CPM state secretary P Shanmugam, speaking at a CPM protest against the proposed Assembly-secretariat complex at Pattinapakkam, said such a move, if the reported letter was genuine, would facilitate the Centre's policy of privatising airports, railway stations and ports.

He also demanded transparency from the state government on the communication.

In a statement, CPI state secretary M Veerapandian said replacing the Airports Authority of India (AAI), which currently manages the airport, would amount to privatisation. "Chennai airport is public infrastructure, not private property. Its revenue should remain a public resource," he said.

Citing AAI's financial data, Veerapandian said the organisation posted a net profit of Rs 6,522 crore in 2025-26, while Chennai airport reportedly recorded a profit of around Rs 492.48 crore in 2024-25.

He said shortcomings in airport management should be addressed through better passenger services, flight operations, cargo handling and road connectivity rather than privatisation.

Veerapandian said Chennai airport was also crucial to Tamil Nadu's export-import economy. AAI is acquiring 19.06 acres for Rs 278 crore to ease cargo-terminal congestion, while a 5.2-km cargo corridor is among the proposals to improve cargo movement, he said.

He also pointed to the proposed fifth terminal, which is expected to raise annual passenger handling capacity to 5.5 crore. The proposal remains at the conceptual stage, and detailed technical and traffic studies are yet to be completed, he said.

"Modernising Chennai airport does not require privatisation," Veerapandian said, urging the state government to withdraw the reported letter and strengthen AAI with investment, technology and administrative support.

The 20th Rozgar Mela, held at DG Vaishnav College in Arumbakkam on Saturday, began with the rendition of ‘Tamil Thai Vazhthu’, followed by Vande Mataram. The sequence assumes significance as it comes amid the Centre's recent directive on the order of renditions, the contentious debate in Tamil Nadu over the order of precedence, and the statutory protection accorded to Vande Mataram, making intentionally preventing its rendition or disturbing its rendition an offence.

The Ministry of Home Affairs, in a clarification issued on July 9, had stipulated that Vande Mataram should precede the National Anthem when both are sung at an event. The Centre subsequently told the Madras High Court that its notification did not prescribe when ‘Tamil Thai Vazhthu’ should be sung, and the court observed there was no bar on the State song being sung first in Tamil Nadu.

Saturday’s development has drawn attention to the apparent divergence from the Union government's emphasis on the National Song.

More than 51,000 appointment letters were distributed to newly recruited personnel at 45 locations across the country. PM Modi addressed the new recruits through video conference, while Murugan handed over their appointment letters.

He observed this while conferring awards on several awardees, including MP Tiruchi Siva and former MP Kanimozhi NVN Somu, at the DMK's Mupperum Vizha held at Anna Arivalayam on Saturday.

After presenting the awards, he spoke about the TVK-led government. "The Assembly has lost its tradition and dignity due to the ruling party's reels fever. I am grateful to the people of Kolathur for not electing me to participate in Assembly debates owing to the ruling party's activities," Stalin said.

Terming the TVK-led government as 'Tughlaq Darbar', Stalin said everyone, including Ministers and the media, is diverting attention from people's issues.

Recalling TVK leader Vijay's campaign, Stalin said the competition under the present regime was between only two things - power cuts and machete attacks (arival vettu).

Mentioning the schemes implemented during the DMK regime, Stalin said the DMK had provided a "real government", while the TVK was providing a "reels government".

Appealing to voters in Madurantakam and Dharapuram, Stalin urged them to teach a fitting lesson to the Chief Minister's arrogance. He alleged that the Chief Minister, who had already announced stepping down from acting in movies, was acting before the people without a director and camera.

Recalling CM Vijay's remarks in the Assembly about his MISA imprisonment, Stalin said he had no need to prove anything to anyone about his days in prison during the Emergency. He added that details were available in the prison diary of Chittibabu, who died in jail during the MISA period.

DMK general secretary Duraimurugan, deputy general secretaries I Periyasamy, K Ponmudy and A Rajaa, Kanimozhi Rajathi Karunanidhi, and youth wing secretary Udhayanidhi Stalin participated in the event.

Speaking to reporters in front of the temple, Ramesh said, "According to documents, the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam owned 329 acres of land as early as 1866. Records from 1910 and 1930 also confirm that these were temple properties. Ramakumar, the DMK area secretary for the Srirangam Assembly constituency, allegedly prepared fake documents and transferred the temple land in his name without any valid original title deeds. He is now running a party office on the land."

He further noted that the current market value of the land involved in the alleged irregularity is Rs 50 crore.

"Such a major fraud could not have been carried out without the knowledge of department officials and the minister by an ordinary area secretary; hence an investigation is under way into those behind the matter," the minister added.

"Based on the firm evidence obtained in connection with the case, a complaint was filed at the Srirangam police station through the Srirangam temple joint commissioner, and an FIR has now been registered.

The police investigation has begun in earnest. No one involved in the matter will be able to escape," he said.

Ramesh urged people to come forward with evidence that DMK members usurped land and property belonging to temples across Tamil Nadu in their previous regime and ensured action via the HR&CE department.

"Chief Minister Vijay is very clear about the need to protect temple properties. As the MLA from Srirangam and a minister, I will fight until the end in this matter, both for the welfare of the people of my constituency and to recover temple properties," the HR&CE minister said.

Deivendran (25) and Poopandi (25), from the Kalayarkoil area near Sivaganga, were allegedly hacked to death in a recent incident. Their families and supporters have been refusing to receive their bodies, demanding immediate action.

The agitators are demanding the arrest of the real culprits, compensation for Deivendran and Poopandi's families and government jobs for one family member each.

On Saturday, the protesters gathered outside the Sivaganga Collectorate and blocked the road, reiterating their demands. A few members representing the protesters were allowed entry into the Collectorate for talks with the District Collector.

