Considering the extremely heavy rainfall predicted over Chennai and its three adjoining districts on Wednesday (Oct 16), the Tamil Nadu Government has requested that 13 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams be on standby for deployment. Accordingly, the NDRF has readied 13 teams, with 30 personnel each, for immediate deployment. Watch in for more details!

Tamil Nadu Braces For Heavy Rainfall: Emergency Measures Put In Place

Several people have been injured after a Mysore to Darbhanga Bhagmati Express collided with a goods train at Kavarapettai in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu on Friday (Oct 11) evening, according to railway police.&nbsp;

The incident further led to a fire breaking out in two coaches of the express train. According to reports, several people have been injured, but no fatalities have been reported, at the time of writing.&nbsp;

At least 13 coaches derailed in the incident.&nbsp;

Rescue operations have begun, Thiruvallur District Collector T Prabhushankar said.&nbsp;

According to initial reports, the train crew experienced a heavy jerk on the track, causing the express train to move onto a loop line and crash into the parked goods train.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2-taken-into-custody-in-gujrat-for-allegedly-attempting-to-derail-train-for-robbing-passengers-763629">Also read:&nbsp;India: Two people detained for attempting to derail train for robbing passengers</a>

"The train was travelling at 109 km/h when its crew suddenly felt a severe jerk. The passenger train entered a loop line and collided with a stationary goods train on the same track," sources told India Today TV.&nbsp;

Following the incident, the Southern Railway’s Chennai Division has released emergency helpline numbers: 044-25354151 and 044-24354995.

Dilip Kumar, executive director of information and&nbsp;publicity for the Railway Board, said that the relief and rescue team has reached the incident site and evacuated over 90 per cent of the passengers.

“Information has been received about the accident of 12578 Bagmati Express. So far, the relief and rescue team from the railway has reached the accident site and the work of evacuating passengers from all the coaches is going on. More than 90% of the passengers have been evacuated. We have not received any information of any casualty or serious injury so far,” he said.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Jharkhand Train Derailment: Is Indian Railways Unsafe?

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He continued, “Both the relief team and the medical team are present at the accident site. GM Sadan Railway and DRM Sadan Chennai Division have left for the accident site. Necessary arrangements are being made by the railway from Chennai station to take the rest of the passengers to their destination.”

Moreover, most passengers have been rescued, and the injured have been taken to local hospitals for treatment.&nbsp;

The collision of trains has disrupted the train traffic on the route and services have been temporarily halted.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Several people have been injured after a Mysore to Darbhanga Bhagmati Express collided with a goods train at Kavarapettai in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu on Friday (Oct 11) evening, according to railway police.

Several people have been injured after a Mysore to Darbhanga Bhagmati Express collided with a goods train at Kavarapettai in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu on Friday (Oct 11) evening, according to railway police. The incident further led to a fire breaking out in two coaches of the express train. According to reports, several people have been injured, but no fatalities have been reported, at the time of writing. At least 13 coaches derailed in the incident. Rescue operations have begun, Thiruvallur District Collector T Prabhushankar said. According to initial reports, the train crew experienced a heavy jerk on the track, causing the express train to move onto a loop line and crash into the parked goods train. Also read: India: Two people detained for attempting to derail train for robbing passengers "The train was travelling at 109 km/h when its crew suddenly felt a severe jerk. The passenger train entered a loop line and collided with a stationary goods train on the same track," sources told India Today TV. Following the incident, the Southern Railway’s Chennai Division has released emergency helpline numbers: 044-25354151 and 044-24354995. Dilip Kumar, executive director of information and publicity for the Railway Board, said that the relief and rescue team has reached the incident site and evacuated over 90 per cent of the passengers. “Information has been received about the accident of 12578 Bagmati Express. So far, the relief and rescue team from the railway has reached the accident site and the work of evacuating passengers from all the coaches is going on. More than 90% of the passengers have been evacuated. We have not received any information of any casualty or serious injury so far,” he said. Watch | Jharkhand Train Derailment: Is Indian Railways Unsafe? × He continued, “Both the relief team and the medical team are present at the accident site. GM Sadan Railway and DRM Sadan Chennai Division have left for the accident site. Necessary arrangements are being made by the railway from Chennai station to take the rest of the passengers to their destination.” Moreover, most passengers have been rescued, and the injured have been taken to local hospitals for treatment. The collision of trains has disrupted the train traffic on the route and services have been temporarily halted. (With inputs from agencies)

Express train collides with goods train in India's Tamil Nadu, fire breaks out in two coaches; several injured

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has come out in&nbsp;defence of his government after five people died during the Indian Air Force's (IAF) mega air show at the Marina Beach in Chennai on Sunday (Oct 6).&nbsp;

Amid criticism from the opposition parties, Stalin said the state authorities had provided adequate facilities as requested by the IAF.

"Arrangements were made to conduct IAF Air Show in Chennai Marina. Facilities and administration assistance was provided as per IAF requirement and demand," said Stalin.&nbsp;

"Due to unexpected overcrowding, public suffered after the event in reaching their vehicles and accessing public transport. Next time, we would focus more and arrangements would be done when similar big events are planned,” he added.

Stalin also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh&nbsp;($6,000) from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund for the families of the victims.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Chennai Air Show Tragedy: Tamil Nadu Government Announces Compensation

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&nbsp;

<h2>Opposition targets Stalin</h2>

Earlier on Monday, Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai slammed the Stalin&nbsp;administration for negligence and compromising on the lives of the victims.&nbsp;

"I was shocked to hear that five people died due to crowding, and more than 200 people were injured and admitted to the hospital during the IAF air show. The only reason for this is that the DMK government did not take care of public safety, failing to provide basic facilities and adequate transport arrangements," Annamalai wrote in Tamil on X.

AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami condemned the DMK government for inadequate planning and poor crowd management.&nbsp;

“Administrative arrangements and crowds were not managed properly, and the police force was inadequate. The news is shocking that people were stuck in heavy traffic, with no drinking water available, and many were hospitalised due to heatstroke. Five people have died so far,” Palaniswami posted on X.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-3-spectators-die-over-200-faint-at-marina-beach-during-iaf-air-show-765010">Also read |&nbsp;India: 5 dead, 90 hospitalised as local authorities mess up Chennai IAF Air Show</a>

<h2>What happened in Chennai?</h2>

Despite knowing fully well that more than 1.5 million people were expected to turn up for the event, the Chennai City Police and Chennai Traffic Police did not make suitable arrangements to handle the heavy footfall.&nbsp;

Though the air show was held between 11 am to 1 pm, most people gathered at the venue at least an hour before.

Viral videos showed choked metro stations and Mass Rapid Transport System (under the Indian Railways) stations where people were struggling. The scorching heat and cramped surroundings led to over 200 fainting, with 93 admitted to nearby hospitals. However, five succumbed to death, unfortunately.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has come out in defence of his government after five people died during the Indian Air Force's (IAF) mega air show at the Marina Beach in Chennai on Sunday (Oct 6).

