According to a Daily Thanthi report, the new timings have been implemented to regulate heavy crowds and ensure the temple's daily rituals are completed on schedule.

Entry cut-off for darshan queues

As per a press release issued by the temple administration, devotees will henceforth be allowed to join the paid darshan queue only until 6.30 pm, while entry into the general darshan queue will be permitted only until 7 pm. The temple has also clarified that these timings may be revised on festival days and other special occasions depending on the volume of devotees.

The administration said the temple doors are officially scheduled to close at 9 pm every day. However, on days witnessing a large influx of devotees, admissions into the queues beyond the prescribed time have resulted in darshan continuing well past midnight.

Temple cites delay in rituals

According to the temple authorities, devotees entering the queues after the evening cut-off often remain inside the temple corridors beyond the notified closing time. This has led to repeated arguments with officials, as devotees insist on being allowed to have darshan even after the scheduled closure.

The administration explained that evening rituals, including the screening of the sanctum during the night abhishekam, significantly slow the movement of devotees. As a result, pilgrims who enter the queues around 6.30 pm and 7 pm generally complete their darshan only by around 9 pm.

Officials said the new entry restrictions are intended to ensure that devotees who have already entered the queues are able to complete their worship without disruption, while also allowing the temple to conduct the Palliyarai ritual and close the shrine as per established practice.

Devotees express concern

The temple administration has installed notice boards within the premises informing devotees of the revised timings and the reasons behind the decision. It has urged devotees to plan their visit accordingly, particularly on days that witness heavy footfall.

Despite the clarification, the sudden announcement has come as a surprise to many devotees visiting the famous Murugan temple. Several pilgrims have expressed concern over the restrictions, saying the revised timings could affect those travelling from distant places who reach the temple only during the evening hours.

The Tiruchendur Subramania Swamy Temple, one of the six abodes of Lord Murugan, attracts thousands of devotees every day, with the numbers swelling considerably during weekends, holidays and festival seasons

The minister alleged that the Union Minister for Jal Shakti had failed to maintain neutrality on the issue and had instead taken a stand favourable to Karnataka.

"The Union Minister himself lacks clarity on this issue. He has been speaking as though he is acting against Tamil Nadu while supporting the construction of the Mekedatu dam in Karnataka. This is not an issue that can be resolved by individual states alone. The Union Government has the responsibility to intervene," he said.

'Karnataka's stand remains unchanged'

Nirmalkumar claimed that successive governments in Karnataka, irrespective of political affiliation, have pursued the same objective regarding the Mekedatu project.

"Whether it is the BJP or the Congress in Karnataka, their stand remains the same. They continue to push the Mekedatu project despite Tamil Nadu's strong opposition. The Supreme Court is our only recourse, and this government will take every possible legal step to protect the rights of Tamil Nadu," he said.

His remarks come days after the Tamil Nadu government decided to move the Supreme Court against the proposed Mekedatu balancing reservoir project, maintaining that it would adversely affect the State's share of Cauvery water.

Questions Rahul Gandhi's silence

During the interaction, reporters asked why Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had not intervened in the matter despite the Congress being in power in Karnataka, suggesting that his intervention could influence the State government's position.

Responding to the query, Nirmalkumar referred to PMK president Anbumani Ramadoss, who had welcomed the Tamil Nadu government's decision to approach the Supreme Court.

"He was part of an alliance with the Congress earlier. What did he do when the notification was issued in the Gazette then?" the minister asked.

He reiterated that the Mekedatu issue is an inter-state dispute and insisted that judicial intervention remains the only viable solution.

CM Vijay to decide on all-party meeting

When asked whether Chief Minister Vijay would convene an all-party meeting on the Mekedatu issue, Nirmalkumar said the decision rests entirely with the Chief Minister.

He added that the government remains committed to opposing the Mekedatu dam project and would continue to pursue all legal and constitutional measures necessary to protect Tamil Nadu's interests.

While noting that the step comes after Karnataka shut the doors on proposed bilateral discussions, pursuing action remains the only correct course of action, he said in a statement here.

Pointing out that Tamil Nadu government had earlier announced that Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay would travel to Bengaluru to hold talks with his counterpart D K Shivakumar regarding Cauvery water sharing and the Mekedatu dam issue, the PMK leader said however, following intense opposition in Tamil Nadu and escalating protests in Karnataka, the neighbouring state CM declared that the environment was not conducive for bilateral talks.

Stating that TN Law Minister R Nirmal Kumar subsequently announced that Tamil Nadu would approach the apex Court to demand the immediate release of its due share of Cauvery water, with officials stating the petition will be filed after August 5, he said "while the Tamil Nadu government initially took the wrong path, it is reassuring that they have finally corrected their course".

"Moving forward, the state government must adopt a firm policy decision never to engage in talks with the Karnataka government on Cauvery water sharing or the Mekedatu dam issue", he said. "Being new to politics, chief minister Vijay might have believed he could secure water through a novel political approach."

However, Vijay must understand that regardless of which party rules Karnataka, its chief ministers "will never willingly release water to Tamil Nadu", Anbumani alleged.

"The Tamil Nadu government must act swiftly to file a case in the Supreme Court directing Karnataka to release water as mandated by the Cauvery Water Management Authority", he said.

Tamil Nadu must present robust data before the apex court "exposing the joint design of the Centre and Karnataka regarding Mekedatu, and firmly demand a stay on the preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the dam,"Ramadoss said.

The outlook comes even as Tamil Nadu and Puducherry continue to record a rainfall deficit during the ongoing southwest monsoon. Between June 1 and August 1, the region received 100.5 mm of rainfall against the normal 122.7 mm, registering a 18% deficit, according to IMD data.

The IMD said rainfall activity across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry would vary across regions during August. North Coastal Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, as well as South Coastal Tamil Nadu, are expected to receive normal to above-normal rainfall. North Interior Tamil Nadu and South Interior Tamil Nadu are likely to record normal rainfall, while the Western Ghats districts are forecast to receive below-normal rainfall.

The weather office said maximum temperatures during August are likely to remain near normal to slightly above normal across most parts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. However, areas experiencing frequent rainfall may record temperatures close to normal.

Minimum temperatures are also expected to remain normal to above normal over most parts of the State and Puducherry, with warm and humid nights likely at many places.

For the second half of the southwest monsoon season, covering August and September, the IMD said the rainfall pattern over Tamil Nadu is expected to remain similar to the August outlook.