However, they were not called for discussions for a long time. Enraged over this, the protesters marched for around 2 km to Perumalpatti village. The protesters later blocked the Thanjavur-Manamadurai National Highway, disrupting traffic flow for nearly an hour.

Police personnel attempted to clear the road and detain the protesters. However, some of them resisted and ran away, after which the police chased and detained them. A minor scuffle reportedly broke out between the protesters and police during the detention, triggering a tense situation. The police later took protesters in buses and kept them at a community hall.

The government has also specified separate uniform colours for supervisors and sales staff.

The move follows an announcement made by the Minister for Prohibition and Excise in the Legislative Assembly on August 31 regarding various welfare measures for employees working in TASMAC retail outlets.

Minister's announcement in the Assembly

In a circular issued to all Senior Regional Managers and District Managers, TASMAC Managing Director Nandakumar said the uniform system was being introduced as part of the welfare measures announced by the minister in the Assembly.

According to the circular, the uniform system will apply to employees working in TASMAC retail outlets across Tamil Nadu. The department has also decided to provide three sets of uniforms to each employee every year.

Allowance of Rs 6,000 for three sets of uniforms

The TASMAC management said procuring, taking measurements, stitching and distributing uniforms to employees across the State would involve practical difficulties. Hence, instead of directly supplying the uniforms, a uniform allowance will be provided to employees.

Each employee will receive an annual uniform allowance of Rs 6,000 for three sets. The allowance has been calculated at Rs 2,000 per set, covering the cost of fabric and stitching.

The decision is expected to ensure that employees have the required number of uniform sets while also facilitating the implementation of a common dress code across TASMAC retail outlets.

Uniforms mandatory from November 15

As per the order, supervisors will have to wear a light blue shirt and navy blue trousers as their prescribed uniform.

For salespersons and assistant salespersons, the uniform will comprise a light brown shirt and dark grey trousers.

The order makes wearing the prescribed uniform mandatory for all TASMAC employees while on duty from November 15, 2026.

The new dress code will apply to employees working in TASMAC retail outlets across the State.

The Marxist party demanded that the proposal be immediately dropped as fishermen will be affected and the neighbourhood around the chosen site is heavily congested and hence, unsuitable.

The proposal must be withdrawn and an all-party meeting must be held to solicit views on alternative sites and a suitable place must be selected within the Chennai city, the CPM said and warned that it will "stop work" in case authorities commence construction at the proposed site near the beach.

Speaking to reporters after leading the demonstration, CPM state secretary P Shanmugam said that the decision to construct the Secretariat-Assembly complex in Pattinapakkam was "flawed and unacceptable" in view of several relevant factors.

The proposed project near the seashore, if implemented, will seriously affect the livelihoods of fishermen and also their residential neighbourhoods.

"Whoever may have proposed this site, it is unacceptable and must be rejected," he said. He said the Tamil Nadu government should accede to the demand of fishermen to build houses for them at that site.

"In case the Secretariat plan at Pattinapakkam fructifies, and if the CM and Ministers frequent this place, due to congestion, people will not wish to continue to live there," he said.

He asserted: "I would like to make it very clear that Pattinapakkam is not suitable by any parameter." To a question on the work for setting up a new office space for the CM at Namakkal Kavignar Maaligai building's 10th floor with the Fort St George campus, the state CPM chief said that a new Secretariat may take years for completion. "In the meantime, they need space, so its okay."

Shanmugam said: "I do not know whether the chief minister is aware of this. But officials must be fully knowing about it. It was officials who provided tsunami relief and built houses for the affected people; the decision to build the new Secretariat in an area vulnerable to tsunami is unacceptable."

Sarcastically, he said: "I do not know if they have discovered a new technology to prevent tsunami and I would also like to ask the State government if it has decided that there will not be no tsunami anymore."

At the same time, the Marxist party does not accept the idea of some leaders to set up an administrative city, "several hundred kilometres away," he said. The Guindy Race Course Grounds, spread over 160 acres, owned by the government is among the appropriate choices.

As the terminus for long-distance buses at Koyambedu in the city has been shifted to suburban Kilambakkam, that site is also available.

Speaking to reporters here, Murugan said that besides enabling children to study in their mother tongue and learn other Indian languages, the Navodaya schools would provide quality education to poor and disadvantaged students.

"Navodaya schools should be brought to all districts of Tamil Nadu. They will enable poor and disadvantaged students to receive quality education. Preventing this would amount to denying them their rights," he said.

On the proposed Secretariat complex, Murugan said the government should shift the project from Pattinapakkam, where fishermen depend on the sea.

"Fishermen's livelihood is entirely dependent on the sea. I know the difficulties they face. Chief Minister Vijay played a fisherman in the film 'Sura'. Merely acting as a fisherman is not enough. He should understand the genuine pain of fishermen," he said.

Earlier, at the 20th Rozgar Mela in Chennai, Murugan handed over appointment letters to 285 newly recruited candidates. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nationwide event through video conference, with more than 51,000 recruits receiving appointment letters at 45 locations. The latest edition takes the cumulative number of appointment letters issued through Rozgar Melas to about 12.75 lakh.

Addressing the gathering, Murugan said young government recruits would have a key role in achieving the goal of a developed India by 2047. He stressed integrity, accountability, compassion, continuous learning and adopting new technologies.

He said India's startup ecosystem has grown from around 400 companies in 2014 to more than 2.5 lakh, while youth participation had expanded in space and nuclear technology. He also highlighted growing participation of women in various fields.

The exercise is to be completed by September 25. Officials have been instructed to verify the existing entries and make necessary corrections.

The exercise covers details relating to transfers, deputation, change of post or cadre and other service-related changes of non-teaching staff.

The department said the process would help ensure that the EMIS database reflects the current status of employees.

The department has also issued instructions for staff who have moved between schools or offices. Such personnel are to be transferred through the administrative transfer module so that their records are linked to the appropriate institution.

