The Tamil Nadu government on Monday ordered the permanent closure of the Sterlite copper smelting plant in Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) following the death of 13 people in police firing during anti-Sterlite protests there last week.&nbsp;

The Sterlite plant in Tuticorin is owned and operated by the Vedanta group.

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 document cited the Constitution's directive principles of state policy (Article 48-A) enjoining protection of environment and provisions of the Water Act, 1974, to order the permanent closure of the copper factory "in the larger public interest".

It referred to the PCB order of April 9 refusing to renew its consent to allow Vedanta's copper smelter plant at Tuticorin to operate.

The order recalled how on May 23 the TNPCB had issued directions for the closure of the unit and disconnection of power supply to it. The power supply was disconnected a day later.

Chief Minister K Palaniswami said the government has issued the GO in deference to the sentiments of the people.

The locals were protesting for the closure of the factory for 99 days. Protesters turned violent on May 22, the 100th day of their stir, and 13 people were killed in police action against them last Tuesday and Wednesday.

(With inputs from PTI)

The locals in the area had been on a three-month protest, which ended in tragedy last week as 13 protesters died in clash with police.

The Tamil Nadu government on Monday ordered the permanent closure of the Sterlite copper smelting plant in Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) following the death of 13 people in police firing during anti-Sterlite protests there last week. The Sterlite plant in Tuticorin is owned and operated by the Vedanta group. 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 document cited the Constitution's directive principles of state policy (Article 48-A) enjoining protection of environment and provisions of the Water Act, 1974, to order the permanent closure of the copper factory "in the larger public interest". It referred to the PCB order of April 9 refusing to renew its consent to allow Vedanta's copper smelter plant at Tuticorin to operate. The order recalled how on May 23 the TNPCB had issued directions for the closure of the unit and disconnection of power supply to it. The power supply was disconnected a day later. Chief Minister K Palaniswami said the government has issued the GO in deference to the sentiments of the people. The locals were protesting for the closure of the factory for 99 days. Protesters turned violent on May 22, the 100th day of their stir, and 13 people were killed in police action against them last Tuesday and Wednesday. (With inputs from PTI)

Tamil Nadu govt orders permanent closure of Sterlite plant after death of 13

A plea was&nbsp;moved on Thursday in the Delhi High Court seeking direct intervention of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) into the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-sterlite-protest-palaniswamy-ensures-legal-action-for-factory-shut-down--139413">killing of people in police action during protests</a> against the Vedanta's Sterlite copper factory in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin district.

The court is likely to hear on Friday the petition filed by A Rajarajan. The plea said he gave a representation to the NHRC on Friday seeking its earliest intervention into the "unlawful killings".

The petition, filed through advocate Sabrish Subramanian, claimed the NHRC refused to consider their representation as a matter of urgency and ignored the ground realities.

It said the commission simply requested a report from the chief secretary and DGP of Tamil Nadu government.

It alleged that "human rights violation and continuous unlawful killings by indiscriminate police firing was happening even after the case was suo motu taken and report was requested by respondent (NHRC)."

The petition alleged that unless the NHRC directly intervenes in the issue at the earliest or through an independent agency, the "unlawful killings by police" would continue and there is a possibility of destruction of evidence.

It sought direction to the commission to consider their representation as a matter of great urgency.

The NHRC had yesterday sent a notice to the Tamil Nadu's chief secretary and police chief over the killing of 10 people in police firing during anti-Sterlite protest in Tuticorin.

Violence broke out on May 22 during protests demanding the closure of the factory over pollution concerns with police opening fire, resulting in the death of 10 people. The agitation has been going on for over three months for the closure of the factory.

Thousands of protesters had, reportedly, gathered to mark the 100th day of the agitation at Kumarattiyapuram village on the outskirts of the city on May 22.&nbsp;

A plea was moved on Thursday in the Delhi High Court seeking direct intervention of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) into the killing of people in police action during protests against the Vedanta's Sterlite copper factory in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin district

A plea was moved on Thursday in the Delhi High Court seeking direct intervention of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) into the killing of people in police action during protests against the Vedanta's Sterlite copper factory in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin district. The court is likely to hear on Friday the petition filed by A Rajarajan. The plea said he gave a representation to the NHRC on Friday seeking its earliest intervention into the "unlawful killings". The petition, filed through advocate Sabrish Subramanian, claimed the NHRC refused to consider their representation as a matter of urgency and ignored the ground realities. It said the commission simply requested a report from the chief secretary and DGP of Tamil Nadu government. It alleged that "human rights violation and continuous unlawful killings by indiscriminate police firing was happening even after the case was suo motu taken and report was requested by respondent (NHRC)." The petition alleged that unless the NHRC directly intervenes in the issue at the earliest or through an independent agency, the "unlawful killings by police" would continue and there is a possibility of destruction of evidence. It sought direction to the commission to consider their representation as a matter of great urgency. The NHRC had yesterday sent a notice to the Tamil Nadu's chief secretary and police chief over the killing of 10 people in police firing during anti-Sterlite protest in Tuticorin. Violence broke out on May 22 during protests demanding the closure of the factory over pollution concerns with police opening fire, resulting in the death of 10 people. The agitation has been going on for over three months for the closure of the factory. Thousands of protesters had, reportedly, gathered to mark the 100th day of the agitation at Kumarattiyapuram village on the outskirts of the city on May 22.

Anti-Sterlite protests: Plea in Delhi High Court for NHRC intervention

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/tuticorin-anti-sterlite-protests-tamil-nadu-cm-palaniswami-defends-police-action-139388">Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami </a>has assured that his government was taking steps to shut down the Sterlite factory at Thoothukudi.

Speaking to the media the chief minister said that his government was taking the legal route to ensure the shut down of Sterlite Copper Smelter plant.&nbsp;

Palaniswami had earlier defended the police action during Tuticorin anti-Sterlite protests.

He had said, "If someone is attacked, the natural course would be to defend and safeguard themselves. This is what has been done by the police in response".

At least 13 people have lost their lives in the firing by police during protests against the Sterlite factory on May 22 and 23. More than 70 people are undergoing treatment.

The foundation stone of Sterlite’s copper-smelting plant in Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi district was laid by the late former chief minister of Tamil Nadu, J Jayalalithaa, in the year 1994.

For over two decades, locals in the region have been fighting cases in various courts to protest its ongoing operations stating that the plant causes severe air and water pollution and contaminates the soil. &nbsp;

The state chief minister also said that the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board had denied the permission to Sterlite factory to continue running the factory, however, the factory got the permission from the National Green Tribunal.

He also added that the state government had challenged the apex court against the NGT ruling.&nbsp;

Speaking to the media the chief minister said that his government was taking the legal route to ensure the shut down of Sterlite Copper Smelter plant

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami has assured that his government was taking steps to shut down the Sterlite factory at Thoothukudi. Speaking to the media the chief minister said that his government was taking the legal route to ensure the shut down of Sterlite Copper Smelter plant. Palaniswami had earlier defended the police action during Tuticorin anti-Sterlite protests. He had said, "If someone is attacked, the natural course would be to defend and safeguard themselves. This is what has been done by the police in response". At least 13 people have lost their lives in the firing by police during protests against the Sterlite factory on May 22 and 23. More than 70 people are undergoing treatment. The foundation stone of Sterlite’s copper-smelting plant in Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi district was laid by the late former chief minister of Tamil Nadu, J Jayalalithaa, in the year 1994. For over two decades, locals in the region have been fighting cases in various courts to protest its ongoing operations stating that the plant causes severe air and water pollution and contaminates the soil. The state chief minister also said that the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board had denied the permission to Sterlite factory to continue running the factory, however, the factory got the permission from the National Green Tribunal. He also added that the state government had challenged the apex court against the NGT ruling.

Anti-Sterlite protest: CM Palaniswamy ensures legal action for factory shut down

Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board has directed Tuticorin District Collector to disconnect power supply to Sterlite Copper’s smelter. According to reports, the Board had found that the unit was 'carrying out activities to resume production' despite being told not to do so until its licence to operate is renewed.

The number of deaths in the anti-Sterlite protests in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin has reached 13 while over 70 have been injured. Those wounded in clashes are undergoing treatment.&nbsp;

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Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board has directed Dist collector of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thoothukudi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thoothukudi</a> to disconnect power supply to Sterlite Copper’s smelter. Board found the unit was 'carrying out activities to resume production' despite being told not to do so until its licence to operate is renewed.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/999509935472848897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Internet services have been suspended (starting 9 pm Wednesday) for five days. Tuticorin's Superintendent of Police and the District Collector were transferred on Wednesday after fresh protests broke out.&nbsp;

ANI reported that 67 people have so far been arrested for violence.

The police allegedly used assault rifles to shoot at the protesters. &nbsp;

The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court on Wednesday stayed the plant's planned expansion. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has asked the Tamil Nadu government for a report on the killings.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Board had found that the unit was 'carrying out activities to resume production' despite being told not to do so

Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board has directed Tuticorin District Collector to disconnect power supply to Sterlite Copper’s smelter. According to reports, the Board had found that the unit was 'carrying out activities to resume production' despite being told not to do so until its licence to operate is renewed. The number of deaths in the anti-Sterlite protests in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin has reached 13 while over 70 have been injured. Those wounded in clashes are undergoing treatment. Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board has directed Dist collector of #Thoothukudi to disconnect power supply to Sterlite Copper’s smelter. Board found the unit was 'carrying out activities to resume production' despite being told not to do so until its licence to operate is renewed. — ANI (@ANI) May 24, 2018 × Meanwhile, Internet services have been suspended (starting 9 pm Wednesday) for five days. Tuticorin's Superintendent of Police and the District Collector were transferred on Wednesday after fresh protests broke out. ANI reported that 67 people have so far been arrested for violence. The police allegedly used assault rifles to shoot at the protesters. The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court on Wednesday stayed the plant's planned expansion. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has asked the Tamil Nadu government for a report on the killings.

Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board orders power supply be cut to Sterlite plant

As many as 11 people have been reported dead in clashes between locals and the police in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin. According to reports, Union Home Ministry has demanded a report from the Tamil Nadu government over anti-Sterlite protests.

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Home Ministry seeks a report from Tamil Nadu govt over <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thoothukudi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thoothukudi</a> incident where 11 people were killed yesterday in police firing during protests against Sterlite industries. <a href="https://t.co/MjSK2tzHYR">pic.twitter.com/MjSK2tzHYR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/999161540405223426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Chaos broke out as locals continued to protest Sterlite’s industrial plant for the 100th consecutive day on Tuesday.

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Madras High Court's Madurai bench to today deliver interim order on the ongoing construction of a new copper smelter by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sterlite?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sterlite</a> industries in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thoothukudi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thoothukudi</a> . 11 people were killed yesterday in police firing during protests against the construction of the new copper smelter
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/999132399169662976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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As per reports, the protesters seek closing of the industrial plant. Agitators also ransacked the Collector’s office and burnt tyres.

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Security tightened in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thoothukudi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thoothukudi</a> after eleven people were killed yesterday in police firing during protests against Sterlite industries. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SterliteProtest?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SterliteProtest</a> <a href="https://t.co/lmjbsTf66p">pic.twitter.com/lmjbsTf66p</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/999123007720361984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Visuals from the ground showed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-sterlite-protests-in-tuticorin-one-killed-several-injured-in-clashes-with-police-138862">policemen charging at protesters with lathis</a> who pelted stones at them.

Several shops and commercial establishments remain closed in Tuticorin due to violent protests.

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Security tightened in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thoothukudi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thoothukudi</a> after eleven people were killed yesterday in police firing during protests against Sterlite industries. Section 144(prohibits assembly of more than 4 people in an area) has been imposed in the city. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SterliteProtest?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SterliteProtest</a> <a href="https://t.co/cyOUFrxCGC">pic.twitter.com/cyOUFrxCGC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/999125544087236610?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The foundation stone of Sterlite’s copper-smelting plant in Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi district was laid by the late former chief minister of Tamil Nadu, J Jayalalithaa, in the year 1994.

For over two decades, locals here have been fighting cases in various courts to protest its ongoing operations stating that the plant causes severe air and water pollution and contaminates the soil. &nbsp;

So far, there have only been temporary shutdowns and the plant has continued with its operations.&nbsp;

This year, fresh protests started in February when the company commenced works on its second unit amid opposition from the local people.

Section 144 of the CrPC (Criminal Procedure Code which lists out the procedure for administration of law in India), which prevents unlawful assembly of people in an area, has been imposed in and around the Sterlite unit. There is a heavy deployment of police in the city, with additional forces being rushed in from neighbouring cities as well.

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the families of each of those killed, Rs 3 lakh to those seriously injured, and Rs 1 lakh for people who suffered minor injuries.

