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“There’s No One More Qualified Than Thirumavalavan To Be CM”, Says VCK’s Vanni Arasu Voicing Discontent Against DMK

By
The Commune
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VCK's Vanni Arasu Voicing Discontent Against DMK

Once again, the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) has indirectly expressed its displeasure with its ally, the ruling DMK. Deputy General Secretary Vanni Arasu has accused the DMK of failing to address caste-related atrocities in the state. He lamented that while VCK chief and Chidambaram MP Thol. Thirumavalavan is more than capable of serving as the Chief Minister, the alliance remains reluctant to support him for the position, believing that doing so would alienate voters from dominant castes.

In a recent interview with a private news channel, Deputy General Secretary Vanni Arasu was asked about his concerns regarding the DMK, his alliance partner. He openly criticized the DMK’s handling of caste-related issues, citing incidents in Vengaivayal and Melpathi. He suggested that the government should take greater interest in abolishing caste distinctions and implementing laws against honor killings.

Vanni Arasu said, “In caste-related issues like Vengaivayal or Melpathi, where people are not allowed inside the temple, today all over Tamil Nadu there are caste-related issues. We are asking to enact an act against honor killings, which they have not done. People like me think that this government should focus more on caste eradication and work on it.”. He later accused the DMK of treating these issues lightly, warning that this approach could exacerbate the problems.

When the host asked whether anyone was trying to prevent others from attaining prominent positions based on caste, to that Vanni Arasu lamented although his party chief, Thirumavalavan, is fully capable, the alliance is unwilling to propose his name, which has sparked considerable controversy.

Vanni Arasu said, “Today in Tamil Nadu, I can challenge and even argue. Can you suggest an alternative who is as qualified as our leader Thirumavalavan to be the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, considering everything? In today’s situation, he is a leader who can speak on everything – every problem, whether it be Iran and Iraq issues, other worldly issues, Mullai Periyar issue, Eelam related issues, state rights issues, central government related issues, or handling central government matters. If there is a qualified and talented leader today, it is him. However, why people are hesitating to propose him as the chief minister. Even in the Makkal Nala Kootani (People’s Welfare Front), our party’s general secretary Ravi Kumar proposed that the chief minister candidate should be from our party. However, the Makkal Nala Kootani itself did not accept it, hesitating due to the rigidity of the caste structure and the attitude that other castes will not vote. This is a big threat here.”

Then the host asked the General Secretary about the VCK’s aspirations. He replied that the party’s dream is to see Thirumavalavan become Chief Minister. He subtly hinted that the initial plan was for Thirumavalavan to take the role of Deputy Chief Minister, but instead, DMK scion Udhayanidhi Stalin was appointed. By stating this, he indirectly expressed the VCK’s displeasure with the appointment and reaffirmed their desire for their leader to be the Chief Minister. He ridiculed the position of Deputy Chief Minister, describing it as merely an honorary role not specified in the constitution, and expressed his disdain for it.

Vanni Arasu said, “VCK’s dream or our dream is to see our chief come to power and become the chief minister, not a deputy chief minister. We wish he should become chief minister because the position of deputy chief minister is honorary and not specified in the constitution. Chief minister is the goal and its has the power.”

Later, he criticized the DMK’s policy, stating that while the VCK advocates for the prohibition of liquor, the DMK’s claim that it has implemented a billing system is misguided. He emphasized that the government should work towards abolishing liquor altogether.

This accusation comes against the backdrop of growing discontent among the DMK’s alliance partners, including the VCK, Congress, and the Communists, who are dissatisfied with the DMK’s policy decisions since it came to power in 2021. The rift has become more apparent following reports that suggested DMK scion Udhayanidhi Stalin is set to become the next Deputy Chief Minister. Later, with his appointment, the allies have been openly criticizing the party at every opportunity.

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Aavin’s Green Magic Plus: A Stealthy Price Hike Disguised As New Variant? TN Milk Dealers Labourers Welfare Association Head Reveals

By
The Commune
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Aavin's Green Magic Plus: A Stealthy Price Hike Disguised As New Variant?

