Tents, Fans, and Ambulances Deployed at Karnataka Polling Stations to Aid Voters Amidst Heat on May 7 With just two days left for the second phase of the Lok Sabha polls in Karnataka, the Election Commission has made elaborate arrangements to increase voter turnout amid the soaring temperatures in the 14 constituencies that go to the polls on May 7. The first phase of the general elections in 14 of Karnataka's 28 Lok Sabha constituencies was held on April 26, and the second, for the rest of the 14 segments, is on May 7. From arranging shamianas and tents, additional fans and drinking water facilities, to keeping ambulances on standby and using adjacent rooms of the polling booth as waiting areas, the Election Commission is making efforts to ensure that the polling percentage is not affected due to the ''harsh summer''. There are 28,269 polling stations in these 14 constituencies -- Chikkodi, Belgaum, Bagalkot, Bijapur, Gulbarga, Raichur, Bidar, Koppal, Bellary, Haveri, Dharwad, Uttara Kannada, Davangere and Shimoga --which are going to the polls on May 7. In this first phase, Karnataka recorded 69.56 per cent voter turnout. Speaking to PTI, Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Meena said the constituencies where polling will take place on May 7 are in North Karnataka region and the temperature is slightly high there, ''so we have made all necessary arrangements to ensure that people aren't deterred from coming out of their homes to vote.'' He further said, ''It is a harsh summer, so we are making special arrangements to mitigate this temperature, (and the possibility of) stroke, dehydration... So, we are making special arrangements for shades, drinking water, fans wherever required at the polling stations.'' The poll body has also roped in ASHA workers and Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM) workers to handle any medical emergency that may arise at the polling stations. ''We also have local-level health workers including ASHA workers and ANMs from primary health centres, so they will have basic medical kits to ensure that first aid is given to voters and polling officials in case of any medical emergency,'' he said. Ambulances have also been kept ready in a cluster of polling stations so that patients requiring more than first aid can be quickly taken to hospital, he added. The priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of poll officials and voters, especially senior citizens and persons with disabilities. Adequate number of tents and umbrellas for shade, and chairs to seat the officials and voters have been provided at the polling stations to ensure that they are not exposed to direct sunlight. ''All arrangements are being done to ensure that people have a pleasant experience and that the harsh summer will not deter them from coming to vote. We will do our best to see that people will not face any problem,'' the CEO said. There are a total of 2,59,52,958 electors in these 14 constituencies, out of which 1,29,83,406 are male, 1,29,67,607 are female and 1,945 are others.
'Cancel Prajwal Revanna's diplomatic passport': Tharoor backs Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah's demand
'Cancel Prajwal Revanna's diplomatic passport': Tharoor backs Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah's demand
After two decades in a political family, Prabha Mallikarjun makes electoral debut in Davangere
KARNATAKA: Coming from a political family and canvassing for Congress candidates for two decades and more in the past elections here, Prabha Mallikarjun is making her electoral debut in this Lok Sabha constituency. And interestingly, for the first time, Davangere will see a contest between two women -- Prabha is taking on BJP's Gayathri Siddeshwara. Once a Congress stronghold, the BJP has been winning the seat since 1999. The 48-year-old Prabha, a dentist, is the wife of District in-charge Minister S S Mallikarjun and daughter-in-law of veteran Congress leader and Davangere South MLA Shamanur Shivashankarappa. Gayathri is the wife of four-time MP and former union minister G M Siddeshwara. Irrespective of who wins, Davangere will get its first woman MP. Prabha said that if elected, her top priority is health, education, employment, irrigation and drinking water issues. She is also keen on working towards women self-empowerment, establishment of handicraft industries, and encouraging home-based products. Every party has its own issues on which we build our political narrative. In Karnataka, especially, we have the Congress guarantee schemes which have worked really well. It has been pro-women.., Prabha said. We want to work to improve hospital services and availability of ambulances. I also want to focus on the mental health aspect of women, so at primary health centres, we want at least one day in a month dedicated to mental health issues in women, she told PTI in an interview. On how difficult is it for women in politics, she said, Women have 33 per cent reservation, but then these women have to express their opinion. They need not stand behind the men, their husbands. You have to actively come forward...We need women's voice because women are 50 per cent voters in every constituency. She added, Being a woman, I can definitely address their issues -- focus on their mental health aspect, their financial independence, their education, skill development and giving them their due respect and importance in society. Interestingly, both Prabha and Gayathri are contesting elections for the first time. On how her political background is helping her, Prabha said, It's been 26 years since I have been married into this family. So every MLA and MP elections till date, I have been with my 'karyakartas' doing canvassing with them and talking to people who come to our house, be it political or hospital-related issues. This interaction has helped and that is how people have understood my nature...the way I am accessible and available to them. Countering the charge of dynastic politics, she said she was never an aspirant for an MP seat. People themselves, our karyakartas through a public survey, realised that for Congress to win in Davangere, we require Prabha Mallikarjun as a candidate and that was a reason for my selection..., Prabha said.
