Ahead of Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s roadshow scheduled in Madurai on 31 May 2025, the DNT Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam has launched a protest campaign in the city. Posters have been put up across various areas in Madurai, warning Stalin not to enter the city, citing betrayal of electoral promises.
டிஎன்டி ஒற்றை சாதி சான்றிதழ் வழங்காத தமிழக முதல்வரை கண்டித்து தேனி மாவட்டத்தில் இன்று சீர்மரபினர் 68 சமூக அமைப்பான டிஎன்டி மக்கள் முன்னேற்ற கழகம் கண்டன சுவரொட்டி
— டி என் டி மக்கள் முன்னேற்றக் கழகம் (@Ramasam02584351) May 30, 2025
The posters read, “Condemnation to the Chief Minister – DNT. The Chief Minister, who made a false promise during the 2021 elections to issue a unified caste certificate to 68 communities, and claimed to have passed a government order on 16.03.2024, is now exposed. Do not come to Madurai.”
In an official statement, the DNT Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam highlighted the long-standing issue concerning caste classification for 68 backward communities. They stated that these communities are currently issued two separate caste certificates: one as DNC for availing benefits under the state government and another as DNT for central schemes. The organization has been protesting this dual classification since 2014.
The party emphasized that Stalin’s 2021 poll promise and the GO issued on 16 March 2024, both claimed to resolve the issue by issuing a unified certificate. However, instead of correcting the classification, the government simply merged the terms, issuing a combined certificate labeled DNC/DNT, which the party calls a continuation of the same flawed system.
The DNT Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam demands that caste certificates be issued under a single name—DNT—to truly represent the community, arguing that this would not affect the state’s 69% reservation limit or cost the government anything extra. Despite several petitions and legal clarifications, no meaningful action has been taken by the DMK government.
As a mark of protest, the organization announced that on 3 June 2025, marking the birth anniversary of former CM Karunanidhi, they would intensify their demand by calling for the amendment of the government order. They further declared that if their demand is not met, the party will shift its support to the BJP in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay emphasized that NEET is not the only path to success,encouraging students and parents to look beyond the high-stakes exam and support children in pursuing their individual dreams.
Speaking at a grand felicitation event in Mahabalipuram, where he honored Class 10 and 12 toppers from 88 assembly constituencies, Vijay addressed both students and their families. He distributed certificates and cash prizes, using the occasion to deliver a broader message about education, democracy, and societal unity.
While applauding the academic achievements of students, Vijay emphasized that stress should not overwhelm them. “Academic success matters, but it’s not everything. Don’t allow stress to take over,” he told the young attendees.
Questioning the narrative that NEET is the only route to a successful future, Vijay said, “Is NEET the only thing in the world? The world is much, much bigger than NEET. There are many things beyond it in which you have to succeed. So, from now on, keep your mind strong. Learn to keep it democratic.” His remarks aimed to reassure students facing immense pressure over competitive exams.
— PuthiyathalaimuraiTV (@PTTVOnlineNews) May 30, 2025
He also spoke directly to parents, urging them to nurture their children’s aspirations with empathy and guidance rather than pushing them into narrow definitions of success.
Previously, Vijay had strongly voiced his opposition to the NEET examination, arguing that it unfairly impacts students from Tamil Nadu, particularly those from rural and underprivileged backgrounds. On 3 July 2024, while felicitating high-achieving Class 10 and 12 students, Vijay aligned with the DMK’s stance by criticizing NEET. Speaking at the event, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief said, “If you look at this NEET, it is a fact that the students in our Tamil Nadu, especially the rural areas, where the poor, the backward, the most backward, and the lower class, are all affected.” Therefore, the exam discriminates against state students and should be eliminated.
In a sharp and sarcastic post, Junior Vikatan took a dig at Chief Minister and DMK chief M.K. Stalin over his sudden decision to attend the 10th NITI Aayog meeting in Delhi on 24 May 2025. For years, since the DMK came to power in 2021, Stalin avoided these meetings, always coming up with excuses. But this time, he not only showed up, he even praised the Modi government.
What changed? The backdrop speaks for itself: the massive ₹1000 crore TASMAC scam exposed by the ED, with the key figures Ratheesh and Aakash Bhaskaran still on the run. These two are believed to have close links to Deputy CM and Stalin’s son, Udhayanidhi. With the heat mounting and the opposition especially AIADMK’s Edappadi Palaniswami going all out against him, Stalin’s sudden presence at the meeting raised eyebrows. Many see it as a damage-control move or worse, an attempt at compromise.
