VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html TVK chief Vijay meets Governor Rajendra Arlekar, stakes claim to form govt in Tamil Nadu NEW DELHI: Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay on Wednesday met Tamil Nadu governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar to stake claim to form the next government after his two-year-old party emerged as the single largest in the recent assembly elections. In its electoral debut, TVK secured 108 of the 234 assembly seats. The two Dravidian majors—Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK)—won 59 and 47 seats respectively. The DMK was voted out of power just five years after the AIADMK’s defeat. Earlier, Arlekar confirmed he would meet Vijay after the actor-turned-politician claimed he had the numbers required to form the government. “I have received a letter from TVK. They will meet me in the evening. They have stated that they have the majority and should be called to form the government. Yes, I have given an appointment to TVK chief Vijay. A new government will be formed now,” the governor told ANI. After falling short of the majority mark of 118, TVK had sought Congress’ support to form the government. Earlier in the day, Tamil Nadu Congress president K Selvaperunthagai and state in-charge Girish Chodankar met Vijay at TVK’s headquarters in Chennai to confirm support.Despite Cong support, TVK still 5 seats short of majority: How will Vijay close the number gap? However, with Congress securing only five seats, the alliance still falls five short of the majority mark. In a bid to bridge the gap, TVK has also approached AIADMK general secretary and former chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami. Congress had contested the April 9 assembly elections in alliance with the DMK, while the AIADMK was the largest constituent of the NDA, which also included the BJP. Reacting to the development, DMK leader Saravanan Annadurai criticised Congress, calling the move “myopic” and accusing it of betraying INDIA bloc partners. “I think this is a very short-sighted, myopic stand taken by the Congress, which they will regret. The 2029 general elections are coming, and we are confident of defeating the BJP. But this decision makes Congress an unstable partner. The perception across the country is that Congress cannot be trusted,” Sarvanan said.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosTeesta Issue Explained: Can Bengal Result Unlock Deal As China Factor Raises StakesISIS-Linked Bioterror Conspiracy Case: NIA Files Chargesheet Against Three AccusedIndia–US Trade Deal Nears Finish Line, One Final Hurdle Left Before Signing: Christopher LandauSP-I-PAC Deal Collapses Ahead Of 2027 UP Polls:ED Arrest, Electoral Setbacks Trigger Strategic ResetSecurity alert in Punjab after Jalandhar and Amritsar blast incidentsDMK Hits Out As Congress Directs TNCC To Take Final Call On Vijay’s Support Request’Historic, Decisive’: Trump Congratulates PM Modi Over BJP’s Win In Bengal ElectionsDefeat but ‘Moral Win’? Mamata Targets EC, Hints At BIGGER Opposition AlliancePower Bank Catches Fire On IndiGo Hyderabad-Chandigarh Flight, All Passengers And Crew EvacuatedIndia Seeks To Lease Three Ultra Heavy Lift Helicopters To Boost Capability123PhotostoriesIndia’s Fastest Delhi–Meerut RRTS Corridor Hits 3 Crore Riders in Record TimeGK Fact of the Day: 7 fascinating flightless birds from across the globePlants thought to be native to India but were actually brought from foreign countriesEnd to traffic woes? Chilla road boost for Delhi-Noida commuteHow destination weddings are shaping décor and driving real estate trends in IndiaNever share THESE 5 things with your colleagues: Pune techie warns about the mistakes that can ruin your career5 style lessons to take from Trisha KrishnanBest desk plants for positive energy: Top office plants to boost mood, productivity and workplace wellnessBeehive in your garden? Safe removal, natural repellents and eco-friendly control tips that work7 countries where the Indian Rupee (INR) is strong and how travellers can make the most out of it123Hot PicksGSEB 10th Result 2026Delhi traffic advisoryDelhi rainPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingNFL Trade RumorsIPL 2026 Orange CapCBSE Class 10 admit card 2026IPL Playoff Qualification ScenariosIPL 2026 Points TableMI IPL Playoff Qualification ScenariosJalandhar BlastNEET 2026: Exam-day guideGSEB Class 10th result 2026TVK Chief Vijay May 06, 2026, 16:57 IST JAC Class 12 result 2026: Girls edge past boys in commerce and arts, science sees near-equal performance Janhvi Kapoor in talks for Shahid Kapoor’s next; Amit Sharma to direct romantic comedy – Reports ‘Upset’ over wife’s obesity, man smothers her; affair with Hyderabad woman emerges in probe Us Ant Attack: US warns as Asian needle ant reaches over 20 states; experts warn of sharp, painful attacks | World