Palaniswami also requested officials from the Revenue and Agriculture departments to immediately inspect affected fields across the region and provide uninterrupted 24-hour free three-phase electricity to save surviving crops.

"Every year, water from the Mettur dam is customarily released on June 12 for the Kuruvai cultivation season. However, this year, water was not released from the reservoir," the former chief minister said in a statement.

The AIADMK chief claimed that due to the non-release of Cauvery water, farmers across approximately 1.85 lakh acres in the Delta districts, who depend primarily on river irrigation, were unable to carry out Kuruvai cultivation and suffered immense losses.

The Delta farmers who relied on open wells and borewells proceeded with Kuruvai cultivation this year and spent around Rs 25,000 per acre in physical labour and cultivation expenses.

"Severe water scarcity has caused Kuruvai paddy crops across nearly one lakh acres in areas including Nannilam and Kudavasal in Tiruvarur district as well as other Delta regions, to wither completely, ruining the livelihood of farmers," the AIADMK chief said.

"I urge the government to immediately dispatch Revenue and Agriculture Department officials directly to the Delta districts to inspect the withered and damaged paddy fields," he said.

"The government should also sanction a compensation of Rs 25,000 per acre to all affected farmers and moreover, to protect the remaining standing crops, uninterrupted 24-hour free three-phase electricity for agriculture should be provided," he added.

As the video of his speech has gone viral, the comment has drawn condemnation from social media users, with many questioning the language used by the DMK leader at a public gathering.

Udhayanidhi was addressing a DMK agitation in front of the Panagal Building in Thanjavur, demanding action to stop the proposed Mekedatu dam project and seeking the declaration of the Delta districts as drought-hit areas, according to a Daily Thanthi report.

Udhayanidhi calls Vijay a ‘dummy CM’

Addressing the gathering, Udhayanidhi Stalin blamed the Vijay-led government for the difficulties faced by kuruvai farmers and accused the Chief Minister of failing to take appropriate action on the Cauvery water issue. He said that Aadi Perukku was traditionally celebrated with the Cauvery flowing in full force, but the river was now running dry in the Delta region due to the lack of water.

Calling Vijay a "dummy Chief Minister", the LoP alleged that the state's administrative failures had resulted in the current situation faced by farmers. "Would this situation have occurred if the DMK had been in power?" he asked, alleging that the Chief Minister had remained silent despite the difficulties faced by farmers.

Udhayanidhi also questioned whether Vijay had met farmers in the state and alleged that the Tamil Nadu government had failed to take adequate steps in the Cauvery dispute. He further claimed that the Chief Minister lacked the courage to confront the Congress government in Karnataka over the issue.

'Joker ministers are busy making reels', says Udhayanidhi

Udhayanidhi Stalin also launched a strong attack on the state Cabinet, referring to the ministers as a "joker group" while making several allegations against the ruling establishment.

He alleged that while farmers were suffering, ministers were busy with other activities and accused the government of attempting to divert public attention whenever a major issue emerged. "Open your mouth. Speak up on the Mekedatu issue. Chief Minister, who is sleeping on the Mekedatu issue, speak up. Don't you understand the suffering of the farmers?" Udhayanidhi Stalin asked.

He also criticised Water Resources Minister Anand, alleging that the minister avoided the media, and questioned the involvement of relatives of ministers in government inspections. "Who is a minister? Even officials do not know. The Chief Minister himself does not know who his ministers are," he said.

Udhayanidhi further alleged that the ruling establishment had become obsessed with making reels, claiming that the Chief Minister, ministers and MLAs were constantly engaged in social media publicity.

He added that the DMK was continuing its fight for farmers through public protests and legal action and claimed that legal proceedings had also been initiated in connection with the Cauvery dispute before the Supreme Court.

The organisers said the movement was not merely a protest against an entrance examination but a broader struggle to safeguard Tamil Nadu's rights over education, state autonomy, public healthcare and social justice.

It called upon the people of Tamil Nadu, political parties, and student and youth organisations to unite under the demand to abolish NEET and fight to protect the state's rights over education.

The organisation had launched an indefinite hunger strike at Thiruvalluvar Illam, the headquarters of the Tamilaga Vazhvurimai Katchi, in Chinmaya Nagar, Koyambedu on Saturday, along with members of the Anti-NEET Joint Action Committee.

Besides seeking the scrapping of NEET, the protesters also demanded the withdrawal of cases registered against students who participated in the recent anti-NEET demonstration at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi.

The ongoing hunger strike, led by Ravi, Pulianthope Mohan, Jeeva and Dhanasekar, along with Anitha's brother, aims to intensify the calls to cancel NEET, it said.

The statement also recalled Anitha, the student from Ariyalur who had challenged the implementation of NEET and fought the issue up to the Supreme Court.

After she was denied relief, her death by suicide in 2017 became a major turning point in the anti-NEET movement in Tamil Nadu, triggering widespread protests by students and youngsters across the state.

The statement also urged the Tamil Nadu government to expedite the legal and legislative measures being taken to secure exemption from NEET.

According to a press release, CTR Nirmalkumar, the party's Joint General Secretary, and A Rajmohan, the party's Deputy General Secretary, have been appointed as chief spokespersons. Rajmohan has also been named the in-charge of the Media and Communications Wing.

The party has appointed S Ramesh, J Catherine Pandian and KCT Ananthajith Mahiya as coordinators.

TVK also announced the appointment of seven chief spokespersons, including SS Vaigaichelvan, VP Kalairajan, C Mahendran, Y Jawahar Ali and Va Pugazhendhi.

Eight others, including YouTuber Felix Gerald, Advocate and chartered accountant Dr M Sathyakumar, S Veera Vigneshwaran, MK Thenmozhi Prasanna, Americai V Narayanan, Advocate A Sasirekha, Pazha Selvakumar and Vivek Gnanathan, have been appointed as national spokespersons.

The party also named 12 state spokespersons, including Mugil Veerappan alias MK Sivakumar, M Gnana Selvin Inbaraj alias MGS Inba, S Muhammad Ibrahim alias Ravuthar Ibrahim, Jagadeesapandian, PK Jayakumar, D Kandasamy, RK Jaleel, A Devakumar and M Soundararaja.

In addition, Tamilan Rahul Gandhi alias Rahul Gandhi, S Thyagarajan and Nareshkumar Rajendran have been appointed as State digital media spokespersons.

In a statement, Stalin said that instead of celebrating the Aadi Perukku festival with the Cauvery in full flow, farmers from the Delta were protesting in anguish, but no strong condemnation is coming against Karnataka. He questioned whether CM Vijay is silent on Karnataka out of fear of the movie Jana Nayagan in the neighbouring state.

He said the DMK's protest, led by Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi, was being organised in support of the Cauvery Delta farmers. He warned that if the farmers' demands were not met, the agitation would intensify.

"The Cauvery water should have reached Tamil Nadu on June 12, but it has not arrived even at the beginning of August. The Cauvery Delta farmers are in deep distress due to the sluggish approach of the TVK-led government towards the Cauvery river water issue," Stalin said.