Picking up on this, Junior Vikatan released a mock “screenshot” — a satirical WhatsApp group chat from Stalin’s phone. The conversation involves several DMK ministers, poking fun at the CM’s Delhi visit including S. Regupathy (Law), Duraimurugan (Water Resources), Thangam Thennarasu (Finance), P.K. Sekar Babu (Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments), Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi (School Education), and Udhayanidhi Stalin, the Deputy Chief Minister and DMK scion. Also appearing were former ministers Ponmudi and Senthil Balaji, both currently out of the cabinet. The central theme? The word “Nidhi” — cleverly playing on both “funds” and “Udhayanidhi”.
Here’s how the fictional chat unfolds:
“Imaginary Screenshot From Stalin’s Phone – “Niti (Nidhi) is important Bigilu!” (Here Nidhi refers to funds)
On 27 May 2025, a video went viral on Twitter showing Mohammad Zubair from Pakistan asking a Maulana, “If we win the war against India, will their women be enslaved or will we be allowed to marry four of them?” This report compiles 10 such incidents between 2023 and 2025 involving derogatory and vulgar comments directed at Indian women by various Pakistani individuals, religious leaders, and media personalities.
#1 Pakistani Man Asks If Indian Women Can Be Taken As War Slaves
On 27 May 2025, a video from Pakistan went viral in which a man identified as Mohammad Zubair made a highly offensive remark about Indian women. In the clip, Zubair is seen asking a cleric, “If we win a war against India, will their women be taken as slaves, or will we be allowed to marry four of them?” The disturbing comment has drawn widespread condemnation online for its misogynistic and violent undertones.
Md Zubair of Pakistan says “If we win a war against India, will their women be taken as slaves, or will we be allowed to marry four of them?”
#2 Pakistani Civilians Claim “All Indian Girls Will Be Ours” In Shocking War Hype Video
A disturbing video from Pakistan surfaced online showing a group of Pakistani civilians making inflammatory and misogynistic remarks while speaking to soldiers. In the footage, the civilians claim that after a war with India, “all Indian girls will be ours” under Maal-e-Ghanimat (spoils of war). They also shout that the Taj Mahal and everything in India will belong to them. The video, which has sparked outrage across social media, reflects a deeply troubling mindset glorifying war and sexual violence as tools of conquest.
I have always believed that every Pakistani is a terrorist.
Look at this video where Pakistani civilians are telling Pakistani soldiers that after war, under Maal-e-Ghanimat, all Indian girls will be ours, Taj Mahal is ours… everything is ours.
#3 Aishwarya Sharma Claps Back at Pakistani Fans Over Unfollow Threats
On 16 May 2025, actress Aishwarya Sharma, known for Bigg Boss 17 and Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin, responded sharply after receiving multiple messages from Pakistani fans threatening to unfollow her on Instagram over her posts or views. Rather than backing down, Aishwarya posted a bold reply: “Tum samajhte kyu nahi… Agar tumne mujhe unfollow nahi kiya toh tumhe mujhse pyaar ho jayega – phir se. Aur mujhe nahi hoga – phir se.” Her confident clapback quickly went viral, with Indian fans applauding her humor and boldness. Supporters called it a “mic drop moment” and praised her refusal to bow to online pressure.
#4 Hina Khan Faces Pakistani Backlash Over Operation Sindoor Support, Stands Firm
Actress Hina Khan was trolled by Pakistani social media users after supporting India during Operation Sindoor, a military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. Despite battling stage 3 breast cancer, Hina declared herself “Indian first” and stood by her views. She shared emotional Instagram stories detailing abusive messages targeting her family, faith, and illness. Responding firmly, she said, “Go ahead, unfollow me. I don’t care.” Emphasizing humanity over hate, Hina added, “Your actions reveal your core values.” Her post earned praise for resilience, patriotism, and grace under fire during rising Indo-Pak tensions.
