Citing a series of recent incidents, including a woman's murder near Sathankulam, the disappearance of a boy near Uthangarai in Krishnagiri district and the alleged caste discrimination that reportedly led to a student's death by suicide at a government-aided school in Coimbatore, Palaniswami said the developments were shocking and reflected the deterioration of law and order and social justice in the State.

In a statement, the AIADMK chief referred to the CM as a "reel CM" and questioned the government's commitment to social justice. He asked what action had been taken over the alleged caste discrimination in the Coimbatore school, despite the government's repeated claims of upholding social justice.

Palaniswami also expressed concern over the continued disappearance of children, referring to cases in Sriperumbudur, Gingee and Uthangarai. While the girl from Sriperumbudur had been rescued, he claimed the girl from Gingee remained untraced.

Questioning whether the repeated incidents indicated a pattern, he urged the government to investigate the cases from all angles, trace the missing children and take stringent legal action against those involved in the Sathankulam murder and the Coimbatore case.

Inspecting the desilting work in the canals in Kumbakonam, he said that in view of the northeast monsoon, the flood prevention activities have been accelerated across the state, while the agriculture and agriculture engineering department officials have been deployed to identify the flood-prone locations.

Pointing out that free water flow to fields was disrupted because the C and D canals were not desilted in the past 30 years, he said, “But now, the TVK government is concentrating more on these canals, and the desilt works are under way. The work would be completed on time," the minister said.

He also stated that besides agricultural areas, the residential areas in Thanjavur are also being inspected and all flood preventive measures are in place. Special task forces have been established to shift and protect the people in the vulnerable areas. “We have asked the officials to enumerate the locations that were flooded during the previous years and initiate all preventive steps," he said.

He also stated that the harvested crops that were damaged due to the monsoon rains would be inspected by the officials and proper compensation would be distributed to the affected farmers.

District Collector R Revathi and others accompanied the minister.

After paying tributes to the Marudhu brothers in Tirupattur, he said the move was aimed at preventing horse trading if TVK failed to secure the numbers required to form the government. Dhinakaran said the Communist parties had initially hesitated to support the AIADMK, as it could create the impression that they were backing the BJP.

He said TVK had only 107 MLAs and would have been unable to form the government without the support of the Communist parties and Thirumavalavan. The DMK had openly stated that it would not attempt to form the government, and TVK had not sought its support, he added.

Subsequently, Palaniswami and other leaders explored the possibility of making Thirumavalavan the chief minister with the backing of all parties, he said.

Clarifying that the move was not intended to prevent TVK from coming to power, Dhinakaran said, "If Vijay failed to form the government, EPS and all of us attempted to make VCK leader Thol Thirumavalavan the chief minister with the support of all parties."

He reiterated that the AIADMK and DMK would never join hands politically and accused Vijay of attempting to gain political mileage from the developments.

Asked about reports of actor Dhanush's possible political entry, Dhinakaran said he would be happy if the actor joined the AIADMK.

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.

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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.

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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.

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The system is expected to cross the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam by the forenoon of October 28, packing maximum sustained winds of 115-125 kmph, gusting up to 140 kmph.

According to the IMD, a well-marked low-pressure area over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal concentrated into a depression on October 24. As of Saturday, the system was centred about 510 km from Sri Vijaya Puram in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, 820 km from Visakhapatnam and 910 km from Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh.

The system is expected to intensify into a deep depression on Sunday before moving west-northwestwards. It is very likely to develop into Cyclone Arnab over the east-central and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal by the morning of October 26 and strengthen into a severe cyclonic storm by October 27. It is then likely to intensify further into a very severe cyclonic storm as it approaches the Andhra Pradesh coast on October 28.

Meanwhile, the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, has forecast moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning at isolated places in several districts of Tamil Nadu and the Puducherry region until 10 am on Sunday.

The districts covered by the forecast include Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Vellore, Ranipet, Tirupattur, Tiruvannamalai, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Tiruchy, Pudukkottai, Salem, Namakkal, Erode, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Kallakurichi, Karur, Dindigul, Madurai, Sivaganga, Ramanathapuram, Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, Theni and Kanniyakumari, besides Puducherry and Karaikal.

The Greater Chennai Corporation's 24-hour cumulative rainfall report ending at 7 am on October 25 recorded an average rainfall of 6.84 mm across the city. While one location received moderate rain, 53 locations recorded light rain and nine reported very light rain.

Recalling an incident in Theni’s Cumbum, Udhayanidhi alleged that an MLA belonging to the ruling TVK had left the spot when people questioned the sale of polished rice.

He alleged that despite Tamil Nadu having 2.28 crore ration cards, the rice was being sold in only 250 locations, with a limit of 5 kg per family.

He also questioned the government’s decision to sell fine-quality rice at cooperative stores, “When did the government float a tender to procure fine-quality rice for sale at cooperative stores? How many companies participated in the tender? The government should answer these questions without any polish.”

A woman had filed a complaint at the Puzhal Police Station in July alleging that Rajapandian had attempted to misbehave with her.

Based on that complaint, the police registered a case under the provisions of the Women Harassment Prevention Act and BNS and had been conducting an investigation. In connection with this case, the police had obtained a signature from Rajapandian on a bond of assurance that he would not harass the woman.

But, a few days ago he had violated the assurance after which a police team went to his house on Friday to conduct an inquiry. Upon seeing the police, Rajapandian went to the third floor of the house to escape from them. From there, Rajapandian jumped onto the cement roof of the neighbouring house.

In that process, the cement roof collapsed and shattered, leaving Rajapandian with grievous injuries. Police took him to the Periyar Nagar Government Hospital. After first aid there, he was admitted to the Rajiv Gandhi Government Hospital, where he died. Further investigations are underway.

Employees who fail to submit the returns within the stipulated deadline will be treated as having violated the Tamil Nadu Government Servants’ Conduct Rules, 1973.