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has come out in defence of his government after five people died during the Indian Air Force's (IAF) mega air show at the Marina Beach in Chennai on Sunday (Oct 6). Amid criticism from the opposition parties, Stalin said the state authorities had provided adequate facilities as requested by the IAF. "Arrangements were made to conduct IAF Air Show in Chennai Marina. Facilities and administration assistance was provided as per IAF requirement and demand," said Stalin. "Due to unexpected overcrowding, public suffered after the event in reaching their vehicles and accessing public transport. Next time, we would focus more and arrangements would be done when similar big events are planned,” he added. Stalin also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh ($6,000) from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund for the families of the victims. Watch | Chennai Air Show Tragedy: Tamil Nadu Government Announces Compensation × Opposition targets Stalin Earlier on Monday, Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai slammed the Stalin administration for negligence and compromising on the lives of the victims. "I was shocked to hear that five people died due to crowding, and more than 200 people were injured and admitted to the hospital during the IAF air show. The only reason for this is that the DMK government did not take care of public safety, failing to provide basic facilities and adequate transport arrangements," Annamalai wrote in Tamil on X. AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami condemned the DMK government for inadequate planning and poor crowd management. “Administrative arrangements and crowds were not managed properly, and the police force was inadequate. The news is shocking that people were stuck in heavy traffic, with no drinking water available, and many were hospitalised due to heatstroke. Five people have died so far,” Palaniswami posted on X. Also read | India: 5 dead, 90 hospitalised as local authorities mess up Chennai IAF Air Show What happened in Chennai? Despite knowing fully well that more than 1.5 million people were expected to turn up for the event, the Chennai City Police and Chennai Traffic Police did not make suitable arrangements to handle the heavy footfall. Though the air show was held between 11 am to 1 pm, most people gathered at the venue at least an hour before. Viral videos showed choked metro stations and Mass Rapid Transport System (under the Indian Railways) stations where people were struggling. The scorching heat and cramped surroundings led to over 200 fainting, with 93 admitted to nearby hospitals. However, five succumbed to death, unfortunately. (With inputs from agencies)

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin defends government after opposition attacks over 5 deaths at IAF show

A fire at tata group’s iPhone component plant in Tamil Nadu has halted production indefinitely, disrupting apple’s supply chain just ahead of the festive season. As tata is the sole Indian supplier of iPhone back panels, this shutdown could hinder apple’s ability to meet local demand of 1.5 million units annually for the iPhone 14 and 15.

Fire Disrupts Tata’s iPhone Component Plant, Affecting Apple Supply Chain

Udhayanidhi Stalin, the 45-year-old son of Chief Minister M K Stalin, was on Saturday evening elevated to the post of Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. The decision came along with a cabinet reshuffle, which saw Stalin expanding his cabinet by appointing Dr Govi Chezhiaan as the fourth Dalit minister with the Higher Education portfolio.

Tamil Nadu's Udhayanidhi Becomes Deputy CM In Just Four Year Of His Political Career

The rare Neelakurinji flower, which only blooms once every 12 years, has made a stunning appearance in Udagamandalam, better known as Ooty. This breathtaking natural event has transformed the hills into a carpet of vibrant blue, attracting nature lovers and tourists from all over. Don’t miss this spectacular sight!

Neelakurinji Blossoms Again After 12  Years; Nilgiris Sees Huge Flow Of Tourists

A 50-year-old woman with a copy of her United States passport was found chained to a tree in a forest in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg district on Saturday (July 27), about 1,750 km south of New Delhi.&nbsp;

The incident has raised serious concerns about domestic violence and mental health.

The woman, identified as Lalita Kayi Kumar S, who resides in southern India's Tamil Nadu, was found by a shepherd in the remote village of Sonurli. The shepherd heard her cries on Saturday evening and immediately alerted the local authorities. When police arrived at the scene, they found her one leg chained to a tree.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/womans-body-found-stuffed-in-almirah-in-new-delhi-allegedly-killed-by-live-in-partner-707869">Woman's body found stuffed in almirah in New Delhi, allegedly killed by live-in partner</a>

Preliminary investigations suggest that Lalita's husband may have chained her in the forest following a domestic dispute. The local police provided first aid and transported her to a primary healthcare centre in Sawantwadi taluka. Given her condition, she was referred to a more advanced medical facility in Sindhudurg's Oros for further treatment.

Medical professionals at the hospital noted that Lalita appeared to be suffering from psychiatric issues.&nbsp;

Unable to speak coherently, she communicated by writing about her health problems on paper. A video from the hospital shows Lalita detailing her ordeal, claiming she had been without food for 40 days and that her husband had abandoned her in the forest after an argument.

Also watch |&nbsp;Indian woman from Hyderabad found starving on Chicago streets

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Maharashtra Police are currently investigating the incident, though no First Information Report (FIR) has been filed at the time of filing this report.&nbsp;

"The woman is not in a position to give her statement. She is very weak, having not eaten for several days and endured heavy rains in the area. We are still determining how long she was tied to the tree. According to initial reports, she left her husband after a quarrel," a police official was quoted as saying by India Today.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 50-year-old woman with a copy of her United States passport was found chained to a tree in a forest in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg district on Saturday (July 27), about 1,750 km south of New Delhi.

A 50-year-old woman with a copy of her United States passport was found chained to a tree in a forest in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg district on Saturday (July 27), about 1,750 km south of New Delhi. The incident has raised serious concerns about domestic violence and mental health. The woman, identified as Lalita Kayi Kumar S, who resides in southern India's Tamil Nadu, was found by a shepherd in the remote village of Sonurli. The shepherd heard her cries on Saturday evening and immediately alerted the local authorities. When police arrived at the scene, they found her one leg chained to a tree. Also read | Woman's body found stuffed in almirah in New Delhi, allegedly killed by live-in partner Preliminary investigations suggest that Lalita's husband may have chained her in the forest following a domestic dispute. The local police provided first aid and transported her to a primary healthcare centre in Sawantwadi taluka. Given her condition, she was referred to a more advanced medical facility in Sindhudurg's Oros for further treatment. Medical professionals at the hospital noted that Lalita appeared to be suffering from psychiatric issues. Unable to speak coherently, she communicated by writing about her health problems on paper. A video from the hospital shows Lalita detailing her ordeal, claiming she had been without food for 40 days and that her husband had abandoned her in the forest after an argument. Also watch | Indian woman from Hyderabad found starving on Chicago streets × Maharashtra Police are currently investigating the incident, though no First Information Report (FIR) has been filed at the time of filing this report. "The woman is not in a position to give her statement. She is very weak, having not eaten for several days and endured heavy rains in the area. We are still determining how long she was tied to the tree. According to initial reports, she left her husband after a quarrel," a police official was quoted as saying by India Today. (With inputs from agencies)

Tamil Nadu woman with US passport found chained in Maharashtra forest

As India's third largest trading partner, the United Arab Emirates (UAE)&nbsp;is exploring various non-oil sectors in which both nations can further trade ties. Specifically, the domains of advanced manufacturing, logistics, supply chain, renewable energy, food processing, drones, and space technology, are being looked at.

A delegation led by UAE's Economy Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri is on a visit to the Indian city of&nbsp;Chennai and met the Chief Minister of&nbsp;Tamil Nadu,&nbsp;MK Stalin on Thursday (Jul&nbsp;25).

The ministers discussed avenues for investment and creating job opportunities. The meeting was also attended by M A Yusuf Ali, an influential Indian-origin entrepreneur who is based in the UAE.

Yusuf Ali is the Chairman and Managing Director of the Lulu group, which is said to employ the largest number of Indian diaspora.

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A Ministerial delegation from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAE</a> is in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chennai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> to explore further avenues of economic cooperation between both nations. 
Already, UAE is indias 3rd largest trade partner. 
Today, 74% of UAE GDP is from non-oil sectors, MSMEs play a key role <a href="https://twitter.com/UAEmediaoffice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UAEmediaoffice</a> <a href="https://t.co/WGcWnaELv3">pic.twitter.com/WGcWnaELv3</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1816395827818160578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Speaking at the 'Investopia&nbsp;Global' event, organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII),&nbsp;Al Marri said that the UAE has made a name for itself, offering many services in industries&nbsp;such as logistics, finance, and technology.

The people-to-people ties between the UAE and India are another important aspect of our relationship, he said.

"The non-oil sector accounts for 74% of UAE's GDP. It's the first time that the UAE has reached this figure of 74% of GDP coming from non-oil sectors," Al Marri added.

He also mentioned that the India-UAE trade had grown by 15 per cent&nbsp;since the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the two nations, in the year 2022.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-india-cepa-council-launched-to-strengthen-economic-bonds-679015">UAE-India CEPA Council launched to strengthen economic bonds</a>

Prior to CEPA, the trade between the two countries was at $50 billion&nbsp;and following the pact, it has grown to nearly $70 billion, he stated.

Emphasising the importance of Small and Midsize Enterprises (SME), Alia Abdulla Al Mazrouei, UAE's Minister of State for Entrepreneurship said that the SMEs in UAE today represent 94 per cent&nbsp;of total companies,&nbsp;contribute 40 per cent to&nbsp;the country's&nbsp;GDP and account for 42 per cent&nbsp;of employment.

