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Dravidian Model HR&CE Removes Sacred Thiruneer (Ash) From Sage Vallalar’s Forehead

By
The Commune
-

The dissemination of false information throughout history is not a novel tactic for the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam government in Tamil Nadu. Even in the contemporary era, when confronted, they persist in employing this strategy, particularly targeting Hindu Dharma, despite proclaiming themselves as secularists and atheists on numerous occasions. Presently, the narrative surrounding the portrayal of Ramalinga Adigalar, commonly known as Vallalar, a staunch believer in Shaivism who composed many songs dedicated to Lord Murugan and Shiva, has sparked controversy. The Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowment Department’s depiction of Vallalar without “Vibuthi” or Thiruneer or sacred ash has stirred a significant uproar on social media.

Netizens quoted his Nenjararivuruthal poem where he advises his own mind to not be associated with those who don’t wear Neeru (sacred ash) everyday. They also likened it to the instance of secularising Thiruvalluvar.

Vallalar’s Life – A Divine Journey Of Enlightenment And Compassion

Vallalar, also known as Ramalinga Adigalar, was a 19th-century Tamil saint and philosopher who played a significant role in the Bhakti movement in South India. Born on 5 October 1823, in Marudur, Chidambaram, Vallalar dedicated his life to spiritual pursuits and the service of humanity. He was a devoted follower of Lord Murugan and Lord Shiva.

Ramalingam’s spiritual journey began at a young age, marked by divine experiences that shaped his profound connection with the divine. At just five months old, his joyous reaction during a temple ritual at Chidambaram Natarājar Temple was perceived by him as a deep spiritual encounter, describing the moment as the revelation of the Divine Light of Grace (Arut Perum Jodhi). Following his father’s death in 1824, Ramalingam and his mother moved to Chennai, where he displayed disinterest in formal education but developed a deep affinity for the nearby Kandha Kottam Kandha Swāmi Temple. Despite facing disciplinary measures from his elder brother, Sabhapati, for neglecting his studies, Ramalingam’s spiritual inclinations grew stronger. In a remarkable experience, Ramalingam witnessed a vision of Lord Muruga, describing the divine manifestation with the words, “Six divine faces adorned with beauty and twelve illustrious shoulders.”

His intellectual and spiritual growth accelerated, and at the age of thirteen, he renounced the worldly life. Despite being forced into marriage, legends recount his disinterest in material pursuits, with his focus on spiritual practices and devotion. His later life was characterized by a reputed “physical transformation,” as he seemingly transcended ordinary bodily needs.

Vallalar is renowned for his extensive writings, including philosophical poems and devotional hymns. His most famous work is the “Tiruvarutpa,” a collection of poems expressing his deep spiritual insights and devotion to the divine.  Additionally, he crafted the Veeraraghva Panchakam, a poetic composition dedicated to Veeraraghava Perumal situated in Tiruvallur. Among his other notable works is the Manumurai Kanda Vāsagam, providing insights into the life of Manu Needhi Cholan, and the Jeeva Karunya Ozhukkam, which underscores compassion for all living beings and advocates for a plant-based diet.

Vallalar imparted various life principles and a philosophy of life to people. One of Vallalar’s notable contributions was the establishment of the “Samarasa Suddha Sanmarga Sathiya Sangam,” an organization promoting religious tolerance, equality, and humanitarian values. He advocated for the eradication of caste distinctions and encouraged people to see the divine in every being. His Famous sayings “Whenever I saw a withered crop, I withered..!” and advocated vegetarianism and providing free food to the needy.

His teachings and contributions continue to inspire followers, and his memorial, known as the Vallalar’s Samadhi, in Vadalur, Tamil Nadu, serves as a place of pilgrimage for those seeking spiritual solace.

The revered Tamil saint, known for his profound devotion, has faced disrespect as the HR&CE department led by DMK intentionally erased the sacred ash from his forehead. Even the authentic photographs displayed at his mutt depict him adorned with full vibuthi, emanating a divine and radiant aura.

https://twitter.com/StardustRooba/status/1761488072288637305

In films inspired by the verses and songs of Vallalar, actors often portray characters adorned with sacred ash (Vibuthi) on their foreheads. As an illustration, consider a scene from the movie “Kaithi” where the protagonist engages in the recitation of Vallalar’s Thiruvarutpa, chanting praises to Lord Shiva.

“Even if a child forgets its mother
Even if the mother forgets the child
Even if the soul forgets the body
Even if the body forgets the soul
Even if the mind forgets whatever is learnt
Even if the eyes forget to blink
Never shall I forget ever the divine Nama Shivaya which blazes from the heart of the Tapaswis (those in lofty penance).” ( திருஅருட்பா – பெற்ற தாய் தனை மக மறந்தாலும்)

In the film “Monster,” SJ Suryah portrays the character Anjanam Azhagiya Pillai, who has been a devout follower of Vallalar since his early years. This deep-rooted connection with spirituality has instilled in him a profound respect for all living beings. Below are the representations from the movie.

In the poem “Nenjararivuruthal” (Guidance to the Heart), Vallalar counsels his own mind states, “Oh heart, refrain from forming connections with those who do not adorn themselves regularly with Thiruveneeru (Sacred Ash). Don’t be mesmerized by those who talk to you. Avoid relationships with those who argue with you. Refrain from associating with who criticize Shaivism, Thiruveneeru, and those who engage in debates questioning the existence of the true God.”

