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Tamil Nadu News

Latest news from Tamil Nadu - Politics, Business, Sports, Entertainment and more

TN election hopefuls turn to clan temples and astrologers for ‘seat’ luck
Politics

TN election hopefuls turn to clan temples and astrologers for ‘seat’ luck

With the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly election approaching, politicians who have submitted applications within their parties are increasingly turning to astrologers and temple rituals, hoping to improve their chances of getting a ticket to contest. The report notes that major parties have begun aligning for the polls—AIADMK and DMK with national and state allies—while TVK is attempting to form an alliance. Naam Tamilar Katchi has announced candidates for all 234 constituencies, raising expectations of a four-cornered contest and intensifying internal competition for seats.

Russia reportedly shares secret intel with Iran amid US-Israel war
Politics

Russia reportedly shares secret intel with Iran amid US-Israel war

Tehran: As the conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel intensifies, sources have claimed that Russia has shared sensitive intelligence with Iran. The war, which began on February 28, has entered its eighth day, with attacks escalating and the tensions spreading across West Asia, with ripple effects being felt in Gulf countries as well. While Russia has publicly called for an end to the fighting and a reduction in regional tensions, Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke by phone with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday. During the call, Putin conveyed condolences over the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, according to the report.

US Central Command says 3,000+ precision strikes hit targets in Iran
Politics

US Central Command says 3,000+ precision strikes hit targets in Iran

The US military’s Central Command has said American forces carried out precision strikes on more than 3,000 targets in Iran over the past week. The statement comes as fighting has continued for a week between Iran and Israel, with the United States also involved in the conflict. The report said Iran has suffered losses including military and naval assets and key leaders in the US strikes. US President Donald Trump has said there would be no agreement with Iran other than an unconditional surrender, according to the report.

Pakistan petrol price hits Rs 321/litre amid Iran war ripple effects
Business

Pakistan petrol price hits Rs 321/litre amid Iran war ripple effects

Islamabad: Pakistan has seen a sharp spike in petrol and diesel prices amid concerns over fuel supply disruptions linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran. According to the report, Iran has blocked the Strait of Hormuz sea route used by crude oil tankers in response to continued attacks by US and Israeli forces. The move has triggered fears of shortages in countries including Pakistan and Sri Lanka, prompting crowds to rush to fuel stations.

Vijay’s wife Sangeeta files fresh plea seeking alimony, housing access
Entertainment

Vijay’s wife Sangeeta files fresh plea seeking alimony, housing access

Actor Vijay’s wife Sangeeta has filed a fresh petition before the Chengalpattu court, seeking what she called fair maintenance for herself and their children. She also requested permission to reside in the Neelankarai house, citing that she has no place to stay. In her plea, Sangeeta alleged that Vijay is refusing to allow her into the house. She said Vijay, who earns significantly, should provide reasonable alimony to support her and the children.

Annamalai asks DMK about promised Rs 100 LPG subsidy per cylinder
Politics

Annamalai asks DMK about promised Rs 100 LPG subsidy per cylinder

Chennai: Former BJP Tamil Nadu state president K Annamalai has urged the DMK government to announce a Rs 100 subsidy per LPG cylinder, alleging that the party has failed to keep its election promise. In a statement, Annamalai said LPG usage across India has risen by about 45% over the last 10 years, attributing the growth to welfare initiatives including the Ujjwala free gas scheme introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Trump says Rubio will lead US focus on Cuba after Iran war
Politics

Trump says Rubio will lead US focus on Cuba after Iran war

Rubio tasked with Cuba President Donald Trump has said US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will be responsible for matters related to Cuba, signalling a sharper focus on the island in the coming period. Sanctions and growing pressure The US has been tightening economic restrictions aimed at the communist government in Cuba. With fuel exports blocked, the country is facing widespread power outages, according to the report. Trump’s remarks on next steps In an interview with an English news channel, Trump said that after fully concluding the war against Iran, his administration would turn its attention to a plan for Cuba. He also claimed Cuba was actively seeking an agreement with the United States.

Emirates resumes Dubai flights after brief suspension amid tensions
General

Emirates resumes Dubai flights after brief suspension amid tensions

Dubai: Emirates on Saturday said it would resume flight operations to and from Dubai from the afternoon, after briefly announcing cancellations amid heightened regional tensions. The airline had earlier stated that all flights arriving in and departing from Dubai would be cancelled until further notice, citing the security situation. The decision followed reports of an attack targeting locations in Dubai, including a drone incident near Dubai International Airport. According to the report, the airport did not suffer damage. Emirates later issued an update asking passengers with confirmed bookings to proceed to the airport from the afternoon.

