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“Pongal Is National, Not Just Tamil Festival”: BJP TN Leader SG Suryah Gives Befitting Reply To DMK-CPIM’s Claims Over CA Exam Dates

By
The Commune
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TN Leader SG Suryah Gives Befitting Reply To DMK-CPIM Claims Over CA Exam Dates during Pongal

The DMK and its ally, the CPI(M), appear to be focused on nothing but divisive and anti-Tamil politics, seemingly oblivious to real issues at hand. This became evident when CPI(M) MPs and DMK cadres once again pushed a narrative surrounding the recent scheduling of the Indian premium institution ICAI’s foundational course exam. The exam, set to take place from January 12 to January 18 across four dates, was immediately criticized by these leaders, who claimed that the exam coinciding with the Pongal festival was an attempt by the central government to target Tamils. They labeled it as an anti-Tamil move. In response, BJP state secretary SG Suryah delivered a strong and fitting rebuttal to their claims.

On 24 November 2024, CPI(M) MP Su Vekatesan and DMK Student Wing President Rajiv Gandhi propagated the same narrative in unison.

CPI M MP Su Vekatesan on 24 November 2024, via his official X account stated, “Exams on Pongal. No matter how many times we say it, it won’t change. We won’t rest on it. Union government, change the exam date immediately. Stop insulting Tamil culture. CA Foundation Exams on Pongal. Letter to Union Minister and ICAI Chairman requesting change of dates. Many parents of candidates who have applied for CA Foundation Exam have contacted me. Business laws and Quantitative Aptitude exams have been announced on Pongal (14.11.2024), the people’s festival of Tamil Nadu, and Uzhavar Thirunal (16.11.2024), respectively. Considering that Pongal, the “harvest festival”, is a unique cultural festival of Tamil Nadu, I have written to Union Minister of Corporate Affairs Hon’ble Nirmala Sitharaman and ICAI Chairman CA Ranjith Kumar Agarwal to reschedule the exam schedule without any inconvenience to the candidates.”

Similarly, DMK Student Wing President Rajiv Gandhi, through his official X account, stated, “Anti-Tamil Union BJP Government!! Union Government is conducting CA Foundation exams on the Tamil festival Pongal!! Will you conduct the exam on Diwali??”

In a strong rebuttal, BJP State Secretary SG Suryah responded by pointing out that Pongal is celebrated in various forms across the country, including Makar Sankranti and Lohri in the North, Khichdi in Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarayani in Gujarat and Rajasthan, among others. He emphasized that Pongal is a national festival, celebrated by people all over India, not just in Tamil Nadu.

Suryah further questioned, “According to your strange theory, does this mean the BJP is against all states?” He clarified that the dates for the CA exams are determined by the ICAI, an independent statutory body, not the Finance Ministry.

SG Suryah via his official X account rebuking the DMK stated, “Shameful obfuscation of facts. Same Pongal is celebrated as Makar Sankranti, Lohri in North, Khichdi in UP, Uttarayani in Gujarat & Rajasthan, and Maghi in Haryana & Punjab, Bihu in North Eastern States. So Pongal is a National festival that whole India celebrates & not only in Tamil Nadu. So #BJP is Anti-all states according to your funny theory? Secondly, dates for CA Exams are decided by an independent statutory body@theicai & not by Finance Ministry. Thirdly, only Professionals know why such holidays are chosen for Professional course exams. For example I’m a Practicing Company Secretary & all my CS Exams during my student days happened from Christmas to New Year holiday block. Does it mean #ICSI is Anti-New Year & Christmas? Funny DMK guys!”

And criticising the CPIM MP he stated, “I know Mr. Su. Venkatesan(@SuVe4Madurai) wil get caught somewhere like this! What does a story writer know about Professional Courses? All these are the domain of those who study and pass. Why do you care all these? Okay, let’s get to the point. Is Pongal a festival celebrated only in Tamil Nadu? Instead of lying 24 hours a day, you can develop common sense by asking communists from other states?”

“This same Pongal is celebrated as Makar Sankranti in other states, Lohri in North India, Khichdi in UP, Uttarayan in Gujarat & Rajasthan, Mahi in Haryana & Punjab, and Bihu in the North-Eastern states. First of all, before talking about division, you should understand that Pongal is a national festival celebrated not only in Tamil Nadu but all over India. So how is this against Tamils ​​only? As an MP, if he had sat in the Parliament canteen 24 hours a day and talked to four people without wiping the bench, would he have developed even a little basic knowledge? Secondly, it is not the central government or the finance ministry that decides the CA exam dates. It is an autonomous organization called @theicai.” He stated

“There are various criteria for that. For example, if it is a Communist Party meeting, not even 10 people will come; so you can have it anytime. But, CA exam is the dream and future of lakhs of students – hence the exam dates can be decided only after considering various factors. Thirdly, only those who study hard know why such holidays are chosen for exams for Professional Courses. There is no way for piggy banks like you to know all that. Even if you take 7 births, you cannot pass even a single Professional Course in India; if you want to play politics in their life, that dream will not come true! Well, what right do I have to say this. I too have studied hard for a similar Professional Course… and passed it (not a piggy banks!) . So I say, save your respect (if you think you have such a thing(!))!” He added.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also backed Suryah’s response, criticizing the CPI(M) MP and the DMK for their baseless claims. She pointed out that “some people have become accustomed to spreading propaganda against the Union government, labeling it as ‘anti-Tamil’ without any justification.”

