Man dies after rain-soaked roof collapses in Madurai

MADURAI: A 44-year-old man died after a portion of the rain-soaked roof of his house collapsed, following heavy downpour, near the Mathichiyam area in Madurai in the wee hours of Friday. This is the first such incident reported in the district this year, according to the disaster management department. Sporadic rain has been lashing Madurai district for the past couple of days. Following the heavy downpour, a portion of roof of a house collapsed in Mathichiyam area, killing Balasubramanian (44). Sources said, his family members had gone to a relative's place, while Balasubramanian had stayed back. On Friday early morning, Balasubramanian was sleeping, when the rain-soaked roof gave away. On hearing the loud thud, neighbours stepped outside to find out that the roof had collapsed. Personnel from the police and fire departments rushed to the spot, and cleared the debris for several hours before they could recover Balasubramanian's body. Balasubramanian's body was then sent to the Government Rajaji Hospital (GRH) for a postmortem examination. The Mathichiyam police have registered a case and initiated an investigation. A preliminary inquiry revealed that the house was several decades old. Speaking to TNIE, a senior official from the disaster management department in Madurai said that this was the first incident of house collapse in the district this year. Officials added that the disaster management department had served notice to the public works department to carry out maintenance works on old government buildings in the district, last year. The city corporation had issued notices to owners of old houses. The city corporation has been issuing notices in case of old buildings under the Tamil Nadu Urban Local Bodies Act. Once the notice is served, either the owner has to demolish the building, or the corporation will demolish it and slap a fine on the owner. The house in Mathichiyam, the roof of which collapsed on Friday, was said to have been recently sold. The same was informed to the corporation. The building was to be demolished by the new owner, and thus a notice was not served. Before the demolishing works could begin, however, the roof collapsed, said a senior official from Madurai city corporation. The official added that in the past four months, owners of 468 old buildings have been served notices by the city corporation.

Devotee loses gold ornaments at temple in TN, scammer on the run

COIMBATORE: The Anaimalai police in Coimbatore district on Thursday registered a case against a woman who befriended a woman devotee and stole about 13 sovereigns of gold ornaments from the latter at the Arulmigu Masaniamman Temple at Anaimalai. The case has been filed against Shanthi of Salem. The devotee who lost the valuables is Nagammal (67), wife of Thirupathi of Gandhi Nagar at Achampathu in Madurai. Police said Nagammal, a daily wage labourer, visited a temple at Kanakkanpatti on May 8 morning. Shanthi befriended Nagammal and another devotee, Seetha, at the temple and invited them to visit a private yoga centre in Coimbatore district. Believing her words, Nagammal and Seetha visited the centre along with Shanthi. Later, they visited Masaniamman temple at Anaimalai in Coimbatore district around 5 pm on the same day. After offering prayers at the temple, they slept near the second gate of the temple around 9 pm. Before that Shanthi asked Nagammal to remove her gold jewels and put it in her bag for safety. Nagammal kept the bag under her head and slept. The next day around 9 am, Nagammal and Seetha woke up and found the bag containing five sovereigns of gold chain, six sovereigns of gold bangles and two sovereigns of gold rings missing. Shanthi was not to be seen. Nagammal and Seetha launched a search at the temple and surrounding areas in Anaimalai and they couldnot trace the woman. Nagammal complained to Anaimalai police who registered a case against the suspect under Section 379 of IPC on Thursday night. Police said they have collected CCTV footage of the suspected woman and formed a special team to nab her.

Orange alert issued in five TN districts for May 18,19

CHENNAI: Several places across Tamil Nadu received widespread rains on Thursday and Friday. Mylaudy in Kanniyakumari district registered the highest rainfall of 7 cm in the 24 hours ending at 8.30 am on Friday. Tiruchendur in Thoothukudi, Valparai in Coimbatore, and Nannilam in Tiruvarur received 6 cm each; Cuddalore and Kottaram in Kanniyakumari received 5 cm each; and Kayalpattinam in Thoothukudi received 4 cm during the same period. Karur Paramathi received 4.5 cm of rain from 8.30 am to 7.30 on Friday. Coimbatore, Tiruchy, and Dharmapuri received 3.5 cm, 3.3 cm and 3.2 cm, respectively in the same period. The regional meteorological centre said that the Southwest monsoon is very likely to advance into the South Andaman Sea, some parts of the Southeast Bay of Bengal and Nicobar Islands around May 19. However, the monsoon will set in the mainland around May 31. TN usually receives 35-37% of annual total rainfall during this period. The moisture level in the interior districts will increase during this period. The rain the state is getting now is due to cyclonic circulation, said an official from the RMC. RMCs forecast said light to moderate rain at many places with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds with speed of 30-40 kmph at one or two places is likely to continue till May 21. It also added that moderate rainfall is likely in Chennai city. It also gave orange alerts to several districts over the next few days including Theni, Dindigul and Tenkasi for Saturday and Sunday. The alert also extends to Kanniyakumari and Tirunelveli on Sunday. Meanwhile, heavy rain is likely over The Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Erode, Salem, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Tirupattur, Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Tiruppur, Virudhunagar, Thoothukudi and Madurai districts on Saturday. On Friday, the maximum temperature of various districts was below normal. Meenambakkam in Chennai registered a maximum temperature of 31.6C, which was 6.8C below normal; Madurai 30.8C (6.7C below normal); and Palayamkottai 31C (6.3C below normal). On Thursday, Meenambakkam registered 10.3C below normal temperature.

Poetic justice as man freed after shoddy probe gets 12-year jail in another drug case in TN

CHENNAI: The proverbial long arm of the law has eventually caught up with Virugambakkam-based vegetable seller-turned-ganja peddler L Ravi (64). Seven-and-a-half years after a trial court acquitted him in a ganja case, the investigation of which was messed up by Chennai police, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) managed to secure a 12-year sentence for Ravi and three others on May 9 in another case filed in 2019. Ravi and four others were acquitted in December 2016 after the Choolaimedu police failed to prove his role in the seizure of 60 kg ganja, with the trial court picking up holes in the documentation of the investigation procedures. However, the NCB was able to prove his role beyond doubt before Principal Judge of the NDPS Special Court C Thirumagal, in the September 20, 2019 seizure of 303 kg ganja at Karanodai toll plaza on the GNT Road on the outskirts of Chennai. The investigators nabbed M Manogaran (38), a native of Madurai and M Vijayakumaran (50), and T Chandran from Theni when they were travelling from Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh to Madurai via Chennai with the ganja consignment loaded in an SUV. It was later found that the vehicle had a fake registration number plate. They had stopped at the toll plaza and were handing over 25 kg of the cannabis to Ravi when the NCB sleuths apprehended them. A search at Ravis home later also yielded 250 gm of ganja. According to NCB, the ganja operation was funded by Madurai resident P Ramesh, a restaurateur-turned-money lender facing losses in his business, akin to Ravi, who shifted to ganja peddling as he didnt earn enough from selling vegetables. NCB said Manogaran befriended Ramesh while working as a painter at his restaurant and spoke about his ganja business. Ramesh agreed to Manogarans proposal to pump money into the business and lent a few lakhs of rupees on a profit-sharing basis for ganja trafficking. In fact, the prosecution noted Ramesh earned a profit of Rs 2 lakh on an investment of Rs 5 lakh within a gap of 15-20 days. While NCB produced phone records to prove an active connection between the five accused, the court accepted their evidence of financial transactions between Manogaran and Ramesh, despite the latters counsel rejecting the charge of him funding the illicit trafficking. NCB also contended that Ramesh gave his debit card and arranged the SUV for transporting the narcotics from Vizag to Madurai, after Manogaran ratted him out in his voluntary statement before the agency. The charges against Chandran abated as he died before completion of trial. Manogaran, Vijayakumaran, Ravi and Chandran were slapped with a 12-year sentence by the court.

After the rains, potholes resurface on Madurai roads

Agro Food Chamber of Commerce and Industry to conduct five-day palm leaf art exhibition and painting workshop in Madurai

One killed in Madurai; five injured in roof collapse in Kariyapatti

Indian Railway: Travel to South India on EMI of Rs 1089, know fare and booking details

Indian Railway: During this trip to South India, tourists will be taken to visit Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga, Tirupati Balaji Temple, Tirupati Meenakshi Temple, Madurai Ramanatha Swamy Temple, Rameshwaram and Kanyakumari. Besides, a tour of local tourist places will also be organized. If you are planning to visit South India during summer holidays, then IRCTC is launching [] The post Indian Railway: Travel to South India on EMI of Rs 1089, know fare and booking details first appeared on informalnewz .

Monitor Cops Suspected To Be Hand In Glove With Drug Peddlers: High Court

The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court on Thursday directed the Tamil Nadu government to constitute a high-level secret committee to monitor those police officials who are suspected to be hand in glove with drug offenders.

Madurai Corporation Bill Collector held on graft charge

Man killed as roof of his house collapses during heavy rain in Madurai

Engineering works in Karaikudi: Train services cancelled, diverted on May 19

MADURAI: In view of disconnection and traffic block for facilitating engineering works at Karaikudi, Madurai division of the Southern Railway has made certain changes in the pattern of train services. In line with this, Tiruchy-Rameswaram Express (16849) leaving Tiruchy at 7.05 pm on May 19 and Rameswaram-Tiruchy Express (16850) departing from Rameswaram at 2.35 pm on May 19 have been cancelled. Likewise, Karaikudi-Tiruchy Passenger (06830) leaving Karaikudi at 3.30 pm on May 19 and Tiruchy-Karaikkudi Passenger (06125) leaving Tiruchy at 6.20 pm on May 19 have also been cancelled. Rameswaram-Bhubaneswar Superfast Express (20895) leaving Rameswaram at 8.40 am on May 19 will be diverted to run via Manamadurai, Madurai, Dindigul and Tiruchy skipping stoppages at Sivaganga, Karaikudi and Pudukkottai. Additional stoppages will be provided at Madurai and Dindigul for the convenience of passengers. Meanwhile, Tiruvarur-Karaikudi DEMU (06197) leaving Tiruvarur at 6.20 am on May 19 will be short terminated at Periyakottai, and will be partially cancelled between Periyakottai and Karaikudi. Also, Tiruchy-Karaikudi DEMU (06829) leaving Tiruchy at 10.15 am on May 19 will be short terminated at Chettinad, and partially cancelled between Chettinad and Karaikudi. Change in Origination of Train Service: Karaikudi-Tiruchy Passenger (06126) leaving Karaikudi at 7.05 am on May 19 will originate from Chettinad instead of Karaikkudi at 07.20 am. Rescheduling of Train Service: Karaikudi-Tiruvarur Passenger (06198) scheduled to leave Karaikkudi at 6 pm on May 19 has been rescheduled to leave Karaikkudi at 7 pm.

Rain alert: Madurai Corporation gears up to address rain woes

MADURAI: In the wake of the rain alert issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the city corporation is on standby to address rain catastrophes, and is gearing up to increase emphasis on rainwater harvesting schemes. As per latest IMD reports, several parts across the state are likely to witness sporadic and heavy rainfall for the next couple of days. With heavy downpour lashing Madurai for the past few days, the city has been facing severe waterlogging issues. Though major stagnation issues were addressed by authorities concerned, others including puddles of stagnated water and slurry mud continue to give a hard time for the residents, sources said. Speaking to TNIE, Murugesan, a resident of Villapuram, said, When the first rains occurred last week, a large amount of sewage mixed-water flowed out from an open sewage and got stagnated in front of the entrance of the government housing board apartments near the Padma Theater region. Even after a week, the grey slurry continues to remain there, emitting stench and risking public health. When contacted, a senior official from Madurai city corporation said that the corporation teams are ready to address issues in view of the rain alert. Our teams are monitoring flood-prone and low-lying areas in the city to prevent any untoward incidents. Sandbags and vehicles are kept ready for addressing water-logging issues. Action is being taken to drain out stagnated water within the city, and desilting works have also been initiated in areas with open sewage drains, the official said.

Shankar in Tiruchy cyber cops custody for a day

TIRUCHY: The additional mahila court on Thursday granted the district cyber crime police one days custody of YouTuber Savukku Shankar, who is in judicial remand, for inquiries in connection with a case on his alleged derogatory remarks against women police personnel. Shankar, who was already arrested by the Coimbatore police and lodged in a jail over his alleged slander, was booked separately by the Tiruchy district cyber crime police and produced before the Tiruchy court on Wednesday. The court then ordered for his judicial custody till May 28 and also adjourned to Thursday the hearing on a petition filed by the police seeking his custody for interrogation. On Thursday, Shankar, who was lodged in the Lalgudi sub-jail, was produced before additional mahila court magistrate D Jeyapradha. After hearing both sides, the magistrate granted the Tiruchy district cyber crime police one days custody of Shankar and ordered them to produce him in court at 4 pm on Friday. Meanwhile, the principal special court for EC and NDPS Act Cases in Madurai adjourned a bail petition moved by Shankar to May 20. When he was produced before the court on May 8 in connection with a ganja case booked against him by police in Theni district, he was remanded in judicial custody by the court till May 22. In this circumstance, Shankars counsel had moved a bail petition, which has been adjourned.