Era of a few nations ruling the world is over: Jaishankar
Politics

Era of a few nations ruling the world is over: Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday said the time when a handful of countries could dominate the world has ended, and the future will be “much more multipolar.” He was speaking at a geopolitics and economic conference held in Delhi. Referring to the Covid-19 pandemic, Jaishankar said India’s actions during the crisis reflected its identity as a developing country in the international arena. He noted that the Union government provided vaccines to people across the country and also came forward to send vaccines to other developing nations.

Iran apologises to UAE, Saudi and other Gulf neighbours over attacks
Politics

Iran apologises to UAE, Saudi and other Gulf neighbours over attacks

Tehran has issued an apology to the UAE, Saudi Arabia and other neighbouring Gulf countries over attacks carried out in recent days, according to reports. The strikes were described as retaliation against the US and Israel, with Iran targeting locations linked to American military bases and diplomatic missions in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Oman and Bahrain. A drone attack was reported near Dubai’s international airport on Friday morning, though no damage was reported.

No alliance can match DMK front in Tamil Nadu, says Thirumavalavan
Politics

No alliance can match DMK front in Tamil Nadu, says Thirumavalavan

VCK leader Thol. Thirumavalavan on Friday said no alternative alliance has so far taken shape in Tamil Nadu that can match the DMK-led coalition. He made the remarks while speaking to reporters at the Chennai airport. He said the DMK leadership is holding talks with parties one by one and added that his party would also be invited for discussions soon. According to him, coordination among the alliance partners is progressing smoothly.

Israel says 80+ fighter jets hit Tehran, central Iran in wave attacks
Politics

Israel says 80+ fighter jets hit Tehran, central Iran in wave attacks

Jerusalem: Israel has announced that it is carrying out a fresh round of strikes on Iran, deploying more than 80 fighter jets and conducting attacks in successive waves. The report comes amid continuing hostilities involving the United States and Israel against Iran. US President Donald Trump has said the campaign has not ended and asserted that Iran has no option other than surrender. Iran, meanwhile, has intensified its retaliatory actions, even as Israel said it has accelerated its operations compared with earlier phases.

Bangladesh rations fuel: 2 litres for bikes, 10 for cars
General

Bangladesh rations fuel: 2 litres for bikes, 10 for cars

Bangladesh has introduced rationing for petrol and diesel sales as the country faces a fuel shortage, according to the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC). The shortage is being attributed to disruptions in global crude oil supply amid heightened tensions in the Gulf region, with the ongoing conflict involving the US and Israel against Iran said to be impacting international markets. Under the new limits, two-wheelers can receive up to 2 litres of fuel, while private cars are capped at 10 litres. SUVs, jeeps and mini-buses will be supplied 20 to 25 litres.

People won’t forgive DMK men over fatal crash, says Nainar Nagendran
Politics

People won’t forgive DMK men over fatal crash, says Nainar Nagendran

Chennai: Tamil Nadu BJP president Nainar Nagendran has said people will not forgive DMK members after a road accident in which a full-term pregnant woman died. In a statement, he referred to reports that a car bearing a DMK flag, allegedly speeding near the Chennai–Trichy National Highway, hit a two-wheeler. The woman travelling on the two-wheeler died, and he said the incident was deeply distressing for the family. Nagendran alleged that such acts carried out under the cover of being “DMK men” were continuing and called it not only condemnable but also dangerous. He claimed that with only a few weeks left for the government’s term to end, people were living in fear of further incidents driven by “abuse of power”.

Amit Shah says NDA will form govt in Tamil Nadu, West Bengal in 2026
Politics

Amit Shah says NDA will form govt in Tamil Nadu, West Bengal in 2026

Shah’s remarks in Dehradun Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the NDA would form governments in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal in 2026. He made the statement while addressing an event in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Citizenship granted to about 200 people Shah said around 200 people from Pakistan and Afghanistan were granted Indian citizenship in Uttarakhand. He linked the move to the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

Indian Embassy in Doha seeks details of Indians stranded in Qatar
General

Indian Embassy in Doha seeks details of Indians stranded in Qatar

The Indian Embassy in Doha has begun collecting information on Indians who do not reside in Qatar but are currently stranded there due to the war situation. In an advisory, the embassy said flights departing Qatar were cancelled from February 28 to March 7. As a result, Indian tourists and short-term visa holders who are stuck in the country have been asked to enter their details through an online form.

