Top IBN Kerala News- IBNLive.com

Panel report on dam unilateral: Kerala

Tue, 29 May 2012 12:57:05 +0530

Terming as "unilateral" the findings of the Supreme Court appointed Empowered Committee on Mullaperiyar Dam, Kerala Water Resources Minister PJ Joseph on Tuesday said there was no change in the state's stand on construction of a new dam.

Kerala: CPM distances itself from MM Mani controversy

Mon, 28 May 2012 11:33:04 +0530

Two days after MM Mani, a CPM leader in Kerala, sent out shock waves with his statements, the Congress-led state government initiated legal action him on Monday. The Idukki district secretary of the CPM had claimed his party killed its rivals, listing out specific incidents.

Kerala: Murder case filed against CPM leader

Mon, 28 May 2012 05:00:38 +0530

The Kerala Police on Monday registered a case of murder against CPM leader MM Mani after his remark that the CPM had a history of killing its political rivals. Chief Minister Oommen Chandy has said that Mani's statement will be probed.

CPM leader faces murder charges for his speech

Mon, 28 May 2012 10:27:47 +0530

The Kerala police have registered a case against CPM leader MM Mani after his controversial speech about the alleged killings of rebels within the party. The police have registered a case of murder, abetment to murder and concealing information.

Bid to brand CPM as party of murderers: VS

Mon, 28 May 2012 09:36:00 +0530

The ex-Kerala CM urged people not to believe Mani, his one-time lieutenant, and that it must be neglected with contempt.

No rebels killed during my term: ex-Kerala CM

Mon, 28 May 2012 08:45:01 +0530

Former Kerala Chief Minister VS Achuthanandan has hit back denying that political rivals were eliminated in the CPM during his term as the state secretary.

Kerala: A different Sunday for candidates

Mon, 28 May 2012 08:12:00 +0530

Sunday was quite different for political parties and main contestants in the Neyyatinkara segment which goes for a bypoll in the weekend.

Political murder charge: Kerala CPM split wide open

Mon, 28 May 2012 12:10:23 +0530

The CPM in Kerala is scrambling to limit damage after its Idukki district chief's controversial remarks that the party kills off its political rivals. And in a first, Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi slammed the CPM - a move that has been interpreted as the BJP's out-reach to Mamata Banerjee.

Explain political murder charge: Modi to CPM

Sun, 27 May 2012 03:55:22 +0530

BJP leader and Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asked the Kerala CPI-M to explain the controversial speech of Idukki District Secretary MM Mani, where he stated that there had been instances of the Left eliminating its political rivals.

Kerala losing its woman brain power

Sun, 27 May 2012 12:52:22 +0530

Kerala may be facing a unique kind of brain drain - one of the educated, feminine ilk. As per the finding of the recently-concluded Kerala Migration Survey 2011 by the Centre for Development Studies, for every 100 women in the state, a significantly high 33 relocate to other cities.

CPM kills rivals within the party: CPM leader

Sat, 26 May 2012 02:09:09 +0530

There seems to be more trouble in Kerala's CPM at a time when the party is being torn apart by infighting. The Idukki district head of the CPM, MM Mani, has controversially claimed that the CPM has a history of 'murdering' rivals within the party.

Kerala bans gutka, pan masala products

Fri, 25 May 2012 03:55:22 +0530

Citing increasing incidence of diseases like oral cancer, the Congress-led UDF government in Kerala on Friday announced a ban on the manufacture and sale of gutka and pan masala containing tobacco in the state with immediate effect.

Another round of migration study in Kerala

Fri, 25 May 2012 02:14:33 +0530

The Centre for Development Studies has started the ground work for the seventh round of the comprehensive study on international and internal emigration from the state.

Kerala to withdraw sales tax on petrol

Thu, 24 May 2012 06:28:39 +0530

A day after the petrol price hike, the Kerala government at a special cabinet meeting on Thursday decided to forgo the sales tax on petrol, reducing its price by Rs 1.63 per litre.

Petrol price: LDF, BJP observe hartal in Kerala

Thu, 24 May 2012 10:21:23 +0530

The dawn-to dusk hartal called separately by LDF and BJP in Kerala to protest the increase in petrol price partially affected normal life across the state on Thursday.

Italian marines to be shifted to Kochi

Thu, 24 May 2012 08:23:37 +0530

Two Italian marines, lodged in the Central Prison here for allegedly shooting to death two Indian fishermen, would be shifted to Kochi. They have been in judicial remand for the last three months on charges of shooting to death two Indian fishermen.

Italian marines to be shifted to Kochi

Wed, 23 May 2012 11:01:54 +0530

Two Italian marines lodged in the Central Prison here for allegedly shooting to death two Indian fishermen, would be shifted to Kochi.

Kerala: Elephant rampage incidents on the rise

Wed, 23 May 2012 03:51:51 +0530

More and more incidents of elephants on rampage are being reported in Kerala. This has brought the focus back on the debate on the parading of animals at festivals.

Kerala: 1 more arrested for Chandrasekharan murder

Wed, 23 May 2012 03:31:18 +0530

The Special Investigation team probing the murder of Marxist rebel and Revolutionary Marxist Party leader TP Chandrasekharan has arrested one of the gang members who allegedly hacked him to death.

Kerala: CPM in no hurry to answer VS

Wed, 23 May 2012 08:39:00 +0530

A PB member said CPM has decided not to make any further statements on the issue till the Neyyatinkara bypoll is over.

Won't interfere in the trial of 2 Italians: Govt

Tue, 22 May 2012 06:07:10 +0530

Notwithstanding Italy's unhappiness over the "unacceptable nature of the judicial developments" involving two of its marines, India on Tuesday made it clear that it will not "interfere" in the trial of two Italians facing murder charges in Kerala.

Mohanlal's blog on CPM leader's murder

Tue, 22 May 2012 03:06:59 +0530

In an emotional post on his blog on his birthday, Malayalam superstar Mohanlal has said he feels scared to live in a place where people kill or "hire goons" to eliminate fellow-beings.

Kerala: Cooking turns therapeutic for jail inmates

Tue, 22 May 2012 10:46:05 +0530

A few inmates of the Poojapura Central Prison in Thiruvanathapuram have been making their way into the community's hearts through their stomachs. They make chapattis and chicken curry and sell it to eager citizens for Rs 25.

Kerala: When the red flag made its advent

Tue, 22 May 2012 08:09:00 +0530

The CPM is busy dealing with crisis after crisis, be it the gruesome murder of a 'renegade' or the letter of its veteran leader.

Kerala: Police inch closer to real conspirators

Mon, 21 May 2012 09:04:00 +0530

SIT is learnt to have received definite leads on role of CPM leaders in hiding main accused in the RMP leaders murder...

Kerala: VS threatens to quit

Sun, 20 May 2012 03:21:32 +0530

Factional fight in the CPI(M)'s Kerala unit flared up yet again on Sunday with the Leader of the Opposition VS Achuthanandan threatening to quit.

Kerala: Court rejects Italians' bail plea

Sat, 19 May 2012 01:15:53 +0530

The Kollam sessions court on Saturday rejected the bail plea of the two Italian marines accused in the fishermen killing case.

Kerala: Verdict on Italians' bail plea today

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:03:27 +0530

The Kollam sessions court will on Saturday pronounce its verdict on the bail plea of the two Italian marines accused in the fishermen killings case. In a new turn of events, Italy on Friday recalled its India ambassador Giacomo Monteforte to Rome.

Being targeted to tarnish CPM: Kerala leader

Fri, 18 May 2012 06:31:33 +0530

CPM leader P Jayarajan on Friday expressed surprise at his name being linked to the murder of former party colleague T P Chandrasekharan.

Kerala: Italians charged with murder

Fri, 18 May 2012 01:16:23 +0530

The two Italian marines, Salvatore Girone and Latorre Massimillano, accused in the fishermen killings case, were charged with attempt to murder (Section 307) and the offence of committing murder (Section 302) on Friday.

Fishermen killings: Charges to be framed today

Fri, 18 May 2012 07:49:16 +0530

A Kerala court is likely to frame charges against the two Italian marines in the fishermen deaths case in Kochi.

3 CPM workers held for Kerala leader's murder

Thu, 17 May 2012 06:33:03 +0530

Three Communist Party of India-Marxist members were arrested on Thursday for their involvement in the murder of former party leader T P Chandrasekharan.

Now, Kerala CM pats himself after one year

Thu, 17 May 2012 01:28:54 +0530

After holding office for a year, Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy is patting himself on the back. But critics are not impressed.

'Pinarayi trying to sabotage TP murder case'

Wed, 16 May 2012 11:42:50 +0530

Kerala Home Minister Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan said on Tuesday that the CPM state secretary Pinarayi Vijayan is trying to sabotage the TP Chandrasekharan murder case by intimidating the officials investigating the case.

Kerala's Ayurveda industry in jeopardy

Wed, 16 May 2012 07:42:55 +0530

The Rs 600 crore Ayurveda industry in Kerala is facing its biggest challenge. The state government is clamping down on what it considers dubious claims by three companies that promise magical remedies. Products worth almost Rs 2 crore have been seized and the three major companies may lose their licences.

Kerala higher secondary results declared

Tue, 15 May 2012 04:45:43 +0530

The Kerala Higher Secondary Department results as well as VHSC results were announced on Tuesday. About 88 per cent students have passed in the plus two examination.

Pitroda's projects will change face of Kerala: CM

Tue, 15 May 2012 01:07:10 +0530

Noted innovator, tech evangelist and policymaker Sam Pitroda has drawn up some 10 major projects for Kerala's resurgence that promise to change the face of the state, says Chief Minister Oommen Chandy.

Kerala: VS vs Vijayan - and CPM?

Mon, 14 May 2012 12:13:39 +0530

The feud between the Communist Party of India Marxist's (CPM) two tallest leaders in Kerala - V S Achuthanandan and Pinarayi Vijayan - appears to be headed for an exciting finish, with the former now taking on not just his bete noire but the party itself.

Kerala: Boy killed, 25 injured in a stampede

Sun, 13 May 2012 08:44:13 +0530

A toddler was killed and 25 others injured in a stampede when a tusker ran amok in the festivities at the famous Koodal Manikkam Temple at Irinjalakuda in the district on Sunday morning.

Split within Kerala CPM out in the open

Sat, 12 May 2012 03:32:09 +0530

It seems that former Kerala chief minister and one of the founding members of the CPM VS Achuthanandan is likely to split the party.

Processions, orchestras mark Kerala festivals

Sat, 12 May 2012 02:01:16 +0530

Frenzied mass participation characterises annual temple festivals in Kerala that invariably include colourful processions of richly caparisoned elephants and panchavadyam (orchestra) by a combination of percussion instruments.

Lady brigade out to end a regions water woes!

Fri, 11 May 2012 12:36:00 +0530

THRISSUR: Finding a good location, digging test holes, and drilling through dirt and rock till you find that flash of water ripple..

Is there a rift in the Kerala CPM?

Thu, 10 May 2012 09:42:00 +0530

There seems to be a rift brewing in the Kerala CPM after the brutal killing of rebel leader TP Chandrashekharan. Though a police probe is still on, many allege that Chandrashekharan's killing was orchestrated by CPM state secretary Pinarayi Vijayan's group. Vijayan alleges that the killing is a conspiracy to tarnish the CPM and even reiterated an earlier comment that Chandrashekharan was a traitor.

Kerala may move Italian marines to guest house

Wed, 09 May 2012 03:09:06 +0530

The Supreme Court on Wednesday directed the Kerala government to consider within one week the plea for transferring to a guest house the two Italian marines, arrested in connection with the killing of Indian fishermen, on board the Enrica Lexie.

Kerala: 15-year-old arrested for killing classmate

Wed, 09 May 2012 09:17:58 +0530

A 15-year-old has been arrested in Alleppey for allegedly killing his classmate. The incident took place in the premises of the St George Higher Secondary School on Monday. The boy is said to have confessed that he killed his classmate to avenge a petty clash that happened two months ago.

Kerala: Nilambur forests haven for Maoists

Tue, 08 May 2012 12:04:47 +0530

The Nilambur forests are fast turning a haven for Maoists and other extremist organisations, according to the latest intelligence reports.

Kerala: Exodus in Pathanamthitta a body blow for CPM

Mon, 07 May 2012 12:58:17 +0530

The exodus from the rank and file of the CPM has started surfacing in the Pathanamthitta district, one of the hotbeds of groupism and factionalism in the CPM.

CPM men behind Left leader's killing?

Mon, 07 May 2012 09:46:40 +0530

Two days since Left leader TP Chandrashekharan was killed in Kerala there is still no clue about those who were behind the assassination. Sources say some CPI(M) leaders are involved in the killing of Chandrashekharan, which is being seen as the most brutal political assassination that Kerala has seen.

Kerala seeks 500 MW power from Kudankulam

Sun, 06 May 2012 10:59:47 +0530

In the midst of Tamil Nadu demanding that the Centre allocate the entire power to be generated by the Kudankulam nuclear plant to it, Kerala has staked claim for 500 MW from the project.

Kerala seeks greater share in Koodankulam power

Sun, 06 May 2012 02:51:00 +0530

Chief Minister Oommen Chandy has written to Prime Minister demanding 500 MW from the nuclear plant for the state...

Now a Malayalam film on 'real' Silk Smitha

Sat, 05 May 2012 03:40:46 +0530

The film, tentatively titled 'Profile', is all set to go on floors by early June this year only.

Isha Sharvani to debut in Malayalam Films

Sat, 05 May 2012 03:21:42 +0530

If all goes well, Bollywood diva Isha Sharvani will soon make her debut in Malayalam.

Kerala: Former CPM leader hacked to death

Sat, 05 May 2012 08:45:15 +0530

In a shocking incident in the Kozhikode district of Kerala, former Kerala CPM leader T P Chandrasekharan, who was expelled from the party a few years back, was hacked to death by unidentified assailants.

Mullaperiyar: Kerala may object to SC panel report

Sat, 05 May 2012 08:22:02 +0530

In a setback for the Kerala government in the Mullaperiyar dam row, a five-member Supreme Court-appointed panel has stated that the dam is safe. The report even backs Tamil Nadu's demand to raise the water level of the dam that lies in Kerala's territory from 136 feet to 142 feet.

Mullaperiyar dam is safe: SC panel

Fri, 04 May 2012 08:32:42 +0530

In a setback for Kerala in the Mullaperiyar dam row, the report submitted by the 5-member committee appointed by the Supreme says that the dam is safe. The report vindicates Tamil Nadu's demand to raise the water level in the dam from 136 ft to 142ft.

Mullaperiyar: Kerala, TN to get copies of report

Fri, 04 May 2012 02:32:39 +0530

The Supreme Court on Friday permitted Kerala and Tamil Nadu to get copies of the report submitted by the monitoring committee on the Mullaperiyar Dam row.

Kerala: Mother kills newborn, stuffs body in bag

Thu, 03 May 2012 11:52:23 +0530

In a horrifying act, a 24-year old hospital canteen worker killed her newborn girl and stashed the body in a handbag on Thursday, intending to dispose it, police said.

Kerala: Chandy, Ramesh own up 5th berth 'error'

Thu, 03 May 2012 12:11:18 +0530

Owning up joint responsibility, KPCC president Ramesh Chennithala and Chief Minister Oommen Chandy have admitted that there were some mistakes in the way the fifth minister berth was allotted to the IUML, which had created discontent among Congress leaders in the state.

Kerala: VS plea for sex probe report dismissed

Wed, 02 May 2012 04:29:35 +0530

The Kerala High Court on Wednesday dismissed a petition of Leader of Opposition V S Achuthanandan seeking a copy of the investigation report in the Kozhikode ice-cream parlour sex case.

Tamil Nadu writes to Kerala on dumping of waste

Wed, 02 May 2012 07:00:58 +0530

A day after four lorry loads of medical and municipal wastes brought from the Kerala were seized near Pollachi, the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) took up the issue with its counterpart in the neighbouring State.