Questioning the Chief Minister, Stalin said the State was now witnessing a Chief Minister who was unwilling to speak against his Karnataka counterpart.

"Has the Chief Minister sacrificed the lives of Tamil Nadu's farmers for the sake of running a movie in the neighbouring State?" Stalin asked.

He also questioned whether the Chief Minister had seen the reports on the all-party meeting convened in Karnataka and asked why a similar meeting had not been convened in Tamil Nadu.

Launching a sharp attack on the Chief Minister, Stalin said he had remained silent over the arrest of Tamil Nadu farmers in Nagpur.

Demanding a complete waiver of farm loans and that the Delta districts be declared drought-hit, Stalin said the government should act seriously on the Cauvery river water issue without compromising the State's rights. Until then, the DMK's agitation will continue, he asserted.

Division bench comprising Justice CV Karthikeyan and Sakthivel issued this direction on Monday (Augusat 3) after the State government counsel submitted that action against bike taxis would continue until an appropriate decision is taken in the matter.

According to the petitioner Naveen Kumar from Madurai Digital platform-based bike taxi services such as Rapido, Ola and Uber are increasing in Tamil Nadu. However, the State does not have any policy or rules to regulate these services. Bike taxi services cannot operate independently like autorickshaws and rental cars, he stated.

Though the made representation to the State Government seeking registration of motorcycles as transport vehicles carrying passengers for hire and grants them necessary permits to operate them legally, he didn’t receive a response from the Government.

During the previous hearing the Court directed the State government to file its response.

When the case came up for hearing yesterday, the petitioner’s counsel submitted that the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways had issued a circular to all States in January 2024 stating that the respective State governments may grant permission for operating bike taxis for commercial purposes (operating motorcycles).

He argued that directions should be issued to frame appropriate guidelines for operating bike taxis in Tamil Nadu in accordance with the Union government's circular.

He further submitted that, in accordance with the Union government's guidelines, permission has already been granted for operating bike taxis in 16 States. The Counsel further contended that the State government has no authority to refuse to grant such permission.

He also sought an interim order restraining the authorities from imposing penalties such as fines until a decision is taken in the matter.

After issuing directions, the Court posted the next hearing on September 7.

In a statement, Anbumani said the promotion-related issues in the police department have remained unresolved for over three decades, affecting several batches of sub-inspectors recruited from 1994 to 95. He alleged that instead of taking a policy decision, successive governments had allowed the matter to remain entangled in court proceedings.

Referring to the 1994- 95 recruitment of 1,198 sub-inspectors, he said 98 candidates, who received appointment orders only in 2,000, were denied seniority from the original recruitment year, resulting in delayed promotions. He claimed the issue had also affected officers recruited in 1998-99, 2004 and 2016, who were yet to receive promotions due to the pending dispute.

Anbumani urged the State government to inform the Madras High Court during the next hearing that it would grant appropriate seniority and promotions to the affected personnel and bring the 30-year-old issue to an end.

He also demanded that the government restore 20 per cent reservation for Tamil medium candidates in the departmental sub-inspector recruitment quota by re-enacting the lapsed legislation. Further, he sought parity in special pay, risk allowance, night duty allowance and food allowance for fingerprint experts serving in the police department.

The PMK leader urged the government to form a special committee and resolve all pending grievances of police personnel within a month.

The findings were part of the DVAC's enforcement drive carried out between July 1 and July 31.

During the month, the DVAC laid 24 traps in cases against government officials from various departments who allegedly demanded and accepted bribes, including methods like GPay, ranging from Rs 500 to Rs 1 lakh for performing official duties. Those arrested included a Joint Commissioner of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments department, Tahsildars, engineers, police personnel, revenue officials, electricity board staff, village administrative officers, surveyors, panchayat secretaries, a State Tax Officer and other government employees.

The agency, along with District Inspection Cell officials, also conducted surprise inspections at 13 government offices in Krishnagiri, Tiruvallur, Theni, Kanniyakumari, Dindigul, Thanjavur, Ranipet, Chennai and Karur. These checks resulted in the seizure of Rs 13.39 lakh in unaccounted cash.

Separate inspections at six state border vehicle check posts led to the seizure of Rs 9.87 lakh in unaccounted cash. In total, Rs 23.26 lakh in unaccounted cash was seized during the inspections, with cases registered and investigations underway.

The DVAC also said that during July, four corruption cases reached conviction in Special Courts under the Prevention of Corruption Act and in the Principal and Sessions Courts at Tiruvallur and Ranipet.

Those convicted included a Tahsildar, the Tahsildar's driver, a headmistress, a school correspondent and a police sub-inspector. The courts sentenced them to rigorous imprisonment ranging from two to four years and imposed fines between Rs 1,000 and Rs 50,000.

State ministers paid floral tributes to him at Guindy in Chennai. Water Resources Minister N Anand, School Education Minister Rajmohan, IT Minister Kumar and Tourism Minister Rajesh Kumar attended the ceremony.

In a message marking the occasion, Chief Minister Vijay hailed Dheeran Chinnamalai as a courageous warrior who fought against British oppression and raised the call for freedom at a time when the East India Company was expanding its control over large parts of the country.

Paying homage to the freedom fighter, he said Chinnamalai had firmly resisted the East India Company’s taxation policies and foreign domination and ultimately sacrificed his life for the liberation of the motherland.

“I pay my respects to freedom fighter Dheeran Chinnamalai, who fought against British oppression and raised the slogan of freedom, on his death anniversary,” Chief Minister Vijay said in the message.

He said the courage, self-confidence, patriotism and spirit of sacrifice displayed by Chinnamalai continued to inspire successive generations and remained an enduring symbol of resistance to colonial rule.

Chinnamalai’s willingness to confront a powerful colonial administration demonstrated his unwavering commitment to freedom and the rights of his people, he said. His life and struggle had secured him a permanent place among the prominent figures who challenged British authority in southern India.

Recalling the sacrifices made during the freedom struggle, Chief Minister Vijay said the independence enjoyed by the present generation had been made possible by countless freedom fighters who placed the interests of the nation above their own lives.

“May the glory of the brave hero who gave his life so that we could breathe the air of freedom live forever,” Chief Minister Vijay said.

Dheeran Chinnamalai, born as Theerthagiri in the Kongu region of present-day Tamil Nadu, emerged as one of the prominent early opponents of British expansion in southern India. He organised resistance against the East India Company and fought several battles against British forces.

His opposition to colonial taxation and attempts to establish British political control made him an important figure in Tamil Nadu’s history of resistance against colonialism.

Chinnamalai was eventually captured by the British and executed at Sankagiri in 1805. His resistance, courage and sacrifice continue to be commemorated in Tamil Nadu, particularly in the western districts, where his legacy remains deeply rooted in public memory.

His death anniversary is observed every year with leaders, organisations and members of the public paying homage and recalling his contribution to the struggle against British rule.

After the video of the assault emerged on social media from Monday, the District Elementary Education Officer held an inquiry and recommended action against her.

The teacher in the dock, Kalaimathi, is also the assistant headmistress of the school.

