Police said the victim, a resident of Kondalampatti, had celebrated her birthday some time ago with two friends, aged 16 and 17, who had also invited some of their male friends to the gathering. “The accused persons, who were in an inebriated condition, had sexually assaulted the minor after forcing her to consume liquor,” police said.

An investigation is underway to establish whether they committed the offence on multiple occasions by taking the girl to secluded spots.

As the girl studying in Class 9 was absent from school for an extended period, the teachers informed her mother, who, suspecting that something was amiss, approached the Child Welfare Department officials.

The Salem All Women Police Station registered a case and identified seven suspects in connection with the incident.

Of the seven suspects identified, police traced and arrested four — Balamurugan (21), Akash (19), and two others aged 16 and 13. An intensive search is underway to trace the remaining suspects, who are absconding. Police are also investigating whether two other girls were subjected to similar abuse.

Police said that over 25 members of the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) from Broadway (Chennai) were travelling towards Ulundurpet in vans and other vehicles to attend a party conference scheduled to be held there.

When they were nearing Acharapakkam, a vehicle travelling ahead suddenly applied the brakes. Three vehicles following it reportedly collided one after another, resulting in a chain of accidents.

Upon information, Acharapakkam police rescued 12 injured persons, and sent them to Acharapakkam GH, where they received first aid. They were later shifted to Madurantakam GH, where they are undergoing treatment.

Following the accidents, traffic movement on the highway came to a standstill, with vehicles being held up for more than an hour.

Police brought cranes to remove the damaged vehicles and cleared the road, restoring normal traffic movement. The Acharapakkam police have registered a case.

According to a representation submitted by the International Fishermen Development Trust (INFIDET) to the Indian Ambassador in Oman and other authorities, an agent who was working as a boat captain in Oman had taken them there for fishing after promising them a monthly salary of Rs 1 lakh and assuring them that their visas would be converted into work visas.

“They agreed to go fishing with the agent because they were acquainted with him,” said P Justin Antony, founder-president of INFIDET. The five fishermen are Cyril Robin George (47), Antony Pitchai Alex Ravi (46), Anthoni Pitchai Saron Joseva (22) and Thomas Arul (51), all from Kanniyakumari district, and Mariappan Jetli (29) from Ramanathapuram district.

However, the promised work visas were not issued. The fishermen claimed that the agent kept postponing the process, citing various reasons. Fearing penalties for overstaying, they repeatedly approached the agent and his sponsor for help, but received no assistance, according to the representation.

The fishermen are now without money and struggling to meet their day-to-day expenses. Their overstay was not intentional and that they were allegedly trapped by the agent after trusting his promise of employment, said INFIDET. “They went to Oman in February this year and have been struggling there since then,” said Antony.

INFIDET has urged the Indian Ambassador to Oman and the Tamil Nadu government to intervene and take immediate steps to facilitate the fishermen's safe return to India.

Police said the complainant, a retired government doctor residing with her mother in the city, had received a WhatsApp video call from a man who claimed to be a senior official of the CBI.

Threatening action by accusing her of doing illegal money transfers, he placed her under digital arrest.

He asked her to transfer the money to the accounts they provided, claiming it would be returned after verification.

The doctor transferred her entire savings of Rs 98 lakh, after which the caller went unreachable. Coimbatore city cyber crime police registered a case.

Police said more than 10,000 online fraud complaints had been received so far this year, with victims losing around Rs 48 crore.

In a statement, the Thanjavur police said the youth was arrested to prevent a confrontation from escalating into a law-and-order issue.

The incident occured when 40 VCK members were staging a road blockade in front of the Thanjavur railway station, which led to traffic disruptions. At the time, the 26-year-old man, identified as Aakash, was passing through the area on a two-wheeler and allegedly kept honking. This led to an argument between him and the political party members.

The police said that Special Sub-Inspector Raheem, who was deployed for security duty, intervened to prevent the argument from turning into a physical confrontation. He reportedly pacified Aakash and asked him to leave the area but the youth continued arguing and allegedly used abusive language towards the officers. As the situation continued to escalate, Raheem used minimal force to bring the situation under control.

The police said Aakash then slapped Raheem on the cheek. Other officers immediately intervened and brought the situation under control.

Police claim Aakash repeat offender

The police maintained that the force used against Aakash was intended solely to prevent the dispute from escalating into a larger law-and-order problem. They also said allegations that the police had assaulted Aakash without provocation were false.

According to the police, Aakash was previously booked in a case at the Thanjavur Taluk Police Station in connection with an alleged assault on a woman last year. The police further said that a few months ago, his supervisor had filed a complaint alleging that Aakash used inappropriate and defamatory language at his workplace, although the matter was later settled between the two parties.

Allaying the apprehensions of the members over the proposed hydrocarbon project in the state, the Minister said any project that detrimentally impacts the livelihoods of fishermen or harms the environment would not be allowed in the state.

Responding to a "call attention" motion brought by the legislature party members in the House on the proposed hydrocarbon project, the minister clarified that permission for previous hydrocarbon wells in the region were granted during both DMK (three wells) and AIADMK (one well) administrations.

The Hindustan Oil Exploration Company Limited has proposed drilling four additional developmental wells in the existing offshore area. The project has received 'Terms of Reference' from the central government and is currently under review by the Tamil Nadu Coastal Zone Management Authority following an application submitted earlier this year, he said.

Earlier, the members raised concern about the proposed project by HOEC to drill four new hydrocarbon wells in the sea near Parangipettai, and said the move would adversely impact the environment in the Chidambaram constituency.

They said the drilling posed a severe threat to marine life, local fishing livelihoods, and agricultural lands due to the risk of saltwater intrusion. Also, they highlighted the proximity to the ecologically sensitive Pichavaram mangroves. PTI JSP SNR JSP ROH

He was responding to DMK leader EV Velu's questions over the relocation of the The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), and allegations of irregularities in the tender process for the work.

The CMO, which has functioned from the Secretariat building at Fort St George for more than five decades, is being shifted to Namakkal Kavignar Maligai to improve administrative convenience.

CMO relocation work under way, says Aadhav Arjuna

Aadhav Arjuna told the Assembly that work is currently under way on the 10th floor of Namakkal Kavingar Maligai to establish the new office, including a chamber for Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay and rooms for his personal secretaries. The Tamil Nadu Public Works Department has invited tenders worth Rs 5.54 crore for the work, according to a Daily Thanthi report.