The Congress, which is in power in Karnataka since it won the assembly election last year, has deployed its party machinery in the state including CM Siddaramaiah to counter the Modi factor
Political Debut in Davangere: Prabha Mallikarjun Emerges After Two Decades in Renowned Political Family Coming from a political family and canvassing for Congress candidates for two decades and more in the past elections here, Prabha Mallikarjun is making her electoral debut in this Lok Sabha constituency. And interestingly, for the first time, Davangere will see a contest between two women -- Prabha is taking on BJP's Gayathri Siddeshwara. Once a Congress stronghold, the BJP has been winning the seat since 1999. The 48-year-old Prabha, a dentist, is the wife of District in-charge Minister S S Mallikarjun and daughter-in-law of veteran Congress leader and Davangere South MLA Shamanur Shivashankarappa. Gayathri is the wife of four-time MP and former union minister G M Siddeshwara. Irrespective of who wins, Davangere will get its first woman MP. Prabha said that if elected, her top priority is health, education, employment, irrigation and drinking water issues. She is also keen on working towards women self-empowerment, establishment of handicraft industries, and encouraging home-based products. ''Every party has its own issues on which we build our political narrative. In Karnataka, especially, we have the Congress guarantee schemes which have worked really well. It has been pro-women..,'' Prabha said. ''We want to work to improve hospital services and availability of ambulances. I also want to focus on the mental health aspect of women, so at primary health centres, we want at least one day in a month dedicated to mental health issues in women,'' she told PTI in an interview. On how difficult is it for women in politics, she said, ''Women have 33 per cent reservation, but then these women have to express their opinion. They need not stand behind the men, their husbands. You have to actively come forward...We need women's voice because women are 50 per cent voters in every constituency. She added, ''Being a woman, I can definitely address their issues -- focus on their mental health aspect, their financial independence, their education, skill development and giving them their due respect and importance in society.'' Interestingly, both Prabha and Gayathri are contesting elections for the first time. On how her political background is helping her, Prabha said, ''It's been 26 years since I have been married into this family. So every MLA and MP elections till date, I have been with my 'karyakartas' doing canvassing with them and talking to people who come to our house, be it political or hospital-related issues. This interaction has helped and that is how people have understood my nature...the way I am accessible and available to them.'' Countering the charge of dynastic politics, she said she was never an aspirant for an MP seat. ''People themselves, our karyakartas through a public survey, realised that for Congress to win in Davangere, we require Prabha Mallikarjun as a candidate and that was a reason for my selection...,'' Prabha said.
Alleged BJP Video Portraying SC/ST/OBC Communities Raises Uproar: Congress Lodges Complaint
Bangalore: The Congress party in Karnataka has filed a formal complaint against BJP national president J P Nadda, its IT cell head Amit Malviya, and state unit chief B.Y. Vijayendra for posting a video on social media allegedly aimed at intimidating members of Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) communities. In a letter to Karnataka's chief electoral officer, Congress leader Ramesh Babu, chairman of the media and communications department of KPCC, pointed to a video shared on the official social media accounts of Karnataka BJP that depicts animated characters of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah. The video portrays SC, ST, and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) as eggs in a basket, apparently of reservation. The video goes on to show an animated character of Rahul Gandhi planting another egg of the Muslim community in the reservation basket. It depicts Congress leaders favouring the Muslim community over SC, ST, and OBCs by putting more funds into their mouths. .. .. ..! pic.twitter.com/Pr75QHf4lI BJP Karnataka (@BJP4Karnataka) May 4, 2024 In the said video, it is projected as though funds are fed into the mouth of the Muslim Community and that the Muslim Community kicks out SC, ST, and OBC communities, Ramesh Babu said. He alleged that this portrayal not only violates the model code of conduct but also constitutes an offence under the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act of 1989. The Congress leader expressed concern that such actions