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“Arjuna Might Split VCK Into Two, Be Cautious”, DMK Ally KMDK Leader Eswaran Warns DMK Ally VCK

By
The Commune
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KMDK Leader Eswaran Warns VCK over power-sharing.

Kongu Nadu Makkal Desiya Katchi (KMDK) General Secretary E.R. Eswaran, speaking at a meeting of the Erode District General Committee, expressed frustration with certain political leaders who, he alleged, are overly focused on power-sharing talks ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Eswaran pointed out that, despite more than a year remaining before the elections, some leaders are already pushing for discussions on alliance seat-sharing. He also expressed concerns about the future of the VCK (Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi), suggesting that the party’s General Secretary, Aadhav Arjuna, might cause a split within the party.

The Erode District General Committee meeting of the KMDK took place at a private hall in Sengodampalayam, Erode, with the party’s General Secretary E.R. Eswaran and several others in attendance. After the meeting, Eswaran responded to media questions regarding power-sharing controversy within the alliance, stated, “As far as I’m concerned, what we need are development projects for the Kongu belt. My stance on power-sharing in governance is ‘My requests should be fulfilled, and the development projects for the Kongu belt should not be delayed.’ This is the kind of share I am talking about. As for the ‘Share in governance, share in power’, will naturally unfold based on the outcome of the elections. Talking about it now is just a way to grab media attention and an action to stay in the headlines always. In Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi, Aadhav Arjuna’s voice is being overemphasized. There’s no doubt Aadhav Arjuna is unique and talented and has all the riches. Today, he is making inroads within the party, and I have a suspicion that he might split the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi into two. Therefore, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi should be very cautious about that.”

Then, E.R. Eswaran, raised several critical issues such as the water crisis in the Kongu region and others. Eswaran stressed the urgent need for the Pandiyar-Punnampuzha scheme to be implemented to address the region’s growing water scarcity, urging immediate government action to secure the area’s water future. He also highlighted the serious problem of water pollution in Erode district, caused by the discharge of waste from dyeing units into local water bodies, which has led to a disturbing rise in cancer cases. Eswaran called on the government to find a permanent solution to this environmental issue.

In addition, he criticized the ban on toddy sales, stating that lifting the ban would significantly improve farmers’ income and help boost their livelihoods. He also appealed to the state government to include Kalingarayan’s name in the Athikadavu Avinashi project, a proposal aimed at improving water management in the region. Eswaran further advocated for the creation of a separate Gobichettipalayam district, which he believes would help better manage the region’s administrative needs.

Eswaran also addressed the issue of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam’s first conference, noting the low turnout from the Kongu region and suggesting that simply watching an actor’s movies does not automatically translate into political support. On the Godavari-Cauvery interlinking project, Eswaran urged the Central government to prioritize it, criticizing the BJP for not taking concrete steps despite their public backing of Tamil Nadu’s development needs.

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Remembering Major Ramaswamy Parameswaran, The Only Tamilian To Have Got A Param Vir Chakra And He Is A Brahmin

By
The Commune
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Remembering Major Ramaswamy Parameswaran, The Only Tamilian To Have Got A Param Vir Chakra And He Is A Brahmin.

On this day, 25 November 2024, we honor the memory of Major Ramaswamy Parameswaran, a true son of India, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty 37 years ago. His courage, leadership, and unwavering resolve stand as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Indian Armed Forces.

Born on 13 September 1946 in Bombay (now Mumbai), Maharashtra, Major Parameswaran was born to the Tamil Brahmin couple, K. S. Ramaswamy and Janaki Ramaswamy who hailed from the Kilimangalam family in Ramapuram, Kottayam district in Kerala. He and his wife, Janaki, relocated to Mumbai, where Shankaranarayanan managed a business.

Major Parameshwaran attended the South Indian Education Society (SIES) High School, completed his schooling in 1963, and graduated in science from SIES College in 1968. Driven by a sense of duty and patriotism, he joined the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai and was commissioned into the Indian Army on 16 June 1972.