The department has asked officials to complete the verification and updating process by September 25. Chief Educational Officers and other concerned officials have been instructed to monitor the exercise and ensure that accurate staff information is available in EMIS.

The 2x800MW project, planned at an estimated cost of Rs 15,000 crore, has remained stalled since 2021. Nirmalkumar inspected the construction works, equipment already procured and stored at the site and warehouses, land and infrastructure works, and facilities related to power connectivity.

He discussed the present status with officials and representatives of associated companies, and noted that nearly Rs 6,000 crore had already been spent and a comprehensive assessment was needed before deciding the next course of action.

Nirmalkumar said the condition of equipment that had remained unused for several years would have to be assessed by the respective manufacturers and technical experts. Its technical condition, corrosion and scope for reuse would be examined. The government would also assess whether some equipment could be shifted and used elsewhere and how the civil works already completed at Uppur could be utilised.

Arrangements for transporting coal remain one of the key challenges for the project, he said. Options such as transporting coal by sea or rail, using smaller vessels and storing coal at Udangudi before transporting it to Uppur would be examined. The cost of each option and its impact on the per-unit cost of electricity generation would be worked out before taking a decision.

The minister said significant work had already been completed on bringing water to the project site and considerable expenditure had been incurred on related civil works.

"Within 30 to 40 days, all aspects will be consolidated, and an appropriate decision will be taken, followed by the Chief Minister's approval," he said.

Nirmalkumar said the government needed to take a clear and responsible decision on the project's future considering the investment already made and the works pending, so that public money was not wasted further.

Minister for Environment and Climate Change VK Rajeev, Tamil Nadu Power Generation Corporation managing director M Govind Rao and Ramanathapuram Collector M Sivaguru Prabhakaran were present during the inspection.

The project, spearheaded by the organisation's chairman Dr Kalyanasundaram and managing trustee Dr Kirubha Karunakaran, aims to strengthen the livelihoods of coastal waste collectors through structured training, capacity building, and improved access to welfare programmes. Around 3,700 waste-collecting families across the target districts have been identified to receive support under three core pillars: Engage, Educate, and Empower.

Under the initiative, beneficiaries will receive practical training tailored to local requirements, covering efficient collection, systematic segregation, and recycling processes. Specialised skill development programmes will be organised across 11 key locations to enable workers to upgrade their technical capabilities and explore better income-generating avenues in the waste management value chain.

Recognising the severe health hazards inherent in waste handling, the project places strong emphasis on occupational safety. Registered waste collectors will be provided with basic personal protective equipment, including protective footwear, gloves, masks, slippers, and uniform T-shirts, to mitigate daily exposure to health risks.

To build a more organised market for recyclable materials, Hand in Hand India will facilitate direct supply-chain linkages between waste collectors and local scrap dealers. The organisation will also assist eligible workers in accessing benefits under various government social security and livelihood schemes.

By encouraging segregation at source, the project aims to significantly reduce the volume of recyclable waste reaching landfills, thereby protecting vulnerable coastal ecosystems. Ultimately, the initiative seeks to deliver a sustainable framework that balances marine conservation with targeted socio-economic empowerment for waste-collecting communities across Tamil Nadu.

Addressing the 27th graduation day of Sri Sairam Engineering College at West Tambaram, Prabhakar conferred degrees on 1,451 graduates, including 1,249 undergraduate and 202 postgraduate students. Thirty-five students secured ranks in Anna University.

Recalling his association with Sairam Institutions Chairman and CEO Sai Prakash Leo Muthu, Prabhakar praised his willingness to extend help whenever approached.

Recalling an earlier interaction at the institution, he said Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay had told him that he would not merely act, but would take responsibility for Tamil Nadu when the opportunity arose. Prabhakar said Vijay was a person who maintained integrity in both his words and actions.

He also urged students to pursue emerging engineering disciplines incorporating AI and equip themselves with skills suited to the evolving employment landscape. "Not everyone with talent will get a job matching their skills. Efforts are being made to bring in constructive programmes to address this," he said.

Prabhakar called upon the graduates to use their education not merely for personal or family advancement, but also for the development of the nation and society. He urged them to remember and remain grateful to their parents who supported their education.

The event was presided over by Leo Muthu. Principal J Raja, Chief Communications Officer Naresh Raj, Dean of Student Affairs Rajendra Prasad, trustee Sathish, Director of the College of Business Management Maran, faculty members and more than 6,000 students attended the programme

After the 2026 Assembly polls, the State has witnessed new political alliance formations with the newly elected TVK. Left parties Communist Party of India (CPI), Communist Party of India (Marxist) and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), and Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) have changed their historical alliance to support TVK in forming the government. Now, with the bypolls approaching, CPM and CPI have shown their unease with TVK and fielded their own candidates in Dharapuram and Madurantakam, making the bypolls a five-cornered contest.

Meanwhile, Pattali Makkal Katchi announced the party will not support any political party in the October 6 bypolls to the Madurantakam (SC) and Dharapuram (SC) Assembly constituencies,

In a statement, Anbumani said, "The decision has been taken after consultations with the state office bearers and the district-level functionaries of the two constituencies."

Earlier, sources said the PMK was unhappy with the AIADMK for announcing its bypoll candidates without consulting the party, and political observers see this as a setback for the AIADMK in the bypolls.

Party sources said the PMK is now ready to explore a new political alliance. They added that the PMK believes that Tamil Nadu's political structure has changed after TVK's victory in the 2026 election. The PMK thinks that the bipolar politics in the state between the DMK and AIADMK had come to an end and now is the time to explore a new alliance.

A source also noted that PMK functionaries and cadres were very happy after the TVK government announced the PMK's long-standing demand for a caste census. Most party members therefore think TVK is a better alliance option for the PMK, with a higher chance of securing ministerial berths. "Cadres also believe that such a move would give a renaissance to the party and build a better path for its future. The party high command will take the right action at the right time," the source noted.

