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Thirumavalavan Who Made Anti-Hindu Speeches Visits His Ancestral Temple Before Nomination

By
The Commune
-

The Tamil Nadu elections always bring unexpected twists, and this time was no different. People were surprised to witness Thirumavalavan, the leader of Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), offering prayers at a temple before officially filing his nomination for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

The VCK, a member of the I.N.D.I coalition led by the DMK in Tamil Nadu, has been allocated two constituencies, Chidambaram and Villupuram, where it has already established a presence and secured victories in previous elections. Thirumavalavan, the leader of VCK, is poised to contest in the Chidambaram constituency.

Following this, on 27 March 2024, Thirumavalavan personally visited the Mayavan temple, the deity of his clan, in his native village of Anganur in Ariyalur district. During this visit, the temple priest welcomed Thirumavalavan by garlanding him and performing a ceremonial ritual of tying headgear (Thalaipagai) on his head. After completing special worship at the temple, Thirumavalavan submitted his nomination papers to Ariyalur District Collector and Election Conducting Officer Annie Mary Swarna, accompanied by Ministers Sivashankar and Panneerselvam. This action took place before the formal filing of his nomination papers.

What captivated the general populace was the sight of Thirumavalavan, known for his outspoken criticism of Sanathana Dharma and his stance on Hinduism perpetuating caste divisions, and said temples features sculptures of nude figures only, has now earnestly engaging in worship at temples.

In this context, an older video featuring Thirumavalavan has gained traction on social media. In the video, he addresses a gathering, expressing opposition to educational policies based on Sanatana Dharma and humorously criticizes Hindu temples in front of the audience that, ““if the building has a dome, it is a mosque. If it is tall and straight, it is a church. And if it has dirty figurines, it is a temple”.

https://twitter.com/Muthuhere3/status/1772928107965448550

In 2017, Thirumavalavan said, “Destroy all hindu temples and in it place build Buddhist Viharas“. Addressing a gathering convened in Perambalur, VCK Chief Thirumavalavan, asserted that areas housing Shiva and Perumal temples were originally sites of Buddhist monasteries. He contended that these Buddhist structures were replaced by the construction of Shiva and Perumal temples, advocating for their demolition to pave the way for the erection of Buddhist temples in their stead. Furthermore, he proposed the establishment of Buddhist temples at the purported sites of Lord Thiruvaranganathar’s presence and the Kanji Kamachi Amman Temple.

In another occurrence during a webinar hosted by Periyarist groups, Thirumavalavan referred to women adhering to the Sanatana tradition as prostitutes. A particular excerpt from his speech circulating on social media highlights, “how are women valued in Sanatana Dharma, how are they treated? From time immemorial, how they have been oppressed and exploited… what does Sanatana Dharma say about women? Basically, women are created as prostitutes by God. All women are prostitutes as per Hindu Dharma…Manu Dharma… All women are prostitutes… that’s how they were created by God… they’re of a status lower than men. It applies to Brahmin women as well as to other women”.

In a book release event held in Chennai, Thirumavalavan said, “Building a temple is a business. I am not joking. Building temples, unlike any other business, is the most profitable and provides the highest income. Which other business is more profitable than the income generated by the Tirupati temple? What are the temple’s income and expenditure? People donate money to the Tirupathi temple. People pour money into the Ayyappan temple.”

On International Women’s Day (8 March 2024), a special symposium took place at Chennai Ambedkar Thital, with Thirumavalavan as the chief guest discussing “Revolutionary Ambedkar and Women’s Rights.” He said, “Take Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Jainism, or any other religion, the core fundamental philosophy of it would be fraternity i.e brotherhood. There is one religion in the world that denies brotherhood completely, they are asking do you know what is Sanatana Dharma?  Sanatana Dharma is a dharma that says there should not be brotherhood, they say that we have understood it wrongly. Today a women judge in High Court has said that Sanatana Dharma is different from rituals, yes that’s correct, as we say, rituals and principles are different, but this Sanatana Dharma’s particular principle defines hierarchy based on birth and no one can deny it.”

He also took part in the September 2023 Eradicate Sanatana Dharma conference where Udhayanidhi Stalin had compared Sanatana Dharma to mosquito and dengue and said that it had to be eradicated. In the same conference, Thirumavalavan had said “Sanatana Dharma can be destroyed when we turn OBC against FC (Forward Caste).”

He also insulted Hinduism at a Christian book launch event in December 2022.