Monitor cops aiding drug peddlers: Madurai Bench of Madras HC

MADURAI: The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court on Thursday directed the chief secretary (CS), home secretary, and DGP to constitute a high-level secret committee to monitor those police officials who are suspected to be hand-in-glove with drug offenders. During a vacation sitting, a division bench of justices P Velmurugan and K Rajasekar disposed of a petition filed by G Theeran Thirumurugan, and said that the materials placed before it suggest that the state government has taken effective steps to curb free movement of drugs. However, the court felt that drug menace can be done away with if the police exercise more vigilance. The court observed the petitioners demands for a police outpost, patrolling, installation of CCTV cameras, and constitute a special wing to prevent peddling of ganja and transportation of other psychotropic substances in Othakadai, as the menace is leading to public nuisance. Though the petitioner has alleged the Madurai city police of inaction, in a counter affidavit the police have said that they arrested 78 accused persons in connection with 49 Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act cases. Bank accounts were frozen and properties attached. We have also opened history sheets against those involved in NDPS cases, and monitored them with a special team. So, allegations cannot be countenanced, said the court. Their counsel further submitted that Othakadai has 109 CCTV cameras, and more will be fixed. The counsel added that Othakadai has sufficient police patrolling. Observing that the petitioners grievances have been redressed, the Bench stated, The police department must ensure that effective steps are taken to curb drug movement in educational institutions and public places, by strictly adhering to the provisions of the NDPS Act.

Rain exposes poor quality of Madurai roads

HC directs Tamil Nadu to constitute high-level panel to monitor police officers suspected to be hand in glove with drug offenders

The court was hearing a public interest litigation petition against increasing drug addiction among youth leading to criminal activities in Othakadai in Madurai

Vaikasi festival begins at Koodal Azhagar Temple in Madurai

Vaikasi festival begins at Koodal Azhagar Temple in Madurai - The Hindu

Vaikasi festival begins at Koodal Azhagar Temple in Madurai The Hindu

Heavy to very heavy rain likely to pour in several districts of Tamil Nadu till May 20

CHENNAI: The regional meteorological centre on Thursday said that heavy to very heavy rain is likely to occur at isolated places in Kanniyakumari, Tirunelveli and Tenkasi districts till May 19. It also gave the same forecast for Thoothukudi and Theni on Friday; Theni, Coimbatore and The Nilgiris on Saturday and Sunday, and Dindigul on Sunday. The centre also added that isolated heavy to very heavy rain with extremely heavy rain at one or two places is likely to occur over the Ghat areas of Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Dindigul, and Theni, districts. Kanniyakumari, Tirunelveli and Tenkasi on May 20. According to the forecast, heavy rain is likely to occur at isolated places over Virudhunagar, Madurai, Pudukkottai, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Tiruppur, and Erode districts and Karaikal area. It is also likely to rain in Sivaganga, Ramanathapuram, Dindigul, Coimbatore, the Nilgiris on Friday, Tiruchirappalli, Karur, Namakkal, Salem, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Tirupattur, Thoothukudi, Ramanathapuram, Sivaganga, Dindigul on Saturday and Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Salem, Tiruchirappalli, Namakkal and Karur on Sunday. A father-daughter duo holds an umbrella while travelling on two-wheeler in Pondicherry on Thursday. As far as the general forecast, it said that light to moderate rain at many places with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds with speeds reaching 40-50 kmph at one or two places is likely to occur over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal area till May 20. The maximum temperature is likely to fall gradually by 3-4C at many places for the next five days and it will be below normal to normal in most parts. In Chennai, the maximum temperature is likely to be around 29C and the minimum temperature is likely to be 26-27C on Friday. While sky conditions will be cloudy, moderate rain with thunderstorms and lightning is likely to occur in some areas. In the 24 hours ending on Thursday morning, Pattukkottai in Thanjavur district registered the highest of 16 cm of rain, Singampunari in Sivagangai district 14 cm and Mannargudi in Thiruvarur 13 cm. Chennai and suburban areas also received widespread rains on Thursday.

Palm Leaf art expo in Madurai for 5 days from May 25th to 29th; ENTRY FREE; Invite to all Tamil lovers - Lotus Times ... - Lotus Times

Palm Leaf art expo in Madurai for 5 days from May 25th to 29th; ENTRY FREE; Invite to all Tamil lovers - Lotus Times ... Lotus Times

Girls on a mission

CHENNAI: As much as the jersey, players, ball and the net, the physical setup is important for any sport to thrive, consistency, motivation, dedication, and determination are equally significant for any sportsperson to succeed. These attributes make have led Kaviya M, Sivapriya C and Ananthi A to be shortlisted for the Under 20 Womens India Camp (Volleyball), and Prithika S for the Under 18 Womens India Camp (Volleyball). Staying at the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) hostel, these players wear blue, green and yellow jerseys, tighten their shoelaces and tie their hair into buns as they start their day just as there is a hint of sunrise. The practice sessions for the day start at 6 am at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Chennai. At this 18mx9m indoor volleyball court, the girls greet their coaches with folded hands and say Good morning sir! as the coach reciprocates. After a 10-minute warm-up session, the coach asks Are you ready girls? and the players respond Yes, sir. For the next three hours, the girls work on their techniques and learn various game tactics. The coach echoes Easy ball, girls easy ball and the girls go, adi...adi... (hit,hit) as they sweat, run, and fall on the court. Their practice session ends for the day, and the players stretch, the coach asks them to perform a series of exercises to loosen up. Last month, 120 participants from across the country were at the trials held at Bengaluru. Thirty were selected from the round and we are among them, says Ananthi, adding that a 12-member team will be selected to represent the country at the Asian Volleyball Championship. The competition will be held in China and Thailand in July. (L-R) Kaviya M, Prithika S, coach Santhosh, Sivapriya C and Ananthi A The hustle to Chennai Having played Beach Volleyball International in 2022, Ananthi shares, My parents are farmers and they live in Madurai. My relatives opposed me when I started showing interest in the sport. But when I was playing my first nationals, they said namba pulla pa idhu (this is our daughter) and now they are very encouraging. Ananthi has played 14 nationals to date. Ananthi was trained by Thoufiq, her volleyball coach before joining the SDAT hostel. It was he who trained Sivapriya from Theni as well. We are here because of our coach and the motivation he gave us. When I was not sure of my game, it was him who believed in me and encouraged me to play, shares Sivapriya, adding that her performance improved during the lockdown leading to her selection to the SDAT hostel. The coach also helped her overcome her sisters demise. I was practising for nationals in 2021 and my mother called to inform me of the demise. At that time, my full focus was on the game. When I went home after a couple of days, Thoufiq sir was with me during the hard times. This is one of the memorable events of my sporting career so far, points out Sivapriya. Interestingly, Kaviyas memorable moment was the same national practice session. I did not qualify because I did not know how to play short ball and it was at this session that I learnt how to, she shares. For Prithika, every opportunity she gets is unforgettable and she plans to make the most out of them. Chennai to China The Asian Volleyball Championship is the next big chance for the girls, for which they start their day with a notebook that coach Santhosh carries. The book is filled with motivational quotes. There is a new one every day and he makes us say it 15 times before practice. That boosts our energy, shares Ananthi. Along with Santhosh, Pandian and Maheshwari train the girls. Kaliman larundhu eppadi bommaigala uruvakurangalo, enga coach engala uruvakunanga (Like how clay is used to shape dolls, our coaches created who we are), she points out. These coaches are present for four sessions 6 am to 9 am, 10.30 am to noon, 3 pm to 5.30 pm and 6.30 pm to 8.00 pm. We do not have time to think of ourselves. All our thoughts are about life and soul which is volleyball. It makes us happy, shares Sivapriya, adding, Though our concentration is completely on the game, the next move, and how to not give the opponent an easy victory, we also keep looking at the trophy and how to lift it. With their eyes locked on the upcoming Asian Volleyball Championship trophy, the girls are confident that they will qualify for the game and win paving the way to fulfil their dream of securing a spot in the national volleyball team.

Tamil Nadu: 13 lakh more pay electricity bills online compared to 2023

CHENNAI: Year on year, the state is marking a sharp increase in the number of consumers making their electricity bill payment online, according to the data accessed by TNIE from Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation. In April 2023, 57.25 lakh consumers opted for online payments and the number surged to 70.20 lakh by April 2024. Consequently, the collection from digital payments increased from Rs 1,550 crore to Rs 2,010 crore during the same period. A senior Tangedco official told TNIE , Out of the total 3.5 crore consumers, which include domestic users, commercial establishments, and industries, Tangedco collects payment from nearly one crore of them every month (as per their billing cycle). Of these, over 70% are now using online payment methods. Another official said major cities like Chennai, Tiruchy, Coimbatore, and Madurai have seen a significant increase in online payments. However, we still need to focus on improving digital payments in rural areas and hill stations. K Kathirmathiyon, secretary of Coimbatore Consumer Cause, said, Though the increasing trend in online payment is welcoming, it is essential to introduce an Electronic Clearing System (ECS), for the ease of senior citizens. ECS is a method of automatic fund deduction from bank accounts, once the owner authenticates the billers details. Responding to this, a senior official said, We have received the same demand from several consumers and are currently analysing it. Biometric system to be set up in Tangedco offices Coimbatore: Tangedco will soon be implementing the Aadhaar-Enabled Biometric Attendance System (AEBAS) in all its offices. The senior personnel officer (Labour) on Tuesday sent a letter to all chief engineers to submit the consolidated particulars such as sanctioned post, all office addresses, availability of computers and networks at offices, email ID etc. There is a high chance for the system to come into force in two or three months, said sources.

71,000 kilos of ganja caught between 2021-23, Madras HC told

MADURAI: As many as 2,486 accused persons, belonging to other states, were arrested under the NDPS Act and 71,000 kg ganja seized between 2021 and 2023, stated a counter affidavit that the NIB-CID filed before the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court on a PIL seeking additional police outpost and patrolling to curb movement of ganja, among other illegal activities, in Othakadai. The affidavit was submitted before the Division Bench of Justices P Velmurugan and K Rajasekar. The NIB-CID in their affidavit said that 1.17 lakh anti-drug awareness programmes, addressing 34.56 lakh people, were conducted in 2023. The document stated that 18,000 anti-drug clubs were active in educational institutions. As many as 7,389 bank accounts were frozen in 2023, and Rs 1.43 crore-worth properties were frozen. Out of the total of 16,432 accused persons, 2,077 were arrested over violation of bonds in 2023. As many as 1,331 non-bailable warrants were issued and 3,719 vehicles seized. The affidavit also mentioned that steps were taken to increase the rate of conviction. A total of 20,323 kg ganja was seized in 2021, 27,208 kg in 2022, and 23,468 kg in 2023. In a separate counter affidavit, the police department submitted that they set up an outpost in Othakadai, deployed personnel, and installed CCTVs to curb the sale of drugs and other illegal activities. The agency also submitted that the district police booked 160 ganja cases in 2023, and 66 cases till May 10 this year. Within the station limit, they have arrested 78 persons in 49 cases in the last five years and seized 1,070.67 kg from them.

Arrest of YouTuber Felix illegal, take action on cops: JAACT

MADURAI: Alleging that Tamil Nadu police did not follow guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court while arresting YouTuber Felix Gerald, the Joint Action Against Custodial Torture, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry (JAACT) has appealed to Chief Minister M K Stalin to take action against the officers involved. The outfit has alleged that Gerald was arrested by Tiruchy police in New Delhi and brought to Tamil Nadu without obtaining a transit warrant. A press release signed by JAACT leaders stated, Strict adherence to Section 41A of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) is now mandatory as per the direction of Supreme Court in the DK Basu v/s State of West Bengal case, as well as the standard operating procedure issued by former Director General of Police Sylendra Babu. Redpix journalist Felix Gerald's arrest in Delhi without a warrant and non-obtaining a transit warrant in Delhi and his present incarceration are sufficient proof of gross violation of the law relating to arrest enshrined in the Criminal Procedure Code 1973. These acts of Tamil Nadu police contravene Articles 20, 21 and 22 of the Constitution of India. All the offences against Felix Gerald in the case in which he was arrested and remanded do not have a sentence above seven years, hence his remand by the judicial magistrate Tiruchy is totally contrary to the directives of the apex court in Arnesh Kumar v/s State of Bihar. Youtuber Gerald, second accused in Savukku Shankar case, held in Delhi JAACT urged Chief Minister MK Stalin to take disciplinary action against police inspector Veeramani and his team for the illegal arrest of Gerald as well as all higher officials including Tiruchy superintendent of police. It also appealed to the Madras High Court to initiate disciplinary action against the judicial magistrate who remanded Felix to custody contrary to the directions of the apex court. Further, it demanded that the YouTuber be immediately shifted to another prison to provide security for his life. Sources in Tiruchy police said, The court was convinced when we pointed out the practical difficulties in obtaining a transit warrant in Delhi as only a small team of officers went there to arrest Felix. We submitted proof like the time of arrest, the travelling time, and the train ticket. The sources added that elections in Delhi were one of the reasons for not obtaining a transit warrant.

