The visit assumes political significance as it comes after the Congress joined the TVK-led government in the state. Gandhi last visited the state on May 10 to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay.

Confirming the visit, TNCC president B Manickam Tagore, in a social media post, said Tamil Nadu was preparing to extend a warm welcome to the Leader of the Opposition.

"This visit by Rahul Gandhi, who has been relentlessly fighting to safeguard the Constitution, strengthen democracy, establish social justice, and secure the future of the youth, will infuse fresh enthusiasm and inspiration among the Congress workers and people of Tamil Nadu," he said.

Tagore also said, "May our journey towards the goal of making Rahul Gandhi the Prime Minister of India in 2029 gain even greater strength."

Speaking to reporters after arriving at Chennai airport from Kochi to attend the Congress district leaders' and functionaries' training camp at Mamallapuram, Venugopal demanded that Union Home Minister Amit Shah explain in Parliament who ordered the police lathi-charge on students on July 20.

The two have been identified as Lusinath (30) and Vigneshwaran (31), both natives of Wattala. The police seized expensive mobile phones and a large amount of cash from them.

Subsequent inquiries by the Marine Police and Q Branch officers revealed that the two were wanted in Sri Lanka in connection with several cases, including smuggling drugs to countries such as Dubai and Saudi Arabia and for murder and robbery.

"Their call records showed that the last call was made to a Coimbatore number. Their mobile phones had contact details of persons in Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Mumbai," the source said. Their email trails have revealed large money transactions, said the police.

The two told investigators they had left the Pechalai coast in Sri Lanka on Thursday night by paying Rs 3 lakh for passage on a fibre boat and landed at Kambipadu near Dhanushkodi around 4 am on Friday.

A case has been registered against them for entering India without valid travel documents.

Though the Marine Police initially planned to remand them in Puzhal Central Prison, the move was put on hold after the Q Branch informed them about the criminal cases against them in Sri Lanka. Officials are now consulting higher authorities on repatriating them. They have been shifted to a special camp in Tiruchy.

As a precautionary measure, TNSTC buses to Bengaluru were not operated until 2 pm. Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses, however, continued to run without disruption.

Buses from various parts of Tamil Nadu heading to Bengaluru and other destinations in Karnataka via Hosur terminated their trips at the Hosur bus stand after dropping passengers and later returned to their originating points.

Meanwhile, a large number of protesters gathered near the Karnataka-Tamil Nadu border at Attibele and raised slogans condemning the Tamil Nadu government’s stance on the Mekedatu dam issue. The road blockade led to tension along the inter-state border, though normal transport services resumed after the protest was brought under control.

The deceased were identified as R Ramaprasath (40) of Sengamalapatti and Innasimuthu (43) of Meenampatti. Ramachandran, brother of Ramaprasath, sustained 75% burn injuries and is undergoing treatment at the Government Hospital in Sivakasi.

The trio, along with a few others, had started manufacturing firecrackers illegally at around 4 am. "It had been very hot since early morning. The explosion occurred at around 8.30 am, and residents in the locality were startled by the loud blast," a resident said.

The explosion triggered a series of firecracker blasts, sending thick black smoke billowing into the sky and causing panic among residents.

Personnel from the Fire and Rescue Services Department and the police rushed to the spot after receiving information about the incident. They brought the fire under control after a strenuous operation and launched rescue efforts.

Police suspect that two more people may have been involved in the illegal manufacturing activity. “The extreme heat might have caused the explosion,” said a source.

"The relatives of the deceased told us that two more persons from the same locality were involved in manufacturing firecrackers at the site. We are trying to identify and trace them," a police source said.

Police have registered a case and launched an investigation. Preliminary inquiries revealed that the illegal manufacturing unit was being operated on agricultural land owned by the deceased Ramaprasath. Residents told police that the group had been engaged in the activity for the past few months.

Virudhunagar Superintendent of Police Gautam Goyal, Sivakasi Deputy Superintendent of Police V Anilkumar, and revenue officials inspected the spot. Following the incident, the police team conducted raids at various places in Sivakasi Taluk and arrested 11 persons.

The latest accident comes just days after Industries Minister S Keerthana chaired a consultative meeting with fireworks manufacturers and traders in Sivakasi, where the government discussed measures to strengthen the industry's competitiveness and policy support.

In recent years, several workers have been killed in explosions at licensed and unlicensed fireworks units in and around Sivakasi. Investigations into such incidents have often pointed to violations of safety norms, overcrowding of work sheds, illegal storage of explosives and unauthorised manufacturing activities despite repeated interventions by the Madras High Court, which has issued strict directions on firecracker safety.

Kavin, a 27-year-old software engineer from Arumugamangalam near Eral in Thoothukudi district, was murdered on July 27 last year.

Honour killing case

Surjith, a resident of Palayamkottai, allegedly hacked Kavin to death after forcing him to end his relationship with Surjith's sister.

Surjith surrendered to the Palayamkottai police within hours of the murder.

CB-CID probe

The Palayamkottai police registered a case and arrested Surjith and his father, Saravanan, in connection with the murder.

The case was later transferred to the CB-CID, which conducted a detailed investigation and arrested their relative, Jayapal.

Surjith's mother, Krishnakumari, who is a sub-inspector, was arrested later, on May 29. She had been absconding for 10 months.

According to proceedings issued by TNPDCL chairman and managing director on July 24, the utility had earlier placed proposals before its board seeking sanction of manpower as per prescribed norms for newly commissioned 33 kV, 110 kV, 230 kV, 400 kV and 765 kV substations. Following the board's approval, the proposal was forwarded to the government in November 2025 for prior clearance from the Finance Department, which is still awaited.

With power failures continuing to affect domestic, commercial, industrial, and essential services across Tamil Nadu, the utility decided to sanction only the minimum required manpower, equivalent to around 50 per cent of the prescribed staffing strength, to ensure uninterrupted operation of the new substations.

The order covers 232 substations commissioned in recent years, including 139 new 33 kV substations, 88 non-grid 110 kV substations, three grid-connected 110 kV substations, and two 230 kV substations spread across various electricity distribution circles.

The 1,030 sanctioned posts include 556 posts for the 33 kV substations, 440 for the 88 non-grid 110 kV substations, 18 for the three grid-connected 110 kV substations, and 16 for the two 230 kV substations.

