The row over Sanatana Dharma remark reached the Supreme Court on Friday (Sept 22) after it issued notices to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin's son and DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin.

The young scion had stirred up a massive controversy after he called for the eradication of Sanatana Dharma, another name for Hindu religion, to bring social justice during a public rally on September 2.

His remarks were widely condemned by Hindu religious groups and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, even as the opposition bloc, which the DMK is part of, struggled to come clean on the issue. Several cases were also registered against the Tamil Nadu politician.

<h2>SC seeks response&nbsp;</h2>

On Friday, the apex court issued notices to the Tamil Nadu government, Udhayanidhi Stalin, and 12 others, and sought their response.

The court’s order came in response to a plea filed by Chennai-based lawyer Jagannath urging that Stalin and other leaders be barred from making further statements about 'Sanatana Dharma', and the declaration at the September 2 conference in Tamil Nadu as unconstitutional.

The petition argued that the conference had a deliberate agenda to target Hinduism and propagate hatred by employing offensive and derogatory language.

While hearing the matter, the SC bench, comprising Justices Aniruddha Bose and Bela M Trivedi, questioned the petitioner why he didn’t approach the Madras High Court first.

To this the lawyer of the petitioner argued that if an individual had made these remarks, they would have approached the lower court, but “a minister and state machinery being unleashed against a particular religion."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-womens-reservation-bill-clears-rajya-sabha-with-absolute-majority-638337">India: Women's Reservation bill passed in Rajya Sabha with absolute majority</a>

The bench then told him, "You are transforming us into a police station."

However, as the counsel submitted similar issues related to hate speech were pending, the court issued notice in the matter.

<h2>What did Udhayanidhi say?</h2>

During his speech at a gathering of the Tamil Nadu Progressive Writers and Artists Association, he asserted that Sanatan Dharma goes against principles of&nbsp;equality&nbsp;and social justice, and equated it to diseases like coronavirus, malaria and dengue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-canada-becoming-safe-haven-for-terrorists-to-visa-suspension-key-points-from-indian-govts-presser-638265">From Canada becoming safe haven for terrorists to visa suspension: Here's what India said</a>

Udhayanidhi said the very name Sanatan is from Sanskrit.

"What is the meaning of Sanatan? It is eternal, that is, it cannot be changed; no one could pose any question and that is the meaning." Sanatan divided people on the basis of caste, he alleged.

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The row over Sanatana Dharma remark reached the Supreme Court on Friday (Sept 22) after it issued notices to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin's son and DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin.

The row over Sanatana Dharma remark reached the Supreme Court on Friday (Sept 22) after it issued notices to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin's son and DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin. The young scion had stirred up a massive controversy after he called for the eradication of Sanatana Dharma, another name for Hindu religion, to bring social justice during a public rally on September 2. His remarks were widely condemned by Hindu religious groups and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, even as the opposition bloc, which the DMK is part of, struggled to come clean on the issue. Several cases were also registered against the Tamil Nadu politician. SC seeks response On Friday, the apex court issued notices to the Tamil Nadu government, Udhayanidhi Stalin, and 12 others, and sought their response. The court’s order came in response to a plea filed by Chennai-based lawyer Jagannath urging that Stalin and other leaders be barred from making further statements about 'Sanatana Dharma', and the declaration at the September 2 conference in Tamil Nadu as unconstitutional. The petition argued that the conference had a deliberate agenda to target Hinduism and propagate hatred by employing offensive and derogatory language. While hearing the matter, the SC bench, comprising Justices Aniruddha Bose and Bela M Trivedi, questioned the petitioner why he didn’t approach the Madras High Court first. To this the lawyer of the petitioner argued that if an individual had made these remarks, they would have approached the lower court, but “a minister and state machinery being unleashed against a particular religion." Also read | India: Women's Reservation bill passed in Rajya Sabha with absolute majority The bench then told him, "You are transforming us into a police station." However, as the counsel submitted similar issues related to hate speech were pending, the court issued notice in the matter. What did Udhayanidhi say? During his speech at a gathering of the Tamil Nadu Progressive Writers and Artists Association, he asserted that Sanatan Dharma goes against principles of equality and social justice, and equated it to diseases like coronavirus, malaria and dengue. Also read | From Canada becoming safe haven for terrorists to visa suspension: Here's what India said Udhayanidhi said the very name Sanatan is from Sanskrit. "What is the meaning of Sanatan? It is eternal, that is, it cannot be changed; no one could pose any question and that is the meaning." Sanatan divided people on the basis of caste, he alleged. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sanatana Dharma row: Supreme Court issues notice to Indian politician Udhayanidhi Stalin

Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman, on Thursday, while speaking on the no-trust motion in Lok Sabha, hit back at the opposition's attack on the Centre over violence against women in Manipur.&nbsp;

Sitharaman invoked how late Tamil Nadu chief minister and AIADMK chief J Jayalalithaa was humiliated in the state Assembly in 1989.

She recounted the incident when Jayalalithaa's saree was pulled in the Tamil Nadu assembly.

“I agree that women suffering anywhere - Manipur, Delhi, Rajasthan - will have to be taken seriously. No politics played. But I want to remind this entire House of one incident which happened on 25th March 1989 in the Tamil Nadu assembly. Then she hadn't become chief minister, Jayalalithaa's saree was pulled in Tamil Nadu in the assembly. She was the leader of the opposition. The DMK members who were seated there heckled her and laughed at her... Has the DMK forgotten Jayalalithaa? You pulled her saree, you demeaned her. That day Jayalalithaa took an oath that she will never come to the House unless she becomes the CM. Two years later, she returned as the CM of Tamil Nadu,” she said.

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&nbsp;

She also slammed MP Kanimozhi and reminded how the DMK had watched Jayalalithaa silently being humiliated in the assembly.

<h2>Congress, NCP and DMK MPs stage walkout</h2>

Congress, NCP and DMK MPs staged a walkout from the Lok Sabha as Sitharaman was speaking on the no-confidence motion.

"People moved no confidence against UPA in 2014 and 2019 and defeated them. The situation will be the same in 2024. HM said yesterday, what was the need to change the name of UPA? They have an amazing unity. It is tough to understand if they are fighting against each other or together," she said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-speaks-on-manipur-issue-says-centre-and-state-working-together-to-restore-peace-624288">PM Modi speaks on Manipur issue, says centre and state working together to restore peace</a>

She said that Sengol was ignored for decades by opposition parties and now PM Modi has restored it to its rightful place in Lok Sabha.

"When PM Modi restored it (Sengol) to its rightful place in Lok Sabha, that became an issue, that is an insult of the Tamils. The Sengol was ignored for decades. The Sengol was lost in history and kept in some museum," she said.

"The Kashi Tamil Sangamam showed how Tamil Nadu and Kashi have very deep connections. The first time you heard Tamil being quoted in the United Nations. In 'Mann ki Baat', PM has used Tamil so many times," she added.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman, on Thursday, while speaking on the no-trust motion in Lok Sabha, hit back at the opposition's attack on the Centre over violence against women in Manipur.

Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman, on Thursday, while speaking on the no-trust motion in Lok Sabha, hit back at the opposition's attack on the Centre over violence against women in Manipur. Sitharaman invoked how late Tamil Nadu chief minister and AIADMK chief J Jayalalithaa was humiliated in the state Assembly in 1989. She recounted the incident when Jayalalithaa's saree was pulled in the Tamil Nadu assembly. “I agree that women suffering anywhere - Manipur, Delhi, Rajasthan - will have to be taken seriously. No politics played. But I want to remind this entire House of one incident which happened on 25th March 1989 in the Tamil Nadu assembly. Then she hadn't become chief minister, Jayalalithaa's saree was pulled in Tamil Nadu in the assembly. She was the leader of the opposition. The DMK members who were seated there heckled her and laughed at her... Has the DMK forgotten Jayalalithaa? You pulled her saree, you demeaned her. That day Jayalalithaa took an oath that she will never come to the House unless she becomes the CM. Two years later, she returned as the CM of Tamil Nadu,” she said. #WATCH | FM says, "I agree that women suffering anywhere - Manipur, Delhi, Rajasthan - will have to be taken seriously. No politics played. But I want to remind this entire House of one incident which happened on 25th March 1989 in Tamil Nadu Assembly. Then she hadn't become CM… pic.twitter.com/DRUTV4qeIg — ANI (@ANI) August 10, 2023 × She also slammed MP Kanimozhi and reminded how the DMK had watched Jayalalithaa silently being humiliated in the assembly. Congress, NCP and DMK MPs stage walkout Congress, NCP and DMK MPs staged a walkout from the Lok Sabha as Sitharaman was speaking on the no-confidence motion. "People moved no confidence against UPA in 2014 and 2019 and defeated them. The situation will be the same in 2024. HM said yesterday, what was the need to change the name of UPA? They have an amazing unity. It is tough to understand if they are fighting against each other or together," she said. Also read: PM Modi speaks on Manipur issue, says centre and state working together to restore peace She said that Sengol was ignored for decades by opposition parties and now PM Modi has restored it to its rightful place in Lok Sabha. "When PM Modi restored it (Sengol) to its rightful place in Lok Sabha, that became an issue, that is an insult of the Tamils. The Sengol was ignored for decades. The Sengol was lost in history and kept in some museum," she said. "The Kashi Tamil Sangamam showed how Tamil Nadu and Kashi have very deep connections. The first time you heard Tamil being quoted in the United Nations. In 'Mann ki Baat', PM has used Tamil so many times," she added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Jayalalithaa's saree was pulled in assembly,' recalls Nirmala Sitharaman, hits back at DMK on women's safety

The political conundrum in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu reached a new tipping point on Thursday. Governor RN Ravi first sacked the arrested minister V Senthil Balaji from the council of ministers, before pressing pause on the decision, a few hours later.

The political conundrum in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu reached a new tipping point on Thursday. Governor RN Ravi first sacked the arrested minister V Senthil Balaji from the council of ministers, before pressing pause on the decision, a few hours later. On Thursday evening, a press release from the Governor's House stated that Balaji had been removed from his position as his presence could interfere with the ongoing investigation against him. “There are reasonable apprehensions that continuation of Thiru V. Senthilbalaji in the Council of Ministers will adversely impact the due process of law including fair investigation that may eventually lead to breakdown of the Constitutional machinery in the State. Under these circumstances, Honourable Governor has dismissed Thiru V. Senthilbalaji from the Council of Ministers with immediate effect," read the release. However, five hours later, Governor Ravi backtracked on the decision saying Senthil's sacking was being put on hold with immediate effect. The back-and-forth by the governor provided the required ammo to the state government led by Chief Minister MK Stalin to launch an attack on him. Stalin said the governor had no right to sack a minister and that his DMK-Congress government will take up the matter to the legal corridors. Meanwhile, senior Congress leader Manish Tewari said the president should sack the Tamil Nadu governor for no lawyer could have provided him with such an idea. "No sane bureaucrat much less a sane lawyer could have advised Mr Ravi that Constitutional scheme allows him to dismiss a Minister. Criminal jurisprudence holds you are innocent until proven guilty," said Tewari. Citing Article 164 of the constitution, Tewari added that a minister can only be removed on the advice of the chief minister. Prime accused in corruption case V Senthil Balaji, the state electricity and excise minister, was arrested by Enforcement Directorate (ED), earlier this month, in connection with an alleged money laundering case related to a job racket. Balaji has been named as an accused in the corruption case related to a job scam that took place during his tenure as transport minister from 2011-2015 in the Jayalalithaa-led AIADMK government. He joined the rival DMK in 2018. VIDEO | Indian minister arrested on money laundering charges reportedly needs urgent bypass surgery The arrest followed an extensive 18-hour interrogation by the ED and raids at a dozen places in Chennai and Karur, including Balaji's official residence in Chennai. The Supreme Court had previously given its nod to the ED to continue its investigation into the corruption allegations against Balaji. Notably, shortly after the arrest, Senthil had to be admitted to a hospital, where he had to undergo a coronary angiogram and was advised bypass surgery at the earliest. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Tamil Nadu governor sacks arrested minister, backtracks on decision hours later

Nearly 40 days after taking oath as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at the latter’s official residence in New Delhi.

Following the meeting, Stalin said that the Prime Minister congratulated him on his election win and assured full cooperation for the development of Tamil Nadu. Stalin also said that he handed over a memorandum to the Prime Minister enlisting the demands of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-in-major-tamil-nadu-govt-hospitals-is-137-times-the-reported-figure-claims-report-by-ngo-391609" hreflang="en">Death toll in major Tamil Nadu Govt hospitals is 13.7 times the reported figure claims report by NGO</a>

Some of the major demands featured in the list include the repeal of the Three Farm laws, revoking the National Education Policy, repealing of the Citizenship Amendment Act, and Draft EIA Notification, besides the implementation of the SethuSamuthram Ship canal project among others.&nbsp;

Stalin said that he had wanted to meet the Prime Minister right after having taken over as Chief Minister, but couldn’t do so owing to the pandemic. The DMK President quoted the Prime Minister as having said that he could get in contact directly with him for any requirements.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/not-one-inch-of-forest-should-be-encroached-upon-says-madras-high-court-390387" hreflang="en">Not one inch of forest should be encroached upon, says Madras High Court</a>

Pertaining to COVID-19, Stalin had requested that more vaccine doses should be allocated to Tamil Nadu, in addition to starting vaccine production at the facilities in Chengalpattu and Coonoor.&nbsp;

Some of the other significant demands featured on the list were the expedited construction of AIIMS in Madurai, the establishment of a new AIIMS at Coimbatore, equal civil and political rights for Eelam Tamils, declaring Tamil as an official language of India and the use of Tamil language in High Court, declaring Thirukkural as the National Literature, establishing a regional branch of Supreme Court in Chennai and more.&nbsp;

The list of demands covered various subjects such as water resources issues, fisheries, power, finance, health, agriculture, industries, infrastructure projects among others. Stalin said that many of these issues could be solved by the central government alone, some could be done by the State Government (with permission from central government) and that the rest could be solved via efforts from both sides. He added that the governments should work towards fulfilling these demands and assured that his government would continue to emphasise the same.

Nearly 40 days after taking oath as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at the latter’s official residence in New Delhi. Following the meeting, Stalin said that the Prime Minister congratulated him on his election win and assured full cooperation for the development of Tamil Nadu.

Nearly 40 days after taking oath as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at the latter’s official residence in New Delhi. Following the meeting, Stalin said that the Prime Minister congratulated him on his election win and assured full cooperation for the development of Tamil Nadu. Stalin also said that he handed over a memorandum to the Prime Minister enlisting the demands of Tamil Nadu. Also read | Death toll in major Tamil Nadu Govt hospitals is 13.7 times the reported figure claims report by NGO Some of the major demands featured in the list include the repeal of the Three Farm laws, revoking the National Education Policy, repealing of the Citizenship Amendment Act, and Draft EIA Notification, besides the implementation of the SethuSamuthram Ship canal project among others. Stalin said that he had wanted to meet the Prime Minister right after having taken over as Chief Minister, but couldn’t do so owing to the pandemic. The DMK President quoted the Prime Minister as having said that he could get in contact directly with him for any requirements. Also read | Not one inch of forest should be encroached upon, says Madras High Court Pertaining to COVID-19, Stalin had requested that more vaccine doses should be allocated to Tamil Nadu, in addition to starting vaccine production at the facilities in Chengalpattu and Coonoor. Some of the other significant demands featured on the list were the expedited construction of AIIMS in Madurai, the establishment of a new AIIMS at Coimbatore, equal civil and political rights for Eelam Tamils, declaring Tamil as an official language of India and the use of Tamil language in High Court, declaring Thirukkural as the National Literature, establishing a regional branch of Supreme Court in Chennai and more. The list of demands covered various subjects such as water resources issues, fisheries, power, finance, health, agriculture, industries, infrastructure projects among others. Stalin said that many of these issues could be solved by the central government alone, some could be done by the State Government (with permission from central government) and that the rest could be solved via efforts from both sides. He added that the governments should work towards fulfilling these demands and assured that his government would continue to emphasise the same.

Had a fulfilling maiden meeting with PM Modi, says Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin

The comments made by Tamil Nadu’s Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Board Minister, PK Sekar Babu have sparked controversy.

At the inauguration event of the Mahavir International Chennai Metro Foodbank, the minister made a political speech that the DMK would work for the Hindi-speakers (North Indians), despite them having voted for the BJP in large numbers.

The remark comes after Sekar Babu had won against BJP Youth Wing State president Vinoj P Selvam in North Chennai’s Harbour Constituency, which has a large share of communities from Gujarat, Rajasthan, who have resided in the area for many generations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadus-ongoing-lockdown-extended-until-may-31-new-guidelines-inside-386726" hreflang="en">Tamil Nadu’s ongoing lockdown extended until May 31. New guidelines inside</a>

Starting off his speech by lauding the food donation as the highest form of charity, the minister assured that DMK&nbsp;would take part in the charitable events of the community and support them, despite them not having voted for the 'Dravidian party'.&nbsp;

"I have been living in this region for almost 40 years. Today, the situation has changed a lot and many North Indian friends have seen economic progress, and this is because of Dravidian parties in Tamil Nadu. The BJP is not the cause for your well-being, increased standard of living or economic development, it is the Dravidian parties," Babu said, adding that, despite all this, the North Indian Community has always been voting for the BJP out of some fascination.&nbsp;

Interestingly,&nbsp;DMK and AIADMK have been in power in Tamil Nadu since 1967, following the defeat of the then Congress government.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-liquid-oxygen-to-o2-concentrators-heres-how-isro-is-aiding-indias-covid-19-battle-384558" hreflang="en">From liquid oxygen to O2 concentrators, here’s how ISRO is aiding India’s COVID-19 battle</a>

"Our DMK Member of Parliament Dayanidhi Maran asks why do we have to work for them (North Indians) when they don’t vote for us, to which I say, even they belong to this land. The MLAs and Chief Minister are common representatives, irrespective of whether some people voted for them or not. It is in that spirit that we are working for you," he added.&nbsp;

He further goes on to say that the North Indian Community vote bank did not cast their votes for DMK in Assembly and Parliamentary polls that took place in years 2014, 2016, 2019 and 2021. He claims that the DMK hardly got any votes in the region where North Indians lived in large numbers, despite the party having worked for the community.&nbsp;

In the 2021 Assembly polls, he said that in the areas where North Indians lived, DMK secured only 50 votes, whereas the BJP secured 300-350 votes. "Whenever we meet you, you say that you voted for us. But these are not ballot paper times, EVM data clearly points out which area voted for whom. You did not vote for the MLA and MP who worked for you, but how much ever you reject us, we won’t reject you. DMK is there to work for you," Babu boasted.&nbsp;

Reacting to the DMK Minister’s comments, the BJP has said that such comments are blatant threats against BJP voters. The statement also condemned the manner in which DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran raised questions (as quoted by Sekar Babu) about serving people who didn’t vote for the DMK.

