Political observers said the remarks appeared to be a pointed attack amid speculation over DMK’s changing stance on the proposed delimitation exercise.

Addressing the valedictory session of the Congress’ 10-day training camp for district presidents at Mamallapuram during his one-day visit to Tamil Nadu, Rahul Gandhi also advised party functionaries to work in coordination with the ruling TVK-led alliance and prepare for the 2029 Lok Sabha elections.

Speaking to reporters later, Gandhi accused the BJP of conspiring against Tamil Nadu through the proposed delimitation exercise.

“Delimitation is designed to take away power from Tamil Nadu,” he said. Drawing a historical parallel, Rahul referred to Ettappan, a figure widely regarded in Tamil history as a symbol of betrayal, and said anyone supporting delimitation was betraying Tamil Nadu.

“Anybody who supports delimitation is an Ettappan. They are betraying TN and its future by allowing the BJP and the RSS to attack the people of Tamil Nadu. They are the 21st-century Ettappans,” he said.

Sahoo, a senior IAS officer, had earlier served as secretary to former deputy chief minister Udhayanidhi Stalin.

During his tenure as WRD secretary, Sahoo had attended the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti’s meetings, including discussions of the Cauvery Water Management Authority and the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee.

In a communication on Friday (July 31), the director of Medical Education and Research asked the heads of government medical institutions to furnish the current status and number of unclaimed or unidentified bodies in their mortuaries and explain the reasons for retaining them.

The communication said the information was sought based on a message received from the Health and Family Welfare Department.

According to the enclosed district-wise data, of the 415 bodies, 365 are male and 50 are female bodies.

Chengalpet Government Hospital has the highest number of 90 (84 male and six female) unclaimed bodies, followed by Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, Chennai, with 63 (57 male and six female) bodies. Kilpauk Medical College Hospital has 47 bodies, Government Stanley Medical College Hospital has 21, while Government Omandurar Medical College Hospital has 20 bodies.

Among other major hospitals, Tirunelveli Government Medical College Hospital reported 16 unclaimed bodies, Salem Government Mohan Kumaramangalam Medical College Hospital reported 14, Tiruvannamalai Medical College Hospital has 13, and Government Rajaji Hospital, Madurai, has three.

The DME-R has asked hospital authorities to submit the latest position on the bodies and specify the reasons for their continued retention in mortuaries, indicating that the Health Department is reviewing the issue statewide.

HIGHER COUNT

*Chengalpet Government Hospital: 90 (84 male, 6 female)

*Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, Chennai: 63 (57 male, 6 female)

*Kilpauk Medical College Hospital: 47

*Government Stanley Medical College Hospital: 21

*Government Omandurar Medical College Hospital: 20

*Tirunelveli Government Medical College Hospital: 16

*Salem Government Mohan Kumaramangalam Medical College Hospital:14

*Tiruvannamalai Medical College Hospital: 13

*Government Rajaji Hospital, Madurai: 3

The utility had come under severe criticisms after a number of users complained that the bimonthly electricity bills that they received this time were substantially higher than usual. After the matter took a political turn when political rivals, including principal opposition party, the DMK, picked it up to criticise the TVK-led government, prompting the TNPDCL to undertake a special meter re-verification drive across the State.

According to the corporation, 15,323 electricity service connections have been inspected so far, of which discrepancies in meter readings and electricity bills were detected in only 100 connections. The bills for these connections would be revised in accordance with the rules, it assured.

Though the inspection so far covered only a fraction of the 3.70 lakh electricity connections across the State that TNPDCL has planned to re-verify, it would offer the utility – and also the government – some breathing space to blunt the opposition attack.

Earlier, facing mounting complaints from domestic consumers, TNPDCL chairman and managing director V Arun Roy directed senior officials across all distribution regions to physically verify domestic service connections that showed significant variation in power consumption compared with the previous billing cycle in May.

Officials ranging from assistant engineers up to Chief Engineers were deployed to monitor the task. Each category of official has been assigned a fixed number of service connections for verification, with each assistant executive engineer and accounts officer in the revenue intelligence squad inspecting up to 150 services.