could incite hatred and ill-will among communities, particularly during the ongoing Lok Sabha elections in 14 constituencies. The video is nothing but intimidating SC/ST community not to cast their vote for Congress. This is a clear case of intimidating SC/ST community members and further projecting SC/ST community people in a bad light, showing them as 'Eggs' being kicked by another religion, i.e., Muslims, Ramesh Babu said. He also criticized the state-level media monitoring committee for approving the video and questioned the lack of action against its dissemination. Hence, it is just and necessary to initiate suitable action, he added. BJP Afflicted with Phobia Due to Rahul Gandhi's Popularity: Congress leader Nav Prabhat Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Exudes Confidence, Predicts Congress Victory in 20 Lok Sabha Seats India's Response to Nepal's New Currency Note Featuring Disputed Territories
Rahul dares PM Modi to promise removal of 50 pc quota limit, says Cong will do if voted to power
Rahul dares PM Modi to promise removal of 50 pc quota limit, says Cong will do if voted to power Nirmal (Telangana): Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to remove the 50 per cent limit on the reservation and promised that the Congress, if elected to power, will enhance [] The post Rahul dares PM Modi to promise removal of 50 pc quota limit, says Cong will do if voted to power appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Cong leader Alka Lamba seeks PMs intervention to bring Prajwal Revanna back to India
Cong leader Alka Lamba seeks PMs intervention to bring Prajwal Revanna back to India New Delhi: Congress leader Alka Lamba on Sunday said that Prajwal Revanna, who is involved in an obscene video scandal in Karnataka, is currently in Germany and the Prime Minister should bring him back so that justice is delivered. Prajwal [] The post Cong leader Alka Lamba seeks PMs intervention to bring Prajwal Revanna back to India appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Karnataka: Muslim cattle trader thrashed by Bajrang Dal members
In yet another hate crime, a Muslim cattle trader was brutally thrashed by a group of goons allegedly associated with the Hindutva Bajrang Dal outfit at Babaleshwar Taluk in Karnatakas Vijayapura district. As per reports, the victim identified as Bande Nawaz, was transporting two bulls, a buffalo calf and a cow from Babaleshwar to Vijayapura Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
BJP forms legal cell in Bengal to help genuine candidates among 25,753 job losers
BJP forms legal cell in Bengal to help genuine candidates among 25,753 job losers Kolkata: The West Bengal unit of BJP on Sunday announced the formation of a five-member legal cell to provide assistance to the genuine candidates among the 25,753 teaching and non-teaching staff in state-run schools whose jobs were cancelled recently on [] The post BJP forms legal cell in Bengal to help genuine candidates among 25,753 job losers appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
INDIA bloc mired in controversies since formation: UP CM
INDIA bloc mired in controversies since formation: UP CM Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on Sunday that the INDIA bloc has been surrounded by controversies since its formation. Speaking to the media at his residence, the chief minister remarked, This is the reason why only controversial statements of its leaders are [] The post INDIA bloc mired in controversies since formation: UP CM appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Not politicising but amplifying voices of victims who suffered at hands of Prajwal Revanna, says Ktaka CM Siddaramaiah Bengaluru: Denying charges that Congress is politicising the alleged obscene video scandal involving Prajwal Revanna, the grandson of former Prime Minister H. D. Deve Gowda, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has said that his government is simply [] The post Not politicising but amplifying voices of victims who suffered at hands of Prajwal Revanna, says Ktaka CM Siddaramaiah appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
IPL 2024: Santner, Deshpande come in as unchanged PBKS elect to bowl first against CSK
IPL 2024: Santner, Deshpande come in as unchanged PBKS elect to bowl first against CSK Dharamsala: Punjab Kings have won the toss and elected to bowl first against Chennai Super Kings in match 53 of IPL 2024 at the picturesque HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on Sunday afternoon. PBKS are placed at eighth position on [] The post IPL 2024: Santner, Deshpande come in as unchanged PBKS elect to bowl first against CSK appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Womens T20 WC: India to open campaign against NZ on Oct 4; to face Pakistan on Oct 6
