A video of a DMK MLA conversing in Hindi with a North Indian worker about the practice of twirling pumpkins to remove drishti during a ritual near Kattupakkam, Chennai, has gone viral. This has sparked criticism, with many questioning whether DMK members—who strongly oppose the three-language policy—are the only ones permitted to speak in Hindi.
The incident occurred during a bhoomi puja held for the construction of a new community hall worth ₹7 crore in Kattupakkam panchayat near Poonamallee, under the Chennai Metropolitan Development Corporation’s housing and urban development department.
DMK MLA Krishnasamy, who attended the event, officially inaugurated the bhoomi puja. Later, while participating in the pumpkin-twirling ritual, he was seen speaking in Hindi to a laborer from northern India. He is seen saying, “Aise karo, aise aise, ab upar neeche.” (Do like this, like this, now up and down.)
Now, the viral video of the MLA receiving instructions in Hindi on how to twirl pumpkins has further fueled public criticism, with people questioning the apparent contradiction in DMK’s stance on the language policy.
In a major crackdown on counterfeit currency, the Ramanatham police raided a shed in Atharnatham village near Thittakudi in Cuddalore, allegedly used for printing fake notes. The shed, located on land owned by Selvam, the district treasurer of the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), was found to house counterfeit currency and printing equipment.
According to police sources, Selvam and his associates fled the scene upon spotting law enforcement officials approaching. A subsequent search of the premises led to the seizure of fake currency worth ₹83,000 in ₹500 denominations, along with a walkie-talkie, an air gun, a pistol, a printing machine, a currency counting machine, and a bundle of specialized paper used for counterfeiting.
The police have launched a manhunt for Selvam and his accomplices, who remain at large. Meanwhile, in response to the developments, the VCK has ordered Selvam’s removal from all responsibilities, including his basic membership in the organization.
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DMK Thousand Lights MLA Ezhilan Naganathan is facing intense backlash after a recent video of him went viral, in which he propagated divisive views and ridiculed the highly revered spiritual text, the Bhagavad Gita. The incident took place at a book launch event for Dravidian Stock’s translation of Kalaignar’s Thirukkural, where he mocked Hindu spiritual texts like the Gita and Upanishads. His statements, aligned with a familiar agenda, have been criticized for being completely contrary to historical facts and for distorting them to fit the Dravidian narrative.
Speaking at the event DMK MLA Ezhilan said, “Have you noticed that even today, Kamba Ramayana festivals are being conducted in palatial five-star hotels under the guise of Bhagavad Gita oration? They declare it as ‘elite,’ delivering narrations in English, and then you have Englishmen’s narration, exclaiming, ‘Wow! awesome! The Bhagavad Gita is a perceptional change!’ That (Gita) itself an extra fitting. The Mahabharata unfolds on one side, and it is evident that this (Gita) was cleverly inserted in the middle. Suddenly, at the peak of the war, Krishna begins advising Arjuna—this is what they call the Gita.”
He laughed and said, “Dei, there’s a war happening, people are killing each other, and now you’re giving advice? Comrades, we have studied many war stories from around the world—have you ever read anything like this? We’ve read the Iliad and the Odyssey. We have the Puranaanooru, which even depicts elephants. That’s fine. We’ve also spoken of Kalingathu Parani. But tell me—have you ever seen a moment in the middle of a war where, as arrows fly, someone says, “Wait, I’m advising him!”? Do you understand any of the logic behind this? They inserted it into the Bhagavad Gita and used it to influence/killing us (Vachu Seiran), but there is no originality in it, comrades.'”
Then DMK MLA Ezhilan argues that the Bhagavad Gita and Upanishads were deliberately crafted as a strategic response to counter Buddhist influence. Furthermore, Ezhilan continues, stating that the tradition (without directly naming Hinduism) contains mantras primarily for destruction—mantras for jaundice and diseases, for urination, and even for constipation. He remarks, “If you study them, you’ll find it laughable; it’s an extensive content.”
This is not the first time DMK MLA Ezhilan has been accused of offending Hindu sentiments. On June 3, 2021, in a controversial move, DMK cadres set up a stage in front of Chennai’s Perumal Temple to mark Karunanidhi’s 98th birth anniversary, distributing chicken and mutton biryani despite COVID restrictions. The event, attended by leaders including DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran and MLA Ezhilan Naganathan, drew backlash for obstructing the temple entrance and serving non-vegetarian food. Hindu organizations strongly condemned the act, leading to widespread public outrage.
ஆயிரம் விளக்கு பகுதி 118வது கிழக்கு வார்டில் அமைந்துள்ள சீனிவாச பெருமாள் சன்னதி தெருவில் அமைந்துள்ள பெருமாள் கோவில் வாசலில் 3 – 5-2021 மாலை 12 மணி அளவில் கருணாநிதி பிறந்தநாளை முன்னிட்டு கோவில் வாசலில் சிக்கன் மற்றும் மட்டன் பிரியாணி போடப்பட்டது , தயாநிதி மாறன் எம் பி pic.twitter.com/Yl1F2qQ1DT
In another old video, the DMK leader can be seen spewing venom against Hindu Gods much like what was done by the rabid anti-Hindu YouTube channel Karuppar Koottam.
In the video, Naganathan can be heard saying, “Narada is a known face in Hindu mythology. But, did you know that all he wanted was to be sexually involved with a lot of women?”
He then went on to say how Lord Vishnu had acted like a ‘pimp’ and had asked Narada to go around to the houses on Earth and take every beautiful girl who was present there for himself.
“When Narada had entered any house on Earth, Lord Vishnu was found to be sprawling on the laps of these women. When Narada had questioned this, Lord Vishnu had merely laughed. This caused Narada to proceed to transform himself into a woman, just so he could sleep with Lord Vishnu”, Naganathan can be heard saying in the video.
Another time, the DMK leader called those smearing sacred ash and thiruman as fools. He also insults Hindu worship by saying that women go in front of a stone and pray to fix their husbands.
