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PM Modi speaks to Kuwait Crown Prince on West Asia security situation
Politics

PM Modi speaks to Kuwait Crown Prince on West Asia security situation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke by phone with Kuwait’s Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah to review the current situation in West Asia, according to an official post shared by the Prime Minister. In his message, Modi said he conveyed greetings ahead of the upcoming Ramadan festival and discussed the evolving regional security environment. The two leaders also exchanged views on recent developments. Modi reiterated India’s condemnation of attacks on Kuwait’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He said ensuring safe and uninterrupted movement through the Strait of Hormuz remains a key priority.

Stalin takes swipe at AIADMK over obscene, defamatory campaign talk
Politics

Stalin takes swipe at AIADMK over obscene, defamatory campaign talk

Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK leader M.K. Stalin has indirectly criticised the AIADMK, alleging that those without achievements or policies are resorting to obscene and defamatory remarks. In a social media post, Stalin contrasted what he called “two stages” in the state’s political discourse. He said DMK platforms are presenting achievements that are shaping Tamil Nadu’s future, along with data and accounts of beneficiaries. On the other side, he claimed, parties with no achievements to speak of and no policies to implement are “showering” the public with obscenity and slander.

Piyush Goyal to visit Chennai; AIADMK-BJP seat-sharing talks near final
Politics

Piyush Goyal to visit Chennai; AIADMK-BJP seat-sharing talks near final

Union minister and BJP’s Tamil Nadu election in-charge Piyush Goyal is set to arrive in Chennai on March 19, with talks aimed at finalising the seat-sharing arrangement with the AIADMK. With the Assembly election polling date announced, parties in Tamil Nadu have stepped up campaign preparations. The ruling DMK is continuing discussions within its alliance and allocating constituencies, while the AIADMK’s seat-sharing deal with the BJP is yet to be formally signed.

AIADMK flags mobile phone distribution at collector offices, seeks EC clarity
Politics

AIADMK flags mobile phone distribution at collector offices, seeks EC clarity

AIADMK has approached the Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer, alleging violations of election rules over the distribution of mobile phones from district collector offices after the Model Code of Conduct came into effect. Speaking to reporters after submitting a petition, AIADMK Advocates Wing secretary Inbathurai said welfare assistance should not be distributed once the code is in force. He claimed that 2,063 mobile phones were to be issued to anganwadi workers from the Salem collectorate.

Supreme Court raps Mamata over alleged interference in ED raid
Politics

Supreme Court raps Mamata over alleged interference in ED raid

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday expressed strong displeasure over allegations that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee interfered during an Enforcement Directorate (ED) search, and asked whether central agencies should be left helpless if a chief minister suddenly arrives during a raid. The matter stems from an ED search conducted on January 8 at the Kolkata office of I-PAC, a firm that manages the election campaign operations of the Trinamool Congress. The search was linked to cases involving alleged coal smuggling and money laundering.

TN election flying squads seize Rs 42.65 crore worth cash, goods
Politics

TN election flying squads seize Rs 42.65 crore worth cash, goods

Chennai: Election flying squads conducting checks across Tamil Nadu have seized cash and other items worth Rs 42.65 crore so far, officials said. With the Tamil Nadu Assembly election scheduled for April 23, the Model Code of Conduct is in force. To curb cash distribution to voters, the Election Commission has instructed that anyone carrying more than Rs 50,000 must have valid supporting documents. To enforce the directive, flying squads and static surveillance teams have been deployed across districts. The seizures reported so far include cash worth Rs 2.37 crore and liquor worth Rs 0.18 crore.

Vijay dismisses alliance rumours, says TVK will lead the government
Politics

Vijay dismisses alliance rumours, says TVK will lead the government

TVK leader and actor Vijay on Tuesday asked supporters not to believe rumours about political alliances, asserting that his party is focused on forming a government under its own leadership. He was speaking at an Iftar gathering organised by TVK at a star hotel in Mamallapuram on March 18. Vijay took part in the breaking of the fast and later joined a special prayer arranged at the venue. Addressing the gathering, Vijay said speculation about him being part of “this team” or “that team” had been circulating since he entered politics. He said he belonged only to the “people’s team” and claimed attempts to spread misinformation had not succeeded.

