The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has stepped up its defence of former Kerala Chief Minister and party leader Pinarayi Vijayan and P A Mohammed Riyas after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) sought registration of an FIR against them in connection with the Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL) case.

CPI(M) state secretary M V Govindan on Wednesday accused the central agency of attempting to create “fabricated” narratives against the two leaders and said the party would not be intimidated by the investigation.

Govindan used the phrase “paper tiger” while attacking the ED's actions, saying the CPI(M) had faced much tougher political challenges in its history and would not bow to threats. 

CPI(M) Accuses ED of Political Targeting

Govindan alleged that the ED was attempting to manufacture false stories against Vijayan and Riyas. He also questioned the position of the Congress-led Kerala government and accused the Congress of following a double standard in its approach to the investigation.

The CPI(M) leader suggested that the latest developments could have a wider political objective. However, these are political allegations by the party and have not been independently established.

The ED, meanwhile, has maintained that its action is based on evidence gathered during its investigation into the CMRL-linked financial transactions.

ED Seeks FIR Against Vijayan, Veena and Riyas

The latest development came after the ED approached the Kerala Director General of Police seeking registration of an FIR against Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter T Veena and son-in-law Mohammed Riyas under provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

The request is linked to alleged financial transactions between CMRL and Veena's IT company, Exalogic Solutions.

According to the ED's allegations, Exalogic received around ₹2.78 crore from CMRL in payments described as IT consultancy fees, despite the agency alleging that the services were not actually provided. The ED has also alleged a wider money trail involving Vijayan and Riyas. These allegations remain subject to investigation and judicial scrutiny. 

Pinarayi Vijayan Has Denied Allegations

Vijayan has rejected allegations against himself and his family.

He has maintained that his “hands are clean” and that neither he nor his family members were involved in hawala transactions. He has also argued that his daughter faced unusual scrutiny because she is related to him. 

Riyas has separately said he is not afraid of any investigation, while the CPI(M) has continued to question the ED's motives and the manner in which the probe is being conducted.

CMRL Case Under Investigation

The case has its origins in investigations into alleged financial irregularities at CMRL. The Income Tax Department had earlier identified alleged irregular expenses, while subsequent proceedings by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) and the ED expanded scrutiny of the company's financial transactions.

The ED has alleged that some payments made by CMRL were part of a broader financial arrangement involving several individuals and entities.

The agency has also said that searches conducted at locations linked to the case yielded documents and digital evidence that are still being analysed. 

ED Action Intensifies Political Battle

The ED's latest request has intensified an already sharp political confrontation in Kerala.

Vijayan, who is now in the opposition, remains a prominent CPI(M) leader, while Riyas is also an important figure within the party. The investigation has therefore acquired significance beyond the legal proceedings, with the CPI(M) accusing central agencies of political targeting and the opposition demanding greater scrutiny of the allegations.

At the same time, the Congress-led state government has indicated that it will examine the ED's communication before deciding on further action. Kerala's Home Department is currently headed by Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala. 

Investigation, Not Conviction

The latest ED action does not amount to a judicial finding of guilt against Vijayan, Riyas or Veena.

The allegations concerning alleged corruption, financial transfers and the CMRL transactions will have to be tested through the legal process. The Kerala Police will also have to consider the ED's request for an FIR before deciding on the next step.

For the CPI(M), however, the political response is already clear: Govindan has signalled that the party intends to confront the allegations rather than allow the investigation to become a political pressure point.

Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has rejected the CPI(M)’s allegation that the Congress-led state government is colluding with the Centre over the Enforcement Directorate’s action against former Chief Minister and CPI(M) leader Pinarayi Vijayan in the Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL) case.

Satheesan said the government would allow the legal process to take its course, as political tensions intensified after the ED sought registration of an FIR against Vijayan, his daughter T Veena and son-in-law P.A. Mohammed Riyas under provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

Satheesan Rejects CPM’s Allegation

The Chief Minister’s response comes a day after CPI(M) state secretary M.V. Govindan accused the ED of politically targeting Vijayan and Riyas. The CPI(M) has described the central agency’s action as politically motivated and questioned the role of the Congress-led government in the matter.