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The board that reads ‘Sree Karpagavalli Vidyalaya Middle School’ can barely be missed by the residents of Mylapore at the junction of North and East Mada streets. It stands as testimony to the selfless intent of Dharmaraja Iyer who started it in 1926 to impart high-quality education to one and all. Due to Dharmaraja Iyer’s flowing beard, it was referred to lovingly by the students as “Dhaadi Vaadhyar” school. The school, nestled in a peaceful ambiance, has had stalwarts such as former Thuglak magazine editor Cho S. Ramaswamy, former Indian Bank MD & Chairman M.S. Sundararajan, politician and lawyer Jayanthi Natarajan, the grandchildren of former Governor of Madras (1946) Mohammad Usman, and the nephews and nieces of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.G.R., among many others who studied here. Many of them have openly credited the school for the quality of education they received. Even after half a century, the school’s alumni still hold fond memories of Dhaadi Vaadhyar School.
Over the years, the school became a government-aided institution and continues to serve children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds while maintaining the same high quality of education as in its early years. However, with the passage of time, the preference for English as the medium of instruction has taken a strong hold on people’s minds. This, combined with the Right to Education (RTE) Act, which encourages admissions to English-medium schools, has made the situation even more challenging. As a result, this wonderful institution of learning has faced difficult times in recent years.
With student enrollment dwindling to just 10 in the academic year 2024-25, the school’s management has recently been taken over by a new group of trustees dedicated to restoring its former glory and reputation. The trustees – Shivakumar R, Prabhu Nambiappan, Harshavardhana R, Yamuna Harshavardhana, Sripriya Anand, and Sriram U R – are making every effort to ensure this revival, as the school celebrates its centenary during this academic year.
To begin with, the school is organizing a free weekend summer camp for children aged 4 to 8, starting on 29 March 2025, with flyers being distributed to spread the word. Kindergarten classes will commence in June, offering the added benefit of a safe daycare facility on the school premises.
Spoken English will be taught by competent and caring instructors to ensure that students develop the ability to communicate effectively with people from different linguistic backgrounds.
Girls will receive additional support, as ₹2,000 per year will be deposited into their accounts for each year they remain in the school. With free breakfast, lunch, and evening snacks provided, students will receive the necessary nutrition to support their energy and growth during their formative years.
Additionally, tuition fees, uniforms, and ID cards will be provided free of cost for all students. To ease commuting, the school will arrange transportation for children traveling together from the same locality.
The trustees bring with them rich experience from diverse backgrounds and are committed to working for the school’s benefit in a multifaceted manner. They are eager to lead the school into its second century of service in a grand and meaningful way, as a tribute to Dhaadi Vaadhyar’s vision.
Support in any form is welcome—whether by spreading the word to help enroll children, volunteering, or contributing through sponsorships or donations.
For more information, please contact SKVVMSchool@outlook.com
Yamuna Harshavardhana is a Chennai based educator, researcher and author.
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A Division Bench of the Madras High Court will hear an amended writ petition filed by the Tamil Nadu government on April 1, challenging the Directorate of Enforcement’s (ED) search and seizure operations at the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) headquarters in Chennai.
The searches were carried out between March 6 and March 8 this year. The Bench, comprising Justices S.M. Subramaniam and K. Rajasekar, will also hear two separate writ petitions filed by TASMAC, seeking a declaration that the ED’s search and seizure operations were illegal. Additionally, the court will consider the TN government’s request to restrain the ED from allegedly harassing its staff.
The state government amended its original plea following observations made by another Bench—Justices M.S. Ramesh and N. Senthilkumar—on March 20. That Bench had questioned the possibility of issuing a blanket order barring the ED from conducting searches in TN without prior consent from the state. Subsequently, the same Bench recused itself from the case after a preliminary hearing.
In its amended petition, the state government has asked the court to interpret the definition of ‘person’ under Section 2(1)(s) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, in a way that excludes authorities, regulators, or officers of either the Central or State governments. The government also seeks a declaration that State officers’ obligations under the PMLA should be limited to providing assistance to ED officials, as per the law.
Further, the petition requests that the ED be directed to engage only those officers who have been specifically authorised under Section 54 of the PMLA and to seek such assistance solely under that Section. It also seeks to bar the ED from exercising its powers under Sections 17 (search and seizure) and 50 (summons, production of documents, and recording statements) on State government premises or State-owned corporations.
Meanwhile, Chennai-based activist S. Muralidharan has filed an impleading petition seeking permission to become a party to the proceedings. He intends to oppose the writ petitions filed by the TN government and TASMAC. The three writ petitions—two by TASMAC and one joint petition by the State government and TASMAC—along with the activist’s impleading petition, have all been clubbed together and listed for hearing on Tuesday before the Bench of Justices Subramaniam and Rajasekar.
—IANS
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Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai had earlier launched a scathing attack on actor-turned-politician Vijay, accusing his party, Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK), of being a “B-team” of the ruling DMK. He alleged that TVK was a covert project designed to help the DMK retain power in the state.
Addressing reporters, Annamalai criticized Vijay for not engaging in active politics and instead opting for a “work-from-home” approach. He also mocked the actor’s on-screen portrayals, stating,“While Vijay acts with women on screen, BJP workers are on the ground, fighting for public welfare.”
“DMK’s B-team is Vijay, and I assert this. After seeing TVK’s activities, I can say with certainty that TVK is the DMK’s secret project to retain power in 2026,”Annamalai claimed. He further questioned Vijay’s stance on the state-run liquor retailer TASMAC, saying,“You smoke and drink on screen. What right do you have to talk about TASMAC?”
TVK Hits Back, Accuses BJP Of Diverting DMK Issues
A few days earlier, at TVK’s General Body Meeting, party General Secretary (Election Campaign Management) Aadhav Arjuna launched a blistering attack on the DMK and its allies while also cautioning AIADMK against aligning with the BJP.
Arjuna likened the DMK’s political strategies to those of a Nazi regime, accusing the ruling party of fueling the BJP’s growth by constantly positioning Annamalai as its main opponent.“They create an enemy in Annamalai. Every day, Annamalai screams, and they reply. But this only helps the BJP grow,”he said.
