Over a period of 10 years (2023-32), South Korean automaker Hyundai will be investing USD&nbsp;2.5 billion (INR 20,000 crore) in India. This investment is&nbsp;aimed at scaling up the firm's existing manufacturing operations of electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles, developing an Electric Vehicle (EV) ecosystem, setting up EV charging stations and establishing an EV battery assembly unit.

Unsoo Kim, MD and&nbsp;CEO&nbsp;of Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Tamil Nadu government in this regard.&nbsp;The MoU was exchanged in the presence of top officials from HMIL and the Tamil Nadu government led by Chief Minister MK Stalin.

"As part of our long-term vision, we have finalised plans to develop and establish Tamil Nadu as a base for Hyundai's EV manufacturing in India," said Unsoo Kim. He added that this investment would be utilised to set up a battery pack assembly unit with the capacity to assemble 1,78,000 units per year. In addition to this, the firm would install 100 EV charging stations at key locations on major highways over a period of five years.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin recalled how his father and then Chief Minister M&nbsp;Karunanidhi had laid the foundation stone for the first Hyundai factory in Chennai, in the year 1996. Tracing the growth of Hyundai, he said that the South Korean firm is now the second-largest carmaker in India and the largest exporter of cars from the country. He also added that in terms of the manufacture of automobiles and automobile components, Tamil Nadu has been the leading state in India. Coinciding with its 25th-year milestone in India, Hyundai also rolled out its millionth car made in the country, in the year 2021.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, Hyundai's AVP, of Corporate Affairs, Puneet Anand said that the firm will be expanding its automobile manufacturing capacity in the Chennai factory.

"Outside Korea, India is the single largest manufacturing hub of Hyundai, and we will be scaling up the manufacturing capacity from the current&nbsp;775,000&nbsp;(7.75 lakh) cars per annum to&nbsp;850,000&nbsp;(8.5 lakh). We export made-in-India cars to 88 countries," he added.

According to him, the latest investment by Hyundai is focussed on sustainable mobility and assembling EV batteries locally and it'll eventually bring down the cost of electric vehicles in the country. The firm also announced that it will also be launching a range of electric vehicles across price segments in India.&nbsp;

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Over a period of 10 years (2023-32), South Korean automaker Hyundai will be investing USD 2.5 billion (INR 20,000 crore) in India. This investment is aimed at scaling up the firm's existing manufacturing operations of electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles, developing an Electric Vehicle (EV) ecosystem, setting up EV charging stations and establishing an EV battery assembly unit.

Over a period of 10 years (2023-32), South Korean automaker Hyundai will be investing USD 2.5 billion (INR 20,000 crore) in India. This investment is aimed at scaling up the firm's existing manufacturing operations of electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles, developing an Electric Vehicle (EV) ecosystem, setting up EV charging stations and establishing an EV battery assembly unit. Unsoo Kim, MD and CEO of Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Tamil Nadu government in this regard. The MoU was exchanged in the presence of top officials from HMIL and the Tamil Nadu government led by Chief Minister MK Stalin. "As part of our long-term vision, we have finalised plans to develop and establish Tamil Nadu as a base for Hyundai's EV manufacturing in India," said Unsoo Kim. He added that this investment would be utilised to set up a battery pack assembly unit with the capacity to assemble 1,78,000 units per year. In addition to this, the firm would install 100 EV charging stations at key locations on major highways over a period of five years. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin recalled how his father and then Chief Minister M Karunanidhi had laid the foundation stone for the first Hyundai factory in Chennai, in the year 1996. Tracing the growth of Hyundai, he said that the South Korean firm is now the second-largest carmaker in India and the largest exporter of cars from the country. He also added that in terms of the manufacture of automobiles and automobile components, Tamil Nadu has been the leading state in India. Coinciding with its 25th-year milestone in India, Hyundai also rolled out its millionth car made in the country, in the year 2021. Speaking to WION, Hyundai's AVP, of Corporate Affairs, Puneet Anand said that the firm will be expanding its automobile manufacturing capacity in the Chennai factory. "Outside Korea, India is the single largest manufacturing hub of Hyundai, and we will be scaling up the manufacturing capacity from the current 775,000 (7.75 lakh) cars per annum to 850,000 (8.5 lakh). We export made-in-India cars to 88 countries," he added. According to him, the latest investment by Hyundai is focussed on sustainable mobility and assembling EV batteries locally and it'll eventually bring down the cost of electric vehicles in the country. The firm also announced that it will also be launching a range of electric vehicles across price segments in India. 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.

Hyundai to invest $2.5bn in India, scale up production at its largest manufacturing hub outside Korea

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, the 102-year-old Japanese firm, will be investing $236 million (Rs 1,891 crore) to set up a facility in India to manufacture room air-conditioners and compressors. The foundation stone for the factory was laid virtually&nbsp;by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin&nbsp;in the presence of top officials from the Japanese firm. Situated in the Thiruvallur district near Chennai, the factory is expected to commence production by October 2025.&nbsp;

The Japanese firm signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Tamil Nadu Government, regarding their plan to invest $236 million as a 100 per cent foreign direct investment.

Spread across 52 acres, their new factory, which is also their first to manufacture room ACs and compressors in India, is expected to offer employment to more than 2,000 people. The firm hopes to roll out 3,00,000 ACs and 6,50,000 compressors per year, and these products are meant to cater to local demand and exports.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mitsubishi-electric-ceo-to-quit-over-long-running-data-deceit-395541">ALSO READ |&nbsp;Mitsubishi Electric CEO to quit over long-running data deceit</a>

Speaking at the event, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said that Tamil Nadu is home to three of the 12 Japan Industrial Townships (JIT) in India, as part of the Japan-India Investment Promotion Partnership.

He also highlighted that Tamil Nadu was home to the highest number of Japanese expatriates in India. He also made a mention of his impending visit to Singapore and Japan later this month, to attract investors to the state.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, the 102-year-old Japanese firm, will be investing $236 million (Rs 1,891 crore) to set up a facility in India to manufacture room air-conditioners and compressors.

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, the 102-year-old Japanese firm, will be investing $236 million (Rs 1,891 crore) to set up a facility in India to manufacture room air-conditioners and compressors. The foundation stone for the factory was laid virtually by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin in the presence of top officials from the Japanese firm. Situated in the Thiruvallur district near Chennai, the factory is expected to commence production by October 2025. The Japanese firm signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Tamil Nadu Government, regarding their plan to invest $236 million as a 100 per cent foreign direct investment. Spread across 52 acres, their new factory, which is also their first to manufacture room ACs and compressors in India, is expected to offer employment to more than 2,000 people. The firm hopes to roll out 3,00,000 ACs and 6,50,000 compressors per year, and these products are meant to cater to local demand and exports. ALSO READ | Mitsubishi Electric CEO to quit over long-running data deceit Speaking at the event, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said that Tamil Nadu is home to three of the 12 Japan Industrial Townships (JIT) in India, as part of the Japan-India Investment Promotion Partnership. He also highlighted that Tamil Nadu was home to the highest number of Japanese expatriates in India. He also made a mention of his impending visit to Singapore and Japan later this month, to attract investors to the state. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Japan’s Mitsubishi Electric to invest $235mn in AC factory in India; to start production by Oct 2025

The Tamil Nadu government raised the Dearness Allowance (DA) for government employees, including teachers, pensioners, and family pensioners, from 34 per cent&nbsp;to 38 per cent with immediate effect on Sunday. Notably, the increase would benefit approximately 16 lakh employees, and the decision was made after taking into account the representation of government employees.

Despite the fact that the move would incur an additional annual expenditure of Rs 2,359 crore, the government has accepted the financial burden in the interest of state employees' welfare.
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In response to the protest of government teachers seeking 'equal pay for equal work,' he announced the formation of a committee of three top officials, led by Finance Secretary-Expenditure. According to him, the government has decided to take action based on the panel's recommendations.

He called the DA hike a "New Year's gift," and urged employees to join the government in its efforts to improve people's well-being and prosperity.

The Tamil Nadu government raised the Dearness Allowance (DA) for government employees, including teachers, pensioners, and family pensioners, from 34 per cent to 38 per cent with immediate effect on Sunday.

The Tamil Nadu government raised the Dearness Allowance (DA) for government employees, including teachers, pensioners, and family pensioners, from 34 per cent to 38 per cent with immediate effect on Sunday. Notably, the increase would benefit approximately 16 lakh employees, and the decision was made after taking into account the representation of government employees. Despite the fact that the move would incur an additional annual expenditure of Rs 2,359 crore, the government has accepted the financial burden in the interest of state employees' welfare. In response to the protest of government teachers seeking 'equal pay for equal work,' he announced the formation of a committee of three top officials, led by Finance Secretary-Expenditure. According to him, the government has decided to take action based on the panel's recommendations. He called the DA hike a "New Year's gift," and urged employees to join the government in its efforts to improve people's well-being and prosperity.

7th pay commission: Tamil Nadu announces DA hike for government employees as New Year gift, CHECK details

In India, four people were killed in the Southern state of Tamil Nadu after Cyclone Mandous hit the Indian coast this Friday. The cyclone left behind a trail of destruction damaging about 200 homes. Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister MK Stalin inspected the cyclone-affected area and spoke to the fishermen community.

India: Cyclone Mandous hits Tamil Nadu, 4 killed

Cyclone Mandous wreaked havoc across India's southeastern coast as it brought heavy rainfall. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin announced on Saturday that four people have died across Tamil Nadu after Cyclone Mandous made landfall off Mamallapuram.&nbsp;

Speaking to the media, the chief minister said, "I inspected the affected areas. Corporation workers have worked very well. 4 people have lost their lives in this heavy rainfall. 98 cattle died too."&nbsp;

While commenting on the damage in the southern state of India, CM Stalin said, "151 houses and huts got damaged, other damages are being calculated. In Chennai, 400 trees were uprooted."&nbsp;

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ECR, காசிமேடு பகுதிகளில் <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneMandous?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneMandous</a>-ஆல் ஏற்பட்ட பாதிப்புகளை ஆய்வு செய்து, பாதிக்கப்பட்ட மக்களுக்கு நிவாரண உதவிகள் வழங்கினேன். 
 
