A storm, it appears, can still brew over something as small as a cup. A case in point is when Minister R Gandhi, who accompanied VCK candidate Ezhil Caroline to the Arakkonam RDO to file her nomination papers on Thursday, was offered a drink–water or tea, depending on whom you ask. Critics were quick to cry foul, calling it a violation of norms. But the outrage soon lost steam, with some graciously conceding that the minister, reportedly feeling giddy, could be excused for accepting a sip of water. What was served remains unclear but what’s certain is that it managed to stir more than just thirst
Nimisha S Pradeep
Chengalpattu’s calm before clash
The DMK’s candidate list for the Assembly election has sparked unrest across pockets of the party base, with protests breaking out from Tambaram onwards. Yet, Chengalpattu stands apart. The sitting MLA, denied a ticket again, has chosen silence over dissent, prompting speculation. Party insiders suggest the in-charge minister was wary of her return, as a third win might have bolstered her ministerial prospects and unsettled internal equations. On the ground, functionaries appear to have swiftly shifted allegiance to the new face. With both the DMK and the AIADMK gearing up, a tight contest looms
Rajalakshmi Sampath