Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the proposed delimitation exercise, urging the Centre to protect the existing distribution of parliamentary seats.

Vijay has put forward three major demands: freezing the strength of the Lok Sabha at the existing 543 seats, maintaining the current proportion of representation among states, and implementing 33% reservation for women based on the existing strength of Parliament and state assemblies.

The move comes shortly after the Tamil Nadu Assembly passed a resolution opposing the proposed delimitation exercise, with the DMK also supporting the resolution. The debate has intensified concerns among southern states over the possibility of changes in parliamentary representation based on newer population figures.

Vijay Writes Letter to PM Modi on Delimitation 

The Tamil Nadu Assembly has passed a resolution opposing delimitation, urging the Union government to permanently retain the existing 543 Lok Sabha seats based on the population figures of the 1971 Census.

The resolution, moved by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay, received support from the DMK, despite the party previously skipping Vijay’s all-party meeting on delimitation.

Vijay also called for the immediate implementation of 33% reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies, arguing that the quota should be calculated on the existing 543 Lok Sabha seats.

The Tamil Nadu government has also taken strong positions on several other issues, including NEET, the proposed FCRA amendments, and the state’s anti-drug campaign.

Vijay Leads Tamil Nadu’s Delimitation Push | Assembly Seeks 543 Lok Sabha Seats

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay has defended his proposal for direct talks with Karnataka over the Cauvery water dispute, saying he is prepared to face "humiliation" if dialogue helps safeguard Tamil Nadu's interests.

The remarks came during a heated exchange in the Tamil Nadu Assembly with Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin over the contentious Mekedatu dam project. Udhayanidhi questioned Vijay's decision to engage directly with Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and asked whether an all-party meeting would be convened on the issue.

Vijay responded by asserting that his government would never compromise on Tamil Nadu's rights over Cauvery waters and urged political parties not to politicize the long-standing interstate dispute. The confrontation marks the first direct face-off between the two leaders since Udhayanidhi Stalin's arrest over his controversial remarks against actor Trisha.

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Defends Karnataka Talks Over Cauvery Dispute, Clashes With Udhayanidhi Stalin

The legislative assembly in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu on Wednesday (Feb 14) passed two resolutions, one against the proposed delimitation exercise, the other against the proposed 'One Nation&nbsp;One Election' system. The resolutions found overwhelming support with even Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) having to voice support.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin termed the delimitation exercise a 'punishment' for states with smaller population

"The delimitation exercise is a 'punishment' for states that have a smaller population. The number of constituencies in both the houses of Parliament and in the Assemblies are cut down for such states that reduce population," he said.

"We can't accept delimitation based on the census...Due to unavoidable reasons, if the number of seats based on population were to increase, it would be maintained at the present ratio of the constituencies between the states in the state assemblies and both houses of parliament fixed based on the population of 1971," he said.

BJP supported the sentiment.

"Fear is understandable and reasonable in future if our voice and rights become less if the number of seats are reduced. Tamil Nadu BJP understands the concern of that Resolution," said BJP MLA Vanathi Srinivasa.

<h2>What is the proposed delimitation exercise: Key points</h2>

Delimitation refers to rearranging number of seats and boundaries of constituencies in the state for parliament and state assemblies.

The delimitation was expected to be carried out after each census but the process was frozen in 1971 in order to encourage states to implement population control measures.

It has been seen in last few decades that population growth rate in north Indian states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar etc. has been more compared to that in southern Indian states.

Watch | India alliance's election dream over? BJP woos South India for 2024

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There is a fear in southern Indian states that delimitation based on population would take away political power from them.

<h2>What did Tamil Nadu assembly say about 'One Nation&nbsp;One Election'?</h2>

The assembly also passed a resolution against the proposed 'One Nation&nbsp;One Election' exercise favoured by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"The one nation one election is out-and-out impractical, and it is against the basic feature of the Constitution. It is fully opposed to the Constitutional guarantee of independent, free and fair polls," said CM Stalin in assembly.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/golden-chapter-for-uae-pm-modi-inaugurates-hindu-temple-in-abu-dhabi-690324">‘Golden chapter’ for UAE: PM Modi inaugurates BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi</a>

He deemed the proposed exercise to be 'autocratic' and a 'conspiracy'.