Arjuna also claimed that DMK had deliberately elevated Annamalai to divert attention.“When the tiger is sleeping quietly, a goat jumps for attention. This is the narrative employed by the BJP from the Centre. DMK has made Annamalai their ‘setting’ to distract the public,”he alleged.
He further argued that DMK’s opposition to the BJP was a mere vote-bank strategy, orchestrated to cement a political succession plan for Udhayanidhi Stalin.“DMK is creating a setting in Delhi to make Stalin’s son the next Chief Minister,”Arjuna claimed.
Annamalai Counters TVK’s Allegations
In response to Arjuna’s remarks, Annamalai released a video hitting back at Vijay and TVK. He accused the actor of having longstanding ties with DMK through Red Giant Movies, the production house owned by Udhayanidhi Stalin.
Annamalai said,“Vijay must understand something. Red Giant Movies’ inauguration was done by Vijay himself – through his film Kuruvi. Be it Beast or any other film, it was Red Giant that managed both the production and distribution of these films. I am saying this based on evidence. If someone is accusing us (Bharatiya Janata Party), Vijay must ask himself this question – Who was the one who introduced Red Giant Movies to TN via the film Kuruvi? Today, the media industry is under the control of one person, under the dominance of Udhayanidhi Stalin, who was the one who performed the inauguration for Red Giant.”
He further alleged that a former DMK member (Aadhav Arjuna), now part of TVK, had misused lottery money while shifting political allegiances.“Today some people from the TVK are speaking about us. There was a person who is now in TVK. Earlier he was in DMK, he worked for them using lottery money. He then jumped ship to VCK with the same lottery money. Today he has moved from VCK to TVK. His goal is to convert Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam into Lottery Virpanai Kazhagam (Lottery Sales Party). And today, these people are accusing me,” Annamalai said.
The war of words between Annamalai and TVK signals the growing political heat in Tamil Nadu as parties position themselves ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
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After exposing the theatrics of the ruling DMK government’s latest attempt to blame the BJP-led Central Government for reducing MGNREGA funds, on 29 March 2025, Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai raised critical questions to Chief Minister MK Stalin, asked when the CM would fulfill his election promise of providing 100 to 150 days of work to the people and whether he would authorize a CBI investigation into the widespread corruption in the MGNREGA scheme in Tamil Nadu, citing irregularities in a panchayat in Erode district as an example.
On 30 March 2025, Annamalai took to his official X account to urge Chief Minister MK Stalin to respond to the following questions, asking, “Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @mkstalin should answer the following questions.
Tamil Nadu has received a historically high allocation of ₹39,339 Crores from our Central Government under the able leadership of our Hon PM Thiru @narendramodi avl in the last four years under the MGNREGA Scheme. Thiru @mkstalin, since you’ve now been caught in the web of irregularities in the scheme’s execution, would you issue consent to the CBI to investigate the rampant corruption in the scheme in Tamil Nadu? We have given one sample village for the people to understand the magnitude of this corruption.
Are you aware that the states with three times or five times more rural populations have received lesser funds than Tamil Nadu under the MGNREGA scheme?
When do you plan to fulfill the poll promise of increasing the MGNREGA workdays from 100 to 150? Thiru @mkstalin, your party has looted funds that were meant for our hardworking people. DMK is not just corrupt; it is conniving, cruel, divisive and corrupt.
MGNREGA irregularity in one panchayat in Erode District in Tamil Nadu.”
The attached document titled “Irregularities in the execution of MGNREGA” states, “In the last four years since the DMK Government came to power, MGNREGA has been used as a scheme for political purposes. Wages are paid to people who attended DMK public meetings and also to people who never turned up for work. Hard-working people are today facing the brunt of these DMK irregularities. In the last four years, the central government has transferred a total of 3,60,505 Crores. Of this, 10 States in the country have received 2,57,432 Crores. The money paid to Tamil Nadu is equivalent to the combined sum of money paid to Maharashtra (12,065 Crores), Telangana (14,424 Crores), and Chhattisgarh (13,444 Crores). Tamil Nadu has received the highest fund allocation in this scheme in the country. The total funds transferred to Tamil Nadu in the last four years is 39,339 Crores. This is higher than Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, which have higher rural populations than Tamil Nadu. The amount of money paid to Tamil Nadu and Kerala is abnormally high, considering their lesser rural population and the fact that Tamil Nadu is supposedly an Industrialised state. Even based on the rural population per capita, the amount of money paid to Tamil Nadu is five times more than that of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The recent outstanding dues to be paid to each state show the actual picture of why there is such a difference. Of the overall dues pending for the State of Tamil Nadu, wages is 74% of the overall due. This is exactly the opposite of the National average”
MGNREGA Irregularities Reported in a Panchayat in Erode District, Tamil Nadu
The document details serious irregularities in the implementation of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) in a panchayat in Erode District, Tamil Nadu, involving Project Coordinator V. Ganesan and his accomplices. The allegations claim that they manipulated attendance records to create fake worker attendance, thereby embezzling lakhs of rupees.
Irregularities in Attendance Records
The following instances highlight the misuse of attendance registers:
07.09.2023: V. Ganesan marked himself as on duty during working hours while actually attending a political party-affiliated district agricultural workers’ union meeting in Trichy.
11.01.2024: He falsely recorded his attendance as being on duty while attending a Pongal gift distribution event in the Gopi assembly constituency alongside a political party’s union secretary.
08.02.2024: He marked himself present during working hours while participating in a welfare scheme distribution ceremony in Erode.
10.02.2024: He registered his presence as being on duty during a political party’s election manifesto preparation meeting in Avinashi.
08.03.2024: He falsely recorded his attendance during working hours while attending a political event in Chennai with the union secretary.
Formal Complaints and Government Response
On 15 March 2024, a formal complaint was lodged with the Gopichettipalayam Block Development Officer, supported by relevant evidence. Subsequently, complaints were also filed with the Election Commission of India and the District Collector on 20 March 2024, highlighting the misuse of a government job for political campaigning. The complaints were registered under Complaint Nos.: 778571, 778548, and 778588.