Political observers see this move coming at a time when the PMK and TVK have exhibited closeness on the Assembly floor and at public events. Notably, Sowmiya Anbumani met TVK's important power centre and Water Resources Management Minister N Anand to discuss various water management projects in the state. Anbumani was also seen playing badminton with TVK's another key power player, Minister Aadhav Arjuna.

In a recent press meet, Anbumani also did not answer reporters' questions on whether the PMK was still with the AIADMK alliance. Political observers believe that the PMK alliance's shift decision might be affected by this by-election results, so the announcement will come after polls conclude.

According to party sources, arrangements are being made for Vijay's public meeting at a 10-acre site belonging to the Mylam Bomma Mutt Adheenam near the foothills of Vajragiri Hills in Acharapakkam.

Initial works for the main stage, seating arrangements for the public and parking facilities have begun. Workers are also preparing the venue and setting up the required infrastructure for the meeting.

The election campaign has gained momentum, with candidates from various parties intensifying their outreach across the constituency and senior leaders preparing to campaign for their nominees.

AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami is scheduled to campaign in Madurantakam on September 25 and 26, while Vijay will campaign on September 28, for their respective candidates.

DMK president MK Stalin, Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin and Naam Tamilar Katchi chief coordinator Seeman are also expected to campaign in the constituency.

The textbooks are being printed following the introduction of a revised/new syllabus for elementary classes from the current academic year.

Officials said that the process has been expedited after receiving the necessary approvals.

“The first-term textbooks were released a couple of months ago, following which preparations for the second-term books began. The process has now been expedited,” a department official said.

The first term, which began in June, is scheduled to conclude by the end of September, after the quarterly exams.

The Tamil Nadu Textbook and Educational Services Corporation is making arrangements to ensure the new textbooks reach schools on time for distribution to students after the holidays.

The syllabus revision is part of the broader changes initiated after the State Education Policy (SEP) was launched in August 2025, while the DMK was in power.

It is expected that the new syllabus for the remaining classes will come into effect from the next academic year.

Anbumani said 16,830 dengue cases had been confirmed in Tamil Nadu so far this year and claimed that nine people had died of the disease. He said the reported spread had caused concern among the public and stressed the need to create awareness on how dengue could be prevented and treated.

Anbumani said dengue was not an incurable disease and that adequate treatment facilities and medicines were available at government hospitals. He said early identification of symptoms and timely medical attention were crucial in preventing complications.

Referring to the reported deaths of three Anna University students, he alleged that lack of awareness and delayed medical attention could have contributed to the fatalities. He also questioned the government's explanation that the most recent student's death was due to "viral fever" and not dengue.

He urged the government to undertake a special drive with local bodies and the public to prevent mosquito breeding by removing stagnant water and unused containers, vehicle tyres, coconut shells, flower pots and buckets that could collect water.

Anbumani also called for awareness campaigns through mainstream and social media on dengue symptoms, preventive measures and treatment.

He further claimed that nilavembu decoction could help prevent dengue and that consuming papaya juice could help restore platelet levels, and urged the government to take steps to communicate such information to the public.

Tamil Nadu has recorded 17,083 dengue cases this year until September 19.

The daily count has risen sharply in recent days, from 61 on September 14 to 133 on September 15 and 283 on September 16. It stood at 244 on September 17, before rising to 253 on September 18.

Nine dengue-related deaths have been reported this year.

As part of the preparedness, dedicated fever wards have been established in government hospitals, with special arrangements being made in Chennai. The Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital has prepared a 28-bed dengue ward 20 beds for men and eight for women.

Nine dengue patients are currently undergoing treatment at the hospital. A 10-bed dengue ward has been established at the Government Kilpauk Medical College Hospital.

Health minister KG Arunraj said the department has intensified preventive measures in areas reporting higher number of cases.

"Whenever dengue cases are detected, field inspections and mosquito-control measures are taken up immediately. More than 25,000 mosquito-control workers have been deployed across the State for door-to-door surveillance for mosquito-breeding sources," he said.

He said district collectors have been instructed to intensify preventive measures, while fever cases reported at government and private hospitals were being monitored daily.

Thousands of people have been screened so far at special fever camps across the State.

The government has also strengthened dengue treatment protocols and provided training to doctors and other healthcare personnel on managing dengue cases.

Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Coimbatore, Erode, Tiruppur, Salem, Tiruvannamalai and Krishnagiri are among the districts reporting higher numbers of cases.

With changing weather conditions favouring Aedes mosquito breeding, fogging and other vector-control steps are undertaken across the State.

Judge D Bharatha Chakravarthy made the observation while hearing a petition by M Ravikumar, an assistant commissioner of Customs, challenging a district-level vigilance committee’s order holding his Hindu Adi Dravidar community certificate as “not genuine.”

Ravikumar stated that his father, who originally belonged to the Hindu Adi Dravidar community, converted to Christianity in 1960.

Ravikumar was born in 1966 and, in 1983, he and his father reconverted to Hinduism at the Arya Samaj centre in Chennai.

His father’s name was changed from R Ayyavoo James to R Munusamy, while his name was changed from A Soundararajan to M Ravikumar. He was subsequently issued a Hindu Adi Dravidar community certificate in 1986.

On May 4, 2026, the district-level vigilance committee held that the certificate was not genuine, despite Ravikumar stating that his marriage as well as his daughter’s marriage were solemnised as per Hindu rites and customs.

While questioning the genuineness of his certificate, the committee noted that Ravikumar and his family members were of fair complexion, the men were tall and had good physiques, spoke both Tamil and English, and had curly hair.

The court noted that when a person reconverts, it's acceptance from the members of the caste concerned that matters

The High Court observed there was no dispute that Ravikumar belonged to a Scheduled Caste, but the issue was whether his reconversion from Christianity to Hinduism was genuine or not.

The court held that if the members of the caste accepted him after reconversion, he would be entitled to the community certificate.