Image Source: Free Press Journal
#5 Pakistani Soldiers’ Bizarre Demand During Kargil War Resurfaces Amid Operation Sindoor
A viral story from the 1999 Kargil War has resurfaced amid rising India-Pakistan tensions post-Operation Sindoor. Martyr Captain Vikram Batra once revealed that Pakistani soldiers, under heavy fire, mockingly demanded Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit in exchange for Indian soldiers’ bodies. Batra responded with gunfire, saying, “With love from Madhuri.” Similarly, Pakistani troops reportedly mentioned Raveena Tandon, prompting Indian soldiers to fire a missile labeled “on behalf of Raveena.” The bizarre taunts were met with fierce retaliation, and photos of the incident remain viral. The resurfaced anecdote highlights the absurdity of wartime provocations and India’s unyielding spirit.
#6 Pakistani Cleric’s Crude Remark on Madhuri Dixit Sparks Outrage Amid Tensions
A video of a Pakistani cleric sitting beside his son and claiming he would “take Madhuri Dixit” if Pakistan wins a war against India has gone viral, drawing widespread condemnation for its sexist and provocative nature. Shared on platform X, the clip comes amid heightened India-Pakistan tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack. Critics slammed the cleric for making light of war and objectifying women. The incident recalls the 1999 Kargil War, when India successfully repelled Pakistani intrusions under Operation Vijay, emerging victorious militarily and diplomatically while Pakistan faced global criticism and isolation.
#7 Pakistani Journalist Mubashir Luqman Wants Indian Actresses As Sex Slaves
Pakistani journalist Mubashir Luqman ignited outrage after making a deeply offensive remark during a podcast with fellow journalist Naeem Hanif. Amid discussions on India-Pakistan tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack, Luqman asked if religious scholars permit Indian actresses to be taken as “sex slaves” in case of war. His comment was met with shock and condemnation across Indian social media, with many calling it misogynistic and extremist. Though Luqman later attempted to shift the topic, public anger surged.
Pakistan YouTuber with more than 2 lakh followers is proudly saying that he wants to take Indian Actresses as Sex Slaves.
— Sensei Kraken Zero (@YearOfTheKraken) May 4, 2025
#8 Former Pak Cricketer Abdul Razzaq Makes Misogynistic Remark On Aishwarya Rai
In November 2023, former Pakistani cricketer Abdul Razzaq sparked outrage after making a bizarre and sexist remark involving Indian actress Aishwarya Rai during a cricket event on November 12. Comparing poor PCB intentions to marrying Aishwarya Rai and expecting “virtuous children,” Razzaq implied such outcomes were impossible. His statement, made in front of fellow cricketers like Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Malik, was met with laughter by some, but widespread criticism followed. Social media users, including Pakistanis, condemned the comment as misogynistic and reflective of a regressive mindset. Critics also highlighted how such remarks fuel negative perceptions and cross-border hostility.
Abdul Razzaq is talking about "Neeyat" and shows his "badneeyat" by dragging in Aishwarya Rai for a shitty example and Shahid Afridi & others find it amusing and start clapping.
This comment about Aishwarya Rai shows their mindset about Hindu women. The blatant kidnappings of… pic.twitter.com/NPgjuaLXG3
#9 Pakistani Actress Mehwish Hayat Slams Priyanka Chopra Over Balakote Tweet
In August 2023, Pakistani actress Mehwish Hayat publicly criticized Indian actress Priyanka Chopra for her 2019 tweet supporting the Indian military during the Balakot airstrike. In a blog for CNN, Hayat accused Chopra of promoting nationalism and racism disguised as patriotism, stating such acts do a disservice to global harmony. Hayat further accused Bollywood and Hollywood of misrepresenting Pakistan in films. Her remarks reignited debate over celebrity influence in geopolitical matters, with many defending Chopra’s patriotism while others supported Hayat’s call for more balanced narratives.
#10 Pak High Commission Officials Accused Of Lewd Remarks To Indian Academician
In January 2023, a female academician from Punjab accused Pakistan High Commission officials in Delhi of making lewd, sexually harassing remarks during her visa appointment. She alleged that staff questioned her marital status, asked explicit questions about her sex life, and pressured her to criticize India for money. The woman submitted WhatsApp chats as evidence and wrote to EAM S. Jaishankar, demanding action. The MEA has asked Pakistan to investigate. Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry responded by saying they uphold proper conduct and are probing the incident, though they questioned the timing and manner of the complaint.
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Days after getting the nominated for a Rajya Sabha seat he was promised by his former-enemy-now-ally, the DMK, full-time actor/part-time politician and founder of the nearly invisible party in TN – Makkal Needhi Maiam, DMK stooge Kamal Haasan, was on a promotion spree for his upcoming film Thug Life.