Responding to Velu's allegations on the tender process, Aadhav Arjuna said the tender process had not yet been completed and questioned the basis for raising corruption allegations at this stage. He said tender estimates are generally prepared based on the construction cost, with a margin of around 3 to 7 per cent added, however, the department had proceeded using estimates from the previous year.

The Minister also announced that the government would soon release a white paper detailing tender-related developments in the Public Works and Highways departments over the past five years. He said 20 tenders had been cancelled and re-issued in the last 60 days, with the new bids coming in at rates 25 to 30 per cent lower.

Aadhav Arjuna explains need for CMO relocation

Aadhav Arjuna said the relocation was being undertaken primarily to provide adequate space and facilities for the Chief Minister and his staff. He pointed out that the Chief Minister regularly meets government officials and foreign representatives and requires adequate space for such meetings. He said the Chief Minister’s personal secretaries are currently working in a room measuring less than 100 sq ft and that proper restroom facilities are also unavailable.

The Minister said both former Chief Ministers M Karunanidhi and Jayalalithaa had envisioned the construction of a new Secretariat and claimed there was broad agreement on the need for better administrative infrastructure. Aadhav Arjuna also hit out at what he described as misinformation surrounding the relocation.

Referring to Vijay’s lifestyle during election campaigns, he said the Chief Minister had eaten at ordinary eateries and rested for only short periods inside campaign vehicles. He maintained that the shift was being carried out for practical administrative reasons and to provide better working facilities for the Chief Minister and his staff.

Taking to its social media timelines, Lyca Productions, which is producing the film wrote,"Mark the date for the heist on October 2. #SIGMA is all set to light up the screens."

It may be recalled that the film was originally scheduled to hit screens on July 31 this year.

In fact, in July this year, actor Sundeep Kishan had announced that he had completed dubbing for his portions in the film.

Taking to his social media timelines, Sundeep Kishan had then said, "And Dubbing Wrapped for #Sigma .. July 31st release ..."

The film unit had wrapped up the film's shooting in December last year. Lyca Productions had taken to its social media timelines then to announce the wrapping up of shooting.

It had said, "#SIGMA shoot wrapped. Get ready for the Teaser on 23.12.25 at 5 PM."

The makers had also shared a video clip consisting of some Behind the scenes visuals and the team finally posing for a final wrap up picture.

The film is among the most eagerly awaited releases in Tamil as Jason Sanjay, who is making his debut as a director with 'Sigma', is the son of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and well known actor Vijay.

Sources say Catherine Tresa will be seen dancing alongside Sundeep Kishan for a vibrant track, composed by music director Thaman, in this film.

The foot-tapping number, which will be a highlight of the film, has been shot on an expansive and colourful set. Actor Sundeep Kishan's striking first-look poster that was unveiled recently captured him in a rugged, contemplative avatar. The poster set the tone for a high-octane adventure set against the backdrop of a treasure hunt brimming with mystery, wit, and adrenaline.

The story follows a maverick protagonist- a true Sigma, who charts his own path, breaking conventions and rising through grit and resilience. Blending edge-of-the-seat heist thrills with humor and heart, 'Sigma' will offer a refreshing new flavor to mainstream cinema, the sources point out.

The film boasts of a fine technical unit. It includes cinematographer Krishnan Vasant, editor Praveen K.L., and art director Benjamin M.

The multilingual project, filmed simultaneously in Tamil and Telugu, has traversed an exciting range of landscapes- from the bustling streets of Chennai and rugged terrains of Salem to the breathtaking Thalakona forests and exotic locales of Thailand.

The Tamils - Anthony Samy, John Rose Peter, and Kumar, who lived in the villages in Hanur Taluk of Chamarajanagar district in Karnataka, were shot dead by the forest department in the early hours of August 15, in the Cauvery Wildlife sanctuary area.

Following the incident, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay strongly condemned the alleged brutal killing and said the explanation given by the Karnataka forest department regarding the incident is "unacceptable".

A fair investigation should be conducted by a high-level committee on the heinous incident, the Chief Minister had said in a social media post late on Sunday.

Raising the issue, former Chief Minister and AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami claimed that the victims' families had stated that the Karnataka forest department allegedly shot and killed three men while a fourth individual is currently receiving medical treatment for injuries at a government hospital in Mysore.

While officials claimed the victims were involved in deer poaching, the families allege that this is a conspiracy and that the victims were innocent civilians, Palaniswami said and urged the government to pursue a CBI investigation into the matter to uncover the truth, noting that the location of the incident sits on the border of two states.

He criticised the compensation amount of Rs 5 lakh offered by the Karnataka government to the victims' families as insufficient and stressed that Tamil Nadu government should provide additional support to the families and to engage with the Karnataka government to prevent such incidents from recurring.

DMK MLA Manoj Pandian labelled the incident as a "fake encounter" and a "grave human rights violation," asserting that the farmers were unarmed and merely searching for their cattle when they were killed. He demanded a formal judicial inquiry into the incident and insisted that murder charges should be filed against the forest officials involved.

Pandian questioned whether the forest department followed Supreme Court guidelines, noting that they failed to report the death to the National Human Rights Commission and argued that the Tamil Nadu government should exert pressure on the Karnataka government to provide compensation and employment to the affected families and to ensure such incidents do not recur.

Congress member Tharahai Cuthbert strongly condemned the "encounter" and rejected the compensation offered by the Karnataka government as inadequate. She demanded a formal CBI investigation into the incident and support for victims.

In his reply, Energy Resources and Law Minister R Nirmal Kumar said Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar had already ordered a magisterial enquiry into the death of the killing and announced an interim relief of Rs 5 lakh each to the affected families.

The bodies were handed over to their families following postmortem on August 17 for conducting the last rites.

"Tamil Nadu Chief Minister had strongly condemned the incident and sought an impartial probe by a high level committee. The Chief Minister extended his heartfelt condolences, and had said Karnataka's explanation was not acceptable," the Minister said.

The Speaker’s counter affidavit was filed before the first bench comprising Chief Justice SA Dharmadhikari and Justice G Arul Murugan. He stated that as a co-constitutional authority, he has the highest regard and respect for the judicial process and that it was never his intention to abstain from participating in the matter.

He stated that he had inquired with the resigned MLAs and the MLAs clarified that they had resigned of their own free will and volition, with no undue influence or coercion.

He further stated that there was no information indicating that the resignations were not voluntary at the time of the inquiry. He was also satisfied that the resignations were genuine after the MLAs confirmed that the resignation letters were in their own handwriting. Prabhakar said he accepted them, guided by the proviso to Article 190 (3) (b) of the Constitution and Rule 22 of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly Rules.