Womens T20 WC: India to open campaign against NZ on Oct 4; to face Pakistan on Oct 6 Dhaka: India will be opening its 2024 Womens T20 World Cup campaign against New Zealand on October 4 in Sylhet, said the International Cricket Council (ICC) while releasing the tournament schedule on Sunday. Indias highly anticipated [] The post Womens T20 WC: India to open campaign against NZ on Oct 4; to face Pakistan on Oct 6 appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Modi government exploiting quota issue for Muslims for electoral gains, claims Congress
Modi government exploiting quota issue for Muslims for electoral gains, claims Congress Congress leader Supriya Shrinate on Sunday claimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi was reading from his 2019 script for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls and also accused him of misleading people over quotas for Muslims. The BJP has been saying the Congress wanted to snatch quotas of SCs, STs and OBCs and give them to Muslims as part of its appeasement politics. Shrinate, the head of the Congress' social media and digital platforms, claimed PM Modi, in an interview in 2022, had said BJP governments in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh have already given reservation to Muslims as OBCs. ''After serving as India's prime minister for 10 years, we thought he would now face the people and present his report card and seek votes on his government's achievements. Instead, he is reading the same poll script of 2014 in 2024. He is not talking about anything except Congress and its leaders. So what was our PM doing these ten years?'' she questioned. She claimed the 2024 polls will be a repeat of 2004 when BJP's 'India Shining' campaign failed and the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government was voted out of power. ''Modi is spreading lies about reservations being given to Muslims in Congress-ruled Karnataka. This reservation was given by H D Deve Gowda when he was chief minister based on a survey conducted in 1974. And today, Deve Gowda's party JD(S) is BJP's ally. The Congress government has not implemented it. This reservation has been there for the last three decades,'' she said. On the rape and other allegations against JD(S) leader Prajwal Revanna, Shrinate claimed Modi sought votes for him in Mysuru despite being aware about the issue. ''Modi sought votes for Revanna, who is no less than a monster. Was he not aware of his misdeeds? Modi knew everything because local BJP leaders had already warned the top BJP leadership about Revanna,'' she alleged. Instead of speaking about Muslims, the PM should speak about the other three 'M's, namely mahila (women), mehengai (price rise) and Manipur violence, the Congress leader said. ''My leader (Rahul Gandhi) went to Manipur twice and tried to bring peace. But Modiji did not get time yet to visit Manipur, where violence is still taking place,'' she said. People are silent but they are voting against the BJP since they know it will change the Constitution and end reservations after getting 400 Lok Sabha seats, Shrinate claimed. Modi is trying to divert attention by speaking about Muslims, Pakistan and Muslim League during rallies, but the Congress will ensure the polls are fought on issues concerning people, such as unemployment, inflation, corruption, wealth inequality and partnership based on the population. Accusing Modi of spending Rs 6,500 crore for building his own image, Shrinate said the poor had become poorer while the wealthy have flourished in the last 10 years. It does not suit BJP to talk about Hindu dharma or cows because the party has taken money from beef exporters through the electoral bonds scheme, she alleged.
Why Marathi voters will play vital role in polling around Maharashtra-Karnataka border - The Federal
Why Marathi voters will play vital role in polling around Maharashtra-Karnataka border The Federal
Woman, nearly 50 livestock killed by lightning in Karnatakas Hoskote
A lightning strike in Ganagala village, Hoskote, killed Rathnamma and livestock. Seeking shelter under a tree, she and the animals perished. Relief measures are underway for the family.
Prajwal Revanna obscene video case: Karnataka govt announces financial aid for rape victims India TV News
Congress Reports BJP To Election Body Over Communal Video
Karnataka Congress lodged a complaint with the states Chief Electoral Officer, alleging BJPs promotion of animosity between Muslim and SC/ST communities. The complaint targets BJPs Amit Malviya, JP Nadda, BY Vijayendra, and the state BJP social media team for sharing an animated video featuring Rahul Gandhi and Siddaramaiah. The post Congress Reports BJP To Election Body Over Communal Video appeared first on HW News English .