TNPDCL has set August 7 as the deadline for completing the inspection and instructed officials to rectify any billing or assessment errors on the spot if detected.

It urged consumers to approach the nearest TNPDCL office or register a complaint through the Minnagam service centre at 94987 94987 if their bills are high or have any doubts.

The unexpected low tide caused the sea to recede significantly at the international tourist destination, creating challenges for the Poompuhar Shipping Corporation, which operates ferry services from the jetty to the offshore attractions.

Operational difficulties

Officials said operating ferries during such conditions could pose a safety risk, as the vessels might strike submerged rocks or sandbars due to the unusually low water level.

As a precautionary measure, ferry operations were suspended until the sea returns to normal levels.

Disappointed tourists

The suspension left hundreds of tourists disappointed, especially as the weekend had drawn visitors from various parts of Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states to Kanniyakumari.

Many had planned to visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar Statue, two of the region's most popular attractions. However, with ferry services halted, visitors were forced to remain on the shore and view the monuments from a distance before returning.

Officials said the decision was taken purely in the interest of passenger safety and urged tourists to cooperate with the temporary restrictions. They added that ferry services would resume immediately once sea conditions improve and normal water levels are restored, allowing safe navigation to the offshore monuments.

The Chidambaram MP said that Tamil Nadu needs to present its case to the Union government and the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) to protect its kuruvai season crops.

Addressing reporters here, he stressed that all political parties in Tamil Nadu need to be coordinated and an all-party meeting should be held to do this.

Meanwhile, the VCK president launched a sharp critique against the functioning of the Lok Sabha, accusing the Speaker of rushing through Vande Mataram legislation amid commotion and adjourning the House within minutes.

The revised discharge came on Friday morning, with the Water Resources Department citing increased demand for drinking water.

As of Friday (July 31) morning, the inflow into the dam was 42 cusecs, while the water level stood at 73.49 feet.

The order came on a complaint filed by Chennai-based S Neelakanta Pillai, who alleged that consumers were illegally charged for replacing defective smart meters despite the contract requiring the vendor to replace them free of cost during the guarantee and annual maintenance period.

The three-member bench comprising Chairperson Justice P Rajamanickam and Judicial Members Justice S Kannammal and Justice R Hemalatha accepted the preliminary inquiry report of the DVAC and closed proceedings against the then Director (Distribution) AR Mascurnus, Chief Engineer (IT) B Arulmani, CE (Chennai North) A Sahayaraj and Superintending Engineer D Tamil Selvan.

Pillai's complaint alleged that the Centre had sanctioned Rs 120 crore under the Smart Meter Pilot Project to install smart meters in 1.41 lakh low-tension electricity connections in T Nagar.

It claimed that despite the agreement requiring the vendor to replace defective or burnt smart meters free of cost during the guarantee and annual maintenance period, consumers were charged between Rs 8,000 and Rs 12,000 for replacements. The complainant also alleged that bribes had been collected and estimated the corruption involved at nearly Rs 25 lakh.

Following a preliminary inquiry ordered by the Lokayukta, the DVAC examined witnesses, collected documents and obtained statements from the officials concerned.

The inquiry found that 1.29 lakh smart meters had been installed under the project, of which 2,896 became defective. It found that 71 defective smart meters were replaced by the electricity utility after collecting Rs 8,000 to Rs 12,000 from consumers under the head "Recoveries from Consumers towards damage to Board Properties", instead of being replaced by the vendor in accordance with the agreement. In the case of 83 consumers, the amounts collected were later adjusted in subsequent electricity bills.

The inquiry concluded that the lapses were attributable to 12 AEs and AEEs who had authorised the recoveries, causing wrongful loss to consumers. However, it found no evidence that they had received any monetary or non-monetary benefit or entered into a criminal conspiracy with the vendor.

