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.

Senior functionaries of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, Champat Rai and Anil Mishra, have resigned from their respective positions amid the ongoing investigation into the alleged theft and embezzlement of donations received at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

According to reports, Champat Rai stepped down from his role as the Trust’s general secretary, while trustee Anil Mishra also resigned from his responsibilities linked to overseeing the counting of cash offerings. The developments come as the probe into alleged irregularities in handling temple donations continues to expand.

The resignations reportedly followed the registration of an FIR in connection with the alleged misappropriation of cash and valuables donated by devotees. Several individuals associated with the counting process have already been arrested, and investigators have recovered substantial amounts of cash during the course of the probe.

Sources indicated that the resignations were offered to facilitate an impartial investigation into the matter. However, there has been no official statement from the Trust detailing whether the resignations have been formally accepted.

The alleged embezzlement case has triggered political reactions, with opposition parties demanding a thorough and transparent investigation into the handling of temple donations. The issue has also raised questions regarding internal oversight and security mechanisms governing donation management at the temple.

Authorities continue to investigate the matter, while further action is expected based on the findings of the ongoing probe.

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.