Union Minister for Railways, Electronics and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, on Wednesday said a collaboration between India AI Mission and the Gates Foundation, an American private foundation founded by Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates, is on the cards.
In a post on X, the Union Minister said an MoU will soon be signed to create AI-based solutions to strengthen several critical sectors in the country. “AI solutions for better crops, stronger healthcare, smarter education and climate resilience— MoU soon between India AI Mission and @gatesfoundation,” Vaishnaw tweeted after meeting Gates who is currently visiting the country.
In a bid to make access to quality datasets easier for developing AI technologies, the government recently took a big step in its India AI Mission by launching AIKosha, the country’s sovereign datasets platform, and an AI Compute Portal. The government has also set a target of developing GPUs domestically within the next three to five years.
This is part of the larger Rs 10,000-crore IndiaAI Mission. The AI Compute Portal will allow companies to access subsidised GPUs for research and development. As of now, about 14,000 GPUs have gone live, with another 4,000 in the pipeline. Earlier, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) had announced the procurement of 18,693 GPUs from selected vendors. According to Vaishnaw, ministries related to agriculture, weather forecasting, and Bhashini have already provided data to the platform.
“India’s own AI foundational model is progressing well; we have 67 applications, of which 22 are for developing large language models (LLMs),” Vaishnaw said earlier this month.
The significant part of India’s compute capacity will be used for developing sovereign AI models. Meanwhile, Gates, co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, on Monday visited NITI Aayog’s Viksit Bharat Strategy Room (VBSR) and experienced an advanced AI-enabled immersive centre designed to enhance evidence-based decision making for policymakers across the country. The ‘Viksit Bharat Strategy Room’ was launched on March 7, 2024, as a revolutionary step in data-driven governance.
–IANS
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
Tamil Nadu Forest Minister K. Ponmudy and his two sons — Gautham Sigamani, a Lok Sabha MP from Kallakurichi, and Ashok Sigamani, president of the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association– appeared before a special court on Wednesday in connection with an illegal red sand quarrying case.
The trio, listed as accused in the case, appeared before the Additional Special Judge for CBI cases, S. Ezhil Velavan. During the proceedings, Ponmudy filed a petition under Section 205 of the CrPC, requesting an exemption from further personal appearances in court, citing his responsibilities as a minister and deputy general secretary of the DMK.
The judge directed the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to submit a response to the petition, with Special Public Prosecutor N. Ramesh taking notice on behalf of the ED. The case dates back to 2012 when the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) registered a complaint against Ponmudy, accusing him of facilitating illegal red sand quarrying in Villupuram. The allegations state that between February 13, 2007, and May 15, 2007, while serving as Minister for Mines and Minerals, Ponmudy helped his son, family members, and close associates exploit red sand quarries without proper authorization.
This allegedly caused a loss of Rs 28.36 crore to the Tamil Nadu state exchequer. In 2023, the ED registered a money laundering case against Ponmudy, Gautham Sigamani, and four others based on the original DVAC FIR. As part of its investigation, the ED conducted raids at multiple locations linked to Ponmudy, including properties in Chennai and Villupuram, as well as educational institutions run by his family. Ponmudy was later summoned and interrogated at the ED office in Chennai. Following the raids and questioning, Ponmudy and Gautham Sigamani appeared before ED officials at the Joint Director’s Office in Nungambakkam, Chennai.
The agency grilled them for two consecutive days, during which they were handed written questionnaires and their responses were recorded. The ED subsequently filed a 90-page charge sheet, detailing how Ponmudy allegedly misused his position between 2007 and 2009 to allocate red sand quarries to his son and relatives without paying the required seigniorage fee. The agency maintains that this led to significant financial losses for the state.
Additionally, in 2020, the ED attached properties worth Rs 8.6 crore belonging to Gautham Sigamani, linking them to illegal financial activities, including non-repatriation of foreign exchange earnings. The agency also found evidence suggesting that the DMK MP invested Rs 7.5 lakh in the UAE and Rs 41 lakh in a company based in Indonesia. As the case progresses, the court awaits the ED’s response to Ponmudy’s petition seeking exemption from personal appearances, while the investigation into the alleged illegal quarrying and financial misconduct continues.
–IANS
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
The total number of trains in operation has now exceeded pre-Covid levels, reflecting the Indian Railways’ commitment to reliability and improved service delivery, the government has informed. According to Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Railways has achieved an on-time performance of over 90 per cent through the adoption of advanced signalling systems, real-time monitoring, AI-driven scheduling and predictive maintenance.
As highlighted by the minister in the Lok Sabha, out of 68 railway divisions, 49 have already surpassed 80 per cent punctuality, while 12 divisions have impressively reached 95 per cent. This enhanced efficiency has resulted in smoother train operations, benefiting both passengers and freight services. Currently, Indian Railways operates more than 13,000 passenger trains, including 4,111 Mail and Express trains, 3,313 Passenger trains, and 5,774 Suburban trains.
The minister also highlighted the modernisation of railway stations, with 129 stations already completed and many more to be operational by 2025-26 as part of the world’s largest station redevelopment programme. He further highlighted the significant expansion of the Kolkata Metro, where 38 km of metro lines have been added in just a decade, compared to 28 km in the previous 42 years. Vaishnaw also emphasised on the ambitious Bullet Train project as a transformative step toward modern, high-speed rail connectivity, ensuring world-class infrastructure for future generations.