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RPF Crackdown Ganja Smuggling In Chennai, Journalist Arrested With 10Kg Ganja

By
The Commune
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Based on intelligence gathered by the Railway Protection Force (RPF), it has come to light that several clandestine groups are trafficking various narcotics, including substances like ganja and gutka, from multiple northern states of India to southern regions. To counter this illicit activity, both State railway police and railway protection force have intensified surveillance efforts at the central railway station.

Amidst these efforts, alarming reports emerged of the arrest of a female journalist for attempting to smuggle 10 kg of ganja bundles during rigorous monitoring and raids conducted at Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Chennai Central railway station.

The Poonamallee Prohibition Enforcement Division received confidential information pertaining to ganja smuggling at Chennai Central Railway Station. Consequently, they implemented extensive surveillance measures. During one such operation, a young woman arriving from Odisha on the Dhanbad express train was intercepted and subjected to a search, leading to the discovery of 10 kg of ganja concealed in bundles.

Subsequently, the police seized the contraband and detained the young woman involved in the smuggling operation for interrogation. Identified as Jyotika Das (25) from Odisha, she claimed to work as a journalist for a newspaper in her home state. The apprehension of a female journalist in connection with the transportation of 10 kg of ganja via train has elicited considerable astonishment.

Three days ago, M Dolikhatum and H Pooja Kumari Dass were detained by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) at a Central Railway Station for attempting to smuggle 14 kg of ganja on the Mangalore Express. The illegal substance was concealed within their luggage. Both suspects, originating from West Bengal, have been taken into custody, and inquiries are currently ongoing.

Prior to this, two individuals, Jayasurya, aged 24, residing in Kolathur, and Kishok Lal, aged 25, hailing from Anna Nagar, were apprehended near Ambattur railway station for smuggling ganja from Kolkata to Chennai. Following a tip-off, the police inspected the leather bags they were carrying and discovered 13.2 kg of ganja concealed beneath their clothing. During questioning, the suspects admitted to transporting the illegal substance from Kolkata through Andhra Pradesh by train, with their journey culminating at Tiruvallur before boarding an EMU train to Ambattur. Subsequently, the police presented them in court, leading to their remand in Puzhal prison.

(with inputs from Asianet News)

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Satellite Spectrum “Scam”: Debunking TNM’s “Expose” On Bharti Airtel Electoral Bond Donation, Attempt To Weave A ‘2G Scam’-Type Story Shredded To Pieces

By
The Commune
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The decision of the Supreme Court to make public the details of the Electoral bonds made the likes of left-leaning “news” portals” such as The News Minute and its jingbang go on a tizzy. Right from the get-go, they have been trying relentlessly to prove that the Electoral Bonds are a scam. They have persistently attempted to paint the BJP-led central government as the primary/biggest beneficiary and the alleged orchestrator of the scam.

They tried to link Future Gaming’s Lottery Martin with the BJP but it turned out that the DMK was the biggest recipient of their funds and that narrative fell flat – however The News Minute did not establish quid pro quo, one wonders why. Over the past weeks, they claim that a 25-member team is working on the details of the Electoral Bonds and matching them with all things possible to establish a scam. 

The latest entrant in this “scam conspiracy theory” is Bharti Airtel’s donation via electoral bonds to the BJP as a return “favour” for the satellite rights. The News Minute is trying to make a story along the lines of the 2G Spectrum scam! 

Their article titled “Bharti group’s ₹150 crore bond donation to BJP coincided with Modi government’s telecom U-turn” is entirely based on assumptions and the misunderstanding that satellite and telecom are the same. 

First, let us understand a little bit about the satellite spectrum:

Satellite spectrum refers to the range of radio frequencies allocated for communication between satellites in space and ground-based stations on Earth. These frequencies are managed and regulated by international organizations such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Satellite spectrum is essential for various satellite-based services, including telecommunications, broadcasting, navigation, and Earth observation. It enables satellites to transmit signals to and receive signals from Earth, facilitating a wide range of applications and services that rely on satellite technology.