The instructions were issued by the Chief Secretary to the Government in a communication dated August 5, 2026, and subsequently circulated by the School Education Department. The directive follows amendments to Rule 7 (3) of the Tamil Nadu Government Servants’ Conduct Rules, which require government employees to file details of their movable and immovable properties, debts and other liabilities annually through the online portal. The submission requirement applies to employees under the respective departments, excluding All India Service officers.

The IFHRMS portal provides separate forms to declare different categories of assets and liabilities. Employees must enter details of immovable properties, including land, buildings, flats and individual houses, in Form I. Movable assets, such as two-wheelers, four-wheelers, jewellery and bank deposits, must be declared in Form II. Debts and other liabilities must be reported in Form III.

To submit the returns, employees must complete all three forms, review the information, make corrections if necessary, confirm the declaration and submit the statement. Employees can download the final report for their records.

The government has also clarified that the date of submission must be mentioned in employees’ annual confidential reports. Filing the statement is also a consideration for preparing promotion panels.

Going forward, employees must submit details of assets and liabilities held as of December 31 every year by March 31 of the following calendar year. For instance, the return for 2026 must be filed by March 31, 2027. Employees have been advised to keep their IFHRMS login credentials secure and ensure timely compliance.

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.

Isolated heavy rain is also expected in Tiruvallur, Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Villupuram, Kallakurichi, Vellore, Ranipet, Tirupattur, Tiruvannamalai, Namakkal, Salem, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Erode, Virudhunagar, Kanniyakumari and Puducherry.

On Monday, heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely to continue in Pudukkottai, Sivaganga and Ramanathapuram districts. Isolated heavy rain accompanied by squally winds is forecast in The Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Theni, Dindigul, Madurai, Virudhunagar, Tenkasi, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli and Kanniyakumari.

In Chennai, the maximum temperature is likely to hover around 32 degrees Celsius and the minimum around 25 degrees Celsius. Maximum temperatures across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal are expected to remain near normal until October 28.

The IMD has warned of hazardous sea conditions as the system intensifies. The sea is likely to be very rough to high over the central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal from Sunday morning, becoming high to very high over the west-central and east-central Bay of Bengal between October 26 and 28. Rough to very rough conditions are also expected along the Andhra Pradesh and Odisha coasts.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into deep waters and to plan their activities strictly in accordance with official advisories through October 28.

Expressing grief over the incident, the minister said, "I have spent a great deal of time trying to address this issue and uproot it," reiterating the need to tackle discrimination and ensure students' emotional well-being.

The boy, A Akilan, was a Class 11 student at a school in Peelamedu, Coimbatore. According to reports, his parents alleged that he had faced caste-based discrimination by fellow students and was distressed about attending school. The allegations are being investigated by the police.

Emphasising the importance of students' mental health, Rajmohan said the School Education Department would focus on addressing the emotional well-being of students and preventing such incidents.

"The emotional well-being of students is paramount, and focus will be placed on addressing that. We have to ensure that students respond and not react to situations," the minister said.

The incident has renewed concerns over caste-based discrimination and the need for schools to provide a safe and inclusive learning environment. The allegations have also raised questions about the support available to students facing harassment and emotional distress.

The minister's assurance comes amid calls for a thorough investigation and accountability in the case. The police are examining the circumstances surrounding the boy's death and the allegations made by his family.

Stalin held a consultative meeting at Anna Arivalayam with party principal secretary KN Nehru and district secretaries concerned with the five constituencies facing bypolls. He asked the functionaries to identify suitable candidates and submit their names to the party high command.
The meeting focused on Tiruchirappalli East, Viralimalai, Karur, Perundurai and Ambasamudram constituencies.

For Tiruchirappalli East, which fell vacant following the resignation of Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, Stalin consulted Nehru and Tiruchirappalli South district secretary Anbil Mahesh.

He also held discussions with Pudukkottai North district secretary KK Chellapandian and Karur district secretary V Senthilbalaji regarding the Viralimalai and Karur constituencies, respectively. These seats fell vacant following the resignations of AIADMK MLAs MR Vijayabhaskar and C Vijayabaskar.

For Perundurai and Ambasamudram, Erode South district secretary S Muthusamy and Tirunelveli West district secretary R Avudaiyappan were consulted, respectively. The constituencies fell vacant following the resignations of AIADMK MLAs S Jayakumar and Esakki Subaya.

Stalin instructed the district-level functionaries to identify eligible candidates and forward their names to the party leadership for consideration.

The DMK leadership is closely watching the five constituencies, particularly those in and around the Tiruchirappalli region. Apart from Tiruchirappalli East, the other four constituencies were won by the AIADMK in the previous Assembly election.

Following the party's performance in two recently concluded Assembly bypolls, the DMK leadership is confident of its prospects in the forthcoming contests.

The bypolls are expected to see a four-cornered contest involving the ruling TVK, AIADMK, DMK and Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK).

In a circular issued by Additional Director Rajashekar, the department said employees and officials should submit applications concerning their grievances and demands to the head of the department through the proper official channel.

"Approaching Ministers, MLAs or Muthalvarin Mugavari and the CM Cell, bypassing the official channel, will be viewed as a violation of civil service rules. Such practices should be avoided. Staff and officials who violate these instructions will face disciplinary action under the Tamil Nadu Civil Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules," the circular stated.

The circular also cited the Tamil Nadu Government Servants' Conduct Rules, which prohibit government servants from bringing or attempting to bring political or outside influence to bear on any superior authority to further their interests in matters relating to their service under the government.

The department reiterated that employees must follow the prescribed administrative procedures while raising service-related grievances and seeking redressal.

Minister for Law and Energy Resources R Nirmalkumar on Saturday dismissed reports of Vijay's proposed visit, saying the helipad being constructed at Pasumpon in Ramanathapuram district was intended for the Vice-President's visit. He said the government had not planned the Chief Minister's visit this year, citing the large crowds expected at the annual commemoration.

