Tamil Nadu: Special namaz offered and prayers observed for rains

In the wake of the heatwave and acute water crisis in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, a special Namaz was offered and fasts were observed by numerous devotees in Madurai for rains on Monday.

While some chose to pray, DMK President MK Stalin and party workers held a protest against the Tamil Nadu government over the acute water crisis in Chennai by carrying empty plastic pots in their hands.

"The pots are here, but where is the water. The ruling government should solve the water crisis in the state. It has done nothing to resolve the issue," Stalin said.

Meanwhile, DMK MP from Sriperumbudur, TR Baalu have given a notice in the Lok Sabha on Monday over the water scarcity issue in the state. 

On Saturday, the ruling All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) performed special yagnas in temples across the states to appease the rain God. Fisheries Minister D Jayakumar also took part in a 'yagna' at a Shiva temple in Chennai and planted a sapling in the shrine. The AIADMK leaders including senior Tamil Nadu ministers - Sellur K Raju, Sengottaiyan, and Madurai North MLA V V Rajan Chellappa - performed pujas at temples in the state.

READ: DMK Stages Protests, State Government Performs 'Yajna' As Water Crisis Worsen In Tamil Nadu

On Sunday, State Water Supply Minister SP Velumani visited Church and Dargah in Coimbatore and offered prayers, seeking divine intervention for heavy rains. Velumani visited Hazarat Musa Avulia Dargah and St Mark's Church in the city. Speaking to reporters, he said that the state is facing acute water shortage and groundwater has plummeted at many places.

Tamil Nadu is reeling under acute water crisis stress for the past several months as Chennai's Porur lake, one of the main sources of water has reached its lowest level. The water scarcity has caused many schools and hotels to shut down. Moreover, scorching heat and delayed monsoon have further exacerbated the situation.