Also watch |&nbsp;UAE Ambassador to India speaks on the completion of 2 years of CEPA between UAE-India

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"We are keen to enhance the contribution of the SMEs sector to the trade and economic exchanges with India. Our goal is to transform over 20 UAE startups into unicorns by the year 2031. We strive to raise the number of SMEs in the UAE to 1,000,000 in line with the 2031 vision, which has set the national goal to double the GDP to reach AED 3 trillion by then,"&nbsp;she said.&nbsp;

Referring to the increasing trend of Venture capital investments in the UAE, she said, "In 2021, the UAE set a new record in venture capital investments, attracting AED 4.3 billion in funding for startups – a whopping 93 per cent&nbsp;Y-o-Y growth. More recently, in the first half of this year, the UAE attracted USD 225 million in VC funding."

She urged both the UAE and Indian SME&nbsp;ecosystem stakeholders&nbsp;to take advantage of this opportunity&nbsp;to explore productive partnerships and the available opportunities in both markets.

Tamil Nadu's Industries Minister TRB Rajaa expressed confidence that the state's electronics exports, already the highest in the country, will touch the $12 billion&nbsp;mark in the ongoing financial year.

In the previous financial year, the state achieved $9.6 billion&nbsp;worth of electronics exports, which is more than the combined electronics exports of Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh.

In 2023-24, Tamil Nadu alone accounted for 30 per cent of India's electronic exports. Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, and Maharashtra are also key contributors in boosting India's fast-growing exports of electronic goods.&nbsp;

Smartphones form the bulk of India's electronic exports, and the leading markets that receive them are the United States and the UAE.

According to Indian government data, since the financial year 2020-21, the US has remained the primary destination for India’s electronics exports. Its share in India’s electronics exports has surged in recent years. From just around 15-20 per cent between the FY 2017-18 and FY&nbsp;2021-22, the US' share surged to 24-34 per cent in the last two financial years.

Generally, India’s exports are dominated by engineering goods, followed by petroleum products, gems and jewellery, and electronics goods.

As India's third largest trading partner, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is exploring various non-oil sectors in which both nations can further trade ties. Specifically, the domains of advanced manufacturing, logistics, supply chain, renewable energy, food processing, drones, and space technology, are being looked at.

As India's third largest trading partner, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is exploring various non-oil sectors in which both nations can further trade ties. Specifically, the domains of advanced manufacturing, logistics, supply chain, renewable energy, food processing, drones, and space technology, are being looked at. A delegation led by UAE's Economy Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri is on a visit to the Indian city of Chennai and met the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin on Thursday (Jul 25). The ministers discussed avenues for investment and creating job opportunities. The meeting was also attended by M A Yusuf Ali, an influential Indian-origin entrepreneur who is based in the UAE. Yusuf Ali is the Chairman and Managing Director of the Lulu group, which is said to employ the largest number of Indian diaspora. A Ministerial delegation from #UAE is in #Chennai #TamilNadu #India to explore further avenues of economic cooperation between both nations. Already, UAE is indias 3rd largest trade partner. Today, 74% of UAE GDP is from non-oil sectors, MSMEs play a key role @UAEmediaoffice pic.twitter.com/WGcWnaELv3 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) July 25, 2024 × Speaking at the 'Investopia Global' event, organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Al Marri said that the UAE has made a name for itself, offering many services in industries such as logistics, finance, and technology. The people-to-people ties between the UAE and India are another important aspect of our relationship, he said. "The non-oil sector accounts for 74% of UAE's GDP. It's the first time that the UAE has reached this figure of 74% of GDP coming from non-oil sectors," Al Marri added. He also mentioned that the India-UAE trade had grown by 15 per cent since the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the two nations, in the year 2022. Also read | UAE-India CEPA Council launched to strengthen economic bonds Prior to CEPA, the trade between the two countries was at $50 billion and following the pact, it has grown to nearly $70 billion, he stated. Emphasising the importance of Small and Midsize Enterprises (SME), Alia Abdulla Al Mazrouei, UAE's Minister of State for Entrepreneurship said that the SMEs in UAE today represent 94 per cent of total companies, contribute 40 per cent to the country's GDP and account for 42 per cent of employment. Also watch | UAE Ambassador to India speaks on the completion of 2 years of CEPA between UAE-India × "We are keen to enhance the contribution of the SMEs sector to the trade and economic exchanges with India. Our goal is to transform over 20 UAE startups into unicorns by the year 2031. We strive to raise the number of SMEs in the UAE to 1,000,000 in line with the 2031 vision, which has set the national goal to double the GDP to reach AED 3 trillion by then," she said. Referring to the increasing trend of Venture capital investments in the UAE, she said, "In 2021, the UAE set a new record in venture capital investments, attracting AED 4.3 billion in funding for startups – a whopping 93 per cent Y-o-Y growth. More recently, in the first half of this year, the UAE attracted USD 225 million in VC funding." She urged both the UAE and Indian SME ecosystem stakeholders to take advantage of this opportunity to explore productive partnerships and the available opportunities in both markets. Tamil Nadu's Industries Minister TRB Rajaa expressed confidence that the state's electronics exports, already the highest in the country, will touch the $12 billion mark in the ongoing financial year. In the previous financial year, the state achieved $9.6 billion worth of electronics exports, which is more than the combined electronics exports of Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh. In 2023-24, Tamil Nadu alone accounted for 30 per cent of India's electronic exports. Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, and Maharashtra are also key contributors in boosting India's fast-growing exports of electronic goods. Smartphones form the bulk of India's electronic exports, and the leading markets that receive them are the United States and the UAE. According to Indian government data, since the financial year 2020-21, the US has remained the primary destination for India’s electronics exports. Its share in India’s electronics exports has surged in recent years. From just around 15-20 per cent between the FY 2017-18 and FY 2021-22, the US' share surged to 24-34 per cent in the last two financial years. Generally, India’s exports are dominated by engineering goods, followed by petroleum products, gems and jewellery, and electronics goods.

UAE's non-oil sector is 74 per cent of GDP; small industries crucial: UAE economy minister in India

DMK party cadres and leaders want Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin's son Udhayanidhi to be elevated as deputy CM, a move which will be a "huge advantage" for the party in the 2026 assembly elections, a senior party leader said on Thursday (Jul 18).

DMK Organising Secretary RS Bharathi, however, made it clear that the party president and CM Stalin will take the final call on the matter.

Bharathi's comments come amidst reports about the possible elevation of Udhayanidhi ahead of Stalin's proposed US visit next month.

Udhayanidhi was made Minister of Youth Welfare and Sports Development in his father’s Cabinet in December 2022, a year after he won from the Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni Assembly constituency. He had played a crucial role in the 2021 Assembly election which ended the decade of AIADMK rule in the state.

His poll campaign displaying a brick to signify that the Centre had not initiated any work on the AIIMS project that was promised for Madurai, had a big impact in bolstering the party’s winning prospects at the hustings. He had also campaigned effectively for the party in the 2024 Lok Saba election.

“Chief Minister MK Stalin has to decide on the elevation of Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin as Deputy CM. This will definitely be announced when it happens,” Bharathi said when asked about reports on Udhayanidhi being anointed as deputy to Stalin.

Party cadres and leaders including seniors like him want Udhayanidhi to become the Deputy CM, he said and added “this is our aspiration too.”

“But it is ultimately the CM who as the party president should decide,” Bharathi told PTI.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/udhayanidhi-stalin-accuses-bjp-of-twisting-his-statement-after-sparking-row-over-sanatana-dharma-remark-632030">Also read |&nbsp;Udhayanidhi Stalin accuses BJP of ‘twisting’ his statement after sparking row over 'Sanatana Dharma' remark</a>

Asked if the move will make the DMK gain an upper hand in the next Assembly election, he replied “it will turn out to be a huge advantage to the party in the 2026 Assembly elections if Udhayanidhi is elevated.”