Mohanlal happy with remakes of South Indian hits

Tue, 01 May 2012 07:05:30 +0530

Mohanlal seems pleased with the success of Hindi remakes of South Indian blockbusters, of which Salman remains the biggest beneficiary.

Fishermen killing: Italy clarifies on Rs 1 crore deal

Tue, 01 May 2012 02:55:56 +0530

Italy on Tuesday alleged that the compromised reached between it and the families of the two fishermen killed earlier this year by two Italian marines on board an Italian ship Enrica Lexie, was "a gesture of goodwill" and was not to be "misread as a settlement of claim".

Fishermen killing: Italian ship case adjourned

Tue, 01 May 2012 07:38:35 +0530

The Supreme Court on Tuesday adjourned the hearing on whether to release Italian ship Enrica Lexie from the Kochi port. The matter will be taken up for hearing on Wednesday.

Remand of Italian marines extended by a fortnight

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 06:07:15 +0530

The judicial remand of the two marines of Italian ship Enrica Lexie, charged with shooting dead two Indian fishermen off Kerala coast, was extended by 14 days by a court on Monday.

Coconut plucking is monkey business in Kerala

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 12:32:22 +0530

Can a monkey do a man's job? Yes, when it comes to climbing tall coconut trees and plucking its fruits - a skill that has been hit by labour shortage, say the Kerala authorities.

Kozhikode: AI plane makes emergency landing

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 12:27:11 +0530

An Air India plane with 150 people on board was forced to make an emergency landing at the Kozhikode airport in Kerala after being hit by a bird. The AI-973 Kozhikode-Dubai flight made an emergency landing at the airport shortly after the mishap on Monday morning.

Kerala seeks SIMI ban extension

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 08:48:00 +0530

The Kerala Government in its affidavit filed before the Special Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act Tribunal has requested the Centre to continue its ban on the Students Islamic Movement of India.

Illegal sale of sedatives rampant in Kerala

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 11:38:34 +0530

The recent haul of a large consignment of cough syrup from a wholesale drug store in Kozhikode sheds light on the illegal sale of such syrups and tablets as sedatives targeting the younger generation.

Fishermen killing: Fishing boat owner to settle issue

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:10:00 +0530

After families of two fishermen shot dead by marines onboard 'Enrica Lexie' reached a compromise with Italian authorities, the owner of the boat in which the victims were out for fishing has also agreed to settle the case.

Soul often goes missing in remakes: Mohanlal

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 02:02:17 +0530

At a time when South film remakes are popular in Hindi, Malayalam superstar Mohanlal feels that even if various elements are added to the content, the soul of the original is lost when it is re-produced in different languages several times.

Kerala open to setting up motor race track

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 01:57:49 +0530

The Kerala government can consider opening a motor racing track in the state if it helped pull in tourists, Tourism Minister A P Anil Kumar said ahead of his meeting with F1 driver Narain Karthikeyan on Thursday.

Kerala: 132 incest rape cases in last decade

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 10:56:42 +0530

Is Kerala the most incestuous society in the whole of South India? Yes, it seems if one were to go by the statistics which the Home Ministry has in its hands.

Italy, killed fishermen's families sign deal

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 03:07:40 +0530

The Italian government has signed a compensation deal with the families of the two Kerala fishermen shot dead by marines on board Enrica Lexie. According to the deal the families of the two killed fishermen would be given Rs 1 crore each.

Fishermen deaths: Families await justice

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 09:54:24 +0530

As the Centre continues its flip-flops on the fishermen killing case in the Supreme Court, CNN-IBN caught up with the family of one of the fishermen killed in the incident, Pinku.

Fishermen deaths: SC notice to Govt on Italian marines' release

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 03:39:28 +0530

The Supreme Court on Monday issued notices to the Centre on Italian marines' release. The matter has been posted for hearing on May 8.

'No decision on taking Raval off Italian ship case'

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 10:13:01 +0530

With Kerala Chief Minister Oomen Chandy pushing for removal of Additional Solicitor General Harin Raval from the case involving the Italian ship, Union Law Ministry said no decision has been taken so far on the issue.

Kerala: 'Dead man' returns to family

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 08:12:42 +0530

A 72-year-old man, believed to be dead by his kin, returned home on Friday to the surprise of the "bereaved" family. The family of one Moidu from Naduvanadu village near Irutty town believed that he was no more after they came across an unclaimed body which bore close resemblance to the missing man a week ago.

Fishermen deaths: It's Kerala govt vs the Centre

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 09:38:39 +0530

The families of the two Kerala fishermen shot dead by Italian marines in February this year agreed to withdraw their cases on Friday after an Italian compensation offer of Rs 1 crore.

'Kerala had no jurisdiction to detain Italian ship'

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 09:58:35 +0530

The families of two fishermen who were shot dead by Italian marines at sea have agreed to withdraw their cases after an Italian compensation offer of Rs 1 crore.

Kerala had no right to detain Italian ship: Govt

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 03:24:52 +0530

The Central government on Friday said that the Kerala police had no authority to detain the Italian ship 'Enrica Lexie'. The Centre told the Supreme Court that the Kerala Police Station had no jurisdiction to detain the ship or probe the incident as the incident occurred on high seas.

Kerala HC orders probe into fake stamp papers

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 02:22:24 +0530

Acting Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court Manjula Chellur on Friday gave directions to all the courts in the state for an immediate inquiry into the use of stamp papers, after a massive fraud of fake stamp papers was detected at a lower court.

Italy to give Rs 1 cr to fishermen's families: sources

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 10:06:47 +0530

Italy on Friday allegedly offered Rs 1 crore as compensation to the families of the two fishermen who were killed in February this year when two marines on board an Italian ship, 'Enrica Lexie', fired at them, allegedly believing them to be pirates.

Bollywood is for newcomers, says Mohanlal

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 10:32:07 +0530

The actor, who has dedicated over three decades to the Malayalam film industry, made his Bollywood debut with Ram Gopal Varma's 'Company' in 2002.

Kerala's only tribal village under threat

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 04:24:15 +0530

Idamalakkudy is home to some of the world's most endangered plant species but the rich biodiversity is fast dwindling as is the tribals' unique way of life, say worried researchers.

Kerala tops in MGNREGS graph

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 11:34:00 +0530

The state notched up a remarkable feat of providing 44.96 days of work for target families, as against the national average of 39.95.

I did 'Tezz' only for Priyan: Mohanlal

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 05:45:32 +0530

Southern superstar Mohanlal has teamed with filmmaker Priyadarshan for 42 films in the past. He says he agreed for a cameo in 'Tezz', his 43rd piece of work with Priyadarshan, only for the director.

I have nothing to prove in Bollywood: Mohanlal

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 03:32:01 +0530

Malayalam superstar Mohanlal feels that although the reach of Hindi cinema is wider, he has nothing much to prove here as an actor.

Kerala CM to make major pitch for investment

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 05:11:31 +0530

Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy along with a team of officials will meet diplomats and business honchos in Delhi later this week as part of an exercise to promote the state as an investment destination.

Fishermen killing: Italians' custody extended

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 12:01:49 +0530

The judicial custody of the two Italian naval personnel accused of killing two Indian fishermen in February has been extended till April 30. They were produced before the Kollam judicial magistrate. The police is yet to file the chargesheet in the case.

Chandy, Congress in tight spot in Kerala

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 10:25:37 +0530

By conceding the demand of Indian Union Muslim League for a fifth ministerial berth in the Congress-led UDF government, both Congress and Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy have landed in a tight spot with several of its leaders coming out against the decision.

Fun and fervour mark Vishu in Kerala

Sat, 14 Apr 2012 12:18:35 +0530

Devout Hindus on Saturday heralded Vishu, the Kerala new year, with traditional cultural fervour with people visiting temples in the morning.

Kerala CM Oommen Chandy adds 2 ministers

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 11:04:21 +0530

Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Thursday added two more ministers to his cabinet, taking the total strength to 21.

Mohanlal to play the lead in Rafi-Mecartin film

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 03:18:33 +0530

Rafi and Mecartin are coming up with a new movie this year, their third flick with Mohanlal.

SC notice to Kerala Police on Italian ship

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 02:14:19 +0530

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notice to Kerala Police and the state's mercantile marine department on a petition by the owners of Italian ship MT Enrica Lexie.

Communal politics goes viral in Kerala

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 10:56:05 +0530

The communal genie whose support the Congress invoked to oust Kerala's first Communist government more than 50 years ago are still around and turning the state's politics viral.

VS miffed over not making it to CPM politburo

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 03:15:53 +0530

Former Kerala chief minister V.S. Achuthanandan was clearly upset on Monday after he failed to make it into the politburo of the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPM).

12-year-old takes 20-hour journey beneath a bus!

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 11:35:30 +0530

In an incident, like one taken out from movies, a 12-year-old boy undertook a 20-hour journey beneath a bus and covered nearly 800 km. Manu who travelled beneath the body of a tourist bus from Coorg to Malampuzha was taken home by his grandmother and relatives from Malampuzha police station to Bangalore where they were residing, on Sunday.

Italian priests visit slain Kerala fisherman's home

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 05:45:27 +0530

After the visit of three Italian ministers to try and get two Italian marines released from prison, Kerala witnessed a round of Church diplomacy when two Italian priests arrived at the home of one of the fishermen shot dead by the marines.

Kerala Christians set for Easter

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 04:53:20 +0530

With just two days left for Easter, Christians in the state are geared up for the celebrations. The lent, which involves a 50-day abstinence from all non-vegetarian items including milk and curd, ends this Sunday with the Easter.

Kerala, Karnataka low on SSC applications

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 10:36:00 +0530

Not many from the state and Kerala are applying for the State Selection Commission Exam (SSC) for group B and C Central government jobs.

Court rejects plea for convicting Italian ship captain

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 02:03:06 +0530

A local court on Wednesday dismissed a plea seeking to enlist as an accused the captain of Italian ship Enrica Lexie in the case of gunning down of two Indian fishermen allegedly by marines aboard the vessel.

Kerala HC extends stay on Italian ship's release

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 05:38:18 +0530

The Kerala High Court on Monday extended by a day, the stay imposed on the release of the Italian vessel Enrica Lexie, which was involved in the killing of two Indian fishermen.

Kerala man makes coconut plucking a hi-tech job

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 01:24:09 +0530

Shortage of trained nut pluckers is a grim farm sector problem in Kerala but for 37-year-old Selvin Chacko coconut plucking is a hi-tech profession involving car, mobile and even a dedicated website.

Thousands bid tearful adieu to T Damodaran

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 02:53:05 +0530

Thousands turned up to bid adieu to eminent scriptwriter T Damodaran, who passed away on March 28.

Judicial custody of Italian marines extended

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 02:48:21 +0530

A court in Kerala on Monday extended till April 16 the judicial custody of two Italian marines arrested for allegedly shooting dead two Indian fishermen in February. They have been lodged at the Central Prison in Thiruvananthapuram. Following the new order, their remand will continue.

Italian marines must face Indian law: Chandy

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 06:09:08 +0530

Notwithstanding the pressure being mounted by Italy, Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy has ruled out transfer of two Italian marines, held for allegedly killing two fishermen, to their home country for trial.

Kerala: Woman devotee? Sorry, no entry

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 02:46:36 +0530

In Jammu's Sree Krishna temple, all rituals, including offering of daily prayers, are performed by women priests. The temple, also known as 'Baion ka Mandir,' is maintained by the distaff side which is proud to spread the message of women empowerment through religion.

Italian marines must face the Indian law: Kerala

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 09:50:42 +0530

90 pc of Kerala homes have telephone

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 05:57:49 +0530

Almost 90 per cent of households in Kerala have telephone connections (land line or mobile) in 2011, a staggering rise over the 19.1 per cent in 2001.

Technopark creating big jobs in Kerala

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 05:16:33 +0530

Technopark is helping in employment generation and the number of professionals at the IT hub is all set to touch 100,000 in the next five years.

CMC medical team examines actor Sreekumar

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 05:14:20 +0530

A three-member medical team from Christian Medical College hospital, Vellore, today examined veteran Malayalm film actor Jagathy Sreekumar, being treated at a private hospital here after his March 10 accident.

Kerala HC orders release of Italian ship

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 06:49:27 +0530

The Kerala High Court on Thursday ordered release of Italian ship Enrica Lexie, detained off Kochi port for over a month in connection with the gunning down of two Indian fishermen allegedly by marines aboard the vessel.

Asin honoured by Kerala government

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 12:27:47 +0530

The actress was awarded for her achievements and success in the field of entertainment by her home state.

'Italian ship will have to wait till forensic report'

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 03:31:14 +0530

The Kerala government on Wednesday informed the High Court that a decision on whether Italian ship Enrica Lexie, from which marines had opened fire killing two Indian fishermen, can be allowed to sail depends on the forensic report of the firearms seized from the ship.

Kerala to be tough on banks denying edu loan

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 04:20:41 +0530

Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Wednesday said the state government will act tough on commercial banks that do not provide educational loans to students.

Malayalam scriptwriter T Damodaran dead

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 12:24:18 +0530

T Damodaran, known for scripting successful films like "Angaadi", "Ee Nadu" and "Avanazhi", died on Wednesday at his residence here, according to family sources.

Kerala: Long wait for justice for sailors' families

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 12:00:29 +0530

The families of seven Indian sailors, on board 'MV Asphalt Venture' that was hijacked by Somali pirates in 2010, are wondering why the Indian government is taking so long to secure the release of the sailors.

Malayalam actor Jose Prakash passes away

Sat, 24 Mar 2012 05:30:56 +0530

He has done nearly 400 films. His last film was 'Traffic' that was released last year.

Stressed: More doctors in Kerala dying young

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 09:25:00 +0530

Kerala chapter of Indian Medical Association shows that 45 doctors died last year and over half of them were below 50.

CPI veteran CK Chandrappan dies at 77

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 04:23:44 +0530

CPI stalwart CK Chandrappan, a dominant figure of Indian mainstream Left for the last several decades and former Lok Sabha member, died in a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday, party sources said.

Mohanlal again in Shaji N Karun movie

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 05:04:12 +0530

Mohanlal will once again play the lead in a Shaji N Karun movie. The director, who is a purveyor of well-crafted and internationally acclaimed fares, this time goes for T Padmanabhan's story 'Kadal'.

Indian fisherman goes missing off UAE coast

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 08:39:10 +0530

An Indian fisherman has gone missing in the rough seas off Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE. An intensive search operation has been launched to find him. Christudas Augustine, from Kerala, was among a group of six Indian fishermen who went for fishing along with a friend of their sponsor on Sunday, a media report said.

Kerala: Anoop Jacob of UDF wins Piravom

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 01:09:18 +0530

In a boost to Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, the ruling Congress-led UDF in Kerala on Wednesday retained the Piravom assembly seat with its candidate Anoop Jacob winning by a margin of 12,070 votes.

'Kerala cop has links with banned outfits'

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 02:46:01 +0530

Kerala Police on Tuesday informed a court here that a sub-inspector arrested for allegedly sending a forged letter to the media has links with banned outfits.

Thrissur temple may be world heritage site

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 07:02:49 +0530

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has recently recommended 14 sites, including temples and palaces, from Kerala to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESO) to include in its list of World Heritage Sites.

Mullaperiyar: Rs 50 cr earmarked for new dam

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 07:00:56 +0530

Reiterating its commitment to build a new dam at Mullaperiyar in place of the existing 116 year-old structure there, Kerala budget on Monday set apart Rs 50 crore for initial expense for the construction.

Kerala govt raises retirement age to 56

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 11:12:16 +0530

The Congress-led UDF Government in Kerala on Monday raised the retirement age of state government employees to 56 years from the existing 55. Finance Minister KM Mani made the announcement in this regard while presenting the state Budget for the current fiscal.

