The police identified the accused as Devaraj of Old Indur village. Earlier on August 3, the Indur police had arrested him for creating a public nuisance while wearing a police cap and brandishing a knife. He had chased passers-by on the road and attempted to attack a man identified as Veeramani, according to the police. After a complaint, police arrested him and remanded him in judicial custody at Salem Central Prison. On October 28, he secured bail and returned home.

“After returning home, Devaraj's mother, Chinnapappa (45), advised him to go to work and refrain from getting into further trouble, pointing out that the family had spent a considerable amount of money to secure his release from prison,” said a cop.

The police said Devaraj took offence to her advice and picked up an argument with her, insisting that no one should question him. He then bolted the house from inside and repeatedly attacked his mother with an iron rod. Chinnapappa sustained severe injuries and died on the spot.

On receiving information, Indur police rushed to the house, recovered the body and sent it to the Dharmapuri Government Medical College Hospital for postmortem examination. The police arrested Devaraj on Friday in connection with the murder, and further investigation is under way.

The payload was carried aboard a helium-filled high-altitude balloon launched from the Thudiyalur Corporation Middle School after obtaining permission from the Airports Authority of India.

The balloon carried the payload to an altitude of around 35 km, well above the cruising altitude of commercial aircraft. It remained airborne for nearly three hours before descending at a location about 80 km from the launch site, where a recovery team retrieved it.

The payload was equipped with sensors to measure temperature, atmospheric pressure and humidity, along with a passive particle trap to collect airborne particulate matter.

During its ascent, the instrument withstood temperatures as low as minus 60 degrees Celsius and atmospheric density of just around one per cent of that at ground level.

Undertaken as part of ‘Project Uyarvu’, the initiative offered students an opportunity to gain practical exposure to atmospheric research and space science.

“I never imagined that a payload built by us would fly higher than aircraft. We cheered with joy when the balloon lifted off. My participation in the project has kindled my desire to become a space scientist,” said K Thiyash, a Class 8 student of Thudiyalur Corporation Middle School.

Chitra, a coordinating teacher at the school, said the students had shown keen interest in experimenting and exploring as part of the first-of-its-kind initiative. “Such practical exposure would help build their confidence and critical-thinking skills,” she said.

The project received technical guidance from Coimbatore-based CSTERC Techno Science LLP, a space science and technology organisation. District Collector Pavan Kumar G Giriyappanavar, Corporation Commissioner Katta Ravi Teja and MLA Kanimozhi Santhosh attended the launch.

The body was exhumed on Friday following their confession, police said. The deceased, Prashanth (19), was working as a tile layer along with his maternal uncle Ramesh in Cuddalore. He is the son of Ezhilarasi, a domestic help working at actor Radhika Sarathkumar’s house in Chennai.

On October 27, Prashanth informed his uncle that he was travelling to Chennai to meet his mother. The following day he went missing. Based on a complaint lodged by Ramesh, Cuddalore police registered a missing person case and launched an investigation.

During the probe, police found that Prashanth was in a relationship with Devarasu’s wife. During interrogation, the accused confessed to assaulting Prashanth to death at Thirupalaivanam before burying his body at Sathankuppam beach near Pulicat.

Following the confession, Cuddalore police, with the assistance of Thirupalaivanam police, exhumed the body on Friday. It was subsequently sent to the Ponneri GH for a postmortem examination.

Thanjavur: 3-yr-old girl sexually abused; mother, lover held

Thanjavur police arrested a man for sexually abusing a three-year-old child.

The police also arrested the child’s mother for supporting the accused on Friday. Yogaraj (32), a collection agent in a finance firm in Kumbakonam, had an extramarital affair with a 24-year-old woman whose husband was said to be working abroad.

On October 26, Yogaraj, who went to the woman’s house, had reportedly sexually abused the woman's three-year-old child. Yogaraj had also bitten the baby in several places.

When neighbours inquired about it, the mother gave an evasive response. Based on the alert, the Natchiyarkoil police found that the child was sexually abused and arrested Yogaraj and the baby’s mother.

Tamil Nadu: 3 assault cop and HG personnel, held

A gang of three arrested for attacking a policeman and a home guard personnel after being warned against consuming alcohol in a public place in Ariyalur in the wee hours of Friday.

When Raja Kannan (37), a policeman from Thalavai station near Sendurai, along with home guard personnel Venkatesan (47), were on routine patrol in the late hours of Thursday, a gang of three were consuming alcohol at a shed along the main road.

Both personnel urged them to leave the spot immediately. However, they picked up a quarrel and hurled abusive words at the personnel.

Soon, the police constable Raja Kannan contacted the Thalavai police station and passed on the information. Suddenly, the trio attacked the duo and escaped.

However, the police secured the trio, identified as Mathivanan, Thamaraikannan and Elamparithi, all from Silappanur village.

Tiruchy: 3 held in separate ganja peddling cases

Three persons, including a woman, were arrested for peddling ganja across Tiruchy City.

Based on a tip-off, the City Commissioner of Police Rupesh Kumar Meena ordered an elaborate raid across the city.

When a team from E-Pudhur police were searching at Panjapur, they found one Pavithran (22) from Ramji Nagar selling ganja.

Soon, the police arrested him and seized ganja packs. Similarly, another team found Sakthivel (24) from Ramji Nagar selling ganja in Rettamalai and arrested him.

A 35-year-old woman selling ganja was arrested from a house in Ariyamangalam.

Jewellery dealer cheated of 7.3 kg gold; man arrested in Triplicane

A 30-year-old man was arrested for allegedly cheating a jewellery dealer of 7.30 kg of gold ornaments worth several crores of rupees in Triplicane.

The accused, Masook Jain of Vepery, was arrested by the Triplicane police on Wednesday and remanded in judicial custody.

According to the police, the complainant, Seerak (25), runs a jewellery shop and workshop on Irulappan Street in Sowcarpet. Jain had reportedly been collecting gold ornaments from him on a commission basis, claiming that he would sell them to jewellery shops operated by his contacts.

READ FULL STORY HERE

Chennai man, Bangladeshi mother-in-law held for serial robberies

Thanjavur police arrested a Chennai man and his Bangladeshi mother-in-law for stealing 30 sovereigns of gold jewellery from a house. The duo were habitual offenders involved in a series of theft cases across the state, targeting houses locked for a long period.

On October 23, K Karthi, who runs a finance firm at Pillayarpatti near Tiruvidaimaruthur in Thanjavur, returned home in the evening after work, and he found the front door of his house broken and 30 sovereigns, 250-gram silver articles and Rs 2.50 lakh cash were missing. A complaint was filed.

During a vehicle check, on suspicion, the police secured B Gunasekar (40) from Choolaimedu in Chennai and his mother-in-law Hannah Begam (59) from Bangladesh. The probe found that the duo had been involved in the robbery at Karthi's house, and valuables were recovered. The duo was lodged in prison.

Further investigation revealed that Gunasekaran had befriended Hannah Begum's daughter on social media and managed to go to Bangladesh illegally and married her. He returned with his mother-in-law and they targeted several locked houses in a similar manner in Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur and Tiruchy.

Villupuram man strangles 14-year-old daughter to death for having a relationship

A 14-year-old Class 10 student was allegedly strangled to death by her father following an argument over her relationship with a young man in Villupuram district's Vanur on Thursday night (October 29).

According to a Maalaimalar report, the accused, identified as Sivasastri (40), a lorry driver, later surrendered before the Vanur police and was arrested.

READ FULL STORY HERE

Poverty drives Panruti woman to sell newborn boy for Rs 4.5 lakh; auto driver arrested

A three-day-old baby boy allegedly sold for Rs 4.5 lakh by his mother, who was struggling with poverty, was rescued by the police from a woman in Tiruchy.

An auto driver, identified as Zafar Khan (41), who allegedly acted as a middleman in the transaction, has been arrested.

Fatima (30), from Thattanchavady near Panruti, gave birth to the boy at the Panruti Government Hospital on October 19. Already having two daughters and living separately from her husband, she reportedly struggled to raise the children.

Taking advantage of Fatima's financial difficulties, Zafar Khan, an auto driver from Panruti, allegedly persuaded her to sell the baby. Through him, the child was handed over to Renuka Devi of Tiruchy for Rs 4.5 lakh on October 22.

Zafar Khan allegedly took a major portion of the money, leaving Fatima with only a small amount. This led to a dispute between the two. Fatima later asked Renuka Devi to return the baby. However, Renuka Devi allegedly refused.

Fatima subsequently lodged a complaint at the Panruti police station on October 28. The police registered a case and formed a special team, which went to Tiruchy, rescued the baby from Renuka Devi and safely handed him over to Fatima. The police have arrested Zafar Khan in connection with the case.

Two arrested in separate Pocso cases in Ambattur, Guduvanchery

Two men were arrested and remanded in judicial custody on Thursday in separate cases involving the alleged sexual assault of minor girls in Ambattur and Guduvanchery.

In the first case, the Ambattur All-Women Police arrested Mohammad Rafeeq alias Sarphul Dewan (40), a native of Jharkhand, for sexually assaulting a seven-year-old girl who had gone to a mosque to attend Quran classes.

According to the complaint lodged by the girl’s father, the accused had assaulted the child while she was returning from the mosque after her classes. The girl later informed her parents, who approached the police.

In the second case, Kilambakkam All-Women Police arrested Manoharan (50), a financier, for sexually assaulting a three-year-old girl at her house near Guduvanchery in Chengalpattu. Police said Manoharan, a resident of Thailavaram, runs a small chit fund business.

On October 24, he visited the house, located two streets away from his residence, to collect money. The child was alone at the time, and he sexually assaulted her. Following a complaint from her parents, police registered a case, arrested Manoharan and produced him before a Chengalpattu court, which remanded him in judicial custody.

20-year-old son beats woman to death after quarrel in Dharmapuri

A 20-year-old construction worker, who was released on bail three days ago, beat his mother to death with an iron rod following a quarrel at their house in Dharmapuri district on Thursday night.

The police identified the accused as Devaraj of Old Indur village. Earlier on August 3, the Indur police had arrested him for creating a public nuisance while wearing a police cap and brandishing a knife. He had chased passers-by on the road and attempted to attack a man identified as Veeramani, according to the police. After a complaint, police arrested him and remanded him in judicial custody at Salem Central Prison. On October 28, he secured bail and returned home.

READ FULL STORY HERE

Villupuram man argues with wife, then throws six-year-old son into well; arrested

A 40-year-old man was arrested for allegedly throwing his six-year-old son into an agricultural well following an argument with his wife over money near Senji in Villupuram district.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, the deceased boy, identified as Sanjay, was the couple's only son. His father, Selvaraj, allegedly threw him into a well behind the government hospital in the area after a prolonged argument with his wife, Devi, over the spending of borrowed money.

READ FULL STORY HERE

Two arrested for murdering 19-year-old, burying body near Pulicat

Two men from Cuddalore were arrested for murdering a 19-year-old youth at Thirupalaivanam near Ponneri and burying his body on Sathankuppam beach near Pulicat. The arrested men were identified as G Dinesh (23) and S Devarasu (18), both from Siruvathur village in Cuddalore.

The body was exhumed on Friday following their confession, police said. The deceased, Prashanth (19), was working as a tile layer along with his maternal uncle Ramesh in Cuddalore. He is the son of Ezhilarasi, a domestic help working at actor Radhika Sarathkumar’s house in Chennai.

On October 27, Prashanth informed his uncle that he was travelling to Chennai to meet his mother. The following day he went missing. Based on a complaint lodged by Ramesh, Cuddalore police registered a missing person case and launched an investigation.

During the probe, police found that Prashanth was in a relationship with Devarasu’s wife. During interrogation, the accused confessed to assaulting Prashanth to death at Thirupalaivanam before burying his body at Sathankuppam beach near Pulicat.

Following the confession, Cuddalore police, with the assistance of Thirupalaivanam police, exhumed the body on Friday. It was subsequently sent to the Ponneri GH for a postmortem examination.

Kancheepuram: Three, including school student, killed in accident

CHENNAI: Three people, including a school student, were killed and three other school students injured in two separate road accidents in Kancheepuram district on Wednesday night.

In the first incident, four school students — Sanjay (16), Joshua (15), Jaswanth (14) and Chandru (14) from Echur near Sriperumbudur — were travelling on a bike towards Panrutti near Sunguvarchatram on Wednesday night. 

READ FULL STORY HERE

Rashly driven MTC bus kills woman on way to hospital near Puzhal

CHENNAI: A 49-year-old woman who was on her way to a hospital for a health check-up was killed in a road accident at Kathirvedu near Puzhal on Wednesday after a rashly driven MTC bus hit the two-wheeler she was travelling on.

The deceased woman was identified as K Savithri, a resident of Sholavaram. On Wednesday, Savithri, along with her husband, Kumar, were on their way to a hospital, police said.

READ FULL STORY HERE

22-yr jail for kidnap, assault of minor

CHENNAI: The Tiruvallur Pocso court on Wednesday sentenced a 22-year-old man to 22 years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 25,000 for kidnapping and sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl in 2018. Police said that the incident occurred on Dec 28, 2018.

The accused, Peter (aged 21 at the time) lured a 13-year-old girl on the pretext of marrying her and sexually assaulted her. Based on a complaint from the victim’s mother, a case was registered at the All Women Police Station, and the accused was arrested and remanded. After investigation, a charge sheet was filed before the Pocso Court.

Retired Warden killed inside CSI school in Sivaganga

A woman was murdered by unidentified persons who allegedly broke into her house inside the premises of the CSI School in Manamadurai, Sivaganga district, on Thursday evening. Vasantha Mallika, wife of Easwaran, was killed, and the assailant snatched the jewellery she was wearing before fleeing the scene. The incident occurred while the school was functioning. The deceased had worked as a warden at the school. The incident came to light only after her husband found her dead upon his return home. Sivaganga Superintendent of Police Abhishek Gupta inspected the spot. Further probe is under way.