According to sources, she was accused of corporal punishment. After receiving complaints from parents, the headmistress, Bhuvana, lodged a complaint with the District Elementary Education Officer (DEEO) Shanmugavel.

Based on the complaint, the DEEO conducted an inquiry with Kalaimathi on July 30.

This triggered an altercation between the teacher and the headmistress, during which the teacher manhandled the HM in front of the students.

After the video of the assault surfaced on social media from Monday, DEEO Shanmugavel conducted another inquiry and forwarded a formal complaint to the Assistant Director of Primary Education, recommending action against Kalaimathi.

Inaugurating the faculty upgradation programme on NextGen Cyber Forensics tools and Technologies in NIT, Tiruchy, the IGP Balakrishnan emphasised the importance of consistency in the administration of justice as a critical factor in crime prevention. He acclaimed the indispensable role of forensic science in both conventional and digital investigations while discussing the contemporary challenges confronting forensic practitioners, including the exponential growth of digital data, privacy regulations, and rapid technological advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT).

Expressing concerns over the substantial financial losses caused by cybercrime due to the emerging cyber slavery, the IGP appealed for a greater public awareness of indigenous forensic technologies and urged that research organisations should actively disseminate knowledge about the tools they develop to facilitate their effective utilisation in criminal investigations.

He further underscored the growing sophistication of cybercrimes and called for continuous capacity building, collaborative research, and the adoption of advanced digital forensic technologies. He encouraged faculty members and researchers to remain abreast of emerging developments in cyber security and cyber forensics and suggested that C-DAC Thiruvananthapuram explore collaborative initiatives with NIT Tiruchy and the Tamil Nadu Police.

While addressing, AR Vinukumar, Scientist-G and Head, Cyber Forensics Section (CFS) and Software Training Division (STDC), C-DAC Thiruvananthapuram said, the increasing significance of cyber forensics in combating complex digital crimes. He showcased several indigenous cyber forensic tools and technologies developed by C-DAC to support digital investigations and cybercrime analysis.

He encouraged academicians to develop expertise in both the proactive (offensive and defensive) and post-incident (postmortem) dimensions of cyber forensics. Referring to the continual technological race between law enforcement agencies and cybercriminals, he emphasized the importance of producing highly skilled researchers and “Cyber Warriors”; capable of addressing emerging cyber threats. He also provided an overview of the objectives and initiatives undertaken under the ISEA Phase III Project of MeitY, Government of India.

R Jeyapaul, Dean (Faculty Welfare), NIT presided over the programme. N Sivakumaran, programme coordinator, welcomed the gathering and outlined the objectives of the faculty upgradation programme.

Addressing reporters in Erode after paying tributes to freedom fighter Dheeran Chinnamalai at his memorial in Odanilai near Arachalur, Nagenthran said the BJP had no intention of politicising the Cauvery issue.

Questioning Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's handling of the dispute, Nagenthran said the State government should have convened an all-party meeting to discuss the issue before it became a political controversy. "The Congress leaders have also failed to take a clear stand on the Cauvery dispute," he said.

Expressing confidence that Karnataka would not be permitted to construct the proposed Mekedatu dam, Nagenthran said the CWMA, acting under the directions of the Supreme Court, has full authority over the matter and would not grant approval for the project.

Referring to the CWMA's direction to Karnataka to release 3,500 cusecs of water a day for 15 days to Tamil Nadu, he said that the directive had not been complied with and claimed that Tamil Nadu had historically received only surplus water from Karnataka. Nagenthran also said that TVK functionaries in Tirunelveli had begun demanding a 10 per cent commission in connection with public works tenders.

Liphin Ponnusamy Leela of Vilavancode, Kanniyakumari district, filed the petition contending that the blanket ban imposed by the State government on the transportation of minerals across Tamil Nadu's borders had brought his lawful business to a standstill, causing immense financial distress and resulting in a breach of existing commercial contracts.

The petitioner submitted that the State government had issued a Government Order on July 27, 2026, inserting Rule 3-A into the Tamil Nadu Prevention of Illegal Mining, Transportation and Storage of Minerals and Mineral Dealers Rules, 2011, thereby empowering the Director of Geology and Mining, Chennai, to implement the ban.

The petition also claimed that if the State sought to impose restrictions on inter-State trade under Article 304(b) of the Constitution in the name of public interest, such an amendment could not come into force without the mandatory prior sanction of the President of India

When the case came up for hearing before a Division Bench comprising Justices CV Karthikeyan and S Sakthivel, the petitioner's counsel, said that a similar attempt by the Gujarat government to restrict the inter-State movement of minor minerals had been struck down by the Supreme Court. The apex court had also held that the power conferred on State governments under Section 23-C of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, was confined to framing rules for preventing illegal mining, transportation and storage of minerals.

The State, however, submitted that the order had been issued only to streamline the system and that it was a temporary measure that would remain in force for three months.

After hearing both sides, the Bench directed the State government to file a detailed counter affidavit and adjourned the case to August 10.

The posters also describe the Trisha Welfare Association as "the first one recognised by the Tamil Nadu Government," even though there is no official confirmation whether it was floated with the consent of the actor.

Trisha's frequent public appearances with Chief Minister Joseph Vijay, including her attendance at his swearing-in ceremony following the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam's (TVK) poll win, have fuelled speculation on social media about her possible entry into politics. However, the actor has publicly denied any affiliation with the TVK.

Against this backdrop, a newly formed Trisha Welfare Association has made it to the news. Members of the association have pasted posters across the city indirectly inviting the actor to enter politics. There was also no clarification or denial from the actor regarding the posters until the time the news went to print.

Although the posters bear registration number 53/2026, they do not list the names or designations of the association's office-bearers. Instead, they feature photographs of around seven men dressed in white shirts, apparently indicating that they are the organisers of the association.

When contacted, Madurai South Vijay Makkal Iyakkam president and TVK MLA SR Thangapandi claimed he was unaware of this and refused to comment further.

Madurai has historically been associated with the growth of fan club movements for several Tamil film actors. The Makkal Thalaivan Rajinikanth Thalaimai Narpani Mandram, regarded as one of Rajinikanth's earliest fan clubs, was started in Madurai in 1977.

An official release here said the government filed a petition in the apex court on the directions of Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay who discussed the matter with senior advocates.

As of August 3, the combined total storage in the reservoirs in Karnataka--KRS, Kabini, Harangi and Hemavathy, stood at 77.537 TMC and Karnataka would face no difficulty in releasing Tamil Nadu's due share proportionately.

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

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

Karnataka has "failed" to share Tamil Nadu its due share of water and the quantum was 26.954 TMC, following which the CM directed the state to move the SC on the advice of senior advocates and secure a "due order", it added.

"On the direction of the chief minister, to find a solution to this issue and get Tamil Nadu's due share of water on time, a petition has been filed in the Supreme Court," the release said.

Addressing the CII Infrastructure Summit, Nageswaran said India is increasingly witnessing floods and droughts in the same State within a year. "Volatility, and not scarcity, is the new enemy of economic activity," he said, stressing that water infrastructure should be planned, built and financed just like roads and power.