In line with the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability, Indian Railways has taken several initiatives towards environmental sustainability with its ambitious goal of achieving Net Zero Carbon Emission (Scope 1) by 2025. A major step in this direction has been the transition from diesel to electric traction, with 97 per cent of railway operations already electrified, and the remaining 3 per cent nearing completion. With projected emissions for 2024-25 estimated at 20 lakh tonnes and available offsets reaching 22 lakh tonnes, Indian Railways is well-positioned to meet its Net Zero target ahead of schedule, according to the minister.
—IANS
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
In a recent video, leftist rag The Wire has once again demonstrated its penchant for peddling biased narratives by squarely blaming Hindus and the film Chhaava for the recent communal tensions in Nagpur. This sensationalized and one-sided account not only distorts the facts but also fuels division by targeting a specific community and cultural expression.
The report, which heavily relies on the opinions of ‘journalist‘ Nikhil Wagle, attempts to paint the Nagpur riots as a pre-planned conspiracy orchestrated by Hindu organizations and the BJP-led state government. It alleges that the film Chhaava, which depicts the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, was used as a tool to incite violence against Muslims. However, this narrative conveniently ignores the complexities of the situation, and the role of all stakeholders involved.
Misrepresentation Of Facts
Wagle claims that the riots were a direct result of Hindu organizations targeting the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, with the film Chhaava serving as a catalyst. While it is true that tensions escalated following protests and counter-protests over Aurangzeb’s legacy, they fail to acknowledge the provocative actions and inflammatory rhetoric from the Islamists. Instead, he singles out Hindu groups and the film, portraying them as the sole instigators of violence.
Wagle also alleges that the state government and police were complicit in the riots, citing instances of inaction. Wagle says,“I believe that the Devendra Fadnavis government was aware that something is going to happen because of this agitation, that riots willbe sparked.The Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was himself involved in instigating the feelings of the people. He was the one who said that Aurangzeb’s tomb must be destroyedbut I cannot do that because 50 years ago, it was given security and it has archival values and the Congress government has preserved it. Nitesh Rane always instigates through his speeches, Raja Singh also does it but Devendra Fadnavis on the floor of the house has made an instigatory speech against Aurangzeb’s tomb. I allege that Devendra Fadnavis wants riots in Maharashtra, he wants the Phule-Ambedkar legacy to be destroyed, and that the ideology of Hedgewar, Golwalkar, and Savarkar be established here.”
The Wire has declared Hindus and the movie Chhava as the culprits of the Nagpur riots.
Islamists came, torched Hindu vehicles, injured dozens of Hindus, but still, Hindus are the culprits.
How dare they make a movie showing historical facts without a liberal agenda?… pic.twitter.com/VWZNxaMoBY
The Wire’s decision to blame Chhaava for the riots is particularly egregious. The film, which celebrates the legacy of a revered Maratha king, is a cultural expression that resonates with millions of Hindus. By linking it to the violence, The Wire demonizes Hindu sentiments. This is a clear attempt to stoke cultural and religious divisions rather than fostering understanding and dialogue.
The interview conveniently glosses over the role of Islamist organizations and leaders in escalating tensions. It fails to mention the inflammatory speeches and actions such as torching Hindu businesses, vehicles, injuring Hindus and such – that have been the reason behind the unrest. By presenting a one-sided narrative, The Wire does a disservice to its readers and perpetuates a dangerous us-versus-them mentality. It is the Hindus who are the victims and not otherwise.
This is not the first time The Wire has reported in a biased manner, covering up facts – here are 31 instances of fake news peddled by the pro-Congress leftist propaganda rag.
By blaming Hindus and Chhaava for the violence, it ignores the complexities of the situation and fuels communal tensions. Instead of promoting dialogue and understanding, The Wire has chosen to fan the flames of division.
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
Tamil Nadu BJP president K. Annamalai has strongly criticized the ruling DMK government, accusing it of pressuring citizens to conceal its administrative failures. He pointed out the stark contrast between the initial statements given by the deceased victim’s family—who blamed the government for the lack of medical facilities at the temple—and the later remarks by Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Minister P.K. Sekar Babu at the backdrop of stampede incident at the Tiruchendur temple. The minister dismissed concerns about the temple’s infrastructure, claiming that the death was due to the victim’s pre-existing medical condition. He also presented a letter allegedly written by the victim’s family, which seemed to contradict their earlier claims.
Annamalai alleged that the DMK government had coerced the victim’s family into writing the letter in order to secure the release of the body of Om Kumar, who lost his life in the stampede at the Tiruchendur temple. He further demanded that the government provide immediate financial assistance of ₹10 lakh to the bereaved family and take necessary steps to prevent such tragedies in temples in the future.
Sharing his views on his official X account, Annamalai stated, “I have read the letter that Minister Sekar Babu claimed was written by the wife of Mr. Om Kumar from Karaikudi, who tragically lost his life in a stampede at the Tiruchendur temple. I have highlighted certain lines in that letter. It seems to be a letter written under the name of persuasion implying that the body of the deceased would only be released if such a letter was submitted. I also saw the interview given by late Om Kumar’s family to @PTTVOnlineNews yesterday. What a clear contradiction between the contents of the letter and their statements to the media. Minister Sekar Babu, who devalues public lives to cover up his regime’s incompetence, should remember that while a king may delay justice, divine justice strikes at last. I urge the DMK government to immediately provide ₹10 lakh in compensation to Om Kumar’s family, who died in the stampede and take necessary measures to prevent such incidents from occurring in temples in the future.”
