virudhunagar

An accident in Tuticorin has claimed the lives of two workers, Malathi and Ayyappan, following a catastrophic explosion tied to the illicit production of firecrackers. The blast, which took place around 9pm in a small facility near Puliangulam, injured another worker severely as they mixed volatile chemicals.

The action follows directions issued by minister for natural resources, minerals and mines T K Prabhu based on complaints that several quarries were extracting minerals beyond approved limits and violating environmental norms. Allegations had also surfaced that quarry monitoring mechanisms were not functioning effectively in some areas.

Despite urban interest in millets, Tamil Nadu farmers are abandoning the grain due to uncertain markets and fluctuating prices, unlike rice and maize with guaranteed buyers. Lack of processing units and institutional support discourages cultivation, though initiatives like the Pudukottai FPO show promise with guaranteed procurement and value-added products.

virudhunagar, a DMK stronghold, saw AR R. Seenivasan win the 2021 Assembly elections by a significant margin. The DMK has historically performed well in the constituency, securing three victories since 1977. The upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections feature a contest between the DMK, AIADMK, and a BJP-led alliance, with key issues including welfare, law and order, and identity politics.

Sattur, a key virudhunagar constituency known for its industries, gears up for the 2026 assembly elections with TVK, DMK, and BJP fielding candidates. Past election results show a close contest between AIADMK and DMK, with AIADMK winning five times and DMK four since 1977.

A. Karthik of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam has won the 2026 Srivilliputhur (SC) Assembly elections, unseating the historically AIADMK-dominated constituency. CPI's P. Mahalingam secured the second position in the multi-cornered contest, which focused on welfare and social justice issues.

Keerthana S of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam won the election. Ashokan G of Indian National Congress came second. Sivakasi saw a political shift in 2021. For 2026, Ashokan, Rajenthrabhalaji, Diana, and Keerthana are candidates. Ashokan won in 2021. Rajenthrabhalaji won in 2016 and 2011. AIADMK historically dominated the constituency.

In the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, TVK and Naam Tamilar Katchi are the only parties fielding Brahmin candidates, with TVK's candidates currently leading. Early trends show TVK emerging as a significant force, leading in over a hundred constituencies across various regions of the state, including traditional Dravidian strongholds and Congress strongholds.

Jegadeshwari K of TVK secured a decisive victory in Rajapalayam, defeating DMK's Thangapandian S by 10,605 votes. This win marks a significant shift in the historically competitive constituency, known for its textile industry. The election campaign focused on welfare, industrial growth, and law and order.

Tamil Nadu's new assembly boasts increased diversity with 25 minority, 50 SC/ST, and 23 women representatives. TVK party is credited with breaking caste and religious barriers by fielding Dalit candidates in general constituencies, with several securing victories. This marks a significant shift from traditional candidate selection practices.