The Sterlite plant is a copper unit of Vedanta Limited.&nbsp;

Madras High Court's Madurai bench will deliver an interim order today on the ongoing construction of a new copper smelter by Sterlite industries in Thoothukudi

As many as 11 people have been reported dead in clashes between locals and the police in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin. According to reports, Union Home Ministry has demanded a report from the Tamil Nadu government over anti-Sterlite protests. Home Ministry seeks a report from Tamil Nadu govt over #Thoothukudi incident where 11 people were killed yesterday in police firing during protests against Sterlite industries. pic.twitter.com/MjSK2tzHYR — ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2018 × Chaos broke out as locals continued to protest Sterlite’s industrial plant for the 100th consecutive day on Tuesday. Madras High Court's Madurai bench to today deliver interim order on the ongoing construction of a new copper smelter by #Sterlite industries in #Thoothukudi . 11 people were killed yesterday in police firing during protests against the construction of the new copper smelter — ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2018 × As per reports, the protesters seek closing of the industrial plant. Agitators also ransacked the Collector’s office and burnt tyres. Security tightened in #Thoothukudi after eleven people were killed yesterday in police firing during protests against Sterlite industries. #TamilNadu #SterliteProtest pic.twitter.com/lmjbsTf66p — ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2018 × Visuals from the ground showed policemen charging at protesters with lathis who pelted stones at them. Several shops and commercial establishments remain closed in Tuticorin due to violent protests. Security tightened in #Thoothukudi after eleven people were killed yesterday in police firing during protests against Sterlite industries. Section 144(prohibits assembly of more than 4 people in an area) has been imposed in the city. #TamilNadu #SterliteProtest pic.twitter.com/cyOUFrxCGC — ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2018 × The foundation stone of Sterlite’s copper-smelting plant in Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi district was laid by the late former chief minister of Tamil Nadu, J Jayalalithaa, in the year 1994. For over two decades, locals here have been fighting cases in various courts to protest its ongoing operations stating that the plant causes severe air and water pollution and contaminates the soil. So far, there have only been temporary shutdowns and the plant has continued with its operations. This year, fresh protests started in February when the company commenced works on its second unit amid opposition from the local people. Section 144 of the CrPC (Criminal Procedure Code which lists out the procedure for administration of law in India), which prevents unlawful assembly of people in an area, has been imposed in and around the Sterlite unit. There is a heavy deployment of police in the city, with additional forces being rushed in from neighbouring cities as well. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the families of each of those killed, Rs 3 lakh to those seriously injured, and Rs 1 lakh for people who suffered minor injuries. The Sterlite plant is a copper unit of Vedanta Limited.

Anti-Sterlite protests: Death toll mounts to 11, Home Ministry demands report from Tamil Nadu govt

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Alongside Kumaraswamy, Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President G. Parameshwara will take oath as the Deputy Chief Minister. &nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-at-least-11-killed-in-clashes-with-police-over-protests-against-sterlite-plant-139005">Tamil Nadu: At least 11 killed in clashes with police over protests against Sterlite copper plant</a>

As many as 11 people have been reported dead in clashes between locals and the police in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin. Chaos broke out as locals continued to protest Sterlite’s industrial plant for the 100th consecutive day on Tuesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rohingya-militants-killed-hindu-villagers-in-myanmar-violence-amnesty-international-139009">Rohingya militants killed Hindu villagers in Myanmar: Amnesty International</a>

Campaign group Amnesty International said on Tuesday it had gathered evidence that insurgents from a Rohingya Muslim armed group killed scores of Hindu civilians in August last year, amid a surge in violence in western Myanmar.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-maduro-expels-us-diplomats-rejects-sanctions-138999">Venezuela's Maduro expels US diplomats, rejects sanctions</a>

Venezuela ordered the expulsion of the top two US diplomats in the country Tuesday, charging it was the victim of a "political and financial lynching" after Washington tightened sanctions over Nicolas Maduro's re-election.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-face-off-eu-gets-little-news-from-zuckerberg-about-social-networks-data-policies--139003">Facebook face-off: EU gets little news from Zuckerberg about social network's data policies</a>

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg sailed through a grilling from EU lawmakers about the social network's data policies as lengthy questions left the 34-year-old American little time to answer.

HD Kumaraswamy to be sworn in as Karnataka Chief Minister today, floor test tomorrow Alongside Kumaraswamy, Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) President G. Parameshwara will take oath as the Deputy Chief Minister. Tamil Nadu: At least 11 killed in clashes with police over protests against Sterlite copper plant As many as 11 people have been reported dead in clashes between locals and the police in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin. Chaos broke out as locals continued to protest Sterlite’s industrial plant for the 100th consecutive day on Tuesday. Rohingya militants killed Hindu villagers in Myanmar: Amnesty International Campaign group Amnesty International said on Tuesday it had gathered evidence that insurgents from a Rohingya Muslim armed group killed scores of Hindu civilians in August last year, amid a surge in violence in western Myanmar. Venezuela's Maduro expels US diplomats, rejects sanctions Venezuela ordered the expulsion of the top two US diplomats in the country Tuesday, charging it was the victim of a "political and financial lynching" after Washington tightened sanctions over Nicolas Maduro's re-election. Facebook face-off: EU gets little news from Zuckerberg about social network's data policies Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg sailed through a grilling from EU lawmakers about the social network's data policies as lengthy questions left the 34-year-old American little time to answer.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Police allegedly used assault rifles to shoot at protesters in Tamil Nadu's Thootukudi, where <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-at-least-11-killed-in-clashes-with-police-over-protests-against-sterlite-plant-139005">11 people died</a> on Tuesday.&nbsp;

A video released by news agency ANI shows a man in civilian clothes taking position on top of what appears to be a police van. He is armed with an SLR (self-loading rifle).&nbsp;

A number of policemen in uniform mill about the van.&nbsp;

In the video, a voice in the background says, "At least one should die."&nbsp;

The man on top of the van fires.&nbsp;

Thousands of people had hit the streets of Thootukudi (earlier called Tuticorin) Tuesday. They were protesting against a Sterlite copper-smelting plant which they say has caused immense environmental damage. They also allege the plant has caused an outbreak of disease in the area.&nbsp;

Sterlite is owned by the Vedanta group.&nbsp;

The protests against the plant have been going on for years. In 2013, the Supreme Court ordered the company to pay a Rs 100-crore fine.&nbsp;

The protests against the plant erupted again in February when it announced that it was doubling its capacity.&nbsp;

Tuesday had been the 100th consecutive day of protest.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Local police in Tuticorin seen with assault rifles to disperse protesters demanding a ban on Sterlite Industries. 9 protestors have lost their lives. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a>. (Earlier visuals) <a href="https://t.co/hinYmbtIZQ">pic.twitter.com/hinYmbtIZQ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/998964917905453057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Who ordered the police firing on protestors? Why were automatic weapons used to disperse the crowd and under what law is this permitted? Why were rubber/ plastic bullets or other means NOT used to avoid fatal injuries? Why was no warning given before firing? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SterliteProtest?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SterliteProtest</a>
— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) <a href="https://twitter.com/mkstalin/status/999124168871362560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Why was there not adequate police presence to maintain law and order during <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SterliteProtest?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SterliteProtest</a>? Is it accurate to say that there was a total failure of State intelligence which led to these unfortunate deaths? Did IG-Intelligence brief police and <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOTamilNadu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CMOTamilNadu</a> on the situation?
— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) <a href="https://twitter.com/mkstalin/status/999124439169089536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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On Wednesday, the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court stayed the plant's planned expansion.&nbsp;

And the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has asked the Tamil Nadu government for a report on the killings.&nbsp;

The National Human Rights Commission has also issued notices to the Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police and asked for reports within two weeks.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A video released by news agency ANI shows a man in civilian clothes taking position on top of what appears to be a police van. He is armed with an SLR (self-loading rifle)

Police allegedly used assault rifles to shoot at protesters in Tamil Nadu's Thootukudi, where 11 people died on Tuesday. A video released by news agency ANI shows a man in civilian clothes taking position on top of what appears to be a police van. He is armed with an SLR (self-loading rifle). A number of policemen in uniform mill about the van. In the video, a voice in the background says, "At least one should die." The man on top of the van fires. Thousands of people had hit the streets of Thootukudi (earlier called Tuticorin) Tuesday. They were protesting against a Sterlite copper-smelting plant which they say has caused immense environmental damage. They also allege the plant has caused an outbreak of disease in the area. Sterlite is owned by the Vedanta group. The protests against the plant have been going on for years. In 2013, the Supreme Court ordered the company to pay a Rs 100-crore fine. The protests against the plant erupted again in February when it announced that it was doubling its capacity. Tuesday had been the 100th consecutive day of protest. #WATCH Local police in Tuticorin seen with assault rifles to disperse protesters demanding a ban on Sterlite Industries. 9 protestors have lost their lives. #TamilNadu. (Earlier visuals) pic.twitter.com/hinYmbtIZQ — ANI (@ANI) May 22, 2018 × Who ordered the police firing on protestors? Why were automatic weapons used to disperse the crowd and under what law is this permitted? Why were rubber/ plastic bullets or other means NOT used to avoid fatal injuries? Why was no warning given before firing? #SterliteProtest — M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) May 23, 2018 × Why was there not adequate police presence to maintain law and order during #SterliteProtest? Is it accurate to say that there was a total failure of State intelligence which led to these unfortunate deaths? Did IG-Intelligence brief police and @CMOTamilNadu on the situation? — M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) May 23, 2018 × On Wednesday, the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court stayed the plant's planned expansion. And the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has asked the Tamil Nadu government for a report on the killings. The National Human Rights Commission has also issued notices to the Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police and asked for reports within two weeks.

Video: In Tamil Nadu police allegedly used assault rifles to shoot at protesters

Reacting to actor-politician Rajinikanth's comments on the release of Cauvery water by Karnataka to Tamil Nadu, JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy called him to visit the state and see the situation for himself, after which he would change his stand.

"If there is water in Karnataka it is possible for us to give them water. I request Rajinikanth, please come and see the situation in our dams, what has happened to our farmers. After seeing that, if you (Rajinikanth) still want water, let's discuss," PTI quoted Kumaraswamy as saying.

He was responding to a question about the reported statement by the actor-politician in Chennai asking the new government in Karnataka to release to Tamil Nadu its share of Cauvery river water as mandated by the Supreme Court verdict.

"... On seeing the situation here, I think he (Rajinikanth) will change his stand," the JD(S) leader told reporters here.

Rajinikanth on Sunday said that Karnataka government should implement Supreme Court says and added that it is their (Karnataka’s) duty.

“It is my humble opinion that it will be good if the control over the dams (in Karnataka) is with the (proposed) Cauvery authority,” he said.

Anticipating “government intervention” in the authority that has been mooted, he said, “Let us see what happens in due course.”

Kumaraswamy is all set to take over as the Karnataka Chief Minister on May 23.

As the leader of Congress-JD(S) joint legislature party, he was yesterday invited by Governor Vajubhai Vala to form the government, following the fall of three-day-old BJP government with the resignation of B S Yeddyurappa as Chief Minister.&nbsp 
&nbsp

Rajinikanth on Sunday said that Karnataka government should implement Supreme Court says

Reacting to actor-politician Rajinikanth's comments on the release of Cauvery water by Karnataka to Tamil Nadu, JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy called him to visit the state and see the situation for himself, after which he would change his stand. "If there is water in Karnataka it is possible for us to give them water. I request Rajinikanth, please come and see the situation in our dams, what has happened to our farmers. After seeing that, if you (Rajinikanth) still want water, let's discuss," PTI quoted Kumaraswamy as saying. He was responding to a question about the reported statement by the actor-politician in Chennai asking the new government in Karnataka to release to Tamil Nadu its share of Cauvery river water as mandated by the Supreme Court verdict. "... On seeing the situation here, I think he (Rajinikanth) will change his stand," the JD(S) leader told reporters here. Rajinikanth on Sunday said that Karnataka government should implement Supreme Court says and added that it is their (Karnataka’s) duty. “It is my humble opinion that it will be good if the control over the dams (in Karnataka) is with the (proposed) Cauvery authority,” he said. Anticipating “government intervention” in the authority that has been mooted, he said, “Let us see what happens in due course.” Kumaraswamy is all set to take over as the Karnataka Chief Minister on May 23. As the leader of Congress-JD(S) joint legislature party, he was yesterday invited by Governor Vajubhai Vala to form the government, following the fall of three-day-old BJP government with the resignation of B S Yeddyurappa as Chief Minister.

Kumaraswamy attacks Rajinikanth over comments on Cauvery issue

The Directorate of Government (DGE) Examinations, Government of Tamil Nadu declared TN HSC +2 results 2018 or Tamil Nadu 12th result 2018 at its official website – tnresults.nic.in. Students can also check the scores at dge1.tn.nic.in, dge.tn.gov.in. &nbspVirudhnagar district has topped with 97 % pass percentage while Erode has come second with 96.3%.&nbsp

The overall pass percentage of this year in TN HSC +2 Results 2018 is 91.1%. Girls scored 94.1% higher (6.4 %) than boys 87.7%. Check result on the official mobile app, which is available on Android and iOS download it from the link given below.

The Class 12th examination was conducted by the Directorate of Government Examinations (DGE) between 1st March and 6th April for the academic 2017-18. The evaluation of Class 12 (plus 2) answer sheets started from April 6. Overall, 1907 schools have secured 100% pass percentage.

