The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-refuses-to-stay-ngt-order-to-reopen-sterlite-plant-188983">Supreme Court </a>on Monday set&nbsp;aside the December 15 order of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) allowing the reopening of the Vedanta-owned&nbsp;Sterlite plant in Tamil Nadu's&nbsp;Tuticorin.

The court told Vedanta and the Tamil Nadu government that they could take the issue up with the Madras High Court.

A bench headed by Justice RF Nariman said the NGT did not have the jurisdiction to order the reopening of the plant.

The court was hearing a plea by Vedanta group seeking a direction to Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board to implement the NGT order which had set aside the government's decision to close the plant.

Meanwhile, the&nbsp;Supreme Court has asked the Central Bureau of Investigation to&nbsp;conduct a fair and impartial investigation into the police firing that killed 13 persons.

On&nbsp;December 15, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-government-approaches-supreme-court-challenging-ngt-order-of-reopening-sterlite-plant-187859">NGT had set aside</a> the Tamil Nadu government's order for closure of mining company Vedanta Ltd’s Sterlite copper plant at Tuticorin saying it was “non-sustainable" and “unjustified".

The Tamil Nadu government had, on May 28, ordered the state pollution control board to seal and “permanently" close the mining group’s copper plant following violent protests over pollution concerns.

At least <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-vedanta-protesters-killed-by-shots-to-head-chest-half-from-behind-autopsies-185867">13 people were killed</a> and several injured on May 22 last year when police opened fire on a large crowd of people protesting against the plant due to the&nbsp;environmental pollution allegedly caused by the plant.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court on Monday set aside the December 15 order of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) allowing the reopening of the Vedanta-owned Sterlite plant in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin.

The Supreme Court on Monday set aside the December 15 order of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) allowing the reopening of the Vedanta-owned Sterlite plant in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin. The court told Vedanta and the Tamil Nadu government that they could take the issue up with the Madras High Court. A bench headed by Justice RF Nariman said the NGT did not have the jurisdiction to order the reopening of the plant. The court was hearing a plea by Vedanta group seeking a direction to Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board to implement the NGT order which had set aside the government's decision to close the plant. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has asked the Central Bureau of Investigation to conduct a fair and impartial investigation into the police firing that killed 13 persons. On December 15, the NGT had set aside the Tamil Nadu government's order for closure of mining company Vedanta Ltd’s Sterlite copper plant at Tuticorin saying it was “non-sustainable" and “unjustified". The Tamil Nadu government had, on May 28, ordered the state pollution control board to seal and “permanently" close the mining group’s copper plant following violent protests over pollution concerns. At least 13 people were killed and several injured on May 22 last year when police opened fire on a large crowd of people protesting against the plant due to the environmental pollution allegedly caused by the plant. (With inputs from agencies)

Vedanta Sterlite plant: Supreme Court sets aside NGT order allowing its reopening

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

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

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

In search of a new political narrative in Tamil Nadu

Two Tamil Nadu lads have been selected to train and play for a month in the International Academy of AD Alcorcon in Spain.

Lijo Francis and Shyjin, both mid-fielders from Kanyakumari district in the state, were picked during Football Trials 19, a football talent search, which concluded here Wednesday.

The participants were assessed by Jose Gonzalez, Director of the International Academy of AD Alcorcon and Nuria Palomo Leon, a coach at the academy.

Two players each from Karnataka, Kerala, Telangana and Maharashtra, apart from Tamil Nadu will be selected and will get an opportunity to play and train in Spain for one month at AD Alcorcon, a press note said.

The initiative is a brainchild of David Anand, founder of Football Plus Professional Soccer Academy, who associated with Ad Alcorcon, with an aim of creating world-class players.

Two Tamil Nadu lads have been selected to train and play for a month in the International Academy of AD Alcorcon in Spain. Lijo Francis and Shyjin, both mid-fielders from Kanyakumari district in the state, were picked during Football Trials 19, a football talent search, which concluded here Wednesday.

Two Tamil Nadu lads have been selected to train and play for a month in the International Academy of AD Alcorcon in Spain. Lijo Francis and Shyjin, both mid-fielders from Kanyakumari district in the state, were picked during Football Trials 19, a football talent search, which concluded here Wednesday. The participants were assessed by Jose Gonzalez, Director of the International Academy of AD Alcorcon and Nuria Palomo Leon, a coach at the academy. Two players each from Karnataka, Kerala, Telangana and Maharashtra, apart from Tamil Nadu will be selected and will get an opportunity to play and train in Spain for one month at AD Alcorcon, a press note said. The initiative is a brainchild of David Anand, founder of Football Plus Professional Soccer Academy, who associated with Ad Alcorcon, with an aim of creating world-class players.

Two Tamil Nadu boys to train, play for a month at AD Alcorcon in Spain

The Centre Monday approved the release of Rs 1,146 crore to Tamil Nadu for the people affected by cyclone 'Gaja', which had claimed 46 lives and left a trail of destruction in over 10 districts in the state.

The approval for the financial assistance was given at a high level committee chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh.

The high level committee approved the additional assistance of Rs 1,146.12 crore to Tamil Nadu from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), a statement from the Home Ministry said.

Earlier on December 3, the central government had released Rs 353.70 crore as an interim relief, in order to support the affected people of Tamil Nadu.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh and Vice Chairman, Niti Ayog, Rajiv Kumar attended the meeting.

Last month, the Tamil Nadu government had sought about Rs 14,910 crore as central assistance towards relief and rehabilitation activities in cyclone 'Gaja' affected districts in the state.

According to the abstract of memorandum submitted to the central government, the Tamil Nadu government had sought a total sum of Rs 14,910 crore towards permanent renovation activities in various areas, including the power sector which has been badly hit.

Over one lakh electric poles had been uprooted and a significant number of power sub-stations damaged, with reports suggesting that many parts are still without electricity.

Cyclone 'Gaja' had crossed the Tamil Nadu coast early on November 16 between Nagapattinam, about 300 km from here, and nearby Vedaranyam.

It had claimed 46 lives and left a trail of destruction in over 10 districts, including Nagapttinam, Thiruvarur, Puthukottai and Thanjavur.&nbsp;

The Centre Monday approved the release of Rs 1,146 crore to Tamil Nadu for the people affected by cyclone 'Gaja', which had claimed 46 lives and left a trail of destruction in over 10 districts in the state.

The Centre Monday approved the release of Rs 1,146 crore to Tamil Nadu for the people affected by cyclone 'Gaja', which had claimed 46 lives and left a trail of destruction in over 10 districts in the state. The approval for the financial assistance was given at a high level committee chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh. The high level committee approved the additional assistance of Rs 1,146.12 crore to Tamil Nadu from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF), a statement from the Home Ministry said. Earlier on December 3, the central government had released Rs 353.70 crore as an interim relief, in order to support the affected people of Tamil Nadu. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh and Vice Chairman, Niti Ayog, Rajiv Kumar attended the meeting. Last month, the Tamil Nadu government had sought about Rs 14,910 crore as central assistance towards relief and rehabilitation activities in cyclone 'Gaja' affected districts in the state. According to the abstract of memorandum submitted to the central government, the Tamil Nadu government had sought a total sum of Rs 14,910 crore towards permanent renovation activities in various areas, including the power sector which has been badly hit. Over one lakh electric poles had been uprooted and a significant number of power sub-stations damaged, with reports suggesting that many parts are still without electricity. Cyclone 'Gaja' had crossed the Tamil Nadu coast early on November 16 between Nagapattinam, about 300 km from here, and nearby Vedaranyam. It had claimed 46 lives and left a trail of destruction in over 10 districts, including Nagapttinam, Thiruvarur, Puthukottai and Thanjavur.

Cyclone Gaja: Centre approves release of Rs 1,146 crore to Tamil Nadu

The National Commission for Women on Monday sought a report from Tamil Nadu authorities over the case of two women allegedly contracting <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hiv-youth-commits-suicide-after-pregnant-woman-dies-of-infected-blood-187479">HIV from </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hiv-youth-commits-suicide-after-pregnant-woman-dies-of-infected-blood-187479">blood</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hiv-youth-commits-suicide-after-pregnant-woman-dies-of-infected-blood-187479"> transfusion</a>.

Calling it a matter of "serious concern", NCW chief Rekha Sharma wrote to Tamil Nadu Principal Secretary at the Department of Health and Family Welfare J Radhakrishnan and asked him to probe the matter. The official has been directed to send a report to the women rights body at the earliest.

A 24-year-old pregnant woman in Virudhunagar contracted HIV allegedly after being transfused contaminated blood.&nbsp;

Preliminary inquiry revealed that the blood bank staff had failed to screen the blood properly before supplying it to the private hospital. The personnel who tested the donor's blood had labelled it 'safe,' officials said.

The state government had ordered a probe and an examination of all stocks at blood banks in the state after the incident. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Commission said that a 27-year-old woman had accused doctors at Kilpauk Medical College Hospital (KMCH) of criminal negligence, alleging that she contracted the virus during a blood transfusion procedure in April.

The National Commission for Women on Monday sought a report from Tamil Nadu authorities over the case of two women allegedly contracting HIV from blood transfusion.

The National Commission for Women on Monday sought a report from Tamil Nadu authorities over the case of two women allegedly contracting HIV from blood transfusion. Calling it a matter of "serious concern", NCW chief Rekha Sharma wrote to Tamil Nadu Principal Secretary at the Department of Health and Family Welfare J Radhakrishnan and asked him to probe the matter. The official has been directed to send a report to the women rights body at the earliest. A 24-year-old pregnant woman in Virudhunagar contracted HIV allegedly after being transfused contaminated blood. Preliminary inquiry revealed that the blood bank staff had failed to screen the blood properly before supplying it to the private hospital. The personnel who tested the donor's blood had labelled it 'safe,' officials said. The state government had ordered a probe and an examination of all stocks at blood banks in the state after the incident. The Commission said that a 27-year-old woman had accused doctors at Kilpauk Medical College Hospital (KMCH) of criminal negligence, alleging that she contracted the virus during a blood transfusion procedure in April.

NCW seeks report from Tamil Nadu over alleged transfusion of HIV infected blood to women

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-to-file-appeal-in-herald-house-eviction-case-sources-185857">The Congress</a> in Tamil Nadu Tuesday announced state-wide public meetings next month to highlight the "anti-people" approach of the Central and state governments, with focus on the Rafale deal.

TNCC President Su Thirunavukkarasar said the meetings would be held between January 2 and 12, 2019, in line with a decision arrived earlier in a party's district leaders meeting.

In a statement, he recalled Congress President Rahul Gandhi's demand for a Joint Parliamentary Committee to probe into the pricing issue relating to the French combat aircraft.

"The Congress has a big democratic responsibility to inform people about this mega scam," Thirunavukkarasar said.

