A controversy has erupted in Madurai after the statue of M. Karunanidhi in the Simmakkal area was allegedly left uncovered despite the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct following the announcement of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.

Leaders of parties belonging to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) have accused officials of acting with bias, claiming that statues of some political leaders were covered while Karunanidhi’s statue remained uncovered.

The election schedule for the Tamil Nadu Assembly polls was announced on Sunday (15 March 2026) evening, after which the Model Code of Conduct came into effect across the district. As part of the guidelines, authorities began covering statues, photographs, and political symbols associated with party leaders across Madurai district.

According to officials, municipal staff covered the full statues of MG Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa in the KK Nagar area using cloth, in line with the election rules.

However, NDA functionaries alleged that the full statue of Karunanidhi located in Simmakkal had not been covered, raising questions over the uniform implementation of the election guidelines.

Opposition leaders claimed that despite the Model Code coming into force and the district administration being under the supervision of the District Collector during the election period, some officials were allegedly acting in favour of the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).

They questioned whether free and fair elections could be conducted if such alleged bias continued and demanded that officials responsible for the lapse be transferred immediately.

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The post Madurai: Karunanidhi Statue Left Uncovered, MGR, Jayalalithaa Statues Covered After Code Of Conduct Comes Into Force appeared first on The Commune.

The political and legal confrontation between DMK leader and former Union Shipping Minister TR Baalu and BJP leader K Annamalai has drawn attention to long-standing allegations linked to the shipping sector and the Sethusamudram project.

Baalu had filed a defamation case against Annamalai over allegations that, during his tenure as Union Shipping Minister, he had misused his office to facilitate the purchase of 10 ships for companies allegedly linked to him.

During court proceedings held a few days ago, Annamalai was reported to have reiterated his accusation that Baalu had abused his ministerial position. Baalu, in his submission before the court, stated that he had purchased only two ships, not ten, and had denied any wrongdoing.

The case formed the immediate backdrop to the political confrontation between the two leaders, with the Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project continuing to feature prominently in their exchanges.

Sethusamudram Political Backdrop

Chief Minister MK Stalin and senior DMK leaders, including Baalu, had continued to advocate for the revival of the Sethusamudram project, arguing that it would generate employment and economic growth in Tamil Nadu. The DMK had accused the BJP-led Union government of shelving the project on religious grounds linked to the Ram Setu issue.

In January 2023, the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly had passed a resolution urging the Centre to implement the project without delay. Baalu had also spoken at public forums defending the canal project and criticising the halt.

Annamalai, on his part, had repeatedly alleged that the project would benefit only a few DMK leaders. He had specifically named shipping companies allegedly linked to Baalu and DMK MP Kanimozhi and had maintained that the BJP would not allow any project alignment that could damage Ram Setu.

Jayalalithaa’s 2014 Attack Resurfaces

Amid the renewed political and legal confrontation, past remarks by former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa targeting Baalu over the same project have resurfaced in political discourse.

Taking on Baalu, then the DMK nominee, during the 2014 Lok Sabha election campaign, Jayalalithaa had accused him and the DMK of forcefully pushing the Sethusamudram project to advance private business interests.

Addressing an election rally in the Cauvery delta region from where Baalu was contesting, she alleged that family members of Baalu and DMK leader M Karunanidhi’s daughter Kanimozhi had investments in shipping firms.

She said the spouses of Baalu, Porkodi and Renukadevi, held shares in Meenam Fisheries Limited, a company that owned ships. She also alleged that Kanimozhi held shares in Westgate Logistics. Jayalalithaa demanded financial transparency from Baalu. In a pointed attack, she said: “The majority of shares in a company called Meenam Fisheries Ltd. are held by the candidate from this constituency TR Baalu and his wives, Porkodi and Renukadevi. TR Baalu should inform what kind of ships this company owns, what is their depth, whether they can pass through the Sethusamudram channel and what profit the company will get from the Sethusamudram project. Similarly, Karunanidhi’s daughter Kanimozhi holds the majority of shares in a company called Westgate Logistics. This company is also involved in the shipping business. The Sethusamudram project will destroy the livelihood of fishermen and increase their industrial strength.”

பழைய வீடியோ
தோண்டி எடுத்திட்டாங்க..! pic.twitter.com/zjQRathXGS

— Chinnappa Ganesan (@directorganesan) February 17, 2026

She further criticised the DMK for continuing to support the project despite expert reservations, referring to an assessment by a committee headed by RK Pachauri which had raised concerns about economic viability and environmental feasibility.