During the promotion, he resorted to indulge in language politics, claiming Kannada was born out of Tamil and that he hated Sanskrit, and all that in what seems to be an effort to create controversy and buzz around the film.
As the comments on Kannada sparked backlash, he claimed he said it “out of love”. He also urged that complex and sensitive issues such as language origins should be left to experts in the field.
“What I said was out of love, and a lot of historians have taught me language history. I didn’t mean anything,” Haasan explained. He acknowledged that political figures, including himself, lack the academic background to make authoritative statements on linguistic history and should defer to scholars, archaeologists, and linguists for such discussions.
He added, “So the people will take care of Thug Life, Kamal Haasan and all these controversies. Politicians are not qualified to talk about language, they don’t have the education enough to talk about it, that includes me. So let’s leave all these very in-depth discussions to historians, archaeologists and language experts. Both those who criticize me for this statement of love, I spoke to Mr Shivanna, his father is like my father, elder brother, whatever you call it, we are a family, and so are the languages. If you look at it from the northern point of view, yes what they say, according to them is right. If you look at it from ‘then-Kumari’, then what I said is right. There is a third angle to it, that is what I said, the scholars and language experts, they will say both are right, but they must decide where they want to belong, with their family or the languages that came from the north. That’s up to you; it’s a democratic country. This is not an answer, this is an explanation. Love will never apologize, thank you.”
No matter what he says, Kamal Haasan has been receiving more and more backlash wherever he goes. Speaking to the press outside the DMK headquarters in Chennai on 30 May 2025, Kamal Haasan firmly stated, “If I’m wrong, I’ll apologise. If I’m not, I won’t. This is my lifestyle, please don’t tamper with it.” Reaffirming his commitment to democratic principles, he added, “India is a democratic country, and I believe in law and justice.”
At this point, a reporter questioned his hypocrisy with respect to the DMK. He asked, “When you began the Makkal Needhi Maiam party, you objected to the dynastic politics which was destroying the state of Tamil Nadu, you started your party against them. But today you are their ally. What is your answer?”
Kamal began to run away from this question but turned back only to give a vague answer. He said, “The country needs me, that is why I have come.”
The Congress party has strongly criticized the “Ghar Ghar Sindoor Abhiyan”, calling it a political publicity stunt ahead of elections. The campaign, set to begin on June 9, aims to spread awareness of “Operation Sindoor”—India’s military response after 26 Hindu tourists were killed in Pahalgam, where terrorists forcibly removed women’s sindoor. Congress accused BJP of exploiting religious symbols for electoral gains.
In yet another instance of perversion and derogatory behaviour, the Kerala Congress X handle has mocked and defamed the Indian woman just to take a swipe at PM Modi and the central government’s successful anti-terror Operation Sindoor.
In a post on their X handle on 30 May 2025, quoting a news report stating “Modi govt to deliver sindoor to every household: Month-long campaign from June 9; MPs to walk 15-20km daily.” and their post was captioned, “One Nation, One Husband”.
This isn’t the first time the handle is indulging in such below-the-belt behaviour on social media.
Dubbed NSA Ajit Doval As ‘Desi 007’
In June 2024, the handle compared the re-appointment of National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval to James Bond’s character, known for his womanizing tendencies. They dubbed Doval as ‘Desi 007’. This derogatory comparison, accompanied by a picture of actress and Member of Parliament Kangana Ranaut, has been widely condemned. Netizens expressed strong disapproval, leading to the deletion of the Kerala Congress’s post.
In its now-deleted post, the Kerala Congress in its official X handle wrote, “With his re-appointment at 79, ‘Desi 007’ Ajit Doval extends his record of being the oldest Bond ever. Roger Moore was the second oldest at 57 (A View to Kill-‘85)”
In Ian Fleming’s James Bond novels, Bond’s treatment of women is portrayed as purely recreational. He sees them primarily as sexual partners with little intrinsic value beyond that. Bond tends to eschew anything traditionally associated with femininity and is reluctant to collaborate with women, fearing they might complicate matters. He holds the belief that women belong in domestic spheres rather than professional environments. Bond embodies a patriarchal mindset and exhibits traits of toxic masculinity. His negative attributes align with what is termed the “dark triad“: narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy. These traits are termed “dark” due to their malevolent nature, which paradoxically attracts some women to him.