While cumulative rainfall across India is projected to be below normal during the period, eastern parts of Tamil Nadu are expected to benefit from favourable atmospheric conditions. In contrast, the Western Ghats region is likely to witness prolonged subdued rainfall.

The IMD said moderate El Niño conditions prevailing over the equatorial Pacific Ocean are expected to strengthen further during the remainder of the southwest monsoon season. Neutral Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) conditions are likely to persist through August, although some international climate models indicate the possible development of a positive IOD during September, which could partly offset the influence of El Niño over Peninsular India.

CPI(M) MP questioned Minister Vinoth on the Agriculture Budget copy taken to Tirumala

Among those who criticised the minister was CPI(M) MP Su Venkatesan, who questioned the decision in a post on X.

He said budget documents were "neither offerings to the divine nor spiritual items" but political and constitutional documents that explain how taxpayers' money is proposed to be spent.

Venkatesan further said that turning political documents into offerings based on individual religious beliefs was unconstitutional.

According to a Thanthi TV alert, the utility will also remove the electricity meter while disconnecting such inactive connections.

Consumers are expected to receive SMS alerts informing them of the proposed action before the disconnection process is carried out.

The move is reportedly intended to minimise revenue loss arising from inactive electricity connections.

Addressing reporters, the former minister said that he and others named in the cases would face the legal challenges in court and prove all allegations false.

Detailing the law enforcement action against him, he said, "Searches were conducted at the room where I stayed and across various locations, leading to a case being registered", he said after visiting the city police station to sign the register as per the court order.

"We had filed an anticipatory bail petition in the Madras High Court regarding this matter and following its dismissal, we consulted with senior advocates and legal experts to move the Supreme Court," he said.

Addressing his court-mandated police station sign-ins and the ongoing investigation, the MLA said, "I had sent a letter to the investigating officer at the police station requesting a temporary exemption for a few days from signing and a petition seeking a five-day exemption was also submitted to the Madras High Court".

"Based on the directions of the Supreme Court, I have been regularly appearing at the police station, signing as required, and answering all queries posed by the officials, " he said, adding that the investigation is progressing smoothly.

Responding to questions regarding others named in the case, Senthil Balaji noted that out of the two individuals arrested, one was named in the initial FIR, while the other was not originally listed, yet proceedings were initiated.

Pointing to the alleged procedural overlap between central and state investigative agencies, he said, "a related Enforcement Directorate (ED) case is already pending before the Supreme Court. Based on the accused's details from the ED filing, the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) has registered a fresh case. As there are several legal questions surrounding this, the process will take time. We will consult with senior counsel to decide our next course of action."

Reiterating his criticism of the TVK dispensation's priorities, he said, "A constructive government should focus on fulfilling the basic needs, demands, and grievances of the public. Instead, the Tamil Nadu government is actively concentrating on filing cases out of political vendetta."

"However, we have the courts and our legal teams. No matter how many cases are filed, we will face them in court and prove that every single one of these allegations is completely false", he added.

The former chief minister also demanded to know if Vijay would convene or not an all-party meeting on the issue and asked Vijay to consult stakeholders within the state.

In a statement, Stalin said leaders of parties and farmers' associations in Tamil Nadu warned that holding talks with Karnataka on the Mekedatu issue would yield no results and requested Vijay to not visit Karnataka.

The Dravidian party chief with sarcasm said that ignoring warnings, the new Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu sent emissaries to visit Karnataka perhaps thinking that he could bring the Cauvery river back with him

Alleging that Karnataka viewed Tamil Nadu merely as a region to absorb surplus water from Cauvery river, the former chief minister said the state had learned from past experience that legal recourse was the only way to deal with its neighbour which flatly refused to release water.

As soon as the Cauvery Water Management Authority ordered the release of water to Tamil Nadu, Karnataka closed its gate telling Vijay that he need not visit them now.

Anticipating such situations beforehand, everyone in Tamil Nadu warned him.

At least from now onwards, the chief minister must approach the Cauvery issue, the lifeline of Tamil Nadu and a high-stakes issue, by holding consultations.

"After telling our chief minister not to come, the CM of Karnataka (DK Shivakumar) convened an all-party meeting on August 2, demonstrating through his actions that they are all united," Stalin said and demanded to know from CM Vijay when he was going to convene an all-party meeting. "Can you do it or not," he asked.

"By trying to do a solo act, CM stands isolated," Stalin said.

On July 31, 2026, DMK's official organ "Murasoli," in an editorial criticised Vijay alleging he intended to hold talks with Karnataka merely to claim that he had done something on the Cauvery issue.

Vijay's trip to Karnataka might be useful for shooting a video in front of a dam. However, it would never bring dawn to the farming community, the daily claimed.

Karnataka is ruled by the Congress party and the TVK regime in Tamil Nadu hinges on the grand old party's support and hence, the Vijay government cannot openly oppose the Congress government in the neighbouring state.

Against this background, the DMK daily alleged that joint maneuvers of talks by TVK and the Congress regimes are attempts to deceive the people and farmers of Tamil Nadu.

Murasoli claimed that Vijay government lacked courage to either oppose the BJP government at the Centre and or to question the Congress party in the neighbouring state.

Karnataka has consistently defied the diktats of Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal and the Cauvery Water Management Authority, regardless of whether Congress or the BJP is in power, the Tamil daily claimed.

"The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister must refrain from holding talks with Karnataka in a manner that compromises Tamil Nadu's rights."

Tamil Nadu's rights over the Cauvery River have already been legally established and should not be bartered away, Murasoli said.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, Thoppu Venkatachalam, who served as a minister during the AIADMK regime, joined the DMK after switching parties. He was subsequently appointed as the party's Erode Central District in-charge. However, differences between him and former DMK minister S Muthusamy had reportedly persisted for some time.

Amid the internal rift, the DMK has removed Thoppu Venkatachalam from his organisational post.

In an official statement, DMK general secretary Durai Murugan said that Thoppu Venkatachalam has been relieved as the Erode Central District in-charge. He added that the Perundurai Assembly constituency has been merged with the Erode South district, while the Bhavani Assembly constituency has been attached to the Erode North district. The respective district secretaries will oversee party affairs in these constituencies.

Meanwhile, party sources indicated that Thoppu Venkatachalam is likely to resign from the DMK's primary membership and join the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in the coming days, though there has been no official confirmation from him.

