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Raj Bhavan Reviving Vaikasi Anusham As Thiruvalluvar Day Triggers Meltsdown Among DMK, ADMK, MDMK, Congress

By
The Commune
-

The Raj Bhavan in Tamil Nadu has once again delivered a significant meltdown to the Dravidian ecosystem by reviving the ancient tradition of celebrating the birth of the Tamil poet and saint Thiruvalluvar according to his birth nakshatra on the Tamil calendar. On 24 May 2024, Governor RN Ravi presided over the celebration of Thiruvalluvar’s birth anniversary, known as “Vaikasi Anusham Valluvar Thirunaal”. During the event, tributes were paid to Thiruvalluvar’s portrait, which was adorned with saffron clothes, holy ash, and kumkum on his forehead.

DMK – TKS Elangovan

Organisation Secretary of the DMK TKS Elangovan said, “Thiruvalluvar is a world poet. His sayings have a bearing on the entire world and people living everywhere. He (RN Ravi) is trying to insult the Tamilians by making a Thiruvalluvar in a saffron dress. The problem with the governor is that he intends to insult the Tamilians. By this act, Tamilians living across the world are insulted. This is what he intends today. He is from Bihar, a very backward state whereas Tamil Nadu is a developed state, the people of Tamil Nadu are equanimous, they treat everybody as equals. But Ravi does not want to treat everybody as equals. He is insulting Thiruvalluvar. He is insulting the entire Tamil community living the world over. And he is insulting the language and the culture of the Tamil Nadu. Later stated, “Governor is becoming a joker. Who said May 24 is Thiruvalluvar Day? very person in Tamil Nadu knows that Thiruvalluvar Day is January 15. If somebody decides to distort history to their benefit, then we strongly condemn it,”

MDMK – Vaiko

While MDMK General Secretary Vaiko speaking to the reporters after paying tribute to former MLC SP Adithanar in Chennai said, “This is condemnable. Thiruvalluvar is above caste and religion. He (Governor) is making Raj Bhavan a laughing stock… Let us wait till June 4. INDIA alliance will win (the elections)”

Tamil Nadu Congress – Selvaperunthagai

K Selvaperunthagai, the President of the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee, has expressed his strong condemnation of Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi. This criticism arises from an invitation that featured a portrait of Thiruvalluvar adorned with saffron clothes, holy ash, and kumkum on his forehead. Selvaperunthagai shared his disapproval on his official X handle, stating that, “Thiruvalluvar’s photograph, owned by the state, independent of caste, creed, religion, was nationalized in 1991. Since then, the photo has been printed and used by everyone in the country. However, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi changed the photo of Thiruvalluvar approved by the government to the Governor’s House. It is illegal to publish photos based on caste, religion, religion. It is reprehensible for the governor who is responsible for upholding the law to do this. Regrettable.”

DMK Speaker – Appavu

DMK Speaker Appavu has went one step further and criticized the governor asking, “Thiruvalluvar’s photo in saffron is featured in the invitation issued by the Governor’s office. If we portray Governor with Kullah (Taqiyah – Muslim skull cap) and his wife with purdah will he accepts it? then we will also accept wearing saffron for Thiruvalluvar. If he doesn’t accept that, he shouldn’t do this either.”

 

AIADMK – Jayakumar

Former AIADMK Minister of Finance of Tamil Nadu D Jayakumar said, “There is nothing that is missing in Thirukkural. There is no caste, religion or race for Thiruvalluvar. Depicting such a person in saffron is certainly unacceptable. The governor has as many as a thousand works. What is the need to celebrate Thiruvalluvar Day now? In such a situation, this can only be seen as an act of humiliating Tamil race and Thiruvalluvar as a whole. The Governor’s action is highly condemnable and unacceptable.”

The Controversial Dravidian Thiruvalluvar Day

Archaeologist and historian like S Ramachandran providing background information, states that in 1966, the Congress government issued a Government Order declaring the day of saint Thiruvalluvar’s attainment of ‘Mukthi’ (salvation) as Thiruvalluvar Day. This day, known as Vaikasi Anusham, corresponds to a specific date in the Tamil month of Vaikasi, marked by the star Anusham. On 2 June 1966, Vaikasi Anusham was celebrated as Thiruvalluvar Day, with a statue of Thiruvalluvar unveiled by then-President S Radhakrishnan, in the presence of former Chief Minister M Bhakthavatsalam and Chennai Mayor M Moses, a member of the DMK.

However, in 1971, the DMK regime changed the observance to the second day of the Tamil month of Thai, which falls in January. Ramachandran also mentioned that the Thiruvalluvar temple in Mylapore, Chennai, where Governor Ravi recently offered prayers, dates back to the 14th century CE. In January 2024, Governor Ravi paid floral tributes to a portrait of Thiruvalluvar dressed in saffron attire, prompting Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to assert that no one could ‘stain’ the revered poet.

 

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Kerala High Court Condemns Pinarayi Government For Misusing Power And Supporting SFI In Pension Benefits Dispute With Principal Dr. Rema

By
The Commune
-

The Kerala High Court condemned the state government, led by the Communist Party of India (Marxist), for “misusing power” and supporting SFI to prevent Dr. Rema from receiving her pension benefits.

Judges A Muhamed Mustaque and Shoba Annamma Eapen annulled two departmental inquiries against Dr. Rema, who retired on 31 March 2024. The ruling, posted on the court’s website on 21st May, came after an order delivered on 9 April 2024.

The Left government in Kerala took strict measures against Dr. Rema M, a college principal, after she criticized the Students’ Federation of India (SFI), a left-wing student organization. Accused of condemning the government, she was removed from her position, subjected to a probe post-retirement, and transferred to a different college. Dr. Rema had alleged that SFI members were involved in organized crime and drug addiction on campus, leading to her being held hostage by SFI members. Instead of addressing the SFI members’ actions, the government targeted her, prompting the Kerala High Court to reprimand the government for its actions.