The proposal is currently being considered by a committee headed by former Indian president Ram Nath Kovind. The proposal suggests that one election be carried out for seats in Indian parliament and state assemblies. Critics of the proposal argue that the concept goes against the federal structure of Indian polity.

(With inputs from agencies)

The legislative assembly in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu on Wednesday (Feb 14) passed two resolutions, one against the proposed delimitation exercise, the other against the proposed 'One Nation One Election' system.

The legislative assembly in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu on Wednesday (Feb 14) passed two resolutions, one against the proposed delimitation exercise, the other against the proposed 'One Nation One Election' system. The resolutions found overwhelming support with even Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) having to voice support. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin termed the delimitation exercise a 'punishment' for states with smaller population "The delimitation exercise is a 'punishment' for states that have a smaller population. The number of constituencies in both the houses of Parliament and in the Assemblies are cut down for such states that reduce population," he said. "We can't accept delimitation based on the census...Due to unavoidable reasons, if the number of seats based on population were to increase, it would be maintained at the present ratio of the constituencies between the states in the state assemblies and both houses of parliament fixed based on the population of 1971," he said. BJP supported the sentiment. "Fear is understandable and reasonable in future if our voice and rights become less if the number of seats are reduced. Tamil Nadu BJP understands the concern of that Resolution," said BJP MLA Vanathi Srinivasa. What is the proposed delimitation exercise: Key points Delimitation refers to rearranging number of seats and boundaries of constituencies in the state for parliament and state assemblies. The delimitation was expected to be carried out after each census but the process was frozen in 1971 in order to encourage states to implement population control measures. It has been seen in last few decades that population growth rate in north Indian states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar etc. has been more compared to that in southern Indian states. Watch | India alliance's election dream over? BJP woos South India for 2024 × There is a fear in southern Indian states that delimitation based on population would take away political power from them. What did Tamil Nadu assembly say about 'One Nation One Election'? The assembly also passed a resolution against the proposed 'One Nation One Election' exercise favoured by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "The one nation one election is out-and-out impractical, and it is against the basic feature of the Constitution. It is fully opposed to the Constitutional guarantee of independent, free and fair polls," said CM Stalin in assembly. Also Read | ‘Golden chapter’ for UAE: PM Modi inaugurates BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi He deemed the proposed exercise to be 'autocratic' and a 'conspiracy'. The proposal is currently being considered by a committee headed by former Indian president Ram Nath Kovind. The proposal suggests that one election be carried out for seats in Indian parliament and state assemblies. Critics of the proposal argue that the concept goes against the federal structure of Indian polity. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Tamil Nadu assembly passes resolutions against delimitation, ‘One Nation One Election’

The Tamil Nadu Assembly, on Friday, passed a unanimous resolution urging the Government of India to permit the state to send humanitarian aid to Sri Lanka, which has been reeling under a constantly worsening economic crisis. This latest resolution comes after Stalin's earlier requests to the Indian Government to permit Tamil Nadu to send aid to only Sri Lankan Tamils.&nbsp;

Addressing the legislators, Chief Minister Stalin said that his government's decision to send food grains, essential drugs etc. is only a first step. He also added that the Tamil Nadu Government is prepared to offer more help, as maybe required by the people of Sri Lanka.

Stalin expressed that the Tamil Nadu government is willing to accept the donations from the people of Tamil Nadu and the commercial establishments in the state and would facilitate the transfer of this donation to Sri Lanka, via the Indian government.&nbsp;

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In a gesture of political courtesy, Stalin thanked AIADMK Coordinator and Opposition leader O. Panneerselvam for having announced that he was donating Rs.50lakhs to Sri Lanka, from his personal funds. Appreciating Panneerselvam, Stalin said that this act of kindness was worth emulating.&nbsp;

Stalin has been emphasizing the issue of sending aid to Sri Lanka during his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, earlier this month and also &nbsp;ubsequent communications with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. It is noteworthy that Tamil Nadu cannot directly send aid to Sri Lanka. Instead, the aid has to be routed via the Indian Government and the country's High Commission in the island nation.&nbsp;

Earlier, Stalin had mentioned only about sending aid to Lankan Tamils living in the Northern and Eastern parts of the island nation and also Colombo. However, this move was met with considerable backlash among sections of Lankan Tamils. They even spoke to media in Sri Lanka and said that they (Tamil Community) alone did not require aid, at a time when the entire country was suffering. They had made their stance clear that they would accept aid only if it were meant for all the people of Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