A Distinguished Military Career

Major Parameswaran began his service in the 15th Battalion of the Mahar Regiment, where he honed his skills over eight years. In 1983, he was transferred to the 5 Mahar Battalion and later selected to serve with 8 Mahar during Operation Pawan in Sri Lanka, a testament to his exemplary leadership and tactical acumen.

During his tenure, Major Parameswaran participated in numerous counter-insurgency operations in India’s North-East region. His men affectionately called him “Parry Sahib,” a reflection of their admiration and respect for his steely resolve and compassionate leadership. Always leading from the front, he was known for his meticulous planning and hands-on approach, often venturing into forests with his troops to dominate the terrain and deter insurgents.

In 1981, Major Parameswaran married Uma, a poet and writer, beginning a life enriched with love and mutual respect. His dedication to his family was as unwavering as his commitment to his nation.

Operation Pawan And The Supreme Sacrifice

In 1987, Major Parameswaran’s unit became part of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) tasked with enforcing the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord. The accord, signed on 29 July 1987, sought to bring peace to the war-torn region. However, the LTTE reneged on their commitments and unleashed violence against Indian forces.

On the fateful night of 25 November 1987, during a search operation in Kantharodai near Uduvil in Jaffna, Major Parameswaran and his team of 30 soldiers inadvertently walked into an LTTE hideout and were ambushed. The militants, armed with AK-47s, grenades, and heavy machine guns, unleashed relentless fire. The terrain, littered with mines, further restricted the soldiers’ movements, leaving them vulnerable.

Displaying remarkable presence of mind, Major Parameswaran devised a counter-ambush strategy. Leading a small group of 10 soldiers, he crawled through the coconut grove under heavy fire to encircle the militants. Undeterred by a burst from a sniper’s heavy machine gun that severely injured his left wrist, he pressed forward. He charged at the nearest militant, snatched his rifle, and neutralized him. Moments later, another burst hit him in the chest, igniting the Mini Clear pistol rounds he carried, mortally wounding him.

Despite his grave injuries, Major Parameswaran continued to inspire and direct his men, ensuring their victory. His soldiers, fueled by his bravery, neutralized five militants and recovered three rifles and two rocket launchers, successfully clearing the ambush site. Tragically, India lost one of its finest warriors that day.

A Nation’s Gratitude

In recognition of his unparalleled gallantry and supreme sacrifice, Major Ramaswamy Parameswaran was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honor. He remains the only recipient of the PVC from the IPKF operations in Sri Lanka and the first alumnus of OTA Chennai to achieve this distinction.

The official citation for his Param Vir Chakra reads:

“Major Ramaswamy Parameswaran displayed the most conspicuous gallantry and thought nothing of dying at his post.”

His legacy lives on in numerous ways.

The Army Welfare Housing Organization (AWHO) named a colony in Chennai as AWHO Parameswaran Vihar in his honour in 1998. His story continues to inspire generations of Indians to uphold the values of courage, selflessness, and service.

In January 2023, on Parakram Diwas, Prime Minister Modi named 21 previously unnamed islands in the Andaman & Nicobar archipelago after Param Vir Chakra recipients, including Major Parameswaran. This will ensure that future generations will remember these heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for India. Today, these islands stand as lasting memorials of their extraordinary courage and service to the nation.

Major Parameswaran will soon be honored with a memorial in his ancestral town of Ramapuram in Kerala. In his memory, the Ex-servicemen Trust in Ramapuram, supported by 57 ex-servicemen and eight widows, has worked tirelessly to make the memorial a reality. The trust has raised funds for the project, which includes a bust and an engraved citation detailing his heroic deeds. The foundation stone for the memorial was laid in February 2023 by the Ramapuram Grama Panchayat president with Parameswaran’s younger brother, Ramanathan Ramaswamy, and his wife Vijayalakshmi attending the ceremony.

Remembering A Hero

Today, as we mark the 37th anniversary of Major Parameswaran’s supreme sacrifice, his legacy endures not just in memorials of stone and bronze, but in the hearts of countless Indians. From the bustling streets of Mumbai where he grew up, to the quiet town of Ramapuram where his memory will soon be enshrined, to the distant shores of the Andamans where an island will bear his name – may his story continue to inspire generations. As the only Tamil recipient (and a Tamil Brahmin at that) of the Param Vir Chakra, his valour transcends regional and community boundaries, embodying the true spirit of India’s armed forces. In Major Parameswaran’s final moments of extraordinary courage, we find not just a tale of heroism, but a reminder that the greatest acts of service often demand the ultimate price. His life stands as a testament to the words inscribed in the hearts of every Indian soldier: service before self. In remembering him, we honor not just a soldier, but a son of Bharat Mata who showed us that true courage knows no bounds.

Today, Major Ramaswamy Parameswaran lives on as an enduring symbol of courage and sacrifice, with his legacy honored through A.W.H.O Parameshwaran Vihar on Arcot Road, Chennai.