Following the investigation, the District Collector ordered legal action against V. Ganesan. The Block Development Officer interrogated him, after which V. Ganesan resigned from his government position on 12 March 2024. However, no legal action was pursued against him, with government officials citing his resignation as the reason for the lack of further action.
Complicity and Embezzlement
The complainant alleges that higher government officials may have been complicit in allowing V. Ganesan to escape accountability. Despite clear evidence of irregularities and embezzlement of significant funds, no recovery was made, and no legal proceedings were initiated against him.
The complainant has urged for a thorough investigation into the matter, requesting accountability not only for V. Ganesan but also for senior government officials who allegedly failed to take appropriate action. The investigation should also address the recovery of the embezzled funds.
Embezzlement Case: Involvement of Project Coordinator V. Ganesan and his Accomplices in Falsifying Attendance Records to Misappropriate Lakhs of Rupees. The details of the irregularity are outlined below.
In Embezzlement Case 1, one of the workers named Priyadarshini, wife of Sivanandam from Pudukaraipur. According to the records, Priyadarshini had zero actual working days in both the 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 periods, yet a total of 99 fake working days were registered in the 2023/2024 period. This fraudulent activity led to the embezzlement of ₹26,755. The manipulation of attendance registers was not an isolated incident, but part of a larger scheme designed to siphon off government funds through fake entries and ghost workers.
Embezzlement Case 2, involves a worker named Sakunthalamani, also known as Sakunthala, wife of Subramanium from Pudukaraipurudur. It is alleged that the worker never reported to work even a single day yet records falsely show 24 days of work in the 2020/2021 period, earning ₹4,800, and zero working days in 2021/2022. In 2022/2023, she was falsely credited with 99 days of work, earning ₹24,750, and again 99 days of work in 2023/2024, totaling ₹26,730. This fraudulent activity resulted in the embezzlement of ₹56,280. Interestingly, Sakunthala owns a broken rice retail shop, which raises questions about the legitimacy of her registration under the MGNREGA scheme. This case highlights how government funds were siphoned off using fake entries, exploiting the system’s vulnerabilities.
Embezzlement Case 3 involves Suguna, the wife of Varadarajan from Pudukaraipurudur, who was falsely recorded as present for 64 days in 2022/2023 and 98 days in 2023/2024, totaling 162 fake working days. Notably, Suguna did not report to work even once and resides in Nallampatti, far from the village where her job card was registered. This led to an embezzlement of ₹42,160. The fraudulent claim raises concerns about the misuse of the scheme to divert funds meant for genuine rural workers.
Embezzlement Case 4 involves Saraswati, the wife of Venkatachalam from Kulavikaradu, was listed as present for 53 days in 2022/2023 and 100 days in 2023/2024, accumulating a total of 153 fake working days. Saraswati never reported to work at all, and her connection to the Project Coordinator V. Ganesan as his mother—raises serious questions. This fraudulent activity resulted in the embezzlement of ₹40,265, highlighting the potential for conflicts of interest within the administrative framework overseeing MGNREGA.
In Embezzlement Case 5, Poongodi, wife of Velusamy from Pudukaraipurudur, has been falsely credited with a total of 240 working days across the years 2022/2023, 2023/2024, and 2024/2025, amounting to an embezzled sum of ₹61,170. Records show 41 days in 2022/2023, 99 days in 2023/2024, and 100 days in 2024/2025, despite Poongodi having reported to work for no more than 15 days in reality. Notably, she is the mother of a worksite in-charge and her job card was exploited to siphon off government funds.
In Embezzlement Case 6, Mageshwari, wife of Chinasamy from Kulavikaradu, was fraudulently recorded with 226 working days over the years 2022/2023, 2023/2024, and 2024/2025, leading to an embezzlement of ₹58,720. The records falsely claim 100 days in 2022/2023, 95 days in 2023/2024, and 31 days in 2024/2025. In reality, Mageshwari has not reported for any work under the MGNREGA scheme as she has been employed at a petrol bunk for the past five years. Her job card was misused to channel government funds for personal gain.
In Embezzlement Case 7, Sangeetha, wife of Thangamani from Kulavikaradu, was fraudulently credited with a total of 221 working days between 2022/2023 and 2024/2025, amounting to an embezzled sum of ₹57,770. The attendance records show 80 days in 2022/2023, 99 days in 2023/2024, and 42 days in 2024/2025. However, Sangeetha has never reported to work under the MGNREGA scheme as she is engaged in agriculture, and her husband works as a mechanic in the government transport department. Her job card was illicitly used to divert government funds.
In the case of Embezzlement 8, it was found that Nallammal, wife of Chinnasamy from Kulavikaradu, had her job card (No. TN-10-015-0 13-013/519-A) used to falsely record attendance for a total of 201 days across three financial years—98 days in 2022/2023, 99 days in 2023/2024, and 4 days in 2024/2025. Despite these fraudulent entries, she never reported to work even a single day. Nallammal, identified as a daily wage worker, had her job card exploited to embezzle ₹52,370 from government funds.
Similarly, in Embezzlement 9, Chellammaal, wife of Chellappaka Vundar from Pudukaraipurudur, was found to have her job card (No. TN-10-015-0 13-002/728-A) used to record 170 fake working days over three years—71 days in 2022/2023, 95 days in 2023/2024, and 4 days in 2024/2025. Chellammaal has never reported to work and is engaged in agriculture. The fraudulent entries resulted in an embezzlement of ₹44,540.
In Embezzlement 10, Kavitha, wife of Selvaraj from Pudukaraipurudur, had her job card (No. TN-10-015-0 13-002/712-A) used to falsely claim 164 days of work across three years—61 days in 2022/2023, 97 days in 2023/2024, and 6 days in 2024/2025. Interestingly, Kavitha has not worked even a single day under the MGNREGA scheme as she is employed in a private company and receives PF and ESI benefits through her employer. Her job card was misused to embezzle ₹43,060 in government funds.