இயற்கைப் பேரிடரிலிருந்து மக்களைக் காத்திட இரவு பகல் பாராமல் முழு அர்ப்பணிப்போடு தங்களை ஈடுபடுத்திக் கொண்ட மாண்புமிகு அமைச்சர் பெருமக்கள் - (1/3) <a href="https://t.co/JvouauLwpX">pic.twitter.com/JvouauLwpX</a>
— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) <a href="https://twitter.com/mkstalin/status/1601518644944457728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Cyclone Mandous brought winds raging at 65kmph to 75kmph and rainfall up to 10cm. The gusts touched 85kmph.&nbsp;

The cyclone made landfall on Friday between 11:30pm and 1:30am (local time). Cyclone Mandous crossed the coast with a wind speed of 75km per hour.&nbsp;

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that the cyclone has now weakened into a deep depression.&nbsp;

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Deep Depression (remnant of the cyclonic storm Mandous) weakened into a Depression over north Tamil Nadu. To gradually weaken into a well marked low pressure area during next 12 hours. <a href="https://t.co/y1uJ0lIc6z">pic.twitter.com/y1uJ0lIc6z</a>
— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) <a href="https://twitter.com/Indiametdept/status/1601501453017022464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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According to the IMD forecast, there will be light to moderate rainfall at most places on Saturday. The forecast also mentioned that heavy to very heavy showers (64.5 mm-204 mm) will be recorded at isolated locations across Rayalaseema, north Tamil Nadu and south interior Karnataka.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, coastal Andhra Pradesh will receive heavy rains (64.5 mm-115.5 mm) for the next 24 hours. In Andhra Pradesh, Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) leaders, including MLA Bhumana Karunakar Reddy, and other local officials in Tirupati visited the areas affected by Cyclone Mandous on Saturday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Cyclone Mandous wreaked havoc across India's southeastern coast as it brought heavy rainfall. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin announced on Saturday that four people have died across Tamil Nadu after Cyclone Mandous made landfall off Mamallapuram.

Cyclone Mandous wreaked havoc across India's southeastern coast as it brought heavy rainfall. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin announced on Saturday that four people have died across Tamil Nadu after Cyclone Mandous made landfall off Mamallapuram. Speaking to the media, the chief minister said, "I inspected the affected areas. Corporation workers have worked very well. 4 people have lost their lives in this heavy rainfall. 98 cattle died too." While commenting on the damage in the southern state of India, CM Stalin said, "151 houses and huts got damaged, other damages are being calculated. In Chennai, 400 trees were uprooted." ECR, காசிமேடு பகுதிகளில் #CycloneMandous-ஆல் ஏற்பட்ட பாதிப்புகளை ஆய்வு செய்து, பாதிக்கப்பட்ட மக்களுக்கு நிவாரண உதவிகள் வழங்கினேன். இயற்கைப் பேரிடரிலிருந்து மக்களைக் காத்திட இரவு பகல் பாராமல் முழு அர்ப்பணிப்போடு தங்களை ஈடுபடுத்திக் கொண்ட மாண்புமிகு அமைச்சர் பெருமக்கள் - (1/3) pic.twitter.com/JvouauLwpX — M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) December 10, 2022 × Cyclone Mandous brought winds raging at 65kmph to 75kmph and rainfall up to 10cm. The gusts touched 85kmph. The cyclone made landfall on Friday between 11:30pm and 1:30am (local time). Cyclone Mandous crossed the coast with a wind speed of 75km per hour. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that the cyclone has now weakened into a deep depression. Deep Depression (remnant of the cyclonic storm Mandous) weakened into a Depression over north Tamil Nadu. To gradually weaken into a well marked low pressure area during next 12 hours. pic.twitter.com/y1uJ0lIc6z — India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) December 10, 2022 × According to the IMD forecast, there will be light to moderate rainfall at most places on Saturday. The forecast also mentioned that heavy to very heavy showers (64.5 mm-204 mm) will be recorded at isolated locations across Rayalaseema, north Tamil Nadu and south interior Karnataka. Meanwhile, coastal Andhra Pradesh will receive heavy rains (64.5 mm-115.5 mm) for the next 24 hours. In Andhra Pradesh, Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) leaders, including MLA Bhumana Karunakar Reddy, and other local officials in Tirupati visited the areas affected by Cyclone Mandous on Saturday. (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.

Cyclone Mandous: Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin says four dead in heavy rainfall

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin demanded at a &nbsp;government function in presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that Katchatheevu island, now a part of Sri Lanka according to India-Sri Lanka Maritime Boundary Agreements between 1974-76, should be retrieved to India so that traditional fishing rights of Tamil fishermen are unaffected.

He said, &nbsp;"To solve the important issue faced by Tamil Nadu fishermen, katchatheevu should be retrieved, TN fishermen should be able to exercise their rights in their traditional fishing zones... This is the right time to take action in this regard, I'm duty-bound to remind the Prime Minister (Modi) about this.”

The demand to retrieve Katchatheevu has been a long-standing one. But significantly, this time the demand has come up at a time when Sri Lanka is facing its worst economic crisis, with the inflation rate as high as 33.8 per cent in April 2022.

Where is Katchatheevu?

Katchatheevu is a small uninhabited island in Palk Strait, that connects the Bay of Bengal to the Arabian Sea. It is a disputed territory between Sri Lanka and India, claimed until 1976 by India, and administered by Sri Lanka at the moment.

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Kalaignar Karunanidhi, Father of CM <a href="https://twitter.com/mkstalin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mkstalin</a> was instrumental in the handing over of the "Katchatheevu island" to Sri Lanka. 
 
Its 285 acres of green cover belonged to India till 1976. Now our fishermen can't enjoy any right to engage in fishing activities in the region. <a href="https://t.co/ZGlCb7BPTA">pic.twitter.com/ZGlCb7BPTA</a>
— Amar Prasad Reddy (@amarprasadreddy) <a href="https://twitter.com/amarprasadreddy/status/1483654806988558344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Island’s history

Katchatheevu island was formed due to volcanic eruptions in the 14th century.&nbsp;

The Raja of Ramnad (present-day Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu) owned Katchatheevu island and it later became a part of the Madras Presidency.

In 1921, both Sri Lanka and India claimed this piece of land for fishing and the dispute remained unsettled. The 285-acre land was jointly administered by India and Sri Lanka during British rule.&nbsp;

What is the Katchatheevu island issue?

Fishermen of both countries have been fishing in each other's waters without conflict for a very long time. The issue emerged when India-Sri Lanka signed maritime boundary agreements. The agreements marked the international maritime boundary of India and Sri Lanka.

The agreement aimed to facilitate resource management and law enforcement in the Palk Strait. Now, Indian fishermen were only allowed to use the island for resting, net drying and the annual St. Anthony’s festival. They are not permitted to use the island for fishing. However, Indian fishermen continued trespassing the Sri Lankan water boundary, searching for a better catch in the area.

The next few decades went well but the problem turned serious when fish and aquatic life in the Indian continental shelf depleted, which resulted in an increased number of Indian fishermen in the region. They are also using modern fishing trolleys which harm marine life and the ecosystem.

LTTE era and restrictions on movement

During the LTTE (LiberationTigers of Tamil Eelam, a separatist group in Sri Lanka) era, the &nbsp;Sri Lankan government restricted the easy movement of Sri Lankan fishermen in waters raising military operations issues. 
&nbsp;In 2009, Sri Lanka started heavily guarding its maritime boundary in the Palk Strait. It was done to reduce the possibility of the return of Tamil insurgents to the country.

The Indian fishermen considered this an opportunity. But, with the end of the war in 2010, Sri Lankan fishermen again started their movement in Palk Bay and reclaimed their lost legitimate territory.

Centre vs state of Tamil Nadu on this issue

In 1974, the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi signed four Maritime Boundary Agreements between 1974-76 with her counterpart Srimavo Bandaranaike, Sri Lankan President, and ceded Katchatheevu Island to Sri Lanka.&nbsp; 
In response, in 1991, a resolution was adopted by the Tamil Nadu Assembly demanding the retrieval of Katchatheevu island through the resolution.

In 2008, the then Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Jayalalithaa dragged the centre to the Supreme Court and appealed to nullify the Katchatheevu agreements. She stated that two treaties between the countries that gifted Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka are unconstitutional.

Humanitarian and Livelihood Concerns

About 10 miles northeast of Rameshwaram, the island is used by Indian fishermen to dry their nets, catch fish and rest. Frequent arrests on the border have increased and Sri Lankan authorities said that they are protecting their maritime boundaries against poaching, and securing the livelihood of Sri Lankan fishermen. Both sides ensure to not use force under any circumstances. However, the violent situation remains the same.

 
&nbsp;