The Tamil Nadu Cooperative Milk Producers’ Federation Limited (Aavin) has come under intense scrutiny following its latest move to introduce a new milk variant, Green Magic Plus. The rebranding appears to be a veiled attempt to hike prices, with the newly packaged 450 ml Green Magic Plus priced at ₹25, translating to approximately ₹50 per 900 ml. This marks a significant increase from the existing Green Magic, which is sold at ₹44 per litre. The reduced pack size and increased price have raised questions about Aavin’s pricing strategies and its commitment to providing affordable milk to the public.

Same Nutritional Value, Higher Price

The introduction of Green Magic Plus, which is set to be fortified with vitamins A and D, raises the question of whether the added fortification truly justifies the price hike. The original Green Magic already offers a 4.5% fat content and 9% Solids-Not-Fat (SNF), and the newly announced variant maintains the same nutritional values. The only substantial change appears to be the packaging size reduction and the 11-rupee increase per litre. The fortification of vitamins, while potentially beneficial, seems more like a marketing ploy than a significant upgrade in product quality.

An Attempt To Minimize Losses?

Aavin has acknowledged that it incurs a loss of ₹4 to ₹5 per litre on the Green Magic variant, which is sold at highly subsidized rates. With private milk brands in the market priced between ₹54 and ₹58 per litre, Aavin’s strategy may be to close the gap to reduce financial losses. While the Federation has to contend with higher production costs due to subsidies, critics argue that burdening consumers with a higher price and smaller volume is not a fair solution.

Deceptive Packaging Tactics

The rebranding of Green Magic to Green Magic Plus echoes a familiar pattern of reducing product quantities while simultaneously increasing prices. The tactic of repackaging a 500 ml product into a 450 ml pack, while increasing the price, is seen by many as a “backdoor price increase.” Such practices are not uncommon in the private sector, but when a cooperative like Aavin resorts to these strategies, it raises concerns about transparency and fairness toward consumers.

Criticism From Milk Dealers

The TN Milk Dealers Labourers Welfare Association president, S. A. Ponnusamy, did not mince words, calling the rebranding a “backdoor price increase.” He further accused Aavin of adopting the practices of private firms, such as reducing supply and pushing costlier alternatives onto consumers. For instance, since 2023, the supply of Green Magic has been restricted, compelling dealers to sell Delite, which has a lower fat content (3.5%) but costs the same ₹44 per litre. This shift suggests that Aavin has been steadily moving towards higher profit margins at the expense of the consumer.

High Production Costs: A Factor, But Not An Excuse

Aavin’s higher production costs are partly attributed to the necessity of meeting Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) requirements. The Federation incurs expenses to either buy butter or use it to meet the required fat content standards, pushing the production cost up to ₹49-₹51 per litre. However, the decision to shift these costs onto consumers through smaller packaging and higher prices feels like a direct contradiction to the cooperative’s mission of offering affordable dairy products.

Consumer Trust at Risk

The controversy surrounding Green Magic Plus comes when there is already high demand for Green Magic in Chennai. In November 2023, Aavin had considered discontinuing Green Magic, only to withdraw the plan after facing backlash. Such instances highlight a pattern of inconsistent decisions that risk eroding consumer trust. Aavin’s lack of transparent communication and the seemingly covert approach to price adjustments might alienate long-time customers who have supported the cooperative for decades.

Previous Product Price Hikes

This is not the first time that Aavin has hiked the prices of its products. In 2023, just as the festive season was kicking off, Aavin increased the prices of its ghee and butter products. The price of 5-litre Aavin Green Magic milk packets was also hiked by ₹10 in 2023.

The quality of the milk also seemed to have deteriorated – worms were found in purple milk packets in Thoothukudi and in orange milk packets in Nilgiris.

Aavin’s introduction of Green Magic Plus seems less about offering a new product and more about disguising a price increase. By maintaining the same nutritional content, reducing the pack size, and raising the price, the Federation effectively passes on its operational costs to consumers. This approach appears to be a step in the wrong direction for a cooperative founded on principles of fair pricing and public service.