Fire raging at Madurai garbage dump for past week

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Quick Reaction team of police felicitated in Madurai

Rain lashes many parts of Madurai

Breakfast scheme benefits 1.14 lakh students in Madurai district

Gold worth Rs 10 cr seized from Ramnad, Sivaganga

MADURAI: A total of 13.95 kg of gold, valued at Rs 10.03 crore, was seized in two separate incidents in Ramanathapuram and Sivaganga on Tuesday. Sources said based on a tip-off about the smuggling of gold from Sri Lanka through coastal areas, sleuths of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) mounted surveillance in the two districts. A team of DRI sleuths intercepted one person and recovered six packets containing 5.89 kg of gold at Ramanathapuram. Separately, another team intercepted two carriers transporting smuggled gold and two persons who were about to receive the gold in Sivaganga district. During the search, they found seven packets containing 8.06 kg of gold. A preliminary probe revealed the seized gold was smuggled into India from Sri Lanka through Pudukottai district. The DRI sleuths apprehended five persons. Further investigation is under way. 1.2 kg of gold seized Tiruchy: Air Intelligence Unit of customs seized 1.2 kg of gold valued at Rs 92 lakh from a passenger at Tiruchy airport. Officers intercepted a passenger who arrived from Sharjah and found gold concealed inside a tile cutting machine. Customs officials arrested him and seized the gold.

Tamil Nadu: Incessant rainfall hits harvest-ready paddy in 600 acres, farmers seek aid

MADURAI: With heavy downpour lashing the district for the past few days, paddy farmers of Chellampatti region rued harvest loss stating that over 600 acres of paddy crops got inundated, and urged the state government to grant compensation. Several farmers of Melur, Chellampatti and Usilampatti regions, who were involved in the summer paddy cultivation, suffered severe crop damage due to the sporadic rainfall that hit the harvest-ready paddy crops. According to sources, areas of the Chellampatti block witnessed severe downpour, leading to waterlogging issues in the paddy fields of several villages, including Muthalaipatti, Ayuanarpuram and others. It may be noted that paddy, one of the major crops cultivated in Madurai, covers over 50,000 hectares of cultivable land in the district across multiple seasons, including the Samba, Kuruvai and Summer seasons. Speaking to TNIE, Thirumangalam Vaigai Irrigation Farmers Association president MP Raman said, I cultivated Andra Ponni in six acres in Mudhalaikulam village, and spent Rs 30,000 per acre. Just 20 days ahead of the harvest, the summer rains caused water logging in the fields and spoiled the crops, resulting in a loss of nearly Rs 1.5 lakh. He further urged the government to provide crop insurance and compensation for crop damage, and added that more than 600 acres of paddy crops in Chellampatti also suffered a similar fate owing to unseasonal rains and consequent waterlogging issues. The agricultural department should enumerate the crop damage and provide compensation accordingly, he added. When contacted, a senior official from the agriculture department said that block level officials have been directed to enumerate the crop damage in Chellampatti areas. Primarily, farmers have been advised to drain out the rainwater from their fields. Following this, remedial action will be taken. If the water stagnation continues, crops might get damaged. Hence, the department is monitoring the situation and creating awareness among farmers, he added.

Intense rain likely in TN till May 18

CHENNAI: The maximum temperature in most parts of the state has remained below normal due to ongoing wet spell which has been bringing heavy rain. The regional meteorological centre has extended heavy rainfall warning in several districts till May 18. In the last 24 hours ending 8.30 am on Tuesday, Makkinampatti in Coimbatore received highest rainfall of 8 cm followed by Pollachi and Thoothukudi port weather stations at 7 cm. Several other weather stations in Virudhunagar, Dindigul, Theni, Nilgiris, Kanniyakumari and Tiruppur received heavy to moderate rainfall. The met office said there will be rainfall till May 20, but heavy showers are forecasted till May 18. Around 15 to 20 districts will receive heavy rain from May 16 to 18. The Nilgiris, ghat areas of Coimbatore, Salem, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Tirupattur, Dindigul, Namakkal, Karur, Tiruchy, Madurai, Sivaganga, Virudhunagar, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Pudukkottai, Theni,Tenkasi, Tirunelveli and Kanniyakumari districts and Karaikal area. In Chennai, sky will be partly cloudy with the possibility of light rain. Maximum temperature will be 36-37 C and the night time temperature will be around 28-29 for the next two days.

Guest lecturers demand regularisation amid TN's 4K assistant professor hiring

MADURAI: Makkal Kalvi Kootiyakkam has urged Chief Minister MK Stalin to regularise guest lecturers working in various colleges across Tamil Nadu. In a press statement, Kootiyakkam coordinators R Murali, Sivakumar and Kana Kurinji said TN Teachers Recruitment Board had issued a notice to fill 4,000 assistant professors vacancies in government colleges across the state. But, over 10,000 guest lecturers are already working for over 10 years in government arts and science colleges with UGCs prescribed qualification of PG with SET/NET/Ph.D and have to be regularised. The Madras High Court has given a judgement in favour of them to regularise 1,146 guest lecturers and the government passed an order in this regard. However, TNTRB has now given a notice to fill the posts, they said. The coordinators urged Stalin to regularise the guest lecturers immediately, and provide the UGCs prescribed monthly salary of Rs 57,000 to these people working in government, government aided and self-financing colleges.

Madurai district registers 92.07% pass percentage in Class XI board examination

Heavy rain to lash parts of Tamil Nadu, light spell for Chennai

CHENNAI: Heavy rains will continue to lash several districts in Tamil Nadu till May 17, providing the people with much-needed relief from the sweltering heat. In the 24 hours ending 8.30 am on Monday, Sivagiri in Tenkasi received the highest rainfall of 12 cm followed by Chittar in Kanniyakumari and Periyakulam in Theni which recorded 8 cm each. In the 24 hours until 5.30 pm, Periyakulam received 37 mm and Valparai 23 mm. The regional meteorological centre said the southwest monsoon is likely to advance into the South Andaman Sea, some parts of the southeast Bay of Bengal and Nicobar Islands around May 19. The present rain spell is caused by a trough over the state. While Chennai may receive light rains, the ghats, interior districts and some southern districts are likely to receive heavy showers. The Met Office has also issued a yellow alert as thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds with speeds reaching 30-40 kmph are likely over several places. Till May 15, Dindigul, Theni, Madurai, Virudhunagar, Tenkasi, Tirunelveli and Kanniyakumari districts are likely to receive heavy rains, and in the next two days, Nilgiris, ghat areas of Coimbatore, Salem, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Tirupattur, Dindigul, Namakkal, Karur, Tiruchy, Madurai, Sivaganga, Virudhunagar Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Pudukottai, Theni, Tenkasi, Tirunelveli, Kanniyakumari districts and Karaikal region will witness heavy rains. After a gap of several weeks, none of the weather stations in the state breached 40 degrees Celsius on Monday owing to the present rain spell. Erode recorded the maximum highest temperature of 39.4 degrees Celsius. Almost all the districts have been witnessing below-normal temperatures, including Chennai. The city recorded 36-37 degrees Celsius on the day, which is 1.4 degrees below normal.

HCL Concerts Presents The Great Indian Classical Podcast Exploring the Nuances of India's Ancient Musical Tradition

HCL Concerts Presents The Great Indian Classical Podcast Exploring the Nuances of India's Ancient Musical Tradition HCL Concerts, an initiative dedicated to preserving and promoting the Indian classical performing arts unveiled, ''The Great Indian Classical Podcast with Nirali Kartik,'' one of the first series dedicated to conversations around Indian Classical Music. The inaugural season, comprising 10 episodes, will be aired every alternate Tuesday from 14th May to 17th September 2024. The first edition will feature veteran classical music artists including Taufiq Qureshi (Percussions), Rakesh Chaurasia (Flute), N Rajam (Violin), Yogesh Samsi (Tabla), Sanjeev Abhyankar (Vocals) and Rupak Kulkarni (Flute) among others. The podcast will be hosted by renowned classical vocalist Nirali Kartik and would be available on HCL Concerts YouTube, Facebook, Instagram handles and everywhere you listen to your podcasts. Nirali has captivated audiences worldwide with her soul-stirring performances. The hour-long episodes of podcasts will offer insights into the featured artist's history, personal journey, and professional evolution. The first episode will feature Taufiq Qureshi, a percussionist whose innovative fusion of African Djembe with Indian rhythmic compositions has left an indelible mark on the music landscape of India. Listeners can expect an insightful conversation with Qureshi, offering a glimpse into his artistic journey and unique musical contributions. Nirali Kartik said, ''Indian classical music is one of the finest musical art forms in the world. There is a process to attain mastery of this art form and my focus as the host is to bring out the nuances of this process from our esteemed maestros. Being a curious learner and a musician, I am grateful to HCL for supporting my dream of doing a podcast with the maestros of Hindustani Classical Music. This will be of immense benefit for music students as well as anyone who wants to know more about our heritage music.'' Anshul Adhikari, Head of HCL Concerts, said, Podcasting has emerged as one of the most versatile and accessible storytelling mediums across the globe. This series reflects HCL Concerts commitment to supporting and nurturing Indian classical performing arts and amplifying classical musicians' voices and potential worldwide. Nirali Kartik's dedication to the genre and her strong connection, especially with younger audiences, make her an ideal host, bridging classical music with contemporary platforms.'' About Nirali Kartik Nirali Kartik is a renowned Indian classical vocalist celebrated for her mesmerizing renditions and deep-rooted musicality. With a voice that effortlessly traverses intricate melodies and emotive expressions, Nirali has captivated audiences worldwide with her soul-stirring performances. Alongside her husband and musical collaborator, Kartik, she forms the dynamic duo ''Maati Baani,'' blending traditional Indian music with contemporary sounds to create a unique and captivating musical experience. With her unwavering dedication to preserving and innovating within the realm of Indian classical music, Nirali Kartik continues to inspire listeners and push the boundaries of musical exploration. About HCL Concerts The conservation and promotion of Indias art and cultural heritage are very close to HCLs heart. To this end, HCL has been organizing HCL Concerts for over 25 years, dedicated to nurturing and promoting talent rooted in the glorious heritage of Indian music and dance. Concerts under the umbrella of HCL Concerts are organized in Delhi NCR, Lucknow, Nagpur, Madurai, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune and Bengaluru in India and New York and San Francisco in the US regularly throughout the year. Over 2200 artists have graced this platform and have contributed towards reinvigorating the Indian classical performing arts. Over the years, more platforms have been developed to contribute to the growth of the Indian performing arts ecosystem. Most notable of these are HCL Concerts Baithak - a series of virtual performances by accomplished and upcoming Indian classical music and dance artists, HCL Concerts Soundscapes - showcasing independent and inclusive music from across the Indian landscape including genres like Sufi, Folk, and Indie-pop.

Not so pulpy mango business

KRISHNAGIRI: In Kondireddipatti, a hamlet not too far away from Krishnagiri, the fragrance of mango fills the hot air. But the usual chitter chatter is missing on the nine-acre mango orchard owned by KM Soundararajan. Like many other farmers, he also managed to harvest only half of last years production. In 2023, I had managed to produce over 23 tonnes of mangoes, though 50% was affected by disease. This year, we have had a harvest of about six tonnes until now, and at most, we can expect six more tonnes by the end of the season, says Soundararajan, who is also president of Mango Farmers Federation. The drastic drop in yield has led to a significant reduction in procurement by mango mandi owners, who supply fruits to the pulp industry. VI Mabhu Sheriff, a trader, confirms the fall. Last year, we procured 50 to 60 tonnes every day, which has now shrunk to 2-3 tonnes. Usually, we also procure only smaller quantities of mangoes from other states. It has gone up significantly this year owing to the situation in Krishnagiri. Apart from Krishnagiri, mangoes are also cultivated in Salem, Dharmapuri, Theni and Madurai. On average, a farmer spends Rs 40,000 per acre on irrigated land and Rs 30,000 on rain-fed areas. Of the total coverage of 32,300 hectares in Krishnagiri district, 3,000 hectares are irrigated and the rest are rain-fed. If pests played spoilsport last year, harsh climatic conditions have done the damage this year. Soundararajan adds, Usually, a mango tree flowers by December and January. Flowers shrivelled due to the intense heat this year and lack of sufficient rain in the early part of 2024 worsened the situation. The government should provide a compensation of Rs 20,000 per acre for mango farmers and provide an incentive of Rs 5 for every kg produced. With production taking a major dip, farmers are worried that the total annual yield will not help them recover even pesticide costs. A Abdul Rasheed of MTV Nagar in Krishnagiri cultivates Malgova, Alphonso and Senthora varieties on his 70-acre farm. The yield stood at 140 tonnes in 2022 and 160 last year. This year, I could harvest only five tonnes so far. I don't see total yield going higher than 15 tonnes, says Rasheed. Apart from climatic conditions, the export of mango pulp has taken a big hit owing to the Ukraine-Russia war and the Red Sea crisis. Export to Europe and various other countries stood at Rs 2,700 crore in 2023. Industry sources say the markets have been captured by exporters from South America. E Madhavan, general secretary, of Krishnagiri Mango pulp Processors Federation, says, Over one lakh tonnes of pulp (Totapuri variety) produced last year has been left unsold. In 2023, we procured about 9 lakh tonnes of mangoes and produced about 4.5 tonnes of pulp. Over 3 lakh tonnes of our procurement came from Krishnagiri. In 2022, we procured 5 lakh tonnes out of which one lakh tonne was from Krishnagiri. This year, we could procure only 500 tonnes so far. Madhavan wanted the state government to waive the demand charge for electricity incurred by the large pulp industry for using high-tension power as the pulp industry functions only three months a year. He also wanted interest to be waived for last year's loan. Concurring with the farmers, Krishnagiri Collector KM Sarayu says a recent survey by the horticulture department in the district shows a dip in yield with over 80% of crops being affected by climatic conditions. A report has been sent to the state government, she adds. Frost in December 2023 followed by intense summer heat this year, coupled with pest attacks, has also taken a toll on cultivation in Dharmapuri. Coverage in the district is 12,600 hectares and 1.4 lakh tonnes of mangoes are produced every year. K Perumal, a mango cultivator from Karimangalam, says farmers like him are staring at a loss of over 80% this year. Some of the farmers rue that yield has hit an all-time low in the last two decades. J Srinivasan, farmer-cum-retailer in Salem, says, Last year, we used to receive 100 tonnes of mangoes in the market every day, which has come down to 60 this year, which is a very significant dip. S Marimuthu, who owns a 60-acre farm in Konganapuram, laments that he is grappling with a huge loss, unable to recover any of his investments. (With inputs from Jevin Selwyn Henry and K Shakthivel) Mango variety price (Rs per kg) Senthura 80 Salem Bangalora 250 Malgova 240 Alphonso - 150 Banganapalli - 120 Totapuri - 13- 20 ( primarily used by pulp industry)