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Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin demanded at a government function in presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that Katchatheevu island, now a part of Sri Lanka according to India-Sri Lanka Maritime Boundary Agreements between 1974-76, should be retrieved to India so that traditional fishing rights of Tamil fishermen are unaffected.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin demanded at a government function in presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that Katchatheevu island, now a part of Sri Lanka according to India-Sri Lanka Maritime Boundary Agreements between 1974-76, should be retrieved to India so that traditional fishing rights of Tamil fishermen are unaffected. He said, "To solve the important issue faced by Tamil Nadu fishermen, katchatheevu should be retrieved, TN fishermen should be able to exercise their rights in their traditional fishing zones... This is the right time to take action in this regard, I'm duty-bound to remind the Prime Minister (Modi) about this.” The demand to retrieve Katchatheevu has been a long-standing one. But significantly, this time the demand has come up at a time when Sri Lanka is facing its worst economic crisis, with the inflation rate as high as 33.8 per cent in April 2022. Where is Katchatheevu? Katchatheevu is a small uninhabited island in Palk Strait, that connects the Bay of Bengal to the Arabian Sea. It is a disputed territory between Sri Lanka and India, claimed until 1976 by India, and administered by Sri Lanka at the moment. Kalaignar Karunanidhi, Father of CM @mkstalin was instrumental in the handing over of the "Katchatheevu island" to Sri Lanka. Its 285 acres of green cover belonged to India till 1976. Now our fishermen can't enjoy any right to engage in fishing activities in the region. pic.twitter.com/ZGlCb7BPTA — Amar Prasad Reddy (@amarprasadreddy) January 19, 2022 × Island’s history Katchatheevu island was formed due to volcanic eruptions in the 14th century. The Raja of Ramnad (present-day Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu) owned Katchatheevu island and it later became a part of the Madras Presidency. In 1921, both Sri Lanka and India claimed this piece of land for fishing and the dispute remained unsettled. The 285-acre land was jointly administered by India and Sri Lanka during British rule. What is the Katchatheevu island issue? Fishermen of both countries have been fishing in each other's waters without conflict for a very long time. The issue emerged when India-Sri Lanka signed maritime boundary agreements. The agreements marked the international maritime boundary of India and Sri Lanka. The agreement aimed to facilitate resource management and law enforcement in the Palk Strait. Now, Indian fishermen were only allowed to use the island for resting, net drying and the annual St. Anthony’s festival. They are not permitted to use the island for fishing. However, Indian fishermen continued trespassing the Sri Lankan water boundary, searching for a better catch in the area. The next few decades went well but the problem turned serious when fish and aquatic life in the Indian continental shelf depleted, which resulted in an increased number of Indian fishermen in the region. They are also using modern fishing trolleys which harm marine life and the ecosystem. LTTE era and restrictions on movement During the LTTE (LiberationTigers of Tamil Eelam, a separatist group in Sri Lanka) era, the Sri Lankan government restricted the easy movement of Sri Lankan fishermen in waters raising military operations issues. In 2009, Sri Lanka started heavily guarding its maritime boundary in the Palk Strait. It was done to reduce the possibility of the return of Tamil insurgents to the country. The Indian fishermen considered this an opportunity. But, with the end of the war in 2010, Sri Lankan fishermen again started their movement in Palk Bay and reclaimed their lost legitimate territory. Centre vs state of Tamil Nadu on this issue In 1974, the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi signed four Maritime Boundary Agreements between 1974-76 with her counterpart Srimavo Bandaranaike, Sri Lankan President, and ceded Katchatheevu Island to Sri Lanka. In response, in 1991, a resolution was adopted by the Tamil Nadu Assembly demanding the retrieval of Katchatheevu island through the resolution. In 2008, the then Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Jayalalithaa dragged the centre to the Supreme Court and appealed to nullify the Katchatheevu agreements. She stated that two treaties between the countries that gifted Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka are unconstitutional. Humanitarian and Livelihood Concerns About 10 miles northeast of Rameshwaram, the island is used by Indian fishermen to dry their nets, catch fish and rest. Frequent arrests on the border have increased and Sri Lankan authorities said that they are protecting their maritime boundaries against poaching, and securing the livelihood of Sri Lankan fishermen. Both sides ensure to not use force under any circumstances. However, the violent situation remains the same. 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.

Explained: India-Sri Lanka conflict over Katchatheevu Island

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

Following allegations of Tamil Nadu’s western belt being ignored by the ruling DMK, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister who is touring the region is facing the wrath of angry netizens and political opponents on Twitter.

The Western belt which is locally known as the ‘Kongu Belt’ is an AIADMK stronghold and largely voted against the ruling DMK. Coimbatore, the second-largest city in Tamil Nadu and an industrial hub is situated in the Kongu belt region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dmk-ministers-comments-on-not-getting-hindi-speakers-votes-courts-trouble-bjp-objects-387725" hreflang="en">DMK minister’s comments on not getting Hindi-speakers’ votes courts trouble; BJP objects</a>

However, this region is said to have been allocated far fewer vaccines than Chennai. Coimbatore is also now the city with maximum COVID-19 cases in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Leaders from the opposition parties, BJP and AIADMK, have been pointing out the high number of deaths and spike in cases in Coimbatore when compared to Chennai, which is now seeing a daily decline in COVID-19 numbers.

In a clip of a Tamil TV debate, a DMK spokesperson was seen telling a BJP spokesperson that “if people of Coimbatore are struggling and crying in pain, they must do so before Modi. If they are crying in pain, then WhatsApp it to Modi”. &nbsp;Notably, Coimbatore South is an important assembly constituency that elected BJP Women’s wing President Vanathi Srinivasan.&nbsp;

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>

The hashtag #GoBackStalin has been trending with more than 150,000 tweets&nbsp;and is perhaps the first time that a Tamil Nadu Chief Minister is facing this trend when touring a district of his home state.

DMK sympathisers&nbsp;countered the trend by using hashtags #Welcome_TNCM_Stalin, #WelcomeStalin and also by sharing videos of the Chief Minister wearing a PPE Suit, during a hospital inspection in Coimbatore on Sunday.

In October 2020, as Leader of Opposition Stalin had paid homage to freedom fighter and spiritual leader Muthuramaliga Thevar’s memorial in Ramanathapuram. Back then too, #GoBackStalin had trended on Twitter. Many from the AIADMK and BJP had lashed out at the DMK saying that they had nothing to do with Thevar's ideals of Nationalism and Spiritualism.

Currently, Tamil Nadu is reporting nearly 31,000 COVID-19 cases everyday, whereas the daily recoveries are around 30,000. The southern state is recording the maximum COVID-19 cases in India. Daily deaths being reported are over 450 for the past few days and over 23,000 persons have lost their lives to the pandemic. Active cases in the state are over 310, 000.

While the cases in the capital city Chennai have come down from nearly 7,000 to 2,500, it&nbsp;is the second largest district Coimbatore that is seeing a spike. Coimbatore, the Western district is now witnessing over 4,700 daily cases.&nbsp;

Following allegations of Tamil Nadu’s western belt being ignored by the ruling DMK, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister who is touring the region is facing the wrath of angry netizens and political opponents on Twitter.

Following allegations of Tamil Nadu’s western belt being ignored by the ruling DMK, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister who is touring the region is facing the wrath of angry netizens and political opponents on Twitter. The Western belt which is locally known as the ‘Kongu Belt’ is an AIADMK stronghold and largely voted against the ruling DMK. Coimbatore, the second-largest city in Tamil Nadu and an industrial hub is situated in the Kongu belt region. Also read | DMK minister’s comments on not getting Hindi-speakers’ votes courts trouble; BJP objects However, this region is said to have been allocated far fewer vaccines than Chennai. Coimbatore is also now the city with maximum COVID-19 cases in Tamil Nadu. Leaders from the opposition parties, BJP and AIADMK, have been pointing out the high number of deaths and spike in cases in Coimbatore when compared to Chennai, which is now seeing a daily decline in COVID-19 numbers. In a clip of a Tamil TV debate, a DMK spokesperson was seen telling a BJP spokesperson that “if people of Coimbatore are struggling and crying in pain, they must do so before Modi. If they are crying in pain, then WhatsApp it to Modi”. Notably, Coimbatore South is an important assembly constituency that elected BJP Women’s wing President Vanathi Srinivasan. Also read | Tamil Nadu’s ongoing lockdown extended until May 31. New guidelines inside The hashtag #GoBackStalin has been trending with more than 150,000 tweets and is perhaps the first time that a Tamil Nadu Chief Minister is facing this trend when touring a district of his home state. DMK sympathisers countered the trend by using hashtags #Welcome_TNCM_Stalin, #WelcomeStalin and also by sharing videos of the Chief Minister wearing a PPE Suit, during a hospital inspection in Coimbatore on Sunday. In October 2020, as Leader of Opposition Stalin had paid homage to freedom fighter and spiritual leader Muthuramaliga Thevar’s memorial in Ramanathapuram. Back then too, #GoBackStalin had trended on Twitter. Many from the AIADMK and BJP had lashed out at the DMK saying that they had nothing to do with Thevar's ideals of Nationalism and Spiritualism. Currently, Tamil Nadu is reporting nearly 31,000 COVID-19 cases everyday, whereas the daily recoveries are around 30,000. The southern state is recording the maximum COVID-19 cases in India. Daily deaths being reported are over 450 for the past few days and over 23,000 persons have lost their lives to the pandemic. Active cases in the state are over 310, 000. While the cases in the capital city Chennai have come down from nearly 7,000 to 2,500, it is the second largest district Coimbatore that is seeing a spike. Coimbatore, the Western district is now witnessing over 4,700 daily cases.

#GoBackStalin top Twitter trend as CM MK Stalin tours Western Tamil Nadu

On his second day of taking the office, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, MK Stalin, has announced a state-wide lockdown due to "unavoidable circumstances" following a covid surge in India.

The lockdown will begin from 4 am on May 10 (Monday) and continue till 4 am on May 24, if not extended further.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sees-record-4187-covid-19-deaths-401078-new-cases-govt-383617" hreflang="en">India sees record 4,187 COVID-19 deaths, 4,01,078 new cases: Govt&nbsp;</a>

However, to ease the shift from day-to-day functioning to a strict lockdown, Stalin has permitted shops to stay open over the weekend, between 6 am to 9 pm.

The decision has been taken after Tamil Nadu state recorded 197 deaths and 24,465 new cases on Friday, taking the toll to 135,355.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-american-physicians-sending-5000-oxygen-concentrators-to-india-383606" hreflang="en">Indian-American physicians sending 5,000 oxygen concentrators to India</a>

For context, even the entire state of Tamil Nadu had seen only a maximum of 6,900-odd COVID-19 cases in the first wave, but now Chennai itself is nearing that number. Tamil Nadu is almost nearing four-times the highest number of daily cases, as was seen in the first wave.&nbsp;

Under this lockdown, all international flights, except for those allowed by Home Ministry, have been banned, and those wanting to enter the state will have to gain an instant approval E-pass.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/oxygen-availability-in-tamil-nadu-critical-stalin-writes-to-pm-modi-383577" hreflang="en">Oxygen availability in Tamil Nadu critical, Stalin writes to PM Modi&nbsp;</a>

All malls, beauty parlours, salons, spa and TASMAC liquor stores will stay shut till further notice. In addition to this, cinema halls, clubs, bars and other entertainment venues have been ordered to stay shut. Beaches, zoos, museums, monuments and tourist destinations such as Nilgiris, Kodaikanal, Yercaud have been ordered to stay shut.

However, standalone grocery, vegetable shops and supermarkets will be allowed to operate till 12 pm without AC, and services such as Dunzo, Swiggy and more can operate to home deliver essentials. All other restaurants and hotels have been ordered to stay closed for dine-in options. Hotels, that already have guests staying with them, can only offer food through room service.

(With inputs from Sidharth MP)

On his second day of taking the office, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, MK Stalin, has announced a state-wide lockdown due to "unavoidable circumstances" following a covid surge in India.