He called for creating a comprehensive water buffer through greater storage capacity, groundwater recharge, wastewater reuse, desalination in coastal regions, and watershed management inland. "Water security is not a sector sitting beside agriculture, industry and health; it sits underneath all of this," he said.

Linking urban planning with water management, the CEA said India's low FSI limits compared with global cities have forced urban sprawl instead of vertical growth. As cities expand outward, he said, land becomes scarcer and more expensive, pushing development onto ecologically sensitive areas such as old tanks, lakes and filled-up ponds.

"When we cannot build upward, we spread outward. Every square metre of built space ends up carrying more land beneath it," he said.

The loss of traditional waterbodies and catchments, he added, leaves cities vulnerable to flooding during heavy rains while reducing their ability to store water during dry spells.

"We gain a little floor space and lose our storage. When the rains come, the water has nowhere to go, and we face flood. When they fail, nothing has been held back, and then we run dry. Everyone loses in the end," Nageswaran said.

He also criticised the practice of pricing water at virtually zero, saying it encourages waste and discourages investment in water infrastructure. "The thing we call free is the thing we destroy. This is not a paradox. It is a policy choice, and it can be chosen differently," he remarked.

Nageswaran’s remarks come amid growing concerns over climate-induced weather extremes and renewed focus on urban resilience and sustainable infrastructure planning.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, Palaniswami made the remarks after paying floral tributes to the statue of freedom fighter Dheeran Chinnamalai at Guindy on the occasion of his 221st death anniversary.

'Government lacks experience'

Addressing reporters, Palaniswami said the TVK government, which came to power within two-and-a-half years of the party's formation, had not yet gained sufficient experience in handling complex issues such as the Cauvery dispute.

He alleged that the government had failed to consult other political parties before taking decisions and questioned the measures adopted so far to secure Cauvery water for Tamil Nadu.

Palaniswami further claimed that the government had failed to effectively implement the Supreme Court's verdict on the Cauvery issue and said a comprehensive strategy was needed to safeguard the State's interests.

Calls for legal consultations

The AIADMK leader said the Cauvery dispute and the Mekedatu dam issue should be pursued after consulting senior legal experts to ensure Tamil Nadu presents a strong legal case before the appropriate forums.

He also criticised the ruling dispensation for allegedly ignoring suggestions put forward by leaders of various political parties on the Cauvery issue.

Drawing a comparison with Karnataka, Palaniswami said the neighbouring State government had convened an all-party meeting and sought the views of political leaders and farmers regarding the Mekedatu project.

Seeks participation of farmers

Palaniswami said both AIADMK and DMK governments had, in the past, convened all-party meetings while dealing with the Cauvery issue and stressed that such consultations had been an established practice irrespective of which party was in power.

He urged the TVK government to follow the same approach by inviting leaders of all political parties and representatives of farmers' associations to discuss the issue and formulate a united stand on protecting Tamil Nadu's water rights.

The AIADMK chief maintained that a collective approach involving political parties, legal experts and farmers would strengthen Tamil Nadu's position in the Cauvery dispute as well as in opposing the proposed Mekedatu dam project.

General Council meeting soon

Responding to another query, Palaniswami announced that the AIADMK General Council meeting would be convened shortly. However, he did not specify the date or agenda for the meeting

A bench of Justices Aravind Kumar and Vipul M Pancholi issued a notice to original petitioners Rama Ravikumar and others but refused to stay the high court order.

The top court tagged Tamil Nadu's plea with the pending matter and adjourned it.

Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay-led state government has challenged the January 6 order of the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court that upheld the single judge's order of December 1, 2025, which had ordered that the ceremonial lamp be lit on the festival day.

The State government said the promotions were made based on seniority and merit as part of its policy of transparent personnel management. The move is expected to strengthen field operations by improving supervision of power distribution, maintenance, new service connections and substation operations, especially ahead of the northeast monsoon.

The promoted engineers will also play a key role in improving the state's power infrastructure and ensuring reliable electricity supply to consumers, the release said.

The government said it was clearing long-pending promotions and administrative matters to improve employee career progression, morale and operational efficiency across the TNPDCL.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, outdoor showers have been installed at the Amma Mandapam bathing ghat to facilitate devotees who traditionally take a holy dip in the river on the occasion.

Aadi Perukku, celebrated on the 18th day of the Tamil month of Aadi, is one of the important traditional festivals of Tamil Nadu. The festival is celebrated with great fervour in districts along the Cauvery, with the Amma Mandapam ghat in Tiruchirappalli witnessing a large gathering of devotees every year.

No water in Cauvery this year

Last year, the Cauvery flowed at a high level, touching all 12 steps of the Amma Mandapam ghat, allowing devotees to take a holy dip and celebrate Aadi Perukku in a grand manner.

However, this year, the river remains largely dry due to the failure of the southwest monsoon and the lack of water released from Karnataka. With the water level remaining critically low, water was not released from the Mettur dam on June 12 for kuruvai cultivation. This has affected kuruvai farming activities and has also cast a shadow over the Aadi Perukku celebrations.

Only a small quantity of stagnant water resembling a sewage-filled stretch is visible in the middle of the Cauvery river. As a result, devotees are unable to take a traditional holy dip in the river.

Outdoor showers arranged for devotees

Despite the lack of water, devotees, particularly married women, are expected to perform special rituals and offer prayers to Mother Cauvery on Aadi Perukku, seeking blessings for the well-being and longevity of their husbands.

Newly married couples also traditionally release the garlands they wore during their wedding into the Cauvery and take a holy dip as part of the celebrations. Since the river is currently without sufficient water, the civic authorities have installed showers connected to water pipelines at the Amma Mandapam bathing ghat to enable devotees to bathe.

Temporary barricades made of bamboo have also been erected at the ghat to facilitate the movement of devotees and ensure their safety.

600 police personnel deployed

As a large number of people are expected to gather at Amma Mandapam for the festival, around 600 police personnel have been deployed to regulate the crowd and maintain security. A temporary watchtower has also been set up in the Cauvery river to monitor the situation.

Similarly, at Thiruvaiyaru in Thanjavur district, pump sets have been installed to provide water facilities for people wishing to take a holy bath during the festival.

The situation is reminiscent of 2019, when the Aadi Perukku festival was celebrated without sufficient water in the Cauvery and showers were arranged for devotees. In contrast, the river had a good flow from 2020 to 2025, allowing Aadi Perukku celebrations to be held on a grand scale. This year marks the return of a water-starved Aadi Perukku celebration after six years.

Justice GK Ilanthiraiyan granted bail to Markandayan, directing him to file an undertaking before the Thoothukudi court that he would refrain from making such remarks in future. The court also directed him to appear before the jurisdictional police station and sign the register for two weeks, except on the days when the Legislative Assembly is in session.

According to the prosecution, the MLA allegedly used insulting language and issued criminal threats, including statements suggesting that Chief Minister Vijay would be confronted inside the Legislative Assembly and physically harmed if he shuts down the Assembly as he claimed in a meeting in Karur.