"There is no truth in reports that Chief Minister Vijay will visit Pasumpon for Thevar Jayanthi. The helipad is being constructed for the Vice-President's visit," Nirmalkumar told reporters after paying tributes at the Marudhu Pandiyar memorial in Tiruppattur.

He said additional road facilities were being created to manage the crowds expected for the birth anniversary of freedom fighter Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar and his 64th Guru Pooja.

However, a senior TVK leader offered a different perspective, pointing to the political implications of the Chief Minister's absence from community commemorations.

"Vijay did not personally visit Paramakudi for Immanuel Sekaran's death anniversary, although there were moves to bring him to Pasumpon for Thevar Jayanthi. If he is seen as missing one community, the Devendrakula Vellalars, while recognising and respecting another, the Mukkulathors, it could backfire on the party and affect our future electoral calculations. That is the real reason for the decision. Public safety is not the issue; as Chief Minister, he can manage the arrangements," the party leader told DT Next.

Vijay did not personally attend the September 11 commemoration of Immanuel Sekaran's 69th death anniversary at Paramakudi. Ministers Nirmalkumar and KG Arunraj paid floral tributes there on his behalf, while Vijay honoured Sekaran in a social media post.

Meanwhile, Director General of Police Mahesh Kumar Aggarwal reviewed security arrangements at Pasumpon on Saturday. More than 18,000 police personnel are to be deployed across four southern districts for the October 30 event.

In a statement, Anbumani said the government's decision to end the long wait of farmers and allocate a subsidy of Rs 127.56 crore for the connections was welcome. However, he stressed that the annual allocation must be increased to one lakh connections to clear the backlog within four years.

Anbumani said 47,554 farmers had applied under the Tatkal Scheme following the DMK government's 2025 announcement, paying between Rs 2.5 lakh and Rs 4 lakh for connections. He also pointed out that 12,566 farmers had applied under the scheme in 2023, but the government had failed to provide connections despite collecting more than Rs 1,250 crore from them.

In August, he had urged the government to provide connections to all 4.6 lakh waiting farmers, including 60,000 Tatkal applicants and four lakh applicants under the regular scheme. PMK Legislature Party leader Sowmya Anbumani subsequently raised the demand in the Assembly, following which the Electricity Minister gave an assurance, he said.

Welcoming the partial fulfilment of the PMK's demand, Anbumani said many farmers had been waiting for more than 13 years. He urged the government to increase the annual allocation to one lakh connections and ensure that all eligible applicants received free agricultural electricity within four years.

His postings included Assistant Collector (Training) in Tirunelveli, Sub-Collector in Devakottai and Nagapattinam, Collector of the Nilgiris, Director of Survey and Settlement, Joint Secretary in the Finance Department, Commissioner and Secretary of Planning and Development, and Commissioner of Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE).

He also served as Chairman of the Second State Finance Commission, Commissioner of Revenue Administration and Chairman of the Tamil Nadu Small Industries Development Corporation (SIDCO).

His mortal remains will be kept at his residence in Karpagam Gardens, Adyar. The final rites will be held at the Besant Nagar crematorium at 11 am on Sunday.

Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay condoled his death. In a post on X, the Chief Minister recalled Sukavaneshvar's service to the government in various capacities and extended his condolences to the bereaved family.

Mohan Raj, a financial consultant, flagged the disruption on social media, saying people had been waiting at a sub-registrar office since morning without receiving tokens.

"Many members of the public are waiting outside with no clarity on when services will resume," he said, questioning the lack of a backup system and proper communication during such disruptions.

He urged the Tamil Nadu Registration Department and the State government to intervene, restore services and issue a clear update to the public. Department officials said the server glitch occurred on Friday and lasted only a short period. The issue was rectified promptly, and services resumed as usual, they said.

The complaint has highlighted the inconvenience caused by technical disruptions at government offices, particularly for people who travel to complete property registration and other document-related formalities.

The absence of timely updates can leave applicants uncertain about whether to continue waiting or return another day.

In a set of instructions, Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Vinoth has asked officials to inspect vulnerable agricultural areas, identify fields at risk of inundation and ensure paddy ready for harvest and harvested stocks are adequately protected against rain damage.

Officials have been directed to provide protective coverings for paddy stored at government procurement centres to prevent it from getting wet. They must also ensure adequate arrangements to safeguard the stocks and, wherever possible, facilitate their swift transportation to safer storage locations.

The department has instructed officials to clear blockages in irrigation canals, drainage channels and field waterways to ensure the free flow of rainwater and prevent waterlogging in agricultural fields.

Agricultural engineering officials have been asked to keep tractors, water pumps and other necessary machinery ready at vulnerable locations to drain excess water from fields promptly after rainfall.

The department has also stressed coordination among officials from the Agriculture, Horticulture and Agricultural Engineering wings, along with local bodies, to implement preventive measures based on local requirements and minimise crop losses.

Where damage occurs, officials must immediately inspect the affected areas, assess the extent of crop losses and submit detailed reports, supported by photographs and GPS coordinates, to the competent authorities without delay.

The minister has further directed officials to expedite damage assessments and facilitate eligible farmers' access to relief under applicable government schemes.

District-level control rooms will coordinate emergency measures and provide assistance to farmers. Officials must also submit reports on precautionary measures, paddy protection arrangements, drainage operations and crop damage assessments to the department's agricultural engineering authorities for further action.

The minister emphasised the importance of preventive action before rainfall intensifies, directing officials to work in coordination, continuously monitor field-level measures and take all necessary steps to protect farmers' livelihoods.

The department has also underscored the need to ensure the safety of field personnel deployed for emergency operations during adverse weather conditions.

Poovulagin Nanbargal organisation highlighted the heavy rainfall recorded in the Nilgiris and Kodaikanal over the past two days and the landslides near Burliar on the Coonoor Mettupalayam National Highway and in Kodaikanal, which damaged roads and houses.

The organisation said climate change was intensifying short-duration, heavy rainfall events, while unregulated development and the loss of green cover had weakened the Western Ghats' ability to retain rainwater. It also questioned why restrictions on tourist visits were imposed only after severe damage and loss of life.