On his second day of taking the office, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, MK Stalin, has announced a state-wide lockdown due to "unavoidable circumstances" following a covid surge in India. The lockdown will begin from 4 am on May 10 (Monday) and continue till 4 am on May 24, if not extended further. Also read | India sees record 4,187 COVID-19 deaths, 4,01,078 new cases: Govt However, to ease the shift from day-to-day functioning to a strict lockdown, Stalin has permitted shops to stay open over the weekend, between 6 am to 9 pm. The decision has been taken after Tamil Nadu state recorded 197 deaths and 24,465 new cases on Friday, taking the toll to 135,355. Also read | Indian-American physicians sending 5,000 oxygen concentrators to India For context, even the entire state of Tamil Nadu had seen only a maximum of 6,900-odd COVID-19 cases in the first wave, but now Chennai itself is nearing that number. Tamil Nadu is almost nearing four-times the highest number of daily cases, as was seen in the first wave. Under this lockdown, all international flights, except for those allowed by Home Ministry, have been banned, and those wanting to enter the state will have to gain an instant approval E-pass. Also read | Oxygen availability in Tamil Nadu critical, Stalin writes to PM Modi All malls, beauty parlours, salons, spa and TASMAC liquor stores will stay shut till further notice. In addition to this, cinema halls, clubs, bars and other entertainment venues have been ordered to stay shut. Beaches, zoos, museums, monuments and tourist destinations such as Nilgiris, Kodaikanal, Yercaud have been ordered to stay shut. However, standalone grocery, vegetable shops and supermarkets will be allowed to operate till 12 pm without AC, and services such as Dunzo, Swiggy and more can operate to home deliver essentials. All other restaurants and hotels have been ordered to stay closed for dine-in options. Hotels, that already have guests staying with them, can only offer food through room service. (With inputs from Sidharth MP)

MK Stalin imposes state-wide lockdown amid covid surge from Monday

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

Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister-designate and Dravide Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin will have a 33-member cabinet.

Stalin’s oath-taking will be held at 9 am on Friday in a small ceremony at the Raj Bhavan (Governor’s residence) in Chennai, amid the raging COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The list of ministers released by the government does not include Chepauk MLA and Stalin’s son Udhayanidhi (who has been at the receiving end of criticism regarding blatant nepotism). It features only two women - Geetha Jeevan and Kayalvizhi Selvaraj.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Stalin has urged his partymen and cadre to watch the swearing-in ceremony on television from their&nbsp;homes, given the pandemic surge.&nbsp;

In a statement, he said he had hoped for a swearing-in where he could take oath in the presence of their party cadre that led their party to victory, but now it has become impossible owing to the pandemic.&nbsp;

This is the sixth time that a DMK government will be sworn in to rule Tamil Nadu. DMK founder CN Annadurai was the first leader from the party to be elected chief minister in 1967.&nbsp;

Following the demise of Annadurai in 1969 due to cancer, M Karunanidhi took over the reins of the party and government. He was subsequently elected chief minister five times. MK Stalin will be taking over his father’s legacy and will be serving as chief minister of Tamil Nadu for th&nbsp;first time, in his nearly 50 years of political career.

The list of ministers largely consists of senior DMK leaders, successors of veteran leaders and includes only a few members of the younger generation.

Stalin holds the all-important chief minister post that encompasses Public, General administration, IAS, IPS, Home etc.&nbsp;

He will be assisted by Duraimurugan (water resources minister), KN Nehru (municipal administration minister), K&nbsp;Ponmudi (higher education minister), EV. Velu (public works minister), MA Subramanian (minister for medical and family welfare) and Palanivel Thiagarajan (minister for finance and human resources) among others.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister-designate and Dravide Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin will have a 33-member cabinet. Stalin’s oath-taking will be held at 9 am on Friday in a small ceremony at the Raj Bhavan (Governor’s residence) in Chennai, amid the raging COVID-19 pandemic.

Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister-designate and Dravide Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin will have a 33-member cabinet. Stalin’s oath-taking will be held at 9 am on Friday in a small ceremony at the Raj Bhavan (Governor’s residence) in Chennai, amid the raging COVID-19 pandemic. The list of ministers released by the government does not include Chepauk MLA and Stalin’s son Udhayanidhi (who has been at the receiving end of criticism regarding blatant nepotism). It features only two women - Geetha Jeevan and Kayalvizhi Selvaraj. Earlier in the day, Stalin has urged his partymen and cadre to watch the swearing-in ceremony on television from their homes, given the pandemic surge. In a statement, he said he had hoped for a swearing-in where he could take oath in the presence of their party cadre that led their party to victory, but now it has become impossible owing to the pandemic. This is the sixth time that a DMK government will be sworn in to rule Tamil Nadu. DMK founder CN Annadurai was the first leader from the party to be elected chief minister in 1967. Following the demise of Annadurai in 1969 due to cancer, M Karunanidhi took over the reins of the party and government. He was subsequently elected chief minister five times. MK Stalin will be taking over his father’s legacy and will be serving as chief minister of Tamil Nadu for th first time, in his nearly 50 years of political career. The list of ministers largely consists of senior DMK leaders, successors of veteran leaders and includes only a few members of the younger generation. Stalin holds the all-important chief minister post that encompasses Public, General administration, IAS, IPS, Home etc. He will be assisted by Duraimurugan (water resources minister), KN Nehru (municipal administration minister), K Ponmudi (higher education minister), EV. Velu (public works minister), MA Subramanian (minister for medical and family welfare) and Palanivel Thiagarajan (minister for finance and human resources) among others.

MK Stalin’s cabinet to have 33 ministers; his son not included, only 2 women

DMK President MK Stalin questioned the ruling AIADMK government over its handling of rising Covid-19cases in the state, as Tamil Nadu had surpassed 44,000 cases on Sunday. The Opposition leader was addressing journalists via video conference.&nbsp;

He questioned the government on reasons for a steep increase in positivity rate in the state, the plan of action for flattening the curve in Chennai, refusal to collaborate with opposition parties, on the pre-emptive economic revival plan, budgetary allocations and also regarding why the government hasn’t put forth solutions found by expert committees in the public domain.&nbsp;

Stalin suggested that Tamil Nadu follow the Kerala model, where the localities with a very high number of cases could be sealed and groceries, essentials home-delivered. He also added that people remain indoors, wear masks while stepping out and also maintain social distancing. He also accused the government of attacking the common man during a crisis, by hiking fuel prices, at a time when crude rates were relatively low. He also suggested Rs.5000 as an essential cash relief for all ration cardholders and lashed out at the government for moving too hastily open TASMAC(state-run) liquor outlets.&nbsp;

However, it is noteworthy that MK Stalin did not take any significant questions from the journalists of offer substantial solutions for overcoming the crisis, despite multiple requests to the organizing team. There were a plethora of questions raised by many journalists abut alternative solutions, ideas, and also specific issue-based questions, all of which went unanswered. The only response was that the party would conduct similar virtual media addresses in due course.&nbsp;

WION had publicly (as instructed by the organizers) questioned in the chat window about the DMK’s alternative to the handling of the crisis. The questions were as follows - “Lockdowns have indicated that they can delay the spike in cases, slow the spread and prepare the infrastructure. But there’s an economic(livelihood) cost to it, in the present scenario, would you recommend a lockdown in Chennai/ Tamil Nadu or what is the alternative? If going in for a lockdown, how would the economic impact be dealt with?”

In response to the comment on the ruling party having opened liquor shops, despite the DMK’s opposition and protest, WION highlighted what a senior DMK leader had said on the liquor shops re-opening issue. A senior DMK leader had stated that the breweries owned by their party would continue to supply liquor to state-run outlets until the government shut down all breweries. WION had questioned the DMK President on his stance on the same (where the party protests opening of liquor shops and their leaders run breweries which supply liquor). However, the brewery business is regarded to be a duopoly between the leaders, those in close-ties with both major parties in Tamil Nadu - the AIADMK and DMK.&nbsp;

Many other reporters too had questioned the DMK over any special instructions issued to their cadre, after the unfortunate demise of party legislator J.Anbazhagan, who had succumbed to Covid-19, which he is said to have contracted during the distribution of relief work for the needy.&nbsp;

Some even raised questions about how the Opposition party would have handled this unprecedented crisis differently and whether the party had instructed the hospitals owned by their leaders to reserve beds for Covid-19 patients. All of these went unanswered in the Virtual Press Conference.&nbsp;

As on Sunday, Tamil Nadu has recorded a total of 44661 Covid-19 cases, of which 19,676 are active. The state has so far seen 435v casualties and there have also been reports of under-reportage of deaths, which the officials said were being reconciled. Of the total cases in the state, 31896 are recorded in Chennai, with the capital city alone having 14667 active cases. Roughly 10% of India’s total recorded cases are in Chennai city.

DMK President MK Stalin questioned the ruling AIADMK government over its handling of rising Covid-19cases in the state, as Tamil Nadu had surpassed 44,000 cases on Sunday.

DMK President MK Stalin questioned the ruling AIADMK government over its handling of rising Covid-19cases in the state, as Tamil Nadu had surpassed 44,000 cases on Sunday. The Opposition leader was addressing journalists via video conference. He questioned the government on reasons for a steep increase in positivity rate in the state, the plan of action for flattening the curve in Chennai, refusal to collaborate with opposition parties, on the pre-emptive economic revival plan, budgetary allocations and also regarding why the government hasn’t put forth solutions found by expert committees in the public domain. Stalin suggested that Tamil Nadu follow the Kerala model, where the localities with a very high number of cases could be sealed and groceries, essentials home-delivered. He also added that people remain indoors, wear masks while stepping out and also maintain social distancing. He also accused the government of attacking the common man during a crisis, by hiking fuel prices, at a time when crude rates were relatively low. He also suggested Rs.5000 as an essential cash relief for all ration cardholders and lashed out at the government for moving too hastily open TASMAC(state-run) liquor outlets. However, it is noteworthy that MK Stalin did not take any significant questions from the journalists of offer substantial solutions for overcoming the crisis, despite multiple requests to the organizing team. There were a plethora of questions raised by many journalists abut alternative solutions, ideas, and also specific issue-based questions, all of which went unanswered. The only response was that the party would conduct similar virtual media addresses in due course. WION had publicly (as instructed by the organizers) questioned in the chat window about the DMK’s alternative to the handling of the crisis. The questions were as follows - “Lockdowns have indicated that they can delay the spike in cases, slow the spread and prepare the infrastructure. But there’s an economic(livelihood) cost to it, in the present scenario, would you recommend a lockdown in Chennai/ Tamil Nadu or what is the alternative? If going in for a lockdown, how would the economic impact be dealt with?” In response to the comment on the ruling party having opened liquor shops, despite the DMK’s opposition and protest, WION highlighted what a senior DMK leader had said on the liquor shops re-opening issue. A senior DMK leader had stated that the breweries owned by their party would continue to supply liquor to state-run outlets until the government shut down all breweries. WION had questioned the DMK President on his stance on the same (where the party protests opening of liquor shops and their leaders run breweries which supply liquor). However, the brewery business is regarded to be a duopoly between the leaders, those in close-ties with both major parties in Tamil Nadu - the AIADMK and DMK. Many other reporters too had questioned the DMK over any special instructions issued to their cadre, after the unfortunate demise of party legislator J.Anbazhagan, who had succumbed to Covid-19, which he is said to have contracted during the distribution of relief work for the needy. Some even raised questions about how the Opposition party would have handled this unprecedented crisis differently and whether the party had instructed the hospitals owned by their leaders to reserve beds for Covid-19 patients. All of these went unanswered in the Virtual Press Conference. As on Sunday, Tamil Nadu has recorded a total of 44661 Covid-19 cases, of which 19,676 are active. The state has so far seen 435v casualties and there have also been reports of under-reportage of deaths, which the officials said were being reconciled. Of the total cases in the state, 31896 are recorded in Chennai, with the capital city alone having 14667 active cases. Roughly 10% of India’s total recorded cases are in Chennai city.