News A deadly outbreak of Hantavirus on a luxury cruise ship has raised global concern after three passengers died and several others fell ill. The ship, carrying around 150 people, remains stranded off the coast of West Africa as health authorities monitor the situation closely.So what exactly is hantavirusHantavirus outbreak: 10 things to knowIt spreads from rodents to humansHantaviruses are carried by rodents like rats and mice. Humans get infected through contact with their urine, droppings, or saliva. The virus does not harm rodents, but it can be dangerous for people.It usually spreads through the airWhen rodent waste is disturbed—like during cleaning—it can release virus particles into the air. Breathing in this contaminated air is the most common way people get infected.Human-to-human spread is very rareMost hantavirus types do not spread between people. However, the Andes strain—found in South America—is the only known variant that can spread through close, prolonged contact. It is suspected in the cruise outbreak but not confirmed.There are different types worldwideHantaviruses behave differently depending on the region. Some cause lung-related illness, while others affect the kidneys and blood vessels.Symptoms can look like the fluSymptoms usually appear one to eight weeks after exposure. Early signs include fever, muscle aches, and stomach issues, which makes it easy to mistake for a common infection.It can turn deadly quicklyIn the Americas, hantavirus can cause a severe lung disease where fluid fills the lungs. This condition can worsen rapidly and become life-threatening.Fatality rates can be highThe death rate can reach up to 50% in severe lung infections, according to the World Health Organization.In comparison, strains found in Europe and Asia are less deadly, with fatality rates between 1% and 15%.There is no specific cureThere is no vaccine or targeted treatment. Doctors focus on supportive care—rest, fluids, and in severe cases, oxygen support or ventilators.Prevention is keyAvoiding contact with rodents is the best protection. Keeping surroundings clean and safely handling rodent-infested areas can reduce risk. During outbreaks, contact tracing helps identify and treat exposed individuals early.Risk to the public remains lowDespite the alarming situation on the cruise ship, experts say the overall risk to the public is low. Infection requires specific exposure conditions, which are not common in everyday life.Inside the cruise ship crisisThe outbreak has created a tense situation onboard. Passenger Jake Rosmarin shared glimpses of the unfolding crisis online.”For those who have seen recent news, yes, I am currently onboard the M/V Hondius,” he told Reuters, adding that he did not wish to say more, “out of respect for those involved.”As the ship remained stranded, his tone changed. “What’s happening right now is very real for all of us.””We’re not just headlines. We’re people with families, with lives, with people waiting for us at home,” he added.”All we want is to feel safe and to get home,” he said.Authorities in South Africa and Cape Verde have reassured the public that there is no immediate risk on land. One statement noted that since the ship remains offshore, “there is currently no risk to the population on land”.Why experts are watching closelyThe outbreak is unusual because it occurred in a confined setting like a cruise ship, raising questions about whether limited human-to-human transmission may have occurred. Investigations are ongoing.While cases have been rising in parts of South America, global outbreaks remain rare. Still, this incident highlights how quickly infections can escalate in close environments—and why early detection and containment matter.About the AuthorTOI World DeskAt TOI World Desk, our dedicated team of seasoned journalists and passionate writers tirelessly sifts through the vast tapestry of global events to bring you the latest news and diverse perspectives round the clock. With an unwavering commitment to accuracy, depth, and timeliness, we strive to keep you informed about the ever-evolving world, delivering a nuanced understanding of international affairs to our readers. Join us on a journey across continents as we unravel the stories that shape our interconnected world.