The corporation said the additional manpower would enable timely preventive maintenance, faster restoration of power supply during breakdowns, and improved response during emergencies and adverse weather conditions. It noted that the decision had been taken in view of the increasing incidence of power failures and critical manpower constraints.

The utility also directed the Superintending Engineers of the distribution and operation circles concerned to deploy the sanctioned personnel immediately and report the dates of utilisation. It added that proposals for the remaining posts required under the prescribed staffing norms would continue to be pursued with the State government for approval and ratification.

From Sunday, major dairy brands, including Tirumala, Srinivasa, Vallabha, Jersey, Heritage and Dodla, from neighbouring States rolled out fresh price revisions across Tamil Nadu.

The hike comes close on Arokya's Rs 4 per litre spike on July 9 and similar revisions implemented from July 21 by Tamil Nadu-based brands such as Amirthaa, Veda, Sun, Raj and Chakra — which effectively concludes that almost all leading private dairies have gone in for a price revision.

The Tamil Nadu Milk Dealers' Welfare Association attributed the hikes to an acute shortage of milk production in Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states, which has intensified competition among private dairies for milk procurement. Companies have been raising procurement prices and offering additional incentives to farmers to secure supplies while citing higher raw material and operational costs to justify the retail price spikes.

The association, however, alleged that private dairies have consistently overlooked milk dealers while repeatedly revising retail prices.

"Private companies don’t hesitate to increase retail prices whenever procurement costs rise. But they have failed to recognise the mounting financial burden on milk dealers, who continue to absorb higher fuel costs, vehicle maintenance expenses, shop rentals, employee wages and losses arising out of digital transactions," said S Ponnusamy, founder and State president of the association.

Demanding structural reforms, Ponnusamy urged private dairies to replace the existing fixed commission system with a percentage-based model, similar to that followed by the milk agents' cooperative MD Dairy, and introduce separate incentives for digital transactions so that distributors automatically benefit whenever retail prices are revised.

He said the latest hike would further widen the price gap between private milk brands and Aavin, which remains cheaper by nearly Rs 20 per litre in several categories, forcing more consumers, particularly lower- and middle-income families, to switch to the State-run brand.

The Tamil Nadu Milk Dealers' Welfare Association warned that unless the government launches substantial initiatives to increase milk production, private dairies would continue competing aggressively for procurement, weakening Aavin's supply base and making repeated retail price hikes inevitable.

"A surge in demand for Aavin without a corresponding increase in procurement will only worsen the existing shortage," S Ponnusamy, founder and State president of Tamil Nadu Milk Dealers' Welfare Association said.

The association also expressed concern over what it described as the government's lack of engagement with the issue. It claimed repeated attempts to secure appointments with Minister for Milk and Dairy Development C Vijayalakshmi and Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay to discuss the milk production crisis, alleged inaccuracies in data submitted by Aavin officials, and the demand for a separate welfare board for the dairy sector had not been successful.

Ponnusamy said such continued absence of intervention was eroding any hope that the current milk shortage could be addressed and called for immediate policy measures to stabilise production, safeguard Aavin's procurement network and prevent further price hikes.

“The Tamil Nadu government cannot bypass NEET simply by passing a State law, as central laws cannot be overridden that way. Our stance has been clear from the beginning-we do not want NEET,” the Energy Resources and Law Minister said.

He dismissed the political rhetoric surrounding the issue, calling the resignation demands and legislative moves mere “eye-wash” that would do little to help students. Targeting the DMK’s role in the recent protests, he alleged that party workers were trying to hijack the student-led agitation.

“The DMK is trying to hijack the movement, which is a cheap political act. Students themselves chased them away,” he said.

Earlier, it was mandatory that the bars should be adjacent to the liquor shop.

The government also increased the minimum plinth area for bars from 15 sqm to 20 sqm, and removed the provision that allowed Collectors to determine the plinth area for larger bars.

N Periyasamy of the Tasmac Employees Union said the amendment could address a long-standing issue faced by retail employees.

In many locations, Tasmac outlets function from within privately operated bar premises, leaving contract workers dependent on bar operators and vulnerable to intimidation, he said. In some instances, Periyasamy claimed, bar operators take liquor stock without settling payments immediately, creating scope for irregularities.

However, the union cautioned that the new arrangement could pose fresh enforcement challenges. With bars and retail outlets operating from separate premises, inspections would have to cover two locations instead of one. They alleged the system could create opportunities for illegal liquor sales unless strict monitoring is ensured.

Questions were also raised whether the revised minimum plinth area of 20 sq m (about 215 sq ft) would be adequate for a functional bar. Stakeholders say that a minimum area of around 500 sq ft would be more practical, as it would accommodate four or five tables and offer better facilities for customers.

Bar owners, meanwhile, opposed the move, saying liquor shops and bars should continue to function as an integrated unit. N Ambarasan, State president of the Tamil Nadu Tasmac Bar Owners and Employers Association, said, "Tasmac enabling new bidders with nearby properties to compete for licences would affect the bar owners who had invested in premises based on the existing model," he said, adding that the property owners will also try to remove the Tasmac from their premises if a bar is moved out.

"Tasmac retail outlets typically fetch only Rs 5,000 to Rs 15,000 a month in rent from the government, while bars generate rentals ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh," he noted.

Brands that received larger procurement orders enjoyed better shelf availability, leading to higher sales and, consequently, even larger procurement orders in subsequent cycles. While the revised formula removes that sales-linked allocation, beer manufacturers say it addresses only one part of the issue.

The revised formula currently applies only to beer and the mass market range of IMFS, while procurement of medium and premium IMFS will continue under the existing mechanism. Tasmac has also directed Elite and Mall outlets – which sell premium liquor – in the pilot districts to stock at least one case of every medium and premium brand to improve product availability. Despite repeated attempts, both over phone and in person, Tasmac officials did not respond to queries.

An internal circular issued by Chief Engineer (IT & RAPDRP) K Sujatha said the utility had achieved only 9.99% assessment of metered agricultural services for June 2026, despite the regulator mandating that at least 15% of such connections be assessed every month. The assessment level improved from 8.87% on July 7 to 9.53% on July 15 before reaching 9.99% on July 22, but still remained well below the prescribed benchmark.

The circular noted that TNERC, through its True-up Order dated March 28, 2024, had directed the utility to ensure that at least 15% of metered agricultural service connections in every circle are assessed every month to ensure accurate subsidy claims, sales realisation, energy accounting and loss assessment. It also pointed out that field staff are already sanctioned Rs 20 per service connection for checking meter health and recording readings.