The party also had the 'responsibility' to highlight the 'anti-people' approach of both the BJP-led Central government as well as the AIADMK rule in Tamil Nadu on many issues, he added.

With the Lok Sabha elections "due soon," the party's high command has issued directions to conduct such meetings.

Opposition parties led by the Congress have been attacking the Modi government over the deal, alleging that it was struck at an exorbitant price and benefited an Indian businessman at the cost of the government-run HAL.

However, the charges have been denied by the government.

The Supreme Court had on December 14 given the Narendra Modi government a clean chit on the procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets from France and dismissed all petitions seeking a direction to the CBI to register an FIR for alleged irregularities in the deal.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh had recently demanded in the Lok Sabha that Rahul Gandhi should apologise on the floor of the House for "misleading" the country on the Rafale jet deal issue.

The Congress in Tamil Nadu Tuesday announced state-wide public meetings next month to highlight the "anti-people" approach of the Central and state governments, with focus on the Rafale deal.

The Congress in Tamil Nadu Tuesday announced state-wide public meetings next month to highlight the "anti-people" approach of the Central and state governments, with focus on the Rafale deal. TNCC President Su Thirunavukkarasar said the meetings would be held between January 2 and 12, 2019, in line with a decision arrived earlier in a party's district leaders meeting. In a statement, he recalled Congress President Rahul Gandhi's demand for a Joint Parliamentary Committee to probe into the pricing issue relating to the French combat aircraft. "The Congress has a big democratic responsibility to inform people about this mega scam," Thirunavukkarasar said. The party also had the 'responsibility' to highlight the 'anti-people' approach of both the BJP-led Central government as well as the AIADMK rule in Tamil Nadu on many issues, he added. With the Lok Sabha elections "due soon," the party's high command has issued directions to conduct such meetings. Opposition parties led by the Congress have been attacking the Modi government over the deal, alleging that it was struck at an exorbitant price and benefited an Indian businessman at the cost of the government-run HAL. However, the charges have been denied by the government. The Supreme Court had on December 14 given the Narendra Modi government a clean chit on the procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets from France and dismissed all petitions seeking a direction to the CBI to register an FIR for alleged irregularities in the deal. Home Minister Rajnath Singh had recently demanded in the Lok Sabha that Rahul Gandhi should apologise on the floor of the House for "misleading" the country on the Rafale jet deal issue.

Congress announces meetings in Tamil Nadu on Rafale deal

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

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

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

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

Last month, Gaja cyclone battered Tamil Nadu leaving behind a trail of death and destruction. At least 63 people are believed to have died due to the cyclone, which damaged over 33.41 lakh houses. Over 2.5 lakh people were evacuated by the administration.

For relief and rehabilitation, the state government has sought an assistance of Rs 15,000 crore from the Centre, which has approved release of Rs 353.70 crore.

According to an analysis by the Down To Earth, 14 depressions have already formed over the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea this year, thereby breaking "a 26-year-old record for the most depressions in a single year". Gaja cyclone is the third to hit the Indian mainland this year.

As compared to the western coast, India's eastern coast is more prone to cyclones. For instance, between 1891 and 2000, over 308 cyclones hit the eastern coast, whereas the western coast braved 48.The Inter-Governmental Panel on Climate Change's (IPCC) recent 'Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5 degree Celsius' has warned that the North Indian Ocean over the Arabian Sea will witness an increase in the frequency of extremely severe cyclonic storms owing to anthropogenic warming.

Climate scientists warn that storms are expected to have higher wind speed with more rainfall because warmer oceans/waters feed water vapour to the cyclones.

But, increasing cyclonic activity is just one part of the impact of climate change on Tamil Nadu, which has the second longest coastline in the country —- 15 percent of the total Indian coastline is spread across it's 13 coastal districts. There are 591 fishing villages along the state's coastline.

A research study, 'Climate change projections for Tamil Nadu, India: deriving high-resolution climate data by a downscaling approach using PRECIS', by the Centre for Climate Change &amp; Adaptation Research at Anna University, Chennai, has forecasted an average temperature increase of 3.1 degree C by the end of the century along with an overall decline of 4 percent in annual rainfall in the state [as compared to baseline of 1970-2000].

According to A Ramachandran, a climate scientist who is part of the study, interior parts of Tamil Nadu will have reduced rainfall whereas coastal districts will face an increase in rains with Kanyakumari district being the most vulnerable.

An evaluation of the India Meteorological Department's data between 1970 and 2000 reveals a rise in temperature in the state and a decline in its annual mean rainfall.

Ramachandran and the team's study have projected an increase of 1.0 degree C, 2.2 degree C and 3.1 degree C in maximum temperature and an increase in minimum temperature of 1.1 degree C, 2.4 degree C and 3.5 degree C for the periods 2020s (2005-2035), 2050s (2035-2065) and 2080s (2065-2095) in Tamil Nadu.

The researchers have also analysed and projected rainfall trends in the state, with an overall decrease in rainfall of about 2-7 per cent, 1-4 per cent and 4-9 per cent in the same periods.

But, significant exceptions have been noticed over some pockets of western hilly and high rainfall areas in the state where it is expected to increase. "There are also indications of increasing heavy rainfall events during the northeast monsoon season and a slight decrease during the southwest monsoon season," reads the research paper published in the Journal of Theoretical and Applied Climatology.

Authors of the study warn that "future projections clearly indicate an increased probability of extreme temperature spells that would be expected to be very detrimental for public health… Decrease in rainfall over the Tamil Nadu state … may cause severe damage to the agriculture sector with respect to crop productions, water insecurities, species extinctions, etc."

Apart from rising temperature and declining rainfall, scientists are also warning of sea-level rise along the state's coastline, which will directly impact coastal communities and the fishers, and turn coastal lands saline. As per some estimates, over 1.2 million hectare coastal land in India has already turned saline.

Tide gauge reading from four Indian ports shows a sea-level rise of 4.8 cm between 1993 and 2012. The Anna University study has projected sea-level rise between 4.51 cm and 4.94 cm along the Tamil Nadu's coastline by 2025. 
 
(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-brace-up-for-rise-in-cyclonic-storms-high-temperatures-on-the-tamil-nadu-coast-2694352">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

Last month, Gaja cyclone battered Tamil Nadu leaving behind a trail of death and destruction. At least 63 people are believed to have died due to the cyclone, which damaged over 33.

Last month, Gaja cyclone battered Tamil Nadu leaving behind a trail of death and destruction. At least 63 people are believed to have died due to the cyclone, which damaged over 33.41 lakh houses. Over 2.5 lakh people were evacuated by the administration. For relief and rehabilitation, the state government has sought an assistance of Rs 15,000 crore from the Centre, which has approved release of Rs 353.70 crore. According to an analysis by the Down To Earth, 14 depressions have already formed over the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea this year, thereby breaking "a 26-year-old record for the most depressions in a single year". Gaja cyclone is the third to hit the Indian mainland this year. As compared to the western coast, India's eastern coast is more prone to cyclones. For instance, between 1891 and 2000, over 308 cyclones hit the eastern coast, whereas the western coast braved 48.The Inter-Governmental Panel on Climate Change's (IPCC) recent 'Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5 degree Celsius' has warned that the North Indian Ocean over the Arabian Sea will witness an increase in the frequency of extremely severe cyclonic storms owing to anthropogenic warming. Climate scientists warn that storms are expected to have higher wind speed with more rainfall because warmer oceans/waters feed water vapour to the cyclones. But, increasing cyclonic activity is just one part of the impact of climate change on Tamil Nadu, which has the second longest coastline in the country —- 15 percent of the total Indian coastline is spread across it's 13 coastal districts. There are 591 fishing villages along the state's coastline. A research study, 'Climate change projections for Tamil Nadu, India: deriving high-resolution climate data by a downscaling approach using PRECIS', by the Centre for Climate Change & Adaptation Research at Anna University, Chennai, has forecasted an average temperature increase of 3.1 degree C by the end of the century along with an overall decline of 4 percent in annual rainfall in the state [as compared to baseline of 1970-2000]. According to A Ramachandran, a climate scientist who is part of the study, interior parts of Tamil Nadu will have reduced rainfall whereas coastal districts will face an increase in rains with Kanyakumari district being the most vulnerable. An evaluation of the India Meteorological Department's data between 1970 and 2000 reveals a rise in temperature in the state and a decline in its annual mean rainfall. Ramachandran and the team's study have projected an increase of 1.0 degree C, 2.2 degree C and 3.1 degree C in maximum temperature and an increase in minimum temperature of 1.1 degree C, 2.4 degree C and 3.5 degree C for the periods 2020s (2005-2035), 2050s (2035-2065) and 2080s (2065-2095) in Tamil Nadu. The researchers have also analysed and projected rainfall trends in the state, with an overall decrease in rainfall of about 2-7 per cent, 1-4 per cent and 4-9 per cent in the same periods. But, significant exceptions have been noticed over some pockets of western hilly and high rainfall areas in the state where it is expected to increase. "There are also indications of increasing heavy rainfall events during the northeast monsoon season and a slight decrease during the southwest monsoon season," reads the research paper published in the Journal of Theoretical and Applied Climatology. Authors of the study warn that "future projections clearly indicate an increased probability of extreme temperature spells that would be expected to be very detrimental for public health… Decrease in rainfall over the Tamil Nadu state … may cause severe damage to the agriculture sector with respect to crop productions, water insecurities, species extinctions, etc." Apart from rising temperature and declining rainfall, scientists are also warning of sea-level rise along the state's coastline, which will directly impact coastal communities and the fishers, and turn coastal lands saline. As per some estimates, over 1.2 million hectare coastal land in India has already turned saline. Tide gauge reading from four Indian ports shows a sea-level rise of 4.8 cm between 1993 and 2012. The Anna University study has projected sea-level rise between 4.51 cm and 4.94 cm along the Tamil Nadu's coastline by 2025. (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)

Brace up for rise in cyclonic storms, high temperatures on the Tamil Nadu coast

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami Tuesday visited districts hit by Cyclone ‘Gaja’ in the state and distributed relief material among the affected people.

Palaniswami, who on Monday announced Rs 1000 crore for immediate relief and rehabilitation works, visited affected areas in Pudukottai and Thanjavur districts this morning.

The cyclone crossed the state coast near Vedaranyam in Nagapattinam district, about 300 km from here, on November 16 claiming 46 lives and leaving a trail of destruction in over ten districts in southern Tamil Nadu with six of them hit badly.

Accompanied by ministers and officials, Palaniswami inspected some coconut groves devastated by the cyclone in Thanjavur district and also distributed relief materials, including rice and other essential articles, to the affected people.

He would later visit Nagapattinam district, which bore the brunt of the cyclone fury.

On Monday, Palaniswami took stock of the situation at a high-level meeting here and announced an immediate cash assistance totalling Rs 8,800 to each family sheltered in relief camps besides, 10 kg rice and four litres of kerosene.