Offering hardly any solutions or strategies: MK Stalin questions Tamil Nadu govt over Covid-19 situation

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

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

A case was registered against DMK President MK Stalin and party`s Vellore Lok Sabha poll candidate DM Kathir Anand on Friday for conducting a meeting without necessary permission, officials said.

Lok Sabha poll for the Vellore constituency, which was cancelled following the seizure of at least Rs 12 crore in cash from a DMK leader's associate in raids in April, is scheduled to be held on August 5 and the model code of conduct is in force in the constituency.

Ambur police in Vellore district registered the case.&nbsp;

Stalin met leaders of the Muslim community at a marriage hall in Ambur without the permission of election officials on Thursday.

The marriage hall where the meeting took place has also been sealed for violation of model code of conduct.

A case was registered against DMK President MK Stalin and party`s Vellore Lok Sabha poll candidate DM Kathir Anand on Friday for conducting a meeting without necessary permission, officials said.

A case was registered against DMK President MK Stalin and party`s Vellore Lok Sabha poll candidate DM Kathir Anand on Friday for conducting a meeting without necessary permission, officials said. Lok Sabha poll for the Vellore constituency, which was cancelled following the seizure of at least Rs 12 crore in cash from a DMK leader's associate in raids in April, is scheduled to be held on August 5 and the model code of conduct is in force in the constituency. Ambur police in Vellore district registered the case. Stalin met leaders of the Muslim community at a marriage hall in Ambur without the permission of election officials on Thursday. The marriage hall where the meeting took place has also been sealed for violation of model code of conduct.

Case filed against MK Stalin for model code of conduct violation

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on Monday announced the names of its three nominees for the ensuing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-files-nomination-papers-for-rajya-sabha-poll-230257">Rajya Sabha polls</a>.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/m-k-stalins-magananimity-ensured-bjp-aiadmk-rout-in-tamil-nadu-222257">DMK President MK Stalin</a> nominated M Shanmugham of DMK and advocate B Wilson for the Rajya Sabha polls in Tamil Nadu to be held on July 18.&nbsp;

The DMK had agreed to give one of its three Rajya Sabha seats to Vaiko, chief of Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) party, as part of an agreement in the recently held parliamentary election.

&nbsp;Advocate and former Additional Solicitor General of India Wilson is the man who won the Marina land case in Madras High court when the AIADMK-led Tamil Nadu government did not permit late chief minister M Karunanidhi to be buried at the Marina beach.&nbsp;

Shanmugham is the general secretary of the Labour Progressive Federation, the DMK`s labour union wing. Elections to the six Tamil Nadu Rajya Sabha seats is scheduled on July 18. In the 234-member Assembly, AIADMK has 123 members, DMK 100, Congress 7, IUML and Independent one each with two seats vacant.

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on Monday announced the names of its three nominees for the ensuing Rajya Sabha polls. DMK President MK Stalin nominated M Shanmugham of DMK and advocate B Wilson for the Rajya Sabha polls in Tamil Nadu to be held on July 18.

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on Monday announced the names of its three nominees for the ensuing Rajya Sabha polls. DMK President MK Stalin nominated M Shanmugham of DMK and advocate B Wilson for the Rajya Sabha polls in Tamil Nadu to be held on July 18. The DMK had agreed to give one of its three Rajya Sabha seats to Vaiko, chief of Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) party, as part of an agreement in the recently held parliamentary election. Advocate and former Additional Solicitor General of India Wilson is the man who won the Marina land case in Madras High court when the AIADMK-led Tamil Nadu government did not permit late chief minister M Karunanidhi to be buried at the Marina beach. Shanmugham is the general secretary of the Labour Progressive Federation, the DMK`s labour union wing. Elections to the six Tamil Nadu Rajya Sabha seats is scheduled on July 18. In the 234-member Assembly, AIADMK has 123 members, DMK 100, Congress 7, IUML and Independent one each with two seats vacant.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam announces 3 candidates for Rajya Sabha seats from Tamil Nadu

Brandishing empty pots that read “Pot is here, where is water“?, DMK party functionaries, cadre and womenfolk led by Tamil Nadu’s Opposition Party Leader &nbsp;MK Stalin gathered in large numbers to protest against Chief Minister Edappadi K&nbsp;Palaniswami-led AIADMK government’s handling of the prevailing water crisis in Chennai and Tamil Nadu that only seems to be getting worse.&nbsp;

Addressing the gathering DMK president Stalin said such protests and agitations condemning the government are not limited to Chennai but are happening all across Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Accusing the government of facing a crisis in every realm Stalin said, “the government is facing a fund crunch, lack of employment opportunities, shortage in number of industries, law and order is in a bad state, but the senior AIADMK leaders including the CM, his deputy and the ministers choose to remain ignorant about it.”

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Stating that the prevailing water crisis is not a sudden phenomenon, the DMK president said in the last one year, all the lakes, reservoirs that store water in the vicinity of Chennai have been drying up and I highlighted evidence for the same in the Assembly, but it fell on deaf ears.

Lashing out at the AIADMK leaders who said that the water crisis was being exaggerated, Stalin said, women are waiting on the streets with buckets and pots and the state ministers are conducting special Poojas for rains. But these Poojas are not for water or rains, but for the incumbents to ensure the survival of their government, he added.&nbsp;

Making a mention about the TN Assembly that is to convene on 28 May, Stalin said “We have already issued a notice for initiating no-confidence proceedings against the Speaker, but we also believe that it is CM Palaniswami that must be ousted. Even without an election, we can oust this government and what the people expect is going to happen”

Watch:&nbsp;Severe Water Crisis in India

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Responding to the DMK’s charges Tamil Nadu’s Fisheries Minister D&nbsp;Jayakumar quoted the Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam and said, “We are facing a water shortage and not a crisis, the government is taking adequate measures to tide over it.”

Hitting back at the DMK, over the party treasurer Durai Murugan’s comments opposing the plan of bringing water to Chennai from nearby districts, he said, “Stalin and Duraimurugan live in Chennai and drink the water drawn from here, but why are they saying that water from Jolarpet should not be brought to Chennai? Is it not betraying the people of Chennai?”&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Brandishing empty pots that read “Pot is here, where is water“?, DMK party functionaries, cadre and womenfolk led by Tamil Nadu’s Opposition Party Leader MK Stalin gathered in large numbers to protest against Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami-led AIADMK government’s handling of the prevailing water crisis in Chennai and Tamil Nadu that only seems to be getting worse.

Brandishing empty pots that read “Pot is here, where is water“?, DMK party functionaries, cadre and womenfolk led by Tamil Nadu’s Opposition Party Leader MK Stalin gathered in large numbers to protest against Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami-led AIADMK government’s handling of the prevailing water crisis in Chennai and Tamil Nadu that only seems to be getting worse. Addressing the gathering DMK president Stalin said such protests and agitations condemning the government are not limited to Chennai but are happening all across Tamil Nadu. Accusing the government of facing a crisis in every realm Stalin said, “the government is facing a fund crunch, lack of employment opportunities, shortage in number of industries, law and order is in a bad state, but the senior AIADMK leaders including the CM, his deputy and the ministers choose to remain ignorant about it.” Stating that the prevailing water crisis is not a sudden phenomenon, the DMK president said in the last one year, all the lakes, reservoirs that store water in the vicinity of Chennai have been drying up and I highlighted evidence for the same in the Assembly, but it fell on deaf ears. Lashing out at the AIADMK leaders who said that the water crisis was being exaggerated, Stalin said, women are waiting on the streets with buckets and pots and the state ministers are conducting special Poojas for rains. But these Poojas are not for water or rains, but for the incumbents to ensure the survival of their government, he added. Making a mention about the TN Assembly that is to convene on 28 May, Stalin said “We have already issued a notice for initiating no-confidence proceedings against the Speaker, but we also believe that it is CM Palaniswami that must be ousted. Even without an election, we can oust this government and what the people expect is going to happen” Watch: Severe Water Crisis in India × × Responding to the DMK’s charges Tamil Nadu’s Fisheries Minister D Jayakumar quoted the Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam and said, “We are facing a water shortage and not a crisis, the government is taking adequate measures to tide over it.” Hitting back at the DMK, over the party treasurer Durai Murugan’s comments opposing the plan of bringing water to Chennai from nearby districts, he said, “Stalin and Duraimurugan live in Chennai and drink the water drawn from here, but why are they saying that water from Jolarpet should not be brought to Chennai? Is it not betraying the people of Chennai?”

Stalin leads protest over Chennai water crisis, says 'can oust AIADMK government without election'

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin,&nbsp;former Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu and&nbsp;Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal&nbsp;will not attend the meeting called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Parliament today.

''PM Modi has invited the party presidents of all parties to the Parliament on June 19 to interact and exchange views with the government,'' Parliamentary Minister Prahlad Joshi said.

''He will discuss the issue of 'one nation, one election' with them,'' Joshi added.

Prime Minister will also discuss the celebration of 75 years of India's independence in 2022, 150 years of Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary this year.