Udhayanidhi, grandson of DMK stalwart M Karunanidhi, would be making history if he is elevated. His CM father had served as Deputy Chief Minister from 2009 to 2011 when Karunanidhi was the Chief Minister.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

DMK party cadres and leaders want Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin's son Udhayanidhi to be elevated as deputy CM, a move which will be a "huge advantage" for the party in the 2026 assembly elections, a senior party leader said on Thursday (Jul 18).

DMK party cadres and leaders want Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin's son Udhayanidhi to be elevated as deputy CM, a move which will be a "huge advantage" for the party in the 2026 assembly elections, a senior party leader said on Thursday (Jul 18). DMK Organising Secretary RS Bharathi, however, made it clear that the party president and CM Stalin will take the final call on the matter. Bharathi's comments come amidst reports about the possible elevation of Udhayanidhi ahead of Stalin's proposed US visit next month. Udhayanidhi was made Minister of Youth Welfare and Sports Development in his father’s Cabinet in December 2022, a year after he won from the Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni Assembly constituency. He had played a crucial role in the 2021 Assembly election which ended the decade of AIADMK rule in the state. His poll campaign displaying a brick to signify that the Centre had not initiated any work on the AIIMS project that was promised for Madurai, had a big impact in bolstering the party’s winning prospects at the hustings. He had also campaigned effectively for the party in the 2024 Lok Saba election. “Chief Minister MK Stalin has to decide on the elevation of Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin as Deputy CM. This will definitely be announced when it happens,” Bharathi said when asked about reports on Udhayanidhi being anointed as deputy to Stalin. Party cadres and leaders including seniors like him want Udhayanidhi to become the Deputy CM, he said and added “this is our aspiration too.” “But it is ultimately the CM who as the party president should decide,” Bharathi told PTI. Also read | Udhayanidhi Stalin accuses BJP of ‘twisting’ his statement after sparking row over 'Sanatana Dharma' remark Asked if the move will make the DMK gain an upper hand in the next Assembly election, he replied “it will turn out to be a huge advantage to the party in the 2026 Assembly elections if Udhayanidhi is elevated.” Udhayanidhi, grandson of DMK stalwart M Karunanidhi, would be making history if he is elevated. His CM father had served as Deputy Chief Minister from 2009 to 2011 when Karunanidhi was the Chief Minister. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: Will Udhayanidhi Stalin become Tamil Nadu deputy chief minister?

A writ petition urging that K Armstrong, the state president of the Tamil Nadu BSP, be buried at the party's office&nbsp;was denied by the Madras High Court on Sunday (July 7).&nbsp;

The court has ruled that his cremation take&nbsp;place on private land in Pothur Village, Thiruvallur district.

BSP chief Mayawati left Chennai earlier on Sunday to head to Uttar Pradesh. She visited Chennai to pay her last respects to the late BSP K Armstrong and met his grieving family.

On July 5, a few bike-borne men hacked Armstrong to death&nbsp;outside his Perambur home.

On Sunday, the Madras High Court conducted a special session to hear the wife of killed Tamil Nadu BSP president K Armstrong's request to bury his remains at the party office. The High Court permitted the funeral to take place in the neighbouring Thiruvallur district.

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The government rejected the petition, claiming that the party's office was in a residential area.

His widow petitioned the High Court, pleading for his burial in the party office. Justice V Bhavani Subbaroyan heard the plea.

The government rejected the request, claiming that the area was residential and that three alternative locations for the burial had been selected.

Additional Advocate General J Ravindran later notified the judge that the government had granted permission for the burial to take place on property owned by Armstrong's cousin in Pothur, Thiruvallur district and that the requisite orders had been issued.

The petitioner also agreed to the plan, and the judge ordered that Armstrong's remains be buried at Pothur. The judge ordered the petitioner to arrange a peaceful funeral procession and summoned the police for security.

(With inputs from agencies)

A writ petition urging that K Armstrong, the state president of the Tamil Nadu BSP, be buried at the party's office was denied by the Madras High Court on Sunday (July 7).

A writ petition urging that K Armstrong, the state president of the Tamil Nadu BSP, be buried at the party's office was denied by the Madras High Court on Sunday (July 7). The court has ruled that his cremation take place on private land in Pothur Village, Thiruvallur district. BSP chief Mayawati left Chennai earlier on Sunday to head to Uttar Pradesh. She visited Chennai to pay her last respects to the late BSP K Armstrong and met his grieving family. On July 5, a few bike-borne men hacked Armstrong to death outside his Perambur home. On Sunday, the Madras High Court conducted a special session to hear the wife of killed Tamil Nadu BSP president K Armstrong's request to bury his remains at the party office. The High Court permitted the funeral to take place in the neighbouring Thiruvallur district. Also read: Two Indian soldiers martyred, 6 terrorists killed in twin encounters in J&K The government rejected the petition, claiming that the party's office was in a residential area. His widow petitioned the High Court, pleading for his burial in the party office. Justice V Bhavani Subbaroyan heard the plea. The government rejected the request, claiming that the area was residential and that three alternative locations for the burial had been selected. Additional Advocate General J Ravindran later notified the judge that the government had granted permission for the burial to take place on property owned by Armstrong's cousin in Pothur, Thiruvallur district and that the requisite orders had been issued. The petitioner also agreed to the plan, and the judge ordered that Armstrong's remains be buried at Pothur. The judge ordered the petitioner to arrange a peaceful funeral procession and summoned the police for security. (With inputs from agencies)

Madras HC rejects plea seeking burial of slain TN BSP chief Armstrong in party office premises

Armstrong, the president of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in Tamil Nadu, was allegedly hacked to death on Friday by six unknown individuals close to his home in Chennai's Perambur area, according to officials.

India: Tamil Nadu BSP chief hacked to death in Chennai, manhunt launched to nab killers

The death toll in the Tamil Nadu hooch tragedy has risen to at least 29. The toll may rise on Thursday, as at least 10 people are in a critical state. More than 50 people were hospitalised in the Kallakurichi district of Tamil Nadu on Wednesday after they consumed spurious illicit liquor. Chief Minister MK Stalin immediately ordered a CBCID investigation into the matter.

India: Hooch claims 29 lives in Tamil Nadu, majority of victims are daily wage labourers

At least 34 people have died after consuming toxic alcohol, prompting a police investigation into the matter. Four people have been arrested in connection with the case. Watch in for more details!

Hooch Tragedy: Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin announces compensation of Rs. 10 lakh

Hooch claims 34 lives in India's Tamil Nadu, 4 arrested

Nirmala Sitharaman, a prominent Indian politician and a senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was&nbsp;sworn in as the Union Minister in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's new cabinet on Sunday (June 9).&nbsp;

She has held several key positions within the Indian government. Among the key positions held by her in the past were - Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs from 2019 - till June 2024.&nbsp;

As the first full-time female Finance Minister of India, Sitharaman oversaw the economic policies and financial management of the country, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic in India.&nbsp;

She has also been instrumental in crafting the Union Budget and navigating the economy through challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. In those turbulent times she was appointed to lead the COVID-19 Economic Response Task Force.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shivraj-singh-chouhan-ram-mohan-naidu-and-more-who-all-are-first-timers-in-modi-30-cabinet-730344">Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Ram Mohan Naidu and more: Who all are first-timers in Modi 3.0 Cabinet?</a>

Sitharaman also served as the Minister of Defence from 2017 to 2019. She became the second woman to hold the position of Defence Minister of India, after Indira Gandhi. She also served as the Minister of State for Finance and Corporate Affairs from 2014 - 2017.&nbsp;

As part of the Narendra Modi-led government, she played a crucial role in financial policy-making and corporate governance.

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She also served as the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Commerce and Industry from 2014 to 2017. She was responsible for trade negotiations and improving the ease of doing business in India.

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Before holding ministerial positions, Sitharaman served as the national spokesperson for the BJP, where she gained recognition for her articulate defence of the party’s policies and ideologies.
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Before entering politics, Nirmala Sitharaman worked in various capacities, including as an assistant to an economist in the Agricultural Engineers Association in the UK, and later in the corporate sector in India. She also served as a member of the National Commission for Women.

Nirmala Sitharaman is married to Parakala Prabhakar, an economist and political commentator. They have&nbsp;a&nbsp;daughter.