Welcoming resolutions adopted at a meeting on Western Ghats conservation in Palladam on October 17, attended by more than 100 environmental organisations, it urged the Centre and six States to implement the Kasturirangan Committee's recommendations to declare 59,940 sq km as Ecologically Sensitive Areas.

In Tamil Nadu, it called for declaring 6,914 sq km ecologically sensitive, regulating land use changes, restoring natural forests in plantation areas after leases expire and restricting mass tourism events beyond the hills' carrying capacity.

The organisation urged the state government to prioritise conservation, sustainable livelihoods and protection of the Western Ghats, which serve as a major water source and habitat for diverse wildlife.

The reform follows an assurance made by the Finance Minister during the Assembly’s Budget session to simplify the framework for state loans and advances, according to an order issued by the Finance Department.

Under the revised norms, government employees who have successfully completed their probation period will be eligible to apply for these advances. Previously, employees had to complete six years of continuous service to qualify.

To ensure seamless access and eliminate procedural delays, the government has shifted the entire application process from manual paperwork to an online system.

"Government employees seeking loans and advances can submit their applications through the Integrated Financial and Human Resource Management System (IFHRMS) portal or the Kalanjiyam mobile application," said a government official.

However, the government has not changed the core terms and conditions governing these loans and advances.

Employees availing advances to purchase vehicles or computer systems must complete the transaction within one month of the amount being credited to their account.

The government has also made it mandatory that any employee whose services are terminated must settle the entire outstanding loan balance along with the accrued interest in a single instalment.

Additionally, vehicles or other assets acquired using state advances cannot be sold, transferred, or mortgaged until the principal and interest components are fully repaid.

The revamped framework is expected to cut red tape significantly and ensure prompt disbursal of financial support to eligible government personnel for the purchase of a vehicle or while getting married.

An in-house assessment has estimated the peak shortfall at 3,610-6,568 MW, while independent consultant Mercados has projected a deficit of 4,834-7,971 MW.

The Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission (TNERC) has cleared TNPDCL’s proposal to float a short-term tender for round-the-clock and peak-hour power between February and July 2027. The utility is preparing for a projected peak demand of 23,672 MW, against the all-time high of 21,724 MW recorded on July 14 this year. The plan seeks to secure power in advance, reducing dependence on spot-market purchases when availability is limited and prices are high.

TNPDCL’s planning mix includes about 1,500 MW through long-term arrangements, 1,500 MW through medium-term contracts, 2,000-3,200 MW through short-term or shaped procurement, and around 500 MW through power swaps and banking. Residual requirements would be met through power exchanges and other market arrangements, depending on demand and availability.

The utility’s existing procurement framework covers about 70% of its requirement through long-term arrangements and around 10% through medium-term contracts. Short-term purchases are used to meet the remaining requirement, including seasonal demand. The proposed mix is intended to complement these arrangements rather than replace them.

Under the short-term tender, TNPDCL can procure round-the-clock power and additional supply between 6 pm and midnight. The combined quantum proposed for the peak period is 2,880 MW in February 2027, 2,000 MW in March, 3,200 MW each in April and May, and 2,000 MW each in June and July.

The advance procurement plan follows an unusual pattern in 2026, when high demand continued beyond the usual summer period and wind generation proved inadequate during certain spells. The regulator also took note of the risk of prolonged heatwaves and El Niño-related weather conditions affecting demand and power availability next year.

TN recorded its highest daily energy consumption of 475.447 million units on July 17, 2026. TNPDCL has told the regulator that power exchanges alone cannot reliably meet the anticipated shortfall, as purchases depend on market availability and prevailing prices.

During peak periods, electricity prices in the market have been around Rs 10/unit. TNPDCL has historically managed to procure only 15%-25% of the quantity bid for in some time blocks, even when bids were placed at the price ceiling, highlighting the risk of relying on spot purchases.

The Central Electricity Authority’s Resource Adequacy Plan has also indicated a short-term procurement requirement of 2,674 MW for Tamil Nadu in 2027-28. TNERC has permitted TNPDCL to float the tender through the DEEP portal. The approval does not amount to adoption of the tariff discovered through bidding.

The utility will have to approach the commission separately for tariff adoption under Section 63 of the Electricity Act, 2003.

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

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• 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.

Speaking to reporters in Thanjavur, Thirumavalavan said that in order to ensure democracy within the party, VCK has taken a valuable decision after 30 years that the office bearers are elected based on the majority votes. "Hence, hereafter no one can get a party post for being known to me but supporters of the party cadres," Thiruma said.

Stating that the VCK will never compromise its principles for taking part in the government or mere power, Thiruma stated that the party will strive to ensure secularism and social justice; hence, VCK will always oppose casteist and communal forces. "A few smaller elements have been spreading fake narratives against the party, and they will get a fitting response soon," he said.

"VCK will never crave for power. In the 25 years of political life, the party aligned with DMK for 20 years and stood by them during all situations, as the party is particular about ensuring the principles," he said, adding, "But we had to part with the alliance as they have failed to recognise us. They would soon realise that without VCK no government is possible."

Meanwhile, Thiruma stated that the TVK is new to the government and they are doing their best in implementing welfare schemes and the people have already recognised it.

The police identified the deceased as K Jalendran (60), a fisherman from Tirumullaivasal hamlet near Sirkazhi in Mayiladuthurai. According to the police, he had frequently quarrelled with his wife Malar Selvi (55) over a prolonged family issue.

On Saturday morning, the door of Jalendran's house remained closed for a long time, and the neighbours found that his house was locked from inside. The neighbours, who grew suspicious, forcibly broke open the windows and found Jalendran dead, hanging from the ceiling. They also found Jalendran’s wife, Malar Selvi and son Athigunan (24) lying dead in a pool of blood. Soon, the neighbours passed on the information to the Sirkazhi police, who rushed to the spot, retrieved the bodies and sent them to Sirkazhi GH.