"Dayanidhi Maran must clarify whether he had spoken that way, it is the height of atrocity that a Member of Parliament has said something so narrow-minded and divisive," read the statement from BJP Spokesperson Narayanan Thirupathy.&nbsp;"It is highly condemnable that Ministers who take an oath by the Constitution and represent all the people chose to refer to a section of their constituency as North Indians. By pointing out the voters choice of preferring the BJP, is like questioning the voters’ democratic right and a blatant threat from those in power."

The BJP also demanded an apology from Minister Sekar Babu and requested Chief Minister MK Stalin to condemn the minister’s remarks.&nbsp;

The comments made by Tamil Nadu’s Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Board Minister, PK Sekar Babu have sparked controversy. At the inauguration event of the Mahavir International Chennai Metro Foodbank, the minister made a political speech that the DMK would work for the Hindi-speakers (North Indians), despite them having voted for the BJP in large numbers.

The comments made by Tamil Nadu’s Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Board Minister, PK Sekar Babu have sparked controversy. At the inauguration event of the Mahavir International Chennai Metro Foodbank, the minister made a political speech that the DMK would work for the Hindi-speakers (North Indians), despite them having voted for the BJP in large numbers. The remark comes after Sekar Babu had won against BJP Youth Wing State president Vinoj P Selvam in North Chennai’s Harbour Constituency, which has a large share of communities from Gujarat, Rajasthan, who have resided in the area for many generations. Also read | Tamil Nadu’s ongoing lockdown extended until May 31. New guidelines inside Starting off his speech by lauding the food donation as the highest form of charity, the minister assured that DMK would take part in the charitable events of the community and support them, despite them not having voted for the 'Dravidian party'. "I have been living in this region for almost 40 years. Today, the situation has changed a lot and many North Indian friends have seen economic progress, and this is because of Dravidian parties in Tamil Nadu. The BJP is not the cause for your well-being, increased standard of living or economic development, it is the Dravidian parties," Babu said, adding that, despite all this, the North Indian Community has always been voting for the BJP out of some fascination. Interestingly, DMK and AIADMK have been in power in Tamil Nadu since 1967, following the defeat of the then Congress government. Also read | From liquid oxygen to O2 concentrators, here’s how ISRO is aiding India’s COVID-19 battle "Our DMK Member of Parliament Dayanidhi Maran asks why do we have to work for them (North Indians) when they don’t vote for us, to which I say, even they belong to this land. The MLAs and Chief Minister are common representatives, irrespective of whether some people voted for them or not. It is in that spirit that we are working for you," he added. He further goes on to say that the North Indian Community vote bank did not cast their votes for DMK in Assembly and Parliamentary polls that took place in years 2014, 2016, 2019 and 2021. He claims that the DMK hardly got any votes in the region where North Indians lived in large numbers, despite the party having worked for the community. In the 2021 Assembly polls, he said that in the areas where North Indians lived, DMK secured only 50 votes, whereas the BJP secured 300-350 votes. "Whenever we meet you, you say that you voted for us. But these are not ballot paper times, EVM data clearly points out which area voted for whom. You did not vote for the MLA and MP who worked for you, but how much ever you reject us, we won’t reject you. DMK is there to work for you," Babu boasted. Reacting to the DMK Minister’s comments, the BJP has said that such comments are blatant threats against BJP voters. The statement also condemned the manner in which DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran raised questions (as quoted by Sekar Babu) about serving people who didn’t vote for the DMK. "Dayanidhi Maran must clarify whether he had spoken that way, it is the height of atrocity that a Member of Parliament has said something so narrow-minded and divisive," read the statement from BJP Spokesperson Narayanan Thirupathy. "It is highly condemnable that Ministers who take an oath by the Constitution and represent all the people chose to refer to a section of their constituency as North Indians. By pointing out the voters choice of preferring the BJP, is like questioning the voters’ democratic right and a blatant threat from those in power." The BJP also demanded an apology from Minister Sekar Babu and requested Chief Minister MK Stalin to condemn the minister’s remarks.

DMK minister’s comments on not getting Hindi-speakers’ votes courts trouble; BJP objects

In his first move as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin has signed five orders that are aimed at fulfilling some of his poll promises and COVID-19 relief measures.&nbsp;

As per the government, at the cost of INR 4153.39 cr to the state exchequer, INR 2,000 would be provided in the month of May as COVID-19&nbsp;relief for rice-card holders, which covers about 2.07cr families. This is the first installment of the COVID-19&nbsp;aid that was announced as a poll promise.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kamal-haasans-political-party-makkal-needhi-maiam-crumbles-sees-multiple-resignations-383333" hreflang="en">Kamal Haasan’s political party Makkal Needhi Maiam crumbles, sees multiple resignations</a>

In another measure announced to fulfill a poll promise, Aavin, the state-run milk producers union, has been asked to slash prices of milk by 3 rupees per litre in their retail outlets. This will be effective from May 16.&nbsp;

Stalin has also implemented free travel (without tickets) for all women including those pursuing higher education, working in government institutions and also in&nbsp;ordinary buses. The government would pay INR 1,200cr to the State Transport Corporation as a subsidy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mk-stalins-cabinet-to-have-33-ministers-his-son-not-included-only-2-women-383254" hreflang="en">MK Stalin’s cabinet to have 33 ministers; his son not included, only 2 women</a>

The state government would bear the costs of treatment for COVID-19&nbsp;patients incurred in private hospitals under the Chief Minster’s Healthcare scheme.

He has also signalled the formation of a new department headed by an IAS officer to solve the issues faced by the people. Stalin had collected grievances from people across the state during his tours and assured people of resolving them within 100 days of coming to power. This initiative would be called “Chief Minister in your Constituency”.&nbsp;

COVID-19 is expected to be the major challenge for the new administration, as experts predict that handling the situation over the next two months would be crucial for Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

After being sworn in at the Raj Bhavan by Governor Banwarilal Purohit, Stalin headed for his late father and former Chief Minister M.Karunanidhi’s residence in Gopalapuram to pay his respects.

He turned emotional and was consoled by his sister Selvi.

At Raj Bhavan during the oath-taking, Stalin’s wife Durga too turned emotional on hearing her husband saying "I Muthuvel Karunanidhi…."&nbsp;while being administered the oath.

&nbsp;

In his first move as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin has signed five orders that are aimed at fulfilling some of his poll promises and COVID-19 relief measures.

In his first move as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin has signed five orders that are aimed at fulfilling some of his poll promises and COVID-19 relief measures. As per the government, at the cost of INR 4153.39 cr to the state exchequer, INR 2,000 would be provided in the month of May as COVID-19 relief for rice-card holders, which covers about 2.07cr families. This is the first installment of the COVID-19 aid that was announced as a poll promise. Also read | Kamal Haasan’s political party Makkal Needhi Maiam crumbles, sees multiple resignations In another measure announced to fulfill a poll promise, Aavin, the state-run milk producers union, has been asked to slash prices of milk by 3 rupees per litre in their retail outlets. This will be effective from May 16. Stalin has also implemented free travel (without tickets) for all women including those pursuing higher education, working in government institutions and also in ordinary buses. The government would pay INR 1,200cr to the State Transport Corporation as a subsidy. Also read | MK Stalin’s cabinet to have 33 ministers; his son not included, only 2 women The state government would bear the costs of treatment for COVID-19 patients incurred in private hospitals under the Chief Minster’s Healthcare scheme. He has also signalled the formation of a new department headed by an IAS officer to solve the issues faced by the people. Stalin had collected grievances from people across the state during his tours and assured people of resolving them within 100 days of coming to power. This initiative would be called “Chief Minister in your Constituency”. COVID-19 is expected to be the major challenge for the new administration, as experts predict that handling the situation over the next two months would be crucial for Tamil Nadu. After being sworn in at the Raj Bhavan by Governor Banwarilal Purohit, Stalin headed for his late father and former Chief Minister M.Karunanidhi’s residence in Gopalapuram to pay his respects. He turned emotional and was consoled by his sister Selvi. At Raj Bhavan during the oath-taking, Stalin’s wife Durga too turned emotional on hearing her husband saying "I Muthuvel Karunanidhi…." while being administered the oath.

Tamil Nadu: MK Stalin signs five orders on poll promises, COVID-19 relief on day 1

VK Sasikala’s sudden announcement to stay away from politics, barely a month after reaching Chennai amid a grand welcome has led to an unexpected twist in Tamil Nadu politics, as this comes in the run-up to the crucial Assembly poll on April 6. On the one hand, while her nephew and AMMK General Secretary TTV Dinakaran has expressed shock and said it would be a setback, the BJP has welcomed the move, via a statement issued by State President Dr. L. Murugan.&nbsp;

The return of the ousted AIADMK General Secretary and late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa’s aide to Chennai on February 8th, following her incarceration, was keenly watched, owing to the impact it would have on the AIADMK and its allies.

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Aside from the clout she once enjoyed within the party, she also hails from an influential community, which has its strongholds in Southern Tamil Nadu. Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam also belongs to the same community.&nbsp;

The nearly 24-hour drive from Bengaluru to Chennai (which usually takes no longer than 6 hours) and the welcome accorded to her along multiple stops on the way, had created the impression of her impending re-entry into the political arena.&nbsp;

Voices from the opposition DMK’s first family were also among those who predicted trouble for the AIADMK, after Sasikala’s release from the Parappana Agrahara prison. While DMK President MK Stalin had hinted about the things falling into place after someone from Bengaluru arrives, his son Udhayanidhi blatantly said that Sasikala would create trouble for the ruling duo EPS and OPS.&nbsp;

Though AIADMK leaders were initially hesitant to comment on Sasikala’s arrival and the scenario that would follow, later Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami made it clear that there was absolutely no possibility of her re-induction into the party or a possibility of an alliance. The cadre who put up posters hailing Sasikala and welcoming her were also instantly booted out from the party, in a stern message.&nbsp;

In the first week of February, on her way to Chennai, Sasikala had announced to her supporters, about the willingness to re-unite with the AIADMK and defeat the party’s common enemy. She added that she would dedicate the rest of her life to the AIADMK’s progress. In the same vein, she added a veiled threat which said, while she was a slave before the party’s ideology, people’s love and cadres’ affection, she would not fear oppression.&nbsp;

Since reaching her residence in Chennai, there were no major announcements or public appearances by Sasikala, until February 24th when she garlanded late J Jayalalithaa’s photo at her residence, on the occasion of the four-time chief minister’s birth anniversary. Speaking at that event, she told supporters of her plan to meet the public and her followers in due course.&nbsp;

Over the last few days, amid speculation of the BJP making attempts to get AMMK to join hands with the AIADMK, TTV Dinakaran said that they were open to leading an alliance of like-minded parties. It was on the same evening that Sasikala made this surprise announcement to stay away from politics, despite Dinakaran having requested against it.&nbsp;

“Amma's (Jayalalithaa's) loyalists must ensure that evil force DMK doesn't come to power. MGR-Jayalalithaa’s golden rule must continue in Tamil Nadu, cadre should work together as children of the same mother. I've never aspired for power, post or authority. Staying away from politics, I'll always pray to the almighty and Amma for my sister Amma's golden rule to continue” read her statement.&nbsp;

However, Dinakaran has said that he would speak to party functionaries to take stock of the situation and contest the polls. “Her opinion is her’s, I won’t influence. She only wanted Amma’s children to be together, I tried to convince her for 30 mins… but she didn't agree” he told media. Adding that, the AMMK had received over 1300 nominations from prospective candidates and that the candidates list would be announced on March 10th, followed by the alliance announcement.&nbsp;

BJP’s State President Dr. L. Murugan issued a statement welcoming Sasikala’s decision. Hinting at the DMK he said, “this is a big setback to those who wanted to foment trouble and capture power in Tamil Nadu by any means”.&nbsp;

VK Sasikala’s sudden announcement to stay away from politics, barely a month after reaching Chennai amid a grand welcome has led to an unexpected twist in Tamil Nadu politics, as this comes in the run-up to the crucial Assembly poll on April 6.

VK Sasikala’s sudden announcement to stay away from politics, barely a month after reaching Chennai amid a grand welcome has led to an unexpected twist in Tamil Nadu politics, as this comes in the run-up to the crucial Assembly poll on April 6. On the one hand, while her nephew and AMMK General Secretary TTV Dinakaran has expressed shock and said it would be a setback, the BJP has welcomed the move, via a statement issued by State President Dr. L. Murugan. The return of the ousted AIADMK General Secretary and late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa’s aide to Chennai on February 8th, following her incarceration, was keenly watched, owing to the impact it would have on the AIADMK and its allies. Also read | Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan gets first dose of Covid vaccine Aside from the clout she once enjoyed within the party, she also hails from an influential community, which has its strongholds in Southern Tamil Nadu. Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam also belongs to the same community. The nearly 24-hour drive from Bengaluru to Chennai (which usually takes no longer than 6 hours) and the welcome accorded to her along multiple stops on the way, had created the impression of her impending re-entry into the political arena. Voices from the opposition DMK’s first family were also among those who predicted trouble for the AIADMK, after Sasikala’s release from the Parappana Agrahara prison. While DMK President MK Stalin had hinted about the things falling into place after someone from Bengaluru arrives, his son Udhayanidhi blatantly said that Sasikala would create trouble for the ruling duo EPS and OPS. Though AIADMK leaders were initially hesitant to comment on Sasikala’s arrival and the scenario that would follow, later Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami made it clear that there was absolutely no possibility of her re-induction into the party or a possibility of an alliance. The cadre who put up posters hailing Sasikala and welcoming her were also instantly booted out from the party, in a stern message. In the first week of February, on her way to Chennai, Sasikala had announced to her supporters, about the willingness to re-unite with the AIADMK and defeat the party’s common enemy. She added that she would dedicate the rest of her life to the AIADMK’s progress. In the same vein, she added a veiled threat which said, while she was a slave before the party’s ideology, people’s love and cadres’ affection, she would not fear oppression. Since reaching her residence in Chennai, there were no major announcements or public appearances by Sasikala, until February 24th when she garlanded late J Jayalalithaa’s photo at her residence, on the occasion of the four-time chief minister’s birth anniversary. Speaking at that event, she told supporters of her plan to meet the public and her followers in due course. Over the last few days, amid speculation of the BJP making attempts to get AMMK to join hands with the AIADMK, TTV Dinakaran said that they were open to leading an alliance of like-minded parties. It was on the same evening that Sasikala made this surprise announcement to stay away from politics, despite Dinakaran having requested against it. “Amma's (Jayalalithaa's) loyalists must ensure that evil force DMK doesn't come to power. MGR-Jayalalithaa’s golden rule must continue in Tamil Nadu, cadre should work together as children of the same mother. I've never aspired for power, post or authority. Staying away from politics, I'll always pray to the almighty and Amma for my sister Amma's golden rule to continue” read her statement. However, Dinakaran has said that he would speak to party functionaries to take stock of the situation and contest the polls. “Her opinion is her’s, I won’t influence. She only wanted Amma’s children to be together, I tried to convince her for 30 mins… but she didn't agree” he told media. Adding that, the AMMK had received over 1300 nominations from prospective candidates and that the candidates list would be announced on March 10th, followed by the alliance announcement. BJP’s State President Dr. L. Murugan issued a statement welcoming Sasikala’s decision. Hinting at the DMK he said, “this is a big setback to those who wanted to foment trouble and capture power in Tamil Nadu by any means”.

Sasikala quits politics; nephew TTV expresses shock, BJP welcomes move

The Directorate of Enforcement(ED) has seized properties worth over $12 million&nbsp;belonging to DMK Lok Sabha MP Jagathrakshakan and his family members. S.Jagathrakshakan is the incumbent Member of Parliament representing the Arakkonam constituency of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

The agency has seized immovable properties such as agricultural lands, plots, houses and also balances in bank accounts and shares amounting to over $12 million&nbsp;crore.&nbsp;

Investigation in this case was taken up by ED following information that the MP had acquired foreign security by violating the provisions of FEMA. In a statement, the agency has said that, in June 2017, the MP and his son Sundeep Anand had subscribed to 70,00,000 shares &amp; 20,00,000 shares respectively (valued at Singapore $ 1/- per share) of M/s. Silver Park International Pte. Ltd., Singapore, without obtaining the approval of Reserve Bank of India.

According to the agency, these shares acquired in an unauthorized manner were transferred by S. Jagathrakshakan to his family members in violation of Section 4 of FEMA read with Regulation 3 of the Foreign Exchange Management (Transfer or Issue of Foreign Security) Regulations, 2004.

As per the provisions of section 37A of FEMA, if foreign exchange, foreign security or immovable property, situated outside India, is suspected to have been held in contravention of section 4 of FEMA, the ED is empowered to seize its value equivalent, situated within India, of such foreign exchange, foreign security or immovable property.