However, only a dozen circles crossed the 15% target. Kanniyakumari topped the State with 62.5%, followed by Tirunelveli (48.18%), Thoothukudi (44.91%), Udumalpet (38.49%), Vellore (31.36%), and Erode (25.38%).

In contrast, Chennai South-II did not record a single assessment, while Tiruvallur and Nagapattinam managed just 0.06%. Chennai West stood at 0.76%, Kancheepuram at 0.81%, Thanjavur at 0.91% and Sivaganga at 0.98%. Chennai North improved from 0.28% to 2.54% during the review period but remained far short of the target.

The circular directed all Chief Engineers to ensure that pending June 2026 agricultural meter readings are entered into the LT Billing Software immediately. It also warned that headquarters would verify the entries on a daily basis and reiterated that meter readings for agricultural services must be uploaded before the 15th of the following month.

Addressing reporters at the Chennai Press Club, Manirathinam urged the State government to allot a designated public space in Chennai for a sustained anti-NEET protest. He said scrapping NEET remained the only permanent solution to protect the future of students aspiring to pursue medical education and asserted that the movement would continue through democratic means until the examination was withdrawn.

His remarks came a day after members of the Cockroach Janata Party and Left-linked student and youth groups announced the withdrawal of their protest at Balan Illam, the CPI state headquarters in T Nagar, where they had been staging a sit-in since the midnight of July 20. Meanwhile, members of the CPI-affiliated All India Students' Federation (AISF) and All India Youth Federation (AIYF) staged a protest near Panagal Maligai in Guindy on Sunday, demanding the abolition of NEET and attempting to lay siege to Raj Bhavan.

After the Cockroach Janata Party called off the protest following the Pradhan's resignation and assurance to look into some of their demands, a large section of the protesters in Chennai went into chaos as they expected the movement to continue to scrap NEET.

A section of students and youth opposed ending the agitation, arguing that the movement had been launched primarily to press for the abolition of NEET, even though CJP didn't have such a demand at the national level. Based on Tamil Nadu's longstanding demands for abolishing NEET, they sought to carry on the protest. They accused the organisers of abandoning the core demand midway.

Reiterating the students' stance, Manirathinam said the State government should provide a permanent venue in Chennai where the anti-NEET agitation could continue peacefully until the Union government abolishes the examination. He said the campaign was intended to safeguard the aspirations of future medical students and would continue until its objective was achieved.

Instead, the ministry has recommended strengthening bus-based public transport, arguing that Bus Rapid Transit Systems (BRTS) would deliver comparable benefits at a significantly lower cost.

The Union government’s observations came in a communique to the State government following its renewed request, submitted in May, for approval. One of the principal reasons for rejecting the proposals, it stated, was the projected reduction in travel time does not justify the investment. Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) had estimated that Metro services would reduce travel time for an average 7.5-km peak-hour journey by around 8 minutes.

However, MoHUA argued that this calculation ignored the time commuters would spend walking to stations, waiting for trains and exiting stations at their destination. Once these factors are considered, the ministry concluded that the actual time saved would be minimal. It further observed that Metro Rail becomes significantly more attractive than road transport only for journeys of around 15 km or longer, whereas average trip lengths in Coimbatore and Madurai fall well below that threshold.

It also pointed out that TN itself had acknowledged the inadequacy of city bus services in Coimbatore. Without a strong feeder bus network and efficient last-mile connectivity, Metro systems would not attract sufficient commuters, it said.

Clarifying that it was not opposed to modern public transport solutions in both cities, the ministry stated that it had no objection to either at-grade or elevated BRTS, provided they offered efficient and affordable mobility. It also emphasised that population alone was not the sole criterion for approving Metro projects, but all technical, financial and operational parameters must collectively demonstrate the project’s viability.

“With the census 2027 announced, CMRL and the State government should take up newer data and other factors pointed out by the ministry to check if the project is feasible. If rejections continue, we’ll have to look for other options, like BRTS or drop any new transit services for the two cities at the moment,” said a retired railway official.

The Puzhal police registered a case based on a complaint from Indian Bank's Vinayagapuram branch manager Vijaya Lakshmi. According to the complaint, on June 23, a customer tried to withdraw Rs 20,000 from the bank ATM at Kalpalayam in Puzhal. Though cash was not dispensed, the customer received an SMS informing the debit.

During inspection with technical experts, the police found that unknown persons had pasted a sticker inside the cash slot. After customers left assuming the machine was faulty, the accused would remove the sticker and take the cash.

Based on CCTV footage, a police team identified and arrested the accused, Rajib Alam (30) and Niyazuddin (22) both from Tripura, on Saturday. Probe revealed that the duo had stolen over Rs 30,000 from ATMs using this method.

The police said the duo also face a similar case at Cholavaram police station. They were produced before a magistrate and remanded in judicial custody. Stolen money worth Rs 10,000 was recovered from the accused.

According to police, the victim is a 14-year-old student studying in the 10th standard at a local government school near Keezhadi. The accused, who resides in the victim's immediate neighbourhood, had reportedly been pressuring the schoolboy to engage in same-sex activity.

The matter came to light after the minor refused the advances, which resulted in the youth physically assaulting the boy. Following the incident, the victim's father lodged an official complaint with Keezhadi police, who sent them to Tiruppuvanam station. Police personnel there referred them to AWPS at Manamadurai.

The Manamadurai station registered a case under the Pocso Act and took the 16-year-old teen into custody.

Prof John assumed charge as registrar in June 2025 for an initial period of one year at a time when the university was functioning without a vice-chancellor. Under the university statutes, the registrar's tenure is three years. With her initial one-year term has already completed last month, syndicate will now extend her tenure for the remaining two years.

However, the move has attracted objection from a section of faculty members, who said the appointment process did not follow the prescribed procedure, which mandates that both the university senate and the syndicate should approve the appointment of a registrar.

They point out that the university senate has not met even once over the past year, making it inappropriate to approve the extension without first placing the matter before the senate.

Speaking with DT Next, Registrar John said the senate could not be convened due to an interim stay granted by the court in a case filed by a faculty member, who filed a case to allow him continue as an ex-officio member even after his tenure had ended in the senate.

She maintained that the syndicate alone has the statutory authority to appoint the registrar and that the senate only needs to be informed of the appointment. There is no procedural issue in granting the extension, she said.