Following mixed reactions from various quarters regarding the proposal to serve chicken biryani in government school midday meals, School Education Minister Rajmohan addressed reporters in Erode to clarify the government’s stance.

"In Tamil Nadu, educational revolution has always gone hand in hand with a nutritional revolution," he said, adding, "In that spirit, I personally harboured a desire and submitted a request to the Chief Minister to consider serving chicken biryani once a week to government school students".

Noting that the proposal to provide chicken biryani to government school children is currently being evaluated and remains under active consideration, the minister clarified that those who prefer vegetarian food may continue to eat vegetarian meals, while children who eat non-vegetarian food can have chicken biryani.

"Growing children need adequate protein—eating chicken biryani will not corrupt or spoil them and the issue should not be politicised," he added.

According to local people, a violent fight broke out between two tigers on Thursday (July 30) night in the Upper Prospect Estate area.

On Friday (July 31) morning, locals spotted the carcass of a tiger lying near a stream adjacent to Lower Prospect Estate and immediately alerted the authorities.

Forest officials rushed to the spot and are currently investigating the exact cause of death.

The field operation, scheduled from August 1 to 30, will cover every household across nearly 1.2 lakh house listing blocks under 1,026 administrative charges. Around 19,000 supervisors have been deployed to oversee the enumeration process.

Using a 33-question schedule, enumerators will collect details on housing conditions, basic amenities and access to essential utilities, all of this through a dedicated mobile application, replacing conventional paper-based data collection.

Officials said the technology-driven exercise is expected to improve accuracy, reduce processing time and ensure seamless data management. "The Houselisting and Housing Census provides the statistical foundation for evidence-based policymaking, targeted welfare delivery and long-term development planning at every level of governance," officials said.

Ahead of the field exercise, Tamil Nadu registered an encouraging response to the newly introduced self-enumeration facility, with more than 10 lakh households submitting their details online between July 17 and 31. Residents who have already completed self-enumeration have been asked to keep their Self-Enumeration ID ready for verification during the enumerator's visit. However, households that did not use the online facility will also be covered.

Officials reiterated that all information collected is protected under the Census Act, 1948, and will remain strictly confidential. They added that the digital collection and processing of data comply with the provisions of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, assuring citizens that the information would be used solely for statistical analysis and public policy formulation.

DIGITAL HOUSELISTING

• The first phase of Census 2027 begins on August 1 and will conclude on August 30

• Over 1.15 lakh enumerators will participate in the month-long door-to-door exercise

• It will cover households across nearly 1.2 lakh house listing blocks under 1,026 administrative charges

• Approximately 19,000 supervisors have been deployed to oversee the enumeration process

• Armed with a mobile application, enumerators will collect details on housing conditions, basic amenities and access to essential utilities through a 33-question schedule

CM Vijay held discussions with senior officials of the Water Resources Department on Friday to assess the pros and cons of undertaking the proposed Bengaluru visit, sources said. However, before he could take a final call on the visit, the Karnataka CM conveyed its reluctance to proceed with the bilateral meeting.

The proposed meeting was initiated at the request of Chief Minister Vijay, with the Karnataka government expressing its willingness to hold bilateral talks on issues related to the Cauvery river water dispute and the Mekedatu reservoir project.

However, after the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) rejected Karnataka's appeal to stay the CWRC's directive to release 3,500 cusecs of water per day to Tamil Nadu, Karnataka appeared reluctant to proceed with the proposed talks.

Shivakumar’s appeal came amid widespread protests across Karnataka, particularly in Mandya, where demonstrators tore posters of Vijay's recently released film ‘Jana Nayagan’ and forced theatres at some places to halt its screening.

The Tamil Nadu government has neither issued an official communication nor made any public announcement regarding the postponement of the Bengaluru visit and talks.

According to sources, the State government is expected to make a decision on rescheduling the talks after assessing the evolving situation. The bilateral meeting was expected to cover both the Cauvery water-sharing dispute and the contentious Mekedatu dam project, which Tamil Nadu has consistently opposed, maintaining it would adversely affect the State's share of the Cauvery waters.

Opposition including the DMK, ADMK, PMK, AMMK, and the Left have opposed the proposed talks with Karnataka.

Speaking to reporters at the Chennai airport, Anbumani claimed that the Mettur reservoir had virtually run dry while Karnataka still had 67 tmc ft of water in its reservoirs. He said the State government should seek Supreme Court directions to ensure that Karnataka releases Tamil Nadu's due share of Cauvery water, rather than pursuing backchannel talks on the Mekedatu.

Referring to Chief Minister Vijay's proposed visit to Karnataka, Anbumani said the PMK had already advised against it. Instead, he urged the State government to convene an all-party meeting, take MPs and MLAs to New Delhi, and press Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene. There was no need for "secret negotiations" on such a sensitive interstate issue, he added.

Meanwhile, in a written reply to an unstarred question raised by Anbumani in the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Kirti Vardhan Singh said the proposed Mekedatu Balancing Reservoir Project has not been granted Terms of Reference (ToR) for environmental clearance as its Detailed Project Report (DPR) is yet to be finalised by the Ministry of Jal Shakti and approved by the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA).

The minister said Karnataka submitted its proposal seeking ToR for environmental clearance on June 20, 2019, which was considered by the Expert Appraisal Committee on July 19, 2019. However, after consultations with the Ministry of Jal Shakti, the Environment Ministry decided that since the project involves inter-state issues, the ToR can be issued only after the DPR is finalised by the Ministry of Jal Shakti and approved by the CWMA.

"The concurrence of the Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Cauvery Water Management Authority on the DPR is still awaited," the minister said, adding that no proposal seeking forest clearance under the Van (Sanrakshan Evam Samvardhan) Adhiniyam, 1980 is currently under consideration.

Anbumani had sought details on whether the Centre had received proposals for environmental and forest clearances, whether the project's impact on the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, biodiversity, elephant corridors and downstream ecology had been assessed, and whether an independent cumulative Environmental Impact Assessment had been conducted.

The latest reply follows an earlier response from the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti stating that Karnataka's proposal for the Mekedatu project has not yet been approved by the CWMA and that the DPR remains under examination.

The district collector organised a meeting with the officials from various departments to discuss the conduct of the Chithannavasal summer festival-2026, in which she told the officials that the festival is organised by the Department of Tourism as a part of promoting tourists to attractive places in the district.

She said that the Chithannavasal festival is scheduled for two days. She asked the officials to ensure basic amenities across the venue.