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosTeesta Issue Explained: Can Bengal Result Unlock Deal As China Factor Raises StakesISIS-Linked Bioterror Conspiracy Case: NIA Files Chargesheet Against Three AccusedIndia–US Trade Deal Nears Finish Line, One Final Hurdle Left Before Signing: Christopher LandauSP-I-PAC Deal Collapses Ahead Of 2027 UP Polls:ED Arrest, Electoral Setbacks Trigger Strategic ResetSecurity alert in Punjab after Jalandhar and Amritsar blast incidentsDMK Hits Out As Congress Directs TNCC To Take Final Call On Vijay’s Support Request’Historic, Decisive’: Trump Congratulates PM Modi Over BJP’s Win In Bengal ElectionsDefeat but ‘Moral Win’? Mamata Targets EC, Hints At BIGGER Opposition AlliancePower Bank Catches Fire On IndiGo Hyderabad-Chandigarh Flight, All Passengers And Crew EvacuatedIndia Seeks To Lease Three Ultra Heavy Lift Helicopters To Boost Capability123PhotostoriesPlants thought to be native to India but were actually brought from foreign countriesEnd to traffic woes? Chilla road boost for Delhi-Noida commuteHow destination weddings are shaping décor and driving real estate trends in IndiaNever share THESE 5 things with your colleagues: Pune techie warns about the mistakes that can ruin your career5 style lessons to take from Trisha KrishnanBest desk plants for positive energy: Top office plants to boost mood, productivity and workplace wellnessBeehive in your garden? Safe removal, natural repellents and eco-friendly control tips that work7 countries where the Indian Rupee (INR) is strong and how travellers can make the most out of itPersonality test: The vase you choose reveals if you are dependable, creative or sensitive in natureWhy dal thickens in the fridge: 3 smart ways to stop it from clotting123Hot PicksGSEB 10th Result 2026Delhi traffic advisoryDelhi rainPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingNFL Trade RumorsIPL 2026 Orange CapCBSE Class 10 admit card 2026IPL Playoff Qualification ScenariosIPL 2026 Points TableMI IPL Playoff Qualification ScenariosJalandhar BlastNEET 2026: Exam-day guideGSEB Class 10th result 2026TVK Chief Vijay MMRDA admit card 2026 out: Hall tickets released for Group A, B, C exams; check how to download Sam Smith and Christian Cowan are engaged, their Met Gala 2026 appearance confirms the proposal – Reports 7 sarees every woman should have in her wardrobe and how to make them last Sunrise and Sunset Time on May 7, 2026; Remedies to seek blessings of Lord Surya TVS iQube S 4.7 kWh launched: Price, range, features & more Hantavirus strain that killed 3 on cruise ship capable of human transmission: 10 things to know Uk House Explosion: UK house explosion: Ex-partner enters Bristol woman’s home with explosive device, blast kills both Photo: Screengrab NEW DELHI: Communist Party of India (Marxist), or CPM on Wednesday claimed the “goons” of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) attacked and broke communist icon Vladimir Lenin’s statue in Murshidabad district, where the saffron party’s Gouri Sankar Ghosh won by over 30,000 votes in assembly polls.The party said it registered a police complaint, leading to arrest of five and vowed to rebuild the statue on May 8.”On the night of May 5, in Jiaganj area of Murshidabad district, BJP goons attacked and broke a statue of Lenin. Our comrades immediately responded and filed a police complaint. A demonstration was held, following which five were arrested. This morning, our comrades went to the site again. The statue will be rebuilt on May 8th,” the party posted on X.Vladimir Lenin was a Russian revolutionary who led the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution and founded the Soviet Union, becoming one of the most influential communist leaders, having overwhelming influence in West Bengal politics under the CPM regime, which was uprooted by the TMC’s Mamata Banerjee after three decades in 2011.The mega transition repeated on May 4 when the BJP, in a similar way, decimated the ruling Trinamool by winning 207 seats with commanding 45.8 per cent vote share in the 294-seat Bengal assembly.Since the verdict, a spiral of violence has been witnessed across the state that left at least four people dead, dozens injured and party offices ransacked, as rival cadres from Trinamool Congress and BJP clashed in multiple districts overnight.Two deaths were reported in Kolkata within 24 hours. In Beleghata, Trinamool poll agent Biswajit Pattanaik, 45, was found bleeding at his doorstep after stepping out following a phone call. Police suspect he was chased, tried to flee across rooftops and fell, though his family alleges he was dragged out and beaten.In 2018, two statues of Lenin were brought down in South Tripura just days after the Left was defeated in assembly polls by the BJP and its ally IPFT, which together won a two-third majority in the House in a state where the CPI(M) was in power for 25 years.A five-foot high fibre glass statue of Lenin was toppled at Belonia, while a smaller figure was razed at Sabroom two days before.