, all other party leaders would participate, the AIADMK had said.&nbsp;

"Stalin says AIADMK should bring a no-trust motion (on Cauvery issue). We are ready to bring it," Thambidurai told reporters at the airport.

In what appears to be a bid to shift the political onus on DMK on the Cauvery issue, senior AIADMK leader M Thambidurai on Sunday said his party would consider moving a no-trust motion in Parliament against the NDA government if Congress supported it. "Stalin says AIADMK should bring a no-trust motion (on Cauvery issue). We are ready to bring it," he told reporters at the airport. In the same breath, the Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker said Congress support was needed to facilitate such an initiative. "Let Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi issue a statement (indicating support), they (DMK) are in alliance with them (Congress)... Only if they (Congress) support, we will get the (requisite) numbers," he said. Seeking to make his party's position clear,Thambidruai, a senior AIADMK leader from Western Tamil Nadu, said such a no-trust move would, however, be only for the Cauvery issue. "Only on the Cauvery issue... Not for any other general issue. To urge constitution of the Cauvery Management Board, and since the Centre has failed to do that, we will consider that if other parties like Congress support it." Thambidurai's assertion comes against the backdrop of Congress ruled Karnataka going to the polls next month, where Cauvery is an emotive issue like in Tamil Nadu. Days ago, Stalin had demanded that the ruling AIADMK support the no-trust move of the TDP to mount pressure on the Centre to set up the Cauvery Management Board. DMK, the principal opposition party in Tamil Nadu, has been relentless in its attack on the ruling AIADMK over Cauvery. The Stalin-led party said it would hold continuous protests like the one today at Valluvar Kottam here, till the CMB was constituted. With the support of its ally the Congress, and friendly parties, including CPI, CPI(M), DMK has also announced a state-wide shutdown on April 5. Farmers organisations and a traders body have given a bandh call on April 3 over the Cauvery issue and on the same day ruling AIADMK will hold hunger strike across Tamil Nadu. Barring Chief Minister K Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam, all other party leaders would participate, the AIADMK had said.

AIADMK for no-trust move against Centre: Thambidurai

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