Vijay reportedly stopped Aadhav Arjuna from briefing on Rajini row
Politics

Vijay reportedly stopped Aadhav Arjuna from briefing on Rajini row

Actor-politician Vijay’s party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), has reportedly cancelled a planned media interaction by its election campaign management general secretary Aadhav Arjuna, amid a growing controversy involving actor Rajinikanth. The issue began after TVK held statewide protests on March 12 against the DMK government. Speaking at the Chennai protest, Aadhav alleged that the DMK had threatened Rajinikanth and prevented him from entering politics, and claimed that only Vijay had the courage to step into politics. The remarks drew criticism from leaders of various political parties, who also urged Vijay to take action against Aadhav.

US Counterterrorism Center Chief Joe Kent Resigns Over Iran War
Politics

US Counterterrorism Center Chief Joe Kent Resigns Over Iran War

Washington: Joe Kent has resigned as director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, citing his opposition to the war against Iran. In a statement, Kent said he stepped down after prolonged deliberation, arguing he could not provide his best support for the campaign. He claimed Iran does not currently pose a threat to the United States and alleged the conflict was initiated due to pressure from Israel and influential groups within the US.

HC stays order on police protection in Thiruparankundram torch case
Politics

HC stays order on police protection in Thiruparankundram torch case

Madurai Bench remarks on compliance A Division Bench of the Madras High Court’s Madurai Bench observed that there should be no “ego” or stubbornness in executing court orders while hearing appeals linked to the Thiruparankundram hill deepa thoon (torch pillar) dispute. Background of the dispute The matter traces back to a petition filed by Ezhumalai-based Ramaravikumar and others. On December 1, 2025, a single judge had directed that Karthigai Deepam be lit at the Thiruparankundram hill torch pillar as well, apart from the usual locations. In a subsequent contempt proceeding over non-compliance, the same judge on December 4 directed that police provide protection for lighting the torch on behalf of the petitioner.

Bhava Chellathurai slams Jnanpith for Vairamuthu, calls it 'shame on India'
General

Bhava Chellathurai slams Jnanpith for Vairamuthu, calls it 'shame on India'

Writer Bhava Chellathurai has criticised the announcement of the Jnanpith award for poet-lyricist Vairamuthu, calling it “a shame on India.” He said the issue goes beyond Tamil literature and reflects poorly at the national level. The award announcement has triggered a fresh controversy. One section has questioned whether an award should be given to Vairamuthu in the backdrop of sexual harassment allegations, while another has argued that his writing should not be considered literature.

Afghan rehab hospital hit in alleged Pakistan airstrike; 400 dead
Politics

Afghan rehab hospital hit in alleged Pakistan airstrike; 400 dead

Kabul: Taliban authorities in Afghanistan said a Pakistan military airstrike hit a drug rehabilitation hospital in the capital, Kabul, early on Monday, killing 400 people and injuring more than 250. According to the Taliban administration, large parts of the 2,000-bed facility were destroyed, and patients undergoing treatment were among the worst affected. Many victims were reported trapped under debris. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid alleged that Pakistani warplanes violated Afghan airspace and deliberately targeted the hospital, calling it a breach of humanitarian rules and condemning the attack.

Mamata Banerjee releases TMC’s 291-candidate list for Bengal polls
Politics

Mamata Banerjee releases TMC’s 291-candidate list for Bengal polls

Kolkata: Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday released the party’s candidate list for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections. The list includes 291 candidates, with the party contesting in 291 of the state’s 294 constituencies. The remaining three seats will be contested by its ally, the Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha led by Anit Thapa. Banerjee will contest again from Bhabanipur. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has fielded Suvendu Adhikari against her; he had defeated Banerjee in Nandigram in the 2021 Assembly election, making their face-off a key contest.

3 lakh girls get free HPV vaccine in two weeks: Centre
Health

3 lakh girls get free HPV vaccine in two weeks: Centre

New Delhi: The Union government’s free vaccination programme aimed at preventing cervical cancer has reached three lakh girls within two weeks, officials said. The nationwide drive for 14-year-old girls was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 28 in Rajasthan. Under the programme, a single dose of the “Gardasil 4” vaccine is being administered to protect against HPV (human papillomavirus) types linked to cervical cancer. Vaccination camps are being conducted at government health centres, including primary health centres. The initiative has also received appreciation from the United Nations, according to the report.

Schools reportedly asked to avoid Vijay songs at annual functions
Education

Schools reportedly asked to avoid Vijay songs at annual functions

Annual day celebrations are under way in schools across Tamil Nadu. In previous years, dance performances at these functions often featured film songs of actor Vijay as a popular choice. This year, however, headmasters are reportedly advising that Vijay’s songs should not be used for annual day dance programmes, according to sources. Teacher circles say the guidance is aimed at avoiding political overtones after Vijay launched a party. They point to instances in some universities and colleges where, when Vijay’s songs are played, students have been seen displaying party flags and loudly chanting the party’s name in videos shared online.