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TN Cong Functionary Dhivya Marunthiah Who Peddled Separatist Narrative Gets A Taste Of Her Own Medicine

By
The Commune
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TN Cong Functionary Dhivya Marunthiah Who Peddled Separatist Narrative Gets A Taste Of Her Own Medicine

Tamil Nadu Congress functionary Dhivya Marunthiah seemed to have recently tasted her own medicine. On the night of 24 November 2024, she posted about an incident on the train she was travelling on. She wrote, “Hello @GMSRailway  These two unreserved person in S1 compartment, fighting with us (reserved) for the seat. Called upon someone & asked them to wait in next station to fight with us. We pulled on the chain, guard came but he’s not helping. It’s not safe here. Called Railway Police, but no help recieved. Please attend. Kaveri Express 16022″

Then, she updated the post with a video alleging that the passengers were being abused. She wrote, “This is not right. @GMSRailway They started abusing everyone in the compartment. Unnecessarily creating Kannada-Tamil issue. Please we need help.”

She even begged the people of Karnataka to treat others like humans.

When a concerned netizen asked her if other passengers were trying to help, out came the Karma boomerang! She wrote, “They came. These 2 men starts yelling at Kannada & started abusing in Kannada. They asked us to talk in Kannada. Unnecessarily!”

At this time, netizens reminded her of her old posts where she championed the “anti-Hindi” cause.

Here are a few netizen reactions.

For every such post, she kept whining that she would ignore the “clowns” who shared her old posts supporting Tamil. She wrote, “Primary issue needs to be addressed. We need proactive measures from the Railway Police/RPF in the situation of mob violence in the railways. They will have to contain the mob before a situation escalates and not act upon after it becomes news. Their swift action is necessary. Keep a helpline number which is helpful for women IMMEDIATELY. Whole Sanghi RSS online ecosystem wanted it to be the language issue between states & targeting me. It’s not going to bother me. Because unlike you all, unlike @AshwiniVaishnaw, Unlike @RPF_INDIA, We STOOD THERE STRONGLY. We didn’t let that happen. Because we will always be the peaceful neighbor and that will never change at all. I will continue to ignore you clowns.”

Well, she successfully ignored everyone by copy-pasting the same text on their posts.

Here are some posts of hers from the past where she promoted anti-national, anti-Hindu, and separatist ideologies.

She called the Major Mukund Varadarajan biopic a “propaganda” movie.

She simped royally for Pakistan when they landed in Chennai. Once the Pakistani team landed in Chennai, she posted a tweet welcoming the Pakistani cricket players to Tamil Nadu. Many on social media pointed out how the same lady had previously posted against Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting Tamil Nadu with the hashtag #GoBackModi (partly peddled by Pakistan).

During the cricket World Cup, she prayed that Pakistan would win the match.

Earlier, during the Ahmedabad match, in which India won against Pakistan, a disappointed Dhivya wrote that the country lost to religious extremists and prayed that the Pakistani team win the World Cup this time.

She also went on a cringe fest expressing her love for Pakistan.

While the Congress lady went out of the way to prove her love for Pakistan, she had shown contempt for people of her own country (specifically people living in Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh) by abusing them for their electoral choice.

The 2023 Karnataka Assembly Elections saw Congress emerge victorious with 135 seats pushing the BJP to a distant second with 65 seats.

As soon as the trend of Congress winning became clear, many of their leaders along with DMK were found calling for a separate “United States of South India”. Dhivya was among those who also pushed the separatist narrative.

Like a true-blue Congressi, she also displayed her hate for the RSS regularly. Here are some examples:

Source: https://x.com/DhivCM/status/1575384319505608704
Source: https://x.com/DhivCM/status/1647615176479322114

She also called people who made laws in Parliament were terrorists.

Source: https://x.com/DhivCM/status/1132241578653696000

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“We Criticize It, Not Against It”, Says TN Speaker M. Appavu About NEET

By
The Commune
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"We Criticize It, Not Against It", Says TN Speaker Appavu About NEET.

Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly (TNLA) Speaker M. Appavu sparked controversy on 24 November 2024 by stating that the ruling DMK government is not fundamentally opposed to the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), provided it is conducted fairly and transparently. His comments created a stir within the DMK party.

Appavu made these remarks during an awareness rally to mark the seventh National Naturopathy Day in Egmore. He clarified that the controversy was not about the existence of NEET itself, but about how the national-level exam for medical admissions is being managed and the role of the National Testing Agency (NTA), a private body currently responsible for conducting the test.