MKU VC Kumar relieved of duties following resignation

MADURAI: Madurai Kamaraj University (MKU) Vice-Chancellor (VC) J Kumar was relieved from his duty on Monday. Although Kumar had submitted his resignation letter earlier, the Department of Higher Education did not form a convener committee to govern the varsity till a new vice-chancellor was appointed. Kumar assumed office on April 1, 2022, and has a tenure of three years. While Kumar still has 11 months for his tenure to end, he expressed his desire to resign and accordingly, submitted his resignation to Governor RN Ravi. The governor accepted the resignation on May 3 and Kumar was relieved from his duties on Monday. He is set to vacate his official bungalow on Tuesday morning. Usually, the principal secretary to the Department of Higher Education recommends the name of a syndicate member of the MKU to the convener committee during the urgent syndicate meeting. However, no such meeting has been held to date. Speaking to TNIE , Kumar said that as per his resignation letter, he was relieved on Monday. I was unaware of the urgent syndicate meeting on forming a convener committee to govern the university, till a new VC is appointed, he said. Speaking to TNIE on the condition of anonymity, a syndicate member from MKU said that it is essential to form a convener committee before the VC is relieved. To date, no communication has been received in this regard. We expect the meeting to be convened within this week, the official said.

Consumer panel orders private hospital in TN to pay Rs 5L over mistreatment

MADURAI: The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Madurai recently observed that medical professionals should shoulder their responsibilities with utmost care and caution as common people treat doctors as Gods on earth and completely surrender themselves to them. The commission, comprising president M Piravi Perumal and member P Shanmugapriya, made the observation while directing a private hospital to pay Rs 5 lakh compensation to a woman petitioner, for the mental agony, pain, anxiety and indignation suffered by her while undergoing treatment for ectopic pregnancy. According to the petitioner, who is also a lawyer, she underwent treatment at the aforesaid hospital for four days in September 2023. She alleged that she was mistreated and was not even provided medicines and food on time. Though the petitioner had informed the hospital authorities of possessing a cashless insurance coverage, she was asked to pay the bill in money against the claims and told that she will get a refund later, once the insurance money was received by the hospital. Subsequently, the petitioner opted for another private hospital, owing to severe pain, where she realised that there was no mention of the administration of an injection with major side-effects, on the discharge summary. However, the counsel of the hospital refused the averments and allegations terming them as imaginations, and claimed that the petitioner was provided the best treatment, sources said. Meanwhile, the commission, which stated that the medicines administered in the hospital were proper, however, acknowledged negligence and deficiency in service for not getting an informed-consent from the patient and failing to mention the administration of the drug in the discharge summary. The commission also found that the hospital did not take proper steps to process the petitioner's insurance claims.

Madurai residents seek permanent fix for waterlogging, sewage overflow

MADURAI: With heavy downpour lashing the city for the past three days, several prominent places, including the Meenakshi Amman Temple, Periyar bus stand, Arapalayam and others, witnessed severe waterlogging issues. Though immediate measures were taken by the corporation to drain out the stagnated rainwater, locals urged for permanent measures to prevent similar issues in future. Madurai and its neighbouring regions have been facing rainfall since Friday, with the district receiving 17.8 mm of rain on Saturday. While the ongoing showers are a respite for the summer heat, citizens expressed concern over the waterlogging, sewage overflow and garbage-strewn roads. Though stagnated water in some areas evaporates in the high temperature of the day, puddles on uneven roads are a cause of worry to commuters. Speaking to TNIE, S Agni Veeran (30) of Vilangudi said, Clogged underground drainage (UGD) lines have overflown in various areas of the city, and the rainwater mixed with sewage has created a haphazard situation for the people. Moreover, waterlogging has become a major issue in the premises of Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, as the whole road gets filled with rainwater. M Masthan, a resident of Meenakshi Nagar, alleged that their domestic areas lack UGD lines and sewage flows along the road sides. In Aruppukottai, the main road gets clogged with sewage within 30 minutes of rainfall, and it takes a couple of days for the situation to return to normalcy. The clogged up sewage can often be sighted at the entrance of the govt apartment at the Padma Theatre region too, he said, and added that though the corporation tries to desilt the open sewage once in a blue moon, it gets clogged again after a few days. Meanwhile, local activists urged the corporation to take steps to ensure proper maintenance of the rain drains, which often get clogged with roadside silt, and formulate plans to direct the rain water to the 13 canals that flow within the city. Responding to the concerns, a senior official from the city corporation said that necessary action has been taken to clear out stagnated water from across the city. In major areas such as Arapalayam subway and Meenakshi temple premises, water was drained out using pumps, a couple of hours after the rain. Sand fillers have also been used in case of low-lying areas, the official said. Furthermore, the official pointed out the possibility of using suction lorries, pumps and other vehicles in case of new complaints of water stagnation. Measures are also under way to rectify issues in open sewage areas.

As agri department gears up to open storage facility, traders want it in Mattuthavani market premises

MADURAI: As the department of agricultural marketing gears up to kickstart the operation of a cold storage facility at Mattuthavani Sidco by June end, traders have requested the department to reconsider their decision citing the distance between the market and the facility, and the transportation expenses that they will have to incur. The storage facility at Sidco consists of an area for auction, a 35 metric tonne storage facility, and spaces for shops. The agriculture marketing department's earlier plan was to establish a regulatory market at the facility. However, in view of the demand of traders and farmers, from Mattuthavani vegetable and fruit market, for a cold storage, the department obliged and the facility will be open for use by the end of June. At a minimal pay, farmers and traders will be able to store their fruits and vegetables in the cold storage, thereby increasing their shelf life. The open shed areas could be used for purposes of auctioning and wholesale activities. Responding to the development, Chinnamayan, president of the vegetable traders association at Mattuthavani market, stated that on an average, about 10 tonnes of vegetables get spoiled daily due to the lack of a storage facility in the market. Though the traders were promised a market equipped with all facilities, they have been making do with the market covered with a shed, which does not have the basic amenities, added Chinnamayan. This was brought to the notice of the agriculture department officials, who have announced a cold storage facility, a kilometer away from the Mattuthavani market. The distance of the facility will make it hard for the traders and farmers, as both will have to incur transportation expenses. Therefore, we request that the decision be reconsidered, and efforts be made to provide storage facilities within the market premises, said Chinnamayan.

GO issued to prosecute TN BJP chief Annamalai for comments against CN Annadurai

CHENNAI: The state government has accorded permission to prosecute BJPs state president K Annamalai under sections of IPC, by the order of the governor. The permission came based a complaint by V Piyush of Salem with the district collector following which the latter requested sanction of prosecution from the state under Section 196. According to a GO issued by public (L&O department) secretary K Nandakumar, Piyush lodged a complaint regarding Annamalais speech in Salem last September. Annamalai cited an incident relating to the year 1956 when Forward Bloc leader Muthuramalinga Thevar allegedly threatened former chief minister CN Annadurai and PT Rajan by saying that if the non-believers spoke about Hindu faith as they do, instead of offering milk to Madurai Meenakshi Amman, human blood would be offered for Abishekham. Annamalai also claimed that Annadurai apologised to Thevar and ran away from Madurai. Piyush urged the Salem collector to take action against the speech which would promote enmity between different groups. Subsequently, the Salem district collector requested for sanction of prosecution under Section 196 as mandated by law. The order said that after careful consideration and deliberation and scrupulous study of the materials independently, the government is stratified that Annamalais statement is to promote disharmony, feelings of enmity, hatred and ill-will between different groups. Hence, under Section 196, the governor accords sanction for the prosecution for offences punishable under Section 153-A, sub-section(2), Section 153-B and others section to be taken cognizance by a court of complete jurisdiction. Soon after the GO was released, Annamalai said on X platform, In the last 3 years, the draconian DMK govt has filed plenty of cases against me and our karyakarthas for speaking the truth & has recently issued a sanction to prosecute me yet again. Welcoming the sanction, he added, I wholeheartedly thank the DMK govt for allowing us to recall what Thevar said in 1956, which they wish to erase from peoples memories. Criticising the government, he said, Our message to the DMK govt: You cant stop us from exposing what is what. File as many cases as you want. It may be recalled that the government has already accorded permission to prosecute Annamalai for his hate speech against a Christian missionary NGO. It was Piyush who had lodged a complaint against Annamalai following an interview in YouTube in which the BJP leader said Christian missionaries were behind the case that led to the Supreme Court restricting firecrackers during Deepavali.

Off the cuff: Big birthday bash?

As per buzz within the circles of actor Vijays fan club and his proposed political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, Thalapathy has plans to organise a state-level conference, similar to those of the Dravidian majors, on his birthday June 22 at Madurai. The actor is also planning to officially launch his party and introduce the functionaries, from state to district levels, during the conference. Though his ground-level fans have confirmed that this is not just a rumour, the district-level functionaries of his fan club said the idea is still in the works. Elementary, my dear Watson On a fine sunny weekend, two friends from a border village near Villupuram decided to visit Puducherry, looking forward to a jolly good time boozing and riding back on their two-wheelers. On their way back home, the men in high-spirits took a break near a farmland. All credits to whatever they drank, one of them forgot he was riding another vehicle and hopped on his friends two-wheeler and reached home. Two days passed and the parked bike raised suspicions in the locality. The owner, on the other hand, woke up the next day with a clear head. Having forgotten the entire incident, he came to the conclusion that his bike was stolen from his house. While he was about to lodge a complaint, Puducherry police contacted him regarding the forgotten bike. After a small advice session, the vehicle was returned to its owner. (Would they have asked what he drank?) Banned bands It was a common sight to see on May 5, girls with loose hair emerging out of NEET centres in Tamil Nadu, as they were not allowed to tie their hair with hair bands of any sort. One aspirant, who had knee-length hair, lamented about how uncomfortable she was throughout the duration of the examination, with her hair left untied. She found it odd, the notion of cutting her hair for a single day, and requested authorities to allow girls to tie up their hair at least after checking. (Contributed by S Kumaresan; Bagalavan Perier B, Subashini Vijayakumar; compiled by Suriya B)

TN BJP chief Annamalai booked by TN police for recalling 1956 event linked to Annadurai

TN BJP chief Annamalai booked by TN police for recalling 1956 event linked to Annadurai BJP Tamil Nadu unit president K Annamalai on Sunday said the DMK government has accorded sanction to prosecute him for recalling an event of 1956 that involved DMK founder C N Annadurai and freedom fighter Muthuramalinga Thevar. Tagging a copy of the government sanction, Annamalai, in a post on 'X', said: ''In the last 3 years, the draconian DMK Govt has filed plenty of cases against me & our BJP Karyakarthas for speaking the truth & has recently issued a sanction to prosecute me yet again.'' Now, the sanction was to prosecute him for ''recalling an event in the past,'' he said. Furthermore, Annamalai said: ''I wholeheartedly thank the DMK Govt for allowing us to recall what Deivathirumaganar Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar said in 1956, which they wish to erase from people's memories. Our message to the DMK Govt: You can't stop us from exposing what is what. File as many cases as you want! The sanction of prosecution for alleged hate speech has been given under Section 196 of the CrPc, which deals with cognizance of offences against the state and the prior sanction of the Central or the State government for offences such as promotion of enmity (Sec 153 A, IPC). The order says the District Collector of Salem had written to the government on a plea from a resident (social activist) V Piysuh requesting sanction for prosecution under Sec 196 CrPc as mandated by law. Following consideration, the order said sanction for prosecution is accorded for offences including promotion of enmity. On September 11, 2023, leading a demonstration against Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister P K Sekar Babu for his participation in the 'Sanatana Dharma' eradication conference here, Annamalai had made a comment on Annadurai. The BJP leader said Anna had in the 1950s made a critical remark in Madurai against the Hindu faith at an event, and that it was staunchly opposed by freedom fighter Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar. Days after, Annamalai insisted that he did not speak ill of Anna and had only mentioned an event from the pages of history and the manner in which Muthuramalinga Thevar had defended Sanatana Dharma. To substantiate his claim, the BJP leader said, he had copies of news reports that appeared in the month of June in 1956 in a top national English daily.''Anyone may read. It was a 10-day Tamil Sangam event.'' The Saffron party leader asked if he could not stand in defence of 'Sanatana Dharma' what use was there in him holding the position of state unit chief of the BJP. ''Look at history as history. I am very clear. Nowhere will I belittle anyone. I did not insult or underestimate anyone, anywhere; history should be spoken as it was and if it is not liked (by some people), it's okay,'' he had said last year. Muthuramalinga Thevar (1908-1963), a freedom fighter, was a noted Forward Bloc leader as well. DMK founder Annadurai (1909-1969) is popularly known as Anna (elder brother).