Image

(Credits: Tamil Labs 2.0)

Devotees in many households have revered images of this saint, depicting him with divine grace and a sacred vibuthi/thiruneer/ash mark on his forehead. However, there is widespread speculation on social media regarding a narrative promoted by the HR&CE department. This narrative draws parallels with their alleged actions against Thiruvalluvar, stripping him of his Hindu identity. Now, concerns are raised that the DMK government is poised to target Vallalar Ramalingarnar in a similar manner.

Secularizing Attempt On Thiruvalluvar

Thiruvalluvar, a revered Tamil saint and poet, has similarly faced ongoing attempts to secularize and obscure his original Hindu identity. Political agendas particularly DMK have promoted incomplete artistic representations in the guise of secularism. However, a closer examination of the words used in his couplets reveals his deep-rooted connection to Hinduism. Thiruvalluvar’s true identity has been intentionally concealed, with political parties fostering distorted depictions to distance him from Hindu traditions.

There are even claims from within a political party that the construction of the sizable Thiruvalluvar statue in Kaniyakumari was a deliberate attempt to overshadow the Swami Vivekananda Memorial, a significant symbol of Santana Dharma. Thiruvalluvar’s genuine identity came to light through a 14th-century statue discovered in Mylapore, exposing various distortions in modern representations, such as covering the yagnopaveetham (sacred thread) with cloth, replacing chin-mudra (upadesa mudra) with an instrument for writing on palm leaves, modifying the pleating of his hair, and elongating his ear holes due to the persistent wearing of earrings.

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Displeased By Sister’s Inter-Caste Marriage, Dalit Youth Stabbed To Death In Chennai By 5

By
The Commune
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The Tamil community is disturbed frequently by the ruthless acts of violence carried out in the name of honour and caste. Despite Tamil Nadu being celebrated by Dravidianists as a champion of social justice with special provisions for inter-caste marriages, there is a disturbing recurrence of such incidents in the state. A recent tragic event unfolded in Pallikaranai, where a youth from a Dalit community was brutally murdered in the capital city, Chennai, right in the middle of the road.

Praveen, a 26-year-old resident of Pallikaranai, developed a romantic relationship with Sharmi from Jalladayampet over the past four months. Despite lacking her family’s approval, Praveen took the bold step of marrying Sharmi. This decision fueled anger within Sharmi’s family, particularly her brother Dinesh, who harbored intentions of revenge.

In a tragic turn of events, Dinesh and three accomplices ambushed Praveen near the Jolly Bay TASMAC bar in Pallikaranai, Chennai, around 9PM on 24 February 2024. They mercilessly hacked him, leading to severe injuries. Prompt action from neighbors resulted in Praveen being rushed  to Crompet Government Hospital in an ambulance. Regrettably, the medical examination at the hospital confirmed his demise during transit.

Upon receiving information about the incident, the Pallikaran police swiftly arrived at the scene to initiate an investigation. Preliminary findings disclosed that the victim was Praveen, a 26-year-old resident of Ambedkar Street, Pallikaranai. Subsequent inquiries by the police unveiled more details about the incident.

Initial police investigations suggest a premeditated attack near the TASMAC bar, where Dinesh, the elder brother, inflicted fatal injuries on Praveen using a knife. Motivated by Praveen’s marriage to Sharmi without her parents’ consent, Dinesh allegedly executed the gruesome act as an act of retribution.

After the murder case was officially registered, the police actively pursued the fugitives and successfully apprehended four individuals, including Dinesh, the woman’s brother, who have all been taken into custody for their roles in the crime. A dedicated team, led by the Police Inspector of Pallikaranai, has been assembled to thoroughly investigate the incident, with ongoing efforts to ascertain if additional individuals were involved.

Recently Reported Honour Killings In Tamil Nadu

On 3 January 2023, a tragic incident unfolded as 19-year-old Ishwarya fell victim to a horrifying honour killing. Shockingly, she was tragically burned to death by her own family for marrying Naveen, a 19-year-old Dalit, on 31 December 2023, with the support of friends in Tirupur. The subsequent police investigation resulted in the arrest of Ishwarya’s father and four other relatives implicated in this appalling act.

https://twitter.com/ItsyourMB/status/1744640244287463892

In a case of honour killing, a man reportedly murdered his mother and son allegedly due to a disagreement over his son marrying a woman from the Scheduled Caste community against his wishes in Krishnagiri district of Tamil Nadu in April 2023.

In October 2021, a 24-year-old Dalit individual, Prabhakaran, succumbed to fatal stab wounds inflicted by the father of a 17-year-old girl with whom he was romantically involved in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu.

The recent tragic incident in Tamil Nadu involving an honour killing underscores the absence of dedicated laws to address such atrocities, emphasizing the persistent challenges faced by inter-caste marriages. This case of honour killing in a bustling area of Chennai, has gained substantial public attention. In Tamil Nadu, inter-caste marriages most of ten encounter opposition from parents, relatives, and influential members of society, resulting in cruel acts without hesitation. The prevailing societal norm still largely rejects love marriages, contributing to instances of caste-agnostic killings targeting couples from different caste strata who engage in such unions. Despite the claims of establishing social justice by the Dravidian ideologues over the past decades, honour killings continue to occur in Tamil Nadu.