In his statement, Tamil Nadu BJP Chief Annamalai attached a letter purportedly written by the wife of the deceased, Om Kumar. He pointed out a noticeable inconsistency in the letter, where it was repeatedly stated—around four times—that the deceased had breathing issues and was undergoing medication. Annamalai found this repetition unusual and questionable.
திருச்செந்தூர் கோவிலில், கூட்டநெரிசலால் உயிரிழந்த, காரைக்குடியைச் சேர்ந்த திரு. ஓம் குமார் அவர்களின் மனைவி எழுதியதாக, அமைச்சர் திரு. சேகர்பாபு கூறிய கடிதத்தைப் படித்துப் பார்த்தேன்.
அந்தக் கடிதத்தின் சில வரிகளை கோடிட்டுக் காட்டியுள்ளேன். இப்படி ஒரு கடிதம் கொடுத்தால் தான்… pic.twitter.com/karh7UbDz2
In an interview given to the private media channel, the victim of the deceased said, “We went to Tiruchendur to worship. We all came after worshipping in the front row. My uncle came after behind us, suddenly suffocated and died there. The reason for that is the crowd was huge, he fell down and died. They called us and said that, ‘he had fainted and asked us to come’. On the way, when we were going, they called us back and said, ‘He died.’ We don’t know what happened. But the people who came and told us said, ‘It took half an hour to come out of the temple. They said that the ambulance arrived after half an hour. But the police told us that they came and took him away in ten minutes. He had a pulse. He was fine.”
Other relatives intervened and said, “We didn’t get any medical help there.” Then she continued, “They said that four medical college students gave him first aid. We heard that there is no medical facility in Tiruchendur. If there was, our uncle would have been there. No, no, it’s been over half an hour. Do you know what Charities Minister says? He came here already unwell, that’s why he died like that. How can he say that? He was fine. We have a video. We have proof for everything. We have proof for everything. We took a photo. We had my child’s head tonsured and pierced his ear. How could he die who took photos with us there? then it is because of the inadequate facilities, right?”
The victim’s family, in tears, revealed that the letter was written by a relative under police instruction, as they were desperate to receive the deceased’s body for a dignified funeral ritual.
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
The News Minute recently published an article claiming that Ranjani Srinivasan, a Columbia University PhD scholar, was forced to flee the US after her student visa was revoked due to her pro-Palestine views. The article paints a picture of political repression, alleging that Srinivasan was targeted for her activism and that her visa revocation was unjust. However, a closer examination of the facts reveals a different story—one that The News Minute conveniently omitted or distorted to fit a specific narrative.
The Real Reason For Visa Revocation: Support For Hamas & Failure To Disclose Critical Information
Contrary to The News Minute’s claims, Srinivasan’s visa revocation was not an act of political repression or a crackdown on free speech. The primary reason for her visa revocation was her failure to disclose critical information during her visa renewal process.
The primary reason for her visa revocation was her involvement in activities supporting Hamas, a designated terrorist organization, and her failure to disclose critical information during her visa renewal process.
Specifically, Srinivasan did not report two court summonses she received during a pro-Palestine protest at Columbia University in April 2024. According to a statement released by the US Department of Homeland Security on 14 March 2025, Srinivasan was found to have engaged in activities supporting Hamas. The Department obtained evidence of her participation in pro-Hamas protests at Columbia University in April 2024, which included video footage and other documentation. Additionally, Srinivasan failed to report two court summonses she received during these protests, a serious violation of US immigration law.
While the charges against her were eventually dismissed, US immigration law requires visa applicants to disclose any interactions with law enforcement, including summonses, regardless of the outcome. This omission, combined with her support for a terrorist organization, provided ample legal grounds for her visa revocation. The US State Department has consistently enforced this rule, and Srinivasan’s case is no exception.
Selective Activism Narrative: Distorting Facts
The News Minute’s article heavily emphasizes Srinivasan’s “pro-Palestine” activism, suggesting that her visa revocation was a direct result of her political views. However, the US government’s statement makes it clear that her involvement with Hamas, a designated terrorist organization, was a key factor in the decision. By omitting this critical detail, The News Minute distorts the reality of her situation and ignores the legal basis for her visa revocation.
By portraying her as a victim of political repression, The News Minute distorts the reality of her situation and ignores the legal basis for her visa revocation.
Misleading Claims About ICE Raids And Harassment
The News Minute’s account of ICE agents knocking on Srinivasan’s door is sensationalized and misleading. While it is true that federal agents visited her apartment, they did so with a judicial warrant, which is standard procedure in immigration enforcement cases. The agents did not harass or intimidate her; they were following legal protocols to investigate her visa status.
Moreover, Srinivasan’s decision to leave the US was not a result of ICE pressure but a personal choice to avoid potential legal complications. The News Minute’s portrayal of her departure as a forced exile is exaggerated and ignores the fact that she voluntarily used the CBP Home App to self-deport on 11 March 2025.
Cherry-Picking Facts To Push A Narrative
The News Minute’s article selectively highlights certain aspects of Srinivasan’s case while omitting critical details. For instance, it fails to mention that Srinivasan’s visa revocation was based on a clear violation of immigration law, as well as her political views and activism. It also ignores the fact that her activism was not the sole focus of the US government’s investigation.
By framing Srinivasan’s case as an example of political repression, The News Minute perpetuates a false narrative that undermines the credibility of legitimate concerns about free speech and immigration enforcement.
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
Legal activist organization Legal Rights Protection Forum (LRPF) has raised serious allegations against Loyola College, Chennai, accusing the institution of violating university affiliation rules and engaging in academic malpractices. A formal complaint has been submitted to the Superior General of the Society of Jesus, Fr. Arturo Sosa, S.J., urging immediate intervention.