Continuing Political Flashpoint

With Baalu’s defamation suit against Annamalai now active and the Sethusamudram project once again part of the political narrative, the decades-long controversy linking shipping policy, economic interests and religious concerns has re-entered public debate.

Source: The New Indian Express

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The post When Jayalalithaa Took DMK’s TR Baalu To The Cleaners Over Sethusamudram Project appeared first on The Commune.

Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) leader and MP Thol. Thirumavalavan’s recent speech at a DMK-organised event in Ambattur has stirred intense political discussion, after he questioned why certain Tamil nationalist groups target former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi but refrain from criticising other Dravidian stalwarts like M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), C.N. Annadurai (Anna), or J. Jayalalithaa.

Speaking on the occasion of the seventh death anniversary of Karunanidhi, Thirumavalavan accused some Tamil nationalist outfits of misdirecting their criticism, saying they avoid mentioning leaders such as Anna, while focusing solely on “Kalaignar” Karunanidhi. He said, “Have any of the various organizations that have recently emerged today, in the name of speaking about Tamil nationalism, without telling the people who the real enemy of Tamil nationalism is, to the extent of saying that the enemy of Tamil nationalism is DMK, Kalaignar, to the extent of saying that if a monument is erected to him, we will come and destroy it to the extent of expressing hatred, and repeatedly saying that this is the one who started the corruption, at least for one day, spoken about MGR, or about Jayalalithaa Ammaiyar, why… and I would like to say very specifically, have they spoken anywhere about Kalaignar’s teacher Anna? Have they criticized him? I don’t know why Anna is not criticized,
but why is Kalaignar being targeted, this raises a question.”

He further said, “Kalaignar is Anna’s younger brother, Anna Periyar’s child. Anna spoke the same politics that Periyar spoke, he didn’t say anything new. Anna was the one who reflected Periyar. But Anna’s Tamil was sweeter, Anna’s Tamil was deeper,
Anna’s Tamil was more eloquent than Periyar’s Tamil.
But Anna spoke what Periyar spoke. Furthermore, this greatness called Periyar was revealed only by Anna, otherwise it might have been hidden.”

In his address, the VCK chief alleged that MGR had introduced “Brahminical influence” into the Dravidian movement, and pointed out that Jayalalithaa, a Brahmin woman, had led the movement for years. However, he also acknowledged MGR’s role in preventing national parties like the Congress from gaining ground in Tamil Nadu, which, he argued, indirectly stopped the BJP from making inroads.

He said, “A national party benefitted by the emergence of MGR. MGR criticized Kalaignar, sowed the seeds for hate politics, was responsible for infiltrating Brahminism into the Dravidian movement, and even though there are criticisms that he paved the way for a Brahmin woman to become the leader of the Dravidian movement, one advantage that came out of it is that – national parties were prevented from gaining a foothold here.”

He further said, “This political environment, whether DMK or AIADMK, continued for more than 50 years. The Congress was not allowed to grow here, and more importantly, the BJP did not gain a foothold. Although there are many reasons, if the Congress had gained strength here, the BJP would have grown against it. Because, where there is a national party, the BJP will easily reach the same position as the Congress. People do not compare with state parties; they will compare only with national parties. The rise of MGR is one reason why the Congress did not gain strength here and has shrunk. The political contest here was whether it is MGR or Kalaignar, later changed to Jayalalithaa-Kalaignar. But Kalaignar has always been the central point, the central politics – This is the politics of Tamil Nadu.”

 

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The post “MGR Brought Brahminical Culture Into Dravidian Movement, He Made A Brahmin Woman A Leader Of Dravidian Movt”: VCK MP Thirumavalavan Criticizes AIADMK Founder MGR appeared first on The Commune.

Tamil Nadu has long seen the intertwining of cinema and politics, but few leaders commanded the respect and authority of the late Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa. One of the most telling examples of her firm leadership was how she handled actor Vijay during the Thalaivaa controversy—a moment that showcased her no-nonsense approach to keeping cinema stars in line.