Professor John added that the university cannot function effectively without a registrar, particularly at a time when it has been operating without a vice-chancellor. She added that her appointment was made with the knowledge and approval of the Higher Education Secretary, who heads the Convenor Committee currently administering the university.

Notably, when John was appointed registrar last year, some syndicate members had also raised objections, claiming they had not been informed in advance about the decision before she was appointed.

The Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, during his election campaign, promised the fishermen 3,500 litres of subsidised diesel per month, and he has yet to make an official announcement. 

"The present provision of 1,900 litres per month was made several decades back, and the time has changed, and the engines with high horsepower are being used at present.  The current subsidy is inadequate, and it cannot even help for a week,” A Thajudeen, General Secretary, Tamil Nadu Meenavar Peravai.

Thajudeen said that the direct credit of subsidy of Rs 15 per litre to the account of respective boat owners is laudable and appealed to the Chief Minister to announce it during the State budget, apart from the increased subsidised diesel of 3,500 litres per month.

On Saturday, the subsidised diesel was sold at Rs 82.32 per litre. “This amount itself is high, and most of our income has been spent on fuel, and the government should take note of the request and fulfil all the promises given during the election,” Thajudeen added.

According to official sources, Tamil Nadu has 34 fish landing centres, 254 fish landing points, 11 fishing ports (including the Chennai, Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Pazhayar, Poompuhar, Mallipattinam, Thoothukudi, Chinnamuttom, Colochel, Muttom and Thengapattinam fishing harbours), 608 marine fishing villages and a fisherfolk population of 9.23 lakh persons.  

Marine fish production has been gradually increasing over the past decade or so in Tamil Nadu and accounts for approximately 12.5 per cent of the annual total marine fish production in India. Tamil Nadu’s annual percentage contribution to total fish production has been more or less steady over the years and is acclaimed to be the fifth largest marine fish producer in India.

In this scenario, the fishers have been appealing to the state government to concentrate on the minor fishing boats and provide proper facilities. As a result, the present TVK government has recently allotted a fund of Rs 50 lakh to study the feasibility to develop Mallipattinam fishing harbour, and the officials have commenced the study. 

“We are told that a fund of Rs 90 crore might be allocated for the restoration and construction of a proper fishing harbour, which was spoiled during the Gaja cyclone devastation,” said K Muthu, a representative of  Tamil Nadu Fishermen Association.

He pointed out that the Sethubavachatram fishing harbour in Thanjavur was constructed for Rs 10 crore, but the dredging activities had never taken place since its establishment, and as a result, the boats land during the low tide season and get damaged. The government should get the suggestions from the local fishermen association leaders, who would provide proper inputs, he said.

Meanwhile, Thangavel, a representative of the Deep Sea Fishermen Association, said that these minor harbours should have proper curved groins (Thoondil Valaivu) which would prevent the extremity of rough sea and hence, it would reduce damages of boats and the equipment and sometimes, human losses.

Apart from this, the landing places should have proper basic facilities, and each boat jetty should have a work area with basic amenities, which would be utilised for mending of nets and repair of machines.

The fishers believe that the department might be thinking that a low number of mechanised boats might reduce ‘poaching’ incidents and also bring down the subsequent arrests that have been a burning issue along the coastal belt across the state. However, fishers are now planning to approach the court, appealing to insist that the state government commence new registrations.

The Palk Bay, a narrow strip of mostly shallow water that separates Tamil Nadu in India and the Northern Province of Sri Lanka, has a total length of 137 km, and the width varies between 64 and 137 km. The bay divides both countries with the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). The bay extends from Nagapattinam, Thiruvarur, Thanjavur, Pudukkottai to Ramanathapuram in Tamil Nadu, while in Sri Lanka, the bay extends from Jaffna, Mannar to Kilinochchi districts.

Despite a Maritime Boundary Agreement between India and Sri Lanka during 1974-76, there were complaints of the fishermen from both countries violating the agreement and poaching in the respective waters. 

The Indian fishers were often claimed to cross the IMBL for a better catch as the marine wealth was available in abundance close to Sri Lankan waters. Sources said that the access from the respective countries was easy between 1983 and 2009, but the security was tightened since then due to the situation prevailing post civil war in Sri Lanka.

In this scenario, the fishers from the region said that several of their counterparts had lost their mechanised boats during the Gaja cyclone devastation, and many of the families involved in fishing traditionally had to switch to alternate employment owing to heavy loss. Now, after finding adequate sources, those families which lost their boats had started buying boats (either new or used ones), unwilling to quit their traditional profession. But the registration for these boats has been restricted, and their wait for months has become futile, they complain.

“We suspect that there was a mutual consent between India and Sri Lanka on the restriction of the number of mechanised boats, and so, we are not given proper response from the officials on the new registration or name transfer of the boats. How would a reduced number of mechanised boats prevent violations? If the Sri Lankan government does not charge Indian fishermen with false claims, it would prevent the mid-sea violence, and so it is in the hands of the Sri Lankan government,” said A Thajudeen, General Secretary, Tamil Nadu Meenavar Peravai and President of Mechanised Boat Owners Association.

Thajudeen pointed out that there are more than 440 mechanised boats seized and kept under the possession of Sri Lanka till last year, and arrests of more than 3,000 fishermen have taken place to date. “Though the Sri Lankan government allows the release of arrested fishermen after legal proceedings, they are hesitant to release the boats that they had seized, and they get ruined there. Each boat costs between Rs 40 lakh and Rs 90 lakh based on the size and engine power. Once the boat is seized, the family too lose their livelihood”, Thajudeen said.

He said that the fishermen are keen on rebuilding their livelihood lost after Gaja cyclone devastation and started to resume the traditional profession but the failure in registration of boats prevents even the new player in the field. “For instance, there were around 300 mechanised boats at Mallipattinam fishing harbour in Thanjavur district till the Gaja cyclone, and now, only 140 are operational. The remaining people were limping up from their loss and started purchasing boats, either a new or a used one, but the officials unusually denied the registration. Only after the registration alone, the boats can venture for fishing”, he said.

The fishermen leaders sought permission to meet the Fisheries Minister in the Secretariat, and they were given time to meet him last week. “We went to the Secretariat last week with our grievances, sought expeditation of the registration process, and safe fishing by curbing frequent mid-sea attacks. But even after a long wait, the minister did not appear, nor was the department secretary present, and at around 1.30 pm, we were directed to meet the Additional Director of Fisheries, and we handed over the petition to him. We hope our demand will be fulfilled; otherwise, we find no option but to seek the support of the court,” Thajudeen said.