(With inputs from agencies)

Nirmala Sitharaman, a prominent Indian politician and a senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was sworn in as the Union Minister in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's new cabinet on Sunday (June 9).

Nirmala Sitharaman, a prominent Indian politician and a senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was sworn in as the Union Minister in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's new cabinet on Sunday (June 9). She has held several key positions within the Indian government. Among the key positions held by her in the past were - Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs from 2019 - till June 2024. As the first full-time female Finance Minister of India, Sitharaman oversaw the economic policies and financial management of the country, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic in India. She has also been instrumental in crafting the Union Budget and navigating the economy through challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. In those turbulent times she was appointed to lead the COVID-19 Economic Response Task Force. Also Read | Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Ram Mohan Naidu and more: Who all are first-timers in Modi 3.0 Cabinet? Sitharaman also served as the Minister of Defence from 2017 to 2019. She became the second woman to hold the position of Defence Minister of India, after Indira Gandhi. She also served as the Minister of State for Finance and Corporate Affairs from 2014 - 2017. As part of the Narendra Modi-led government, she played a crucial role in financial policy-making and corporate governance. Also Read | India's new coalition government: Full list of Modi's Council of Ministers She also served as the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Commerce and Industry from 2014 to 2017. She was responsible for trade negotiations and improving the ease of doing business in India. Watch | Modi 3.0: PM Modi takes oath for third term, JP Nadda, Shivraj Singh Chouhan get cabinet berths × Before holding ministerial positions, Sitharaman served as the national spokesperson for the BJP, where she gained recognition for her articulate defence of the party’s policies and ideologies. Before entering politics, Nirmala Sitharaman worked in various capacities, including as an assistant to an economist in the Agricultural Engineers Association in the UK, and later in the corporate sector in India. She also served as a member of the National Commission for Women. Nirmala Sitharaman is married to Parakala Prabhakar, an economist and political commentator. They have a daughter. (With inputs from agencies)

Meet Nirmala Sitharaman, BJP leader reappointed as union minister in Modi's new cabinet

Tamil Nadu's Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-led INDIA alliance won&nbsp;the majority of seats in the Lok Sabha elections. DMK secured 22 seats and Congress won 9 seats out of the total 39 seats in the general elections.&nbsp;&nbsp;

From the north-south debate to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speeches being translated to Tamil through AI tools to BJP's Tamil Nadu Chief&nbsp;Annamalai K drawing crowds, this time the NDA held vigorous campaigning in the south Indian state for the Lok Sabha elections. But now, DMK, a part of the opposition INDIA bloc, won most seats as results trickled in on Tuesday (June 4).

One setback for BJP was its lack of alliance with the AIADMK. The exit polls released on June 1 projected that the BJP would be able to open its account in Tamil Nadu by securing four seats, however results showed a decisive victory for the DMK.&nbsp;

Even as anti-incumbency was seen against the DMK government, the results were in its favour.&nbsp;

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Coimbatore was won by DMK's Ganapathy Rajkumar with BJP's Annamalai K losing the seat.&nbsp;CPI(M)’s P R Natarajan won Coimbatore in 2019 from DMK-led alliance.&nbsp;

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Notably, the battle in the state was among the INDIA bloc, which includes the DMK; All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK)-led alliance and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

As part of the seat-sharing pact, AIADMK was fighting from 32 seats and Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) was contesting from five. Interestingly, AIADMK and BJP were in alliance until September of 2023 but the two parted ways for the Lok Sabha Elections.&nbsp;

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NDA alliance in Tamil Nadu consists of the BJP on 19 seats and Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) on 10 seats. The Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) also threw their hats into the ring in all constituencies.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu, where elections were held in a single phase on April 19, registered a voter turnout of 69.72 per cent this year in the general elections.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu's Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-led INDIA alliance won the majority of seats in the Lok Sabha elections. DMK secured 22 seats and Congress won 9 seats out of the total 39 seats in the general elections.

Tamil Nadu's Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-led INDIA alliance won the majority of seats in the Lok Sabha elections. DMK secured 22 seats and Congress won 9 seats out of the total 39 seats in the general elections. From the north-south debate to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speeches being translated to Tamil through AI tools to BJP's Tamil Nadu Chief Annamalai K drawing crowds, this time the NDA held vigorous campaigning in the south Indian state for the Lok Sabha elections. But now, DMK, a part of the opposition INDIA bloc, won most seats as results trickled in on Tuesday (June 4). One setback for BJP was its lack of alliance with the AIADMK. The exit polls released on June 1 projected that the BJP would be able to open its account in Tamil Nadu by securing four seats, however results showed a decisive victory for the DMK. Even as anti-incumbency was seen against the DMK government, the results were in its favour. Also Read | Uttarakhand Lok Sabha Election Result 2024 Full Winners List: BJP leads in all five seats Coimbatore was won by DMK's Ganapathy Rajkumar with BJP's Annamalai K losing the seat. CPI(M)’s P R Natarajan won Coimbatore in 2019 from DMK-led alliance. Also Read | Tripura Lok Sabha Election Results 2024 Winners List: BJP leads in both parliamentary seats Notably, the battle in the state was among the INDIA bloc, which includes the DMK; All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK)-led alliance and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). As part of the seat-sharing pact, AIADMK was fighting from 32 seats and Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) was contesting from five. Interestingly, AIADMK and BJP were in alliance until September of 2023 but the two parted ways for the Lok Sabha Elections. Watch | India General Elections 2024: Samajwadi Party leading on 36 seats while BJP on 34 seats × NDA alliance in Tamil Nadu consists of the BJP on 19 seats and Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) on 10 seats. The Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) also threw their hats into the ring in all constituencies. Tamil Nadu, where elections were held in a single phase on April 19, registered a voter turnout of 69.72 per cent this year in the general elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Tamil Nadu Election Results 2024: DMK-led INDIA secures majority seats despite anti-incumbency

The DMK-led alliance continues to maintain the lead in 38 constituencies in Tamil Nadu, BJP’s ally PMK leads in one. The DMK-led alliance comprises the Congress, Left parties, Dalit groups, and minority parties. Watch in for more details!

India Election Results 2024 | Tamil Nadu: DMK leads in 21 seats

India's Congress party has approached a state high court seeking directives to the top election body to stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi from meditation in the southern city of Kanyakumari from May 30 to June 1.&nbsp;Congress's Tamil Nadu state unit told the Madras High Court that Modi's actions during the silent period amounted to a violation of the election code of conduct. The silence period starts 48 hours before the polling starts and no campaign-related activities are allowed during this time.

The seventh and last phase of the mammoth India elections will be held on June 1&nbsp;and the silence period began on the evening of May 30. Ahead of the phase seven polls, PM Modi has decided to hold a 45-hour-long Dhyan (meditation) at the Vivekananda Rock. Congress says this is an attempt to "whip up Hindu sentiments" and for "canvassing votes" by misusing his official position.

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Congress alleged that Modi's action to broadcast his meditation using official media violated the Representation of Peoples Act.

Congress also highlighted how Modi's visit to the public place was infringing upon the fundamental right of the tourists as security has been beefed up in the area and several restrictions have been placed. The party said the livelihood of several persons will also be hit as business activities have been restricted.

Earlier this week, senior Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi held a meeting with officials from the Election Commission of India (ECI) and urged the poll body to stop PM Modi's 'meditation campaign.'

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“We told the Election Commission that during the silence period of 48 hours, no one should be allowed to campaign, directly or indirectly,” he was quoted as saying by news agencies.

Singhvi, however, clarified that the grand old party is not against “whatever any leader may do.”

“The PM's meditation, on the other hand, will be a violation of the Model Code as the silence period would be from 7am on May 30 till June 1,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Congress party has approached a state high court seeking directives to the top election body to stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi from meditation in the southern city of Kanyakumari from May 30 to June 1.