Fishermen case: Italians' custody ends today

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 07:33:12 +0530

The police custody of the Italian marines accused of killing two Kerala fishermen ends on Monday and they will be produced before the court in Kollam. On Thursday the state government asked the High Court to disallow the Italian ship from leaving Indian water as investigations were still on.

Kochi: ABVP protests against Binayak Sen

Sun, 18 Mar 2012 10:57:15 +0530

Activists of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad, the youth wing of the BJP, on Sunday raised slogans against the presence of human rights activist Dr Binayak Sen at a seminar in Kochi.

Upset Jaya writes to PM on Dam Safety Bill

Sun, 18 Mar 2012 09:01:37 +0530

Voicing her opposition to certain sub-clauses of the draft Dam Safety Bill 2010, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa has sought the Prime Minister's intervention as a standing committee had not addressed her government's apprehensions.

Record polling in Kerala by-election

Sat, 17 Mar 2012 11:24:47 +0530

A record 85.6 per cent of the electorate voted Saturday in the Piravom Assembly constituency in Kerala, officials said. The by-election follows the death of TM Jacob, the food and civil supplies minister. He was the lone legislator of his Kerala Congress (Jacob), an ally of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF).

Italian ship can't be allowed to leave: Kerala Govt

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 06:26:07 +0530

The Kerala government told the Kerala High Court on Thursday that the Italian vessel Enrica Lexie, berthed off the coast, should not be allowed to leave as the investigation into two Italian marines shooting dead two Indian fishermen was on.

Last leg of campaign: Chandy hits out at VS

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 03:59:20 +0530

On a day of active campaigning in Piravom on Wednesday, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy embarked on a roadshow in support of UDF candidate Anoop Jacob.

Indian prisoners in Colombo feel betrayed

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 12:05:32 +0530

Amid allegations of Indian indifference towards Sri Lankan Tamils, Indian prisoners serving long sentences in Colombo's main prison say they feel badly let down by Indian authorities.

Malayalam actor Sreekumar recovering well

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 02:04:41 +0530

Malayalam film actor Jagathy Sreekumar is recovering well after three operations to fix fractures on his hand, leg and hip following the March 10 accident, doctors attending on him said.

Israel water industry keen to tap Kerala market

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 10:25:00 +0530

Israel, one of India's major defence equipment supplier, is eyeing God's Own Country altogether for a different market.

VS should quit as Oppn Leader: UDF

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 10:26:30 +0530

Ruling Congress-led UDF on Tuesday demanded the resignation of VS Achuthanandan as the Leader of the Opposition in Kerala Assembly in view of the House committee's findings that he had intervened in getting plum official posts for his son during his tenure as Chief Minister.

Fishermen killings: Italy defends marines

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 05:20:55 +0530

In an interview with CNN-IBN, Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Steffan de Mistura defended the alleged action of Italian marines.

Malayalam actor Sreekumar's condition stable

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 01:36:25 +0530

The condition of Malayalam film actor Jagathy Sreekumar, who was admitted to a hospital here after he met with a road accident, is stable, doctors attending on him said today.

Pallakad: Real Hero Raziya helps elderly women

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 11:44:17 +0530

In today's fast paced world, we prefer to leave behind those who can't catch up. Old age is one such anomaly. "After my husband's death, my son physically tortured me...had to approach the police," said Sitamma, an old lady.

Release marines, writes Italian embassy

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:53:39 +0530

At a time when the European Union has come forward expressing willingness to intervene in the Enrica Lexie episode, a letter sent to the Union Ministry of External Affairs from the Italian Embassy is gaining significance.

Satheesan slams VS for anti-House panel remarks

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:35:00 +0530

Satheesan said Achuthanandan had not uttered a word when the panel submitted its reports before the Assembly...

VS in trouble for remark on ex-CPM activist

Sun, 11 Mar 2012 09:44:17 +0530

Opposition leader VS Achuthanandan on Sunday landed in trouble for his 'unsavoury' remark on former CPM firebrand woman activist Sindhu Joy who left the party to join Congress in the last Assembly elections.

Malayalam film comedian Sreekumar seriously injured

Sat, 10 Mar 2012 11:22:32 +0530

Jagathy Sreekumar, a veteran of over 1,000 Malayalam films, was seriously hurt in a road accident in the wee hours of Saturday.

Kerala shocker: CPM MLA resigns

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 04:37:55 +0530

Communist Party of India-Marxist leader R Selvaraj on Friday resigned as legislator, taking the party top brass by surprise and fuelling speculation that he was hand in glove with the rival United Democratic Front (UDF).

In Kerala by-election, it's Chandy vs VS

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 02:28:34 +0530

Though the assembly by-election on March 17 would see a clash between two rivals who go by the same surname of Jacob, the real fight appears to be between Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and his predecessor VS Achuthanadan.

Kerala boat hit-and-run: ship sailor arrested

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 11:43:52 +0530

A sailor of cargo ship MV Prabhu Daya was arrested by Kerala Police on Thursday in connection with a hit-and-run case involving fishing boat Don-1 off the Kerala coast on March 1.

Italian marines are 'just plain killers': Swamy

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 11:40:48 +0530

Janata Party President Subramanian Swamy on Thursday said India must stand firm on the issue concerning the killing of two Indian fishermen, allegedly by two Italian marines, describing them as "just plain killers."

Achuthanandan in trouble over son's appointment

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 03:02:10 +0530

In a setback to CPI-M veteran VS Achuthanandan, a probe by a Joint Legislature Committee of the Kerala Assembly has found serious irregularities and nepotism in the appointment of his son to a key post when he was the chief minister.

Fishermen case: Italy PM speaks to Manmohan

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 10:59:39 +0530

The Italian government is mounting pressure on India over the fishermen deaths incident. Italian Prime Minister Mario Monti called up Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and reiterated their stand that the incident happend in international waters.

Asif Ali: Rising star of Malayalam films

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 05:57:43 +0530

The new gamut of young talent in Malayalam cinema comes without any baggage, except maybe the imposing career graph put forward by their predecessors - Mammootty and Mohanlal.

Is Mohanlal worth Rs 1 cr?

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 08:10:30 +0530

In the past, Mohanlal is said to have walked out of Vishal Bharadwaj's Saat Khoon Maaf after he felt he was being short-changed in money matter.

Fishermen case: two accused sent to Central Jail

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 06:35:34 +0530

A court in Kerala on Monday extended the custody of the two Italian marines arrested for allegedly shooting dead two Indian fishermen and ordered them to be sent to the Central Jail in state capital Thiruvananthapuram till March 19.

Kerala: Walkout in Assembly over boat tragedies

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 03:12:18 +0530

The opposition Left on Monday walked out of the Kerala Assembly following the denial of an adjournment motion to discuss two deep sea boat tragedies in as many weeks that left five fishermen dead.

Nurses' wages: Kerala govt mulling legislation

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 02:26:12 +0530

Kerala government was mulling a new legislation to deal with the wages and other allowances of nurses and other paramedical staff working in private hospitals in the state.

No leniency to Italian guards: Kerala CM

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 12:45:34 +0530

Asserting that the probe in the fishermen killing case was progressing well, Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Monday told the assembly that no leniency would be shown to accused Italian marines as government's priority was to ensure justice to the victims' families.

Italians feel sailors were only 'doing duty'

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 12:36:48 +0530

The Italians are sorry for the deaths but are more concerned about the safety of their two soldiers, who they think were merely "doing their duty".

Kochi: Italian guards' custody ends today

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 06:49:18 +0530

The police custody of the two Italian Navy personnel charged with the murder of two Indian fishermen off the Kochi coast earlier last month ends on Monday. The two are likely to be produced in court today.

Fisherman's kin refuse to meet Italian minister

Sun, 04 Mar 2012 10:11:21 +0530

The family of Jelastine, one of the two fishermen allegedly killed by Italian marines, on Sunday refused to meet visiting Deputy Foreign Minister Steffan de Mistura fearing it would harm their case.

Ship-boat collision: One body recovered

Sun, 04 Mar 2012 12:01:31 +0530

Naval divers on Sunday recovered the body of one of the three fishermen who went missing after their boat was hit by a merchant vessel of Alappuzha coast. Two fishermen had been killed in the incident. The body, which was found inside the sunken boat, has been handed over to local fishermen, naval sources said in Kochi.

Malayalam film industry lacks active producers

Sat, 03 Mar 2012 04:48:30 +0530

The director says this is a love story that will have a great musical score. It will also have pure action based on martial arts.

Search narrowing in on ship that hit fishermen's boat

Sat, 03 Mar 2012 12:18:00 +0530

Efforts continued on Friday to identify the ship that rammed into a fishing boat off Kerala coast causing the death of two fishermen from the state with shipping authorities questioning a number of ships.

Kollam court allows presence of 2 Italian experts

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 07:26:59 +0530

Two Italian officials were on Friday allowed by a Kerala court to be present during forensic examination of arms seized from the ship 'Enrica Lexie' in connection with the killing of two Indian fishermen off the Kollam coast on February 15.

Ship that hit boat off Kerala coast identified

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 06:15:31 +0530

The merchant ship suspected to be involved in the collision with a fishing boat off the Kerala coast which killed 2 Indian fishermen has been identified.

Kerala Tourism wins national award yet again

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 07:18:25 +0530

Tech-savvy Kerala Tourism set a record by winning the National Tourism Award for its website, fifth time in the last ten years.

Italian marines to stay in jail till Monday

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 05:19:02 +0530

The police custody of the two Italian marines who had allegedly shot dead Indian fishermen off Kochi coast has been extended till Monday. The Kollam magistrate has directed the Kochi Port Trust to bring the Enrica Lexie back to the harbour.

HC points to 'serious defects' in Italy's plea

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 04:53:44 +0530

Pointing out that there were "serious defects" in Italian government's plea seeking quashing of FIR charging two of its marines with murder of two fishermen, the Kerala High Court on Thursday sternly told them that it would look into the petition only after they were "cured".

Hunt on for ship that hit boat off Kerala coast

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 04:52:23 +0530

The Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy have launched a search operation to trace the ship which collided with a shipping boat at the high seas off the Kochi-Alleppey coast killing at least two fishermen. Four ships and a Dornier aircraft have been deployed to trace the ship involved.

Kerala committed to Mullaperiyar dam: Governor

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 03:28:44 +0530

Acting Kerala Governor H R Bhardwaj on Thursday said the state government was committed to building a new dam at Mullaperiyar.

Kollam: Ship, boat collide; 2 fishermen dead

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 07:19:01 +0530

Two fishermen died when a ship collided with a shipping boat at the high seas of the Kochi Alleppey coast which is 9 km north of Kollam city on Thursday at 3 am. The deceased were identified as Francis Justine and Xavier, police said.

Is MNREGS a boon for women, old in Kerala?

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 07:05:52 +0530

Shantamma breaks down when she recollects her son's death. At 70, she shouldn't have had to work. Her husband is blind. She lost her son to cancer. She doesn't have a BPL card or an old age pension though she is entitled to both. The family has no land either.

Kerala: NSS head Panicker passes away

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 04:44:03 +0530

PK Narayana Panicker, president of Nair Service Society and a dominant public figure in Kerala for the last several decades, died at his residence at Changanassery near Kottayam on Wednesday, NSS sources said.

'No out of court settlement in fishermen case'

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 05:40:54 +0530

The Kerala government on Wednesday ruled out the possibility of any out of court settlement in the case relating to the killing of two Indian fishermen by two Italian marines onboard a merchant ship.

Indians killed: Court rejects Italy's plea

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 05:32:09 +0530

A Kollam court on Wednesday dismissed a petition filed by Italy in connection with the killing of two Indian fishermen off the Kochi coast. Italy had sought permission to allow presence of their forensic experts during the examination of the weapons recovered from the ship.

Fishermen deaths: Italy files fresh petition

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 12:32:06 +0530

Italy has filed a fresh petition in the Kollam Magistrate Court in the Indian fishermen's killings case. Italy has sought permission for Italian experts to be present while the weapons are being examined in the forensic labs.

Kerala Assembly session to begin on Thursday

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 04:23:20 +0530

The fourth session of the 13th Assembly would begin on Thursday with the customary Governor's address. On Friday, there would be obituary reference on the demise of former Governor MOH Farook.

Furnish Rs 3 cr bank guarantee: HC to ship owners

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 07:21:06 +0530

Modifying a single judge's order, Kerala High Court on Tuesday directed owners of Italian ship involved in the killing of two Indian fishermen to furnish a bank guarantee, deposit or demand draft, for Rs 3 crore.

Trade union strike total in Kerala

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 02:47:47 +0530

A 24-hour strike called by 11 trade unions to protest against the government's "anti-labour" policies evoked total response in Kerala, with transport off the roads and all commercial and industrial units shut.

Italy to offer blood money to victims' families?

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 01:40:26 +0530

The Italian Foreign Minister met his Indian counterpart SM Krishna on Tuesday over the alleged killings of two Indian fishermen by Italian naval guards. Italian Foreign Minister Giulio Terzi expressed regret and condolences to the families of the victims in the meeting.

Fishermen case: Italian FM meets Krishna

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 10:00:24 +0530

Italy's Foreign Minister Giulio Terzi arrived in India on a two-day visit over the killing of two Indian fishermen allegedly by Italian naval guards. He is accompanied by the family members of the two Italian navy personnel who have been arrested over the alleged killings.

Go on strike and lose your salary: Kerala CM

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 09:54:24 +0530

Normal life was disrupted in Kerala on Tuesday due to the country-wide strike called by central trade unions to protest the 'anti-labour' policies of the UPA government.

'Italian ship to stay in Kochi till Tue evening'

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 04:19:13 +0530

The Kerala Police has handed over four boxes containing the weapons used by the Italian naval personnel, who are accused of killing two Indian fishermen, to the Kollam magistrate.

Vault C of Kerala temple to be opened today

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 08:53:00 +0530

The 'C' vault of the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple would be opened on Monday for scientific documentation of articles.

Vessels weapon room resembled military armoury

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 07:51:00 +0530

KOCHI: The Italian weapons were protected in two vaults in the Italian vessel, Enrica Lexie. Though the marines were in the ship t..

Coastal security to be stepped up: AK Antony

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 05:22:24 +0530

Expressing satisfaction over Kerala Police's progress of investigation into the killing of two Indian fishermen allegedly by an Italian ship's naval guards, Defence Minister AK Antony on Sunday said the Centre would take measures to strengthen coastal security and safety of fishermen.

Italian crew to be tried under Indian law: Antony

Sun, 26 Feb 2012 02:47:25 +0530

Holding that the two Italian marines accused of killing two Indian fishermen off Kerala coast would be prosecuted under the Indian law, Defence Minister AK Antony today said the investigation into the case was progressing in the right direction.

Ship search complete, police to present evidence before court

Sun, 26 Feb 2012 09:20:05 +0530

The Kochi police conducted a complete search of the Italy ship, Enrica Lexie, on Saturday and picked up four boxes. These will be probed further after presenting them to court.

Kerala police seize weapons from Italian vessel

Sun, 26 Feb 2012 02:32:28 +0530

A Special Investigation Team on Saturday night completed the search of the Italian merchant vessel Enrica Lexie to trace the firearms used by two marines, who allegedly shot dead two Indian fishermen, even as it seized several weapons during the operation.

Fishermen killed: India-Italy crisis eases off

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 08:43:00 +0530

Italy moderated its position on Friday, praising the Kerala court for allowing Italian ballistic experts to observe the Kerala police probe.

Kerala police to inspect Italian ship on Saturday

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 05:57:19 +0530

The Kerala Police, investigating the killing of two Indian fishermen by Italian guards aboard the vessel Enrica Lexie, are expected to continue their probe by visiting the Italian vessel after two Italian defence officials arrive on Saturday.