Muneeswaran, assistant professor of History at the Government Arts College for Women, Sivaganga, said the cave, measuring about 20 feet in length and seven feet in width, contains faded white and red ochre paintings, indicating that it may have served as a habitation site for prehistoric people. The cave, now locally known as Umai Pondhu, has been partially damaged over the centuries due to water erosion.

The newly documented white rock paintings depict a reptile-like figure, a long-necked stick-like human figure in a dancing posture and several symbols. Based on their characteristics, the paintings are estimated to date back about 3,000 years, he said.

The survey also found iron slag and fragments of baked-clay tuyeres, which were likely used to channel air into furnaces during the iron-smelting process. The findings suggest that the inhabitants possessed the knowledge to extract and smelt iron from locally available iron-bearing rocks to manufacture iron implements.

Acknowledging the significance of the discovery, renowned art historian Gandhirajan KT said an examination of the cave paintings suggested that the site could date back to around 3,000 BCE or even earlier.

"Though the number of paintings is less in number, they reflect the creative expression of ancient communities. Carrying out systematic surface explorations along the Western Ghats in southern Tamil Nadu is important, as it could help establish ancient trade routes between present-day Tamil Nadu and Kerala long before the formation of the modern states," he said.

He added that archaeologists should also document local oral traditions and folklore associated with the area to help reconstruct its historical past.

Speaking to reporters in Erode, Sengottaiyan said it had been the practice for representatives of the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister to visit Karnataka with official letters whenever the Cauvery water dispute arose. "During the tenure of former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, O Panneerselvam and CVe Shanmugam visited Karnataka on her behalf. During the DMK regime, Duraimurugan represented the State. It was only after such efforts that the matter was taken to the courts," he said.

The minister said Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay was now taking up the responsibility of representing Tamil Nadu's interests in the Cauvery issue and there was nothing wrong in it.

Referring to the State's political scenario, Sengottaiyan said people had sought a change and supported TVK, leading to the formation of its government.

In an indirect reference to AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami, he said, "One person is still dreaming that he too can become Chief Minister. Everyone from the AIADMK has joined us."

Sengottaiyan also claimed that the TVK would have won all 234 Assembly constituencies if the film Jana Nayagan had been released before the elections. He further said that 18 per cent of the population in Erode district was affected by cancer and announced that steps were being taken to establish a hospital in Erode to provide specialised treatment.

According to official data, 8,811 candidates received tentative allotment orders, while 19,739 were issued provisional allotment orders.

Among students from the academic stream, 8,016 were issued tentative allotments and 17,034 received provisional allotments. Under the 7.5% reservation for government school students, 560 tentative and 1,683 provisional allotment orders were issued. In the vocational stream, 175 candidates received tentative allotments and 886 were issued provisional allotments. Under the 7.5% government school reservation, 60 tentative and 136 provisional allotment orders were granted.

Officials said candidates with tentative allotment orders must visit their designated TNEA Facilitation Centre (TFC), submit original certificates for verification and pay the tuition fee on or before July 30. Completion of these formalities will confirm their seat while also making them eligible in subsequent rounds of counselling.

Candidates with provisional allotment orders must report directly to their allotted colleges and complete the admission process by July 30.

Authorities warned that candidates who fail to report either to TFCs or their allotted colleges within the deadline will forfeit their seats. And these seats will be offered to other eligible candidates seeking upward movement within the first round of counselling.

Speaking to reporters after inaugurating a series of indoor sports facilities at the Nehru Stadium, the Minister said the government would act on any evidence-based complaint regarding irregularities in the project executed during the previous regime.

A Congress councillor, at the recent Coimbatore Corporation Council meeting, alleged irregularities to the tune of Rs 40 crore in the execution of the Semmozhi Poonga project.

Responding to questions on the Supreme Court's directions concerning the appointment of 54 junior assistants in the Coimbatore Corporation, Sampath Kumar said the court's order would be implemented in accordance with the prescribed procedures. "There was no political pressure on officials to prevent the cancellation of the appointments," he said.

Asked about criticism of TVK ministers becoming emotional after watching Jananayagan, the Minister said he had been a fan of Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay for the past 30 years. "Since Jananayagan is his last film, we became emotional. There is no need to politicise the issue," he said.

On opposition to the proposed sewage treatment plant at Chinnavedampatti, Sampath Kumar said the project would not cause any inconvenience to residents and stressed the need to create greater public awareness about its benefits.

He also said construction of the Periyar Library was progressing and that the facility would soon be opened for public use.

Sudarsan, who had been working as a temporary computer operator in the Nutritious Meal Scheme section, was removed from service on July 6 by District Collector Revathi following complaints alleging various irregularities, including accusations that he had collected money from employees.

According to employees, Sudarsan was seen operating a computer in the office when staff members questioned why he had returned despite his dismissal. The exchange reportedly led to a heated argument, which was captured on video and widely shared online.

Tamil Nadu Nutritious Meal Employees' Association union president Kulothungan alleged that Sudarsan had been dismissed over multiple complaints of malpractice. "Despite being removed from service, he was seen working in the office in the presence of officials. When we questioned him, he failed to provide a proper explanation and instead argued with us," he said.

He further claimed that office officials told employees Sudarsan had been allowed to work because salaries for Nutritious Meal Scheme staff had to be processed.

Responding to the controversy, Panchayat Union Commissioner Sivakumar acknowledged that Sudarsan had been present in the office. He clarified that the former employee had only come to train staff on processing salary payments through the computer system and was not reinstated.

"It was a mistake that he came to the office. He will not be allowed to come again," the commissioner said.

He further claimed that office officials told employees Sudarsan had been allowed to work because salaries for Nutritious Meal Scheme staff had to be processed.

Responding to the controversy, Panchayat Union Commissioner Sivakumar acknowledged that Sudarsan had been present in the office. He clarified that the former employee had only come to train staff on processing salary payments through the computer system and was not reinstated.

"It was a mistake that he came to the office. He will not be allowed to come again," the commissioner said.

For the past week, kurinji flowers have been in full bloom across forest stretches such as O'Valley, Nadukani and Puliyamparai, turning parts of the Gudalur landscape into a striking blue expanse. The mass flowering, which occurs only once every 12 years, has attracted visitors not only from the Nilgiris but also from neighbouring Kerala and Karnataka. Many tourists travelling to Ooty are making a stop in Gudalur to witness the rare spectacle.