Probe found that officials collected Rs 8,000 to Rs 12,000 from consumers under the head "Recoveries from Consumers towards damage to Board Properties" to replace 71 defective smart meters instead of the vendor replacing them in accordance with the agreement

The Lokayukta observed that while the senior officials could not entirely shirk responsibility for inadequate supervision, the allegations did not amount to offences punishable under the Prevention of Corruption Act. It noted that the money collected from consumers had been credited to the electricity board and there was no evidence of personal enrichment or misappropriation by the officials.

The bench held that the lapses warranted disciplinary proceedings rather than criminal prosecution under the anti-corruption law. It accepted the preliminary inquiry report, dropped proceedings against the four senior officials and directed the competent authority to initiate disciplinary action against the 12 AEs and AEEs identified in the inquiry.

The Lokayukta also appreciated Neelakanta Pillai for bringing to light the issue of consumers being charged for the replacement of burnt smart meters.

Speaking after inspecting the EVM verification process at the Chintadripet godown, DMK legal wing secretary NR Elango said the party had sought verification of EVMs used in 14 polling stations in the constituency.

"Of the eight machines examined so far, three did not function properly, amounting to around 30 per cent. Because of this, we have lost faith in the entire electoral process," Elango alleged.

He said the party would approach the High Court after receiving the ECI's certificate, contending that the election process was flawed and that the findings could be established scientifically and legally. He also said the DMK had informed election officials that it was boycotting the remainder of the verification process.

Rejecting the allegations, Chennai Corporation Commissioner and District Election Officer GS Sameeran said there was no issue with the eight EVMs examined. He maintained that the polled votes, candidate-wise vote count and Form 20 records were all found to be accurate.

"Even if the DMK boycotts the procedure, the verification will continue in the presence of representatives of the other parties. The DMK raised only technical issues. There was no discrepancy in the EVMs," Sameeran said.

The Election Commission of India had on Wednesday begun verifying the authenticity of EVMs used in 14 polling stations in the Kolathur Assembly constituency following a petition filed by DMK president MK Stalin.

In a statement, Anbumani said the State had taken the right legal route after Karnataka ruled out bilateral talks on the Cauvery water-sharing dispute. He said the Tamil Nadu government should continue to address both the Cauvery water issue and the Mekedatu dam proposal through legal means rather than political negotiations.

Referring to the proposed meeting between Chief Minister Vijay and Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, which was later called off, Anbumani said expecting Karnataka to release water through negotiations was unrealistic given the State's past stand on the issue.

Citing previous Cauvery disputes, he recalled that Karnataka had refused to release water even after Supreme Court orders in 1995 and 2002, forcing Tamil Nadu to seek legal remedies, including contempt proceedings. He said water was released only after the Supreme Court warned Karnataka of serious consequences for non-compliance.

Anbumani urged the Tamil Nadu government to immediately move the Supreme Court seeking implementation of the Cauvery Management Authority's directions to release water to the State.

He also called on the government to challenge the proposed Mekedatu dam project before the Supreme Court by placing relevant evidence on record and seeking to restrain the Centre and the Karnataka government from proceeding with the preparation of the project's detailed project report.

Following the closure of a private tea company, the entire estate is under the control of the Forest Department, which has intensified efforts to evict the residents.

Earlier, on Friday (July 31), officials stopped a government bus bound for Manjolai and attempted to make passengers disembark.

The same happened on Saturday (August 1), leading to fresh tension.

After talks, the bus was subsequently allowed to continue its journey.

The all-party meeting was held at a private hotel in T Nagar and was attended by Naam Tamilar Katchi chief coordinator Seeman, India Jananayaga Katchi president Ravi Pachamuthu, representatives of the Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam and leaders from several other political parties.

Adopting five resolutions, the meeting strongly condemned Karnataka's continued push for the Mekedatu dam project, alleging that it violated the Cauvery Water Management Authority's directions and Supreme Court orders, thereby affecting Tamil Nadu's rightful share of river water.

The meeting accused the State government of wasting time by seeking bilateral talks with Karnataka and writing to the Prime Minister instead of taking immediate legal action. It also criticised Chief Minister Vijay for failing to convene an all-party meeting despite repeated demands.