250 sovereigns, Rs 5L stolen from woman cops house in Tamil Nadu; probe on

MADURAI: After more than 250 sovereigns of gold jewellery and Rs 5 lakh in cash were stolen from the house of a police inspector at Alanganallur in Madurai district, the police have formed special teams to nab the accused, whose identity remains unknown. The incident came to light on Friday when the family members of inspector Sharmila, attached to the Vilampatti police station in Dindigul district, returned home. Sharmilas two children, who stay at the house, had gone to their grandmothers house in Chatravellapatti village on May 8. The miscreants had broken down the door and looted the valuables. Police teams scrutinized CCTV footage, and believe that the incident might have occurred late on May 8. Three special teams have been formed. Criminals with similar modus operandi and others are being investigated. Recently, the family had renovated the house and carried over some carpentry works. Therefore, those involved in the works are also being quizzed, sources said.

Curb accidents at firecracker units, ex-minister tells CM Stalin

MADURAI: AIADMK ex-minister RB Udhayakumar urged the state government, led by Chief Minister MK Stalin, to concentrate on controlling the fatal accidents at firework units as the total death toll due to such mishaps has increased to 28 in five months in Virudhunagar district in 2024. In a press note, Udhayakumar stated that the deaths at firecracker units were primarily due to violations at the units. Calling the governments directives to follow norms as mere eyewash, he said the government must check if the workers are given sufficient training, and have adequate safety equipment. Five persons were killed in fire mishaps in January, followed by 12 in February, and 10 in May, he said, adding that 26 people were also injured in such mishaps. Even if those who were severely injured survived, they cannot return to a normal life. The employers have risked the lives of workers just for the sake of revenue. What is the point of providing compensation to people after their death? Their loss is irreplaceable to their families, he said.

When will Madurai, Trichy wake up? - The Times of India

When will Madurai, Trichy wake up? The Times of India

High heat, low water; Farmers go coco nuts in Tamil Nadu

THANJAVUR: The coconut fruit buds (kurumbai) are all over the place, on the ground. S Nagarajan, a coconut farmer at Kuruvikkarambai in Thanjavur district, could do nothing but stare at the tall trees in his grove, for he knows the sight is just the forerunner of the heavy yield loss that he would face in the months to come. Blame it on the heat prevailing in the area for the last so many weeks, says a visibly disturbed Nagarajan pointing at the buds. Naturally this will lead to yield loss during the coming plucking time, he adds. Its not just Nagarajans plight. For the farmers through out the Delta, the situation is the same. N Sundararajan, a coconut farmer from Kuruchi near Pattukkottai, adds another reason for the falling coconut fruit buds. Earlier, the breeze from the sea nearby would be cooler and helped retain the moisture in the air, thereby helping the kurumbai stay in the spathe (a curved bract) itself. But, the ocean temperature has now increased and the breeze is no longer cool, says Sundararajan. His claims have been confirmed by a study by the European Unions Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) which pointed out that ocean temperature hit a record high in February. Another problem faced by the coconut farmers in the delta region has been the depleting groundwater level. The groundwater which was available at 80-100 feet has now gone below 200 feet. I am not able to pump enough to irrigate my entire grove that has 1,100 trees spread over 15 acres, says R Palanivelu, a farmer from Therkukottai village near Pappanadu in Thanjavur district. Adding to their woes, the farmers are facing an erratic power supply. Though the officials claim power supply is being ensured for 12 hours (6 hours in the morning and 6 hours in the night) through the dedicated three-phase grid meant for agriculture purpose, we dont know the exact schedule when the power will be available. At times, it so happens that the power goes off when we were about to water the grove, points out V Veerasenan, another coconut farmer from Ponnavarayankottai village. The president of the East Coast Coconut Farmers Association (EFFA), EV Gandhi, points out that the full impact of the current heatwave on the coconut yield will be known only in another 10-12 months as coconut is a year-long crop. The absence of summer rains is also another factor contributing to the worries of the coconut farmers. Normally, we should have received one or two spells of summer rain by this time. But this year that did not happen, says Nagarajan, pointing out at the importance of summer rains as it will help pollinate coconut flowers. The dearth of summer rains reduces the pollination which will lead to yield loss, he adds. The farmers pluck coconuts once in 60 days, from the trees. We used to pluck nuts from three bunches (kulai) from each tree which usually yields 60 to 70 nuts in total. Now, I could pluck only from two bunches that yields less than 40 nuts in total, says Palanivelu. He attributes the drop in yield to the stoppage of water from Mettur dam from October 10, 2023, instead of the regular date of January 28, due to poor storage level. The prevailing heat conditions will reduce the yield further in the coming months, Palanivelu adds. When pointed out at the recent reports of farmers from Coimbatore and Tiruppur districts felling the coconut trees due to drought-like conditions, Gandhi says the farmers of the delta district would not go to such extremes as the groves here are irrigated either through canal irrigation or using groundwater. R Arunkumar, associate professor and head of Coconut Research Station at Veppankulam in Thanjavur district, told TNIE farmers are advised to undertake sub-soil drip irrigation to manage the scorching heat. The farmers were also advised to spread the coconut fronds around the base of the tree to reduce evaporation of water, he adds. Coimbatore and Tiruppur that have a combined cultivated area of 82,000 hectares are one of the major coconut cultivating areas in the state. Pollachi coconut and tender coconut are well-received in the market. The long-term crop is severely affected by the whitefly attack and the Kerala wilt attack already. Adding to the woes, farmers are suffering due to various problems such as low procurement prices for coconuts, and the failure of both the monsoon last year. Now due to the unprecedented drought, coconut trees are drying up. Currently, the coconut trees are severely affected by the drought in the PAP irrigation belt in Coimbatore and Tirupur district, says Medical K Paramasivam, chairman of Thirumurthy irrigation project committee in Parambikulam Aliyar Project (PAP), adding as most of the coconut trees have dried up, the farmers are cutting down the trees. Therefore, we demand the area be declared as drought hit. Compensation should be given for dried and felled coconut trees, he says. Paramasivam also sought for financial assistance from the government for the replanting the coconut saplings. In Madurai, where coconut is being planted in over 10,000 hectares in areas like Vadipatti, Solavanthan and Kottampatti blocks, the story is no different. Speaking to TNIE, N Arun, a coconut farmer from Kottampatti, says, Usually a single coconut weighs around 400 grams, but this time, nuts of smaller sizes, weighing 200 grams, are seen, resulting in low price for the produce. An average size coconut goes for `8 and smaller coconut would fetch only for `3.5. Though some farmers opt to convert these into copra through which they could get better prices, many who are not used to copra processing are forced to sell them at lesser prices. Farmers also say the increasing temperature is affecting their yield, and is adding to attacks by pests like white flies which could greatly affect the coconut trees. One of the natural remedies for controlling the pest is the summer rain we usually get in May, but this year apart from a few drizzles, there was no rain till now. We fear that the pest attack will increase, as summer saso has just started, they add. (With inputs from M Saravanan @ Coimbatore and MS Thanaraj @ Madurai)

This culinary pop-up in Bengaluru celebrated the delicious flavours of Madurai! - indulgexpress

This culinary pop-up in Bengaluru celebrated the delicious flavours of Madurai! indulgexpress

Visually challenged people stranded under bridge rescued in Madurai

Tender coconut and ice apple are favourites of Madurai residents this summer

Couple electrocuted near TVS Nagar in Madurai

Madurai and some other parts of Tamil Nadu receive heavy rain

Class 10 board results: 5 out of 10 south districts among TN's top 10

MADURAI: Five out of 10 districts in southern Tamil Nadu feature in the top 10 list of overall ranking with respect to the class 10 board examination. Sivaganga secured a pass percentage of 97.02%, which is 0.51% less than 2023. But the district secured the second rank both last year and his year. Up from rank 12 last year, Ramanathapuram secured the third spot this year with a pass percentage of 96.36% 2.5% more than last year. Kanniyakumari got 96.24% this year 0.25% more than last year, and retained its fourth spot. Virudhunagar district followed next with 95.14%, a dip of 1.08% from last year. It also slipped from rank three to six. Thoothukudi secures a pass percentage of 94.39% is 1.19% lesser than last year. It also slipped in ranking from fifth to ninth this year. Whereas, Madurai secured 94.07 pass percentage this year 2.28% more than last year. This helped the district climb from rank 18 to 11. In Tirunelveli, 93.04% of students passed their exams this year which is 1.15% less than last year. As a result, it dropped to rank 16 from 9 last year. Likewise, Tenkasi secured 92.69 pass percentage this year 1.43% lesser than last year and dropped in ranking from 10th position last year 17 this year. Theni secured 92.63 pass percentage this year 2.37% more than last year and climbed to rank 18 from 27 last year. Dindigul, on the other hand, saw 0.55% jump in pass percentage, to 92.32 this year. But, the district dropped in the ladder, from rank 19 last year to 22 this year. The number of girl students appearing for the exams was higher than that of the male students. The pass percentage for girl students was also higher than that of the boys in each district.

Tamil Nadu: Couple on bike dies of electrocution during rains in Madurai - News9 LIVE

Tamil Nadu: Couple on bike dies of electrocution during rains in Madurai News9 LIVE

Staging togetherness of Madurais Chithirai Tiruvizha - DTNEXT

Staging togetherness of Madurais Chithirai Tiruvizha DTNEXT

Steady rain brings relief to Madurai residents

Steady rain brings relief to Madurai residents - The Hindu

Steady rain brings relief to Madurai residents The Hindu

Russian Centre of Science and Culture holds education fair in Madurai

SEBI, along with NSE and BSE, opens investor service centre in Madurai

Kannur Cocktail to Madurai Jigarthanda, what keeps Kochi cool this summer

Cool down this summer with rich, inventive milkshakes blending fruits, nuts and ice creams. We try Kochis most popular versions.

Kannur Cocktail to Madurai Jigarthanda, what keeps Kochi cool this summer - The Hindu

Kannur Cocktail to Madurai Jigarthanda, what keeps Kochi cool this summer The Hindu

Rain-battered Bengaluru airport causes 17 flights to divert to Chennai

BENGALURU: Turbulent weather and poor visibility at Bengaluru airport on Thursday night caused the diversion of 17 flights, three of them international ones, to Chennai. Due to gutsy winds and thunderstorms, flights could not land for an hour from 9.30 pm. A spokesperson from airport operator, Bangalore International Airport Limited said, Heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds rendered the airport inaccessible for landing between 9.35 pm and 10.29 pm leading to the diversion of flights-13 domestic flights, 3 international passenger flights, and 1 international cargo flight was diverted to Chennai. Flights later returned to Bengaluru after the weather conditions improved at Kempegowda International Airport. Among the hundreds of passengers affected was Suman Paul, a supply chain professional at a private firm. He told TNIE, Our Indigo flight (6e 6251) from Kolkata was going in circles around the Bengaluru airport awaiting permission to land. The captain told us that due to thunderstorms and poor visibility, they were not getting clearance to land. The flight then went to Chennai and refuelled there. We were literally sitting inside the aircraft for three hours in Chennai as we are not getting clearance from Bengaluru due to congestion there. We finally reached at 2.40 am on Friday instead of 9.30 pm (Thursday). I reached home at 4.30 am and was late to work on Friday because of that. However, no one could be blamed as it was an unavoidable situation, he said. The airline staff took good care of the passengers and offered refreshments and water, Paul added. Affected flights: The international flights impacted were KLM flight from Amsterdam to Bengaluru (KL-879) which reached at 2 42 am on Friday from Chennai, behind its original schedule by 3.5 hrs; Singapore Airlines flight (SQ 510) from Singapore to KIA which finally reached Bengaluru at 11.41 pm instead of 9.50 pm and Etihad flight (EY-238) from Abu Dhabi to Bengaluru which reached at 2.09 am on Friday from Chennai instead of 7 35 pm. However, it also departed three hrs late from Abu Dhabi by 5 pm local time instead of 2 pm. Among the domestic flights diverted from Bengaluru to Chennai were four each of Indigo (Pune, Kolkata, Lucknow and Madurai) and Air India Express (Hyderabad, Lucknow, Mumbai and Ranch) and two Air India flights to Delhi and Hyderabad. A Vistara flight to Delhi, an Akasa Air flight to Pune and Star Air to Jamnagar were affected.