The initial investigation found that Jalendran picked up a quarrel with his wife in the late hours of Friday, which lasted for several hours. Suddenly, Jalendran, who lost control, had reportedly picked up a metal rod and hit his wife, Malar Selvi, in which she sustained severe injuries and fell unconscious.

On seeing his mother falling, Athigunan attempted to rescue her, but Jalendran attacked him, and he too sustained severe head injuries and fell dead.

After realising that he had killed his wife and son, Jalendran, out of frustration, hanged himself and died. On information, the SP Bhukya Sneha Priya visited the spot and conducted an inquiry. Further investigations are on.

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

Following the dispute, Naseema left their house and went to her brother Sheikh Fayaz’s (29) house in Aadhanur near Urapakkam. Angered by the incident, Fayaz went to Vasivudeen’s house with four of his friends to question him.

A heated argument soon escalated into a physical altercation. Vasivudeen sustained injuries to his head and cheek during the fight. Meanwhile, Naseema, who witnessed her son being attacked, intervened in an attempt to protect him.

During that time, Fayaz and his friends allegedly pushed her to the ground, leaving her unconscious. She was rushed to the Tambaram District GH, where doctors declared her dead on arrival. Vasivudeen, who was injured, was also admitted to the same hospital for treatment. 

Based on a complaint, Peerkankaranai police registered a murder case and launched an investigation. They arrested Fayaz (29) and his four friends Kavipperarasu (22), Mohammed Hussain (21), Udhayakumar (20) and Mukesh (19). All five were remanded to judicial custody and further investigation is on.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, a circular to this effect has been issued to all regional joint directors, pay and accounts officers, treasury officers and sub-treasury officers.

The circular stated that accepting pension applications in physical form had led to discrepancies between applications submitted online and those received directly in paper form, resulting in complications in pension processing.

Accordingly, all pension applications, including those seeking revision of pension, must be submitted through the designated online system from November. Applicants must ensure that all required details and relevant supporting documents are uploaded along with their applications.

Paper applications to be returned

The circular further stated that, from November, pension applications submitted in physical form would be returned by the Accountant General's office without being considered for processing.

The department has instructed officials to inform the drawing and disbursing officers under their control about the revised procedure and ensure strict compliance.

The move is aimed at streamlining pension processing and ensuring that pensionary benefits are disbursed to eligible beneficiaries without delay.

The Kodaikanal hill region in Dindigul district has been receiving persistent rainfall as the Northeast Monsoon intensifies across Tamil Nadu. The continuing downpour has raised concerns over road safety, with landslides disrupting connectivity between the hill village and nearby towns.

Landslides damage Adukkam mountain road

The heavy rain overnight triggered landslides at several points along the road, with soil and massive rocks sliding down the slopes. The damage has made the route unusable, preventing residents of Adukkam from travelling to either Periyakulam or Kodaikanal.

The disruption has also affected daily life in the village. Residents are facing difficulties accessing essential supplies, while farmers are unable to transport their agricultural produce to markets. With the main road blocked, the village has effectively been cut off from the outside world.

Road closed; motorists advised to avoid route

As a precaution, the Adukkam mountain road has been temporarily closed due to the continuing risk of landslides and further damage. The district administration and police have warned tourists and motorists against using the stretch until conditions improve.

The closure is intended to prevent vehicles from entering the affected area, where unstable slopes and falling rocks could pose a danger to road users. People travelling to Kodaikanal have been advised to use alternative routes.

Traffic diverted as restoration awaits

Vehicles heading towards Kodaikanal are being diverted through the Vathalagundu–Perumalmalai main road. The alternative route is being used to maintain access to the hill station while the damaged stretch remains closed.

The Highways Department is expected to begin restoration work after the rainfall subsides and conditions become safer for workers and machinery.

The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, issued the red alert in view of the forecast of extremely heavy rainfall in the district. With road access affected by the weather, authorities have appealed to people to avoid unnecessary travel through vulnerable stretches.

TNSTC bus driver killed; over 150 students rescued

Heavy rainfall has also triggered landslides and tree falls across the Nilgiris and Coimbatore districts. A Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) bus driver was killed and the conductor seriously injured after a mudslide and uprooted trees buried their bus near Burliar. In a separate incident, more than 150 students from Kerala who were stranded following a landslide in the Mettupalayam–Ooty region were rescued by police, firefighters and district officials

Collector advises tourists to avoid Ooty hill routes

Lakshmi Bhavya has advised people travelling from Mettupalayam to Ooty to avoid the routes through Coonoor and Kotagiri amid the continuing rain and the risk of further disruption.

Fallen trees and landslides have affected traffic movement in parts of the Nilgiris. The adverse weather has raised concerns over the safety of motorists and tourists using the hill roads, where heavy rain can increase the risk of falling trees and slope failures.

The public has been asked to remain cautious and follow official advisories while the district faces the impact of the rainfall.

NDRF, SDRF teams deployed in Nilgiris

Following the red alert, teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been deployed in the Nilgiris district to assist with emergency response and disaster management.

The deployment comes as authorities prepare for the possibility of further rainfall-related incidents. Fallen trees and landslides have already disrupted traffic, making preparedness and public safety key concerns.

Orange alert for nine Tamil Nadu districts

The Chennai Meteorological Centre has issued an orange alert for very heavy rainfall in nine districts on Saturday. These are Villupuram, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, Kallakurichi, Tiruvannamalai, Coimbatore and Nagapattinam.

Heavy rainfall has also been forecast in 24 districts, including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram and Chengalpattu. With different parts of Tamil Nadu expected to receive significant rainfall, residents have been advised to remain alert to weather updates and follow instructions issued by local authorities.

District Collector S Durga Moorthy visited the site and assessed the damage firsthand.

More than 100 families residing at the Sri Lankan Tamil refugee camp faced severe hardship after persistent rains flooded their residential area, as reported by PTI Videos.