In line with this, immovable properties such as agricultural lands, plots, houses etc in Tamil Nadu and movable properties in the form of balances in bank accounts &amp; shares totalling over&nbsp;$12 million&nbsp;held by S. Jagathrakshakan and his family members are seized by the Directorate under the provisions of Section 37A of FEMA.

Further investigation in the case is in progress.

The Directorate of Enforcement(ED) has seized properties worth over $12 million belonging to DMK Lok Sabha MP Jagathrakshakan and his family members. S.Jagathrakshakan is the incumbent Member of Parliament representing the Arakkonam constituency of Tamil Nadu.

The Directorate of Enforcement(ED) has seized properties worth over $12 million belonging to DMK Lok Sabha MP Jagathrakshakan and his family members. S.Jagathrakshakan is the incumbent Member of Parliament representing the Arakkonam constituency of Tamil Nadu. The agency has seized immovable properties such as agricultural lands, plots, houses and also balances in bank accounts and shares amounting to over $12 million crore. Investigation in this case was taken up by ED following information that the MP had acquired foreign security by violating the provisions of FEMA. In a statement, the agency has said that, in June 2017, the MP and his son Sundeep Anand had subscribed to 70,00,000 shares & 20,00,000 shares respectively (valued at Singapore $ 1/- per share) of M/s. Silver Park International Pte. Ltd., Singapore, without obtaining the approval of Reserve Bank of India. According to the agency, these shares acquired in an unauthorized manner were transferred by S. Jagathrakshakan to his family members in violation of Section 4 of FEMA read with Regulation 3 of the Foreign Exchange Management (Transfer or Issue of Foreign Security) Regulations, 2004. As per the provisions of section 37A of FEMA, if foreign exchange, foreign security or immovable property, situated outside India, is suspected to have been held in contravention of section 4 of FEMA, the ED is empowered to seize its value equivalent, situated within India, of such foreign exchange, foreign security or immovable property. In line with this, immovable properties such as agricultural lands, plots, houses etc in Tamil Nadu and movable properties in the form of balances in bank accounts & shares totalling over $12 million held by S. Jagathrakshakan and his family members are seized by the Directorate under the provisions of Section 37A of FEMA. Further investigation in the case is in progress.

ED attaches DMK MP Jagathrakshakan, family’s properties worth $12 million

Selvam, a sitting DMK MLA from the prestigious Thousand Lights constituency in Chennai met BJP leaders in Delhi, on a day when even the BJP Tamil Nadu unit said that he would be joining the party. However, after meeting BJP leaders in Delhi, he told reporters that he was not joining the BJP and had met them only to make certain demands related to his constituency. “I visited Railways Minister Piyush Goyal to request him to install two lifts at the Nungambakkam station in my constituency and also asked BJP President JP Nadda to develop temple town Rameswaram on par with Ayodhya,” he said.&nbsp;

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The MLA also demanded that his party leader MK Stalin hold internal party elections and snap ties with the Congress and the Gandhi family. His other demand was about wanting MK Stalin to condemn Karuppar Koottam, a Youtube channel that had made a derogatory video related to a holy hymn on Lord Muruga. On being asked about reaching Delhi and meeting BJP leaders without informing the party high command, he asserted his readiness to face disciplinary action from the party.&nbsp;

Clear links of his possible shift to the BJP, coming just ahead of an election year, isn’t good news for Tamil Nadu’s opposition party DMK, which has been out of power for two terms. While it is common for leaders to jump ship and join other Dravidian parties, it comes as a surprise that the DMK leader has chosen to join the BJP, which has an insignificant political representation in the Tamil Nadu, where the Dravidian majors have ruled for over five decades.&nbsp;

Selvam is the second leader from the DMK to join the BJP in recent times, the first being VP Duraiswamy. In both cases, it appears that the leaders have chosen to switch over given how they were sidelined and not offered desires posts. In the case of Duraiswamy, it is said that not being given a Rajya Sabha seat was what led to his exit. Similarly, Selvam too is said to have been eyeing a district secretary post, which eventually he ended up not getting.&nbsp;

Persons close to the DMK claim that this is not going to affect the party’s prospects in the coming polls.&nbsp;Especially as the leaders who have left are disgruntled leaders and not big names. In the case of Selvam, the excuse is that he wasn’t a DMK man in the strict sense, as he had been in the AIADMK earlier. &nbsp;

However, there is also the widespread talk of old-timers being unhappy about newbies and those close to DMK President MK Stalin’s son being given plum party posts, despite their inexperience. Recently there have been various reports of DMK youth wing leader and MK Stalin’s son Udhayanidhi wielding influence in appointing those in his close circle for plum posts. This is said to have caused heartburn among a few old-timers.&nbsp;

“Basically the BJP is on a campaign to woo leaders from the DMK and they are also in talks with two-three others, including a former Minister. While Udhayanidhi and his actions cannot be seen as a sole influence for the exits, it is one among the reasons. Unlike the 2019 Lok Sabha polls(which DMK and allies swept), next year’s assembly polls won’t be a one horse race for the DMK. There is uncertainty” Senior Journalist and Political analyst Dr Sumanth C Raman told WION.&nbsp;

A thousand Lights as a constituency also holds significance as it is bang in the heart of Chennai city and was a constituency that MK Stalin had also fought elections from.&nbsp;

When asked about the possibility of more leaders from DMK joining the DMK, BJP Spokesperson Narayanan Thirupathy said that the BJP welcomes anybody who accepts their ideology. “In this case, Selvam wanted to come on-board and has joined, but we welcome anyone who wants to join by accepting the policies of the party and the work we are doing for the country,” he told WION.&nbsp;

“The MLA did not speak anything against his party and he has also said he’s not joining the BJP. So he cannot be disqualified on grounds of defecting and lose his MLA post. But if the DMK chooses to expel him, he will remain an MLA and can switch parties” Dr Sumanth added.&nbsp;

Selvam, a sitting DMK MLA from the prestigious Thousand Lights constituency in Chennai met BJP leaders in Delhi, on a day when even the BJP Tamil Nadu unit said that he would be joining the party.

Selvam, a sitting DMK MLA from the prestigious Thousand Lights constituency in Chennai met BJP leaders in Delhi, on a day when even the BJP Tamil Nadu unit said that he would be joining the party. However, after meeting BJP leaders in Delhi, he told reporters that he was not joining the BJP and had met them only to make certain demands related to his constituency. “I visited Railways Minister Piyush Goyal to request him to install two lifts at the Nungambakkam station in my constituency and also asked BJP President JP Nadda to develop temple town Rameswaram on par with Ayodhya,” he said. Also read: India-China standoff: How India is giving China a taste of its own medicine The MLA also demanded that his party leader MK Stalin hold internal party elections and snap ties with the Congress and the Gandhi family. His other demand was about wanting MK Stalin to condemn Karuppar Koottam, a Youtube channel that had made a derogatory video related to a holy hymn on Lord Muruga. On being asked about reaching Delhi and meeting BJP leaders without informing the party high command, he asserted his readiness to face disciplinary action from the party. Clear links of his possible shift to the BJP, coming just ahead of an election year, isn’t good news for Tamil Nadu’s opposition party DMK, which has been out of power for two terms. While it is common for leaders to jump ship and join other Dravidian parties, it comes as a surprise that the DMK leader has chosen to join the BJP, which has an insignificant political representation in the Tamil Nadu, where the Dravidian majors have ruled for over five decades. Selvam is the second leader from the DMK to join the BJP in recent times, the first being VP Duraiswamy. In both cases, it appears that the leaders have chosen to switch over given how they were sidelined and not offered desires posts. In the case of Duraiswamy, it is said that not being given a Rajya Sabha seat was what led to his exit. Similarly, Selvam too is said to have been eyeing a district secretary post, which eventually he ended up not getting. Persons close to the DMK claim that this is not going to affect the party’s prospects in the coming polls. Especially as the leaders who have left are disgruntled leaders and not big names. In the case of Selvam, the excuse is that he wasn’t a DMK man in the strict sense, as he had been in the AIADMK earlier. However, there is also the widespread talk of old-timers being unhappy about newbies and those close to DMK President MK Stalin’s son being given plum party posts, despite their inexperience. Recently there have been various reports of DMK youth wing leader and MK Stalin’s son Udhayanidhi wielding influence in appointing those in his close circle for plum posts. This is said to have caused heartburn among a few old-timers. “Basically the BJP is on a campaign to woo leaders from the DMK and they are also in talks with two-three others, including a former Minister. While Udhayanidhi and his actions cannot be seen as a sole influence for the exits, it is one among the reasons. Unlike the 2019 Lok Sabha polls(which DMK and allies swept), next year’s assembly polls won’t be a one horse race for the DMK. There is uncertainty” Senior Journalist and Political analyst Dr Sumanth C Raman told WION. A thousand Lights as a constituency also holds significance as it is bang in the heart of Chennai city and was a constituency that MK Stalin had also fought elections from. When asked about the possibility of more leaders from DMK joining the DMK, BJP Spokesperson Narayanan Thirupathy said that the BJP welcomes anybody who accepts their ideology. “In this case, Selvam wanted to come on-board and has joined, but we welcome anyone who wants to join by accepting the policies of the party and the work we are doing for the country,” he told WION. “The MLA did not speak anything against his party and he has also said he’s not joining the BJP. So he cannot be disqualified on grounds of defecting and lose his MLA post. But if the DMK chooses to expel him, he will remain an MLA and can switch parties” Dr Sumanth added.

Disgruntled with DMK, sitting MLA meets BJP leaders in Delhi; but denies joining party

Amid the ongoing standoff with China, senior DMK leader, MP TR Baalu has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to re-start the Sethu Samudram Project and have it completed before January 2024.

In its earlier envisioned form, the project involves dredging and creating a shipping canal in the Palk Strait&nbsp;between India and Sri Lanka. This shipping canal would enable passage of ships from India's west to the east coast and vice-versa, without going around Sri Lanka.

The letter by the senior DMK leader emphasized the importance of the sea lane between Southern Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka, comparing its strategic importance to that of the northern borders of the country.

Citing China's growing proximity with Sri Lanka and their, increasing investments in the island nation, the letter highlighted how it would not be in India’s national interest.

Referring to the immense strategic value of Southern Tamil Nadu Coast, especially the Adam’s Bridge and Sethu Samudram area, the letter called the region "India’s maritime strategic lifeline and the world’s most important global sea lane".

Invoking the projects'&nbsp;closeness to late leaders Anna, Kamaraj, Vajpayee, and Karunanidhi, Baalu appealed to the Prime Minister to "take a statesman's perspective and recommence the project".

He urged PM Modi to ensure project completion by 2024 (the end of Modi’s second tenure) and have the first ship sailing through the channel by the auspicious Tamil festival of Pongal that year.&nbsp;

It is to be noted that the DMK had made a mention of re-starting the Sethu Samudram project in its 2019 Lok Sabha election manifesto. It is hard to miss that this letter to the prime minister also comes at a time when Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu are less than a year away.&nbsp;

The Controversy over Sethu Samudram project&nbsp;

Several objections were raised to this project in the past. The religious and political angle was that Adam's Bridge or Ram Sethu, which is believed to be constructed by Lord Ram, would be destroyed in the process of implementing this project.&nbsp;

Few also opposed the project on the grounds that it would be far too expensive and also cause damage to the environment and also affect the livelihood of fishermen.&nbsp;

“The Sethu Samudram project was said to be commercially unviable as it would only enable the passage of small ships. It was stated that even if dredging was done, there was a possibility of re-accumulation of silt, thus creating the need for regular dredging. When large vessels can't pass that way, how it will bolster security is unclear,"&nbsp;political analyst Sumanth C Raman told WION.

He also added that he didn’t see this project being implemented as long as the NDA remains in power.&nbsp;

Earlier too, there had been conflicting reports about the Ram Setu, which is said to be built by Lord Ram.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Amid the ongoing standoff with China, senior DMK leader, MP TR Baalu has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to re-start the Sethu Samudram Project and have it completed before January 2024.

Amid the ongoing standoff with China, senior DMK leader, MP TR Baalu has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to re-start the Sethu Samudram Project and have it completed before January 2024. In its earlier envisioned form, the project involves dredging and creating a shipping canal in the Palk Strait between India and Sri Lanka. This shipping canal would enable passage of ships from India's west to the east coast and vice-versa, without going around Sri Lanka. The letter by the senior DMK leader emphasized the importance of the sea lane between Southern Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka, comparing its strategic importance to that of the northern borders of the country. Citing China's growing proximity with Sri Lanka and their, increasing investments in the island nation, the letter highlighted how it would not be in India’s national interest. Referring to the immense strategic value of Southern Tamil Nadu Coast, especially the Adam’s Bridge and Sethu Samudram area, the letter called the region "India’s maritime strategic lifeline and the world’s most important global sea lane". Invoking the projects' closeness to late leaders Anna, Kamaraj, Vajpayee, and Karunanidhi, Baalu appealed to the Prime Minister to "take a statesman's perspective and recommence the project". He urged PM Modi to ensure project completion by 2024 (the end of Modi’s second tenure) and have the first ship sailing through the channel by the auspicious Tamil festival of Pongal that year. It is to be noted that the DMK had made a mention of re-starting the Sethu Samudram project in its 2019 Lok Sabha election manifesto. It is hard to miss that this letter to the prime minister also comes at a time when Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu are less than a year away. The Controversy over Sethu Samudram project Several objections were raised to this project in the past. The religious and political angle was that Adam's Bridge or Ram Sethu, which is believed to be constructed by Lord Ram, would be destroyed in the process of implementing this project. Few also opposed the project on the grounds that it would be far too expensive and also cause damage to the environment and also affect the livelihood of fishermen. “The Sethu Samudram project was said to be commercially unviable as it would only enable the passage of small ships. It was stated that even if dredging was done, there was a possibility of re-accumulation of silt, thus creating the need for regular dredging. When large vessels can't pass that way, how it will bolster security is unclear," political analyst Sumanth C Raman told WION. He also added that he didn’t see this project being implemented as long as the NDA remains in power. Earlier too, there had been conflicting reports about the Ram Setu, which is said to be built by Lord Ram.

Citing Chinese threat, DMK urges PM Modi to restart Sethu Samudram project

The Supreme Court on Thursday refused to entertain pleas of various political parties challenging the Centre's decision not to grant 50 per cent reservation to OBCs as per Tamil Nadu law in medical seats surrendered by the state in the All India Quota for under-graduate, post-graduate and dental courses in 2020-21.

A bench comprising Justices L Nageswara Rao, Krishna Murari and S Ravindra Bhat asked lawyers for Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Vaiko, Anbumani Ramadoss, CPM,, Tamil Nadu Congress Committee and CPI to approach the Madras High Court with their pleas.

"You should withdraw this and go to the Madras High Court,"&nbsp;the bench said, adding that the liberty was granted to the political parties to do that.

The political parties have challenged the decision of Centre not granting 50 per cent reservation to OBC's in seats surrendered by Tamil Nadu in the All India Quota for under graduate, post graduate medical and dental courses in current academic session.

DMK, in its plea, had said that it was opposing the denial of implementation of 50 per cent OBC policy of the state, other than in central government institutions.

It said the Medical Council of India (MCI) regulations clearly contemplate adherence to state reservation laws while filling up of the seats.

The party said that the All India Quota seats are contributed by states surrendering seats in the government and private medical and dental colleges as per the MCI regulations.

DMK had sought ad-interim injunction restraining the Respondents from proceeding further with All India Counselling for PG seats pursuant to the NEET-PG 2020 results without following the 50 per cent reservation for OBC quota in Tamil Nadu pending disposal of the plea.

The party also sought direction for calling of the records of the Respondent pertaining to the Result of NEET-PG, 2020 published on May 9, 2020 by the National Board of Examinations relating to the filling up of the All India Quota and quashing of the same

The Petitioner (CPIM) is constrained to approach this court as the Respondents (Centre, MCI and others) herein have grossly failed to provide the statutory reservations for Other Backward Classes (OBC) and Backward Classes (BC) and Most Backward Classes (MBC) and anomaly in granting reservation to SC-STs students in admissions to the under-graduate and Post Graduate medical courses in all medical colleges in Tamil Nadu in the category of state surrendered seats to the All India Quota' in Government and private medical colleges other than the Central Government institutions,? the plea of CPI(M) had said.

Ruling AIADMK had alleged that there was no rational basis for not extending the benefit of 50 per cent reservation for OBCs, as envisaged under the State laws of Tamil Nadu, to the State-captured seats in the All India Quota.

The Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) party said that in all past academic years since the inception of the All India Quota system, OBCs have been grossly under represented in the All-India-Quota seats in undergraduate, diploma, PG diploma and postgraduate medical colleges across the country.

The Supreme Court on Thursday refused to entertain pleas of various political parties challenging the Centre's decision not to grant 50 per cent reservation to OBCs as per Tamil Nadu law in medical seats surrendered by the state in the All India Quota for under-graduate, post-graduate and dental courses in 2020-21.