The leaders said the August 7 demonstration would be the first phase of a broader campaign to exert pressure on both the Centre and the State government to protect Tamil Nadu's interests in the Cauvery dispute.

The new system, introduced in the LT billing platform from July 1, will automatically initiate the account closure process for consumers whose electricity service remains disconnected for 90 days. These consumers will receive a Termination of Agreement (TA) notice through SMS, along with a web link to view the notice.

If the consumer does not seek reconnection within three months of receiving the notice, the service connection will be taken up for meter removal. Field engineers will dismantle the meter, upload the required details in the billing software, and send the meter to the Meter Relay Testing (MRT) wing for testing and recording the final reading.

Once the meter testing is completed and the final reading is approved, the account closure statement will be verified by the accounts wing before the service account is officially closed. Consumers will receive an SMS confirming the closure along with a link to access the final account statement.

The SMS will also indicate whether the consumer has any pending dues or is eligible for a refund. Consumers can pay outstanding amounts online using a payment link or QR code sent through the message.

For refund cases, TNPDCL will continue with the existing manual process until the refund system is fully automated. Consumers will have to submit their bank account details to receive excess payments credited to their accounts.

A senior TNPDCL official said the existing account closure process was cumbersome and often took a year to complete. "After the TA notice is served, if a consumer clears the dues within one year from the date of disconnection, the service will be reconnected. Only after one year does the permanent dismantling process begin. Under the automated system, the entire process, including permanent dismantling, will be completed within six months from the date of disconnection," the official said.

To ensure faster disposal of inactive service connections, TNPDCL has prescribed timelines for every stage of the process. Meter removal must be completed within seven days after the TA notice period expires, while the removed meter has to be handed over to the MRT wing within another seven days. The MRT wing has been directed to complete testing and update the final readings within 10 days.

Senior officials have been instructed to closely monitor progress at every stage. The circular states that delays in meter removal, testing, or account closure will be viewed seriously and accountability will be fixed on the officials concerned.

Such a debate started after Chief Minister Vijay's latest film 'Jana Nayagan' was briefly halted at several theatres in Chennai after children were found inside auditoriums despite the movie carrying an 'A' (Adults Only) certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

Several screenings experienced delays while staff verified tickets and ensured compliance with the CBFC guidelines. The incidents have reignited discussions on parental responsibility and the strict enforcement of film certification norms.

At a popular movie theatre in Royapettah, moviegoers are already being asked for government identification cards to verify their age. Additionally, police have been deployed at major theatres to prevent tussles between parents and theatre staff.

"After incidents of parents getting into an argument with the theatre staff were reported recently, police have been deployed. Though parents can argue it's their choice to bring their children, the norms are strictly being followed by theatre management," said a police personnel.

"Film certification exists to protect children from exposure to content that may include graphic violence, disturbing themes, explicit language or other mature material," said a Chennai-based child psychologist.

Experts also note that younger audiences may not possess the emotional maturity to process such content, making age-based restrictions an important public safety measure. Further, parents have been strictly stopped from taking their children to A-certified movies across TN.

Meanwhile, it is noteworthy that child psychologists have long emphasised that repeated exposure to violent or emotionally intense scenes can cause fear, anxiety, sleep disturbances and behavioural changes in younger children.

Media experts also argue that ignoring certification norms weakens the purpose of the CBFC's rating system and places unnecessary pressure on theatre staff to intervene after screenings have already begun.

The incident has prompted fresh calls for both parents and cinema operators to ensure that age restrictions are followed strictly so that certification rules are respected, and children are protected from content deemed inappropriate for their age.

In his writ petition, Parthiban sought directions to the state government to enact the necessary legislation and issue appropriate Government Orders (GOs), circulars and guidelines to enable the Revenue Department to issue such certificates.

During the hearing, the Madras High Court observed that a Division Bench had already directed the Tamil Nadu government to issue "No Caste, No Religion" certificates. The court further observed that the benefit should not be restricted to Parthiban alone but should be extended to society at large.

Parthiban submitted that he had earlier assured the court he would file a PIL after the formation of the new government. Accordingly, he has now sought specific directions to the state government to issue GOs instructing Revenue Department authorities to entertain applications seeking "No Caste, No Religion" certificates.