He submitted that the inquiry was within the permissible scope under the Constitution and the TNLA Rules and, therefore, the acceptance of the resignation was valid and suffered from no legal or constitutional infirmity.

Former AIADMK Minister and party whip of the AIADMK party, Agri SS Krishnamurthy and others had approached the court challenging the acceptance of the resignation of 6 MLAs - S Jayakumar, Maragatham Kumaravel, P Sathyabama, Dr Esakki Subbaya, C Vijayabaskar and MR Vijayabhaskar, who won from the AIADMK party but later resigned from the party and joined TVK. The matter was posted to September 1 for further hearing.

Nilgiris District Collector Lakshmi Bhavya Tanneeru on Monday (August 17) inaugurated the pilot project near the Uzhavar Sandhai in Ooty. The machine has a 200-litre capacity and is equipped to store milk at 4°C, ensuring it remains refrigerated until dispensed.

“The AVM accepts cash, ATM cards and UPI payments. When a customer pays in cash, the machine automatically calculates the corresponding quantity of milk and dispenses it, making the transaction entirely automated. The system is also integrated with software that enables real-time monitoring of the quantity of milk available and the number of days it has been stored,” the District Collector said in a statement.

At present, one variety of milk is being sold through the machine at Rs 54 a litre. Additional varieties may be introduced depending on consumer demand.

Customers can bring their own cans, containers, cups or tumblers and purchase the quantity they require directly from the machine.

Officials said the number of AVMs could be increased at other locations depending on the response from consumers.

The initiative marks a revival of the concept of milk vending machines, popularly known as ‘button paal’, which had earlier been used in the State. Those machines were discontinued in 2014 following complaints of adulteration in milk sold through them.

The 71-foot Vaigai dam had reached an unusually low level amid inadequate monsoon rainfall, which the report attributed to the impact of El Niño. The low storage levels led to the suspension of all drinking water schemes implemented through the dam.

The shortage also meant that water could not be released from the Vaigai dam in June for firstcrop irrigation in Madurai and Dindigul districts, as is usually done every year.

The situation began to change after sudden rains in Kerala increased inflow into the Mullaiperiyar dam and raised its water level. Water was subsequently released from Mullaiperiyar for irrigation in Theni district.

As the released water began reaching the Vaigai dam, its water level started rising steadily. The dam continues to receive inflow, and its level is gradually rising.

For farmers dependent on the Vaigai for irrigation, the rise has also raised expectations of further improvement if the catchment area receives more rain.

Tangappandi, a resident of Ayyappanayakkanpatti under Kuruvithurai post, submitted the petition at the grievance redressal meeting held at the collectorate.

According to his petition, his relative, Mariappapandi and the deputy tahsildar, who works at the Collectorate, told him they could secure a government job for his younger daughter, Mohanapriya.

Believing them, he said he paid a total of Rs 3.80 lakh in several instalments through Google Pay and in cash.

He further alleged that he and his daughter were asked to attend an interview at the Virudhunagar Collectorate, where two persons collected copies of her mark sheets and transfer certificate.

Later, Mariappapandi allegedly sent him a government appointment order on his mobile phone. When Tangappandi went to the Virudhunagar Collectorate to verify the document, he said officials told him it was fake.

According to the petition, Mariapapandi sent Rs 60,000 to Tangappandi through Google Pay on August 10 and subsequently lodged a complaint with the Tallakulam police over the incident.

While the Tamil Nadu government claimed before the apex court that the CWMA’s directive was not being complied with, the Karnataka government said the picture being projected was “extremely incorrect”.

The Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) had directed Karnataka to release 1 thousand million cubic feet (TMC) of water daily to Tamil Nadu for 15 days from August 12. The CWMA subsequently upheld the decision.

On Monday, the Tamil Nadu government’s plea seeking directives to the Karnataka government for the immediate release of water came up for hearing before a bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta.

“We feel this matter should be posted after a week so that the further status regarding the release may be placed before the court,” the bench said, posting the matter for August 24. “Ensure compliance of the CWMA directives,” the bench said.

Senior advocate CS Vaidyanathan, appearing for Tamil Nadu, told the bench that the CWMA’s directive was not being complied with and the state was unable to release water to its farmers.

“They (Karnataka) have started releasing water for irrigation in Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu has not been receiving water,” he said. “As of now, they have 76% live storage in the reservoir and they have hardly released,” he added.

The bench then asked the Karnataka government, “Why are you not releasing?”

Senior advocate Shyam Divan, appearing for Karnataka, replied that the picture being projected before it was “extremely incorrect in every material respect”.

“This has been an extremely severe distress year, and when you have an extremely severe distress year, there is a mechanism and a machinery for the purposes of balancing,” he said.

As far as the Cauvery basin is concerned, Divan said, there is an enormous deficit, and the CWMA is alive to the situation and has issued directives. According to the first directive, Karnataka was required to ensure the release of 3,500 cusecs of water for 15 days till August 11, he said.

The trans persons alleged that some youths were throwing broken liquor bottles into the public water tank to prevent them from using it.

They also alleged that caste-based insults were hurled against some trans persons belonging to the Scheduled Caste community.

They said they had repeatedly complained to the Tiruppuvanam police, but in vain. They urged the District Collector to take action against those responsible and provide protection.

Making a series of announcements following the debate on demands for grants for the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, the minister said that 12,466 VAOs and 1,253 RIs would benefit from the initiative.

The devices would help officials conduct crop damage assessments during disasters such as droughts and floods, he said.

The minister also announced that the land tax introduced during British rule and continued by the Revenue Department would be abolished. The benefit would be applicable to farmers and landowners from Fasli year 1436.

The existing four-stage process would be reduced to three stages to simplify the issuance of revenue certificates, Sengottaiyan said. Chennai residents would also benefit from the establishment of 12 mini-taluk offices, which would facilitate the quicker issuance of certificates.

The minister further announced that house pattas would be issued to around 20 lakh poor and marginal families living on vacant lands classified as village natham.

Sengottaiyan also announced that a separate Work Safety Act would be enacted to prevent untoward incidents involving VAOs while they are discharging their duties.

He further said the government would simplify the procedures for land acquisition for highway projects.

A woman teacher was also arrested for aiding the accused. R Divya (38), a private school teacher, has been taking tuition at her house in the evening hours. A 16-year-old girl from her school was attending tuition. Divya’s family friend Shanmuga Sundaraj (61), a retired government-aided school teacher, used to visit Divya’s house frequently. He was in the habit of making video calls to the girl. One particular time, Shanmuga Sundaraj used obscene words. The girl took this to the notice of her school principal, who lodged a complaint with the Thanjavur All Women police.