Four women across 3 generations of a family die in Sivakasi blast

VIRUDHUNAGAR: Lives of four women belonging to three generations of a family died in the blast at a firecracker unit near Sivakasi on Thursday. Relatives of the women mourned outside the mortuary at the Sivakasi Government Hospital and reminisced the last moments they spent with them. The deceased women have been identified as M Aavudayammal (75), her daughter M Muthu (52), and granddaughters V Lakshmi (47) and K Jeyalakshmi (25). At least 60 relatives gathered outside the mortuary. Recalling the last moments with Lakshmi, her relative T Akkamal (38), a cracker unit employee herself, said, It was only a week ago, when Lakshmi brought her daughter Poomari, who is pregnant and is due in 10 days, to her house after the baby shower. Now, she will never be able to see her grandchilds face. An inconsolable Akkamal added that Lakshmi did not take leaves because she wanted to take care of her daughter after delivery. P Muthalagi (34) said that all her mother, Muthu, wanted was to see her granddaughter, who is on vacation in Madurai now. The same time yesterday, I was speaking to my mother. Even then she was asking me to bring my daughter to her house, but I was unable to fulfil her wish, she said. Even as officials from the district administration and elected representatives jostled in the hospital corridors, assuring measures to prevent such accidents, arrest of the accused, and promising support for the families of victims, the relatives dismissed all of it as mere eye wash. They just want us to collect the body and move on. Is the government taking any significant step to prevent such accidents, the relatives questioned and expressed their disappointment as 19-year-old V Alagujothi, fourth-generation woman of the family and a cracker unit employee herself, stood staring at the mortuary that stored her mother Lakshmis body. 10 workers killed in firecracker unit explosion in TN's Sivakasi

Retired police inspector assaulted by daughter-in-law in Madurai

Cleaning of elephant-proof trenches under way in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve

NILGIRIS: Officials of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR) on Tuesday commenced maintenance of Elephant-Proof Trench (EPT) along the forest boundary to prevent elephants from venturing into villages coming under the Srimadurai panchayat nearby. Based on the request from Gudalur RDO and Police, Deputy Director of C Vidhya engaged a vehicle to remove soil and bushes that have accumulated in the EPT. The cleaning drive was taken up after residents of Srimadurai announced a protest against the forest department for failing to control the intrusion of elephants into village. Srimadurai panchayat president KR Sunil told TNIE that elephants enter villages like Kuniyal, Mulapalli , Eachanvayal, Vadavazal and Odakolli as these are located bordering MTR due to lack of water source and fodder availability inside the forest. Though EPT was laid for ten kilometre, forest department did not carry out maintenance works in the last two years. As a result, animals are able to cross the trench easily and enter into the villages. Ward 3 councillor A Narayanan said though there has been no untoward incident due to elephant movement, the animals are frequently entering into farm lands and damaging banana, arecanut and coconut trees on daily basis. Moreover the animals approach the kitchen, attracted by the smell of rice and damage houses, he added. Councillor of ward 9 Sathyan said that a farmer was injured when he tried to escape from elephant attack recently. He added that people cannot even take a torch light and go for a walk during morning and night since elephants charge towards them when they flash the light at them.

Tender coconuts, ice apples sell like hot cakes in Madurai

MADURAI: Along with the rise in mercury levels, the demand for tender coconuts and ice apples has also gone up. While traders are a happy lot, customers are feeling the heat as the prices of these edibles have also increased. Madurais scorching heat has been giving a hard time for locals, and people are drawn towards refreshing fruits and vegetables to keep themselves cool. As a result, tender coconuts and ice apples, locally known as nongu, have been selling like hot cakes, with smaller shops cropping up to cater to the high demand. Ice apple vendors are a common sight in the citys streets, wielding a machete and cutting open the palm fruit to serve customers. Seasonal fruits like ice apples, which are only available during summers, and tender coconuts are among the best options to beat the heat. As nongu is a seasonal fruit, the prices are constantly high each season. However, the price of tender coconuts, which were being sold at Rs 20 - 30 a few weeks ago, has nearly doubled now. Yet, despite the high prices, there has been no let up in demand, said K Kalirasan, a resident, after he purchased some ice apples. Murugan, a tender coconut vendor stated that they have to purchase stock from elsewhere as local cultivators prefer to sell coconuts rather than tender coconuts as the prices for the latter vary based on the demand and transportation costs. As of Wednesday, tender coconuts were being sold at Rs 50 - 80 a piece based on the size. Another ice apple trader, Murugan, added that it is quite rare to see palm trees within the city limits, and only a few are seen on the outskirts. Vendors procure them from neighbouring districts such as Sivaganga or Ramanathapuram, where palm trees are widely prevalent. Based on its size, vendors sell three to four palm fruits (each containing two to three ice apples) for Rs 50 rupees.

Showers temper heat in Tamil Nadu, rain likely till may 11

CHENNAI: After an intense spell of heatwave, the maximum temperature in many parts of Tamil Nadu, including Chennai, has dropped below normal. The regional meteorological centre (RMC) on Wednesday said heavy rainfall, due to cyclonic circulation, in interior districts and hilly areas of Nilgiris and Coimbatore will continue till May 11. Thunderstorm, lightning and winds with speed up to 30-40 kmph likely over TN, the RMC said. Except Karur, Erode and Madurai, the temperature has dropped significantly across TN due to the rainfall. Karur recorded the highest temperature of 41.2Celsius, which was 4.9C above normal. But Dharmapuri, which was inching closer to 43C till last week, recorded 35C --- about 1.5C below normal. Chennais Meenambakkam weather station, which was breaching 40C mark, has clocked below-normal temperature of 37.1C. P Senthamarai Kannan, director, Area Cyclone Warning Centre, said maximum temperature may fall by up to 2C in next five days over TN, Puducherry and Karaikal region. Temperature to rise in 3rd week of May In interior Tamil Nadu, the temperature will generally be 2-3 degrees above normal. On May 9, heavy rainfall is likely over Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Dindigul, Karur, Erode, Namakkal and Salem district and it will spread to places like Kallakurichi, Theni, Virudhunagar, Madurai, Tenkasi, Tirunelveli and Kanniyakumari during subsequent two days. In Chennai, the sky condition is likely to be partly cloudy with possibility of light to moderate rainfall. Maximum temperature will be around 35-36 degree Celsius. In the last 24 hours ending 8.30am on Wednesday, KRP Dam weather station in Krishnagiri and Keelpennathur in Tiruvannamalai received the highest rainfall of 9cm. Till 5.30 pm, Valparai in Coimbatore received 29.8 mm of rainfall. Mahesh Palawat, vice-president, Meteorology and Climate Change, Skymet weather service, said the heatwave spell has ended but the temperature will start to rise again in the third week of May as the current rainfall activity subsides.

118 inmates died in 5 central prisons in TN in 2 years: RTI

MADURAI: Nearly 118 prisoners died at five central prisons Madurai, Coimbatore, Tiruchy, Cuddalore and Vellore between January 2022 and February 2024, according to a RTI reply obtained by an advocate, KR Raja, in Madurai. The RTI reply disclosed that 28 prisoners died and 99 took treatment for mental illness in Madurai Central Prison, while 35 died and 37 took treatment for mental illness in Coimbatore Central Prison. In Tiruchy, 29 died, while 33 took treatment for mental illness treatment. The RTI reply also disclosed that hundreds of prisoners took general treatment, yet the number of doctors was limited. Raja further said the objective of the RTI was to increase medical facilities for prisoners. Prison authorities took responsibility and arranged appropriate medical facilities. The number of prisoners suffering with mental illnesses has been increasing, and some need further treatment. The prison authorities, in association with the health department, should identify the illnesses among such prisoners and help them recover.

Madras HC seeks legal bodys report on Shankars health

CHENNAI: The Madras High Court on Wednesday sought the Coimbatore District Legal Services Authoritys (DLSA) report on the health conditions of the YouTuber Savukku Shankar. He is currently lodged at Coimbatore Central Prison on charges of denigrating women police officers and possessing ganja. When a habeas corpus petition filed by the YouTubers mother, A Kamala, came up for hearing, the vacation bench of Justices AD Jagadish Chandira and R Kalaimathi directed the High Court Registry to obtain the report of the DLSA, whose four-member team visited the prison to ascertain Shankars health conditions following another petition filed in the local court. Senior counsel John Sathyan, appearing for Kamala, submitted that Shankar had no injuries on his body before imprisonment but an advocate, after visiting him in the prison, stated that he had sustained injuries. The government advocate representing the police, however, told the court that Shankar suffered injuries on his left hand, right foot and lips when the van, in which he was taken to Coimbatore, met with an accident at Dharapuram. The prison doctor had examined him and certified the injuries and Shankar had acknowledged it by affixing his thumb impression on the medical report. The bench adjourned the case to Thursday. Meanwhile, Justice K Kumaresh Babu dismissed another petition filed by T Vignesh, creative head of Savukku Media Private Limited run by Shankar, seeking to restrain the police from invoking the Goondas Act against the jailed YouTuber. The judge said no such preemptive orders could be passed. In a second petition filed by Vignesh, alleging polices interference in the functioning of the Savukku Media, the judge directed the Greater Chennai Police to file a response by Thursday. YouTuber Savukku Shankar 'brutally attacked' by jail authorities, claims his mother; seeks judicial probe Lawyer claims YouTuber Savukku Shankar beaten in Coimbatore jail Advocate P Vijayendran, appearing for Vignesh, said the routine activities of the YouTube channel have been frozen and the employees could not enter the office. Saying that the employees are unable to do their daily duties in disseminating news, the council described the polices interference as a violation of articles of the Constitution that protect freedom of speech and expression. Remanded In another significant development, the Principal Special Court for EC and NDPS Act Cases in Madurai on Wednesday remanded Savukku Shankar in judicial custody till May 22 in connection with a ganja case registered against him at PC Patti police station in Theni. During the hearing, Shankar submitted to the special court judge M Chenkamalaselvan that due to the custodial violence against him in Coimbatore prison, he needed to be shifted to Madurai Central prison. He also requested proper medical treatment. Judge Chenkamalaselvan asked him to file a petition in this regard. Later, he was again taken to Coimbatore prison. Meanwhile, a group of women staged a protest outside the court premises condemning Shankars derogatory remarks. Tiruchy cops also book YouTuber Tiruchy: The district cybercrime police on Wednesday registered another case under five sections against YouTuber Savukku Shankar for making derogatory remarks on women police personnel in a YouTube interview. The case was filed based on a complaint lodged by Musiri DSP MA Yashmin. The police have booked Shankar under sections 294(b), 353, 509 of IPC, section 67 of Information Technology Act, 2000 and 4 of Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Women Act. YouTube channel interviewer G Felix Gerald (48) has been also been booked. Shankar who was lodged in Coimbatore Central Prison, was formally arrested by the Tiruchy police. Many women police personnel have lodged complaint with the Tiruchy superintendent of police. (With inputs from Madurai)

Cow dung in tank: TN government's reply sought on PIL to transfer probe

MADURAI: The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court on Wednesday sought a response from the state government on a PIL filed seeking to transfer the investigation into the case of cow dung mixed in an overhead tank at a village in Pudukkottai, from the police department to the CB-CID. The division Bench of Justices P Velmurugan and P Dhanabal made the direction, while hearing the petition filed by Shanmugam (45), who submitted that a majority of people in Sangamviduthi village in Pudukkottai district belong to SC community. The case of mixing human faeces in a water tank at Vengaivayal, also in Pudukkottai district, is yet to be closed, and another incident of water contamination by mixing cow dung was reported in Sangamviduthi village on April 25. Shanmugam stated that instead of taking action, the police said steps would be taken only after getting the results of water samples sent for testing. Since there is no proper investigation by the district police, Shanmugam stated, he sought to transfer the investigation to the CB-CID.

Chennai: Government Schools to Get 100 Mbps Internet Connection

Chennai : All government schools, starting from the primary to higher secondary level, would be provided with 100 Mbps internet connections with the help of the public sector BSNL in the coming academic year, starting in June, with a view to providing a better learning experience to students and also equipping them to face the future in the hi-tech world. An official press release on Wednesday said that the modern facility had already been set up in 5907 of the total 6023 higher secondary and high schools, 3267 of the total 6992 middle schools and 8711 of the 24,338 primary schools in the State and the rest of the 19,668 schools would be equipped with 10 Mbps internet connection by May end. The State government that was keen on expanding technology to schools had already set up 8,180 hi-tech labs at a cost of Rs 519.73 crore and 22, 931 smart classrooms, costing Rs 455.32 crore benefitting 46,12,742 students, the release said, adding that those schools were getting 5 to 6 Mbps internet connection. Now, by June all the schools would get the 100 Mpbs connection and be equipped with the labs that would go a long way in preparing the students to face the developing technological world and making education easy and enjoyable for them. The ushering in of digital technology in education would help over 46 lakh students to learn their lessons through videos, assess their own learnings online, develop their computer applications skills, improve their English language skills and get career guidance, among other things. Also all government school students enrolling for higher education courses would receive Rs 1000 as assistance from June. Hitherto, only girls who studied from Class VI to XII in government schools were getting the assistance but now it has been extended to male students, too. Announcing that the male students would get the assistance from the coming academic year at a Kalluri Kanavu (College Dreams) event organized in Chennai as part of the Chief Ministers ambitious Naan Mudhalvan scheme, Chief Secretary Shiv Das Meena said four more such events would be held in the coming days at different places to cover all the districts. The Chennai event was for students who had passed higher secondary education in the districts of Chennai, Trichy, Coimbatore, Nagapattinam, Madurai, Tirunelveli and Salem. The rest of the events would be on May 9, 10, 11 and 13, he said.