Kerala’s Higher Education Minister R Bindu dismissed Dr. Rema from her principal position and transferred her to Government Arts and Science College, Koduvally, 200 kilometers away, following an interview where she accused SFI members of drug abuse and immoral activities on campus.

An inquiry commission, comprising Deputy Director of Collegiate Education Sunil John J, Professor Geetha E, and senior clerk Shyamlal I S, was formed in response to a complaint by SFI’s Kasaragod unit secretary, Akshay M K. The panel, rather than addressing the accusations against SFI, recommended transferring Dr. Rema, leading the court to label the inquiry as biased. The court’s verdict criticized the government for defending SFI and not independently investigating her allegations.

Background of the case:

On 20 February 2023, SFI members raised concerns about contaminated drinking water with Dr. Rema, who directed repairs. However, SFI leaders demanded further explanations and accused her of verbally abusing students. On 23 February 2023, around sixty SFI students detained Dr. Rema for hours, preventing her from using the restroom until police intervened. Subsequently, Minister Bindu relieved her of her duties, and SFI barred her from campus. Dr. Rema revealed drug and sexual misconduct on campus in an interview, resulting in a government show-cause notice alleging reputational damage.

Despite Dr. Rema’s defense, the government formed an inquiry committee that recommended her transfer for breaching government conduct rules. She was moved to Government Arts and Science College, Koduvally, on 9 July 2023.

Dr. Rema challenged the transfer order at the Kerala Administrative Tribunal, which suggested relocating her to a nearby college as she was due to retire on 31 March 2024. She was reassigned to Govinda Pai Memorial Government College in Manjeshwar, but remained dissatisfied and took the case to the High Court.

The High Court overturned the application of Service Conduct Rules 62 and 63 by the Directorate of Collegiate Education, noting that Dr. Rema criticized SFI members, not the government. The court emphasized her constitutional right to free speech. However, the government issued another charge notice on March 24, accusing her of rejecting a student’s admission in August 2022 for not bringing her father, as mandated by the Parent-Teacher Association. The High Court previously noted that the investigation aimed to obstruct her pension benefits, and this second notice reinforced that view, concluding it was harassment for extraneous reasons.

(With Inputs From Onmanorama)

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Two Arrested In Udupi’s Gang War Altercation, Confiscated Daggers And Swords From the Youth

By
The Commune
-

The Karnataka police, so far have arrested two individuals in connection with a recent road rage incident reported at the Udupi Town Police Station. Udupi SP Arun K stated that a viral video showed two factions from the same gang clashing.

A case was subsequently filed at the Udupi Town Police Station on 20th May. Ashiq and Rakib, members of the Garuda Gang, have been taken into custody, while approximately five others involved in the incident are still at large. The police have confiscated two cars, two motorcycles, a talwar, and a dagger. The SP mentioned that the FIR was based on available information as of 20th May and additional charges would be added based on the video evidence.

The SP also noted that although the exact cause of the clash is not yet clear, initial reports indicate that the gang is not very active currently and internal conflicts may be due to one group’s jealousy over the other group’s role in the gang’s decline.

In an incident near Sharada Kalyana Mantap road, two groups engaged in a road rage scenario that seemed like a scene from a movie. CCTV footage showed a white car reversing and hitting a brown car with its doors open, then moving forward amidst youths brandishing a talwar. After reversing again and returning to the main road, the white car struck a man holding a talwar, causing him to fall. Both vehicles continued moving, and two youths were seen attacking the fallen man.

https://twitter.com/BJP4Karnataka/status/1794238849046229090

 

Meanwhile, a 19-year-old from Barkur in Brahmavar filed a complaint, claiming that between 13 May and 17 May 2024, Dhanush gave him a car to sell. An acquaintance, Mahammed Fazil, took the car for a test drive and allegedly handed it over to Isak and others, who damaged the car, causing a loss of ₹2 lakh. They are also accused of placing a talwar with the intent to commit robbery.

(With Inputs From TOI)

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How Did The Telugu States Fare In Lok Sabha 2024 Elections?

By
Shivani
-

There was a marked difference in the conduct and participation of political leaders and voters between the Telugu speaking states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

1) Telangana: By and large, mostly peaceful with stray incidents of mischief quickly brought under control.
Andhra Pradesh: Disturbingly violent with higher than anticipated levels of aggressive acts, polling delays and some chaos in the election process.

2) Telangana: Law & Order under control. Mostly, normal conditions and behavioral conduct at all levels of society. Diligent work by the state Police department at the local levels.
Andhra Pradesh: Highly biased, corrupt state Police department with allegations of bribery at all levels of the police force, by the ruling YSR Congress party, causing a breakdown in the Law and Order situation.

3) Telangana: Ample and appropriate state Government and state Police collaboration with the Central Armed Forces as, when and how required, during the election phase.
Andhra Pradesh: Jagan Reddy’s YSR Congress-led government with its administrative staff at all levels and the state police force, completely under its control, displayed inappropriate behaviour in its intent of non-collaboration with the Central Security Forces in Andhra.

4) Telangana: The Central Armed/Security Forces will leave the state after Election day or result announcement date, as is the protocol under normal circumstances.
Andhra Pradesh: A completely different scenario in Andhra Pradesh. Shockingly high levels of pre-poll violence, polling-day violence as well as post-poll aggression with an apathetic, ineffective, unresponsive state police force…. as a result of which, the ECI (Election Commission of India) has recommended an extended stay for the Central Armed Forces for a minimum of two weeks beyond the ballot-counting and results announcement date of June 4.