Vijay Flexes His Muscles, ADMK Gave One Kick Between His Legs

In 2013, Vijay’s film Thalaivaa (directed by A.L. Vijay) was set for release with the tagline “Time to Lead.” While seemingly harmless, the phrase raised eyebrows in political circles, given Vijay’s father S.A. Chandrasekhar’s open political ambitions for his son. The AIADMK government, under Jayalalithaa, saw this as an indirect challenge—a star testing the waters for a future political entry without due respect for the established leadership.

Prior to its scheduled release on August 9, 2013, several Chennai theaters received bomb threats from an obscure group named the Oppressed Students’ Revolutionary Union. These threats led to widespread cancellations of screenings across Tamil Nadu. The Times of India reported that the film’s release was stalled due to these threats, with theaters opting out of screening the movie.

When anonymous threats disrupted the film’s release, the state refused to provide security, sending a clear message: No one, not even a top star, could operate outside the system.

Jayalalithaa’s Firm Hand: Discipline Over Drama

Rather than allowing Vijay to play the victim, Jayalalithaa ensured he understood the consequences of overreach. When he arrived unannounced at her Kodanad retreat seeking intervention, she denied him an audience, putting him in his place.

Vijay, realizing his mistake, issued a public video appeal, respectfully addressing her as “Amma” and acknowledging her leadership. His tone was far from defiant—it was corrective.

“I have always admired Amma’s straightforwardness… I request her to do whatever is necessary,“ he said, accepting the need to fall in line.

The Great Turnaround: Vijay’s Strategic Surrender

If Thalaivaa marked Vijay’s ‘punishment‘, what followed was his calculated path to redemption. His career, which had faced roadblocks under the DMK’s reign, took a dramatic turn once he publicly aligned with Jayalalithaa. He refrained from making political statements and distanced himself from any potential threats to the AIADMK leadership.

The result? The very government that crushed Thalaivaa paved the way for Vijay’s meteoric rise in Tamil cinema. His films, once struggling to find theatres, suddenly dominated the box office. The AIADMK government granted tax exemptions, ensured prime screening slots, and re-established Vijay as a bankable star. His movies like Velayudham and Nanban received unprecedented releases, securing his position as Tamil cinema’s leading man.

Bending Over Backwards: Vijay’s Political Silence

Jayalalithaa’s unchallenged dominance over Tamil Nadu ensured that Vijay remained firmly in his place. Unlike his contemporary Kamal Haasan, who often voiced his political opinions, Vijay stayed silent on crucial issues until Jayalalithaa’s passing in 2016. He refrained from questioning the government, avoided controversial statements, and focused entirely on his film career. The once outspoken actor had been effectively tamed.

Why This Was Necessary

Jayalalithaa’s approach wasn’t about vendetta—it was about maintaining order. Tamil Nadu had seen actors like MGR and Karunanidhi transition from cinema to politics, but they earned their place through discipline and loyalty to their parties. Vijay, at that time, was seen as a star trying to leverage his fame without paying his dues.

By putting him in his place, Jayalalithaa:

 Prevented recklessness of the film stars from destabilizing the system.

 Ensured that stars respected the government’s authority.

 Sent a message to the entire film industry: fame doesn’t override protocol.

The Aftermath: A Humbled Star

Post-Thalaivaa, Vijay became more cautious. His subsequent films (Jilla, Kaththi) avoided any political undertones, and he refrained from controversial statements. Only years later, after Jayalalithaa’s passing, did he cautiously step into politics with his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)—this time, seemingly with more preparation.

Jayalalithaa wasn’t “bullying” Vijay—she was keeping him in check. In a state where film stars often blur the lines between entertainment and politics, her firm stance ensured that no one could take the system for granted.

Had she not intervened, Tamil Nadu might have seen more stars attempting shortcuts to power—disrupting both cinema and governance.

Her lesson to Vijay remains relevant today: True leadership isn’t about stardom—it’s about responsibility, respect, and knowing your place before aiming higher.

While some called it harsh, Jayalalithaa’s action was a masterclass in keeping overambitious ‘tharkuri’ stars grounded.

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The post When Jayalalithaa Gave Belt Treatment To Vijay And How He Bent Over Backwards To Please Her appeared first on The Commune.

Unlike past titles that arose from genuine public sentiment, this one feels as scripted as a Tamil soap opera, with Stalin himself fervently insisting that children across Tamil Nadu already address him as their political patriarch. But given the soaring crime rates against women and children, the question arises—are they calling him Appa out of devotion, or is it merely a desperate cry for help?