Most countries allocate terrestrial spectrum through auctions, while satellite spectrum is typically assigned administratively due to its unique challenges. Unlike terrestrial networks, satellite systems require coordination to avoid fragmentation of the spectrum, crucial for maximizing capacity. Despite this, satellite operators prefer spectrum sharing to maintain capacity and avoid competition. Regulators, like the FCC, refine rules to balance existing operators’ investments with new entrants’ competition. Coordination at both ITU and national levels ensures fair spectrum use. In India, TRAI recommends the coexistence of satellite and 5G services in certain bands, suggesting auctions only for overlapping frequencies to mitigate conflicts. Flexible spectrum use, including shared satellite and 5G services, can optimize spectrum efficiency while addressing industry needs and regulatory concerns. 

Why Is An Auction Not Conducted For Satellite Spectrum?

Here are some reasons a telecom expert put forth when questioned why an auction was not conducted for satellite spectrums:

  • Auctioning all satellite spectrums reduces overall data throughput capacities.
  • For 27.5 to 28.5 GHz, auctioning is viable as it won’t reduce satellite capacities due to limited overlapping frequencies.
  • Only two satellite players overlap with this band, preserving satellite network capacities.
  • Gateways remain unaffected and retain full spectrum access.
  • Advantages include uninterrupted satellite services, 5G deployment in economically viable bands, efficient spectrum usage, government revenue generation, and simplified coordination rules.
  • Overall, it’s a win-win situation for all stakeholders.

Satellite spectrum licensing differs from traditional telecom spectrum auctions. Instead of auctioning the spectrum, licenses are granted to companies with existing infrastructure. For instance, OneWeb’s established satellite infrastructure enabled them to secure a license. Bharti Airtel’s partnership with OneWeb facilitated their license acquisition. Similarly, Reliance Jio and Starlink await approval for their applications. Unlike regular spectrum, governments only license and regulate satellite spectrum usage, as satellites are owned by private entities like OneWeb. The government assigns frequency ranges, and the Department of Telecom (DoT) determines licensing fees and grants operating licenses accordingly.

With its own constellation of both GEO (geostationary) and LEO (low earth orbit) satellites, OneWeb has established readiness far ahead of its rivals. In contrast, Jio had to collaborate with Luxembourg SES Satellites, trailing behind in infrastructure. This readiness positions OneWeb to offer uninterrupted services to the public. Unlike the 2G spectrum, which was allocated on a first-come-first-serve basis at a fixed price of ₹2800 crores for a band of 2G, subsequent auctions saw significantly reduced allocations.

The government is yet to decide on spectrum allocation, whether through auction or administrative decision. It is noteworthy that Airtel has received clearance from IN-SPACe but is still awaiting spectrum allocation. A subsidiary of Ambani’s company has contributed over ₹400 crores to the BJP but is still awaiting approval. Elon Musk, the world’s richest man, has not received approval due to his company Verizon Communications’ shareholding in firms associated with Pakistan and Bangladesh.

The article talks of a “hurried new telecom law” which was passed in December 2023 in Parliament that allowed satellite spectrum to be assigned through an administrative order. If the whole thing was a scam, why would the government go to the Supreme Court seeking judicial approval?

Then they bring in the “Draconian” telecommunications bill which has powers for internet suspension and surveillance to make the law look suspicious and sow the seeds of doubt among the readers.

What is the global scenario with respect to the satellite spectrum, one might wonder – as mentioned above and also concurred by the Telecom minister Ashwani Vaishnaw in Parliament, across the world, satellite spectrum has been allocated administratively, and nowhere has it been auctioned. 

The article attempts to draw connections by presenting coincidences, implying a correlation between Bharti Airtel’s license acquisition and their purchase of electoral bonds totaling ₹100 crores. Allegedly, the BJP cashed these bonds just four days later. Subsequently, on 21 November 2024, OneWeb received satellite authorisation. Following these events, a telecom bill was passed, “coinciding” with Bharti Airtel’s additional purchase of electoral bonds worth ₹50 crores, later encashed by the BJP. 

Despite efforts to link the BJP with corporate entities, the said portals seem not to be interested in investigating potential connections such as Lottery Martin’s purchase of DMK electoral bonds or that of the TMC. Is this because of conflicting agendas?

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Congress MP Candidate Sasikanth Senthil Peddles False Narrative About Annamalai’s Remarks On Quota

By
The Commune
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Two former civil servants hailing from the Karnataka cadre, K Annamalai of the Indian Police Service (IPS) and Sasikanth Senthil of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), decided to step down from their positions in 2019 and enter the political arena. Annamalai aligned himself with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), while Senthil chose the Congress, owing to their differing ideologies. Both are now poised to contest in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in their home state of Tamil Nadu. Annamalai is vying for the Coimbatore parliamentary constituency, while Senthil is eyeing the Thiruvallur reserved constituency.