5) Telangana: Political party leaders, representatives, workers and supporters were largely well behaved.
Andhra Pradesh: Several, shameful incidents of intimidation and physical violence to both people and private/public property by leaders and supporters of the incumbent YSRCP party. A majority of these incidents were recorded by ordinary citizens, waiting in long lines to cast their vote. The state police in collusion with booth officers tried to contain the video evidence of several such offences but the verified video footage of the disgraceful behaviour of Jagan Reddy’s leaders have been telecast on local and national television channels.

6) Telangana: Some Pre poll excitement and buzz in the air without intense rivalry with the potential to turn violent.
Andhra Pradesh: High levels of commotion, rivalry, acts of disruption, violence and large scale betting in Andhra in the pre poll as well as post poll time frames!

7) Telangana: Voter turnout was on the lower side, in the sixties on an average in the state while the Hyderabad area witnessed a dismal low, in its forties.
Andhra Pradesh: one of the highest percentages of voter turnout ever and the highest voter participation at almost eighty two percent, recorded in the country, up to the fourth phase of elections.

8) Telangana: National/ Lok Sabha elections only, conducted in a single phase on May 13.
Andhra Pradesh: Simultaneous National/ Lok Sabha as well as State, Legislative Assembly elections, held in a single phase for both excercises, on May 13.

9) Telangana: Chief Minister, Revanth Reddy and his leaders, resisting any unparliamentary behaviour and waiting for the results to be announced.
Andhra Pradesh: Chief Minister, Jagan Reddy, his YSR Congress party leaders and cadre, continue to use words and actions, not befitting positions of authority and responsibility. The CM’s incumbent government has already claimed a major victory for themselves, while the CM is on a vacation abroad, sparking doubts of his intentions and return to India, based on a large number of CBI and ED cases on him.

Telangana Election Highlights

– Large numbers of Telangana cities like Hyderabad, Warangal and border areas of Khammam district,
are natives of A.P. With both states going to the polls on the same day, urban and border-area voter turnout in Telangana, was significantly impacted. It was reported that certain localities in Hyderabad, wore a deserted look on election day because a majority of the residents had travelled to Andhra for voting.

– One of the most interesting contests was from the Hyderabad old city constituency, a muslim dominant area, where the fairly new, female, Hindu woman candidate of the BJP, Madhavi Latha, squared off with a seasoned, four time, male, muslim MP, Asaduddin Owaisi of the Hyderabad-based AIMIM party.

– Madhavi Latha and her supporters have alleged voter ID tampering and fake, out-of-town voters, by the AIMIM party’s supporters. She is reported to have requested a few muslim women to reveal their faces behind the veils, in order to verify their identity per their voter ID cards. Her request caused a minor stir before eventually fizzling out.

– Telangana-based BRS party appears to be at a disadvantage, with lower prospects for Lok Sabha seats than its rival, the recently elected Congress government in the state.

– The BJP is confident of improving its score in Telangana state, seen as a positive sign of the major strides made by it, in recent times.

– While the state Congress unit is predicted to have an advantage, the BJP is hoping to come in second….by bagging more seats than the regional BRS party.

Shivani is a freelance writer from Vijayawada.

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Raj Bhavan Revives Pre-1971 Tradition Of Celebrating Vaikasi Anusham As Thiruvalluvar Day

By
The Commune
-

On 24 May 2024, the Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi ignited a new intellectual discussion by commemorating the birth anniversary of Tamil saint Thiruvalluvar on his birth nakshatra. During the event, tributes were paid to Thiruvalluvar’s portrait adorned with saffron clothes, holy ash, and kumkum on his forehead. The Raj Bhavan referred to the day as Vaikasi Anusham Valluvar Thirunaal.

For a few decades, Thiruvalluvar Day has been celebrated by the Tamil Nadu government in mid-January around Pongal. The Raj Bhavan justified the celebration on Vaikasi Anusham by stating, “Thiruvalluvar Thirunaal (Vaikasi Anusham) has been traditionally observed, continuing the legacy of eminent Tamil scholars Maraimalai Adigal, TP Meenakshisundaram, and Vi. Kalyanasundaram.”

During his address at the Thiruvalluvar Thirunaal event held at Bharatiar Mandapam at Raj Bhavan, Governor Ravi proclaimed, “Thirukkural is a true Dharmasastra. This day (Vaikasi Anusham) is the authentic Thiruvalluvar Day. Historically, it hasn’t been given its due importance as Thiruvalluvar Day. As a devotee of Thiruvalluvar, I decided to celebrate this day in a special manner. Vaikasi Anusham itself must be observed as Thiruvalluvar Day in the Tamil calendar.”

Reiterating his views on the translated versions of Thirukkural, Ravi remarked, “As a devotee of Thiruvalluvar, I have read several translations of Thirukkural. Some translations of Thirukkural, the greatest treasure of mankind, appear to be one-sided.”

He also shared his personal connection with Thirukkural, stating, “My relationship with Thirukkural began in class IX. In 1964, during Saraswati Pooja at my school, I found Thirukkural in the library while searching for inspirational books. Through the Kural, I learned that with determination, nothing is impossible. This has guided me throughout my life.”

“Thirukkural was the first book I purchased upon arriving in Tamil Nadu. I frequently read Thirukkural. It is a true Dharmasastra. Thiruvalluvar imparts life’s lessons through it. Thirukkural is the most comprehensive compendium and perhaps the most exhaustive treatise on an integral life, covering all its facets and fullness,” he added.

Earlier, Governor Ravi unveiled an e-flipbook titled “Thiruvalluvar – Patron Saint of Tamil Nadu,” authored by DK Hari and DK Hema Hari, during the event.