(With inputs from TNIE)

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BJP Tamil Nadu Alleges ₹100 Crore Pulse Procurement Scam In State

By
The Commune
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BJP Tamil Nadu Alleges ₹100 Crore Pulse Procurement Scam In State

Senior BJP leader and party Tamil Nadu Spokesperson A N S Prasad has alleged that the Tamil Nadu government has indulged in ₹100 crore corruption in pulse procurement for the Deepavali festival.

He said that Tamil Nadu Civil Supplies Corporation invited tenders on September 10, 2024, but awarded contracts to five companies at Rs 131 per kilogram, resulting in a loss of at least ₹100 crore.

The BJP leader said that despite state Civil Supplies Minister R Sakkarapani’s assurance of sufficient supplies, there are severe shortages of pulses and palm oil in ration shops. People are frustrated due to delayed pulse supplies. He demanded that the Chief Minister investigate and take action against those responsible.

“Shortages persist even in the Chief Minister’s constituency, Kolathur. Ration shop CB 047 has no toor dal stock, contradicting Minister Sakkarapani’s claims of adequate supplies,” he said.

He said that the companies involved were, Puds (47,00 metric tons) Integrated Service Bond (4,700 metric tons) Mumbai Patta International Limited (4,700 metric tons) Vasumathi Traders (4,700 metric tons) Muthurthy Traders (3,000 metric tons).

He added that of 20,000 metric tons, only 4,000 have been supplied, despite the contract requiring delivery by October 16.

“Contractors are allegedly trying to maximise profits by supplying lower-priced pulses at ₹131, despite insufficient stock,” he said. The BJP urged the Tamil Nadu government to address the shortage, investigate the scam, and ensure quality supply to the public.

–IANS

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Canadian Police Runs For Cover After Making Baseless Allegations Against India

By
The Commune
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Under mounting pressure for its botched-up and without “hard evidentiary proof” investigation on the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is now evading international media even as the government led by Justin Trudeau continues to work on its deliberate strategy of smearing India for domestic political gains.

The RCMP on Monday held a much-publicised media conference, stating that an “extraordinary situation” compelled it to speak about what its multiple ongoing investigations into the “involvement of agents of the Government of India in serious criminal activity in Canada” have discovered.

RCMP Commissioner Michael (Mike) Duheme alleged that investigations revealed that Indian diplomats and consular officials based in Canada leveraged their official positions to engage in clandestine activities and the information collected was then used to target members of the South Asian community.

It was widely expected that Duheme would provide substantial evidence to back the claims made by Canada’s national police force. However, it never happened.

When approached by IANS to provide his insights into the complexities of the issue, Duheme responded through RCMP’s Acting Media Relations Office with his colleague Camille Boily-Lavoie suggesting that RCMP spokesperson Brigitte Gauvi could be made available for the interview.

However, on Thursday, the RCMP backed out completely, insisting that they would not be able to accommodate the interview request and RCMP’s statement on the issue remains sufficient.

The RCMP, which serves as the police of jurisdiction in Canada’s eight provinces, three territories, and hundreds of municipalities, is already in an eye of storm over its failure to prevent growing violent extremism in the country.

On Thursday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) took a dig at the RCMP and the Trudeau government for sitting on India’s 26 extradition requests, including those of some hardcore Khalistani extremists and criminals who are also involved in creating ruckus in Canada.

“So far no action has been taken by the Canadian side on our requests. This is very serious. Also we find it very strange that the people we asked to be deported, on whom we asked action to be taken, we are being told – the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) is blaming the Indian side – that these people are committing crimes in Canada for which India is to be blamed. So, this is a contradiction which we don’t understand,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a weekly media briefing.

–IANS

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Telangana To Go Ahead With Group-I Exam As Aspirants Continue Protest

By
The Commune
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Telangana To Go Ahead With Group-I Exam As Aspirants Continue Protest

The government of Telangana is going ahead with the Group-I Main examination to be conducted by the Telangana Public Service Commission (TGSPSC) even as the aspirants continued their protest for a second day demanding their postponement citing short-time for preparation and demanding revision of a Government Order (GO) that tweaked the reservation policy.

Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari on Thursday held a meeting with officials of various departments and directed them to make fool-proof arrangements for the exams scheduled from October 21 to 27.

A section of aspirants of the Group-I Main examination staged a protest at Gandhi Nagar Park in Hyderabad on Thursday demanding the rescheduling of the exam. Police detained the protestors, who have threatened to go on hunger strike if the government fails to postpone the exam.

The aspirants began that protest in Ashok Nagar on Wednesday night demanding the postponement of the exam. Dozens of students came out of hostel rooms and classrooms of the coaching centres to stage a protest, demanding that the government postpone the exams till the High Court decides on the petitions challenging Government Order 29.

The protestors were detained by the police. Police stepped up security in Ashok Nagar to prevent any further protests. A large number of policemen were deployed in the area. Some aspirants met Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president K. T. Rama Rao on Thursday and sought his support for their protest.

A group of aspirants also reached Congress headquarters Gandhi Bhavan to meet state Congress chief Mahesh Kumar Goud. Meanwhile, the Chief Secretary held a video conference with district Collectors, police commissioners and senior officials concerned to review the arrangements for the exams.

TGSPSC Chairman Mahender Reddy and members, Secretary E. Naveen Nicolas, Director General of Police Jitender, district collectors of Hyderabad, Rangareddy and Medchal Malkajgiri and other officials participated in the video conference.

The Chief Secretary said that a total of 31,383 candidates will appear in the exam to be conducted at 46 centres in Hyderabad, Rangareddy and Medchal Malkajgiri districts. She directed officials to make necessary security arrangements around the exam centres to prevent any irregularities or untoward incidents.

A total of 31,382 candidates have qualified for the Group-1 Mains examination out of around 3.02 lakh who appeared for the preliminary examination conducted to fill 563 posts in various departments.

Mahender Reddy said that since Group-I Mains are being held for the first time since 2011, the officials should take all precautions to ensure the smooth conduct of the exam.

Mahender Reddy said that in the current situation where social media is active, the conduct of exams is also challenging and in this context, proper precautions should be taken to avoid any misconceptions and rumours.

DGP Jitender said that elaborate arrangements have been made at all the examination centres where Group 1 will be held and all measures have been taken to ensure the peaceful conduct of the examinations.

The candidates demanding the postponement of exams argue that GO 29 will rearrange the prelims list upside down. About 22 cases challenging the GO are pending in the High Court.

They say that the GO tweaked the reservation policy and this would limit the chances of candidates from reserved categories. On October 15, the Telangana High Court dismissed writ petitions, seeking orders to postpone the examination.

–IANS

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Hamas Head Possibly Dead Following Israel’s Latest Operation Eliminating Terrorists

By
The Commune
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Hamas Head Possibly Dead Following Israel's Latest Operation Eliminating Terrorists

The Israeli military has announced that it is investigating whether Hamas head Yahya Sinwar, one of Israel’s most wanted figures, was among three operatives killed in a recent operation in Gaza. Although the identities of the militants have not yet been confirmed, there are suspicions that Sinwar, the mastermind behind the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel, could be among the dead. Israeli forces are conducting DNA tests to verify the identities.

The operation took place in Rafah, southern Gaza, as part of Israel’s continued efforts to eliminate key Hamas figures. The deaths, if confirmed, would follow a series of high-profile assassinations by Israel in recent months, including Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif. Sinwar, who has been in hiding within the complex network of tunnels under Gaza, assumed leadership of Hamas after Ismail Haniyeh’s assassination in Tehran in July 2024.

Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant reaffirmed Israel’s determination to eliminate its enemies, posting a biblical quote referencing the pursuit of enemies. Hamas has not officially commented on the reports, and a Hamas-linked website has urged Palestinians to wait for verified information from their own sources rather than relying on Israeli reports.