Italy happy with the fishermen killing probe: MEA

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 04:29:04 +0530

The Ministry of External Affairs on Friday said that the visiting Italian minister was satisfied with the probe in the fishermen killings case. He also said that the Italian Foreign Minister also will visit the country on Tuesday for further discussion and the improvement of the bilateral ties between the two countries.

Kerala police postpones search of the Italian vessel

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 02:05:37 +0530

The Kochi Police has postponed its search of the weapons on board merchant vessel 'Enrica Lexie' till Saturday.

Ship probe: India, Italy to hold another round of talks

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 12:39:18 +0530

A team of police and forensic experts have left to visit the Italian vessel.

Ship probe: Police holding talks with Italians

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 11:27:16 +0530

Police in Kerala are discussing with Italian authorities if the ballistic examination of the weapons on board merchant vessel 'Enrica Lexie', shots from which killed two Indian fishermen, can be taken up in the absence of their experts.

Kerala police has no jurisdiction, Italy tells HC

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 05:50:08 +0530

Italy told the Kerala High Court on Thursday that the state police had no jurisdiction to investigate its two naval marines charged with killing of two Indian fishermen but it made a conditional offer to cooperate in the probe into ballistic examination of the weapons used.

Ship probe: Italian marines in 7-day custody

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 04:53:44 +0530

A Kollam court on Thursday decided that the two Italian naval guards charged with murder of two Indian fishermen will stay on in police custody for another week.

Satisfied with steps taken by India: Italy

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 11:50:37 +0530

Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Steffan de Mistura on Thursday said that he is satisfied with the steps taken by India so far in the case in which two of its marines were charged with murder of two fishermen. However, he said that after the inspection of the vessel, his version will be proved right.

Indians killed: Italian minister meets Chandy

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 07:39:44 +0530

In the midst of the diplomatic row between New Delhi and Rome over the killing of Indian fishermen off Kerala coast, Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Steffan de Mistura on Wednesday night met Chief Minister Oommen Chandy in Kottayam.

Fishermen deaths: Italian Dy FM meets Kerala CM

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 12:30:10 +0530

Italy's Deputy Foreign Minister Steffan de Mistura met Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Wednesday night over the alleged killing of two Indian fishermen by Italian naval guards. Both sides stuck to their positions.

Kerala police force to be strengthened

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:45:16 +0530

The number of police personnel in Kerala would be increased considering the work burden on the existing police force, Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said on Wednesday. "A peaceful society is required for the development of the state and the police force should not be over-burdened with responsibilities," he said addressing the passing out parade of personnel of the fourth batch of special armed police at Peroorkada in Thiruvananthapuram.

Kochi: Punish the guilty, says Cardinal Alencherry

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 05:45:51 +0530

Italy is apparently not only engaging diplomatically with Kerala over the killing of two Indian fishermen by Italian navy guards, but also working the Catholic channels through the Vatican to secure their release from custody.

Fishermen deaths: Italy lobbies through the Vatican

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 04:45:12 +0530

Italian Consul General meets Kerala DGP

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 02:58:46 +0530

The Italian Consul General met the Kerala DGP on Wednesday asking him to make proper arrangements in jail for the accused. The Italians reiterated the need for a joint investigation, but the Kerala police have said the court will decide.

Fishermen killers can't escape: Kerala CM

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 02:29:52 +0530

Kerala Chief Minister Ooommen Chandy said that his government will ensure that the guilty are brought to book.

Top Italian envoy negotiates release of 'killer' guards

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 01:10:03 +0530

A five-member Italian delegation led by Deputy Foreign Minister Staffan De Mistura met Indian officials in Delhi to secure the release of the two naval officers in custody for allegedly killing two fishermen.

Kerala govt to give job to killed fisherman's widow

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:34:23 +0530

Dora, the widow of fisherman Gelastine who was killed by Italian securitymen last week, will be given a government job, the Kerala cabinet decided on Wednesday.

Indian cardinal caught in fishermen deaths row

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:20:11 +0530

The row over the alleged killing of two Indian fishermen by Italian naval guards has escalated. Italy is not only engaging diplomatically, but also working the Catholic channels through the Vatican to secure the release of the two guards accused of killing two Indian fishermen, according to reports.

Indian cardinal caught in fishermen deaths row: Reports

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:40:09 +0530

A report claimed that Indian cardinal George Alencherry had appealed to the Kerala govt not to 'precipitate action'.

Malayali scientist discovers new amphibians

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:23:00 +0530

Malayali scientist SD Biju, working at the University of Delhi, has done it again. This time around, he has discovered a whole family of legless amphibians from Northeast India, with ancient links to Africa, a research finding that has just been published in a journal no less than the Proceedings of the Royal Society of London.

Italy makes all efforts for release of naval guards

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 07:33:27 +0530

Italy has gone on a diplomatic offensive to rescue its nationals who have been accused of killing two Indian fishermen. A top Italian envoy will be in Delhi on Wednesday to negotiate their release, while the accused naval personnel will seek relief from the Kerala High Court.

Italy pulling all stops to secure release of guards

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 10:31:28 +0530

Italy is pulling out all stops to secure the release of their two naval personnel involved in the firing incident off the Kochi coast that snuffed out the lives of two Indian fishermen. Its Foreign Minister, Giulio Terzi, after issuing a tough statement, has sent his deputy to negotiate the release of the two. Staffan De Mistura will be in Delhi on Wednesday.

SIT formed to probe firing by Italian guards

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 09:06:22 +0530

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed on Tuesday to investigate the killing of two fishermen by two Italian Navy guards on board an Italian ship, Enrica Lexie, earlier this month. Kochi Police Commissioner Ajith Kumar will be reportedly heading the team.

Italy sends envoy to India, seeks release of guards

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 06:08:45 +0530

Italy is sending a top envoy to India to negotiate with the government after two Italian marine security guards were arrested for allegedly shooting to death two Indian fishermen they mistook for pirates.

Trivedi awaits report on railway modernisation

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 05:30:19 +0530

Railway Minister Dinesh Trivedi on Tuesday said he was awaiting a report from Sam Pitroda, adviser to the Prime Minister on public infrastructure, information and innovations, on steps for modernisation of the railways.

Ship probe: Italian guards move HC to quash FIR

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 11:39:54 +0530

The Italian navy guards of Enrica Lexie on Tuesday moved the Kerala High Court and filed a plea to quash the FIR against the two accused in the fishermen killing case. Sources said that a senior Supreme Court lawyer is likely to represent them.

Ship probe: Italian guards' arms to be seized

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:51:54 +0530

The Kerala police is likely to take the two Italian naval personnel back to their ship Enrica Lexie to seize the arms that were allegedly used to to fatally shoot two Indian fishermen on February 15.

Firing probe: Italian guards sent to police custody for 3 days

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 11:37:00 +0530

The two accused were produced at the magistrate's home, with a swarm of policemen on alert as Congress, BJP and Left workers protested outside.

Firing probe: Italian crew produced in court

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 05:19:11 +0530

Five days after two Indian fishermen were killed in firing from their cargo ship off Kerala coast, two Italian Naval guards were on Monday produced at the House of Magistrate in Kollam. Youth Congress and BJP workers were seen protesting outside the magistrate's residence in Kollam.

'Guilty' Italian sailors can't be pardoned: Vasan

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 04:48:49 +0530

The killing of two Indian fishermen off the Kerala coast in firing allegedly by two Italian marines on board an oil tanker is an 'unpardonable crime' and the guilty would be punished, Shipping Minister GK Vasan said in Chennai on Monday.

Fishermen case: crew to request for probe in Italy

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 03:16:00 +0530

Italian lawyers claim that they have begun a separate probe into the alleged killings of two Indian fishermen in Italy and will ask Indian authorities to allow them to continue the probe in Italy itself.

Kerala: temple treasure evaluation begins

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:27:22 +0530

The mammoth task of sorting out and documenting all the treasure found in Kerala's Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple began on Monday on the orders of the Supreme Court.

Kerala fishermen's daily tryst with danger

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:22:27 +0530

News of two innocent Indian fishermen being shot dead by Italian sailors off the Kerala coast caused a national outrage that resulted in their arrest. But for those who earn a living from the sea, the daily struggle, replete with such dangers, continues.

Italian naval guards to appear before magistrate

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 10:32:49 +0530

Two naval guards of the Italian ship Enrica Lexie, charged with the killing of two Indian fishermen off Kerala coast, will be produced before a local magistrate in Kollam on Monday afternoon.

Evaluation of Kerala temple treasure today

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 08:31:33 +0530

The mammoth task of sorting out and documenting all the treasure found in Kerala's Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple will begin on Monday as ordered by the Supreme Court.

Italian crew to be brought to Kollam today

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 06:22:40 +0530

The two Italian Navy personnel who allegedly shot two Indian fishermen dead were taken into custody on Sunday and will be brought to Kollam on Monday. They were earlier taken on shore and detained by the Kerala police. They will face a possible murder charge, even as the diplomatic standoff in New Delhi continues.

Indians killed: Italian guards charged with murder

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 09:26:10 +0530

For four days, Italy stalled and hedged, resisted police action, attempted negotiation, and intervened politically. But in the end, it had to give up two of its Navy personnel suspected of killing two Indian fishermen off the coast of Kochi on Wednesday.

Kochi: Italian guards taken into custody

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 04:48:00 +0530

The two Italian Navy personnel accused of firing at two Indian fishermen in Kochi a few days ago were brought to the shore on Sunday and taken into custody by the Kochi and Kollam Police. The Italian Consul General, who is in Kochi, and the captain of the Enrica Lexie accompanied them. The two are likely to be detained for a day or two. They will then be handed over to the Kollam Police who will then produce them before court. The two guards have been charged with murder under Section 302.

Indians killed: Police questions Italian ship crew

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 10:18:02 +0530

Kochi Police on Sunday began questioning crew members of Italian ship Enrica Lexie over the killing of two Indian fishermen near Kochi port on February 15. The interrogation was started by the police using interpreters said sources.

Kochi: Police Chief on board Italian ship

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 08:58:00 +0530

The Italian Consul General and his team are at the Kochi harbour and will be going to the ship shortly.

Crew will face probe for killing fishermen: India

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 09:30:17 +0530

Minister of External Affairs SM Krishna on Saturday told his Italian counterpart Giulio Maria Terzi di Sant'Agata that Indian law will have to be followed in the fishermen killing incident and the crew of Enrica Lexie will have to face probe.

Kerala elated as Alencherry ordained cardinal

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 08:55:23 +0530

Catholics in Kerala were elated as Mar George Alencherry, the Major Archbishop of Ernakulam-Angamaly diocese of the Syro-Malabar Church, was on Saturday ordained a cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church. Many of the Catholics, who form 50 per cent of the over seven million Christians in Kerala, were glued to the live coverage from the Vatican as Alencherry was ordained by the Pope along with 21 other bishops from various countries.

Fishermen killed: Italian, Indian officials to talk

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 08:30:51 +0530

Italian authorities are scheduled to talk to the Indian officials on Saturday night regarding the killing of two Indian fishermen allegedly by the crew members of Italian ship Enrica Lexie.

'Italian ship firing unfortunate, unacceptable'

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 01:17:29 +0530

Terming as "unfortunate" the killing of two Indian fishermen by gun shots from an Italian ship, Shipping Minister GK Vasan on Saturday said appropriate punishment should be given to the guilty.

Fishermen killed: Probe faces location hurdle

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 12:53:44 +0530

No arrests have been made even two days after the two Indian fishermen were killed allegedly by the crew members of Italian ship Enrica Lexie. As the issue has taken a diplomatic turn, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will be consulted and advice of Ministry of External Affairs will also be taken in this regard.

Kerala best destination for tourists: survey

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 11:23:31 +0530

For the second year running, Kerala has been rated the best tourist destination in the country, according to a survey. The survey was conducted by the Nielsen Company on behalf of the Outlook Traveller magazine.

Indian fishermen killed: Big questions

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 09:32:18 +0530

Two days after two Indian fishermen were shot dead by security officials of Italian cargo vessel Enrica Lexie after being mistaken for pirates near Kochi port, there has been no headway in the proceedings.

Indians killed: No arrests yet, PM to intervene

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 09:20:30 +0530

Over 48 hours since two Indian fishermen were killed allegedly by the crew members of Italian ship Enrica Lexie, no arrests have been made despite orders from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Kerala: Piravom bypoll a litmus test for UDF

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 09:19:00 +0530

The Piravom by-election is going to be a litmus test for the ruling UDF government, which is surviving on a slender majority in the 140-member Assembly.

Timeline: Attacks on Indian fishermen in 2011

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 09:08:36 +0530

Two fishermen in a fishing boat were shot dead on February 15 by security officials of an Italian cargo vessel in the deep sea after being mistaken for pirates near Kochi port. The sources said that the crew of Enrica Lexie is not cooperating with the investigations. The Indian authorities say there is nothing to suggest that the fishermen were in the wrong in fact it appears the ship was reckless in opening fire.

Fishermen deaths: Antony remains silent

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 10:37:47 +0530

The Italian Consulate General was meeting Kochi Police commissioner on Friday over the killing of two Indian fishermen off the coast of Kochi on Thursday. Meanwhile, Kerala Police sources said that the ship has not yet been detained, although some of the crew members had been taken into custody.

Indians killed: Italian ship crew detained

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 10:17:15 +0530

Kerala Police on Friday detained several members of the Enrica Lexie crew. "Vital information is yet to be collected from the ship. Six security guards on the ship are considered to be from the Italian Navy as per the information they have. These crew members will be arrested and produced in the court only after all procedures are completed," said police sources.

Italian guards to be arrested over fishermen deaths

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 07:27:11 +0530

The armed guards on the Italian merchant navy ship are facing murder charges and will be arrested after they allegedly killed two Indian fishermen on Wednesday. The ship docked at Kochi port will be allowed to leave soon, while the crew members will be granted Consular visits.

Kerala: special prosecutor in Palmoil case quits

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 04:22:20 +0530

The special prosecutor in the Palmoil import corruption case in Kerala stepped down on Thursday, saying he was not happy with the vigilance department's report in the case.

Kerala Govt relief for dead fishermen's kin

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 01:02:24 +0530

The Kerala cabinet on Thursday decided to give Rs 5 lakh compensation each to the next of kin of the two fishermen shot dead by security officials of an Italian cargo vessel after being mistaken for pirates.

2 Indian fishermen mistaken for pirates, shot dead

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 01:02:02 +0530

Two fishermen, one each from Kerala and Tamil Nadu, in a fishing boat were on Wednesday shot dead by security officials of an Italian cargo vessel in the deep sea after being mistaken for pirates, an official said.

Mullaperiyar: Kerala seeks time to submit report

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:17:40 +0530

The Mullaperiyar central empowered committee met on Wednesday in Delhi. The Kerala government also submitted a plea to the empowered committee seeking more time to submit its report. The committee is yet to consider the plea.

'Kerala diaspora can partner in development'

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:12:28 +0530

Kerala Finance Minister K.M. Mani on Tuesday said successive state governments have failed to put to productive use the massive remittances sent in by over two million diaspora but this time it could well be different.

VS appears before panel over son's appointment

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 04:53:23 +0530

Leader of Opposition in the Kerala assembly V S Achuthanandan on Tuesday appeared before a house committee probing if rules were flouted to appoint his son V.A. Arunkumar as a state-run IT institute's director when the veteran Marxist was the chief minister.

Communists in Kerala squabble like never before

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 12:27:37 +0530

Forget Left unity, the two Communist parties in Kerala have been at each other's throats for a while now. It has reached a crescendo with the smaller of the two, the Communist Party of India (CPI) warning "big brother" Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) to immediately stop abusing it.

Kerala: Get decent, CPI tells CPM

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 11:40:02 +0530

Hitting back at CPM state secretary Pinarayi Vijayan for his remarks against him and the party, CK Chandrappan, CPI state secretary has said that leaders should use decent and respectable language. His comment comes a day after Vijayan at the valedictory function of the CPM meet the other day criticised Chandrappan calling his 'event management' comment as petty and that no one ought to be envious because of the CPM's growth.