Raghav Chadha will&nbsp;represent Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the Parliament.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-pm-modis-meeting-with-party-chiefs-congress-discusses-strategy-on-key-matters-228215">Ahead of PM Modi's meeting</a>, a meeting of the Congress top brass, including Sonia Gandhi and party chief Rahul Gandhi, was held to decide the strategy on key matters such as Lok Sabha speaker's election and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call to discuss the ''one nation, one election'' issue.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday wrote to Joshi saying that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-not-to-attend-tomorrows-all-party-meeting-228338">she will not be able to attend the meeting</a>.

"Response on such a sensitive and serious subject like 'One Country and One Election' in such a short time would not do justice to the subject it deserves," Mamata said.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin, former Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will not attend the meeting called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Parliament today.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin, former Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will not attend the meeting called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Parliament today. ''PM Modi has invited the party presidents of all parties to the Parliament on June 19 to interact and exchange views with the government,'' Parliamentary Minister Prahlad Joshi said. ''He will discuss the issue of 'one nation, one election' with them,'' Joshi added. Prime Minister will also discuss the celebration of 75 years of India's independence in 2022, 150 years of Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary this year. Raghav Chadha will represent Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the Parliament. Ahead of PM Modi's meeting, a meeting of the Congress top brass, including Sonia Gandhi and party chief Rahul Gandhi, was held to decide the strategy on key matters such as Lok Sabha speaker's election and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call to discuss the ''one nation, one election'' issue. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday wrote to Joshi saying that she will not be able to attend the meeting. "Response on such a sensitive and serious subject like 'One Country and One Election' in such a short time would not do justice to the subject it deserves," Mamata said.

After Mamata, Kejriwal, Stalin and Chandrababu to skip PM Modi's 'one nation, one election' meeting today

Medical aspirants from Tamil Nadu bettered their 2018 performance in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for admissions, with the state’s overall pass percentage at around 48.57 per cent, against the previous year’s 39.56 per cent.&nbsp;

However, the major political parties in the state, the ruling AIADMK and the opposition DMK renewed call&nbsp;for its abolition from the state.

The demand has come after two medical students took an&nbsp;extreme step and committed suicide allegedly owing to poor scores.

Hours after the results were declared on Wednesday, two aspirants, Rithushree of Tiruppur district and Vaishya of Pattukottai&nbsp;committed suicide.

As word spread about the students’ suicide, the political leaders renewed their calls for NEET exemption for Tamil Nadu or having it abolished in the state.

&nbsp;Reacting to the news, DMK President and Tamil Nadu’s leader of the opposition MK Stalin tweeted, "It is heart-breaking to know of the suicides, keeping in line with the principles of federalism, the Central government must perform its duty and responsibilities by abolishing NEET and respecting the sentiments and wishes of the State Governments."

In a statement, Stalin also assured that DMK Members of Parliament would raise the issue when the House is in session and attempt to get the issue resolved.

“How many more lives is NEET going to claim? How many more dreams are to be crushed by it? Over two years ago the Tamil Nadu Assembly had passed amendments, what happened to the ordinance that was sent to the Central government”, tweeted RK Nagar MLA and AMMK leader TTV Dinakaran.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters, Tamil Nadu Fisheries Minister D. Jayakumar said,"It was saddening to know the suicides of the medical aspirant."

He also reiterated that the AIADMK Government was keen on having Tamil Nadu exempt from NEET, political and legal measures are being taken to ensure the same. "Suicide is not a solution for any issue, we must face any challenge with self-confidence," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu’s Health Minister Vijayabaskar refused to answer a question on NEET and walked away.

The recent suicides brought back the memories of Anita, another NEET aspirant from Tamil Nadu who had committed suicide after she failed to qualify the examination. Her death had triggered state-wide outrage with political parties and students who protested expressing their anger.

NEET was and is being opposed in Tamil Nadu on the grounds that it puts the students from rural areas and economically weaker sections at a disadvantage, as they would not be able to afford the specialised coaching that is required to crack the exam.

Earlier, the medical admissions process in Tamil Nadu was based on the score that students obtained in Class XII board exams.

Though there has been a significant improvement in the performance of medical students from Tamil Nadu, the state’s pass percentage is lower than the national average which is around 56 per cent. 
&nbsp;

Medical aspirants from Tamil Nadu bettered their 2018 performance in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for admissions, with the state’s overall pass percentage at around 48.

Medical aspirants from Tamil Nadu bettered their 2018 performance in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for admissions, with the state’s overall pass percentage at around 48.57 per cent, against the previous year’s 39.56 per cent. However, the major political parties in the state, the ruling AIADMK and the opposition DMK renewed call for its abolition from the state. The demand has come after two medical students took an extreme step and committed suicide allegedly owing to poor scores. Hours after the results were declared on Wednesday, two aspirants, Rithushree of Tiruppur district and Vaishya of Pattukottai committed suicide. As word spread about the students’ suicide, the political leaders renewed their calls for NEET exemption for Tamil Nadu or having it abolished in the state. Reacting to the news, DMK President and Tamil Nadu’s leader of the opposition MK Stalin tweeted, "It is heart-breaking to know of the suicides, keeping in line with the principles of federalism, the Central government must perform its duty and responsibilities by abolishing NEET and respecting the sentiments and wishes of the State Governments." In a statement, Stalin also assured that DMK Members of Parliament would raise the issue when the House is in session and attempt to get the issue resolved. “How many more lives is NEET going to claim? How many more dreams are to be crushed by it? Over two years ago the Tamil Nadu Assembly had passed amendments, what happened to the ordinance that was sent to the Central government”, tweeted RK Nagar MLA and AMMK leader TTV Dinakaran. Speaking to reporters, Tamil Nadu Fisheries Minister D. Jayakumar said,"It was saddening to know the suicides of the medical aspirant." He also reiterated that the AIADMK Government was keen on having Tamil Nadu exempt from NEET, political and legal measures are being taken to ensure the same. "Suicide is not a solution for any issue, we must face any challenge with self-confidence," he added. Tamil Nadu’s Health Minister Vijayabaskar refused to answer a question on NEET and walked away. The recent suicides brought back the memories of Anita, another NEET aspirant from Tamil Nadu who had committed suicide after she failed to qualify the examination. Her death had triggered state-wide outrage with political parties and students who protested expressing their anger. NEET was and is being opposed in Tamil Nadu on the grounds that it puts the students from rural areas and economically weaker sections at a disadvantage, as they would not be able to afford the specialised coaching that is required to crack the exam. Earlier, the medical admissions process in Tamil Nadu was based on the score that students obtained in Class XII board exams. Though there has been a significant improvement in the performance of medical students from Tamil Nadu, the state’s pass percentage is lower than the national average which is around 56 per cent.

Tamil Nadu students perform better at NEET, but leaders call for its abolition after students' suicide

DMK leader MK Stalin on Wednesday demanded Tamil be made compulsory in all central government offices in Tamil Nadu.

"Now central government is trying to impose Hindi in the name of triple language system. Tamil should be a governing language. Tamil Language should be compulsory in central government offices," Stalin said.

The DMK leader said this at Quaid-e-Millath's 124th birth anniversary which was celebrated by various political party leaders in Chennai.

Quaid-e-Millath was former member of parliament and President of Indian Union Muslim League (IUML).

Stalin said, "Millath used to say that Constitution should remain as it was formed."

A controversy had earlier broken out in Tamil Nadu on June 1 over the new Draft Education Policy of the government at the Centre that has recommended a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-uproar-over-hindi-imposition-centre-alters-draft-education-policy-223801">three-language formula</a> with political parties opposing "imposition" of Hindi in the state.

"The BJP government should not even think about the three-language policy in Tamil Nadu. In Tamil Nadu, having a two-language policy, is like honeycomb and BJP is trying to throw a stone at it by inflicting a three-language policy again. BJP should not even think about it in their dreams. Such greedy and wrong thing will cause them disaster," Stalin had earlier said.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

DMK leader MK Stalin on Wednesday demanded Tamil be made compulsory in all central government offices in Tamil Nadu. "Now central government is trying to impose Hindi in the name of triple language system.

DMK leader MK Stalin on Wednesday demanded Tamil be made compulsory in all central government offices in Tamil Nadu. "Now central government is trying to impose Hindi in the name of triple language system. Tamil should be a governing language. Tamil Language should be compulsory in central government offices," Stalin said. The DMK leader said this at Quaid-e-Millath's 124th birth anniversary which was celebrated by various political party leaders in Chennai. Quaid-e-Millath was former member of parliament and President of Indian Union Muslim League (IUML). Stalin said, "Millath used to say that Constitution should remain as it was formed." A controversy had earlier broken out in Tamil Nadu on June 1 over the new Draft Education Policy of the government at the Centre that has recommended a three-language formula with political parties opposing "imposition" of Hindi in the state. "The BJP government should not even think about the three-language policy in Tamil Nadu. In Tamil Nadu, having a two-language policy, is like honeycomb and BJP is trying to throw a stone at it by inflicting a three-language policy again. BJP should not even think about it in their dreams. Such greedy and wrong thing will cause them disaster," Stalin had earlier said.

Tamil should be made compulsory in Central government offices: Stalin

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

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

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) President&nbsp;MK Stalin will attend Andhra Pradesh <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-jaganmohan-reddy-meets-bureaucrats-party-leaders-222116">Chief Minister-elect YS Jaganmohan Reddy</a>'s swearing-in ceremony on May 30, news agency ANI reported.

Andhra's outgoing chief minister and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief N Chandrababu Naidu has also been invited to attend the ceremony in Vijayawada.

Chandrababu Naidu gave stepped down from the post after his party lost the Assembly polls with a heavy margin.

Watch:&nbsp;Andhra CM Elect Jagan Mohan Reddy Meets PM Elect Modi

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/andhra-cm-elect-jagan-mohan-reddy-meets-pm-elect-modi-221800/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Reddy's party YSRCP achieved a landslide victory by winning 151 seats in the 175-member Assembly and 22 out of the 25 Lok Sabha seats.