5-member armed gang robs car dealer of Rs 1 crore in Erode

A five-member armed gang robbed a used-car dealer of Rs one crore at knifepoint near Perundurai in Erode on Thursday.

The police said Arun Kumar (55) of Rajendra Prasad Street in Perundurai was engaged in the used-car business and was also overseeing the construction of a temple on a 55-cent plot on Kanjikovil Road through receiving donations.

The police said a businessman from Tirupur had donated Rs one crore towards the temple's construction. On learning about the cash, some unidentified persons contacted Arun Kumar over the phone and offered to give him Rs 1.15 crore through online transfer in exchange for Rs one crore in cash.

Tempted by the prospect of making an additional Rs 15 lakh, Arun agreed to the deal and asked them to come to Perundurai. “Arun Kumar was counting the cash using a currency-counting machine at a house on Kanjikovil Road when five men arrived armed with knives and iron pipes on Thursday. When he attempted to raise an alarm, the gang threatened to stab him to death. The assailants then fled with the Rs one crore kept in a suitcase,” the police said.

Following the robbery, Arun Kumar lodged a complaint with the Perundurai police, who registered a case and special teams have launched a search for the accused.

Theni jailbreak: Last four inmates nabbed, all 17 back in custody

The police on Wednesday recaptured four more inmates, bringing all 17 inmates who escaped from the Theni District Jail on Monday night after assaulting three prison staff back into custody. The inmates had pretended that one of them was suffering from an epileptic seizure to trap the guards and carry out their escape plan.

On Wednesday morning, around 100 police personnel intensified their search in the Amachiyapuram hills to trace four inmates: Rejin from Kanyakumari, and Tirupathi, Meenatchisundram and Ponmuthuselvam from Madurai.

The police team recaptured Rejin and Ponmuthuselvam from the hills. The other two, Tirupathi and Meenatchisundram, who are brothers, allegedly fled after learning that police had entered the area where they were hiding. They allegedly assaulted a motorist who was passing by on a motorcycle, seized his bike and escaped, a police source said.

READ FULL STORY HERE

Trio snatches gold chain from home alone woman

An unidentified trio robbed a home alone woman of a 2.5-sovereign gold chain in Tiruchy on Wednesday after gaining entry into the house and locking it from inside.

The victim, a 41-year-old woman, lived alone in KK Nagar and works as a domestic helper. On Monday evening, while the woman was cooking, three unidentified persons had reportedly gained entry into the house and locked the doors from inside.

On seeing them, the woman raised an alarm, but one of them gagged her. They snatched her 2.5-sovereign gold chain and fled. She immediately ran out of the house, raising an alarm, but the trio had escaped. She lodged a complaint with the KK Nagar police, who registered a case and are searching for the culprits.

Thanjavur ganja peddler nabbed in Ariyalur

A notorious peddler from Thanjavur was arrested in Ariyalur while attempting to smuggle ganja from Odisha on Wednesday evening.

A police team led by Jayankondam inspector Balaji conducted a vehicle check following a tip-off and suspected a youth, who fled. After a chase, the man was caught and identified as R Shanmuga Ganapathi (29) of East Street, Thanjavur.

They found 6 kg of ganja concealed in his belongings and arrested him. Further probe revealed that the accused sold to regular customers in the neighbouring districts and procured the contraband from Odisha. He faces several pending cases in Thanjavur.

Two murdered in Otteri, Avadi

Two people were murdered in separate incidents in Chennai and Avadi on Tuesday night. In one incident in Otteri, an elderly man was beaten to death after an argument with a neighbour.

The deceased has been identified as S Ponnurangam (69), a resident of Rettaimalai Srinivasan Street in Otteri. Police said there was an existing enmity between Ponnurangam’s family and the family of his neighbour, Subramani.

A few days ago, Ponnurangam’s daughter-in-law was cleaning the entrance of their house when Subramani’s sons – Sathish (27) and Santhosh (25) – allegedly spat near the spot, which triggered an argument between the two families. On Tuesday night, an argument broke out between Ponnurangam’s son Kandhan and Sathish and Santhosh.

Hearing the commotion, Ponnurangam came out of the house and reprimanded the brothers after which they attacked him and pushed him to the ground. Ponnurangam was severely injured, and collapsed after which he was rescued and rushed him to the Kilpauk Government Medical College Hospital.

Doctors who examined him declared him brought dead. The Otteri police have registered a case and are searching for the duo, who fled after the incident.

In another incident in Thirumullaivoyal in Avadi city police limits, a 30-year-old man was hacked to death by his friend during a drinking session in the victim’s house on Tuesday night. The deceased was identified as Gokul.

Police said that Gokul and the accused, Rajesh (25) lived in the same neighbourhood and would argue often. On Tuesday, Rajesh made fun of Gokul, which had infuriated him and both of them argued and left.

The same night, the duo gathered again for a drink when Gokul questioned Rajesh about his comments and took a knife from the kitchen and attempted to attack him. Rajesh dodged the attacks, managed to retrieve the weapon from Gokul and stabbed him to death. On information, Thirumullaivoyal Police arrested Rajesh.

Man arrested for kidnap, murder of a Chennai woman

A 45-year-old man was arrested for kidnapping and murdering a woman from Aminjikarai and dumping her body in a farm well in Sirunagalur village near Melmaruvathur in Chengalpattu district.

Police said the murdered woman had failed to repay the loan which she had borrowed from him. The deceased was identified as Manimegalai (41), wife of Gurunathan, and a resident of Aminjikarai in Chennai.

Two days ago, the body of an unidentified woman with a slit throat was found in a private farm well in Sirunagalur village near Melmaruvathur. The Melmaruvathur police recovered the body and sent it to the Chengalpattu GH for a postmortem.

During the investigation, the police found that Manimegalai had borrowed money at interest from Jani Anbu Das (45), a resident of Egmore. He had allegedly threatened to kidnap her when she failed to repay the loan.

A special police team from Melmaruvathur detained Das for questioning. During interrogation, he confessed to kidnapping Manimegalai and murdering her by slitting her throat over the unpaid debt. Police said that the accused also allegedly removed the gold earrings and silver anklets worn by the woman, along with her mobile phone, before dumping her body in the farm well and escaping from the spot.

Following that, the Melmaruvathur police arrested Das for the murder, and he was remanded to judicial custody and sent to Puzhal prison.

Kanniyakumari: Four arrested for murdering panchayat staffer after he refused to steal lotuses from ponds

Four people, including Cyrus (32), have been arrested for allegedly murdering Kavin (27), a temporary electrician with the Alagappapuram Panchayat, after he refused to help them steal lotus flowers from local ponds, according to a Daily Thanthi report.

According to the police, Cyrus, a resident of Alagappapuram, had been illegally cultivating lotus flowers in ponds in the area. He allegedly asked Kavin, who hailed from Achankulam near Kottaram, to switch off the lights to facilitate the theft. Kavin’s refusal reportedly led to a dispute, following which Cyrus allegedly plotted to kill him.

READ FULL STORY HERE

Man hacked to death by friend following argument in Thoothukudi market

A man was allegedly hacked to death with an axe by his friend following an argument at a daily market in Tittangulam near Kovilpatti in Thoothukudi district in the early hours of Tuesday (October 27).

According to a Daily Thanthi report, the deceased, identified as Kaliraj, was employed as a load lifter at a private daily market in the area. According to the available information, Kaliraj and his friends were talking at the market premises when a light-hearted exchange of jokes and teasing reportedly escalated into an argument. One of his friends, identified as Ayodhya, allegedly attacked him with an axe, killing him on the spot.

READ FULL STORY HERE

Newborn rescued from pvt clinic toilet succumbs, cops mull altering case to murder

A newborn girl rescued from a private clinic's toilet succumbed on Tuesday. Police are contemplating altering the case based on postmortem findings.

A 19-year-old girl who was in a relationship with a lorry driver went to a private clinic on October 24 after experiencing labour pains. Despite her parents' knowledge of her pregnancy, she went alone.

She told the clinic staff that she had diarrhoea and locked herself in the toilet for nearly two hours. When the staff checked in on her, they found she had given birth there and shifted both of them to Government Stanley Hospital.

The girl is undergoing treatment; however, the newborn succumbed and was taken for autopsy. The reports indicated injuries, following which officials are considering altering the case to murder. The girl has not been arrested yet. The lorry driver has married another woman. Further probe is ongoing.

Woman arrested for allegedly setting husband on fire after domestic quarrel in Virudhunagar

VIRUDHUNAGAR: A 35-year-old construction worker, Shankar Guru, died after his wife, Sankareswari, allegedly poured kerosene on him and set him on fire following a domestic quarrel at their house in VVR Colony in Allampatti, Virudhunagar, in the early hours of Tuesday.

According to police, Shankar Guru frequently returned home intoxicated and quarrelled with his wife. The couple had divorced in 2022 but later reunited and resumed living together.

On Monday night, Shankar Guru returned home after consuming alcohol and picked up a quarrel with Sankareswari in the early hours of Tuesday. In a fit of anger, Sankareswari allegedly poured kerosene on her husband and set him on fire, said the police source. She subsequently surrendered at the nearby Virudhunagar East police station.

The police recovered Shankar Guru's body and sent it to the Virudhunagar Government Medical College Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

Virudhunagar SP Gautham Goyal conducted an inquiry.

History sheeter hacked to death in Indira Nagar

Chennai: A 22-year-old history sheeter was murdered in broad daylight in Adyar's Indira Nagar on Tuesday. The police identified the victim as Maithreyan, originally from Mylapore and currently residing in Tiruvanmiyur.

According to officials, Maithreyan was listed as a C-category history sheeter with multiple criminal cases. Last week, he had secured bail in a case with a condition to report at Mylapore police station every day. Around 11 am on Tuesday, he was returning from the station in his autorickshaw when he was intercepted by a gang.

READ FULL STORY HERE

Missing 7-year-old found dead in Madurai's abandoned house

A seven-year-old boy who went missing while playing near his house at Thaniyamangalam near Melur in Madurai district yesterday was found dead in an abandoned house nearby on Monday.

The deceased, Muthuchelvan, a Class 3 student, had left home around 11 am on Sunday to play and did not return. His relatives and villagers searched for him with police assistance. Police recovered the body and sent it to Government Rajaji Hospital in Madurai for a post-mortem examination. Senior police officials are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death.

College student killed in clash over wastewater

A 20-year-old college student was hacked to death on Sunday night following a clash between two families over wastewater flowing in front of their houses at Alwarkarkulam near Srivaikuntam in Thoothukudi district.

The deceased, Isakkiraja, son of Mariappan, was a second-year student at an arts and science college near Srivaikuntam. The families of Mariappan and Sundararajan had reportedly been at loggerheads for a long time over the issue, the police said.

During an argument on Sunday night, both parties took to weapons and Isakkiraja was killed during the clash. The police have booked over 10 people in the issue.

Man held after pregnant wife dies by suicide in Otteri

Police have arrested a man on charges of abetment to suicide after the death of his pregnant wife in Otteri. The arrested man was identified as Santhosh (29), who worked in a mobile phone accessories shop.

Santhosh had married Kokila (26) on March 6 this year after being in a relationship with her. The couple lived in a rented house in Pudhu Vazhai Nagar.

Police said differences had developed between them within months of their marriage and the duo had frequent arguments. The couple had an argument on Saturday too after which Santhosh left the house. Kokila had video-called Santhosh on Saturday night and threatened to kill herself.

When Santhosh reached the house, he found her unconscious and rushed her to the Government Kilpauk Medical College Hospital. Doctors declared her brought dead after which Otteri Police rescued her and sent the body for a postmortem. 

Meanwhile, Kokila’s family filed a complaint alleging that she had been subjected to dowry harassment by Santhosh’s family and protested demanding his arrest.

After investigations, police arrested Santhosh. As the couple had been married for less than a year, the police have recommended an RDO inquiry.

Man held for sexual assault of toddler in Ennore

Avadi City Police on Monday arrested a 32-year-old man for sexually assaulting a two-and-half-year-old girl child in Ennore. The arrested person was identified as D Ranjithkumar, a fisherman, a neighbour of the victim.

Police said that he was separated from his wife and lives alone, and that he had lured the child to his house twice last week and had sexually abused her.

The child’s parents, who noticed injuries on her body, took her to the Institute of Child Health in Egmore. The incident came to light on October 23, when doctors examining the child suspected sexual abuse and alerted the authorities. 

Based on the information received from the hospital and a complaint filed by the child’s mother, the Ennore All Women Police Station registered a case and launched an investigation on the same day. After investigations, Police arrested the accused under the Pocso Act (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences).

The child is undergoing treatment. The accused was produced before a magistrate and remanded to judicial custody. 

Techie flees after running over sleeping senior citizen in Chengalpattu; nabbed

An elderly man was killed after a techie who was reversing his car from a marriage hall reportedly ran over him, unmindful of the man sleeping on the roadside in Chengalpattu on Saturday.

Visuals showed the victim's friend sitting beside the body, holding an umbrella over it to protect it from the rain while they waited for an ambulance to arrive.

The deceased was identified as Kumar (77), who lived in a thatched hut in the neighbourhood. According to local residents, Kumar was sleeping along the roadside when a car reversing from a nearby marriage hall ran over him, killing him on the spot.

Police sources said the techie, who was behind the wheel, got down to check on the man but drove off upon seeing a mob gathering at the scene, as his wife and child were inside the vehicle.

The elderly man was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was declared brought dead. Meanwhile, the Chengalpattu police traced the car using CCTV footage and arrested the driver, G Saravanan (43), an employee with a private IT firm.

Bizman held under Pocso in Tirunelveli

A 52-year-old real estate businessman was arrested under the Pocso Act at Panagudi in Tirunelveli district for allegedly sexually harassing a six-year-old girl on Sunday.

According to police the accused was found committing the sexual offence after examining the CCTV footage. The accused was sitting in front of a church in the area on the night of October 23 when the girl walked alone on the road, said the police, adding that he allegedly called her over and sexually abused her.

The girl went home crying and told her parents, who lodged a complaint. The police registered a case under the Pocso Act and arrested him.