He has also said compensation would be given to farmers and fishermen.

In a statement, Palaniswami had said the toll in the cyclone has risen to 46, while a total of 2,51,674 people were staying in relief camps.

He said Rs 5,000 would be given as immediate livelihood support to each family lodged in cyclone centres, to those who lost their homes and fishermen who lost their boats. Besides, Rs 3,800 per family would be given for buying clothes and utensils, he said.

In addition, people whose huts were completely damaged will be provided with Rs 10,000 assistance while partially damaged houses will get Rs 4,100.

The state will also seek central funds considering the extent of the damage, he said.

He said coconut farmers will get a compensation of Rs 2.64 lakh per hectare while for paddy crops it will be Rs 13,500 per hectare.

On the farm front, 88, 102 hectares of agricultural and horticultural crops had been damaged.

The Chief Minister has also said compensation ranging from Rs 42,000 to Rs three lakh would be given to fishermen depending on the extent of damage to their fishing boats.

The cyclone which crossed the coast with a speed of up to 120 kmph has left a trail of destruction, uprooting 1.7 lakh trees and damaging 88,102 hectares of agricultural land.

It caused severe damage in the districts of Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Ramanathapuram, Thanjavur, Pudukottai and Tiruvarur in the state and Karaikal in Puducherry, besides affecting Dindigul, Sivaganga, Tiruchirappalli, Cuddalore, Karur and Theni districts also.

Over 1.31 lakh people had been accommodated in relief camps in Nagapattinam district.

Protests were held by residents in parts of Thanjavur and Thiruvarur districts on Monday, demanding early restoration of power and drinking water supply.

Facing flak over alleged tardy relief measures, the state government has said people should not think that only such protests would solve their problems and asserted it was working to reach out to all.

On Sunday, irate people in Kotthamangalam village in Puthukottai district had gone on a rampage, setting ablaze government vehicles and clashed with police, protesting alleged failure of officials to provide them relief.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami Tuesday visited districts hit by Cyclone ‘Gaja’ in the state and distributed relief material among the affected people. Palaniswami, who on Monday announced Rs 1000 crore for immediate relief and rehabilitation works, visited affected areas in Pudukottai and Thanjavur districts this morning.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami Tuesday visited districts hit by Cyclone ‘Gaja’ in the state and distributed relief material among the affected people. Palaniswami, who on Monday announced Rs 1000 crore for immediate relief and rehabilitation works, visited affected areas in Pudukottai and Thanjavur districts this morning. The cyclone crossed the state coast near Vedaranyam in Nagapattinam district, about 300 km from here, on November 16 claiming 46 lives and leaving a trail of destruction in over ten districts in southern Tamil Nadu with six of them hit badly. Accompanied by ministers and officials, Palaniswami inspected some coconut groves devastated by the cyclone in Thanjavur district and also distributed relief materials, including rice and other essential articles, to the affected people. He would later visit Nagapattinam district, which bore the brunt of the cyclone fury. On Monday, Palaniswami took stock of the situation at a high-level meeting here and announced an immediate cash assistance totalling Rs 8,800 to each family sheltered in relief camps besides, 10 kg rice and four litres of kerosene. He has also said compensation would be given to farmers and fishermen. In a statement, Palaniswami had said the toll in the cyclone has risen to 46, while a total of 2,51,674 people were staying in relief camps. He said Rs 5,000 would be given as immediate livelihood support to each family lodged in cyclone centres, to those who lost their homes and fishermen who lost their boats. Besides, Rs 3,800 per family would be given for buying clothes and utensils, he said. In addition, people whose huts were completely damaged will be provided with Rs 10,000 assistance while partially damaged houses will get Rs 4,100. The state will also seek central funds considering the extent of the damage, he said. He said coconut farmers will get a compensation of Rs 2.64 lakh per hectare while for paddy crops it will be Rs 13,500 per hectare. On the farm front, 88, 102 hectares of agricultural and horticultural crops had been damaged. The Chief Minister has also said compensation ranging from Rs 42,000 to Rs three lakh would be given to fishermen depending on the extent of damage to their fishing boats. The cyclone which crossed the coast with a speed of up to 120 kmph has left a trail of destruction, uprooting 1.7 lakh trees and damaging 88,102 hectares of agricultural land. It caused severe damage in the districts of Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Ramanathapuram, Thanjavur, Pudukottai and Tiruvarur in the state and Karaikal in Puducherry, besides affecting Dindigul, Sivaganga, Tiruchirappalli, Cuddalore, Karur and Theni districts also. Over 1.31 lakh people had been accommodated in relief camps in Nagapattinam district. Protests were held by residents in parts of Thanjavur and Thiruvarur districts on Monday, demanding early restoration of power and drinking water supply. Facing flak over alleged tardy relief measures, the state government has said people should not think that only such protests would solve their problems and asserted it was working to reach out to all. On Sunday, irate people in Kotthamangalam village in Puthukottai district had gone on a rampage, setting ablaze government vehicles and clashed with police, protesting alleged failure of officials to provide them relief.

Cyclone Gaja: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami visits affected areas

The death toll in cyclone 'Gaja' has touched 33 and left a trail of destruction across six districts RPT six districts of Tamil Nadu with 30,000 electricity poles and over a lakh trees getting uprooted, Chief Minister K Palaniswami said Saturday.

He maintained that the impact of cyclone was less as 82,000 people were evacuated to 471 relief centres well in advance. However, 20 men, 11 women and 2 boys died in cyclone related incidents, he said.

As of now, 1,77,500 people have been housed in over 351 camps, the chief minister said, adding food, and medical amenities were being provided to them by the government.

The Chief Minister, speaking to reporters at Vanavasi near Salem, said that cattle, including goats, and wild animals including deer, have perished.

"It has now been estimated that uprooted trees alone were 1,27,000. There is a possibility of the numbers going up," he said.

While 30,000 electricity poles have either got mangled or fallen down, 105 sub-stations (electricity distribution stations) have been affected, he said, adding 10,000 personnel have been rushed to the affected areas to repair them.

Ten out of 26 Combined Drinking Water Schemes in coastal districts have been set right and people were being provided drinking water. Over a lakh people had benefited by medical camps -to prevent epidemics- in affected regions,Palaniswami said, adding he would inspect the storm hit areas Sunday.

On complaints from people in cyclone hit districts that they did not get food, he said there was no such thing anywhere. Food was stocked in advance to make it available for people.

"District Collectors and ministers from the respective districts are camping in affected areas and carrying out relief operations on a war footing."

Milk was sought and it has been despatched, he said, adding five more ministers, including D Jayakumar, and R B Udaya Kumar, have been deputed to cyclone hit districts to oversee relief work.

The navy has also augmented the government's relief efforts, with one helicopter sortie flown from INS Parundu, the Indian air naval station at Uchipuli in Ramanathapuram district, to assess the damage in and around Ramanathpuram.

Two ships "Chetlat" and "Cheriam" were diverted to Karaikal to assist state authorities in relief work, a defence release said.

Three ships at Chennai and two at Visakhapatnam were on stand by to augment relief efforts at short notice, it said.

The navy has also positioned a Dornier detachment at Arrakkonam, about 78 from Chennai, to facilitate damage assessment and any other assistance that may be needed.

The main opposition party DMK expressed grief over the loss of lives while PMK and a farmers' body demanded adequate compensation to ryots, whose crops had been destroyed.

DMK chief M K Stalin, in a tweet, claimed that 36 people have lost their lives in the cyclone and expressed his grief.

The leader of the opposition, who Saturday embarked on a tour of storm affected regions, said the cyclone has caused large-scale destruction in Cauvery delta districts like Tiruvarur.

He said the livelihood of the common people, including farmers and fishermen, had been severely hit.

PMK chief S Ramadoss demanded that the government declare Vedaranyam (Nagapattinam district), Mannargudi (Tiruvarur), and Pattukottai (Thanjavur) as disaster struck regions and implement rehabilitation schemes.

He wanted Rs 50,000 compensation for coconut trees as per a scheme announced by the government for acquiring land for Salem-Chennai expressway.

Tamil Nadu Vivasayigal Sangam, a CPI(M) affiliated farmers' body, demanded a proper enumeration of losses to standing crops. A compensation of Rs 20,000 for a coconut tree, Rs 25,000 per acre for paddy, and Rs one lakh an acre for plantain were among its demands.

"Coconut trees over thousands of acres of farmland have been completely uprooted, causing irreparable damage to ryots. It will take many years to grow again these trees," it said

Top actor Rajinikanth, extending his sympathies to the affected people, said "relief assistance" by his Rajini Makkal Mandram functionaries should continue.

The Met office, meanwhile, said the Northeast monsoon has been active over Tamil Nadu. Some regions experienced heavy rainfall, with Sivaganga recording 17 cm followed by the hill station of Kodaikanal (14 cm) between Friday and Saturday morning.&nbsp;

The death toll in cyclone 'Gaja' has touched 33 and left a trail of destruction across six districts RPT six districts of Tamil Nadu with 30,000 electricity poles and over a lakh trees getting uprooted, Chief Minister K Palaniswami said Saturday.