Political Branding: The Old Playbook, Rewritten

Tamil Nadu’s political stage has long been adorned with affectionate honorifics. The late J. Jayalalithaa wasn’t just a leader; she was Amma (Mother), a brand unto herself, stamped onto welfare schemes like Amma Canteens, Amma Drinking Water, and even Amma Pharmacies. Unlike Stalin’s self-imposed fatherly aspirations, her title was cemented by an intricate mix of governance, welfare, and relentless party propaganda.

Stalin, however, seems to believe that mere repetition can manufacture reverence. Already styled as Thalapathy (Commander), he apparently finds it insufficient for his larger-than-life ambitions. Thus, the push for Appa—not merely a leader, but the state’s benevolent patriarch. Or at least, that’s the sales pitch.

Appa: Affection or Audition?

The aggressive rollout of the Appa narrative has been evident at numerous state-sponsored spectacles. Be it the Muthalvan Scheme, the Breakfast Scheme, or the Innovative Women’s Scheme, Stalin has delighted in claiming that students lovingly refer to him as Appa. In a bizarre display, even at the North Chennai Development Project—an event utterly unrelated to education—he still found a way to remind the audience: “Students affectionately call me Appa.”

One must wonder: if you repeat something often enough, does it become true? DMK cadres have already received the memo, and one can foresee the inevitable trajectory—Thalapathy Appa, then Muthalvar Appa, and finally, just Appa, as if he alone fathered an entire state. If the DMK’s PR team had their way, Stalin’s portrait would replace ancestral photos in Tamil households, looming over dining tables like a Big Brother who only accepts garlanded adoration.

Will the Appa Persona Withstand Reality?

But history is unkind to manufactured cults of personality. Political monikers are either organically embraced or collapse under their own artificial weight. Jayalalithaa’s Amma endured because it was woven into the fabric of public welfare, leaving an indelible mark. Stalin’s Appa, however, risks being remembered not as a symbol of care, but as a grotesque irony in a state where women and children increasingly cry Appa!—not in reverence, but in terror.

If Stalin truly wishes to be Appa, perhaps he should start by ensuring Tamil Nadu’s daughters and sons feel safe enough to stop screaming his name in distress.

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The post DMK Desperately Tries To Brand MK Stalin As “Appa” Akin To Jayalalithaa Being Fondly Called “Amma” By The People appeared first on The Commune.

Naam Tamilar Katchi chief Seeman continues to go ballistic against Dravidianist ideologue EV Ramasamy Naicker, or EVR, hailed as Periyar by his followers. He accused them of failing in their core ideologies while distorting Tamil culture. Campaigning in Erode, Seeman mocked the Dravidianists for destroying Tamil by promoting English usage and questioned their so-called atheism, citing Durga Stalin’s religious practices.

He also criticized their anti-Brahmin stance, highlighting that Jayalalithaa, a Brahmin woman, empowered Dalit leaders more than Dravidianist parties ever did. Seeman has been attacking the “demagogue” of the Dravidianists for quite some time now and breaking down the illusion created the Dravidianists all these years.

Speaking to reporters at Erode where he is campaigning for his party candidate, he said, “You talk about Periyar all the time. Who is Periyar? Social justice, Brahmin bashing, atheism – did he win in all this? He won only in one thing – he said leave this Tamil “saniyan”, mix English with Tamil and speak, write Tamil in English alphabets. You Dravidians have only won in this aspect. You have destroyed my mother tongue by removing it fully from my land. Other than creating generations of people who cannot read and write Tamil, you have never succeeded in anything. Where is your atheism? Shall I show your sister-in-law, Durga Stalin, chanting Sanskrit slokas in her puja room? Did you not go as a family to the Athivaradar temple? You said you performed “Kumbhabishekam”, a Sanskrit word for ‘Kudamuzhukku’ in 1999 temples in the state. I am speaking about Muruga because Tamil is my god. Why did you conduct the conference (Lord Murugan)? Is that atheism?”