Notable attendees included Justice of the Madras High Court GR Swaminathan, Swami Mahendra of Adhi Sankarar Thirumadam, Thiruvalluvar Thirunaal Kazhagam President Thiyagarajan, Central Institute of Classical Tamil Director R Chandrasekaran, and Governor’s Secretary Kirlosh Kumar.”

The Controversial Dravidian Thiruvalluvar Day

Archaeologist and historian like S Ramachandran providing background information, states that in 1966, the Congress government issued a Government Order declaring the day of saint Thiruvalluvar’s attainment of ‘Mukthi’ (salvation) as Thiruvalluvar Day. This day, known as Vaikasi Anusham, corresponds to a specific date in the Tamil month of Vaikasi, marked by the star Anusham. On 2 June 1966, Vaikasi Anusham was celebrated as Thiruvalluvar Day, with a statue of Thiruvalluvar unveiled by then-President S Radhakrishnan, in the presence of former Chief Minister M Bhakthavatsalam and Chennai Mayor M Moses, a member of the DMK.

However, in 1971, the DMK regime changed the observance to the second day of the Tamil month of Thai, which falls in January. Ramachandran also mentioned that the Thiruvalluvar temple in Mylapore, Chennai, where Governor Ravi recently offered prayers, dates back to the 14th century CE. In January 2024, Governor Ravi paid floral tributes to a portrait of Thiruvalluvar dressed in saffron attire, prompting Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to assert that no one could ‘stain’ the revered poet.

(With Inputs From DT-Next)

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Shashi Tharoor Mocks PM Modi’s Remarks On “Divine Intervention”, Here’s How He Glorified Nehru As A ‘Divine Intervention’ In His Own Book

By
The Commune
-

Neizens have been mocking and criticizing Shashi Tharoor, the Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram, for his remarks on ‘divinity’ against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He was unaware that his comments would provoke a strong reaction from the internet community, labeling him a master of hypocrisy, well-suited to comment in his own interest.

Tharoor’s comment comes in response to Prime Minister Modi’s recent statement during a television interview, where he expressed a belief in his divine purpose, stating, “Till my mother was alive, I had the impression that perhaps my birth was a biological one. After her demise when I view after assimilating all the experiences, I am convinced that God has sent me.” 

In reaction to this, Shashi Tharoor took to his official handle to pose what he called an ‘innocent question’ queried, ” can a divine being be eligible for citizenship in India, and if not, does He have the right to vote or to contest elections? Could @ECISVEEP look into the question of a self-proclaimed divinity participating in the electoral fray?”

In Shashi Tharoor’s 2003 biography of Nehru, “Nehru: The Invention of India,” the first chapter, “With little to command me,” recounts the divine blessings received by Motilal Nehru.

The chapter narrates that in January 1889, Motilal Nehru, a 27-year-old lawyer from Allahabad, visited the sacred Hindu town of Rishikesh, burdened by personal loss. After losing his first wife and son during childbirth, he remarried Swarup Rani Kaul, who bore him another son who also died in infancy. Following the death of his brother Nandlal Nehru, Motilal took responsibility for his widow and seven children. Despite these burdens, he yearned for a son of his own.

Image

Motilal and two young Brahmin companions visited a renowned yogi known for his austere practices. The yogi, informed of Motilal’s desire for a son, declared it was not in his destiny. However, Pandit Din Dayal Shastri, one of the companions, respectfully disagreed, stating that the ancient Hindu shastras did not consider such a fate irreversible and that a great karmayogi like the yogi could grant a boon. The yogi, thus challenged, sprinkled water thrice from his brass pitcher onto Motilal, stating that he had sacrificed the benefits of his austerities over many generations.

Image

The yogi passed away the next day, and ten months later, at 11:30 p.m. on November 14, 1889, Swarup Rani gave birth to a healthy baby boy. They named him Jawaharlal “precious jewel”, who would grow up to be one of the most remarkable men of the 20th century.

Image

Tharoor’s description of divine intervention in his book is now being used by netizens to highlight his hypocrisy, given his recent comments on divinity. His strategies and decisions are ridiculed that they align with the interests of his own, suggesting sub serving his masters.

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Dravidian Model Of Governance: TN’s Transport Department And Law Enforcement At Loggerheads?

By
The Commune
-

In the midst of the ongoing dispute between state transport department and the law enforcement regarding complimentary rides on government buses, police authorities have begun imposing penalties on buses for various infractions.

Over the past day, 22 buses parked in no-parking zones opposite the Kalaignar Centenary Bus Terminus (KCBT) in Kilambakkam have been fined. Previously, the Tambaram police had issued warnings to buses against halting at unauthorized locations along the Chennai-Trichy national highway, citing traffic obstruction concerns. Those buses that disregarded this directive and stopped to drop off passengers were fined ₹1,000 rupees on 22 May and 23 May 2024.

In Semmencherry, a government-operated mofussil bus traveling on the Chennai-Puducherry route was penalized ₹1,000 for a parking violation and impeding vehicular movement. In another instance, a driver from the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC), named Subramanian, was fined ₹1,000 for failing to stop at the designated area. Elsewhere in Tamil Nadu, instances of buses being overloaded with passengers and exceeding speed limits have been reported.

Police, who had previously shown leniency towards traffic violations committed by government buses, have recently intensified enforcement following mixed reactions on social media regarding the Nanguneri incident.

The traffic police fined 3 government bus drivers ₹500 each in Valliyur, Tirunelveli for not wearing seat belts and not wearing uniform properly.

Government buses in Erode, Chennai were penalized with fine for breaking traffic regulations by driving on one-way streets and no parkings.

The employees of the transportation department declined to allow free transportation for the police, even when presented with a warrant. According to regulations, they are entitled to complimentary travel, but the department employees still refused.