India's Congress party has approached a state high court seeking directives to the top election body to stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi from meditation in the southern city of Kanyakumari from May 30 to June 1. Congress's Tamil Nadu state unit told the Madras High Court that Modi's actions during the silent period amounted to a violation of the election code of conduct. The silence period starts 48 hours before the polling starts and no campaign-related activities are allowed during this time. The seventh and last phase of the mammoth India elections will be held on June 1 and the silence period began on the evening of May 30. Ahead of the phase seven polls, PM Modi has decided to hold a 45-hour-long Dhyan (meditation) at the Vivekananda Rock. Congress says this is an attempt to "whip up Hindu sentiments" and for "canvassing votes" by misusing his official position. Also read: OpenAI disrupts attempts made by Israel-based company to interfere in India elections Congress alleged that Modi's action to broadcast his meditation using official media violated the Representation of Peoples Act. Congress also highlighted how Modi's visit to the public place was infringing upon the fundamental right of the tourists as security has been beefed up in the area and several restrictions have been placed. The party said the livelihood of several persons will also be hit as business activities have been restricted. Earlier this week, senior Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi held a meeting with officials from the Election Commission of India (ECI) and urged the poll body to stop PM Modi's 'meditation campaign.' Also read: In major boost to Modinomics, India`s economy expands 8.2% in Q4 “We told the Election Commission that during the silence period of 48 hours, no one should be allowed to campaign, directly or indirectly,” he was quoted as saying by news agencies. Singhvi, however, clarified that the grand old party is not against “whatever any leader may do.” “The PM's meditation, on the other hand, will be a violation of the Model Code as the silence period would be from 7am on May 30 till June 1,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Violation of silent period,' Tamil Nadu Congress moves court against PM Modi's Kanyakumari visit

The chief of Tamil Nadu’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) unit, K Annamalai, said Friday (Apr 19) that the names of a large number of voters were missing from the voters’ list, while demanding re-polling in some areas. "We are demanding re-poll in places where the names of a large number of voters were missing," he said.

Annamalai also cautioned that some political interference may have caused the removal of the names of numerous BJP cadres from the voters’ list.

“There are several discrepancies as names of many who came from abroad to vote were deleted, the members of the same family were assigned in different and faraway booths and in one single booth, names of 830 persons were deleted. Even though such issues are common, it has happened on a massive scale in this poll,” Annamalai was quoted as saying in media reports.

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He further stated that the names of 100,000 voters were missing from the list, although he said the Election Commission had done its duty in a free and fair manner.

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“What is the point in holding polls after deleting the names of 60 percent of voters in a booth? How will the people get confidence in democracy? All these issues are documented and submitted as complaints to election authorities,” he asked.

<h2>DMK hits back</h2>

State ruling party Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) hit back at Annamalai, saying he had already conceded defeat in the elections.

DMK spokesperson Salem Dharanidharan said, "He is shedding crocodile tears. He is just conceding defeat even before results are out. Coming days, he will be giving 100s of other reasons but never take responsibility for his loss. Annamalai is not only going to lose Coimbatore, but he is gonna lose deposit also. The voters of Coimbatore have once again dismissed the divisive politics of the BJP."

<h2>Tamil Nadu turnout</h2>

All 39 Lok Sabha seats went into polling on April 19, and by 8 pm, 72.09 per cent of the electorate turned up at the election booths.

Three parties—BJP, DMK and AIADMK—are vying for political dominance in the state.

(With inputs from agencies)

The chief of Tamil Nadu’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) unit, K Annamalai, said Friday (Apr 19) that the names of a large number of voters were missing from the voters’ list, while demanding re-polling in some areas.

The chief of Tamil Nadu’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) unit, K Annamalai, said Friday (Apr 19) that the names of a large number of voters were missing from the voters’ list, while demanding re-polling in some areas. "We are demanding re-poll in places where the names of a large number of voters were missing," he said. Annamalai also cautioned that some political interference may have caused the removal of the names of numerous BJP cadres from the voters’ list. “There are several discrepancies as names of many who came from abroad to vote were deleted, the members of the same family were assigned in different and faraway booths and in one single booth, names of 830 persons were deleted. Even though such issues are common, it has happened on a massive scale in this poll,” Annamalai was quoted as saying in media reports. Also read: Lok Sabha Election 2024: Voter turnout highest in West Bengal He further stated that the names of 100,000 voters were missing from the list, although he said the Election Commission had done its duty in a free and fair manner. Also read:Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Phase 1 voting: List of key candidates in Maharashtra “What is the point in holding polls after deleting the names of 60 percent of voters in a booth? How will the people get confidence in democracy? All these issues are documented and submitted as complaints to election authorities,” he asked. DMK hits back State ruling party Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) hit back at Annamalai, saying he had already conceded defeat in the elections. DMK spokesperson Salem Dharanidharan said, "He is shedding crocodile tears. He is just conceding defeat even before results are out. Coming days, he will be giving 100s of other reasons but never take responsibility for his loss. Annamalai is not only going to lose Coimbatore, but he is gonna lose deposit also. The voters of Coimbatore have once again dismissed the divisive politics of the BJP." Tamil Nadu turnout All 39 Lok Sabha seats went into polling on April 19, and by 8 pm, 72.09 per cent of the electorate turned up at the election booths. Three parties—BJP, DMK and AIADMK—are vying for political dominance in the state. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Names of 100,000 voters missing:’ Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai demands re-polling in some seats

On Pollnomics, we take you to the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. With 39 seats in the parliament, it has shaped coalition politics in the past. Its unique socio-political landscape has also shaped its robust economy. This report tells you more about this Dravidian citadel.

Tamil Nadu's unique socio-political landscape shapes its robust economy

India General Elections 2024: Tamil Nadu's rise as economic hub

The first phase of voting for the 2024 Lok Sabha election was held&nbsp;on Friday (April 19) with large number of people coming out to vote. Footage of citizens heading to the polling stations&nbsp;dominated X, with one video featuring an elderly woman going insanely viral. The clip shows a 102-year-old woman exercising her voting rights in Tamil Nadu.

ANI shared a video of the woman with the&nbsp;caption that reads, “Lok Sabha elections 2024: 102-year-old woman walks to polling booth to cast her vote in Tamil Nadu”.

In the video, the woman is seen standing&nbsp;with a walking stick outside the polling booth. With the help of a man, she enters the booth and casts her vote.

Watch the video here:

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Dindigul, Tamil Nadu: A 102-year-old lady cast her vote at Reddiyarchatram in Dindigul district. <a href="https://t.co/zMa4589MAV">pic.twitter.com/zMa4589MAV</a>
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The video was uploaded a few hours ago and has already garnered over 49,000 views. Additionally, it has received nearly 5,100 likes and elicited a range of comments from viewers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/tamil-nadu-lok-sabha-elections-2024-spotlight-on-crucial-constituencies-and-candidates-713095">Also read |&nbsp;Tamil Nadu Lok Sabha elections 2024: Spotlight on crucial constituencies and candidates</a>

“Salute to you, Amma,” wrote an Instagram user.

“She is full of energy. God bless her. May she live many more years,” posted another.

“She represents the face of Indian democracy,” shared a third.

“Amazing. If this doesn't inspire people to vote, I don't know what will,” added a fourth.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/lok-sabha-polls-2024-first-phase-of-worlds-largest-democratic-election-underway-in-21-indian-states-712862">Also read |&nbsp;Lok Sabha Polls 2024 | World’s biggest festival of democracy begins, voting starts in 21 states of India</a>

The first phase of voting includes 102 constituencies across 21 states in India.&nbsp;These regions include Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Assam, Bihar, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Puducherry, Sikkim, Jammu and Kashmir, and Lakshadweep.

(With inputs from agencies)

The first phase of voting for the 2024 Lok Sabha election was held on Friday (April 19) with large number of people coming out to vote. Footage of citizens heading to the polling stations dominated X, with one video featuring an elderly woman going insanely viral.

