The Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK), led by Vaiko, has formally ended its nine-year association with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), marking a significant shift in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. The decision was taken during the party’s general council meeting held on Friday.

MDMK cites attempts to weaken party

In resolutions adopted at the meeting, the MDMK alleged that efforts had been made to weaken the party within the DMK-led alliance, making it difficult to continue the association. The party also claimed there were attempts aimed at facilitating an AIADMK return to power, allegations that were rejected by the DMK.

Although political observers have speculated about the MDMK moving closer to Chief Minister Joseph Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the party did not formally announce any alliance with the ruling front. Instead, it said decisions regarding future political alignments would be taken at an appropriate time.

Warm remarks for Vijay government fuel speculation

The MDMK’s resolutions welcomed the state government’s functioning under Chief Minister Joseph Vijay and urged it to remain committed to key promises, including ensuring corruption-free governance and safeguarding Tamil Nadu’s interests on issues such as the Mekedatu dam project. These remarks have intensified speculation about a possible future understanding between the two sides.

The development comes amid broader political realignments in Tamil Nadu following the 2026 Assembly elections, with several parties reassessing their alliances in the changed political scenario.

The Maharashtra Teacher Eligibility Test (MAHA TET) 2026, scheduled to be conducted on June 28, has been postponed following allegations of a question paper leak. The decision was announced after police uncovered material suspected to be linked to the examination during a raid in Thane district.

Authorities said the suspected leak came to light during an early morning operation in Bhiwandi, where individuals were allegedly found in possession of question papers that matched the actual examination material. Three people have been arrested in connection with the case, while further investigations are underway.

The Maharashtra State Council of Examination (MSCE) subsequently decided to postpone the examination to maintain the integrity and transparency of the recruitment process. Officials stated that a fresh date for the examination will be announced later. Candidates will be required to download new admit cards once the revised schedule is released.

According to officials, more than six lakh candidates were expected to appear for the examination across 1,700-plus centres in the state. The postponement, announced just a day before the test, has affected thousands of aspirants preparing for teaching positions in Maharashtra schools.

The incident has once again raised concerns over the security of competitive examinations in the state, with opposition parties criticising the government over recurring allegations of paper leaks.

Residents across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) experienced strong earthquake tremors on Saturday evening, prompting many people to rush out of homes, offices and high-rise buildings as a precaution.

The tremors, felt in several parts of Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad and adjoining areas, caused panic among residents, although there were no immediate reports of casualties or major damage. Witnesses said the shaking lasted for several seconds, leading many to evacuate buildings.

Tremors linked to powerful earthquake in Afghanistan

According to initial information, the tremors in northern India were triggered by a strong earthquake that struck the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan. The quake measured around 6.2 on the Richter scale and occurred at a considerable depth, allowing the tremors to be felt across a wide geographical area, including parts of north India and Kashmir.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation. No immediate reports of injuries or significant structural damage have emerged from Delhi-NCR so far. Officials have advised people to remain calm and follow safety protocols in the event of aftershocks.