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

Meanwhile, Markandayan moved the Madras High Court seeking bail. In his petition, he contended that the Thoothukudi police arrested him without issuing a notice under Section 35 (3) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and without affording him an opportunity to appear before the Investigating Officer.

His bail petition was dismissed by the Thoothukudi principal district and sessions court on July 30. Aggrieved by the order, Markandayan filed the present bail appeal before the Madras High Court.

During the hearing, State Public Prosecutor John Sathyan submitted that, with the Assembly session scheduled to commence on August 5, the court may direct Markandayan to furnish an undertaking that he would not make such derogatory or threatening remarks against Chief Minister Vijay in future.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, the demand has gained momentum as Coimbatore continues to expand as one of Tamil Nadu's major industrial and commercial hubs. Infrastructure at Coimbatore International Airport is currently being upgraded to meet the growing passenger traffic generated by the city's increasing population and business activity.

At present, Coimbatore has flight connectivity to major domestic destinations, including Chennai, Bengaluru, Kochi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata, besides international services to Sharjah and Singapore. However, despite Thoothukudi being one of Tamil Nadu's key port cities, there is no direct air connectivity between the two cities.

Industrial sector highlights need

Industrialists pointed out that Coimbatore is home to a large number of entrepreneurs from southern Tamil Nadu who are engaged in manufacturing, exports and trading activities. Products such as textiles, engineering goods and machinery components manufactured in Coimbatore and neighbouring Tirupur are exported to various countries through the ports of Kochi and Thoothukudi.

In the absence of direct flights, business travellers are forced to depend on trains, private buses or road transport to reach Thoothukudi. Representatives from the textile industry said the proposed service would significantly reduce travel time and improve logistics for exporters.

Former Coimbatore Industrial Chamber president Nandakumar and other industry representatives said the Union Government's UDAN scheme was introduced to improve regional air connectivity by linking smaller and medium-sized cities. They urged the authorities to include Coimbatore-Thoothukudi and Coimbatore-Thiruvananthapuram routes under the scheme.

ATR aircraft suggested initially

Industry representatives suggested that the service could initially be operated using ATR-72 aircraft with a seating capacity of around 72 to 78 passengers. If passenger demand increases, larger aircraft could be deployed in the future.

They said such a service would not only benefit exporters and industrialists but also the general public. In addition, many devotees from western Tamil Nadu travel regularly to the Tiruchendur Subramania Swamy Temple, and a direct flight to Thoothukudi would considerably reduce travel time for pilgrims.

They also noted that Coimbatore currently lacks direct air connectivity to Thiruvananthapuram despite the growing demand for travel between the two cities.

Airport officials acknowledge demand

According to the report, officials at Coimbatore Airport acknowledged that there has been increasing demand for direct flights connecting Coimbatore with cities such as Thoothukudi, Madurai and Thiruvananthapuram.

They said the Airports Authority of India has been informed about the growing demand and added that the airport is prepared to facilitate operations once the necessary approvals are granted by the concerned authorities.

With expansion work progressing rapidly at both airports, industrial bodies believe the proposed flight services would strengthen regional connectivity, support trade and tourism, and further enhance Coimbatore's position as a major economic hub in Tamil Nadu.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, the fire triggered by an alleged electrical leak, was brought under control after a two-hour firefighting operation.

Where did the fire accident occur?

The incident occurred at a private tapioca mill in Attur, where tapioca tubers are processed into starch and flour. An electrical leak at around 6 pm caused sacks stored at the factory to catch fire.

How did the factory catch fire?

Chlorine powder kept in bags for cleaning the tubers was also affected as the fire spread, with smoke continuing to rise from the area where it was stored. Workers attempted to douse the flames by pouring water.

However, the chlorine powder reportedly reacted, leading to a gas leak along with the smoke. Fire and Rescue Services personnel rushed to the factory after receiving information and launched efforts to contain both the fire and the gas leak.

Further investigation is underway.

Rajakumari (51), her sons, Balaji (31) and Sriram (27), Sriram's wife Ranjana, and their one-and-a-half-year-old daughter Praneeka Sri died on the spot. Police and Fire and Rescue Services personnel rescued Rajakumari’s husband Kanagaraj (55) from the wreckage.

He sustained grievous injuries and was rushed to the Government Rajaji Hospital.

The family was travelling to Kovilpatti in Thoothukudi after Balaji's wife, Aishwarya, gave birth to a baby in Kovilpatti. Balaji had travelled separately by bus and joined his family near Villupuram to travel together.

When the car driven by Sriram reached near the Thumbaipatti bridge, it grazed a motorcycle carrying two men. It then hit the median, crossed into the opposite carriageway, overturned and rolled several times. Worsening the accident, another car travelling from Madurai towards Tiruchy collided with the vehicle.

Prakash of Madurai, who was travelling in the other car, and the two motorcyclists, Murugan (55) and Murugan (40) of SV Mangalam near Singampunari, sustained injuries. They were admitted to the Melur Government Hospital for treatment.

After a prolonged rescue operation, the bodies of the five victims were retrieved from the mangled car and sent to the Melur Government Hospital for post-mortem examination.

Madurai Collector M Nishanth Krishna and Superintendent of Police BK Arvind Devanathan inspected the accident site and later visited the hospital to console the injured and their relatives.

Traffic on the four-lane highway was diverted through the service road for several hours following the accident.

“The Chief Minister’s Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme (CMCHIS) covers most of the medical needs of people. Now we are discussing if we can further increase its scope. A good decision will be taken soon,” he said here during a press conference on ongoing administrative challenges in State-run medical facilities.

Responding to reporters’ queries about complaints that treatments covered by insurance were sometimes difficult to access in government hospitals, the minister attributed the friction to a lack of public awareness. Acknowledging persistent complaints regarding poor sanitation, drainage issues, and pest infestations in government hospital wards, he stated that the government is rolling out phased infrastructural upgrades, including the distribution of new bed linens to resolve immediate hygiene concerns.

Reaffirming the administration’s zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, the minister also issued a stern warning to hospital staff against extorting money from patients. He highlighted the recent dismissal of four employees at KMC.

As part of protests against Karnataka, farmers led by United Farmers’ Association president Sankarayya and others were travelling by train from Chennai to Delhi to stage a demonstration. Sami Natarajan alleged that they were deboarded from the train and detained by police at Nagpur on Sunday.

The Tamil Nadu Farmers’ Association strongly condemned the detention and urged the Union government to immediately release the farmers and make necessary arrangements to enable them to continue their journey to Delhi. The association said the detention amounted to a denial of the democratic right to protest guaranteed by the Constitution.

Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin condemned the action, calling it undemocratic.

He alleged that Karnataka’s water releases over the past two days had been made in an erratic manner to divert surplus water. “On Saturday, the discharge from the Kabini reservoir into the Cauvery was increased to 25,000 cusecs. It was drastically reduced to 10,000 cusecs on Sunday morning before being revised to 14,958 cusecs as inflows rose to 28,009 cusecs.”