Stalin urges Congress to field candidates who can fund campaigns
Politics

Stalin urges Congress to field candidates who can fund campaigns

DMK and Congress may have reaffirmed their alliance, but discussions held ahead of finalising seat-sharing reportedly saw a sharp exchange over election funding, according to Congress sources. The sources said that in previous elections, the DMK typically bore a major share of campaign expenses for Congress candidates in Tamil Nadu. With campaign costs rising from lakhs to crores over recent polls, Congress leaders were said to expect similar support in the upcoming Assembly election as well.

Ooty court asks when Kodanad murder-robbery trial will be completed
Crime

Ooty court asks when Kodanad murder-robbery trial will be completed

The Kodanad estate murder and robbery case came up for hearing at the Ooty Sessions Court on Thursday, drawing attention after the presiding judge questioned the pace of the trial. The proceedings were held before Judge Muralidharan. Manoj of Walayar in Kerala appeared in person, along with police officers led by CB-CID and ATS Deputy Superintendent of Police Murugavel. Government prosecutor Kanagaraj said the court was informed that examinations have so far been conducted with 269 witnesses in connection with the case.

Rahul Gandhi joins Kalaripayattu practice during Kerala visit
General

Rahul Gandhi joins Kalaripayattu practice during Kerala visit

Thiruvananthapuram: Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, who is on a visit to Kerala, took part in a Kalaripayattu practice session along with a student at a college programme. After addressing a gathering in Kollam, Rahul visited Marian College in the Kuttikkanam area and interacted with students. He answered questions raised during the discussion. During the interaction, teachers said students trained in self-defence could demonstrate their skills and noted that Rahul was keen to watch. A student named Dinasree then performed Kalaripayattu, Kerala’s traditional martial art.

Reza Pahlavi says Iranians are calling for change in Iran
Politics

Reza Pahlavi says Iranians are calling for change in Iran

WASHINGTON: Iranian crown prince Reza Pahlavi, who lives in the United States, said Iranians are calling on him to help bring about a change of power. He said he accepts the responsibility and has been instructed to return the country and its foreign relations to a normal state. In a statement, Pahlavi accused Iran of targeting neighbouring countries by launching missiles at the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, Iraq and Saudi Arabia. He said violating the sovereignty of neighbours is unacceptable and deserves condemnation.

Trump says US will focus on Cuba after ending Iran war
Politics

Trump says US will focus on Cuba after ending Iran war

Washington: US President Donald Trump said the United States would focus on Cuba after the Iran war is “fully ended,” according to remarks reported from the White House. The US has already been tightening economic sanctions aimed at toppling Cuba’s communist government. The report said Cuba is facing widespread power cuts, linked to restrictions affecting fuel exports. Trump made the comments while meeting members of Inter Miami CF, the “Major League Soccer 2025” champions, including Lionel Messi. Cuban-origin attendees were present during the event.

Climate shift linked to rise in chickenpox and mumps among TN students
Health

Climate shift linked to rise in chickenpox and mumps among TN students

Chennai: Schoolchildren in Tamil Nadu are being affected in larger numbers by chickenpox and mumps, with doctors linking the rise to seasonal transition as the cold period ends and summer begins. Government doctors said the current climate shift and increasing heat are contributing to the spread of these viral infections among children and students. Chickenpox is described as a highly contagious viral illness. It typically begins with fever, fatigue, weakness and loss of appetite, and later causes small blisters to appear on the body. Doctors cautioned that pregnant women, newborns and people with low immunity face higher risk and should be especially vigilant during this season.

BJP’s Nainar Nagenthran says regime change certain in Tamil Nadu
Politics

BJP’s Nainar Nagenthran says regime change certain in Tamil Nadu

Meeting in Chennai The BJP’s management committee held a consultation meeting in Chennai on Thursday. Tamil Nadu BJP president Nainar Nagenthran discussed preparations linked to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the state, Assembly election campaigning and the party’s election manifesto. Talks with AIADMK to begin soon Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Nagenthran said the BJP would start discussions with the AIADMK on seat-sharing “very soon”. He noted that the Assembly election date has not yet been announced and that there is still time for preparations.