The Supreme Court on Thursday refused to entertain pleas of various political parties challenging the Centre's decision not to grant 50 per cent reservation to OBCs as per Tamil Nadu law in medical seats surrendered by the state in the All India Quota for under-graduate, post-graduate and dental courses in 2020-21. A bench comprising Justices L Nageswara Rao, Krishna Murari and S Ravindra Bhat asked lawyers for Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Vaiko, Anbumani Ramadoss, CPM,, Tamil Nadu Congress Committee and CPI to approach the Madras High Court with their pleas. "You should withdraw this and go to the Madras High Court," the bench said, adding that the liberty was granted to the political parties to do that. The political parties have challenged the decision of Centre not granting 50 per cent reservation to OBC's in seats surrendered by Tamil Nadu in the All India Quota for under graduate, post graduate medical and dental courses in current academic session. DMK, in its plea, had said that it was opposing the denial of implementation of 50 per cent OBC policy of the state, other than in central government institutions. It said the Medical Council of India (MCI) regulations clearly contemplate adherence to state reservation laws while filling up of the seats. The party said that the All India Quota seats are contributed by states surrendering seats in the government and private medical and dental colleges as per the MCI regulations. DMK had sought ad-interim injunction restraining the Respondents from proceeding further with All India Counselling for PG seats pursuant to the NEET-PG 2020 results without following the 50 per cent reservation for OBC quota in Tamil Nadu pending disposal of the plea. The party also sought direction for calling of the records of the Respondent pertaining to the Result of NEET-PG, 2020 published on May 9, 2020 by the National Board of Examinations relating to the filling up of the All India Quota and quashing of the same The Petitioner (CPIM) is constrained to approach this court as the Respondents (Centre, MCI and others) herein have grossly failed to provide the statutory reservations for Other Backward Classes (OBC) and Backward Classes (BC) and Most Backward Classes (MBC) and anomaly in granting reservation to SC-STs students in admissions to the under-graduate and Post Graduate medical courses in all medical colleges in Tamil Nadu in the category of state surrendered seats to the All India Quota' in Government and private medical colleges other than the Central Government institutions,? the plea of CPI(M) had said. Ruling AIADMK had alleged that there was no rational basis for not extending the benefit of 50 per cent reservation for OBCs, as envisaged under the State laws of Tamil Nadu, to the State-captured seats in the All India Quota. The Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) party said that in all past academic years since the inception of the All India Quota system, OBCs have been grossly under represented in the All-India-Quota seats in undergraduate, diploma, PG diploma and postgraduate medical colleges across the country.

SC refuses to hear pleas to implement OBC quota in Tamil Nadu's share of all India medical seats

In his first scheduled press conference after the one in December 2017, Superstar Rajinikanth clarified that he had never harboured the desire to be the chief minister of Tamil Nadu, but elaborated on his vision of "cleaning up politics"&nbsp;and fostering the next generation of young leaders by charting out a three-point agenda. However, he refused to take any questions and his speech did not reveal any dates and other specifics regarding his party apparatus and his political plunge.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanth-teaches-his-signature-move-to-bear-grylls-in-the-new-promo-of-into-the-wild-285321">Rajinikanth teaches his signature move to Bear Grylls in the new promo of 'Into The Wild'</a>

“Before 2017 December I have never made mention of politics, prior to that I have maintained that only God will decide. In 1996 had I come to politics, I wondered and thought what should I offer to the people and I started following politics.”&nbsp;

Rajini's three-point agenda

1. "Both mainstream parties AIADMK and DMK have booth committees of around 50,000-60,000 party posts. These posts are needed during elections but aren’t required after winning. But after winning the polls and forming the government, the people holding these posts and their family members will take up contracts, tenders and be an impediment to the implementation of welfare schemes. This is bad for governance, the people and the party. We will keep only those that are needed".

2. "In the current legislative assembly, most members are aged above 50 and 60, those below the age of 50 are very few. New and young people don’t come into politics, if they do, it is because of influence. I envision a party where 60-65 per cent of people are aged below 50. Youth with adequate qualification and a decent social standing. The realigning 30-40 per cent would consist of retired judges, IAS, IPS and politicians. This would also include women. I will invite such genuine people who are admired by the masses and invite them to clean up the system."

3. "All across India, when it comes to state parties the party chief and head of government are the same people. If someone questions the leader, they will be shunted out. I propose one leader for the party and another leader for the government. There will be a council of experts who will recommence the necessary actions and decisions, policies and the political leadership and will be held responsible for implementing it - more like the role of a CEO. The party leader should not interfere in the work of the government and won’t disturb them, but will monitor them like an opposition party and replace those in government if they are found to be at fault.

Rajinikanth also said: “I have never even thought of becoming the CM of Tamil Nadu or sitting in the Assembly and speaking. It is not even in my blood. I want a new wave, new power and&nbsp;new blood to go to seize power in the assembly and Rajini will be a bridge for this”.

Rajini also played a clip of his December 2017 speech.&nbsp;

He said that he was very confident of his ideas and that as he started speaking to eminent people it was surprising that they didn’t accept it. "Even when I spoke to our district secretaries and told them that I didn’t want to be chief minister, they didn’t agree to it and asked who will join us? “But I say that we don’t need those who are after power, we need those who would come together for the national good.”

He cited the example of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister CN Annadurai who created so many leaders.

“In Tamil Nadu, there are two established political giants who have money and muscle power and in amid this, it will be difficult for us to make an entry.”

Speaking of the ‘Dravidian giants’- the AIADMK and DMK, Rajini said, that the two big leaders of the state are absent and that people could change the 54-year-old rule and that the public needs to think about it.”

“If I back out they will call me a coward, but on the other side, elections are not ordinary, my cadre and party men would spend money and am I not making them sacrificial lambs? “

Taking the names of great leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Swami Vivekananda, Rajini said that a new movement should rise, using this opportunity.&nbsp;

“We need to tell people, this is not for Rajini, this is for the people of Tamil Nadu. I’m not here to get 15-20 per cent of the votes and this is my only chance. I am 71 years old and by the next polls in 2026, I will be 76. Once the message reaches more people and the common people want a change, let me see that happen and I will come to make my entry.”

This should spread across India. If political change and government change do not happen today, it will never happen, Rajini said.&nbsp;

In his first scheduled press conference after the one in December 2017, Superstar Rajinikanth clarified that he had never harboured the desire to be the chief minister of Tamil Nadu, but elaborated on his vision of "cleaning up politics" and fostering the next generation of young leaders by charting out a three-point agenda.

In his first scheduled press conference after the one in December 2017, Superstar Rajinikanth clarified that he had never harboured the desire to be the chief minister of Tamil Nadu, but elaborated on his vision of "cleaning up politics" and fostering the next generation of young leaders by charting out a three-point agenda. However, he refused to take any questions and his speech did not reveal any dates and other specifics regarding his party apparatus and his political plunge. Also read: Rajinikanth teaches his signature move to Bear Grylls in the new promo of 'Into The Wild' “Before 2017 December I have never made mention of politics, prior to that I have maintained that only God will decide. In 1996 had I come to politics, I wondered and thought what should I offer to the people and I started following politics.” Rajini's three-point agenda 1. "Both mainstream parties AIADMK and DMK have booth committees of around 50,000-60,000 party posts. These posts are needed during elections but aren’t required after winning. But after winning the polls and forming the government, the people holding these posts and their family members will take up contracts, tenders and be an impediment to the implementation of welfare schemes. This is bad for governance, the people and the party. We will keep only those that are needed". 2. "In the current legislative assembly, most members are aged above 50 and 60, those below the age of 50 are very few. New and young people don’t come into politics, if they do, it is because of influence. I envision a party where 60-65 per cent of people are aged below 50. Youth with adequate qualification and a decent social standing. The realigning 30-40 per cent would consist of retired judges, IAS, IPS and politicians. This would also include women. I will invite such genuine people who are admired by the masses and invite them to clean up the system." 3. "All across India, when it comes to state parties the party chief and head of government are the same people. If someone questions the leader, they will be shunted out. I propose one leader for the party and another leader for the government. There will be a council of experts who will recommence the necessary actions and decisions, policies and the political leadership and will be held responsible for implementing it - more like the role of a CEO. The party leader should not interfere in the work of the government and won’t disturb them, but will monitor them like an opposition party and replace those in government if they are found to be at fault. Rajinikanth also said: “I have never even thought of becoming the CM of Tamil Nadu or sitting in the Assembly and speaking. It is not even in my blood. I want a new wave, new power and new blood to go to seize power in the assembly and Rajini will be a bridge for this”. Rajini also played a clip of his December 2017 speech. He said that he was very confident of his ideas and that as he started speaking to eminent people it was surprising that they didn’t accept it. "Even when I spoke to our district secretaries and told them that I didn’t want to be chief minister, they didn’t agree to it and asked who will join us? “But I say that we don’t need those who are after power, we need those who would come together for the national good.” He cited the example of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister CN Annadurai who created so many leaders. “In Tamil Nadu, there are two established political giants who have money and muscle power and in amid this, it will be difficult for us to make an entry.” Speaking of the ‘Dravidian giants’- the AIADMK and DMK, Rajini said, that the two big leaders of the state are absent and that people could change the 54-year-old rule and that the public needs to think about it.” “If I back out they will call me a coward, but on the other side, elections are not ordinary, my cadre and party men would spend money and am I not making them sacrificial lambs? “ Taking the names of great leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Swami Vivekananda, Rajini said that a new movement should rise, using this opportunity. “We need to tell people, this is not for Rajini, this is for the people of Tamil Nadu. I’m not here to get 15-20 per cent of the votes and this is my only chance. I am 71 years old and by the next polls in 2026, I will be 76. Once the message reaches more people and the common people want a change, let me see that happen and I will come to make my entry.” This should spread across India. If political change and government change do not happen today, it will never happen, Rajini said.

Rajinikanth says no desire to become CM, lists three-point agenda

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami’s announcement to categorize eight Cauvery delta districts as a ‘Special Protected Agricultural Zone’ has drawn flak from the principal opposition party DMK.&nbsp;

The move comes to ensure the state’s food security and has been welcomed by leaders from across party lines.&nbsp;

The chief minister’s announcement gains significance as there has been continued opposition to projects like those involving hydrocarbon extraction, including Neduvasal in Pudukottai district. The government had also come under attack from the opposition parties and fringe outfits for allegedly attempting to bring in projects that would cause irreparable damage to the agricultural land.

The chief minister’s announcement was welcomed by their ally PMK’s leader Ramadoss, who welcomed the move and called it a “victory”, as it would prevent the desertification of the Cauvery districts. Tamil Nadu Congress chief KS Alagiri also had expressed that the move would benefit the farmers.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-governor-has-complete-liberty-to-decide-on-rajiv-gandhi-assassination-convicts-mercy-plea-says-government-of-india-279245">TN Guv has complete liberty to decide on Rajiv Gandhi assassination convict’s mercy plea</a>

DMK MLA and principal secretary KN Nehru stated that the announcement regarding the protected agricultural zone was only meant to divert people’s attention from the betrayal of farmers in the delta region.&nbsp;

He issued a statement challenging the chief minister to adopt a resolution in the Assembly, which would ensure that hydrocarbon exploration projects will be prohibited in the delta region, and cancel the exploration projects awarded to the Vedanta group and ONGC.&nbsp;

“The chief minister should also withdraw the letter written by Environment Minister KC Karuppannan, in which he had stated that public hearings and environmental clearances were not necessary for such projects. After that, he can make the announcement designating the delta region as a protected agricultural zone in the Assembly,” the DMK leader said.&nbsp;

The DMK leader’s statement called the Chief Minister’s announcement a ‘farcical drama’, stating that the AIADMK government had approached the Supreme Court against the Madras High Court’s direction on a farm loan waiver.&nbsp;

“If the CM thinks people would forget about the suicide of 13 farmers and the police action against farmers, he is day-dreaming”. The statement also condemned the CM’s statement that it was the erstwhile DMK government that had granted permission for hydrocarbon exploration projects.&nbsp;

During an official function on Sunday at Thalaivasal, in his native district Salem, the Chief Minister assured that the state government would never grant the go-ahead for projects such as hydrocarbon exploration in the delta region.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-minister-clarifies-after-video-of-him-making-tribal-children-remove-his-footwear-goes-viral-279123">Tamil Nadu minister clarifies after video of him making tribal children remove his footwear goes viral</a>

Farmers in the Cauvery delta region have been opposing the proposed hydrocarbon project of the Central government, which was meant to be executed by Vedanta Limited and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) Limited.

In his speech, Palaniswami said that his government was taking the decision to declare the delta region as a protected agricultural zone in recognition of the farmers' concerns and toils. “I may be the chief minister, but I am a farmer too and would never permit any project that would affect farmers livelihood. This decision is to end the hardships faced by farmers”.&nbsp;

He announced that the Cauvery delta regions in Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Pudukottai, Cuddalore, Ariyalur, Karur and 
Trichy districts would be categorized under a 'protected special agriculture zone'. The chief minister also added that the government would enact special legislation after seeking opinions from legal experts.

Palaniswami also accused senior DMK leader TR Baalu, for having been chosen to implement the project in Tamil Nadu in 2010. The DMK government in January 2011 signed an MoU with a private firm to drill borewells and conduct explorations for four years in the region, he stated.

The MoU was signed when DMK president MK Stalin was the deputy chief minister of Tamil Nadu. But now, the DMK was conducting protests in the region and spreading lies among the public, he said. 
&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami’s announcement to categorize eight Cauvery delta districts as a ‘Special Protected Agricultural Zone’ has drawn flak from the principal opposition party DMK.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami’s announcement to categorize eight Cauvery delta districts as a ‘Special Protected Agricultural Zone’ has drawn flak from the principal opposition party DMK. The move comes to ensure the state’s food security and has been welcomed by leaders from across party lines. The chief minister’s announcement gains significance as there has been continued opposition to projects like those involving hydrocarbon extraction, including Neduvasal in Pudukottai district. The government had also come under attack from the opposition parties and fringe outfits for allegedly attempting to bring in projects that would cause irreparable damage to the agricultural land. The chief minister’s announcement was welcomed by their ally PMK’s leader Ramadoss, who welcomed the move and called it a “victory”, as it would prevent the desertification of the Cauvery districts. Tamil Nadu Congress chief KS Alagiri also had expressed that the move would benefit the farmers. Also read: TN Guv has complete liberty to decide on Rajiv Gandhi assassination convict’s mercy plea DMK MLA and principal secretary KN Nehru stated that the announcement regarding the protected agricultural zone was only meant to divert people’s attention from the betrayal of farmers in the delta region. He issued a statement challenging the chief minister to adopt a resolution in the Assembly, which would ensure that hydrocarbon exploration projects will be prohibited in the delta region, and cancel the exploration projects awarded to the Vedanta group and ONGC. “The chief minister should also withdraw the letter written by Environment Minister KC Karuppannan, in which he had stated that public hearings and environmental clearances were not necessary for such projects. After that, he can make the announcement designating the delta region as a protected agricultural zone in the Assembly,” the DMK leader said. The DMK leader’s statement called the Chief Minister’s announcement a ‘farcical drama’, stating that the AIADMK government had approached the Supreme Court against the Madras High Court’s direction on a farm loan waiver. “If the CM thinks people would forget about the suicide of 13 farmers and the police action against farmers, he is day-dreaming”. The statement also condemned the CM’s statement that it was the erstwhile DMK government that had granted permission for hydrocarbon exploration projects. During an official function on Sunday at Thalaivasal, in his native district Salem, the Chief Minister assured that the state government would never grant the go-ahead for projects such as hydrocarbon exploration in the delta region. Also read: Tamil Nadu minister clarifies after video of him making tribal children remove his footwear goes viral Farmers in the Cauvery delta region have been opposing the proposed hydrocarbon project of the Central government, which was meant to be executed by Vedanta Limited and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) Limited. In his speech, Palaniswami said that his government was taking the decision to declare the delta region as a protected agricultural zone in recognition of the farmers' concerns and toils. “I may be the chief minister, but I am a farmer too and would never permit any project that would affect farmers livelihood. This decision is to end the hardships faced by farmers”. He announced that the Cauvery delta regions in Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Pudukottai, Cuddalore, Ariyalur, Karur and Trichy districts would be categorized under a 'protected special agriculture zone'. The chief minister also added that the government would enact special legislation after seeking opinions from legal experts. Palaniswami also accused senior DMK leader TR Baalu, for having been chosen to implement the project in Tamil Nadu in 2010. The DMK government in January 2011 signed an MoU with a private firm to drill borewells and conduct explorations for four years in the region, he stated. The MoU was signed when DMK president MK Stalin was the deputy chief minister of Tamil Nadu. But now, the DMK was conducting protests in the region and spreading lies among the public, he said.

Tamil Nadu: CM Palaniswami declares Cauvery delta 'protected agriculture zone', DMK calls it ‘farcical drama’

The roads in front of DMK leaders homes are now sporting a new look, it has&nbsp;got nothing to do with the year-end, but it is in protest against the contentious CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act).

The homes of late DMK patriarch Karunanidhi, his son MK Stalin (DMK Chief) and his daughter Kanimozhi(Lok Sabha MP) have had Kolams (rangolis) adorning the areas outside their gates. However, the traditional Kolam also had messages of protest against the CAA and NRC- they read “NO CAA - NO NRC.”
<img alt="Rangoli made in protest of CAA" data-caption="Rangoli made in protest of CAA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3c9ac10c-4625-48ac-b2d0-9782fd67f62b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pp5hBRIv.jpg" />
While kolam is a traditional form of drawing done on the front porch of one's home, every morning using rice flour or chalk powder, it had taken on a different dimension, as a symbol of protest on Sunday.&nbsp;

According to activists, 6 women were detained in a community hall on Sunday morning by J5 Shastri Nagar Police for drawing anti-CAA kola’s in the upscale Besant nagar locality. Three advocates who had gone to get the women released were also said to be detained by the police. They were released later in the day.

Police have maintained that the protesters had informed them that they wanted to draw kolams with anti-CAA/NRC messages near the Besant Nagar bus terminus between 7 am&nbsp;and 10 am. But the permission for the same was not granted.

Cases were registered under Sections 143 (punishment for unlawful assembly) and 188 (Disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant) against the group.&nbsp;

Reacting to Sunday’s incident,&nbsp;MK Stalin tweeted, “This is a clear example that the authoritarianism of the AIADMK is increasing day by day.” He added that the detention of the women was in violation of their right to freedom of speech and expression guaranteed under the fundamental rights of the Constitution. He demanded that the case against them be withdrawn.&nbsp;

The DMK has rallied together with the Left outfits and other small parties here in their fight against the CAA and in expressing solidarity with those that have been raising their voices against the contentious bill.