Residents reported that rainwater began stagnating rapidly, leaving homes waterlogged and forcing families to move children and belongings to safety.

During the inspection, the collector interacted with the affected persons to understand their plight and examine the extent of the waterlogging.

Locals explained that blocked drainage channels and overflowing water bodies, including an exposed 40-foot-deep well near the residential zone—heightened safety concerns during the downpour.

They noted that makeshift breaches were created along blocked pathways to help drain the stagnant water, though debris and blocked channels continued to impede the flow.

Acknowledging the urgency of the situation, the collector assured residents that necessary relief measures and permanent drainage solutions would be discussed and implemented to prevent recurring flooding in the settlement.

In a statement, he said the state government had invited tenders to establish five model property registration centres through private operators in Ambattur, Tiruvanmiyur and T Nagar in Chennai, as well as in Chengalpattu and Coimbatore.

The centres are proposed to be set up in air-conditioned malls with modern amenities, enabling people to register documents without waiting in queues, he said.

Depending on the response to the initiative, 20 more such centres are planned, Anbumani said, adding that private operators would be allowed to collect additional service charges ranging from Rs 2,090 to Rs 10,630 over and above the regular registration fees.

Pointing out that Tamil Nadu has 595 registration offices across 56 registration districts, he said there was no need to establish privately operated centres.

The Registration Department is expected to generate Rs 35,109 crore in revenue during the current financial year. Even one per cent of this amount could be used to upgrade facilities and provide air-conditioned premises at existing government offices, he said.

“Handing over these operations to private entities and allowing them to collect service charges of up to Rs 10,630 amounts to exploiting the public,” he alleged.

Rejecting the government's clarification that private companies would provide only basic facilities while the registration process remained under government control, Anbumani compared the move to allowing a “camel's head into a tent”.

He warned that the initiative could eventually pave the way for the complete privatisation of the Registration Department.

Turning to land surveying, Anbumani highlighted the concerns of temporary surveyors, who earn Rs 23,000 a month and have been seeking job security and higher wages.

“When these workers approached senior department officials, they were reportedly told that all land survey operations would be outsourced to private agencies from January and that contract surveyors would face termination by December,” he said, adding that the reported plan had left workers anxious about losing their livelihoods.

Anbumani alleged that corruption was widespread in both the Registration and Land Survey departments and warned that involving private agencies could worsen malpractice and lead to further irregularities.

He urged the state government to drop the proposed changes, recruit adequate personnel in both departments and improve infrastructure to provide better services directly to the public.

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.

Mud and uprooted trees fell on the bus, burying it under debris and slush.

Fire and rescue personnel from Coonoor and Mettupalayam, along with local police, rushed to the spot and rescued the trapped crew.

“When we reached the Marapalam area, the driver was completely trapped in his seat beneath the heavy debris. We searched the entire bus and initially found no other passengers, which was a huge relief, though tragic for the crew,” a fire officer said.

Both men were pulled from the debris and rushed to the Mettupalayam Government Hospital. Janagaraj later succumbed to his injuries, while Kesavan was undergoing intensive treatment for severe injuries.

Continuous rain has triggered several landslides, disrupting road connectivity across the hill district.

Mudslides blocked the Ooty-Mettupalayam and Ooty-Coonoor highways, disrupting traffic to the hill district. Vehicles queued up from Mettupalayam to Karamadai, while bus passengers were stranded for hours.

In Theetukkal area of Udhagamandalam, a retaining wall at a hotel collapsed, destroying two cars and six two-wheelers. A night watchman trapped in the mud was rescued by fire and rescue personnel.

The Forest Department temporarily closed access to Catherine Falls and Kodanad Viewpoint as a precaution.

Burliar recorded 25 cm of rainfall, while Edapally received 20 cm, according to meteorological data.

More than 20 pieces of heavy machinery, including JCBs, were deployed by the Highways, Fire and Rescue Services and Revenue departments to clear debris and restore traffic. Rescue and clearance operations were continuing in the affected areas.

Nilgiris District Collector Lakshmi Bhavya Taneeru declared a holiday for schools in Udhagamandalam, Coonoor, Kotagiri, Kundah, Gudalur and Pandalur taluks on Saturday in view of the heavy rainfall.

In a statement on Friday, K Aarumuganainar, general secretary of the Tamil Nadu State Transport Employees Federation affiliated to CITU, demanded an inquiry into the alleged irregularities in fixing the contract rates and action against those responsible.

The union said under the PM E-Drive scheme, Karnataka pays private operators Rs 37 to Rs 40 per km under the GCC model, while Maharashtra pays Rs 40 to Rs 52, Telangana Rs 36, Delhi Rs 56 to Rs 62 and Gujarat Rs 59. In contrast, the DMK government agreed to pay Rs 77 per km for ordinary electric buses and Rs 80 for air-conditioned buses in Chennai, it alleged.

CITU accused the previous government of poorly implementing the Union government's scheme and generously diverting public money to private operators. It alleged that the unusually high rates raised questions about who benefited from the agreement and demanded that the government disclose the reasons behind the higher payments.

The union also sought the cancellation of existing contracts awarded under the GCC model and the return of bus depots to state transport corporations.

Referring to the 2026-27 transport department's demand for grants, CITU said the TVK government had announced plans to operate 6,000 electric buses by 2030 under a public-private partnership and GCC model, following the approach adopted by the previous DMK government. It warned that the policy would gradually weaken state-run transport corporations by making them dependent on private operators.

Although purchasing electric buses involves substantial initial investment, operating them directly through transport corporations would reduce costs in the long run, the union said. It argued that leasing charges could exceed the cost of investing in and operating government-owned buses, diverting public funds to private companies.

CITU also flagged concerns over private operators controlling charging infrastructure, limited access to vehicle technology and technical information, battery performance issues and the transport corporations' ability to monitor and enforce contractual obligations.

The union cited Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's assurance in the Assembly that the government would neither touch public money improperly nor spare those who did so. It urged the government to investigate the higher contract rates, make the findings public, punish those found guilty and protect the transport corporations' funds.