According to an official statement, the decision was taken during a high-level review meeting chaired by the Chief Minister to assess the prevailing drought situation.
The Chief Minister directed officials to ensure an uninterrupted supply of drinking water through tanker lorries to areas facing shortages and to replace ageing drinking water pipelines to improve water distribution. To facilitate these measures, he sanctioned Rs 330 crore for drinking water-related works.

Vijay also sanctioned Rs 10 crore to the Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Department to ensure the uninterrupted supply of fodder for livestock affected by the drought.

The Chief Minister instructed senior IAS officers appointed as district monitoring officers to closely monitor the drought situation in their respective districts. He also directed District Collectors to review the status of drinking water supply and other essential drought relief works during the weekly review meetings held every Monday.

Ministers R Vinoth and N Marie Wilson, Chief Secretary M Sai Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary to the Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department Gagandeep Singh Bedi, and other senior officials participated in the review meeting.

The proposed bypass will originate near Velakkandal on NH-234 (new NH-38) and terminate near Endal, skirting Tiruvannamalai town. Of the total 22.71-km stretch, about 13.1 km will be developed on a new greenfield alignment, while the remaining 9.6 km will utilise and upgrade the existing NH-77 corridor before re-joining the new alignment, thereby reducing the extent of fresh land acquisition.

Designed as an access-controlled corridor, the bypass will permit entry and exit only through designated interchanges, slip roads, and service roads, enabling uninterrupted movement of long-distance traffic while separating it from local traffic. The project includes over 25 km of service roads and more than 6 km of slip roads to provide connectivity to adjoining areas.

The alignment will intersect NH-77, State Highways 236, 6, 9A and 9, besides a major district road and several village roads. To facilitate seamless movement, the project proposes three flyovers, including one each at the Velakkandal starting point and the Endal terminal junction with NH-38, besides another at the junction with NH-77.

In addition, five vehicular underpasses and five light vehicle underpasses have been planned at key locations to maintain connectivity across the access-controlled corridor without disrupting through traffic.

The project does not involve any major bridges, railway overbridges or railway crossings. However, it includes reconstruction or widening of four minor bridges and widening of 19 culverts along the existing NH-77 stretch.

The bypass will be executed under the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) mode with a construction period of 24 months. Once completed, it is expected to divert through traffic away from Tiruvannamalai, which witnesses heavy vehicular movement due to pilgrim traffic to the Arunachaleswarar Temple and inter-district traffic using the NH-38 corridor. The contractor will also be responsible for maintaining the highway for 10 years after completion.

Thousands of farmers are struggling due to confusion over notices issued by cooperative banks.

This comes despite explicit clarification from the government that all categories of farmers — marginal, small and large — who availed crop loans of up to Rs 75,000 from cooperative banks would receive a full waiver. Those who availed crop loans exceeding Rs 75,000 would receive a waiver of Rs 35,000.

However, farmers in Kallandhiri village near Madurai said they were taken by surprise when a ration shop employee recently distributed notices issued by the Poondi Primary Agricultural Cooperative Credit Society, Appanthiruppathi, in Madurai East.

"We were shocked when the cooperative bank demanded that we repay the entire loan amount to avail ourselves of the waiver benefits," a group of farmers alleged.

A demand notice issued to a farmer by the Poondi Primary Agricultural Cooperative Credit Society (No. A 3065) highlights this stark administrative contradiction:

"According to the guidelines... the crop loan amount you received from this society is Rs 72,710... You are informed to pay your crop loan instalment amount in advance... Once the final list for the said waiver amount is finalised and released, it will be credited to your savings account."

Farmers in the area said they suffered heavy paddy crop losses last year due to pest attacks.

"This year is even more difficult because drought-like conditions prevail in the taluk," said Alagar Swamy (64), a farmer from the village.

During the Tamil month of Aadi, farmers in Madurai prepare their fields for paddy cultivation. In areas such as Melur, where irrigation water is supplied through the Periyar–Vaigai canal, farmers cultivate paddy twice a year.

"When we are already struggling to cope with drought-like conditions, the bank is sending notices demanding that we repay the entire loan amount. Where will we get the money?" the farmers asked.

"Political parties make all these promises during elections. Once they come to power, they forget the farmers," they alleged.

SP Ilangovan, district secretary of the All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), Madurai, claimed that the issue was not confined to Madurai district and that farmers across the State were facing similar problems.

"In some cases, cooperative banks are clubbing one or two loans availed by members of the same family and demanding that they repay the entire amount before granting the waiver," he alleged.

He said the AIKS would soon organise a statewide meeting to draw the government's attention to the plight of farmers.

Despite being accommodated in the party hierarchy, the two leaders are yet to meet Palaniswami, fuelling speculation that differences persist within the party.

Against this backdrop, Palaniswami on Friday announced the party's programme to observe the death anniversary of freedom fighter Dheeran Chinnamalai on August 3. In a statement, he said Velumani would pay floral tributes at the Dheeran Chinnamalai statue in Odanilai, Erode district, while Thangamani would pay homage at the memorial in Sankagiri, Salem district. Cadre are unsure whether the disgruntled leaders would accept the invitation.

The statement specifically identified Velumani and Thangamani by their present party posts and also listed the names of the district secretaries who were appointed after they were removed from those positions.

The announcement has sparked fresh political interest in the AIADMK's internal tussle, with cadre keen to know whether the heavyweights in the tussle with the party chief would share the stage with rivals appointed as district secretaries.

Differences between Palaniswami and the two senior leaders surfaced after the AIADMK's defeat in the Assembly elections. The rift widened when Velumani and Thangamani reportedly urged Palaniswami to extend the party's support to the ruling TVK government following the election. Both leaders also backed the confidence motion moved by the TVK government in the Assembly, against the party whip's orders.

In the aftermath, Palaniswami removed both leaders from their respective district secretary posts. Although the differences were later said to have been resolved, neither Velumani nor Thangamani was reinstated as district secretary. Instead, Palaniswami appointed Velumani as the party's deputy general secretary and Thangamani as organisation secretary.

Alleging that the Prime Minister had failed to discharge this responsibility, Tagore said this remained the grievance of the people of Tamil Nadu.

Pointing out that Anbumani is a Rajya Sabha MP and a member of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance, Tagore said he was in a position to approach the Prime Minister and the Union Jal Shakti Ministry directly to press for Tamil Nadu's interests. "This is what the people of Tamil Nadu expect from him," Tagore said.