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TN Film Producer Jaffer Sadiq Who Was Seen “Donating” Money During Michaung Cyclone On The Run In ₹2,000 Crore Drug Racket

By
The Commune
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A Tamil film producer seems to have orchestrated a drug racket that amassed nearly ₹2,000 crore within three years, according to officials from the Narcotics Control Bureau. Customs authorities in New Zealand and Australian police alerted Indian agencies to large quantities of pseudoephedrine, a crucial component in methamphetamine production, being concealed in desiccated coconut powder or health mixes.

Methamphetamine, also known as meth or crystal meth, commands a high price worldwide, fetching around ₹1.5 crore per kg in Australia and New Zealand.

Following information from the US Drug Enforcement Administration linking the shipments to Delhi, a collaborative effort between the Delhi police special cell and the NCB was initiated. After four months of rigorous technical and field surveillance, it was discovered that the operatives were back in Delhi attempting to dispatch another consignment to Australia, as stated by Gyaneshwar Singh, Deputy Director General of the NCB.

Surveillance efforts led the authorities to a warehouse in West Delhi’s Basai Darapur, where gang members were apprehended trying to conceal pseudoephedrine in a multigrain food mix for smuggling. Three gang members were arrested, and 50 kg of the drug was confiscated.

Further investigation revealed that the gang, hailing from Tamil Nadu, had dispatched 45 consignments over three years, totaling 3,500 kg of pseudoephedrine valued at over ₹2,000 crore in the international market. The alleged mastermind, a Tamil film producer named Jaffer Sadiq, is currently on the run, prompting intensive efforts for his apprehension to trace the source of the pseudoephedrine, according to an official.

The NCB has also coordinated with authorities in New Zealand and Australia to apprehend individuals who received the shipments in those countries.

Who Is Jaffer Sadiq?

Jaffer Sadiq, the Tamil film producer on the run in the narcotics case, produced a film called Mangai under the JSM Pictures banner. The film Mangai’s song was released by Udhayanidhi Stalin’s wife Kiruthiga Udhayanidhi.

https://twitter.com/EURONGREYJOY007/status/1761634568157999505

It is noteworthy to recollect that Jaffer Sadiq along with actor/director Ameer met Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin and “donated” 10 lakhs on 17 December 2023 towards Chief Minister’s Relief Fund in the aftermath of the Michaung cyclone in Chennai. Jaffer Sadiq also met TN Minister of Youth Welfare and Sports Development, Udhayanidhi Stalin, and “donated” 2 lakhs towards the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund for Michaung Cyclone. 

Udhayanidhi Stalin also acknowledged this donation and shared a post which has now been deleted. Udhayanidhi, in that post, wrote, “In all areas affected by heavy rains, rescue work and relief assistance are being provided in a systematic manner. In order to join hands with the government in this work, the district deputy organizer of the Chennai West district neighborhood team brother A.R. Zafar Sadiq handed over a check of Rs.2 lakh to us today for the “Chief Minister’s General Relief Fund”. My love and gratitude to him. @nchitrarasu”

The same Jaffer Sadiq is the Deputy Organizer of the Chennai West District Neighborhood Team as well as a part of the DMK NRI Wing as seen from his X bio. 

Jaffer Sadiq has been seen with several MLAs and MPs belonging to the DMK. Here are a few:

https://twitter.com/SaffronSurge3/status/1761672732830539902

 

 

Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party President K Annamalai shared a post in this regard. He summarised the situation and pointed out how close Jaffer Sadiq was with members of the DMK as well as other politicians. He wrote, “In Delhi, a gang trying to smuggle drugs worth around Rs 2,000 crore has been arrested by the Anti-Narcotics Unit. In the investigation, it has been revealed that these people are from Tamil Nadu and the leader of this gang is Zafar Sadiq, deputy organizer of DMK’s Chennai West district district team, and his brother, Central Chennai Regional Deputy Secretary of the Liberation Tigers of India, Mohammad Salim and Mydeen are his assistants. It has come to light that they may have sent around 3,500 kg of narcotics abroad 45 times in the last three years and have earned thousands of crores of rupees from them.

Zafar Sadiq, Deputy Organizer of DMK’s Chennai West District District Team, who is wanted by Narcotics Control Unit officials, has used this money to produce Tamil films, and the photos of Tamil Nadu Government’s relief fund to Chief Minister Stalin and Minister Udhayanidhi of lakhs of money received from drug trafficking. Photos of him with Shekharbabu and photos of another wanted person, Central Chennai Regional Deputy Secretary of the Liberation Tigers of India, Mohammad Salim, who has given party funds to Vishika leader Thirumavalavan, have surfaced on social media. Also, photos of her in close contact with many directors and actors in the Tamil film industry have also surfaced. Ever since the DMK came to power, the DMK government has repeatedly urged the government to take strict action on behalf of  BJP4Tamilnadu that there is a lot of drug traffic in Tamil Nadu, the influence of drugs has spread even to school students, and the media reports that drugs are widely available in Tamil Nadu. Nothing seems to have been taken. At present, the fact that one person who is in a key position in the DMK has been involved in drug smuggling from Chennai for all these years has raised serious doubts. To avoid further strengthening of these suspicions and bearing in mind that drug trafficking is a war waged on our country, I request on behalf of BJP4Tamilnadu that the Tamil Nadu government immediately identify all those involved in drug trafficking and take strict action.”