Continuing his comments on the anti-Brahmin stance of the Dravidianist party, he said, “Next you talk about anti-brahmin stance. In the evolution of the Dravidian movement, under the leadership of the so-called Brahmin woman, all Dravidians fell at her feet. You fell at her feet and enjoyed position and status. What Periyarists could not achieve, that lady had achieved. A Brahmin woman. She fielded a Dalit candidate, Dalit Ezhumalai in a general constituency and made him win. You field A Raja – you see him as an oppressed person and not a Tamilian and make him contest in a reserved constituency in Nilgiris. You will speak about social justice, eradication of sanatana dharma? That was an era. My ancestors were enamoured by all this. Jayalalithaa made an oppressed caste person, Dhanabal as the Speaker of the Assembly – she took him to such a height that even a Chief Minister had to stand when he entered the Assembly. This is the same Brahmin woman you people are against. Did you do anything like that? Why do you talk about social justice? Where is your Periyar in all this?”

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The post “A Brahmin Woman Achieved What Periyarists Could Not”: Seeman Hails Former TN CM J Jayalalithaa, Slams Dravidianists Over Failed Social Justice Model appeared first on The Commune.

In a significant development, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has quashed the adverse observations made against former Tamil Nadu Health Minister Dr C Vijayabaskar in the Justice A Arumughaswamy Commission of Inquiry report dated 23 August 2022. The report, which investigated the circumstances surrounding the hospitalization and subsequent demise of former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa, had made scathing remarks against Dr. Vijayabaskar, holding him responsible for lapses in her medical treatment.

While delivering its judgment, the court emphasized that the commission had failed to follow the mandatory procedures under Section 8B of the Commissions of Inquiry Act, 1952, which requires that any person likely to be prejudicially affected by the inquiry must be given a reasonable opportunity to be heard. Dr Vijayabaskar, who was examined as a witness (CW-146) and not formally arrayed as a respondent, was denied this opportunity, violating natural justice.

Key Observations By The Court

Violation of Natural Justice: The court noted that the commission had made adverse findings against Dr Vijayabaskar without issuing a notice under Section 8B of the Act, which is mandatory when a person’s reputation is likely to be affected. The commission’s failure to provide him with an opportunity to defend himself rendered the findings legally untenable.

Beyond Scope of Reference: The court observed that the commission had exceeded its terms of reference by making observations on events that occurred after 5 December 2016, the date of Jayalalithaa’s demise. The commission’s report had even examined events up to 11 February 2017, which was beyond its mandate.

Ignoring Expert Evidence: The court highlighted that the commission had disregarded the findings of the AIIMS medical board, which was constituted by the Supreme Court to assist in the inquiry. The AIIMS report had given a clean chit to the medical treatment provided to Jayalalithaa, but the commission chose to ignore this expert opinion without valid reasons.

Reputation and Dignity: Citing the Supreme Court’s judgment in the State of Bihar v. Lal Krishna Advani (2003), the court reiterated that the right to reputation is an integral part of the fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution. The adverse remarks against Dr Vijayabaskar, made without due process, had caused significant harm to his reputation and political career.

Case Background

The Tamil Nadu government constituted the Justice Arumughaswamy Commission in September 2017 to investigate the circumstances leading to the hospitalization of Jayalalithaa on 22 September 2016 and her subsequent treatment until her demise on 5 December 2016. The commission examined 151 witnesses, including Dr Vijayabaskar, who was summoned as a witness in January 2019.

In its final report submitted in August 2022, the commission made strong observations against Dr Vijayabaskar, holding him responsible for not taking adequate steps to ensure Jayalalithaa’s treatment abroad and for allegedly colluding with Apollo Hospital doctors to prevent her from receiving specialized care. The commission recommended further investigation against him and others.

In his affidavit, Dr Vijayabaskar argued that the commission’s findings were based on assumptions and lacked any substantive evidence. He contended that he was never formally made a respondent in the inquiry and was denied the opportunity to present his defence, cross-examine witnesses, or adduce evidence. He also pointed out that the AIIMS report, which the commission ignored, had found no wrongdoing in the treatment provided to Jayalalithaa.

Court’s Decision

While quashing the adverse observations against Dr. Vijayabaskar, the court held that the commission’s findings were perverse, arbitrary, and contrary to the principles of natural justice. The court also stayed the operation of the Government Order (G.O. No. SS.II/500-4/2022) dated 17 October 2022, which had recommended initiating action against Dr Vijayabaskar based on the commission’s report. Dr Vijayabaskar was represented by a team of advocates, including Nithyaesh Natraj, Vaibhav R. Venkatesh, and Anirudh A. Sriram, who successfully argued that the commission’s report was flawed and violated statutory provisions.