Instead of targeting Rahul Gandhi, Tagore said Anbumani should use his political influence within the NDA to ensure Karnataka releases Tamil Nadu's due share of Cauvery water.

Reiterating the Congress party's stance, Tagore said it has consistently supported Tamil Nadu's rights in the Cauvery issue and that Congress legislators would continue to raise the matter in the Assembly. He also called on all political parties in the State to unite and collectively raise Tamil Nadu's concerns, rather than politicising the dispute.

In a representation submitted to Rural Development and Water Resources Minister N Anand, Chief Secretary M Sai Kumar, Public Works Department Secretary R Selvaraj and Water Resources Department Principal Secretary Satyabrata Sahoo, the Save Nemmeli Marshlands Collective sought an independent and comprehensive review of the project's feasibility.

The collective said the government-appointed committee, headed by the Chief Engineer (Chennai Region) of the WRD, was examining project documents prepared by the same department. It argued that such an arrangement undermines the credibility and impartiality of the review since the WRD is also the project proponent.

The organisations urged the government to reconstitute the committee by including independent experts, traditional ecological knowledge holders, and representatives of coastal and tribal fishing communities.

They also called for an immediate halt to all construction activities until the reconstituted committee completes its assessment.

The representation contended that the project does not adequately account for the Bay of Bengal's tidal influence and the proximity of the sea, particularly during extreme weather events. It also sought an assessment of the impact of blocking the Buckingham Canal and the project's interaction with the coastal and marine environment.

According to the representation, construction has begun without the necessary studies to justify the investment or evaluate its ecological and socio-economic impacts. It is alleged that the ongoing work has already affected the Kovalam-Nemmeli salt marshes and threatens the livelihoods of more than 12,000 fishers, including tribal women.

The representation has been endorsed by 24 organisations, including the Chennai Climate Action Group, Chennai Wetlands Action Collective, Fridays for Future (Chennai and India chapters), Madras Naturalists' Society, Wetland Conservation Network and Palluyir Trust, among others.

However, the selection of contractors for the project is yet to be finalised, according to officials of the Public Works Department (PWD).

The proposed CMO will house the Chief Minister's office, the offices of the Chief Minister's secretaries, meeting rooms, waiting areas, and a dining facility, similar to the existing setup in the Fort St George main building.

Officials said the Chief Minister's Office has directed that the work be completed within three months, although the Public Department had initially estimated that six months would be required to execute the project.

"The government has immediately sanctioned Rs 11 crore for establishing the new Chief Minister's Office. Preliminary work has already begun, including cleaning on the 10th floor, for which around Rs 7.5 lakh has been allocated," a PWD official said.

The official added that the government is in the process of identifying eligible contractors for the project. Some contractors are reportedly reluctant to undertake the work because of the tight deadline fixed by the Chief Minister's Office. Officials, however, expressed confidence that the contract would be finalised and work would commence next week.

Meanwhile, the PWD has also been carrying out renovation works in ministers' chambers at the Secretariat. According to officials, each minister's office is being renovated at an estimated cost of Rs 15 lakh to Rs 20 lakh. Recently, renovation of the office of the Minister for Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments was completed at a cost of Rs 15.93 lakh.

The proposed relocation of the CMO to the nearly 50-year-old Namakkal Kavignar Maligai is part of the government's plan to reorganise office space within the Secretariat complex.

In a social media post, Tagore said Rahul Gandhi would arrive in Tamil Nadu by a flight at 10 am and travel to Mahabalipuram, where he will address 74 District Congress Committee (DCC) presidents attending a 10-day training camp at the TTDC complex.

Rahul will also meet the families who lost their children following the alleged NEET question paper leak. Tagore said he had personally met the bereaved families on July 11 and 12, and Rahul's interaction with them would reaffirm the Congress party's support for students and their families. After the recent NEET question paper leak, three medical aspirants in Tamil Nadu have committed suicide.

Later, Rahul will hold detailed discussions with 74 DCC presidents until 4 pm. He will subsequently meet senior Tamil Nadu Congress leaders, including former TNCC presidents, MPs, former ministers, MLAs and AICC secretaries, to discuss the state's current political situation and the party's future course. Rahul is scheduled to leave for New Delhi on a flight at 7 pm.

In a statement, Stalin recalled that around six lakh books received as gifts have been distributed to libraries across Tamil Nadu as well as upcountries.

As part of this, another 5,000 books have now been donated to the Palayamkottai Central Prison library and the newly established library at Tambaram," Stalin said.

The donation comes amid the recent arrest of DMK MLA GV Markandeyan in a criminal case.

Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin had recently visited the MLA at the Palayamkottai prison.

The change comes as the TVK government led by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay continues to introduce changes across departments after assuming office. In the transport sector, the government has scrapped earlier tenders and stepped up the procurement of new buses as part of its modernisation drive.

The TNSTC app, used by passengers to book tickets on State-run buses, was earlier available with a white-themed interface. Following the latest update, the app has adopted a red-and-yellow colour palette. The home screen also features a photograph of Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on the left and the TNSTC logo on the right.

However, the TNSTC website continues to retain its existing colour scheme.

The redesign drew criticism on social media, with users questioning both the colour choice and the app's accessibility. An X user, @dstock_insights, posted: "TNSTC app also revamped in TVK colors. Whoever put that yellow text in the UI needs to be jailed. Who approves such inaccessible designs?"

The latest change comes days after images purportedly showing government buses repainted in the TVK's red-and-yellow colours went viral, sparking a debate online.

Justice B Pugalendhi issued the directions while dismissing a petition filed by R. Rajesh Kanna seeking transfer of the investigation into his bribery complaint from the DVAC to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

The Court, however, declined to transfer the probe, noting that the DVAC had already completed its enquiry and recommended prosecution.

According to the petitioner, a Civil Supplies CID Inspector demanded a bribe of Rs 5 lakh to spare him from being implicated in a criminal case. He alleged that despite approaching the DVAC with the complaint, the agency failed to take bprompt action against the officer.

In its counter affidavit, however, the DVAC informed the Court that it had registered a case against the officer, Suguna, and stated that the petitioner had admitted to paying a monthly bribe of Rs 15,000 to the official.

This case has revealed serious institutional deficiencies which require immediate attention at the highest level of the Government. "The present Government has consistently expressed its resolve to eradicate corruption and to promote transparent and accountable governance.

This Court has also noticed that the recent policy initiatives reflect that commitment at the highest levels of administration. However, such commitment can achieve its intended objective only when it effectively permeates every level of governance," the Court observed.