This unpredictable pattern clearly demonstrates that Karnataka has no intention of releasing Tamil Nadu’s lawful share of water, he said. “Karnataka is diverting a major portion of the water released from Harangi to the Krishna Raja Sagara reservoir to fill it up,” he alleged, adding, “While the inflow into Harangi stands at 10,430 cusecs, 14,470 cusecs is being released towards KRS.”

He claimed that Hemavathi was expected to reach its full capacity within a week and that its surplus water would also be stored in the KRS reservoir, reflecting Karnataka’s continued refusal to release Tamil Nadu’s due share of water. “It is using Cauvery merely as a flood drainage channel to flush out surplus water,” Anbumani alleged.

The boat sank into the sea, but all crew members managed to survive by jumping into the water and clinging to a nearby trawler. The vessel, owned by Sugirthan from the Tharuvaikulam fishing village near Thoothukudi, had set sail two days ago with seven fishermen on board.

According to local sources, while they were casting their nets in the waters between Punnakayal and Tiruchendur, sudden violent winds hit the area, causing the country craft to lose balance. Seeing the boat go under, Sugirthan and six other crew members jumped into the ocean.

Fishermen on a mechanised boat operating nearby spotted them and pulled all seven safely aboard. CSG police have registered a case.

The Collector constituted the committee after a team of doctors recently brought to his attention that there is no proper mechanism for the disposal of biomedical waste in Madurai and the southern districts. As a result, private companies that collect biomedical waste have allegedly been dumping it in the Vaigai River and on roadsides.

The doctors also claimed that exposure to biomedical waste poses a serious threat to public health and the environment.

Pointing to the absence of a biomedical waste treatment facility in Madurai, the doctors said TN Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) officials had informed them that the biomedical waste generated in the district is being transported to Gummidipoondi, nearly 600 kilometres away, for the disposal.

Confirming that the biomedical waste collected in Madurai is being transported to Gummidipoondi by a private firm, a TNPCB source said this was necessary because there are no biomedical waste treatment facilities in Madurai, Theni, Dindigul, Sivaganga, Ramanathapuram and Virudhunagar districts.

"The biomedical waste treatment unit that functioned in Virudhunagar was closed following protests by residents, who feared that it would cause environmental pollution and health hazards," the source said.

The source further said that although officials had tried to allay the public's fears, the residents were not convinced. "It was also an election period, so we could not do anything about it," the source added.

When the TNPCB attempted to rope in private players to establish biomedical waste treatment facilities in Theni and Sivaganga, residents protested against the move. "We are helpless," the source said.

The source, however, said that the only long-term solution to the problem is to establish at least one biomedical waste treatment facility for every two districts after winning the confidence of the local people. 

"As an immediate solution, the Collector should take steps to reopen the biomedical waste treatment unit in Virudhunagar," the source said, expressing hope that the special team would recommend a viable solution.

The State recorded a maximum instantaneous wind power generation of 6,731 MW, surpassing the previous all-time high of 6,558 MW achieved on July 12 this year.

The achievement comes less than a month after the State crossed the 6,500 MW mark. Tamil Nadu had earlier set a record of 6,339 MW on July 16, overtaking the previous high of 5,899 MW recorded on July 30, 2024.

In another milestone, the State registered its highest-ever daily wind energy evacuation of 142.43 million units (MU), eclipsing the previous record of 124.34 MU achieved on July 3, 2026. The July 3 record had itself surpassed the earlier high of 123.85 MU on August 16, 2025.

In addition, solar power also made a significant contribution to the State's renewable energy output. Solar generation stood at 54.952 MU during the day. The State's highest-ever instantaneous solar generation remains 7,962 MW, achieved on July 25, 2026, while the record for daily solar energy evacuation stands at 60.4 MU, recorded on July 6, 2026.

The total electricity consumption stood at 459 MU on August 1, with wind and solar power together contributing 197 MU, accounting for about 42% of the State's total electricity consumption.

Power sector officials said the record-breaking performance was driven by sustained high wind speeds in the State's major wind belts, including Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Coimbatore, Tirupur and Kanniyakumari districts.

India Meteorological Department officials said the strengthening low-level Somali Jet has intensified the southwest monsoon circulation over the Indian peninsula, bringing strong southwesterly winds and widespread rainfall over Kerala and Karnataka, conditions that have also enhanced wind speeds across Tamil Nadu's wind corridors.

The surge in renewable energy generation enabled the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL) to comfortably meet electricity demand while reducing reliance on conventional thermal generation and expensive power purchases from the power exchange. Officials said favourable southwest monsoon conditions are expected to sustain high wind generation over the coming days.

Maximum instantaneous wind generation

6,731 MW on Aug 2, 2026

6,558 MW on Jul 12, 2026

5,899 MW on Jul 30, 2024

Highest daily wind energy evacuation

142.43 MU on Aug 2, 2026

124.34 MU on Jul 3, 2026

123.85 MU on Aug 16, 2025

Addressing the media, DMK Advocates' Wing Joint Secretary and former MLA I Paranthaman said the Minister's remarks against late former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi were intended to divert the debate from the Cauvery issue. He warned that the party would initiate legal action against those making defamatory remarks against Karunanidhi.

Questioning the C Joseph Vijay-led government's handling of the issue, Paranthaman said it had failed to convene an all-party meeting, a practice adopted by previous Chief Ministers while dealing with inter-State river water disputes. He also alleged that the government had not disclosed the outcome of the Chief Minister's reported meeting with officials on the Cauvery and Mekedatu issues.

The DMK demanded that the government answer three questions within 24 hours: what steps it had taken to seek the constitution of a tribunal under the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act to prevent the Mekedatu project; what decisions were taken at the Chief Minister's meeting on the Cauvery issue; and whether the Chief Minister's proposed visit to Karnataka was initiated by the Tamil Nadu government. If so, it asked the government to make the request letter public.

Paranthaman said the government's response would determine whether it was genuinely committed to protecting Tamil Nadu's interests, and warned that failure to respond would reinforce the perception among Cauvery delta farmers that the government had failed them.

Thanthai Periyar Dravidar Kazhagam called off its protest over the prominence of Hindi signage after the Railways' decision to remove it.

The station’s facade, renovated under the Amrit Bharat scheme, had the station name displayed separately in Tamil, Hindi, and English. However, the Hindi lettering was positioned prominently in the centre, making it the most visible.

Its image was circulated on social media, with demands that the station name be displayed in Tamil, English and Hindi at the same location and that Tamil be retained in prominence. “Meanwhile, around midnight, an unidentified person came with black paint and poured it over the Hindi lettering on the newly installed signboard, before fleeing the scene,” police said.

On receiving information, the railway police rushed to the spot and launched an investigation. Following the incident, the railways also removed the Hindi signboard from the station building. Therefore, a protest announced by Thanthai Periyar Dravidar Kazhagam (TPDK) on Sunday evening over the issue was called off.

Talking to reporters after appearing before the Triplicane police station in compliance with the conditions of his anticipatory bail, Senthilbalaji rejected allegations that he had gone into hiding. "I was never absconding. I was here all along. I did not run away as claimed by the minister Nirmalkumar. I have already spent more than a year in prison. I am not afraid of jail and I am ready to face not one or two, but any number of cases," he said.