Observing that the committee’s findings were not supported by concrete reasons, the court set aside their order and directed Ravikumar to resubmit documents, photographs and other materials to prove that he follows Hinduism within four weeks.

TNTET, an important eligibility exam for teachers across India as per the orders of the Supreme Court, was held in July, with more than 1.60 lakh in-service teachers appearing for the test across Tamil Nadu.

The delay in declaring the results has left teachers anxious, particularly those who are unsure about their performance and are hoping to make use of the next opportunity if they do not qualify.

They have urged the TRB to provide an official update on the result date and release the results without further delay.

Teachers said that an early announcement would help them plan their preparation for the next TNTET, expected to be held in January.

Those who don’t clear the exam want sufficient time to identify their shortcomings, revise the syllabus and prepare systematically for the next attempt.

“We have already waited for several weeks for the results. An early announcement will help us understand where we stand and plan our next steps,” a teacher said.

Another in-service teacher said that the delay was creating uncertainty among candidates who had invested considerable time in preparing for the exam.

“If we have not qualified, we can begin preparing for the January exam instead of losing valuable preparation time,” she added.

When contacted, a TRB official refused to divulge any details regarding the results, but added that the results were in process.

In its suggestions submitted to the HPTF, the organisation said school boards were best placed to assess students as evaluation was an integral part of the curriculum and classroom learning. It recommended that admission to UG programmes be based on marks secured in respective board examinations.

The SPCSS-TN also suggested adopting the normalisation method used by the State government for professional course admissions to rank students from different boards, including for filling all-India quota seats.

The organisation questioned the need for mandatory national-level eligibility tests for undergraduate admissions, particularly for seats in State government colleges. It also raised concerns over the role of the National Testing Agency (NTA), arguing that it was not an academic body and that separating education from evaluation could affect institutional accountability.

The organisation called for strengthening government-funded educational institutions and ensuring privacy, security and a stress-free evaluation system for students. It has urged the HPTF to recommend that school evaluation remain with the respective boards and that centralised admission tests be abolished.

His message to the young graduates was as much a reflection of his own journey as it was advice for the road ahead: “Pressure is a privilege.”

A leader who has worked his way up the corporate ladder over several decades, Chandrasekaran drew on his experience as a business executive and a runner to explain why pressure should be embraced rather than feared.

Having taken up running nearly 18 years ago, he sees life and careers as marathons, not sprints - demanding preparation, resilience and the ability to stay focused on one's own race.

To illustrate his point, he recalled how tennis player Lindsay Davenport sought advice from legend Billie Jean King before the 2000 Fed Cup final against an opponent she had never beaten. King's response was that Davenport had earned the right to feel the pressure by reaching the final. Davenport went on to win.

Similarly, graduating from SAI University meant earning the right to face expectations and prove oneself, Chandrasekaran said.

Quoting marathoner Juma Ikangaa, he said: “The will to win means nothing without the will to prepare.”

Hard work and preparation were essential, while setbacks and disappointments had to be treated as opportunities to learn. His other lesson from running was to measure progress against oneself, not against others.

Chandrasekaran urged graduates to balance long-term ambitions with shorter bursts of effort and quick wins, which he called “running dual races”. Success should build confidence without arrogance, while setbacks should strengthen resilience.

For navigating a world being reshaped by economic, technological, regulatory and AI-led changes, Chandrasekaran outlined six mantras: keep learning, stay curious, collaborate, develop creativity, remember to reflect, and think big and be bold/audacious.

The leader placed particular emphasis on reflection, urging graduates to examine what they had learnt, what they could have done better and whether mistakes could have been avoided.

Acknowledging concerns over AI-led job losses, he said technological disruption would also open up new sectors and opportunities. “The world is full to the brim with possibilities,” he said, adding that India was poised for economic growth unparalleled in its history and across the world over the coming decades.

The convocation saw degrees conferred on 72 students. SAI University founder-chancellor KV Ramani addressed the gathering, while vice-chancellor Prof Ajith Abraham presented the annual report. The university also released Pursuit: Where Research Meets Innovation, a compendium of research conducted between 2020 and 2025.

The accused was identified as Santhosh (25), son of Saravanamoorthy, from Chinnapurangani village near Kadampuliyur in Panruti. He works as an AC mechanic at a private company in Chennai and visits his native place during his leave.

Santhosh and the woman had reportedly been in a relationship for more than six years. The woman works as a sales assistant at a Mudhalvar Pharmacy in Panruti. After her family came to know about their relationship, they opposed it. She subsequently stopped communicating with Santhosh and had not spoken to him for nearly a year.

Panruti pharmacy attack

The incident took place when the woman was working at the pharmacy. Around 12.30 pm, there were no customers at the shop and she was checking medicine stock details on a computer. Santhosh allegedly entered the pharmacy and confronted her over her decision not to marry him. He questioned her about why she had stopped speaking to him despite their long relationship. An argument reportedly followed between the two.

During the confrontation, Santhosh allegedly took out a knife that he had hidden and attacked the woman several times. She suffered injuries to her neck, hands and other parts of her body.

Locals catch accused

The woman screamed for help after being attacked. Hearing her cries, people nearby rushed to the pharmacy. Santhosh allegedly tried to escape from the scene, but the locals chased and caught him.

They reportedly seized the knife from him and assaulted him before handing him over to the police. The injured woman was taken to Cuddalore Government Hospital, where she was admitted for treatment. Meanwhile, police reached the pharmacy after receiving information about the incident. Santhosh was arrested and taken to the police station for further investigation. The incident caused a stir in the Panruti area.

A special police team investigating the case arrested the accused, Selvaraj, from Coimbatore and produced him before a court before he was remanded in judicial custody.

Selvi (50), a resident of Aathikkattuvilai near Melakrishnanputhur, was found dead at a private lodge in Vivekanandapuram, Kanniyakumari, on September 16. Police registered a murder case and launched an investigation.

Case registered on the driver

During the inquiry, police traced Selvaraj, a resident of Veerappan Chathiram in Erode, to Coimbatore and arrested him.