“We are not opposed to NEET. They have passed an act making NEET essential for pursuing medicine. However, how it is conducted and who is conducting the exam. You are all aware that the exam is handled by an agency called the National Testing Agency, which is a private entity. It’s run by a group of ten people, much like the Rotary, across the country. How many crores are involved in this process? While it’s fine if they earn profits and done honestly. They NTA agency have given grace marks to 1563 to students which have affected our students, and we are asking question against it,” Appavu stated. He further expressed concern over how the NEET system was negatively affecting Tamil Nadu students, particularly due to the implementation of a grace mark system, and its overall impact on the State’s educational standards, which are regarded as among the best in India.

Appavu emphasized that if NEET were to be conducted in a transparent and honest manner, the State would have no objection. He reiterated that the DMK government has been advocating for the abolition of NEET in Tamil Nadu because of its adverse effects on local students and the State’s education system.

Speaking to the press, he remarked, “If there is act is this country, we can only criticize it, we are not against it. The current Union government has introduced this NEET act, and we are criticizing only the act. ‘Everyone’s opinion is against NEET’ – the Chief Minister, the Ministers, and even Appavu share the same view.”

He then criticized the NTA, stating that it was a private entity although it is a government body. Although the Speaker highlighted transparency as a primary issue, he also pointed to broader concerns, particularly the increasing federal encroachment on education, a subject listed in the Concurrent List, without the proper consultation or consent of the states.

In addition, Appavu appealed to the public and media to pressure the central government to release outstanding tax revenues and other dues owed to Tamil Nadu.

(With inputs from DTNext)

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Jewish Journalist Ezra Levant Arrested at Pro-Hamas Rally in Toronto For ‘Breaching Peace’ In Trudeau’s Canada

By
The Commune
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Jewish Journalist Ezra Levant Arrested at Pro-Hamas Rally in Toronto For ‘Breaching Peace' In Trudeau's Canada

Toronto police arrested Jewish journalist Ezra Levant of Rebel News during a pro-Hamas rally in a predominantly Jewish neighbourhood at Bathurst Street and Sheppard Avenue. Levant was covering a weekly anti-Israel counter-protest when police ordered him to move away from the rally, citing that his presence was “inciting the crowd.”

Levant refused, alleging discrimination and stating, “I’m refusing to leave because I’m a Jew, and I’m a citizen.” Officers informed him he was under arrest for “breaching the peace.” Protesters cheered during the arrest, shouting slurs like “Zionist” and “loser.”

Levant, in a video posted by Rebel News, condemned the decision to arrest him while allowing demonstrators supporting Hamas—a banned terrorist organization—to remain. He likened the actions of a protester role-playing slain Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in the neighborhood to someone dressing as Adolf Hitler in an area home to Holocaust survivors. He criticized the police for allegedly prioritizing foreign provocateurs over a journalist’s right to report.

Levant described the incident as “outrageous,” noting it was his first-ever arrest. As police escorted him away, several bystanders shouted, “Shame, let go of him.” Levant has called on authorities, including the mayor, to address the incident, questioning why peaceful citizens are removed while supporters of a terror group can dominate public spaces.

(With inputs from Asianet News)

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Meet BJP MLA Captain R Tamil Selvan, The Tamil Trailblazer In Mumbai’s Political Landscape

By
The Commune
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Meet BJP MLA Captain R Tamil Selvan, Trailblazer In Mumbai Politics.

In a land where Tamil is not the native tongue, Captain R. Tamil Selvan has carved an inspiring journey, rising from humble beginnings to become a prominent leader in Maharashtra politics. Hailing from Pilaviduthi village in Tamil Nadu’s Pudukkottai district, Tamil Selvan’s story is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the ability to connect with people across linguistic and cultural divides.

Ramayya Rangiyar (82) and Thangam (73), a farming couple from Pilaviduthi village near Karambakudi in Pudukottai, are the proud parents of six children, the eldest being Captain R. Tamil Selvan. Interestingly, his father, Ramayya, supports the Communist Party, while his brothers Mohan and Jeevanadam are affiliated with AIADMK.

From Laborer To Leader

Nearly 35 years ago, a young Tamil Selvan was brought to Mumbai under the pretence of securing a job in Dubai. Abandoned at the airport by the agent who deceived him, he chose to stay in Mumbai and began working as a labourer at railway stations. Undeterred by adversity, he gradually established himself as a helper and advocate for Tamils and others in Mumbai’s Dharavi and Sion-Koliwada areas, earning immense respect for his service-oriented approach.

Heroism Amid Adversity – 26/11 Attack

Tamil Selvan’s courage came to the forefront during the 26/11 Mumbai attacks in 2008. Then a parcel contractor with a counter near platforms 14 and 15, Selvan initially mistook the sound of gunfire for firecrackers. Moments later, his staff reported the chilling truth: terrorists Ajmal Kasab and Ismail Khan were firing indiscriminately at commuters.