Satheesan rejected the suggestion of any understanding between the Congress-led Kerala government and the Centre, maintaining that the government would follow the law in dealing with the ED communication.

The ED has formally approached the Kerala Director General of Police seeking registration of a separate FIR in connection with its findings in the CMRL-linked case.

ED Seeks FIR Against Vijayan, Veena and Riyas

The ED has asked the Kerala Police to register a case against Pinarayi Vijayan, T Veena, Mohammed Riyas and others under the Prevention of Corruption Act.

The agency’s request relates to alleged payments made by CMRL to Veena’s IT company, Exalogic Solutions. According to the ED, Exalogic received around ₹2.78 crore from CMRL as consultancy payments despite allegedly not providing the claimed services.

The agency has also alleged that its investigation uncovered evidence pointing to a wider financial trail and alleged hawala transactions. These are allegations by the investigating agency and have not been established as offences by a court.

Vijayan Denies Hawala Allegations

Pinarayi Vijayan has rejected allegations against himself and his family.

He has previously said that his “hands are clean” and that neither he nor his family members were involved in hawala dealings. Vijayan has also argued that his daughter was subjected to unusual scrutiny because of her relationship with him.

The latest ED request therefore comes amid a continuing dispute over both the substance of the allegations and the manner in which the investigation is being pursued.

CPI(M) Accuses ED of Political Motive

The CPI(M) has mounted a strong political defence of Vijayan and Riyas.

Party state secretary M.V. Govindan has accused the ED of attempting to create narratives against senior CPI(M) leaders and described the agency’s action as politically motivated.

The party has also questioned whether the Congress-led government will act on the ED’s request, given that the state police come under the Home Department of the state government.

The CPI(M)’s allegations of political targeting are claims by the party and have not been independently established.

Congress Government to Examine ED Request

The ED’s request has placed the Congress-led state government in a politically sensitive position.

State Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has said the government will examine the communication received from the central agency. The final decision on registering an FIR rests with the state police after considering the ED’s report and applicable law.

This has given the issue a dual political and legal dimension, with the CPI(M) accusing the government of cooperating with the Centre while the Congress maintains that the investigation must be dealt with according to law.

CMRL Case Has Been Under ED Probe

The case stems from investigations into financial transactions involving CMRL and Exalogic Solutions.

The ED’s investigation followed earlier scrutiny by the Income Tax Department and other agencies. In May, the central agency conducted searches at locations connected with the case, including premises linked to Pinarayi Vijayan. The Kerala High Court had also allowed the ED investigation to continue after dismissing a petition seeking to quash the proceedings.

The ED has now sought a separate police FIR based on material it says emerged during its investigation.

Legal Process Now in Focus

The latest development does not amount to a conviction or a judicial finding of wrongdoing against Vijayan, Veena or Riyas.

The ED has made allegations and requested registration of a case. The Kerala Police and, subsequently, the courts will determine how the matter proceeds.

For Satheesan’s government, the immediate challenge is to demonstrate that the decision-making process is based on law rather than political considerations. For the CPI(M), the issue has become another point of confrontation with both the central agencies and the Congress-led state administration.

As the ED’s request is examined, the political battle in Kerala is likely to continue alongside the legal process.

 Kerala University Vice-Chancellor Mohanan Kunnummal has faced criticism after making a controversial remark about those who oppose or object to the singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ at an RSS-organised youth event in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday.

Kunnummal, who was speaking at the ‘Sankalp 2026 Yuva Sangamam’ in Manvila, reportedly said that people who oppose Vande Mataram “do not know who their mother is”. He linked the national song with the idea of India being regarded as a mother. (The Pioneer)

The remarks have triggered a fresh political debate in Kerala, particularly over the participation of university vice-chancellors in RSS-linked programmes.

What the Vice-Chancellor Said

Speaking at the event, Kunnummal reportedly argued that Vande Mataram was connected with the concept of Mother India.

He also spoke about the responsibility of parents to raise children as responsible citizens, with particular emphasis on women and motherhood.