According to police, Selvaraj told investigators that he worked as a rental car driver in Chennai and would travel to other places for sightseeing when he did not have bookings.

He allegedly said that he came to Kanyakumari and met Selvi at the Vadaseri bus stand. He then took her to Vivekanandapuram, where they rented a room at a lodge and stayed together.

Argument broke out between them

Selvaraj allegedly told police that he had Rs 20,000 with him. After he took a bath, he claimed that he noticed Selvi taking the money.

An argument reportedly broke out after he demanded that she return the cash. According to his alleged confession, Selvi questioned him about giving her only a small amount despite having sufficient money.

Police said the argument escalated, following which Selvaraj allegedly pushed her down and pressed a pillow against her face. He then allegedly took her earrings and fled the lodge.

Special police team goes to Coimbatore

Selvaraj allegedly told police that he travelled by bus to Coimbatore after leaving the lodge.

A special police team subsequently traced and arrested him there. He allegedly claimed that he came to know that Selvi had died only after his arrest.

Police produced Selvaraj before a court and he was remanded in judicial custody.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, police suspect that previous enmity could have led to the murder and have launched a hunt for the suspects.

Anand, a resident of the Gomatha Temple area in Karuvadikuppam, was riding his motorcycle through the Karuvadikuppam-Shivaji Statue and Krishna Nagar-East Coast Road areas on his birthday when the incident occurred.

According to police, a gang of eight men travelling on five motorcycles followed Anand and allegedly rammed his motorcycle, causing him to fall on the road.

Hacked to death in middle of the road

The gang then surrounded Anand and attacked him with weapons, including knives and sickles. He sustained multiple serious injuries and died on the spot. The assailants subsequently fled the scene.

The broad daylight murder created panic among residents in the area.

Police investigation begins

On receiving information, personnel from the Lawspet police rushed to the spot and recovered Anand's body. It was subsequently sent to the Kathirkamam Government Medical College Hospital for postmortem examination.

As the murder took place in a public area, police have collected CCTV footage from surveillance cameras installed nearby. Investigators are examining the footage to identify the suspects and establish the sequence of events leading to the murder.

Police are also probing Anand's alleged involvement in the murder of Vicky, a BJP functionary, in the Naveena Garden area of Puducherry last year. Investigators suspect that the latest attack could be linked to the previous murder and may have been carried out as an act of retaliation.

A case has been registered and special teams have been formed to trace the members of the gang. Police are examining CCTV footage and other evidence to identify those involved and ascertain the exact motive behind the murder.

Coimbatore International Airport currently operates 28 flights a day, connecting the city with domestic destinations including Chennai, Bengaluru, New Delhi and Mumbai, besides international destinations such as Sharjah, Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Air India Express had recently introduced two daily flights between Coimbatore and Mumbai from September 1. Following this, the airline is now set to add two daily services between Coimbatore and Bengaluru.

Coimbatore-Bengaluru flight timings

According to the report, the first flight will depart from Coimbatore at 9.10 am and arrive at Bengaluru airport at 10.05 am. The second flight will leave Coimbatore at 9.50 pm and reach Bengaluru at 10.45 pm.

In the return direction, a flight will depart from Bengaluru at 7.20 am and arrive in Coimbatore at 8.25 am. Another service will leave Bengaluru at 7.10 pm and reach Coimbatore at 8.15 pm.

Air India Express officials said the new services will begin in the first phase from October 25, with full-scale operations scheduled to commence from November 1.

With the addition of these services, passengers travelling between Coimbatore and Bengaluru will have more flight options. The five daily flights on the route will be operated jointly by IndiGo and Air India Express.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, onlookers and people in the area rushed to the aid of the injured students and took them to a nearby hospital.

Public protest

Soon after the incident, locals blocked the road in protest, alleging that the lack of a flyover on the Chennai-Bengaluru National Highway was causing frequent accidents. The protest caused a traffic disruption in the area for some time.

Police are investigating the accident.

Another recent road accident on an NH

In a recent incident, 12 people were injured in a series of accidents involving multiple vehicles on the Chennai-Tiruchy National Highway near Acharapakkam in Chengalpattu district on Monday (August 17) morning.

Police said more than 25 members of the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) from Broadway in Chennai were travelling in vans and other vehicles to attend a party conference scheduled to be held in Ulundurpet.

When they were nearing Acharapakkam, a vehicle travelling ahead suddenly applied the brakes. Three vehicles following it reportedly collided one after another, resulting in a chain of accidents.

On receiving information, Acharapakkam police rescued 12 injured persons and took them to Acharapakkam Government Hospital, where they received first aid. They were later shifted to Madurantakam Government Hospital.

Based on the recommendation of the District Collector, the Revenue Department had issued a notification on September 1 to acquire 22.16.00 hectares of land.

The ruling TVK had supported the protests against the proposed acquisition of land at Melma for the expansion of the SIPCOT industrial park. During the protest, TVK General Secretary and Minister Aadhav Arjuna said that Tiruvannamalai was not under anyone’s control and belonged to the people, particularly the farmers, adding that this is their government.

Following this, the Chief Minister announced in the Assembly that the Goondas Act had been invoked against some farmers during the agitation against the project in the DMK regime. He also announced that the government would withdraw the cases against the farmers.

Meanwhile, the government had issued a notification to acquire land at Melma based on the Collector’s recommendation, despite the Minister having earlier extended his support to the protesting farmers. The land acquisition notification has now been scrapped by the government.

These trains provide additional connectivity towards Kerala between October to November. The bookings will open on Sunday (September 20).

Podanur–Barauni special will run on October 4, 11, 18, 25 and November 1 (Sunday), leaving Podanur at 6.15 am connecting Tirupur, Erode, Salem, Jolarpettai, Katpadi and Perambur before proceeding towards Bihar, reaching Barauni at 1.30 pm on the third day. The return train will leave Barauni on October 7, 14, 21, 28 and November 4 (Wednesday).