In his petition, Parthiban contended that the Tamil Nadu government has the legislative competence to enact a law authorising the Revenue Department to issue certificates declaring that a person belongs to "No Caste, No Religion." He argued that such legislation would neither conflict with existing laws nor encroach upon the legislative powers of the Union government.

He has prayed for directions to the respondents to enact the required legislation and issue appropriate GOs, circulars and directions to Revenue Department officials to facilitate the issuance of certificates stating that an applicant belongs to "No Caste, No Religion," along with any other orders the court may deem fit in the interest of justice.

Addressing reporters after a protest against Karnataka's proposed Mekedatu dam, Mutharasan said the Union government had failed to remain impartial and condemned a Union minister's statement supporting Karnataka's stance on the project.

He alleged that Karnataka had repeatedly failed to comply with the Supreme Court verdict directing it to release 177 tmc ft of Cauvery water annually to Tamil Nadu and had also ignored the recent Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) order to release 4 tmc ft of water immediately.

"Both the BJP and the Congress deceive Tamil Nadu in every aspect, particularly on the Cauvery issue," Mutharasan charged.

Warning of a worsening agrarian crisis, he said kuruvai cultivation in the Delta, which normally covered more than six lakh acres, had shrunk to around two lakh acres. Samba cultivation had also become uncertain due to the lack of Cauvery water, depleting groundwater and unscheduled power cuts, he said, cautioning that Tamil Nadu could soon face an acute drinking water shortage.

Reiterating his demand for an all-party meeting on the Cauvery issue, Mutharasan said the Chief Minister should have consulted political parties and farmers before deciding to visit Karnataka.

"The all-party delegation and the farmers would have suggested the CM abstain from proceeding to Karnataka, and this could have avoided the Karnataka government terming him an 'uninvited guest'," he said.

With the Mettur level standing at just 73.82 feet on Saturday, the outflow was 1003 cusecs while the inflow was just 53 cusecs, with the public losing hope over the release of water into the Cauvery.

The people living along the banks of the Cauvery in the Delta region are dejected as they are left with no other choice but ot depend on bore wells to complete their rituals, which include the holy dip in the Cauvery on the occasion of the Aadi Perukku event on Monday (Aug 3).

Despite efforts by the Public Works Department officials, the groundwater level along the Cauvery has drained swiftly owing to severe drought conditions. As there is not enough water to suffice the drinking water demands, the possibility of ensuring water is available for Aadi Perukku has turned out to be a questionable one.

Meanwhile, on Friday, the Tiruchy City Corporation commenced a makeshift shower pipeline arrangement at Amma Mandapam bathing ghat, which is the major spot for the event where several thousands of people take part in rituals and the subsequent holy dip. “This arrangement has been made for Aadi Perukku as the chances of the Cauvery river flowing are almost nil," a senior official from the City Corporation said.

However, on Saturday, the public, upon noticing the arrangements, started taking baths through the pipeline that draws water from the bore wells from the river bed.

The petition, filed by AKS Vijayan, secretary of the DMK's Farmers' Wing, sought urgent directions to Karnataka to implement the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee's July 28 order, affirmed by the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) on July 30, by releasing 3,500 cusecs of water daily at Biligundlu for 15 days and making good the shortfall from July 29 onwards.

The DMK also sought directions to Karnataka to clear the accumulated backlog of about 9.46 tmc ft due at Biligundlu as of July 26 through releases of around 7,000 cusecs a day for 15 days. It further requested the apex court to direct the CWMA to monitor reservoir releases and daily inflows at Biligundlu and submit compliance reports. The party has also sought to implead itself and the CWMA in the pending Cauvery case before the Supreme Court.

Arguing that lakhs of Cauvery delta farmers were facing severe hardship due to Karnataka's continued non-compliance with binding statutory directions, the DMK urged the apex court to intervene immediately to safeguard farmers' livelihoods and enforce its earlier judgment.