The comments have drawn criticism because of the position held by Kunnummal as the Vice-Chancellor of a state university and because the remarks were made at an RSS-organised programme.

RSS Event Triggers Political Debate

Kunnummal's appearance at the RSS programme has added to an existing political controversy in Kerala over his association with events linked to the organisation.

Opposition political formations in the state have previously questioned his appointment and accused the government and Governor's office of allowing the education sector to be influenced by the RSS.

Student organisations, including the Students' Federation of India (SFI) and Kerala Students' Union (KSU), have also criticised Kunnummal's participation in RSS-related programmes and accused him of promoting what they describe as an RSS agenda.

Kunnummal's latest comments have therefore become part of a wider debate over political neutrality and the role of university officials in public events.

Vande Mataram Debate Intensifies

The controversy comes at a time when Vande Mataram has received renewed attention at the national level.

The Centre has introduced new protocols governing the performance of the national song. Where both Vande Mataram and Jana Gana Mana are performed at an official event, Vande Mataram is to be performed first, followed by the national anthem. The Ministry of Home Affairs has also issued detailed instructions concerning the rendition and protocol of the national song. (Ministry of Home Affairs)

The issue gained further significance after Vande Mataram was sung from the ramparts of the Red Fort during the 80th Independence Day celebrations on August 15, marking the first such rendition at the venue. (The Times of India)

Legal Protection Expanded

The controversy also follows a recent change in the legal framework surrounding the national song.

The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 was passed by Parliament and subsequently received the assent of President Droupadi Murmu. The amendment provides statutory protection to Vande Mataram, with intentional disrespect or obstruction of its singing made punishable under the amended law. Reports on the legislation state that the punishment can extend to three years' imprisonment, a fine, or both. (News on Air)

However, the legal protection of the song and debates over its performance are separate from the political controversy surrounding Kunnummal's remarks.

Kerala Schools Also in Debate

The issue has also surfaced in Kerala's education system. The state's General Education Department issued Independence Day guidelines requiring schools to hoist the national flag and sing Jana Gana Mana, but did not issue a direction making Vande Mataram compulsory for the August 15 celebrations. (The Times of India)

This has added another layer to the ongoing discussion in the state over the role of Vande Mataram in educational and official functions.

Debate Over University Neutrality

The latest controversy is likely to keep attention focused on the political activities and public statements of university officials in Kerala.

While Vande Mataram remains an important symbol associated with India's freedom movement and has received enhanced statutory protection, Kunnummal's remarks have shifted the immediate discussion towards whether a serving university Vice-Chancellor should make such politically charged comments at an RSS event.

The controversy is expected to continue as political parties and student organisations respond to the statement.

The resignation of George Kurian has sparked political discussion in Kerala, where he has long been regarded as one of the BJP’s most prominent Christian leaders. His exit comes amid shifting political equations following recent developments in the state.

George Kurian Steps Down from Union Council of Ministers

Union Minister of State George Kurian resigned from the Union Council of Ministers on Tuesday, marking the end of his tenure in the Narendra Modi-led government. President Droupadi Murmu accepted his resignation on the advice of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The government has not officially disclosed the reason behind Kurian’s resignation. However, the development comes just days after the completion of his six-year Rajya Sabha term on June 21. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had chosen not to renominate him during the latest Rajya Sabha elections, effectively ending his tenure in Parliament.

Kurian, 65, served as Minister of State in the Ministry of Minority Affairs and the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. He was inducted into the Modi 3.0 government in June 2024 and represented Madhya Pradesh in the Rajya Sabha from August 2024 until June 2026.

A Prominent BJP Face in Kerala

A lawyer by profession, George Kurian has been associated with the BJP since the party’s formation in 1980. Over the decades, he emerged as one of the party’s most influential leaders in Kerala and held several key organizational positions, including state general secretary and vice-president of the BJP’s Kerala unit.

Kurian also served as national secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) and was a member of the BJP national executive. Within party circles, he earned recognition as an effective spokesperson and frequently represented the BJP in television debates.

One of his notable roles was translating speeches of Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah into Malayalam during their visits to Kerala, helping the party strengthen its outreach among local audiences.