Special Sub-Inspector transferred to Armed Reserve on bribe charges

Tirunelveli District Superintendent of Police Viswesh Sastri on Saturday transferred a Special Sub-Inspector attached to the Seethaparpanallur police station to the Armed Reserve following a complaint that he accepted a bribe in a sand smuggling case.

According to the police, Special Sub-Inspector Muthupandi (54) is alleged to have received Rs 5,000 from the owner of a lorry linked to a sand smuggling case under investigation.

The money was reportedly transferred through his wife's GPay account.

Guest worker killed over card game in Chennai

A 26-year-old guest worker from Nepal was murdered after an argument during a card game in Perungudi on Saturday. Thoraipakkam police have registered a murder case and launched a search for the absconding suspect.

The victim has been identified as Ganeshkumar, who had been employed at a metal fabrication unit in Perungudi and was staying with his brother-in-law Umesh. The police said the suspect, Saurav (25), also a Nepali national, was working at a private eatery. Ganeshkumar and Umesh had gone to Saurav's house on Friday night. During a card game, a heated exchange between Ganeshkumar and Saurav turned into a physical confrontation. Saurav attacked Ganeshkumar with a knife.

Chennai: Woman dies after pushed to floor while rescuing son

A 62-year-old woman died after she was pushed to the floor while trying to rescue her son, who was being attacked by a group of men during a family dispute in Perungalathur. The deceased, Naseema Bee (62), was the mother of Vasivudeen (43), a resident of Kamarajar Street in Perungalathur.

Vasivudeen lives with his wife, Naseema (40). Police said an argument broke out between Vasivudeen and his wife on Wednesday.

READ FULL STORY HERE

Kancheepuram silk showroom owners arrested in Rs 20 crore fraud case

Two owners of a popular silk saree showroom in Kancheepuram have been arrested by the Kancheepuram District Crime Branch police in connection with an alleged Rs 20 crore fraud involving wholesale saree suppliers from Rajasthan, Chennai and Salem.

Krishnamoorthy (52) and Sathish (50), both residents of George Town in Chennai, jointly operated Murugan and Kalikambal Silks, located near Rangasamy Kulam in Kancheepuram.

READ FULL STORY HERE

Sathankulam man kills teen lover’s mother for opposing relationship

A 23-year-old man launched a sickle attack on a couple in their house, killing the woman and injuring the man and their minor son, and kidnapped her two minor daughters, at Mudalur near Sathankulam early on Friday. The girls were rescued shortly and the man, Gnanaprakash of Anandapuram, was apprehended by the Thoothukudi police after the girls shared their live location with them via WhatsApp.

The father Muthukrishnan (50) and son Pleasant Raja (12) sustained grievous injuries and are in the intensive care unit of the Government Super Specialty Hospital in Tirunelveli. Muthukrishnan’s condition is said to be critical.

2 lorry drivers confess to murder of coworker in Tiruvallur

Two lorry drivers allegedly confessed to murdering their colleague following a drunken quarrel and burying his body in an isolated spot near Alamathi in Tiruvallur district, police said. The police are scheduled to exhume the remains on Saturday in the presence of a Tahsildar.

The deceased, M Gokul (27), a native of Kanniyakumari district, worked as a lorry driver for a private transport company in Alamathi. His younger brother, Rahul, lodged a complaint with Sholavaram police stating that Gokul had been missing since October 7.

Following the complaint, police registered a case and launched an investigation. They examined CCTV footage from the Alamathi area and identified two suspects, Ayyappan (18), and Sathish (33), who worked as lorry drivers.

READ FULL STORY HERE

The revised proceedings, issued by HR&CE Secretary V Rajaraman on October 29, refer to the department's October 23 transfer order and a communication from the HR&CE Commissioner TG Vinay dated October 27. The proceedings state that the changes were made on administrative grounds.

Under the revised arrangement, K Ramu, who was serving at the Thiruverkadu Devi Karumariamman Temple, has been posted to Chennai Division-1, while K Renugadevi, transferred from Madurai, has been assigned to the Thiruverkadu temple.

K Ramani, earlier posted in Chennai Division-3, has been moved to the department's headquarters as joint commissioner (verification). P Anitha, transferred from Karaikudi, has been assigned to Chennai Division-3. P Vijaya, earlier posted to Chennai Division-1, has been shifted to Tiruvannamalai, while C Kumaradurai, who was at the headquarters, has been posted to Karaikudi.

The order also cancels specific appointments made under the earlier proceedings to accommodate the revised postings.

Departmental sources said the officers had not assumed charge at their originally allotted stations. However, the government order does not identify non-joining as the reason for the revision.

Following repeated complaints against dyeing units discharging effluents into water bodies across Karur district, the district administration established a district coordination committee to conduct an inspection, submit a report and recommend action if norms were flouted. Subsequently, the officials from the revenue department and pollution control board commenced an elaborate inspection of the dyeing units functioning in various places.

After the October 9 inspection confirmed that untreated effluents were being discharged into the Amaravati River, the inspection was intensified.

On Friday, a team of officials, including Sub Collector Venkatesan and District Pollution Control Board Engineer Tholkappian, conducted an inspection at two dyeing units at Mavadiyankoil Street and Ballammalpuram in the Karur Corporation limits; both were functioning near the banks of the Amaravati.

Both unlicensed units were found to be discharging untreated effluents into the Amaravati River. Soon, the officials ordered the demolition of both units.

“We will continue to inspect all the units functioning across the district and severe action would be initiated immediately if the units are found to be flouting norms," the officials said.

Explaining the women's wing's decision to hold the protest, Stalin said it reminds the TVK government that the DMK works for the people and enjoys their trust.

Comparing the present government with the previous DMK regime, Stalin questioned whether the incumbent had performed well in even a single department. "How has the State taken reverse gear in all departments?" he asked.

Taking a dig at Vijay's speech, Stalin sarcastically referred to the Chief Minister's statement that he would be a brother and uncle to women. He said Vijay should first act as the Chief Minister.

Responding to Vijay's electoral remark that the contest was between two parties—the DMK and the TVK—Stalin said the real competition was between power and electricity bills, energy and grocery bills, price rises, and the increase in murders, which, he said, reflected the actual situation in the State.

"A good government should address the problems faced by the people. However, the TVK government is targeting those who speak about people's sufferings through its online abusers," he alleged.

Describing the TVK-led government as "lazy", Stalin alleged that it lacked original ideas and did not take suggestions from others.

Comparing the inflation rate under the DMK regime with the present situation, Stalin alleged that the current rulers lacked administrative skills. He further claimed that criminals feared no one and were instead celebrating its functioning.

"Brutal murders, sexual assaults, murders of elderly people living alone in their homes and the robbery of their jewellery have become commonplace, even on major roads in broad daylight. Children continue to go missing," he alleged.

Congratulating the women's wing on its proposed agitation on Saturday, Stalin said the protest would serve as a wake-up call for the Chief Minister and his administration, which, he alleged, were both in a state of slumber.

The four vacant posts of State Information Commissioners, which had remained unfilled for the past four months, have also been filled.

S Mahalakshmi, TK Shabeer, CB Meena and P Mahalingam have been appointed as State Information Commissioners.

An order issued by Principal Secretary to the Human Resources Management Department C Samayamoorthy, stated that the Chief Information Commissioner and Information Commissioners would hold office for three years or until they attain the age of 65, whichever is earlier, from the date they assume office.

Natarajan is a 2010-batch IAS officer of the Tamil Nadu cadre. During his service, he served as Collector of Tirunelveli and Tiruvarur districts, Additional Commissioner of Revenue Administration, Joint Secretary to the Health Department and Director of Agriculture.

Shabeer is a professor in the Chemistry Department of New College. Meena and Mahalakshmi have served as district-level law officers. Mahalingam is a working journalist with a leading news organisation and the first State Information Commissioner appointed from full-time journalism.

The Information Commissioners will receive a fixed monthly salary of Rs 2.25 lakh, along with other facilities, including an official vehicle and government accommodation.

Following the retirement of four Information Commissioners and Chief Information Commissioner Md Shakeel Akhter, the TVK-led government began selecting new members for the commission.

The government constituted a search committee under the chairmanship of retired High Court judge Justice R S Ramanathan. Principal Secretary C Samayamoorthy and retired IAS officer R Sudalaikannan were its other members. The committee shortlisted 15 candidates and forwarded its recommendations to the State government.

Following a consultative meeting chaired by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, the government forwarded the recommended names to the Governor for approval.

The Tamil Nadu State Information Commission comprises a Chief Information Commissioner and eight Information Commissioners.

The appointment comes against the backdrop of security concerns following incidents of inmates escaping from prisons.

Shankar was earlier working in the Prisons department before he was transferred to the Enforcement bureau. This is his second term as prison chief.

The government had transferred DGP Sandeep Rai Rathore out of the Prisons department after the recent jail break incident in Theni.

Shankar assumed office amid the State prison department's focus on strengthening security and preventing contraband smuggling and other illegal activities inside prisons.

Speaking at the event, he said that the criminal justice system had traditionally focused on courts, the State and offenders, while victims, who were at the centre of the justice process, had not received adequate attention.

“In a modern democracy, justice should not be limited to punishing offenders but must also ensure the rights, protection and rehabilitation of victims,” he said, highlighting the evolution of the criminal justice system. “Secondary victimisation is preventable during investigations and judicial proceedings.”

The Chief Justice also referred to measures taken to strengthen judicial infrastructure, including witness protection schemes and special facilities for vulnerable witnesses. Stressing the need for better coordination between the police and judiciary, he added, “If both institutions worked with humanity and compassion, courts will become places that offered victims hope and comfort rather than fear. The conference will deliberate on several key issues, including the need to change the attitude of the police, protect the rights of marginalised communities and address challenges arising from cybercrime.”

Dharmadhikari also emphasised the need to create greater awareness of victims’ rights, adding that the public should raise its voice on behalf of those unaware of their rights.

The conference, being held on October 30 and 31, is jointly organised by the Department of Criminology, University of Madras, and the Department of Cyber Law and Justice and Digital Forensics of the Tamil Nadu Dr Ambedkar Law University. Former judge P Jothimani, members of the Vice-Chancellor’s Convenor Committee and the Registrar of the University of Madras were among those present at the inaugural event.

O Panneerselvam, who contested on behalf of the DMK from Bodinayakanur, was declared elected after securing 85,206 votes. He won the election by a margin of 6,805 votes.

Challenging his victory, voter T Kannan of Bodinayakanur and another voter, P Milany of Chennai, had filed separate election petitions before the Madras High Court, seeking to declare O Panneerselvam's election invalid.

O Panneerselvam had also filed petitions seeking dismissal of the election petitions filed against him.

After hearing O Panneerselvam's petition seeking dismissal of T Kannan's election petition, Justice PB Balaji accepted his contention and dismissed Kannan's election petition.

Meanwhile, the election petition filed by voter P Milany challenging O Panneerselvam's victory is still pending before the High Court.

According to a Maalaimalar report, the ministers issued the instructions after inspecting the ongoing work, following heavy traffic congestion on the existing Palattu bridge during the recent rains.

Why is a new flyover being built?

A flyover was constructed across the Palar river near Sevilimedu on the Kancheepuram-Vandavasi highway around 20 years ago.

However, the increase in heavy vehicles and public transport vehicles has resulted in severe traffic congestion on the bridge. The road surface has also been repeatedly damaged due to heavy vehicular movement.

To ease the congestion, work is under way to construct an additional flyover spanning 900 metres alongside the existing bridge.

What did the ministers tell officials?

During the inspection, the ministers enquired with Highways Department officials about the damage to the existing bridge. Officials said the vibrations and damage were due to inadequate maintenance.

Kancheepuram District Collector D Sneha and other officials were present during the inspection.

An auto driver, identified as Zafar Khan (41), who allegedly acted as a middleman in the transaction, has been arrested.

Fatima (30), from Thattanchavady near Panruti, gave birth to the boy at the Panruti Government Hospital on October 19. Already having two daughters and living separately from her husband, she reportedly struggled to raise the children.

Taking advantage of Fatima's financial difficulties, Zafar Khan, an auto driver from Panruti, allegedly persuaded her to sell the baby. Through him, the child was handed over to Renuka Devi of Tiruchy for Rs 4.5 lakh on October 22.

Zafar Khan allegedly took a major portion of the money, leaving Fatima with only a small amount. This led to a dispute between the two. Fatima later asked Renuka Devi to return the baby. However, Renuka Devi allegedly refused.

Fatima subsequently lodged a complaint at the Panruti police station on October 28. The police registered a case and formed a special team, which went to Tiruchy, rescued the baby from Renuka Devi and safely handed him over to Fatima. The police have arrested Zafar Khan in connection with the case.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, the deceased boy, identified as Sanjay, was the couple's only son. His father, Selvaraj, allegedly threw him into a well behind the government hospital in the area after a prolonged argument with his wife, Devi, over the spending of borrowed money.

Selvaraj and Devi, who have four daughters and a son, frequently quarrelled over family issues. An argument that reportedly began last night (October 29) continued into the following morning.

In a fit of rage, Selvaraj allegedly picked up Sanjay and threw him into the agricultural well. Local residents alerted the police, who rushed to the spot and sought the assistance of the Fire and Rescue Services Department.

Firefighters struggled for more than three hours to retrieve the boy from the well. However, he was found dead. His body was subsequently sent to Senji Government Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

The police registered a case, arrested Selvaraj and took him to Sathyamangalam police station for further investigation. Further inquiries are underway.

According to a Maalaimalar report, Chief Minister Vijay inaugurated the academy through video conferencing during the closing ceremony of the Chief Minister's Cup sports competition in Chennai on Thursday (October 29).

Training facilities for Olympic water sports

The academy will offer training in Olympic water sports disciplines, including sailing, canoeing, surfing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. It will also have facilities for water polo, artistic swimming and rowing.