The government of Tamil Nadu, Directorate of Government Examinations declaring examination Results which can be viewed through the following +2 exam result 2018 website:

http://tnresults.nic.in 
http://www.dge.tn.nic.in/ 
http://dge1.tn.nic.in 
http://dge2.tn.nic.in 
http://www.dge.tn.gov.in/ 
http://tndge.in/

Also, students can view the TN HSC Results on official Mobile Apps which is available on both Android and iOS platforms.

The overall pass percentage of this year in TN HSC +2 Results 2018 is 91.1%. Girls scored 94.1% higher (6.4 %) than boys 87.7%.

The Directorate of Government (DGE) Examinations, Government of Tamil Nadu declared TN HSC +2 results 2018 or Tamil Nadu 12th result 2018 at its official website – tnresults.nic.in. Students can also check the scores at dge1.tn.nic.in, dge.tn.gov.in. &nbspVirudhnagar district has topped with 97 % pass percentage while Erode has come second with 96.3%. The overall pass percentage of this year in TN HSC +2 Results 2018 is 91.1%. Girls scored 94.1% higher (6.4 %) than boys 87.7%. Check result on the official mobile app, which is available on Android and iOS download it from the link given below. The Class 12th examination was conducted by the Directorate of Government Examinations (DGE) between 1st March and 6th April for the academic 2017-18. The evaluation of Class 12 (plus 2) answer sheets started from April 6. Overall, 1907 schools have secured 100% pass percentage. The government of Tamil Nadu, Directorate of Government Examinations declaring examination Results which can be viewed through the following +2 exam result 2018 website: http://tnresults.nic.in http://www.dge.tn.nic.in/ http://dge1.tn.nic.in http://dge2.tn.nic.in http://www.dge.tn.gov.in/ http://tndge.in/ Also, students can view the TN HSC Results on official Mobile Apps which is available on both Android and iOS platforms.

Tamil Nadu Result 2018: TN HSC +2 results declared

By Prasad Bhosekar

Do trees and meditation have a connection? On the outskirts of Hyderabad city in Mahabubnagar district of Telangana state in India, an interesting connection between trees and meditation is being established by ``heartfulness meditation'' ( a non profit institute ) where a barren drought-prone area is converted into a green cover with more than one lakh trees to derive positive energy of trees for meditation. On the other hand, this place has also given new lease of life to nearly 1000 trees which were felled or being uprooted for various purposes from nearby areas to as far as 700 kms in Tamil Nadu. 
&nbsp; 
Psychotherapist Elena Yushina from Moscow in Russia finds absolute peace and tranquility meditating under a tree in Kanha Shanti vanam in ``heartfulness meditation'' institute. Elena is among the thousands who come here from different parts of the country and abroad and who are trying to get benefits of positive energy of trees while meditating under a tree. 
&nbsp; 
``Modern people and life have stress. Trees are the best friends, they provide positive energy help in balancing emotional state. I am trying to reconnect inner self, and want to get fresh ideas, a new vision of life."&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Kanha Shanti vanam is spread across 1400 acres adjacent to Chegur village in Mahabubnagar district of Telangana state in India. This region is drought-prone but since last four years more than one lakh trees have come up in this area and the groundwater table has increased considerably. the trees have changed the landscape completely and has been attracting meditation enthusiasts in thousands. Kamlesh Patel, who's called ``global guide'' of heartfulness is the brain behind increasing the green cover and helping connect meditation and trees. 
&nbsp; 
"Apart from the trees grown here, nearly 1000 trees which were being felled were rescued by this organisation and translocated. The success rate of survival is staggering 80 %," said Kamlesh Patel said. "Relocating a tree is just not an easy task. Uprooting and replanting a grown-up tree has to be done with surgical precision and a lot of care has to be taken in this process which takes months," he added.&nbsp;

This institute has taken up this mission to rescue and relocate as many trees it can. Horticulturists S Sarvanan is working tirelessly to bring and replant trees and faces a lot of challenges. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
"Till now there are nearly 1,20,000 trees on this campus. The target is to raise this figure to two lakh trees, including translocating trees from different places which are otherwise felled for different purposes. On the whole, this is a commendable initiative where meditation helps trees and vice-versa," S Sarvanan said.

Kanha Shanti vanam is spread across 1400 acres adjacent to Chegur village in Mahabubnagar district of Telangana state in India

By Prasad Bhosekar Do trees and meditation have a connection? On the outskirts of Hyderabad city in Mahabubnagar district of Telangana state in India, an interesting connection between trees and meditation is being established by ``heartfulness meditation'' ( a non profit institute ) where a barren drought-prone area is converted into a green cover with more than one lakh trees to derive positive energy of trees for meditation. On the other hand, this place has also given new lease of life to nearly 1000 trees which were felled or being uprooted for various purposes from nearby areas to as far as 700 kms in Tamil Nadu. Psychotherapist Elena Yushina from Moscow in Russia finds absolute peace and tranquility meditating under a tree in Kanha Shanti vanam in ``heartfulness meditation'' institute. Elena is among the thousands who come here from different parts of the country and abroad and who are trying to get benefits of positive energy of trees while meditating under a tree. ``Modern people and life have stress. Trees are the best friends, they provide positive energy help in balancing emotional state. I am trying to reconnect inner self, and want to get fresh ideas, a new vision of life." Kanha Shanti vanam is spread across 1400 acres adjacent to Chegur village in Mahabubnagar district of Telangana state in India. This region is drought-prone but since last four years more than one lakh trees have come up in this area and the groundwater table has increased considerably. the trees have changed the landscape completely and has been attracting meditation enthusiasts in thousands. Kamlesh Patel, who's called ``global guide'' of heartfulness is the brain behind increasing the green cover and helping connect meditation and trees. "Apart from the trees grown here, nearly 1000 trees which were being felled were rescued by this organisation and translocated. The success rate of survival is staggering 80 %," said Kamlesh Patel said. "Relocating a tree is just not an easy task. Uprooting and replanting a grown-up tree has to be done with surgical precision and a lot of care has to be taken in this process which takes months," he added. This institute has taken up this mission to rescue and relocate as many trees it can. Horticulturists S Sarvanan is working tirelessly to bring and replant trees and faces a lot of challenges. "Till now there are nearly 1,20,000 trees on this campus. The target is to raise this figure to two lakh trees, including translocating trees from different places which are otherwise felled for different purposes. On the whole, this is a commendable initiative where meditation helps trees and vice-versa," S Sarvanan said.

With over 1 lakh trees, this place in Telangana derives positive energy of trees for meditation

The Supreme Court today told the Centre that it was in "sheer contempt" of its direction on Cauvery water sharing for failing to frame a scheme for distribution of water between the southern riparian states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala and Union Territory of Puducherry.

The top court directed the Secretary of the Union Water Resources Ministry to personally appear before it on May 14 with a draft of the Cauvery management scheme to implement its verdict on water sharing between four states including Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

It had in February asked the Centre to formulate a scheme to ensure compliance of its judgement on the decades-old Cauvery dispute.&nbsp;

A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra told the Centre that once the judgment has been delivered on the issue, it has to be implemented.

While posting the matter for May 14, the bench, which was not happy with the development, said the Centre was in "sheer contempt".

"We do not want to come back to square one. Once the judgment has been delivered, it has to be implemented," the bench also comprising Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud said.

Attorney General K K Venugopal said the Centre was seeking time in view of the fact that the Union Cabinet has not met due to the ongoing campaigning for the assembly polls in Karnataka.

Senior advocate Shekhar Naphade , appearing for Tamil Nadu, opposed the AG's plea and said "this is the fit case for contempt. Somebody has to be sent to jail".

The apex court had earlier asked the Centre to formulate a scheme to ensure compliance of its judgement on the decades-old Cauvery dispute.&nbsp;

It had modified the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) award of 2007 and made it clear that it will not be extending time for this on any ground.

The top court had on February 16 raised the 270 tmcft share of Cauvery water for Karnataka by 14.75 tmcft and reduced Tamil Nadu's share, while compensating it by allowing extraction of 10 tmcft groundwater from the river basin, saying the issue of drinking water has to be placed on a "higher pedestal". PTI

The court directed the Secretary of the Union Water Resources Ministry to personally appear before it on May 14 with a draft of the Cauvery management scheme

The Supreme Court today told the Centre that it was in "sheer contempt" of its direction on Cauvery water sharing for failing to frame a scheme for distribution of water between the southern riparian states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala and Union Territory of Puducherry. The top court directed the Secretary of the Union Water Resources Ministry to personally appear before it on May 14 with a draft of the Cauvery management scheme to implement its verdict on water sharing between four states including Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. It had in February asked the Centre to formulate a scheme to ensure compliance of its judgement on the decades-old Cauvery dispute. A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra told the Centre that once the judgment has been delivered on the issue, it has to be implemented. While posting the matter for May 14, the bench, which was not happy with the development, said the Centre was in "sheer contempt". "We do not want to come back to square one. Once the judgment has been delivered, it has to be implemented," the bench also comprising Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud said. Attorney General K K Venugopal said the Centre was seeking time in view of the fact that the Union Cabinet has not met due to the ongoing campaigning for the assembly polls in Karnataka. Senior advocate Shekhar Naphade , appearing for Tamil Nadu, opposed the AG's plea and said "this is the fit case for contempt. Somebody has to be sent to jail". The apex court had earlier asked the Centre to formulate a scheme to ensure compliance of its judgement on the decades-old Cauvery dispute. It had modified the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) award of 2007 and made it clear that it will not be extending time for this on any ground. The top court had on February 16 raised the 270 tmcft share of Cauvery water for Karnataka by 14.75 tmcft and reduced Tamil Nadu's share, while compensating it by allowing extraction of 10 tmcft groundwater from the river basin, saying the issue of drinking water has to be placed on a "higher pedestal". PTI

SC tells Centre it is in 'sheer contempt' for not framing Cauvery water sharing plan

Nearly 100 Tamil medium NEET aspirants were given question papers in Hindi at a centre in Madurai and the pupils were later provided with the Tamil version after a delay of about three hours.

The incident happened at a matriculation school, a NEET centre, where a school official said when a question paper pack was opened and distribution began for four halls in the centre they came to know that they were in Hindi.

Students in these four halls were, however, Tamil medium students and they told them that they could answer only in Tamil. There was no confusion in respect of question papers for other rooms in the centre since they were in English and Tamil, she said.

The school official said they apprised the local NEET/CBSE coordinators.

After taking their directions, question papers in Tamil were arranged and there was a delay of about three hours due to it, the official said.

Since there was a delay, the students were provided lunch and refreshments, she added.

Asked about the incident, a senior CBSE official in Chennai told&nbsp;that the "NEET unit" has taken care of it.

Standing instructions are there to handle such situations and students were given full three hours to write their examination, he said.

About 1.07 lakh candidates took NEET exams across 170 centres in 10 cities in Tamil Nadu.

In Chennai, about 33,000 took their examination at 49 centres, the official said adding there were very negligible absentees.

To a query, he said there were some cases of students turning up late for their examinations.

He said nothing can be done to relax timings since these were mandatory for everyone.

Asked about an aspirant's claim in Salem that she was not allowed to write the exam despite having a hall ticket, he said the name of the student did not appear in the list of candidates.

"Subsequently, after checking, the hall ticket was found to be fake. In such cases we were directed to lodge a police complaint...They (aspirant and those who accompanied her) left the centre," he said.&nbsp;

The incident happened at a matriculation school, a NEET centre, where a school official said when a question paper pack was opened and distribution began for four halls in the centre they came to know that they were in Hindi.

Nearly 100 Tamil medium NEET aspirants were given question papers in Hindi at a centre in Madurai and the pupils were later provided with the Tamil version after a delay of about three hours. The incident happened at a matriculation school, a NEET centre, where a school official said when a question paper pack was opened and distribution began for four halls in the centre they came to know that they were in Hindi. Students in these four halls were, however, Tamil medium students and they told them that they could answer only in Tamil. There was no confusion in respect of question papers for other rooms in the centre since they were in English and Tamil, she said. The school official said they apprised the local NEET/CBSE coordinators. After taking their directions, question papers in Tamil were arranged and there was a delay of about three hours due to it, the official said. Since there was a delay, the students were provided lunch and refreshments, she added. Asked about the incident, a senior CBSE official in Chennai told that the "NEET unit" has taken care of it. Standing instructions are there to handle such situations and students were given full three hours to write their examination, he said. About 1.07 lakh candidates took NEET exams across 170 centres in 10 cities in Tamil Nadu. In Chennai, about 33,000 took their examination at 49 centres, the official said adding there were very negligible absentees. To a query, he said there were some cases of students turning up late for their examinations. He said nothing can be done to relax timings since these were mandatory for everyone. Asked about an aspirant's claim in Salem that she was not allowed to write the exam despite having a hall ticket, he said the name of the student did not appear in the list of candidates. "Subsequently, after checking, the hall ticket was found to be fake. In such cases we were directed to lodge a police complaint...They (aspirant and those who accompanied her) left the centre," he said.

NEET: Tamil medium students given Hindi question paper in Tamil Nadu

Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy on Saturday lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Centre for "letting down farmers in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry by deliberately delaying the formation of Cauvery Management Board (CMB)."