According to the LRPF, Loyola College has been operating an unauthorized off-campus center, ‘Satya Nilayam,’ located in Thiruvanmiyur, approximately 20 km from the college’s approved campus. The facility, run by a separate legal entity known as the Society of Sacred Heart College—Satya Nilayam, has allegedly been offering an M.A. Philosophy programmein affiliation with the University of Madras without securing the necessary approvals. The complaint highlights that the University of Madras has repeatedly warned Loyola College over the past five years regarding this violation, yet no corrective action has been taken.
The LRPF further alleges that ‘Satya Nilayam’ primarily serves as a theological training center for Jesuit missionaries, including foreign students from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Kenya, Europe, and North America. Despite being enrolled in Loyola College’s M.A. Philosophy programme, these students are exclusively trained at ‘Satya Nilayam’—a direct violation of the University of Madras’s regulations, which mandate that all affiliated programmes be conducted within the approved campus.
Allegations Of Discriminatory Practices
The LRPF states that the admission process at ‘Satya Nilayam’ is biased in favor of Jesuit students, effectively excluding non-Christian applicants from accessing the M.A. Philosophy programme. The forum argues that this practice contradicts the principles of equity and inclusivity that Jesuit education advocates and also contravenes the secular ethos of India’s higher education system.
Financial Misconduct And Misuse Of UGC Funds
The forum has also highlighted allegations of financial misconduct within Loyola College, citing revelations made by Rev. Fr. Albert Muthumalai, S.J., who served as the institution’s principal from 2004 to 2010. In his book, Irai Siragugalil Kanintha Siluvaigal, Fr. Muthumalai reportedly disclosed large-scale misappropriation of University Grants Commission (UGC) funds by Loyola College. He also alleged corrupt practices in the admissions department, where illegal monetary transactions were carried out.
A formal complaint regarding these financial irregularities was previously filed with the UGC, leading to Loyola College’s application for university status being rejected. LRPF contends that this decision underscores the seriousness of the allegations and necessitates a thorough investigation.
Following LRPF’s complaint, the Governor of Tamil Nadu—who also serves as the Chancellor of the University of Madras—has reportedly sought an explanation from the university regarding the unauthorized operations of ‘Satya Nilayam.’ The development signals the increasing scrutiny faced by Loyola College over its alleged violations.
The forum has also raised concerns over an apparent attempt by Loyola College to suppress evidence. It claims that shortly after the complaint was submitted to the Governor on February 27, 2025, the official website of Satya Nilayam (www.satyanilayam.com) was abruptly taken down. LRPF asserts that this move was an effort to obscure documentation related to the unauthorized programme.
Potential FCRA Violations Under Probe
LRPF has also initiated a separate investigation into possible violations of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) by the Loyola College Society, which is registered to receive foreign funds under the Ministry of Home Affairs. Preliminary findings reportedly suggest irregularities in foreign contributions, with concerns over their alleged misuse for unauthorized purposes. The forum has stated that it will submit a detailed report to the Ministry of Home Affairs for further action.
LRPF’s Appeal To Jesuit Leadership
In its letter to Fr. Arturo Sosa, S.J., the Superior General of the Society of Jesus, LRPF has called for urgent intervention and has urged the Jesuit leadership to:
Investigate the unauthorized operation of ‘Satya Nilayam’ and associated academic malpractices.
Ensure Loyola College, Chennai, adheres to university affiliation regulations.
Take disciplinary action against those responsible for the alleged violations.
Uphold principles of equity, inclusivity, and academic integrity within Jesuit institutions.
The LRPF has emphasized that the credibility of Jesuit higher education in India is at stake and warned that failure to act could damage the legacy of Jesuit institutions in the country.
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
The Madras High Court on Friday, recorded the Tamil Nadu government decision to withdraw its order allowing the use of temple funds of Pollachi Masani Amman – for a luxury resort project in Ooty. The court was hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by petitioner P. Baskar against the Principal Secretary of the Tourism Department and other officials of the HR&CE department, challenging the legality of the government’s order.
The PIL sought a writ of certiorari to quash Government Order (G.O.) Ms. 535, dated 24 December 2024, which permitted breaking a fixed deposit of ₹15 crore from the surplus funds of Masani Amman Temple in Pollachi, under the control of the Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments (HR & CE) Department. The funds were earmarked for the construction of a luxury resort in Ooty’s Kandal area, near the Subramanian Swamy Temple.
B. Jagannath, appeared for petitioner & AK Sriram, Senior Advocate, assisted by R.Bharanidharan, appeared for the HR&CE temple officials.
Senior Advocate J. Ravindran, representing the government, assisted by Government Pleader Edwin Prabakar, stated that the use of the term “resort” in the government order was a mistake and that the proposed project was intended to be a “Yatri Niwas” (pilgrim accommodation). However, thepetitioner’s counsel, B. Jagannath, strongly opposed this claim, arguing that the government order explicitly mentioned the term “resort” in the tabulated estimates and that the project violated multiple provisions of the HR & CE Act, including Sections 36, 36A, and 66(1).
Further strengthening the petitioner’s argument, a news report from Dinamalar dated 8 March 2025, was presented, highlighting that devotees had raised objections against the proposed construction. Several petitions were sent to the CM Cell and the HR&CE Minister but it was in vain as there was no response.
