THE Negri Sembilan MIC elections ended with no contests for many of the posts after 20 candidates withdrew their nominations, Makkal Osai reported.

       According to those who spoke to the daily, around 20 candidates filed nominations papers to contest the top posts in the district divisions.

       However, following discussions with the national and state level MIC leadership, 10 contenders allegedly dropped out, allowing seven incumbent district chiefs to retain their positions

       The three top reps for the PD branch were also elected uncontested. Ten more contenders who filed to contest are also understood to have submitted letters confirming their withdrawal on Tuesday.

       Meanwhile, Negri Sembilan MIC chairman Datuk M. Velu pulled out from defending his seat.

       > Indian film star Kangana Ranaut seemingly can’t stay out of controversy, attracting more brickbats for her comments about the farmers protests, Makkal Osai reported.Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government had withdrawn three controversial farming laws following two years of protests, but the farmers have vowed to continue on until their demands are met.

       In an Instagram post, the actress called the farmers terrorists who are trying to divide the country.

       Farmers unions and Sikh groups have condemned her statement, and have called on the government to strip her of the Padma Shri award conferred on her. Padma Shri is the fourth highest civilian award.