The police registered a case and arrested Shanmuga Sundaram on Monday. Later, the police also arrested Divya for assisting the accused. Further investigations are on.

The issue cropped up during the debate on demands for grants for Revenue and Health departments. DMK MLA and former Chief Minister O Panneerselvam pointed out that the Assembly had established conventions. Members traditionally stood only when the Speaker entered, while the Chief Minister would proceed to his seat after greeting the Chair.

Panneerselvam noted that Vijay's practice of walking through the House and greeting members before taking his seat was a departure from convention.

He sought clarification on whether members were expected to stand for the Chief Minister and if the same applied to the Leader of the Opposition.

Responding, Prabhakar said he had noticed the Chief Minister personally greeting members upon entry. "There is no doubt that the Speaker should be accorded due respect when the House meets," he said. He added that former Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami used to stand and return Vijay's greeting.

"Standing up and greeting the Chief Minister is not compulsory. It is part of our tradition and dignity. However, I leave it to the discretion of individual members," Prabhakar said.

The showrooms are at Salem (Hosur Old), Cuddalore (Mangai), Tirunelveli (Senthil), Vijayawada (Guntur, Machilipatnam, Srikakulam New, Nellore, Parlakhemundi), Mumbai (Ponda Goa), and Vellore (Vandavasi), said an official report.

The report shows the closure process is at different stages, with sales withdrawn at some outlets, premises being vacated and legal proceedings underway in others. At Nellore, the building has been handed over to the owner, while at Ponda, the case is to be withdrawn and sales continued until August.

Co-optex Chief General Manager K Sankar, in a communication dated August 15, directed managers of Design and Production to stop procurement of home textile products until further orders. The directive said existing stocks should be exhausted and no further fresh purchases be made.

The order covers bedsheets, bedspreads, towels, furnishings, bags, quilts and other home textile products. It also applies irrespective of production plans or inputs already issued for 2026-27.

Where production inputs have already been issued, but goods not procured, further purchase has been ordered to be kept in abeyance. Any exceptional requirement must be referred to the Head Office with full justification and prior approval.

In a statement, Veerapandian noted that several industries, including the Kattupalli port operated by the Gautam Adani group and those in special economic zones, were functioning in north Chennai. Over 50 of these were hazardous industries classified under the red category, he said.

He questioned whether the Directorate of Industrial Safety and Health was conducting periodic inspections of such units to assess preventive measures and emergency response arrangements and submitting reports to the government.

He cited the recent collapse of a concrete arch structure during expansion work at the Ennore thermal power station in Tiruvallur, in which nine migrant workers were killed. He also referred to the ammonia gas leak at a seafood processing unit at Kannigaiper village, in which 13 migrant workers were killed.

The mass death of fish in the Kosasthalaiyar river was another alarming incident, he said, adding that it had affected the livelihood of thousands of fishing families in more than 40 fishing villages, including Nettukuppam, Thalangkuppam, Mugathuvarkuppam, Ennorekuppam and Sivandikuppam.

Veerapandian said that while dead fish were being removed from the river, some species were believed to have sunk to the riverbed. The foul smell from the area indicated severe air pollution, he said. Authorities have already advised people not to consume the dead fish or use them for making dried fish.

He demanded that the findings of the ongoing inquiry into the cause of the death of tonnes of fish be made public. He also called for periodic industrial inspections and publication of inspection details every month.

The CPI state executive urged the government to arrest those responsible for the incident and ensure that they were punished under law without being allowed to escape accountability.

An unwritten convention in the Assembly is that former Chief Ministers, including M Karunanidhi and J Jayalalithaa, are referred to with due respect rather than by name.

The DMK strongly objected to the minister's remarks. Intervening in the debate, former Chief Minister and DMK MLA O Panneerselvam recalled that during the AIADMK regime, then Chief Minister MG Ramachandran had warned a ruling party member for referring to former Chief Minister Karunanidhi by his name.

"The members of this Assembly should also follow the dignity and conventions defined by our leaders," Panneerselvam said.

At that time, Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay intervened and apologised for his Cabinet colleague's remarks before making a statement under Rule 110. "It was wrong for the minister to mention your leader's name. I am sorry," the Chief Minister said.

However, the issue triggered another uproar when Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister S Ramesh made remarks about the Leader of the Opposition.

He said the former Chief Minister (OPS) should teach the Leader of the Opposition a lesson about the dignity of the Assembly, who remains seated whenever the Chief Minister enters the House.

The DMK hit back, saying that the Speaker alone is the head of the House, and if the CM needs to be respected, then the same rule applies to the Leader of the Opposition, questioning whether ruling party MLAs reciprocate it to DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin.

Former Minister KN Nehru intervened and said the same convention had been followed in the previous Assembly as well. Hence, there was no need to lecture the Leader of the Opposition on Assembly dignity, he said.

Leader of the House KA Sengottaiyan intervened and urged the Speaker to end the political exchanges among members.

Following the intervention, TVK member Balamurugan commenced his speech on the demands for grants.

The issue was taken up as a Special Calling Attention Motion in the Assembly. The opposition slammed Minister Nirmalkumar, saying that his response doesn't answer the critical questions raised.

During the debate, Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin claimed the student Amuthan did not die in a group clash or because of previous enmity, but was allegedly beaten to death by a gang of 20 people, and termed the incident a murder. "His parents and other social activists have alleged that Amuthan's murder took place only after he provided information about drug peddlers. All those involved in Amuthan's murder should be punished with the highest sentence," he said.

Opposition members R Kamaraj (AIADMK), A Ganeshkumar (PMK), Bojarajan (BJP), R Chellaswamy (CPM), K Marimuthu (CPI) and Tharagai Gatbet (Congress) also raised the issue.

Minister Nirmalkumar said the incident occurred due to a clash between two groups of students motivated by vengeance. He also urged the Opposition parties not to divert the issue by linking it to drugs.

School Education Minister Rajmohan said there was no need for the police or government to hide the truth in the case. He said, as per the Chief Minister's direction, the charge sheet would be filed within the next three months. The government would extend support to the affected family, the minister said.

Following the ministers' replies, DMK members staged a walkout from the Assembly, expressing dissatisfaction with the government's response.

Muthupillai of Sikandar Chavadi came to know about her ‘dead’ status when she recently visited the Tamil Nadu Mercantile Bank to retrieve jewellery pledged in her deceased son Perumal’s name.