Having served in various capacities across Karnataka for about a decade, Annamalai, a member of the 2011 IPS batch, and Senthil, who belongs to the 2009 IAS batch, decided to leave their bureaucratic roles due to their dissatisfaction with the system. Senthil, who resigned as deputy commissioner of Dakshina Kannada district in September 2019, cited the compromise of national values as his reason for leaving. He subsequently joined the Congress in Tamil Nadu and actively participated in movements against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, and the National Register of Citizens (NRC).

Much to everyone’s surprise, the remarks made by former bureaucrat Sasikanth Senthil, who has been nominated as a candidate for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, are truly startling. While it’s not uncommon for politicians to engage in actions to enhance their public image and garner popularity, the direct and unabashed statements from a former IAS officer are quite unexpected. Aligning with the stance of their alliance, the DMK, Congress candidate Senthil has asserted in a press statement that Annamalai is opposed to the quota system, suggesting that his views could potentially sway others to oppose it as well.

Sasikanth Senthil speaking to reporters said, “Rather than how I see it, we know what kind of a mentality he is showing. As everyone know, in Tamil Nadu we created quota system for backward classes since 1960. Many of those who are here today have come with that (quota). You can see to what extent that dominant mentality, ‘I am superior, you are inferior’ concept, is displayed when he speaks forgetting the path he travelled and why he has come here. If you see today, if many grassroots people influenced by this ideology, they will also say that we don’t need all this, ‘we are a superior caste, caste pride, we all are ruling lineage’, all this is the thought process that comes from that mentality. It reflects his thought process.”

However, what BJP President Annamalai conveyed on that occasion was that the opposition candidate nominated by the AIADMK, Singai Ramachandran, came from a political lineage, which granted him certain advantages and secured him the MP ticket easily. Regarding educational background, Annamalai noted that Singai Ramachandran’s father, a former MLA, wielded influence and secured a seat in PSG Tech College through the MLA quota. In contrast, Annamalai, hailing from an agricultural background, did not have such privileges. However, the Tamil Nadu news channels sensationalized the narrative with sensational headlines. Subsequently, the DMK initiated propaganda with a similar stance, prompting the former bureaucrat Sasikanth Senthil, a candidate of the alliance, to echo the same rhetoric, which is regrettable considering his background as a former bureaucrat.

Annamalai, addressing reporters in Coimbatore on 25 March 2024, remarked, “In 2002, he (ADMK candidate Singai Ramachandran) didn’t know his father being an MLA got him a seat to study in the college using the quota benefit. AIADMK’s candidate father is an MLA, it’s dynasty politics, Govindaraj. He has come to politics using quota. I came to Coimbatore for the first time in 2002. I was wearing trousers, my father wearing a veshti, we brought two tin boxes from the village, took three buses and came to Coimbatore in 2002.

That was 22 years ago. My age was 17 years. I took a town bus from Gandhipuram bus stand and got down to Peelamedu with two tin boxes. I mean in 2002, my father and I stood in front of PSG Engineering College in Peelamedu with two tin boxes. Then I asked my father, will this town be kind to us? We all come from the village.. 40 houses in total. We reached Coimbatore by boarding three different buses. It is a big city. Will I be able to survive in this city? 

Because I got an opportunity to study in PSG College of Engineering. I was not privileged, I did not get a seat through MLA quota. I came to Coimbatore in 2002 with 2 tin boxes, just as you all work hard as individuals and are in this land. I studied in PSG College of Engineering for 5 years. My wife studied in the same college and was a year junior to me. She studied in PSG College and we both got married and settled in Coimbatore. You have to understand one thing, Annamalai didn’t come in quota system. Vanathi didn’t come in through quota system, Modi did not come here through quota system, no one here achieved all this through quota system.”

In Tamil Nadu, there’s a prevailing expectation among the populace for a highly educated and elite individual to lead and manage administrative affairs. People warmly embrace those from educated backgrounds, viewing them as fitting leaders. With Annamalai’s ascension to the presidency of the BJP in Tamil Nadu, his capabilities have been recognized, bolstering both his own image and that of the party throughout the region. However, Sasikanth Senthil, who has primarily been involved in war room experiences in Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Delhi, is yet to establish himself in Tamil Nadu. Despite his reputation as a soft-spoken administrator, some have critiqued his transition into politics, arguing that merely skimming news headlines without full context is inadequate for someone with his bureaucratic background. Fielded by the I.N.D.I alliance in the Thiruvallur constituency, Senthil still has a long way to go in proving himself to the electorate.