The infrastructure includes accommodation for 40 athletes, 10 rooms for coaches, a gymnasium, yoga room, physiotherapy centre, boat parking facilities, a boat hangar and an open-air lounge. Classrooms equipped with modern technology will enable coaches to use video analysis to assess and improve athletes' performance.

Coastal conditions to support training

The academy's location along the coast is expected to provide favourable conditions for water sports training. The relatively shallow coastal waters, extending up to five kilometres, are considered suitable for beginners, while the region's wind and wave conditions offer opportunities for advanced training. Calm sea conditions for around six months of the year are also expected to attract athletes from across India and abroad.

The facility has been designed to allow coaches to monitor athletes from the shore through large windows overlooking the sea. It is also equipped to host international-level competitions.

Employment opportunities for local communities

Officials expect the project to generate employment opportunities for local youth and members of the fishing community while strengthening Tamil Nadu's sports infrastructure. The academy was designed by architect Keshub Manavalan.

Rs 20-crore multi-purpose sports complex in Salem

In another sports infrastructure initiative, the Chief Minister inaugurated a multi-purpose sports complex constructed at a cost of Rs 20 crore on the premises of the Government Engineering College in Karupur, Salem district

Wide range of sporting facilities

The Salem complex, spread across approximately 18 acres, includes a 400-metre athletics track, football and hockey facilities, basketball and volleyball courts, tennis courts, a skating rink, a gymnastics arena, a gymnasium, a swimming pool and an indoor sports arena. It also has an administrative office, a sports hostel and a cafeteria.

The facility will be open to district youth, college students and the general public for sports training and related activities.

Both projects are aimed at strengthening sports infrastructure across Tamil Nadu, expanding access to professional training and supporting the development of athletes capable of competing at national and international levels.

The plea questioned his nationality and asked the court to examine his alleged Nepali ancestry.

The First Bench of the Madras High Court, comprising Chief Justice SA Dharmadhikari and Justice G Arul Murugan, has issued notice to the Regional Passport Officer, Chennai, the Chairperson of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), the Union Home Ministry, the Foreign Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, the Secretary, Ministry of Law and Justice, and the Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.

The court issued notice, returnable in six weeks, and adjourned the hearing.

Ganesh Kumar of Kancheepuram district has filed the PIL seeking a direction to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology to block the X and Instagram accounts operating in the name of "Saurav Das" and prevent him from making derogatory remarks against the judiciary and Supreme Court judges.

He also sought to restrain Saurav Das from making defamatory, abusive, threatening, and disparaging remarks against judges of the Supreme Court, High Courts, and subordinate courts on any media platform, including social media, under the guise of freedom of speech and expression. The restriction should also cover statements made through his friends, colleagues, agents or representatives, pending disposal of the case.

The petitioner alleged that Saurav Das had been constantly abusing the Indian judiciary while making no allegations against the judiciary of Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan or any other country. He claimed this amounted to an abuse of the Constitution and sought an inquiry into Saurav Das's alleged Nepalese ancestry.

He further alleged that, if the information was true, a person named Yogesh Sharma, having roots in Nepal, had concealed his origins and fraudulently obtained an Aadhaar card, voter ID and Indian passport. He sought a detailed probe into how these documents were obtained, the sources of funding for the alleged remarks against the judiciary and the persons providing such funds. He also sought an investigation into the bank accounts through which the funds were received.

In an official declaration which he shared on his social media handles, Jason Sanjay wrote, "I am here by writing to formally inform my official, authorized social media identities. Please be advised that the accounts listed below are the only profiles managed, owned, or authorized by me: ·Instagram: • User name - jason.sanjay_official; Link: https://www.instaram.com/jason.sanjay_official?igsh=NjcwbXRnNThtcmw0. Facebook: User name - Jason Sanjay. Twitter: User name - Jason Sanjay Official; Link - https://x.com/official_jsj."

He went on to add, "Any other accounts, pages, or profiles operating under my name, likeness, or variations of my identity on these or any other digital platforms are entirely fake. Consequently, any posts, comments, direct messages, business solicitations, or communications originating from any accounts not explicitly listed above are not mine. I hold no responsibility or liability for their content, actions, or consequences."

The director then went on to clarify about his official fan club. He said, "Please be informed that we have not authorized, launched, or recognized any official fan club, association, or community group. Any groups, pages, or accounts claiming to be our "official fan club" or "authorized community" are completely unofficial and unapproved."

For the unaware, Jason Sanjay had only recently turned a director with the release of the heist thriller 'Sigma', featuring Sundeep Kishan in the lead. The young director had, ahead of the film's release pointed out to the audience that he another debutant director stepping into "this vast ocean of talent called cinema".

In a statement ahead of the film's release, Jason Sanjay had said, "I am extremely excited about the release of Sigma, and at the same time, I am equally anxious. The hype and expectations surrounding the film are immense, and I am confident that we will live up to them."

He went on to add, "Sigma is releasing worldwide in theatres on October 2, with Sakthi Film Distributors bringing the film to audiences. We have chosen a genre and a visual colour palette that we believe will connect strongly with the expectations of today’s audience. As a team, we have put in everything possible to deliver an engaging and entertaining cinematic experience."

Sanjay Jason had gone on to point out that cinema was ultimately a medium of entertainment.

"As a team, we have left no stone unturned to make Sigma an entertaining and engaging cinematic saga. We have worked with the intention of creating a film that can cut across regional and linguistic barriers and connect with audiences across territories. I believe confidence in a project must always come with humility. With that confidence and sheer humility, I request audiences to watch Sigma in theatres from October 2 and experience the film with us," he urged audiences.

He had ended his statement saying, "I am another debutant director stepping into this vast ocean of talent called cinema. At this stage of my journey, the support and acceptance of the audience mean everything to me. Please watch Sigma, support us, and make this journey memorable."

The tradition of adorning the leader's statue with a golden armour (Kavacham) was observed with religious fervour, ahead of the 119th birth anniversary and 64th guru puja celebrations of Muthuramalinga Thevar on Friday.

On Monday, the 13.5 kg pure gold armour, which was gifted to the Pasumpon memorial by Jayalalithaa in 2014, was formally retrieved from the Bank of India branch vault on Anna Nagar main road, Madurai, with AIADMK treasurer Dindigul C Srinivasan completing the mandatory legal and bank formalities along with the memorial’s hereditary custodian, Gandhimeenal Natarajan.

Prominent party leaders, including former state ministers RB Udhayakumar and Manikandan, accompanied the organisers during the retrieval process.

Following the clearance, the high-value armour was transported under multi-tier armed police security by road to the Pasumpon village in Ramanathapuram district. Upon arrival, it was ceremoniously placed on the life-sized statue of Muthuramalinga Thevar to mark the commencement of the three-day festival.

A large contingent of police personnel accompanied the vehicle to prevent any untoward incidents.

According to the organisers, the golden armour will remain on the statue through the weekend to allow thousands of devotees and political party leaders to pay their respects, after which it will be safely returned to the bank vault on November 2.

The armour was valued at approximately Rs 4.5 crore in 2014 when it was presented. Due to its immense value, the golden armour is not kept permanently at the Pasumpon memorial; instead, it is securely stored in a designated Bank of India vault in Madurai throughout the year.

Every year, days before the anniversary celebrations commence, the AIADMK party treasurer along with the memorial trustees formally retrieve the armour from the bank vault under heavy armed security and bring it by road to Pasumpon, to be fixed onto the statue for the three-day event. Thereafter, it is returned safely to the bank locker.

Speaking to reporters at Chennai airport before leaving for Thiruvananthapuram, he accused the DMK of repeatedly attempting to destabilise the government.

“When the government was formed, the DMK claimed it would collapse within a month and later said it would not last three months. It is now nearing six months. The TVK government will continue with full strength, faith in democracy and complete its five-year term,” he said.

Responding to demands for a confidence vote every six months, Viswanathan said it might be a practice of the DMK but alleged that the party's sole objective was to prevent the TVK from governing the State.

He also accused DMK leaders of continuing to behave as though they were still in power, despite the TVK having won the election.

Stating that the Chief Minister and ministers were committed to providing an honest administration, he said the government was closely monitoring every aspect of governance. Ministers and their aides had been instructed to exercise caution, and negligence would not be tolerated, he added.

On law and order, Viswanathan said crimes, including murders, must be dealt with firmly irrespective of which government was in power.

“Such incidents should not happen under any government. The police are maintaining constant surveillance, and criminal activities will be dealt with firmly,” he said.

On allegations of irregularities in the higher education sector, the minister said a detailed examination was under way into the functioning of universities during the previous government's tenure.

“We are conducting a comprehensive review to ascertain whether any irregularities took place in universities during the previous regime. Details will be shared once the review is completed,” he said.

He also said social media had become influential across the world and could not be ignored while handling politics and administration.

Speaking to reporters at Chennai airport after arriving from Madurai, Stalin dismissed Electricity Minister Viswanathan’s allegation that the previous AIADMK and DMK governments were responsible for the electricity-related problems in the State.

“Just because a cat closes its eyes, does the whole world become dark? That is all he is doing,” Stalin said, criticising the minister’s remarks.

Asked about the minister’s claim that electrical equipment worth Rs 6,000 crore installed in Thoothukudi district had been damaged by seawater, Stalin said different people were citing different reasons, making it difficult to ascertain which version was true.

“Everyone is pointing out a different problem. We do not know what to believe. It appears that something is happening, and they are admitting it as a fact,” he said.

Responding to a question on the TVK government’s claim that it would complete its five-year term despite criticism that it would not last even six months, Stalin said its stability would become clear with time.

“Wait and watch. As time passes, we will know how it manages to survive,” he said.

On the cases being registered against former ministers and the subsequent arrests, Stalin alleged that the action was entirely politically motivated.

“We are not worried about it. We will face it legally,” he said.

Acceding to the representations of government job aspirants who sit for competitive exams, the chief minister has ordered the relaxation, the government said in an official release.

"The age relaxation will be over and above the extant norms that govern age relaxations," the release added.

Meanwhile, the Central Crime Branch (CCB) had filed a petition seeking permission to take Poyyamozhi into police custody for five days for interrogation.

The petition came up for hearing before the Special Court for trial of cases under the Prevention of Corruption Act, presided over by Special Judge LS Sathiyamurthy, on Friday. Poyyamozhi was produced before the judge.

What did Anbil Mahesh's counsel tell the court?

Appearing for Anbil, senior counsel Abudu Kumar Rajaratnam submitted that his client had lost 2-4 kg due to improper food in prison. He said that the police had already questioned him for 8 hours on September 18, following searches at his properties on September 16, and that he had fully cooperated with the investigation.

The senior counsel also alleged that even the food directed by the court had not been provided to Poyyamozhi and that the lights were kept switched on while he was sleeping. He pointed out that even terror suspect Ajmal Kasab had been provided with all necessary facilities.

What did the prosecution tell the court?

The senior counsel submitted that school representatives had sought to extend the renewal period for recognition from three to 20 years, as frequent renewals created scope for corruption. The Minister had directed officials to examine the request, following which a GO was issued after consultations among various departments.

He contended that the decision was now being portrayed as an act of corruption and that those who had sought the change were witnesses in the case, claiming that they had paid bribes. Questioning why they had not been arrested, he asked whether there was any evidence to prove that Poyyamozhi had demanded or received money and why he alone was being prosecuted for a collective decision.

The counsel further argued that Poyyamozhi and his family had worked hard for the welfare of the State and urged the authorities to treat him humanely by providing home-cooked food and medicines. He also sought a direction to the police to follow Supreme Court guidelines if custody was granted and assured full cooperation with the investigation.

Appearing for the police, Usha Rani submitted that appropriate medical facilities would be provided to him in prison.

After hearing the matter, the judge observed that the medical documents submitted by Poyyamozhi were neither denied nor disputed by the police. Considering his pancreatitis condition, the judge directed the prison authorities to provide him with low-fat and low-protein food, as prescribed by his doctor.

He also permitted Poyyamozhi to bring food from home at his own responsibility, subject to inspection by prison officials. He also permitted the former minister to wear his own clothes and directed the prison superintendent to arrange suitable food or allow him to bring it from home at his own responsibility, subject to inspection by prison officials.

Thereafter, the court adjourned the CCB’s petition seeking police custody of Poyyamozhi to November 2. The judge also directed that the former minister be produced before the court at 11 am on that day.

The woman, a second-year postgraduate student at a private college in Nagercoil, was waiting at a bus stop with a fellow student, who is also a local TVK office-bearer, when it began raining.

Christoper, a TVK central district executive committee member from Thuckalay, offered both students a lift in his car.

After dropping off the first student at Moolachel, Christoper allegedly stopped the vehicle in an isolated spot midway to Kulasekaram and sexually assaulted the victim.

When the terrified student screamed and attempted to jump out of the moving car, Christoper pacified her, dropped her near her residence, and fled.

The student disclosed the ordeal to her parents, who immediately lodged a police complaint.

Accordingly, a case has been registered against Christoper and, following a brief search while he was in hiding, police apprehended him early Thursday morning.

He was produced before a local court and remanded to judicial custody until November 12.

Seeman said the NTK has been active on the ground for 15 years without forming alliances or holding power.

He noted that while the electorate has already given opportunities to the DMK, AIADMK, and the newly formed TVK, the NTK remains the untested alternative that stands solely for the people.

"At least I should go into the Assembly and my voice should echo for the people," he told PTI Videos, explaining his decision to enter the electoral fray.

Rejecting the notion that he represented any specific caste or religion, Seeman declared himself a "common candidate" advocating for universal politics.

When asked about his chances of winning in Ambasamudram, Seeman dismissed conventional electoral calculations.

"A person who contests only where there is a chance of winning is a coward," he said.

AIADMK candidate Esakki Subaya, who won from Ambasamduram in the Assembly election held in May, resigned and later joined the ruling TVK.

According to a Maalaimalar report, the accused, identified as Sivasastri (40), a lorry driver, later surrendered before the Vanur police and was arrested.