Madras High Court Answer Key 2024 out at mhc.tn.gov.in, direct link here

The Madras High Court has made available the provisional answer key for the Madras High Court Recruitment 2024. The exam, held on May 4 and 5, 2024, was for various positions including Driver, Typist, Telephone Operator, Cashier, and Xerox Operator in Chennai, Madurai, and Tiruchirappalli zones. Candidates can access and download the answer key from the official website at amhc.tn.gov.in. To do so, they should follow these steps: Visit the official Madras High Court website, locate the link for the answer key, click on it to view the tentative key in PDF format, and then download and print it for future reference.

Dogs which attacked five-year-old girl in Chennai shifted to Madurai farmhouse

CHENNAI: Even as the Chennai corporation was expected to take custody of the two dogs that attacked a five-year-old girl on Sunday evening, the family, after obtaining due permission, took the dogs to their farmhouse in Madurai. Official sources said they had allowed this relocation since the farmhouse is a secluded open area, and not too different from the place the corporation officials had originally planned to keep the dogs in. The civic body, by itself, does not have the resources to take custody of dogs and maintain them, except at the Animal Birth Control facilities where dogs undergo surgeries and are then released back into the areas they come from. The family had taken due permission and they have also been asked to send us photographs of the dogs every day for the next 10 days to monitor any signs of rabies as per protocol, said a senior corporation official. The plan initially was for the corporation authorities to secure the dogs and take them to a sequestered spot for observation. While there is a call for stricter pet licensing implementation in the aftermath of the issue, the authorities said pet licenses only help the city corporation enumerate and keep track of the pets in the city and their vaccination records. While we are revisiting the stray dog population strategies, it is important to ensure responsible pet ownership. Owners should be mindful of the fears of the public and not take any risks as far as safety is concerned. Vaccinations must administered at the right time, the official added. They are also mulling setting up designated spaces for pets like exclusive parks, which may be brought about once the model code of conduct is lifted. Surakshas surgery tomorrow The five-year-old child who suffered severe injuries in the attack, Suraksha, is scheduled for surgery on Thursday. She sustained some injuries to her scalp, but the blood supply seems to be regular. The surgery is due on Thursday and in the meantime, she is not in intensive care. She is recovering well, said sources. The medical expenses of the child are borne by the dog owner.

Institutions cant retain educational papers for any reason: Madras High Court

MADURAI: The educational certificates of a person cannot be retained for any reason and institutions cannot claim lien over the certificates, observed the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court recently, and directed Government Thanjavur Medical College to return the original certificates and documents of a medical student by considering his Covid duty as bond service. Justice GR Swaminathan granted the relief to Wanbor Sungoh, who had completed his PG course at the medical college in April 2022. Sungoh, a non-service candidate when he joined the course, had executed a bond undertaking to serve the Tamil Nadu government for two years after the completion of the course, which was later reduced to one year. However, Suhirth Parthasarathy, Sungohs counsel, submitted the students Covid duty should be treated as bond service. In light of the order passed by the first bench, the HC declared that Covid duty shall be treated as bond service, and added that ones educational certificates cannot be retained for any reason.

Agriculture department in Tamil Nadu refutes claims of poor quality millet seeds

MADURAI: Months after allegations surfaced about the adulteration of barnyard millet (kuthiraivali) seeds provided to farmers, the agriculture department officials, after performing a field test, found that the seeds had no issues. In November 2023, several farmers from Usilampatti raised concerns about adulterated barnyard millet seeds provided at a subsidized price by the agriculture department. Farmers alleged that nearly all the fields where the seeds were planted produced weeds, instead of millet crops. Owing to this, there was a massive decline in the harvest of barnyard millet, dropping from the usual seven quintals per acre to just one quintal per acre. After farmers flagged the issue, seed samples were sent to Coimbatore for field testing, where the seeds would be cultivated in a field and a harvest report would be compiled. Senior agriculture department officials said that the reports from the field test indicated that there were no issues with the seeds as the yield was good. Unseasonal rains and the lack of awareness of weed management may have been the reason, the officials added. Notable, nearly 25 farmers who cultivated the millet variety were provided compensation for crop damage caused by rains. The agriculture department will also raise awareness among farmers during the next season on weed management. Speaking to TNIE, M Kannan, a farmer from Peraiyur said, I cultivated barnyard milled on about 10 acres, and was faced with severe weed infestation issues. Even though we sought a compensation of Rs 17,000 per acre, we only got Rs 1,700 per acre. The cultivation expenses alone were over Rs 70,000. The poor quality of seeds led to this issue. Appropriate action should be taken to prevent such losses in the future.

Rules only on paper: Wholl rein in dogs

Girl mauled by rottweilers, GCC inaction led to dogs not quarantined post-attack. Owner moved them to Madurai. AWBI guidelines ignored. Pet owners charged but not held accountable under weak laws, endangering residents.

FASTag fee collected in cash, NHAI to pay Rs 25K fine

MADURAI: The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Madurai recently directed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to pay compensation of Rs 25,000 for collecting FASTag fee in cash from a user when the system failed to detect his tag. The commission, chaired by its president M Piravi Perumal and member P Shanmugapriya, also directed NHAI to pay an additional Rs 10,000 to the complainant. The petitioner Martin David, vice-principal of American College was travelling to Sivakasi on official duty and passed through the Kappalur tollgate in September 2020 where the system failed to detect his FASTag. Even though his FASTag account had sufficient funds, the toll plaza employees forced him to pay cash, ill-treated him and made him wait, Davids petitioner Dinesh Kumar said. While returning to Madurai from Sivakasi through the same tollgate, the petitioner was subject to the same ordeal again, despite alerting the FASTag issuer bank SBIs helpline about the issue. NHAI submitted that the tollgate was maintained by a private entity to collect toll, and faulted SBI for deficiency in service. It also refused the claim that the toll plaza employees quarrelled with the petitioner. SBI submitted that the fault was due to NHAIs scanner issues and not their issue. After considering the contentions of the parties, the commissions president M Piravi Perumal stated that the petitioner had a valid and efficient FASTag with sufficient balance. It highlighted the road transport and highways ministrys notification that if a cars FASTag is valid and functional, but is not detected by the scanners at a toll plaza, then the vehicle owner need not pay any fee. In such cases, the vehicle owner is exempted from paying the toll and the vehicles can exit the plaza free of cost. In this case, the petitioner should have been allowed to leave without paying, but NHAI employees violated the notification and collected the charge, and also ill-treated the petitioner for raising a grievance. The employees caused mental distress and indignation to the complainant. Moreover, NHAI is liable as the employees and/or the contractor was appointed by them, the commission stated. The commission dismissed the negligence of other respondents, including SBI, and directed NHAI to pay compensation of `25,000 for the mental agony and pain suffered by the petitioner.

Kingmakers IAS Academy achieved its milestone in Civil Service Examination

Kingmakers IAS Academy achieved its milestone in Civil Service Examination ATK New Delhi [India], May 7: The KingMakers IAS Academy in India has achieved the highest ranking in the civil service examination results, as announced by Bhoominathan-Director of the academy. He stated that the All-India Civil Service Examination 2023 results which were published on 16th April were 1016 candidates selected by the Union Public Service Commission for positions such as IAS,IPS and IFS. 10,16,850 applied for civil service examination, in that 5,92,141 has been appeared for prelims.2,855 has been selected for Personality Test, finally 1016 has been selected for civil services 2023 for various positions such as IAS,IPS,IFS..etc. He said, Aditya Srivathsava, KingMakers IAS Academy student has secured the top position in India this year even last year's top performer Ms.Ishita Kishore is also from KingMakers IAS Academy. In the latest results more than 100 students from KingMakers IAS academy have achieved success in the final list. Notable achievements include Aditya Srivathsava secured the first position, Ms.Medha Anand secured the 13th position Kunal Rastogi secured the 15th position, Ayan Jain secured the 16th position. S.Prasanth (Rank 78) from Tamil Nadu secured the 2nd place and Ms.Eshani Anand (Rank 79) secured the 3rd place in Tamil Nadu. Furthermore,students who cleared from Tamil Nadu are R.Venkateshwaran(Rank152),Ms.K.Nehaa(175),Ms.M.Dharani(250),T.A.Vignesh(314),Ms.S.ShahidaBegum(323),K.M.Karthik Raja(329), Ms.SindhuNRaghavan(336),T.AravindKumar(348),R.Mukilan(404),Ms.G.Sathyanandhi(513),U.Vibukrishnaa(528),E.Kathiravan(573),A.K.Karthikeyan(579),G.Subburaj(605),S.Balaji(646),Ms.M.Jayavani(698),Ms.M.Muthuarasi(705),Ms.K.Oviya(796),.AshiqHussain(845),V.Harsavarthan(864),have also trained from KingMakers IAS Academy for their final stage of preparation. Over 50% of Tamilnadu's successful students are from KingMakers IAS Academy. KingMakers IAS Academy has once again proved its excellence in preparing students for India's prestigious civil services examination. This remarkable success highlights the exceptional quality of education provided by KingMakers IAS Academy. The academy's commitment to comprehensive training and expert guidance has consistently helped its students achieve outstanding results in the highly competitive civil services exam. With 1 in top 10 ranks, 6 top 50 ranks and 9 in top 100 ranks,through which KingMakers IAS Academy has once again proven its position as a leading provider of civil services coaching in India particularly in Tamilnadu. KingMakers IAS Academy offers courses for UPSC and TNPSC at our branches in New Delhi ,Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Tiruchirappalli.For more information, contact 9444227273. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by ATK. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)

Kumari girl overcomes personal loss to achieve centum in four subjects

MADURAI: Though fate played its cruel trick by claiming the life of her father and leaving her mother bedridden, PK Kokila, a higher secondary student hailing from Kanniyakumari, was not ready to accept defeat. Battling odds, she secured 573/600 marks in this years Class 12 examination, and achieved centum in four major subjects -- Commerce, Economics, Accountancy and Computer Science. Kokila, who belongs to a marginalised community, lost her father to liver failure in 2019. Two years later, her mother, who had taken up the familys responsibility on her shoulders, met with an accident and got bedridden for over an year. During the time, Kokilas maternal aunt Mariammal came to the rescue, and helped her cope through the ordeal. With Mariammals assistance, Kokila continued her studies in Government Higher Secondary School, Kotttaram in Kanniyakumari, and clinched success. Speaking to TNIE, Kokila expressed gratitude to Mariammals family and said, My life turned miserable after my fathers death. He was an auto driver and the sole breadwinner of the family. He fell ill suddenly and left us one day. It was my aunts encouragement that gave me the strength to study further and secure good marks. Currently, my mother and sister stay at my aunts house in Madurai, and I am also planning to continue my studies there, she said, adding that her teachers also motivated her regularly saying that education was the weapon to overcome all odds. For me, regular study habits, thorough understanding of concepts, and learning during morning hours were the mantras to secure centum in all major subjects, opined Kokila, who now hopes to pursue B.Com and become a bank officer in the future.

Class 12 exam pass percentage dips slightly in southern districts of Tamil Nadu

MADURAI: As the Class 12 results were announced on Monday, six out of ten southern districts saw a dip in overall percentage when compared to last year. The highest difference was seen in Ramanathapuram district, where the pass percentage was 1.41 lesser than the previous year, followed by Kanniyakumari with 1.33%, Virudhunagar 1.21%, Thoothukudi 0.97%, Madurai 0.65% and Tirunelveli 0.17%. Theni saw an increase in pass percentage by 3.48, followed by 1.63% in Dindigul, 0.16% in Sivaganga and 0.11% in Tenkasi. Like last year, the overall pass percentage of girl students was higher when compared to boys. Dip in performance of corp schools Meanwhile, the pass percentages of corporation schools witnessed a slight drop in comparison with that of the previous year. While the overall pass percentage of corporation schools stood at 91.78, two institutions achieved 100% pass rate. Of the 2,067 students of 15 corporation higher secondary schools who appeared for the exam this year, 1,897 students (91.7%) cleared the exam, which is slightly lower than last year's result of 92.5%. In a remarkable feat, two corporation schools Navalar Somasundara Bharathiyar School and Kambar Corporation School achieved a pass percentage of 100. Of them, Navalar Somasundara Bharathiyar School also managed to maintain its first position among Madurai corporation schools, for the second consecutive year. It may be noted that no corporation school in the district was able to secure 100% success in the last academic year. Further, the pass percentage rates are also higher among girls this time. Last year, the pass percentage rates for girls and boys stood at 95.55% and 85.28%, respectively. This year, the rates are 93.68 % and 85.99% for girls and boys, respectively.

TN agri department refutes claims of poor quality millet seeds

MADURAI: Months after allegations surfaced about the adulteration of barnyard millet (kuthiraivali) seeds provided to farmers, the agriculture department officials, after performing a field test, found that the seeds had no issues. In November 2023, several farmers from Usilampatti raised concerns about adulterated barnyard millet seeds provided at a subsidized price by the agriculture department. Farmers alleged that nearly all the fields where the seeds were planted produced weeds, instead of millet crops. Owing to this, there was a massive decline in the harvest of barnyard millet, dropping from the usual seven quintals per acre to just one quintal per acre. After farmers flagged the issue, seed samples were sent to Coimbatore for field testing, where the seeds would be cultivated in a field and a harvest report would be compiled. Senior agriculture department officials said that the reports from the field test indicated that there were no issues with the seeds as the yield was good. Unseasonal rains and the lack of awareness of weed management may have been the reason, the officials added. Notable, nearly 25 farmers who cultivated the millet variety were provided compensation for crop damage caused by rains. The agriculture department will also raise awareness among farmers during the next season on weed management. Speaking to TNIE, M Kannan, a farmer from Peraiyur said, I cultivated barnyard milled on about 10 acres, and was faced with severe weed infestation issues. Even though we sought a compensation of Rs 17,000 per acre, we only got Rs 1,700 per acre. The cultivation expenses alone were over Rs 70,000. The poor quality of seeds led to this issue. Appropriate action should be taken to prevent such losses in the future.