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“If EPS Ruled For 4 Years, It Was Safeguarded By Modi”: TTV Dhinakaran Hits Out At ADMK

By
The Commune
-

In the electoral fray of Theni Parliamentary Constituency, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has nominated TTV Dhinakaran, the General Secretary of Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK), as its candidate. Interestingly, the DMK has put forward Thanga Tamilselvan, who was once a colleague of Dhinakaran in the same constituency. Additionally, the AIADMK has selected V T Narayanasamy. This sets the stage for a compelling Lok Sabha election constituency, with former colleagues now competing closely against each other.

Subsequently, a consultative meeting of NDA activists convened in Andipatti. During this gathering, TTV Dhinakaran, asserted that Narendra Modi stands as the prime ministerial nominee for the NDA. Contrastingly, questioned the identity of the prime ministerial candidate within the DMK alliance, emphasizing the relative obscurity of Stalin beyond Tamil Nadu’s borders.

Later taking on ADMK, he criticized Edappadi Palaniswami’s use of the double leaf symbol, historically associated with MGR, insinuating its deployment to undermine the DMK while ostensibly supporting it. Dhinakaran accused Palaniswami of clandestinely bolstering the DMK’s interests, effectively operating as its surrogate.

While speaking about Edappadi Palaniswami, Dhinakaran stated, “Betraying former chief minister OPS, and betraying Delhi that wanted to save Amma’s regime and safeguarded them for four and a half years. Otherwise we would have blown up this regime that very day, that is the truth. Palaniswami thought we are holding them by positions and with money. Nothing like that”

Then he highlighted the Tamil Nadu electorate’s awareness of this alleged deception, suggesting a shift in support towards the NDA. Drawing upon the legacies of MGR and Jayalalithaa, Dhinakaran stressed the imperative of eradicating the DMK. He underscored the ideological alignment towards making Narendra Modi the Prime Minister once again, transcending the mere distribution of electoral tickets.

(With Inputs From Daily Thanthi)

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Why VCK Was Rejected The Pot Symbol – Here’s What The VCK and Dravidianist Media Won’t Tell You

By
The Commune
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In a recent development, the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) has not been allotted the pot symbol as a common symbol, a request they had fervently pursued. The decision, detailed in an order document from the Secretariat of the Election Commission of India, cites several key reasons for the denial.

Firstly, the Commission highlighted that the VCK’s application was incomplete as the party had failed to furnish a crucial component: the list of Parliamentary constituencies where it intended to field its candidates. Additionally, at the time of application, there were no authorized office bearers listed for the party, according to the Commission’s records.

Moreover, the VCK had not provided essential financial documents, including contribution statements, annual audit reports for the last three financial years, and election expenditure statements for the last two elections in which the party contested.

The Commission also noted that the VCK had availed of concessions on two previous occasions. However, to be eligible for further concessions, the party must fulfill certain criteria, including securing at least 1% of the total valid votes polled in the state during the previous election. Unfortunately for the VCK, they did not meet this requirement in the elections they contested.

 

Previously, during simultaneous general elections to the legislative assemblies of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, the party had been allotted the ring symbol as its common emblem. Similarly, in the 2019 general elections, the VCK was allocated the pot and stool symbols in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

However, due to the party’s failure to meet the minimum vote threshold of 1% in the states where they contested, the Commission rejected their request for the allocation of a common symbol for the upcoming general elections in 2024 in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala.

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Incumbent South Chennai DMK MP Tamizhachi Thangapandian Turned Away By Residents Over Neglect And Disarray Of Their Homes

