At least 20 people were killed when a blast took place at a fireworks factory at Virudhunagar in Tamil Nadu. Sources said that two more victims with 90 per cent burn injuries are in a critical condition. Officials said that a combination of excess workforce along with illegal sub-leasing had contributed to the worst cracker mishap in nearly a decade. While one of the leaseholders has been arrested by the police, five others, including the factory owner, are still on the run. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu revenue secretary K Phanindra Reddy asked Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) to have the Centre bring an amendment to the Explosives Act that could prevent such tragedies in the future. "With the industry expanding each year, chances of such accidents and potential disasters are also increasing. We should conduct more drone inspections to spot if workers are made to work against the norms," he added.
AIADMK tones down on Sasikala
Tamil Nadu's ruling AIADMK seems to be toning down its aggressive stance against former boss VK Sasikala. Ever since her release from jail a few days ago, her proteges-turned-baiters have largely stayed silent on her. This may reflect a re-calibration of the party's stance in the run up to the state assembly polls, given that she continues to enjoy political heft among key sections of Tamil Nadu voters. Yet, it is also increasingly apparent that her nephew and legislator, TTV Dhinakaran, is on the firing line. Her return, three months before the state goes to polls, was marked by a visible show of power, with hundreds gathered to welcome her return - both in Bengaluru and in Tamil Nadu. She flaunted the AIADMK flag on her car despite opposition by the ruling party, even as she called for a united fight.
