Tamil Nadu's Noteworthy Events of 2024

Chennai, Jan 1 (NationPress) The year 2024 witnessed a series of significant events in Tamil Nadu, encompassing political developments, social issues, and remarkable achievements.

Law and order concerns

The state encountered severe criticism regarding a declining law and order situation. The shocking murder of K. Armstrong, President of the Tamil Nadu Bahujan Samaj Party and a practicing advocate of the Madras High Court, on July 5, 2024, sent shockwaves across the state. While eight individuals surrendered, one suspect, K. Tiruvengadam, known for his criminal background, was reportedly killed in an alleged police encounter. In a subsequent chain of events, three more individuals with criminal records met similar fates, raising serious concerns about police accountability.

Fishermen in Sri Lankan jails

The ongoing arrests of Tamil Nadu fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy for crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) continued, despite Union External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's intervention. In 2024, a total of 530 fishermen were apprehended, marking a notable increase from prior years.

Hooch tragedy

A tragic incident involving illicit liquor in the Kallakurichi district on June 20, 2024, resulted in the loss of 68 lives, primarily among the Dalit community, and left 200 others injured. Victims had consumed methanol-contaminated liquor. The government faced significant backlash for its inability to tackle this issue and for initially downplaying the tragedy. The DMK-led government later announced compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.

IAF airshow tragedy

On October 6, 2024, during an Indian Air Force airshow in Chennai attended by 15 lakh spectators, five individuals succumbed to heatstroke and dehydration. The event faced widespread criticism due to inadequate crowd management.

Cyclone Fengal

Cyclone Fengal wreaked havoc in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, resulting in 12 fatalities and the inundation of 2.11 lakh hectares of agricultural land. The cyclone damaged 9,500 km of roads and led to the death of 963 cattle. The government assessed significant losses and commenced relief measures.

Vijay's entry into politics

Superstar Vijay launched his political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, in February 2024. At a grand rally on October 27, he emphasized the importance of social justice and women's empowerment, declaring the BJP as his ideological enemy and the DMK as his political opponent. Vijay's entry is anticipated to significantly influence Tamil Nadu politics.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meditation at Vivekananda Rock Memorial

From May 30 to June 1, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a 45-hour meditation at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanyakumari as part of his spiritual practice following the completion of the Lok Sabha election campaign.

DMK sweeps 2024 Lok Sabha polls

Despite facing criticism regarding the DMK government’s performance, the party led by M.K. Stalin secured victory in all 39 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Following this success, Stalin aims to capture 200 out of the 234 total seats in the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections.

Investment gains and economic challenges

Chief Minister Stalin's international trips, including a 14-day visit to the US, resulted in securing Rs 7,618 crore in investments through 19 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). However, the state is grappling with a rising debt burden, delays in receiving Central funds, and increased welfare spending.

D. Gukesh from Chennai becomes youngest Chess world champion

D. Gukesh from Chennai made history as the youngest world chess champion, further solidifying Tamil Nadu’s reputation as India’s chess capital.

Nayanthara-Dhanush legal feud

Lady Superstar Nayanthara stirred controversy with an open letter directed at actor Dhanush regarding his lawsuit against her for using footage from the film 'Naanum Rowdy Dhaan' in her wedding documentary. This dispute polarized fans and the public.

Samsung Workers' Protest

A 38-day strike by workers at the Samsung plant in Sriperumbudur over the recognition of the Centre of Indian Trade Unions and demands for better wages garnered global attention. The government intervened to resolve the situation after pressure from coalition partners.

R. Ashwin's surprise retirement from international cricket

Cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket during the Border-Gavaskar series in December. Renowned for his impressive records, Ashwin leaves a legacy of over 500 Test wickets and numerous achievements, including India’s 2011 World Cup victory.