After the swearing-in ceremony, Reddy and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao will reportedly fly to Delhi to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) President MK Stalin will attend Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister-elect YS Jaganmohan Reddy's swearing-in ceremony on May 30, news agency ANI reported.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) President MK Stalin will attend Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister-elect YS Jaganmohan Reddy's swearing-in ceremony on May 30, news agency ANI reported. Andhra's outgoing chief minister and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief N Chandrababu Naidu has also been invited to attend the ceremony in Vijayawada. Chandrababu Naidu gave stepped down from the post after his party lost the Assembly polls with a heavy margin. Watch: Andhra CM Elect Jagan Mohan Reddy Meets PM Elect Modi Reddy's party YSRCP achieved a landslide victory by winning 151 seats in the 175-member Assembly and 22 out of the 25 Lok Sabha seats. After the swearing-in ceremony, Reddy and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao will reportedly fly to Delhi to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

MK Stalin to attend Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister-elect Jaganmohan Reddy's swearing-in ceremony on May 30

DMK president M K Stalin Saturday said no single state can be ignored by the government at the Centre and asserted India was not Hindi speaking states alone.

Buoyed by his party's performance in the Lok Sabha election, the Dravidian party chief for the first time said his party would take the initiative to oppose the BJP -albeit without naming it explicitly- in other states by working with outfits in those regions.

"The DMK will take constructive measures to replicate the Tamil Nadu model (of propping up secularism and DMK's victory in polls) in other states as well by coordinating with forces committed to communal harmony," he said in an open letter to party cadres.

On a day when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was elected leader of the NDA, Stalin said this was the time to support and embrace people of all identities, states, adding "the days that Hindi speaking states alone was India has vanished."

The future was all about "constructive politics that centred around the states," the DMK chief said.

"No single state can be ignored whichever party took over reins of power at the Centre," Stalin asserted.

The DMK's voice will reverberate in Parliament and State Assembly to protect the people's interests, he said.

The DMK has won 23 seats and the front (Secular Progressive Alliance) led by it has won 37 of 38 seats in Tamil Nadu and the lone seat in Puducherry (Congress) as well.

DMK will continue its "journey of victory," to protect people's interests, he said.

The historic win of his party-led front in the Lok Sabha polls showed the "secular approach," of the people which was nurtured by Dravidian stalwarts including reformist leader Periyar E V Ramasamy.

The people's verdict in Tamil Nadu showed that Dravidian movement -a reference to the DMK and a pointer to the Dravidian ideology which includes secularism and social justice- can never be decimated, he said.

As regards AIADMK's jibe that despite a good showing in the polls, DMK's goal has not been realised, he said it was a "reflection of the frustration of the ruling party and political rivals."

The DMK had vowed to return to power in the state by winning the bypolls to all the 22 Assembly seats and strongly pitched for a government led by Congress president Rahul Gandhi at the Centre.

Apart from emerging as the third biggest party in the Lok Sabha, the DMK has wrested 12 seats from the AIADMK pushing its total strength in the Assembly to 101, Stalin said.

The DMK retained Tiruvarur in the by-elections and totally won 13 constituencies in the Assembly bypolls while the ruling AIADMK won 9 segments warding off the probability of threat to its government.

The AIADMK's strength has now risen to 123 while 118 members are enough for a simple majority in the 234-member House.

Stalin credited the DMK's victory to party workers and support of allies including the Congress.

DMK president M K Stalin Saturday said no single state can be ignored by the government at the Centre and asserted India was not Hindi speaking states alone. Buoyed by his party's performance in the Lok Sabha election, the Dravidian party chief for the first time said his party would take the initiative to oppose the BJP -albeit without naming it explicitly- in other states by working with outfits in those regions.

DMK president M K Stalin Saturday said no single state can be ignored by the government at the Centre and asserted India was not Hindi speaking states alone. Buoyed by his party's performance in the Lok Sabha election, the Dravidian party chief for the first time said his party would take the initiative to oppose the BJP -albeit without naming it explicitly- in other states by working with outfits in those regions. "The DMK will take constructive measures to replicate the Tamil Nadu model (of propping up secularism and DMK's victory in polls) in other states as well by coordinating with forces committed to communal harmony," he said in an open letter to party cadres. On a day when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was elected leader of the NDA, Stalin said this was the time to support and embrace people of all identities, states, adding "the days that Hindi speaking states alone was India has vanished." The future was all about "constructive politics that centred around the states," the DMK chief said. "No single state can be ignored whichever party took over reins of power at the Centre," Stalin asserted. The DMK's voice will reverberate in Parliament and State Assembly to protect the people's interests, he said. The DMK has won 23 seats and the front (Secular Progressive Alliance) led by it has won 37 of 38 seats in Tamil Nadu and the lone seat in Puducherry (Congress) as well. DMK will continue its "journey of victory," to protect people's interests, he said. The historic win of his party-led front in the Lok Sabha polls showed the "secular approach," of the people which was nurtured by Dravidian stalwarts including reformist leader Periyar E V Ramasamy. The people's verdict in Tamil Nadu showed that Dravidian movement -a reference to the DMK and a pointer to the Dravidian ideology which includes secularism and social justice- can never be decimated, he said. As regards AIADMK's jibe that despite a good showing in the polls, DMK's goal has not been realised, he said it was a "reflection of the frustration of the ruling party and political rivals." The DMK had vowed to return to power in the state by winning the bypolls to all the 22 Assembly seats and strongly pitched for a government led by Congress president Rahul Gandhi at the Centre. Apart from emerging as the third biggest party in the Lok Sabha, the DMK has wrested 12 seats from the AIADMK pushing its total strength in the Assembly to 101, Stalin said. The DMK retained Tiruvarur in the by-elections and totally won 13 constituencies in the Assembly bypolls while the ruling AIADMK won 9 segments warding off the probability of threat to its government. The AIADMK's strength has now risen to 123 while 118 members are enough for a simple majority in the 234-member House. Stalin credited the DMK's victory to party workers and support of allies including the Congress.

India is not Hindi speaking states alone: DMK chief MK Stalin

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

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

Taking forward his efforts to form a third front, Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) chief and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao on Monday met Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president MK Stalin at the latter's residence here.

The two leaders reportedly held discussions on emerging political developments amid speculation over a hung Parliament and possibilities of forming a non-BJP, non-Congress federal front.

Both the leaders did not make any comments to the media after the meeting that comes after Rao's parleys with his Kerala counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan in Thiruvananthapuram last week and discussed the possibilities in the post-poll situation,After their meeting, Vijayan had said that the meeting with Rao was "highly significant" as he asserted that regional parties will play a major role in the formation of the next government at the Centre.

"A new government will come at the Centre which will follow federal system and secularism. The state will effectively lend support to anyone who supports the development of the state. Our meeting on May 6 with KCR was highly significant," Vijayan had said.&nbsp;

Taking forward his efforts to form a third front, Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) chief and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao on Monday met Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president MK Stalin at the latter's residence here.

Taking forward his efforts to form a third front, Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) chief and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao on Monday met Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president MK Stalin at the latter's residence here. The two leaders reportedly held discussions on emerging political developments amid speculation over a hung Parliament and possibilities of forming a non-BJP, non-Congress federal front. Both the leaders did not make any comments to the media after the meeting that comes after Rao's parleys with his Kerala counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan in Thiruvananthapuram last week and discussed the possibilities in the post-poll situation,After their meeting, Vijayan had said that the meeting with Rao was "highly significant" as he asserted that regional parties will play a major role in the formation of the next government at the Centre. "A new government will come at the Centre which will follow federal system and secularism. The state will effectively lend support to anyone who supports the development of the state. Our meeting on May 6 with KCR was highly significant," Vijayan had said.

K Chandrashekhar Rao, MK Stalin meet in Chennai, discuss emerging political developments

Both the big Tamil Nadu parties said Tuesday that they would urge the government of India to order the release of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opinion-heres-why-rajiv-gandhis-assassins-should-be-freed-165057">the seven people convicted in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case</a>.&nbsp;

"AIADMK will urge Government of India and the President to give due direction to the Governor of Tamil Nadu for release of the seven Tamil convicts as ordered by Supreme Court and approved by," the ruling AIADMK said.&nbsp;

And DMK chief MK Stalin said "the seven prisoners of Rajiv Gandhi assassination case will be released on humanitarian basis".&nbsp;

The announcement by both parties was made at the release of their election manifestos.&nbsp;

The DMK were the first to release its manifesto from its party office Anna Arivalayam, where Party President MK Stalin read out the salient features of their manifesto. Some of its salient features were&nbsp;providing Indian citizenship for Sri Lankan Tamils who have been living in refugee camps, abolition of the NEET entrance exam, Central Government Offices in Tamil Nadu would use Tamil as a co-official language, fuel prices would be regulated using an administered pricing mechanism, among others.

Additionally it also mentioned Metro Rail projects for cities such as Madurai, Trichy, Salem, Coimbatore, introducing measures to protect the firecracker industry in Tamil Nadu, offering free train passes for school and college students, and an initiative to link rivers in South India.&nbsp;

About an hour later, the Coordinator of the AIADMK O Panneerselvam released his party’s manifesto. Its highlights included an Amma Poverty Alleviation Scheme, monthly aid of Rs1500 to below poverty line families, the differently-abled and landless agricultural labourers, ensuring that Tamil Nadu is exempt from the NEET exam, and a Cauvery-Godavari river linkage scheme. It also made mention of waiving education loans, transferring education from the concurrent list to the state list, and called for a probe led by an international committee into the genocide of Tamils in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

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AIADMK in its election manifesto: AIADMK will urge Government of India and the President to give due direction to the Governor of Tamil Nadu for release of the seven Tamil convicts as ordered by Supreme Court and approved by 
cabinet of Tamil Nadu govt. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/22UtSl55s4">https://t.co/22UtSl55s4</a>
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DMK Chief MK Stalin during the release of DMK Election Manifesto in Chennai: The seven prisoners of Rajiv Gandhi assassination case will be released on humanitarian basis. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LokSabhaElections2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LokSabhaElections2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/KUmmjiNMIB">pic.twitter.com/KUmmjiNMIB</a>
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Most of the seven convicted in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case are Sri Lankan Tamils.&nbsp;

This is not the first time a Tamil Nadu government has said it will release the seven, but the proposal has been turned down by the Centre.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the DMK also said at the release of its manifesto that it would restart the Sethu Samudram project which envisages the creation of a shipping lane in the Gulf of Mannar which runs between India and the western coast of Sri Lanka.&nbsp;The Congress government at the Centre had to pull back a similar proposal in 2007 because of massive resistance&nbsp;— a number of Hindus believe the Gulf of Mannar is the site of the mythical Ram Setu.&nbsp;

The DMK added that it would introduce a quota in the private sector.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu goes to polls over a single phase on April 18.&nbsp;

AIADMK and DMK candidates will be in a direct face-off in eight of Tamil Nadu’s 39 constituencies. They include Chennai South, Kanchipuram, Tiruvannamalai, Tirunelveli, Mayiladuthurai, Salem, Nilgiris and Pollachi.