Context

The ongoing conflict between the two department began recently and unfolded against the setting of a situation involving a police officer three days ago. The officer boarded a government bus bound for Thoothukudi via Tirunelveli at the Nanguneri court. When the conductor requested a ticket from the constable, he contended that, being a government employee, he had the right to travel for free. This viewpoint was enetered into an arguement.

The conductor insisted that policemen need a warrant to travel for free; otherwise, they must buy a ticket. The policeman refused and an argument ensued, with the exchange being captured on video and spreading widely on social media.

In response, the transport department issued a statement clarifying that policemen cannot travel on government buses without paying unless they have a warrant. They reiterated that policemen must purchase tickets if they don’t have a warrant and recommended departmental action against the Nanguneri policeman involved. Condemning the transport department’s action, Annamalai criticized the lack of communication regarding the free travel policy, noting that it has been three years since the Chief Minister’s announcement.

In this regard,  Annamalai in his official X handle stated that, “In the grant request for the year 2021-2022, when Chief Minister Stalin himself has announced free travel in buses within the working district, how is it justified to harass policeman Arumuga pandi like this?”

“It is surprising that even after three years the notification of the Chief Minister’s demand for grants has not been communicated to the transport corporations. I would like to advise to inform all the District Transport Corporations immediately about this announcement and immediately implement the announcement of free bus travel for policemen in the working districts across Tamil Nadu, and I insist that no action including departmental action should be taken against Policeman Arumugapandi.”

Anna Trade Union Secretary Meets Press

In light of this the secretary of the Anna Thozhir Sangam (Anna Trade Union) met reporters over the government’s apathy.

Reporter: “Day before yesterday, in Nanguneri, a conductor insisted a police officer had no ticket and should get a ticket. Similarly, a bus has been fined in Kilambakkam today, how do you see this?”

Anna Union State secretary Kamalakannan replied, “Everyone who travels on government transport should get a ticket, it is a fact, it is a duty, and that is the rule. If the policeman had a warrant, he could have showed and left, but there was no warrant. Our conductor insisted that he should take a ticket. Immediately there was an argument, and today I heard that they initiated an inquiry. What does the police department do in the meantime, saying, ‘You ask us for a ticket, I will take care of you’. Yesterday, they have filed a case. A fine of one thousand rupees was imposed on a driver. “

“If you see what’s the fine, A vehicle coming from Maduranthakam, that goes to Koyambedu, whenever it comes, the vehicle will stop on the opposite side of Kilambakkam, two or three passengers will get off and enter (Kilambakkam) from that side. Even the police will help them (to cross) at the bus stand, this vehicle will go straight up the bridge and reach Koyambedu. A fine of five hundred rupees has been imposed on this vehicle for parking at no parking and a fine of five hundred rupees for parking the vehicle disturbing the public, totaling one thousand rupees. This is strongly condemned.” he added.

Later, Kamalakannan expressed his disappointment over the Tamil Nadu government’s decision to prematurely open the Kilambakkam bus stand without completing the necessary work, all in a rush to celebrate the centenary of Kalaignar, the father of Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister, MK Stalin.

Kamalakannan stated, “The government has hastily opened this bus stand on a emergency basis. We all suggested that it should have been tweaked a bit more. However, They opened this incomplete bus stand hastily for the sole reason of naming and celebrating the centenary of his father Kalaignar.”

He further explained how a bus traveling from the south must pass the bus stand, descend a bridge for three-quarters of a kilometer, make a U-turn, and head back to the bus stand. Upon leaving, it must travel one kilometer towards Urapakkam and make another U-turn. This three-kilometer detour for entry and exit is unnecessary he said.

“Considering that three kilometers of travel consumes one liter of diesel, and one liter of diesel costs ₹100 rupees today, the cost for 2000 buses is substantial. It’s a significant loss that could have been avoided with better planning.“, he said.

“Moreover, there should be a cut-through to allow the bus to enter and exit more efficiently. Inside the bus stand, there is only one ATM, leading to long queues. A traffic signal should be installed for better traffic management. The bus stand lacks facilities and seems to have been opened hastily on an emergency basis without proper planning. This situation needs immediate attention and improvement.”, he further added.

 

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Radia Tapes Resurfaces On Social Media, Reveals DMK MP A Raja’s Intricate Political Maneuvering For Cabinet Positions Amidst DMK’s Internal Politics

By
The Commune
-

Once again, the internet has resurfaced telephonic conversations between Niira Radia, a political lobbyist in India, the former Indian telecom minister and DMK MP A Raja, which were recorded by the Indian Income Tax Department in 2008–09.

These tapes were considered allegedly paving the way for the 2G scam and prompting stronger checks on the media. Niira Radia, who operated a public relations firm called ‘Vaishnavi Communications,’ became the subject of CBI investigations. With authorization from the Home Ministry, the Indian Income Tax Department tapped Radia’s phone lines for 300 days in 2008–2009 as part of investigations into possible money laundering, restricted financial practices, and tax evasion.

In 2010, the Central Bureau of Investigation announced they had 5,851 recordings of Radia’s phone conversations, some of which detailed her attempts to broker deals related to the 2G spectrum sale. The tapes appear to show how Radia tried to use certain media personnel to influence the decision to appoint DMK’s A Raja as telecom minister.

The recorded conversations between Niira Radia and prominent figures, referred to as the “Radia Tapes,” include discussions with DMK MP A Raja.