The death toll in cyclone 'Gaja' has touched 33 and left a trail of destruction across six districts RPT six districts of Tamil Nadu with 30,000 electricity poles and over a lakh trees getting uprooted, Chief Minister K Palaniswami said Saturday. He maintained that the impact of cyclone was less as 82,000 people were evacuated to 471 relief centres well in advance. However, 20 men, 11 women and 2 boys died in cyclone related incidents, he said. As of now, 1,77,500 people have been housed in over 351 camps, the chief minister said, adding food, and medical amenities were being provided to them by the government. The Chief Minister, speaking to reporters at Vanavasi near Salem, said that cattle, including goats, and wild animals including deer, have perished. "It has now been estimated that uprooted trees alone were 1,27,000. There is a possibility of the numbers going up," he said. While 30,000 electricity poles have either got mangled or fallen down, 105 sub-stations (electricity distribution stations) have been affected, he said, adding 10,000 personnel have been rushed to the affected areas to repair them. Ten out of 26 Combined Drinking Water Schemes in coastal districts have been set right and people were being provided drinking water. Over a lakh people had benefited by medical camps -to prevent epidemics- in affected regions,Palaniswami said, adding he would inspect the storm hit areas Sunday. On complaints from people in cyclone hit districts that they did not get food, he said there was no such thing anywhere. Food was stocked in advance to make it available for people. "District Collectors and ministers from the respective districts are camping in affected areas and carrying out relief operations on a war footing." Milk was sought and it has been despatched, he said, adding five more ministers, including D Jayakumar, and R B Udaya Kumar, have been deputed to cyclone hit districts to oversee relief work. The navy has also augmented the government's relief efforts, with one helicopter sortie flown from INS Parundu, the Indian air naval station at Uchipuli in Ramanathapuram district, to assess the damage in and around Ramanathpuram. Two ships "Chetlat" and "Cheriam" were diverted to Karaikal to assist state authorities in relief work, a defence release said. Three ships at Chennai and two at Visakhapatnam were on stand by to augment relief efforts at short notice, it said. The navy has also positioned a Dornier detachment at Arrakkonam, about 78 from Chennai, to facilitate damage assessment and any other assistance that may be needed. The main opposition party DMK expressed grief over the loss of lives while PMK and a farmers' body demanded adequate compensation to ryots, whose crops had been destroyed. DMK chief M K Stalin, in a tweet, claimed that 36 people have lost their lives in the cyclone and expressed his grief. The leader of the opposition, who Saturday embarked on a tour of storm affected regions, said the cyclone has caused large-scale destruction in Cauvery delta districts like Tiruvarur. He said the livelihood of the common people, including farmers and fishermen, had been severely hit. PMK chief S Ramadoss demanded that the government declare Vedaranyam (Nagapattinam district), Mannargudi (Tiruvarur), and Pattukottai (Thanjavur) as disaster struck regions and implement rehabilitation schemes. He wanted Rs 50,000 compensation for coconut trees as per a scheme announced by the government for acquiring land for Salem-Chennai expressway. Tamil Nadu Vivasayigal Sangam, a CPI(M) affiliated farmers' body, demanded a proper enumeration of losses to standing crops. A compensation of Rs 20,000 for a coconut tree, Rs 25,000 per acre for paddy, and Rs one lakh an acre for plantain were among its demands. "Coconut trees over thousands of acres of farmland have been completely uprooted, causing irreparable damage to ryots. It will take many years to grow again these trees," it said Top actor Rajinikanth, extending his sympathies to the affected people, said "relief assistance" by his Rajini Makkal Mandram functionaries should continue. The Met office, meanwhile, said the Northeast monsoon has been active over Tamil Nadu. Some regions experienced heavy rainfall, with Sivaganga recording 17 cm followed by the hill station of Kodaikanal (14 cm) between Friday and Saturday morning.

Cyclone toll climbs to 33 in Tamil Nadu, relief work on war footing says CM

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami on Friday confirmed that 11 people have lost their lives due to cyclone Gaja.

He also announced that the government will give Rs 10 lakh to the kin of the deceased, Rs 1 lakh to those injured severely and Rs 25,000 to people who have suffered minor injuries.

The Chief Minister further said that the amount of damage that has been caused due to the cyclone has not been ascertained as yet.&nbsp; 
“The most affected districts of Tamil Nadu are Thiruvaarur, Nagapattinam, Thanjore, Cudallore, Pudukkottai, Ramanathapuram,” Palaniswami said while addressing a press conference.

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Tamil Nadu: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Visuals</a> from Thiruvarur's Kokaladi village affected due to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GajaCyclone?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GajaCyclone</a> <a href="https://t.co/2yR2WzKt4p">pic.twitter.com/2yR2WzKt4p</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1063399098718531584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Elaborating upon the measures that the state government is taking in the cyclonic storm, he said: “The state government is working on war footing to ensure that everything is fine at the earliest. We have also taken precautionary steps to avoid any more damages or calamities. Around 82,000 people are staying in 421 relief camps. Indian Administrative Services officials are on the ground to ensure rescue and relief operations are executed properly.”

Palaniswami also informed that officials have been explained how to deal with issues related to cyclone Gaja.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a>: Houses and electric poles damaged and trees uprooted due to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GajaCyclone?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GajaCyclone</a> in Thiruvarur's Kokaladi village <a href="https://t.co/P7Q26DMDQF">pic.twitter.com/P7Q26DMDQF</a>
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Earlier today Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to Palaniswami over the current situation in the state.

Cyclone Gaja crossed Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coast between Nagapattinam and Vedaranniyam on Thursday evening and unleashed mayhem in several districts of the state including Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, and Thanjavur.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami on Friday confirmed that 11 people have lost their lives due to cyclone Gaja. He also announced that the government will give Rs 10 lakh to the kin of the deceased, Rs 1 lakh to those injured severely and Rs 25,000 to people who have suffered minor injuries.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami on Friday confirmed that 11 people have lost their lives due to cyclone Gaja. He also announced that the government will give Rs 10 lakh to the kin of the deceased, Rs 1 lakh to those injured severely and Rs 25,000 to people who have suffered minor injuries. The Chief Minister further said that the amount of damage that has been caused due to the cyclone has not been ascertained as yet. “The most affected districts of Tamil Nadu are Thiruvaarur, Nagapattinam, Thanjore, Cudallore, Pudukkottai, Ramanathapuram,” Palaniswami said while addressing a press conference. Tamil Nadu: #Visuals from Thiruvarur's Kokaladi village affected due to #GajaCyclone pic.twitter.com/2yR2WzKt4p — ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2018 × Elaborating upon the measures that the state government is taking in the cyclonic storm, he said: “The state government is working on war footing to ensure that everything is fine at the earliest. We have also taken precautionary steps to avoid any more damages or calamities. Around 82,000 people are staying in 421 relief camps. Indian Administrative Services officials are on the ground to ensure rescue and relief operations are executed properly.” Palaniswami also informed that officials have been explained how to deal with issues related to cyclone Gaja. #TamilNadu: Houses and electric poles damaged and trees uprooted due to #GajaCyclone in Thiruvarur's Kokaladi village pic.twitter.com/P7Q26DMDQF — ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2018 × Earlier today Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to Palaniswami over the current situation in the state. Cyclone Gaja crossed Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coast between Nagapattinam and Vedaranniyam on Thursday evening and unleashed mayhem in several districts of the state including Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, and Thanjavur.

Cyclone Gaja claims 11 lives, Tamil Nadu CM announces compensation

A deep depression in the bay of bengal has intensified into a cyclonic storm and is likely to cross the North Tamil Nadu and South Andhra Pradesh coast between Cuddalore and Sriharikota on November 15, regional weather office here said Sunday.

The cyclone, christened 'Gaja', which lay around 860 kms northeast of Chennai and moving at a speed of 12 kmph is likely to intensify into a 'severe cyclonic storm' within the next 24 hours, a bulletin issued at 4 PM said.

Gales reaching 80-90 kms per hour was likely over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Andhra Pradesh.

Speaking to reporters, Area Cyclone Warning Centre Director S Balachandran said coastal areas of north Tamil Nadu would experience moderate rainfall and heavy rainfall in isolated places from the night of November 14.

"On November 15, many places will receive moderate rainfall and isolated places will get heavy rainfall."

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea from November 12 and those already in deep sea have been asked to return.

The Indian meteorological department however said the storm is likely to weaken gradually while crossing towards north Tamil Nadu and south Andhra Pradesh coasts as a 'cyclonic storm' during forenoon of November 15.

Listing out measures taken to face the cyclone, Revenue Administration Commissioner K Satyagopal told reporters in Tirunelveli that medical teams were on stand by in all districts.&nbsp;

A deep depression in the bay of bengal has intensified into a cyclonic storm and is likely to cross the North Tamil Nadu and South Andhra Pradesh coast between Cuddalore and Sriharikota on November 15, regional weather office here said Sunday.

A deep depression in the bay of bengal has intensified into a cyclonic storm and is likely to cross the North Tamil Nadu and South Andhra Pradesh coast between Cuddalore and Sriharikota on November 15, regional weather office here said Sunday. The cyclone, christened 'Gaja', which lay around 860 kms northeast of Chennai and moving at a speed of 12 kmph is likely to intensify into a 'severe cyclonic storm' within the next 24 hours, a bulletin issued at 4 PM said. Gales reaching 80-90 kms per hour was likely over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Andhra Pradesh. Speaking to reporters, Area Cyclone Warning Centre Director S Balachandran said coastal areas of north Tamil Nadu would experience moderate rainfall and heavy rainfall in isolated places from the night of November 14. "On November 15, many places will receive moderate rainfall and isolated places will get heavy rainfall." Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea from November 12 and those already in deep sea have been asked to return. The Indian meteorological department however said the storm is likely to weaken gradually while crossing towards north Tamil Nadu and south Andhra Pradesh coasts as a 'cyclonic storm' during forenoon of November 15. Listing out measures taken to face the cyclone, Revenue Administration Commissioner K Satyagopal told reporters in Tirunelveli that medical teams were on stand by in all districts.

Tamil Nadu: Cyclone 'Gaja' to intensify in next 24 hours

Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa's legislator son Namal Sunday indicated that the long-held demand of the Tamil minority community to release all Tamil prisoners may be fulfilled soon, a move aimed at persuading the Tamil legislators to support Rajapaksa.

"President (Maithripala) Sirisena and Prime Minister Rajapaksa would make a decision (on the issue) very soon," Namal tweeted in Tamil language.

Since the war with the LTTE ended in 2009, the Sri Lankan government has denied that those imprisoned LTTE members are political prisoners. Tamils say some of the prisoners have been held over a long time under anti-terrorism law without even being formally charged.

Namal's comments are aimed at persuading the legislators in Sri Lanka's main Tamil party - Tamil National Alliance (TNA) - to switch their allegiance to Rajapaksa in his bid to prove majority in the parliament.

So far Rajapaksa has 100 MPs on his side while sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has 103 MPs in the 225-member assembly. Most of the 22 remaining MPs, including the TNA, are likely to oppose Rajapaksa.&nbsp;

Rajapaksa camp had already enticed a TNA legislator to join ranks by giving him a deputy ministerial position.

The TNA's parliamentary strength has been reduced to 15 as a result and there was speculation that at least 4 more of them were willing to support Rajapaksa.

The TNA has said it will support a no-trust motion Rajapaksa, amid mounting pressure on President Sirisena to let the suspended parliament hold a vote to end the ongoing political crisis.

In a statement, the TNA Saturday said Rajapaksa's appointment was a violation of the Constitution's 19th amendment.

The alliance had "decided to vote in favour of the no-confidence motion against Rajapaksa," the statement said.

Rajapaksa claims he has enough numbers to prove his majority and at least six of Wickremasinghe's men have defected to his side. The current suspension of parliament by the president is seen as a key to Rajapaksa negotiating for enough defections.

Wickremesinghe was sacked by President Sirisena on October 26. His United National Party claims that Wickremesinghe's sacking was "unconstitutional and illegal". The president's move has plunged the country into a constitutional crisis with Wickremesinghe claiming he is still the prime minister.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa's legislator son Namal Sunday indicated that the long-held demand of the Tamil minority community to release all Tamil prisoners may be fulfilled soon, a move aimed at persuading the Tamil legislators to support Rajapaksa.

Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa's legislator son Namal Sunday indicated that the long-held demand of the Tamil minority community to release all Tamil prisoners may be fulfilled soon, a move aimed at persuading the Tamil legislators to support Rajapaksa. "President (Maithripala) Sirisena and Prime Minister Rajapaksa would make a decision (on the issue) very soon," Namal tweeted in Tamil language. Since the war with the LTTE ended in 2009, the Sri Lankan government has denied that those imprisoned LTTE members are political prisoners. Tamils say some of the prisoners have been held over a long time under anti-terrorism law without even being formally charged. Namal's comments are aimed at persuading the legislators in Sri Lanka's main Tamil party - Tamil National Alliance (TNA) - to switch their allegiance to Rajapaksa in his bid to prove majority in the parliament. So far Rajapaksa has 100 MPs on his side while sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has 103 MPs in the 225-member assembly. Most of the 22 remaining MPs, including the TNA, are likely to oppose Rajapaksa. Rajapaksa camp had already enticed a TNA legislator to join ranks by giving him a deputy ministerial position. The TNA's parliamentary strength has been reduced to 15 as a result and there was speculation that at least 4 more of them were willing to support Rajapaksa. The TNA has said it will support a no-trust motion Rajapaksa, amid mounting pressure on President Sirisena to let the suspended parliament hold a vote to end the ongoing political crisis. In a statement, the TNA Saturday said Rajapaksa's appointment was a violation of the Constitution's 19th amendment. The alliance had "decided to vote in favour of the no-confidence motion against Rajapaksa," the statement said. Rajapaksa claims he has enough numbers to prove his majority and at least six of Wickremasinghe's men have defected to his side. The current suspension of parliament by the president is seen as a key to Rajapaksa negotiating for enough defections. Wickremesinghe was sacked by President Sirisena on October 26. His United National Party claims that Wickremesinghe's sacking was "unconstitutional and illegal". The president's move has plunged the country into a constitutional crisis with Wickremesinghe claiming he is still the prime minister.

Tamil prisoners may be released to tilt scales in favour of Rajapaksa

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 Thoothukudi Magistrate Court on Thursday ordered police officials to register a case against Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan, for allegedly abusing a co-passenger, Lois Sophia, who recently raised anti-party slogans on an aircraft.

The court ordered the police to register a case under Sections 341, 294(b) and 506(1) under the Indian Penal Code (IPC), after Sophia's father had approached the court, alleging that Soundararajan and her party workers had reportedly used abusive language against his daughter and misbehaved with her.

On September 3, Sophia allegedly raised 'Fascist BJP Government down down' slogan on a Chennai-Tuticorin flight. Enraged by the same, Soundararajan, also on the same aircraft, got into a verbal spat with the co-passenger and later allegedly with the police, who were stationed at the Tuticorin airport.

Soundararajan also lodged a complaint and Sophia was later detained for interrogation. However, the police released the girl on unconditional bail.

The Tamil Nadu BJP president claimed that the girl belonged to some organisation and was tutored to misbehave with the BJP leaders.

"It is the duty of the media to find out the name of the organisation that she belongs to. No normal passenger sitting in the flight have the audacity to misbehave with the leaders like that. I am sure this move was tutored," she had said last month.

The Thoothukudi Magistrate Court on Thursday ordered police officials to register a case against Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan, for allegedly abusing a co-passenger, Lois Sophia, who recently raised anti-party slogans on an aircraft.

The Thoothukudi Magistrate Court on Thursday ordered police officials to register a case against Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan, for allegedly abusing a co-passenger, Lois Sophia, who recently raised anti-party slogans on an aircraft. The court ordered the police to register a case under Sections 341, 294(b) and 506(1) under the Indian Penal Code (IPC), after Sophia's father had approached the court, alleging that Soundararajan and her party workers had reportedly used abusive language against his daughter and misbehaved with her. On September 3, Sophia allegedly raised 'Fascist BJP Government down down' slogan on a Chennai-Tuticorin flight. Enraged by the same, Soundararajan, also on the same aircraft, got into a verbal spat with the co-passenger and later allegedly with the police, who were stationed at the Tuticorin airport. Soundararajan also lodged a complaint and Sophia was later detained for interrogation. However, the police released the girl on unconditional bail. The Tamil Nadu BJP president claimed that the girl belonged to some organisation and was tutored to misbehave with the BJP leaders. "It is the duty of the media to find out the name of the organisation that she belongs to. No normal passenger sitting in the flight have the audacity to misbehave with the leaders like that. I am sure this move was tutored," she had said last month.

Court orders FIR against Tamil Nadu BJP chief Tamilisai Soundararajan

The Madras High Court on Thursday upheld the disqualification of 18 AIADMK MLAs, owing allegiance to rebel leader T T V Dhinakaran.

The court verdict means that by-elections will be held on all the 18 seats that would be vacant.

The 18 AIADMK MLAs were disqualified on September 18 last year under the anti-defection law after they met the Governor and expressed the loss of confidence in Chief Minister K Palaniswami.

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Chennai: AIADMK supporters celebrate after Madras High Court upholds disqualification of 18 rebel AIADMK MLAs. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> <a href="https://t.co/8bgyAlR3fM">pic.twitter.com/8bgyAlR3fM</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1055344488690958336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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TTV&nbsp;Dhinakaran&nbsp;told the media that he was expecting&nbsp;a favourable decision but now the final decision will be taken after consultations with the 18 MLAs and the&nbsp;future course of action will be decided soon.

"If the 18 MLAs decide to go to the Supreme Court, we will go; or else we will wait for the by polls. But whenever elections happen, we will win," TTV&nbsp;Dhinakaran said

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It is not a setback for us. This is an experience, we will face the situation. Future course of action will be decided after meeting with the 18 MLAs: TTV Dinakaran on disqualification of 18 AIADMK MLAs upheld by Madras HC <a href="https://t.co/yg1K9VDSLb">pic.twitter.com/yg1K9VDSLb</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1055326474490859520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"Madras HC verdict has taught the correct lesson to its traitors and that democracy has won," tweets AIADMK official Twitter handle.

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ஜனநாயகம் வென்றது.
— AIADMK (@AIADMKOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/AIADMKOfficial/status/1055324153689960448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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துரோகிகளுக்கு சரியான பாடம் புகட்டபட்டுள்ளது.
— AIADMK (@AIADMKOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/AIADMKOfficial/status/1055324785306005504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier on June 14, the first bench of the court passed a split verdict, with the then Chief Justice Indira Banerjee upholding the decision of the Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal in disqualifying the MLAs under the anti-defection law.&nbsp;

The second judge, Justice M Sundar differed and set aside the disqualification order the Speaker on the grounds of non-compliance with principles of natural justice and violation of constitutional mandate.

The Madras High Court on Thursday upheld the disqualification of 18 AIADMK MLAs, owing allegiance to rebel leader T T V Dhinakaran. The court verdict means that by-elections will be held on all the 18 seats that would be vacant.

The Madras High Court on Thursday upheld the disqualification of 18 AIADMK MLAs, owing allegiance to rebel leader T T V Dhinakaran. The court verdict means that by-elections will be held on all the 18 seats that would be vacant. The 18 AIADMK MLAs were disqualified on September 18 last year under the anti-defection law after they met the Governor and expressed the loss of confidence in Chief Minister K Palaniswami. Chennai: AIADMK supporters celebrate after Madras High Court upholds disqualification of 18 rebel AIADMK MLAs. #TamilNadu pic.twitter.com/8bgyAlR3fM — ANI (@ANI) October 25, 2018 × TTV Dhinakaran told the media that he was expecting a favourable decision but now the final decision will be taken after consultations with the 18 MLAs and the future course of action will be decided soon. "If the 18 MLAs decide to go to the Supreme Court, we will go; or else we will wait for the by polls. But whenever elections happen, we will win," TTV Dhinakaran said It is not a setback for us. This is an experience, we will face the situation. Future course of action will be decided after meeting with the 18 MLAs: TTV Dinakaran on disqualification of 18 AIADMK MLAs upheld by Madras HC pic.twitter.com/yg1K9VDSLb — ANI (@ANI) October 25, 2018 × "Madras HC verdict has taught the correct lesson to its traitors and that democracy has won," tweets AIADMK official Twitter handle. ஜனநாயகம் வென்றது. — AIADMK (@AIADMKOfficial) October 25, 2018 × துரோகிகளுக்கு சரியான பாடம் புகட்டபட்டுள்ளது. — AIADMK (@AIADMKOfficial) October 25, 2018 × Earlier on June 14, the first bench of the court passed a split verdict, with the then Chief Justice Indira Banerjee upholding the decision of the Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal in disqualifying the MLAs under the anti-defection law. The second judge, Justice M Sundar differed and set aside the disqualification order the Speaker on the grounds of non-compliance with principles of natural justice and violation of constitutional mandate.

Madras HC upholds Tamil Nadu Speaker’s decision of disqualifying 18 AIADMK MLAs

The Central government on Friday issued an advisory to the south Indian states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka in the wake of the ongoing protests against the Supreme Court's Sabarimala verdict.&nbsp;

The Centre has called for tightened&nbsp;security in the three states and has asked the state governments to closely monitor the spread of any "adverse" messages through social media and the Internet services, news agency PTI reported.

"All necessary precautionary measures may be taken to maintain law and order and appropriate security arrangements may be made to prevent any untoward incident," the advisory, sent by the internal security division of the home ministry, said.

In the meanwhile, opposing groups and activists have threatened that they would not allow entry of women inside the shrine. Hindu outfits plan to organise protest programmes against apex court order.

"Separately, Ayyappa devotees, Hindu outfits and certain caste-based outfits have been organising state-wide protest against the Supreme Court order. Participation in these protests has ranged from 50-3000, including participation of sizeable number of women," the advisory noted.&nbsp;

"Hindu outfits have also organised a few protest programme in neighbouring states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka," it further read.

The shrine of Lord Ayyappa, located on the mountain range of the Western Ghats, opened for the first time on Wednesday after the Supreme Court verdict allowed women of all ages to enter the temple. The temple will close on October 22.

Scores of protesters, including women, have been up in arms since the verdict was pronounced. Traditionally, women of menstruating age were barred from entering the temple.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Central government on Friday issued an advisory to the south Indian states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka in the wake of the ongoing protests against the Supreme Court's Sabarimala verdict.

The Central government on Friday issued an advisory to the south Indian states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka in the wake of the ongoing protests against the Supreme Court's Sabarimala verdict. The Centre has called for tightened security in the three states and has asked the state governments to closely monitor the spread of any "adverse" messages through social media and the Internet services, news agency PTI reported. "All necessary precautionary measures may be taken to maintain law and order and appropriate security arrangements may be made to prevent any untoward incident," the advisory, sent by the internal security division of the home ministry, said. In the meanwhile, opposing groups and activists have threatened that they would not allow entry of women inside the shrine. Hindu outfits plan to organise protest programmes against apex court order. "Separately, Ayyappa devotees, Hindu outfits and certain caste-based outfits have been organising state-wide protest against the Supreme Court order. Participation in these protests has ranged from 50-3000, including participation of sizeable number of women," the advisory noted. "Hindu outfits have also organised a few protest programme in neighbouring states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka," it further read. The shrine of Lord Ayyappa, located on the mountain range of the Western Ghats, opened for the first time on Wednesday after the Supreme Court verdict allowed women of all ages to enter the temple. The temple will close on October 22. Scores of protesters, including women, have been up in arms since the verdict was pronounced. Traditionally, women of menstruating age were barred from entering the temple. (With inputs from agencies)

Sabarimala row: Centre asks Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka govts to tighten security, monitor social media

DMK Wednesday said it has set in motion internal deliberations beginning with its executive panel meet to face the eventuality of both Lok Sabha and Tamil Nadu Assembly elections being held together.