The victim, Vikashini, was studying in Class 10 at the Government Higher Secondary School in Karasanur near Vanur. According to the police, her father had objected to her relationship with a young man whom she had reportedly met while staying at her grandmother's house in Karai village in Ranipet district.

The girl had been staying with her grandmother and attending school in Ranipet until a few months ago. After learning about her relationship, her grandmother informed her parents. Subsequently, Sivasastri brought her back to Vanur around four months ago and enrolled her in a school there.

Despite repeated warnings from her father to concentrate on her studies and end the relationship, Vikashini allegedly continued to communicate with the young man over the phone and meet him occasionally.

On Thursday night (October 29), while the girl's mother was away attending a family funeral in Ranipet, Sivasastri and his two daughters were at home. After dinner, he reportedly asked his elder daughter to stay at a relative's house nearby.

He then confronted Vikashini over her relationship and advised her to focus on her education. An argument reportedly broke out when the girl refused to end the relationship. In a fit of rage, Sivasastri allegedly strangled her to death.

Following the incident, he reportedly called his brother and informed him that he had killed his daughter. The brother rushed to the house and, with the help of neighbours, took Vikashini to the Vanur Government Hospital, where doctors declared her dead.

Meanwhile, Sivasastri surrendered before the Vanur police. The police recovered the girl's body and sent it for a postmortem examination. A case has been registered, and the accused has been arrested. Further investigation is under way.

1. Oct 30: Light rain likely over South Coastal Tamil Nadu and Western Ghats districts; dry weather elsewhere.

2. Oct 31: Light rain likely over Coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal and Western Ghats districts.

3. Nov 1: Light to moderate rain with thunderstorms and gusty winds (40-50 kmph) likely over several districts, including Tiruchirappalli, Karur, Salem, Erode and Madurai.

4. Nov 2: Heavy rain warning for isolated places in the Nilgiris; light to moderate rain likely across the rest of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal.

5. Nov 3: Moderate rain likely over Western Ghats districts and North Tamil Nadu; light rain elsewhere.

6. Nov 4: Moderate rain likely over Western Ghats districts and North Tamil Nadu; light rain elsewhere.

7. Nov 5: Light to moderate rain likely across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal.

8. Thunderstorm warning: Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph are likely at isolated places from November 1 to 3.

9. Chennai: Partly cloudy skies, with light rain possible on October 31. Maximum temperature: 35-36°C. Minimum: 26-27°C.

--- RMC's October 30 bulletin

Low-pressure system over Andaman Sea to move towards Andhra coast

According to the latest bulletin from the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), yesterday's low-pressure system that lay over the south Andaman sea and adjoining Andaman and Nicobar islands today at 8.30 am is very likely to move west-northwestwards and concentrate into a depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas of Andaman & Nicobar islands and Andaman sea tomorrow.

Thereafter, it is likely to move west-northwestwards towards Andhra Pradesh coast during the subsequent two days.

Arnab cyclone death toll rises to six in Andhra Pradesh

A 11-year-old boy died due to a wall collapse in Tenali mandal of Andhra Pradesh, taking the death toll in the very severe cyclonic storm Arnab-related incidents to six, an official said on Thursday.

Fresh low-pressure system in Bay, may intensify into cyclone, cross near Chennai

Even before Chennai could heave a sigh of relief after Cyclone Arnab went past the State’s borders to Andhra Pradesh and further north, weather experts have said a fresh low-pressure system is likely to form over the Bay of Bengal, which, if it intensifies into a cyclone, could cross the coast near the city.

According to weather experts, favourable conditions are developing over the Bay of Bengal for the formation of a new low-pressure system, which could intensify into a cyclonic system and move towards the northern parts of Tamil Nadu. If the system strengthens into a cyclone, there is a possibility of it making landfall along the coast between Chennai and Andhra Pradesh, potentially bringing significant rainfall to Chennai on November 1 and 2.

READ THE FULL STORY HERE

Arnab to further weaken into cyclonic storm, then deep depression

Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Arnab crossed the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam between 2 am and 8 am on October 28, with maximum sustained winds of 125–135 kmph and gusts up to 150 kmph. The landfall process was completed by 8 am, after which the storm weakened into a Severe Cyclonic Storm.

Arnab is likely to move north-northwestwards and weaken gradually, becoming a cyclonic storm within six hours and a deep depression over the following six hours.

Meanwhile, a low-pressure area is likely to form over the south Andaman Sea and adjoining areas within the next 24 hours, as forecast by the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, in its latest bulletin.

What is TN's rain status from Oct 28-30?

The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, in its latest bulletin, has forecast light to moderate rain at isolated places across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal from October 31 to November 2. Rain is likely over the Western Ghats districts and south Tamil Nadu on October 28–30, while dry weather is expected to prevail over the rest of the State during this period.

Heavy rain is likely at isolated places in Tiruvallur district on November 3, while light to moderate rain is forecast over North Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal, with light to moderate rain also likely over South Tamil Nadu.

Maximum temperatures are expected to rise by 2-3°C at isolated pockets over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal until October 30, and remain above normal by 2-3°C until November 1.

Andhra worst hit by Cyclone Arnab, 3 killed

Andhra Pradesh bore the brunt of Cyclone Arnab, with three people killed and 31 houses damaged, a senior National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) officer said on Wednesday.

The disaster response and rescue teams of the Centre and those of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha are now bracing to tackle the effects of rainfall, which is expected to continue in the two states and adjoining areas, NDRF Inspector General (IG) Narendra Singh Bundela told reporters here during a press briefing.

The cyclone has made landfall near Yanam, Puducherry, and has weakened from a very serious cyclonic storm to a severe cyclonic storm. It is estimated that it will gradually lose strength to convert into a cyclonic storm and finally into a deep depression by the evening, he said.

Cyclone Arnab-induced rain batters Odisha, alert sounded in southern districts

Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall triggered by cyclone Arnab has battered southern Odisha, prompting the state government to evacuate over 30,000 people and place several districts on high alert, Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said on Wednesday.

The government is focusing on Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri and Nabarangpur districts, where people are being shifted to safer places.

The cyclone disrupted train services, with more than 50 trains cancelled along the eastern coast.

Mahendragarh in Gajapati district recorded the highest rainfall at 249.9 mm, followed by Pottangi in Koraput at 188 mm, Mohana in Gajapati at 168.8 mm, Ganjam station at 161.4 mm and Similiguda in Koraput at 143.1 mm.

-- PTI

Cyclone Arnab crosses Andhra coast; damages roads, electric poles

Cyclone Arnab crossed the Andhra coast early on Wednesday, leaving a trail of destruction with uprooted trees and electric poles and damaged roads, while two persons were electrocuted in separate instances, officials said.

The very severe cyclonic storm Arnab crossed the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts between 2 am- 8 am, before weakening into a severe cyclonic storm, the weather office said.

"The cyclone crossed the Andhra Pradesh & Yanam coasts to the Southwest of Yanam near latitude 16.450 N and 81.90 E, about 20 km east-northeast of Narsapur, 40 km southwest of Yanam and 60 km southwest of Kakinada," the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said in an official release.

Cyclone 'Arnab' likely to bring heavy rain in parts of Bengal till Oct 31

 The IMD has forecast heavy rainfall in parts of West Bengal till October 31 under the influence of cyclone 'Arnab', which made landfall in the Andhra Pradesh coast in the early hours of Wednesday.

Moderate to heavy rain lashed the coastal and some southern districts of West Bengal on Tuesday, it said.

Heavy rainfall will occur in the coastal and western districts of the state until Friday morning and over the sub-Himalayan region till Saturday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said in a bulletin.

Cyclone Arnab: Two electrocuted in separate incidents in Andhra

Two people, including a 55-year-old woman, died of electrocution in separate incidents in Andhra Pradesh during Cyclone Arnab, officials said on Wednesday.

A senior district official said a 53-year-old man died on Tuesday night after coming into contact with a live wire that snapped over an agricultural field channel.

In the second incident, a woman died after accidentally stepping on an exposed live wire outside her home in Yellamanchili town in Anakapalli district on Wednesday morning, police said.

-- PTI

Odisha evacuates over 30,000 people as cyclone Arnab triggers alert in southern districts

The Odisha government has evacuated over 30,000 people to safety, with the entire southern region of the state remaining on high alert on Wednesday after the landfall process of very severe cyclonic storm Arnab was completed along the Andhra Pradesh-Yanam coast, a minister said.

Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said the state expects the cyclone to affect all southern districts, with Malkangiri likely to be the worst hit.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone crossed the Andhra Pradesh-Yanam coast between 2 am and 8 am as a very severe cyclonic storm, with maximum sustained wind speeds of 125-135 kmph.

Cyclone Arnab: No loss of life reported in Andhra, says CM Naidu

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday said no loss of life has been reported so far following Cyclone Arnab, crediting advance precautionary measures taken by the administration for preventing casualties.

Speaking during a teleconference with 32,000 personnel, including district collectors, the Chief Minister directed officials to minimise property damage and restore normalcy in cyclone-affected areas at the earliest.

"No loss of life has been reported so far due to Cyclone Arnab. The advance precautionary measures taken by the administrative machinery helped prevent casualties," said Naidu in an official press release.

Very severe cyclone Arnab crosses Andhra coast, weakens into severe cyclonic storm

Very severe cyclonic storm Arnab crossed the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts on Wednesday morning before weakening into a severe cyclonic storm.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the landfall process is complete with the weather system moving entirely over land.

Peak wind speeds reached up to 135 kmph and gusts of up to 150 kmph.

Schools closed in parts of J'khand till Oct 29 in view of cyclone 'Arnab'

The Jharkhand government has ordered the closure of schools till October 29 in several districts in the wake of rainfall triggered by cyclone 'Arnab', which made landfall in the Andhra Pradesh coast in the early hours of Wednesday, officials said.

Ranchi, West Singhbhum, East Singhbhum and Simdega district administrations said schools will remain closed on Wednesday and Thursday.

Cyclone Arnab's landfall process continues along Andhra coast

The landfall process of “very severe” cyclonic storm Arnab was continuing along the Andhra Pradesh coast on Wednesday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said with the storm’s centre remaining very close to the coastline.

The northern spiral band of the cyclone has further entered the land and the landfall process is expected to continue for the next three hours, it said.

Andhra, Odisha step up preparations as cyclone Arnab hurtles towards east coast

Andhra Pradesh and Odisha have stepped up preparations, including moving people to safer locations, as "very severe" cyclonic storm Arnab hurtles towards the east coast and is expected to make landfall within the next 24 hours, officials said on Tuesday.

In its latest bulletin, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the cyclone was over the Bay of Bengal, about 170 km south-southeast of Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, at 11.30 am. It is likely to move west-northwestward until evening, before crossing the coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, close to Yanam, by Wednesday forenoon.

The system is expected to make landfall with maximum sustained wind speeds of 125-135 kmph, gusting to 150 kmph, the agency said.

According to the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA), the cyclone's impact is being felt, with heavy rainfall expected in the north coastal districts shortly. Srikakulam district is likely to experience heavy rain accompanied by strong winds, while strong winds have already begun in Visakhapatnam and Kakinada.

--- PTI

What is the TN rain status?

According to the latest bulletin by the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), light to moderate rain is likely at isolated places in the Western Ghats and southern Tamil Nadu on October 27, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds of 30-40 kmph at one or two places. The rest of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal are likely to experience mainly dry weather.

On October 28, the Western Ghats may receive light to moderate rain, while southern Tamil Nadu is likely to see light showers. Light rain is forecast in the Western Ghats on October 29 and 30, followed by light rain at isolated places across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal on October 31.

On November 1 and 2, light to moderate rain is likely in north Tamil Nadu, the Western Ghats, Puducherry and Karaikal, while other parts of Tamil Nadu may receive light showers, the RMC added.

Bengal's coastal districts get rain as Cyclone Arnab advances towards Andhra coast

Coastal areas of West Bengal saw moderate rain on Tuesday afternoon as the very severe cyclonic storm Arnab hurtled toward the Andhra Pradesh coast, with landfall expected the next day.

The storm, likely to cross the Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry's Yanam coasts on October 28, will bring moderate rainfall across all districts of South Bengal until October 29, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

It may bring heavy rain in some districts of the state till October 30.

Chhattisgarh on alert for heavy rains due to Cyclone Arnab

The Chhattisgarh government has directed all district collectors to stay on alert for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall due to Cyclone Arnab, ordering round-the-clock relief camps, uninterrupted medical services and heightened vigilance, with zero casualties as the goal, officials said on Tuesday.

Cyclone Arnab to trigger heavy rains in parts of Jharkhand, govt asks districts to remain alert

Cyclone Arnab, which is expected to make landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast on Wednesday, is set to bring heavy rainfall in parts of Jharkhand for three days, prompting the state government to ask district administrations to maintain vigil, officials said.

A 'yellow' alert (be updated) of heavy rain has been issued for Ranchi, Khunti, Simdega, Gumla, Lohardaga, Saraikela-Kharsawan, East and West Singhbhum for 24 hours starting from 8.30 am on October 28, the India Meteorological Department said.

The rain intensity is likely to increase thereafter, with IMD issuing an 'orange' alert (be prepared) for seven Jharkhand districts - Garhwa, Palamu, Latehar, Lohardaga, Gumla, Simdega and West Singhbhum - for 24 hours till 8.30 am on October 30, according to a weather bulletin.

Heavy rains lash parts of Odisha as cyclone Arnab hurtles towards east coast

Heavy rains, accompanied by strong winds, lashed parts of Odisha on Tuesday as very severe cyclonic storm Arnab moved towards the east coast, with landfall expected along the Andhra Pradesh shore within the next 24 hours, the IMD said.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange warning, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall of 12-20 cm, for six districts -- Puri, Gajapati, Ganjam, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri.

The districts under the yellow warning, indicating rainfall of 7-11 cm, are Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, Khurda, Nayagarh, Jagatsinghpur, Nuapada, Balangir and Boudh.

The storm is likely to move west-northwestwards until the evening of October 27, before turning northwestwards and crossing the Andhra Pradesh coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, close to Yanam, by the forenoon of October 28.