Kerala coir industry gets Rs 100 cr boost

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:09:07 +0530

The age-old coir industry of Kerala got a major boost on Saturday with business deals worth crores being signed at the second edition of the Coir Kerala International Marketing Exhibition, held in Allapuzha - the Venice of the East. The representatives of Kerala's coir industry say that valued added products like coir pith and coco lawn will bring in nearly Rs 10 billion after exports.

VS to remain Kerala Opposition leader: CPM

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:05:54 +0530

Former Kerala chief minister V.S. Achuthandan will remain the opposition leader in the Kerala assembly, Marxist leader Pinarayi Vijayan said on Friday.

Pinarayi Vijayan re-elected to top Kerala CPM post

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:16:31 +0530

Veteran Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) leader Pinarayi Vijayan's uninterrupted reign at the top continues, with him being re-elected on Friday as secretary of the party's Kerala unit for the fourth successive time.

Kerala: Girl pushed off moving train

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:55:43 +0530

A 19-year-old girl was pushed off a moving train in Kottayam by a man on Friday. Witnesses said the man barged into the Ladies' section of the Ernakulam-Kottayam passenger train and got violent with the girl.

Kerala: Settled Maldivians a worried lot

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 07:42:27 +0530

As the crisis in the Maldives worsens and India gets ready for a military intervention if called upon, Maldivians in Kerala are a worried lot. Just as thousands of Indians call Male home, thousands of Maldivians, too, are settled in Kerala. CNN-IBN spoke to some of them.

Won't implement decision on retail FDI: Kerala CM

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 04:22:40 +0530

Congress-ruled Kerala on Thursday ruled out implementing the central government's decision on FDI in retail, saying it was not in the interest of the state.

Mullaperiyar row: Jaya writes to PM, slams Kerala

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:48:56 +0530

Taking strong exception to Kerala's reported "unilateral" action in ordering real time monitoring of Mullaperiyar Dam along with the Centre without Tamil Nadu's consent, Chief Minister Jayalalithaa on Thursday slammed it as a "blatant violation" of the principle of federalism and constitutional framework.

'No timeframe set by PM to resolve Mullaperiyar row'

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:33:10 +0530

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has not set any timeframe for resolving Mullaperiyar Dam dispute involving Kerala and Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said in New Delhi on Thursday.

Kerala gives nod to personal rapid transit system

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:14:19 +0530

The Kerala cabinet on Wednesday gave the nod for the formation of a new company, based on private-public participation, to set up a state of the art personal rapid transit system, which is increasingly popular abroad and now is to be implemented in major India cities.

Renowned singer Janaki suffers head injury

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:19:56 +0530

Veteran playback singer S Janaki was injured after she accidentally fell down in the bathroom of a hotel.

Movies are the directors' act: Mohanlal

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:29:08 +0530

Looking dapper in his dark blue shirt and white dhoti, the man is a picture of cool. In an industry where each nanosecond counts, Mohanlal opens up in a leisurely pace, each sentence accented with ease. His nonchalant demeanour persists throughout the conversation, be it about Celebrity Cricket League, or about his role as a cop in 'Grandmaster', the shoot of which is progressing in Kochi. Whatever may be the topic, the actor's reflections and retorts come with a tinge of philosophy.

Toppling UDF Govt in Kerala not on agenda: CPM

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 10:09:43 +0530

The CPM in Kerala on Sunday said toppling the Congress-led UDF Government by wooing its partners was not on the party's agenda but it was of the view that the Oommen Chandy Ministry would "naturally collapse" as it had been getting isolated from the people.

Dad's goodwill keeps me going: Dulquar Salman

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 06:18:22 +0530

'Second Show', the debut film of Mammootty's son Dulquar Salman, has hit the theatres and the newcomer says his father's goodwill has given him a head start, but admits that he will have to work hard to carve a niche for himself. "Without doubt, his (Mammootty) goodwill has given me a head start. I know very well now that I will have to work hard because that is the only thing that will keep going forward," Salman told IANS.

No delay; Kochi metro on track

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 03:51:06 +0530

Kochi Metro is going to be a reality soon. The crucial meeting of the Public Investment Board (PIB), which is expected to give the final nod to the state's 'dream project', will be held this month itself.

Kerala CM regrets slow growth in IT sector

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:46:23 +0530

Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Thursday regreted that the state failed to achieve in the IT education the same level of growth which it attained in the general education sector.

Kerala: Chandy downplays bickering in Cong

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 07:45:29 +0530

Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Wednesday dismissed reports of faction-feud within Congress state unit and said there was "no problem" in the party as reported by the media.

Pay KWA's power charge dues: HC to Kerala Govt

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 07:37:48 +0530

Kerala High Court on Wednesday directed the state government to pay Kerala Water Authority's outstanding electricity charges to the tune of Rs 250 crore to the Electricity Board and then proceed against the authority.

Mammootty's son to debut with 'Second Show'

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:17:05 +0530

Dulquer went to Mumbai in 2009 and did a three-month course with the Barry John Acting Studio.

Mullaperiyar Dam: A case for settlement

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 12:03:00 +0530

Mullaperiyar issue is not a conventional inter-state water dispute as visualised in Article 162 of the Constitution. As an extraordinary and ageing dam, the useful life period of which is clearly over, it poses questions of safety which precisely mean questions of survival for the people in at least four districts in Kerala.

Kerala: Bank employees to strike on Feb 28

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 11:13:16 +0530

Five lakh bank employees under the banner of AIBEA will extend support to the strike by central trade unions on February 28 protesting the "anti-labour and anti-worker" policies of the government, a top functionary of the All India Bank Employees Association said on Saturday.

Kerala Governor MOH Farook dies in Chennai

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 10:32:10 +0530

Kerala Governor MOH Farook passed away at Apollo Hospital in Chennai at around 9:10 pm on Thursday. He was undergoing treatment for cancer in Chennai.

Sam Pitroda suggests projects for Kerala

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:39:10 +0530

At a brain-storming session with Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and members of his cabinet on Wednesday, adviser to the prime minister Sam Pitroda suggested 10 projects which he said can add to the state's growth.

Malayalam writer Azhikode cremated

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 04:25:36 +0530

The mortal remains of eminent Malayalam writer and critic Sukumar Azhikode, who dominated Kerala's cultural scene as a literary critic for over five decades, were consigned to flames at Payyambalam beach with full state honours in Kannur on Wednesday.

Brand Kerala shines at Spanish tourism fair

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 04:45:08 +0530

Visitors were swept off their feet as Kerala Tourism unfolded its mesmerising grandeur at the just-concluded International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR) 2012 in Spain.

Author Sukumar Azhikode: a man of the masses

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 04:37:03 +0530

Veteran Malayalam writer and orator Sukumar Azhikode has on Tuesday breathed his last but his razor-sharp tongue and hard-hitting speeches interlaced with characteristic humour will remain in the memories of many who have heard him at least once.

Malayalam writer Sukumar Azhikode dead

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:01:08 +0530

Malayalam writer Sukumar Azhikode died at a private hospital here on Tuesday morning, family sources said. He was 85.

Raise milk, meat production, says KV Thomas

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0530

A major problem in the country is that it is not able to meet the rising needs of milk, meat, eggs, fish and edible oils, even though the inflation levels of all other essential commodities have fallen substantially with increased production, Union Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution KV Thomas has said.

Mohanlal's 'Tezz' cameo enrages his fans

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:19:49 +0530

An interesting sidelight to the Mohanlal-Devgn poster war is that 'Tezz' was meant to be pitched as Devgn's next action film after 'Singham'.

Kerala sends back chicken from Tamil Nadu

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 04:06:48 +0530

Ten tonnes of chicken from the poultry farms on Theni was sent back from Idukki district in Kerala on Monday following rumours in the neighbouring state that they were suffering from diarrhoea, which officials said had been done for some "political reasons".

Dam row: Swamy for out-of-court settlement

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:28:00 +0530

Janata Party leader Subramanian Swamy has said that the state governments of Kerala and Tamil Nadu should find an out-of-court settlement to the Mullaperiyar issue.

E-mail row: CPI(M) asks Chandy to explain

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 11:49:31 +0530

The CPI(M) in Kerala on Saturday asked Chief Minister Oommen Chandy to clarify whether it was with his consent that the state police allegedly drew up a plan to gather e-mail details of several Muslim leaders, as reported by a Malayalam publication.

Govt gives nod to Kerala high speed rail network

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 09:31:26 +0530

In a boost to Kerala's efforts to fast-track infrastructure development, the Centre on Saturday gave the green signal to the high-speed rail corridor project, linking the entire stretch from Kasargode in the north to the state capital in the south.

Flooding possible if dam collapses: IIT report

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 08:33:46 +0530

A study by IIT Roorkie on Mullaperiyar Dam has suggested the possibility of a vast area around the 116-year-old reservoir getting submerged in flood waters within a short time if the dam collapsed in the event of a strong earthquake.

'Adaminte...' director happy despite Oscar loss

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 06:21:46 +0530

His Malayalam film 'Adaminte Makan Abu' may have lost the race for the Oscars but debutant director Salim Ahmed is happy that the story of a poor perfume seller went so far despite his limited means.

Kerala to have 450 e-toilets by March

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:48:31 +0530

Kerala will have 450 functional e-toilets by the end of this fiscal, becoming the first state in India with Connected Toilet Infrastructure which would be on a par with health and hygiene standards of developed countries.

Kerala: CM promises steps to promote IT sector

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:32:00 +0530

The State Government is committed to formulate new schemes to overcome the stagnant situation prevailing in the IT sector and to create an investment climate and attract prominent international companies to invest in Kerala, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said.

Kerala's pill-popping tribals stop menstruating

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 01:40:00 +0530

It's been a while since tribal Adivasi women and girls in three villages of Kerala's Idukki district have menstruated. Reason? They have been popping contraceptive pills to avoid the inconvenience of those few days, say people from the area.

'Adaminte Makan Abu' out of Oscar race

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 11:36:04 +0530

Malayalam film 'Adaminte Makan Abu', India's official entry to the upcoming Academy Awards, has failed to make it to the top nine shortlist for the best foreign film Oscar for 2011.

Kerala top cop denies snooping on emails

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 11:58:59 +0530

Kerala's Director General of Police Jacob Punnoose on Tuesday denied ever having snooped on emails of some people, including a former Muslim lawmaker, as reported in the media.

Gautami Nair to debut with Mammootty's son

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:11:05 +0530

If confidence is the buzzword today, Gautami Nair is definitely in tune with the times.

Snooping into Muslims' emails is fascism: VS

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:39:52 +0530

Leader of Opposition V.S. Achuthanandan on Tuesday described the Kerala government's act of snooping into email accounts as fascist.

Alliance Air pilot mistakes Kochi for Kozhikode

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 04:30:50 +0530

A rude shock awaited passengers of an Alliance Air flight when they found the pilot had landed at Kochi though they were told they had reached their destination Kozhikode.

Karnataka governor assumes charge of Kerala

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:41:38 +0530

Karnataka Governor HR Bhardwaj on Monday assumed additional charge of Kerala as his counterpart in Kerala MOH Farook is undergoing treatment in Chennai.

Union minister's Mullaperiyar remark irks Kerala

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:29:24 +0530

Union Science and Technology Minister Ashwani Kumar's statement that the 115-year-old Mullaperiyar dam is safe has not gone down well in Kerala with ruling front ally Kerala Congress (Mani) on Monday announcing its support to a strike call by an anti-dam panel.

Mullaperiyar: minister's remark irks Kerala

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 03:04:05 +0530

Mullaperiyar dam is safe: Union Minister

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:04:00 +0530

NEW DELHI: After Home Minister P Chidambaram, another Union Minister has dealt a blow to Keralas attempts to gain support for a n..

Kerala: PSC does a copy and paste job from guide

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:31:00 +0530

There were complaints on the exam conducted for posts of Higher Secondary School Teacher (Zoology) reserved for SCs/STs...

VS demands vigilance probe against Chandy

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 10:43:55 +0530

CPM leader VS Achuthanandan, against whom an FIR has been filed in a case relating to charges of irregularities in a land allotment case, on Sunday demanded vigilance probe against Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy for alleged corruption and nepotism.

No better actor to play 'Casanova' than Mohanlal?

Sat, 14 Jan 2012 07:03:25 +0530

The name 'Casanova' conjures up so many images. Director Rosshan Andrews likes to think that there is no better actor than Superstar Mohanlal who can reprise the character of the legendary Venetian adventurer and author.

Case exposes Achuthanandan's true face: Cong

Sat, 14 Jan 2012 01:42:44 +0530

Rejecting CPI(M) veteran VS Achuthanandan's contention that the vigilance case against him in a land allotment scam was a political conspiracy, the Congress in Kerala on Saturday said the preliminary probe in the matter revealed the true face of Achuthanandan.

Kozhikode to be declared child beggar-free today

Sat, 14 Jan 2012 10:40:40 +0530

Minister for Social Welfare MK Muneer will declare Kozhikode a Child beggars-free city on Saturday.

Kerala govt gears up for Sabarimala festival

Sat, 14 Jan 2012 08:02:54 +0530

It's been exactly a year since the tragedy near Sabarimala that killed a hundred people took place. CNN-IBN re-visited the spot to find out how prepared are authorities this time around. Over a 100 pilgrims were killed in the stampede after the Makaravilakku festival.

FIR against VS, says will quit if chargesheeted

Sat, 14 Jan 2012 01:41:50 +0530

The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau on Friday filed an FIR against CPM leader VS Achuthanandan in a land allotment case even as he octogenarian former chief minister indicated that he would resign as Opposition leader if chargesheeted.

VS offers to quit over land scam, CPM says no

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 04:49:27 +0530

With the Communist Party of India-Marxist firmly behind him in a land transfer case, beleaguered former Kerala chief minister V S Achuthanandan's offer to quit as leader of opposition in the assembly has been turned down by his party's national leadership.

FIR against VS politically motivated: Karat

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 11:07:17 +0530

The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) has announced it will file an FIR against former chief minister VS Achuthanandan under the Prevention of Corruption Act on Friday.

VS, Chandy face-off over vigilance case

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 02:49:37 +0530

Facing a vigilance case over assigning land to a relative when he was Kerala Chief Minister, CPM stalwart VS Achuthanandan on Thursday hit back at the Congress-led UDF Ministry alleging political motive behind the action against him, a charge rejected by the government.

Canada wants to invest in Kerala

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 05:23:53 +0530

A Canadian delegation of law makers and businessmen on Wednesday held a meeting with Kerala chief minister Oommen Chandy and his senior cabinet colleagues here and expressed interest in a mutually beneficial business tie-up.

Kerala: Villagers protest as garbage plant stinks

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 09:55:09 +0530

Villagers near the Vilappilsala garbage treatment plant located in the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram protest as the stink from the plant has made life difficult for neighbouring villages.

Thachankary issue: VS wants Chandy to quit

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 03:46:12 +0530

Opposition Leader VS Achuthanandan has targeted Chief Minister Oommen Chandy alleging that he had violated the swearing-in pledge by reinstating Tomin J Thachankary to service as Marketfed MD. He was speaking to mediapersons at Ramanilayam, near Thrissur, on Sunday.

A season of snakes and pickpockets at Sabarimala

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 06:32:17 +0530

Last year, this place suffered a terrible tragedy when 102 people died in a stampede. But pilgrims are still thronging the Sabarimala temple, the revered Hindu shrine situated in the Western Ghats in central Kerala.

CMs should talk and sort out dam issue: Kalam

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 07:35:22 +0530

Amid the row over Mullaperiyar dam between Tamil Nadu and Kerala, former President APJ Abdul Kalam on Sunday suggested that talks between the two Chief Ministers could help solve the situation.