The Kerala Congress drew a specific parallel to Roger Moore’s “A View to a Kill” movie. In this film, an intimate scene featuring James Bond is followed by the fact that he’s aging. The Congress likened this sequence to Ajit Doval’s situation, accompanied by Kangana Ranaut’s image. It marked Roger Moore’s final portrayal of the fictional MI6 agent James Bond. Even in an interview, James Bond actor Roger Moore commented on his personal success with women compared to the fictional 007 spy. Roger Moore stated, “I’ve always had a way with women. Throughout my life, I’ve had my fair share of beautiful companions. I couldn’t give you an exact count because I consider myself a gentleman. But more importantly, I’ve never felt the need to keep track. I’ve had more romantic encounters than James Bond,” In the 22 Bond films, where Bond is famously depicted as a womanizer, he has had 51 lovers, among whom 16 met tragic ends.
The same handle is also known to peddle fake news on derailments (when none occurred), on passenger death on the train, only to get fact checked by the authorities.
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At a recent event hosted by his political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), actor-turned-part-time politician Vijay criticized the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for including a question in a civil services exam that referred to E.V. Ramasamy Naicker (EVR) by his full name, including the caste-indicative suffix “Naicker.” Vijay described the inclusion as offensive and deeply condemnable.
However, his outrage seems very hypocritic. The Dravidar Kazhagam (DK), the organization founded by EVR and currently run by his ideological successors, continues to publish his full name, including the caste suffix, in their official publication Viduthalai. Notably, as recently as 17 May, the magazine featured an editorial titled “Engum Ramasamy Naicker” (“Ramasamy Naicker Everywhere”).
It’s not just recent incidents — the Dravidar Kazhagam itself often appears to highlight caste identities. For instance, a 2023 article openly celebrated “Naidu–Naicker–Nadar unity,” despite the organization’s frequent claims of being anti-caste and its portrayal of E.V. Ramasamy Naicker as the one who abolished caste in Tamil Nadu. Now, Vijay has emerged as the latest voice buttressing this carefully constructed narrative.
Vijay’s criticism appears inconsistent, as he targets the use of a caste-based suffix by India’s premiere institutions while remaining ignorant about its continued use within ideologically aligned circles.
The irony died a thousand deaths when the Dravidar Kazhagam (DK) — EVR’s own ideological heirs — joined in condemning the UPSC on 26 May, despite having recently published content using the same caste-linked title.
This glaring contradiction has reignited debates around selective outrage and the lack of consistency in upholding anti-caste principles.
Speaking at the Chennai event honoring top-performing students from Classes 10 and 12, Vijay appealed to the youth to uphold democratic principles and reject societal divisions. “Democracy gives everyone equal opportunity,” he said. “Tell your families to vote responsibly—choose trustworthy, corruption-free leaders. Don’t allow caste or religion to influence your thinking.”
Drawing a parallel to nature, he said, “The sun and rain don’t discriminate by caste or religion. We must reject such divisions the same way we reject harmful substances.”
Vijay emphasized that democracy thrives on equality and freedom. “A democratic mindset is essential for true liberty in all aspects of life. Caste, religion, and creed should be shunned just like addictive drugs.”
On the UPSC controversy, he reiterated his disapproval, “Even in recent times, attempts are being made to associate casteist labels with Periyar. In the latest UPSC exam, a question was asked that framed him along caste lines. We strongly condemn this.”
At the CII Annual Business Summit on 29 May 2025, Indian Air Force Chief, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh highlighted serious delays in defence procurement, particularly in indigenous projects. He expressed concern that most contracts have stalled due to slow production of critical weapon systems.
Singh specifically pointed to the delayed delivery of the 83 Tejas Mk1A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) ordered from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in February 2021 for ₹48,000 crore. Deliveries were scheduled to start by March 2024 but have yet to begin, mainly due to delays in engine supplies from US-based General Electric, which is facing supply chain issues.
The IAF chief also noted that the prototype for the next-generation Tejas Mk2 has not yet been rolled out, and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), India’s stealth fighter project, is still without a prototype.
Emphasizing the importance of self-reliance, Singh urged stronger trust and transparency between the armed forces and domestic defence industry. He stressed that India must focus not only on producing but also designing weapon systems locally to meet urgent operational needs.
“Production capacity may increase over the next decade, but what we need today, we need now. We must get our act together quickly because wars are won by empowering our forces,” he said.