The petitioner also cited a prior judgment of the Madras High Court in W.P. No. 19084 of 2024, delivered on 9 January 2025, which restricted the diversion of temple funds for non-religious purposes.
Taking cognizance of the arguments, the Division Bench, comprising Chief Justice K.R. Shriram and Justice Mohammed Shaffiq, observed that either an interim stay would be issued, or the impugned order should be withdrawn. The Additional Advocate General, in response, submitted that the government had decided to withdraw the order. The court recorded this statement and closed the petition without issuing a stay order, noting that the issue had been resolved through the government’s undertaking.
The judgment has been welcomed by devotees and temple activists, who argue that temple funds should be utilized strictly for religious and welfare purposes as per legal provisions.
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have begun a 45-day rehabilitation program to help them adapt to Earth’s gravity after spending nine months in space.
The duo returned early Wednesday (Indian time) aboard SpaceX’s Crew-9 mission, splashing down off the coast of Florida. Following their extended stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS), the astronauts will now undergo physical reconditioning to counteract the effects of prolonged weightlessness.
Astronauts returning from space often experience physiological changes, including fluid shifts causing puffy faces, muscle atrophy leading to chicken legs, temporary height increase, and reduced bone density. Microgravity affects various aspects of an astronaut’s body, including aerobic capacity, muscle strength, endurance, stamina, balance, coordination, bone density, and neuro vestibular function.
The Astronaut Strength, Conditioning, and Rehabilitation (ASCR) specialists have implemented a structured reconditioning program aimed at restoring physical health. The rehabilitation process begins immediately upon landing and involves two-hour daily sessions, seven days a week, for 45 days. The program is customised for each astronaut, based on test results, medical status, and mission roles. The rehabilitation is divided into three phases.
The first phase starts on landing day and focuses on mobility, flexibility, and muscle strengthening. The second phase incorporates proprioceptive exercises and cardiovascular training, while the third and longest phase prioritises functional development. Past cases have shown that astronauts often regain and sometimes even improve upon their pre-flight physical condition after completing this program. Williams and Wilmore’s prolonged stay in space was unplanned.
They launched aboard Boeing’s Starliner on June 5 last year for what was supposed to be an eight-day mission. However, technical issues with the spacecraft’s propulsion system forced it to return without them, extending its stay aboard the ISS. Their situation gained widespread attention, sparking debates about space travel safety and even political discussions.
The return process began after Crew-10 arrived at the ISS on Sunday, allowing Williams, Wilmore, NASA’s Nick Hague, and cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov to begin preparations for their journey home. Seventeen hours after departing the ISS, their SpaceX Dragon capsule safely splashed down at 3:27 a.m. IST. Following their retrieval from the capsule, they were immediately sent for medical evaluations before starting their rehabilitation.
–IANS
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
Actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is being consistently portrayed by the Dravidianist media as a rising political force in Tamil Nadu. However, this very portrayal raises two critical questions: Is the Dravidianist media genuinely enthusiastic about Vijay’s political entry, or is the ruling DMK unconcerned about TVK’s promotion because it serves their interests? Vijay’s political journey has been marked by striking ideological parallels to the DMK, prompting serious doubts about whether TVK is a genuine alternative or merely a strategic extension of the DMK, aimed at fragmenting the anti-DMK vote base considering the genuine rise of the BJP under the leadership of Annamalai and Naam Tamilar Party under the leadership of Seeman.
From mirroring DMK’s ideological framework to aligning with its minority appeasement tactics, Vijay’s party appears to be a shadow force, reinforcing the Dravidian party’s influence rather than challenging it. His selective political stances, scripted opposition to central government policies, and reluctance to confront the DMK on critical issues suggest a calculated move to consolidate votes that would otherwise go to genuine opposition parties.
Is Vijay’s entry into politics a fresh alternative, or is TVK just another cog in the DMK’s grand electoral strategy? Let’s break it down.
A closer look at actor-turned-politician Vijay’s ideological stance reveals that his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), has merely replicated the core principles of the DMK. From his very first press conference, Vijay described TVK’s ideology as centered around secular social justice and positioned the party as left-leaning with a Dravidian outlook. The fountain head of Hindu-hate and Dravidianist demagogue EV Ramasamy Naicker (hailed as ‘Periyar’ by his followers) is the ideological head of both DMK and TVK.
Vijay too has emphasized that TVK would uphold values such as the two-language policy, social justice, secularism (read pseudo-secularism), socialism, the same that DMK keeps mouthing.
Vijay’s political rhetoric appears to be a direct copy-paste from DMK’s ideological blueprint, raising questions about whether TVK truly brings anything new to Tamil Nadu’s political landscape or if it’s merely a repackaged glossier version of the existing DMK.
If you believe that Vijay has merely copied DMK’s ideology and see nothing wrong with it, then you’re missing the bigger picture. Since the inception of his party, Vijay’s agenda has been to reinforce the DMK’s narrative, echoing its policies without hesitation—while paradoxically claiming that the DMK is his political opponent. But does Vijay truly consider the DMK his real political opponent? Let’s dissect his politics step by step and unravel the ‘new onion’ being put on display, starting with the most recent developments.
A Mirror Image Of DMK’s Minority Appeasement
Much like the DMK, Vijay seems to engage in minority appeasement, closely following the ruling party’s well-established tactics. From the moment he launched his party, TVK, his actions have subtly but unmistakably mirrored the DMK’s approach.