The police are also on the lookout for Iraivan Miga Periyavan actor Moideen and one person named Saleem.

Following the news, a note started circulating on social media which stated that disciplinary action was being initiated against Jaffer Sadiq.

Permanent expulsion from the Corporation Deputy Organizer of Chennai West district Neighborhood Team A. Jafar Sadiq has been permanently dismissed from all responsibilities including basic membership as he has violated the organization’s control and brought disrepute to the organization. Members of the association are not allowed to have any contact with him.

(with inputs from NDTV)

 

Supreme Court Questions DMK Govt Over Filing Writ Petition Challenging ED Summonses To District Collectors In Alleged Sand Mining Case

By
The Commune
-

The Supreme Court raised questions regarding the state government’s decision to seek a stay on summons from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) from the Madras High Court on 23 February 2024. The court noted that the ED was justified in issuing summons to five district collectors of Tamil Nadu in relation to a money laundering case associated with an alleged illegal sand mining case. The court has set a date for further consideration of the matter on 26 February 2024.

The Supreme Court reviewed the ED’s plea challenging a high court order on 28 November 2023, that had temporarily halted the enforcement of summons issued to five district collectors. Justices Bela M Trivedi and Pankaj Mithal presided over the hearing of a special leave petition filed by the ED questioned, “How can the state file this writ petition? Under which law…You satisfy us on how state is interested and how it can file this writ petition against the Enforcement Directorate. How is the state aggrieved? We’ll stay this order.”

Senior advocate Mukul Rohtagi, representing the state government, informed the court that there is no legal prohibition preventing the state from approaching the high court. Assisting him, TN additional advocate general Amit Anand Tiwari highlighted that in the five petitions where the high court issued a common interim order, the collectors of Vellore, Trichy, Karur, Thanjavur, and Ariyalur districts were co-petitioners.

The presiding judges stated, “These offenses fall under the category of scheduled offenses as per the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has the authority to conduct investigations, given that Section 50 of PMLA allows for a preliminary inquiry. Are the district collectors not obligated to collaborate with the investigative agency?”

Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, representing the Enforcement Directorate (ED), informed the court that the recent decision is impeding the ongoing investigation and requested a stay on the High Court order. As Rohatgi sought an extension to submit a response, the court scheduled the matter for Monday. Rohatgi asked for time to provide a reply, stating, “The ED lacks jurisdiction in this case. These issues pertain to federalism, and the state has the right to raise objections.” The Court, without issuing notice on the ED plea, set the matter for Monday to allow an initial response from the state.

Context

The Enforcement Directorate initiated proceedings based on four FIRs in Tamil Nadu related to violations under the Prevention of Corruption Act and other sections of the Indian Penal Code. Following a scientific study conducted by ED using an expert team, it was asserted that the value of sand mining in Tamil Nadu amounted to ₹4,730 crores, significantly higher than the recorded revenue of ₹36.45 crores according to state records.

In a bid to expose the alleged collaboration between state officials and local entities, the Enforcement Directorate  carried out raids at 34 locations across diverse districts. These operations led to the confiscation of cash, incriminating documents, and digital devices. Unaccounted property documents worth crores of rupees were discovered in the residences of individuals such as businessman Pudukottai Ramachandran, Dindigul Ratnam, Karikalan, and Water Resources officials, acting as wholesale agents for sand quarries. Seizures reportedly included ₹12.82 crore in cash and gold jewelry weighing 1,24 grams valued at ₹56.86 lakh.

In response to these events, the Chief Engineer of the Tamil Nadu Government’s Water Resources Department, Muthiah, personally presented documents and provided an explanation at the Enforcement Department office in Nungambakkam.

Following the raids, district collectors were summoned on November 17 under section 50 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). A legal challenge against these summons was filed in the Madras High Court by the Public Works department Secretary, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Water Resources Department, and the respective District Collectors. The High Court, granting an interim stay on the Enforcement Department’s summons, expressed the opinion that the inquiry seemed to exceed the ED’s jurisdiction. It suggested that the summons might be an attempt to investigate potential proceeds of crime related to activities not yet registered by state agencies.

In reaction to the High Court’s decision, an appeal was filed in the Supreme Court on behalf of the Enforcement Directorate challenging the High Court’s order. The state government contended in its petitions that the ED lacked jurisdiction to investigate without state consent, asserting the action as unlawful due to violations of constitutional principles of federalism and the separation of powers. The state maintained that any ED investigation without state consent or constitutional court direction was impermissible.

Allegations of Illegal Sand Mining in Tamil Nadu

Arappor Iyakkam, an anti-corruption NGO, has recently raised serious allegations concerning a significant scandal in Tirunelveli on 22 February 2024. The accusations specifically target DMK MP S Gnanathiraviyam, implicating him in corruption charges related to the illicit mining of rough stone and gravel. The NGO asserts that the corruption scandal has resulted in an estimated government loss exceeding ₹700 Crores, primarily concentrated in the districts of Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, and Tirupur. Arappor Iyakkam has taken formal action by filing a complaint with the Director of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) in Chennai.