The remarks come weeks after India’s military action against Pakistan under “Operation Sindoor.” Meanwhile, the government recently approved a framework to accelerate development of the indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, the AMCA.
Why Is the IAF Chief Angry Over Delayed Jet Deliveries?
Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh recently expressed strong dissatisfaction over persistent delays in India’s defence procurement timeline—especially regarding the Tejas Mk1A fighter jets. He emphasized that if a timeline is committed, it must be honoured. His frustration is rooted in a series of delays that have critically affected the Indian Air Force’s operational readiness.
The issue traces back to 2021, when Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) signed a $716 million deal with General Electric (GE) of the United States for 99 F404-IN20 jet engines. These engines were crucial for powering the indigenous Tejas Mk1A aircraft. According to the contract, initial deliveries were expected by March 2023.
However, as of 29 May 2025, only one engine has been delivered. GE, which committed to supplying all engines by now, has shared a revised timeline: 11 more engines in 2025, followed by 20 engines annually from 2026 to 2029, and the final 8 in 2030. This enormous delay has completely disrupted India’s indigenous fighter production schedule.
On the strength of GE’s original commitment, the Indian Air Force had placed a ₹48,000 crore order with HAL in February 2021 for 83 Tejas Mk1A jets (including 73 single-seaters and 10 trainer variants). HAL, in turn, committed to begin jet deliveries by March 2024. However, due to GE’s engine supply failure, HAL has been unable to deliver even a single aircraft to the IAF.
This delay comes at a time when the Indian Air Force is facing an acute shortage of fighter aircraft. India requires a minimum of 42 squadrons—each consisting of 18 fighter jets—to maintain credible deterrence and readiness. In reality, the IAF is operating with just 31 squadrons, the lowest level since the 1965 war. For context, the IAF had 42 squadrons in 1996, and 35 squadrons in 2013.
The shortage is not due to a lack of aircraft from HAL—many of the jets are reportedly ready, awaiting only the engine installations. The core bottleneck remains GE’s inability to deliver, which has sparked speculation about whether these delays are deliberate. Some observers suggest this may be a strategic move by elements within the US military-industrial complex, possibly to pressure India into purchasing American fighter jets like the F-35, instead of developing its own.
Timeline is a big issue. If you have committed a timeline to deliver then deliver at timeline – Air Chief Marshal
Why is the Air Chief angry over deliveries ? How US military industrial complex betrayed India? Why they did this?
The Air Chief’s anger reflects a broader concern: India’s ability to maintain independent defence capability is being undermined, not by its technological limits, but by external dependency on critical components like jet engines. The crisis highlights an urgent need to design and produce complete weapon systems within India, reducing reliance on foreign partners who may not always share India’s strategic timelines or priorities.
A recent study published in The Lancet has brought to light a disturbing outbreak in Tamil Nadu’s Tirupattur district, where eight individuals died in 2023 after contracting neuromelioidosis, a rare and severe brain infection, traced back to a dental clinic in Vaniyambadi town. The source of the outbreak was identified as a contaminated saline bottle used during dental procedures.
The incident, which went unreported by government bodies, was uncovered through a detailed investigation led by a multidisciplinary team including doctors from CMC Vellore, ICMR-NIE, and the Tamil Nadu Directorate of Public Health. The team discovered that poor sterilization practices at the dental facility were the root cause.
According to the study, the infection spread after a periosteal elevator, a surgical instrument, was used to puncture the seal of a saline bottle. The bottle was then loosely closed and reused on multiple patients, resulting in at least ten infections, of which eight proved fatal. Dr. Angel Miraclin Thirugnanakumar, the study’s lead author from CMC’s Department of Neurological Sciences, stated that the 80% fatality rate was due to the bacteria entering directly through the nerves during oral procedures, bypassing the bloodstream.
Neuromelioidosis is caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, a bacterium commonly found in soil and water in tropical climates. It severely affects the central nervous system, particularly the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms typically include fever, headache, blurred vision, slurred speech, and, in some cases, facial paralysis. Genome sequencing revealed that the strain involved in this outbreak possessed a gene that makes it particularly aggressive in attacking the brain.
Between July 2022 and April 2023, researchers identified 21 cases of neuromelioidosis. Among them, ten patients had been treated at the dental clinic; of these, eight died. The other 11 patients, who had no link to the clinic, experienced only one fatality, marking a much lower death rate of 9%. Geographically, 17 of the cases occurred in Tirupattur, two in Ranipet, and one each in Tiruvannamalai and Krishnagiri.