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosTeesta Issue Explained: Can Bengal Result Unlock Deal As China Factor Raises StakesISIS-Linked Bioterror Conspiracy Case: NIA Files Chargesheet Against Three AccusedIndia–US Trade Deal Nears Finish Line, One Final Hurdle Left Before Signing: Christopher LandauSP-I-PAC Deal Collapses Ahead Of 2027 UP Polls:ED Arrest, Electoral Setbacks Trigger Strategic ResetSecurity alert in Punjab after Jalandhar and Amritsar blast incidentsDMK Hits Out As Congress Directs TNCC To Take Final Call On Vijay’s Support Request’Historic, Decisive’: Trump Congratulates PM Modi Over BJP’s Win In Bengal ElectionsDefeat but ‘Moral Win’? Mamata Targets EC, Hints At BIGGER Opposition AlliancePower Bank Catches Fire On IndiGo Hyderabad-Chandigarh Flight, All Passengers And Crew EvacuatedIndia Seeks To Lease Three Ultra Heavy Lift Helicopters To Boost Capability123PhotostoriesIndia’s Fastest Delhi–Meerut RRTS Corridor Hits 3 Crore Riders in Record TimeGK Fact of the Day: 7 fascinating flightless birds from across the globePlants thought to be native to India but were actually brought from foreign countriesEnd to traffic woes? Chilla road boost for Delhi-Noida commuteHow destination weddings are shaping décor and driving real estate trends in IndiaNever share THESE 5 things with your colleagues: Pune techie warns about the mistakes that can ruin your career5 style lessons to take from Trisha KrishnanBest desk plants for positive energy: Top office plants to boost mood, productivity and workplace wellnessBeehive in your garden? Safe removal, natural repellents and eco-friendly control tips that work7 countries where the Indian Rupee (INR) is strong and how travellers can make the most out of it123Hot PicksGSEB 10th Result 2026Delhi traffic advisoryDelhi rainPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingNFL Trade RumorsIPL 2026 Orange CapCBSE Class 10 admit card 2026IPL Playoff Qualification ScenariosIPL 2026 Points TableMI IPL Playoff Qualification ScenariosJalandhar BlastNEET 2026: Exam-day guideGSEB Class 10th result 2026TVK Chief Vijay KSCA reacts to Bengaluru losing IPL 2026 final hosting rights: ‘Specific reasons not formally communicated’ Sebi sets Rs 20,000 crore threshold for ‘significant indices’; Sensex, Nifty among benchmarks covered Jharkhand JAC Class 12 toppers 2026: Rashida Naaz secures overall rank 1; check stream-wise toppers list here Dharmendra SLAPPED Govinda on the sets of ‘Awaargi’- Reason? READ HERE How destination weddings are shaping décor and driving real estate trends in India Why do rockets curve after launch instead of going straight? The reason is surprising 4 creative activities parents can use to help children open up emotionally Antisemitic Attacks: London police form 100 officers unit to protect Jewish community amid rise in antisemitic attacks | World News Haryana Board Class 12 result 2026 date: HBSE expected to release results by this date; check details. ‘Anupam Kher ke sar pe baal aajayenge lekin TMC..’, the actor hilariously reacts to Samik Bhattacharya’s jibe: ‘Maine kya bigada?’ Plants thought to be native to India but were actually brought from foreign countries Drunk bouncer shoots sisters-in-law point-blank after late-night argument, walks into police station ‘IPL lines everyone’s pockets’: Alastair Cook’s fresh dig at Kevin Pietersen over Jacob Bethell debate US petrol prices rise 50% since Iran war began, Strait of Hormuz disruption drives pump costs higher UPSC NDA 1 result 2026 expected to be released soon: Check steps to download scorecards RB Choudary’s LAST public appearance with his son Jiiva and grandson resurfaces post his demise; fans get emotional Pune techie warns about the mistakes that can ruin your career H-1B visa ‘crisis’: Are Indians taking over US? What numbers say McGregor vs Holloway UFC 329 comeback fight confirmed? EA Sports teases stunning UFC 6 trailer matchup | International Sports News Samsung Electronics crosses $1 trillion market cap amid AI boom; Kospi hits record high SECR Apprenticeship recruitment 2026 underway: Direct link to download here ‘Raja Shivaji’ box office collection day 6 [LIVE]: Riteish Deshmukh film just Rs. 5 crore away from Rs. 50 crore India net milestone 5 style lessons to take from Trisha Krishnan Letting go of negativity through spiritual practices Did dinosaurs decide how humans age today: The hidden evolutionary secret of human ageing US state to judge: Declare Meta a public nuisance as Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp are creating mental health crisis across America; ‘children are begging for …’ May 06, 2026, 14:40 IST Why Bengaluru lost IPL 2026 final hosting rights to Ahmedabad Middle East conflict: Three opportunities for India to secure supply chains in energy, fertilizers & defence – explained Jharkhand JAC Class 12 result 2026 released at jacresults.com: Direct link to download scorecards here Riddhima Kapoor Sahni on being the oldest Kapoor to make debut at the age of 45, says father Rishi Kapoor is blessing her in everything 7 sarees every woman should have in her wardrobe and how to make them last 1.6 million-year-old bones reveal how the first humans really got their meat Elderly couple, 10-year-old granddaughter killed in Bhubaneswar apartment fire Hantavirus-hit cruise ship to sail to Canary Islands, passengers to undergo medical screening