"The delay by the prime minister and the Centre in constituting the board exposes the NDA government's intention to let down farmers of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry dependent on the Cauvery system for irrigation," he told reporters here.

He said the Centre was also "adopting all means to ensure the CMB was not formed in spite of a clear order from the Supreme Court to set up the board."

The Chief Minister charged that the prime minister had time to fly abroad and take up electioneering in poll-bound Karnataka but "has no time to concentrate on forming the Board as a solution to address the hardships of farmers in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry."

Referring to the "continued blocking of implementation of vital schemes including free rice scheme by Lt Governor Kiran Bedi," he said the free rice scheme is a programme of the State government and its expenditure is being met by the territorial administration.

She later withdrew the order on the free rice scheme after her decision came in for criticism from various quarters.

The Lt Governor had no authority to block implementation of schemes in rural areas by imposing "amusing conditions", he alleged.

He said the territorial government had earmarked Rs 140 crore for implementing the free rice scheme to benefit the poorer sections, members of scheduled castes and backward classes for a period of six months from April this year.

Bedi, however, intervened and blocked the implementation of the scheme by imposing a condition that unless the villages were open defecation-free and garbage-free it would be kept on hold, he alleged.

He announced that financial assistance of Rs 1,500 would be provided to each student from Puducherry allotted NEET centres outside the Union Territory besides travelling allowance.

Narayanasamy asked the candidates to contact his office for assistance even after appearing for the examination for admission to medical courses, which is scheduled to be held tomorrow.&nbsp

He said the Centre was also "adopting all means to ensure the CMB was not formed in spite of a clear order from the Supreme Court to set up the board."

Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy on Saturday lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Centre for "letting down farmers in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry by deliberately delaying the formation of Cauvery Management Board (CMB)." "The delay by the prime minister and the Centre in constituting the board exposes the NDA government's intention to let down farmers of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry dependent on the Cauvery system for irrigation," he told reporters here. He said the Centre was also "adopting all means to ensure the CMB was not formed in spite of a clear order from the Supreme Court to set up the board." The Chief Minister charged that the prime minister had time to fly abroad and take up electioneering in poll-bound Karnataka but "has no time to concentrate on forming the Board as a solution to address the hardships of farmers in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry." Referring to the "continued blocking of implementation of vital schemes including free rice scheme by Lt Governor Kiran Bedi," he said the free rice scheme is a programme of the State government and its expenditure is being met by the territorial administration. She later withdrew the order on the free rice scheme after her decision came in for criticism from various quarters. The Lt Governor had no authority to block implementation of schemes in rural areas by imposing "amusing conditions", he alleged. He said the territorial government had earmarked Rs 140 crore for implementing the free rice scheme to benefit the poorer sections, members of scheduled castes and backward classes for a period of six months from April this year. Bedi, however, intervened and blocked the implementation of the scheme by imposing a condition that unless the villages were open defecation-free and garbage-free it would be kept on hold, he alleged. He announced that financial assistance of Rs 1,500 would be provided to each student from Puducherry allotted NEET centres outside the Union Territory besides travelling allowance. Narayanasamy asked the candidates to contact his office for assistance even after appearing for the examination for admission to medical courses, which is scheduled to be held tomorrow.

Puducherry CM lashes out at PM for delay in forming CMB

The Supreme Court today asked the Karnataka government to give 4 tmc water to Tamil Nadu, ordering that the state would "face consequences" if it breaches order.

Karnataka must release water to Tamil Nadu for April and May, India's top court said.

India's Attorney General&nbsp;Venugopal told the apex court that PM Modi and his Cabinet were busy with the impending Karnataka elections.&nbsp;

Karnataka must tell us how much water it can release, it said, adding, the court is not concerned about the Karnataka elections. 
&nbsp; 
In February, the Supreme Court had directed Karnataka to release 177.25 TMC of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu after several decades of dispute.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

India's highest court had also allowed Tami Nadu to draw an additional 10 TMC 'groundwater' from a total of 20 TMC beneath the Cauvery basin.&nbsp;

The court had said there should be "no deviance" of the order by any state.

The Supreme Court had said the order will remain in force for the next 15 years.

Karnataka must tell us how much water it can release, India's apex court said.

The Supreme Court today asked the Karnataka government to give 4 tmc water to Tamil Nadu, ordering that the state would "face consequences" if it breaches order. Karnataka must release water to Tamil Nadu for April and May, India's top court said. India's Attorney General Venugopal told the apex court that PM Modi and his Cabinet were busy with the impending Karnataka elections. Karnataka must tell us how much water it can release, it said, adding, the court is not concerned about the Karnataka elections. In February, the Supreme Court had directed Karnataka to release 177.25 TMC of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu after several decades of dispute. India's highest court had also allowed Tami Nadu to draw an additional 10 TMC 'groundwater' from a total of 20 TMC beneath the Cauvery basin. The court had said there should be "no deviance" of the order by any state. The Supreme Court had said the order will remain in force for the next 15 years.

Cauvery row: Karnataka must release water to Tamil Nadu, or face consequences, says SC

The Apollo Hospitals today informed the Madras High Court that it does not have the biological samples of J Jayalalithaa collected during her treatment in 2016.

In an affidavit filed before Justice S Vaidyanathan, hearing a petition by a woman who claimed herself to be the biological daughter of Jayalalithaa, the hospital said all the collected samples had been used up completely during her treatment period.

It said Jayalalithaa's condition was challenging to treat due to multiple co-morbidities and in view of this all biological samples collected from her were used to run a battery of tests to rule out and/or confirm various medical conditions.

"I respectfully state that all biological samples collected from the late Chief Minister were used up completely during her treatment period...No biological samples belonging to the late Chief Minister are available with hospital as on date," the affidavit by a hospital official said.&nbsp;

It was filed in response to a directive by the judge yesterday.

Jayalalithaa was admitted to the hospital on September 22, 2016 following complaints of fever and dehydration, but developed complications later. She died on December 5, 2016.

On February 23, the judge had issued notice to Apollo Hospitals on a sub-application by the petitioner, who sought a direction for a DNA test to establish her parentage.

The woman had claimed she had been given in adoption to Jayalalithaa's sister and her husband decades ago and she came to know about it from her foster father in March last year before he died.

With the hospital saying there was no biological samples of Jayalalithaa, her counsel submitted that DNA test can be done on Deepa, daughter of the late chief minister's brother J Jayaraman.

The judge posted the matter to June 4 for further hearing.

Deepa and her brother Deepak have submitted that the petitioner has to approach only the Civil Court as she had not furnished any proof in support of her claim.&nbsp;

The judge posted the matter to June 4 for further hearing.

The Apollo Hospitals today informed the Madras High Court that it does not have the biological samples of J Jayalalithaa collected during her treatment in 2016. In an affidavit filed before Justice S Vaidyanathan, hearing a petition by a woman who claimed herself to be the biological daughter of Jayalalithaa, the hospital said all the collected samples had been used up completely during her treatment period. It said Jayalalithaa's condition was challenging to treat due to multiple co-morbidities and in view of this all biological samples collected from her were used to run a battery of tests to rule out and/or confirm various medical conditions. "I respectfully state that all biological samples collected from the late Chief Minister were used up completely during her treatment period...No biological samples belonging to the late Chief Minister are available with hospital as on date," the affidavit by a hospital official said. It was filed in response to a directive by the judge yesterday. Jayalalithaa was admitted to the hospital on September 22, 2016 following complaints of fever and dehydration, but developed complications later. She died on December 5, 2016. On February 23, the judge had issued notice to Apollo Hospitals on a sub-application by the petitioner, who sought a direction for a DNA test to establish her parentage. The woman had claimed she had been given in adoption to Jayalalithaa's sister and her husband decades ago and she came to know about it from her foster father in March last year before he died. With the hospital saying there was no biological samples of Jayalalithaa, her counsel submitted that DNA test can be done on Deepa, daughter of the late chief minister's brother J Jayaraman. The judge posted the matter to June 4 for further hearing. Deepa and her brother Deepak have submitted that the petitioner has to approach only the Civil Court as she had not furnished any proof in support of her claim.

Chennai: Apollo hospital says it doesn't have late J Jayalalitha's biological samples

The Centre has sought a two weeks time from the apex court for framing a scheme to implement&nbsp;the court's verdict in the Cauvery water dispute.&nbsp;

On April 9 also, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cauvery-water-row-supreme-court-asks-centre-to-file-scheme-by-may-3-129314">Centre had asked the apex court for extending the deadline</a>.

The Supreme Court had then responded to the plea by allowing the Centre to file its draft scheme by May 3.

The original deadline for framing the scheme to implement the court's verdict&nbsp;ended on March 29.

The apex court had on February 16 raised the 270 tmcft share of Cauvery water for Karnataka by 14.75 tmcft and reduced Tamil Nadu’s share while compensating it by allowing extraction of 10 tmcft groundwater from the river basin, saying the issue of drinking water has to be placed on a “higher pedestal”.&nbsp;

It also directed the Centre to formulate a scheme to ensure compliance with its 465-page judgement on water dispute. It further modified the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) award of 2007 and made it clear that it will not be extending time for this on any ground.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cauvery?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cauvery</a> water dispute case: Union of India approached the Supreme Court & sought a time of two more weeks to frame a scheme for implementation of the court's verdict in the matter.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/989749335989538816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The original deadline for framing the scheme to implement the court's verdict ended on March 29

The Centre has sought a two weeks time from the apex court for framing a scheme to implement the court's verdict in the Cauvery water dispute. On April 9 also, the Centre had asked the apex court for extending the deadline. The Supreme Court had then responded to the plea by allowing the Centre to file its draft scheme by May 3. The original deadline for framing the scheme to implement the court's verdict ended on March 29. The apex court had on February 16 raised the 270 tmcft share of Cauvery water for Karnataka by 14.75 tmcft and reduced Tamil Nadu’s share while compensating it by allowing extraction of 10 tmcft groundwater from the river basin, saying the issue of drinking water has to be placed on a “higher pedestal”. It also directed the Centre to formulate a scheme to ensure compliance with its 465-page judgement on water dispute. It further modified the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) award of 2007 and made it clear that it will not be extending time for this on any ground. #Cauvery water dispute case: Union of India approached the Supreme Court & sought a time of two more weeks to frame a scheme for implementation of the court's verdict in the matter. — ANI (@ANI) April 27, 2018 ×

Cauvery Water Dispute: Centre seeks 2 weeks time for filing scheme

Tamil Nadu's BJP leader S Ve Shekher shared a derogatory post on social media and sparked an outcry. The post, which has now been deleted was originally posted by a user called Thirumalai S and depicted Governor Banwarilal Purohit patting a journalist’s cheek during a press conference.

The post was titled “Madurai University, Governor and the Virgin Cheeks of a Girl” and contained written statements that were offensive and derogatory to female journalists.&nbsp

According to reports, the Facebook post suggested that females in the country cannot become reports and anchors without "sleeping with bigshots"

“More than universities, sex abuse is rampant in the media. It’s these people who question the governor,” the post read

Shekher has been facing heat for having endorsed something so derogatory and questionable to the&nbspintegrity of women and journalists.&nbsp

The MLA, in his defence, claimed that sharing the post was a mistake on his end and that he had done it without reading the entire content of the post. He apologised earlier today.&nbsp

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BJP leader S Ve Shekher issues a statement over his derogatory social media post on women, says 'I had posted it without reading the message. It was removed immediately after my friend pointed it out. If I had hurt anyone, it was not on purpose & I extend my heartfelt apology'. <a href="https://t.co/FQ0PT5lXnq">pic.twitter.com/FQ0PT5lXnq</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/987245732758466560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"I had posted it without reading the message. It was removed immediately after my friend pointed it out. If I had hurt anyone, it was not on purpose & I extend my heartfelt apology," Shekher's statement read.

Incidentally, the Governor has also apologised for patting the journalist's cheek.&nbsp

 
&nbsp

I had posted it without reading the message. It was removed immediately after my friend pointed it out: Shekher

Tamil Nadu's BJP leader S Ve Shekher shared a derogatory post on social media and sparked an outcry. The post, which has now been deleted was originally posted by a user called Thirumalai S and depicted Governor Banwarilal Purohit patting a journalist’s cheek during a press conference. The post was titled “Madurai University, Governor and the Virgin Cheeks of a Girl” and contained written statements that were offensive and derogatory to female journalists. According to reports, the Facebook post suggested that females in the country cannot become reports and anchors without "sleeping with bigshots" “More than universities, sex abuse is rampant in the media. It’s these people who question the governor,” the post read Shekher has been facing heat for having endorsed something so derogatory and questionable to the&nbspintegrity of women and journalists. The MLA, in his defence, claimed that sharing the post was a mistake on his end and that he had done it without reading the entire content of the post. He apologised earlier today. BJP leader S Ve Shekher issues a statement over his derogatory social media post on women, says 'I had posted it without reading the message. It was removed immediately after my friend pointed it out. If I had hurt anyone, it was not on purpose & I extend my heartfelt apology'. pic.twitter.com/FQ0PT5lXnq — ANI (@ANI) April 20, 2018 × "I had posted it without reading the message. It was removed immediately after my friend pointed it out. If I had hurt anyone, it was not on purpose & I extend my heartfelt apology," Shekher's statement read. Incidentally, the Governor has also apologised for patting the journalist's cheek.