Thiruvananthapuram North–Santragachi Express Special will run on October 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 (Friday), leaving Thiruvananthapuram North at 2.15 pm. With stops at Podanur, Tirupur, Erode, Salem, Jolarpettai, Katpadi and Tiruttani and return services from Santragachi on October 5, 12, 19, 26 and November 2 (Monday).

For Chennai passengers, Thiruvananthapuram Central–Madar Junction Express Special will have a halt at Perambur while connecting Kerala with Rajasthan.

Six services will operate from Thiruvananthapuram Central on October 21 and 28 and November 4, 11, 18 and 25 (all Wednesdays), with return services on October 24, 31 and November 7, 14, 21 and 28 (all Saturdays).

Ernakulam–Patna Express Special will also pass through Podanur, Tirupur, Erode, Salem, Jolarpettai, Katpadi and Perambur. It will operate from Ernakulam on October 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 (Friday), with return services from Patna on October 6, 13, 20, 27 and November 3 (Tuesday).

The state government has expressed dissatisfaction over certain aspects of the airport's current functioning and has called for a new operator to manage the facility, an English daily reported.

Focus on infrastructure

In his letter, Vijay is learnt to have stressed the need for world-class airport infrastructure and management to support Tamil Nadu's efforts to attract industrial investments.

The Chief Minister reportedly pointed out that Chennai airport needs improvement in three key areas — passenger traffic, aircraft movements and cargo-handling capacity.

The state government has suggested replacing the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the current operator and manager of the airport, with another operator, citing the need for a more efficient and globally competitive facility.

The move is being viewed as a step towards bringing private-sector management to Chennai airport. It also comes in the backdrop of the Tamil Nadu government's decision to drop the proposed airport project at Parandur in Kancheepuram district, reports said.

The state has maintained that a high-quality international airport is essential for Tamil Nadu to sustain its position as a leading destination for industrial investments.

CPI opposes move

Meanwhile, the Communist Party of India (CPI) has urged the Tamil Nadu government to withdraw the proposal to replace the Airports Authority of India (AAI) as the operator of Chennai airport, terming it an attempt at privatisation.

The CPI said that any shortcomings in the airport's administration should be addressed by improving passenger services, flight operations, cargo handling and road connectivity, rather than handing over its management to a private entity.

The party also pointed out that Chennai airport is an important public infrastructure serving Tamil Nadu's industrial, trade, tourism and cargo sectors. It cited AAI's reported net profit of Rs 6,522 crore in 2025-26 and said Chennai airport generated about Rs 492.48 crore in profit in 2024-25.

The CPI further said that the airport's expansion should continue under public-sector management, particularly as the proposed Parandur airport project has been dropped. It called for the existing airport to be modernised and expanded while ensuring that its revenue remains a public resource.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, the deceased was identified as Arunkumar, a native of Nanjanadu in Ooty, Nilgiris district. He was working at a private agricultural company in Krishnagiri.

Police have arrested a 24-year-old youth in connection with the murder.

What led to the dispute?

On Friday night, Arunkumar went to a TASMAC shop in R Poosaripatti area near Krishnagiri with his friends Deepanraj, Inbasekar, Madan and Bharathiraja.

After consuming alcohol, Arunkumar returned the empty bottle and sought the Rs 10 refund offered under TASMAC's empty-bottle buyback scheme. An argument then broke out between Arunkumar and Govindaraj (48) and his son Karthik (24), who were also at the shop.

How was Arunkumar killed?

Following the argument, Arunkumar left the spot. However, Karthik allegedly followed him for about 50 metres, picked up a large stone and hit him on the head.

Arunkumar sustained severe injuries and reportedly died on the spot due to heavy bleeding.

What action did police take?

Krishnagiri police rushed to the spot after receiving information, recovered Arunkumar's body and sent it to a government hospital for the post-mortem examination.

The State informed the tribunal that it would instead examine the feasibility of creating temporary artificial ponds at suitable locations across the city to facilitate idol immersion without polluting natural waterbodies.

The development follows earlier observations by the tribunal emphasising the environmental vulnerability of

Pattinapakkam and Neelankarai, which have long served as primary designated immersion points in Chennai. The NGT was hearing a petition filed by Hariharan seeking directions to prevent environmental degradation caused by ritual immersions.

Reaffirming its commitment to ecological protection, the State assured that orders and guidelines issued by the Supreme Court, Madras High Court, and the NGT would be strictly implemented.

Necessary approvals will also be obtained from the Tamil Nadu Coastal Zone Management Authority and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) before setting up alternative immersion facilities.

Though the Private Universities Bill has been reserved for Presidential consideration, the governor gave his nod to 12 Assembly Bills, including MLA vehicles, VAT on Tasmac liquor, TNPSC recruitment for Urban Local Bodies, another related to amendments to the DTCP, besides the Tamil Nadu Investment Promotion Commission

Under the scheme, children born in government hospitals from June 22, 2026, will be eligible for a one-gram gold ring. The first tranche of 1.28 lakh gold rings has been procured. Each ring will have a unique serial number and be supplied in tamper-proof packaging.

Under the scheme, children born in government hospitals from June 22, 2026, will be eligible for a one-gram gold ring. The first tranche of 1.28 lakh gold rings has been procured. Each ring will have a unique serial number and be supplied in tamper-proof packaging.

Eligible newborns will receive the ring before leaving the hospital.

The house belongs to Poongodi, who lives with her two daughters and runs a fancy store in the locality. Her husband, Manikandan, works in Dubai.

Police said Poongodi locked her house on Thursday morning and left for her shop. Returning two hours later, she found the front door and the bureau broken open, with the valuables missing.

The Magaral police visited the spot and conducted an inquiry. Fingerprint experts and a sniffer dog were brought in to gather clues. Police registered a case and are examining CCTV footage from the area to identify the suspects.

