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.

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.

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.

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.

S Karthik alias ‘Mulanoor’ Karthik, one of the accused, is said to be the leader of the ‘Karur Gang’.

According to the FIR, all the bars in Karur district were allegedly run by Karthik and his associates, who allegedly formed an organised crime syndicate, which came to be known as the Karur Gang.

Karthik’s associate Ramesh, also from Karur district, were produced before the Principal Sessions Court, City Civil Court, Chennai, which remanded them in judicial custody.

The FIR names former prohibition and excise minister Senthilbalaji, S Visakan, the then managing director of Tasmac; two senior regional managers; Rathesh Raj S, an IPS officer’s brother who wielded considerable sway in the previous government; and Bhaskar, Balaji’s PA, among others.

It also named besides distillery and brewery companies, transport firms, bottling companies and other unidentified public servants and private individuals.

The agency has invoked provisions relating to criminal conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, cheating and destruction of evidence under the Indian Penal Code and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act.

It said the case was registered after a government-referred discreet inquiry revealed sufficient material indicating the commission of cognisable offences. The investigation is continuing to ascertain the role of the remaining accused and other entities named in the FIR.

THE ACCUSED

V Senthilbalaji, former minister for electricity, prohibition and excise

S Visakan, former managing director, Tasmac

T Rama Durai Murugan, former senior regional manager, Tasmac

R Panneer Selvam, former senior regional manager, Tasmac

Bhaskar, former personal assistant to Senthilbalaji

Rathesh Raj S (brother of a serving IPS officer)

S Karthik alias Mulanoor Karthik, Karur

Distillery/brewery companies, and transport and bottling firms

Stalin alleged that consumers across the State were facing widespread confusion over electricity bills and criticised the TVK-led government for its handling of the issue.

"When the TVK government assumed office, the State witnessed frequent power outages. Now, consumers are facing problems with electricity billing," he said.

Stalin claimed that the government had acknowledged complaints from 3.70 lakh electricity consumers regarding excessive or erroneous bills, adding that the actual number of affected consumers could be much higher. "Many more consumers may have been affected but have not yet raised their voices against the excessive bills," he said.

He appealed to the State government to extend the payment deadline until all billing-related issues are resolved. Stalin also urged the authorities to ensure that meter readings are taken accurately and that electricity bills are generated transparently and free of errors.

Responding to the allegations, Minister for Energy and Law R Nirmalkumar said routine inspections were being carried out wherever consumers reported excessive electricity bills. He maintained that complaints had declined compared to the corresponding period last year.

According to the minister, 9.60 lakh complaints of excessive electricity bills were registered during the corresponding period this year, compared with 11.50 lakh complaints during the same period last year.

"The former Chief Minister's statement is misleading. Officials of the Electricity Board are verifying excessive bills, and the exercise will be completed within a week. Any errors found will be rectified in the next billing cycle," Nirmalkumar said, claiming that 3.70 lakh complaints were a false claim by the DMK chief.

The appointments were notified through a Government Order issued by the Public (Law Officers) Department.

According to the Government Order, PV Balasubramanian, T Gowthaman, B Saravanan, A Abdul Hameed, J Barathan, S Arjun Suresh, S Kumaresan and Kavitha Nithyanandan have been appointed as Additional Advocate Generals of the Madras High Court. Of them, B Saravanan and J Barathan have been posted to the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court.

The Government Order states that the appointments will come into force from the date on which the respective law officers assume charge.

The notification was issued by Chief Secretary M Sai Kumar by order of the Governor.

The incident, which also left a 24-year-old critically injured, triggered widespread protests and road blockades by locals demanding the immediate arrest of all individuals involved in the crime.

According to police sources, agriculture is the primary livelihood in Poombarai. For the past few months, a dispute had been brewing between Raghu, a local farmer, and Ramar over latter's horse repeatedly grazing in former's farmland.

The feud took a violent turn when Raghu reportedly summoned Ramar (26) and his companion Prashanth (24) to a field near Poombarai. An argument ensued, during which Raghu brutally attacked both men with a sickle.

Ramar succumbed to his injuries on the spot, while Prashanth, who suffered severe deep cuts, was rushed to the government hospital, where his condition remains critical.

As the victim and the accused belong to different communities, the incident sparked intense communal tension in the region. Vandalism was reported late last night, with several two-wheelers smashed, adding to the prevailing anxiety in the village.