31 houses collapsed in Tiruchy after rains

As many as 31 houses collapsed across Tiruchy district on Monday as the North East monsoon rains continued unabated.

The rains had lashed the central region for the past few days, after which water entered several residential areas in the region, particularly in Tiruchy district. Sources said that on Monday, a tiled-roofed house belonging to Muthukumar in Pullambadi collapsed. Similarly, the house of Rasu from Manapparai collapsed after the walls were soaked in the continuous rainfall.

READ THE FULL STORY

14 killed in lightning strikes, tourist entry barred to hill stations as rains batter TN

Tamil Nadu Revenue Minister K A Sengottaiyan on Monday said 14 people have died due to lightning strikes since the onset of the Northeast monsoon, even as intensifying rains triggered red alerts and prompted authorities to bar tourist entry to major hill stations.

Detailing the state's monsoon relief efforts, Sengottaiyan said families of the deceased have been provided Rs 4 lakh each as compensation.

He firmly dismissed media reports claiming 35 rain-related fatalities in a single day.

Red alert in Kodaikanal

With the Northeast monsoon intensifying across Tamil Nadu, a red alert has been sounded in Kodaikanal, keeping tourists away and leaving popular spots in the hill station deserted.

The continuous downpour has not only impacted the local hospitality and tourism sectors but has also severely disrupted the daily lives of residents in Dindigul district. In the Moonjikkal-Dobikana (Topikkanal) area of Kodaikanal, over 20 houses were flooded, forcing residents to spend sleepless nights safeguarding their belongings and livestock. - PTI

Cyclone Arnab likely to intensify into severe cyclonic storm by midnight today

Cyclonic Storm Arnab over the Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by midnight on October 26 and a very severe cyclonic storm on October 27.

It is expected to move northwestwards and cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, near Yanam, by the forenoon of October 28.

At landfall, the storm is likely to bring maximum sustained winds of 115–125 kmph, with gusts reaching 140 kmph.

At 8.30 am on October 26, Cyclonic Storm Arnab was centred over the east-central and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal.

It was located 580 km southeast of Gopalpur in Odisha, 610 km east-southeast of Visakhapatnam, 620 km northwest of Sri Vijaya Puram in the Andaman Islands, 690 km east-southeast of Kakinada, 790 km east-southeast of Machilipatnam and 860 km east-southeast of Bapatla in Andhra Pradesh, according to the IMD.

Cyclone warning: No 1 signal hoisted at 9 ports in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry

 Cyclone warning signal no. 1 has been hoisted at nine ports in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry as strong winds prevail amid the likelihood of a cyclone forming over the Bay of Bengal, according to officials.

The ports where the warning signal has been hoisted are Chennai, Ennore, Kattupalli, Cuddalore, Thoothukudi, Pamban, Puducherry, Nagapattinam and Karaikal.

Red alert for Theni, Dindigul, Madurai amid heavy rain forecast for TN

A red alert has been issued for Theni, Dindigul and Madurai districts, with the Regional Meteorological Centre forecasting extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places on Sunday as the northeast monsoon remains vigorous over Tamil Nadu.

The three districts could receive more than 20 centimetres of rain at one or two locations, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds.

As deep depression forms, IMD warns of heavy rain in Chennai, across Tamil Nadu from today

A depression over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a deep depression and further develop into a cyclonic storm by the morning of October 26, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Saturday, forecasting heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in several parts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry over the next two days.

The system, moving west-northwestwards, is expected to intensify as it approaches the west-central Bay of Bengal near the Andhra Pradesh coast by October 28.

The IMD has forecast extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places in Theni, Dindigul and Madurai on Sunday. Heavy to very heavy rain accompanied by gusty winds of 40-50 kmph is likely in Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Tiruchy, Karur, Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Tirupur and Sivaganga, besides Karaikal.

Over 150 school students rescued after landslide blocks Ooty road

Rescue personnel rescued over 150 school students trapped by a landslide on the Mettupalayam-Ooty road by using ropes. Landslides at more than 10 locations along the Udhagamandalam road have completely disrupted traffic.

Bus driver killed, conductor injured as mudslide, uprooted trees hit TNSTC bus in Nilgiris

A bus driver was killed and the conductor seriously injured after a mudslide and uprooted trees fell on a TNSTC bus near Burliar in the Nilgiris district on Saturday, police said.

The incident occurred in the early hours when the bus was travelling from Coonoor to Mettupalayam amid heavy rain.

The Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation bus was driven by Janagaraj, a resident of Kooratty village near Ooty, while Kesavan was the conductor, police said.

The bus had three passengers, who got off at Kurumpadi shortly before it reached Burliar. Only the driver and conductor were on board when the mudslide struck, police said.

READ FULL STORY HERE

Rain forecast till 1 pm in six Tamil Nadu districts

Light to moderate rain accompanied by light thunder and lightning is likely in six Tamil Nadu districts till 1 pm on Saturday, according to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai.

The six districts likely to receive rain are the Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Dharmapuri, Erode, Krishnagiri and Salem.

Schools closed in Tamil Nadu's Erode district today

Due to heavy rain, all schools in Erode district (government, aided, and private) are closed today (October 24).

Well-marked low-pressure over Bay likely to intensify into depression today

The low-pressure area over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal, reported on Friday, has intensified into a well-marked low-pressure area as of 5.30 am on Saturday, October 24, according to the latest bulletin issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The system is likely to intensify into a depression on Saturday and further strengthen into a cyclonic storm by the morning of October 26.

According to the IMD, the well-marked low-pressure area is likely to persist over the same region and intensify into a depression on October 24. It is then expected to move west-northwestwards and strengthen into a deep depression on October 25 before becoming a cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal by the morning of October 26.

Heavy downpours lash Tamil Nadu, roads flooded; Virudhunagar teen killed in wall collapse

Heavy showers caused waterlogging in low-lying areas across Tamil Nadu, and districts such as Madurai and Virudhunagar received bounteous rain, bringing down temperatures in the region.

A 17-year-old girl died, and her mother was injured after a wall of their rented house collapsed due to heavy rains at Mettamalai near Sattur in Virudhunagar district on Thursday night, police said on Friday. Sattur and its surrounding areas had experienced heavy downpours for over five hours prior to the collapse.

The deceased was identified as Muthuchelvi, a Class 12 student. Her mother, Solaiyammal, who sustained injuries in the incident, was admitted to the Sattur GH.

Meanwhile, the water level in the state's 89 reservoirs stood at 27.9% of their total capacity as on October 22, retaining 62.53 TMC against a capacity of 224.3 TMC. The storage rose by 1.02 TMC in the last 24 hours, but remained 134.4 TMC below the corresponding period last year, sources said.

The IMD said that a low-pressure area formed over East Central and adjoining Southeast Bay of Bengal at 5.30 am on Friday is most likely to persist over the same region and intensify into a depression on October 24. Thereafter, it is very likely to move west-northwestwards and intensify further into a deep depression on October 25 and into a cyclonic storm over the Westcentral Bay of Bengal by October 26 morning.

Heavy rain leaves Madurai under water, hundreds of homes flooded; Rs 23 crore drainage projects planned

Heavy rain that lashed Madurai district for more than four to five hours from Thursday evening inundated hundreds of houses, flooded major roads and severely disrupted traffic, leaving residents struggling to access essential services.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, several low-lying areas, including Sellur, Mattuthavani Vegetable Market, Koripalayam, Anna Nagar and Periyar Bus Stand, were submerged in knee-deep water following the downpour. In Sellur, floodwaters entered hundreds of houses along the 50-foot and 60-foot road stretches, causing considerable hardship to residents overnight.

Meanwhile, the Corporation has announced plans to undertake drainage projects worth ₹23 crore to address recurring waterlogging near Madurai Railway Station and along the Masi streets. Officials said the projects would be launched soon to improve rainwater drainage in these flood-prone areas.

What is the current TN weather status?

The low-pressure area that formed over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal on Friday morning persisted over the same region, with its associated cyclonic circulation extending up to 5.8 km above mean sea level, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said in its Friday afternoon bulletin. 

The system is likely to intensify into a depression on October 24, a deep depression on October 25 and a cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal by the morning of October 26, the IMD added. 

The system is then expected to move west-northwestwards towards the north Andhra Pradesh and adjoining south Odisha coasts over the following two days. If it develops into a cyclone, it will be named Arnab, as suggested by Bangladesh.

The IMD also reported that the low-pressure area over the southeast Arabian Sea and adjoining Lakshadweep region persists, with a trough extending across Kerala to the north coastal Tamil Nadu coast.

Red alert for extremely heavy rain in Kanniyakumari, Tirunelveli today (October 23)

The Regional Meterological Centre (RMC) has issued a red alert for Kanniyakumari and Tirunelveli districts, forecasting extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places on Friday (October 23). Heavy to very heavy rainfall is also likely at isolated places in the Nilgiris, Coimbatore and Theni districts.

Heavy rain is forecast in Erode, Salem, Namakkal, Karur, Tiruchirappalli, Tenkasi, Dindigul, Madurai, Virudhunagar, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Sivaganga, Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Cuddalore, Villuppuram, Tiruppur, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Tirupattur, Tiruvannamalai and Kallakurichi districts, as well as Puducherry and Karaikal.

Very heavy rain forecast in several districts

The RMC has forecast very heavy rain (11.6–20.4 cm in 24 hours) at isolated places in Kanniyakumari, Nilgiris and Coimbatore districts on Friday (October 23), warranting an orange alert, while a yellow alert has been issued for heavy rain (6.5–11.5 cm) in several other districts, including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Ramanathapuram, Madurai, Theni, Dindigul, Erode and Tiruppur, besides Puducherry and Karaikal.

On Saturday (October 24), very heavy rain is likely in Kanniyakumari, Coimbatore, Nilgiris and the Ghat areas of Tirunelveli district.

On Sunday (October 25), very heavy rain is forecast in Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Pudukkottai, Madurai, Dindigul, Sivaganga and Theni districts. Heavy rain is likely in several other districts, including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Madurai and Tiruppur.

On Monday (October 26), very heavy rain is likely in Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Theni, Madurai, Sivaganga, Ramanathapuram and Pudukkottai districts.

Bay Of Bengal low-pressure area may intensify into cyclone by October 26

With widespread rainfall continuing across Tamil Nadu, a new low-pressure area that formed over the Bay of Bengal at 5.30 am on Friday (October 23) is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm by October 26, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The system has formed under the influence of an upper-air cyclonic circulation over the southeast and adjoining east-central Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea. It is likely to intensify into a depression on Saturday (October 24), a deep depression on Sunday (October 25), and a cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal by Monday (October 26).

The system is expected to move west-northwestwards towards the north Andhra Pradesh and adjoining south Odisha coasts over the following two days. If it develops into a cyclone, it will be named ‘Arnab’, as suggested by Bangladesh.

Under the influence of this system, further heavy rain is likely across Tamil Nadu. The RMC has forecast very heavy rainfall of 11.6–20.4 cm at isolated places in Kanniyakumari, Nilgiris and Coimbatore districts on Friday.

Meanwhile, another low-pressure area that was over the Comorin region and adjoining parts of south Tamil Nadu and Kerala has moved over the southwest Arabian Sea, off the south Kerala coast, on Friday morning, according to the IMD.

Schools closed in four Tamil Nadu districts today

Schools in Villupuram, Kallakurichi and Vellore districts have been declared closed on Friday (October 23) due to heavy rain. In Tiruvannamalai district, Collector Vandana Garg has declared a holiday for both schools and colleges.

Several parts of Tamil Nadu have been experiencing widespread heavy rain since Thursday night, prompting the respective district administrations to announce the closures.

Several parts of Tamil Nadu continued to receive rain on Thursday (October 22) as the northeast monsoon remained active, swelling waterfalls and boosting reservoir levels across the State. Heavy overnight showers caused waterlogging in parts of Chennai and several southern districts, with Sankarankoil among the worst-affected areas.

Key updates from TN districts on October 22:

-- Kanniyakumari: Schools closed after heavy overnight rain, thunder and lightning. Homes inundated in Kollamcode.

-- Tirunelveli and Tenkasi: Rain holidays already announced for schools.

-- Madurai: Heavy rain has submerged over 140 acres of newly planted paddy fields. Farmers blame undredged irrigation canals for crop damage and are seeking compensation from the State government.

-- Cauvery delta: Farmers said initial showers were sporadic and insufficient to sustain the samba paddy crop.

-- Reservoir storage: Northeast monsoon rains have boosted inflows into drinking water reservoirs and irrigation dams. Chennai’s six key reservoirs have reached 37% of their combined capacity. Vaigai dam stands at 44.88 feet, Mullaperiyar at 116.90 feet, Papanasam at 48 feet and Perunchani at 44.35 feet.

---- PTI

-----------------

• Heavy to very heavy rain: Forecast in 17 districts, including Tirunelveli, Kanyakumari, Madurai, Thanjavur and Nagapattinam, over the next 24 hours.

• Heavy rain: Expected in 10 districts, including Tiruvallur, Villuppuram, Cuddalore and Tiruppur.

• Chennai: Moderate rain likely over the next two days, with heavy downpours possible on October 24 and 25.

READ FULL REPORT

What is the current TN weather status?

An official told PTI that the low-pressure area remained active over the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining Tamil Nadu coast since October 21 evening. It is very likely to move west-northwestwards and under its influence a low-pressure area is likely to form over Southeast and adjoining East central Bay of Bengal around October 23. Then it is likely to move northwestwards and intensify further.

Meteorologists are also tracking a secondary upper-air cyclonic circulation over the North Andaman Sea. This separate system is forecast to move west-northwestward and likely consolidate into a second low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal around Friday.

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected over the next 24 hours in districts including Tuticorin, Tirunelveli, Kanyakumari, Tenkasi, Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram, Theni, Dindigul, Madurai, Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Sivaganga, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, and Mayiladuthurai.