“A bank officer told me that a certificate had been issued stating I’m dead,” Muthupillai told reporters outside the Madurai Collectorate on Monday.

Muthupillai added that the certificate had been issued in the name of Sundari, her younger daughter-in-law, by the VAO of Kovil Papapatti, Madurai north taluk, with the signatures of several persons as witnesses.

Muthupillai had been living with her two sons and their wives since her husband, Chinnaswamy, died several years ago. Her younger son Perumal passed away six months ago amid a pending divorce case.

When Muthupillai and her elder daughter-in-law Radha questioned the VAO and other local revenue officials about the issue, the revenue officials allegedly brought her to the Madurai Collectorate last week and forced her to file a complaint only against Sundari.

“Muthupillai and her family members came to the Collectorate on August 14, but refused to give a written complaint,” a revenue officer said. The VAO has filed a complaint against Sundari and others at the Alanganallur police station.

The Revenue Divisional Officer will investigate the alleged involvement of the VAO, the officer said.

Another youth was arrested for hurling abusive words at them.

The VCK members were staging a roadblock protest condemning the Thanjavur city corporation for removing their party's digital banner erected for the state conference. Claiming that the civic administration had removed only the VCK banner, they demanded to reinstall it.

During the protest, a youth who passed on his two-wheeler had reportedly picked up a quarrel with the police who stopped him.

Soon, the VCK members also joined and picked up an altercation with the youth, identified as Akash (26), a resident of Vilar village in Thanjavur. Other personnel intervened and asked Akash to leave, but the youth continued to argue with the police.

Suddenly, the SSI Abdul Rahim reportedly assaulted Akash, who, in retaliation, slapped the former. Subsequently, the police forcibly took Akash to their vehicle and arrested him.

The police also arrested another youth, Ayyappan (27), for using abusive words against them. Meanwhile, the VCK members dispersed from the spot after the civic administration had reinstalled the banner at the same spot.

The Kallakurichi Chief Judicial Magistrate Court convicted Arivuselvi, her son Varadharajan and her associate Tamilarasan in the case.

Another accused, Senthilkumar, was acquitted on the grounds that the charges against him were not proven beyond reasonable doubt.

The case was registered by the CB-CID on December 18, 2021, after the inspection of MCOP case records disposed of in 2012 and 2014. The inspection was conducted by Sureshkumar, then principal subordinate judge, Kallakurichi, based on the directive of the Madras High Court.

During the inspection, the signatures of some sub judges and the sheristadar on certain records were found to be suspicious. A verification revealed that compensation amounts had been disbursed to persons unconnected with respective cases.

An investigation by the CBCID, Villupuram, revealed that Arivuselvi, who was a sheristadar assistant between 2012 and 2015, had allegedly reused case numbers of settled MCOP cases and diverted court funds to the bank accounts of Varadharajan, Tamilarasan and Senthilkumar. It was also found that several court records had been tampered with and the signatures of sub judges had been forged on court cheques. A misappropriation of Rs 28 lakh was detected initially, and of another Rs 10 lakh later.

While Arivuselvi has been sentenced to consecutive prison terms under various sections, totalling 37 years, and a fine of Rs 30,000, Varadharajan and Tamilarasan have been awarded consecutive terms of 27 years and fined Rs 17,000.

The corporation's four zones lack Assistant Commissioners, while crucial posts such as health officer and town planning officer are also vacant. Officials and residents said the shortage has affected the functioning of several departments, with many files still pending.

The bustling temple city has 51 wards, serves 3 lakh residents and attracts 50,000 people from surrounding areas.

Despite being upgraded from a municipality to a corporation in 2021, residents complain that the town continues to struggle with basic civic infrastructure. Sewage overflowing onto roads, garbage accumulation, mosquito menace, stray cattle, pigs and dogs, and damaged roads have become common in several areas.

The absence of Assistant Commissioners in all four zones is a major concern. Though officials are appointed to some posts, they are not showing interest in taking charge in Kancheepuram, resulting in the positions remaining vacant.

The health officer vacancy has affected sanitation-related activities. The previous health officer was transferred to the Greater Chennai Corporation, but a replacement has not yet been appointed. Residents claim that solid waste management, monitoring of primary health centres, dengue prevention, enforcement against plastic use and control of stray animals have been affected. Several roads and residential areas have also been witnessing sewage stagnation.

The vacant town planning officer post has affected action against unauthorised constructions and illegal banners and hoardings. Vacancies in the engineering wing have affected road maintenance, including repair of damaged roads.

Residents claim differences between the Mayor and councillors and the prolonged vacancies have created an environment where officials and Corporation employees are unwilling to work.

Corporation officials, however, said the vacancies had already been brought to the attention of the department concerned, and steps were being taken to fill them. They added that court cases concerning some posts had also delayed the recruitment process, but efforts are under way to fill the vacancies at the earliest.

Four AIADMK MLAs met Anbumani at his residence in T Nagar on Monday evening to thank him for the PMK’s support, which they said contributed to the AIADMK’s victory in several northern districts in the recently concluded Assembly elections. They claimed that the meeting happened with the approval of party chief Edappadi Palaniswami. But the claim has led to speculations over what's happening within the party.

The legislators — V Sampathkumar of Harur, D Velazhagan of Anaikattu, K Mohan of Panruti, and S Palanisamy of Tirukkoyilur — met Anbumani and said that the meeting was a mark of respect and an expression of their gratitude for the support extended by the PMK. Panruti MLA Mohan and AIADMK district secretary Sukumar said PMK's support was crucial for the party's seats in the Assembly election.

They said the meeting was held with the approval of AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami.

The development assumes significance against the backdrop of Anbumani’s earlier claim that PMK votes had played a key role in the AIADMK’s success in several constituencies in northern Tamil Nadu.

Senior AIADMK leader C Ve Shanmugam had also acknowledged the contribution of PMK votes to the party’s victories in the region, though he used it to mock party chief Edappadi Palaniswami, with whom he is in conflict. He had claimed that the AIADMK’s seats in the northern districts were “alms” from the PMK.

The meeting has added another layer to discussions within the AIADMK-led alliance over the role of allies in the party’s electoral performance, particularly in northern districts.

The court on Monday directed Dravidar Kazhagam to provide details such as the venue, route and number of bikes for its proposed campaign against NEET and EWS quota, following which the State agreed to consider granting permission. Justice V Lakshminarayanan directed the party to furnish the details by August 18 and adjourned the plea.