While Raghu surrendered at the police station late last night, relatives of the deceased and over 100 members of his community alleged that Raghu did not act alone.

Claiming that several of his associates were also involved in the attack, the protesters launched a road blockade early on Friday on the key route connecting Poombarai to upper hill villages like Mannavanur.

Despite senior police officials arriving at the spot to initiate peace talks, the victim's family and protesters refused to back down, alleging police inaction and improper investigation.

Heavy police security has been deployed in and around Poombarai to prevent any further escalation.

Vijay’s visit to Karnataka, though mentioned repeatedly by the government and leaders in Karnataka, has not been officially confirmed by the Tamil Nadu government.

Two days ago, Shivakumar had said he offered to take Vijay on a helicopter tour of the areas fed by Cauvery water to show the scarcity there.

However, the situation changed after widespread protests across Karnataka, particularly in Mandya, where demonstrators tore posters of Vijay's film ‘Jana Nayagan’ and forced theatres at some places to halt its screening.

Let’s meet in more conducive, cordial atmosphere

In his appeal, Shivakumar urged Vijay to defer his proposed visit to Bengaluru in view of the charged atmosphere in the State following the CWMA's decision upholding CWRC's direction to Karnataka to release 3,500 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu for 15 days.

"I request him to defer his proposed visit for a short while. At present, the atmosphere is beginning to improve. There is good rainfall and water inflows are increasing. Let us hold our meeting in a more conducive and cordial atmosphere," the Chief Minister told reporters in Bengaluru.

He said he had already spoken to Vijay and would again request him to mutually fix another date instead of August 3. "Whenever a guest visits our State, we should receive them with warmth and cordiality. Karnataka has always welcomed people from across the country. We should not hurt anyone's sentiments," Shivakumar said.

Mekedatu will benefit TN more: DKS

Making a strong pitch for Karnataka's long-pending Mekedatu balancing reservoir project across the Cauvery in Kanakapura, his home town, Shivakumar asserted that the project would actually benefit Tamil Nadu more than Karnataka.

"In my view, the Mekedatu project will benefit Tamil Nadu even more than Karnataka. The only direct benefit Karnataka will derive is the generation of about 400 MW of hydropower," he said.

‘Balancing reservoir, not to expand irrigation’

The Chief Minister said the proposed 66 TMC reservoir was only a balancing reservoir and could not be used to expand irrigation in Karnataka.

"At no point can the water stored in the 66 TMC balancing reservoir be utilised for any new irrigation project in Karnataka. It is only a balancing reservoir. We have no authority to use that water for irrigation," he said.

Referring to the legal position on the project, Shivakumar said the Supreme Court had directed Karnataka to comply with the final award requiring release of 177.25 TMC of water to Tamil Nadu, while also recognising Karnataka's right to construct the balancing reservoir.

"The recent Supreme Court judgment has also made it clear that Karnataka must release 177.25 TMC of water to Tamil Nadu. At the same time, the Court has also recognised Karnataka's right to construct the balancing reservoir within its territory," he said.

A bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi granted the relief to Balaji with certain conditions – that he will cooperate with the investigation, deposit his passport and not influence any witnesses.

“You immediately come to us even if there is slightest breach in bail conditions. We will modify or cancel our orders,” Justice Bagchi told senior advocate Guru Krishnakumar appearing for the Tamil Nadu government.

Earlier in the day, Justice V Mohana recused herself from hearing the anticipatory bail plea of Balaji.

On Thursday, the top court agreed to hear Balaji’s plea seeking pre-arrest bail in the fresh corruption case pertaining to alleged irregularities in the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC).

The Madras High Court had dismissed the anticipatory bail petition of Balaji in the FIR lodged by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) in the TASMAC scam case.

Soon after the denial, the top court bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant was urged by senior lawyers Kapil Sibal, Mukul Rohatgi and Amit Anand Tiwari on behalf of the DMK leader that his plea be listed for urgent hearing as he faces imminent coercive action.

Balaji represents Coimbatore South in the Tamil Nadu Assembly.

According to the FIR, a large-scale scam took place in TASMAC in the allotment of shops and bars.

Balaji alleged that the FIR quoted verbatim the affidavit of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the petition tThe agency filed before the Supreme Court.