This operation is part of Israel’s ongoing response to the deadly October 7 attack that resulted in over 1,200 Israeli deaths and the abduction of more than 250 hostages into Gaza. In retaliation, Israel’s military campaign has led to over 42,000 casualties in Gaza, with much of the region left in ruins, and its population largely displaced.

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“Why Can’t The Govt That Sells Liquor Set Up Firecrackers Shop?” Madras High Court Questions DMK Govt’s Inconsistencies On FireCracker Shop Tender Process

By
The Commune
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Madras High Court Questions DMK Govt's Inconsistencies On FireCracker Shop Tender Process

The Madras High Court sharply criticized the DMK government in Tamil Nadu asking, “Why can’t the government that sells liquor set up a firecracker shop?” This remark was made during a recent case regarding establishing firecracker shops, highlighting concerns about the government’s inefficiency in this matter.

The court has mandated the Secretary of the Tourism Department to appear personally in contempt of court case due to violations of a ban on tendering activities for firecracker shops on Chennai Island grounds during Diwali. The Chennai Firecracker Agents Welfare Association filed the case, asserting that the court’s order had been disregarded.

The case was heard by Justice M. Dhandapani. During the proceedings, the petitioner’s attorney, Vijay Anand, argued that although the government stated on 15 October 2024, that no tender had been awarded, it had allegedly granted a tender on 14 October 2024 and received the funds on 10 October 2024. He pointed out that this information was posted on the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation’s website, asserting that the tender process had already begun.

The judge then questioned why the government had previously stated that the tender had not yet been awarded. He also raised the point, about why can’t the government that sells liquor set up a firecracker shop? In response, the counsel for the government urged the court not to blame the government without cause, arguing for a balanced approach. The judge indicated that the focus seemed to be on ensuring government revenue from private entities and subsequently ordered the Secretary of the Tourism Department and the Managing Director of the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation to appear in court personally. The hearing regarding the contempt case was then adjourned.

(With Inputs From Kumudam)

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Andhra Pradesh Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan Wishes OPS & EPS On AIADMK’s 53rd Anniversary, Honors MGR And Jayalalithaa’s Legacy

By
The Commune
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Andhra Pradesh Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan Wishes OPS & EPS On AIADMK's 53rd Anniversary, Honors MGR And Jayalalithaa's Legacy

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Jana Sena Party leader Pawan Kalyan extended greeting on the 53nd anniversary of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) on 17 October 2024, expressing his admiration and support for the party. In a heartfelt message, he paid tribute to AIADMK founder M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), whom he praised as a “revolutionary leader” whose visionary policies significantly transformed Tamil Nadu, particularly for the disadvantaged.

Kalyan emphasized MGR’s commitment to enhancing the lives of ordinary people, noting how his leadership propelled Tamil Nadu to become one of India’s foremost states. He also recognized the contributions of MGR’s successor, Jayalalithaa, commending her as an exceptional leader whose efforts earned her the endearing title of “Amma.”

In his message, Kalyan extended his best wishes to Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS), the current AIADMK leader, expressing hope that the party would continue to realize MGR’s vision for the state’s development and welfare. He also notably commended O. Panneerselvam (OPS) for his leadership as Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister, highlighting how he effectively guided the AIADMK government during and after the passing of Puratchi Thalaivi Selvi Jayalalithaa, genuinely continuing her legacy. Then highlighted the cultural ties between Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, acknowledging Jayalalithaa’s respect and affection for the Telugu-speaking community.

Pawan Kalyan via his official X accounts stated, “On the 53rd anniversary of@AIADMKOfficial, I extend my sincere congratulations to the party leadership, members, and supporters. Founded on 17 October 1972, by the legendary “Puratchi Thalaivar” Thiru MG Ramachandran (MGR) Avl. #AIADMK rapidly became a formidable political force in Tamil Nadu. #MGR, a leader I hold in the highest regard, was deeply committed to the upliftment of the poor, ensuring no one went hungry and that every individual had the right to live with dignity.”