Tejashwi Yadav Recalls Vajpayee's Raj Dharma Remarks
Tejashwi Yadav Recalls Vajpayee's Raj Dharma Remarks A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi charged Lalu Prasad with having tried to shield the culprits in the Godhra train burning case, the RJD president's son Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday recounted the famous ''Raj dharma'' remark of Atal Bihari Vajpayee made in the backdrop of communal violence in Gujarat. Yadav was responding to queries on Modi's speech at a rally in Darbhanga the previous day where Modi had charged the RJD president with having tried to ''shield'' those guilty in two-decade-old Godhra train burning incident and ''put blame on kar sevaks''. ''He (PM) can say whatever he wants. But I remember what Atal Ji had said at that point of time. Atal Ji, the then PM, was addressing a press conference. Modi Ji in his capacity as the then chief minister of Gujarat was seated beside the PM who had advised the former to follow 'Raj dharma' during the 2002 communal riots in the state,'' Yadav told PTI video. Further commenting on the PM's accusation that INDIA bloc and RJD are trying to ''steal'' the reservation of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and other backward classes (OBCs) to hand them over to Muslims, Yadav said, ''These are baseless things and far from reality. The ruling NDA has decided to end reservation to OBCs and other classes by privatising the government's several wings and organisations.'' Modi had accused Prasad of having given quotas to Muslims in Bihar and advocating the same in 2007 while serving in the Union government as the Railway Minister. ''The PM should talk about the issues concerning people. People have decided to give a befitting reply to the BJP-led NDA and they will face a humiliating defeat in this election,'' he said. ''Why is the PM maintaining a stoic silence over the Karnataka sex scandal? The accused is involved in abuse of several women in Karnataka. They (BJP) are more into protecting rapists and helping them get away,'' Yadav said. Yadav condemned the militant attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch in which one Indian Air Force personnel was killed and four injured on Saturday. ''We strongly condemn this terror attack and join the nation in standing together against terrorism. Our deepest condolences to the family of the brave warrior who made the supreme sacrifice,'' he said.
Prajwal sex scandal case: Randeep Surjewala askes series of questions to BJP leadership
Surjewala challenges Modi, Amit Shah, BJP-JD(S) for shielding rape accused Prajwal Revanna despite evidence. Questions uncooperative government, passport authorities, and demands Interpol's involvement in arresting the accused.
Prajwal sexual assault case: Karnataka govt to provide financial assistance for victims - The Week
Prajwal sexual assault case: Karnataka govt to provide financial assistance for victims The Week
Karnataka Congress files complaint against BJP leaders over controversial video depicting Muslims, Rahul The Times of India
Blue-corner notice issued, Prajwal Revanna will be located soon: Karnataka home minister
Bengaluru: Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara said that a blue-corner notice has already been issued to locate Prajwal Revanna, the accused, in a sexual harassment and abduction case. He also asserted that the state government has given full freedom to the special investigation team (SIT) to investigate the case. Speaking to reporters on Sunday, [] The post Blue-corner notice issued, Prajwal Revanna will be located soon: Karnataka home minister appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Karnataka obscene video scandal: Three more victims approach SIT
Bengaluru: As the Special Investigation Team intensifies its hunt abroad for the absconding Prajwal Revanna, sitting JD(S) MP and candidate for Hassan, three more victims in the obscene video scandal have approached the SIT, sources said on Sunday. The victims approached the SIT after the arrest of H.D. Revanna on Saturday and sleuths are likely Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
K'taka govt to financially help Prajwal case victims
The Congress government in Karnataka will provide financial assistance to those allegedly sexually assaulted by Janata Dal-Secular leader Prajwal Revanna, the national party said on Sunday.
Congress govt in Karnataka to give financial assistance to Prajwal rape victims - The Economic Times
Congress govt in Karnataka to give financial assistance to Prajwal rape victims The Economic Times
Congress govt in Karnataka to give financial assistance to Prajwal rape victims
The Congress government in Karnataka offers financial aid to those assaulted by JD(S) leader Prajwal Revanna. Demands for action by Rahul Gandhi. Prajwal wanted for rape and molestation case, with questions raised about BJP alliance and passport issues.