Data showed that patients infected through the dental clinic succumbed to the illness much more quickly. On average, death occurred 16 days after symptoms appeared and nine days after hospitalisation, compared to 56 days and 38 days respectively for those not exposed via the clinic.
Dr. T. S. Selvavinayagam, Tamil Nadu’s Director of Public Health, acknowledged that the findings would assist in identifying similar cases for better outbreak response and local containment. “We’ve taken corrective steps to control the spread. This serves as a crucial reminder for healthcare providers to strictly follow infection control protocols,” he said.
The first alert came on 9 May 2023, when CMC Vellore reported a spike in neuromelioidosis cases, some linked to the dental clinic. A few days later, a coordination meeting was held with healthcare providers in Tirupattur and nearby districts. A medical team was promptly formed to investigate and trace the source.
However, by the time officials arrived at the dental facility, it had already been disinfected, closed, and its water supply cut off—reportedly in response to public outrage. Still, scientists managed to isolate Burkholderia pseudomallei from a previously opened saline bottle. No contamination was found in sealed, unused bottles. Genetic sequencing confirmed the findings.
Interestingly, the clinical presentations varied between those linked to the clinic and those who were not. Non-clinic cases often showed salivary gland swelling, cheek inflammation, and enlarged lymph nodes. In contrast, patients who had visited the dental clinic exhibited more severe and faster-developing symptoms such as facial cellulitis and soft tissue abscesses, likely due to ingestion of the tainted saline.
This tragic event underscores the critical importance of strict hygiene protocols in medical and dental facilities and raises urgent questions about regulation and oversight in private clinics.
In a move that has sparked widespread public backlash and political controversy, the DMK government is reportedly preparing to sell Amma wedding halls in Chennai to private buyers. These state-built halls, constructed under the AIADMK regime in 2016, were originally intended to serve economically disadvantaged communities by offering affordable and well-equipped venues for weddings and other family events.
Revelations obtained through a Right to Information (RTI) request have brought the issue to light. According to the disclosed documents, two Amma wedding halls near Chennai—built at a combined cost of ₹22 crore—are being considered for sale due to claimed lack of public use. This decision has ignited criticism from both citizens and political observers who argue that the government is neglecting infrastructure meant for public welfare.
During the AIADMK government’s tenure, Amma wedding halls were constructed with amenities on par with private banquet facilities. These included air-conditioning, modern kitchens, elevators, and ample parking. Six such halls were developed by the Tamil Nadu Housing Board in locations like Avadi, Ayapakkam, Velachery, Korattur, Madurai, and Theni, at a total cost of ₹65 crore.
However, only the halls in Madurai and Theni are currently operational. In contrast, the Chennai-based halls remain closed. Notably, the Avadi hall—built at ₹10.2 crore—sits unused in a Housing Board area behind Avadi Corporation. The Ayapakkam facility, constructed at a cost of ₹12 crore, was used as a COVID-19 treatment center during the pandemic but has since fallen into disrepair. Reports indicate that the hall has been stripped of air conditioners, wiring, and other fittings by vandals, leaving the structure in a dilapidated state.
Social activist Tharanitharan, who filed the RTI, questioned the Housing Board on the status of the halls. In its response, the Board cited poor public reception as the reason for non-operation and shockingly confirmed that steps are underway to sell the properties to private parties. Tharanitharan and others argue that these halls could serve the local population if they were properly maintained and opened, rather than being left idle and then offloaded to private entities.
Critics have accused the DMK administration of deliberately neglecting these assets in order to justify their privatization. They argue that the Amma wedding halls—part of former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa’s broader “Amma” welfare initiative—were created to ease the financial burden on lower- and middle-income families. Selling them off, they claim, undermines the original purpose and disproportionately affects those who rely on public infrastructure.
Announced in September 2016, the Amma wedding halls were envisioned as part of a larger initiative to construct similar venues at 11 locations across Tamil Nadu, including major cities like Chennai, Madurai, Tirunelveli, and Salem, at an estimated cost of ₹83 crore.
Local residents and activists have called for the halls to be renovated and put into use rather than handed over to private interests, emphasizing that these government-funded facilities were never meant to become abandoned properties or profit-making assets for private developers.
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