DMK chief M K Stalin said the party took stock of the political situation at its high-level executive committee meeting.

"We discussed the Lok Sabha polls next year and the stand to be taken in case the Assembly election is to be held alongside the Parliamentary polls," he told reporters.

The party also looked at its ties with its allies, he said.

Congress and Indian Union Muslim League are among the allies of DMK.

"We had a broad discussion about all electoral issues. Soon, a meeting of party's top functionaries will be held to be followed by the general council meeting and ahead of elections we will reveal our stand," Stalin said.

To a question on the number of seats the DMK would contest, he said such things cannot be disclosed now.

On the proposed unveiling of a statue of late party patriarch M Karunanidhi, he said it would be announced after finalising the date.

Stalin's reference to Assembly election was an apparent indication about the stability question faced by the ruling AIADMK in view of the 18 MLAs disqualification case pending in the Madras High Court.

After a split verdict in June, the matter was heard by Justice M Sathyanarayanan who reserved order in August.

In the 234-member House, AIADMK has 116 MLAs excluding the Speaker and its 18 MLAs who were disqualified after they sided with now Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) leader T T V Dhinakaran.

Two seats are vacant following the deaths of Tiruvarur MLA M Karunanidhi and Tiruparankundram MLA A K Bose (AIADMK).

Also, S Karunas, who won the 2016 Assembly poll from Thiruvadanai on AIADMK's two-leaves symbol, has openly come out against the AIADMK government.

DMK has 89 MLAs, its allies Congress eight and IUML one.

Following electoral drubbings in the 2011 Assembly election, 2014 Lok Sabha polls and the 2016 Assembly election, the DMK is faced with the task of making a comeback.

The Lok Sabha election will be an acid test for Stalin who became the party chief after the death of his father and party patriach M Karunanidhi in August.&nbsp;

DMK Wednesday said it has set in motion internal deliberations beginning with its executive panel meet to face the eventuality of both Lok Sabha and Tamil Nadu Assembly elections being held together.

DMK Wednesday said it has set in motion internal deliberations beginning with its executive panel meet to face the eventuality of both Lok Sabha and Tamil Nadu Assembly elections being held together. DMK chief M K Stalin said the party took stock of the political situation at its high-level executive committee meeting. "We discussed the Lok Sabha polls next year and the stand to be taken in case the Assembly election is to be held alongside the Parliamentary polls," he told reporters. The party also looked at its ties with its allies, he said. Congress and Indian Union Muslim League are among the allies of DMK. "We had a broad discussion about all electoral issues. Soon, a meeting of party's top functionaries will be held to be followed by the general council meeting and ahead of elections we will reveal our stand," Stalin said. To a question on the number of seats the DMK would contest, he said such things cannot be disclosed now. On the proposed unveiling of a statue of late party patriarch M Karunanidhi, he said it would be announced after finalising the date. Stalin's reference to Assembly election was an apparent indication about the stability question faced by the ruling AIADMK in view of the 18 MLAs disqualification case pending in the Madras High Court. After a split verdict in June, the matter was heard by Justice M Sathyanarayanan who reserved order in August. In the 234-member House, AIADMK has 116 MLAs excluding the Speaker and its 18 MLAs who were disqualified after they sided with now Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) leader T T V Dhinakaran. Two seats are vacant following the deaths of Tiruvarur MLA M Karunanidhi and Tiruparankundram MLA A K Bose (AIADMK). Also, S Karunas, who won the 2016 Assembly poll from Thiruvadanai on AIADMK's two-leaves symbol, has openly come out against the AIADMK government. DMK has 89 MLAs, its allies Congress eight and IUML one. Following electoral drubbings in the 2011 Assembly election, 2014 Lok Sabha polls and the 2016 Assembly election, the DMK is faced with the task of making a comeback. The Lok Sabha election will be an acid test for Stalin who became the party chief after the death of his father and party patriach M Karunanidhi in August.

DMK sets ball rolling to face Lok Sabha, Assembly polls in Tamil Nadu

Nearly 1,000 Tamil Nadu fishermen were allegedly chased away by the Sri Lankan Navy for poaching fish off Katchatheevu and fishing nets of around 10 mechanised boats were snapped, a fishermen association leader said Tuesday.

The fishermen from this island town had ventured into the sea in 200 boats Monday morning and were fishing in the island nation's waters when the Lankan naval personnel reached the spot and cut off the fishing nets of ten boats, Rameswaram Fishermen Association President S Emerit alleged.

The fisherfolk were forced to return to the shore without a catch, last evening, he said.

Around 1,500 fishermen from here were allegedly driven away by naval personnel near Katchatheevu Sunday.

Nearly 1,000 Tamil Nadu fishermen were allegedly chased away by the Sri Lankan Navy for poaching fish off Katchatheevu and fishing nets of around 10 mechanised boats were snapped, a fishermen association leader said Tuesday.

Nearly 1,000 Tamil Nadu fishermen were allegedly chased away by the Sri Lankan Navy for poaching fish off Katchatheevu and fishing nets of around 10 mechanised boats were snapped, a fishermen association leader said Tuesday. The fishermen from this island town had ventured into the sea in 200 boats Monday morning and were fishing in the island nation's waters when the Lankan naval personnel reached the spot and cut off the fishing nets of ten boats, Rameswaram Fishermen Association President S Emerit alleged. The fisherfolk were forced to return to the shore without a catch, last evening, he said. Around 1,500 fishermen from here were allegedly driven away by naval personnel near Katchatheevu Sunday.

Around 1,000 Tamil Nadu fishermen chased away by Sri Lankan Navy, fishing nets cut

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

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

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

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

The fishing community in&nbsp;Rameshwaram&nbsp;district on Sunday declared an indefinite strike demanding the subsidised diesel.

Agitated fishermen residing in the region will also hold a one-day hunger strike on October 8 as the hike in the fuel prices have taken a toll on their on their livelihood.

Speaking to ANI, a member of the&nbsp;Rameshwaram&nbsp;Fishermen Association said, "Rameswaram&nbsp;fishermen will begin an indefinite strike from October 3 against diesel price hike. We will hold a one-day hunger strike on October 8 in Ramanathapuram to protest against diesel price hike."

Prices of diesel and petrol in Chennai today stood at Rs 86.80 and Rs 79.08 for a litre respectively. Yesterday, people had to shell out Rs 86.70 for a litre of petrol and Rs 78.91 for per litre of Diesel. The prices of the fuel are fluctuating each day since the daily revision in prices was introduced June 2017.

Fuel prices have been witnessing a steep rise from the past few weeks. While the Opposition has blamed the Narendra Modi-led government for not making efforts to keep a check on prices, the latter has maintained that global&nbsp;crude oil prices&nbsp;and other international factors are causing a hike in prices of petrol and its products.

The fishing community in Rameshwaram district on Sunday declared an indefinite strike demanding the subsidised diesel. Agitated fishermen residing in the region will also hold a one-day hunger strike on October 8 as the hike in the fuel prices have taken a toll on their on their livelihood.

The fishing community in Rameshwaram district on Sunday declared an indefinite strike demanding the subsidised diesel. Agitated fishermen residing in the region will also hold a one-day hunger strike on October 8 as the hike in the fuel prices have taken a toll on their on their livelihood. Speaking to ANI, a member of the Rameshwaram Fishermen Association said, "Rameswaram fishermen will begin an indefinite strike from October 3 against diesel price hike. We will hold a one-day hunger strike on October 8 in Ramanathapuram to protest against diesel price hike." Prices of diesel and petrol in Chennai today stood at Rs 86.80 and Rs 79.08 for a litre respectively. Yesterday, people had to shell out Rs 86.70 for a litre of petrol and Rs 78.91 for per litre of Diesel. The prices of the fuel are fluctuating each day since the daily revision in prices was introduced June 2017. Fuel prices have been witnessing a steep rise from the past few weeks. While the Opposition has blamed the Narendra Modi-led government for not making efforts to keep a check on prices, the latter has maintained that global crude oil prices and other international factors are causing a hike in prices of petrol and its products.

As fuel prices soar, Tamil Nadu fishermen go on indefinite strike

Only those "begging for vote" host Iftar parties, controversial Telangana BJP MLA T Raja Singh Lodh said today, declaring he would neither host nor attend such events.

Known for making contentious statements, the MLA from Goshamahal constituency in Hyderabad posted a video message on a social networking site where he said one of his friends suggested him to hold an Iftar party like many other lawmakers do during the holy month of Ramzan.

"These days many Telangana legislators are busy hosting Iftar parties, wearing skull caps and taking selfies. They think if they have to do vote bank politics, they will have to think of 'sabka saath, sabha vikas' (together will all, development for all).

"This is their thinking. Those who sit with them (those attending Iftar) are 'vote ke bhikhari' (beggars for vote). My thinking is different," he said.

Singh said his religion Hinduism taught giving respect to everyone.

"But some religions and their religious books preach to kill Hindus as they are 'Kafir' (a term literally meaning non-believers but often construed as insulting to followers of other religions). How can I attend an Iftar or host one for those who talk of killing Hindus?" he said.

Singh said when his friend disputed his contention and wanted a proof in support of his claim, he told him that it was mentioned in the "green book".

"This green book is responsible for the spread of terrorism in India and it should be banned. I will fight to get it banned," he said.

The BJP leader said he dreams of an "akhand Hindu rashtra" (an undivided Hindu nation), building a Ram temple in Ayodhya, a ban on cow slaughter in the entire country and return of displaced Kashmiri Pandits.

He said it was because of "secularwadi" (secularist) Hindus that the Mughals and the British ruled India.

"When there are over 50 Muslim countries and more than 100 Christian countries, why can't there be a single Hindu nation?" he asked.

Singh has been booked by the Hyderabad police several times over alleged provocative speeches and statements.

He once said the heads of those opposing construction of Ram temple at Ayodhya be chopped off.

Singh recently accused Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao of hosting Iftar at different mosques in the state to "appease" the minorities.

"KCR wants aid from Centre as a state is in a financial crisis but for appeasement of minorities Telangana government is spending 66 crores for Iftar party Development over vote bank politics Iftar politics," he wrote.