Madurai district slips in rank, pass percentage in Class 12 State Board Examination

Plus Two pass percentage dips in Corporation schools in Madurai

Swell Surge in Sea off Kanyakumari Beach Kills Five Medical Students

Madurai: Five medical college students and interns from SRM Medical College Hospital and Trichy Government Medical College Hospital drowned in the sea off Lemur Beach in Kanyakumari on Monday due to a swell surge. The deceased has been identified as P. Sarvadarshith (23) of Parakkai in Kanyakumari district, M. Praveen Sam (23) of Oddanchatram in [] The post Swell Surge in Sea off Kanyakumari Beach Kills Five Medical Students appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Consumer panel in TN directs SpiceJet airline to pay Rs 1L compensation for delay in service

MADURAI: The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Madurai recently directed SpiceJet airline to pay a compensation of Rs 1 lakh for failing to ensure prompt delivery of passengers' luggage. Acting on a complaint lodged by K Arumugam Krishnan Raja and V Rajendra Pandian Vasupandian, the commission, chaired by president M Piravi Perumal and member P Shanmugapriya, also directed the manager and corporate head of the airlines to pay an additional amount of `10,000 for litigation expenses. According to the complainants, they had booked flight tickets to Dubai on March 18, 2023, and the purpose of their visit was to sign a business deal worth USD 28,000. After landing in Dubai, we were informed that our baggage, which contained our clothes, project report and other essentials, will be delivered to the hotel where we stayed. As we did not receive our belongings on time, we were forced to attend the client meeting in non-executive attires. Moreover, we failed to complete the presentation on time, due to the absence of the project file, which resulted in us losing the deal, stated the complainants. They also pointed out that they received the baggage only on March 21, the day of their return journey. Meanwhile, the counsel of the airline contended that the complainants had travelled on tourist visas, thereby indicating that they were not on a business trip. When the airline officials attempted to contact the complainants, they did not respond to the calls, added the counsel. The commission, which refused to accept that the complainants had gone on a business trip, citing lack of evidence, however, acknowledged the high degree of mental agony faced by the duo, and ordered the airlines to pay the compensation in the interest of consumer justice.

1.55 lakh students appear for NEET across Tamil Nadu

CHENNAI: Over 1.5 lakh students appeared for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) that was conducted across the state on Sunday. Candidates who attended the test stated that the physics questions were tough while those of chemistry and biology were relatively easier. Notably, the number of state students taking NEET has been growing over the past three years: 1.42 lakh in 2022, 1.47 lakh in 2023 and 1.55 lakh in 2024. This has been the case nationwide. This is due to an increase in public awareness regarding NEET, and also the high number of repeaters, said a teacher from a prominent coaching centre. The 1.55 lakh candidates this year include 12,370 government school students who were coached by the school education department. According to official data, in 2023, 12,997 government students took the test and 3,982 managed to pass. In 2022, 14,979 attended the exam and 4,118 cleared it. As opposed to the overall number, there is no such increase in the number of government students taking NEET, as many of them come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and cannot afford repeating the test, said department officials. Huge crowds of parents waiting outside examination centres and heavy traffic in the vicinity were a common sight on Sunday. My wife and I came all the way from Pursaivakkam to drop our daughter off here. Since the journey is about 20km, we have been waiting here for four hours. The heat is excessive, but we have no other option, said K Ramanan, a parent who was waiting outside an exam centre in Pallikaranai. While there were no untoward incidents during checking or exam hours, female students had to write the test with loose hair as they were not allowed to wear hair bands. I am attending NEET for the second time. I found last years paper much easier. This year, the physics paper was quite tough. We could not attend many of the physics questions due to negative marking, said Aakam Priya, an aspirant. Another repeater, V M Hariharan from Coimbatore, told TNIE, This years paper was easier compared to last year. Chennai saw 23,326 aspirants take NEET, with 999 absentees. In Coimbatore, the test was held across 14 centres, with 7,128 students in attendance and 319 absentees. 6,787 students appeared for the exam across 12 centres in the integrated Vellore district (including Ranipet and Tirupattur), while 255 were absent. About 5,005 students attended the examination in Villupuram. In Tiruvannamalai, there were 3,847 students in attendance, while 255 were absent. 5,006 students took the test across eight centres in Krishnagiri, while 170 were absent. In Madurai, 9,312 candidates appeared at the 12 exam centres in the city. Ramanathapuram saw 2,154 students in attendance, with 75 absentees. Natrampalli police to the rescue! Akshitha, a NEET candidate from Vellore who was about to take her exam at the Marudhar Kesari Jain College for Women, Tirupattur, realised she had forgotten her Aadhaar copy. However, Natrampalli SI Ganesh came to her aid and provided her with a copy at the last moment, enabling Akshitha to write the examination. (With inputs from Krishnagiri, Coimbatore, Madurai, Villupuram, Vellore and Tiruvannamalai)

BBA, BCA admissions begin at some colleges in Tamil Nadu sans AICTE nod

COIMBATORE: With AICTE and UGC mandating AICTE approval for undergraduate management and computer application courses (BBA, BCA) from this academic year, parents, students and college administration are in a state of confusion as several colleges are yet to get AICTE approval. Till now, AICTE approval was not required for BBA, BCA courses and source said the council sent a circular to colleges last June making it mandatory in a bid to improve the curriculum. While a few colleges have stopped admission to these courses, a few others have started temporary admission without AICTE approval. With class 12 public exam results expected on May 6, students and parents expect the state government to intervene and issue clear instructions to the colleges. An assistant professor from private arts and science college in Coimbatore said they are sending back those who approached seeking admission to BCA course since they have not received any instruction from Bharathiar University on admitting students. Apart from BU which controls over 100 private colleges in Coimbatore, Erode, Tirupur and Nilgiris district, Madurai Kamaraj University and Tiruchy Bharathidasan University also face similar issues. The state government, Higher Education Minister K Ponmudy and higher education secretary should announce that colleges can admit students, he said. Association University Teachers vice-president P Thirunavakarasu said they strongly oppose the AICTEs decision as it would affect rights of state universities. Fees will sharply rise and engineering colleges will not maintain reservation quota, he said According to Ajeet Kumar Lal Mohan, president of the Association of Self-financing Arts, Science and Management Colleges of Tamil Nadu, A total of 67 associations across the country have challenged the AICTE in the Supreme Court. Some state governments have also joined in this and we strongly hope the AICTE will not implement the proposal since the matter is sub judice. It cannot be implemented without the concurrence of the states. It is impossible to get new approval from AICTE which is a technical institution when the existing colleges have been running the course for decades. Three hearings in the top court are complete and the next hearing is scheduled on May 10. A Ponnusamy, Principal of Hindusthan College of Arts & Science in Coimbatore, said they have applied for the approval on AICTE portal. Like us, several colleges offering MBA and MCA courses are also doing so since AICTE is already verifying the facilities and staff strength at our institutions. Despite several states opposing the move, the apex court has not stayed the AICTEs proposal, he said. However, private arts and science colleges in Chennai are not facing any problems. College officials said majority of the private institutions in the city are already offering masters degree in these streams, and getting approval for undergraduate courses will not be an issue. We have all our paperwork ready, furnished all data on our BBA and BCA courses and received the approval, said Archana Prasad, principal, MOP Vaishnav College for Women. Majority of the principals with whom TNIE spoke to said they have got approval from AICTE without any hindrance. Anna University Vice Chancellor R Velraj said he is hoping the state government will react soon. When contacted, Ponmudy confirmed that the issue is in court and promised to make an announcement after holding discussion with education officials. (With inputs from Binita Jaiswal @ Chennai) (For the full report, visit www.newindianexpress.com)

Trains from Chennai run out of water, Southern Railway struggles to meet needs

CHENNAI: Southern Railway hasnt been spared the effects of Tamil Nadus water scarcity, with a few intercity and long distance express trains from Chennai Central and Coimbatore recently running out of water within two to three hours of departure leaving passengers in the lurch. Passengers on Chennai Central - Salem section also had to endure the stench emanating from the toilets after the trains tanks ran dry. The railway has been struggling to supply its trains, departing from Chennai Central, Chennai Egmore and a few other stations, with water amid groundwater depletion and dwindling supply from private tankers. According to sources, the railways typically supplies water to meet 50% of the need on off-peak days (Monday to Thursday) due to limited occupancy on trains and increases the supply to 75 % on weekends (Friday to Sunday) for regular services. However, due to shortage, the railways last week halved the supply during weekdays even when summer holidays were in full swing and all trains were operating at 100% occupancy. Consequently, trains departing from Chennai Central had only water to meet 25% of their usual demand. Rly officials told to closely monitor water scarcity issue The minimum water requirement for a regular train is 40,000 litres a trip. Southern Railway, however, maintained that prompt action was taken to supply water at the next nominated stations for trains in the Chennai - Salem section a few days ago. Officials from the Commercial and Mechanical departments have been briefed to closely monitor this issue specifically, said a senior official from Southern railway headquarters. He also said departmental action is being taken against those staff who failed to supply water for trains. While a few long-distance trains have been able to provide water at the next designated refilling station, supplying water to trains, maintaining coaches, including daily water washing, and providing drinking water to stations have turned into an uphill task for the railways. Passengers on special trains are the worst affected as these trains are given lower priority. The railways had designated Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, and Erode stations for refilling the train tanks in the Chennai - Coimbatore section. Similarly, Chengalpattu, Villupuram, Tiruchy, Madurai, and Tirunelveli have been nominated for refilling the tanks in the Chennai - Nagercoil section. K Swaminathan of Thiruvanmiyur, a regular traveller, said, Almost half of the passengers travelling in reserved coaches of the Kovai Express were compelled to relocate to another coach due to the foul odour from the toilets while returning from Coimbatore. Despite lodging multiple complaints through the helpline and Rail Madad application, all efforts proved futile. As groundwater levels continue to diminish over the years in Basin Bridge, Mannady, Periamet, and surrounding areas, the railway is wholly reliant on water provided by Chennai Metro Water and private tankers to manage its operations at two coaching depots (Basin Bridge and Gopalasamy Nagar) and MGR Chennai Central and Chennai Egmore stations. The water provided by Chennai Metro Water is received at Tiruvottiyur storage tanks and transported to the coaching yards and terminals through pipelines. Additionally, about 3.5 lakh litres of water generated by the recycling plant at Basin Bridge are reused for cleaning the coaches. However, supplying water to trains remains challenging due to scarcity. As a result, exterior cleaning of coaches is also being skipped for several rakes in order to save the water. The Basin Bridge coaching yard is responsible for primary maintenance of over 45 trains, which include primary maintenance of 33 trains. It requires 12 lakh litres of water per day, while MGR Chennai Central station, serving about 65,000 passengers daily, requires 10 lakh litres. Similarly, Egmore stations per day demand is 10 lakh litres of water per day, and the supply is outsourced to private tanker lorry companies. The GSN yard maintains about 27 trains a day. Washing the coach exterior is mandatory during primary maintenance. Necessary measures have been taken to wade through the water crisis during the summer season. The question of operating water special trains does not arise, a railway official said.

Learn from NCB about probing drug cases: Madras HC to narcotics intelligence

MADURAI: The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court recently directed the (Narcotics Intelligence Bureau) NIB-CID to take note of how the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) conducted investigation into cases filed under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS), and asked it to follow suit. The courts observation came when Justice B Pugalendhi was hearing a bail plea of Parimala Doss, an accused in a 423-kg ganja smuggling case of 2023 investigated by the NCB, and 144-kg ganja smuggling case of 2020 being probed by the NIB-CID. The court denied bail to Doss, and noted the difference in investigations conducted by both agencies. The petitioners counsel argued that neither agency seized any contraband from Doss possession. The counsel further noted that the NIB-CIDs report was based on confession statements. The NIB-CID counsel objected and said that Doss was in touch with one of the suspects and was absconding for three years. The counsel also submitted a list of cases pending against Doss. The NCB counsel submitted statements of other accused persons as well as the cell phone locations that proved that Doss was in nexus with another accused and was aware of the whereabouts of the contraband. Both agencies argued that the investigation is at a crucial stage, and granting bail to the petitioner would impact the probe. At this point, the court observed that though the NIB-CID has filed the final report, they have not collected any material evidence against the petitioner other than the confession statement of the co-accused. The NCB, on the other hand, conducted a thorough investigation and established a connection between the petitioner and the other accused persons. It appears that NIB-CID of Sivaganga district has not conducted a proper investigation, but filed the final report with the confession statement alone, observed the court, and noted the difference between the nature of investigations carried out by different agencies. The court further directed the Registry to mark a copy of the order to the Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) NIB-CID for them to identify his unit and impart special training in this regard.