On 25  April 2023, Lourth Francis, a 55-year-old Village Administrative Officer (VAO), met a tragic end when he was ruthlessly attacked and killed within the premises of his office in Murapanadu, Thoothukudi. The assailants, believed to be linked to the sand mafia, targeted Francis, ostensibly due to his efforts in bringing attention to illicit sand mining activities by raising concerns with the district administration and the police in the region.

(with in[its from Hindustan Times)

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Annamalai Fact-Checks DMK Govt’s “Fact Checking Unit” On Village Road Schemes

By
The Commune
-

Once again, the so-called Fact-Checking Unit (FCU) of the DMK government has found itself peddling half-truth in order to peddle propaganda.

The current controversy centers on conflicting assertions concerning the originality of village road schemes implemented by both the central and state governments.

The spotlight is now on the DMK government’s Fact Checking Unit, led by Dravidian propagandist Iyan Karthikeyan, recognized for spreading misinformation favoring the DMK. Tamil Nadu BJP chief Annamalai has exposed them, detailing the schemes and highlighting discrepancies. He has not only caught them red-handed but has also raised questions about the inconsistencies in the scheme, urging the release of a white paper.

The TN Fact Checking Unit through its official X handle buttressing DMK refuted the assertion made by BJP leader Annamalai regarding the Muthalamaichar Grama Sallai Menbaatu Thittam (MGSMT), dismissing it as mere speculation. According to the Fact Checking Unit  Annamalai alleged that the State Government had simply rebranded the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) of the Central Government, presenting it as a new initiative named MGSMT.

Unit explianed the MGSMT scheme aims to establish well-constructed roads for village connectivity and execute road development projects in rural areas. It operates solely on state funds, in contrast to the PMGSY, which links villages along roads housing essential facilities like hospitals, colleges, and institutions. The PMGSY specifically focuses on upgrading hill village roads to tar roads, with funding allocated at a ratio of 60% from the central government and 40% from the state government. Therefore, the Union Government’s PMGSY and the State Government’s MGSMT schemes are distinct initiatives.

Discovering this amusing, Tamil Nadu BJP Chief Annamalai issued a statement through his official X handle expressed, “The fact (?) checking unit of the Tamil Nadu government has given a rare explanation in the name of the difference between the rural roads plan of the Prime Minister and the said rural roads plan of the Tamil Nadu government.”

“The Prime Minister’s Rural Roads Scheme was introduced in the year 2000 by the then Prime Minister of India, Bharat Ratna Vajpayee. Under this scheme, which provides tar road facilities to hamlets and hill villages, in the last nine years, ₹5,837 crore has been spent in Tamil Nadu. However, in the districts of Tiruvannamalai, Vellore and Tirupur, there is still a dire situation in Tamil Nadu where dolly are carried for medical treatment in hilly villages without road facilities. If that is the case, it is clear from this that the DMK, which was in power in the Congress alliance for ten years between 2004-2014 at the center, did nothing for the villages of Tamil Nadu.” He said

“The Chief Minister’s Village Roads Project announced by the DMK was announced only in 2023.  Is DMK’s fact-checking unit says that road facilities were not constructed till then in Tamilnadu villages? If road facilities were constructed in the villages before then, with what funds were they carried out? Central government funding or state government funding? Is the Central Government providing funds to Gram Panchayats ? Or the state government?” He questioned

“Apart from this, according to the DMK Government’s Order No. 34 issued on 18.03.2023, under the Chief Minister’s Village Roads Scheme, ₹2,300 crore has been allocated for the year 2022-2023. But, real spending is “zero”. If DMK’s fact-finding unit says this too is wrong, then it should publish a white report on the expenditure of ₹2,300 crore last year.” He demanded

“Why are we asking for a white report? There is a doubt among the public that you have declared the Chief Minister’s Village Roads scheme by name, allocated funds, and are accounting for the works implemented under the funds of the Prime Minister’s Rural Roads Project. Therefore, the DMK government must release a white paper on the ₹2,300 crore allocated for the CM’s rural roads scheme last year.” He further said

“Above all, in the last nine years, the amount of funds given directly to the Gram Panchayats by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Mr.@narendramodi is ₹19,936 crores. The DMK government has asked the panchayats in Tamil Nadu to add all the remaining funds to the treasury of the Tamil Nadu government. It is in this fund that nominally the schemes are announced to the villages. I mentioned this last February 7 while speaking in Arakkonam parliamentary constituency. Will DMK’s fact-finding unit come forward to refute this with evidence?” he further questioned

“If the welfare programs implemented by the central government led by our honorable Prime Minister of India, Mr.@narendramodi, are made available to the public without corruption, bribery, or commission, all the people of Tamil Nadu will benefit. Those who know DMK’s sixty-year history know very well what the purpose of changing the name of the project is, as if wearing a disguise.” He finally said

Netizens discovered the post by the TN Fact-Checking Unit to be sarcastic and proceeded to mock the unit chief D-Stock Iyan Karthikeyan for supporting the DMK blindly . They shared authentic images featuring central government schemes such as Jal Jeevan Mission stickered by DMK, some of which are provided below.