Observing that the DVAC plays a crucial role in combating corruption, Justice Pugalendhi said there were structural deficiencies in the anti-corruption agency.

Although a DVAC unit headed by a Deputy Superintendent of Police functions in every district with the assistance of a Police Inspector, the decision-making powers of officials at the district level appear to be either minimal or non-existent. They appeared to be dependent on instructions from the headquarters for every major action, the judge observed.

The judge further observed that while the DVAC had registered cases against lower-level government officials, action on complaints against higher-ranking officials appeared to be sluggish.

The committee has been asked to examine the appointment of a qualified officer as a full-time Vigilance Commissioner, review the deployment of officials, recommend measures to strengthen the agency's functioning and submit its report to the government within four months.

The government has been directed to take appropriate action in accordance with law.

The Court expressed confidence that the Tamil Nadu government would give serious consideration to implementing its directions.

Markandayan has moved the Madras High Court seeking bail, contending that the Thoothukudi police arrested him without issuing a notice under Section 35 (3) of the BNSS and without affording him an opportunity to appear before the investigating officer.

His bail petition was dismissed by the Principal District and Sessions Court, Thoothukudi, on July 30. Challenging the order, Markandayan has filed a bail appeal before the Madras High Court.

Mentioning the matter for urgent hearing, counsel for the MLA requested that the appeal be taken up on priority. Accepting the request, Justice GK Ilanthiraiyan directed that the bail appeal be listed for hearing on August 3.

Justice GK Ilanthiraiyan had already reserved orders on another petition filed by the MLA seeking to set aside his judicial remand order.

At a public meeting held in Kovilpatti on July 18, 2026, to thank voters, Vilathikulam MLA Markandayan allegedly made derogatory, abusive, and threatening remarks against Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay while addressing the gathering.

According to the prosecution, the MLA allegedly used insulting language and issued criminal threats, including statements suggesting that the Chief Minister would be confronted inside the Assembly and physically harmed if certain actions were taken, referring to CM Vijay's previous assertion that he may have to lock down the Assembly to ensure opposition MLAs don't walk out when he makes a speech.

Following a complaint lodged by S Balasubramanian, TVK district secretary of Thoothukudi North district, Kovilpatti, the Thoothukudi police registered a case against Markandayan under Sections 351 (3), 352, and 353 (2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

The awards included the President's Police Medals for the years 2023 to 2026, the Union Home Minister's Medals for 2023 and 2024, and the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister's Police Medals for 2024 to 2026. The medals were presented under various categories in recognition of distinguished and meritorious service.

The Chief Minister also flagged off 138 vehicles for the Coastal Security Group, comprising 42 four-wheelers and 96 two-wheelers, procured at a cost of Rs 8.27 crore. The vehicles are intended to strengthen coastal patrolling, surveillance and anti-smuggling operations along Tamil Nadu's 1,076-km coastline covering 14 coastal districts.

The programme featured a ceremonial police parade, demonstrations by the Dog Squad, a motorcycle stunt display by police personnel and cultural performances.

Head of Police Force DGP Mahesh Kumar Aggarwal delivered the inaugural address, while Greater Chennai Police Commissioner A Amalraj proposed the vote of thanks.

Assembly Speaker JCD Prabhakar, ministers, legislators, Chief Secretary M Sai Kumar, Home Secretary K Manivasan, senior police officers, and other government officials attended the event.

Speaking to reporters, the minister said several investment proposals shifted to states such as Andhra Pradesh during the DMK’s tenure due to a lack of a transparent investment climate.

“Since the TVK government assumed office, transparency and ease of governance have encouraged industries to invest in Tamil Nadu. The state will soon emerge as the country’s leading investment destination,” he said.

On the charges by DMK leader MK Stalin over the surrender of super specialty medical seats, Arunraj said it was DMK which surrendered 110 seats in 2024 and 145 seats in 2025 to the central pool without any conditions.

“To safeguard the interests of our students, the TVK government secured favourable orders from the Supreme Court,” he said.

On the shortage of nurses in government hospitals, Arunraj said recruitment has been delayed due to pending court proceedings. He expressed confidence that the issue would be resolved shortly and appointments would be made once the legal hurdles were cleared, he said.

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister KA Sengottaiyan, who was accompanying him, asserted that the TVK government will not allow even a single brick to be laid for the Mekedatu dam.

“We had clearly conveyed our position to Prime Minister Narendra Modi against the project,” he said.

A first bench comprising Chief Justice SA Dharmadhikari and Justice G Arul Murugan ordered notice to the Principal Secretary, Health and Family Welfare Department, Additional Chief Secretary, Commissionerate of Prohibition and Excise, and MD of TASMAC on the petition filed by Cuddalore-based doctor K Gowrishankar.

The petitioner stated that a liver screening camp conducted at Panruti using FibroTouch Liver Scan technology examined 110 patients. The findings revealed that 37.27% had fatty liver disease, around 50% had liver fibrosis, and 1.8% had liver cirrhosis.

Of the 57 patients who disclosed regular alcohol consumption, 96.5% had fatty liver disease, 65% had liver fibrosis, and 3.5% had developed liver cirrhosis. The petitioner submitted that most of them were unaware of the health risks associated with regular alcohol consumption.

Following the camp, the petitioner visited several Tasmac outlets in and around Panruti and found that many shops were operating without mandatory Tamil warning signboards, allegedly in violation of Rule 10(5) of the TN Liquor Retail Vending (in Shops and Bars) Rules, 2003, and Rule 5.12 of the Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) Regulations, 2018.

He also sought a direction to install and prominently display statutory warning signboards in Tamil at every TASMAC liquor retail shop and to introduce mandatory pictorial health warnings on alcohol bottles depicting the adverse effects of alcohol consumption on vital organs, particularly the liver, in the interest of public health.

According to police, the complainant, Yoganand, 43, of Porur, was contacted through Facebook and persuaded to invest in cryptocurrency trading through a Chinese mobile application called "Chin Chain". The fraudsters allegedly promised returns of up to three times the invested amount.

Believing the claims, the victim transferred Rs 1,73,48,330 in multiple instalments to various bank accounts provided by the accused. However, neither the promised profits nor the principal amount was returned.

Based on the complaint, the Avadi Cyber Crime Police registered a case and launched an investigation under the supervision of senior officers.