The blooming hills have become a favourite destination for photographers, nature enthusiasts and families, with the Oosimalai View Point and the Nadukani Botanical Centre forest emerging as popular vantage points. Visitors spend hours admiring the blossoms, photographing the landscape and posing for selfies against the blue backdrop.

However, the popularity of the bloom has also brought conservation challenges. Much of the flowering is taking place inside forest areas that are home to wild elephants and other wildlife. Although the Forest Department has prohibited public entry into these sensitive habitats, officials say some tourists are crossing into restricted areas in an attempt to get closer to the flowers.

Forest officials warn that such trespassing not only disturbs wildlife but also exposes visitors to the risk of elephant encounters. They have urged tourists to remain within designated viewing points and comply with safety regulations.

Officials have also expressed concern over tourists plucking the kurinji flowers as souvenirs. Several instances of visitors picking the blossoms have been reported in recent days. The department has appealed to the public to leave the flowers undisturbed so that others can enjoy the spectacle and the plants can complete their natural flowering cycle.

With the bloom expected to last only for a short period, forest officials hope visitors will choose responsible tourism over momentary excitement. For those willing to admire the flowers from permitted locations, the once-in-a-generation display offers an unforgettable glimpse of one of nature's rarest spectacles—best appreciated by leaving it exactly where it belongs.

The woman, who was recovering after surgery for a leg fracture, was found to have a wound on the big toe of her left foot, which her son brought to the attention of doctors. The man alleged that it was caused by rat bite, and added that she did not experience pain, as she is diabetic and had reduced sensation in her foot.

The doctors provided first aid and necessary treatment, and administered precautionary anti-rabies injections. The department said the patient is stable and has full movement of the affected toe.

In a statement on Saturday, the DME&R said the Dean of the Government Rajaji Hospital in Madurai has been appointed as the inquiry officer to investigate the incident. "Based on the inspection, several corrective measures have been recommended, " the department said.

All patients from the affected ward have since been shifted. The department said the building, which is over 50 years old, has suffered structural deterioration, allowing rodent burrows to reappear despite repeated sealing. It added that the block is proposed to be demolished and replaced with a new building.

The Health Department also instructed the Public Works Department to ensure the prompt removal of construction debris from the Rs 110-crore hospital project opposite the existing block, saying accumulated waste could attract rodents.

The Tamil Nadu Medical Services Corporation (TNMSC) has issued a seven-day notice to the sanitation contractor, seeking an explanation for the lapse. The DME&R has also directed all government medical college hospitals to intensify monthly rodent-control measures in intensive care units, operation theatres, kitchens and other critical areas, while mandating photographic documentation of the work carried out by contractors. "These measures are aimed at ensuring a safe environment for patients and their attendants," the department added.

After the video from the programme held at a government school in Ariyalur surfaced on social media, several people criticised the woman official; some blaming her ignorance while others termed her overzealous.

"If you speak to any girl under 18, you will be booked under Pocso," a woman official heard warning in a video that has surfaced. "If you text anyone who is under 18, send them even a text saying 'Hi', speak to them inappropriately, you will be jailed under Pocso," she adds.

Viral video receives flak

The video, now doing rounds on social media, has garnered much criticism for misrepresenting what Pocso Act is and threatening children with false legal action. Rather than sensitising the students about gender and violence, the officials were threatening minors, said some users on social media. Many others pointed out how this would plant fear in the minds of children and is counterproductive to curb the growing crimes against women.

Singappen Task Force has earlier come under the radar for moral policing women. Previously, another video, where officers had asked women to behave appropriately to avoid harassment, had gone viral.

Attended 346 cases last week

Meanwhile, a statement from the force stated that the field units of SSF responded to 346 complaints in the past week, between July 17 and July 23, and facilitated registration of 28 criminal cases. The teams also traced six missing women and 14 missing children and ensured their safe restoration.

According to an official communication issued by the Registrar of Cooperative Societies on July 24, a meeting will be held at 4 pm on Monday at the Registrar’s office in Kilpauk here. The Additional Registrar has been instructed to ensure participation, while the Tamil Nadu Government Ration Shop Employees’ Association has been asked to nominate two representatives.

The discussions will centre on revising the penalties imposed during inspections of fair price shops. The government will seek stakeholders’ views on modifying the fines levied for shortages in the stock of essential commodities, excess stock and other violations detected during inspections.

The circular, which referred to an earlier government communication dated May 11, said the consultation had been convened before taking a decision on revising the penalty rates.

"EPS will also appear before the Speaker during the hearing and may cross-examine the former MLAs if he chooses to do so," officials said.

In her letter to AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, dated July 24, Assembly Secretary R Shanthi described EPS as the floor leader of the AIADMK legislature party and asked him to appear before the Speaker and furnish his explanation during the hearing on the resignations of four former MLAs. Similar notices were issued to former AIADMK MLAs P Sathyabama, S Jayakumar and K Maragatham Kumaravel, besides Esakki Subbaiah.

The letter refers to a series of proceedings issued by the Assembly Secretariat on July 6 and July 16, along with representations submitted by EPS on July 17 and July 21. It noted that after the resignation letters were submitted, Esakki Subbaiah met the Speaker on July 3. Subsequently, on July 9, P Sathyabama, S Jayakumar and K Maragatham Kumaravel appeared before the Speaker and recorded their statements.

However, after examining the subsequent representations and the records placed before him, the Speaker decided that a fresh round of personal hearings was necessary before arriving at a conclusion. The inquiry, the letter said, is aimed at satisfying the constitutional requirement that the resignations were tendered voluntarily and genuinely under Article 190 (3) (b) of the Constitution and Rule 7 (7) of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly (Disqualification on Ground of Defection) Rules, 1986.

The letter refers to a series of proceedings issued by the Assembly Secretariat on July 6 and July 16, along with representations submitted by EPS on July 17 and July 21. It noted that after the resignation letters were submitted, Esakki Subbaiah met the Speaker on July 3. Subsequently, on July 9, P Sathyabama, S Jayakumar and K Maragatham Kumaravel appeared before the Speaker and recorded their statements.