 

Previous Instances Of DMK & its Govt Agencies Peddling Misinformation

Previously on 24 January 2024, The official Tamil Nadu BJP handle released a video alleging severe food shortages at the MGR Stadium in Madurai, claiming athletes were provided only a chapati and a half-boiled egg. Athletes and coaches raised concerns about the inadequate food portions, with reports indicating a private contractor managing the food arrangements. The district administration, including Collector Sangeetha, intervened, assuring prompt resolution of the issues within a day. DMK MP Venkatesan emphasized the potential harm to Tamil Nadu’s reputation, and the official fact-check team of the state government refuted the claims, labeling them as fake news.

On 15 January 2024, A statement from the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) acknowledged inaccuracies in historical details related to E.V. Ramasamy (EVR), known as ‘Periyar.’ The errors included the claim that Periyar visited Anna University on 16 July 1920 instead of the correct date, 16 July 1970. Additionally, discrepancies were found in stating Periyar’s birthday as 17 September 1879, a Wednesday, whereas computer-generated information in the statement indicated a Saturday. The release also falsely attributed a quote about cell phones to Periyar, whereas it was originally made by the renowned scientist and inventor Nikola Tesla.

On 12 December 2023, The Chief Minister initially praised writer Rajasekaran Devibharathi on social media for winning the Sahitya Akademi Award. However, the celebration was short-lived when it became apparent that the Sahitya Akademi had not yet announced any awards. Consequently, the Chief Minister promptly deleted the post.

In November 2023, when allegations of Aavin reducing fat content in the green packet milk surfaced, instead of proving that the milk contained a specific amount of fat as claimed or other details that pertained to the topic of discussion, the FCU’s Mission Director ended up fact-checking the “container” in which the sample was received.

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Three Time Tamil Nadu Congress MLA Vijayadharani Joins BJP

By
The Commune
-

Tamil Nadu Congress MLA S Vijayadharani has officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the party headquarters in New Delhi on 24 February 2024. The event took place in the presence of Union Minister of State L Murugan, BJP incharge for Tamil Nadu Arvind Menon, and the party’s coincharge for the state, Ponguleti Sudhakar Reddy.

Vijayadharani is a three-time legislator from the Vilavancode Assembly constituency in Tamil Nadu’s Kanyakumari  District since 2011. She had earlier in the day resigned from the primary membership of Congress and shared her resignation letter addressed to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on her official microblogging X platform stated, “I hereby tender my resignation from the party’s primary membership and related posts held by me in the party for personal reasons. Kindly accept the same.”

During the press conference held at the BJP party’s headquarters in Delhi, she expressed to the reporters, “I was in the Indian National Congress for several years from my childhood I have never shifted party all my life and this is the first time I’ve taken decision to shift my party for various reasons, I might have some difficulties definitely. You will be knowing about all those but past is past. Now I really feel that under the leadership of our Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi, lot of great things are happening to our country internationally. Our country is in such high profile and very important is the people of the country also are quite happy of various schemes of the present government. Particularly I’m really sometimes worried that good schemes of Government of India, presently now like the ration scheme and certain other schemes are not being … promoted or even considered in states like Tamilnadu, West Bengal. In these states they are not being accepted at all. Because of that people are being denied of some good. So such things have to be definitely considered by such states, our states. So it needs a strong persuasion in such states that national party particularly Bharatiya Janata Party should be more strengthened”

When discussing Tamil Nadu, she remarked, “Now presently our state leader and president Annamalai is doing great job and he is doing his Padayatra and particularly there is going to be a real transformation of the party in Tamilnadu and i will also joining them in the process to strengthen the party and particularly I strongly feel that the women need more focus, that is been given by the Bharatiya Janata Party, that I really appreciate. More number more number of MP’s are there and more number of MLA’s  are there in the elective process the Bharatiya Janata Party encourages women into the process beyond bringing the women reservation bill and enacting it in the Parliament and more so they will also be implementing it shortly that’s what prime ministers has stated. Now I strongly feel that women leaders are more important to the country and in states like Tamilnadu definitely women leaders are to be considered the welfare of women so therefore the promotion of Bharatiya Janata Party of people like us into the party system,I am overwhelmingly happy about it and I accept and to work within the party with utmost loyalty. I strongly feel I am a person of loyalty and now it’s time that the leadership of Modi is very important to this country. So hence code under the under the leadership of Modi and the presence in the presence of our minister and the party president in Nadda I strongly feel that people like me can to work in our state and will be definitely of some use to the people of the country.”

 

This move is considered a setback for the Congress party ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, expected to be held in April-May this year adding to BJP’s strengthen and boosting its presence in Tamilnadu..

Vijayadharani, a prominent figure in the Tamil Nadu Congress, had been elected as an MLA in 2021 from Vilavancode constituency where the BJP holds a significant presence. Speculations about her switching parties had been circulating, reportedly due to internal differences within the Congress. There were alleged concerns regarding her relationship for past days and with senior leader Selvaperunthagai elevated to the position of Tamil Nadu Congress president.