BJP Afflicted with Phobia Due to Rahul Gandhi's Popularity: Congress leader Nav Prabhat
Dehradun: Th e Congress Discipline Committee Chairman and former Cabinet Minister Nav Prabhat, on Sunday, criticized the BJP's criticism over Rahul Gandhi's candidature from the Rae Bareli seat, saying that the BJP has become afflicted with a phobia due to Rahul Gandhi's popularity. BJP has become afflicted with a phobia due to Rahul Gandhi's popularity. The Congress family was associated with the Raebareli seat in 1952 and Rahul Gandhi has chosen the same seat as Feroze Gandhi, I consider this to be the right step, Prabhat told the media. Commenting on KL Sharma's candidature, the former cabinet minister said, As far as Amethi is considered, Kishori Lal Sharma has been working in Amethi for the last 50 years. Congress has made the right decision by choosing someone who has been playing a major role for a long time. I am confident of KL Sharma's win. BJP is counting abrogation of Article 370 as its biggest achievement to the public, but is BJP contesting elections in Kashmir Valley where it removed Artice 370? Is BJP contesting elections in Manipur which they ignored..., Prabhat added. He further criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his silence on issues that are currently making headlines in the country. Prime Minister Modi is not giving any clarification on the Prajwal Revanna sexual assault case and the Covishield case. PM Modi is indulged in cheap politics. Rahul Gandhi currently represents Wayanad in the Lok Sabha while Smriti Irani is bidding for a fresh term from Amethi. Raebareli was held by Sonia Gandhi who became a member of Rajya Sabha. Rahul represented Amethi in the Lok Sabha from 2004 to 2019. His father and former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, too, was an elected member of Amethi in the Lower House from 1981 till his death in 1991. The Congress, which is contesting 17 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh as part of the seat-sharing deal with the Samajwadi Party (SP), has announced candidates for all the seats barring Amethi and Raebareli. Rahul's defeat in Amethi, once considered a Congress 'pocket borough', at the hands of Smriti Irani in the 2019 polls was seen as a significant blow to the party's national prestige. Amethi and Rae Bareli are going to polls in the fifth phase on May 20. The counting of votes will be held on June 4. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Exudes Confidence, Predicts Congress Victory in 20 Lok Sabha Seats India's Response to Nepal's New Currency Note Featuring Disputed Territories Digvijaya Singh's Heartfelt Message to Voters: 2024 Elections Will Be My Last
Karnataka government to give financial assistance to Prajwal rape victims
BELAGAVI: The Congress government in Karnataka will provide financial assistance to those allegedly sexually assaulted by JD(S) leader Prajwal Revanna , the national party said on Sunday. Congress general secretary and the party's Karnataka in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala made this announcement at a press conference here in the presence of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. He said former Congress president Rahul Gandhi had demanded that appropriate action be taken against the accused. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced financial assistance to the rape victims who are in hundreds, since it is a unique case which has never happened in the last 75 years, Surjewala said. Prajwal, the JD(S)-BJP alliance candidate from Hassan Lok Sabha constituency, is the grandson of former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda and nephew of former Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy. He is wanted in a case pertaining to rape and molestation after hundreds of explicit videos allegedly came out in open. INTERVIEW| Hassan sex scandal will boomerang on Congress, says HD Kumaraswamy Flanked by Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, Surjewala charged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah with protecting their alliance partner JD(S) candidate, who is a 'mass rapist'. Why did BJP form an alliance with the JD(S) despite having information about Prajwal? he asked. He also sought to know why the External Affairs Ministry did not stop Prajwal from fleeing abroad. Why did the PM not cancel Prajwal's diplomatic passport and why no blue corner notice through Interpol was issued to bring him back? Surjewala questioned. Speaking on the occasion, the CM said a blue corner notice will be issued to bring Prajwal back. JD(S) leader HD Revanna detained in kidnapping case after court rejects anticipatory bail
Bangalore: A man named Saddam Hussain has been arrested for raping a Dalit minor girl in Hubli Navanagar, Dharwad, Karnataka. A case is being prosecuted against him under the POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses Act) Act. On Friday (May 3, 2024), he attacked two policemen with a knife in Sutagatti area and tried to escape from police custody. Under compulsion, the police also had to open fire, which hit his leg. 19-year-old Saddam Hussain is accused of not only raping a Dalit minor girl studying in his own class, but also made her pregnant. He then injured Dharwad Vidyagiri police inspector Sangamesh Bidiginal while trying to escape from the custody of Nawanagar police. Apart from him, he also attacked another constable. As soon as he swung the knife, the police fired one shot in the air and one towards his leg. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) Rajiv M gave this information. While Saddam Hussain is undergoing treatment at KIMS Hospital, both the injured policemen have been admitted to the Civil Hospital. Saddam Hussein first gained the trust of the victim by befriending her by proxy, and then forcibly established sexual relations with her. He had also threatened the girl. He was arrested within 1 hour. A case is also being registered against him under SC/ST Act. Police Commissioner Renuka Sukumar said that the police opened fire in self-defense. The condition of the injured is stable. Police had received information from the hospital that the minor girl was pregnant, after investigation an FIR was registered and the accused was identified. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu said that as soon as Dharwad Police got information about the incident, they took immediate action. He said that the police has done the right thing, in that situation what Saddam Hussein did is a crime and he will face consequences as per the law. India Highlights Global Security Challenge of Online Radicalisation at Interpol Conference Triple Talaq Incident on Moving Train Shocks Jhansi Passengers: Man Flees After Divorcing Wife You will become poor as soon as you fall prey to parcel scam, how does the money disappear?