Political Maneuvering Related to Cabinet Appointments

In this conversation (Presumably), Niira Radia and A Raja discuss political maneuvering related to cabinet appointments and the influence of key figures. Radia informs Raja that journalist Barkha Dutt has been in contact with the Prime Minister’s Office and relayed that while there is no issue with Raja, there is a problem with another politician, Baalu. Raja emphasizes the need to discuss these matters with their Leader and suggests that the concerns about Baalu should be communicated discreetly to the Congress party, possibly through Ahmed Patel. They also discuss the issue of Alagiri’s dissatisfaction with Maran receiving a cabinet position despite Alagiri being a senior leader, and Raja proposes that Maran could be accommodated in his current ministry to avoid further controversy. Radia agrees to convey these messages and suggestions to the relevant parties.

Radia: Hello?

A Raja: Raja here.

Radia: Hi! I got a message from Barkha Dutt just now.

Raja: Huh?

Radia: Barkha Dutt

Raja: What does she say?

Radia: She says… that she has been following up the story with Prime Minister’s Office tonight. In fact, she was the one who told me that Sonia Gandhi went there. She says that he has no problem with you, but he has a problem with Baalu.

Raja: But it has to be discussed with Leader.

Radia: Yeah, yeah… he has to discuss with the Leader. He has to tell

Raja: It will be discussed in the morning, why unnecessarily, Congress… tie-up is going out.

Radia: No, but then the question is about Alagiri, no?

Raja: Huh?

Radia: Alagiri’s people are saying, why is Maran getting Cabinet when he is such a senior leader himself?

Raja: That is different, but all these things must be explored and disclosed.

Radia: That’s right. That’s right. I told her to get Congress.

Raja: At least, one to one, let it be disclosed to Leader.

Radia: One to one?

Raja: One to one. Somebody should give a message, at least in a sealed cover, that they are having serious problems with Baalu.

Radia: From Congress, right?

Raja: Yea.

Radia: Okay, I’ll tell her. She is talking to Ahmed Patel, so I will talk to him.

Raja: Let him call at least over phone. Sir, this is problem… we are having high regard, we are having no problem with Raja, but problem is Baalu. Tell.

Radia: Then how will you resolve the other problem?

Raja: Other problems we will take care of slowly, because now Leader comes down.

Radia: Uh-huh.

Raja: Don’t worry.

Radia: Now Leader comes down to three, no?

Raja: Comes down for three

Radia: Yeah.

Raja: Even you are saying that Maran is not fit for Infrastructure. He is having controversy, alright, let him be accommodated in the existing ministry… at least we will suggest.

Radia: Maran?

Raja: Hmm… you suggest, you send a message.

Radia: Okay.

(Next, Tape Continues…)

In this conversation (Presumably), Niira Radia and A Raja discuss the internal dynamics and power struggles within the Dravidian party (DMK), particularly regarding the appointment of ministers. Radia informs Raja that she has been speaking to Kanimozhi (referring as Kani) and that the party leader believes Raja should be present due to his importance in the Dalit dispensation. They talk about the challenges of justifying multiple family members in ministerial positions, with Raja expressing that there might be difficulty justifying three family members’ appointments. They discuss the roles of other party members such as Dayanidhi Maran (referred to as Daya) and Alagiri, with Raja noting that Alagiri is aware of Maran’s negative campaign against him. Radia reassures Raja that efforts are being made to manage media narratives and mentions her communication with Sunil Mittal, instructing him to cooperate with Raja. Throughout the conversation, they navigate the political maneuvers and strategize their positions within the party and government appointments.

Radia: Hi!

Raja: Hello?

Radia: Hi!

Raja: Tell me.

Radia: Mr Raja?

Raja: Yes?

Radia: Niira

Raja: Tell me, Niira, anything?

Radia: I sent you an SMS. I’ve been speaking to Kani, so I just thought that, basically what they are saying is that you should be there.

Raja: Huh?

Radia: Leader generally is saying that you should be there, because of the, you know, the Dalit dispensation, all that, you know. The Dravidian, the party, and all that… saying that Leader, if it was left to him, he would have focused on the party first. This is unfortunate that his family is coming in the way and Cho Ramaswamy has given a favorable remark that it should be limited to this thing.

Raja: Okay.

Radia: But I’ve been talking to Kani, she spoke to me, she said, ‘No independent.’ They are not giving independent… just now.

Raja: My case is clear, huh?

Radia: Yours is clear, yeah. Your case was cleared last night only.

Raja: Okay.

Radia:  No, but what is happening with Daya?

Raja: Huh?

Radia: Daya?

Raja: Rest of the thing is… Textiles or Fertilisers.

Radia: Not for Daya.

Raja: Either of them.

Radia: But Alagiri or Daya? Only one can come, no?

Raja: No, two. Two can come.

Radia: Both?

Raja: Baalu will be the problem. I hope.

Radia: I think that will be difficult for the Leader to justify three family members.

Raja: That is it, that is… (chuckles) everybody knows.

Radia: No, no, she said that. Kani told me this last night, that’s what the father told her yesterday.

Raja: Oh!

Radia: That for him to justify three family members will become very difficult. He recognises that problem.

Raja: What can we do? We’ll see, let us wait.

Radia: Yeah. I think he will have to relook at that. You’re all meeting him individually now? Or the meeting is still going on?

Raja: Not at all, not at all.

Radia: Narayanan’s (National Security Advisor at the time) meeting is going on?

Raja: Narayanan’s meeting is over. He has gone to Delhi, with cover.

Radia: He’s gone to?

Raja: He has gone to catch the flight… with cover.

Radia: Narayanan, yeah?

Raja: List, list…with the list, he has gone out.

Radia: He has gone out with the list, no?

Raja: I didn’t know what is inside the cover.

Radia: And Kani? Is with father?

Raja: Maybe yes… maybe she knows.

Radia: I will call her now. And you are not there?

Raja: I am not yet there.

Radia: You’re not there? And Maran? Maran is there, no?

Raja: There, yes.

Radia: Why you didn’t go?

Raja: I didn’t go.

Radia: Huh?