The Tilak Gimmick And Its Sudden Disappearance
Before his first official press conference, Vijay orchestrated a carefully crafted public appearance—a ‘meet and greet’ event where a woman applied a tilak on his forehead. This move was seemingly designed to project an image of religious inclusivity, subtly hinting that he embraced all faiths. Initially, his party letterhead even featured an image of him with the tilak. However, as time passed, all such Hindu symbolism vanished. His official portrait on the TVK letterhead was later replaced with a plain, tilak-free version of Vijay. This follows the DMK’s long-standing strategy of erasing Hindu identity from Tamil saints and historical figures, portraying them in neutral white robes while openly celebrating other religious symbols, such as the cross for Christianity or the kulla (skullcap) for Islam. This selective approach fosters minority appeasement while alienating the Hindu majority.
Muslim Appeasement: A Page From The DMK Playbook
Another notable pattern in Vijay’s political journey is his strategic milking on Muslim representation. Whether on stage at political events or during award functions, he consistently ensures the presence of burqa-clad Muslim women near him, reinforcing a visual appeal to the Muslim community. This tactic aligns with the DMK’s longstanding approach of courting the Muslim vote bank through targeted outreach.
Vijay further demonstrated this alignment when he actively participated in an Iftar event during Ramadan, donning a kulla, a white shirt, and a veshti—an unmistakable visual gesture of solidarity with the Muslim community. This move is a direct reflection of the DMK’s history of religious posturing to secure minority votes.
ஒட்டுமொத்த இந்திய ஒன்றியத்தில் மாநிலங்களின் காவலராக உயர்ந்து நிற்கும் நம் மாண்புமிகு முதலமைச்சர் அவர்களின் பிறந்த நாளுக்கு இன்னும் ஓரிரு தினங்களே உள்ள நிலையில், அதனை மக்கள் மகிழ்கின்ற வண்ணம் கொண்டாடி வருகிறோம்.
Christian appeasement comes naturally to the DMK, with leaders like Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin openly identifying as Christian. Of course, he balances it with his signature doublespeak, claiming, “I’m a Hindu for those who see me as Hindu, a Muslim for those who see me as Muslim, and a Christian for those who see me as Christian.”
DMK Speaker Appavu even made controversial remarks crediting Tamil Nadu’s progress to Christians, claiming that without them, the state would have turned into Bihar. Vijay, a Christian himself, has followed this pattern seamlessly.
His religious identity became more politically evident in 2017 when he actively branded himself as “Joseph Vijay,” a move widely seen as an effort to consolidate Christian support. Taking it a step further, he appointed key Christian figures to crucial roles within his party, such as John Arokiasamy and Aadhav Arjuna (the son-in-law of controversial lottery businessman Martin).
The Vote Bank Strategy A Calculated Move
Census data in Tamil Nadu clearly indicates the size and influence of minority communities. Political parties that cater to these groups can often secure their unwavering support 15-20%, leading to a bloc vote with minimal fragmentation. The DMK has mastered this strategy over decades, and now Vijay appears to be following suit, carving out his own share of the minority vote while remaining firmly within the broader DMK ideological framework. The DMK, in turn, seems to tolerate Vijay’s rise, recognizing that even if he gains influence, he will never function as an anti-DMK force. Instead, he remains a mere shadow of the ruling party, reinforcing its political dominance rather than challenging it.
Vijay’s TVK Substituting DMK To Become TN’s New Anti-Development Force
If the question is whether Vijay is merely whether as the DMK in opposition mode, the answer is a clear yes. Vijay’s TVK, with its anti-progressive stance, is clearly adopting policies that mirror those of the DMK’s opposition era. His rhetoric, aimed at influencing the youth and parents, closely follows the same strategy employed by Dravidian ideologies for years. For instance, he opposes development projects like the proposed Parandur airport, champions an anti-NEET mindset, advocates for a two-language policy with a particular focus on opposing Hindi, and pushes for policies that disadvantage poor and marginalized students, particularly those in government schools. Additionally, his opposition to the National Education Policy, which seeks to establish a pan-India education standard, and his stance on the Citizenship Amendment Act echo similar opposition tactics used by the DMK in the past. The DMK, while in opposition, exploited these issues to rally the public by claiming the ability to secure people’s rights from the central government presenting a false dichotomy but after coming to power showed bare hands claiming that only the central government holds the power. Now, Vijay, the part-time, work-from-home politician, seems to be using the same strategy to manipulate public sentiment ultimately fooling the people with a similar political game.
In this backdrop, below are some of his political stunts that highlight his dual role — both as an opposition figure to the DMK and as a shadow of it, mirroring their strategies with the approach of “one punch in the coconut tree, one punch in the palm tree,” skillfully balancing his criticisms of both the central and state governments without upsetting either’s sentiments
Both Oppose Infrastructure Projects
Vijay, during his visit to Parandur, alleged that the proposed airport would destroy 90% of farmland and 13 water bodies, calling the project “anti-people.“He also questioned why the DMK, which had opposed projects like the Salem eight-lane expressway and Kattupalli port, was supporting the Parandur airport. However, a closer look at the Airports Authority of India (AAI) pre-feasibility report and the Tamil Nadu government’s decision-making process reveals that Vijay’s statements are either misleading or based on incomplete information.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) conducted a detailed study to identify the most suitable site for Chennai’s second airport, considering locations like Padalam, Thiruporur, Pannur, and Parandur. Parandur emerged as the best option due to factors such as airspace restrictions at other sites, availability of 5,369 acres of land, better connectivity through the Chennai-Bengaluru Expressway, and fewer displacements compared to Pannur. Additionally, Parandur offers significant potential for future development, unlike the more densely developed Pannur site. Vijay’s claims about the project destroying 90% of farmland and 13 water bodies lack substantiation and overlook the thorough environmental and social impact analysis in the AAI report. Critics suggest that Vijay’s opposition to the project is driven by political motives, with his visit to the protest site viewed as a publicity stunt. Aviation experts argue that Parandur is the most feasible site for the airport, and relocating the project would cause delays and increased costs.