Amid the chaos, Selvan faced a life-defining choice—flee or help the injured. Choosing the latter, he prayed to Lord Murugan and commandeered a parcel handcart to transport victims. Despite the risk of drawing the terrorists’ attention, Selvan and his team of 11 volunteers courageously ferried approximately 40 injured individuals to St. George’s Hospital, saving 36 lives. The group operated under constant threat, just 50-60 meters from the terrorists, who were unleashing grenades and gunfire. Selvan’s leadership and quick thinking earned him praise, with railway staff recalling how he kept the team united and focused amid the terror. Recognized for his valour, Selvan was felicitated by the Governor of Maharashtra and received a Railway’s citation.

Political Journey

His foray into politics began with his election as a corporator in the Mumbai Municipal Corporation. In 2011, Tamil Selvan was one of the two Tamil corporators elected to the Mumbai Municipal Corporation in the local body polls, marking the beginning of his political journey. Selvan described his election to the Assembly as a natural step forward after serving as the general secretary of the BJP’s urban unit.

Recognizing his dedication, the BJP entrusted him with contesting from the Sion-Koliwada constituency in 2014. Winning with the overwhelming support of locals, Tamil Selvan became the only Tamil MLA in Maharashtra. The Sion-Koliwada constituency, which borders Dharavi, is home to a substantial South Indian population, but Selvan credited his victory to the support of all communities. “The North-South divide that existed decades ago has significantly diminished. Tamils are now present in all political parties. My win was secured with the votes of Tamils, Gujaratis, Rajasthanis, and others,” Selvan said during celebrations in Mumbai.

In the 2014 assembly elections, Captain R. Tamil Selvan of the BJP secured 40,869 votes, representing a 30.5% vote share.

He secured consecutive victories in 2019 and 2024, making history with a hat-trick of wins. By 2019, Captain R. Tamil Selvan of the BJP increased his tally to 54,845 votes, achieving a 43.3% vote share. 

In the recent 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections, he defeated Congress candidate Ganesh Kumar Yadav, another leader of Tamil origin, by a margin of over 8,000 votes. Representing the culturally diverse Sion-Koliwada constituency, often called “Little India,” Tamil Selvan’s ability to unite people across ethnicities and languages has been his hallmark.

The People Connect

Known for his direct connection with the people, Tamil Selvan prides himself on not having a personal assistant. With his phone number accessible to over 1.5 lakh constituents, he believes in addressing issues firsthand, a quality that endears him to voters.

Capt. Tamil Selvan has spent funds from his pocket to provide housing and electricity for people whose homes were damaged, allegedly, by Omkar builders in the region.

He also enabled many people to get a home through the Slum Rehabilitation Project.

Here are some testaments from the people of the constituency themselves about how accessible he is.

Another resident states how he has helped in building construction in the locality, having it painted, helping establish a baalwadi (children’s centre), helping construct a bus stop, etc.

 

A Beacon Of Hope For Tamils

Tamil Selvan’s story resonates deeply with the Tamil community in Maharashtra and Tamils worldwide. From a humble labourer to a celebrated leader, his journey reflects the power of perseverance and the unifying spirit of humanity. Captain Tamil Selvan is a shining example of how dedication and empathy can transcend boundaries, bringing communities together to pursue progress.

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“Physically Unwell, Needed A Break From AR”, Says AR Rahman’s Wife Saira Banu On Decision To Divorce

By
The Commune
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AR Rahman Uses Hashtag To Announce About His Own Divorce, Asks People To Respect Privacy

AR Rahman and Saira Banu have announced their decision to separate after nearly 30 years of marriage. The news was conveyed through a joint statement issued by Saira’s legal representative, Vandana Shah.

Rahman also shared the news on his X account, expressing that while they had hoped to celebrate their 30th anniversary together, circumstances led them in a different direction. Notably, he added a hashtag #ARRSairaaBreakUp to the said post. 

However, rumour mills started doling out all kinds of conspiracy theories. This led AR Rahman’s legal team to send out a statement to the “slanderers” warning them of legal action. 

Subsequently, Saira Banu also shared why she decided to separate – citing health challenges over the past few months as a key reason for needing a “break” from the renowned composer. In a voice message addressing the public, Saira requested everyone to refrain from spreading negativity about Rahman, describing him as “a gem of a person” and “the best man in the world.”