Raja: Alright… why should we go?

Radia: You should be there, no?

Raja: No problem… morning I met, and thereafter I came back for another work.

Radia: And Alagiri… he knows what Maran has been saying about him?

Raja: It is known to Alagiri.

Radia: It is, no?

Raja: It is known to Alagiri, but he cannot talk with father… timely he will speak, only thing is, Maran will start the campaign against me.

Radia: Hmm

Raja: That has to be taken care of.

Radia: You have to fight differently huh?.

Raja: Hmm… he may tell the press Prime Minister is coming again, this and that, spectrum…

Radia: No, no, we are handling, don’t worry. We have to take so much off, you know, even Congress had to make that statement, no? I spoke to Sunil Mittal, did Chandoliya tell you?

Raja: I didn’t know

Radia: I told him to stop. I told him, it doesn’t help.

Raja: Hmm. Tell Sunil Mittal, you have to work along with Raja for another five years. So, don’t…

Radia: I told him that. I told him that. But then you also have to distance yourself from Anil, no.

 

(Next, Tape Continues…)

In this conversation (presumably), Niira Radia and A Raja discuss the confusion within the Congress party regarding whom to approach within the DMK for negotiations. Radia explains that the Congress is unsure whom to speak to, and she suggests that Kani (Kanimozhi) should be the point of contact to facilitate a meeting with the DMK leader. Raja agrees with this strategy and emphasizes that Kani should make it clear she doesn’t seek any personal gain. Radia expresses the need for Kani to communicate directly with the Leader, especially to clarify that certain DMK members, Baalu and Maran, will not be given infrastructure portfolios. Raja supports the idea and advises Kani to convey the Congress’s concerns to the Leader, ensuring that the right message is delivered. They both recognize the confusion caused by Maran’s presence at a UPA meeting, which mistakenly signaled he was the main negotiator.

Radia: Hi!

Rajan: Ma’am, Rajan ma’am. Ma’am i’ll give it to the Mantri ma’am.

Radia: Huh. (The call holds with music)

Rajan: Ma’am, ma’am one second (The call holds with music)

Raja: Tell me, Niira.

Radia: The thing is that the Congress has been totally confused as to who they need to speak to.

Raja: Huh?

Radia: Who they need to speak to in the DMK.

Raja: Ah… somebody should fly to Leader.

Radia: No, no… That is why, I am now… they’re going to speak to Kani in a little while, and then Kani is going to take them to Leader directly, and let Kani…

Raja: That is good, that is good.

Radia: Yeah? I have done… just told them that, because they’re completely confused who to talk to. Yeah?

Raja: Let them talk with Kani.

Radia: Yeah, but Kani should also be sensible enough to say that she does not want anything for herself. No? I have told her that…

Raja: Hmm.

Radia: But you also make sure.

Raja: No problem.

Radia: I told them. I told them that whatever…

Raja: See, tell Kani, let her call Leader—‘This is the problem, shall I bring the people?’

Radia: Yeah, because what they’re saying is that they will not give Infrastructure to Baalu and Maran. They should say that to Leader directly, no?

Raja: No problem. Look, see… let them go along with Kani, and let them tell that we are having problem with these fellows.

Radia: That’s right. That’s what they have to do… they were confused. What happened is—for the UPA meeting, Maran went along. So they think Maran is the interlocutor, he is the person who’s going to talk, so there is this…

Raja: Not at all. He came for assistance, that’s all

Radia: No, I know, but you see this is a wrong message that has gone out, and they don’t know.

 

(Next, Tape Continues…)

In the conversation (presumably), Niira Radia and A Raja are discussing political dynamics within their party and the perceptions held by Congress leaders. Radia initiates the conversation stating that Kanimozhi is okay with a certain situation, also Radia informs Raja about the narrative Maran has been spreading in Delhi. According to Maran, Alagiri doesn’t know English, is a criminal, and has not studied beyond the 5th standard. Maran also suggests that he and Stalin will be the only ones left to run the party as the current leader is aging and won’t be around much longer. This implies that the Congress would be better off doing business with him as he controls Stalin. Raja acknowledges this information and mentions that he has already shared it with Alagiri, who subsequently discussed it with the party leader. Radia emphasizes that Maran has also stated that he is the only point of contact in Delhi as Stalin will remain in the state. Radia continues by highlighting Maran’s propaganda efforts and warns Raja about the type of manipulation Maran might attempt and Raja acknowledges this and seems aware of the type of propaganda Maran could manage. Overall, the conversation revolves around internal power struggles and manipulative tactics within the DMK party, specifically regarding the roles of Alagiri and Stalin, and Maran’s attempts to influence the party’s dynamics.

Radia: Raja, how are you?

Raja: Haan. What she is telling, Kani is telling?

Radia: She’s telling that she’s okay about it. She has no problem…

Raja: Hmm.

Radia: But the only thing is that somebody has to go talk to Alagiri, which you have to do.

Raja: Hmm.

Radia: And tell him how Maran has gone and told…

Raja: Haan, I already spoke with him, I already spoke with him.

Radia: You told him what he has told the Congress leaders in Delhi?

Raja: I know. So who planted in the minds of the Congress saying that Alagiri doesn’t know English. I know.

Radia: No, no, no, no…. not only that. Not only that. That he and Stalin tomorrow will be the only ones left to run the party because the old man is senile and he is not going to be around any longer, and therefore Congress will be happy doing business with him because it will be him… him eventually, and he controls Stalin.

Raja: Hmm.

Radia: This is what he has said.

Raja: Oh, ho, ho, ho!

Radia: And that Alagiri is criminal…

Raja: Hmm.

Radia: And he has not even studied more than 5th standard.

Raja: Oh!

Radia: That’s the exact thing that he has told.