Vigilance probe clears Chandy in palmolein case

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 02:20:59 +0530

In a relief to Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, a vigilance probe has found he had no role in the palmolein import corruption case in the early 1990s when he was finance minister in the then UDF ministry headed by late Congress veteran K Karunakaran.

Kerala: with salaries on hold, AI staff suffer

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:45:08 +0530

Around 500 employees of Air India in Kerala are having a tough time as the ailing national carrier has not paid their salaries for the last three months.

Dam row: LDF resents joint control proposal

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 02:49:30 +0530

The decision of Kerala's Congress-led UDF government to agree for joint control of the proposed new dam at Mullaperiyar seems to have jeopardised political consensus on the issue in the state with the opposition LDF coming out strongly against the proposal.

Mullaperiyar: Oommen Chandy's final solutions

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 09:54:00 +0530

The state is ready for joint control with Tamil Nadu and the Centre for a new dam at Mullaperiyar, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said on Wednesday.

2011 was troublesome for Malayalam films

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 01:46:46 +0530

According to the details provided by the Producers' Association, this year 95 films had a theatrical release in Kerala.

Palmolien case petition against Chandy dismissed

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 12:33:17 +0530

The Supreme Court on Wednesday dismissed a petition that seeks to make Kerala Chief Minister Oomen Chandy an accused in the Palmolien oil case.

Mullaperiyar Dam safe: SC panel experts

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 11:24:52 +0530

A Supreme Court-appointed panel has found that there was no after-effect of the recent tremors on the Mullaperiyar Dam and that the dam was safe, according to sources.

Kerala plea to reduce water level rejected

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 09:28:00 +0530

The Supreme Court-appointed Empowered Committee on Mullaiperiyar dam on Tuesday rejected Kerala's demand to reduce the water-level to 120 feet in the disputed structure.

Mullaperiyar: SC panel on lukewarm to Kerala plea

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 04:26:20 +0530

Kerala government's plea to reduce the water level of the Mullaperiyar Dam is understood to have not found favour with a Supreme Court-appointed Empowered Committee.

Thrissur: Asylum abuse exposed, 41 rescued

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 02:08:46 +0530

Forty-one mentally challenged inmates were found living in pathetic conditions in a dubious home in Thrissur in Kerala. The inmates were chained to their beds, without clothes, with not even a proper roof above their heads.

Kerala varsity wanted Albert Einstein to be VC

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 07:58:32 +0530

Decades before India embarked on its quest for superpower status, the tiny princely state of Travancore aimed it high in higher education and even made an unsuccessful bid to enlist the services of great physicist Albert Einstein as Vice Chancellor of its fledgling university for a monthly pay of Rs 6,000.

Mohanlal and Mammooty in the tax net

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 04:08:10 +0530

Then the senior-most Income Tax officer rang the doorbell, simultaneously, in both houses, as well as in offices in Chennai, Bangalore and Thiruvananthapuram. And the sound reverberated through the state within hours. Because the people who were being raided were two of Kerala's enduring superstars: Mammooty and Mohanlal.

Dam row: SC appointed panel to meet today

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 09:12:12 +0530

An empowered panel appointed by the Supreme Court on the Mullaperiyar issue will be meeting on Monday to discuss the findings of technical experts who visited Kerala recently. The panel is headed by former Chief Justice of India AS Anand.

Karunanidhi asks Kerala not to reduce dam level

Sat, 31 Dec 2011 03:44:23 +0530

DMK President M Karunanidhi on Saturday told the Kerala government that any effort on its part to reduce the Mullaperiyar Dam water level and build a new one in its place would have to be viewed as an attempt to subvert judicial process and deny justice to the people of Tamil Nadu.

Malayalam actor Mamta weds family friend

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 12:56:27 +0530

Besides acting, Mamta is a trained singer as well and has rendered her voice in some Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam films.

400 arrested following protests over dam issue

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 08:59:40 +0530

Tamil actor-director and founder-president of Naam Tamizhar Katchi (NTK), Seeman, was arrested on Monday along with 300 of his partymen at Walayar on the Tamil Nadu-Kerala border for picketing the road demanding that the Centre immediately find a solution to the Mullaperiyar dam dispute.

May consider security for Mullaperiyar: PM

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 09:30:39 +0530

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Monday reportedly assured DMK that the Centre might consider providing security cover to Mullaperiyar dam over which Tamil Nadu and Kerala are locked in a raging row.

Mullaperiyar: PM meets Karuna, Kanimozhi

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 09:42:51 +0530

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh met DMK chief M Karunanidhi in Chennai on the second day of his visit on Monday and topping the agenda was the Mullaperiyar Dam row. Kanimozhi was also present in what was her first meeting after she got bail in the 2G Scam.

PM, Karunanidhi meet today, dam row on agenda

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 08:08:17 +0530

On the second day of his visit to Tamil Nadu, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will meet DMK chief Karunanidhi on Monday. He met CM Jayalalithaa on Sunday.

Dam row: Jaya to receive PM at airport today

Sun, 25 Dec 2011 02:07:03 +0530

Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa is scheduled to receive Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the airport on Sunday when he arrives Chennai on a two-day visit to the State.

Dam row: Kerala boycotts Empowered Panel visit

Sun, 25 Dec 2011 01:56:40 +0530

Kerala on Saturday boycotted the Supreme Court-appointed Empowered Panel's inspection of the Mullaperiyar dam. The officials from Kerala, accompanying the central team, decided to boycott the inspection alleging that the committee members were not addressing the grievances of the state.

People in Kerala celebrate Christmas

Sun, 25 Dec 2011 11:50:03 +0530

Keralites on Sunday celebrated Christmas with traditional fervour and piety rejoicing the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem bringing hope and peace to humanity.

Kerala officials stay away from experts' dam visit

Sat, 24 Dec 2011 07:27:22 +0530

Adding a new dimension to the raging Mullaperiyar reservoir row, Kerala officials on Saturday stayed away from the visit of the Supreme Court-appointed empowered committee experts alleging that they had declined to properly hear the state's views on the dam's safety aspects.

Mullaperiyar: Expert panel visits dam areas

Sat, 24 Dec 2011 08:11:49 +0530

Technical experts on the Supreme Court-appointed empowered committee on Mullaperiyar Dam issue on Friday began their visit of dams in Idukki district and adjoining areas to provide inputs for the panel to draw up its report on the dispute between Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

DMDK to stage black flag protest against PM

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 05:49:24 +0530

Condemning what he called the "biased and step-motherly" treatment meted out to Tamil Nadu by the central government on various issues, DMDK founder-chief A Vijayakant on Thursday announced black flag demonstrations against Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during his visit to Chennai.

Kerala keen on convincing people of TN: Chandy

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 03:59:00 +0530

Kerala is keenly pursuing measures to make people in Tamil Nadu aware of the earnest attempts being made by the Kerala Government to ensure waters from Mullaperiyar to that state, even while raising the demand for a new dam, Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy has said.

Jaya expels two more Sasikala family members

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 03:44:16 +0530

Days after she expelled her close aide Sasikala and 13 others from the party, AIADMK chief J Jayalalithaa on Thursday removed two more relatives of her former confidante from the primary membership of the party.

TN not responding positively on dam issue: Chandy

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 02:05:31 +0530

Kerala on Thursday accused Tamil Nadu of "not responding positively" to its offer for talks on the raging Mullaperiyar row as shops and business establishments remained shut in response to a traders' strike in five districts of the neighbouring state.

Dam row: Jaya slams move to set up NDMA team

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 02:50:34 +0530

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa on Wednesday took strong exception to the National Disaster Management Authority forming a team of experts to draw up a contingency response plan for the Mullaperiyar Dam, saying it was nothing but 'succumbing to the subterfuge' of Kerala.

2011: Malayalam filmdom failed to script success

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 01:13:38 +0530

The waning charisma of superstars, a drought at the box office and dearth of new faces made it a bad year.

Mullaperiyar row: Vaiko, other leaders arrested

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 12:33:28 +0530

Twelve people including MDMK leader Vaiko and Tamil Nationalist Movement leader P Nedumaram have been arrested as they try to block all routes to Kerala over Mullaperiyar row.

MDMK to block roads connecting Kerala, TN

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 04:22:03 +0530

Protesting against the Kerala government's demand for decommissioning the Mullaperiyar dam, the Vaiko-led MDMK along with other political outfits has declared that it would block all the roads connecting the neighbouring state with Tamil Nadu on Wednesday.

An eventful year for Kerala

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 12:14:41 +0530

It was an eventful year for Kerala as the Congress-led UDF voted out the LDF while discovery of treasures in the vaults of the famed Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple drew worldwide attention to 'God's own country'

Ready to talk with TN to solve dam issue: Chandy

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:42:54 +0530

Kerala government on Monday reiterated its willingness for bilateral discussions with Tamil Nadu or a dialogue through the Centre to resolve the vexed Mullaperiyar dam issue but insisted it would not compromise on the demand for a new dam.

Chidambaram withdraws remark on bypoll spark

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 10:53:00 +0530

Union Home Minister and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Sunday withdrew his remarks linking the fears over the safety of Mullaiperiyar dam and the by-election to Piravom Assembly constituency in Kerala.

PC withdraws Mullaperiyar remark

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 09:29:32 +0530

It has been a rough week for Home Minister P Chidambaram for more reasons than one. He was forced to withdraw his controversial remarks on the Mullaperiyar Dam that raised temperatures in Kerala.

Chandy writes to Jaya on Mullaperiyar row

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 05:04:47 +0530

Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Sunday wrote to his Tamil Nadu counterpart J Jayalalithaa stating that he was willing to issue a joint statement with her urging peace and restraint on the Mullaperiyar dam issue.

Kerala: PC withdraws remarks referring to by-poll

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 11:43:20 +0530

Home Minister P Chidambaram on Sunday withdrew his remarks referring to by-elections in the context of the Mullaiperiyar dam issue which has created a furore in Kerala.

Mullaperiyar: Chidambaram's remark sparks row

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 07:47:41 +0530

At a time when the simmering Mullaperiyar issue refuses to die down, the Union Home Minister P Chidambaram's comment has added fuel to the fire. Chidambaram dismissed the safety concerns in Kerala as a mere electoral gimmick in the run-up to the by-polls in Kerala's Piravom district.

Split in Congress over Mullaperiyar Dam issue

Sat, 17 Dec 2011 11:41:23 +0530

The Mullaperiyar dam issue seems to have driven a political wedge in the Congress after Home Minister P Chidambaram on Saturday said that the pending Supreme Court decision on the dam will ultimately favour Tamil Nadu.

PM hopeful of resolving Mullaperiyar Dam issue

Sat, 17 Dec 2011 07:49:22 +0530

Fears about the dam collapse has more to do with the upcoming Assembly bypoll in Kerala, Home Minister P Chidambaram said.

Border tension: TDB to seek Chandy's help

Sat, 17 Dec 2011 07:49:19 +0530

Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president M Rajagopalan Nair would seek Chief Minister Oommen Chandy's assistance to take up the issue of safety and smooth passage of Sabarimala pilgrims through the border check-posts with his counterpart in Tamil Nadu J Jayalalithaa.

Jaya accuses PM of remaining silent on dam row

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 07:28:33 +0530

Stepping up her attack against the Centre, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa on Friday accused Prime Minister Manmohan Singh of remaining silent on the Mullaperiyar dam row.

Mullaperiyar row: TN against PM's intervention

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 03:02:38 +0530

Kerala on Thursday assured the Supreme Court that it would protect the Mullaperiyar Dam from any attacks by protesters while Tamil Nadu opposed Kerala's suggestion that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh convene a meeting of the two states for resolving the dispute.

Mullaperiyar: TN, Kerala officials' talks put off

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 10:24:33 +0530

Talks between officials of Tamil Nadu and Kerala organised by the Centre on the Mullaperiyar dam issue have been put off with the former saying it would prefer to await the decision of the Supreme Court on the issue before coming to the table.

Centre slack on Mullaperiyar Dam issue: DMK

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 06:23:43 +0530

DMK, a key partner of Congress-led UPA, on Thursday accused the Centre of remaining 'slack' on the Mullaperiyar dam issue as it pledged its cooperation for any 'constructive' effort taken by ruling AIADMK in Tamil Nadu.

Mullaperiyar row: TN resolution blames Kerala

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 01:37:45 +0530

Tamil Nadu has raised the pitch on the Mullaperiyar Dam row with the state Assembly on Thursday passing a resolution unanimously demanding that Kerala should take immediate steps to increase water levels in the dam to 142 feet as per Supreme Court orders.

Mammootty takes a break for son's marriage

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 10:54:44 +0530

Malayalam superstar Mammootty is very busy -- but not with movies. He has taken a break from acting to make preparations for the marriage of his actor son Dulquar Salmaan with A. Sufia, an architect.

Mullaperiyar: Kerala ready for tripartite deal

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 10:53:38 +0530

Voicing Kerala's readiness to walk the extra mile to resolve the Mullaperiyar Dam row, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said he was even willing to enter into a tripartite agreement and enact a law assuring Tamil Nadu that it will get 'same quantity' of water from the new dam.

PM calls for restraint on Mullaperiyar

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:20:11 +0530

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday said that both Kerala and Tamil Nadu should observe restraint on the Mullaperiyar Dam issue and create an environment to facilitate a dialogue to find an amicable solution.

Army must maintain rivers, dams: Kalam

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 04:50:27 +0530

Amid the friction between Tamil Nadu and Kerala over the Mullaperiyar dam issue, former President A P J Abdul Kalam on Wednesday said the country could not afford a civil war on water and suggested deployment of armed forces to maintain rivers and dams.

Presidential system better for India: Tharoor

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 04:19:07 +0530

Advocating Presidential system, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor said that there are 'serious disadvantages' in Parliamentary democracy. According to Tharoor, time has come to revive the debate on adopting the 'Presidential system'.

Mullaperiyar row: Kerala CM-led team to meet PM

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:24:23 +0530

An all-party delegation from Kerala, headed by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy will meet the Prime Minister on Wednesday over the Mullaperiyar Dam row. The delegation will also include Leader of Opposition VS Achuthanandan.

Kerala varsity removes VS's son from PhD course

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 08:07:02 +0530

The Kerala University has decided to cancel the PhD registration of V.A. Arun Kumar, son of veteran CPM former chief minister V.S. Achuthanandan, an official said on Tuesday. The university syndicate meeting held here on Tuesday accepted the report of its sub-committee cancelling the PhD registration of Arun Kumar.

Dam row: Life hit in TN district bordering Kerala

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 07:58:45 +0530

Normal life was hit badly on Tuesday as tension continued to grip towns in the district bordering Kerala with unabated mass protest by villagers from Tamil Nadu over the Mullaperiyar dam row with the neighbouring state for the fourth day.

Mullaperiyar Dam: SC seeks Centre's response

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 07:43:39 +0530

The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the central government to respond to Tamil Nadu's plea seeking a Central Industrial Security Force shield for Kerala's Mullaperiyar Dam that serves the neighbouring state.

Kerala, TN fuelling Mullaperiyar Dam fire: SC

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 04:44:41 +0530

The Supreme Court on Tuesday came down heavily on Tamil Nadu and Kerala governments, and criticised them saying that instead of dousing the fire they were adding fuel to the Mullaperiyar Dam row.

Mullaperiyar: Cops lathicharge TN protesters

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 01:09:29 +0530

Police on Tuesday lathicharged hundreds of people at the state border town of Gudalur when they forcibly tried to enter Kerala, demanding adequate protection to the 116-year-old Mullaperiyar Dam, over which both Tamil Nadu and Kerala are locked in a row.

Protest against Kerala's 5th airport project

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 11:41:26 +0530

As protests against the setting up of a private airport at Aranmula in Kerala's Pathanamthitta district go on, promoters of the greenfield project have dismissed the allegation of land grab and said vested interests are behind the controversy.