She said, “This is Saira Rahman here. I’m currently in Bombay. I’ve been physically unwell for the last couple of months. So that’s the reason I just wanted to take a break from AR, but I would request the entire YouTube YouTubers, the Tamil Media, please please do not say anything bad against him. He’s a gem of a person, the best man in the world. Yes, it’s it’s just because of, my health issues I had to leave Chennai because I knew if I’m not in Chennai, you people will wonder where Saira is. And I’ve come here to Bombay. I’m going ahead with my treatment, and this wouldn’t have been possible with AR’s busy schedule in Chennai, and I didn’t want to disturb anybody, neither my children nor him. But he’s an amazing human being. And all I would request is please just let him be the way he is. He is not linked with, I trust him with my life. That’s how much I love him, and that’s how much he does. So I kindly request you to stop all the false allegations against him, and God bless. And my sincere prayers that we are left alone and given space at this moment, not announced officially anything yet. I’ll be coming back to Chennai soon, but I have to complete my treatment and then come. Okay? So, I request you to kindly stop tarnishing his name, which is absolutely rubbish. And, like I said, he’s a gem of a person. Thank you.”

The couple, who got married in 1995, are parents to three children—daughters Khatija and Raheema, and son Ameen.

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Inflation Targeting: A Battle Between Interest Rates And Food Prices

By
Srinilaya Swamy
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Inflation Targeting: A Battle Between Interest Rates And Food Prices

The Reserve Bank of India’s approach to inflation management emphasizes maintaining high interest rates to anchor inflationary expectations, citing high food prices as a key factor. However, monetary policy primarily impacts core inflation, which excludes food and fuel, and is already under control. The current inflation-targeting framework, introduced in 2016, uses the Consumer Price Index (CPI), where food prices hold a 45% weight, as its sole reference point.

Recently, there has been much debate about the efficacy of current monetary policies and their impact on inflation, particularly food prices.

RBI’s Approach 

RBI’s hawkish decision (to hold rates despite growth slowdown fears) and subsequent statements have led to an underlying sentiment that RBI is overly cautious when it comes to adjusting interest rates, often citing high food prices as a reason to delay rate cuts. This has led to frustration among observers who argue that food prices are not particularly sensitive to interest rates and that monetary policy cannot effectively control them.

It’s well-known that core inflation (which excludes food and fuel prices) is more sensitive to interest rates. Despite this, the RBI maintains high rates to anchor inflationary expectations, which many see as likely to lower core inflation to unhealthy levels just to keep the headline inflation within the prescribed band.

The Finance Ministry’s Role

The Finance Ministry set the inflation target at 4% with a margin of ±2% and agreed to use the Consumer Price Index (CPI) as the sole reference index in 2016. With food prices making up about 45% of the CPI, this decision has led to fears that it overemphasizes food inflation in overall monetary policy decisions.

When this framework was up for review in 2021, there were expectations that the government might revise the methodology to give some weight to core inflation or the Wholesale Price Index (WPI). Surprisingly, the Finance Ministry chose to continue with the same practice, a decision that has now come back to bite them. This has perpetuated a framework that many believe is flawed. Now even the Chief Economic Advisor has called for excluding food prices from the inflation gauge to be used for making monetary policy decisions. Therefore, we need not just a pragmatic decision by the RBI on interest rates in the near future but also a balanced approach by both the govt and the RBI on the overall inflation-targeting mechanism over the next 2 years.

Rather than viewing recent comments of the Honorable FM regarding interest rates as criticism, it is time the Finance Ministry and RBI sit together and review the policy framework from 2016.

An article published on this topic did not give the impression that FM had expressed any opinion on rate cuts, much less apply pressure on RBI. RBI fussing over vegetable pieces and using them to postpone rate cuts is deplorable but not unexpected. Over the years, I have started believing that economists are a bunch of people who find some excuse or other to keep complaining about inflation and holding the rates high for as long as possible. Even a 12th-grade economics student knows that food prices are not sensitive to interest rates and monetary policy cannot affect them. But still, they keep the rates high even though the core inflation (inflation minus food and fuel) which is sensitive to interest rates is well under control. When confronted with questions about the efficacy of high rates in tackling food inflation.

Srinilaya Swamy is a retired CFO and Company Secretary. 

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RJ Balaji Who Made A Career Out Of Trolling Films And Supported Politically Motivated Protests Wants Political Netizens To Not Roast Films, Fears Being ‘Branded’ For Showing Indian Flag

By
The Commune
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RJ Balaji Who Made A Career Out Of Trolling Films And Supported Politically Motivated Protests Wants Political Netizens To Not Roast Films, Fears Being 'Branded' For Showing Indian Flag

RJ Balaji, a radio jockey-turned-actor who virtue-signalled as a rebel when the AIADMK was ruling Tamil Nadu and went mute after the DMK rose to power, has said that political netizens should stick to doing politics and not waste their energy on targeting films and making it a flop.

His comments come in light of another member of his ilk, the virtue-signalling actor Suriya, facing a humiliating disaster at the box office with the pan-Indian flop Kanguva.

He even said that he was afraid of posing with an Indian flag as people may ‘brand’ him as something – likely hinting at being labelled a nationalist or a BJP or Narendra Modi supporter.