The first phase of voting for the 2024 Lok Sabha election was held on Friday (April 19) with large number of people coming out to vote. Footage of citizens heading to the polling stations dominated X, with one video featuring an elderly woman going insanely viral. The clip shows a 102-year-old woman exercising her voting rights in Tamil Nadu. ANI shared a video of the woman with the caption that reads, “Lok Sabha elections 2024: 102-year-old woman walks to polling booth to cast her vote in Tamil Nadu”. In the video, the woman is seen standing with a walking stick outside the polling booth. With the help of a man, she enters the booth and casts her vote. Watch the video here: #WATCH | Dindigul, Tamil Nadu: A 102-year-old lady cast her vote at Reddiyarchatram in Dindigul district. pic.twitter.com/zMa4589MAV — ANI (@ANI) April 19, 2024 × The video was uploaded a few hours ago and has already garnered over 49,000 views. Additionally, it has received nearly 5,100 likes and elicited a range of comments from viewers. Also read | Tamil Nadu Lok Sabha elections 2024: Spotlight on crucial constituencies and candidates “Salute to you, Amma,” wrote an Instagram user. “She is full of energy. God bless her. May she live many more years,” posted another. “She represents the face of Indian democracy,” shared a third. “Amazing. If this doesn't inspire people to vote, I don't know what will,” added a fourth. Also read | Lok Sabha Polls 2024 | World’s biggest festival of democracy begins, voting starts in 21 states of India The first phase of voting includes 102 constituencies across 21 states in India. These regions include Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Assam, Bihar, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Puducherry, Sikkim, Jammu and Kashmir, and Lakshadweep. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha elections 2024: 102-year-old woman heads to polling booth to vote in Tamil Nadu. WATCH

The voting for the first phase of the 18th Lok Sabha elections has wrapped up in all 39 constituencies of Tamil Nadu. Around 62.3 million voters will determine the fate of 950 candidates across 68,000 polling stations. It marks a three-way contest between the incumbent Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

During the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the DMK-led coalition secured a landslide victory in the state, claiming 38 out of 39 seats. The DMK itself won 24 seats, with the Congress securing eight seats, and the CPI and CPM each obtaining two seats. Additionally, the VCK and IUML each won one seat.

The BJP, which failed to win any seats previously, has made significant investments in Tamil Nadu for this election.

Follow<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-live-voting-up-rajasthan-bihar-mp-maharashtra-tamil-nadu-nagaland-sikkim-mizoram-712699"> this live blog</a> for all the latest updates on phase 1 of the Lok Sabha elections 2024

<h2>Here are some key candidates and constituencies to watch out for in Tamil Nadu:</h2>

Coimbatore: This bustling hub in western Tamil Nadu is an important electoral battle field. State BJP chief K Annamalai is in the running, facing off against DMK leader Ganapathy P Rajkumar and AIADMK's Singai Ramachandran. Annamalai, who left his post as an IPS officer to enter politics, has pledged to bring the Indian Institute of Management, as well as the offices of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), to Coimbatore.

Thoothukkudi: Situated in southern Tamil Nadu, this constituency boasts a diverse field of 28 contenders, including DMK leader and incumbent MP Kanimozhi, who triumphed over BJP's Tamilisai Soundararajan in 2019.

Chennai Central: With six assembly constituencies under its purview, this seat is a tight competition&nbsp;between BJP's Vinoj P Selvam and DMK's former Union minister Dayanidhi Maran.

Nilgiris: Anticipate a triangular tussle here, with DMK's A Raja, AIADMK's Logesh Tamil Selvan, and BJP's L Murugan vying for victory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-fortune-teller-arrested-for-predicting-cuddalore-pmk-candidates-victory-in-lok-sabha-polls-709717">Also read |&nbsp;Tamil Nadu fortune teller arrested for predicting Cuddalore PMK candidate’s victory in Lok Sabha polls</a>

Chennai South: Former Telangana Governor and BJP stalwart Tamilisai Soundararajan is making her bid here, going up against DMK's T Sumathy and former AIADMK MP J Jayavardhan.

Ramanathapuram: Former Tamil Nadu chief minister O Paneerselvam (OPS) has thrown his hat into the ring in this constituency, competing against AIADMK's Jayaperumal and K Navaskani from the Indian Union Muslim League.

Sivaganga: Expect a three-way battle in this constituency, with incumbent Congress MP Karti Chidambaram, BJP's Devanathan Yadav, and AIADMK's A Xavierdas vying for victory.

(With inputs from agencies)

The voting for the first phase of the 18th Lok Sabha elections has wrapped up in all 39 constituencies of Tamil Nadu. Around 62.3 million voters will determine the fate of 950 candidates across 68,000 polling stations.

The voting for the first phase of the 18th Lok Sabha elections has wrapped up in all 39 constituencies of Tamil Nadu. Around 62.3 million voters will determine the fate of 950 candidates across 68,000 polling stations. It marks a three-way contest between the incumbent Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). During the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the DMK-led coalition secured a landslide victory in the state, claiming 38 out of 39 seats. The DMK itself won 24 seats, with the Congress securing eight seats, and the CPI and CPM each obtaining two seats. Additionally, the VCK and IUML each won one seat. The BJP, which failed to win any seats previously, has made significant investments in Tamil Nadu for this election. Follow this live blog for all the latest updates on phase 1 of the Lok Sabha elections 2024 Here are some key candidates and constituencies to watch out for in Tamil Nadu: Coimbatore: This bustling hub in western Tamil Nadu is an important electoral battle field. State BJP chief K Annamalai is in the running, facing off against DMK leader Ganapathy P Rajkumar and AIADMK's Singai Ramachandran. Annamalai, who left his post as an IPS officer to enter politics, has pledged to bring the Indian Institute of Management, as well as the offices of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), to Coimbatore. Thoothukkudi: Situated in southern Tamil Nadu, this constituency boasts a diverse field of 28 contenders, including DMK leader and incumbent MP Kanimozhi, who triumphed over BJP's Tamilisai Soundararajan in 2019. Chennai Central: With six assembly constituencies under its purview, this seat is a tight competition between BJP's Vinoj P Selvam and DMK's former Union minister Dayanidhi Maran. Nilgiris: Anticipate a triangular tussle here, with DMK's A Raja, AIADMK's Logesh Tamil Selvan, and BJP's L Murugan vying for victory. Also read | Tamil Nadu fortune teller arrested for predicting Cuddalore PMK candidate’s victory in Lok Sabha polls Chennai South: Former Telangana Governor and BJP stalwart Tamilisai Soundararajan is making her bid here, going up against DMK's T Sumathy and former AIADMK MP J Jayavardhan. Ramanathapuram: Former Tamil Nadu chief minister O Paneerselvam (OPS) has thrown his hat into the ring in this constituency, competing against AIADMK's Jayaperumal and K Navaskani from the Indian Union Muslim League. Sivaganga: Expect a three-way battle in this constituency, with incumbent Congress MP Karti Chidambaram, BJP's Devanathan Yadav, and AIADMK's A Xavierdas vying for victory. (With inputs from agencies)

Tamil Nadu Lok Sabha elections 2024: Spotlight on crucial constituencies and candidates

In the state of Tamil Nadu, currency notes have been distributed during an election campaign for the Congress's Virudhanagar candidate for the Lok Sabha elections Manickam Tagore in a video clip that was widely shared on social media platforms on Wednesday.

Tamil Nadu: Money distributed during a rally in Madurai

Two youngsters, each aged 18, a businessman, a senior citizen and a fisherman led by acclaimed scuba diving instructor SB Aravind Tharunsri&nbsp;submerged themselves into the depths of the sea off the coast of Chennai. Why? The world's biggest democracy is in the middle of a heated election summer with about 97 million eligible voters set to seal their electoral verdict inside Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) starting April 19.&nbsp;

The six divers went nearly sixty feet underwater in Neelankarai in Chennai to promote voter awareness ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

The divers took with them a mock Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) and placards showing messages related to the importance of casting their vote

Speaking to WION,&nbsp;SB Aravind Tharunsri&nbsp;director of Puducherry-based Temple Adventure, said, "The idea behind doing all this 60 feet deep into the sea was to put out that even if you want to cast your vote on the NOTA, come to the polling booth and do that. But you have to come to the polling booth."

Indian voters cast their vote through Electronic Voting Machines. The voters press the key in front of their chosen candidate, and the one with the most number of votes is declared the winner. None of the Above, abbreviated as NOTA, has been provided as an option to the voters in elections since 2013. The voters have the option to press NOTA in case they do not wish to vote for any of the candidates.