The Tamil Nadu BJP President, K Annamalai, officially extended a warm welcome to MLA S Vijayadharani through his official handle. He expressed that, “Smt@VijayadharaniM avl, Congress MLA of Vilavancode assembly constituency, much inspired by the able leadership of our beloved PM Thiru @narendramodi avl joined the Bharatiya Janata Party today in the presence of Hon MoS Thiru @Murugan_MoS avl, @BJP4TamilNadu Parliament Election Incharge Thiru @MenonArvindBJP avl & Co-incharge Thiru @ReddySudhakar21 avl. On behalf of @BJP4TamilNadu , we warmly welcome Smt @VijayadharaniM avl. Her presence would strengthen the path of TN BJP in realising the political change in Tamil Nadu”

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Worms Found In Aavin Delite Milk In Thoothukudi, Leaves Homemakers Shocked

By
The Commune
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Owing to its low price and fairly good quality, Aavin milk has high patronage in Tamil Nadu. The brand offers 4 different variants depicted by the colour of the milk packets viz Orange, Green, Purple, Blue, etc.

In a shocking incident in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, consumers found worms floating in the Delite (purple) variant in the milk packet of the brand. This has left homemakers in deep distress.

This instance is said to have occurred in Lourdusamy, who hails from Kangankulam village, Kovilpatti in the Thoothukudi district, home. As usual, he bought a packet of Aavin Delite milk from the local outlet. When his wife poured the contents into a vessel to boil, they found a worm floating in the milk. They recorded it as a video and shared it among their social media circles.

Lourdusamy’s wife Kavita says, “We lost interest in consuming milk now. So many poor people are using this brand. How can they drink it if the quality is such?” She also added that they have been consuming Aavin milk for the past 15 years and there was no issue so far with the milk. But the occurrence of worms had been seen for the past 3-4 days in the milk. She also added that her son suffered from stomach ache which they had assumed to be because of contaminated water but it turned out to be because of the worms in the milk.

She further said, “Since the price is less, several strata of the society consume this milk – be it elders, young ones, or anyone else. If it is like this, how can we buy milk again? I request the TN government to provide us with good quality milk.”

News Tamil 24×7 spoke to the General Manager of Aavin, Rajkumar, he refuted the claims that there were worms in the milk packet and said it was impossible that such a thing happened. He also said that the officials were analysing the milk packets and they did not find any such worms in the packets.

Rajkumar added that if the milk is not maintained at the proper temperature, it is possible that worms can be found. He also said that he did not receive any complaints in this regard from anyone else and that agents were providing fresh milk packets to the consumers.

The same Delite variant was in the news recently for the discrepancy in the fat content in the milk compared to that listed on the cover.

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Dalit Woman Faces Discrimination: Forced Off TNSTC Bus For Carrying Beef; Bus Drive & Conductor Suspended

By
The Commune
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Image Source: India Today

In a troubling incident that unfolded in Tamil Nadu, a Dalit woman named Panchalai faced blatant discrimination as she was allegedly forced off a Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) bus mid-journey for carrying beef.

Panchalai, a 59-year-old resident of Navalai village in Dharmapuri district, regularly travels from Harur to Krishnagiri to purchase meat for resale in her village. However, on this particular journey, the conductor objected to her carrying beef, leading to her forced disembarkation in an unsafe area.

This incident has sparked outrage, with Panchalai filing a complaint accusing the bus driver and conductor of caste-based discrimination.
The discrimination, as per Panchalai’s account, had been ongoing for the past six months, with the conductor allegedly harassing her repeatedly.

The victim, Paanjalai, recounted that the conductor, identified as Raghu, berated her for carrying beef daily on the bus. When Raghu blew the whistle, the driver turned off the bus in a forested area. The conductor, with the support of other passengers, declared that the bus wouldn’t move until she disembarked. Despite Panjalai’s pleas to be dropped off at the next bus stop, her requests were ignored, and she was forced off the bus in the Moppiripatty forest area. Struggling to walk with her load, she received a free ride from a private bus on the same route and then informed her family about the incident.

The incident came to light when Panchalai filed a complaint with the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation and local police, citing discrimination based on her caste.

The TNSTC responded promptly by suspending the bus driver, N Sasikumar, and the conductor, K Raghu, pending an inquiry into the matter. The suspension underlines the seriousness of the allegations and aims to ensure a thorough investigation into the conduct of the bus crew. The TNSTC emphasized that the crew had no authority to inspect the contents of passengers’ luggage without cause, highlighting a breach of protocol.

Local residents and Panchalai’s family confronted the bus crew later that evening, prompting officials to intervene and engage in discussions with the concerned parties. The Dharmapuri district police registered the case under the SC/ST Act.

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NGO Arappor Iyakkam Alleges Massive Mining Corruption Scandal In TN, Accuses DMK MP Gnanathiraviyam Of Scam

By
The Commune
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In a recent development in Tamil Nadu, Arappor Iyakkam, an anti-corruption NGO, has alleged a significant scandal in Tirunelveli. The allegations are directed at DMK Member of Parliament S Gnanathiraviyam, implicating him in corruption charges related to the illegal mining of rough stone and gravel. The NGO claimed an estimated loss to the government in this corruption surpassed ₹700 Crores primarily occurring in the district of Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, and one quarry in Tirupur.

In a letter addressed to the Director of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) in Chennai, the complaint exposes how individuals, including the former Commissioner of Geology and Mines, Jayakanthan IAS, 53 quarry owners, Tirunelveli MP Gnana Draviyam, SAV Group owner and DMK leader Graham Bell, and others associated with the ruling DMK party, have allegedly manipulated the acts and rules of the mining department to evade penalties for illegal mining. The NGO urged the DVAC to initiate an FIR against these individuals, accusing them of involvement in corrupt practices.