However, after examining the subsequent representations and the records placed before him, the Speaker decided that a fresh round of personal hearings was necessary before arriving at a conclusion. The inquiry, the letter said, is aimed at satisfying the constitutional requirement that the resignations were tendered voluntarily and genuinely under Article 190 (3) (b) of the Constitution and Rule 7 (7) of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly (Disqualification on Ground of Defection) Rules, 1986.

Each former legislator has been allotted a separate 30-minute hearing on July 30. Sathyabama has been asked to appear at 11 am, Jayakumar at 11.30 am, Maragatham Kumaravel at noon and Esakki Subbaiah at 12.30 pm.

"The former MLAs shall appear in person before the Speaker on the scheduled date and time and submit their explanations," the letter said.

The police initially identified two persons at the spot. During the rescue operation, personnel from the Fire and Rescue Services Department and the police recovered the body of another victim from the debris, a source said.

Personnel from the Fire and Rescue Services Department and the police rushed to the spot, brought the fire under control after a strenuous operation and launched rescue efforts.

The explosion occurred in a godown where workers were involved in manufacturing crackers at Sengamalpatti area in Sivakasi taluk of Virudhunagar district. The explosion triggered a series of firecracker blasts, sending thick black smoke billowing into the sky and causing panic among residents in the area.

The injured were admitted to the Sivakasi Government Hospital and are undergoing treatment.

Police have registered a case and launched an investigation. Preliminary inquiries indicated that the godown was functioning illegally. Officials are also probing the cause of the explosion and possible violations of safety norms.

The latest accident comes days after Industries Minister S. Keerthana chaired a consultative meeting with fireworks manufacturers and traders in Sivakasi, where the government discussed measures to strengthen the industry's competitiveness and policy support.

In recent years, several workers have been killed in explosions at licensed and unlicensed fireworks units in and around Sivakasi. Investigations into such incidents have often pointed to violations of safety norms, overcrowding of work sheds, illegal storage of explosives and unauthorised manufacturing activities. This happened even after the intervention of the Madras High Court, which issued strict warnings and safety guidelines for the manufacture of firecrackers.

The induction was held at Saidapet in the presence of senior DMK leader and former minister Ma Subramanian, who welcomed the new entrants into the party.

The group was led by Puzhuthivakkam-based TVK ward 186 joint secretary Santhosh. Among those who joined the DMK were ward Youth Wing organiser Sivanesan, area treasurer Karthik and several other local functionaries.

Speaking to reporters after joining the DMK, Santhosh claimed that around 30 members from ward 186 had resigned from the TVK and enrolled in the Opposition party.

"We worked for the TVK for several years, but we were neither entrusted with responsibilities nor shown respect. Differences within the party and the lack of recognition for long-serving members forced us to take this decision," he said.

Alleging preferential treatment for new entrants, Santhosh said, "People who joined the party recently were given importance, while those who had worked from the beginning were ignored. Whatever we said was never taken seriously."

He said his decision to join the DMK was also influenced by his long-standing admiration for the party.

"I have always had an attachment to the DMK. I joined the TVK because of Vijay, but I realised that even newcomers received greater respect than senior workers. The DMK functioned effectively even when it was in the Opposition, and we now want to work through the party for the welfare of the people," he added.

The Neelakurinji flowers have blossomed in large numbers across the Gudalur forest division, specifically in Nadugani, Gudalur, Oosimalai, and O'Valley.

Forest officials emphasised that the Kurinji is a significant plant categorised as a protected species under the Wildlife Protection Act. The department has strictly warned that plucking the flowers is a punishable offence.

Additionally, authorities have appealed to the public to avoid venturing into these regions for their own safety, as the floral blooming zones are currently witnessing high elephant movement.

Addressing a Kazhaga Amma Peravai gathering, Udhayakumar asserted that the AIADMK was the first party to raise a strong voice against NEET in Tamil Nadu.

He emphasised that former Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami demonstrated true social justice by implementing a 7.5 per cent internal reservation for government school students in medical admissions.

"What is the Tamil Nadu government's stance when all of India is burning? Students are asking why the chief minister is not opening his mouth. He remains silent in answering the students protesting on the ground," Udhayakumar said.

He also accused state ministers of relying on public relations and social media "reels" instead of delivering genuine governance and solutions for students.

"There is no limit to making these reels. Having such ministers and a chief minister like this, I don't know what we are going to achieve," he said.

On the Cauvery water dispute, Udhayakumar pointed out that despite 53 meetings of the Cauvery Water Management Authority and the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee, Tamil Nadu has failed to secure its rightful share of water.

He questioned what outcome CM Vijay would achieve through talks with Karnataka CM D K Shivakumar, noting that nearly 90 per cent of reservoirs remain dry, putting thousands of agricultural acres at risk of drought.

Vijay has proposed bilateral talks with his Karnataka counterpart to seek an amicable solution to the long-standing Cauvery river water-sharing dispute.

The case, originally registered at the Tirupathur Town Police Station, under Section 194 (3) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), was formally reassigned on July 25, according to a press note issued on Sunday.

The action follows an order passed by the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court on July 24.

The case stems from the suspicious death of Afrin, a 24-year-old pregnant woman from Tirupathur, who died in June, less than five months after her marriage.

Following allegations by her mother of dowry harassment and foul play -- alongside claims of severe procedural violations during the initial autopsy -- the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court intervened, ordering a fresh autopsy by a Neutral Medical Board and directing the transfer of the investigation to a CB-CID Special Investigation Team (SIT).

While hearing a petition filed by the complainant in the case, the court directed that the investigation be transferred to the CB-CID and mandated the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the matter.

In accordance with the judicial directive, the DGP and Head of the Police Force issued the official order transferring the probe to the premier investigation agency on July 25.

A Gazette notification issued by the Public (Military) Department said Energy Resources and Law Minister R Nirmalkumar and School Education, Tamil Development, Information and Publicity Minister Rajmohan would represent Tamil Nadu in the Council alongside Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay.

The government has also appointed K Manivasan, Additional Chief Secretary, Home, Prohibition and Excise Department, as the second Adviser to the Council, in addition to Chief Secretary M Saikumar.

The appointments were notified through G.O. Ms. No. 461, dated July 17, 2026, under the provisions of the States Reorganisation Act, 1956, replacing the nominations made under a 2021 government order.

Convened periodically by the Union government, the Southern Zonal Council brings together the Chief Ministers and Chief Secretaries of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to deliberate on issues requiring inter-State coordination. Discussions at the forum typically focus on infrastructure development, internal security, border-related matters, social welfare, minority welfare, river water disputes and other subjects of regional importance.