Political Significance

Kurian belongs to the Syro-Malabar Catholic community, one of Kerala’s largest Christian denominations. His appointment as a Union Minister in 2024 was widely viewed as part of the BJP’s broader strategy to expand its support among Christian voters in the state.

Political observers believe his exclusion from the Rajya Sabha may be linked to the BJP’s evolving electoral strategy in Kerala following recent political developments. However, neither the BJP nor the central government has issued any official statement explaining the decision.

According to party sources, Kurian’s departure is unlikely to affect the BJP’s organizational presence in Kerala immediately, but it may influence discussions around the party’s future Christian outreach strategy in the state.

Supporters of former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan allegedly attacked an Enforcement Directorate team shortly after it conducted searches at his residence here on Wednesday, damaging vehicles and creating a tense situation near Bakery Junction.

The 12-member ED team had arrived to carry out raids linked to a money laundering case involving Vijayan’s daughter T. Veena’s IT firm, Exalogic Solutions, and the Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL). The operation, which also covered multiple other locations, triggered protests by CPI(M) workers, who reportedly hurled stones and smashed windows of the vehicles used by the central agency team.

Violent protests erupt near former CM’s house

Local reports and visuals from the spot showed agitated party workers gathering outside Vijayan’s residence as the raids progressed. Police forces were deployed both outside and inside the premises to manage the situation. Despite the unrest, the ED team completed its searches and returned safely to its zonal office, officials said. However, the vehicles sustained significant damage, and authorities indicated that legal action would follow against those involved in the attack.

Vijayan calls raid a political move

Reacting sharply to the development, Pinarayi Vijayan said the ED had been trying to conduct such a raid for a long time. He remarked that the action would “give satisfaction to certain people,” apparently referring to political rivals. The veteran CPI(M) leader alleged that central agencies were being selectively used against opposition parties by the BJP-led Centre.

Vijayan also referred to recent remarks by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and claimed that such actions were part of a larger pattern of “deliberate attacks” on opposition voices. He asserted that these moves would not weaken his party or the larger resistance against the central government. “None of this is going to end us,” Vijayan said, adding that strong support from party workers and local people during the incident reflected the organisational strength of the CPI(M).

Kejriwal accuses misuse of agencies

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also weighed in, condemning the raid as another instance of central agencies being misused to target opposition leaders. His reaction comes amid a string of similar actions against leaders of non-BJP parties in different states.

Background of the money laundering case

The ED registered a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in 2024. It stems from allegations that CMRL paid around ₹1.72 crore to Exalogic Solutions during 2018-19, shown as expenses for software and IT services that were allegedly never provided. The total money laundering probe is reportedly linked to transactions worth Rs 182 crore. 

The issue gained fresh traction after the Kerala High Court dismissed a petition filed by CMRL on Tuesday seeking to cancel the ED investigation. The raids followed within 24 hours.

Political heat rises in Kerala

The development has intensified the already charged political atmosphere in Kerala. The Left Democratic Front (LDF), led by CPI(M), has long accused the Centre of misusing investigative agencies. The ruling front in the state has described the action as politically motivated, especially ahead of key political developments.

Security remained tight around the former Chief Minister’s residence even as the searches concluded. Party supporters maintained a strong presence, projecting it as a show of unity against what they called “vendetta politics.”

What lies ahead

With the ED likely to analyse the material gathered during the raids, further summons or actions cannot be ruled out. The incident also raises questions about the security of central agency teams during sensitive operations in politically sensitive areas.

Opposition parties in Kerala, including the Congress-led UDF, are watching the developments closely. While some have maintained a cautious stand, the episode is expected to dominate political discourse in the coming days.

The case continues to be under investigation by both the ED and the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO). Legal experts suggest that the outcome could have implications not just for the individuals involved but also for the broader narrative of Centre-state relations and agency autonomy. 

VD Satheesan Sworn in as Kerala Chief Minister with Full Cabinet

Thiruvananthapuram: Congress leader VD Satheesan took oath as Chief Minister of Kerala on Monday morning at the Central Stadium, marking a significant political shift in the state as the Congress-led United Democratic Front assumed power after a decade. 

Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administered the oath to Satheesan, who chose to take it in Malayalam. In a rare move not seen in 60 years, the entire cabinet of 21 members, including the Chief Minister, was sworn in together during the ceremony. The last such instance was in 1962 when R. Sankar took oath with his full team.

Historic Cabinet Formation

The development comes days after the UDF's decisive victory in the assembly elections, where the alliance secured 102 seats out of 140, with the Congress emerging as the single largest party winning 63. This result ended the 10-year rule of the Left Democratic Front led by Pinarayi Vijayan.

Senior Congress leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, were present at the venue, displaying unity. Rahul Gandhi and Satheesan shared a warm hug after the oath-taking. Outgoing Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar also attended the event.

Several chief ministers from Congress-ruled states, including Karnataka's Siddaramaiah, Telangana's Revanth Reddy, and Himachal Pradesh's Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu, graced the occasion. Shashi Tharoor was notably absent due to a foreign trip to Boston.

Ministers Take Oath

Among those who took oath were senior leaders like Ramesh Chennithala, K. Muraleedharan, PK Kunhalikutty, Mons Joseph, Sunny Joseph, and Shibu Baby John. Newer faces in the cabinet included 14 first-time ministers such as PC Vishnunadh, Roji M. John, Bindhu Krishna, N. Samsudheen, CP John, and others.

Congress leaders expressed optimism and a sense of responsibility. PC Vishnunadh described the moment as "a proud moment and a great responsibility," adding that portfolios would be decided soon. Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan acknowledged the challenging role ahead but pledged to work for success, noting it as a "liberation of a generation."

Ground Reactions and Political Context

The swearing-in ceremony drew large crowds and reflected the enthusiasm among Congress workers who had long awaited this day. Congress MP K Suresh termed it a celebration of victory, while Shafi Parambil promised to fulfil all election commitments made to the people.

The selection of Satheesan as Chief Minister followed some internal deliberations. While Rahul Gandhi was initially inclined towards KC Venugopal, strong support from party workers and allies in Kerala tilted the balance in favour of Satheesan, a seasoned leader with deep roots in the state unit.

Opposition Voices

BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain reacted by saying that while Kerala would have a Congress government, the agenda would be dictated by the Muslim League, and that the BJP would keep a close watch. The presence of UDF allies, including the Indian Union Muslim League, has been a point of political commentary.

What Lies Ahead

The new government is expected to hold its first cabinet meeting soon to take key decisions. With 14 fresh faces in the ministry, the focus will likely be on delivering on promises related to governance, development, and addressing local issues that contributed to the UDF's strong mandate.

Satheesan, aged 61, brings experience as a long-time Congress legislator and state leader. His leadership will now be tested as he steers the coalition government through its initial months.

The ceremony at the Central Stadium unfolded smoothly under clear skies, with tight security and visible excitement among supporters who gathered since early morning. Many viewed the event not just as a change of guard but as a new chapter for Kerala politics after years of Left rule. 

As the new team settles in, attention will turn to policy priorities and how the Congress-led dispensation balances coalition compulsions with effective administration in the state.

Congress Names VD Satheesan as Kerala Chief Minister After Prolonged Deliberations

Paravur MLA to lead UDF government following 102-seat victory

The Congress on Thursday named senior leader VD Satheesan as the Chief Minister-designate of Kerala, ending days of intense speculation and internal consultations within the party. The announcement comes nearly 10 days after the United Democratic Front (UDF) secured a decisive mandate in the state assembly elections.

Satheesan, who represents the Paravur constituency in Ernakulam district, is expected to take oath in the coming days. The development was welcomed by Congress leaders, with Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president Sunny Joseph terming it “a very good decision” that would strengthen the party and the alliance.

High command steps in after suspense

The selection process witnessed considerable suspense for over nine days, with multiple names doing the rounds. Congress high command had summoned several senior leaders, including former state unit presidents, to Delhi earlier this week for final discussions. A key meeting was held at Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence on May 9.

Party General Secretary Jairam Ramesh had indicated on Wednesday that all internal consultations had been completed, paving the way for the announcement. Sources said the delay was due to careful assessment of various factors, including legislative support and alliance sentiments.