The judgment is a significant victory for Dr Vijayabaskar, who has maintained his innocence throughout the inquiry. The court’s decision underscores the importance of adhering to due process and natural justice, especially in inquiries that can have far-reaching consequences on an individual’s reputation and career. The quashing of the adverse remarks against Dr Vijayabaskar brings closure to a contentious chapter in Tamil Nadu’s political history.

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The post Madurai Bench Of Madras HC Quashes Adverse Observations Against Fmr Health Min Dr. C. Vijayabaskar In Arumughaswamy Commission Report appeared first on The Commune.

A few days ago, NDTV shared an interview with the DMK candidate from Coimbatore, Ganapathy Rajkumar on their social media (X) handle. 

Later, “journalist” and JNU alumnus, Arvind Gunasekar wrote a comment quoting this video. He described Ganapathy Rajkumar as, “Ganapathy Rajkumar is a calm and composed person, with proven administrative record. He was the fifth Mayor of Coimbatore. He also has a Doctorate in Journalism. Ground situation of Coimbatore is way different from what’s being projected by National Media.”

Ganapathy Rajkumar is a calm and composed person, with proven administrative record. He was the fifth Mayor of Coimbatore.

He also has a Doctorate in Journalism.

Ground situation of Coimbatore is way different from what’s being projected by National Media. https://t.co/6EEy0bmVZg

— Arvind Gunasekar (@arvindgunasekar) April 11, 2024

Netizens, surprised by the “PhD in Journalism” claim did some research on Ganapathy Rajkumar and the results were mind-blowing!

In reality, Mayor Rajkumar completed his doctoral thesis “Emergence of Jayalalithaa as a Mass Leader.” The study involved assessing Jayalalitha’s leadership traits through perception ratings in five cities, with a sample size of 510 responses. He was awarded the doctoral degree by Bharathiar University in 2015, with the viva voce conducted by Periyar University in Salem. Ganapathy Rajkumar’s project guide for this research was C Pichandy who was the Head of the Department of Communication at PSG College of Arts and Science.

Rajkumar’s research highlights Jayalalithaa’s “unique journey” in Tamil Nadu politics, emphasizing her determination and strategic prowess. He identifies her party, AIADMK, as a movement with significant potential, attributing its success to Jayalalithaa’s leadership and connection with the masses. Rajkumar’s study involved data collection from five district headquarters and villages, using questionnaires to gauge public perception of Jayalalithaa’s leadership qualities. The research, as reported by The New Indian Express, apparently concludes by drawing parallels between Jayalalithaa and other prominent female leaders like Ellen Johnson and Michelle Bachelet and Rajkumar expressed “admiration” for Jayalalithaa’s resilience and character throughout the research process.

It is said that Ganapathy Rajkumar performed a “Gaja puja” for Jayalalithaa, after he successfully defended his thesis, to become the state CM once more. 

https://twitter.com/naiveobserver93/status/1778383133739548721

Upon learning the topic of his Ph.D. thesis, netizens mocked the mindset of someone in politics to obtain a degree by singing praises of a political leader, bordering on sycophancy. 

This Arivalayam lackey's tweet invoked a bit of curiosity especially the 'doctorate' DMK candidate. Thanks to @naiveobserver93, found that he has a 'PhD' in Amma Studies. After earning his 'PhD' he did Gaja pooja for Jaya https://t.co/Ugszxts1Im https://t.co/CYCoALIiXJ

— Prasanna Viswanathan (@prasannavishy) April 12, 2024

PhD about Amma Jayalalitha! Is this Doctorate in Journalism? Are you first a genuine Journalist? https://t.co/KjsfAwEibX

— p (@globalsitizn) April 12, 2024

Netizens also mocked Arvind Gunasekar for the endorsement.

Has

doctorate in journalismஆ

இல்ல

Doctor certificate in journalism ஆ டோலர்????!!!!!https://t.co/SeksNKNQbA

— Elon Rusk (@hsejarsa) April 11, 2024

Certificate provider Gunasekar daa https://t.co/2Mv3lhfZgS

— Ondippulee | ஒண்டிப்புலி (@Ondippulee) April 11, 2024

DMK stooges are openly campaigning against Annamalai. Still has the Audacity to call themselves journalist in bio. Wow. https://t.co/hfEl0gtC1P

— Kuldeep Jain (@Kuldeepjain01) April 12, 2024

Regards Arivalayam brave slave courageous cowards @arvindgunasekar https://t.co/5ZjccisOOJ

— சுதர்சன் सम्पत (@1984SS) April 11, 2024

It is hilarious to note that the person who obtained a PhD with a thesis on ADMK’s Jayalalithaa is now the DMK candidate in Coimbatore fighting the ADMK. 