Known for making contentious statements, the MLA from Goshamahal constituency in Hyderabad posted a video message on a social networking site

Only those "begging for vote" host Iftar parties, controversial Telangana BJP MLA T Raja Singh Lodh said today, declaring he would neither host nor attend such events. Known for making contentious statements, the MLA from Goshamahal constituency in Hyderabad posted a video message on a social networking site where he said one of his friends suggested him to hold an Iftar party like many other lawmakers do during the holy month of Ramzan. "These days many Telangana legislators are busy hosting Iftar parties, wearing skull caps and taking selfies. They think if they have to do vote bank politics, they will have to think of 'sabka saath, sabha vikas' (together will all, development for all). "This is their thinking. Those who sit with them (those attending Iftar) are 'vote ke bhikhari' (beggars for vote). My thinking is different," he said. Singh said his religion Hinduism taught giving respect to everyone. "But some religions and their religious books preach to kill Hindus as they are 'Kafir' (a term literally meaning non-believers but often construed as insulting to followers of other religions). How can I attend an Iftar or host one for those who talk of killing Hindus?" he said. Singh said when his friend disputed his contention and wanted a proof in support of his claim, he told him that it was mentioned in the "green book". "This green book is responsible for the spread of terrorism in India and it should be banned. I will fight to get it banned," he said. The BJP leader said he dreams of an "akhand Hindu rashtra" (an undivided Hindu nation), building a Ram temple in Ayodhya, a ban on cow slaughter in the entire country and return of displaced Kashmiri Pandits. He said it was because of "secularwadi" (secularist) Hindus that the Mughals and the British ruled India. "When there are over 50 Muslim countries and more than 100 Christian countries, why can't there be a single Hindu nation?" he asked. Singh has been booked by the Hyderabad police several times over alleged provocative speeches and statements. He once said the heads of those opposing construction of Ram temple at Ayodhya be chopped off. Singh recently accused Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao of hosting Iftar at different mosques in the state to "appease" the minorities. "KCR wants aid from Centre as a state is in a financial crisis but for appeasement of minorities Telangana government is spending 66 crores for Iftar party Development over vote bank politics Iftar politics," he wrote.

Only those 'begging for votes' host Iftar parties, says Telangana BJP MLA

More than two weeks after 13 persons were killed in police firing during <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/anti-sterlite-protests-in-tuticorin-madras-high-court-orders-re-postmortem-on-7-bodies-141083">anti-Sterlite protests</a>&nbspin Tuticorin, two deputy tahsildars who allegedly gave the order to the force to do it have been transferred.

Deputy Tahsildars Kannan and Sekar were transferred to Kayathaaru and Srivaikuntam respectively by District Collector Sandeep Nandoor, an official order said.

Thirteen people were killed in police firing on May 22 and 23 after protests for the <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/sterlite-copper-plant-will-be-shut-permanently-tamil-nadu-deputy-chief-minister--140393">closure of the plant over pollution concerns</a> turned violent in Tuticorin.

The Tamil Nadu government had last month appointed a one-person Commission of Inquiry headed by a retired judge of the Madras High Court to probe the violence in Tuticorin.

The State Human Rights Commission also has initiated an inquiry into the issue.

On May 28, the government ordered the state Pollution Control Board to seal and "permanently" close the Vedanta group's copper plant, following the violent protests.

The following day Chief Minister K Palaniswami maintained in the assembly that police action was "unavoidable" and asserted that action would be taken if anyone had wrongly handled the situation.

The issue continued to rock the assembly in the following days with the ruling AIADMK claiming that the main opposition party DMK had allotted land for expansion of the copper plant in Tuticorin district when it was in power during 2006-11.

The Chief Minister had listed out efforts by his government for permanent closure of the unit, including the 2013 action taken by J Jayalalithaa as then chief minister of Tamil Nadu.

He had also accused DMK working president MK Stalin of allotting 230 acres for Sterlite expansion when he was holding the industries portfolio as deputy chief minister earlier.

The State Human Rights Commission also has initiated an inquiry into the issue.

More than two weeks after 13 persons were killed in police firing during anti-Sterlite protests in Tuticorin, two deputy tahsildars who allegedly gave the order to the force to do it have been transferred

More than two weeks after 13 persons were killed in police firing during anti-Sterlite protests&nbspin Tuticorin, two deputy tahsildars who allegedly gave the order to the force to do it have been transferred. Deputy Tahsildars Kannan and Sekar were transferred to Kayathaaru and Srivaikuntam respectively by District Collector Sandeep Nandoor, an official order said. Thirteen people were killed in police firing on May 22 and 23 after protests for the closure of the plant over pollution concerns turned violent in Tuticorin. The Tamil Nadu government had last month appointed a one-person Commission of Inquiry headed by a retired judge of the Madras High Court to probe the violence in Tuticorin. The State Human Rights Commission also has initiated an inquiry into the issue. On May 28, the government ordered the state Pollution Control Board to seal and "permanently" close the Vedanta group's copper plant, following the violent protests. The following day Chief Minister K Palaniswami maintained in the assembly that police action was "unavoidable" and asserted that action would be taken if anyone had wrongly handled the situation. The issue continued to rock the assembly in the following days with the ruling AIADMK claiming that the main opposition party DMK had allotted land for expansion of the copper plant in Tuticorin district when it was in power during 2006-11. The Chief Minister had listed out efforts by his government for permanent closure of the unit, including the 2013 action taken by J Jayalalithaa as then chief minister of Tamil Nadu. He had also accused DMK working president MK Stalin of allotting 230 acres for Sterlite expansion when he was holding the industries portfolio as deputy chief minister earlier. The State Human Rights Commission also has initiated an inquiry into the issue.

Sterlite firing: 2 deputy tahsildars transferred

The body of a 27-year-old Indian Navy sailor, who slipped and fell into the sea off Ramanathapuram coast, was recovered some five nautical miles off Jegadapattinam in Pudukottai district, intelligence bureau officials here said.

Ramprakash, a Grade-II sailor, was sailing INS Car Nicobar&nbsp;on Wednesday&nbsp;night when he fell off the patrol vessel between Thondi and Jegadapattinam, they said.

A search involving ships of the Navy and Coast Guard was launched to trace the sailor.

His body was found last night, about five nautical miles off Jegadapattinam coast, IB officials said.

The mortal remains of the sailor were taken to Chennai.

A search involving ships of the Navy and Coast Guard was launched to trace the sailor

The body of a 27-year-old Indian Navy sailor, who slipped and fell into the sea off Ramanathapuram coast, was recovered some five nautical miles off Jegadapattinam in Pudukottai district, intelligence bureau officials here said. Ramprakash, a Grade-II sailor, was sailing INS Car Nicobar on Wednesday night when he fell off the patrol vessel between Thondi and Jegadapattinam, they said. A search involving ships of the Navy and Coast Guard was launched to trace the sailor. His body was found last night, about five nautical miles off Jegadapattinam coast, IB officials said. The mortal remains of the sailor were taken to Chennai.

Body of Indian Navy sailor recovered off Tamil Nadu coast

Apparently upset over her inability to clear the NEET examination, a girl allegedly committed suicide here, the second medical aspirant to end her life in Tamil Nadu this week.

Subasri who could only score 24 in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for medical courses was feeling very depressed in the past few days and hanged herself in her house here last night, police said.

Her parents broke open the door of the room and rushed her to a hospital where she died without responding to treatment this morning.

The death of Subasri comes days after 19-year old Prateebha, academically 'bright' daughter of a farmhand, allegedly ended her life in Villupuram district after failure to clear the NEET, setting off a political blame game over the test.

Opposition parties led by DMK raised Prateebha's death in the ongoing assembly session while its leader M K Stalin urged chief ministers of other southern states and West Bengal to oppose the NEET saying it discriminated against non-Hindi speaking students.

The state government has said it continued to oppose NEET and recalled its efforts to secure an exemption for Tamil Nadu such as adopting resolutions in the assembly in this regard.

Police said Subasri who was nurturing an ambition to join MBBS scored only 907 marks out of 1200 in the Class XII exam but was hopeful of clearing the NEET as she had attended coaching classes.

But, the poor marks in the NEET shocked and saddened her and she was feeling very anguished since then, they said.

Subasri's father Kannan, a transport corporation employee, and mother had tried to pacify her and asked her not to worry and tried to divert her attention by taking her outside, including the temple, they said.

But she felt very ashamed and depressed. She went inside her room last night when her mother was cooking and hanged herself, they said, adding her body was handed over to her parents after post-mortem today.

State Transport Minister M R Vijaya Baskar visited the bereaved family and offered his condolences.

Kannan said his daughter was dreaming to study medicine and offer service to the poor. Despite her hard work, she could not clear NEET, he said.

This is the third suicide of a student over NEET in Tamil Nadu since last year. Anitha, a Dalit girl from Ariyalur, ended her life for failing to clear the NEET last year.

Subasri who could only score 24 in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for medical courses was feeling very depressed in the past few days and hanged herself in her house here last night, police said

Apparently upset over her inability to clear the NEET examination, a girl allegedly committed suicide here, the second medical aspirant to end her life in Tamil Nadu this week. Subasri who could only score 24 in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for medical courses was feeling very depressed in the past few days and hanged herself in her house here last night, police said. Her parents broke open the door of the room and rushed her to a hospital where she died without responding to treatment this morning. The death of Subasri comes days after 19-year old Prateebha, academically 'bright' daughter of a farmhand, allegedly ended her life in Villupuram district after failure to clear the NEET, setting off a political blame game over the test. Opposition parties led by DMK raised Prateebha's death in the ongoing assembly session while its leader M K Stalin urged chief ministers of other southern states and West Bengal to oppose the NEET saying it discriminated against non-Hindi speaking students. The state government has said it continued to oppose NEET and recalled its efforts to secure an exemption for Tamil Nadu such as adopting resolutions in the assembly in this regard. Police said Subasri who was nurturing an ambition to join MBBS scored only 907 marks out of 1200 in the Class XII exam but was hopeful of clearing the NEET as she had attended coaching classes. But, the poor marks in the NEET shocked and saddened her and she was feeling very anguished since then, they said. Subasri's father Kannan, a transport corporation employee, and mother had tried to pacify her and asked her not to worry and tried to divert her attention by taking her outside, including the temple, they said. But she felt very ashamed and depressed. She went inside her room last night when her mother was cooking and hanged herself, they said, adding her body was handed over to her parents after post-mortem today. State Transport Minister M R Vijaya Baskar visited the bereaved family and offered his condolences. Kannan said his daughter was dreaming to study medicine and offer service to the poor. Despite her hard work, she could not clear NEET, he said. This is the third suicide of a student over NEET in Tamil Nadu since last year. Anitha, a Dalit girl from Ariyalur, ended her life for failing to clear the NEET last year.

Another Tamil Nadu girl ends life over NEET failure

The Chennai police have arrested popular Tamil actress Sangeetha Balan&nbspfor allegedly running a prostitution ring in the city.