By
The Commune
-

In South Chennai, a competitive race unfolds as BJP’s Tamilisai Soundararajan, AIADMK’s candidate Dr. J Jayavarthan, and the incumbent South Chennai MP Thamizhachi Thangapandian of the DMK contest against each other. The South Chennai Parliamentary Constituency comprises six constituencies: Virugambakkam, Saidapet, Thiagaraya Nagar, Mylapore, Velachery, and Sholinganallur. With the nomination process concluded, they have all embarked on roadshows across South Chennai, engaging with constituents, and garnering support for the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Against this backdrop, Thamizhachi Thangapandian, vying for her second term from the DMK in the South Chennai constituency, faced a challenging situation. A commotion erupted in Mylapore as the public expressed their grievances, alleging that the MP was only visible during elections and remained oblivious to ongoing issues otherwise. The campaign vehicle of Thamizhachi Thangapandian on her 2nd day campaign was obstructed by agitated residents who bombarded her with questions. They accused her of neglecting the damaged Bharathidasan Nagar Housing Board despite assurances to rectify the situation over an extended period. Residents voiced their frustration, shouting, “Go, come next time, go away now,” while women questioned if her visits were merely to ascertain their well-being. Others angrily pointed out the significance of their votes, emphasizing the MP’s self-serving motives and questioning who suffered the consequences. The demand for the prompt repair of the damaged housing board intensified, causing a stir that prompted the MP to alter her course.

The housing units in Bharathidasan Nagar Housing Board were built over 50 years ago, and their present condition is in an extremely bad shape. The ceilings show significant wear and tear, with exposed cement and iron grills visible. The stairs are broken, and there are holes present in it. Residents recount an incident where a balcony collapsed, resulting in one resident losing three fingers. Similar concerns extend to the interiors, where ceilings occasionally collapse, posing significant risks to residents’ safety. Another female resident expressed her frustration, stating, “You’re claiming you don’t need the votes from this constituency. Do you really think you’ll win?” Thamizhachi replied affirmatively and left. Residents pointed out the lack of access to clean drinking water and the issue of contaminated water affecting them. Another resident criticized the DMK government, highlighting their failure to fulfill promises such as the construction of new housing boards after demolishing existing ones. They expressed concerns about potential displacement and the financial burden of finding alternative accommodation, particularly for low-income daily wage earners.

Previously Thangapandian said that over the past five years, she has been actively sharing her activities and contributions to the constituency through social media. Many of the issues highlighted during this period have been addressed, although some minor concerns still persist. Thangapandian assured that these remaining issues would also be addressed promptly. The statement was made in the presence of Mylapore Assembly member D. Velu, representatives from alliance parties, and members of the DMK during the vote collection event.

It can be said that Chennai serves as a bastion for the DMK, as the party consistently emerges victorious in this region. The DMK alliance secured victory in all constituencies within the Chennai city during the 2021 assembly elections. And the commotion by the residents is seen a setback.

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“No, BJP Didn’t Win Because Of Alms Given By ADMK”: BJP’s SG Suryah Slams ADMK’s C.Ve Shanmugam With Data

By
The Commune
-

As the election draws closer, tensions between political parties have escalated, with party leaders resorting to rhetoric on their respective platforms. One notable instance occurred when former ADMK minister CV Shanmugam, addressing an their party candidate’s introductory meeting, lambasted the BJP for its failure to expand in Tamil Nadu. He attributed the BJP’s success of securing four MLA seats solely to the alliance with his party, dismissing the BJP’s independent growth in the state.

The Villupuram AIADMK organized an introductory meeting for their candidate for the Villupuram Parliamentary Constituency, Pakyaraj, at a private wedding hall in Villupuram. Former Minister CV Shanmugam chaired the meeting. Addressing the gathering and introducing the candidate, CV Shanmugam expressed concerns about the current state of affairs. He criticized the DMK government for neglecting the state’s welfare and accused the BJP government of disregarding the people’s needs. Shanmugam warned against the BJP’s ‘divisive politics’, suggesting that the country is approaching a critical juncture. He countered BJP’s slogan of “Modi again” with their own stance of “No Modi, No Modi,” citing potential threats to Indian democracy if the BJP were to come to power again. Shanmugam highlighted the challenges faced by businesses, alleging that government agencies like the CBI, Enforcement Department, and Income Tax Department target opposition to the BJP.

While lamenting the influence of BJP’s alliance parties in Tamil Nadu despite the BJP not yet holding power there. Shanmugam emphasized the importance of the upcoming election, noting the significance of AIADMK’s stance during this crucial period. He stated, “Is everyone in BJP, a Gandhi? Today, the BJP has not even come to power in Tamil Nadu. By our grace, with our ‘alms’, they got 4 MLAs. But what do you see everywhere in the news? All companies are being threatened and collected money from them. Even in Villupuram, because Annamalai is coming, did they leave out a shop or a businessman? They collected money from everyone.”