Mullaperiyar: SC to hear pleas of TN, Kerala

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 09:40:50 +0530

The Supreme Court will hear a petition from both the Tamil Nadu and Kerala government on the Mullaperiyar Dam. The Jayalalithaa government has been asking for a court direction to prevent the Kerala government from making any further controversial statements.

Dam row: Kerala BJP asks Union ministers to quit

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 09:41:03 +0530

The BJP on Monday demanded that the Central ministers from Kerala resign and undertake fasting in front of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's residence in Delhi over the Mullaperiyar dam issue.

Mullaperiyar: Chandy hopes for amicable solution

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 06:09:26 +0530

With an amicable solution to the Kerala-Tamil Nadu tangle over the 115-year-old leaking Mullaperiyar Dam not yet in sight, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Monday said "vested interests" are trying to make it an issue between the two states.

Mohanlal and Azhikode patch up

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 12:56:41 +0530

The curtain has come down on the tiff between veteran Malayalam writer and orator Sukumar Azhikode and Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, with both of them speaking over phone while their lawyers acted as mediators.

Mullaperiyar row: DMK leaders step up pressure

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 10:07:53 +0530

DMK leaders have begun a day-long fast in Chennai over the row between Kerala and Tamil Nadu on the Mullaperiyar Dam. The leaders were protesting against Kerala's demand to build a new dam.

Mullaperiyar: KSRTC buses run for cover

Sun, 11 Dec 2011 11:31:00 +0530

The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation is being forced to pull out a sizeable number of long-distance, inter-state schedules with every passing day as the vehicles are often becoming the target of troublemakers across the border.

AMRI fire: 2 nurses died saving patients

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 02:02:41 +0530

Among those killed in the AMRI hospital fire on Friday were two brave nurses from Kerala - PK Vineetha and Remya Rajappan. The two nurses were among the only ones among the hospital staff who did not flee and rescued 8 out of 9 patients in the general ward.

Kerala Assembly adopts resolution for new dam

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 03:14:13 +0530

The Kerala Assembly on Friday unanimously adopted a resolution for building a new dam to replace the 116-year old Mullaperiyar reservoir and lowering the water level to 120 feet in the existing structure over which the state and Tamil Nadu are locked in a dispute.

Kerala Assembly meets on Mullaperiyar

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 10:24:45 +0530

A special one-day session of the Kerala Assembly on the Mullaperiyar Dam issue began on Friday, seeking to formalise the political consensus in the state on the demand for a new dam in place of the 116-year-old structure.

Mullaperiyar row: the fight between two states

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 07:58:10 +0530

The Kerala state Assembly will convene a special session dedicated solely to the Mullaperiyar Dam issue. It is expected to adopt a unanimous resolution expressing the state's safety concerns about the dam.

FTN: Are water wars going to be the conflict of the future?

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 10:59:50 +0530

Kerala wants a new dam as it fears that a strong earthquake might damage the existing 116-year-old Mullaperiyar dam.

Kerala: 208 km human chain for Mullaperiyar

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 06:09:53 +0530

A human chain stretching over 208 km and across two districts of Kerala was formed on Thursday to press the state's demand for a new dam to replace the 115-year-old leaking Mullaperiyar masonry dam, said an organiser from the Left Democratic Front.

Mullaperiyar row: Students united against dam

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 07:32:38 +0530

On one side political parties are on a race to cash in on the anti-Mullaperiyar sentiments. On the other side, there are the children who are out on the streets with an appeal to save their lives. Here there is no distinction between a Malayali and a Tamilian.

Mullaperiyar row: LDF to organise human wall

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 07:20:47 +0530

KPCC president Ramesh Chennithala will stage a fast in front of the Martyrs Column in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday, as part of a state-wide UDF campaign for a permanent solution to the Mullaperiyar dam issue.

Committed to ensure peace in dam area: Chandy

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 03:26:00 +0530

Expressing hope that the December 16 official level talks on the Mullaperiyar issue would be a meaningful exercise, Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Wednesday assured his Tamil Nadu counterpart that his government was "totally committed" to ensure peace in the dam area and the safety of the existing structure.

Mullaperiyar dam row: Keralites targeted in TN

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 01:16:12 +0530

The vexed Mullaperiyar dam row on Wednesday took a new turn with stray incidents of violence targeting Keralites reported in parts of Tamil Nadu even as Kerala decided to step up pressure on the Centre by taking an all-party delegation to meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

PM discusses Mullaperiyar with cabinet colleagues

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:09:41 +0530

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday discussed with his senior cabinet colleagues the Mullaperiyar dam issue over which Tamil Nadu and Kerala have been at loggerheads.

Mullaperiyar Dam: a ready reckoner

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 05:16:04 +0530

A raging dispute between Kerala and Tamil Nadu over the 116-year-old Mullaperiyar dam is in the national spotlight with the two chief ministers seeking Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's intervention to resolve it.

Mullaperiyar: Achuthanandan on one-day fast

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 01:54:25 +0530

Former Kerala chief minister VS Achutanandan joined protesters on a one-day fast at the Mullaperiyar dam site in Idukki.

IMDb rates 'DAM999' among top films

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 01:19:22 +0530

Tamil Nadu banned the film,saying it portrays the collapse of the dam and this had hurt the sentiments of the Tamil community.

Mullaperiyar: Achuthanandan may join protests

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:31:38 +0530

The situation over the Mullaperiyar dam row continues to remain tense with Kerala Opposition leader VS Achuthanandan expected to join protestors on a one-day fast.

Kerala: PIL against Isaac in CST fraud

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:14:00 +0530

A public interest litigation (PIL) was filed in the Vigilance court here seeking a probe against former Finance Minister Thomas Isaac, former Taxes Secretary T Mara Pandian, Commercial Taxes Deputy Commissioner Muralidharan, and cashew dealers Abdul Salam and Rajkumar in the Central Sales Tax (CST) fraud committed by cashew dealers.

Mullaperiyar protests: Jaya appeals for calm

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:50:37 +0530

Assuring that the 116-year-old Mullaperiyar dam was safe, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa on Tuesday appealed to the people of Kerala not to succumb "to the mechanisations of ill-wishers and unscrupulous mischief mongers".

Mullaperiyar: Kerala parties meet for new dam

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 07:43:27 +0530

As the Centre stepped in to resolve the stand-off over Mullaperiyar row, an all-party meeting in Kerala on Tuesday stuck to the state's demand for a new dam disregarding Tamil Nadu's opposition even as normalcy returned to protest-hit border areas on both sides.

'The Dirty Picture' continues to rule the BO

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 12:08:19 +0530

It wasn't very long ago when actress Neha Dhupia famously said that in India, only sex and Shah Rukh Khan sells. Since then Aamir and Salman's films have done much better than Shah Rukh Khan's. But looking at the opening weekend's box office numbers of 'The Dirty Picture', one can say that sex still sells.

Mullaperiyar row: all-party meet in Kerala

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 06:14:26 +0530

Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy has called for self-restraint over the Mullayperiyar Dam dispute. This after protest was reported at the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border in Kumali and Kamba-metu.

Prevent Kerala from building new dam: Vaiko

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 07:01:22 +0530

MDMK chief Vaiko on Monday complained to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh that Kerala government was creating "panic and fear psychosis" among the people on the Mullaperiyar Dam issue while contending that the 116-year-old structure was safe.

Kerala, TN officials to discuss Mullaperiyar

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 06:44:15 +0530

In a sign of a way forward out of the impasse over the Mullaperiyar dam issue, Kerala and Tamil Nadu officials are to meet on Dec 15 or 16 to discuss the 116-year-old dam in Kerala, which the ruling Congress described as a 'Damocles sword' hanging over the state.

Kerala film fest caught in legal tangle

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 01:27:08 +0530

The 16th edition of the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) was caught in a legal tangle in the Kerala High Court which dismissed the plea of the producer of film 'Adimadhyantham', which was selected but later disqualified from the competition section of the event, an organiser said Sunday.

Deploy CISF at Mullaperiyar: Jaya writes to PM

Sun, 04 Dec 2011 08:35:45 +0530

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa has requested Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to deploy CISF men at teh Mullaperiyar Dam. In a letter to the Prime Minister, Jayalalithaa wrote, "In view of the violent activities reported at the Dam site, it is imperative that Central forces be deployed at the Dam immediately. I, therefore, request you to order the deployment of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) at the Dam site to avert any man made catastrophic consequences immediately."

Mullaperiyar row: Advocate General meets Chandy

Sun, 04 Dec 2011 06:10:30 +0530

With controversy brewing over his submissions in the Kerala High Court on the Mullaperiyar dam issue, Advocate General KP Dandapani on Sunday met Chief Minsiter Oommen Chandy at his residence at Puthupally in Kottayam.

Mullaperiyar dam row: BJP march turns violent

Sun, 04 Dec 2011 05:26:53 +0530

BJP workers who took out a march demanding urgent steps to resolve the Mullaperiyar dam dispute turned violent at Vallakkadvau near the dam area on Sunday.

IFF Kerala to screen over 200 films

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 05:07:48 +0530

'Two Half-Times in Hell,' a Hungarian film that narrates the story of a football match played between the prisoners of war and the Germans marking Hitler's birthday.

Kerala: Row over AG's remarks on Mullaperiyar dam

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 09:04:02 +0530

The Opposition LDF in Kerala on Friday demanded resignation of the advocate general alleging his statement on the safety of the Mullaperiyar dam in the high court was against the state's avowed stand.

Ready to talk to Jaya on Mullaperiyar: Oomen

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 09:00:28 +0530

New Delhi: Kerala Chief Minister Oomen Chandy on Thursday said that his slogan was water for Tamil Nadu and safety for Kerala.

Palm oil case: HC relief for Oommen Chandy

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 03:17:45 +0530

A division bench of the Kerala High Court on Friday declared as null and void the observation made by a vigilance court against Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and asked it to complete re-investigation into the palm oil import case in six weeks.

Mullaperiyar dam: Kerala HC pulls up state govt

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 12:57:13 +0530

The Kerala High Court pulled up the state government on Friday with regard to the Mullaperiyar dam issue. Expressing concern over the dam, the high court has asked the state government to provide details about the safety measures and disaster management plans that have been put in place in case of an emergency situation.

Dam row: Chandy, AIADMK MPs meet PM

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 12:32:44 +0530

Kerala Chief Minister Oomen Chandy met UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday to drum up support for the construction of a new dam in place of the 116-year-old Mullaperiyar reservoir, citing safety concerns.

Mullaperiyar row: Chandy to meet PM today

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:30:33 +0530

With the political battle intensifying between Kerala and Tamil Nadu on the Mullaperiyar dam issue, Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy will meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday.

Kerala local bodies can give liquor shop licence

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 06:50:42 +0530

Following protests from anti-liquor campaign activists, Kerala Excise Minister K. Babu made modifications in the liquor policy that now empowers local bodies to give sanction for new bars, liquor outlets and toddy shops. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Babu said the government order to this effect has now come out.

Friday Release: Can 'Dirty Picture' meet the hype?

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:04:12 +0530

With the 80s film industry in the backdrop, it's an unbelievable journey of a commoner who rises to the position of the most sought after heroine from a make up artist.

Mullaperiyar row: Chandy likely to meet PM Today

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 01:29:38 +0530

With the political battle intensifying between Kerala and Tamil Nadu on the Mullaperiyar dam issue, Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy is to come to Delhi on Thursday to meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

Dam row: Kerala assembly session on Dec 9

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 10:40:08 +0530

Special cabinet meeting of Kerala government over Mullaperiyar Dam issue is over. The state government has summoned special assembly session on December 9 to discuss the controversial matter.

Chandy slams Jaya's stands on public safety

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 06:41:18 +0530

Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Wednesday slammed Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa for the varying stands she has taken on public safety concerns over the leaking Mullaperiyar masonry dam in Kerala and the yet-to-come up Kudankulam nuclear power project in her state.

Centre backing us on Mullaperiyar: Kerala CM

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 04:53:06 +0530

MPs from Kerala on Wednesday protested outside Parliament demanding that the Centre steps in to resolve the crisis over the Mullaperiyar Dam.

LDF to raise funds to build new dam: VS

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 12:15:41 +0530

With a by-election to the Kerala assembly to be held soon, Leader of Opposition V S Achuthanandan on Wednesday said his Left Democratic Front will raise funds from the people to build a new Mullaperiyar Dam.

Kerala: evidence links VS's son with 'godman'

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 05:01:34 +0530

The Kerala High Court was on Tuesday informed that there was evidence to link V A Arun Kumar, son of former chief minister V S Achuthanandan, with jailed "godman" Swami Amritananthachaithanya alias Santosh Madhavan. The state vigilance department said it has traced phone calls between Kumar, Madhavan and a woman advocate.

Mullaperiyar dam row: Kerala, TN MPs meet PM

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 04:41:36 +0530

The political battle over the Mullaperiyar dam hotted up on Tuesday with MPs from Tamil Nadu and Kerala seeking Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's intervention to resolve the complex issue.

Kerala presses for new dam with shutdown

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 12:58:40 +0530

Demonstrations for demanding a nod from Tamil Nadu for a brand new dam to replace the leaking Mullaperiyar dam continued in Kerala as well as five districts observed a complete shutdown on Tuesday.

Mullaperiyar: Concerned Kerala MPs to meet PM

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 07:29:16 +0530

Kerala has stepped up the pressure over the Mullaperiyar dam issue. Ministers from the state are expected to meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday over the stalemate with Tamil Nadu.

PM should intervene in Mullaperiyar row: Kerala MP

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 02:47:43 +0530

MPs from Kerala protested outside Parliament demanding the PM's intervention in the Mullaperiyar Dam issue.

Mullaperiyar row: strike hits normal life in Idukki

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 12:47:38 +0530

Normal life was hit on Monday due to a dawn-to-dusk hartal called here by the ruling Congress-led UDF and Opposition LDF protesting Tamil Nadu's stand over Mullaperiyar issue and Centre's "reluctance" to mediate on it.

Mullaperiyar: tremors, film keep dam in focus

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 10:43:39 +0530

A series of tremors since June and an explosive movie have again focussed attention on a dam in Kerala the state doesn't want but is critical for neighbouring Tamil Nadu. Kerala and Tamil Nadu have been at loggerheads over the Mullaperiyar dam, built under a 1886 pact between the then Maharaja of Travancore and the erstwhile British Raj.

Kerala Congress opposes FDI in retail

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:18:48 +0530

Protesting the approval of the FDI in retail, Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) Chief Ramesh Chennithala has written to the Prime Minister opposing the nod from the government.

Mullaperiyar row: Kerala MPs to meet Bansal

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 07:50:46 +0530

A two-minister delegation from Kerala is expected to arrive in Delhi on Monday to meet the Union Water Resources Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal with regard to the Mullaperiyar Dam.

Kerala Cong MP to fast before Parliament

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 06:37:21 +0530

With tempers running high in Kerala and Tamil Nadu over the Mullaperiyar dam issue, Kerala Congress(M) on Saturday demanded immediate intervention of the Centre to resolve the issue and said party MP, Jose K Mani, will stage a fast before Parliament on Monday.

Water in Mullaperiyar near maximum

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 01:26:00 +0530

With catchment areas receiving copious rains in the past two days, water level in the 116-year-old Mullaperiyar Dam on Sunday rose to 135.7 feet, against the maximum permissible storage level of 136 feet.

Mullaperiyar: Kerala minister to meet PM next week

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 11:22:37 +0530

Kerala Revenue Minister Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan will meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and senior Union Cabinet ministers next week to press Kerala's demand for a new dam at Mullaperiyar in place of the 116-year-old structure.

Controversy helped 'DAM 999': Director

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 01:20:46 +0530

Sohan Roy, director of controversial multilingual film DAM 999 that released throughout India but not in Tamil Nadu, is happy because the heat generated has given his venture a fillip.