Tamil Nadu BJP MLA faces flak for sharing offensive post on women journalists

DMK leader MK Stalin in Wednesday said that his party would continue its protest against Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit, till he is recalled by the the Centralernment.

Talking to reporters in Chennai, he said the Governor is acting as if there is President`s rule in the state, while protests are being held statewide to demand his recall.

DMK activists protested outside Raj Bhavan against the Governor, who had patted the cheek of a woman journalist, while Stalin termed the act "a shame" for the state.

Purohit on Tuesday patted the cheek of journalist Lakshmi Subramanian after the press conference to deny the allegations linking him to a sex scandal at Madurai Kamaraj University in the state.

Subramanian denounced Purohit`s conduct.

Journalists promptly drafted a letter informing the Governor that his conduct amounted to a non-bailable criminal offence.

On Wednesday, Purohit apologised to Subramanian, who tweeted that she accepts the apology but not the reason stated in Purohit`s letter - of the pat being appreciation for the question asked in the press meet.

Stalin said Governor is acting as if there is President`s rule in the state, while protests are being held statewide to demand his recall.

DMK leader MK Stalin in Wednesday said that his party would continue its protest against Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit, till he is recalled by the the Centralernment. Talking to reporters in Chennai, he said the Governor is acting as if there is President`s rule in the state, while protests are being held statewide to demand his recall. DMK activists protested outside Raj Bhavan against the Governor, who had patted the cheek of a woman journalist, while Stalin termed the act "a shame" for the state. Purohit on Tuesday patted the cheek of journalist Lakshmi Subramanian after the press conference to deny the allegations linking him to a sex scandal at Madurai Kamaraj University in the state. Subramanian denounced Purohit`s conduct. Journalists promptly drafted a letter informing the Governor that his conduct amounted to a non-bailable criminal offence. On Wednesday, Purohit apologised to Subramanian, who tweeted that she accepts the apology but not the reason stated in Purohit`s letter - of the pat being appreciation for the question asked in the press meet.

Tamil Nadu: DMK to continue its protest till Governor is recalled by Centre

Under fire for patting the cheek of a woman journalist, Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit on Wednesday tendered an apology to her.

The 78-year-old governor had patted Lakshmi Subramanian on the cheek when he was about to leave the venue of a press conference, triggering an outrage by the journalist fraternity and opposition parties, including the DMK.

In a letter to Subramanian, the governor said he patted her out of "affection" and "appreciation" of her performance as a journalist.

"I gave a pat on your cheek considering you to be like my granddaughter. It was done with affection and to express my appreciation for your performance as a journalist," he said.

Referring to the mail the journalist, who works for an English weekly, had sent to him, Purohit said,"I do understand from your mail that you are feeling hurt about the incident."

Purohit said he, therefore, wished to "express my regret and my apologies to assuage your sentiments that have been hurt."

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Your Excellency, I have with me your letter expressing regret at what happened at the press conference in Chennai the previous day. I accept your apology, even though I am not convinced about your contention that you did it to appreciate a question I asked <a href="https://twitter.com/TheWeekLive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheWeekLive</a> <a href="https://t.co/JhjPOQy8UW">pic.twitter.com/JhjPOQy8UW</a>
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&nbsp;

The journalist, Lakshmi, tweeted that she accepted the Governor's apology, but said that she was not convinced of his reasoning.

Under fire for patting the cheek of a woman journalist, Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit on Wednesday tendered an apology to her. The 78-year-old governor had patted Lakshmi Subramanian on the cheek when he was about to leave the venue of a press conference, triggering an outrage by the journalist fraternity and opposition parties, including the DMK. In a letter to Subramanian, the governor said he patted her out of "affection" and "appreciation" of her performance as a journalist. "I gave a pat on your cheek considering you to be like my granddaughter. It was done with affection and to express my appreciation for your performance as a journalist," he said. Referring to the mail the journalist, who works for an English weekly, had sent to him, Purohit said,"I do understand from your mail that you are feeling hurt about the incident." Purohit said he, therefore, wished to "express my regret and my apologies to assuage your sentiments that have been hurt." Your Excellency, I have with me your letter expressing regret at what happened at the press conference in Chennai the previous day. I accept your apology, even though I am not convinced about your contention that you did it to appreciate a question I asked @TheWeekLive pic.twitter.com/JhjPOQy8UW — Lakshmi Subramanian (@lakhinathan) April 18, 2018 ×

Tamil Nadu governor apologises to journalist he patted on cheek, says she's like 'granddaughter'

Under fire for patting the cheek of a woman journalist, Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit on Wednesday tendered an apology to her.

The 78-year-old governor had patted Lakshmi Subramanian on the cheek when he was about to leave the venue of a press conference, triggering an outrage by the journalist fraternity and opposition parties, including the DMK.

In a letter to Subramanian, the governor said he patted her out of "affection" and "appreciation" of her performance as a journalist.

"I gave a pat on your cheek considering you to be like my granddaughter. It was done with affection and to express my appreciation for your performance as a journalist," he said.

Referring to the mail the journalist, who works for an English weekly, had sent to him, Purohit said,"I do understand from your mail that you are feeling hurt about the incident."

Purohit said he, therefore, wished to "express my regret and my apologies to assuage your sentiments that have been hurt."

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Your Excellency, I have with me your letter expressing regret at what happened at the press conference in Chennai the previous day. I accept your apology, even though I am not convinced about your contention that you did it to appreciate a question I asked <a href="https://twitter.com/TheWeekLive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheWeekLive</a> <a href="https://t.co/JhjPOQy8UW">pic.twitter.com/JhjPOQy8UW</a>
— Lakshmi Subramanian (@lakhinathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/lakhinathan/status/986516157480894464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp

Tamil Nadu governor apologises to journalist for patting her on cheek, claims she's like 'granddaughter'

Amidst the battle between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu over <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cauvery-row-rajinikanth-says-centre-will-earn-tamil-nadus-wrath-if-it-drags-feet-galaxy-of-actors-at-protest-129097">Cauvery issue</a>, actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth said that it is important to focus on the Cauvery matter rather than the cricket IPL.&nbsp;

Stating that it is "embarrassing"&nbsp;to hold Indian Premier League (IPL) matches in Chennai, while the state is grappling with Cauvery row, Rajinikanth said that it would be better if the matches are not played in Chennai and be more <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cauvery-management-board-protest-tamil-nadu-farmers-bury-themselves-in-sand-128807">sensitive to the farmers</a>&nbsp;hit with severe shortage of water.&nbsp;

He even requested BCCI to allow Chennai players to wear<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajinikanth-wants-chennai-players-to-wear-black-armbands-this-is-why-129122"> black bands</a> and play matches in support of the Cauvery issue.&nbsp;

The superstar said the Chennai team ought to fight for the people.

"If not then at least acknowledge the fight of the people of Tamil Nadu. Our team should wear a black band. Those who go for the match can also wear a black band."

Previously, Kamal Hassan had also voiced his concerns over hosting IPL matches in Chennai.&nbsp;

Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Dhanush, Vijay, Surya, Sathyaraj, Sivakumar, Nassar, Vishal, Karthi and Sivakarthikeyan on Sunday observed a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/-cauvery-management-board-protest-dmk-threatens-cmb-protest-may-snowball-to-demand-for-separate-state-of-tamil-nadu-128976">silent protest demanding</a> the creation of the Cauvery Management Board.&nbsp;

Calling the setting up of Cauvery Management Board a fair demand, Rajinikanth said that that the Centre should pay it immediate attention. “I’d like to tell the Centre that, what every Tamilan unanimously wants is CBM. If you don’t set up the board at the earliest, you will be subjected to the anger and disappointment of every Tamilan,” Rajinikanth said.

He also said people from different walks of life have been protesting across Tamil Nadu for the welfare of poor farmers.

“To many, it’s unclear who we are protesting for. We are not protesting for the benefits of rich farmers with hundreds of acres of land. We are doing it for poor farmers whose livelihood depends on the farm produce they make from a piece of land they own,” he said adding that even though Karnataka’s politicians might not understand the agony, the poor farmers of Karnataka will.

Tamil Nadu has moved a contempt plea in the Supreme Court, seeking action against the Centre for allegedly failing to form the Cauvery Management Board within six weeks as ordered by the court on February 16.

He even requested BCCI to allow Chennai players to wear black bands and play matches in support of Cauvery issue

Amidst the battle between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu over Cauvery issue, actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth said that it is important to focus on the Cauvery matter rather than the cricket IPL. Stating that it is "embarrassing" to hold Indian Premier League (IPL) matches in Chennai, while the state is grappling with Cauvery row, Rajinikanth said that it would be better if the matches are not played in Chennai and be more sensitive to the farmers hit with severe shortage of water. He even requested BCCI to allow Chennai players to wear black bands and play matches in support of the Cauvery issue. The superstar said the Chennai team ought to fight for the people. "If not then at least acknowledge the fight of the people of Tamil Nadu. Our team should wear a black band. Those who go for the match can also wear a black band." Previously, Kamal Hassan had also voiced his concerns over hosting IPL matches in Chennai. Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Dhanush, Vijay, Surya, Sathyaraj, Sivakumar, Nassar, Vishal, Karthi and Sivakarthikeyan on Sunday observed a silent protest demanding the creation of the Cauvery Management Board. Calling the setting up of Cauvery Management Board a fair demand, Rajinikanth said that that the Centre should pay it immediate attention. “I’d like to tell the Centre that, what every Tamilan unanimously wants is CBM. If you don’t set up the board at the earliest, you will be subjected to the anger and disappointment of every Tamilan,” Rajinikanth said. He also said people from different walks of life have been protesting across Tamil Nadu for the welfare of poor farmers. “To many, it’s unclear who we are protesting for. We are not protesting for the benefits of rich farmers with hundreds of acres of land. We are doing it for poor farmers whose livelihood depends on the farm produce they make from a piece of land they own,” he said adding that even though Karnataka’s politicians might not understand the agony, the poor farmers of Karnataka will. Tamil Nadu has moved a contempt plea in the Supreme Court, seeking action against the Centre for allegedly failing to form the Cauvery Management Board within six weeks as ordered by the court on February 16.

'Would be better if IPL matches are not played in Chennai,' says Rajinikanth amid Cauvery row

The Supreme Court on Monday heard the Center's plea to extend the deadline for framing a scheme to implement it's February 16 judgement in the Cauvery water dispute case. The deadline ended on March 29.

The Supreme Court has asked Centre to file its draft scheme by May 3 in pursuance of its judgment in the Cauvery water dispute case.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra said that it considered the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal award and decided the water share for states, which has to be complied with.

Further, they asked the authorities in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka to maintain peace in their states till the Court finalises the scheme for implementation of its judgment.

The apex court had on February 16 raised the 270 tmcft share of Cauvery water for Karnataka by 14.75 tmcft and reduced Tamil Nadu’s share while compensating it by allowing extraction of 10 tmcft groundwater from the river basin, saying the issue of drinking water has to be placed on a “higher pedestal”.&nbsp;

It also directed the Centre to formulate a scheme to ensure compliance of its 465-page judgement on water dispute. It further modified the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) award of 2007 and made it clear that it will not be extending time for this on any ground.

The petition said it was filed to “protect the interests of the farmers and the larger interests of the State”.&nbsp;

SC also said that it considered the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal award and decided the water share for states, which has to be complied with

The Supreme Court on Monday heard the Center's plea to extend the deadline for framing a scheme to implement it's February 16 judgement in the Cauvery water dispute case. The deadline ended on March 29. The Supreme Court has asked Centre to file its draft scheme by May 3 in pursuance of its judgment in the Cauvery water dispute case. A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra said that it considered the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal award and decided the water share for states, which has to be complied with. Further, they asked the authorities in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka to maintain peace in their states till the Court finalises the scheme for implementation of its judgment. The apex court had on February 16 raised the 270 tmcft share of Cauvery water for Karnataka by 14.75 tmcft and reduced Tamil Nadu’s share while compensating it by allowing extraction of 10 tmcft groundwater from the river basin, saying the issue of drinking water has to be placed on a “higher pedestal”. It also directed the Centre to formulate a scheme to ensure compliance of its 465-page judgement on water dispute. It further modified the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) award of 2007 and made it clear that it will not be extending time for this on any ground. The petition said it was filed to “protect the interests of the farmers and the larger interests of the State”.

Cauvery water row: Supreme Court asks Centre to file scheme by May 3

DMK Working President MK Stalin has&nbsp;launched a "Cauvery Retrieval Walk" protesting against the Centre&nbsp;for their demand of&nbsp;immediate constitution of Cauvery Management Board.