In fact, the FIR itself at various places says that it is from the counter affidavit and petition of the ED, the plea said.

“Our contention is that the FIR is for the incident said to have taken place between 2021 and 2025. I am at no flight risk; no custodial interrogation required. I was the minister in the department and TASMAC is a corporation independent in existence and functioning,” senior advocate Tiwari said.

He also termed the move an instance of political vendetta.

The FIR details a systematic cash-kickback scheme involving tens of crores, where bottle supply companies generated bogus or inflated invoices for distilleries.

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.

To carry out the exercise, the department has constituted a six-member special audit committee headed by Tirunelveli Deputy Inspector General of Registration Swaminathan. 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.

Rain likely in catchment areas

In a post on X, Pradeep John said, "Today and tomorrow are likely to be the best days for widespread Southwest Monsoon rains across the Western Ghats." He said widespread rainfall is expected in Kerala, Karnataka—especially the Cauvery catchment areas—and the hilly regions of Tamil Nadu, including Valparai, the Nilgiris, Theni, Tenkasi, Tirunelveli and Kanniyakumari.

Rain may boost dam inflows

The rainfall is expected to improve water availability in catchment areas and increase inflows into reservoirs. However, John cautioned that "it is unlikely to erase the overall water deficit, as the seasonal shortfall across many Western Ghats catchments remains substantial."

August rainfall outlook

He warned that "the rest of August currently appears relatively inactive, with below-normal rainfall expected over much of the Southwest Monsoon catchments." August is usually one of the wettest months of the southwest monsoon and contributes significantly to reservoir inflows in the Western Ghats.

With the southwest monsoon having largely disappointed in June, John said a below-normal August "is the coffin in the nail for SWM after massive failure in June," underscoring concerns over the season's overall performance.

Chennai weather forecast

For Chennai, John said, "Chennai also has a good chance of seeing fast-moving spells of rain later this evening and into the night as moisture increases and passing convective clouds move across the region."

The meeting comes ahead of Vijay's scheduled meeting with Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on August 3 (Monday) in Bengaluru to discuss the Cauvery river water dispute, according to a Daily Thanthi report.

The leaders are scheduled to meet at the Vidhana Soudha (Assembly Complex) conference hall. The proposed meeting has drawn opposition from Tamil farmers, political leaders, and Karnataka farmers.

The Cauvery Water Regulation Committee on Tuesday ordered Karnataka to release 3,500 cusecs of water for 15 days, which would enable Tamil Nadu to receive about 4 TMC. The Cauvery Water Management Authority upheld the order on Wednesday.

What's the issue?

The Cauvery river water-sharing dispute has been a long-running issue between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Each year during the monsoon, the dispute intensifies. Due to insufficient rainfall in Karnataka this year too, the issue has escalated into a crisis.

Tamil Nadu will approach the Supreme Court to secure its due share of Cauvery water, Law Minister R Nirmal Kumar said on Friday, dismissing Karnataka's stand on the issue.

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar had on Wednesday invited Vijay to visit Karnataka's Cauvery reservoir region after Vijay expressed a desire to discuss the issue, saying the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister could see firsthand the prevailing water scarcity caused by the severe drought.

The bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant informed the court about the recusal of Justice Mohana and said that he, alongwith Justice Joymalya Bagchi, will take up the plea at 1 pm owing to the urgency.

On Thursday, the top court agreed to hear the plea of Balaji seeking pre-arrest bail in a fresh corruption case pertaining to alleged irregularities in the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC).

The Madras High Court has dismissed the anticipatory bail petition of Balaji in the fresh FIR lodged by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) in the TASMAC scam case.

Soon after the denial, the top court bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant was urged by senior lawyers Kapil Sibal, Mukul Rohatgi and Amit Anand Tiwari on behalf of the DMK leader that his plea be listed for urgent hearing as he faces imminent coercive action.

Balaji represents Coimbatore South in the Tamil Nadu Assembly.

According to the fresh FIR, a large-scale scam took place in TASMAC in the allotment of shops and bars.

Balaji alleged that the FIR quoted verbatim the affidavit of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the petition filed by the anti-money laundering probe agency before the Supreme Court.

In fact, the FIR itself at various places says that it is from the counter affidavit and petition of the ED, the plea said.