The DMK and the Congress in Tamil Nadu have raised questions over why the CAA ignores the plight of Tamils who are a persecuted minority in Sri Lanka, while it considers minorities from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The DMK had staged a protest in Chennai and nearby districts over two weeks ago and later conducted an anti-CAA rally in Chennai along with their allies and like-minded parties. DMK President Stalin had asserted that their protests would continue until the Central government revoked the CAA.&nbsp;

However, the Central government and Tamil Nadu’s AIADMK government have repeatedly insisted that the CAA does not affect Indian citizens, adding that people must not pay attention to the rumours being spread to foment trouble.&nbsp;

The roads in front of DMK leaders homes are now sporting a new look, it has got nothing to do with the year-end, but it is in protest against the contentious CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act).

The roads in front of DMK leaders homes are now sporting a new look, it has got nothing to do with the year-end, but it is in protest against the contentious CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act). The homes of late DMK patriarch Karunanidhi, his son MK Stalin (DMK Chief) and his daughter Kanimozhi(Lok Sabha MP) have had Kolams (rangolis) adorning the areas outside their gates. However, the traditional Kolam also had messages of protest against the CAA and NRC- they read “NO CAA - NO NRC.” While kolam is a traditional form of drawing done on the front porch of one's home, every morning using rice flour or chalk powder, it had taken on a different dimension, as a symbol of protest on Sunday. According to activists, 6 women were detained in a community hall on Sunday morning by J5 Shastri Nagar Police for drawing anti-CAA kola’s in the upscale Besant nagar locality. Three advocates who had gone to get the women released were also said to be detained by the police. They were released later in the day. Police have maintained that the protesters had informed them that they wanted to draw kolams with anti-CAA/NRC messages near the Besant Nagar bus terminus between 7 am and 10 am. But the permission for the same was not granted. Cases were registered under Sections 143 (punishment for unlawful assembly) and 188 (Disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant) against the group. Reacting to Sunday’s incident, MK Stalin tweeted, “This is a clear example that the authoritarianism of the AIADMK is increasing day by day.” He added that the detention of the women was in violation of their right to freedom of speech and expression guaranteed under the fundamental rights of the Constitution. He demanded that the case against them be withdrawn. The DMK has rallied together with the Left outfits and other small parties here in their fight against the CAA and in expressing solidarity with those that have been raising their voices against the contentious bill. The DMK and the Congress in Tamil Nadu have raised questions over why the CAA ignores the plight of Tamils who are a persecuted minority in Sri Lanka, while it considers minorities from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. The DMK had staged a protest in Chennai and nearby districts over two weeks ago and later conducted an anti-CAA rally in Chennai along with their allies and like-minded parties. DMK President Stalin had asserted that their protests would continue until the Central government revoked the CAA. However, the Central government and Tamil Nadu’s AIADMK government have repeatedly insisted that the CAA does not affect Indian citizens, adding that people must not pay attention to the rumours being spread to foment trouble.

DMK leaders draw Rangolis to protest against Citizenship Amendment Act

DMK President MK Stalin on Monday led the opposition charge from Tamil Nadu against the Citizenship Amendment Act(CAA). Stalin led an anti-CAA rally in Chennai, joined by leaders and cadre of their alliance parties. Stalin was joined by senior DMK functionaries and MDMK Leader Vaiko, Congress Leader P.Chidambaram and leaders of Left parties in the nearly 2km march towards the Rajarathinam Stadium in Chennai’s Egmore.

The top rung leaders held anti-CAA placards, demanding its withdrawal, while the party cadre chanted slogans against the contentious act and waved their respective party flags. Over 5000 Police personnel were deployed in the locality, as the rally was held without the requisite Police permission. The major opposition towards the CAA has been the exclusion of Muslims and particularly in Tamil Nadu the issue of Sri Lanka not being categorized as a neighbouring country, provision of citizenship for Sri Lankan Tami refugees has come to fore.&nbsp;

Late Sunday evening, the Madras High Court had directed that DMK's rally against the Citizenship Amendment Act be captured on video if the party went ahead with it despite Police permission being denied. It gave the interim direction in response to PILs that were filed opposing the rally. This was done after the Tamil Nadu government counsel informed that Police have denied permission, as there was no firm commitment from the organizers on taking responsibility in case of any violence and damage to property.

Right from the time, it was being debated in parliament the DMK and their allies’ parliamentarians had expressed their vehement opposition to the then CAB. After the bill was passed the DMK went on the offensive against the AIADMK government in Tamil Nadu, whose MPs along with those of PMK had voted in favour of the bill in the Rajya Sabha (Upper house of parliament). The AIAMDK and PMK are allies of the BJP and had joined the NDA ahead of the 2019 General Elections.&nbsp;

“The Indian Constitution is secular and the government cannot enact any law that will discriminate against people based on religion. By excluding the Sri Lankan Tamils, the BJP has shown that it is not only against the Muslims but also the Sri Lankan Tamils” Stalin said during an agitation in Kanchipuram district in the previous week.&nbsp;

However, on various occasions, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami had assured the people that the AIADMK would ensure that no harm would occur to the minority communities and how the CAA was not a threat to Indian citizens, irrespective of their religion. In a statement, he also mentioned that rumours were being spread across the Muslim community and urged the citizens to not fall for false propaganda. The statement also emphasized that the Chief Minister had personally met the Prime Minister and Home Minister to provide dual citizenship for Sri Lankan Tamils.

The CAB (it was known as Citizenship Amendment Bill before being passed) has been a talking point in India, ever since it was tabled in the Parliament over three weeks ago. The CAA grants citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, who arrived in India until December 31, 2014. After it was passed by both houses of Parliament and received the assent of the President of India, the bill has seen opposition from students, celebrities, academicians and opposition parties, besides protests that occurred in various parts of the country have turned violent.

DMK President MK Stalin on Monday led the opposition charge from Tamil Nadu against the Citizenship Amendment Act(CAA). Stalin led an anti-CAA rally in Chennai, joined by leaders and cadre of their alliance parties.

DMK President MK Stalin on Monday led the opposition charge from Tamil Nadu against the Citizenship Amendment Act(CAA). Stalin led an anti-CAA rally in Chennai, joined by leaders and cadre of their alliance parties. Stalin was joined by senior DMK functionaries and MDMK Leader Vaiko, Congress Leader P.Chidambaram and leaders of Left parties in the nearly 2km march towards the Rajarathinam Stadium in Chennai’s Egmore. The top rung leaders held anti-CAA placards, demanding its withdrawal, while the party cadre chanted slogans against the contentious act and waved their respective party flags. Over 5000 Police personnel were deployed in the locality, as the rally was held without the requisite Police permission. The major opposition towards the CAA has been the exclusion of Muslims and particularly in Tamil Nadu the issue of Sri Lanka not being categorized as a neighbouring country, provision of citizenship for Sri Lankan Tami refugees has come to fore. Late Sunday evening, the Madras High Court had directed that DMK's rally against the Citizenship Amendment Act be captured on video if the party went ahead with it despite Police permission being denied. It gave the interim direction in response to PILs that were filed opposing the rally. This was done after the Tamil Nadu government counsel informed that Police have denied permission, as there was no firm commitment from the organizers on taking responsibility in case of any violence and damage to property. Right from the time, it was being debated in parliament the DMK and their allies’ parliamentarians had expressed their vehement opposition to the then CAB. After the bill was passed the DMK went on the offensive against the AIADMK government in Tamil Nadu, whose MPs along with those of PMK had voted in favour of the bill in the Rajya Sabha (Upper house of parliament). The AIAMDK and PMK are allies of the BJP and had joined the NDA ahead of the 2019 General Elections. “The Indian Constitution is secular and the government cannot enact any law that will discriminate against people based on religion. By excluding the Sri Lankan Tamils, the BJP has shown that it is not only against the Muslims but also the Sri Lankan Tamils” Stalin said during an agitation in Kanchipuram district in the previous week. However, on various occasions, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami had assured the people that the AIADMK would ensure that no harm would occur to the minority communities and how the CAA was not a threat to Indian citizens, irrespective of their religion. In a statement, he also mentioned that rumours were being spread across the Muslim community and urged the citizens to not fall for false propaganda. The statement also emphasized that the Chief Minister had personally met the Prime Minister and Home Minister to provide dual citizenship for Sri Lankan Tamils. The CAB (it was known as Citizenship Amendment Bill before being passed) has been a talking point in India, ever since it was tabled in the Parliament over three weeks ago. The CAA grants citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, who arrived in India until December 31, 2014. After it was passed by both houses of Parliament and received the assent of the President of India, the bill has seen opposition from students, celebrities, academicians and opposition parties, besides protests that occurred in various parts of the country have turned violent.

Anti-Citizenship Amendment Act protests: Stalin leads DMK, allies in the rally against CAA; EPS says beware of false propaganda

DMK chief MK Stalin on Friday slammed the Centre and the state government over engineers applying for the jobs of sanitary workers and urged them to examine unemployment and layoffs in IT sector.

"There is a peak in unemployment. It`s a curse on Tamil Nadu with no creation of industries and jobs. I urge the Centre and the state government to check the unemployment and layoffs in IT sector," Stalin said at a press conference.

"Already IT companies in Tamil Nadu are laying off employees citing many artificial reasons. Reports have stated that 40,000 IT employees will lose jobs across India and this is worrisome," he said.

As many as 7,000 graduates including engineers have applied for 549 posts of sanitary workers advertised by the Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation (CCMC).

Talking about the local body election, Stalin said the AIADMK was postponing the poll.

"For more than three years, the AIADMK has been trying to postpone the local body election. Media is blaming the DMK for this. We have approached the court for clarification in the electoral roll. We want the election but in compliance with all electoral norms," added Stalin.&nbsp;

DMK chief MK Stalin on Friday slammed the Centre and the state government over engineers applying for the jobs of sanitary workers and urged them to examine unemployment and layoffs in IT sector.

DMK chief MK Stalin on Friday slammed the Centre and the state government over engineers applying for the jobs of sanitary workers and urged them to examine unemployment and layoffs in IT sector. "There is a peak in unemployment. It`s a curse on Tamil Nadu with no creation of industries and jobs. I urge the Centre and the state government to check the unemployment and layoffs in IT sector," Stalin said at a press conference. "Already IT companies in Tamil Nadu are laying off employees citing many artificial reasons. Reports have stated that 40,000 IT employees will lose jobs across India and this is worrisome," he said. As many as 7,000 graduates including engineers have applied for 549 posts of sanitary workers advertised by the Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation (CCMC). Talking about the local body election, Stalin said the AIADMK was postponing the poll. "For more than three years, the AIADMK has been trying to postpone the local body election. Media is blaming the DMK for this. We have approached the court for clarification in the electoral roll. We want the election but in compliance with all electoral norms," added Stalin.

Tamil Nadu: Stalin expresses concern over shrinking jobs in IT sector

Several key decisions were taken by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) at the party's general council meeting held here on Sunday, among which was the reiteration of its demand to reserve 90 per cent vacancies in Central government jobs in the state for Tamils.

Party president MK Stalin chaired the general council meeting held at YMCA Ground in Royapettah, in which a total number of 21 resolutions were passed.

"These resolutions show the party's stand and direction to the cadre. Whatever we were demanding, we have brought in as resolution," DMK leader TKS Elangovan told ANI.

The party also condemned the ruling-AIADMK for being involved in corruption and not delivering on their promises like monorail project, the abolishment of NEET exams, fight against GST and the new education policy.

The DMK passed resolutions to demand a permanent solution for water scarcity in the state, conducting local body elections immediately, finishing river linking projects.

It also condemned the arrest of politicians in Jammu and Kashmir. DMK also criticised the AIADMK for extending support to the BJP-led Central government on "Anti-Tamil" projects.

The party, in the meeting, also resolved to demand the release of the seven convicts lodged in prison for over 25 years in connection with the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Several key decisions were taken by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) at the party's general council meeting held here on Sunday, among which was the reiteration of its demand to reserve 90 per cent vacancies in Central government jobs in the state for Tamils.

Several key decisions were taken by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) at the party's general council meeting held here on Sunday, among which was the reiteration of its demand to reserve 90 per cent vacancies in Central government jobs in the state for Tamils. Party president MK Stalin chaired the general council meeting held at YMCA Ground in Royapettah, in which a total number of 21 resolutions were passed. "These resolutions show the party's stand and direction to the cadre. Whatever we were demanding, we have brought in as resolution," DMK leader TKS Elangovan told ANI. The party also condemned the ruling-AIADMK for being involved in corruption and not delivering on their promises like monorail project, the abolishment of NEET exams, fight against GST and the new education policy. The DMK passed resolutions to demand a permanent solution for water scarcity in the state, conducting local body elections immediately, finishing river linking projects. It also condemned the arrest of politicians in Jammu and Kashmir. DMK also criticised the AIADMK for extending support to the BJP-led Central government on "Anti-Tamil" projects. The party, in the meeting, also resolved to demand the release of the seven convicts lodged in prison for over 25 years in connection with the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case.

DMK reiterates demand for 90% reservation for Tamils in Central government jobs in state

Campaigning for his party ahead of the by-elections, DMK chief MK Stalin alleged that law and order situation is worst under the AIADMK government and cited the "Pollachi sexual assault case" to make his point.

"Law and order situation is worst under the AIADMK regime, Pollachi sexual assault case is an example. As you all know, AIADMK deputy speaker Pollachi Jayaraman is the key accused in the case. The culprits ruined the future of more than 250 girls," said Stalin while addressing an election rally.

Stalin alleged that AIADMK government led by Chief Minister Edapaddi K Palaniswami is a trademark of "corruption" and "loot".

"The Chief Minister said that he is proud of his government and also that his government is embalmed with the ISI mark, but the truth is, his government has got ISI mark in corruption and loot," said Stalin.

"AIADMK has been in power for the last eight years but have not conducted local body elections which should have been conducted three years ago. AIADMK knows very well that if local body elections are held, DMK will win and they will not be able to loot money," he said.

AIADMK and opposition DMK are making all-out efforts for the Nanguneri and Vikravandi Assembly by-polls scheduled to be held on October 21 with both Palaniswami and Stalin campaigning for their respective parties.&nbsp;

Campaigning for his party ahead of the by-elections, DMK chief MK Stalin alleged that law and order situation is worst under the AIADMK government and cited the "Pollachi sexual assault case" to make his point.

Campaigning for his party ahead of the by-elections, DMK chief MK Stalin alleged that law and order situation is worst under the AIADMK government and cited the "Pollachi sexual assault case" to make his point. "Law and order situation is worst under the AIADMK regime, Pollachi sexual assault case is an example. As you all know, AIADMK deputy speaker Pollachi Jayaraman is the key accused in the case. The culprits ruined the future of more than 250 girls," said Stalin while addressing an election rally. Stalin alleged that AIADMK government led by Chief Minister Edapaddi K Palaniswami is a trademark of "corruption" and "loot". "The Chief Minister said that he is proud of his government and also that his government is embalmed with the ISI mark, but the truth is, his government has got ISI mark in corruption and loot," said Stalin. "AIADMK has been in power for the last eight years but have not conducted local body elections which should have been conducted three years ago. AIADMK knows very well that if local body elections are held, DMK will win and they will not be able to loot money," he said. AIADMK and opposition DMK are making all-out efforts for the Nanguneri and Vikravandi Assembly by-polls scheduled to be held on October 21 with both Palaniswami and Stalin campaigning for their respective parties.

Law and order worst under AIADMK rule: MK Stalin

Tamil Nadu's opposition leader, DMK president MK Stalin has suggested in a statement that Tamil be made India’s official language, this comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Tamil as the oldest language, while speaking at the IIT Madras Convocation, on Monday.&nbsp;

While the statement welcomed the Prime Minister’s gesture of having glorified the Tamil language at the United Nations, it also accused the BJP-led Central government of imposing Sanskrit (liturgical language) and Hindi on the Tamil people, despite the wide-ranging evidence of the ancient nature of the Tamil language.

The statement read, ''As all central government schemes are coined in Hindi or Sanskrit. Even when the schemes are publicised in Tamil, the pronunciation of the words are in Hindi or Sanskrit. Naming the schemes in Hindi or Sanskrit makes it difficult for Tamils and other language speakers to understand the schemes and their purpose.''&nbsp;

''DMK has been emphasising that all 22 languages in the 8th schedule of the Constitution be made official languages. In the first step to that initiative, the oldest language Tamil should be made the official language of India and Tamil should also be made the official language of the Madras High Court. PM Modi’s Government is certainly duty-bound to recognise Tamil, which is spoken by over 8 crore people globally, as an official language. It is to be brought to the notice of our prime minister that Tamil is one among the official languages of various other countries, whereas it is not an official language in its home country India,'' it added.&nbsp;

Referring to the PM's comments of Tamil cuisine and hospitality, the statement said, Tamils are not only known for our hospitality, but also for our loyalty. If the Prime Minister can sincerely try to grant official language status for Tamil and enact the necessary legal provisions for the same, it would be appreciated forever by the Tamil people. Granting the Official Language Status for Tamil language would also be in line with the vision of former Tamil Nadu Chief Ministers Annadurai and Karunanidhi.

The statement by the Dravidian party also needs to be seen in the light of Home Minister Amit Shah’s call for Hindi as a common link language to unite the country. The Home Minister’s comments had drawn flak from regional leaders of non-Hindi speaking states such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

The DMK too had announced a state-wide anti-Hindi agitation, which was later cancelled after MK Stalin met Governor Banwarilal Purohit, who is said to have assured the DMK leader that the Centre would not impose Hindi in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu's opposition leader, DMK president MK Stalin has suggested in a statement that Tamil be made India’s official language, this comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Tamil as the oldest language, while speaking at the IIT Madras Convocation, on Monday.