A similar approach was taken by the DMK in 2019 when it criticized the AIADMK government while in the opposition, but once it came to power, the party acknowledged the airport as a crucial need for the state’s economy.
Both Oppose NEET
During the executive committee meeting in Panaiyur on 3 November 2024, which was presided over by Vijay, a resolution was passed calling for the abolition of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). This comes despite data indicating that more underprivileged students, including those from tribal communities, have been able to secure medical seats through the exam in recent years.
Even the DMK, which had previously claimed to have the ‘Secret Weapon’ to make the central government to abolish NEET, switched its stance when Chief Minister MK Stalin admitted in a recent assembly speech that the central government holds the power to revoke NEET, contradicting earlier claims. TVK’s Vijay holds a similar stance on abolishing the exam, and it remains to be seen whether he will reverse his position like the DMK in the next NEET exam season.
Both Call For Abolition Of Governor Post
TVK’s resolutions on 3 November 2024 reiterated their stance on abolishing the Governor’s post. However, in the wake of the sexual harassment case at Anna University, which allegedly involved a DMK functionary, and widespread speculation that the DMK might protect the accused, TVK party chief Vijay sought the Governor’s intervention. It seems that Vijay has now come to recognize the importance of having a neutral figure above the government, capable of questioning the state’s actions when constitutional mechanisms fail. Previously, however, without fully understanding the role and significance of the office, he had called for the abolition of the Governor’s post, which was both impractical and unconstitutional. This stance has been a hallmark of the DMK since its inception, with the party’s founder C.N. Annadurai famously describing the position of Governor as “redundant as a goat’s beard.” This sentiment continues to this day, as evidenced in the 2024 Lok Sabha election manifesto, where the DMK again called for the abolition of the Governor’s post.
Similarly, in January 2024, Udhayanidhi Stalin, the current Deputy Chief Minister and scion of the DMK, led the party’s Youth Wing in passing a resolution calling for the abolition of the Governor’s post in Tamil Nadu. The resolution argued that the governor was attempting to run a parallel administration, undermining the authority of the state’s elected representatives. The resolution, passed at the 2nd DMK Youth Wing Meet, asserted that abolishing the position of Governor was essential to safeguard democracy.
Both Oppose Three-Language Policy
Vijay has strongly opposed the three-language policy, despite his own son, Jason Sanjay, studying at the American International School in Chennai, where languages like French, Spanish, and Korean are offered alongside English. In some IB schools, students also have the option to choose Hindi. The rationale behind the three-language policy is to provide marginalized students— even many of whom currently lack access to government schools—a chance to learn a third language. This would enable them to pursue careers as translators, communicators, and open doors to international job opportunities.
However, Vijay, along with other Dravidian leaders and the DMK, oppose marginalized students to venture beyond Tamil Nadu. They seem to believe these students should remain confined to the state, study locally, and take on menial jobs, ultimately serving as a political vote base through emotional appeals. The hypocrisy lies in the fact that this “two-language policy” exception doesn’t apply to Matriculation, CBSE, or international boards, which offer a wider array of language options. Yet, Vijay appears intent on following this same narrow-minded stance.
Even more surprisingly, just like DMK leaders and their allies who own CBSE schools that promote multilingual education, Vijay’s own CBSE school, Vijay Vidyashram, proudly boasts and celebrate Hindi—the very language they publicly oppose.
Both Depict Wrong Map of India
On 23 October 2024, the DMK’s NRI wing sparked controversy by sharing a post on the social media platform X that featured an inaccurate map of India, wrongly depicting parts of Jammu and Kashmir as belonging to Pakistan and China. After facing severe backlash, the post was later altered.
Following the DMK’s book keeping principle, at a book launch event titled “Ambedkar: A Leader for All,” held in Chennai on 6 December 2024, to commemorate Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s death anniversary, another similar controversy arose. Actor-turned-politician and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay attended the event, where an incorrect map of India—this time omitting Aksai Chin—was deliberately displayed.
சென்னையில் தவெக தலைவர் விஜய் பங்கேற்ற எல்லோருக்குமான தலைவர் புத்தக வெளியீட்டு விழாவில் இந்தியாவின் தவறான வரைபடம் காட்டப்பட்டதால் சர்ச்சை
அக்சாய் சின் பிரதேசம் விடுபட்ட இந்திய வரைபடம் காணோளியில் இடம்பெற்றதால் பரபரப்பு
TVK chief Vijay has adopted a stance similar to that of the DMK, opposing any initiatives proposed by the central government. DMK chief and Chief Minister MK Stalin argued that the legislation posed a threat to “alter India’s polity forever.” Similarly, during the TVK party resolution, Vijay strongly opposed the “one nation, one election” proposal, criticizing it as an anti-democratic move by the BJP-led Union government.
In addition, TVK has mirrored the DMK’s tendency to pander to Islamist interests. The party has called for the withdrawal of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill amid reports of vast areas of land and entire villages being claimed by the Waqf Board.