Also read:&nbsp; <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/-cauvery-management-board-protest-dmk-threatens-cmb-protest-may-snowball-to-demand-for-separate-state-of-tamil-nadu-128976">Cauvery Management Board Protest: DMK threatens protest may snowball to demand </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/-cauvery-management-board-protest-dmk-threatens-cmb-protest-may-snowball-to-demand-for-separate-state-of-tamil-nadu-128976">for</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/-cauvery-management-board-protest-dmk-threatens-cmb-protest-may-snowball-to-demand-for-separate-state-of-tamil-nadu-128976"> </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/-cauvery-management-board-protest-dmk-threatens-cmb-protest-may-snowball-to-demand-for-separate-state-of-tamil-nadu-128976">separate</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/-cauvery-management-board-protest-dmk-threatens-cmb-protest-may-snowball-to-demand-for-separate-state-of-tamil-nadu-128976"> state</a>

The walk has begun&nbsp;from Trichy's Mukkombu.

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Tamil Nadu: 'Cauvery Retrieval Walk' begins from Trichy's Mukkombu. The Walk has been undertaken to demand immediate constitution of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CauveryManagementBoard?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CauveryManagementBoard</a> <a href="https://t.co/rY3mCRAf4H">pic.twitter.com/rY3mCRAf4H</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/982610258806935554?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu chief minister K. Palaniswami held a meeting with legal experts and state ministers over court proceedings on Cauvery Management Board.&nbsp;

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Tamil Nadu CM held meeting with legal experts & state ministers over court proceedings on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CauveryManagementBoard?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CauveryManagementBoard</a>. The state govt had filed petition before SC seeking to initiate contempt proceedings against Centre for not constituting the board within stipulated period of time. <a href="https://t.co/5QYXLaP57T">pic.twitter.com/5QYXLaP57T</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/982616158653251584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Tamil Nadu government has filed a petition before the apex court seeking contempt proceedings against the Centre for not constituting Cauvery Management Board within the specified time.

The deadline for the central government to set up the Cauvery Management Board was March 29, six weeks from the top court's February 16 order.

Tamil Nadu's demand for the set up of the&nbsp;board came after the apex court&nbsp;reduced the Tamil Nadu's share of Cauvery water from 177.25 thousand million cubic feet (TMC), less than the 192 TMC allocated by a tribunal in 2007.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu chief minister K. Palaniswami held a meeting with legal experts and state ministers over court proceedings on Cauvery Management Board

DMK Working President MK Stalin has launched a "Cauvery Retrieval Walk" protesting against the Centre for their demand of immediate constitution of Cauvery Management Board. Also read: Cauvery Management Board Protest: DMK threatens protest may snowball to demand for separate state The walk has begun from Trichy's Mukkombu. Tamil Nadu: 'Cauvery Retrieval Walk' begins from Trichy's Mukkombu. The Walk has been undertaken to demand immediate constitution of #CauveryManagementBoard pic.twitter.com/rY3mCRAf4H — ANI (@ANI) April 7, 2018 × Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu chief minister K. Palaniswami held a meeting with legal experts and state ministers over court proceedings on Cauvery Management Board. Tamil Nadu CM held meeting with legal experts & state ministers over court proceedings on #CauveryManagementBoard. The state govt had filed petition before SC seeking to initiate contempt proceedings against Centre for not constituting the board within stipulated period of time. pic.twitter.com/5QYXLaP57T — ANI (@ANI) April 7, 2018 × The Tamil Nadu government has filed a petition before the apex court seeking contempt proceedings against the Centre for not constituting Cauvery Management Board within the specified time. The deadline for the central government to set up the Cauvery Management Board was March 29, six weeks from the top court's February 16 order. Tamil Nadu's demand for the set up of the board came after the apex court reduced the Tamil Nadu's share of Cauvery water from 177.25 thousand million cubic feet (TMC), less than the 192 TMC allocated by a tribunal in 2007.

Tamil Nadu protest continues, DMK launches Cauvery Retrieval Walk

DMK leader A Raja has threatened the Centre and the state government with a warning that the protest for Cauvery Management Board (CMB) may snowball into the demand for separate state of Tamil Nadu.

Issuing a warning, he said the party's agitation will lead to a demand for separate state.&nbsp;

He said, "We want to implement the entire order in letter & spirit. We'll agitate, it'll lead to separate state. Before that, it's warning bell for central and state government, don't push the entire Tamil community to demand a separate state of Tamil Nadu".

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We want to implement the entire order in letter & spirit. We'll agitate, it'll lead to separate state. Before that it's warning bell for central & state govt, don't push the entire Tamil community to demand for separate state of Tamil Nadu: A Raja, DMK on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CauveryManagementBoard?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CauveryManagementBoard</a> <a href="https://t.co/MunO1blLJ9">pic.twitter.com/MunO1blLJ9</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/982581150563667973?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;Meanwhile, DMK Working President MK Stalin has hinted at launching a " Cauvery Retrieval Walk" for their demand of&nbsp;immediate constitution of Cauvery Management Board.

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Tamil Nadu: DMK Working President MK Stalin to launch 'Cauvery Retrieval Walk' from Trichy's Mukkombu to demand immediate constitution of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CauveryManagementBoard?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CauveryManagementBoard</a> <a href="https://t.co/gIA1BEE4wd">pic.twitter.com/gIA1BEE4wd</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/982577214104440833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Parties protesting for the formation of the CMB blocked rails in Thanjavur, disrupting services for some time.They also blocked two express trains.

Protesters at&nbsp;Tiruchirapalli held a rally over the Cauvery and defaced the Tamil name board of the Hindi Prachar Sabha.They also allegedly burnt BJP flags.

In Chidambaram, Tamizhaga Vazhvurimai Katchi, held a "rail-roko" demonstration.

Protests were also staged against the holding of IPL Matches in the state.

Nam Tamizhar Katchi leader Seeman said they would not allow organisers to conduct IPL Matches in the state. He said they would lay siege and would not allow anyone to enter the stadium.

The state has been protesting for long&nbsp;against the government for not setting up the Cauvery Management Board despite the Supreme Court's direction.

The ruling AIADMK, led by Chief Minister K Palaniswamy and his deputy O Paneerselvam, had observed a hunger strike on April 4 while the DMK led opposition parties' had observed a state-wide bandh on Thursday.

DMK leader said 'We want to implement the entire order in letter & spirit. We'll agitate, it'll lead to separate state. Before that, it's warning bell for central and state government, don't push the entire Tamil community to demand a separate state of Tamil Nadu'

DMK leader A Raja has threatened the Centre and the state government with a warning that the protest for Cauvery Management Board (CMB) may snowball into the demand for separate state of Tamil Nadu. Issuing a warning, he said the party's agitation will lead to a demand for separate state. He said, "We want to implement the entire order in letter & spirit. We'll agitate, it'll lead to separate state. Before that, it's warning bell for central and state government, don't push the entire Tamil community to demand a separate state of Tamil Nadu". We want to implement the entire order in letter & spirit. We'll agitate, it'll lead to separate state. Before that it's warning bell for central & state govt, don't push the entire Tamil community to demand for separate state of Tamil Nadu: A Raja, DMK on #CauveryManagementBoard pic.twitter.com/MunO1blLJ9 — ANI (@ANI) April 7, 2018 × Meanwhile, DMK Working President MK Stalin has hinted at launching a " Cauvery Retrieval Walk" for their demand of immediate constitution of Cauvery Management Board. Tamil Nadu: DMK Working President MK Stalin to launch 'Cauvery Retrieval Walk' from Trichy's Mukkombu to demand immediate constitution of #CauveryManagementBoard pic.twitter.com/gIA1BEE4wd — ANI (@ANI) April 7, 2018 × Parties protesting for the formation of the CMB blocked rails in Thanjavur, disrupting services for some time.They also blocked two express trains. Protesters at Tiruchirapalli held a rally over the Cauvery and defaced the Tamil name board of the Hindi Prachar Sabha.They also allegedly burnt BJP flags. In Chidambaram, Tamizhaga Vazhvurimai Katchi, held a "rail-roko" demonstration. Protests were also staged against the holding of IPL Matches in the state. Nam Tamizhar Katchi leader Seeman said they would not allow organisers to conduct IPL Matches in the state. He said they would lay siege and would not allow anyone to enter the stadium. The state has been protesting for long against the government for not setting up the Cauvery Management Board despite the Supreme Court's direction. The ruling AIADMK, led by Chief Minister K Palaniswamy and his deputy O Paneerselvam, had observed a hunger strike on April 4 while the DMK led opposition parties' had observed a state-wide bandh on Thursday.

Cauvery Management Board Protest: DMK threatens protest may snowball to demand for separate state

&nbsp;A year after holding protests in the national capital, Tamil Nadu farmers on Friday staged&nbsp;a protest&nbsp;in their state demanding the formation of the Cauvery Management Board (CMB).

The farmers protested against the center for not setting up the CMB despite Supreme Court's direction.

A&nbsp;group of 50 farmers had reached the place to stage protest against the central government, however, only 17 could "highlight" their death-related plight by burying themselves in the sand. Rest of the farmers were not allowed by the police.

The farmers resorted to burying themselves in sand on the Cauvery riverbed at Srirangam where they staged the&nbsp;protest&nbsp;for about two hours.

The protest was&nbsp;led by Ayyakannu, the&nbsp;president of National South Indian Rivers Inter-Linking Farmers Association.

Last year the farmers from Tamil Nadu held out a unique&nbsp;protest in Delhi by biting rats and going naked for their demand of complete loan waiver for Rs 40,000 crore drought relief package from the government.

The state has been protesting for long&nbsp;against the government for not setting up the Cauvery Management Board.

The ruling AIADMK, led by Chief Minister K Palaniswamy and his deputy O Paneerselvam, had observed a hunger strike on April 4 while the DMK led opposition parties' had observed a state-wide bandh on Thursday.

Meanwhile, to show their protest the political parties were also demanding a ban on the IPL matches from the state.

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All Tamils particularly the youth should boycott <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2018</a> matches which are to be held in Chennai, as a mark of protest: MLA TTV Dhinakaran <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CauveryMangementBoard?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CauveryMangementBoard</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> <a href="https://t.co/BWTFlATeDg">pic.twitter.com/BWTFlATeDg</a>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Tamil Nadu:Farmers in Trichy protest by partially burying themselves in sand on banks of Cauvery river, demand the formation of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CauveryManagementBoard?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CauveryManagementBoard</a>. Farmer Leader Ayyakannu also present <a href="https://t.co/5acGOu4OTX">pic.twitter.com/5acGOu4OTX</a>
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The farmers protested against the center for not setting up the CMB despite Supreme Court's direction

A year after holding protests in the national capital, Tamil Nadu farmers on Friday staged a protest in their state demanding the formation of the Cauvery Management Board (CMB). The farmers protested against the center for not setting up the CMB despite Supreme Court's direction. A group of 50 farmers had reached the place to stage protest against the central government, however, only 17 could "highlight" their death-related plight by burying themselves in the sand. Rest of the farmers were not allowed by the police. The farmers resorted to burying themselves in sand on the Cauvery riverbed at Srirangam where they staged the protest for about two hours. The protest was led by Ayyakannu, the president of National South Indian Rivers Inter-Linking Farmers Association. Last year the farmers from Tamil Nadu held out a unique protest in Delhi by biting rats and going naked for their demand of complete loan waiver for Rs 40,000 crore drought relief package from the government. The state has been protesting for long against the government for not setting up the Cauvery Management Board. The ruling AIADMK, led by Chief Minister K Palaniswamy and his deputy O Paneerselvam, had observed a hunger strike on April 4 while the DMK led opposition parties' had observed a state-wide bandh on Thursday. Meanwhile, to show their protest the political parties were also demanding a ban on the IPL matches from the state. All Tamils particularly the youth should boycott #IPL2018 matches which are to be held in Chennai, as a mark of protest: MLA TTV Dhinakaran #CauveryMangementBoard #TamilNadu pic.twitter.com/BWTFlATeDg — ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2018 × #WATCH Tamil Nadu:Farmers in Trichy protest by partially burying themselves in sand on banks of Cauvery river, demand the formation of #CauveryManagementBoard. Farmer Leader Ayyakannu also present pic.twitter.com/5acGOu4OTX — ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2018 ×

Cauvery Management Board protest: Tamil Nadu farmers bury themselves in sand

Two DMK workers allegedly made self-immolation bids in Coimbatore on Monday amid a state-wide stir for setting up Cauvery Management Board to implement the Supreme Court's verdict on water allocation among the riparian states.

Amid protests across Tamil Nadu, the Supreme Court Monday agreed to hear a contempt plea of the state against the Centre on April 9 on the Cauvery issue, while Governor Banwarilal Purohit left for Delhi.

According to sources, he left for the National capital on an official visit.

The Supreme Court bench, comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud said,"We understand Tamil Nadu's difficulty of not getting water. We will resolve the issue. List the matter for April 9."

Tamil Nadu had sought contempt action against the Centre for "failure" to frame the scheme for constituting the Cauvery Management Board and Cauvery Water Regulation Committee within six weeks, as directed by the apex court on February 16.

The pro-CMB stir, being spearheaded by DMK and a slew of pro-Tamil outfits, saw a slew of sit-ins and demonstrations by students and others at various places, including Chennai, Tiruvarur and Madurai.

According to police, over 1,000 persons were detained across the state in connection with protests and were released later in the day.

The two DMK activists, identified as P T Murugesan and Singai Sadashivam, doused themselves with kerosene and tried to set themselves ablaze at Coimbatore. They were however overpowered by policemen present at the spot and whisked away to a nearby police station.