In Embezzlement Case 11, Karuppayal, wife of Kolanthasamy with job card number TN-10-015-0 13-013/373-A, had her attendance falsely recorded for a total of 95 days across three financial years—25 days in 2022/2023, 49 days in 2023/2024, and 21 days in 2024/2025. Despite these fraudulent entries, she never reported to work even a single day. Notably, Karuppayal was on bed rest for two years due to a fractured leg and has only been attending work for the past two weeks in 2024/2025. Her job card was exploited to embezzle ₹25,165 from government funds.
In Embezzlement Case 12, Kunjayal, wife of Kittusamy with job card number TN-10-015-0 13-013/672-A, was falsely credited with 211 days of work over three years—98 days in 2022/2023, 99 days in 2023/2024, and 14 days in 2024/2025. However, she never reported to work even a single day. Kunjayal, identified as a daily wage worker, has only been attending work for a few days in 2024/2025. Her job card was misused to embezzle ₹55,340 from government resources.
In Embezzlement Case 13, Punitha, wife of an unidentified individual with job card number TN-10-015-0 13-002/865-A, had her attendance falsely recorded for a total of 111 days across three years—30 days in 2021/2022, 0 days in 2023/2024, and 81 days in 2024/2025. Punitha never reported to work, as she is employed in a private mill. Her job card was fraudulently used to embezzle ₹29,700 in government funds.
In Embezzlement Case 14, Vasanthi, wife of Vellinagiri from Kulavikaradu, was fraudulently credited with 113 days of work across two financial years—41 days in 2022/2023, 99 days in 2023/2024 and 6 days in 2024/2025. Despite these entries, she never reported to work even a single day. Her job card was misused to embezzle a total of ₹29,690 from government funds.
In Embezzlement Case 15, Devi, wife of Balasubramaniam from Kulavikaradu, had her attendance falsely recorded for 101 days over three years—66 days in 2020/2021, 32 days in 2022/2023, and 3 days in 2023/2024. However, she did not report to work on any of these days. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-013/633-A, was exploited to embezzle ₹24,138 from government resources.
In Embezzlement Case 16, Jothimani, wife of Chinnasamy from Ellamadai, was falsely credited with 199 days of work across three years—0 days in 2021/2022, 99 days in 2022/2023, and 100 days in 2023/2024. Despite these records, she never reported to work. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-013/258-A, was used to embezzle ₹51,665 from the government’s funds.
In Embezzlement Case 17, Sivakami, wife of Nagaraj from Ellamadai, was falsely credited with 141 days of work across three financial years—32 days in 2021/2022, 57 days in 2022/2023, and 52 days in 2023/2024. Despite these entries, she never reported to work even a single day. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-013/323-A, was exploited to embezzle a total of ₹35,630 from government funds.
In Embezzlement Case 18, Amsa, wife of Moorthy from Ellamadai, had her attendance fraudulently recorded for 126 days—33 days in 2021/2022, 81 days in 2022/2023, and 12 days in 2023/2024. However, she did not report to work during any of these days. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 A 13-013/332-A, was used to siphon off ₹31,210 from government resources.
In Embezzlement Case 19, Radha, wife of Thangaraj from Pudukaraipurudur, was falsely credited with 237 days of work over three years—93 days in 2021/2022, 54 days in 2022/2023, and 90 days in 2023/2024. She has not reported to work even once, despite being registered under the MGNREGA scheme. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-013/543-A, was misused to embezzle ₹62,064 from government funds.
In Embezzlement Case 20, Eshwari, wife of Ramasamy from Pudukaraipurudur, was falsely recorded as present for 21 days over three financial years—0 days in 2021/2022, 0 days in 2022/2023, and 21 days in 2023/2024. Despite these entries, she never reported to work even a single day. Interestingly, she is employed at Uzhavan Cafe, which raises questions about the legitimacy of her registration under the MGNREGA scheme. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-013/628-A, was manipulated to embezzle ₹5,670 from government funds.
In Embezzlement Case 21, Murugayal, wife of Palanisamy from Pudukaraipurudur, was credited with 173 days of work—22 days in 2021/2022, 74 days in 2022/2023, and 77 days in 2023/2024—despite not having reported to work even once. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-002/794-A, was used to siphon off ₹44,570 in total government funds through fraudulent attendance records.
In Embezzlement Case 22, Nanjammal, wife of Kaaliyannakavundar from Kulavikaradu, was credited with 57 days of work—had her attendance falsely recorded for 27 days in 2021/2022, 30 days in 2022/2023, and 0 days in 2023/2024, despite never reporting to work. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-014/816-A, was manipulated to embezzle ₹13,980 from government resources.
In Embezzlement Case 23, Jayanthi, wife of Sivakumar from Kulavikaradu, was falsely recorded as present for 143 days over three financial years—29 days in 2021/2022, 18 days in 2022/2023, and 96 days in 2023/2024—despite never reporting to work. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-014/821-A, was manipulated to embezzle ₹37,380 from government funds.
In Embezzlement Case 24, Rajeshwari, wife of Angurajan from Pudukaraipurudur, had her attendance fraudulently marked for 263 days—89 days in 2021/2022, 79 days in 2022/2023, and 95 days in 2023/2024—without ever reporting to work. She is employed at a school, which raises concerns about the misuse of MGNREGA job cards. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-002/947-A, was used to embezzle a total of ₹66,660.
In Embezzlement Case 25, Nageshwari, wife of Periyasamy from Thottipalayam, was falsely credited with 80 days of work—0 days in 2022/2023, 48 days in 2023/2024, and 32 days in 2024/2025—despite not reporting to work at all and being the mother-in-law of a job site in-charge, her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-013/40-A, was manipulated to embezzle ₹21,610 from government resources.
In Embezzlement Case 26, Maragatham, wife of Velliangiri from Kulavikaradu, was falsely marked present for 255 days across three financial years—94 days in 2021/2022, 71 days in 2022/2023, and 90 days in 2023/2024—despite never reporting to work. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-014/1004-A, was manipulated to embezzle a total of ₹64,480 from government funds.