The legal move came hours after Stalin launched a political offensive against Vijay, alleging that the Chief Minister had mishandled the Cauvery dispute by pursuing an individual approach rather than forging political consensus and by not heeding demands to convene an all-party meeting.

Stalin said leaders of political parties and farmers' organisations had cautioned Vijay against holding one-to-one talks with Karnataka over the Mekedatu project and had instead urged him to convene an all-party meeting in Tamil Nadu.

Stalin said Karnataka Chief Minister's decision to first invite Vijay for talks and later ask him not to visit, while convening an all-party meeting in Karnataka on August 2, demonstrated that political parties in the neighbouring State were united in protecting Karnataka's interests.

Maintaining that only a legal battle could secure Tamil Nadu's rightful share of Cauvery water, Stalin alleged that Karnataka continued to treat Tamil Nadu as a recipient only of surplus water and said the recent CWMA direction vindicated the DMK's stand. "We foresaw these developments and therefore urged the Chief Minister to convene an all-party meeting. Will he do so now?" he asked.

The deceased was Satheesh (38) of Manikandapuram near Pothur. The police said he was involved in the real estate business and is survived by his wife, Meena, and their two daughters.

Satheesh was returning home after meeting friends when a gang intercepted him near Manikandapuram and attacked him with weapons and fled the scene. He sustained multiple cut injuries and died on the spot.

On information, personnel from the Avadi Tank Factory police station rushed to the scene, secured the area, and shifted the body to a government hospital for postmortem examination. The police have registered a case of murder and are investigating.

Addressing a protest in Thanjavur against Karnataka's proposed Mekedatu dam, Nainar claimed Tamil Nadu had full rights over the Cauvery and accused the Congress of denying those rights whenever it governed Karnataka. "Tamil Nadu lost Katchatheevu earlier due to the conspiracy of the Congress, and now they are planning to block the State's Cauvery rights," he said.

He questioned Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) president Manickam Tagore for not opposing Karnataka over the Cauvery issue, even on social media. Nainar said Tagore should have met the Karnataka Chief Minister from his own party, explained Tamil Nadu's concerns and worked towards resolving the dispute instead of remaining silent.

Claiming that Karnataka released adequate Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu when the BJP was in power in the neighbouring State between 2018 and 2023, Nainar alleged that the present Congress government had failed to do so.

He also criticised Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar over the reported change in stance on Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's proposed visit to Karnataka. "Initially, DK Shivakumar invited Chief Minister Vijay, but now he has asked him not to visit the State. This is condemnable," Nainar said.

Earlier, BJP cadre took out a rally from the Thanjavur City Corporation building to Panagal Building, where the protest against Karnataka was held.

In a letter to the Chief Minister, Annamalai referred to the government's May 12 announcement directing the closure of 717 Tasmac outlets identified within the restricted zone. While welcoming the move, he said a fresh field study conducted by the We The Leaders Foundation had uncovered another 129 outlets allegedly operating in violation of the prescribed guidelines.

According to the letter, the foundation initially carried out a dipstick survey in Chennai and identified 10 such outlets. It later expanded the exercise across Tamil Nadu by inviting public participation and verifying the information received before compiling a district-wise list of the alleged violations.

Submitting the findings to the government, Annamalai requested an immediate review and closure of the identified outlets. "We kindly request the immediate closure of these shops and the safeguarding of the spaces where our children learn, pray and commute," he said.

The letter also linked the issue to rising alcohol consumption in the State. Citing the 2019 Magnitude of Substance Use report and the National Family Health Survey, Annamalai claimed alcohol consumption in Tamil Nadu had increased from 14.2 per cent to 23.7 per cent over five years. Describing the trend as alarming, he said excessive alcohol consumption had adversely affected household savings, increased healthcare expenditure, reduced productivity and impacted family welfare, urging the government to strictly enforce its own regulations governing the location of Tasmac retail outlets.

Functionaries from the AIADMK and other political parties joined TVK at the party headquarters in Panaiyur, with the leadership assuring the new entrants that organisational posts would be announced shortly.