Low-pressure over Bay to bring heavy rain to Tamil Nadu; Chennai to get moderate showers for 3 days

A low-pressure area has formed over the Southwest Bay of Bengal off the Tamil Nadu coast and it will trigger heavy to very heavy rainfall across the State. Under the influence of an upper-air cyclonic circulation, the system developed on Wednesday and continues to persist over the same region. The associated cyclonic circulation extends up to 5.8 km above mean sea level.

According to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), heavy to very heavy rain is likely at isolated places over Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, Kanniyakumari, Tenkasi, Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram, Theni, Dindigul, Madurai, Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Sivaganga, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam and Mayiladuthurai and the Karaikal area on Thursday.

READ FULL REPORT HERE

Monsoon safety advisory for public, EB staff

The Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL) has issued a set of safety guidelines for the public and electricity department employees during the northeast monsoon, warning of the risk of electrical leakage, accidents and fatalities caused by heavy rain, strong winds, thunder and lightning.

• Stay away from electric poles, transformers, distribution boxes, power lines and stay wires.

• Avoid walking through stagnant rainwater near electrical installations.

• Inform the EB department about damaged infrastructure.

• Do not touch or remove snapped power lines on roads or in water

• Maintain a safe distance, warn others, particularly children, and alert the department

• Tree branches on power lines should not be cut or removed by the public.

• During thunderstorms and lightning, take shelter in safe buildings and avoid open spaces, isolated trees, electric poles and overhead wires.

• Stay away from open windows and metal grills.

• Avoid using electrical appliances and telephones during lightning.

• Do not operate electrical appliances with wet hands or touch damp switches and water-leaking walls.

• If any electrical leakage, disconnect power supply but only if it’s safe to do so.

• Do not tie cattle to electric poles or wires

• Do not dry clothes on those wires or use them to support banners and temporary structures.

• Install Residual Current Circuit Breakers (RCCBs) through qualified electricians

• Do a periodic check of your home wiring and protective devices

• RCCBs alone cannot guarantee complete protection without proper insulation.

For power outages, snapped wires, electrical leakage and damage to electricity infrastructure, call Minnagam 94987 94987 by phone or WhatsApp

EB staff must obtain the necessary permission before undertaking electrical work, verify that the power supply has been disconnected and follow prescribed safety procedures, including earthing, before carrying out repairs.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment, including helmets, insulating gloves, safety footwear and safety belts.

• Repair work in waterlogged areas should begin only after a proper safety inspection.

• Field staff must respond promptly to snapped wires, leaning electric poles, damaged transformers and tree branches obstructing power lines.

• Barricades and warning signs must be installed around hazardous locations to prevent public access.

• Priority should be given to restoring power to drinking water supply installations, hospitals, telecommunications facilities and crowded public places.

• Staff must keep poles, wires, transformers, repair equipment, protective gear and vehicles ready for emergencies.

• Avoidhazardous work during heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds.

• Repairs should be undertaken only after ensuring the safety of personnel, with prompt coordination among field teams to address emergency complaints.

Chennai rains: Waterlogging, uprooted trees, battered roads greet denizens after overnight showers

Heavy overnight rainfall on Tuesday damaged the city’s main and interior roads, severely disrupting the morning commute. Waterlogging was reported in several areas, which were drained only by 11 am.

In AGS Colony, 3rd Main Road and the interior streets of Velachery, stagnated water took much longer to recede. Similarly, in Subramania Nagar 2nd Street and adjoining streets in Kodambakkam, trees were uprooted in several places and removed later.

In the morning, Bazullah Road in T Nagar, Taramani-Velachery Road, OMR, Aziz Nagar, Subramaniyan Nagar and School Road in Valluvar Kottam were waterlogged. Trees were also uprooted on Police Quarters Road in T Nagar and on 11th Street, TNHB Colony, Korattur, and later it was cleared.

READ FULL REPORT HERE

Potholes plague Tambaram-Velachery road

The Tambaram-Velachery Road has been riddled with potholes for several months due to delays in pipeline-laying work for a seawater desalination project. Recent northeast monsoon rains have filled the potholes and excavated trenches with water, making them difficult to spot and disrupting traffic. The stretch, which connects Tambaram and Guindy and passes through several residential areas, educational institutions and commercial hubs, has also witnessed frequent accidents.

Last night, a private hospital ambulance lost control after hitting a water-filled pothole, struck a median and overturned. The driver and a nurse sustained injuries and were taken to Tambaram District Government Hospital in a 108 ambulance. No patient was inside the vehicle at the time. Residents have urged authorities to speed up the pipeline work and restore the damaged road. The Highways Department said repairs could begin only after the pipeline work is completed and the road is handed back to it.

Chennai streets inundated after overnight heavy rain spell

Parts of Chennai were flooded, and streets were inundated after a night of heavy rain. The city recorded an overall average rainfall of 70.25 mm over the 24 hours ending at 6 am on October 21.

Chennai Corporation to spend Rs 21.80 crore on pothole repairs

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is carrying out pothole repair work across all 15 zones at an estimated cost of Rs 21.80 crore as a precautionary measure ahead of the Northeast monsoon.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, Rs 9.25 crore has been allocated for repairs on bus routes and Rs 12.55 crore for internal roads. The work involves filling potholes using concrete and tar mixtures, in line with the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's instructions.

So far, 4,691 potholes have been filled and repaired across Zones 1 to 15. The Corporation said the repair work is still under way.

Heavy rain continues in Chennai as rain clouds move towards city, says Tamil Nadu Weatherman

Pradeep John who runs the Tamil Nadu Weatherman handle has warned that rainfall is likely to increase across Chennai as rain clouds move towards the city.

In a post on his X account, Pradeep John said several locations in the Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur and Kancheepuram (KTCC) region had recorded more than 100 mm of rainfall, putting the region at the top of Tamil Nadu's rainfall chart.

He said more rain clouds were moving towards Chennai and several places in the city could cross the 100-mm mark before 8.30 am. By the time rainfall readings are reset at 8.30 am, some locations could record between 100 mm and 150 mm of rain, he added.

Rainfall likely to increase

The rain clouds moving towards Chennai are expected to increase rainfall across the city. The weather system is bringing rain at a time when many people are returning to Chennai from their hometowns after the holidays.

Puzhal lake storage crosses 5 TMC

Meanwhile, the water storage in Puzhal Lake, one of Chennai's key drinking water reservoirs, has crossed 5 TMC as of October 21, 2026.

Pradeep John said the lake was receiving a good inflow because of its proximity to Chennai. However, more rainfall is needed in the catchment area to sustain the inflow.

He added that light rainfall was expected over the next three days, which could help maintain a steady inflow into the reservoir.

City logs 1,212 rain-related complaints in 24 hours, GCC deploys extra pumps

Up to 5 am on October 21, a total of 1,212 complaints were registered. The majority pertained to waterlogging and inundation, alongside over 50 grievances concerning tree falls and non-functional streetlights, commissioner said.  Most waterlogging and tree-falling complaints have already been cleared. Streetlight repairs have been mandated for resolution within 24 hours. Complaints are strictly closed in the system only after field engineers upload before-and-after photographs.

The majority of complaints originated from the Core City region attributed to higher population density and awareness of the 1913 helpline alongside inputs from North Chennai zones like Manali and Madhavaram.

Complaints continue to be tracked across multiple channels, including the 1913 helpline, social media, the online web portal, the PGR mobile app, and media reports, he added.

RMC issues rain alert till 10 am

The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) issued an alert valid until 10 am forecasting light to moderate rain with thunderstorms and lightning at isolated places across Chennai, Tiruvallur, Ranipettai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Nagappattinam, Thiruvarur, Thanjavur, Pudukottai, Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, and Kanyakumari districts, as well as Karaikal and Puducherry

Overnight heavy rain spell in Chennai

Very heavy rainfall, recorded in three areas, led by Vadapalani with 132.9 mm, Saidapet with 125.2 mm, and Alandur with 119.4 mm. Heavy to moderate spells at Maduravoyal recorded 112.5 mm, Madipakkam saw 114.6 mm, Valasaravakkam logged 109.6 mm, Nungambakkam recorded 106.8 mm, Adyar registered 104.1 mm, and Korattur hit 96 mm.

TN rain forecast: Here are the details

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), widespread rainfall is likely over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal today (October 21) and tomorrow (October 22), followed by isolated to scattered rainfall between October 23 and October 26.

Heavy to very heavy rain, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching 40 to 50 kmph is likely to occur at isolated places over Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, and Kanniyakumari districts on Wednesday. Heavy to very heavy rainfall will continue in Tenkasi, Virudhunagar, and Ramanathapuram districts on Thursday.

Under similar wind conditions, heavy rain with thunderstorms and lightning is expected at one or two places over the Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Erode, Tiruppur, Namakkal, Karur, Theni, Dindigul, Tenkasi, Madurai, Virudhunagar, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Sivagangai, and Ramanathapuram, as well as the Karaikal area.

In Chennai, the maximum temperature is expected to hover around 30 degrees Celsius, with the minimum temperature dipping to 25 degrees Celsius on Wednesday.

Holidays declared in schools in 5 Tamil Nadu districts on Wednesday (October 21)

CHENNAI: Schools in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram and Ranipet districts will remain closed on Wednesday (October 21) following heavy overnight rain, with district collectors announcing a holiday.

Heavy rain lashed several parts of Chennai, Chengalpattu and Tiruvallur districts through the night, while the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has forecast further rainfall.

Meanwhile, the upper-air cyclonic circulation over the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining Tamil Nadu coast persists, with a low-pressure area likely to form over the same region within the next 12 hours, according to the Indian Meteorological Department's bulletin on Tuesday night.

Another upper-air cyclonic circulation over the Gulf of Thailand and adjoining areas of Thailand and Myanmar is likely to move into the north Andaman Sea by today morning. Under its influence, a low-pressure area is likely to form over the southeast and adjoining east-central Bay of Bengal around October 23 and intensify over the following three days.

Due to the twin weather systems, heavy to very heavy rain is likely to continue across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal until October 26, the RMC has forecast. Thunderstorms and lightning, accompanied by gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph, are likely at one or two places across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal until October 26.

Responding to opposition criticism over the October 26 jailbreak, Energy Resources and Law Minister R Nirmal Kumar acknowledged lapses in prison administration and said the government was reviewing security arrangements across prisons.

"There are certain protocols for opening gates and maintaining keys. We are identifying these process lapses and examining security gaps in all prisons," Kumar told reporters here.

The state government was in the process of procuring CCTV cameras and scanning machines and increasing the strength of prison personnel. Measures to upgrade security had been initiated, with separate budgetary allocations made to turn all prisons into high-security facilities, he said.

The inmates lodged at the sub-jail in Theni district allegedly faked a medical emergency and overpowered the guards after a cell door was opened on Monday night. They subsequently assaulted other guards, snatched the keys and escaped. However, their escape was short-lived, as police teams launched an intensive search operation and recaptured them in batches. Eight of the escapees were found hiding in thickets with the help of drones.

Nine prison guards and officials were suspended over the security lapse. The state government also transferred DGP Sandeep Rai Rathore from the post of head of Prison Services and appointed ADGP K Shankar in his place.

A key procedural failure was the alleged violation of standard night-time cell-opening protocols. Prison procedures require adequate security personnel to be present before cells housing high-risk or multiple remand prisoners are opened during lock-up hours, sources said.

When the inmates allegedly simulated an epileptic seizure to create the impression of a medical emergency, the duty warders opened the cell to provide assistance instead of first alerting the control room and securing adequate reinforcement, the sources said.

There was also a significant delay between the escape and the formal alert to the local police, giving the fugitives time to scatter across the district, sources said.

Further, despite five of the escapees being accused in high-profile cases, the sub-jail lacked additional internal security barriers that could have prevented them from escaping after breaching the primary cell, they said.

Kumar acknowledged that a shortage of prison personnel had compromised security enforcement.

The sub-jail was functioning with personnel well below its sanctioned strength, with only 11 staff members available during the night shift to manage the facility. The shortage allegedly enabled the inmates to overpower the guards, seize the keys and escape through the main entrance, sources said.

The minister pointed to deficiencies in security infrastructure, such as emergency alarm systems, automatic locking mechanisms and CCTV coverage. These shortcomings had hampered real-time monitoring of incidents and the ability to secure the facility, he said.

Deputy Superintendent of Theni prison suspended 

The Prisons Department on Friday suspended Nageswaran, Deputy Superintendent of Theni District Jail, in connection with the escape of 17 inmates, a senior prison officer said. This follows the earlier suspension of nine prison personnel. Meanwhile, the 17 inmates are being transferred to various central prisons, including those in Palayamkottai, Coimbatore and Salem, the officer said. 

In its latest bulletin, the RMC said the system, which lay over the region at 8.30 am on Friday, is very likely to move west-northwestwards and concentrate into a depression. It is then expected to move towards the Andhra Pradesh coast over the subsequent two days.

Meanwhile, light rain is likely at isolated places over south coastal Tamil Nadu and the Western Ghats districts on Friday. On Saturday, light rain is likely over coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal and the Western Ghats districts, according to the RMC.

On Sunday, light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph is likely at isolated places over several districts, including Tiruchirappalli, Karur, Namakkal, Salem, Erode and Madurai, besides the Western Ghats and north coastal Tamil Nadu.

Heavy rain warning for Nilgiris

The RMC has also forecast heavy rain at isolated places in the Nilgiris district on November 2, while light to moderate rain is expected over the rest of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal.

On November 3 and 4, moderate rain is likely over the Western Ghats districts and North Tamil Nadu, with light rain expected elsewhere. Light to moderate rain is forecast across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal on November 5.

Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph are also likely at isolated places between November 1 and 3.

North Tamil Nadu rainfall prospects depend on system's intensity

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Weatherman, the social media handle run by weather blogger Pradeep John, said the system could bring rainfall to north Tamil Nadu, but its intensity and track would determine the extent of precipitation.

He said weather models were currently keeping the system at depression intensity. "If it remains weak and does not intensify significantly, North Tamil Nadu has a chance of receiving good rainfall," he said. But if it intensifies into a cyclone, the rainfall prospects could diminish as the circulation and associated rainfall pattern could shift away from the region, he added.