Raja: Okay, okay.

Radia: You go and tell him this, no?

Raja: No, I shared with Alagiri… Alagiri in turn went to speak with Leader.

Radia: No, but he has also said this—that in Delhi, I am the only one that you have to deal with eventually because, any case, Stalin will remain in the state.

Raja: I know, see, I know what type of propaganda he will manage.

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NIA Raids Expose Link Between Anti-NEET Petrol Bombing “Activist” Karukka Vinoth And Prostitution Syndicate Involving School Girls In Chennai

By
The Commune
-

An unfolding situation in Tamil Nadu has led the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to discover that a woman who facilitated the release of criminal ‘Karukka’ Vinoth on bail for his involvement in a petrol bomb attack at the Raj Bhavan, is implicated in a sex trafficking operation involving underage girls.

Karukka Vinoth, a 42-year-old city resident, hurled two petrol bombs at the Raj Bhavan, the Governor’s House in Guindy, Chennai, on October 2023. His actions were reportedly a protest against the “NEET Exams”. Prior to this incident, he had also targeted the Tamil Nadu BJP office in T Nagar with a petrol bomb. Following his arrest, he was incarcerated in Puzhal Jail. Upon his release on bail, he associated himself with the prohibited ‘Popular Front of India’ (PFI).

In light of these events, the NIA initiated an investigation into potential terror angle in the Raj Bhavan attack, leading them to question who had secured Vinoth’s bail. This inquiry led to raids on the residences of Vinoth and his associates, including the home of a 37-year-old woman named Nadia, located on Thomas Road, T Nagar, Chennai. It was apparently Nadia who bailed out Karukka Vinoth after spending several lakhs.

Important documents were confiscated during the searches at her house. A subsequent examination of Nadia’s mobile phone revealed explicit images of young girls, prompting the authorities to alert the Anti-Prostitution Division of the Chennai Central Crime Branch.

The police then began surveillance of Nadia’s activities, uncovering her involvement in a sex trafficking operation targeting schoolgirls, conducted from a location on 2nd Street, Valasaravasakkam, Jai Nagar, Chennai.

Nadia, along with six accomplices, was arrested by the Chennai police’s anti-vice squad on charges of coercing schoolgirls, all classmates of her daughter from middle and lower-middle-class families, into prostitution. Two teenage girls, aged 17 and 18, were rescued from the operation by the police following a tip-off about the racket. According to a report 170 obscene videos were found.

According to the police, Nadia targeted her daughter’s schoolmates, befriending them under the guise of offering dance classes and beautician courses as a means of part-time income. Over time, she selected her victims and enticed them with cash amounts ranging from 25,000 to 35,000. The girls were coached to fabricate stories to their families when they needed to stay overnight or travel to other cities with clients. Some of these clients, it was revealed, had taken the girls to Hyderabad and Delhi.

Nadia threatened the girls who resisted her operation with the release of explicit videos to their parents. She selected her clients through social media, personally contacting them to arrange transactions. Some of these clients, older men from Hyderabad and Coimbatore, expressed a preference for schoolgirls and were willing to pay a premium.

Alongside Nadia, the police apprehended several other individuals involved in the operation — Ramachandra, 42, Sumathi, 43, Maya Oli, 29, Jayashree, 43, and Ramandran, 70, all from various parts of Chennai, and Ashok Kumar, 31, from Coimbatore. Seven mobile phones and a car were seized from the accused.

The accused were presented before a magistrate and subsequently placed in judicial custody. The victims are currently receiving counselling from officials of the District Child Protection Unit, Child Line, and Child Welfare Committee.

(With inputs from Dinamalar & TOI)

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“I Was Pressurized To Sell My Company To A Particular Person”: Aircel’s Founder C Sivasankaran On Congress Era of Doing Business

By
The Commune
-

Aircel, once a prominent player in India’s telecom sector, stood out for its innovation and connectivity. Founded by Chinnakannan Sivasankaran, the company gained significant traction but faced considerable challenges, including intense competition and regulatory obstacles. Aircel exited the market in February 2018.

In a recent episode of Raj Shamani’s podcast ‘Figuring Out – The Real Reason Why Aircel Failed – The Rise & Fall Of Aircel,‘ Sivasankaran shared his experiences from a decade ago, during the UPA era, contrasting them with the current business environment under the Modi regime.

Sivasankaran recalled a time when burgeoning businesses in India faced substantial pressure. He highlighted the coercive nature of these pressures, stating, “If your business started growing, you were pressured to ‘sell to a particular person’.”

When asked about the sale of Aircel and his earnings from it, Sivasankaran mentioned, “I just made a partly sum of ₹3400 crores. If I would have sold it to AT&T, I would have got 8 Billion.” He explained that he couldn’t sell it to others back then because “India was not like this a decade ago. Today, no one can pressure you.” Host Shamani asked, “why didn’t you sell it?” Sivasankaran replied that “I can’t. Because India was not like this. Today no one can pressurize you.” The host interrupted and asked, “But, earlier it was like that”, Sivasankaran replied, “Absolutely!”

Later Sivasankaran added, “That was 10 years back. Now you build a business, no one can pressurize you. Now it is liberalised India. You can do what you want.”

Regarding Aircel’s exit from the market, the company shut down due to financial difficulties. Malaysia’s Maxis Telecom, which acquired a 74 percent stake in Aircel for USD 1.08 billion in 2005, owned the company. By 2017, Aircel was grappling with severe financial issues and eventually filed for bankruptcy in 2018.

As of October 2019, Aircel owed approximately ₹12,389 crore to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in license fees and spectrum usage charges. The company attempted to sell its assets, including its tower business, to pay off its debts but failed to find a buyer and went into liquidation.

(With Inputs From FPJ)

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TheCommune
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