"Our contention is that the FIR is for the incident said to have been committed between 2021 and 2025. I am at no flight risk; no custodial interrogation required. I was the minister of the department and TASMAC is a corporation independent in existence and functioning," said Tiwari, a senior advocate. He also termed the move an instance of political vendetta.

The FIR details a systematic cash-kickback scheme involving tens of crores, where bottle supply companies generated bogus or inflated invoices for distilleries.

TASMAC retail shops systematically collected amounts in excess of the maximum retail price (MRP) from consumers in an organised manner, overcharging between Rs 10 and Rs 100 for standard liquor and up to Rs 500 for foreign liquor, the FIR states.

The case has been registered under sections 120B, 167, 409, 109, and 420 of the IPC, corresponding provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 (including Sections 61(2), 201, 316(5), 49, and 318(4)), and sections 7(c), 12, 13(1)(a), and 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (as amended in 2018).

"Legally, we need to get the required water through the Supreme Court," said Tamil Nadu Law Minister.

Addressing reporters here, Kumar stated that Karnataka persistently refuses to release water, even when directed by the commission to discharge specific quantities. Emphasising that the neighbouring state has historically built its politics around denying water, he noted that Tamil Nadu is prepared to secure the rights of its farmers through legal means.

"Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay is actively consulting with legal experts and stakeholders, and is expected to announce the state's comprehensive legal strategy and final decisions within a week. The government is currently evaluating multiple avenues, which include approaching the apex court, pushing for a tribunal, conducting inter-state negotiations, or exerting pressure on the Union government," he added.

There is still no official information on Senthilbalaji's whereabouts or whether he is undergoing treatment.

The development comes a day after the Madras High Court dismissed Senthilbalaji's anticipatory bail plea in connection with a fresh FIR registered by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) in the alleged TASMAC corruption case. He subsequently moved the Supreme Court, which agreed to hear his anticipatory bail plea on Friday (July 31).

A bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana was told by additional advocate general for Tamil Nadu, Hairpriya Padmanabhan, that the government has appointed a special public prosecutor (SPP) to conduct the trial against the former minister, and if the need arises, it is willing to appoint an additional public prosecutor (APP) for expeditious disposal of the case.

Advocate Pranav Sachdeva, appearing for one Y Balaji, said that the main issue was not the appointment of SPP or APP, but the clubbing of cases related to the scam, as they have named more than 2,000 accused in the matter to delay the proceedings.

The bench said it would hear the matter in detail on August 11.

The top court was hearing a petition filed by Y Balaji, challenging the Madras High Court order of March 28, 2025, which dismissed pleas against the clubbing of multiple chargesheets in cases related to the alleged scam.

On July 30, 2025, the top court termed the trial involving Senthilbalaji a “rudderless ship” and observed that a cricket stadium would be required to conduct prosecution in the cases with over 2,000 persons as accused.

It had pulled up the then DMK government in the state for implicating so many persons as accused. The court had said it appears to be the most populated trial in India with 2,000 people.

It had told the counsel representing the state government that besides the former minister and officials who are prime accused, the other 2,000 persons arrayed as accused technically have committed a crime by giving a bribe but on a comparative analysis, they are more of a victim than an accused.

Balaji had resigned from the MK Stalin-led state cabinet on April 27, 2025, after being pulled up by the top court.

Across the coffee-growing belts of Bodinayakanur, Periyakulam, Kurangani, Top Station, Bodimettu and adjoining hill villages, farmers say the season has unfolded unlike any other. The summer showers that normally trigger flowering in April and May failed to arrive in sufficient measure, while soaring temperatures have scorched flowers and caused tender berries to fall before they could mature. Farmers also fear reduced overall bean size and lower crop yields.

Growers attribute the setback to El Niño, which they say has weakened the southwest monsoon and prolonged dry conditions in the region. With little moisture in the soil, even new planting has come to a halt.

Coffee is cultivated on around 8,000 acres in the district’s hill tracts, where flowering in summer is followed by fruit setting during June and July before harvesting begins in October. This year, however, farmers fear that the disrupted crop cycle will lead to lower yields and reduced incomes. “Flowers have withered, and young berries are dropping because of the heat. If the rains continue to fail, the harvest will be far below normal,” growers said.

Apart from the expected decline in production, the dry spell has also delayed the planting of fresh saplings, raising concerns that the impact of this season’s weather could extend well beyond the current crop.