Kerala: 3.4 quake hits Mullaperiyar Dam region

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 10:31:11 +0530

A mild earthquake measuring 3.4 on the richter scale jolted Kerala's Idukki district which houses the Mullaperiyar dam, on Saturday morning. No casualties or damages have been reported.

Islamic hardliners no threat in Kerala: Chandy

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 05:49:10 +0530

There are attempts by Islamic hardliners to radicalise Muslim youths in Kerala, but it is not a "serious situation", says Chief Minister Oommen Chandy.

PM to speak to Chandy, Jaya on Mullaperiyar

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 05:42:07 +0530

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday promised to speak to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J.Jayalalithaa and Kerala's Oommen Chandy to defuse tensions between the two southern states over the Mullaperiyar dam and find an amicable solution, said MPs from Kerala after meeting him.

In Kerala, they boo the film and make it a hit

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 01:45:33 +0530

'Krishnanum Radhayum' is a badly made film, critics have panned it and aduiences are angry. But despite all that it is running houseful here. Guess why? It may sound strange, but people are thronging the theatre to abuse the first-time director Santosh Pandit for making such a bad film.

NDA states gaining from UPA schemes: Chandy

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 12:11:51 +0530

While admitting that some National Democratic Alliance (NDA)-ruled states were registering high growth, Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy says it is easier for them to show results as they are addressing "first generation problems."

Kerala creating panic with dam issue: Jaya

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 06:32:02 +0530

As the row over the Mullaperiyar dam intensified, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa on Wednesday sought Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's intervention asking him to advise Kerala government not to whip up fear among its people for political mileage.

PM holds consultations on Mullaperiyar row

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 04:19:21 +0530

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday night held consultations on the Mullaperiyar Dam issue which has seen Kerala and Tamil Nadu at loggerheads.

Advise Kerala against new dam, Jaya urges PM

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 03:32:54 +0530

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa on Wednesday requested Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to advise the Kerala government "not to venture upon a new dam" and also not to whip up a sense of fear among the public about the safety of Mullaperiyar Dam.

Face off between Kerala, TN over Mullaperiyar

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 04:16:40 +0530

Kerala and Tamil Nadu are at loggerheads over the 116-year-old Mullaperiyar Dam. Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy has demanded that a new dam be built in its place since as many as 22 tremors in Idukki district over the last eight months have weakened it, making the Mullaperiyar Dam a threat for people in the district.

A makeover for India's Oscar entry 'Adimante'

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 01:58:12 +0530

The movie, which won four major National Awards this year, was seen to be strong in content but weak in technique.

Rahul Gandhi can deliver the goods: Oommen Chandy

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 01:39:51 +0530

Describing Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi as "a very good leader who can deliver the goods", Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said here that Gandhi could have "got any post in the government or the party " but instead he opted to study the socio-economic situation of the country and the "problems of the new generation."

VS's fears unfounded in sex case probe: HC

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 01:33:37 +0530

The Kerala High Court on Wednesday dismissed as unfounded Leader of Opposition V.S. Achuthanandan's fears relating to the ongoing probe into the Kozhikode ice-cream parlour sex case allegedly involving state minister P.K. Kunhalikutty.

Is there any future for singers in Malayalam?

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 02:04:12 +0530

This is the age of reality shows on practically every television channel. Participants get world-wide exposure and fabulous prizes and are lionised, converting them into celebrities overnight.

Kerala plans low-cost airline, Islamic banking

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 01:50:09 +0530

Kerala has not given up on a proposal to start an airline of its own, particularly to provide low-cost options to its vast diaspora in the Gulf, and will soon pursue this with the central government, Chief Minister Oomen Chandy has said.

Kerala: Second edition of Hay festival kicked off

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 09:32:21 +0530

The eagerly awaited second edition of the annual Hay Festival kicked off in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday. The festival for all those who love stories, big ideas and good company started on Thursday and will go on till Saturday.

Sabarimala pilgrimage begins in Kerala

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 02:39:28 +0530

The Sabarimala pilgrimage in Kerala, during which over 100 pilgrims were killed in a stampede early this year, began early on Thursday morning as the sanctum sanctorum of the famed temple here was opened.

Sabarimala pilgrimage to begin today

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 06:20:32 +0530

The Lord Ayyapa temple in Sabarimala will open its doors for the two-month long pilgrimage season on Thursday. But the memory of Pulmedu stampede in January that killed 100 people still looms large.

Fund-strapped 'Adaminte' lags in Oscar race

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 07:33:02 +0530

Kerala cabinet clears sops for diaspora

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 05:40:36 +0530

The Kerala cabinet on Wednesday unveiled sops for the diaspora by clearing a special housing scheme for them and also lowered the minimum amount for equity in the proposed Kannur airport to allow mid-income diaspora to invest in it. Unveiling the new housing policy, Finance and Housing Minister K.M. Mani said it is a wrong notion that all the Kerala diaspora are rich.

'Unholy' CPM-BJP alliance in Kerala: Cong

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 04:01:52 +0530

The Congress in Kerala on Tuesday alleged there is a strong, secret alliance between the state units of the Communist Party of India-Marxist and the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Sabarimala: Kerala to rather be safe than sorry

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:30:59 +0530

Haunted by last season's tragedy which left over 100 pilgrims dead in a stampede, a cautious Kerala government has come up with a new footpath, a bridge and a slew of measures to decongest the route leading to the Sabarimala temple this year. The two-month-long festival season is set to begin early Thursday at Pullumedu, a hill.

Yesudas celebrates golden jubilee as a singer

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 02:34:53 +0530

KJ Yesudas has recorded over 50,000 songs in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, Bengali, Oriya, Gujarati, Tulu, English, Russian and Marathi during a career spanning over 5 decades.

Love experimenting with clothes: Rima Kallingal

Sun, 13 Nov 2011 03:56:29 +0530

In conversation with Rima Kallingal, a rising young star in Malayalam films.

Malayalam Film Industry in shutdown mode

Sun, 13 Nov 2011 08:40:28 +0530

The Malayalam Film Industry has come to a stand still as three film associations are on an indefinite strike.

Tharoor files defamation suit against magazine

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 04:55:30 +0530

Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor on Saturday filed a Rs 10 crore defamation suit against The Sunday Indian magazine for publishing an article insinuating that he has black money stashed away in Swiss banks.

It's upsurge time for Malayalam films

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 01:14:41 +0530

Malayalam film industry, of late is on an upsurge with the success of a few multiple narrative, multi-star and new-age films like 'Traffic', 'Salt N' Pepper' , 'Chaappa Kurish'. A bunch of new directors like Ranjith Shankar, Mamas, Vysakh, Lijo Jose Pellissery are up with fresh themes.

Trade pundits expect The Dirty Picture to do well

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 11:39:35 +0530

Vidya Balan's sexy avatar, itsy bitsy clothes, cleavage-showing blouses and raunchy dance numbers in 'The Dirty Picture' are receiving jaw-dropping reactions. Fans and trade pundits say the masala movie is expected to beat the musical treat 'Rockstar', the fun-filled 'Desi Boyz' and the action thriller 'Don 2'.

Soumya murder case: Convict gets death sentence

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 11:13:21 +0530

A Thrissur fast track court awarded capital punishment to the Soumya rape and murder case accused Govindachami. On Monday, it had found the accused Govindachami guilty

Soumya murder: Court to announce judgement today

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 09:52:12 +0530

A Fast Track Court in Thrissur is expected to announce the quantum of punishment in the Soumya rape and murder case. On Monday, it had found the accused Govindachamy guilty. Soumya was raped and pushed out of a moving train in February this year.

Justice Manjula Chellur sworn in Kerala HC judge

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 11:58:00 +0530

KOCHI: Justice Manjula Chellur was sworn in a judge of the Kerala High Court here on Wednesday.
Justice Manjula Chellur, who is..

Archana Kavi and the irresistible 'Aravaan'

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 04:22:13 +0530

She shot to limelight with a scintillating performance in the Malayalam film 'Neelathamara', which came in for considerable praise from different quarters of the society. Now, Archana Kavi seems to be all set to repeat that feat in the Tamil film industry as well, if one is to go by the testimonials of those who have seen her work in Vasantabalan's 'Aravaan'.

Mohanlal plays Bheem in India's costliest film

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 03:18:29 +0530

Who would don the role of Bheeman? That was the question on every film enthusiasts' mind when veteran director Hariharan and legendary writer MT Vasudevan Nair set out to recreate on celluloid the emotional angst of the epic character Bheeman in the latter's novel 'Randamoozham'.

Cell phones in jails: Kerala govt writes to MHA

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 09:34:13 +0530

The Kerala government has written to the Union Home Ministry asking for a probe by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) into the seizure of mobile phones from jails in the state.

Kerala: LDF walkout over Pillai's release

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:27:09 +0530

Opposition LDF in Kerala on Friday staged a walkout from the Assembly alleging the UDF government had violated prison rules while granting remission to Kerala Congress-B leader R Balakrishna Pillai, who was sentenced to one-year imprisonment in a corruption case.

Left disrupts Kerala assembly proceedings

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:47:50 +0530

Kerala's opposition Left on Thursday shouted slogans demanding the ouster of Forest Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar and government chief whip P.C. George for what they said were insulting remarks against their members last week.

AP Naxal links to sandalwood smuggling

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 08:59:00 +0530

In a major development in the red sandalwood seizure from ICTT, Vallarpadam, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence has unearthed Naxalite links behind the smuggling. The sandalwood is being smuggled to China, the DRI report said.

Kerala orders CBI probe into attack on teacher

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 06:38:42 +0530

The Kerala government on Wednesday gave its nod for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the brutal attack on a school teacher on Sep 27 in Kollam district. Krishna Kumar, a school teacher, was found severely injured around 10.45 p.m. near Kottarakara town.

Kerala Assembly pays tributes to T M Jacob

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 04:54:05 +0530

The Kerala Assembly on Wednesday paid rich tributes to late Minister for Food and Civil Supplies, T M Jacob who died of multiple organ failure at a private hospital on Sunday.

Kerala: Pillai out, VS pursues him

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 12:17:00 +0530

Despite the virulent criticism unleashed by the Opposition LDF, the UDF Government ensured R Balakrishna Pillai's release on Tuesday, as he was given a two-month remission on his one-year jail term. Pillai, however, will continue his stay in the specialist hospital for a few more days and is likely to go abroad for further treatment.

Kerala Congress (Jacob) all set for son-rise

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:12:00 +0530

After T M Jacob, it will be his son Anoop Jacob. The Kerala Congress (Jacob) has decided to stake claim for the ministership that has fallen vacant due to the death of Civil Supplies Minister T M Jacob on behalf of Anoop Jacob, 33, a lawyer by profession and head of the party's Youth Front.

Jailed ex-minister Pillai released in Kerala

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 10:43:16 +0530

Kerala Congress (B) leader and former minister R Balakrishna Pillai, sentenced to jail for a year in a corruption case, was on Tuesday freed under the remission granted by the state government on the occasion of state-formation day.

VS moves apex court against Pillai's release

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 10:10:00 +0530

Hours after former Kerala minister R. Balakrishna Pillai and 137 others were released from jail on Tuesday, Leader of Opposition V.S. Achuthanandan filed a petition in the apex court demanding that the amnesty given by the state government to Pillai be cancelled.

Kerala: Pillai to be freed under amnesty scheme

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:33:38 +0530

Jailed former minister R. Balakrishna Pillai and 137 other inmates will be released on Tuesday, while the jail terms of 2,500 prisoners will be reduced as part of an amnesty scheme of the Kerala government. The amnesty is being given on the occasion of Kerala Day Nov 1, the government announced on Monday.

VS condemns George's remarks on Balan

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 10:46:00 +0530

Opposition Leader V S Achuthanandan on Sunday termed Government Chief Whip P C George's comments against former minister A K Balan as ''uncultured".

Kerala: Setback to VS in Kiliroor sex scam case

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 01:56:17 +0530

The 'VIP link' drawn meticulously by Opposition Leader V S Achuthanandan in the Kiliroor sex scam years ago and which had helped him to derive optimum political mileage in the CPM and in public, is all set to be edged out, as the CBI court here has rejected the plea to examine the angle in the course of the cross-examination of the victim's father on Thursday.

Ernakulam becomes the first no-smoking district

Sat, 22 Oct 2011 10:55:00 +0530

In the wake of the success of the anti-tobacco measures taken by the Ernakulam district administration, the Kochi Corporation and the district panchayat, steps have been taken to declare Ernakulam as the first smoking-free tourist destination in India.

Kerala: mobiles in jails hint at terror links

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 01:21:18 +0530

Kerala Police have submitted an alarming report to the state government on the seizure of 120 mobile phones from the state's prisons. The reports hints that there could be a terror link to Kerala's jails and some prisoners may be orchestrating terror from jail.

Sabarimala Melsanthi selection under suspicion

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 11:08:00 +0530

The selection process for appointing the next melsanthi of Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple has come under a cloud of suspicion with the list of shortlisted candidates published by the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) after the interview contradicting with the official list signed by TDB Secretary PR Anitha.

Kerala's two-child draft draws minority flak

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 07:54:59 +0530

The proposed plan of the Kerala government to control population has come under severe criticism. It recommends a fine of Rs 10,000 for couples who have more than two children.

Kerala temple treasure case: SC verdict today

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 08:42:02 +0530

Vault B of the Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple in Thiruvananthapuram may now be opened following a Supreme Court order. CNN-IBN accessed an interim report by an expert committee to the Supreme Court. In its report dated August 23, the committee has given three reasons to open the vault.

Open Kerala temple vault, says SC panel

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 09:15:31 +0530

The panel set up by the Supreme Court on the Padmanabhaswamy Temple treasure in Kerala has said in its report said that the temple's secret vault should be opened and the value of the treasure inside be ascertained.

Onam culminates with festivities across Kerala

Sat, 10 Sep 2011 08:41:22 +0530

Onam festivities began on Friday across Kerala. When Onam comes calling in Kerala, the noise shifts to the backwaters as God's own country becomes a venue for a number of hard-fought races. Aranmula, a little hamlet in central Kerala, is all set for water-filled action - as huge wooden boats or paliyodams take to the waters.

Ten-day Onam festival begins today

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 08:15:19 +0530

The festival of plenty celebrates the annual visit of the noble demon king Mahabali from Pathalam (the underworld).

Kerala temple: SC questions royals over ritual

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 12:17:05 +0530

The Supreme Court on Friday expressed surprise over the fact that the decision to open the vaults of the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram was taken by the head priest. The decision should have been taken by the Supreme Court-appointed expert committee instead, the court said.

President's copter develops snag; journey delayed

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 11:25:38 +0530

President Pratibha Patil's scheduled departure from Kollam to Thiruvananthapuram has been delayed as the helicopter she was to board developed a technical snag, police said on Wednesday.

Achuthanandan slams adoration of erstwhile royals

Sun, 28 Aug 2011 05:10:22 +0530

After his controversial comment on the head of Travancore royal family, CPI(M) leader VS Achuthanandan has deplored the adoration of erstwhile princes and princesses six decades after Independence.

Man fasts atop coconut tree to support Hazare

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 05:18:10 +0530

Expressing support to Anna Hazare's anti-corruption movement in a unique way, a 60-year-old man has launched a 'relay' atop a coconut tree.

Kerala: politics over Padmanabhaswamy temple

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 08:41:24 +0530

The row over the Padmanabhaswamy temple wealth has now taken a political colour. Political parties have reacted strongly to former Chief Minister VS Achuthanandan's allegations against the Travancore royal family.

Two found guilty in Kozhikode twin blast case

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 10:03:52 +0530

In the first verdict in NIA-investigated terror case in Kerala, a court on Thursday held suspected LeT militant T Naseer and another man guilty of offences in the March 3, 2006, twin blasts case in Kozhikode.