PMK founder leader Dr S Ramadoss Monday announced his party's support for tomorrow's call for shutdown by farmers organisations and traders, besides DMK-led opposition parties' bandh on April 5. He said his party would support all Cauvery related protests.

Tuesday, the ruling AIADMK cadres will observe a fast, seeking constitution of the CMB.

Major Opposition affiliated trade unions, including LPF (DMK), and AITUC (CPI) meanwhile have decided to support the April 5 bandh.

Local DMK leaders led the protests across Tamil Nadu for immediate constitution of the CMB in keeping with party chief M K Stalin's statement Sunday that protests would continue till the Board was set up.

In Chennai, the demonstrations were held by DMK workers at several places, including Saidapet where former city Mayor M Subramanian led the stir.

Demonstrations were also held in Thanjavur,the hub of the Cauvery delta region, by cadres of various outfits, including DMK, Congress and the Left parties. Over a dozen pro-Tamil outfits, including DVK and Adi Tamizhar Katchi and cadres of Left parties held protests in Madurai.

DMK has asked its party functionaries to continue "democratic protests till April 4."

Hitting out at the BJP-led Centre for "trampling the rights of Tamil Nadu" on the Cauvery issue, it condemned the ruling AIADMK for "not mounting pressure on the Union government."

Rail blockades were staged at various places, including Coimbatore, Tiruchirappalli and Pudukottai by agitating cadres of opposition parties and pro-Tamil outfits.

Demonstrations were also held in front of Central government offices in several cities like Chennai, Erode and the neighbouring Puducherry.

In Puducherry, the demonstration was held by activists of Dravidar Viduthalai Kazhagam,a pro-Tamil outfit. Nearly 200 farmers and youths from various organisations staged a rail roko at Tirupur railway station and were removed by police.

Puducherry Lt Governor Kiran Bedi today wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to set up CMB and Cauvery Water Regulatory Committee.

During the protest in Chennai by the 'May 17 Movement,' a pro-Tamil outfit, some of its cadres allegedly hurled sandals at the signboard of "Shasthri Bhavan" housing several Central government offices, briefly triggering anxiety.

BJP Tamil Nadu unit president Tamilisai Soundararajan meanwhile blamed DMK for enacting "dramas" on the Cauvery issue.

Speaking to reporters at Tiruvannamalai, she dared party Rajya Sabha MP Kanimozhi to resign her post rather than hold protests.

The protesters blamed BJP's Tamil Nadu unit for not "taking steps" to bring pressure on its party-led government at the Centre for setting up the CMB.

The DMK-led opposition parties had yesterday called for a state-wide shutdown on April 5, seeking constitution of CMB.

Both the Centre and the Tamil Nadu government had on March 31 moved the Supreme Court over CMB. The top court had granted six weeks to the Centre to formulate a scheme to ensure compliance of its order.

Amid protests across Tamil Nadu, the Supreme Court Monday agreed to hear a contempt plea of the state against the Centre on April 9 on the Cauvery issue, while Governor Banwarilal Purohit left for Delhi.

Two DMK workers allegedly made self-immolation bids in Coimbatore on Monday amid a state-wide stir for setting up Cauvery Management Board to implement the Supreme Court's verdict on water allocation among the riparian states. Amid protests across Tamil Nadu, the Supreme Court Monday agreed to hear a contempt plea of the state against the Centre on April 9 on the Cauvery issue, while Governor Banwarilal Purohit left for Delhi. According to sources, he left for the National capital on an official visit. The Supreme Court bench, comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud said,"We understand Tamil Nadu's difficulty of not getting water. We will resolve the issue. List the matter for April 9." Tamil Nadu had sought contempt action against the Centre for "failure" to frame the scheme for constituting the Cauvery Management Board and Cauvery Water Regulation Committee within six weeks, as directed by the apex court on February 16. The pro-CMB stir, being spearheaded by DMK and a slew of pro-Tamil outfits, saw a slew of sit-ins and demonstrations by students and others at various places, including Chennai, Tiruvarur and Madurai. According to police, over 1,000 persons were detained across the state in connection with protests and were released later in the day. The two DMK activists, identified as P T Murugesan and Singai Sadashivam, doused themselves with kerosene and tried to set themselves ablaze at Coimbatore. They were however overpowered by policemen present at the spot and whisked away to a nearby police station. PMK founder leader Dr S Ramadoss Monday announced his party's support for tomorrow's call for shutdown by farmers organisations and traders, besides DMK-led opposition parties' bandh on April 5. He said his party would support all Cauvery related protests. Tuesday, the ruling AIADMK cadres will observe a fast, seeking constitution of the CMB. Major Opposition affiliated trade unions, including LPF (DMK), and AITUC (CPI) meanwhile have decided to support the April 5 bandh. Local DMK leaders led the protests across Tamil Nadu for immediate constitution of the CMB in keeping with party chief M K Stalin's statement Sunday that protests would continue till the Board was set up. In Chennai, the demonstrations were held by DMK workers at several places, including Saidapet where former city Mayor M Subramanian led the stir. Demonstrations were also held in Thanjavur,the hub of the Cauvery delta region, by cadres of various outfits, including DMK, Congress and the Left parties. Over a dozen pro-Tamil outfits, including DVK and Adi Tamizhar Katchi and cadres of Left parties held protests in Madurai. DMK has asked its party functionaries to continue "democratic protests till April 4." Hitting out at the BJP-led Centre for "trampling the rights of Tamil Nadu" on the Cauvery issue, it condemned the ruling AIADMK for "not mounting pressure on the Union government." Rail blockades were staged at various places, including Coimbatore, Tiruchirappalli and Pudukottai by agitating cadres of opposition parties and pro-Tamil outfits. Demonstrations were also held in front of Central government offices in several cities like Chennai, Erode and the neighbouring Puducherry. In Puducherry, the demonstration was held by activists of Dravidar Viduthalai Kazhagam,a pro-Tamil outfit. Nearly 200 farmers and youths from various organisations staged a rail roko at Tirupur railway station and were removed by police. Puducherry Lt Governor Kiran Bedi today wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to set up CMB and Cauvery Water Regulatory Committee. During the protest in Chennai by the 'May 17 Movement,' a pro-Tamil outfit, some of its cadres allegedly hurled sandals at the signboard of "Shasthri Bhavan" housing several Central government offices, briefly triggering anxiety. BJP Tamil Nadu unit president Tamilisai Soundararajan meanwhile blamed DMK for enacting "dramas" on the Cauvery issue. Speaking to reporters at Tiruvannamalai, she dared party Rajya Sabha MP Kanimozhi to resign her post rather than hold protests. The protesters blamed BJP's Tamil Nadu unit for not "taking steps" to bring pressure on its party-led government at the Centre for setting up the CMB. The DMK-led opposition parties had yesterday called for a state-wide shutdown on April 5, seeking constitution of CMB. Both the Centre and the Tamil Nadu government had on March 31 moved the Supreme Court over CMB. The top court had granted six weeks to the Centre to formulate a scheme to ensure compliance of its order.

Protests engulf Tamil Nadu for Cauvery Board, Supreme Court to hear state's plea

Engulfed in a series of protests over the set up of the Cauvery Management Board, Tamil Nadu witnessed protest from the ruling AIADMK and opposition DMK parties today.

Following the protest, the state police detained TTV Dhinakaran over his attempt to gherao Trichy airport along with his supporters.

The opposition parties led by DMK stopped a train in Coimbatore demanding the formation of the board.

The deputy chief minister of the state, O Panneerselvam said that they will continue to stage protest until the Cauvery&nbsp;Management Board is formed.

The ruling party AIADMK also organised a statewide hunger strike.

The widespread protests in the state led&nbsp;to the disruption of&nbsp;the Lok Sabha proceedings for the 19th consecutive day.

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Tamil Nadu police detained TTV Dhinakaran after he tried to gherao Trichy airport along with his supporters over <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cauvery?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cauvery</a> issue. (File pic) <a href="https://t.co/CaV3Kf621N">pic.twitter.com/CaV3Kf621N</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/981079950538231808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> opposition parties led by DMK stop a train in Coimbatore demanding the formation of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CauveryMangementBoard?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CauveryMangementBoard</a> <a href="https://t.co/ChmpukIIk1">pic.twitter.com/ChmpukIIk1</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/981163458405187584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Till the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CauveryMangementBoard?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CauveryMangementBoard</a> is not formed, our protest will not end. We will continue to protest till we get justice- O Panneerselvam,Tamil Nadu Deputy CM <a href="https://t.co/UGqzyw6pKC">pic.twitter.com/UGqzyw6pKC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/981150841389363200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The&nbsp;protest was organised by parties over the government's failure to set up a Cauvery Management Board (CMB) despite the conclusion of a Supreme Court deadline.

The deadline for the central government to set up the Cauvery Management Board was March 29, six weeks from the top court's February 16 order.

Tamil Nadu's demand for the set up of the Cauvery management board came after the apex court&nbsp;reduced the Tamil Nadu's share of Cauvery water from 177.25 thousand million cubic feet (TMC), less than the 192 TMC allocated by a tribunal in 2007.&nbsp;

The deputy chief minister of the state, O Panneerselvam said that they will continue to stage protest until the Cauvery Management Board is formed

Engulfed in a series of protests over the set up of the Cauvery Management Board, Tamil Nadu witnessed protest from the ruling AIADMK and opposition DMK parties today. Following the protest, the state police detained TTV Dhinakaran over his attempt to gherao Trichy airport along with his supporters. The opposition parties led by DMK stopped a train in Coimbatore demanding the formation of the board. The deputy chief minister of the state, O Panneerselvam said that they will continue to stage protest until the Cauvery Management Board is formed. The ruling party AIADMK also organised a statewide hunger strike. The widespread protests in the state led to the disruption of the Lok Sabha proceedings for the 19th consecutive day. Tamil Nadu police detained TTV Dhinakaran after he tried to gherao Trichy airport along with his supporters over #Cauvery issue. (File pic) pic.twitter.com/CaV3Kf621N — ANI (@ANI) April 3, 2018 × #TamilNadu opposition parties led by DMK stop a train in Coimbatore demanding the formation of #CauveryMangementBoard pic.twitter.com/ChmpukIIk1 — ANI (@ANI) April 3, 2018 × Till the #CauveryMangementBoard is not formed, our protest will not end. We will continue to protest till we get justice- O Panneerselvam,Tamil Nadu Deputy CM pic.twitter.com/UGqzyw6pKC — ANI (@ANI) April 3, 2018 × The protest was organised by parties over the government's failure to set up a Cauvery Management Board (CMB) despite the conclusion of a Supreme Court deadline. The deadline for the central government to set up the Cauvery Management Board was March 29, six weeks from the top court's February 16 order. Tamil Nadu's demand for the set up of the Cauvery management board came after the apex court reduced the Tamil Nadu's share of Cauvery water from 177.25 thousand million cubic feet (TMC), less than the 192 TMC allocated by a tribunal in 2007.

Tamil Nadu continues to protest over Cauvery Management Board, police detains TTV Dhinakaran

A day before actor-turned-politician Kamal Hassan announced to lead a protest against the Sterlite Copper Smelter plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu another big star of South, Rajinikanth showed his support to locals on Twitter saying that "he is surprised that government has not responded to the protest which is going on for 47 days."

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/before-joining-politics-rajinikanth-takes-blessings-from-dmk-president-karunanidhi-28474">Rajinikanth meets DMK president Karunanidhi</a>

He tweeted "One can't understand why the government, which gave the nod for the plant, is not taking any action and is just watching".

Thousands of locals and members of various associations are protesting on streets to demand the closure of the Sterlite Copper Smelter Plant for allegedly causing pollution to the groundwater and air of the area.

The residents have claimed to be experiencing illness related to skin problems, fainting, especially seen among children.

Part of the Vedanta group firm, the plant is a major copper smelter. Reports say that the liquid waste released by the plant is toxic and causing bad effects on residents of the area.

Locals are protesting for over two decades now which has led to the closure of factory multiple times in the past.&nbsp;

A petition was also filed in the Supreme Court after which the court demanded a fine of 100 crore but allowed Sterlite to fucntion.

Both Kamal Hassan and Rajinikanth made their political debut recently.

In December, Rajinikanth announced to launch a party and to contest in 2021 assembly elections in the state.