"Flowers have withered, and young berries are dropping because of the heat. If rains continue to deceive, harvest will be far below than previous years" said the coffee growers.

The Class 8 student from Saruthupatti near Periyakulam has remained in a coma since being referred to the Theni Government Medical College Hospital after treatment at the Periyakulam Government Hospital, where he was initially admitted on June 2 with respiratory illness and severe cold.

According to his family, doctors at the Periyakulam hospital advised a procedure after diagnosing a nasal growth. They alleged wrong treatment by doctors.

According to police, the bus was travelling from Tiruchendur to Kumuli when the accident occurred around 1 pm on the Thoothukudi-Madurai National Highway. A van attempting to cross the road from the Vilathikulam side suddenly entered the bus’s path, leading to the mishap.

"At present, OPS has no plans to join TVK as he is a sitting MLA. However, his son, former MP OP Ravindranath, is keen to join the ruling party, keeping the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections in mind. However, TVK leadership wants OPS to join along with his son. Therefore, the family is yet to take a final decision," a close associate of OPS told DT Next.

A few months before the recently concluded Assembly election, OPS joined the then-ruling DMK and contested from Bodinayakanur as a DMK candidate. Following the election, DMK moved to the Opposition benches, and OPS was not given any party post.

This fuelled speculation that the former CM, reportedly unhappy with developments, was planning to switch to TVK. However, OPS dismissed the reports.

Sources in DMK pointed out that OPS recently participated virtually in the meeting of the party's MLAs chaired by the Leader of the Opposition.

"Had he decided to quit the party or make any major political move, he might have skipped the meeting. Instead, he participated actively," a DMK source said.

While OPS is yet to indicate any intention to leave the DMK, sources said his son Ravindranath continues to be keen on joining TVK.

Confirming the development, PMK MLA A Ganeshkumar told DT Next that the Assembly Secretariat had allotted the room following a request made by the party's floor leader, Sowmiya Anbumani.

"Yes, the Assembly Secretariat has allotted us a separate room based on the request submitted by our floor leader," he said.

According to Public Works Department (PWD) officials, the room was carved out from the existing women MLAs' rest room to accommodate the PMK, thereby reducing the space available for women members.

Meanwhile, Premalatha Vijayakant, the lone DMDK MLA, has also sought a separate room for her party in the Assembly complex. However, her request is yet to be cleared.

Room allocation has emerged as a tricky issue since the constitution of the 17th Tamil Nadu Assembly. Besides the two major parties, the DMK and the AIADMK, the Secretariat has also been compelled to provide separate space to smaller parties with single-digit strength.

The demand was first raised by the Congress, an ally of the ruling TVK. The request was accepted, and the party was allotted a separate room, despite its two Ministers already having individual offices. The room will be used by the party's three other MLAs.

Following the Congress, the PMK also sought a room. After Sowmiya Anbumani submitted a representation to the Speaker, and based on the recommendation of the TVK-led government, the Assembly Secretariat allotted the space to the party.

HOUSE STRENGTH

TVK - 106

INC - 5

CPM - 2

CPI - 2

VCK - 2

IUML - 2

AMMK - 1

DMK - 59

DMDK - 1

AIADMK - 41

PMK - 4

BJP - 1

Speaker

Vacant - 7 seats

The renovation has necessitated the immediate relocation of sections of the Home, Registration, Commercial Taxes, and Tamil Development Departments, creating a major challenge for the Public Department in identifying suitable alternative accommodation within the Secretariat complex.

According to officials, Secretary to the Public Department E Sundaravalli and Deputy Secretary Srutanjay Narayanan inspected various departments at Fort St George on Thursday to identify vacant office space for relocating the affected sections.

"The officials inspected several departments in search of additional accommodation within the Secretariat complex. However, they could not identify any large vacant space to accommodate the sections that have to be shifted," a Secretariat official said.

The Public Department has been asked to vacate the sections functioning on the 10th floor at the earliest to facilitate the renovation work.

Officials said the space constraints have complicated the relocation exercise, as most buildings within the Secretariat are already functioning at full capacity. The government is now exploring various options to accommodate the displaced sections without affecting the day-to-day functioning of departments.