During the hearing, State Public Prosecutor John Sathyan told the court that the State was not against the principles for which the bike rally was being held and had even passed a resolution in the Assembly against NEET. However, when he raised concerns over the party taking up EWS reservation at the rally, the court orally observed that the police should not be concerned with the content of the protest and must grant permission unless it falls under Article 19 (2).

The prosecutor clarified that the State stood by the issues being protested and only sought details such as the venue, number of bikes and route to make bandobast arrangements. He said the State was willing to consider and grant permission upon receiving a fresh application.

Dravidar Kazhagam Vice-President Kali Poongundran filed a petition before the Madras High Court challenging the DGP's refusal to grant permission for the organisation's proposed two-wheeler propaganda campaign against NEET and the EWS quota.

The petitioner submitted that, following alleged NEET scams and question paper leaks across the country, the organisation had planned a statewide two-wheeler propaganda campaign from July 30 to August 2.

He stated that a representation seeking general permission and police protection was submitted to the Director General of Police (DGP) on July 18. However, instead of granting general permission, the DGP directed the organisers to obtain permission from the respective jurisdictional police authorities. Despite submitting applications to the respective police stations, permission was allegedly denied across Tamil Nadu.

They demanded that the crop loans be converted into Mid Term Conventional Loan under the Cooperative Society Act and distribute loan waiver certificates.

Pointing out that the manner in which the TVK government has handled the crop loan waiver announcement the last two times was disappointing, the farmer leaders said they had no other choice but to intensify their agitation.

As many as 11 farmers' associations, who took part in the protest in Chennai, met the ministers who assured them they would fulfil the demands. “Upon assurance given by the ministers Aadhav Arjuna and N Anand that the loan waiver announcement will be made as per the poll promise, we temporarily called off the protest. However, the loan waiver announcement for the third time too has disappointed the farmers," said PS Masilamani, the general secretary of Tamilga Vivasayigal Sangam affiliated to CPI.

Further claiming that the officials have been misguiding the Chief Minister and the ministers, he said there is confusion in the issue. “We lost the trust in the ministers. We feel that we have been cheated and so we have decided to organise a meeting across the State and intensify our protest further," Masilamani said.

Swamimalai Sundara Vimalnathan, the secretary of Tamil Nadu Cauvery Farmers Protection Association, said, "If there is financial instability, the government can convert the crop loans into Mid Term Conventional Loan as per the Cooperative Societies Act and distribute waiver certificates to the farmers, in a sort of relief. There is a precedent. Former Chief Ministers M Karunanidhi and J Jayalalithaa had followed this, which would ease the financial crunch," he noted.

"The Chief Minister himself announced the waiver. It is his responsibility to fulfil the promise. Otherwise, it would certainly reflect in the local body polls," he cautioned.

A total of 28,979 students secured seats in the first round, while 59,951 students were allotted seats in the second round. Together, 88,930 students have secured seats through the first two rounds of counselling. 

At the end of the second round last year, 48.71% of students had joined engineering courses. This year, the proportion of students joining engineering courses is 4.45 percentage points lower. 

Computer Science Engineering and other computer-related programmes continue to be the preferred choices among students. Most seats in the four Anna University campus colleges have also been filled during the counselling process. 

Meanwhile, choice filling for the third round of engineering counselling began on Monday and will remain open until 5 pm tomorrow (August 19). Students with a general rank between 1,31,094 and 2,33,812 are eligible to participate in the third round. A total of 1,02,719 students are eligible, with cut-offs ranging from 135.50 to 77.50. 

Students who receive provisional allotments through upward movement in the third round can join their allotted colleges on or before August 27 (Thursday).Registration for supplementary counselling also began on Monday.

Students who cleared Class 12 through supplementary exams, and those who missed the regular counselling process, can register till August 31. The third round and supplementary counselling will provide another opportunity for students who have not secured engineering seats in the earlier rounds.

Addressing the party's Tamil National Awakening Conference at Ulundurpet in Kallakurichi district, Thirumavalavan, who cut short his speech within a few minutes due to overcrowding, said VCK had so far allied with ruling parties and had now joined hands with the TVK government headed by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay.

"We have been in alliance with ruling parties all these years. From now on, VCK will also become a ruling party. We have been in alliance with the DMK and AIADMK. Today, we are in alliance with Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay. From now on, VCK will travel together with TVK in the political arena of Tamil Nadu," he said.

Thirumavalavan, who turned 64 on Monday, said the conference had established that VCK was an unavoidable political force in Tamil Nadu and that the party had emerged as a recognised political force.

"VCK should grow into a ruling party in the future," he said.

Addressing the convocation of Central University at Tiruvarur, Radhakrishnan said strong measures were necessary to safeguard the integrity and fairness of public examinations. Recalling his tenure as Governor of Jharkhand, he said a similar bill was passed by the State during his tenure and he had signed it immediately, enabling it to become law.

“Bad elements in society must be punished to protect the interests of good people,” he said.

Radhakrishnan said the tremendous expansion of higher education over the past 12 years had paved the way for the welcome trend of more women receiving degrees and medals than men. Education, he said, should not be measured merely by examinations or marks, but by the ability to think independently, communicate effectively, work collaboratively and continue learning throughout life.

Lauding the Central University of Tamil Nadu for its emphasis on multidisciplinary education, research, innovation and value-based learning, he urged graduates to become creators rather than consumers of knowledge, innovators rather than imitators, and leaders rather than followers.

Referring to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Radhakrishnan urged the youth to keep the nation first and harness their knowledge, skills and leadership for national development.

He also urged the police and security agencies to take strict action against drug peddlers and those involved in spreading the drug menace. Drug abuse not only destroys individuals but also adversely affects families and society, he said, adding that protecting young people from the menace was a collective responsibility. He reiterated his appeal to students to “Say No to Drugs” and urged them to encourage their friends to stay away from substance abuse.

A total of 1,103 graduates received their degrees at the convocation, including 50 gold medallists. Of the 1,103 graduates, 616 were women, who also secured 37 of the 50 gold medals.

Later, Radhakrishnan took part in the Ruby and Silver Jubilee valedictory celebrations of SASTRA University in Thanjavur and appreciated the institution’s contribution to national development.

He said the National Education Policy 2020 was a guiding pillar for educational progress at all levels, from KG to PhD. In higher education and research, initiatives such as the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship (PMRF), PM-Vidyalaxmi and the flexibility of Multiple Entry-Multiple Exit had strengthened India’s higher education framework.