Preference vs final choice

According to party insiders, Rahul Gandhi’s initial preference was for KC Venugopal. At a meeting of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP), Venugopal reportedly received backing from 75-80 per cent of the MLAs. Satheesan secured support from six legislators during the initial round of discussions.

However, the situation evolved in the following days. Three former state presidents extended support to Satheesan, which appears to have tilted the balance. Crucially, key UDF allies — the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and Kerala Congress (Joseph) — also conveyed their backing for the Paravur MLA.

UDF’s strong mandate

The Congress-led UDF registered a significant victory in the recently held assembly polls, winning 102 seats in the 140-member Kerala Legislative Assembly. The result marked a clear shift away from the Left Democratic Front (LDF), which had been in power for the previous term.

Despite the comfortable majority, the delay in naming the Chief Minister had invited criticism from the opposition, particularly the CPI(M), which questioned the Congress’s ability to provide stable governance.

Satheesan’s political profile

A seasoned politician and former Leader of Opposition in the assembly, VD Satheesan enjoys considerable experience both inside and outside the legislature. Known for his organisational skills and sharp debating abilities, he has held several key positions within the party over the decades. His selection is being seen as a move that balances experience with the need for a fresh face at the helm.

Party workers in several districts expressed relief at the resolution of the leadership question, hoping it would allow the new government to focus on immediate governance challenges including infrastructure, employment, and flood preparedness.

Challenges ahead for new dispensation

The incoming UDF government will assume office at a time when Kerala continues to grapple with economic pressures, high unemployment among the youth, and recurring natural calamities. Managing factional equations within the Congress and keeping allies satisfied will be among the early tests for Satheesan.

Observers note that the new Chief Minister will also have to navigate Centre-state relations, especially on issues concerning financial devolution and coastal security.

With the formal swearing-in expected soon, attention now shifts to the composition of the ministry and the priorities the government sets for its five-year term. The smooth transition of leadership within the UDF is being viewed as a positive sign by supporters who hope the alliance can deliver on its poll promises.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lit up Kochi on Wednesday, praising Kerala's rename to "Keralam" while kicking off massive development projects worth ₹16,450 crore. This Modi Kerala Keralam moment comes amid rising NDA momentum in South India, spotlighting why cultural pride and infrastructure matter now—especially with state polls on the horizon.

Joy Over Kerala to Keralam Name Change

At the golden jubilee of All Kerala Dheevar Sabha, Modi called the rename a "moment of joy" for Malayalis. "People demanded this for years; now their wait ends," he said, crediting central approval for reflecting true Malayali culture. This move fulfills long-standing aspirations, boosting regional identity in today's trend of state rebranding.

Modi also lauded the Sabha's fisherman welfare work, tying it to NDA's development focus over "plunder" by Left Democratic Front and United Democratic Front.

Mega Projects Launch in Kerala and Tamil Nadu

Modi inaugurated and laid foundation stones for ₹10,800 crore projects in Ernakulam (energy, highways, rural infrastructure, railways) and ₹5,650 crore in Tiruchirappalli. These span key sectors, promising jobs and connectivity.

• Ernakulam highlights: Railway upgrades, rural roads for faster growth.
  
  

• Tiruchirappalli focus: Energy boosts, highway expansions.
  
  

At 2:15 PM, he rallied NDA supporters in Ernakulam, vowing to meet NDA Kerala youth expectations through good governance.

NDA Targets Youth, Slams Rivals

Modi stressed NDA's "development-oriented politics" for Kerala's youth, contrasting it with past "misgovernance." On X, he noted DMK's worry over NDA's Tamil Nadu surge, citing unkept promises.

Madurai Airport Gets International Nod

Adding cheer, the Union Cabinet approved Madurai Airport international status. Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said it matches Chennai and Coimbatore's scale, fueling Madurai's growth. "A big step for Tamil Nadu," he added.

This visit underscores NDA's push in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, blending heritage with progress. As Modi wraps up in Tiruchirappalli, eyes are on how these moves reshape regional politics.