The probe revealed that Rs 13,86,440 from the cheated amount had been credited to a bank account belonging to Anbalagan, who was arrested on May 19, 2026. During interrogation, Anbalagan allegedly disclosed that he had purchased bank accounts and sold them to cyber agents operating from Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. He identified Madhavan as the person involved in procuring the accounts.

Police tracked down Madhavan, who had been absconding, and arrested him at Maraimalai Nagar on Friday.

Investigators said Madhavan admitted to collecting bank accounts from people in Tamil Nadu by offering commissions and selling them through cyber agents in north India to a Chinese online fraud syndicate, earning substantial commissions.

The investigation also found that bank accounts allegedly sold by Madhavan had been linked to 67 cybercrime complaints registered across India on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCRP).

Madhavan was produced before a judicial magistrate at Poonamallee and remanded to judicial custody. He has been lodged in Puzhal Central Prison.

The Avadi Police Commissioner advised the public not to trust investment advertisements circulating on Facebook, Instagram, Telegram and other online platforms that promise unusually high returns.

Stakeholders welcomed the move, stating that this would help investors and companies that are looking to set up based in the State.

An order issued by Commissioner of Town and Country Planning Kiran Gurrala dated July 30 said all industrial building applications falling within the specified built-up area would henceforth be scrutinised by the newly formed cell. District offices have also been directed to transfer all such files to the Industrial Cell immediately and furnish a compliance report.

The development comes in the backdrop of rolling out the single-window online planning approval system in 2025. The portal has enabled the ease of online processing of planning permissions, building approvals, change-of-land-use applications, and completion certificates. The newly created Industrial Cell is expected to strengthen the internal scrutiny mechanism for a specific category of industrial projects.

Industry representatives said the move could strengthen Tamil Nadu's ease-of-doing-business ecosystem if it leads to faster processing of industrial proposals.

Welcoming the initiative, AMPA Group chairman Palaniappan said a dedicated scrutiny mechanism could help improve the investment climate. "If approval is going to be through a single window with faster processing, it will definitely help investors," he said.

He added that the warehousing and logistics sector could particularly benefit from the move, noting that many medium-sized warehouse projects fall within the category covered by the new Industrial Cell. Faster scrutiny of such proposals, he said, would support companies looking to establish or expand industrial and logistics facilities in Tamil Nadu.

In a circular issued on Friday, S Sivarasu, Director of Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection, instructed all District Collectors to organise special camps at fair price shops and closely monitor the exercise to achieve 100 per cent eKYC coverage.

The initiative follows the Centre's mandate, which makes eKYC compulsory for all NFSA beneficiaries.

Officials have been asked to create awareness among cardholders, deploy adequate staff and ensure uninterrupted functioning of electronic Point of Sale (ePOS) devices during the drive. They have also been instructed to personally monitor the exercise and submit compliance reports after the campaign.

According to the circular, Tamil Nadu has completed eKYC verification for 95.42 per cent of ration cards, while beneficiary-wise authentication has reached 85.77 per cent.

The August 2 campaign is intended to bridge the remaining gap and ensure that all eligible beneficiaries complete the mandatory verification process.

The Director said every effort should be made to achieve full eKYC coverage during the special campaign and instructed district administrations to treat the exercise as a priority.

Beneficiaries who have not completed eKYC have been urged to visit their respective fair price shops on August 2 with the required identification documents and complete the authentication process without delay.

The case arose from a complaint lodged by TVK MLA N Ilaiyaraja, alleging that Thirunavukkarasu offered him Rs. 35 crore to vote against the Speaker in the proposed no-confidence motion in the Assembly. Ilayaraja alleged that after he rejected the offer, Thirunavukkarasu called him again and threatened him and his family with dire consequences if he disclosed the conversation.

According to the prosecution, the investigation revealed that Thirunavukkarasu had contacted the MLA at the instance of former minister V. Senthilbalaji and RV Ashok Kumar. Based on the complaint, the Triplicane police registered a case under Sections 8 and 12 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and Sections 61 (2) (a) and 351 (3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Meanwhile, former DMK Minister V Senthilbalaji and his brother, RV Ashok Kumar, filed anticipatory bail petitions before the Madras High Court. After hearing the matter, Justice GK Ilanthiraiyan granted them conditional anticipatory bail on July 8.

As per the High Court's order, they were directed to surrender before the Principal Sessions Court, Chennai, within 15 days of receiving a copy of the order and execute a personal bond for Rs. 25,000 each with two sureties for a like sum. They were also directed to appear before the Triplicane Police twice daily, at 10.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m., and sign the register until further orders. In compliance with the conditions, Senthilbalaji surrendered before Principal Sessions Judge S. Karthikeyan.

Meanwhile, the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) registered a separate case against Senthilbalaji and others. His anticipatory bail plea in that case was dismissed by the Madras High Court on July 30, 2026.

Aggrieved by the order, Senthilbalaji approached the Supreme Court by filing a Special Leave Petition. Following the hearing, the Supreme Court granted him anticipatory bail.

Subsequently, Senthilbalaji filed a relaxation petition before the Madras High Court seeking temporary exemption from complying with the reporting condition. In the supporting affidavit, he stated that, owing to exceptional and unavoidable circumstances, he was unable to appear before the Triplicane Police from July 31 to August 4, 2026, and had informed the police through a representation dated July 30.

The affidavit further stated that he was seeking only a four-day exemption, undertook to appear before the police on August 5 at 10.30 a.m. and continue complying with the reporting condition, contending that the limited exemption would not prejudice the investigation.

Speaking to reporters in Salem, Palaniswami said the CWMA had upheld the apex court's order directing Karnataka to release 3,500 cusecs of Cauvery water daily to Tamil Nadu for 15 days, and criticised Vijay’s silence on an issue affecting people's livelihoods.

"The government should convene an all-party meeting, consult legal experts and representatives of major farmers' associations, and evolve a comprehensive strategy to safeguard Tamil Nadu's interests in the Cauvery dispute," Palaniswami said.

He reiterated the AIADMK's opposition to Karnataka's proposed Mekedatu dam project, warning that construction of the reservoir across the Cauvery would have serious consequences for Tamil Nadu. “The project would severely affect irrigation in the Cauvery Delta and jeopardise drinking water supplies to nearly 20 districts in the State,” he said.

Palaniswami also criticised Karnataka for its continued failure to comply with the Supreme Court's 2018 verdict, which laid down a monthly schedule for the release of Cauvery water. He also accused the state government of remaining complacent despite the looming water crisis, saying inadequate water availability had prevented farmers in the Delta region from taking up kuruvai cultivation.