In Embezzlement Case 27, Punitha, wife of Sekar from Kulavikaradu, had her attendance fraudulently recorded for 236 days—48 days in 2022/2023, 98 days in 2023/2024, and 90 days in 2024/2025—without ever reporting to work. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-013/101-A, was used to embezzle ₹62,745 from government resources.
In Embezzlement Case 28, Anjalidevi, wife of Chinnan from Kulavikaradu, was falsely credited with 141 days of work—62 days in 2021/2022, 56 days in 2022/2023, and 23 days in 2023/2024—despite not reporting to work at all. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-013/102-A, facilitated the embezzlement of ₹36,936.
In Embezzlement Case 29, Mageshwari, wife of Chinnasamy from Kulavikaradu, was falsely recorded as present for 226 days—100 days in 2022/2023, 95 days in 2023/2024, and 31 days in 2024/2025—without reporting to work. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-013/545-A, was manipulated to embezzle ₹58,720 from government funds.
In Embezzlement Case 30, Palaniammal, wife of Karuppusamy from Puthukaraipudur, was falsely marked present for 100 days in the year 2023/2024, despite never reporting to work. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-014/953-A, was manipulated to embezzle ₹27,015 from government funds.
In Embezzlement Case 31, Sumathi, wife of Vivekanandan from Puthukaraipudur, was falsely credited with 118 days of work—12 days in 2021/2022, 16 days in 2022/2023, and 90 days in 2023/2024—despite not reporting to work for more than 15 days in total. She is employed as a power loom worker in a company and also operates a power loom at home. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-002/1026-A, was used to embezzle ₹31,180 from government resources.
In Embezzlement Case 32, Arukkani, wife of Kanniyappan from Puthukaraipudur, was fraudulently recorded as present for 152 days—11 days in 2022/2023, 90 days in 2023/2024, and 52 days in 2024/2025—without ever reporting to work. A daily wage worker, her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-013/565-A, was manipulated to embezzle ₹41,270 from government funds.
In Embezzlement Case 33, Sangeetha, wife of Ramesh from Puthukaraipudur, was falsely marked present for 77 days— 0 days in 2021/2022, 42 days in 2022/2023, and 35 days in 2023/2024—despite not reporting to work even once. She has not resided in the village for the past three years. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-002/724-A, was manipulated to embezzle ₹19,650 from government funds.
In Embezzlement Case 34, Ranganayaki, wife of Boopathu from Kulavikaradu, was fraudulently recorded as present for 208 days—75 days in 2021/2022, 88 days in 2022/2023, and 45 days in 2023/2024—without ever reporting to work. She has been employed as a part-time worker under the Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam scheme for the past 3.5 years. Her job card, TN-10-015-0 13-014/931-A, was misused to embezzle ₹51,545 from government resources.
The preliminary investigation has uncovered a coordinated fraud under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA), involving the fabrication of attendance records for non-existent workers. This massive misappropriation of government funds, totaling ₹14,11,103 (Fourteen Lakh Eleven Thousand Hundred and Three only), was carried out with the connivance of Mr. V. Ganesan, the MGNREGA project coordinator of Gopi Panchayat, along with the then work site in-charges.
Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @mkstalin should answer the following questions.
1)Tamil Nadu has received a historically high allocation of ₹39,339 Crores from our Central Government under the able leadership of our Hon PM Thiru @narendramodi avl in the last four years under the MGNREGA… pic.twitter.com/BI9jeo6XCk
These cases highlight a recurring pattern of embezzlement through fake attendance entries, where job cards of individuals who were either inactive, working elsewhere, or unable to work due to physical constraints were manipulated to divert government funds unlawfully.
This revelation by TN BJP Chief Annamalai comes against the backdrop of the DMK’s announcement of statewide protests against the Union Government. The DMK is spearheading demonstrations across Tamil Nadu, criticizing the Union Government for withholding ₹4,304 crores owed to the state under the 100-day work guarantee scheme. Protests are being held at 1,170 locations across 850 DMK union branches, with active participation from individuals involved in the 100-day work scheme.
Chief Minister MK Stalin, through his official X account, stated, “Today, the DMK stood shoulder to shoulder with lakhs of rural #MGNREGS workers across 1,600 protest sites in Tamil Nadu, raising one thunderous question to the Union BJP Government: #WhereIsOurMoney? Denying funds meant for wages to those who toiled under the scorching sun is not just an administrative failure. It is cruelty.* The #SadistBJP Government is deliberately withholding the funds, punishing the rural poor of Tamil Nadu for rejecting them at the ballot. Release the pending Rs. 4,034 crore in #MGNREGA funds owed to us immediately. *Stop this political sadism* against the people of Tamil Nadu.”
Today, the DMK stood shoulder to shoulder with lakhs of rural #MGNREGS workers across 1,600 protest sites in Tamil Nadu, raising one thunderous question to the Union BJP Government: *#WhereIsOurMoney?*
*Denying funds meant for wages to those who toiled under the scorching sun is… pic.twitter.com/KuGcUPmtCZ
In response, Annamalai criticized the DMK for what he described as political “drama,” asserting that the people of Tamil Nadu were growing tired of the government’s antics. He pointed out that Tamil Nadu had received the highest allocation under MGNREGA, totaling ₹39,339 crores over the past four years. Despite this substantial funding, the government faced allegations of overlooking reports of fund misuse and administrative lapses. Later, Annamalai revealed widespread irregularities in the MGNREGA scheme across the state, highlighting the extent of the mismanagement.
Annamalai through his social media post, stated, “DMK Minister Thiru KKSSR Ramachandran is known for hitting women with petition when they seek solutions to their problems. Today, he sped at lightning speed after being questioned by our @BJP4TamilNadu functionary Smt Meena avl about why he called for a Gram Sabha meeting and converted it into a protest against the Central Govt demanding funds for MGNREGA. The people of TN know well that under the MGNREGA, TN has received the highest allocation of ₹39,339 Crores in our country in the last four years, and the DMK Govt has turned a blind eye towards complaints of irregularities in the scheme’s execution and the misappropriation of funds by corrupt DMK functionaries. The people of TN have had enough of DMK’s drama.”