Now in DMK with squirrel https://t.co/g8kKf7Qb6z

— Pammal_Guru (@PammalGuru) April 12, 2024

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The post DMK-Buttressing Journo Hypes Up DMK Coimbatore MP Candidate As Doctorate In Journalism, Ph.D Thesis Was On Jayalalithaa appeared first on The Commune.

In Tamil Nadu, it’s a common tradition for fans to display enormous banners or posters in honour of their favourite film stars or political leaders. Today, the entire state is abuzz with celebrations for the birthday of the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, MGR. Party members and ardent fans are enthusiastically participating in various festivities.

A particular banner from the Tiruppattur district has become an online sensation, provoking laughter among netizens.

#JustIn | எம்.ஜி.ஆர் பிறந்தநாளுக்கு நடிகர் அரவிந்த்சாமிக்கு பேனர் வைத்த திருப்பத்தூர் மாவட்ட அதிமுகவினர்!#SunNews | #MGR | #AIADMK pic.twitter.com/Jd5wlXdZWz

— Sun News (@sunnewstamil) January 17, 2024

Erected by the ADMK branch secretary Ananraj in the Keezhmittaalam panchayat of Tiruppattur district, the banner showcases past and present leaders of ADMK, including ex-CM Jayalalithaa, ex-CM Edappadi K. Palaniswami, and notably, a life-size image of actor Aravind Samy portraying MGR in the 2021 film “Thalaivii.”

This film is a biographical drama recounting the life of ex-CM Jayalalithaa, chronicling her journey from a film actress to a prominent figure in Tamil Nadu politics. Aravind Samy plays the role of MGR in the film, sharing significant screen time with Kangana Ranaut, who portrays Jayalalithaa.

It remains unclear whether the inclusion of Aravind Samy’s picture in the banner was intentional or an unintentional mistake. Questions arise as to why the party members chose an actor’s portrayal of MGR rather than using the original image of MGR himself. In response to online trolling, it appears that the image of Aravind Samy has been covered with another poster featuring the authentic picture of MGR.

AIADMK in Tirupattur celebrates MGR's 107th birthday, but controversy arises as Aravind Samy is favored on banners. After local outrage, MGR posters replace those featuring Aravind Samy's face. #MGR #birthday pic.twitter.com/5NG6r1wEdG

— Rajalakshmi sampath (@Rajalakshmi2398) January 17, 2024

The incident adds a touch of humour to the celebrations, while highlighting the unpredictable nature of such events in the age of social media.

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The post ADMK Cadres Confuse Arvind Swami For MGR, Gets Trolled By Netizens appeared first on The Commune.

Dindigul Leoni, a controversial Tamil orator and a member of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), known for his egregious and misogynistic comments about women, has made it to the news once again.

Leoni has previously drawn attention to former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa’s frequent use of DMK leader K Karunanidhi’s name as her having great affection for him. His consistent and degrading remarks about women’s appearances have sparked widespread outrage. He has repeatedly objectified and ridiculed women, often targeting their physique. He had said during an election rally, “Women are now drinking milk from foreign cows, which is the reason behind them putting on extra kilos.” He went on to say that women used to be “thin and their hips would have curves”.

.@KanimozhiDMK Madame please get rid of womanizers like Dindigul Leoni, Vairamuthu etc in your party before you talk about women's safety.. pic.twitter.com/cVkGCQ8eGi

— Vishwatma ( மோடியின் குடும்பம் ) (@HLKodo) March 24, 2021

“In a cowshed, people use a milking machine for foreign cows. These days, women drink milk from foreign cows because of which they have put on weight. Those days, a woman’s hip resembled the number 8 [had curves]. When she lifted her child, the little one stayed put on the hip. But now they’ve become like a barrel because of which women cannot carry their children on their hips,” Dindigul Leoni added. The inappropriate hand gestures that accompanied this action added fuel to the fire.