In swift retaliation to the derogatory remarks made about the Tamil Nadu BJP by former AIADMK minister CV Shanmugam, SG Suryah, the state secretary of the Tamil Nadu BJP, highlighted six constituencies from the 2021 elections where the alliance between the BJP and AIADMK contributed significantly to their victory margin. Additionally, he juxtaposed this with the BJP’s performance in the 2016 elections when the party contested alone, emphasizing the impact of the BJP on electoral outcomes.

For instance, let’s consider the Kavundampalayam constituency in Coimbatore. In the 2016 elections, AIADMK secured victory with a a mere margin of 8,025 votes. However, if it had competed independently in the 2021 elections without the BJP alliance which had 8.4% vote share in 2016, AIADMK would have lost the MLA seat in this constituency. This scenario is applicable to the remaining five constituencies as well, as elucidated by SG Suruyah.

With a tone of utmost civility, SG Suyah conveyed through his official X handle directed towards CV Shanmugam that, “Minimum civility should be followed in politics Mr.@CVShanmugamofl. Alliance comes today, goes tomorrow. We can also call these 6 constituencies and many constituencies as ” ***ai” (Alms) given to BJP in 2021 elections. But, we won’t…”

Constituency 2021 (ADMK + BJP) Votes

Victory Margin (2021)

 BJP Votes (2016)
Coimbatore North 4,001 16,741
Kavundampalayam 9,776 22,444
Singanallur 10,854 16,605
Mettupalayam 2,456 11,036
Kinathukadavu 1,095 11,354
Pollachi 1,725 5,363

And also the victory of the four constituency suggests the following:

  • In Tirunelveli, the winner was Nainar Nagendran from BJP, securing 92,282 votes, which is 46.70% of the total votes with a margin of 23,107 votes.
  • In Nagercoil, the winner was M.R. Gandhi from BJP, receiving 88,804 votes, representing 48.21% of the total votes with a margin of 11,669 votes.
  • In Modakkurichi, the winner was Dr. C.K. Saraswathi from BJP, securing 78,125 votes, which accounts for 42.96% of the total votes.
  • In Coimbatore (South), the winner was Vanathi Srinivasan from BJP, receiving 53,209 votes, which represents 34.38% of the total votes.

Therefore, the BJP secured victory primarily due to its own effectiveness, say BJP supporters on social media.

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Polimer News Editor Velraj Confronts BDO Radha Over Negligence In Inspecting MLA’s DMK Flag-Bearing Car

By
The Commune
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Image Source: Polimer News

As India prepares for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections of 2024, the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) has been initiated following the announcement of voting dates on 16 March 2024 by the Election Commission of India (ECI). In an video/audio that has gone viral on social media with regard to the MCC, a journalist is heard confronting a Block Development Officer (BDO) who allegedly allowed MLA of Sankarankovil to pass without conducting any checks on his vehicle.

During a phone conversation on 26 March 2024, Polimer News editor Velraj confronted Electoral Flying Squad officer Radha, who was overseeing vehicle checks in the TN Pudhukudi area. Velraj questioned why Radha didn’t request the Sankarankovil MLA (E Raja) to remove the party flag from their car’s flagstaff. Radha explained that the MLA possessed a vehicle pass from the collector’s office, rendering such a request unnecessary, as confirmed by the collectorate. Velraj then inquired why Radha’s team hadn’t inspected the vehicle despite stopping it. Radha insisted that they had checked the car before allowing it to proceed. Velraj countered with evidence from video footage, asserting that Radha’s team had neglected to inspect the MLA’s car. He further questioned the rationale behind scrutinizing a government bus and its passengers, predominantly common citizens, rather than focusing on potential irregularities involving the MLA.

During their conversation, news editor Velraj questioned BDO Radha, “Why did you not ask to remove the flag from the MLA’s car?” Radha responded, “They have a vehicle pass for that, sir.” Velraj retorted, “If there is a vehicle pass, anyone can tie a flag?” Radha explained, “If collectorate conformed the pass, with the vehicle pass they have said that flag can be kept” Velraj pressed further, “Okay, why didn’t you check the car?” Radha insisted, “We did check the car, sir.” Velraj disagreed, stating, “No, you did not check the car. In the visuals, no one stepped out, the dickey wasn’t opened, none opened the door, and nothing was inspected.” Radha defended, “No sir, after seeing the MLA, after receiving it we sent them”  Velraj accused, “No, the MLA is giving you something like a chit, and you signed it before sending them.” Radha clarified, “I did not sign anything, it’s just the vehicle pass. I confirmed it with the collectorate and speaking to you.” Velraj persisted, “No no, getting a vehicle pass is different, if there is vehicle pass won’t they take the money in it? Who will carry the money for the elections?” Radha countered, “No sir, police have stopped the vehicle and checked”  Velraj disagreed, citing visuals as evidence, “You have not checked. Why didn’t you check the MLA’s vehicle? I need an explanation from you.” Radha promised, “Sir, the police is with me, I’ll speak to them and call you.” Velraj drew parallels, “You are stopping the government bus which is used by common people and check everyone’s bag, who will carry money for elections? Is it the MLA or the normal pubic? What is your answer? “