DMK Minister Thiru KKSSR Ramachandran is known for hitting women with petition when they seek solutions to their problems.
Today, he sped at lightning speed after being questioned by our @BJP4TamilNadu functionary Smt Meena avl about why he called for a Gram Sabha meeting and… pic.twitter.com/ZSnyAIKod1
Tamil Nadu has long seen the intertwining of cinema and politics, but few leaders commanded the respect and authority of the late Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa. One of the most telling examples of her firm leadership was how she handled actor Vijay during the Thalaivaa controversy—a moment that showcased her no-nonsense approach to keeping cinema stars in line.
Vijay Flexes His Muscles, ADMK Gave One Kick Between His Legs
In 2013, Vijay’s film Thalaivaa (directed by A.L. Vijay) was set for release with the tagline “Time to Lead.” While seemingly harmless, the phrase raised eyebrows in political circles, given Vijay’s father S.A. Chandrasekhar’sopen political ambitions for his son. The AIADMK government, under Jayalalithaa, saw this as an indirect challenge—a star testing the waters for a future political entry without due respect for the established leadership.
Prior to its scheduled release on August 9, 2013, several Chennai theaters received bomb threats from an obscure group named the Oppressed Students’ Revolutionary Union.These threats led to widespread cancellations of screenings across Tamil Nadu.The Times of India reported that the film’s release was stalled due to these threats, with theaters opting out of screening the movie.
When anonymous threats disrupted the film’s release, the state refused to provide security, sending a clear message: No one, not even a top star, could operate outside the system.
Jayalalithaa’s Firm Hand: Discipline Over Drama
Rather than allowing Vijay to play the victim, Jayalalithaa ensured he understood the consequences of overreach. When he arrived unannounced at her Kodanad retreat seeking intervention, she denied him an audience, putting him in his place.
Vijay, realizing his mistake, issued a public video appeal, respectfully addressing her as “Amma” and acknowledging her leadership. His tone was far from defiant—it was corrective.
“I have always admired Amma’s straightforwardness… I request her to do whatever is necessary,“he said, accepting the need to fall in line.
The Great Turnaround: Vijay’s Strategic Surrender
If Thalaivaa marked Vijay’s ‘punishment‘, what followed was his calculated path to redemption. His career, which had faced roadblocks under the DMK’s reign, took a dramatic turn once he publicly aligned with Jayalalithaa. He refrained from making political statements and distanced himself from any potential threats to the AIADMK leadership.
The result? The very government that crushed Thalaivaa paved the way for Vijay’s meteoric rise in Tamil cinema. His films, once struggling to find theatres, suddenly dominated the box office. The AIADMK government granted tax exemptions, ensured prime screening slots, and re-established Vijay as a bankable star. His movies like Velayudham and Nanban received unprecedented releases, securing his position as Tamil cinema’s leading man.
Bending Over Backwards: Vijay’s Political Silence
Jayalalithaa’s unchallenged dominance over Tamil Nadu ensured that Vijay remained firmly in his place. Unlike his contemporary Kamal Haasan, who often voiced his political opinions, Vijay stayed silent on crucial issues until Jayalalithaa’s passing in 2016. He refrained from questioning the government, avoided controversial statements, and focused entirely on his film career. The once outspoken actor had been effectively tamed.
Why This Was Necessary
Jayalalithaa’s approach wasn’t about vendetta—it was about maintaining order. Tamil Nadu had seen actors like MGR and Karunanidhi transition from cinema to politics, but they earned their place through discipline and loyalty to their parties. Vijay, at that time, was seen as a star trying to leverage his fame without paying his dues.
By putting him in his place, Jayalalithaa:
✔ Prevented recklessness of the film stars from destabilizing the system.
✔ Ensured that stars respected the government’s authority.
✔ Sent a message to the entire film industry: fame doesn’t override protocol.
The Aftermath: A Humbled Star
Post-Thalaivaa, Vijay became more cautious. His subsequent films (Jilla, Kaththi) avoided any political undertones, and he refrained from controversial statements. Only years later, after Jayalalithaa’s passing, did he cautiously step into politics with his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)—this time, seemingly with more preparation.
Jayalalithaa wasn’t “bullying” Vijay—she was keeping him in check. In a state where film stars often blur the lines between entertainment and politics, her firm stance ensured that no one could take the system for granted.
Had she not intervened, Tamil Nadu might have seen more stars attempting shortcuts to power—disrupting both cinema and governance.
Her lesson to Vijay remains relevant today: True leadership isn’t about stardom—it’s about responsibility, respect, and knowing your place before aiming higher.
While some called it harsh, Jayalalithaa’s action was a masterclass in keeping overambitious ‘tharkuri’ stars grounded.
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The Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) has called on the members of Parliament from the state to support amendments to the Waqf Act, citing certain provisions as “unconstitutional and unjust.”
In a statement released on Sunday, 30 March 2025, KCBC highlighted the ongoing Munambam land dispute, where residents face legal uncertainty over property ownership. The dispute stems from claims raised under the existing Waqf Act, which allows challenges to land transactions involving properties that were once endowed for religious or charitable purposes. The Farook College management, which had sold the disputed land to Munambam residents, maintains that it was received as a gift, strengthening calls for legislative amendments.
“There should be a solution to the Munambam issue. The Farook College management has asserted that the land in question was gifted. MPs should cooperate to amend the Waqf Act, which currently permits claims against such properties,” the KCBC stated in its appeal.
The council’s demand has received backing from key Union ministers. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman welcomed the KCBC’s stance, stating on social media that their appeal for amendments addresses sections of the Waqf Act that are “unfair” and “anti-constitutional.”
A welcome step by the Kerala Catholic Bishops Council (KCBC).
Their call is for amending the sections which are “unfair” and “anti-constitutional”in the existing Waqf Act.
“Kerala Catholic bishops put weight behind Centre’s Waqf (Amendment) Bill.”
Minister of Earth Sciences Kiren Rijiju also supported the request, emphasizing that lawmakers must protect the rights of Munambam residents.
I welcome the request by Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council (KCBC) to all MPs of Kerala to support the Waqf Amendment Bill as a Minister and as a minority community member.