He expressed confidence that India would increase its Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education from the current 30 per cent to the target of 50 per cent by 2035.

During the Special Calling Attention Motion on the murder of Coimbatore student Amuthan, Law Minister R Nirmalkumar alleged that drug use was more prevalent in the State during the DMK regime, referring to Jaffer Sadiq, who, he alleged, was in close contact with the former Chief Minister's family and others. "Now, the Chief Minister is taking legal measures to curb the drug menace across the State," the minister said.

Replying to the minister, Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin said the DMK leadership had removed Jaffer Sadiq from the party and he was subsequently arrested. He questioned whether the government had launched an inquiry into the minister, who was allegedly seen "grinding white powder" during an IPL match.

Replying to the LoP, Minister for Human Resources Management D Sarathkumar said he had already responded to the issue. "During the event, the DMK was in power. Did it mean that the drugs were sold very freely and were also available at the entrance of the stadium? There is no need to raise the issue again when I have already given a detailed reply," he said.

Public Works Minister Aadhav Arjuna, detailing drug use during the previous government, said there was no drug-use culture across the State until 2020. "There is a link between drug use and sexual harassment. Between 2021 and 2026, Pocso cases increased by 40 per cent owing to the rise in drug usage, he alleged.

DMK members strongly objected to the statement. Aadhav Arjuna subsequently alleged that the DMK had created the base for drug usage in the State, claiming that this was one of the reasons for the party's poll debacle.

Responding to the minister, Udhayanidhi said the DMK-led government had taken various steps to curb the drug menace. "Owing to the measures taken by the DMK government against drugs, this government has announced exemplary awards for police personnel who have been working to control drugs for the past one year," he said.

Aadhav Arjuna also highlighted the TVK government's measures to control drugs, including the recently established Anti-Narcotics Task Force across the State.

Following the Speaker's intervention, the debate turned to demands for grants on Revenue and Health.

Justice GK Ilanthiraiyan held that the prosecution had established the charge of disproportionate assets against the accused in accordance with the law. Hence, the court found no reason to interfere with the judgment of conviction and sentence passed by the trial court and confirmed the same.

Accordingly, the criminal appeal was dismissed, and the connected miscellaneous petitions were closed.

BM Senguttuvan, who was elected on a DMK ticket from Marungapuri in 1996, served as the Minister for Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments and Animal Husbandry during the DMK regime from 1996 to 2001, before switching to the AIADMK.

The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) registered a disproportionate assets case against him, alleging that he and his family had acquired assets worth 163.45% more than their known sources of income between 1996 and 2001.

As Senguttuvan and his son-in-law C Rajalingam died in 2021 and 2017, respectively, the court abated the case against them.

The Principal District Judge K Babu sentenced Senguttuvan's sons, S Panneerselvam and S Sakthivel, daughter R Meenakshi, and niece V Valli to three years' rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 2,000 each for amassing Rs 81.42 lakh in disproportionate assets.

Aggrieved by the trial court's order, S Panneerselvam, S Sakthivel, R Meenakshi and V Valli filed an appeal before the Madras High Court.

The Left party's state secretary, M Veerapandian, said on Monday that the TVK government has a greater responsibility to curb the growing menace of drug use in the State and called for collective efforts to tackle the issue.

Speaking to reporters in Coimbatore on the sidelines of a protest, Veerapandian also expressed concern over the prevailing law and order situation. Reiterating that CPI is not part of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) alliance, he said the party had extended support to TVK only to prevent the possibility of President’s Rule.

“Our party would never seek ministerial positions. Regardless of how many political fronts emerge in Tamil Nadu, the BJP should never come to power in the State,” he said.

Responding to a question about allegations that ministers were receiving commissions, Veerapandian said wrongdoing should be condemned irrespective of who was involved. However, he said such allegations could not be accepted as established facts unless proved legally.

Condemning the killing of three Tamil-origin persons by the forest department in Karnataka, the CPI leader sought appropriate compensation for their families. He also called for an all-party meeting to discuss the Cauvery dispute and Karnataka’s proposal to construct a dam at Mekedatu.

Earlier, the CPI, led by Veerapandian, staged a protest outside the Coimbatore district Collectorate, demanding the desilting of the Siruvani and Pilloor reservoirs, the implementation of the Pandiyar-Punnampuzha and Anamalaiyar-Nallaar irrigation projects, the widening of the Neelambur-Madukkarai bypass, and the establishment of a separate railway division headquartered in Coimbatore.

While the Tamil Nadu government claimed before the apex court that the CWMA's direction was not being complied with, the Karnataka government said the picture being projected was "extremely incorrect".

The Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) had directed Karnataka to release 12,000 cusecs of water daily to Tamil Nadu for 15 days from August 12. The CWMA subsequently upheld the decision.

On Monday, the Tamil Nadu government's plea seeking directions to the Karnataka government for immediate release of the water to it came up for hearing before a bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta.

"We feel that let this matter be posted after a week so that the further status regarding the release may be placed before the court," the bench said. It posted the matter for August 24.

"Ensure compliance of the CWMA directions," the bench said.

Senior advocate C S Vaidyanathan, appearing for Tamil Nadu, told the bench that the CWMA's direction was not being complied with and the state was unable to release water to farmers.

"They (Karnataka) have started releasing water for irrigation in Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu has not been receiving water," he said. "As of now, they have 76 per cent live storage in the reservoir and they have hardly released," he added.

The bench the asked the Karnataka government, "Why are you not releasing?"

Senior advocate Shyam Divan, appearing for Karnataka, replied that the picture being projected before it was "extremely incorrect in every material respect".

"This is an extremely severe distress year and when you have an extremely severe distress year as in the present case, there is a mechanism and a machinery for the purposes of balancing," he said.

As far as the Cauvery basin is concerned, Divan said, there is enormous deficit and the CWMA is alive to the situation and has issued directions.

According to the first direction, Karnataka was required to ensure release of 3,500 cusecs of water for 15 days till August 11, he said.

Divan also referred to the subsequent direction to release 12,000 cusecs of water daily for 15 days from August 12, and placed the data before the bench.

He said releasing 12,000 cusecs was very difficult for Karnataka, but instructions have been issued to ensure that this level is maintained.

Divan said the flow was low during the first three-four days but Karnataka will make it up in next few days.

The Tamil Nadu government had earlier said the state was not getting its due share of Cauvery water in a rain deficient year.

The Joseph Vijay led-state government on August 3 approached the apex court seeking directions to the Karnataka government for immediate release of the water.