The AIADMK leader further demanded that the government fulfil its election promise of a complete waiver of crop loans. He warned that the party would organise statewide protests if a comprehensive loan waiver for farmers is not announced in the forthcoming budget.

According to police, the accident occurred while the worker was mixing raw materials for manufacturing fireworks. Subramani (55), of Kakkivadanpatti, who was engaged in the mixing process inside a room, sustained grievous injuries. "Since it is a small factory, only one worker was involved in mixing the raw materials.

The explosion occurred in that room," a police source said, adding that the exact cause of the explosion was under investigation.

On receiving information, personnel from the Vembakottai Fire and Rescue Services and Alangulam police rushed to the spot and rescued the injured worker. He was admitted to the Government Hospital in Sivakasi and was later referred to the Government Medical College Hospital in Virudhunagar for further treatment after receiving first aid. The police said one Sundar of Thiruthangal is the owner of the factory.

The unit, licensed by the District Revenue Officer, has more than 10 production rooms and employs over 30 workers. Alangulam police have registered a case and are investigating the incident.

In an official order, the department directed that every document registered from February 5, 2024, the day Justin Manikandan assumed charge as sub-registrar in the Palani registration district, until the date of his suspension be examined comprehensively.

The department has constituted a six-member special audit committee headed by Tirunelveli Deputy Inspector General of Registration Swaminathan to carry out the exercise. The other members are Sivaganga Assistant Inspector General of Registration Srinivasan, Salem West Sub-Registrar Geetha, Virudhunagar Sub-Registrar Khaja Mohaideen, Virudhunagar Sub-Registrar Office Assistant Mohanraj and Muthukrishnan, an assistant attached to the office of the Tirunelveli Deputy Inspector General of Registration.

The committee has been asked to scrutinise all registrations made during the specified period, with particular focus on whether any documents were registered in violation of Section 22A of the Registration Act, which prohibits the registration of certain categories of properties.

"The committee shall conduct a special audit of all documents registered during the period, ascertain whether there were violations of Section 22A of the Registration Act, assess any loss caused, and submit its report within three days," the department said in its order.

The audit is also expected to quantify any financial or administrative loss allegedly caused during Justin Manikandan's tenure and recommend appropriate follow-up action based on its findings.

The investigation revealed that it was sourced from Kerala.

Acting on a tip-off, the police intercepted a van heading towards the Pudumadam coast near Uchipuli and found 140 parcels of ganja weighing 292 kg concealed beneath sacks of potatoes and other vegetables.

The police immediately arrested Thangaraj, Sekar and Senthilvelan, all hailing from Thoothukudi district.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the gang had allegedly sourced the ganja from Kerala and transported it to Ramanathapuram, which will then be smuggled to Sri Lanka by fibre boats in the wee hours. The seized contraband is estimated to be worth several crore rupees, police said.

"Normally, smugglers transport ganja from Visakhapatnam and the Odisha border. However, this is the first time we have found such a huge quantity being smuggled from Kerala," a Q Branch officer said.

The officer added that ganja and other narcotic substances, including heroin and methamphetamine, are in high demand in Sri Lanka.

"A kilogram of ganja is sold for Rs 1 lakh in Indian currency there," the officer said.

Explaining the gang's modus operandi, the officer said that immediately after the consignment reached the coast, it would be shifted to boats within a few minutes.

"The Sri Lankan gang would send the serial number of a Sri Lankan Rs 50 note through WhatsApp to their counterparts transporting the ganja by boat. In mid-sea, members of the Sri Lankan gang arriving in another boat would verify the serial number of the Rs 50 note before taking delivery of the consignment," the officer said.

Since January this year, the Q Branch has seized nearly 7,660 kg of narcotic substances, mostly ganja, besides 10 kg of heroin and 19 kg of methamphetamine, the officer said.

Conducted under the Governor's guidance, the competition aimed to deepen young people's understanding of the emotional, historical and contemporary relevance of Vande Mataram. Students submitted essays in both Tamil and English across three categories -- Classes VI to IX, Classes X to XII, and university and college students. Topics ranged from the song's contribution to India's freedom struggle to its role in building Viksit Bharat @ 2047.

The winning entries were selected by an expert panel following a detailed assessment. Congratulating the winners, the Governor also commended all participants for their enthusiastic and thoughtful contributions, saying their involvement had made the initiative meaningful.

First, second and third prize winners in both school and college categories will receive cash awards of Rs 50,000, Rs 30,000 and Rs 25,000, respectively, along with citations. Special prize winners will also be honoured with citations.

The Governor will present the awards to the winners, along with their parents and principals, during the Independence Day "At Home" celebrations at Lok Bhavan in Chennai on August 15.

Tirunelveli-based K Venkatachalapathy has filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) before the Madras High Court seeking to restrain the Election Commission of India (ECI) from notifying and conducting bye-elections in the Tiruchy (East), Perundurai, Viralimalai, Karur, and Ambasamudram Assembly constituencies.

The petitioner contended that conducting bye-elections before the disposal of the pending election petitions would render the proceedings infructuous, defeat the statutory rights of the election petitioners under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and frustrate the purpose of adjudicating election disputes.

He has, therefore, sought a declaration that the vacancies cannot be treated as “clear vacancies” under Section 151-A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, until the election petitions are finally decided, along with interim and final directions restraining the Election Commission of India from proceeding with the bye-elections.

After hearing the parties, on July 10, the Bench held that conducting premature bye-elections would burden the public exchequer and could lead to a constitutional anomaly by resulting in two validly elected representatives for the same constituency. The Bench, therefore, restrained the Election Commission of India from issuing notifications for bye-elections in the Tiruchy (East), Perundurai, Viralimalai, Karur, and Ambasamudram Assembly constituencies until July 31.

The Court directed the issuance of notice to Chief Minister Joseph Vijay, the Election Commission of India, the Secretary of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, and MLAs C Vijayabaskar, MR Vijayabhaskar, E Subbaiya, and S Jayakumar.

When the PIL was again listed before the Bench comprising Chief Justice SA Dharmadhikari and Justice G Arul Murugan, counsel for the petitioner brought to the notice of the Bench that the interim stay was in force.

Recording the submission, the Bench extended the interim stay on the notification of bye-elections to the five constituencies till August 24 and adjourned the matter to the same date.