It may be noted that the Tamil Nadu Secretariat Association has opposed the proposed shifting of the Chief Minister's Office to NKM, alleging that the move would disrupt the functioning of key departments and affect Budget preparations. The association urged the government to ensure adequate infrastructure and workspace at the new locations before relocating offices and staff.

Coimbatore Collector Pavan Kumar G Giriyappanavar ordered the closure of the quarries following inspections by officials from the Department of Geology and Mining, which found violations of prescribed norms.

The action came after farmer P Muruganandam staged a hunger strike at his residence, demanding action against stone quarries in his neighbourhood over violations. He withdrew his protest on Wednesday after the authorities initiated action against the units.

Meanwhile, workers who arrived at the quarries as usual on Thursday morning were told that operations had been suspended. Following this, they gathered near Kinathukadavu to voice their concerns. Police and revenue officials reached the spot and held discussions with the workers.

The workers said nearly 500 labourers from the Coimbatore, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Salem and Erode districts depended on these quarries for their livelihoods and had been rendered jobless following the closure.

They submitted petitions to the authorities, requesting the lifting of the closure order and immediate steps to restore their employment. Officials assured them that their concerns would be conveyed to the district administration for further consideration.

Association founder and state president SA Ponnusamy, accompanied by office-bearers, met Milk and Dairy Development Minister C Vijayalakshmi at the Secretariat and submitted a detailed memorandum. The minister assured the delegation that the demands were already under the government's consideration and would be discussed with Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay before an appropriate decision is taken.

The association sought a Rs 10 per litre increase in Aavin's milk procurement price to encourage dairy farmers and improve procurement, besides raising the commission paid to Aavin milk dealers from the present maximum of Rs 2 per litre to Rs 5 per litre, pointing out that it has remained unchanged for nearly 15 years.

They also urged the government to revive the free milch cattle distribution scheme introduced during the AIADMK regime and launch subsidised cattle feed to increase milk production. It further sought periodic revision of Aavin's procurement and retail prices, in line with cooperative dairy federations in neighbouring states, to ensure financial sustainability and offset mounting operational losses.

The association alleged that inadequate procurement price revisions since 2022, reduction in Aavin's retail price without adequate government subsidy, and discontinuation of key support schemes under the previous DMK government had weakened the cooperative, reduced daily procurement from about 38.26 lakh litres to nearly 25 lakh litres, resulting in recurring shortages, particularly of the popular Green Magic milk.

"The government must act on a war footing to increase milk production, strengthen Aavin, ensure uninterrupted supply and safeguard the livelihood of over 30 lakh families dependent on dairy farming and milk distribution," Ponnusamy told reporters here.

Police said an unidentified man was found dead with cut injuries in a vacant land along the border of the Perumbakkam and Thazhambur police station limits around 8 pm. Residents alerted the Perumbakkam police, who visited the spot but reportedly said the location fell within the Thazhambur police limits. When the Thazhambur police arrived, they, too, claimed the spot was outside their jurisdiction.

As a result, the body remained at the ground for hours, causing concern among residents. Later, senior officers from the Tambaram City Police, led by the Pallikaranai Deputy Commissioner of Police, inspected the spot.

As the exact jurisdiction remained unclear, officials sought assistance from the Revenue Department. After midnight, revenue officials and VAOs arrived with boundary maps and conducted a field survey using measuring tapes. They confirmed that the spot fell under the jurisdiction of the Thazhambur police station.

Following this, Thazhambur police registered a case, recovered the body and sent it to the Tambaram GH for a post-mortem.

The deceased was identified as Bahadur (34), a Nepali national working as a construction labourer in the locality. Bahadur had misbehaved with a woman a few days ago and was assaulted by a few of her relatives. He was admitted to Perumbakkam GH before being discharged. He was later found dead under suspicious circumstances in the vacant land. Thazhambur police have registered a case under suspicious death. Further investigation is on to find the exact cause of death.

The Minister told reporters here that the proposed panel would examine grievances related to school fees and ensure greater transparency.

"Several important announcements are expected during the upcoming budget as detailed studies were conducted on adoption of modern technology in classrooms. The government plans to introduce a dedicated computer science subject for students from Class 6 onwards. Steps are also being taken to improve the maintenance of toilets and other basic facilities in government schools," he said.

Rajmohan said enrolment in government schools has increased this academic year compared to the previous year as more parents are showing interest in enrolling their children in government primary schools due to improvements in the public education system.