Lok Sabha revokes suspension of 8 MPs after Speaker’s warning
Politics

Lok Sabha revokes suspension of 8 MPs after Speaker’s warning

The Lok Sabha on Monday revoked the suspension of eight MPs who had been barred for disorderly conduct during the first sitting of Parliament’s Budget Session. The MPs belong to the Congress and the CPI(M). Several MPs from different parties had been urging the Speaker to withdraw the action. Speaker Om Birla had earlier indicated that the matter would be considered. Ahead of the revocation, the Speaker held discussions with the suspended MPs and instructed them not to enter the well of the House or throw papers towards the Speaker’s chair. The opposition MPs agreed to these directions.

Odisha Rajya Sabha polls: Congress suspends 3 MLAs over cross-voting
Politics

Odisha Rajya Sabha polls: Congress suspends 3 MLAs over cross-voting

Congress has suspended three of its MLAs in Odisha after allegations that they cross-voted in the Rajya Sabha election in favour of a BJP-backed independent candidate. The party leadership issued suspension orders against Ramesh Jena, Sofia Firdous and Dasarathi Gamang. Rajya Sabha elections were held for 37 vacant seats across 10 states, with 26 seats—including six in Tamil Nadu—being decided unopposed. Polling took place for the remaining 11 seats in Odisha (four), Bihar (five) and Haryana (two).

DMK rule is enough, says BJP’s Annamalai in new video
Politics

DMK rule is enough, says BJP’s Annamalai in new video

Chennai: Former Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai on Monday released a video titled “Achievements of the DMK government in the last five years”. In the video, he claimed that 2,080 sexual assault incidents were reported over the past five years, and that 39,999 POCSO cases were registered during the same period. Using these figures, Annamalai said “DMK rule is enough” and alleged that “enough people have died,” calling for a change.

Madras HC orders Amirthanjan to vacate Kapaleeswarar temple land
General

Madras HC orders Amirthanjan to vacate Kapaleeswarar temple land

The Madras High Court has directed Amirthanjan Company to immediately vacate and hand over a parcel of land belonging to the Kapaleeswarar Temple in Mylapore, Chennai. A division bench led by Chief Justice S.A. Dharmadhikari upheld the earlier order passed by a single judge. The disputed property—measuring 14 grounds and 910 sq ft on Luz Church Road—was originally leased in 1901 for 99 years to B.R. Sundara Iyer at a monthly rent of Rs 1,400. The lease rights were later transferred to Ramayi Ammal, and subsequently acquired by Amirthanjan, which continued paying the same rent for several years.

204 ex-officials seek apology from Rahul over Parliament protest conduct
Politics

204 ex-officials seek apology from Rahul over Parliament protest conduct

New Delhi: A group of 204 people, including retired IAS and IPS officers, former military officials, diplomats and lawyers, has issued an open letter condemning Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi’s conduct during a protest inside the Parliament complex. The letter refers to a demonstration held on March 12 against an alleged cooking gas shortage. During the protest, Rahul Gandhi and some MPs were seen sitting on the Parliament steps and having tea and biscuits.

HC defers Ramadoss–Anbumani civil cases until after elections
Politics

HC defers Ramadoss–Anbumani civil cases until after elections

The Madras High Court has declined to remove the interim stay on the civil court proceedings in cases linked to PMK founder S. Ramadoss and party leader Anbumani Ramadoss. The court said any order at this stage could interfere with the ongoing election process. The dispute stems from a petition filed by Ramadoss before a Chennai civil court seeking to restrain Anbumani from using the party’s name, symbol and flag. In response, Anbumani’s side moved a petition seeking dismissal of Ramadoss’ plea.

VCK seeks direct talks with Stalin on seat sharing, avoids DMK panel
Politics

VCK seeks direct talks with Stalin on seat sharing, avoids DMK panel

Reports from Chennai say Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) leader Thol. Thirumavalavan prefers to hold seat-sharing talks directly with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, instead of negotiating with the DMK’s seat-sharing committee. VCK, a partner in the DMK-led alliance, is said to be seeking more constituencies than in the previous election. In the first round of discussions with the DMK committee, the VCK side reportedly asked for at least 12 seats. However, the DMK committee is said to have responded that VCK should contest the same six seats as last time, and that one or two additional seats could be sought from the party leadership, while advising VCK not to aim for double digits.