The news editor persisted, emphasizing that nobody had checked the vehicle and raising concerns about its contents, whether it was money or gifts. “I’m not the only one asking this; people are calling me, questioning how this could lead to a fair election,” the editor stated. A member of the public alleged that ₹5 crores were transported in the vehicle and complained that the official left without inspecting it. BDO Radha initially stated that the vehicle had been checked twice but later promised to call back.

On 26 March 2024, in Chennai alone, gold bars valued at ₹5.26 crore and ₹59.13 lakh were confiscated during raids conducted by the Election Flying Squad. It is disheartening that incidents like these, where MLA vehicles are not subjected to thorough checks, persist.

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NTK Candidate Reveals How A Sugar Factory Became A Liquor Manufacturing Plant Under The DMK Depriving Farmer Families Of Livelihood

By
The Commune
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Sugarcane farmers in Tamil Nadu, particularly in Thirumandangudi in Papanasam, have been embroiled in protests and demonstrations for several months due to unpaid dues and concerns over the conversion of “defunct” sugar mills into distilleries.

Speaking to a YouTube channel, Naam Tamilar Katchi’s Kaliammal revealed several facts which pointed to DMK MPs Kanimozhi and TR Baalu. Kaliammal revealed that a sit-in protest was initiated by sugarcane farmers on 30 November 2022 and it has crossed 480+ days in March 2024. The farmers accuse the state government of not fulfilling promises made regarding the recovery of dues from Thiru Arooran Sugars Limited, which fraudulently obtained loans in the name of farmers between 2016 and 2018.

The protesting farmers are advocating for the reopening of the nearby Thiru Arooran Sugars Ltd, a sugar factory that had ceased operations due to purported losses. The livelihoods of 10,000 to 15,000 families depended on the factory, with many having invested in it. Approximately ₹202 crores, owed to the farmers, remained inaccessible. However, the factory, valued at ₹1516 crores, was acquired for a mere ₹87 crores by Kanimozhi and TR Baalu of the DMK under the pretext of repaying the factory’s loans in installments.

Instead of reopening the sugar factory, NTK’s Kaliammal alleges that Kanimozhi and TR Baalu converted it into a liquor manufacturing plant. Although officially designated as a sugar factory on paper, access for inspection has been restricted. Despite numerous petitions, no action has been taken.

Despite assurances from the state agriculture department, including the provision of no objection certificates (NOC) from banks and appealing against the National Company Law Tribunal’s decision for full payment of dues, progress has been lacking. It is noteworthy that the locality has been designated as a Protected Agricultural Zone.

Concerns have been raised over the adverse impact of setting up a distillery in the agriculturally rich Cauvery delta area, potentially jeopardizing agricultural operations and the local economy.
The situation has garnered significant attention, with large-scale rallies and demonstrations organized in solidarity with the protesting farmers.

One must also remember how DMK’s Kanimozhi waxed eloquently about the impact of liquor and TASMAC on families and that it left many a young woman widowed in Tamil Nadu. She has often promised to close down TASMAC.

She also promised that the first signature that the DMK will put when it comes to power would be to eradicate liquor and TASMAC from the state.

However, she also does double speak stating that DMK never promised to close down TASMAC completely.

Overall, the plight of sugarcane farmers in Tamil Nadu reflects broader issues surrounding agricultural practices, debt burdens, and industrial conversions in rural areas. Despite assurances and protests, concrete action from government authorities remains elusive, leaving farmers in a state of uncertainty and financial distress. As the protests persist and calls for intervention grow louder, the fate of these farmers and the future of agricultural livelihoods in the region hang in the balance.

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TheCommune
The Commune is a news and views portal focusing on social and political issues of the southern part of India with a focus on Tamil Nadu.
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