The actress was reportedly involved in flesh trade in a private resort at Panayur in Chennai.&nbsp

The Chennai police raided the resort on East Coast Road in Chennai after they received information about a sex racket being run by the actress.

The actress used to run the sex racket along with a person named Sathish.&nbsp

The police have sent Sangeetha and Sathish jail. They were also presented before the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Court, Egmore.

The police have also liberated several women who were abducted from different parts of the country including North India. The women have been rescued and sent to a rehabilitation centre.&nbsp

According to a media report, several other actors were involved in the scandal.

The actress is popular for playing many supporting characters in numerous Tamil films. She began her acting career as a screen actor in 1996. 
&nbsp

The actress is popular for playing many supporting characters in numerous Tamil films. She began her acting career as a screen actor in 1996

The Chennai police have arrested popular Tamil actress Sangeetha Balan&nbspfor allegedly running a prostitution ring in the city. The actress was reportedly involved in flesh trade in a private resort at Panayur in Chennai. The Chennai police raided the resort on East Coast Road in Chennai after they received information about a sex racket being run by the actress. The actress used to run the sex racket along with a person named Sathish. The police have sent Sangeetha and Sathish jail. They were also presented before the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Court, Egmore. The police have also liberated several women who were abducted from different parts of the country including North India. The women have been rescued and sent to a rehabilitation centre. According to a media report, several other actors were involved in the scandal. The actress is popular for playing many supporting characters in numerous Tamil films. She began her acting career as a screen actor in 1996.

Tamil actress Sangeetha arrested for allegedly running prostitution ring

A counterfeit currency note printing unit was unearthed here on Saturday and 6,000 fake notes with a face value of Rs 1 crore were seized while one person was arrested in this connection, police said.

During a vehicle check early Saturday, a youth was found carrying a large number of Rs 2,000 notes on his two-wheeler, they said.

The notes seized were to the tune of Rs 83 lakh, they added.

Based on the confession made by the accused, police searched a house in Velandipalayam in the city outskirts and seized more fake notes, meant for circulation, with a face value of around Rs 20 lakh, police said.

Besides, a computer, printer and a cutting machine were recovered, they said adding further investigations are on.

The notes seized were to the tune of Rs 83 lakh

A counterfeit currency note printing unit was unearthed here on Saturday and 6,000 fake notes with a face value of Rs 1 crore were seized while one person was arrested in this connection, police said. During a vehicle check early Saturday, a youth was found carrying a large number of Rs 2,000 notes on his two-wheeler, they said. The notes seized were to the tune of Rs 83 lakh, they added. Based on the confession made by the accused, police searched a house in Velandipalayam in the city outskirts and seized more fake notes, meant for circulation, with a face value of around Rs 20 lakh, police said. Besides, a computer, printer and a cutting machine were recovered, they said adding further investigations are on.

Fake currency notes printing unit busted, one held in Tamil Nadu

Actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth on Wednesday hit out at the anti-social elements in the recent anti-Sterlite protest and said that if you resort to protest for each and everything, Tamil Nadu will be turned into 'cemetery'.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters after meeting the victims of the violent protests, the latest entrant into Tamil Nadu politics said, the entire problem started after anti-social elements attacked police and burned down Collector's office, as a result, peaceful protesters were killed.&nbsp;

''If you undertake protest for each and everything, Tamil Nadu will be turned into a cemetery,'' the actor said.&nbsp;

Earlier, he visited a general hospital in Thoothukkudhi as a "goodwill gesture" &nbsp;and met with the people who suffered injuries during the anti-Sterlite protests.

The actor also announced Rs 2 compensation for each of the kin of those who died in the protest.&nbsp;

He also warned the Tamil Nadu government on the occasion and said ''government needs to be careful as the people are watching."&nbsp;

As many as 13 people lost their lives in an anti-Sterlite protest which turned violent after a clash broke out between the protestors and the local police.

The locals were protesting for the closure of the factory for 99 days when the protests took a violent turn on May 22, the 100th day of their stir.&nbsp;

On Monday the government directed the permanent closure of the Sterlite copper smelting plant in Thoothukudi.

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The entire problem started after anti-social elements attacked police & burned down Collector's office, as a result peaceful protesters were killed. If you undertake protest for each and everything, Tamil Nadu will be turned into cemetery: Rajinikanth on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thoothukkudi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thoothukkudi</a> violence <a href="https://t.co/Nmw6RWWCjb">pic.twitter.com/Nmw6RWWCjb</a>
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&nbsp;

The actor also announced Rs 2 compensation for each of the kin of those who died in the protest.

Actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth on Wednesday hit out at the anti-social elements in the recent anti-Sterlite protest and said that if you resort to protest for each and everything, Tamil Nadu will be turned into 'cemetery'. Speaking to reporters after meeting the victims of the violent protests, the latest entrant into Tamil Nadu politics said, the entire problem started after anti-social elements attacked police and burned down Collector's office, as a result, peaceful protesters were killed. ''If you undertake protest for each and everything, Tamil Nadu will be turned into a cemetery,'' the actor said. Earlier, he visited a general hospital in Thoothukkudhi as a "goodwill gesture" and met with the people who suffered injuries during the anti-Sterlite protests. The actor also announced Rs 2 compensation for each of the kin of those who died in the protest. He also warned the Tamil Nadu government on the occasion and said ''government needs to be careful as the people are watching." As many as 13 people lost their lives in an anti-Sterlite protest which turned violent after a clash broke out between the protestors and the local police. The locals were protesting for the closure of the factory for 99 days when the protests took a violent turn on May 22, the 100th day of their stir. On Monday the government directed the permanent closure of the Sterlite copper smelting plant in Thoothukudi. The entire problem started after anti-social elements attacked police & burned down Collector's office, as a result peaceful protesters were killed. If you undertake protest for each and everything, Tamil Nadu will be turned into cemetery: Rajinikanth on #Thoothukkudi violence pic.twitter.com/Nmw6RWWCjb — ANI (@ANI) May 30, 2018 ×

If you resort to protest for each and everything Tamil Nadu will turn into 'cemetery': Rajinikanth

The Anti-Sterlite protest case has been transferred to Crime Branch CID as per the order by Tamil Nadu's Director general of police, TK Rajendran.

The Tamil Nadu government on Monday directed the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-government-orders-permanent-closure-of-sterlite-copper-plant-after-death-of-13-140401">permanent closure of the Sterlite copper smelting plant</a> in Thoothukudi (Tuticorin).

As many as 13 people lost their lives in anti-Sterlite clashes between protesters and the local police.&nbsp

The Government Order (GO) said it endorsed the recent closure direction of the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, and also asked the TNPCB to "seal the unit and close the plant permanently".

The locals were protesting for the closure of the factory for 99 days when the protests took a violent turn on May 22, the 100th day of their stir.&nbsp

The Tamil Nadu government on Monday directed the permanent closure of the Sterlite copper smelting plant in Thoothukudi

The Anti-Sterlite protest case has been transferred to Crime Branch CID as per the order by Tamil Nadu's Director general of police, TK Rajendran. The Tamil Nadu government on Monday directed the permanent closure of the Sterlite copper smelting plant in Thoothukudi (Tuticorin). As many as 13 people lost their lives in anti-Sterlite clashes between protesters and the local police. The Government Order (GO) said it endorsed the recent closure direction of the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, and also asked the TNPCB to "seal the unit and close the plant permanently". The locals were protesting for the closure of the factory for 99 days when the protests took a violent turn on May 22, the 100th day of their stir.

Tamil Nadu's DGP transfers anti-Sterlite protest case to Crime Branch CID

It has been just a few hours since the trailer of Rajinikanth's next <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-kaala-trailer-rajinikanth-plays-robinhood-of-dharavi-140645">'Kaala'</a> has released on the internet. &nbsp;And Rajinikanth's film's trailer has already gained 2.5 million views (and counting) on Youtube. While fans across the country wait with baited breath for the film's release on June 7th, Rajinikanth's film will not&nbsp;release in Karnataka.&nbsp; 
 
The Karnataka distributor of the Rajinikanth-starrer ‘Kaala’ has stated that he won’t ‘voluntarily’ distribute the film in the state due to the superstar's statements on the ongoing Cauvery water distribution.&nbsp; 
 
Rajinikanth had reportedly asked the new Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy to release to Tamil Nadu its share of Cauvery water as mandated by the Supreme Court. 
 
Now, owing to protests from several Kannada groups over the ban on the film's release, the Karnataka film chamber held a meeting to decide whether the film should get a release in the state or not. The meeting that was held on Tuesday, has decided to not release the film in the state.&nbsp; 
 
According to media reports, Sa Ra Govindu, President of Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has confirmed that the film will not release in Karnataka. Govindu stated that the decision was taken in the interest of the state. 
 
In a statement, Govindu said, "Kannadigas are upset with Rajinikanth's comments on the Cauvery issue and so his film will not be released in Karnataka. As many as ten letters from various pro-Kannada groups have reached the Film Chamber, demanding a ban on Kaala in Karnataka. Considering the sentiments of Kannadigas, there is pressure on us to not release the film."

'Kaala', produced by Dhanush and directed by Pa.Ranjith, also features Nana Patekar and Huma Qureshi. The film has Rajinikanth playing a do-gooder gangster in Mumbai.&nbsp;

The film is set to release in theatres on 7th June.

It has been just a few hours since the trailer of Rajinikanth's next 'Kaala' has released on the internet. And Rajinikanth's film's trailer has already gained 2.5 million views (and counting) on Youtube. While fans across the country wait with baited breath for the film's release on June 7th, Rajinikanth's film will not release in Karnataka. The Karnataka distributor of the Rajinikanth-starrer ‘Kaala’ has stated that he won’t ‘voluntarily’ distribute the film in the state due to the superstar's statements on the ongoing Cauvery water distribution. Rajinikanth had reportedly asked the new Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy to release to Tamil Nadu its share of Cauvery water as mandated by the Supreme Court. Now, owing to protests from several Kannada groups over the ban on the film's release, the Karnataka film chamber held a meeting to decide whether the film should get a release in the state or not. The meeting that was held on Tuesday, has decided to not release the film in the state. According to media reports, Sa Ra Govindu, President of Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has confirmed that the film will not release in Karnataka. Govindu stated that the decision was taken in the interest of the state. In a statement, Govindu said, "Kannadigas are upset with Rajinikanth's comments on the Cauvery issue and so his film will not be released in Karnataka. As many as ten letters from various pro-Kannada groups have reached the Film Chamber, demanding a ban on Kaala in Karnataka. Considering the sentiments of Kannadigas, there is pressure on us to not release the film." 'Kaala', produced by Dhanush and directed by Pa.Ranjith, also features Nana Patekar and Huma Qureshi. The film has Rajinikanth playing a do-gooder gangster in Mumbai.

Rajinikanth's 'Kaala' will not release in Karnataka. Here's why

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

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