Nainar Nagendran asks why Vijay didn’t condemn Adhav Arjuna on Rajini remark
Politics

Nainar Nagendran asks why Vijay didn’t condemn Adhav Arjuna on Rajini remark

Madurai BJP Tamil Nadu president Nainar Nagendran on Tuesday questioned why Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader Vijay did not condemn the party’s election management general secretary Adhav Arjuna for remarks critical of actor Rajinikanth. He said Adhav Arjuna should apologise for the comments. Speaking in Madurai, Nagendran also attacked the ruling DMK, alleging that only a few of the 505 promises made during the last Assembly election had been fulfilled. He claimed the government was using its power to influence people with cash and misinformation, and accused it of attempting to position Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin as Chief Minister.

AIADMK leader’s ‘saree and skirt’ remark sparks backlash in Dindigul
Politics

AIADMK leader’s ‘saree and skirt’ remark sparks backlash in Dindigul

An AIADMK-led alliance protest was held in Dindigul against the DMK government, citing rising sexual violence, drug circulation and deterioration of law and order. During the demonstration, former minister and AIADMK treasurer Dindigul Srinivasan alleged that DMK workers were trying to influence elections with money and gifts, referring to items such as a hot box and sarees. He then made a quip suggesting women were asking, “You gave a saree—what about the skirt?”, a remark that has triggered controversy.

Over 20 housing GOs held back after poll code kicks in
Politics

Over 20 housing GOs held back after poll code kicks in

Chennai: More than 20 Government Orders (GOs) prepared in the Housing and Urban Development Department on the eve of the election date announcement have reportedly been kept in abeyance, as a senior official is said to be reluctant to issue them. The department oversees key agencies including the Tamil Nadu Housing Board, the Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board, the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) and the Directorate of Town and Country Planning (DTCP). Any new decisions related to these bodies typically require a GO routed through the Housing and Urban Development Department.

TVK won’t ally with anyone even for CM post: Aadhav Arjuna
Politics

TVK won’t ally with anyone even for CM post: Aadhav Arjuna

TVK election campaign management general secretary Aadhav Arjuna on Monday said his party would not enter into an alliance with any party, “even if the Chief Minister’s post is offered”. He was speaking at a public meeting held in Perambur, Chennai. In his address, Aadhav alleged that Chief Minister M.K. Stalin fears actor-politician Vijay, and claimed that this fear led to Senthil Balaji being “sent” against him. He further said blame was attempted to be placed on TVK, but that the CBI probe has now “turned back” towards those who made the allegations.

Rare ‘Moon Rainbow’ Seen at Night, Video Shared Online
Environment

Rare ‘Moon Rainbow’ Seen at Night, Video Shared Online

A short video shared by Dinamalar has drawn attention to a rare natural sight often described as a “white rainbow” appearing at night. The phenomenon is popularly known as a moon rainbow (also called a lunar rainbow), where a faint, pale arc can be seen under low-light conditions. The clip, posted in the outlet’s shorts/reels section, has been circulated with science and nature-related tags, prompting curiosity among viewers. No additional details about the location, time, or weather conditions of the sighting were provided in the post.

US military says 13 troops killed, 200 wounded in Iran-linked attacks
Politics

US military says 13 troops killed, 200 wounded in Iran-linked attacks

The US military has said 13 American service members have been killed and 200 wounded in retaliatory attacks linked to Iran on US targets in the Middle East. According to the report, Israel and the United States began strikes on Iran on the 28th, after which Iran has been targeting US military bases in West Asian countries. The conflict has continued for about three weeks, with attacks also aimed at US military infrastructure and fighter jets.

Netanyahu releases video to quash death rumours amid tensions
Politics

Netanyahu releases video to quash death rumours amid tensions

Jerusalem: With tensions rising in the Middle East, rumours circulating online claimed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had been killed. Israeli media reports said the speculation spread widely on social platforms even as the Prime Minister’s Office repeatedly maintained that Netanyahu is alive and in good health. To counter the claims, the Prime Minister’s Office earlier shared a clip on its official X account showing Netanyahu speaking while drinking coffee. However, fresh doubts emerged after some users alleged the video was generated using artificial intelligence.

LPG cylinder supply uninterrupted; no need to panic, says IndianOil
Business

LPG cylinder supply uninterrupted; no need to panic, says IndianOil

Indian Oil Corporation (IndianOil) on Monday assured customers that LPG cylinder supply and delivery are continuing safely and without disruption across the country. In a statement, the company said it remains committed to ensuring steady availability of LPG cylinders for households nationwide. IndianOil noted that some customers may choose to book refills earlier than usual. However, it cautioned that advance bookings can temporarily raise demand and may affect delivery schedules.

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