Tamil Nadu's opposition leader, DMK president MK Stalin has suggested in a statement that Tamil be made India’s official language, this comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Tamil as the oldest language, while speaking at the IIT Madras Convocation, on Monday. While the statement welcomed the Prime Minister’s gesture of having glorified the Tamil language at the United Nations, it also accused the BJP-led Central government of imposing Sanskrit (liturgical language) and Hindi on the Tamil people, despite the wide-ranging evidence of the ancient nature of the Tamil language. The statement read, ''As all central government schemes are coined in Hindi or Sanskrit. Even when the schemes are publicised in Tamil, the pronunciation of the words are in Hindi or Sanskrit. Naming the schemes in Hindi or Sanskrit makes it difficult for Tamils and other language speakers to understand the schemes and their purpose.'' ''DMK has been emphasising that all 22 languages in the 8th schedule of the Constitution be made official languages. In the first step to that initiative, the oldest language Tamil should be made the official language of India and Tamil should also be made the official language of the Madras High Court. PM Modi’s Government is certainly duty-bound to recognise Tamil, which is spoken by over 8 crore people globally, as an official language. It is to be brought to the notice of our prime minister that Tamil is one among the official languages of various other countries, whereas it is not an official language in its home country India,'' it added. Referring to the PM's comments of Tamil cuisine and hospitality, the statement said, Tamils are not only known for our hospitality, but also for our loyalty. If the Prime Minister can sincerely try to grant official language status for Tamil and enact the necessary legal provisions for the same, it would be appreciated forever by the Tamil people. Granting the Official Language Status for Tamil language would also be in line with the vision of former Tamil Nadu Chief Ministers Annadurai and Karunanidhi. The statement by the Dravidian party also needs to be seen in the light of Home Minister Amit Shah’s call for Hindi as a common link language to unite the country. The Home Minister’s comments had drawn flak from regional leaders of non-Hindi speaking states such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The DMK too had announced a state-wide anti-Hindi agitation, which was later cancelled after MK Stalin met Governor Banwarilal Purohit, who is said to have assured the DMK leader that the Centre would not impose Hindi in Tamil Nadu.

DMK president MK Stalin seeks Official Language Status for Tamil

In the 1960s, there was an anti-Congress front, which came to power in Madhya Pradesh, with the Jan Sangh and Communists in the same camp! During that period, regional parties were on the ascendance, with DMK — helped by Swatantra Party and CPM — coming to power in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

During the 1970s and the 1980s, the communal versus secular debate was not much in vogue. Regional parties joined hands to oppose the Congress. Their one-point agenda was anti-Congressism.&nbsp;

In the 1990s and later, Congress was a major force that attracted many regional satraps and ran governments with their help from 2004 to 2014.&nbsp;

The rise of BJP in the 1990s has altered the equations with some regional parties like Shiv Sena, Akali Dal and the JD(U) aligning with the BJP, while the others are close to the Congress.&nbsp;

It is interesting to note that socialist parties in MP, Rajasthan and Gujarat have practically disappeared, merging with either the Congress or BJP. These three states had a significant presence of various Lohia-ite parties, all of which were very powerful in the 1960s and 1970s. But they stand forgotten, and the BJP has emerged as the only alternative to the Congress in these three states, which have become two-party systems.

The important point is not about the national aspirations of these regional parties, but their functioning. Whether it is DMK or Shiv Sena where family battles have come out in to open, or the Akali Dal, Janata Dal (S), PMK or the NCP, where an heir apparent has been anointed, or the TDP or RJD, whose family business is politics.&nbsp;

It is important to mention that Tamil Nadu is the pioneer in this aspect where the interests of the state, party, government and language are all subsumed for the welfare of a family enterprise.&nbsp;

In any business, maximisation of shareholder’s wealth is the main objective. Unfortunately, these regional parties are not listed on the stock exchanges and hence an accurate market valuation may not be available.

The total wealth declared by these leaders during election time in the form of affidavits can be a guide to their net worth. But, it will be an under-valuation since it only reflects what can be declared and does not tell the future earning potential of the business.&nbsp;

In this, there are multiple stakeholders other than the controlling family, which plans, allocates and execute projects, with the returns being shared.

The preoperative and preliminary expenses are related to rabble-rousing on caste or language issues. Some initial investment in the form of cut-outs is needed. Another method is to promise largesse in the form of free power, milk, free liquor, TV, free cinema, free rice (Why nobody offers free sex is a mystery to me!), which are to be given from the state exchequer.&nbsp;

In this model, the actual business entity need not worry about operational expenses since post-power, it has total access to the revenue stream.

So, most regional parties ultimately became unlisted family enterprises (DMK/ SP/ RJD/ NC/ SS/ TDP/ YSRP). Three others came to be run by single women (AIADMK/ TMC/ BSP). Since Congress itself is a family-controlled party, it was easier for it to deal with other families through the patronage system. Meanwhile, the amassing of wealth by families that run regional parties is ignored with a benign smile.&nbsp;

At one point, Indira Gandhi had a deal with the DMK where she allowed the latter all the Assembly seats in lieu of Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu. That was accommodation par excellence.&nbsp;

But the emergence of the BJP as the main pole in national politics, has altered the nature of the discourse. This is one of the reasons why the BJP and the Shiv Sena are having a tough time sealing the deal in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Unlike the Congress, the BJP seems less interested in the patronage and sharing system of spoils since it has a majority of its own in the Lok Sabha. To that extent, it is not dependent on regional families like the DMK.&nbsp;

Many leaders of regional parties find it more attractive to join the BJP than being regional. Congress is not in a position to be an alternate pole to attract regional parties, who find it difficult to be out of power for long periods because their ‘sources’ get depleted. The new national rhythm of the BJP is thus a challenge to regionalism, which can create its own fault-lines in the Indian polity.&nbsp;

The accommodative and patronage-based policy of the Congress towards regional satraps may be replaced by aggressive nationalist postures. Introduction of pan-Indian regulations and laws like GST may be accelerated. Or will the BJP become like the Congress, as far as accommodative politics goes? That is a major issue.

Will the business model of regional family parties meet its nemesis? One reason it will flourish for some more years is the increasing importance of land as a factor of production.&nbsp;

In the 1960s, capital was scarce and land was easily allotted. Now capital is available even from global sources, but land is scarce and that is the strength of these families. Control and allotment of land is the primary ‘son rise’ (pun intended) industry.

To that extent, family businesses will flourish since land is gold and as our regional political parties have realised, it is a state subject.

More than Uniform Civil Code, what is needed is making land and water central subjects. This will alter the future of India, which is linked to some 40-50 families and their capacity for rabble-rousing along with rapaciousness and greed. Are we ready for a thorough reform? Will BJP bite the bullet? 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-politics-as-family-enterprise-2790022">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

In the 1960s, there was an anti-Congress front, which came to power in Madhya Pradesh, with the Jan Sangh and Communists in the same camp! During that period, regional parties were on the ascendance, with DMK — helped by Swatantra Party and CPM — coming to power in Tamil Nadu.

In the 1960s, there was an anti-Congress front, which came to power in Madhya Pradesh, with the Jan Sangh and Communists in the same camp! During that period, regional parties were on the ascendance, with DMK — helped by Swatantra Party and CPM — coming to power in Tamil Nadu. During the 1970s and the 1980s, the communal versus secular debate was not much in vogue. Regional parties joined hands to oppose the Congress. Their one-point agenda was anti-Congressism. In the 1990s and later, Congress was a major force that attracted many regional satraps and ran governments with their help from 2004 to 2014. The rise of BJP in the 1990s has altered the equations with some regional parties like Shiv Sena, Akali Dal and the JD(U) aligning with the BJP, while the others are close to the Congress. It is interesting to note that socialist parties in MP, Rajasthan and Gujarat have practically disappeared, merging with either the Congress or BJP. These three states had a significant presence of various Lohia-ite parties, all of which were very powerful in the 1960s and 1970s. But they stand forgotten, and the BJP has emerged as the only alternative to the Congress in these three states, which have become two-party systems. The important point is not about the national aspirations of these regional parties, but their functioning. Whether it is DMK or Shiv Sena where family battles have come out in to open, or the Akali Dal, Janata Dal (S), PMK or the NCP, where an heir apparent has been anointed, or the TDP or RJD, whose family business is politics. It is important to mention that Tamil Nadu is the pioneer in this aspect where the interests of the state, party, government and language are all subsumed for the welfare of a family enterprise. In any business, maximisation of shareholder’s wealth is the main objective. Unfortunately, these regional parties are not listed on the stock exchanges and hence an accurate market valuation may not be available. The total wealth declared by these leaders during election time in the form of affidavits can be a guide to their net worth. But, it will be an under-valuation since it only reflects what can be declared and does not tell the future earning potential of the business. In this, there are multiple stakeholders other than the controlling family, which plans, allocates and execute projects, with the returns being shared. The preoperative and preliminary expenses are related to rabble-rousing on caste or language issues. Some initial investment in the form of cut-outs is needed. Another method is to promise largesse in the form of free power, milk, free liquor, TV, free cinema, free rice (Why nobody offers free sex is a mystery to me!), which are to be given from the state exchequer. In this model, the actual business entity need not worry about operational expenses since post-power, it has total access to the revenue stream. So, most regional parties ultimately became unlisted family enterprises (DMK/ SP/ RJD/ NC/ SS/ TDP/ YSRP). Three others came to be run by single women (AIADMK/ TMC/ BSP). Since Congress itself is a family-controlled party, it was easier for it to deal with other families through the patronage system. Meanwhile, the amassing of wealth by families that run regional parties is ignored with a benign smile. At one point, Indira Gandhi had a deal with the DMK where she allowed the latter all the Assembly seats in lieu of Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu. That was accommodation par excellence. But the emergence of the BJP as the main pole in national politics, has altered the nature of the discourse. This is one of the reasons why the BJP and the Shiv Sena are having a tough time sealing the deal in Maharashtra. Unlike the Congress, the BJP seems less interested in the patronage and sharing system of spoils since it has a majority of its own in the Lok Sabha. To that extent, it is not dependent on regional families like the DMK. Many leaders of regional parties find it more attractive to join the BJP than being regional. Congress is not in a position to be an alternate pole to attract regional parties, who find it difficult to be out of power for long periods because their ‘sources’ get depleted. The new national rhythm of the BJP is thus a challenge to regionalism, which can create its own fault-lines in the Indian polity. The accommodative and patronage-based policy of the Congress towards regional satraps may be replaced by aggressive nationalist postures. Introduction of pan-Indian regulations and laws like GST may be accelerated. Or will the BJP become like the Congress, as far as accommodative politics goes? That is a major issue. Will the business model of regional family parties meet its nemesis? One reason it will flourish for some more years is the increasing importance of land as a factor of production. In the 1960s, capital was scarce and land was easily allotted. Now capital is available even from global sources, but land is scarce and that is the strength of these families. Control and allotment of land is the primary ‘son rise’ (pun intended) industry. To that extent, family businesses will flourish since land is gold and as our regional political parties have realised, it is a state subject. More than Uniform Civil Code, what is needed is making land and water central subjects. This will alter the future of India, which is linked to some 40-50 families and their capacity for rabble-rousing along with rapaciousness and greed. Are we ready for a thorough reform? Will BJP bite the bullet? (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)

Politics as family enterprise: Nationalist rhythm of BJP is challenge to regionalism

In an apparent volte-face, on the first day of the Assembly session, Tamil Nadu's Opposition Party DMK decided not to insist on taking up the No-Confidence Motion against Assembly Speaker P.Dhanapal "considering the current circumstances".&nbsp;

The No-Confidence motion was expected to come up on July 1.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters at Fort St. George, DMK president and leader of the opposition M K Stalin said, "We will not insist on taking up the no-confidence motion. The situation has changed now. We have given a letter to the Speaker not insisting on the notice for the no-confidence motion".

On April 30, members of Tamil Nadu’s opposition party, the DMK met the Tamil Nadu Assembly Secretary to present a notice to move a no-confidence petition against the Assembly Speaker. This is in line with the party president M K Stalin’s earlier statement that the party would move a no-confidence motion against the speaker if he were to act in a biased manner. &nbsp;

This reaction from the DMK was triggered after the AIADMK party Chief whip S Rajendran on April 26 submitted a recommendation to Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal regarding the disqualification of three AIADMK MLAs on the grounds of ‘anti-party’ activities. The MLAs are E Rathinasabapathi, V T Kalaiselvan and Prabhu, who were elected from Aranthangi, Vridhachalam and Kallakurichi Assembly constituencies respectively.&nbsp;

It was perceived that the AIADMK had attempted to disqualify the MLAs in order to reduce the strength of the house, in order to safeguard their government if they fell short of seats in the 22 by-polls to Assembly seats.

However, the Supreme Court issued an interim stay on a notice sent by the Tamil Nadu Speaker to three MLAs of the ruling AIADMK, who were said to be loyal towards the TTV Dinakaran-led AMMK camp. Two of the MLAs who had received the notice from the Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal had approached the Supreme Court to stay the notice sent by the Speaker.

As the results to the by-polls are declared, the Tamil Nadu Assembly will now witness the participation of 232 legislators, out of the total house strength of 234. In the by-polls the ruling AIADMK won 9 seats, giving it up to 123 MLAs, well past the halfway mark of 118.&nbsp;

The opening day of the Assembly session today was adjourned after adopting obituary references for two legislators -- R. Kanagaraj of AIADMK and K. Radhamani of DMK -- who died recently. The House will meet on July 1 to take up the demands for grants for various departments. The Assembly session is expected to be stormy given the prevailing severe water crisis and the increased strength of DMK legislators after the by-polls to 22 Assembly constituencies.

Speaking to WION on the rationale behind the DMK's volte-face, senior journalist and political analyst Sumanth C Raman said, "obviously they wanted to avoid being defeated again on the floor of the house as the ruling AIADMK has the requisite numbers"

In an apparent volte-face, on the first day of the Assembly session, Tamil Nadu's Opposition Party DMK decided not to insist on taking up the No-Confidence Motion against Assembly Speaker P.

In an apparent volte-face, on the first day of the Assembly session, Tamil Nadu's Opposition Party DMK decided not to insist on taking up the No-Confidence Motion against Assembly Speaker P.Dhanapal "considering the current circumstances". The No-Confidence motion was expected to come up on July 1. Speaking to reporters at Fort St. George, DMK president and leader of the opposition M K Stalin said, "We will not insist on taking up the no-confidence motion. The situation has changed now. We have given a letter to the Speaker not insisting on the notice for the no-confidence motion". On April 30, members of Tamil Nadu’s opposition party, the DMK met the Tamil Nadu Assembly Secretary to present a notice to move a no-confidence petition against the Assembly Speaker. This is in line with the party president M K Stalin’s earlier statement that the party would move a no-confidence motion against the speaker if he were to act in a biased manner. This reaction from the DMK was triggered after the AIADMK party Chief whip S Rajendran on April 26 submitted a recommendation to Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal regarding the disqualification of three AIADMK MLAs on the grounds of ‘anti-party’ activities. The MLAs are E Rathinasabapathi, V T Kalaiselvan and Prabhu, who were elected from Aranthangi, Vridhachalam and Kallakurichi Assembly constituencies respectively. It was perceived that the AIADMK had attempted to disqualify the MLAs in order to reduce the strength of the house, in order to safeguard their government if they fell short of seats in the 22 by-polls to Assembly seats. However, the Supreme Court issued an interim stay on a notice sent by the Tamil Nadu Speaker to three MLAs of the ruling AIADMK, who were said to be loyal towards the TTV Dinakaran-led AMMK camp. Two of the MLAs who had received the notice from the Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal had approached the Supreme Court to stay the notice sent by the Speaker. As the results to the by-polls are declared, the Tamil Nadu Assembly will now witness the participation of 232 legislators, out of the total house strength of 234. In the by-polls the ruling AIADMK won 9 seats, giving it up to 123 MLAs, well past the halfway mark of 118. The opening day of the Assembly session today was adjourned after adopting obituary references for two legislators -- R. Kanagaraj of AIADMK and K. Radhamani of DMK -- who died recently. The House will meet on July 1 to take up the demands for grants for various departments. The Assembly session is expected to be stormy given the prevailing severe water crisis and the increased strength of DMK legislators after the by-polls to 22 Assembly constituencies. Speaking to WION on the rationale behind the DMK's volte-face, senior journalist and political analyst Sumanth C Raman said, "obviously they wanted to avoid being defeated again on the floor of the house as the ruling AIADMK has the requisite numbers"

Tamil Nadu: DMK to not push for no-confidence motion against Speaker

DMK president M K Stalin alleged on Monday that the Centre's move on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-uproar-over-hindi-imposition-centre-alters-draft-education-policy-223801">dropping the clause on compulsory Hindi learning</a> in the draft National Education Policy was aimed at deceiving Tamil Nadu and demanded an explanation over it.

He sought a categorical assurance that Hindi will not be thrust on the southern state.

Presiding over a function to celebrate the 96th birth anniversary of his father and DMK patriarch, late M Karunanidhi here, Stalin said in the absence of such an explanation, Tamil Nadu will witness a massive agitation on the lines of the 1965 stir to oppose Hindi.

Recalling the demonstration led by Karunanidhi during the pre-Independence era and the 1965 protests against Hindi in Tamil Nadu, he said a situation was now emerging for reprising such massive agitations.&nbsp;

"The announcement (by the Centre on dropping the contentious clause mandating Hindi learning) has been made with an intent to deceive and if there is no explanation (assuring that Hindi will not be thrust) in two to three days, the leaders of the alliance partners here will get together, decide and following that, Tamil Nadu will witness a massive agitation, be prepared," Stalin told party workers.

The DMK chief alleged that the BJP-led Centre was enacting a drama on the language issue after seeing the huge opposition to the proposal in the draft National Education Policy on Hindi learning in Tamil Nadu.