Two other houses in Kancheepuram district were burgled just two days earlier, with around 15 sovereigns of gold jewellery stolen.

The higher education department had announced on June 29 that online general counselling for the 2026-27 academic year would be held for teachers working in government arts, science and educational colleges. As per the announcement, eligible teachers were allowed to apply for transfers through the online portal from June 30 to July 7.

Teachers' representatives said the counselling was conducted following directions from the higher education minister with the objective of facilitating transfers for eligible staff. However, despite around 300 teachers applying during the counselling period, transfer orders have not been issued so far.

They said the delay had left teachers who applied for transfers in uncertainty and was also causing difficulties for colleges and students. With the counselling process remaining pending for nearly three months, teachers are unable to plan their academic and personal arrangements, they said.

The teachers' representatives appealed to Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay and the higher education minister to intervene and expedite the process.

They urged the government to complete the counselling process and issue the transfer orders at the earliest, saying this would provide clarity to teachers and help ensure the smooth functioning of government colleges.

Members of the Dalit community and caste Hindus have been celebrating Vinayagar Chaturthi separately. Normally, Dalits do not take the idol in procession near the temple. However, this year, they took the Vinayagar idol in procession close to the temple, which the members of the other community opposed. The clash led to tension in the region.

Madurai Superintendent of Police N Devanathan rushed to the spot and held talks with the villagers.

On Wednesday, Pocso Special Court Judge Padma Shanmugasundaram sent Veeramani to three days of police custody.

Considering his age and health condition, the Central Crime Branch’s Anti-Vice Squad interrogated him inside the Puzhal Central Prison campus. The questioning was video-recorded and authorised until September 20.

Veeramani, chairman of the Gem Group, was arrested on August 29 after police received a USB drive containing a video clip purportedly showing a minor girl being sexually assaulted at his guest house in Teynampet.

The Anti-Vice Squad had initially registered the case on October 5, 2025.

After police initially sought to close the case citing difficulties in identifying the victim and suspect, the court rejected the closure report and ordered a fresh probe.

SC/ST Act also invoked as police identify more victims sexually abused over years by Gem Granites owner Veeramani

A special team headed by an Assistant Commissioner of Police subsequently identified the survivor, established that she was a minor at the time of the offence in 2019, and recorded her statement.

Veeramani was arrested alongside Shanti, 60, and her husband Mahendra Simhan, 63.

Further probe revealed that several other girls had been subjected to sexual abuse over time. As one of the identified survivors belongs to a Scheduled Caste, provisions of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act have been added to the case.

Meanwhile, CWC sources clarified that while a formal report from the police is awaited, direct intervention by the Child Welfare Committee is not required as the survivor has since attained adulthood.

Under the court order, police interrogated Veeramani between 10 am and 5 pm daily during the custody period under ACP supervision. Further investigation is underway.

The Health and Family Welfare Department issued the GO on September 16, implementing Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's August 19 announcement under Rule 110 of the Assembly.

The six new colleges will be established at Government Medical Colleges in Namakkal, Tiruchy, Dharmapuri, Vellore, Tiruvannamalai and Tirunelveli, with an annual intake of 100 students (BSc Nursing) each.

The GO permits the Tamil Nadu Dr MGR Medical University to establish the colleges at a total cost of Rs 270.26 crore, or Rs 45.04 crore per college.

The expenditure will be met entirely from the university's self-generated funds, with no financial liability accruing to the state government.

The GO stipulates that manpower for the new colleges will be engaged only on a temporary or contract basis and that no permanent posts or additional pensionary liabilities will be created.

The 1,925 additional seats comprise 1,290 Diploma in General Nursing and Midwifery (DGNM), 440 BSc Nursing, 75 MSc Nursing and 120 Post-Basic BSc Nursing seats.

According to the GO, a seventh nursing college with 60 BSc Nursing seats will also be established at Coimbatore Government Medical College and ESI Hospital.

It said the 600 seats in the six colleges would be offered during 2026-27 using existing facilities, subject to statutory approvals and affiliations.

At a review meeting held at Aavin Illam in Nandanam, the minister assessed milk procurement and sales with general managers and deputy registrars from all districts.

She sought details of district-wise procurement targets and achievements and reviewed the functioning of primary milk producers’ cooperative societies newly registered or revived in 2026.

The direction comes amid recent complaints from milk dealers over reduced Aavin supplies.

The Tamil Nadu Milk Dealers Employees Welfare Association has alleged that Aavin’s distribution had been reduced in Chennai and several districts, resulting in shortages for consumers.

Vijayalakshmi directed officials to ensure that payments to milk producers were made without delay through the Electronic Clearing Service (ECS) and that incentive payments reached them without interruption.

She also ordered officials to ensure proper milk-quality testing and issue acknowledgement receipts to producers at procurement points.

She reviewed the functioning of Aavin veterinarians, artificial insemination services, cattle insurance and cattle-feed supply, besides directing officials to take measures to increase milk procurement and sales.

After reviewing the shortage, she instructed officials to resolve it immediately.

She also ordered action against those found selling products of other companies at Aavin parlours.

Later, the minister handed over appointment orders to 14 candidates selected through the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission for the Tamil Nadu Milk Producers’ Cooperative Federation.

In a statement, Anbumani said the PMK had already decided not to contest the two bypolls.

Following consultations with the party's state functionaries and district-level leaders from the districts covering the two constituencies, the party had decided not to extend its support to any political party in the elections.

"The decision has been taken after consultations with the state office-bearers and the district-level functionaries of the two constituencies, " Anbumani said.

Earlier, sources said the PMK was unhappy with the AIADMK for announcing its bypoll candidates without consulting the party. This is understood to be one of the reasons for the delay in announcing its stand.

With the latest announcement, the PMK has clarified that it will maintain a neutral position in both constituencies instead of backing any of the parties contesting the bypoll; political observers see this as a setback for AIADMK in by poll.