Honouring the freedom fighter and spiritual leader for cherishing patriotism and spirituality as his two eyes, the chief minister specifically praised Thevar's powerful, courageous oratory skills that sparked the flame of freedom among the public.

He highlighted how Thevar passionately spread Netaji Subash Chandra Bose's ideals, mobilised crucial support for the Indian National Army (INA), and fought relentlessly for the nation's independence.

In a post on 'X', Vijay stressed that Muthuramalinga Thevar transcended the boundaries of caste and religion, prioritising humanism as his very life breath, and called upon the people to continuously tread on this idealistic path.

Earlier, the CM paid floral tributes to Thevar's statue at Nandanam here, marking his 119th birth anniversary and 64th guru puja, during the statewide commemorations amid tight security arrangements. He was accompanied by state ministers N Anand and Aadhav Arjuna.

"On the occasion of the birth and guru puja day of the freedom fighter Muthuramalinga Thevar, who lived cherishing nationhood and divinity as his two eyes, I pay homage to his patriotism, sacrifice, and contributions to social justice," Vijay said, and appealed, "Let us continue to tread the path of ideals of Muthuramalinga Thevar, who lived transcending caste and religious boundaries, with humanity alone as his breath."

It may be recalled that Thevar had once declared that nationalism and divinity (spirituality) were like his two eyes and strongly believed that the two could not be separated. He advised his followers that "politics without divinity is a body without a soul".

He lived a very simple, ascetic life while remaining highly active in public life. He was the key force behind the All India Forward Bloc in Tamil Nadu, and staunchly advocated for a unified, independent India. Also, he championed Tamil pride and culture and firmly maintained that it was completely inseparable from the broader identity of the nation.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, More than 5,000 school students from all 38 districts of Tamil Nadu participated in the state-level athletics meet.

Minister notices flag blunder

Transport Minister Vijay Tamilan Parthiban was scheduled to inaugurate the competitions. He arrived at the stadium around 11.15 am and hoisted the national flag as part of the inaugural ceremony.

However, the flag was found flying upside down, leaving the students and other participants shocked. District Collector Ilambagavath, MLA Lakshmanan and other officials present at the venue also noticed the mistake.

The minister immediately ordered the flag to be lowered. It was subsequently tied correctly and hoisted again.

Teacher placed under suspension

The incident triggered a controversy as the national flag was hoisted upside down at an official event attended by the minister, district collector and an MLA.

Following a departmental inquiry, Chief Educational Officer Ellappan ordered the suspension of physical education teacher John Jameendhar, who was responsible for tying the national flag incorrectly.

For instance, a liquor bottle currently priced at Rs 170 will cost Rs 180 from November 1. Consumers will no longer have to pay the Rs 10 separately at the billing counter. They can continue to get Rs 10 back by returning eligible empty bottles under the buy-back scheme.

In a circular dated October 29, TASMAC has directed that the revised MRP be implemented across liquor categories from November 1. The revision covers Indian-made foreign liquor, beer, wine, other State liquor and imported liquor. Prices of liquor supplied to FL-2 and FL-3 licensed premises will also be revised.

TASMAC has instructed manufacturers and distributors to ensure that revised price labels are affixed at production facilities, wholesale depots and retail outlets. Existing stocks without buy-back QR-code stickers must be identified and labelled by October 31. The corporation has instructed shop personnel not to collect any additional amount towards the scheme over and above the revised MRP.

TASMAC will also provide retail shops handling charges ranging from Rs 750 to Rs 2,000 per day, depending on the location and average daily bottle sales, to meet the additional work involved in receiving, storing and handing over empty bottles.

A senior officer said Linga Prasath, the disabled inmate, brought up the idea on the day of the incident when some of the prisoners were discussing the cancellation of their bail, adding that the others appear to have spontaneously acted on it. Prasath was shifted to Palayamkottai Central prison on Thursday.

Meanwhile, two days after the Theni jailbreak, the State government on Thursday ordered the transfer of the head of Prison and Correctional Services DGP Sandeep Rai Rathore and posted him as DGP/Chief Vigilance Officer of Tangedco, Chennai.

ADGP K Shankar has been posted in his place. Shankar was earlier serving in the same department.

The government has approved buying advanced cameras equipped with artificial intelligence to monitor prison premises, he added, assuring that it would put measures in place to prevent such jail escapes from recurring.

He also announced plans to introduce an online pass system for prison visitors and provide video-conferencing facilities in all prisons for court appearances within two months.

The Minister assured that the Prison Department would address vacancies and expedite promotions.

Meanwhile, he said that Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay instructed all Ministers to ensure government schemes were implemented properly and that district-level public grievances were addressed.

Nirmalkumar said the Chief Minister had asked Ministers to review the implementation of government schemes and ensure that district-level petitions were addressed.

Explaining the case against former Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, Nirmalkumar alleged that he collected more than Rs 400 crore from schools, including missionary-run institutions, for issuing certificates, without regard for children's safety.

"He should apologise for collecting money from schools. Many educational institution managers fear lodging complaints against the former minister. The government has no intention of taking revenge against anyone. Action will be taken in any case where there is sufficient evidence of wrongdoing," Nirmalkumar said.

On the cases involving former Minister KN Nehru, the Minister said the government had expedited the inquiry after the High Court vacated a stay order.

A Government Order issued by the Commercial Taxes and Registration Department on Wednesday formalises the first phase of the initiative, with five pilot hubs to be established in Chennai North, Chennai Central, Chennai South, Chengalpattu and Coimbatore North registration districts. The government proposes to expand the network by another 20 centres, subject to the success of the pilot phase.

The order follows the department’s move to invite tenders for a private Managed Service Provider (MSP) to design, establish, operate and maintain the hubs under a five-year contract. The proposed model shifts the arrangement from capital expenditure-based infrastructure to an operating expenditure-based framework.

Anbumani had opposed the proposal, arguing that the additional service charges would impose an avoidable burden on citizens when the State already has an extensive network of registration offices. He also questioned the need to outsource services that, he maintained, could be improved by upgrading existing government facilities.

Under the proposed fee structure, citizens will pay Rs 2,000 for standard services, Rs 5,000 each for tatkal standard and premium services, and Rs 10,000 for tatkal premium services per document or marriage registration, apart from the applicable stamp duty and registration fees.

The hubs will provide a single-window facility, enabling citizens to access registration services irrespective of the territorial jurisdiction of the property or the parties concerned. The centres will have built-up areas ranging from 3,000 to 8,000 sq ft, depending on their category, and will be equipped with biometric verification systems, self-service kiosks, CCTV surveillance and digital infrastructure.

The government has maintained that statutory registration functions will remain with District Registrars and Sub-Registrars, while the private operator will handle infrastructure, facilitation and document-processing services.

The five pilot hubs are to be commissioned within 180 days of the letter of award.

Electricity Resources and Law Minister R Nirmalkumar said on Thursday that the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Ltd (TNPDCL) would reject the latest bids and cancel the tender after finding the quoted prices infeasible.

“Another short-term tender for peak hours opened today. Because the price quoted is not feasible, we are rejecting the bid, and this tender will be cancelled,” he posted on X.

On October 27, the minister announced the cancellation of another tender to procure 1,000 MW during evening peak hours, from 6 pm to midnight, between November 2026 and May 2027. Companies had quoted Rs 37 to Rs 41.50 per unit.

The latest tender, floated on October 22, sought power from November 2026 to January 2027 to meet round-the-clock (RTC) and peak-hour requirements. The bid results showed rates ranging from Rs 8.50 to Rs 35 per unit, with several peak-hour offers at Rs 35.

TNPDCL sought 600 MW of RTC power for November, 300 MW for December and 1,200 MW for January. For morning and evening peak hours, it sought 400 MW each in November, 200 MW each in December and 800 MW each in January.

However, bids for RTC supply fell far short of the requirement. Suppliers offered just 40 MW against 600 MW sought for November, 120 MW against 300 MW for December and 40 MW against 1,200 MW for January. The offers covered 6.7%, 40% and 3.3% of the respective requirements.

Morning supply bids were relatively stronger. Against the requirement of 400 MW in November, 200 MW in December and 800 MW in January, bids covered 440 MW, 250 MW and 932 MW respectively. This amounted to 110%, 125% and 116.5% of the required quantum.

For evening peak hours, bids covered 480 MW against 400 MW sought for November and 295 MW against 200 MW for December. In January, however, bids covered only 520 MW against the requirement of 800 MW. The respective coverage was 120%, 147.5% and 65%.

Despite bids exceeding the required quantum in several slots, TNPDCL decided against proceeding with the tender because of the prices quoted. The tender conditions permit the corporation to reject bids if tariffs are not aligned with prevailing market prices.

Mahesh moved the Madras High Court seeking to quash the FIR registered against him in an alleged scam involving bribes running into crores of rupees for recognition and approvals for private schools.

Appearing for Anbil Mahesh when the matter came up for hearing before Justice V Lakshminarayanan, senior counsel P Wilson objected to the police action, arguing that Mahesh was discussing the future course of action in his office when the police arrested him. He questioned the urgency of the arrest and asked, "Are we living in a police state?"

Wilson also sought the framing of a standard operating procedure for the police to follow while making similar arrests.

When Wilson pointed out that the grounds of arrest mentioned the office as the place of arrest, while the remand order stated that the arrest took place on a street near the office, the court asked him to challenge the remand order.

State Public Prosecutor John Sathyan and Assistant Public Prosecutor Arun Anbumani submitted that the police had waited outside Wilson's office for nearly 1.5 hours to arrest Mahesh when he came out and entered the office only after being invited by the advocate.

The prosecutors informed the court that former MLA BT Arasukumar, the second accused and a close aide of Mahesh, had surrendered before the special court after the Supreme Court refused to grant him any relief. They also informed the court that the prosecution would file an application seeking his custody for interrogation.

After hearing the parties, the court adjourned the hearing to November 10.

Responding to reporters’ questions about Dhanush’s reported political ambitions, Palaniswami said the actor’s film career and fan base could encourage him to try his luck in politics, as Vijay had done. However, he declined to comment further, saying anyone had the democratic right to launch a political party.

He also evaded questions about silver lamps bearing the lotus emblem being gifted to women functionaries at a meeting organised by Dhanush’s Narpani Iyakkam in Chennai. Some have viewed the gesture as a possible indication of support for the BJP, an ally of the AIADMK.

Palaniswami, who was in Madurai for the Thevar Guru Puja celebrations at Pasumpon village, launched a broadside against the TVK government, alleging that the State was grappling with a severe power shortage, rising prices, and deteriorating law and order. “People can't either live peacefully, or even pray with peace of mind,” he said after offering prayers at a temple as a brief power cut disrupted darshan.

Accusing the government of failing to secure adequate electricity and resorting to costly purchases, the former Chief Minister compared power procurement rates under successive regimes. He said the AIADMK government had purchased electricity at Rs 4.75 to Rs 6.35 per unit, while rates ranged from Rs 11.50 to Rs 20 per unit during the DMK regime between 2021 and 2026.

He alleged that Electricity Minister R Nirmalkumar had cancelled an agreement to procure power at lower rates and subsequently purchased electricity at higher prices. Palaniswami also referred to reports that the government had considered buying electricity at Rs 41.50 per unit but dropped the proposal following opposition from various quarters. “If purchasing electricity at Rs 20 per unit during the previous regime was wrong and means corruption, people should know the extent of corruption involved in purchasing it at Rs 41.50 per unit now,” he said, adding that taxpayers’ money should not be wasted.

Targeting the government over rising prices, Palaniswami said price increases were the only “gift” it had given the people. He pointed out that Aavin had raised the prices of all its sweets and savouries ahead of Deepavali, alleging the hikes placed an additional burden on middle-class and lower-middle-class families.

On the arrest of Professor Kalaiarasan, Palaniswami alleged that the government was more interested in making arrests than in controlling price rises.

In a statement, Stalin alleged that the ruling party was turning corrupt politicians into trading horses. He also described the TVK as a Tamil Nadu branch washing machine that cleans corrupt politicians who join the ruling party.

Referring to raids at the premises of former Minister KN Nehru and former MLA Nanthakumar, Stalin alleged the searches were meant to create reel videos ahead of the Tiruchy East bypoll and deliver punch dialogues at campaign meetings.

He asserted that these raids would not scare even the nail on the DMK cadres' legs.

"Not only Tamil Nadu, but the entire country is mocking the TVK-led government over the deteriorating law and order situation, administrative failures and the severe impact of price rise. The government thinks it can silence the DMK and conceal these failures. But the party will continue to expose the government's shortcomings," Stalin said

OMCL is a State-owned corporation functioning under the Department of Public and Rehabilitation. The corporation, registered with the Ministry of External Affairs, has been in operation for nearly 47 years.

OMCL functions as the Tamil Nadu government's official overseas manpower placement agency, facilitating employment opportunities for qualified, skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled workers in foreign countries.

Its responsibilities include identifying suitable candidates to meet the labour requirements of overseas companies, arranging pre-departure orientation and skill-upgradation programmes, and monitoring the welfare of Tamils employed abroad.

The corporation also addresses grievances and provides support to workers in distress through coordination with Indian embassies and consulates.

The projects involve investments of Rs 3,767 crore and are expected to generate employment opportunities for 4,853 people.

According to sources, the proposed projects span emerging sectors, including technical textiles, aerospace and defence, life sciences and electronics, among others.

The cabinet also approved the expansion plans of three companies as part of the package. However, the government did not disclose the names of the companies or provide a district-wise breakdown of the investments and employment opportunities expected to be generated.

During the first 100 days of the TVK-led government, investment commitments worth approximately Rs 1.02 lakh crore were announced. These commitments are expected to support industrial growth and create employment opportunities across the State.

The latest Cabinet approvals mark a step towards translating the investment commitments into industrial projects, with the incentives expected to facilitate the establishment and expansion of companies in Tamil Nadu.