“What sets MGR apart is his visionary governance. His belief in balancing welfare with development transformed Tamil Nadu into one of the country’s most prosperous states. MGR’s leadership wasn’t just about addressing immediate needs, but about laying a strong foundation for sustainable progress. His commitment to both the people’s welfare and the state’s growth remains a lasting legacy, one that continues to inspire me personally. This legacy was further cemented by “Puratchi Thalaivi” Jayalalithaa Avl, who carried forward MGR’s vision with exceptional leadership.” He added.

“Her governance not only advanced MGR’s ideals but also earned her the eternal respect of the people as “Amma.” Her efforts in fostering harmonious relations with neighboring states and her respect for the Telugu language—reminding us of Bharathiyaar’s great lines, “Sundara Telugu”—are particularly commendable. Under the able leadership of Thiru@EPSTamilNadu Avl, AIADMK continues to uphold the values and vision established by MGR. Despite challenges, the party remains a strong voice for the people of Tamil Nadu, firmly rooted in its core principles.” He further stated

“On this occasion, I also extend my warm greetings to@OfficeofOPS, who, as Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister, ably led the AIADMK government during and after the demise of Puratchi Thalaivi Selvi Jayalalithaa, sincerely following in her footsteps On behalf of myself and the@JanaSenaParty, I extend my best wishes to AIADMK on this momentous occasion. I wish that the party will continue its legacy of serving the people of Tamil Nadu, fulfilling MGR’s vision, meeting the aspirations of the people, and steering the state towards greater heights of development and prosperity. My respect for the Tamil language, culture, and the indomitable fighting spirit of Tamils is something I have always cherished. On this occasion, may the spirit of Thiruvalluvar bless the land of Siddhars and saints in abundance.” He further stated

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Appreciations Pour In For Tamil Film Nandhan That Shows The Plight Of TN Panchayat Presidents

By
The Commune
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Appreciations Pour In For Tamil Film Nandhan That Shows The Plight Of TN Panchayat Presidents

Nandhan, is a Tamil film that critically examines the shortcomings of the much-touted Dravidian governance model, a topic that has often been sidelined. After being initially denied a screening in Chennai, the film has now gained recognition following its release on Amazon Prime Video on 11 October 2024, coinciding with the Ayudha Puja celebrations.

Directed by Era Saravanan and featuring Sasikumar in the lead role, “Nandhan” highlights the struggles of marginalized Scheduled Caste communities in Tamil Nadu. It contrasts the ruling Dravidian parties’ promises of social justice with the harsh realities faced by these oppressed groups.

The film avoids the typical Dravidianist narrative where communists and atheists come to the aid of Scheduled Castes while ridiculing Brahmin characters. Instead, it presents a straightforward drama that authentically depicts the realities faced by these communities, immersing viewers in their experiences. As a result, Nandhan has received widespread acclaim from various sectors of society, with political figures such as PMK president Anbumani Ramadoss and BJP State secretary SG Suryah praising the film recently.

In this context, Tamil Nadu BJP State Secretary SG Suryah expressed his appreciation through a statement on his official X account, titled, “‘Nandhan’ Questions Federalism at the Centre… Autonomy in the States… Panchayat Autonomy.”

Suryah stated, “The film “Nandhan” has vividly told the problems faced by the Scheduled caste community holding Panchayat positions in Tamil Nadu, how a Dalit leader who gets the vote banks and support of the dominant castes is treated like a puppet without any symbolism or glosses.”

“The film which should have been celebrated on the screen, was chased out of the theater for highlighting the incidents and tragedies during the rule of Dravidian regimes, is the social justice of the Dravidian model government! Director Era Saravanan has not only exposed the attitude of the dictatorial, casteist Dravidian rulers, who were shouting empty slogans of federalism at the center… autonomy at state …autonomy in the panchayats but also has shamed the fake Dravidian organisation that have claimed to promote caste abolition and engaging politics for for over fifty years.” He added

“They say that state powers are taken away by the governor. But is the state government taking away the local authority? One can know about this by asking the Panchayat Council leaders of the ruling party and its alliance party. Even though there are MLA’s and MP’s, Panchayat Council Leaders are the ones who connect with the people,” was the argument put forward by voluntary organisation and Panchayat Council leaders from different areas at the Chennai Press Forum. At the end of the movie, some of the affected Panchayat Council leaders talked about these issues. In Tamil Nadu Local Government Elections, marginalized communities like Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes are denied their rights even after they have won (Panchayat, Panchayat, Municipality, Corporation).” He further added.