CITU maintained that the GCC model could undermine public transport and threaten the long-term viability of state-run transport undertakings. It demanded that the government operate electric buses directly through state transport corporations without private participation.

The union has announced a demonstration on October 27 in front of the regional headquarters of the state transport undertakings across Tamil Nadu.

According to media reports, the bicycles will be provided along with helmets and water bottles under a scheme implemented by the Directorate of Backward Classes Welfare.

What are the prices of bicycles?

Hero Cycles quoted Rs 7,235 per bicycle for boys and Rs 7,476 for girls, including taxes.

The total cost of procuring the bicycles at these rates is estimated at Rs 392 crore, against the budget allocation of Rs 277 crore for the scheme.

How many bicycles are required in total?

The total requirement is 5,32,388, of which 2,37,133 bicycles are meant for boys and 2,95,255 for girls.

What are the conditions stated in the contract?

• The bicycles must comply with the IS 10613:2023 standard.

• The company awarded the contract must manufacture the frames and forks itself.

• The bicycles are to be supplied in Lilac Mist and Army Green colours.

• The helmets must meet the IS 18808:2025 standard, while the water bottles must comply with IS 10910:1984.

• The Tamil Nadu government's emblem must also be permanently marked on the bicycle frame.

• Any defects reported within 30 days of delivery must be rectified promptly by the supplier through its service personnel.

What is the delivery date?

The bicycles, helmets and water bottles must be delivered within 150 days of the purchase order.

The directive, issued through a government order on Friday, cited high power procurement costs and the corporation's critical financial position as reasons for the verification exercise.

Of the 50,000 connections sanctioned, 20,000 will be provided free under the normal category, including 3,215 connections earmarked on a one-time priority basis for small and marginal farmers belonging to BC, MBC and DNC communities. The remaining allocations comprise 3,372 connections under the Revised Self-Financing Scheme, 1,346 under various government schemes and 25,282 under the Tatkal self-financing scheme.

The TNPDCL had already provided 7,313 agricultural connections between April 1 and September 21, anticipating government approval. The government has now ratified these connections and ordered that they be counted against the annual target.

The recurring expenditure for the 50,000 connections is estimated at Rs 127.56 crore, to be provided by the state government as a subsidy. The TNPDCL will bear the non-recurring expenditure of Rs 750 crore towards connection works, estimated at an average of Rs 1.5 lakh per connection.

The government has also ordered that the unachieved balance of the 2025-26 target be subsumed under the current year's allocation.

Over 150 students rescued

According to a Daily Thanthi report, the students, who were visiting the region as tourists, were stranded following a landslide. Police, firefighters and district administration officials rushed to the spot after receiving information about the incident and used ropes to evacuate them to safety.

Government bus damaged in landslide

In a separate incident, a Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) bus travelling from Coonoor to Mettupalayam was buried under mud and debris after a mudslide and uprooted trees fell on it near Burliar in the Nilgiris district in the early hours of Saturday.

The driver, Janagaraj, a resident of Kooratty village near Ooty, was killed in the incident, while the conductor, Kesavan, sustained serious injuries and was admitted to Mettupalayam Government Hospital for intensive treatment. The bus had three passengers, who got off at Kurumpadi shortly before the incident. Only the driver and conductor were on board when the mudslide struck.

Fire and rescue personnel from Coonoor and Mettupalayam, along with local police, rushed to the spot and rescued the trapped conductor.

Landslides disrupt road traffic

The Nilgiris and Coimbatore districts have been experiencing heavy rainfall and strong winds over the past week as the northeast monsoon intensifies in Tamil Nadu. The downpour has triggered landslides and tree falls at around 20 locations along roads connecting Ooty with Mettupalayam, Coonoor and Kotagiri.

Landslides have been reported at 14 locations along the Mettupalayam–Coonoor road and at three locations along the Mettupalayam–Kotagiri road, disrupting traffic on both routes.

Traffic on the Ooty–Coonoor–Mettupalayam road was suspended from midnight until 9 am, while movement on the Ooty–Kotagiri–Mettupalayam road was disrupted for about an hour from around 5 am. Only small vehicles were reportedly allowed along one side of the latter route. The alternative route to Ooty via Karamadai, Gethai and Manjoor was also blocked following rockfalls.

Heavy rainfall, school holiday and train cancellation

Lower Kotagiri reportedly recorded 200 mm of rainfall, while Paraliyar received 250 mm. Restoration work is underway on the affected roads.

As a precautionary measure, Nilgiris District Collector Lakshmi Bhavya reportedly declared a holiday for schools in six taluks on Saturday (October 24). The Mettupalayam–Ooty mountain railway service was also cancelled for the day due to the landslides, affecting tourists who had planned to travel by train.

In a set of instructions, the Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Vinoth has asked officials to inspect vulnerable agricultural areas, identify fields at risk of inundation and ensure that paddy ready for harvest and harvested stocks are adequately protected against rain damage.

Officials have been directed to provide protective coverings for paddy stored at government procurement centres to prevent it from getting wet. They must also ensure adequate arrangements to safeguard the stocks and, wherever possible, facilitate their swift transportation to safer storage locations.

The department has instructed officials to clear blockages in irrigation canals, drainage channels and field waterways to ensure the free flow of rainwater and prevent waterlogging in agricultural fields.

Agricultural engineering officials have been asked to keep tractors, water pumps and other necessary machinery ready at vulnerable locations to drain excess water from fields promptly after rainfall.

The department has also stressed coordination among officials from the Agriculture, Horticulture and Agricultural Engineering wings, along with local bodies, to implement preventive measures based on local requirements and minimise crop losses.

Where damage occurs, officials must immediately inspect the affected areas, assess the extent of crop losses and submit detailed reports, supported by photographs and GPS coordinates, to the competent authorities without delay.

The minister has further directed officials to expedite damage assessments and facilitate eligible farmers’ access to relief under applicable government schemes.