After two months <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kamal-haasan-set-to-launch-new-party-visits-rameswaram-33532">Kamal Hassan also announced his party</a> in February.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opinion-will-kamal-haasan-be-messi-the-messiah-for-tamil-nadu-34596">Will Kamal Haasan be 'Messi-the-Messiah' for Tamil Nadu?</a> 
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Thousands of locals and members of various associations are protesting on streets to demand the closure of the Sterlite Copper Smelter Plant for allegedly causing pollution

A day before actor-turned-politician Kamal Hassan announced to lead a protest against the Sterlite Copper Smelter plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu another big star of South, Rajinikanth showed his support to locals on Twitter saying that "he is surprised that government has not responded to the protest which is going on for 47 days." Also read: Rajinikanth meets DMK president Karunanidhi He tweeted "One can't understand why the government, which gave the nod for the plant, is not taking any action and is just watching". Thousands of locals and members of various associations are protesting on streets to demand the closure of the Sterlite Copper Smelter Plant for allegedly causing pollution to the groundwater and air of the area. The residents have claimed to be experiencing illness related to skin problems, fainting, especially seen among children. Part of the Vedanta group firm, the plant is a major copper smelter. Reports say that the liquid waste released by the plant is toxic and causing bad effects on residents of the area. Locals are protesting for over two decades now which has led to the closure of factory multiple times in the past. A petition was also filed in the Supreme Court after which the court demanded a fine of 100 crore but allowed Sterlite to fucntion. Both Kamal Hassan and Rajinikanth made their political debut recently. In December, Rajinikanth announced to launch a party and to contest in 2021 assembly elections in the state. After two months Kamal Hassan also announced his party in February. Also read: Will Kamal Haasan be 'Messi-the-Messiah' for Tamil Nadu?

Rajinikanth tweets his support to Sterlite Plant protests, day before Kamal Haasan's visit

The Tamil Nadu government has filed a contempt&nbsp;petition against the&nbsp;Centre in the ongoing Cauvery river water issue.

The Palaniswami-led government has been urging the Centre to set up the Cauvery Management Board (CMB) in order to find a solution to the dispute.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court, in its verdict&nbsp;on the dispute, allotted an additional 14.75 TMC of river water to Karnataka and reduced Tamil Nadu's share from 192 TMC to 177.25 TMC.&nbsp;

States like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala&nbsp;challenged the 2007 order of the Cauvery Water Dispute Tribunal (CWDT) and refused to Cauvery of their need of water.&nbsp;

The Tamil Nadu government will mention the matter of its recent contempt petition&nbsp;before the Supreme Court on Monday.

Meanwhile, the central government has filed a clarification petition before the Supreme Court pleading to clarify whether it can make any changes in the composition of Cauvery Management Board (CMB). It has also asked for more time from the court to implement the court's verdict on the issue.

The AIADMK party members,&nbsp;on the other hand, have decided to observe fast across the state on April 3 with an aim to urge the government to form the management board.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a>: AIADMK cadre to observe fast across the state on April 3 to urge the central government to form a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CauveryManagementBoard?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CauveryManagementBoard</a>. They had earlier announced April 2 as the day to observe fast. <a href="https://t.co/wUGlQox2IK">pic.twitter.com/wUGlQox2IK</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/979763457032708097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Navaneethakrishnan (AIADMK MP) announced in Parliament that he will commit suicide (on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CauveryIssue?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CauveryIssue</a>) but he did not do it, now I offer him this poison & rope to hang himself with, as he failed to do what he said: Pugalendhi, TTV Dhinakaran supporter in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chennai?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chennai</a> <a href="https://t.co/Xm5tTuXaRl">pic.twitter.com/Xm5tTuXaRl</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/979973761410662400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Tamil Nadu has been urging the Centre to set up the Cauvery Management Board (CMB) in order to find a solution to the ongoing Cauvery water dispute

The Tamil Nadu government has filed a contempt petition against the Centre in the ongoing Cauvery river water issue. The Palaniswami-led government has been urging the Centre to set up the Cauvery Management Board (CMB) in order to find a solution to the dispute. The Supreme Court, in its verdict on the dispute, allotted an additional 14.75 TMC of river water to Karnataka and reduced Tamil Nadu's share from 192 TMC to 177.25 TMC. States like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala challenged the 2007 order of the Cauvery Water Dispute Tribunal (CWDT) and refused to Cauvery of their need of water. The Tamil Nadu government will mention the matter of its recent contempt petition before the Supreme Court on Monday. Meanwhile, the central government has filed a clarification petition before the Supreme Court pleading to clarify whether it can make any changes in the composition of Cauvery Management Board (CMB). It has also asked for more time from the court to implement the court's verdict on the issue. The AIADMK party members, on the other hand, have decided to observe fast across the state on April 3 with an aim to urge the government to form the management board. #TamilNadu: AIADMK cadre to observe fast across the state on April 3 to urge the central government to form a #CauveryManagementBoard. They had earlier announced April 2 as the day to observe fast. pic.twitter.com/wUGlQox2IK — ANI (@ANI) March 30, 2018 × Navaneethakrishnan (AIADMK MP) announced in Parliament that he will commit suicide (on #CauveryIssue) but he did not do it, now I offer him this poison & rope to hang himself with, as he failed to do what he said: Pugalendhi, TTV Dhinakaran supporter in #Chennai pic.twitter.com/Xm5tTuXaRl — ANI (@ANI) March 31, 2018 ×

Cauvery issue: Tamil Nadu government files contempt petition against Centre

A CRPF soldier&nbsp;has been arrested for allegedly vandalising a statue of rationalist leader Periyar in Pudukottai district, Tamil Nadu chief&nbsp;minister K Palaniswami said today.

After the opposition DMK raised the issue in the state Assembly, Palaniswami said the arrested CRPF jawan identified as Senthil Kumar was posted in Chhattisgarh and had come to his native Viduthi village on leave. He was held after examination of the CCTV footage from the area.

Pudukottai district police said Kumar (35) was arrested from his house in Viduthi village last night. The CCTV footage obtained from the area showed him damaging the statue while he was in an inebriated state.

The statue of EV Ramasamy, also known as &#39;Periyar&#39;, in Viduthi village in that district was found decapitated on March 19.

The chief minister warned of strict action against those vandalising statues of leaders and described as &quot;condemnable&quot; the recent incidents of desecration of Periyar statues in Vellore and Pudukottai districts.

Referring to the Pudukottai incident, he said senior police officials rushed to the spot to prevent any untoward incident and a case was filed.

Special teams were formed to nab the culprit.

&quot;It came to be known through CCTV footage and witnesses that he (Kumar) was moving around the place in an inebriated state and when police interrogated him, he admitted to damaging the Periyar statue,&quot; the chief minister said.

Kumar had in 2013 opposed the installation of the statue near his house and had threatened to damage it, Palaniswami said quoting the police probe.

Kumar has been since arrested and remanded in custody, he said, adding the statue has been restored.

Referring to the March 6 incident relating to desecration of a Periyar statue in Vellore district, Palaniswami recalled that a BJP functionary and another man had been arrested.

&quot;Both these incidents are condemnable. The government will initiate stringent action against anyone found damaging statues of leaders,&quot; he said.

Earlier, DMK Working President and Leader of Opposition MK Stalin criticised BJP National Secretary H Raja for his recent remarks on Periyar statues in the state in the context of razing down of a statue of Communist icon Vladimir Lenin in Tripura recently.

&quot;Had the government acted against (Raja) then itself, such incidents would not have happened,&quot; he said.

The DMK leader said that he had sought Raja&#39;s arrest.

Raja had courted controversy over a Facebook comment on Periyar statues in Tamil Nadu, which had created a furore in the state.

He later removed the post and blamed his Facebook &quot;admin&quot; for the post.

The statue of EV Ramasamy, also known as 'Periyar', in Viduthi village in that district was found decapitated on March 19.

A CRPF soldier has been arrested for allegedly vandalising a statue of rationalist leader Periyar in Pudukottai district, Tamil Nadu chief minister K Palaniswami said today. After the opposition DMK raised the issue in the state Assembly, Palaniswami said the arrested CRPF jawan identified as Senthil Kumar was posted in Chhattisgarh and had come to his native Viduthi village on leave. He was held after examination of the CCTV footage from the area. Pudukottai district police said Kumar (35) was arrested from his house in Viduthi village last night. The CCTV footage obtained from the area showed him damaging the statue while he was in an inebriated state. The statue of EV Ramasamy, also known as 'Periyar', in Viduthi village in that district was found decapitated on March 19. The chief minister warned of strict action against those vandalising statues of leaders and described as "condemnable" the recent incidents of desecration of Periyar statues in Vellore and Pudukottai districts. Referring to the Pudukottai incident, he said senior police officials rushed to the spot to prevent any untoward incident and a case was filed. Special teams were formed to nab the culprit. "It came to be known through CCTV footage and witnesses that he (Kumar) was moving around the place in an inebriated state and when police interrogated him, he admitted to damaging the Periyar statue," the chief minister said. Kumar had in 2013 opposed the installation of the statue near his house and had threatened to damage it, Palaniswami said quoting the police probe. Kumar has been since arrested and remanded in custody, he said, adding the statue has been restored. Referring to the March 6 incident relating to desecration of a Periyar statue in Vellore district, Palaniswami recalled that a BJP functionary and another man had been arrested. "Both these incidents are condemnable. The government will initiate stringent action against anyone found damaging statues of leaders," he said. Earlier, DMK Working President and Leader of Opposition MK Stalin criticised BJP National Secretary H Raja for his recent remarks on Periyar statues in the state in the context of razing down of a statue of Communist icon Vladimir Lenin in Tripura recently. "Had the government acted against (Raja) then itself, such incidents would not have happened," he said. The DMK leader said that he had sought Raja's arrest. Raja had courted controversy over a Facebook comment on Periyar statues in Tamil Nadu, which had created a furore in the state. He later removed the post and blamed his Facebook "admin" for the post.

CRPF soldier arrested for vandalising Periyar statue: Chief minister Palaniswami

Rajinikanth returned from his 15-day spiritual tour from the Himalayas on Tuesday and soon after denied any connection with the BJP and also condemned the attack on Periyar&#39;s statue.&nbsp;

While addressing the media on Tuesday, Rajinikanth said: &quot;There have been reports that BJP is behind, but I say God is behind me, after that people are behind me. No matter how many times you ask me this my answer will remain the same.&quot;

He further added that the Periya&#39;s statue incident was &quot;nothing but barbarism&quot; and that &quot;it shouldn&#39;t have happened.&quot;

A statue of social reformer and Dravidian movement icon E V Ramasamy, popularly known as &quot;Periyar&quot;, was found damaged in a village in Tamil Nadu on Tuesday. Unidentified persons cut off the head of the statue using a chisel and placed it near the roundtana, police said.

The statue unveiled by Dravidar Kazhagam leader K Veeramani in 2013 is maintained by the district unit of the party. A large contingent of police has been deployed in the area to prevent any untoward incident.

Rajinikanth also addressed the controversy over Rama Rajya Rath Yatra and said: &quot;TN is a secular state, I have full confidence that Police will maintain communal harmony.&quot;

Vishwa Hindu Parishad&rsquo;s Ram Rajya Rath Yatra, which started from Uttar Pradesh&rsquo;s Ayodhya, has reached Tamil Nadu. Reports have said that around 1,500 police personnel were deployed to avoid any unfortunate incident.&nbsp;

However, VHP&rsquo;s move to enter Tamil Nadu with Rath Yatra has not gone down well with Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). The Yatra is first of its kind &lsquo;Rath Yatra&rsquo; in the last 28 years and is aimed at seeking public support for construction of &ldquo;grand&rdquo; Ram Temple in Ayodhya.&nbsp;

Since Tamil superstar, Rajinikanth announced his plan to enter politics and said he would float his own party, speculations have been floating around over that of his party name and flag. While there has been no official announcement on the same or the date it would be announced, word is that the party name and flag might be revealed on Tamil New year&#39;s day, the 14th of April. 
&nbsp;

Rajinikanth returned from his 15-day spiritual tour from the Himalayas on Tuesday

Rajinikanth returned from his 15-day spiritual tour from the Himalayas on Tuesday and soon after denied any connection with the BJP and also condemned the attack on Periyar's statue. While addressing the media on Tuesday, Rajinikanth said: "There have been reports that BJP is behind, but I say God is behind me, after that people are behind me. No matter how many times you ask me this my answer will remain the same." He further added that the Periya's statue incident was "nothing but barbarism" and that "it shouldn't have happened." A statue of social reformer and Dravidian movement icon E V Ramasamy, popularly known as "Periyar", was found damaged in a village in Tamil Nadu on Tuesday. Unidentified persons cut off the head of the statue using a chisel and placed it near the roundtana, police said. The statue unveiled by Dravidar Kazhagam leader K Veeramani in 2013 is maintained by the district unit of the party. A large contingent of police has been deployed in the area to prevent any untoward incident. Rajinikanth also addressed the controversy over Rama Rajya Rath Yatra and said: "TN is a secular state, I have full confidence that Police will maintain communal harmony." Vishwa Hindu Parishad’s Ram Rajya Rath Yatra, which started from Uttar Pradesh’s Ayodhya, has reached Tamil Nadu. Reports have said that around 1,500 police personnel were deployed to avoid any unfortunate incident. However, VHP’s move to enter Tamil Nadu with Rath Yatra has not gone down well with Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). The Yatra is first of its kind ‘Rath Yatra’ in the last 28 years and is aimed at seeking public support for construction of “grand” Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Since Tamil superstar, Rajinikanth announced his plan to enter politics and said he would float his own party, speculations have been floating around over that of his party name and flag. While there has been no official announcement on the same or the date it would be announced, word is that the party name and flag might be revealed on Tamil New year's day, the 14th of April.

Rajinikanth condemns attack on Periyar's statue, says 'nothing but barbarism'

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