Rampant illegal mining in Tirunelveli district came to light following a tragic incident in May 2022 at a quarry in Adamithipankulam near Tharuvai Village, Palayamkottai Taluk. The incident resulted in the unfortunate death of four workers due to a landslide. Subsequent investigations brought to light several violations committed by the lessee, Sankaranarayanan. These included deviations from approved mining plans and environmental regulations. As a consequence of these infractions, quarrying operations at the site were promptly suspended. It is worth noting that the district had over 50 operational quarries, with a notable concentration in the Irukkanthurai panchayat of Radhapuram Taluk.

Following the incident, the then Director of Geology and Mines, Nirmalraj IAS, established six teams to scrutinize all quarries in Tirunelveli for potential violations. The inspection, conducted from 22 May 2022, and 27 May 2022, revealed illegal mining activities in 53 out of 54 stone quarries, involving quantities beyond permitted limits. Subsequently, the Sub Collector of Cheranmadevi imposed penalties on each quarry involved in illegal mining based on the inspection report. A total of ₹262 Crores was levied in penalties for violations identified in 24 quarries, as revealed through the Right to Information Act disclosed by the NGO.

Unexpectedly, after the inspection and submission of the report, Director Nirmal Raj was replaced, and Jayakanthan IAS took on the position of Commissioner in June 2022. At the same time, District Collector Vishnu IAS temporarily shut down all quarries due to widespread illegal mineral extraction. The NGO alleges political pressure from Radhapuram MLA and State Legislative Assembly Speaker Appavu and Tirunelveli MP Gnana Draviyam on Collector Vishnu in July 2022.

Reporters questioned DMK leader, “Lakhs of construction workers are out of work today because all the quarries have been shut down. Today, a ton of stone which was 400 rupees, costs 800, sand, which was 600 rupees, is 1300 rupees. Today in Kudankulam, all the jobs have been stopped, and many lakhs of people are losing their jobs, what is the solution for this?”

He responded sarcastically saying, “I will bring what you are saying to the attention of the Chief Minister and immediately arrange for jobs for the unemployed.”

Immediately, Radhapuram MLA and Speaker Appavu interceded, gesturing to Collector Vishnu for a response. The MLA stated, “Collector will tell,” to which the Collector replied, “This matter is under consideration, it is in practice.” Appavu quickly interrupted, saying, “Tell them within how many days,” and the Collector responded, “No sir, that cannot be revealed now.”

The press conference quickly turned into a heated exchange as MP Gnana Draviyam raised his voice, expressing frustration, “It’s already been 60 days, and 50,000 people are unemployed. Already late.” Another DMK leader attempted to calm him down, saying, “Brother, please wait, please be silent.” However, the MP, still agitated, raised his voice again, prompting the other DMK leader to ask, “What is this brother, please be silent. Is tthis your home?“

Arappor Iyakkam claimed that doubts were raised in the appeal process as quarry owners directly appealed to the Commissioner of Geology and Mining, J Jayakanthan IAS, deviating from the prescribed procedure of appealing to the district Collector. In a surprising move, Jayakanthan IAS reduced the total penalty for 24 quarries to just ₹13.83 Crores, appearing to legitimize widespread illegal mining activities and facilitating the reopening of quarries implicated in illegal mining by overturning previous decisions.

Therefore, the NGO Arappor Iyakkam alleges a significant connection between Jayakanthan IAS and numerous quarry owners linked to the ruling DMK party in Tamil Nadu. The organization emphasizes allegations of penalties being reduced for the SAV Group, DMK MP Gnanathiraviam, and their associates. They alleged violations of established appeal procedures, favoritism towards politically connected DMK quarry owners, and suggest a coordinated effort to exert pressure on officials to reopen operations related to rough stone and gravel.

(With inputs From Arappor Iyakkam)

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Transgender Woman Assaulted After Being Mistaken for Child Kidnapper, 2 Suspects Arrested

By
The Commune
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In Chennai, a transgender woman fell victim to a vicious assault after being mistaken for a child kidnapper by a group of men. The shocking episode unfolded in Pammal, where the victim, who is employed at an IT firm in Thoraipakkam, found herself subjected to a brutal attack.

According to police reports, the ordeal transpired on the evening of 18 February 2024, as the victim was making her way home after dining at a local eatery in Mungileri. Approached by two men who demanded identification, she disclosed her profession, only to be met with violence instead of understanding.

Allegedly acting on a forwarded message regarding a suspected child abductor in the vicinity, the assailants claimed her facial features matched those of the individual described in the warning. More individuals soon joined the fray, escalating the confrontation to a terrifying level. The victim was forcibly restrained, stripped to half-nakedness, and subjected to physical assault, all of which was recorded and circulated on social media platforms.

In response to the victim’s complaint, authorities from the Shankar Nagar police swiftly acted, invoking pertinent sections of the Prohibition of Harassment of Women Act along with various provisions of the Indian Penal Code, including rioting, wrongful restraint, use of abusive language, and causing hurt. Consequently, two individuals have been apprehended in connection with the incident.

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