Won't spare Prajwal Revanna even if he wins polls: Karnataka BJP leader
Wont spare Prajwal Revanna even if he wins polls Karnataka BJP leader
The News Mill
Congress files complaint with EC against BJP chief Nadda over for video 'inciting communal hatred'
BENGALURU: The Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) on Sunday sought the Election Commission to initiate action against BJP's national president J P Nadda and other senior leaders for allegedly violating the model code of conduct by posting a video on social media intimidating members of SC and ST community not to vote for a particular candidate. In a complaint to the Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer, the Congress mentioned about a video uploaded on social media platform 'X' by the official account of Karnataka State Bharatiya Janata Party @bjp4karnataka which is operated by Amit Malviya, the head of IT cell on instructions of J P Nadda, BJP National President, B Y Vijayendra, BJP State President and Social Media incharge- Karnataka BJP on May 4 at 5.34 pm. The said video posted on social media featured animated characters of Rahul Gandhi and Siddaramaiah. .. .. ..! pic.twitter.com/Pr75QHf4lI BJP Karnataka (@BJP4Karnataka) May 4, 2024 In the clip, SC, ST and OBC community are portrayed as eggs in a nest and it also suggested Rahul Gandhi planting a big egg labelled as Muslim community. It is projected as though funds are being fed to the chick depicting the Muslim community, which then kicks out SC, ST and OBC community. The letter also stated that nowhere in the Congress party manifesto has it been mentioned that allocations of funds to SC, ST and OBC community will be cut and the same will be diverted to the Muslim community. Congress files a complaint against BJP national president JP Nadda, BJP social media in-charge Amit Malviya, BJP state president BY Vijayendra over a video posted by BJP Karnataka on their social media for allegedly intimidating members of Schedule caste or tribe to not vote for pic.twitter.com/L0js2KjVRh ANI (@ANI) May 5, 2024 The BJP has been falsely accusing the Congress party of including Muslims in OBC category and with such false propaganda the saffron party has been soliciting votes during Lok Sabha elections, it alleged. The KPCC further alleged that the video was posted on BJP's official X handle with an aim to garner votes in Lok Sabha polls. It is clear that the video social media post by them is to intimidate members of SC/ST community not to vote for Congress party by projecting that funds reserved for them will be usurped by Muslims, it said. The act of the accused person is to wantonly provocate rioting and promote enmity between different religions and is prejudicial to maintenance of harmony apart from intimidating members of SC/ST community not to vote for particular candidate and causing enmity against members of SC/ST community, the letter added. The KPCC has urged the poll body to initiate suitable action.
Cong files plaint with EC against BJP chief Nadda and others over alleged MCC violation
Bengaluru, May 5: The Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) on Sunday sought the Election Commission to initiate action against BJPs national president J P Nadda and other senior leaders for allegedly violating the model code of conduct by posting a video on social media intimidating members of SC and ST community not to vote for a particular candidate. In a complaint to the Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer, the Congress mentioned about a video uploaded on social media platform X by [] The post Cong files plaint with EC against BJP chief Nadda and others over alleged MCC violation appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Exudes Confidence, Predicts Congress Victory in 20 Lok Sabha Seats
Bangalore: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed confidence in the Congress party's victory, foreseeing that they would win at least 20 out of the 28 Lok Sabha seats in the state. He made these remarks ahead of the second phase of polling. Speaking at a joint press conference with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and Congress general secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala in Belagavi, Siddaramaiah asserted that the Congress government had fulfilled all the five promises made during their campaign, which secured their victory in the state.Karnataka is conducting elections for its 28 Lok Sabha seats in two phases. Polling for 14 seats was held on April 26, and the remaining seats will go to polls on May 7, during the third phase of the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections. As the campaigning ends today evening, voting will take place on May 7th. In the last phase of the election held on April 26th, according to our information, we will win 8-9 seats. In this second phase, our party workers have assured us that we will win more than 10 seats. We are confident of winning at least 20 seats because we have fulfilled all five promises that we announced. Without any intermediaries, guaranteed checks will reach every individual through me and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, Siddaramaiah stated. Highlighting the achievements of the Congress government in the past eight months, Siddaramaiah said, In the last eight months, we have implemented all our promises. We assumed power on May 20. Many requests were made to us during the assembly poll campaign to