Since the last week of March 2022, nearly 60 Lankan Tamils fled their home country to reach Indian shores and seek refuge in Tamil Nadu. Arriving in batches, these individuals (including pregnant women, children and elderly) had taken the arduous boat ride from the northern and eastern parts to Sri Lanka, to alight on Indian territory in Tamil Nadu's Ramanathapuram district, fleeing the severe economic crisis back at home.&nbsp;

Watch WION's live TV here:&nbsp;

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The economic crisis that has devastated the island nation has taken a severe toll on daily wage earners and those from the lesser-fortunate sections of society, whose wages have been stagnant amid skyrocketing prices.&nbsp;

The worst-ever crisis faced by the island nation is primarily caused by a shortage of foreign currency to import essential commodities. The COVID-19 pandemic and resultant lockdowns, over-dependency revenue from tourism, export of tea, spices and other consumables, were contributing factors to the downfall. Angry and distraught citizens are out in protest against the government's handling of the debt-ridden economy.

The Tamil Nadu Assembly, on Friday, passed a unanimous resolution urging the Government of India to permit the state to send humanitarian aid to Sri Lanka, which has been reeling under a constantly worsening economic crisis.

The Tamil Nadu Assembly, on Friday, passed a unanimous resolution urging the Government of India to permit the state to send humanitarian aid to Sri Lanka, which has been reeling under a constantly worsening economic crisis. This latest resolution comes after Stalin's earlier requests to the Indian Government to permit Tamil Nadu to send aid to only Sri Lankan Tamils. Addressing the legislators, Chief Minister Stalin said that his government's decision to send food grains, essential drugs etc. is only a first step. He also added that the Tamil Nadu Government is prepared to offer more help, as maybe required by the people of Sri Lanka. Stalin expressed that the Tamil Nadu government is willing to accept the donations from the people of Tamil Nadu and the commercial establishments in the state and would facilitate the transfer of this donation to Sri Lanka, via the Indian government. In a gesture of political courtesy, Stalin thanked AIADMK Coordinator and Opposition leader O. Panneerselvam for having announced that he was donating Rs.50lakhs to Sri Lanka, from his personal funds. Appreciating Panneerselvam, Stalin said that this act of kindness was worth emulating. Stalin has been emphasizing the issue of sending aid to Sri Lanka during his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, earlier this month and also ubsequent communications with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. It is noteworthy that Tamil Nadu cannot directly send aid to Sri Lanka. Instead, the aid has to be routed via the Indian Government and the country's High Commission in the island nation. Earlier, Stalin had mentioned only about sending aid to Lankan Tamils living in the Northern and Eastern parts of the island nation and also Colombo. However, this move was met with considerable backlash among sections of Lankan Tamils. They even spoke to media in Sri Lanka and said that they (Tamil Community) alone did not require aid, at a time when the entire country was suffering. They had made their stance clear that they would accept aid only if it were meant for all the people of Sri Lanka. Since the last week of March 2022, nearly 60 Lankan Tamils fled their home country to reach Indian shores and seek refuge in Tamil Nadu. Arriving in batches, these individuals (including pregnant women, children and elderly) had taken the arduous boat ride from the northern and eastern parts to Sri Lanka, to alight on Indian territory in Tamil Nadu's Ramanathapuram district, fleeing the severe economic crisis back at home. Watch WION's live TV here: The economic crisis that has devastated the island nation has taken a severe toll on daily wage earners and those from the lesser-fortunate sections of society, whose wages have been stagnant amid skyrocketing prices. The worst-ever crisis faced by the island nation is primarily caused by a shortage of foreign currency to import essential commodities. The COVID-19 pandemic and resultant lockdowns, over-dependency revenue from tourism, export of tea, spices and other consumables, were contributing factors to the downfall. Angry and distraught citizens are out in protest against the government's handling of the debt-ridden economy.

Tamil Nadu Assembly passes resolution urging Centre to allow aid from Tamil Nadu to Sri Lanka

The Tamil Nadu Assembly is set to witness intense action in the upcoming session, when it convenes on 28th June. Besides the state’s severe water woes, one of the major issues that would hog the limelight would be the No-confidence motion moved by the Opposition Party DMK against the Assembly Speaker for allegedly performing his duties in a partisan manner. The No-Confidence motion is to come up on July 1st.