A video capturing the campaign shows one of the divers talking about the importance of voting. "We organised a voter awareness programme to show that casting a vote is our duty and right."&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;India elections: Meet the richest candidates

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Tharunsri's innovative approach aimed to engage citizens in an impactful manner, and netizens have showered praise on the initiative on social media.

The Lok Sabha elections, scheduled to be held in seven phases from April 19 to June 1, will see voters across the country exercise their democratic rights. With nearly 970 million eligible voters, this will be the world's largest election exercise.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/india-news/business-economy/6-side-effects-of-ginger-that-are-dangerous-1708942941735">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Seating Pretty With Opposition?</a>

With initiatives like the underwater voter awareness campaign, individuals and organisations are striving to ensure maximum participation in the electoral process.

Two youngsters, each aged 18, a businessman, a senior citizen and a fisherman led by acclaimed scuba diving instructor SB Aravind Tharunsri submerged themselves into the depths of the sea off the coast of Chennai.

Two youngsters, each aged 18, a businessman, a senior citizen and a fisherman led by acclaimed scuba diving instructor SB Aravind Tharunsri submerged themselves into the depths of the sea off the coast of Chennai. Why? The world's biggest democracy is in the middle of a heated election summer with about 97 million eligible voters set to seal their electoral verdict inside Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) starting April 19. The six divers went nearly sixty feet underwater in Neelankarai in Chennai to promote voter awareness ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The divers took with them a mock Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) and placards showing messages related to the importance of casting their vote Speaking to WION, SB Aravind Tharunsri director of Puducherry-based Temple Adventure, said, "The idea behind doing all this 60 feet deep into the sea was to put out that even if you want to cast your vote on the NOTA, come to the polling booth and do that. But you have to come to the polling booth." Indian voters cast their vote through Electronic Voting Machines. The voters press the key in front of their chosen candidate, and the one with the most number of votes is declared the winner. None of the Above, abbreviated as NOTA, has been provided as an option to the voters in elections since 2013. The voters have the option to press NOTA in case they do not wish to vote for any of the candidates. A video capturing the campaign shows one of the divers talking about the importance of voting. "We organised a voter awareness programme to show that casting a vote is our duty and right." Also watch | India elections: Meet the richest candidates × Tharunsri's innovative approach aimed to engage citizens in an impactful manner, and netizens have showered praise on the initiative on social media. The Lok Sabha elections, scheduled to be held in seven phases from April 19 to June 1, will see voters across the country exercise their democratic rights. With nearly 970 million eligible voters, this will be the world's largest election exercise. Also read | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Seating Pretty With Opposition? With initiatives like the underwater voter awareness campaign, individuals and organisations are striving to ensure maximum participation in the electoral process.

Indian divers take voting awareness campaign to the depths of sea

A self-proclaimed fortune teller from the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu found himself in troubled waters when his parrot predicted the win of a state party leader.&nbsp;

Selvaraj and his parrot are famed for fortune-telling in the district, and his recent prediction of Thankar Bachan, a PMK candidate winning in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, led to his arrest on Tuesday.

Selvaraj’s arrest was made on the grounds of keeping the parrot captive. The bird is a Schedule II species under the Wildlife (Protection Act), 1972 and keeping it in captivity is a crime, as per Forest Ranger J Ramesh.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-witnesses-drop-in-unicorn-count-byjus-valuation-plunge-tops-global-charts-709703">India witnesses drop in unicorn count, Byju's valuation plunge tops global charts</a>

PMK candidate, Bachan called this action of the DMK-governed state as the “height of fascism.”

As per reports, Bachan approached Selvaraj to predict his future in the upcoming polls from Cuddalore Lok Sabha seat on Sunday. The fortune teller declared that Bachan was set to win, based on the card selected by the parrot. The parrot selected a card with an image of Lord Azhagmuthu Iyyanar on it.&nbsp;

Later, Bachan sought the blessings of Lord Iyyanar, the presiding deity of the nearby temple.&nbsp;

The entire episode triggered a political debate over the arrest of the fortune teller/ astrologer, with PMK calling the current state ruling party, DMK,&nbsp;fascist. PMK president and Rajya Sabha MP Anbumani Ramadoss slammed the DMK government for being partial to a poor fortune teller.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-petitions-supreme-court-against-ed-arrest-709632">Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal petitions Supreme Court against ED arrest</a>

"The government has said that it is a crime to keep a parrot in a cage and that is why the soothsayer Selvaraj has been arrested. All over Tamil Nadu, lakhs of parrot astrologers keep parrots in cages for fortune-telling. The now-arrested astrologer has been doing soothsaying at the same place for many years. He was not arrested then. Will M.K.Stalin become the Chief Minister?" Anbumani wrote on X.

The forest officials said Selvaraj would be let off with a warning this time, and he also had to pay a penalty of Rs 10,000 for keeping the bird captive.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A self-proclaimed fortune teller from the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu found himself in troubled waters when his parrot predicted the win of a state party leader.

A self-proclaimed fortune teller from the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu found himself in troubled waters when his parrot predicted the win of a state party leader. Selvaraj and his parrot are famed for fortune-telling in the district, and his recent prediction of Thankar Bachan, a PMK candidate winning in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, led to his arrest on Tuesday. Selvaraj’s arrest was made on the grounds of keeping the parrot captive. The bird is a Schedule II species under the Wildlife (Protection Act), 1972 and keeping it in captivity is a crime, as per Forest Ranger J Ramesh. Also Read | India witnesses drop in unicorn count, Byju's valuation plunge tops global charts PMK candidate, Bachan called this action of the DMK-governed state as the “height of fascism.” As per reports, Bachan approached Selvaraj to predict his future in the upcoming polls from Cuddalore Lok Sabha seat on Sunday. The fortune teller declared that Bachan was set to win, based on the card selected by the parrot. The parrot selected a card with an image of Lord Azhagmuthu Iyyanar on it. Later, Bachan sought the blessings of Lord Iyyanar, the presiding deity of the nearby temple. The entire episode triggered a political debate over the arrest of the fortune teller/ astrologer, with PMK calling the current state ruling party, DMK, fascist. PMK president and Rajya Sabha MP Anbumani Ramadoss slammed the DMK government for being partial to a poor fortune teller. Also Read | Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal petitions Supreme Court against ED arrest "The government has said that it is a crime to keep a parrot in a cage and that is why the soothsayer Selvaraj has been arrested. All over Tamil Nadu, lakhs of parrot astrologers keep parrots in cages for fortune-telling. The now-arrested astrologer has been doing soothsaying at the same place for many years. He was not arrested then. Will M.K.Stalin become the Chief Minister?" Anbumani wrote on X. The forest officials said Selvaraj would be let off with a warning this time, and he also had to pay a penalty of Rs 10,000 for keeping the bird captive. (With inputs from agencies)

Tamil Nadu fortune teller arrested for predicting Cuddalore PMK candidate’s victory in Lok Sabha polls

India Prime Minister Narendra Modi makes a momentous landing in Tamil Nadu, kicking off the countdown to the Lok Sabha elections. Watch to know more.

PM Modi's on a 2-day trip to Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will headline an I.N.D.I.A bloc rally in Coimbatore on April 12.

Tamil Nadu: Rahul Gandhi, MK Stalin to attend I.N.D.I.A bloc rally in Coimbatore

The Katchtheevu issue: In the latest Prime Minister Modi has slammed MK Stalin led DMK over the issue. The Prime Minister said that the party has done nothing to safeguard Tamil Nadu's interests. Watch to know more!

Katchatheevu Island Row: PM Modi slams DMK says 'did nothing to safeguard Tamil Nadu's interest'

India's Southern State of Tamil Nadu a tiny Island between India and Sri Lanka is adding fire To The divide among political parties. Jaishankar says Nehru found Kachatheevu to be a nuisance. What’s the latest controversy between the BJP and the Congress over a tiny island?

Katchatheevu Island row: Key facts about the tiny island, explained

India's Southern State of Tamil Nadu a tiny Island between India and Sri Lanka is adding fire To The divide among political parties.

Katchatheevu Island row: War of words ahead of Parliamentary polls

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