He pointed out,

  1. Refusal of other community members to sit in a seat allocated to Scheduled Caste.
  2. In case of a Scheduled Caste Chairman, the Vice Chairman/Executive Officer from another community holding the authority of the Chairman.
  3. Purposefully blacking out, writing in small letters, tarring the name of the scheduled caste leader in the notice board, name board of welfare work.
  4. Intimidation of Scheduled Caste leader to sign illegal projects.
  5. Preventing scheduled caste leaders from hoisting the national flag at public functions and preventing them from attending functions.
  6. Making the scheduled caste leader sit in people’s meetings and imposing the decisions of the meeting on him.
  7. Speaking derogatorily about the caste, profession and ancestors of the Scheduled Caste leader during the council meetings.
  8. Swearing, attacking and threatening to kill the Scheduled Caste leader who does not agree with the trend of the caste dominants.
  9. Making the Scheduled Caste leader, member sit on the floor.

Such actions are going on in Tamil Nadu. Director Era Saravanan has taken it to people from all walks of life through his screenplay with the movie “Nandhan”. According to police statistics, violence against scheduled castes has increased by 40% during the rule of Chief Minister Stalin, who is ruling in name social justice and Dravidian model.”

“While the above statistics are based on the registered criminal cases, this percentage will increase further if the cases that were settled without a formal case at the police station are also taken into account. The situation in Tamil Nadu is that there is no way to get due respect, rights and equality for a representative of the people who belong to the Scheduled castes elected by the Constitution of India. Complaints from various scheduled castes leaders have confirmed that social justice is just in books here. It is a great shame that the Dravidian organisation, even the progressive leftists are not ashamed to shout word for word that the Dravidian model’s achievement… and the movie “Nandhan” has questioned that. Congratulations on this thought-provoking work,” he added.

In this context, PMK President Anbumani Ramadoss also posted a message stating that, “I watched Nandhan movie directed by journalist Era Saravanan and starring actor Sasikumar on Amazon Prime. The movie Nandhan talks about the black history of social justice, that even if the law opens the gates of local bodies for Nandhans, those who oppose social justice close them. Government and society should ensure the rights of Scheduled Castes in local bodies”

The film also received praise from the chief coordinator of Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK), Seeman. On his official X handle, he wrote, “The film ‘Nandhan’, which is like a yam plucked from politics and life, sounds like a battle cry for social justice. For those who failed to watch ‘Nandhan’ on screen, you must watch it on Amazon Prime ODT site. As a story, as a field, as a revolutionary thought that makes you understand the current politics, the film ‘Nandan’ will surely thrill each and every one of you. #நந்தன் is a wonderful film that we all should support.”

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The Tragic State Of Valmiki Temple In Chennai That Lies Neglected

By
The Commune
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The Tragic State Of Valmiki Temple In Chennai That Lies Neglected

Valmiki Jayanthi celebrated on Ashwin Purnima, honours Maharishi Valmiki, the revered ancient poet who authored the Ramayana, one of Hinduism’s greatest epics. This year, Valmiki Jayanthi falls on 17 October 2024, bringing attention to the small yet historically significant Valmiki Temple in Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai, a structure whose condition has sadly deteriorated over the years.

The Life And Legacy of Maharishi Valmiki

Valmiki is celebrated as the first Sanskrit poet, often referred to as the Adi Kavi, for composing the Ramayana, a monumental epic with 24,000 verses spread across seven kandas. The Ramayana narrates the story of Prince Rama of Ayodhya, who rescues his abducted wife Sita from the demon king Ravana. The epic not only exemplifies poetic mastery but also serves as a guiding text for moral and ethical values in Hindu culture.