On April 26th, the AIADMK party Chief whip S&nbsp;Rajendran had submitted a recommendation to Assembly Speaker P&nbsp;Dhanapal regarding the disqualification of three AIADMK MLAs on the grounds of ‘anti-party’ activities. The MLAs are E Rathinasabapathi, V T Kalaiselvan and Prabhu, who were elected from Aranthangi, Vridhachalam and Kallakurichi Assembly constituencies respectively.&nbsp;

It was perceived that the AIADMK had attempted to disqualify the MLAs in order to reduce the strength of the house, in order to safeguard their government if they fell short of seats in the 22 bye-polls to Assembly seats.

On April 30th, Members of Tamil Nadu’s opposition party, the DMK met the Tamil Nadu Assembly Secretary on May 2nd to present a notice to move a no-confidence petition against the Assembly Speaker. This is in line with the party President M K Stalin’s earlier statement that the party would move a no-confidence motion against the speaker if he were to act in a biased manner. &nbsp;

However, the Supreme Court issued an interim stay on a notice sent by the Tamil Nadu Speaker to three MLAs of the ruling AIADMK, who were said to be loyal towards the TTV Dinakaran-led AMMK camp. Two of the MLAs who had received the notice from the Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal had approached the Supreme Court to stay the notice sent by the Speaker.

As the results to the bye-polls are declared, the Tamil Nadu Assembly will now witness the participation of 232 legislators, out of the total house strength of 234. In the bye-polls the ruling AIADMK won 9 seats, giving it up to 123 MLAs, well past the halfway mark of 118.&nbsp;

Whereas, the DMK won 13 seats, taking its individual tally up to 101. When added to the seats of its allies- the Congress and IUML, the DMK has 108 seats in the House. AMMK chief TTV Dhinakaran is the sole independent MLA in the House.

The State Assembly has not regained its full-strength of 234 members since 2017. The state is expected to face two more bye-polls in coming months. One is the Vikravandi Assembly constituency where the incumbent DMK MLA K Radhamani passed away. The Nanguneri Assembly constituency which was recently vacated by newly-elected Congress Kanyakumari MP H Vasanthakumar is also to expected have bye-polls. Elections to the Vellore Lok Sabha constituency, which were rescinded in May this year due to large-scale cash distribution and malpractices, are also due.

Speaking to WION on the possible scenario in the Assembly, Political Analyst and Senior Journalist Sumanth C Raman said, "I don't think anything significant will happen as the Government has the numbers to defeat the no-confidence vote".

The Tamil Nadu Assembly is set to witness intense action in the upcoming session, when it convenes on 28th June. Besides the state’s severe water woes, one of the major issues that would hog the limelight would be the No-confidence motion moved by the Opposition Party DMK against the Assembly Speaker for allegedly performing his duties in a partisan manner.

The Tamil Nadu Assembly is set to witness intense action in the upcoming session, when it convenes on 28th June. Besides the state’s severe water woes, one of the major issues that would hog the limelight would be the No-confidence motion moved by the Opposition Party DMK against the Assembly Speaker for allegedly performing his duties in a partisan manner. The No-Confidence motion is to come up on July 1st. On April 26th, the AIADMK party Chief whip S Rajendran had submitted a recommendation to Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal regarding the disqualification of three AIADMK MLAs on the grounds of ‘anti-party’ activities. The MLAs are E Rathinasabapathi, V T Kalaiselvan and Prabhu, who were elected from Aranthangi, Vridhachalam and Kallakurichi Assembly constituencies respectively. It was perceived that the AIADMK had attempted to disqualify the MLAs in order to reduce the strength of the house, in order to safeguard their government if they fell short of seats in the 22 bye-polls to Assembly seats. On April 30th, Members of Tamil Nadu’s opposition party, the DMK met the Tamil Nadu Assembly Secretary on May 2nd to present a notice to move a no-confidence petition against the Assembly Speaker. This is in line with the party President M K Stalin’s earlier statement that the party would move a no-confidence motion against the speaker if he were to act in a biased manner. However, the Supreme Court issued an interim stay on a notice sent by the Tamil Nadu Speaker to three MLAs of the ruling AIADMK, who were said to be loyal towards the TTV Dinakaran-led AMMK camp. Two of the MLAs who had received the notice from the Assembly Speaker P. Dhanapal had approached the Supreme Court to stay the notice sent by the Speaker. As the results to the bye-polls are declared, the Tamil Nadu Assembly will now witness the participation of 232 legislators, out of the total house strength of 234. In the bye-polls the ruling AIADMK won 9 seats, giving it up to 123 MLAs, well past the halfway mark of 118. Whereas, the DMK won 13 seats, taking its individual tally up to 101. When added to the seats of its allies- the Congress and IUML, the DMK has 108 seats in the House. AMMK chief TTV Dhinakaran is the sole independent MLA in the House. The State Assembly has not regained its full-strength of 234 members since 2017. The state is expected to face two more bye-polls in coming months. One is the Vikravandi Assembly constituency where the incumbent DMK MLA K Radhamani passed away. The Nanguneri Assembly constituency which was recently vacated by newly-elected Congress Kanyakumari MP H Vasanthakumar is also to expected have bye-polls. Elections to the Vellore Lok Sabha constituency, which were rescinded in May this year due to large-scale cash distribution and malpractices, are also due. Speaking to WION on the possible scenario in the Assembly, Political Analyst and Senior Journalist Sumanth C Raman said, "I don't think anything significant will happen as the Government has the numbers to defeat the no-confidence vote".