It is the duty of those in politics to care for and address problems and challenges faced by our people. For… pic.twitter.com/GQR8kr1Zgz
In Kerala’s Ernakulam district, 400 Christian and 200 Hindu families are battling to keep their ancestral homes as the Waqf Board asserts ownership over land that their communities have occupied for generations. The properties in question lie in the coastal regions of Munambam and Cherai, areas historically inhabited by the Latin Catholic fishing community. The dispute, centered around the legal status of the land, has revived decades-old tensions and brought significant distress to the residents.
The Waqf Act governs properties dedicated to religious or charitable purposes under Islamic law. While recent amendments have aimed at increasing transparency, critics argue that certain provisions infringe upon property rights and create avenues for misuse.
In January 2025, Kerala Congress (Joseph faction) MP Francis George announced his support for the proposed Waqf Amendment Bill in Parliament, pledging to take a positive stand on the matter. Speaking at the 100th day of the Munambam land struggle, organized under the leadership of the Assembly of Christian Trust Services (ACTS), George emphasized his commitment to justice and fairness, declaring that his party is ready to cooperate with anyone to uphold these principles. His statement was met with jubilation by the people of Munambam.
The Kerala Legislative Assembly, on 14 October 2024, unanimously passed a resolution urging the Union government to withdraw the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024. The resolution argued that the bill undermines secular principles and threatens the democratic values enshrined in the federal structure of the Constitution. It contended that the proposed amendments would weaken the authority of state Waqf Boards and infringe on state rights by replacing elected members with a board of nominated officials.
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The infusion of Dravidian ideology, which has often surfaced in TNPSC exams despite factual inaccuracies, has now extended into the academic sphere of Tamil Nadu’s 10th standard students. It appears that the DMK has been strategically attempting to embed its ideology in the minds of students—whether they aim for government jobs or simply to excel academically—suggesting that understanding or praising Dravidian principles is essential for academic success.
The recent controversy erupted following a question in the Tamil Nadu 10th standard public exam that asked students to write an eight-mark essay praising the late Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and DMK leader M. Karunanidhi. The question read: “Describe and write under the title ‘Multifaceted Kalaignar’ using the titles of Kalaignar’s struggle—Kalaignar’s oration, Kalaignar’s drama, screenwriter, and lyricist.” This prompt, which inaccurately linked Karunanidhi, who had no role in the Indian freedom struggle, has sparked widespread debate and criticism.
Many critics argue that instead of addressing pressing issues like administrative inefficiencies and irregularities within the education department, the government is focusing on instilling Dravidian ideology in students.
In response, Tamil Nadu BJP State Secretary SG Suryah criticized the DMK government, particularly School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh, through his official account on X, stating, “What kind of freedom fighter is Karunanidhi, that such a question is being asked in the 10th standard public examination? Isn’t it enough for School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh to be the head of his grandson’s fan club and a slave to his father? Should questions as this asked about Karunanidhi in public exams? Is this cabinet just there to spread the glory of the Karunanidhi family? You lack the strength to fix the crumbling schools in rural areas, and should be ashamed to impose lessons about Karunanidhi on students.”
பத்தாம் வகுப்பு பொதுத் தேர்வில் கேள்வி கேட்கும் அளவிற்கு #கருணாநிதி என்ன சுதந்திர போராட்ட தியாகியா?
பள்ளிக்கல்வித்துறை அமைச்சர் அன்பில் மகேஷ் பேரனுக்கு ரசிகர் மன்ற தலைவராகவும், அப்பாவுக்கு அடிமையாகவும் இருப்பது பத்தாதா? பொது தேர்வில் இப்படி கருணாநிதி பற்றி கேள்வி வைக்க… pic.twitter.com/lHYHRdqw3h
Earlier Attempts To Dravidianize State Competitive Exams
During the examination held on 13 July 2024, TNPSC included a question that stated, “Who is certified as, “Socrates of South Asia” by UNESCO a unit organisation of United Nation?” perpetuating the propaganda endorsed by DMK and other Dravidianist organizations, aiming to portray E.V. Ramasamy Naicker (EVR) as an international leader. Despite repeatedly debunking of this falsehood, with the UNESCO itself putting statement that no such award was given EVR, TNPSC persists in promoting it.
துணை ஆட்சியாளர் துணை காவல் கண்காணிப்பாளர தேர்ந்தெடுக்க நேற்று TNPSC group 1 exam ல கேட்கபட்ட திராவிடியாத்தனமான கேள்விய பாருங்க மக்களே இந்த பொய்ய எத்தனை தடவை செருப்பால அடுச்சு ஓட விட்டாலும் திருட்டு திமுக @mkstalin திராவிடியா அரசாங்கம் திருந்துற மாதிரி இல்ல?@annamalai_kpic.twitter.com/PytHLfYTQ1
In July 2024, the TNPSC faced strong criticism for portraying Tamil Nadu freedom fighter Vanchinathan as a criminal in the assassination case of Robert Ashe during India’s struggle for independence, which is seen as aligning with colonial British perspectives.
In the recently concluded Group 1 examination held on 13 July 2024, TNPSC included a question that states, “Who was the first accused in Ashe murder’s case?.” This question has offended many individuals and sparked criticism of the TNPSC on the internet and social media.
TNPSC GROUP 1 ல் கேட்கப்பட்ட கேள்வி வாஞ்சிநாதன் குற்றவாளியாம்🤦♀️🤦♂️
— 🇮🇳Prabhu Manoharan🚩 (@PrabhuManohara3) July 16, 2024
This new narrative was crafted by Dravidianists to portray Ashe as a “crusader for social justice” while depicting Vanchinathan as a casteist Brahmin. They claim that Vanchinathan was provoked by Ashe’s wife, Mary Lillian Patterson, who allegedly helped a pregnant outcast woman in need of urgent medical care pass through the agraharam. According to this version, Vanchinathan killed Ashe to protect the Brahminical establishment. However, there is no concrete evidence to support this claim, and this narrative has been debunked due to the lack of conclusive proof.
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