Valmiki’s life journey is equally fascinating; he was born Ratnakar, a dacoit who encountered Narada Muni. This meeting transformed his life, as he began chanting the name “Rama” and underwent a profound spiritual awakening, eventually being renamed Valmiki after anthills (valmika) formed around him during his prolonged meditation. His later life saw him sheltering Sita in his hermitage during her exile, where she gave birth to her sons, Lava and Kusha, who would later learn the Ramayana from Valmiki himself.

If you thought he’s got nothing to do with Tamil, you’re wrong.

Valmiki is revered as one of the 18 Yoga Siddhars in Tamil Hinduism alongside figures like Bogar and is said to have participated in the first Tamil Sangam. In Tamil references, he is known as Vanmiki, with the letters “L” and “N” being interchangeable according to certain grammatical rules. Valmiki is credited with composing “Vanmikatpathinaaru,” a set of sixteen verses.

The Historic Valmiki Temple In Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai

The Valmiki Temple in Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai, believed to be around 1,300 years old, serves as a tribute to this great sage. Legend holds that Valmiki rested at this site after composing the Ramayana, inspiring the name “Thiru-Valmiki-Oor,” which gradually evolved into Thiruvanmiyur. Situated on East Coast Road in Valmiki Nagar, this modest temple is near the famous Marundeeswarar Shiva Temple, to which it was once connected. The region’s history reflects a strong connection with Hindu mythology and literature, as the temple and nearby areas were significant centers for spiritual activities during the Chola dynasty.

The temple itself is quite small, resembling a simple mandapam (pavilion) rather than an elaborate structure. There is also a belief that the site may serve as the Jeeva Samadhi (final resting place) of Maharishi Valmiki. The temple is now under the official supervision of the Marundeeswarar Temple, renowned for its association with Lord Shiva, who blessed the sage Agastya with medicinal knowledge.

While the Valmiki Temple may not have the grandeur of larger Hindu temples, it holds significant cultural and spiritual value. The annual Brahmotsavam festival, which takes place in March, is marked by special poojas and devotional activities, drawing worshippers from across the city. Monthly rituals on the full moon day (Pournami) further underscore the temple’s continued, albeit modest, spiritual relevance.

The Declining State Of The Valmiki Temple

Despite its historical significance, the Valmiki Temple has faced numerous challenges over the years. In recent times, the East Coast Road’s expansion has left the temple situated in the middle of the highway, putting it at risk of being removed. Protests by local communities have managed to save the temple from demolition, but its condition remains far from ideal. Decades ago, the temple was part of the Marundeeswarar Temple’s land, and the road infrastructure connecting Chennai to Pondicherry (OMR Road) had yet to be developed.

The temple has suffered from neglect, with limited renovation efforts. Once adjacent to the road, it is now engulfed by urban development, raising concerns over the preservation of Chennai’s cultural heritage. Although managed under the Marundeeswarar Temple’s supervision, the Valmiki Temple lacks adequate funding and maintenance. Its central location on a busy road further complicates preservation efforts, making it difficult for devotees to perform rituals in peace.

The Continued Legacy Of Maharishi Valmiki

The teachings and poetry of Maharishi Valmiki continue to resonate deeply within Hindu culture, inspiring festivals like Valmiki Jayanthi. In North India, the Valmiki community reveres him as a Guru, and several temples dedicated to him dot the region. While the Valmiki Temple in Thiruvanmiyur may not receive the same level of attention, its history and cultural significance remain integral to the legacy of the great sage.

As we celebrate Valmiki Jayanthi today, there is a renewed call for preserving the temple and revitalizing efforts to honor Maharishi Valmiki’s contribution to literature, spirituality, and Hinduism. It serves as a reminder of the need to protect such cultural landmarks, ensuring they continue to inspire future generations.

(With inputs from OrientalZenz,  TamilNadu Tourism Blog, India.com)

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