Tamil Nadu Assembly to convene on June 28; no-confidence motion against speaker coming up on July 1

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The counting of votes in the RK Nagar bypoll has begun.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RKNagarByPoll?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RKNagarByPoll</a>: Counting of votes begins; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Visuals</a> from outside a counting center in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chennai</a> <a href="https://t.co/c1OSHQ03Tf">pic.twitter.com/c1OSHQ03Tf</a>
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RK Nagar is seen as not only politically symbolic but also as a litmus test for the ruling AIADMK.&nbsp;

This is where five-time former chief minister Jayalalithaa won her last two elections from, which is why the ruling AIADMK will be keen to retain it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The seat fell vacant after her death last year.&nbsp;

The bypoll is also being seen as a litmus test for the minority AIADMK government, with commentators saying the psychological fallout of a loss could affect it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The bypoll&nbsp;this time is a three-way contest between the AIADMK&#39;s E Madhusudhanan, rebel AIADMK leader TTV Dhinakaran who is fighting as an independent candidate, and the opposition DMK&#39;s N Maruthu Ganesh.

First reports are saying Dinakaran is in the lead.&nbsp;

The RK Nagar by-elections were held on Thursday, with voter turnout recorded at&nbsp;77.68 per cent.

The election commission said the turnout was the highest figure since 2011.

The by-election was actually scheduled for April this year but was postponed after allegations surfaced of voters being bribed.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

RK Nagar is seen as politically symbolic -- this is where five-time former chief minister Jayalalithaa won her last two elections from -- and a litmus test for the ruling AIADMK

The counting of votes in the RK Nagar bypoll has begun. #RKNagarByPoll: Counting of votes begins; #Visuals from outside a counting center in #Chennai pic.twitter.com/c1OSHQ03Tf — ANI (@ANI) December 24, 2017 × #RKNagarByPoll Counting of votes underway ; Visuals from a counting center in #Chennai pic.twitter.com/00fT9mYX4Q — ANI (@ANI) December 24, 2017 × RK Nagar is seen as not only politically symbolic but also as a litmus test for the ruling AIADMK. This is where five-time former chief minister Jayalalithaa won her last two elections from, which is why the ruling AIADMK will be keen to retain it. The seat fell vacant after her death last year. The bypoll is also being seen as a litmus test for the minority AIADMK government, with commentators saying the psychological fallout of a loss could affect it. The bypoll this time is a three-way contest between the AIADMK's E Madhusudhanan, rebel AIADMK leader TTV Dhinakaran who is fighting as an independent candidate, and the opposition DMK's N Maruthu Ganesh. First reports are saying Dinakaran is in the lead. The RK Nagar by-elections were held on Thursday, with voter turnout recorded at 77.68 per cent. The election commission said the turnout was the highest figure since 2011. The by-election was actually scheduled for April this year but was postponed after allegations surfaced of voters being bribed.

RK Nagar bypoll: Counting of votes begins; first reports say TTV Dinakaran in lead

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