The state government, in its plea, claimed that the quantum allocated to it by the CWRC as well as that released by its neighbour Karnataka was far less.

A CWRC meeting on July 28 directed Karnataka to release 3,500 cusecs for 15 days starting July 29. However, the quantum of water released at Biligundlu ranged between 158 and 550 cusecs from July 29 to August 2, the state government said.

A press release issued by the Tamil Nadu government said that as of August 3, the combined total storage in the reservoirs in Karnataka -- KRS, Kabini, Harangi and Hemavathy -- stood at 77.537 TMC (thousand million cubic feet) and Karnataka would face no difficulty in releasing Tamil Nadu's due share proportionately.

Following rains in the catchment areas in the KRS and Kabini dams in Karnataka recently, the proportionate water to be realised at Biligundlu should be 26.954 TMC, it said.

"Accordingly, the Cauvery Water Management Authority order allocating 4.536 TMC is very less," the release added.

Karnataka has "failed" to share with Tamil Nadu its due share of water and the quantum was 26.954 TMC, the press release said.

It will be short-terminated at Tambaram, Mambalam or Chennai Beach due to the ongoing redevelopment works at Egmore railway station. The changes will be in effect from September 4 to October 15. 

The Mannargudi–Chennai Egmore Express which leaves Mannargudi at 10.50 pm, will terminate at Tambaram instead of Egmore from September 4 to October 13. Its return service will originate from Tambaram from September 5 to October 14 and depart at 11.25 pm. 

The Tiruchchirappalli–Chennai Egmore Rockfort Superfast Express departing Tiruchchirappalli at 10.35 pm, will terminate at Mambalam from September 9-15 and September 21 to October 14. 

The Mumbai CST–Chennai Egmore Superfast Mail will terminate at Chennai Beach from September 12-15, while the Salem–Chennai Egmore Superfast Express (22154) will terminate at Mambalam during the same period. 

The Chennai Egmore–Salem Superfast Express will also originate from Chennai Beach instead of Egmore from September 13-16. It will depart Chennai Beach at 11.30 pm and Egmore at 11.55 pm. 

The Thanjavur–Chennai Egmore Uzhavan Express will be regulated at Mambalam/Kodambakkam during the redevelopment works. The train will be delayed by 20 minutes from September 16-19 and by 30 minutes from September 22 to October 15.

The issue was taken up as a Special Calling Attention Motion in the Assembly. The Minister replied to the issues raised by the Opposition parties.

During the debate, Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin said student Amuthan did not die in a group clash, but was allegedly beaten to death by a gang of 20 people, and termed the incident a murder.

"His parents and other social activists have alleged that Amuthan's murder took place only after he provided information about drug peddlers. All those involved in Amuthan's murder should be punished with the highest sentence," he said.

Opposition members R Kamaraj (AIADMK), A Ganeshkumar (PMK), Bojarajan (BJP), R Chellaswamy (CPI-M), K Marimuthu (CPI) and Tharagai Gatbet (Congress) also raised the issue.

Minister Nirmalkumar said the incident occurred due to a clash between two groups of students with a motive of vengeance. He also urged the Opposition parties not to divert the issue by linking it to drugs.

Continuing the Minister Nirmalkumar's reply, School Education Minister Rajmohan said there was no need for the police or government to hide the truth in the case. He said, as per the Chief Minister's direction, the charge sheet would be filed within the next three months.

Observing that there was prima facie material in the allegation that the petitioner's husband, Paramasivam (52), had been brought to Chinthamani police station and assaulted there, Justice Murugan also directed a three-member team of senior forensic doctors to conduct the post-mortem.

The court also appointed an advocate commissioner to inspect whether CCTV cameras were installed at the police station and whether any cameras had been removed.

The deceased's wife, Ayyammal of Madurai, claimed in her petition that she and her husband had lodged a complaint against their neighbours at Chinthamani police station on July 17 following a parking dispute.

During the inquiry on July 19, Inspector Vijayakumar, Sub-Inspector Jayakumar, Constable Anand and other police personnel allegedly kicked her husband with their footwear and assaulted him on the head.

The police also threatened to register a ganja case against her son if she disclosed the incident, she claimed. The inspector allegedly threatened Paramasivam to inform the police control room that the issue had been resolved.

Subsequently, Paramasivam was admitted to Government Rajaji Hospital on August 5 after a scan revealed bleeding in his brain. A police personnel named Abdul Mohamed allegedly threatened them to get him discharged from the hospital, she claimed. Paramasivam was later admitted to Velammal Hospital and died due to continued bleeding on August 16.

The court also appointed an advocate commissioner to inspect whether CCTV cameras were installed at the police station and whether any cameras had been removed

During the hearing, Additional Advocate General Pathir, appearing for the State, submitted that the petitioner's husband had not died at the police station and that the police had not taken him into illegal custody. Therefore, there was no basis for an inquiry, he argued. He further submitted that, as a case of suspicious death had been registered, a routine post-mortem would be conducted and the procedure would be fully videographed.

Appearing for the petitioner, advocate Haroon Rasheed argued that the allegations indicated that the assault had taken place in police custody. He requested the formation of a three-member team of doctors comprising one senior professor from the forensic medicine departments of the government medical colleges in Madurai, Theni and Sivaganga to conduct the post-mortem and that the entire procedure be videographed and that the CCTV footage from the station be preserved.

After recording the submissions, the court passed the above order.

Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay launched the system at the Secretariat on Monday. Under the first phase, first-sale documents for plots in layouts and first-sale flats can be registered only online.

The move, announced earlier by Commercial Taxes and Registration Minister D Logesh Tamilselvan, is part of the department’s transition to the STAR 3.0 ecosystem. “The move is intended to improve transparency, reduce physical interface with registration offices,” Logesh said.

Builders, developers and applicants can create a login on the Registration Department portal and submit documents without visiting a sub-registrar office. Executants, claimants and witnesses have to upload Aadhaar details and complete biometric authentication through fingerprint or iris verification.

The department said registering officers will process applications within 24 hours, either registering them, returning them for correction or rejecting them. Documents returned for rectification can be resubmitted within 30 days.

Registered documents will carry the sub-registrar’s digital signature and remain downloadable through the user account for 60 days. Each page will also bear a QR code containing registration details, while a dynamic five-colour endorsement and digital verification mechanism are intended to guard against forgery.

The department expects the shift to reduce footfall at registration offices. Tamilselvan estimated that online registration could cut the crowd by about 30 per cent, while saving citizens time and travel costs.