Stalin: 7 lakh houses to be built under Kalaignar Dream Home by 2030
Politics

Stalin: 7 lakh houses to be built under Kalaignar Dream Home by 2030

Chief Minister M K Stalin on Thursday announced that Tamil Nadu will construct 7 lakh houses by 2030 under the ‘Kalaignar Dream Home’ scheme, covering both rural and urban areas. He said the target includes 5 lakh houses in villages and 2 lakh in towns and cities. The announcement was made at the valedictory event of the ‘Ungal Kanavai Sollunga’ initiative, held at the Chennai Trade Centre in Nandambakkam under the theme “Tamil Nadu – 2030: Dreams Come True”. Stalin said the government had gathered aspirations from 1.80 lakh families and would take forward key priorities through 14 major initiatives for the next five years.

Udhayanidhi says Dravidian model made Modi speak English in TN
Politics

Udhayanidhi says Dravidian model made Modi speak English in TN

Meeting in Tenkasi Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin said in Tenkasi that the “Dravidian model” in Tamil Nadu had made Prime Minister Narendra Modi speak in English during his recent visit to the state. Criticism of AIADMK’s stand on Union Budget Speaking at a DMK alliance functionaries’ consultation meeting held at Ilanji in Tenkasi district, Udhayanidhi alleged that AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami rushed to praise the Union Budget immediately after it was presented in Parliament. He claimed this showed Palaniswami’s subservience to PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

DMK, Congress mock Governor Ravi’s transfer to West Bengal
Politics

DMK, Congress mock Governor Ravi’s transfer to West Bengal

Chennai: DMK and Congress leaders took to social media to mock the sudden transfer of Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi to West Bengal. According to the announcement, Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar will additionally hold charge as Tamil Nadu Governor. During his tenure in Tamil Nadu, Ravi frequently clashed with the DMK government. The report notes that he took firm positions on issues including vice-chancellor appointments and often pointed out alleged mistakes by the Chief Minister, ministers and the government.

US official: Trade deal won’t repeat China-era mistakes with India
Business

US official: Trade deal won’t repeat China-era mistakes with India

New Delhi: The United States will prioritise its national interest in any trade agreement with India and will not repeat what it calls past mistakes made with China, US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau said. Speaking at the Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, Landau described the decision to open the US market to China about two decades ago as a “major mistake”. He said India should understand that Washington will not make the same error again.

Nepal’s National Freedom Party set to form govt; 35-year-old rapper to be PM
Politics

Nepal’s National Freedom Party set to form govt; 35-year-old rapper to be PM

Kathmandu: Nepal’s National Freedom Party, the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), led by 35-year-old Balendra Shah, is set to form the next government after winning a clear majority in the recently concluded parliamentary election. The election followed months of unrest triggered by the government’s September 26 ban on social media. The move intensified public anger over long-standing issues such as corruption, unemployment and the perceived privileged lifestyles of political dynasties, leading youth and students to organise protests in large numbers.

Iran minister mocks Trump over remarks on choosing Iran’s next leader
Politics

Iran minister mocks Trump over remarks on choosing Iran’s next leader

At the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Seyed Khatibzadeh took a swipe at former US President Donald Trump over his comments on Iran’s leadership succession. According to the Iranian official, Trump—whom he said could not even “elect the mayor of New York”—was now insisting that the United States should have a role in choosing Iran’s next Supreme Leader. He described the claim as “ridiculous.” The remarks came after Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was recently killed in an attack attributed to the US and Israel, the report said. Trump subsequently argued that Washington should influence Iran’s selection process, comparing it to what he claimed was a US role in changing Venezuela’s president.

Oil firms won’t easily allow shift to alternative fuels: Gadkari
Politics

Oil firms won’t easily allow shift to alternative fuels: Gadkari

Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday said petroleum companies in India would not easily allow the country to shift to alternative fuels. Speaking at a biofuel conference in Pune, Maharashtra, Gadkari said energy self-reliance could help India reach an economic target of Rs 460 lakh crore. He pointed to the ongoing tensions in West Asia as a reminder of why energy security is crucial. Gadkari noted that India imports 86% of the energy it uses, spending about Rs 22 lakh crore for it. He said the government’s aim is to make the transport system safer by 2030 and to promote cleaner fuels along with agriculture to unlock benefits from domestic fuel sources.