The AIADMK alliance includes the BJP, PMK, DMDK and smaller regional outfits, while the DMK alliance includes the Congress, Left Parties and smaller regional outfits.

BJP and Congress candidates meanwhile will face off in Kanyakumari and Sivaganga.

The AIADMK and DMK have given 20 seats to their candidates while the rest have been distributed among allies.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Both the big Tamil Nadu parties said Tuesday that they would urge the government of India to order the release of the seven people convicted in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case.

Both the big Tamil Nadu parties said Tuesday that they would urge the government of India to order the release of the seven people convicted in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case. "AIADMK will urge Government of India and the President to give due direction to the Governor of Tamil Nadu for release of the seven Tamil convicts as ordered by Supreme Court and approved by," the ruling AIADMK said. And DMK chief MK Stalin said "the seven prisoners of Rajiv Gandhi assassination case will be released on humanitarian basis". The announcement by both parties was made at the release of their election manifestos. The DMK were the first to release its manifesto from its party office Anna Arivalayam, where Party President MK Stalin read out the salient features of their manifesto. Some of its salient features were providing Indian citizenship for Sri Lankan Tamils who have been living in refugee camps, abolition of the NEET entrance exam, Central Government Offices in Tamil Nadu would use Tamil as a co-official language, fuel prices would be regulated using an administered pricing mechanism, among others. Additionally it also mentioned Metro Rail projects for cities such as Madurai, Trichy, Salem, Coimbatore, introducing measures to protect the firecracker industry in Tamil Nadu, offering free train passes for school and college students, and an initiative to link rivers in South India. About an hour later, the Coordinator of the AIADMK O Panneerselvam released his party’s manifesto. Its highlights included an Amma Poverty Alleviation Scheme, monthly aid of Rs1500 to below poverty line families, the differently-abled and landless agricultural labourers, ensuring that Tamil Nadu is exempt from the NEET exam, and a Cauvery-Godavari river linkage scheme. It also made mention of waiving education loans, transferring education from the concurrent list to the state list, and called for a probe led by an international committee into the genocide of Tamils in Sri Lanka. AIADMK in its election manifesto: AIADMK will urge Government of India and the President to give due direction to the Governor of Tamil Nadu for release of the seven Tamil convicts as ordered by Supreme Court and approved by cabinet of Tamil Nadu govt. #LokSabhaElections2019 https://t.co/22UtSl55s4 — ANI (@ANI) March 19, 2019 × DMK Chief MK Stalin during the release of DMK Election Manifesto in Chennai: The seven prisoners of Rajiv Gandhi assassination case will be released on humanitarian basis. #LokSabhaElections2019 pic.twitter.com/KUmmjiNMIB — ANI (@ANI) March 19, 2019 × Most of the seven convicted in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case are Sri Lankan Tamils. This is not the first time a Tamil Nadu government has said it will release the seven, but the proposal has been turned down by the Centre. On Tuesday, the DMK also said at the release of its manifesto that it would restart the Sethu Samudram project which envisages the creation of a shipping lane in the Gulf of Mannar which runs between India and the western coast of Sri Lanka. The Congress government at the Centre had to pull back a similar proposal in 2007 because of massive resistance — a number of Hindus believe the Gulf of Mannar is the site of the mythical Ram Setu. The DMK added that it would introduce a quota in the private sector. Tamil Nadu goes to polls over a single phase on April 18. AIADMK and DMK candidates will be in a direct face-off in eight of Tamil Nadu’s 39 constituencies. They include Chennai South, Kanchipuram, Tiruvannamalai, Tirunelveli, Mayiladuthurai, Salem, Nilgiris and Pollachi. The AIADMK alliance includes the BJP, PMK, DMDK and smaller regional outfits, while the DMK alliance includes the Congress, Left Parties and smaller regional outfits. BJP and Congress candidates meanwhile will face off in Kanyakumari and Sivaganga. The AIADMK and DMK have given 20 seats to their candidates while the rest have been distributed among allies.

2019 Lok Sabha polls: AIADMK, DMK say will urge Centre to release 7 convicted in Rajiv Gandhi assassination case

DMK Sunday announced former union ministers Dayanidhi Maran, A Raja and T R Baalu and its Rajya Sabha member Kanimozhi among its candidates for the 20 Lok Sabha constituencies it is contesting in Tamil Nadu.

Releasing the list of candidates which included another woman, party president M K Stalin said Maran will contest from Central Chennai, A Raja from Nilgiris (SC) and T R Baalu from Sriperumbudur constituencies, which they had won in 2009.

Stalin's sister and Rajya Sabha MP Kanimozhi will for the first time try her luck in the Lok Sabha polls as she had been fielded in Tuticorin constituency in southern Tamil Nadu.

A total of 12 candidates are new faces.

In the April 18 elections, DMK is contesting 20 out of the 39 Lok Sabha seats in the state, leaving the rest to its allies, including Congress.

The party had drawn a blank in the 2014 polls when it contested 34 seats while its arch-rival AIADMK romped home winning 37 segments. Congress had gone alone but failed to win a single seat.

Replying to questions from reporters, Stalin said DMK's manifesto will be released soon.

It would be both the "hero and heroine and definitely not a villain," he added.

DMK also named its candidates for by-polls to the 18 assembly constituencies in the state to be held along with the Lok Sabha polls on April 18.

Former union ministers of state S Jagathrakshagan and S S Palanimanickam have been fielded in Arakkonam and Thanjavur constituencies.

Kanimozhi's Rajya Sabha terms end in July this year.

T Sumathi alias Tamizhachi Thangapandian, a noted orator in Tamil, will contest from Chennai South, Kalanidhi Veerasamy from Chennai North and D M Kathir Anand, son of party Treasurer Duraimurugan, from Vellore.

While Tamizhachi is the daughter of late DMK leader V Thangapandian and sister of former state Minister Thangam Thennarasu, Kalanidhi is the son of former state Minister Arcot N Veerasamy.

Similarly, in Kallakurichi, former State Minister K Ponmudi's son Gowtham Sigamani is fielded.

Other candidates are: G Selvam (Kancheepuram-SC), S Senthilkumar (Dharmapuri), C N Annadurai (Tiruvannamalai), SR Parthiban (Salem), K Shanmugasundaram (Pollachi), P Velusamy (Dindigul), T R V S Sriramesh (Cuddalore), S Ramalingam (Mayiladuthurai), Dhanush M Kumar (Thenkasi-SC), and S Gnanathiraviam (Tirunelveli).

Parthiban was a former DMDK MLA (2011-16) and represented Mettur constituency in Salem district.

He had quit the Vijayakanth-led party to form the Makakl DMDK and later joined the DMK.

Stalin released the list of candidates after visiting the mausoleum of his late father and party patriarch M Karunanidhi at the Marina beach here.

He placed the list on the floor and paid floral tributes, symbolising seeking the late leader's blessings.

Stalin also named his party candidate for the by-poll to an assembly seat (Thattanchavadi) in neighbouring Puducherry.

DMK Sunday announced former union ministers Dayanidhi Maran, A Raja and T R Baalu and its Rajya Sabha member Kanimozhi among its candidates for the 20 Lok Sabha constituencies it is contesting in Tamil Nadu.

DMK Sunday announced former union ministers Dayanidhi Maran, A Raja and T R Baalu and its Rajya Sabha member Kanimozhi among its candidates for the 20 Lok Sabha constituencies it is contesting in Tamil Nadu. Releasing the list of candidates which included another woman, party president M K Stalin said Maran will contest from Central Chennai, A Raja from Nilgiris (SC) and T R Baalu from Sriperumbudur constituencies, which they had won in 2009. Stalin's sister and Rajya Sabha MP Kanimozhi will for the first time try her luck in the Lok Sabha polls as she had been fielded in Tuticorin constituency in southern Tamil Nadu. A total of 12 candidates are new faces. In the April 18 elections, DMK is contesting 20 out of the 39 Lok Sabha seats in the state, leaving the rest to its allies, including Congress. The party had drawn a blank in the 2014 polls when it contested 34 seats while its arch-rival AIADMK romped home winning 37 segments. Congress had gone alone but failed to win a single seat. Replying to questions from reporters, Stalin said DMK's manifesto will be released soon. It would be both the "hero and heroine and definitely not a villain," he added. DMK also named its candidates for by-polls to the 18 assembly constituencies in the state to be held along with the Lok Sabha polls on April 18. Former union ministers of state S Jagathrakshagan and S S Palanimanickam have been fielded in Arakkonam and Thanjavur constituencies. Kanimozhi's Rajya Sabha terms end in July this year. T Sumathi alias Tamizhachi Thangapandian, a noted orator in Tamil, will contest from Chennai South, Kalanidhi Veerasamy from Chennai North and D M Kathir Anand, son of party Treasurer Duraimurugan, from Vellore. While Tamizhachi is the daughter of late DMK leader V Thangapandian and sister of former state Minister Thangam Thennarasu, Kalanidhi is the son of former state Minister Arcot N Veerasamy. Similarly, in Kallakurichi, former State Minister K Ponmudi's son Gowtham Sigamani is fielded. Other candidates are: G Selvam (Kancheepuram-SC), S Senthilkumar (Dharmapuri), C N Annadurai (Tiruvannamalai), SR Parthiban (Salem), K Shanmugasundaram (Pollachi), P Velusamy (Dindigul), T R V S Sriramesh (Cuddalore), S Ramalingam (Mayiladuthurai), Dhanush M Kumar (Thenkasi-SC), and S Gnanathiraviam (Tirunelveli). Parthiban was a former DMDK MLA (2011-16) and represented Mettur constituency in Salem district. He had quit the Vijayakanth-led party to form the Makakl DMDK and later joined the DMK. Stalin released the list of candidates after visiting the mausoleum of his late father and party patriarch M Karunanidhi at the Marina beach here. He placed the list on the floor and paid floral tributes, symbolising seeking the late leader's blessings. Stalin also named his party candidate for the by-poll to an assembly seat (Thattanchavadi) in neighbouring Puducherry.

DMK names Kanimozhi, former ministers Maran, TR Baalu among Lok Sabha candidates

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