The DMK leader said he had sought a five-day exemption from signing at the police station as he was consulting senior advocates and pursuing legal remedies before the Madras High Court and the Supreme Court.

Accusing the TVK government of targeting the Opposition, Senthilbalaji alleged that the administration was ignoring pressing public concerns, including the Mekedatu dispute and farmers' debt, while concentrating on filing cases against political rivals. He also accused minister R Nirmalkumar of evading questions and attempting to divert public attention.

Overnight crop raids by the elephant are leaving cultivators struggling to recover their losses, with many demanding higher compensation and a permanent solution to human-elephant conflict.

Farmers say they have learned to coexist with Bahubali and do not consider the elephant a direct threat to human lives. However, its repeated raids on agricultural fields are affecting their livelihoods, particularly those dependent on banana cultivation.

“The Forest Department provides compensation of around Rs 100 for each plantain plant damaged by an elephant. But during the Onam season, a kilogram of the ‘Kathali’ variety of banana fetches around Rs 80, and a single stem weighing nearly 10 kg can bring in about Rs 800. The compensation amount is far too low and should be increased,” said N. Subbaiyan, president of the Tamil Nadu Vivasayigal Sangam, Mettupalayam taluk.

Farmers also complained that compensation payments are often delayed and involve a lengthy process. They said identifying the elephant responsible for crop damage is difficult, as most raids occur during the night.

“In one incident, an elephant damaged nearly 60 plantain plants in our farm within three months. We did not even apply for compensation because we were not confident of receiving a fair amount after going through the process,” Subbaiyan said.

He added that despite repeated demands from farmers, the compensation amount has remained unchanged for more than a decade. The uncertainty has forced several cultivators to reconsider banana farming. “Like many other farmers, we are gradually shifting from plantain cultivation to arecanut, as it is less vulnerable to elephant attacks,” said Subbaiyan, who owns farmland in Mettupalayam.

T Venugopal, president of the Tamilaga Vivasayigal Sangam, said farmers were looking beyond financial compensation and wanted a long-term solution to recurring elephant intrusions.

“Compensation alone cannot address the problem. Several measures taken by the government so far have not produced the desired results, and the compensation amount has also been reduced in recent times. Farmers have lost confidence that the elephant intrusion issue can be resolved,” he said.

According to farmers, growing uncertainty over crop losses has pushed some cultivators to sell their lands to real estate developers rather than continue farming along the forest boundary.

The reshuffle, expected soon after the Budget session concludes in September, is also likely to witness the redistribution of key portfolios, they said, adding that some of the recent inductees from AIADMK are also pushing hard for a place in the Cabinet once they win the yet-to-be-announced bypoll.

Sources said the exercise is being driven by a confidential performance review commissioned by the Chief Minister and prepared by Chief Secretary M Sai Kumar.

"The Chief Minister has sought a comprehensive report on every minister's performance. The reshuffle will be based entirely on those findings," a source said.

According to sources, Higher Education Minister P Viswanathan, Transport Minister A Vijay Tamilan Parthiban, Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Minister K Jagadeshwari, and Human Resources Management Minister D Sarathkumar are expected to be shown the door.

"Despite repeated warnings from the Chief Minister, serious allegations have continued to dog Viswanathan and Vijay Tamilan Parthiban. Jagadeshwari has come under scrutiny over allegations of violence involving party workers and alleged links with history sheeters, while Sarathkumar has faced allegations of consuming narcotic substances in a public place. These factors have weighed heavily in the leadership's assessment," multiple sources said.

The shake-up is also expected to alter the portfolios of Ministers S Keerthana and S Kamali of TVK, and S Rajesh Kumar of the Congress. While the changes involving Keerthana and Kamali are understood to stem from an internal assessment of their administrative performance and handling of departments, Rajesh Kumar is likely to be entrusted with a more prominent portfolio than Tourism.

Ally VCK's representative Vanni Arasu is also learnt to be in contention for a key berth, although the final call rests with Vijay.

Highly placed sources further indicated that the September exercise may only be the first phase, which is primarily administrative in nature. The next round will be more about pure politics, during which the leaders from AIADMK who quit their MLA post and joined the TVK will be accommodated. However, there is no clarity on bypoll date for these seats, as the matter is now with the Madras High Court.

Hence, the chief minister has decided to go ahead with the first phase of rejig after the budget session, and the next one after the polls, sources said. “Another Cabinet reshuffle is expected after the by-polls; C Vijayabaskar, MR Vijayabhaskar, and Maragatham Kumaravel are among those likely to be inducted," the sources added.

The IOD is a climate phenomenon characterised by contrasting sea surface temperatures across the equatorial Indian Ocean. During a positive IOD phase, the water near the western Indian Ocean, close to Africa, becomes warmer than average, while the eastern Indian Ocean waters, near Indonesia, become relatively cooler. This temperature contrast alters atmospheric circulation and influences rainfall patterns across the region.

Speaking to DT Next, Dr VR Durai, Director of the Regional Weather Forecasting Centre at the Regional Meteorological Centre, Chennai, said observations indicate that ocean temperature patterns over the Indian Ocean are gradually becoming favourable for the development of a positive IOD.

"A positive IOD is identified when the eastern parts of the Indian Ocean become about 0.5 to 0.6 degrees Celsius warmer than normal. We are now observing changes in sea surface temperatures over the eastern Indian Ocean, and there is a growing possibility that a positive IOD could develop," he said.

While a positive IOD would not completely offset the effects of the ongoing Super El Niño, which remains one of the strongest global climate events, it could increase the monsoon rainfall by around one to two per cent, helping the season remain closer to the normal range, said the atmospheric scientist.

"It will not fully nullify the impact of the Super El Niño, which is a massive climatic phenomenon. However, it can provide some relief by supporting better seasonal rainfall than what we would have expected under strong El Niño conditions," he said.

The looming possibility of a deficit monsoon was one of the major concerns for the agriculture sector in India, and by extension, for the governments at the State and central levels, and also businesses that look forward to beneficial – or at least near-normal – monsoon seasons. The Super El Niño condition accentuated the risks, as countries have faced catastrophic impacts whenever the phenomenon happened in the past.

Meanwhile, speaking about the recent heavy rainfall witnessed across Kerala and the Arabian Sea coastal area, he said the key reason for this was the strong cross-equatorial winds known as the Somali Jet, which are blowing at speeds of around 40 to 50 knots. “These low-level jet winds transport large amounts of moisture into the Arabian Sea and play a crucial role in strengthening the southwest monsoon," he explained.

"The decision could have been announced in July itself. However, developments in the national capital, including the CJP-led protests and the Parliament session, delayed the exercise. The reshuffle is now expected in August or September along with appointments in other states," sources familiar with the deliberations told DT Next.

Speculation over Ashvathaman's elevation intensified after he was recently summoned to New Delhi for consultations with the party's top leadership, a move many within the organisation interpreted as a clear indication of the high command's confidence in him.