DMK president M K Stalin alleged on Monday that the Centre's move on dropping the clause on compulsory Hindi learning in the draft National Education Policy was aimed at deceiving Tamil Nadu and demanded an explanation over it.

DMK president M K Stalin alleged on Monday that the Centre's move on dropping the clause on compulsory Hindi learning in the draft National Education Policy was aimed at deceiving Tamil Nadu and demanded an explanation over it. He sought a categorical assurance that Hindi will not be thrust on the southern state. Presiding over a function to celebrate the 96th birth anniversary of his father and DMK patriarch, late M Karunanidhi here, Stalin said in the absence of such an explanation, Tamil Nadu will witness a massive agitation on the lines of the 1965 stir to oppose Hindi. Recalling the demonstration led by Karunanidhi during the pre-Independence era and the 1965 protests against Hindi in Tamil Nadu, he said a situation was now emerging for reprising such massive agitations. "The announcement (by the Centre on dropping the contentious clause mandating Hindi learning) has been made with an intent to deceive and if there is no explanation (assuring that Hindi will not be thrust) in two to three days, the leaders of the alliance partners here will get together, decide and following that, Tamil Nadu will witness a massive agitation, be prepared," Stalin told party workers. The DMK chief alleged that the BJP-led Centre was enacting a drama on the language issue after seeing the huge opposition to the proposal in the draft National Education Policy on Hindi learning in Tamil Nadu.

Centre's move on language aimed at deceiving Tamil Nadu: Stalin

In a veiled attack on the BJP, days after its thumping Lok Sabha poll win, DMK president M K Stalin Saturday said a situation has now emerged that warranted his party's secularism plank to be pitched in other Indian states.

The nation has been prompted to "look south" for DMK's Parliamentary election strategy that "saved" Tamil Nadu from the "cruel hands of communal forces," he said.

In an open letter to party workers, Stalin took pride on his party taking the third top slot (23 seats) in the Lok Sabha polls after the BJP (303) and Congress (52).

While the DMK-led front won 37 of the 38 seats in the state, the AIADMK could win only the Theni constituency. The election was cancelled in Vellore segment following allegations of corruption.

"A situation has now emerged that necessitates DMK's plank of secularism in other Indian states as well," he said.

The DMK chief also batted for pitching secularism for containing the saffron party and winning polls.

Stalin, during the run-up to the polls in Tamil Nadu, had christened the combine led by him as "Secular Progressive Alliance." The Congress party, Left parties, the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi and the Indian Union Muslim League were among the SPA constituents.

Stalin said devising a poll strategy whenever the nation's democratic and pluralistic values were threatened was the "political dharma" of his father and the party's deceased patriarch M Karunanidhi.

Following the late leader's "political dharma", the DMK has posted a massive victory and this has "amazed the north, united the south and astounded the whole country", he said.

The DMK chief exhorted his party cadre to take part in the birth anniversary celebrations of Karunanidhi here on June 3 to "thank the great leader (Karunanidhi) who gave us the strategy for victory and the people who made us win."

He asked party workers and leaders to observe "June as Kalaignar's (Karunanidhi) month," and hold events through the month in commemoration of the late stalwart.

Karunanidhi passed away in August last year.

Meanwhile, the DMK mouthpiece "Murasoli," (in an editorial on Saturday) has again urged Congress President Rahul Gandhi to take back his offer to step down from the top party post.

Rahul's move to quit will neither be seconded by the "historic Congress party" nor by the people of India due to their love and affection for the Nehru-Gandhi family, the Dravidian party daily said.

The DMK organ on May 31 had likened Rahul Gandhi to Jawaharlal Nehru for his liberal ideological moorings that went beyond just electoral politics and asserted that the Congress needed a "broad-minded person" like him.&nbsp;

In a veiled attack on the BJP, days after its thumping Lok Sabha poll win, DMK president M K Stalin Saturday said a situation has now emerged that warranted his party's secularism plank to be pitched in other Indian states.

In a veiled attack on the BJP, days after its thumping Lok Sabha poll win, DMK president M K Stalin Saturday said a situation has now emerged that warranted his party's secularism plank to be pitched in other Indian states. The nation has been prompted to "look south" for DMK's Parliamentary election strategy that "saved" Tamil Nadu from the "cruel hands of communal forces," he said. In an open letter to party workers, Stalin took pride on his party taking the third top slot (23 seats) in the Lok Sabha polls after the BJP (303) and Congress (52). While the DMK-led front won 37 of the 38 seats in the state, the AIADMK could win only the Theni constituency. The election was cancelled in Vellore segment following allegations of corruption. "A situation has now emerged that necessitates DMK's plank of secularism in other Indian states as well," he said. The DMK chief also batted for pitching secularism for containing the saffron party and winning polls. Stalin, during the run-up to the polls in Tamil Nadu, had christened the combine led by him as "Secular Progressive Alliance." The Congress party, Left parties, the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi and the Indian Union Muslim League were among the SPA constituents. Stalin said devising a poll strategy whenever the nation's democratic and pluralistic values were threatened was the "political dharma" of his father and the party's deceased patriarch M Karunanidhi. Following the late leader's "political dharma", the DMK has posted a massive victory and this has "amazed the north, united the south and astounded the whole country", he said. The DMK chief exhorted his party cadre to take part in the birth anniversary celebrations of Karunanidhi here on June 3 to "thank the great leader (Karunanidhi) who gave us the strategy for victory and the people who made us win." He asked party workers and leaders to observe "June as Kalaignar's (Karunanidhi) month," and hold events through the month in commemoration of the late stalwart. Karunanidhi passed away in August last year. Meanwhile, the DMK mouthpiece "Murasoli," (in an editorial on Saturday) has again urged Congress President Rahul Gandhi to take back his offer to step down from the top party post. Rahul's move to quit will neither be seconded by the "historic Congress party" nor by the people of India due to their love and affection for the Nehru-Gandhi family, the Dravidian party daily said. The DMK organ on May 31 had likened Rahul Gandhi to Jawaharlal Nehru for his liberal ideological moorings that went beyond just electoral politics and asserted that the Congress needed a "broad-minded person" like him.

DMK's secularism plank needs to be pitched in other Indian states: Stalin

Tamil Nadu's opposition party, the DMK, lashed out at the AIADMK government which approached the Supreme Court on Friday against the Madras High Court order quashing land acquisition proceedings for the Rs 10,000 crore Chennai-Salem eight-lane expressway.

"The AIADMK-BJP coalition which faced a rout in Tamil Nadu was betraying the people after being angered and humiliated by their debacle in the state," Stalin said.

He also accused Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami of going back on his poll promise of not implementing projects that would affect the farmers in Tamil Nadu.

Stalin also urged the government to withdraw their petition to the Supreme Court and look for an alternative route to implement the developmental project in a manner that would not affect the farmers.

In its April 8 judgement, the high court said that the project requires a mega re-alignment as the proposed route would have an adverse effect on the environment, including water bodies. The judgement was passed by the court after considering a batch of petitions filed by 35 land owners from the region and PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss.

The proposed eight-lane 277-km-long expressway, approved in February 2018, was aimed at cutting down travel time between Chennai and Salem by a little over two hours and reducing the distance by around 68 kilometres. As per the project report, it was to pass via five districts of Tamil Nanu namely Kanchipuram, Tiruvannamalai, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri and Salem.

However, the project faced protests from various groups on the grounds that it could end up utilising over 7,500 acres of land. Some of this includes agricultural land, villages, orchards, and reserve forests. Land acquisition and compensation for the same were major roadblocks. They were of the opinion that this project would not be necessary as there are three highways currently connecting the state's capital city with Salem.

While the AIADMK government was keen on having this project implemented, the DMK stood with the protesters and also said that they were against its implementation.

A Supreme Court bench of Justices M R Shah and A S Bopanna agreed to take up the matter on plea for an urgent hearing made by the counsel appearing for the state government. The petition will be heard on June 3.

Tamil Nadu's opposition party, the DMK, lashed out at the AIADMK government which approached the Supreme Court on Friday against the Madras High Court order quashing land acquisition proceedings for the Rs 10,000 crore Chennai-Salem eight-lane expressway.

Tamil Nadu's opposition party, the DMK, lashed out at the AIADMK government which approached the Supreme Court on Friday against the Madras High Court order quashing land acquisition proceedings for the Rs 10,000 crore Chennai-Salem eight-lane expressway. "The AIADMK-BJP coalition which faced a rout in Tamil Nadu was betraying the people after being angered and humiliated by their debacle in the state," Stalin said. He also accused Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami of going back on his poll promise of not implementing projects that would affect the farmers in Tamil Nadu. Stalin also urged the government to withdraw their petition to the Supreme Court and look for an alternative route to implement the developmental project in a manner that would not affect the farmers. In its April 8 judgement, the high court said that the project requires a mega re-alignment as the proposed route would have an adverse effect on the environment, including water bodies. The judgement was passed by the court after considering a batch of petitions filed by 35 land owners from the region and PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss. The proposed eight-lane 277-km-long expressway, approved in February 2018, was aimed at cutting down travel time between Chennai and Salem by a little over two hours and reducing the distance by around 68 kilometres. As per the project report, it was to pass via five districts of Tamil Nanu namely Kanchipuram, Tiruvannamalai, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri and Salem. However, the project faced protests from various groups on the grounds that it could end up utilising over 7,500 acres of land. Some of this includes agricultural land, villages, orchards, and reserve forests. Land acquisition and compensation for the same were major roadblocks. They were of the opinion that this project would not be necessary as there are three highways currently connecting the state's capital city with Salem. While the AIADMK government was keen on having this project implemented, the DMK stood with the protesters and also said that they were against its implementation. A Supreme Court bench of Justices M R Shah and A S Bopanna agreed to take up the matter on plea for an urgent hearing made by the counsel appearing for the state government. The petition will be heard on June 3.

Betrayal, says DMK as Tamil Nadu challenges high court order against Chennai-Salem expressway in Supreme Court

With the DMK's resounding electoral victory in the just-concluded Lok Sabha elections in Tamil Nadu, Stalin has cemented, firmly, his place as the party leader.

Thalapathy (commander) as he is popularly known among DMK carders, who bequeathed enormous responsibility from his father who died in August 2018, proved his mettle and made the detractors, who questioned his leadership style over the past few months, eat their own words.&nbsp;

The DMK-led alliance routed rival BJP-AIADMK in the state winning 37 out of 38&nbsp;Lok Sabha seats that went to the polls.&nbsp;

Karunanidhi, fondly called Kalaignar by his party cadres, was rather reluctant to pass the baton to Stalin who was the youth wing secretary of the party for 34 years until the age of 63.&nbsp;

Stalin succeeded and was made the party president only after Karunanidhi's death.&nbsp;

With the remarkable victory in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Stalin has finally emerged from his father and former Tamil Nadu chief minister M Karunanidhi’s long shadow.

Though the opposition parties across the country wanted to oust Modi, neither was there unity among them nor were they ready to accommodate other like-minded parties opposed to BJP into their fold which resulted in advantage BJP.

When everyone from Mamata Banerjee to Mayawati exercised politics of greed and lust for power, Stalin, perhaps the only opposition leader, who was not only magnanimous and accommodated both Congress and the Communist parties in the alliance and set aside a respectable number of seats to both the parties.&nbsp;

Stalin also openly endorsed Rahul Gandhi as the prime ministerial candidate of 'Mahagathbandhan'. While everyone else failed to stop Modi, Stalin remains one of the few anti-BJP politicians who have managed to buck the national trend and halted BJP's juggernaut in Tamil Nadu. DMK-Congress sustained the campaign against the BJP was the main reason for the DMK-led alliance's victory.

From the Thoothukudi killings that followed anti-Sterlite protests to Gaja cyclone and Cauvery river and NEET issue, the general mood of Tamil Nadu was against Modi-led BJP regime at the Centre. And, AIADMK shot themselves on the foot when they tied up with the BJP which resulted in the Dravidian party losing any slim chance they had to win a few seats in the state.

DMK's coalition with Congress also helped in minority vote consolidation. &nbsp;

The minority vote consolidation in favour of DMK-led alliance wouldn`t have happened if the Congress was not part of the alliance or Gandhi was not announced as Prime Ministerial candidate which led to DMK's massive victory.

Stalin may not have succeeded in his mission to see Congress president Rahul Gandhi as country's prime minister but he had dealt an embarrassing blow to BJP's ambition to breach the Dravidian citadel by partnering with AIADMK. &nbsp;

 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

With the DMK's resounding electoral victory in the just-concluded Lok Sabha elections in Tamil Nadu, Stalin has cemented, firmly, his place as the party leader. Thalapathy (commander) as he is popularly known among DMK carders, who bequeathed enormous responsibility from his father who died in August 2018, proved his mettle and made the detractors, who questioned his leadership style over the past few months, eat their own words.

With the DMK's resounding electoral victory in the just-concluded Lok Sabha elections in Tamil Nadu, Stalin has cemented, firmly, his place as the party leader. Thalapathy (commander) as he is popularly known among DMK carders, who bequeathed enormous responsibility from his father who died in August 2018, proved his mettle and made the detractors, who questioned his leadership style over the past few months, eat their own words. The DMK-led alliance routed rival BJP-AIADMK in the state winning 37 out of 38 Lok Sabha seats that went to the polls. Karunanidhi, fondly called Kalaignar by his party cadres, was rather reluctant to pass the baton to Stalin who was the youth wing secretary of the party for 34 years until the age of 63. Stalin succeeded and was made the party president only after Karunanidhi's death. With the remarkable victory in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Stalin has finally emerged from his father and former Tamil Nadu chief minister M Karunanidhi’s long shadow. Though the opposition parties across the country wanted to oust Modi, neither was there unity among them nor were they ready to accommodate other like-minded parties opposed to BJP into their fold which resulted in advantage BJP. When everyone from Mamata Banerjee to Mayawati exercised politics of greed and lust for power, Stalin, perhaps the only opposition leader, who was not only magnanimous and accommodated both Congress and the Communist parties in the alliance and set aside a respectable number of seats to both the parties. Stalin also openly endorsed Rahul Gandhi as the prime ministerial candidate of 'Mahagathbandhan'. While everyone else failed to stop Modi, Stalin remains one of the few anti-BJP politicians who have managed to buck the national trend and halted BJP's juggernaut in Tamil Nadu. DMK-Congress sustained the campaign against the BJP was the main reason for the DMK-led alliance's victory. From the Thoothukudi killings that followed anti-Sterlite protests to Gaja cyclone and Cauvery river and NEET issue, the general mood of Tamil Nadu was against Modi-led BJP regime at the Centre. And, AIADMK shot themselves on the foot when they tied up with the BJP which resulted in the Dravidian party losing any slim chance they had to win a few seats in the state. DMK's coalition with Congress also helped in minority vote consolidation. The minority vote consolidation in favour of DMK-led alliance wouldn`t have happened if the Congress was not part of the alliance or Gandhi was not announced as Prime Ministerial candidate which led to DMK's massive victory. Stalin may not have succeeded in his mission to see Congress president Rahul Gandhi as country's prime minister but he had dealt an embarrassing blow to BJP's ambition to breach the Dravidian citadel by partnering with AIADMK. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

M K Stalin's magnanimity ensured BJP-AIADMK rout in Tamil Nadu

The DMK will be the third largest party in the new Lok Sabha, while the Trinamool Congress and the YSR Congress will be fourth in terms of strength in the lower house of Parliament.&nbsp;

As many as 397 MPs were elected from national parties, think-tank PRS Legislative said.&nbsp;

"Of these 303 MPs were from the BJP, 52 from the Congress, and 22 from the TMC. Among the state parties DMK (23) and YSRCP (22) won the most seats," it said.

The nearly nine-year-old YSR Congress party swept Andhra Pradesh by bagging 22 out of 25 seats in the state.&nbsp;

The BJP won 303 seats while its nearest rival, Congress bagged 52 seats in the Lok Sabha results.&nbsp;

In the last general election, the J Jayalalithaa-led AIADMK was the third largest while the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC was the fourth largest party.

The DMK will be the third largest party in the new Lok Sabha, while the Trinamool Congress and the YSR Congress will be fourth in terms of strength in the lower house of Parliament.

The DMK will be the third largest party in the new Lok Sabha, while the Trinamool Congress and the YSR Congress will be fourth in terms of strength in the lower house of Parliament. As many as 397 MPs were elected from national parties, think-tank PRS Legislative said. "Of these 303 MPs were from the BJP, 52 from the Congress, and 22 from the TMC. Among the state parties DMK (23) and YSRCP (22) won the most seats," it said. The nearly nine-year-old YSR Congress party swept Andhra Pradesh by bagging 22 out of 25 seats in the state. The BJP won 303 seats while its nearest rival, Congress bagged 52 seats in the Lok Sabha results. In the last general election, the J Jayalalithaa-led AIADMK was the third largest while the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC was the fourth largest party.

DMK to be third largest party in Lok Sabha; Trinamool Congress, YSR fourth

DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA) in Tamil Nadu appeared headed for a clean sweep as it led in 35 of the 38 Lok Sabha seats in the state Thursday.

The ruling AIADMK, which had registered a landslide in the 2014 elections under the leadership of its supremo late Jayalalithaa, is trailing in most of the 20 seats it contested as also its allies, including the BJP.

The AIADMK-led NDA is ahead in only three constituencies, according to the latest Election Commission trends.

AIADMK's greenhorn and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam's son P Raveendranath Kumar was leading over Congress veteran EVKS Elngovan in Theni.

NDA constituent Anbumani Ramadoss of PMK is leading in Dharmapuri over his nearest SPA candidate.

Watch:&nbsp;Trends show Congress heavyweights trailing

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lok-sabha-2019-trends-show-congress-heavyweights-trailing-220821/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The votes polled in the April 18 elections held to 38 Lok Sabha seats in the state is underway in 45 centres across the state. Election in Vellore constituency has been countermanded.