At the trailer launch of his film ‘Sorgavasal’, RJ Balaji said, “Finally, I just have one thing to say. I’m terrified nowadays. There was an Indian flag outside. If I think of taking it in hand and posing [for a photo], I start worrying, ‘Ayiyo! Will they brand me as ‘someone’, ‘What if people say something?’. At first, I thought, “It’s just an Indian flag, and I’m an Indian, right?”. But then I think, what if people say something!”

He said that when he posted a poster announcing the trailer’s launch on social media, people started roasting him and his film producer/distributor SR Prabhu of Dream Warrior Pictures, who was earlier with Studio Green, the production house that produced the mega disaster Kanguva.

SR Prabhu is said to be a relative of Suriya and the Vice President of the Tamil Film Active Producers Council, which had called for a ban on YouTubers reviewing films and taking audience feedback from theatre premises. When this was pointed out by a Vijay fan online, SR Prabhu had said “Hello brother, you guys are crying for 5 years for the one hit we gave. There’s a lot of public work for you now. Go stand with your ‘Annan’ and do the next task. He’s a good man. Don’t go around spoiling his name.” SR Prabhu claimed the success of Kaithi, produced by his Dream Warrior Pictures, over Vijay’s film Bigil, both of which were released for Diwali 2019.

It is noteworthy to mention that RJ Balaji will be directing the wannabe pan-Indian actor Suriya’s next film tentatively titled “Suriya 45” which is produced by Dream Warrior Pictures.

“In their angst against SR Prabhu, they’re scolding me. I’m wondering why they scold me, but then they’re scolding me because they’re angry with him. If I look at this side, people scold me because of their anger against someone else. Then there’s another group that says that I’m a ‘paavadai’ [a term used to denote proselytizing missionaries] and therefore should target my film.“, he said, adding that he’s not a ‘paavadai’ but ‘veshti’, attempting to sound smart.

He said that he never understood at first about what ‘paavadai’ means. However, the ‘paavadai’ jibe against him comes as he lacked the spine to retain a scene mocking proselytization attempts by Christian missionaries in his movie Mookuthi Amman. The scene showed ‘jeba koottam’ (prayer meeting) shenanigans of missionaries where Mano Bala, playing a pastor, indulges in ‘healing’ through CDs.

RJ Balaji further went on to say “I’m not a ‘paavadai’. Since I’m not a ‘paavadai’, some may think that I’m a ‘sanghi’ [a term used to denote Hindutva supporter]. I’m not a ‘sanghi’ either. Be it the IT wing of any party or any side, I’ve only one request. You guys do politics. You look at your politics. Why are you wasting your energy on targeting films that release every week? Are you getting money credited to your PayTM account for that? Go and fight among your politicians. Leave the films free. Likewise, it’s the same for fans of actors – Rajini fans, Kamal fans, Ajith fans, Vijay fans, Suriya fans. Let’s all watch good films. If you don’t like a film, you can say it. Everybody has the right. But targeting one film based on one’s preferences or because this person made this comment is a lot of energy waste for you. If the film is not good you can say it. But targeting and hitting is a little scary for me. I’m neither a ‘paavadai’, ‘pant-shirt’, ‘sanghi’ or ‘oopi’ [a term to denote DMK suporter] and neither I am a fan of anyone.”

However, this statement completely contradicted what he had said a few minutes ago in the same speech.

“From 2006-07, I am saying the same thing. If we take a biscuit to sell in a shop, anybody can say whether that biscuit is good or bad. Because that item has gone out of our hands. Likewise, it’s the same for cinema once we place it in the market. One can say it like ‘this biscuit is not nice’, another can say ‘Chi! Is this even a biscuit?’ Another person can write a mail for 10 pages saying, ‘This biscuit is stale. ‘ Everybody has their style. Anybody can review a film in any way. They can do it on YouTube, Twitter or Instagram. It’s their freedom. We can’t pluck the phone from everyone’s hand. We don’t have that control.“, RJ Balaji said in the same speech.

In a flop film titled ‘Kee’, he had peddled propaganda about GST, saying, “Shall I tell you a story, Siddharth sir? You and me go to the hotel to eat. But they’ll put a bill as if two other persons joined us. If we look at who it is, it would be GST! For whom? For what? Our stomach will burn!”

RJ Balaji had called the NEET exam a very tough exam that furthers inequality.

He had virtue-signalled in 2018 by refraining from doing commentary for the CSK Vs KKR IPL match to protest against the Central Government over formation of Cauvery Water Management Board.

It is ironic that RJ Balaji, who had made a career out of criticizing films in his radio show and parroting DMK’s talk points on NEET, GST, Demonetization, Jallikattu, and Cauvery issues, is now jittered about his films and facing the wrath of netizens who are calling him out for his double standards.

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TheCommune
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