District-level control rooms will coordinate emergency measures and provide assistance to farmers. Officials must also submit reports on precautionary measures, paddy protection arrangements, drainage operations and crop damage assessments to the department’s agricultural engineering authorities for further action.

The Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister has emphasised the importance of preventive action before rainfall intensifies, directing officials to work in coordination, continuously monitor field-level measures and take all necessary steps to protect farmers’ livelihoods.

The department has also underscored the need to ensure the safety of field personnel deployed for emergency operations during adverse weather conditions.

The boy, Tamil, was the son of Praveen Kumar and Haripriya, a couple from Kungumampalayam near Palladam. He had been suffering from persistent fever for the past few days.

His parents initially admitted him to a private hospital in Palladam for treatment. Doctors who examined him confirmed that he had dengue fever.

As his condition deteriorated, he was shifted to the Coimbatore Government Hospital for further treatment and admitted to the intensive care unit. However, he died on Friday night despite receiving treatment.

Following the incident, the public had requested urged the health department to intensify mosquito-control measures and sanitation work in the locality.

The existing e-Sevai platform provides 275 services across 38 departments through 25,277 centres. It handles an average of 50,000 to 60,000 requests a day, with demand reaching 80,000 on peak days. The proposed platform is designed to accommodate an average of 60,000 to 1.2 lakh requests a day, with peak demand of up to 1.5 lakh, supporting at least 50,000 concurrent users.

Named as Vetri Tamil Nadu Integrated e-Sevai 2.0 Platform, the Tamil Nadu e-Governance Agency (TNeGA) issued an Expression of Interest (EOI) inviting technology providers to propose solutions for a common platform to manage applications, approvals, documents, payments and certificates across government departments.

The platform is also intended to support a "No Application" service delivery model, under which authorised government databases would be used to identify eligible beneficiaries and pre-fill application details. Where service rules permit, eligible citizens could receive services without submitting a separate application.

The platform is expected to connect around 15 departmental portals and 18 state and national digital systems. These include Aadhaar-based authentication, e-Sign, DigiLocker, payment services, and government databases. TNeGA estimates that around 110 terabytes of data, including databases and supporting documents from the existing e-Sevai and e-District systems, would have to be migrated.

The existing e-Sevai centre network is expected to remain part of the service-delivery ecosystem. The proposed platform will have mobile applications, messaging services, call centres and IVRS, alongside other digital government platforms.

A substantial part of the transition will involve migrating data from the existing e-Sevai and e-District systems, including databases and supporting documents, to the new platform.

The proposed AI tools include a conversational interface in Tamil and English to help users find services, document-processing capabilities and a workbench to assist government officers in handling applications. AI is also proposed for classifying grievances, routing them to the appropriate authorities and identifying duplicate complaints.

The AI system would operate within TNeGA's environment, with citizen data not leaving that environment. The proposed platform is to run on government-provided infrastructure rather than depend on a vendor-hosted cloud service to provide seamless service.

Meanwhile, 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, as reported by Daily Thanthi.

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

Meanwhile, 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.

Moving west-northwestwards, the system is likely to intensify further and reach the west-central Bay of Bengal near the Andhra Pradesh coast around the morning of October 28.

The cyclone will be named Arnab, as suggested by Bangladesh.

According to the prosecution, Shyabu Khan, a resident of Rajasthan, created fake AI-generated videos impersonating Chief Minister Vijay on Facebook to lure the public into seeking assistance. He allegedly operated two Facebook profiles, “All India Help Vijay Thalapati” and “All India Help,” and circulated digitally manipulated videos asking people to contact him for help in return for registration fees.

Based on a complaint, police arrested Shyabu Khan on September 12, 2026, for offences under Sections 204, 318(2), 319(2), 336(3), and 340(2) of the BNS, and Sections 66C and 66D of the IT Act.

Shyabu Khan subsequently filed a bail petition before the Madras High Court. Justice N Ramesh granted him conditional bail, noting that he had been in judicial custody since September 12, 2026, the investigation had been completed, the chargesheet was ready, and the mobile phone allegedly used in the offence had been seized.

The court directed him to appear daily before the DSP, CB-CID Cyber Crime Cell.

In a circular dated October 19, the Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine said employees must not express views criticising government policies, schemes or administrative actions through newspapers, magazines, radio, television, social media or public meetings. The restrictions also cover memes and other content circulated online.

The circular also bars employees from making statements that could adversely affect relations with other governments, participating in unauthorised meetings where resolutions are adopted, or delivering speeches that criticise the government.

State can't gag right to dissent, says CPM

Responding to the issue, the CPM has urged the State government to withdraw a circular prohibiting government employees from criticising the policies, schemes and actions of the Union and State governments, warning that the directive undermines democratic rights.

In a resolution adopted at its two-day state committee meeting held here on Friday, the party condemned the circular dated October 19, 2026, issued as an oral instruction by the Director of Public Health. The circular reportedly warns that government employees who criticise government policies or actions would face disciplinary action.

The CPM said expressing dissent, criticising government policies and organising protests against measures affecting people's interests were constitutional rights. It said government employees and those working in public sector undertakings were also entitled to oppose policies that affected their interests.

The party pointed to the implementation of neoliberal policies, privatisation, contractual appointments and outsourcing, which it said had weakened social security and left a large number of government posts vacant, denying employment opportunities to Tamil Nadu's youth. It said criticism and protests against such policies were legitimate and necessary.

Citing the assured pension scheme as a recent example, the CPM said the earlier government had announced an interim benefit of 30% of the last-drawn salary, against the originally stated 50%. Subsequently, a government order capped the benefit at Rs 10,000 for employees with less than 18 years of service. The government withdrew the order after the CPM, other political parties and associations of government employees and teachers criticised the decision, the party said.

Describing criticism as an inseparable part of democracy, the CPM said threatening employees with disciplinary action for expressing dissent amounted to suppressing democratic rights. It demanded that the government immediately withdraw the circular.