Finally, in a recent development regarding the delimitation issue, DMK leader M.K. Stalin brought it into the spotlight on 25 February 2025, describing it as a “sword dangling over the southern states” following a state cabinet meeting. Shortly after, TVK chief Vijay stepped in to reinforce the DMK’s stance, penning a lengthy five-page letter opposing the imaginary upcoming delimitation process on 5 March 2025. However, a closer look reveals that his arguments are merely a recycled version of the DMK’s well-worn narratives.
Deliberate Neglecting Hindu Interest
Despite actor-turned-part-time politician, Vijay has shifted his stance from deliberately avoiding wishes for Hindu festivals while extending greetings for festivals of other religions. This pattern aligns with the DMK’s approach and was widely criticized. It was only after facing backlash that Vijay eventually acknowledged Saraswati Pooja. Notably, during his party’s first conference, he stated that while he follows E.V.R. Periyar’s principles, he does not adhere to atheism—an important aspect of his political trajectory.
His recent gestures to extend wishes for Hindu festivals on these auspicious occasions signal a positive step toward treating equally all faiths and moving beyond Dravidian narratives.
Previously, TVK chief Vijay faced significant backlash for skipping wishes for Hindu festivals and Tamil New Year in Tamil Nadu while extending greetings for Onam, a Hindu festival celebrated in Kerala. This inconsistency did not go unnoticed, and he was criticized for hypocrisy, drawing parallels to the DMK’s approach.
Here is a list of political stunts he has engaged in since launching his new party, primarily consisting of online gestures that send indirect messages.
Not Wishing For Vinayakar Chaturthi
Vijay did not acknowledge or wish the people of the state for Vinayakar Chaturthi, a festival celebrated by 87.58% of the Hindu population. Kollywood actor and TVK chief Vijay appeared to be deliberately avoiding respecting the cultural values and beliefs of Hindus and Tamils. His selective social media posts on his official X account support this accusation.
Not Wishing For Tamil New Year (Puthandu)
Instead of wishing for Tamil New Year which is a significant festival for Hindus in Tamil Nadu, Vijay chose to wish his fans and followers for Ambedkar Jayanti, which coincidentally falls on the same day. This is the same strategy employed by the DMK on the auspicious occasion of Hindu celebrations and festivals such as Vinayakar Chaturthi, Saraswathi Pooja, and other festive occasions.
Vijay cautiously neglected even the Hindu festival of Krishna Jayanthi on 26 August 2024.
Wishing For Onam
Surprisingly, as if making a statement to reach out to his Malayali fans and followers, Vijay wished for the Onam festival. It’s noteworthy that DMK (MK Stalin) also had wished for Onam last year. On 15 September 2024, TVK chief Vijay shared Onam wishes on his official X account, stating, “Happy #Onam from the bottom of my heart to all Malayalam relatives! A hearty Onam to my very own Malayali friends.”
மலையாள சொந்தங்கள் அனைவருக்கும் என் இதயம் கனிந்த #ஓணம் நல்வாழ்த்துகள்!
എന്റെ സ്വന്തം മലയാളി സുഹൃത്തുക്കൾക്ക് ഹൃദയം നിറഞ്ഞ ഓണാശംസകൾ.#HappyOnam!
Wishing For Christian, Muslim Festivals & Other Special Days
He has acknowledged and wished for Muslim festivals like Ramzan and Eid, Christian festivals like Easter, as well as neutral days such as May 1 (Labour Day), Ambedkar Jayanti, Independence Day, and Mother’s Day.
உழைப்பின் மேன்மையையும் உழைப்பாளர்களின் சிறப்பினையும் உலகிற்குப் பறைசாற்றும் இந்த மே தினத்தில், தொழிலாளர் சகோதர சகோதரிகள் அனைவருக்கும் எனது உளமார்ந்த “மே தின” நல்வாழ்த்துகளைத் தெரிவித்துக்கொள்கிறேன்.#MayDay2024#LabourDaypic.twitter.com/HZ9Zp0nKMn
புனித ரமலான் மாதத்தில் இறைவனை வேண்டி நோன்பிருந்து, அன்பு, கருணை, ஈகை, சகோதரத்துவம் உள்ளிட்ட உயரிய பண்புகளை உலகுக்கு எடுத்துக்கூறும் இஸ்லாமிய உறவுகள் அனைவருக்கும் என் நெஞ்சம் நிறைந்த ரமலான் திருநாள் வாழ்த்துகளைத் தெரிவித்துக்கொள்கிறேன்.
From the above, one could infer that Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) appears to be less of a genuine political alternative and more of a tactical extension of the DMK, closely aligning with its ideological stance and strategies. His selective opposition, stance on key issues, and apparent minority appeasement suggest that TVK is reinforcing the Dravidianist narrative rather than challenging it. By mimicking the DMK’s policies and rhetoric while maintaining a strategic distance, Vijay’s political entry raises questions about whether he genuinely seeks to challenge the ruling party or merely act as a tool to fragment the anti-DMK vote base. Ultimately, TVK’s rise seems to serve the interests of the DMK more than it threatens them, potentially eroding the vote share of other opposition parties while ensuring a split in anti-DMK votes without significantly harming the ruling party and its allies.
What Kamal Haasan was in 2021, Vijay is for 2026—a carefully crafted DMK’s political project. Kamal too claimed himself to be an alternative to both DMK and AIADMK. He too vociferously opposed the DMK like Vijay does today and even broke televisions with his torch light. But Kamal ultimately found himself at the gates of Arivalayam, reduced to a lickspittle of the DMK. Vijay, too, is treading the same path, set to become yet another pawn in the DMK’s grand scheme.
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