The race, however, has other names as well. BJP Mahila Morcha national president Vanathi Srinivasan, Union Minister of State L Murugan and actor-politician R Sarathkumar, a member of the party's national general council, continue to figure prominently in internal discussions, each enjoying the backing of influential leaders.

"Nainar is backing Sarathkumar. Vice-President and former BJP leader CP Radhakrishnan, veterans Pon Radhakrishnan and H Raja are supporting Vanathi Srinivasan, while Tamilisai Soundararajan is backing L Murugan. Ashvathaman, however, has emerged as the consensus choice for a large section of the central leadership," a senior BJP leader told this correspondent.

When contacted, BJP chief spokesperson Narayanan Thirupathy categorically dismissed the reports, describing the speculation over a change in the state leadership as baseless.

"There is no truth in these reports. No organisational changes are under consideration, and there is no proposal to replace the state leadership, at least in the near future," Narayanan told this newspaper.

But party insiders confirmed the impending leadership change, attributing it to the high-command's dissatisfaction with Nagenthran's stewardship following the Assembly elections.

"The leadership has taken serious note of allegations relating to election finances, including claims that funds earmarked for the campaign and money allegedly collected from ticket aspirants were misappropriated. Explanations have been sought and the matter is under internal scrutiny," another senior functionary said.

Another leader alleged that nearly Rs 400 crore meant for election-related activities, in addition to substantial collections from aspirants, had come under internal scrutiny. "National organisation general secretary BL Santhosh and Union Minister Piyush Goyal are unhappy with the developments. The leadership believes a change is essential to restore organisational credibility," the leader added.

Fondly called ‘Bahubali’ by people and identified by the Forest Department as MP 20T1, the tusker’s predictable habits and calm nature have helped it build an unusual relationship with villagers.

"Villagers have become so familiar with the elephant that they no longer panic when they see it. It rarely displays aggression unless provoked and does not charge at people without reason. The elephant has made Mettupalayam and Sirumugai as its home range in all these years," Forest Department officials said.

As the sun sets, Bahubali emerges from the forest and heads towards nearby farmlands in search of food. It remains there through the night, moving between fields and returning to the forest only in the early hours after satisfying its hunger.

Even when farmers or forest personnel attempt to drive it away, the elephant often retreats briefly before returning to another farm nearby. Its persistence has made it a familiar visitor to plantations growing bananas, sugarcane, coconuts, mangoes, and jackfruits.

The tusker’s movements have become so predictable that Forest Department personnel regularly manage traffic on the Mettupalayam-Ooty Road to allow it to cross safely. In a curious display of caution, Bahubali often waits until vehicles are stopped before calmly making its way across the busy road.

"Over the last 15 years, I have seen the elephant cross the road many times. It always waits for the vehicles to stop and has never harmed anyone," said P Sarath Kumar, an anti-poaching watcher with the Mettupalayam Forest Range.

To ensure the safety of both the elephant and road users, the Forest Department has assigned a dedicated squad comprising a forest guard, a watcher, and an anti-poaching watcher to monitor Bahubali’s movements during its regular morning and evening crossings.

The elephant’s familiarity with the landscape is matched by its remarkable memory. Officials say it knows exactly where to find its preferred food sources, returning repeatedly to farms and orchards that offer seasonal favourites.

"Mango and jackfruit are its first choices. Once that season ends, it shifts towards maize and plantain fields," a Forest Department official said.

In recent days, the tusker has shifted its base to the neighbouring Sirumugai Forest Range, attracted by the availability of plantain crops after the mango and jackfruit season ended in Mettupalayam orchards. Officials expect it to remain there for a few months before returning to its familiar Mettupalayam range.

Unlike many elephants that travel in groups, Bahubali prefers a solitary existence. Officials believe this unusual behaviour developed after earlier attempts to prevent other elephants accompanying it from becoming habitual crop raiders.

In the past, when other elephants migrated along with Bahubali, the Forest Department made considerable efforts to drive them away to prevent them from following the same crop-raiding pattern. Over time, officials observed that Bahubali appeared to associate the presence of other elephants with difficulty in its search for food and began avoiding companions.

“On several occasions, it has even chased away elephants attempting to join it,” said P Sarath Kumar.

While wild elephants typically travel more than 40 kilometres daily in search of food and water, Bahubali has confined its movements to a smaller area of around 20 kilometres, relying on its intimate knowledge of local farms and forest corridors.

“The tusker has entered Mettupalayam more than 900 times in the past six years. Of this, more than 430 intrusions were made in the last three years alone,” said another official of the forest department.

The elephant has also proved difficult for the Forest Department to monitor through conventional methods. Multiple attempts to radio-collar and capture it have failed, as the tusker quickly senses unfamiliar activity and retreats deep into the forest. "If Bahubali notices veterinarians or unfamiliar people approaching, it disappears into the forest and remains away for several days before returning," the official added.

Instead of reacting with fear, farmers nowadays keep watch over their fields and immediately alert the Forest Department when the elephant arrives.

As many as 18 workers were busy at work at a unit owned by Dharmalingam near Thalaivasal, when a electric short circuit triggered a fire at a room, where chlorin powder has been stocked in sacks.

Even as the workers rushed out, six among them suffered suffocation and fainted.

They were then rushed to a private hospital for treatment. The fire and rescue personnel managed to douse the fire while officials of the district administration reached the spot and held an inquiry.

In an apparent swipe at the DMK, Tagore also questioned who would be the next to join them in backing the move.

Responding to questions over whether Rahul really meant DMK, Tagore said the Leader of the Opposition had described the AIADMK, PMK and BJP as "Ettappans" because they supported the delimitation proposal. He also indirectly asked whether any other party would choose to join them, apparently referring to DMK, which softened its stance against the Bill.

On the Mekedatu dam and the Cauvery dispute, Tagore said Chief Minister Vijay had secured the unanimous support of all parties in the Assembly for a resolution opposing the project.

Tagore reiterated that the Congress would continue to oppose the proposed delimitation exercise, calling it "completely against Tamil Nadu." Referring to Parliament proceedings on April 17, he said all 40 MPs from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry had united to defeat the delimitation-related legislation in the Lok Sabha.

Tagore also recalled that political parties in Tamil Nadu had celebrated the Bill's defeat by tearing up copies of it and bursting crackers, and said he hoped the same united stand would continue.

He defended Rahul for not raising the Cauvery or Mekedatu issues during his Tamil Nadu visit; ultimately, what matters is that water has been released into the Cauvery due to rains in Karnataka's catchment areas. Rahul is a good omen. When he came, water started flowing. What else do you want? He responded to reporters.

Drawing a comparison with Karnataka, Tagore said all political parties there stood united in protecting their state's interests in the Cauvery issue, whereas parties in Tamil Nadu were allowing political considerations to override the State's interests.

He also targeted Tamil Nadu BJP president Nainar Nagenthran, urging him to learn from former Karnataka BJP Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa, whom he said had consistently defended Karnataka's interests on the Cauvery issue. "You are in Tamil Nadu, but you are acting against Tamil Nadu's interests," Tagore alleged.