The induction programme, organised by former AIADMK MLA Maragatham Kumaravel, was led by TVK general secretary and Water Resources Minister N Anand.

Among those who joined the ruling party were AIADMK union secretary and Mahabalipuram municipality vice-chairman Raghavan, town secretary Ganesan, four councillors from the Mahabalipuram municipality, former AIADMK MLAs KS Srinivasan and GR Mala, former MP M Udhayakumar, former Tamil Nadu Mahila Congress president Hazeena Syed and DMK Krishnagiri district youth wing organiser Nirmal Kumar, besides their supporters.

Addressing the gathering, former minister C Vijayabaskar described the defections as a vote of confidence in Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's leadership.

"You have taken the right decision. TVK will emerge victorious in every election hereafter. After MG Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa, the State has found a leadership capable of providing stable governance," he said.

Minister and party treasurer P Venkataramanan said the government was committed to transparent and corruption-free administration. "The Chief Minister has instructed us to work only for the welfare of the people. Public service should always take precedence over personal interests," he said.

Welcoming the new entrants, Anand said they had joined the party believing in the Chief Minister's vision. "After consulting the Chief Minister, suitable organisational responsibilities will be assigned to all deserving members. You are now part of the TVK family," he said.

He also asserted that the party would maintain zero tolerance towards corruption and expressed confidence that TVK would secure a comprehensive victory in the forthcoming local body elections.

Over the past few days, water levels in both reservoirs had dropped sharply due to intense summer heat.

However, heavy rainfall has been lashing the Western Ghats since Friday, resulting in a significant increase in inflow to the reservoirs.

As of Saturday (August 1) morning, the combined inflow into the Papanasam and Servalar dams had risen from 898 cusecs to around 5,000 cusecs.

Consequently, the water level in the Papanasam dam, which has a full reservoir level of 143 feet, increased by nearly 5 feet in a single day, rising from 63.4 feet to 68.35 feet.

The nearby Servalar dam, which has a full reservoir level of 156 feet, recorded an even sharper increase of about 25 feet in a single day, climbing from 76.77 feet to over 102 feet.

In a statement, the party's IT Wing said the people would reject the DMK's hypocrisy and political theatrics over the inter-state river dispute and alleged that the party had always sought to incite the public for political gain.

Defending the TVK government, the party said Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay was committed to safeguarding the interests of Tamil Nadu's farmers while also ensuring the welfare of Tamils living in Karnataka. "Our leader believes in people-centric governance and not politics driven by self-interest," it said.

The ruling party questioned the DMK's record during its tenure in office, asking whether it had ever relinquished even a single ministerial post or taken sustained measures to secure a permanent settlement to the Cauvery dispute despite sharing power at the Centre on several occasions.

"It remained glued to power instead of protecting Tamil Nadu's rights. While in office, it raised its voice briefly before falling silent. After losing power, it has suddenly rediscovered slogans on land, language and self-respect," the statement said.

Claiming that the DMK had remained politically isolated since May, the TVK alleged that Stalin's criticism stemmed from frustration and desperation following the change in government.

It urged the Opposition leader to raise the Cauvery issue responsibly and in the larger public interest, rather than making hostile political attacks, asserting that the people would not be misled by what it described as the DMK's deceptive political drama.

Vinoth, who is scheduled to present the government's maiden agriculture budget in the Assembly on August 6, said he had sought the deity's blessings before presenting the budget.

However, after a video of him carrying the budget document went viral on social media, Vinoth denied taking any confidential budget papers to the temple, clarifying that the document in his possession was only the budget preface.

"It is not the complete budget document. The final budget papers are with the department secretary. What I carried was only the preface containing some highlights of the agriculture budget, which will be presented to the Chief Minister," he told reporters here.

Madurai MP Su Venkatesan of the CPM described the minister's action as unconstitutional, saying that budget documents, which explain how taxpayers' money will be spent, should not be reduced to offerings that reflect personal religious beliefs. CPI state secretary M Veerapandian also objected to the minister taking the document to the temple.