In a recent speech, Leoni quoted a comment allegedly made by K. Kalimuthu, member of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (ADMK) regarding Jayalalithaa. He said, “If I see Janaki amma (wife of MGR and later leader of ADMK), I feel like folding my hands in reverence to her, but if I see Jayalalithaa I feel like I want to “call” her (derogatory).”

Leoni shifted blame asserting that the controversy surrounding the late Jayalalithaa was instigated by the BJP Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, accusing the latter of tarnishing the ADMK’s image by bringing up the distressing events that occurred in the Tamil Nadu Assembly to J Jayalalithaa.

திமுக பத்தி பேசுனா.. சோஷியல் மீடியாவே நாறிடும்.! கொந்தளித்த ஜெயக்குமார்.! | ADMK Jayakumar About DMK #NewsTamil24x7 #ADMK #Jayakumar #Jayalalitha #DMK #DindugalLeoni #BJP #NiramalaSitharaman pic.twitter.com/Y5vHnKFRPu

— News Tamil 24×7 (@NewsTamilTV24x7) August 28, 2023

In response, D Jayakumar, a leader of the ADMK, launched a scathing attack on Leoni. Speaking to the press said, “Leoni is a drunkard, a street dog, dont know what he drinks and speaks. Had he been born to a good mother, he would not have made such distasteful comments about Amma (J Jayalalithaa). He is of low birth, he is a poramboke (waste barren land in Tamil), that poramboke has no right to speak about Amma and you expect me to comment on that? It is better that poramboke like him don’t speak any further. We all know what happened in Malaysia, he got it back from the Malaysian public and had to return to India, What an embarrassment, aren’t you ashamed? If you had an ounce of honour, you’d have hanged yourself to death.”

Earlier this year, Dindigul Leoni’s visit to Malaysia for a series of debates (pattimandram) in Kuala Lumpur and Penang took an unfavourable turn. He failed to arrive on time for the Penang event, infuriating the audience who questioned his commitment and professionalism.

DMK member and head of Tamil Nadu Text book corporation Dindigul I. Leoni
kicked out of his own program in Malaysia for turning up late. Worst part is they kicked him out saying that this is not Tamil Nadu it is Malaysia… pic.twitter.com/GQSwtpl1O2

— Vishwatma ( மோடியின் குடும்பம் ) (@HLKodo) May 3, 2023

Adding to the controversy, Leoni holds the position of Chairman at the Tamil Nadu Textbook Corporation, a move criticised by many due to his history of offensive comments. Despite the backlash, he continues to retain this position.

The AIADMK has taken legal action against Dindigul Leoni for his crass remarks about J Jayalalithaa. His pattern of offensive speech, consistently objectifying and demeaning women, has prompted calls for his accountability and raised doubts about his suitability for any public role or platform.

Jayakumar also trained his guns towards DMK Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin who while speaking at a meeting insinuated the AIADMK leader of sexual misconduct.

Udhayanidhi had said “In Madurai, a public meeting was held. It stands as an example of how a public meeting should not be conducted, a joke of a meeting they (AIADMK) conducted. Have you ever seen a public meeting like that? The organizers of the meeting had no clue of why the meeting was conducted. The participants of the meeting were clueless about why they were participating. The meeting happened on 20 August 2032. You look at the papers of 21 August 2023. Look at what news about the meeting was carried. Two days back, an AIADMK functionary had given a complaint to the police station. You know what is the complaint? That his wife whom he had taken to the meeting was missing. I’m not joking. This is real news. An AIADMK functionary has given a complaint to the police station. The police are investigating. Whom should they investigate first? They should investigate Jayakumar first. Because, he is one of the organizers of the meeting. I did not say with any wrong intention. If you take it wrongly, I am not responsible.”

Responding to this comment of Udhayanidhi, AIADMK leader Jayakumar said in the press meet “Your grandfather’s sleazy mischiefs. Your father’s sleazy mischiefs. Your sleazy mischiefs. If we start writing about it, we would have to take those volumes of books in four vehicles. You are making personal remarks on people as if you are a saint and a virtuous man. We will tarnish your reputation by putting the Ceylon Laila matter and your father’s matter. Then what you did to Nayan will be exposed. Look at the dirt behind your back first.”

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The post Jayakumar Calls Dindigul Leoni “A Drunk Street Dog, Poramboke” For Derogating Jaya, Tells Udhayanidhi “What You Did To Nayan Will Be Exposed” appeared first on The Commune.