The latest nominations mark the first representation from the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam-led coalition government in the Council after it assumed office in May.

During the previous DMK regime, then Chief Minister M K Stalin, then Industries Minister T R B Rajaa and then Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister P K Sekarbabu represented Tamil Nadu in the Council.

The disciplinary action, ordered by HR&CE Minister Ramesh, comes after an internal inquiry into the incident that allegedly occurred on July 15 at the temple on Big Bazaar Street. Besides departmental action, the government has also directed that a police case be registered, and a criminal investigation is under way.

According to the HR&CE Department, four temple employees allegedly removed one hundi in a planned manner during the counting of offerings. The suspended employees are Balasubramaniyan, a ticket salesman; Saravanan, an office assistant; Pradeep Kumar, a temple employee; and Krishnaraj, a priest.

Action has also been initiated against four officials for alleged supervisory lapses. Those suspended include Circle Inspectors Ramkumar and Udhayakumar, Executive Officer Kumar and Assistant Commissioner Usha Nandini.

“The government will not tolerate any irregularity in the administration of temples. Strict action has been taken against those directly involved in the incident as well as officials who failed in their responsibility to prevent or detect it,” Minister Ramesh said.

The minister said criminal proceedings had been initiated alongside departmental action to ensure a thorough investigation into the incident.

The Union Housing Ministry has suggested that improving bus transport could be a more suitable alternative for the two cities.

Projects rejected over population, travel time concerns

The Centre has stated that a minimum population of 20 lakh is required to implement a metro rail project, while Madurai and Coimbatore have populations of only around 15 lakh each. It has also said that the proposed metro projects are unlikely to significantly reduce travel time and suggested strengthening bus transport instead.

Detailed project reports sent back again

The Tamil Nadu government had planned to introduce metro rail services in four cities, including Madurai and Coimbatore, following the Chennai Metro. The Coimbatore project was proposed along a 39-km elevated corridor from Karumathampatti via Avinashi Road and from Ukkadam to Valiyampalayam Pirivu on Sathy Road. The Madurai project was planned along a 31.93-km route between Thirumangalam and Othakadai, comprising 27 km of elevated tracks with 23 stations and 4.65 km of underground tracks with three stations.

The Chennai Metro Rail Limited had earlier submitted detailed project reports to the Centre and the Tamil Nadu government. The state government subsequently approved the projects, estimated at Rs 11,360 crore for Madurai and Rs 10,740 crore for Coimbatore, and forwarded the reports to the Centre. The proposals were rejected and returned in November last year. After the Tamil Nadu government renewed its request in May, the project reports have now been rejected for the second time.

In a statement, Aadhav said Stalin’s charge that the government had remained passive on the Cauvery issue was completely divorced from facts, asserting that the State has consistently pursued legal, administrative and political measures to safeguard Tamil Nadu’s water rights, protect the livelihood of Delta farmers and ensure drinking water security.

The minister said Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 27 and strongly opposed Karnataka’s proposed Mekedatu reservoir project. During the meeting, the Chief Minister sought the full implementation of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal’s final award and the Supreme Court’s February 16, 2018 verdict, while urging the Centre not to grant any approval for the project.

Aadhav said the Chief Minister followed it up with a detailed letter to the Prime Minister on June 19, objecting to Karnataka’s reported move to perform the bhoomi pooja for the project. He reiterated that the Mekedatu proposal cannot be cleared without the consent of the co-basin states, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry, and called upon the Centre to issue appropriate directions to the Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Central Water Commission.

He further said the Tamil Nadu Assembly unanimously passed a resolution opposing the project and forwarded it to the Prime Minister, seeking immediate intervention. The State, he added, has also been consistently asserting its rights before the Cauvery Water Management Authority and the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee, demanding the timely release of Tamil Nadu’s share of water and opposing Karnataka’s unilateral actions.

Taking the offensive, Aadhav alleged that the previous DMK government had failed to effectively defend Tamil Nadu’s case after successive setbacks in the Supreme Court. “The legal lapses committed during the previous regime have made the Cauvery and Mekedatu dispute more challenging today,” he said.

Maintaining that the Cauvery issue was not one of political rivalry but of Tamil Nadu’s fundamental rights, Aadhav said the Vijay government would continue to pursue every constitutional and legal avenue until the State’s water rights are fully protected. At the same time, he said the government remained open to constructive criticism, irrespective of where it came from, provided it served the interests of Tamil Nadu.

The move has left passengers facing considerable inconvenience, while buses travelling from Karnataka to Tamil Nadu continue to operate as usual.

Buses halted as precautionary measure

Passengers travelling from Hosur to Karnataka are using town buses to reach the Tamil Nadu border, from where they take autos to Attibele and continue their journey to Bengaluru. Meanwhile, cars and goods vehicles are being allowed to pass through the border as usual. A heavy police presence has also been deployed along the Tamil Nadu-Karnataka border as a precaution.

Cauvery dispute behind tensions

The Cauvery water-sharing dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka has continued for several years. Tensions have also intensified over Karnataka's proposed construction of a new dam across the Cauvery at Mekedatu. The Tamil Nadu government has consistently opposed the project, while farmers in the state have also been protesting against Karnataka's plans.

Electricity Minister Nirmalkumar said that the resignation alone is not the solution. “NEET must be abolished in its entirety. Lakhs of students have suffered because of the examination. Every year, serious lapses surface, only to be brushed aside. NEET is the result of a fundamentally flawed policy decision of the central government,” he said, reiterating the State government’s long-standing demand that education be restored to the State List. He hailed the protest, terming the resignation a result of student unity.

“This must be viewed as a monumental victory for this massive public and student movement,” said Minister for Minorities AM Shahjahan.

“Following a massive protest organised by the CJP at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, along with widespread demonstrations across various states, the Union Minister submitted his resignation today,” he said, urging the Centre to abolish NEET.

During the week, SSF also rescued and rehabilitated 14 persons with intellectual disabilities, prevented one child marriage, and facilitated the re-enrolment of 51 school dropouts.

In the same time period, SSF field units responded to 346 complaints and facilitated the registration of 28 criminal cases. The teams also traced 6 missing women and 14 missing children.

"As part of its preventive outreach initiatives, SSF conducted 3,580 awareness programmes for school and college students, members of the public and guest workers. Surveillance and preventive patrolling were carried out at 9,397 identified vulnerable locations," a release stated.