The AIADMK accused the minister of violating Assembly convention by taking an untabled budget document outside Tamil Nadu and questioned whether the government and the Speaker would initiate action over what it termed a breach of legislative rules and the oath of confidentiality.

Armstrong, the Tamil Nadu president of the Bahujan Samaj Party led by Mayawati, was a resident of Perambur in Chennai. He was hacked to death on July 5, 2024, while inspecting a construction project in Perambur. A group of unidentified men attacked him with sharp weapons before fleeing the scene.

He was rushed to a private hospital on Greams Road in Chennai with serious injuries but died on the way.

The Sembiyam police registered a case, following which a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was constituted to probe the murder. A total of 30 people were arrested in connection with the case, and police filed a charge sheet running over 7,800 pages.

During the course of the investigation, two accused were killed in separate police encounters, while another died during medical treatment. Some of the accused were later granted bail.

Court order paves way for CBI probe 

Armstrong's wife, Porkodi, alleged that the Tamil Nadu police had not conducted a fair investigation. BSP national president Mayawati also visited Chennai and demanded that the case be transferred to the CBI. However, the then Tamil Nadu government did not accept the demand.

Subsequently, Armstrong's brother, Emmanuel, approached the Madras High Court seeking a CBI probe. On December 24 last year, the court directed that the investigation be transferred to the CBI.

The Tamil Nadu government challenged the order in the Supreme Court, which granted an interim stay. While the matter was pending, there was a change of government in the State. The new government recently withdrew its appeal before the Supreme Court, clearing the way for the CBI to take over the investigation.

Chennai police have now handed over all investigation records related to the case to the CBI. The agency is expected to register a fresh case, if necessary, and seek custody of the accused currently in prison for further questioning.

The CBI's entry into the case is expected to intensify the investigation.

The gang was led by former VCK functionary A Stephen Raj, who was arrested last year for the murder of his wife, S Gomathi, a councillor in Tirunindravur municipality.

The couple got married ten years ago and lived in Mettu Street in Tirunindravur's Periya Colony with their four sons.

What is the case of Gomathi and Stephen Raj?

Suspecting Gomathi of having an affair, Stephen Raj stabbed her to death near the Tirunindravur subway in July last year and surrendered to the police.

Police also arrested Stephen Raj's younger brother, A Ajith (25) and his friend, S Johnson alias Anthony Raj (25), for aiding the accused.

Cases against rowdy Joseph

Meanwhile, after securing bail in the murder case, Stephen Raj has been plotting to murder his wife's lover, Joseph.

On learning about Joseph's appearance at court on Friday, Stephen Raj assembled a gang and waited near the court complex.

Acting on a tip-off, police deployed special teams and intercepted an autorickshaw near the ICMR campus where the alleged assailants were waiting for Joseph.

While Stephen Raj and two others managed to escape, police arrested Ashok Kumar (45) and Prabhakaran (34), both from Tirunindravur. The police seized seven deadly weapons, including sickles, from the vehicle.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Venkatachalam, who served as a minister during the previous AIADMK government, had subsequently joined the DMK and was appointed in-charge of the party's Erode Central district unit. His removal comes amid reports of continuing differences between him and former DMK minister S Muthusamy, a senior party leader from Erode.

Announcing the organisational changes, DMK general secretary Duraimurugan said Venkatachalam had been relieved of his responsibility as the Erode Central district in-charge.

As part of the restructuring, the DMK has also decided to dissolve the existing Erode Central district arrangement and redistribute the Assembly constituencies under it between the party's neighbouring district units.

According to the announcement, the Perundurai Assembly constituency, which was under the Erode Central district unit, will now be brought under the Erode South district.

The Bhavani Assembly constituency will be attached to the Erode North district.

The respective district secretaries will henceforth oversee party activities in the two constituencies.

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

Entry cut-off for darshan queues

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

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

Temple cites delay in rituals

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

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

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

Devotees express concern

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

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

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

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

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

'Karnataka's stand remains unchanged'

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

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

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

Questions Rahul Gandhi's silence

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

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

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

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

CM Vijay to decide on all-party meeting

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DIGITAL HOUSELISTING

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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