"The department is also identifying students who have discontinued their education and taking steps to bring them back into schools," he said.

Police have registered a case against 19 persons, alleging that they conspired to secure patta transfer and property registration through fraudulent means. One of the accused, Ilayaraja, who allegedly acted as a power agent, filed a writ petition before the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court seeking a writ of mandamus directing the Madurai Corporation to survey and demarcate the property's boundaries.

In the petition, it was claimed that the property originally belonged to Dakshinamoorthy Durairaja Pallavarayar, who died in 1930 without any legal heirs, and that ownership was subsequently claimed through the heirs of Vellaichamy Pallavarayar, a Class-II legal heir who died in 1992, police sources said.

A legal heir certificate issued by the Karambakudi Tahsildar in Pudukkottai district in 2023 was cited as a key document in support of the claim before the Court. The CCB considered it important to examine the validity of the legal heir certificate issued by the Karambakudi Tehsildar. Hence, it has sent a communication seeking detailed information from the Pudukkottai district revenue authorities, including the basis on which the legal heir certificate was issued, the supporting documents relied upon, and the nature of the inquiry conducted by the revenue department before issuing the certificate.

Police have also sought copies of all records related to the issuance of the certificate, including the documents submitted, revenue records, and any prior court orders relating to the property.

The certificate listed Ramayee Ayeyar, Senthamizh Selvi, Prema, Rajkumar, Muthurani, Rajendran, Kuzhandhaiya, Pushparaj, Jothi and Geetha as the legal heirs of Vellaichamy Pallavarayar.

In an order passed in June 2026, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court recorded the petitioners' claim that they were the legal heirs of Vellaichamy Pallavarayar based on the legal heir certificate issued by the Tahsildar, Karambakudi, but did not examine or certify its validity. The Court directed the surveyor to conduct a survey and fix the property's boundaries after issuing notice to the petitioners, all legal heirs, rival claimants, if any, and adjoining landowners.

The High Court made it clear that the survey must follow due process, be completed within 12 weeks, and that police protection may be sought if required.

According to data tabled in the Lok Sabha by the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, road accidents in Tamil Nadu claimed 10,298 lives and left 49,308 people injured during the period. While the State ranked second in fatalities after Uttar Pradesh, it continued to account for the largest number of crashes in the country.

Pedestrian safety continued to remain a major concern in Tamil Nadu, recording 2,328 fatalities and 7,240 injuries up to July 27 this year, second highest in the country, after Uttarakhand with 4,430 pedestrian deaths. In 2025, 4,472 pedestrians died, 13,530 were injured.

Tamil Nadu also continued to report the highest number of National Highway accidents, recording 11,575 crashes that claimed 3,520 lives up to July 27. In 2025, it had reported 21,537 NH accidents and 6,413 fatalities.

The Centre attributed accidents to primarily human error, road conditions, and vehicle-related factors, with over-speeding continuing to be the leading cause of crashes. Driver distraction was also a major contributor, while only 100 road accidents across the country were directly attributed to potholes.

Measures being taken to reduce accidents: Minister Gadkari

Across the country, 2,96,447 road accidents were reported up to July 27 this year, claiming 1,01,139 lives and leaving 3,38,725 people injured.

Madhya Pradesh reported the second-highest number of road accidents at 34,947, followed by Kerala (29,494), Uttar Pradesh (26,718), and Karnataka (24,929). In terms of fatalities, Uttar Pradesh topped the list with 14,794 deaths, followed by Tamil Nadu (10,298), Maharashtra (9,279), Madhya Pradesh (8,098), and Rajasthan (6,893).

The trend mirrors that of 2025, when Tamil Nadu recorded the country's highest number of road accidents at 71,195, resulting in 18,511 deaths, which is the second highest. Uttar Pradesh, despite reporting fewer accidents at 49,675, registered the highest fatality count at 27,547. Maharashtra is ranked third with 16,759 deaths, followed by Madhya Pradesh that reported 14,841 deaths.

Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari said the ministry had identified 6,358 accident-prone "black corridors" on National Highways using AI-based tools developed by IIT Kanpur to improve road safety. Both short-term measures, including improved road markings, signage, crash barriers and highway lighting, and long-term interventions such as junction improvements, road widening, underpasses and overpasses, are being implemented to reduce accidents and fatalities, he said.