DMK alone was leading in 22 seats while it key ally the Congress surged ahead in eight of the nine seats it fought, as a total reversal appeared on cards compared to the 2014 poll when the AIADMK had 37 seats.

Reacting to the early trends of DMK surge, its leader and Chennai Central constituency candidate Dayanidhi Maran attributed it to a "severe anti-Modi wave" in the state.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-results-2019-live-updates-220687">Get LIVE updates here.</a>

Crediting DMK chief M K Stalin for cobbling up a "formidable alliance", he alleged NDA regime had neglected the state.

"Our leader Stalin has ensure a formidable alliance which has triumphed. Strategy adopted by him is the reason for our sweep in Tamil Nadu," he told PTI at a counting centre.

In an apparent bucking of the trend in the Lok Sabha polls, AIADMK was in a neck and neck race with DMK in the 22 Assembly seats which went for bypolls.

If the ruling party managed to hold on to the nine seats it was leading, it could ward off any threat to the K Palaniswami government.

The DMK was leading in 11 seats while AIADMK in nine, according to the EC trends.

In the Lok Sabha trends, Prominent DMK candidates, including Kanimozhi, sister of Stalin, former Ministers Dayanidhi Maran, A Raja, TR Baalu and SS Palanimanickam registered comfortable leads against their rivals, including those from AIADMK and BJP.

Congress' star candidates Karti P Chidambaram and former TNCC chief Su Thirunavukkarasar took comfortable leads in Sivaganga and Tiruchirappalli, respectively.

SPA allies CPI (M) and CPI were also leading in their respective seats.

Contrary to expectations, TTV Dhinakaran's Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) and actor Kamal Haasan's Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) failed to make any impact in their debut Lok Sabha polls.

So far, they were no reports of any untoward incidents as counting was proceeding smoothly, officials said.

For the AIADMK, stakes are higher in the assembly by-polls, as the outcome would determine its continuance in power.

DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA) in Tamil Nadu appeared headed for a clean sweep as it led in 35 of the 38 Lok Sabha seats in the state Thursday. The ruling AIADMK, which had registered a landslide in the 2014 elections under the leadership of its supremo late Jayalalithaa, is trailing in most of the 20 seats it contested as also its allies, including the BJP.

DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA) in Tamil Nadu appeared headed for a clean sweep as it led in 35 of the 38 Lok Sabha seats in the state Thursday. The ruling AIADMK, which had registered a landslide in the 2014 elections under the leadership of its supremo late Jayalalithaa, is trailing in most of the 20 seats it contested as also its allies, including the BJP. The AIADMK-led NDA is ahead in only three constituencies, according to the latest Election Commission trends. AIADMK's greenhorn and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam's son P Raveendranath Kumar was leading over Congress veteran EVKS Elngovan in Theni. NDA constituent Anbumani Ramadoss of PMK is leading in Dharmapuri over his nearest SPA candidate. Watch: Trends show Congress heavyweights trailing The votes polled in the April 18 elections held to 38 Lok Sabha seats in the state is underway in 45 centres across the state. Election in Vellore constituency has been countermanded. DMK alone was leading in 22 seats while it key ally the Congress surged ahead in eight of the nine seats it fought, as a total reversal appeared on cards compared to the 2014 poll when the AIADMK had 37 seats. Reacting to the early trends of DMK surge, its leader and Chennai Central constituency candidate Dayanidhi Maran attributed it to a "severe anti-Modi wave" in the state. Get LIVE updates here. Crediting DMK chief M K Stalin for cobbling up a "formidable alliance", he alleged NDA regime had neglected the state. "Our leader Stalin has ensure a formidable alliance which has triumphed. Strategy adopted by him is the reason for our sweep in Tamil Nadu," he told PTI at a counting centre. In an apparent bucking of the trend in the Lok Sabha polls, AIADMK was in a neck and neck race with DMK in the 22 Assembly seats which went for bypolls. If the ruling party managed to hold on to the nine seats it was leading, it could ward off any threat to the K Palaniswami government. The DMK was leading in 11 seats while AIADMK in nine, according to the EC trends. In the Lok Sabha trends, Prominent DMK candidates, including Kanimozhi, sister of Stalin, former Ministers Dayanidhi Maran, A Raja, TR Baalu and SS Palanimanickam registered comfortable leads against their rivals, including those from AIADMK and BJP. Congress' star candidates Karti P Chidambaram and former TNCC chief Su Thirunavukkarasar took comfortable leads in Sivaganga and Tiruchirappalli, respectively. SPA allies CPI (M) and CPI were also leading in their respective seats. Contrary to expectations, TTV Dhinakaran's Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) and actor Kamal Haasan's Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) failed to make any impact in their debut Lok Sabha polls. So far, they were no reports of any untoward incidents as counting was proceeding smoothly, officials said. For the AIADMK, stakes are higher in the assembly by-polls, as the outcome would determine its continuance in power.

DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance appears on course for sweep in Tamil Nadu, leads in 35 seats

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palanisami has said that the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will sweep the polls in the state. His reaction came a day after exit polls predicted poor performance for the NDA in Tamil Nadu, saying the BJP-led alliance's tally will be in single digit.

"Ahead of the 2016 assembly poll results, the media had said that the we will lose and and get only three seats that fall under the Salem segment. But we ended up winning 10 seats. This is the nature of exit polls," Palanisami told reporters at Salem airport. Palanisami's AIADMK party is a part of the NDA.

Palaniswami said these numbers were being <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/time-and-again-exit-polls-have-failed-to-catch-the-peoples-pulse-chandrababu-naidu-220003">forced upon the people</a>. He also expressed confidence about the AIADMK and its allies sweeping the state's 38 parliamentary constituencies and the lone seat in Puducherry, while also winning all the 22 bypolls to the vacant assembly seats.

When asked about the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/exit-polls-2019-pm-modi-returning-to-power-with-300-plus-seats-say-pollsters-219927">projection of the exit polls</a> at the national level, he said, "I know only about the situation in Tamil Nadu and I'm saying this as the leader of a regional party."

AIADMK's political opponent DMK, meanwhile, said it does not take into consideration the exit poll projections, irrespective of whether they were in favour or against the DMK. "In three days, the people's verdict will be out and that's what we are eagerly waiting for," DMK chief MK Stalin said.

Watch: Exit polls predicts DMK's comeback in Tamil Nadu

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-votes-exit-polls-2019-predicts-dmks-comeback-in-tamil-nadu-219961/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He said that Andhra Chief Minister and TDP leader Chandrababu Naidu had spoken to him many times and had also expressed support to the DMK.

Rubbishing questions on the Opposition parties meeting in New Delhi on May 23, Stalin said, "Who told you that the meeting is on 23rd? You yourselves are putting out that news. Only after the results on 23rd evening can we take a call on those meetings and that's when it would be useful."

The DMK, along with its allies the Congress and the Left parties, hopes to make big gains in Tamil Nadu as the AIADMK faces anti-incumbency after wins in the 2011 Assembly polls and 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palanisami has said that the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will sweep the polls in the state. His reaction came a day after exit polls predicted poor performance for the NDA in Tamil Nadu, saying the BJP-led alliance's tally will be in single digit.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palanisami has said that the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will sweep the polls in the state. His reaction came a day after exit polls predicted poor performance for the NDA in Tamil Nadu, saying the BJP-led alliance's tally will be in single digit. "Ahead of the 2016 assembly poll results, the media had said that the we will lose and and get only three seats that fall under the Salem segment. But we ended up winning 10 seats. This is the nature of exit polls," Palanisami told reporters at Salem airport. Palanisami's AIADMK party is a part of the NDA. Palaniswami said these numbers were being forced upon the people. He also expressed confidence about the AIADMK and its allies sweeping the state's 38 parliamentary constituencies and the lone seat in Puducherry, while also winning all the 22 bypolls to the vacant assembly seats. When asked about the projection of the exit polls at the national level, he said, "I know only about the situation in Tamil Nadu and I'm saying this as the leader of a regional party." AIADMK's political opponent DMK, meanwhile, said it does not take into consideration the exit poll projections, irrespective of whether they were in favour or against the DMK. "In three days, the people's verdict will be out and that's what we are eagerly waiting for," DMK chief MK Stalin said. Watch: Exit polls predicts DMK's comeback in Tamil Nadu He said that Andhra Chief Minister and TDP leader Chandrababu Naidu had spoken to him many times and had also expressed support to the DMK. Rubbishing questions on the Opposition parties meeting in New Delhi on May 23, Stalin said, "Who told you that the meeting is on 23rd? You yourselves are putting out that news. Only after the results on 23rd evening can we take a call on those meetings and that's when it would be useful." The DMK, along with its allies the Congress and the Left parties, hopes to make big gains in Tamil Nadu as the AIADMK faces anti-incumbency after wins in the 2011 Assembly polls and 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

Buzz from Tamil Nadu on exit poll predictions: Will sweep, says AIADMK; wait for results says DMK

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-kamal-haasan-to-campaign-for-trinamool-congress-in-andaman-205940">Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan</a>’s public meeting in Aravakurichi town in Tamil Nadu’s Karur district was disrupted on Thursday after miscreants allegedly hurled&nbsp;eggs and stones at him.&nbsp;No one was injured and Haasan was escorted to safety.

The police have reportedly detained two people for questioning.

Haasan, who recently floated debutant&nbsp;party Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), recently made <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/complaint-filed-against-kamal-haasan-for-hindu-terrorist-remark-218775">controversial remarks about Mahatma Gandhi’s assassin Nathuram Godse </a>which were widely criticised.

“I am not even threatened. The quality of politics is going down today, but I won’t indulge in mudslinging,” Haasan said at Chennai airport on Friday morning after coming back from Aravakurichi.

History has shown us that there have been extremists in every religion, I was talking in that sense. My speech that day was about harmony, he added.

Slippers were hurled at him at a rally in Tirupparakundram in Madurai on Wednesday for his remarks about Godse. The slippers, however, did not hit the MNM chief and fell on the crowd. Eleven people were named in the police complaint for the incident.

Haasan’s party has fielded candidates in Tirupparakundram and Aravakurichi where bypolls are scheduled on Sunday.

Clarifying his comments, Haasan had said on Thursday, “If a historical truth is spoken and it wounds people, we should heal that wound. That’s why we are here, being together and co-existing is the way ahead.”

Elaborating on his comments on co-existence over tolerance, Haasan said other religions should not be tolerated but should be wholly accepted.

A complaint has, meanwhile, been filed against him at Delhi’s Patiala House court. The complainant Vishnu Gupta, who claims to be a founding member of fringe group Hindu Sena, has alleged that Haasan's statement has deliberately hurt the sentiments of a community.

The court has posted the matter for consideration on August 2, when evidence will be put up before the court after which it will decide whether to issues summons or not.

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Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan’s public meeting in Aravakurichi town in Tamil Nadu’s Karur district was disrupted on Thursday after miscreants allegedly hurled eggs and stones at him.

Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan’s public meeting in Aravakurichi town in Tamil Nadu’s Karur district was disrupted on Thursday after miscreants allegedly hurled eggs and stones at him. No one was injured and Haasan was escorted to safety. The police have reportedly detained two people for questioning. Haasan, who recently floated debutant party Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), recently made controversial remarks about Mahatma Gandhi’s assassin Nathuram Godse which were widely criticised. “I am not even threatened. The quality of politics is going down today, but I won’t indulge in mudslinging,” Haasan said at Chennai airport on Friday morning after coming back from Aravakurichi. History has shown us that there have been extremists in every religion, I was talking in that sense. My speech that day was about harmony, he added. Slippers were hurled at him at a rally in Tirupparakundram in Madurai on Wednesday for his remarks about Godse. The slippers, however, did not hit the MNM chief and fell on the crowd. Eleven people were named in the police complaint for the incident. Haasan’s party has fielded candidates in Tirupparakundram and Aravakurichi where bypolls are scheduled on Sunday. Clarifying his comments, Haasan had said on Thursday, “If a historical truth is spoken and it wounds people, we should heal that wound. That’s why we are here, being together and co-existing is the way ahead.” Elaborating on his comments on co-existence over tolerance, Haasan said other religions should not be tolerated but should be wholly accepted. A complaint has, meanwhile, been filed against him at Delhi’s Patiala House court. The complainant Vishnu Gupta, who claims to be a founding member of fringe group Hindu Sena, has alleged that Haasan's statement has deliberately hurt the sentiments of a community. The court has posted the matter for consideration on August 2, when evidence will be put up before the court after which it will decide whether to issues summons or not.

My speech about harmony, says Kamal Haasan defending Godse remark

DMK chief MK Stalin today said that he "doesn't see a chance" for a Third Front, in a setback for Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao who has been exploring the possibility of a non-BJP, non-Congress arrangement at the centre after the national elections. Mr Stalin, who met Mr Rao - or KCR as he is popularly known - yesterday, described the meeting as a "courtesy call", saying alliances weren't discussed at the meeting.

Stalin pours cold water on KCR plans; says, ''Don't see chance for third front"

Tamil Nadu BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan has said that DMK chief MK Stalin is in talks with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as the result day for Lok Sabha elections near. The statement comes a day after Stalin met Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) chief K Chandrasekhar Rao which was termed a "courtesy visit" by the DMK.

"They are speaking via someone, they are establishing a connection," said Soundararajan, the chief of the Tamil Nadu unit of BJP. "It is true, on the one side it is Rahul Gandhi, on the other it is KCR and then Modi. Everyone knows that the DMK changes colours," she added.

This comment by Soundararajan gains significance as the DMK president Stalin was the first to endorse Rahul Gandhi as Prime Minister and revive the UPA-era alliance between the parties. The DMK has also been campaigning vociferously against the Modi government, calling it "anti-people".

Ideologically too the Dravidian, rationalist, Tamil nationalist roots of the DMK do not match with the saffron party, and the two parties have been at loggerheads except for their alliance during Atal Bihari Vajpayee's NDA years.

Speaking to WION on Soundararajan's comment, senior political analyst Dr Sumanth C Raman said, "The very fact that BJP is talking about parties like DMK shows that they are not very confident about getting a majority."

But Soundararajan dismissed the speculation and said she is confident that the BJP will emerge victorious in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. "Everyone knows that BJP is winning. KCR is hungry and he is trying to bring some sort of a change on May 23, when the results of the Lok Sabha polls will be announced," said Soundararajan.

Quoting unspecified opinion polls, Soundararajan said that Narendra Modi is coming back to power as Prime Minister.

Speaking on Stalin's meeting with KCR, she said, "KCR met Stalin, but it won't make a difference. How many ever fronts emerge? It will only benefit the BJP." She also questioned Stalin abiut why he did not firmly say that Rahul Gandhi would become the Prime Minister post his meeting with KCR.

Responding to Soundararajan's comments, DMK spokesperson Manuraj S said, "The comments of Dr Tamilisai don't warrant a response from a the DMK unless she acts in a manner that is responsible and worthy of the position that she holds in her party." Speaking to WION, he also added that the DMK would not comment until the BJP state president mentioned the specific details of who had contacted the BJP and called Soundararajan's comment a cooked-up story.

For this election, DMK is in an alliance with the Congress, Left parties, and the Congress is contesting in 10 seats across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.

The AIADMK is in an alliance with the BJP, PMK and DMDK, with the saffron party candidates contesting from five parliamentary constituencies.

Tamil Nadu BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan has said that DMK chief MK Stalin is in talks with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as the result day for Lok Sabha elections near.

Tamil Nadu BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan has said that DMK chief MK Stalin is in talks with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as the result day for Lok Sabha elections near. The statement comes a day after Stalin met Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) chief K Chandrasekhar Rao which was termed a "courtesy visit" by the DMK. "They are speaking via someone, they are establishing a connection," said Soundararajan, the chief of the Tamil Nadu unit of BJP. "It is true, on the one side it is Rahul Gandhi, on the other it is KCR and then Modi. Everyone knows that the DMK changes colours," she added. This comment by Soundararajan gains significance as the DMK president Stalin was the first to endorse Rahul Gandhi as Prime Minister and revive the UPA-era alliance between the parties. The DMK has also been campaigning vociferously against the Modi government, calling it "anti-people". Ideologically too the Dravidian, rationalist, Tamil nationalist roots of the DMK do not match with the saffron party, and the two parties have been at loggerheads except for their alliance during Atal Bihari Vajpayee's NDA years. Speaking to WION on Soundararajan's comment, senior political analyst Dr Sumanth C Raman said, "The very fact that BJP is talking about parties like DMK shows that they are not very confident about getting a majority." But Soundararajan dismissed the speculation and said she is confident that the BJP will emerge victorious in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. "Everyone knows that BJP is winning. KCR is hungry and he is trying to bring some sort of a change on May 23, when the results of the Lok Sabha polls will be announced," said Soundararajan. Quoting unspecified opinion polls, Soundararajan said that Narendra Modi is coming back to power as Prime Minister. Speaking on Stalin's meeting with KCR, she said, "KCR met Stalin, but it won't make a difference. How many ever fronts emerge? It will only benefit the BJP." She also questioned Stalin abiut why he did not firmly say that Rahul Gandhi would become the Prime Minister post his meeting with KCR. Responding to Soundararajan's comments, DMK spokesperson Manuraj S said, "The comments of Dr Tamilisai don't warrant a response from a the DMK unless she acts in a manner that is responsible and worthy of the position that she holds in her party." Speaking to WION, he also added that the DMK would not comment until the BJP state president mentioned the specific details of who had contacted the BJP and called Soundararajan's comment a cooked-up story. For this election, DMK is in an alliance with the Congress, Left parties, and the Congress is contesting in 10 seats across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. The AIADMK is in an alliance with the BJP, PMK and DMDK, with the saffron party candidates contesting from five parliamentary constituencies.

Stalin in talks with us, says Tamil Nadu BJP chief; DMK refutes claims

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