increase the quantity of rice given, which the government under Yediyurappa had reduced from 7 kg to 5 kg. As promised, we increased it. We continue to uphold our Congress guarantees. BJP leaders are making a fuss, demanding that the Congress guarantees should be stopped, he added. Siddaramaiah also criticized the BJP for allegedly claiming they would change the Constitution if voted back to power in the Centre. BJP leaders are saying that if they (BJP) come to power, they will change the Constitution. They will change the Constitution if the BJP gets 400 seats in this Lok Sabha election. Mohan Bhagwat also asked to be patient, saying they will change the Constitution. The BJP party has no respect for the Constitution. We can call this Lok Sabha election the second independence, he said. Siddaramaiah further criticized Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman over the GST compensation issue with the state. Nirmala Sitharaman made false statements, claiming that we desperately went to the Supreme Court. When the Supreme Court criticized them, they announced a compensation of over 3600 crores. I request the voters of Karnataka to take this opportunity to show them their way. Nirmala Sitharaman hasn't given anything to Karnataka in the last 10 years and is trying to divide society based on caste and religion. Vote for change and ensure that the people of Karnataka vote for us, he said. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP almost swept the state, winning 25 out of 28 seats, while Congress and JD(S) could only win one seat each. This time, BJP and JD-S are in coalition, with the former contesting on 25 seats and the latter on three seats. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh: India Will Not Coerce Capture of PoK NADA Suspends Wrestler Bajrang Punia for Failure to Provide Dope Test Bakshish Singh Beaten to Death Over Alleged Sacrilege at Gurdwara in Punjab
Congress Alleges MCC Violation, Files Plaint with EC against BJP's Nadda and Associates
Congress Alleges MCC Violation, Files Plaint with EC against BJP's Nadda and Associates The Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) on Sunday sought the Election Commission to initiate action against BJP's national president J P Nadda and other senior leaders for allegedly violating the model code of conduct by posting a video on social media intimidating members of SC and ST community not to vote for a particular candidate. In a complaint to the Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer, the Congress mentioned about a video uploaded on social media platform 'X' by the official account of Karnataka State Bharatiya Janata Party @bjp4karnataka which is operated by Amit Malviya, the head of IT cell on instructions of J P Nadda, BJP National President, B Y Vijayendra, BJP State President and Social Media incharge- Karnataka BJP on May 4 at 5.34 pm. ''The said video posted on social media featured animated characters of Rahul Gandhi and Siddaramaiah. In the clip, SC, ST and OBC community are portrayed as ''eggs'' in a nest and it also suggested Rahul Gandhi planting a big egg labelled as Muslim community. It is projected as though funds are being fed to the chick depicting the Muslim community, which then kicks out SC, ST and OBC community.'' The letter also stated that nowhere in the Congress party manifesto has it been mentioned that allocations of funds to SC, ST and OBC community will be cut and the same will be diverted to the Muslim community. ''The BJP has been falsely accusing the Congress party of including Muslims in OBC category and with such false propaganda the saffron party has been soliciting votes during Lok Sabha elections,'' it alleged. The KPCC further alleged that the video was posted on BJP's official X handle with an aim to garner votes in Lok Sabha polls. ''It is clear that the video social media post by them is to intimidate members of SC/ST community not to vote for Congress party by projecting that funds reserved for them will be usurped by Muslims,'' it said. ''The act of the accused person is to wantonly provocate rioting and promote enmity between different religions and is prejudicial to maintenance of harmony apart from intimidating members of SC/ST community not to vote for particular candidate and causing enmity against members of SC/ST community,'' the letter added. The KPCC has urged the poll body to initiate suitable action.
Excitement brews for IPL fans this weekend - The Hans India
Excitement brews for IPL fans this weekend The Hans India
Karnataka obscene video case: HD Revanna refutes charges of kidnap, sexual harassment
Bengaluru: Former Minister and JD(S) MLA HD Revanna has refuted the charges of kidnapping and sexual harassment of the victim of an obscene video case which involves his son, sitting MP and candidate for Hassan Lok Sabha seat, Prajwal Revanna, during the questioning by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), sources said Sunday. The SIT chief, []
Opinion: Lingayat influence and scandal shadow- Karnataka braces for intense poll phase India Today
Opinion: Lingayat influence and scandal shadow- Karnataka braces for intense poll phase
Opinion Lingayat influence and scandal shadow Karnataka braces for intense poll phase
Karnataka obscene video case: HD Revanna refutes charges of kidnap & sexual harassment
Bengaluru: Former Minister and JD(S) MLA H.D. Revanna has refuted the charges of kidnapping and sexual harassment of the victim of an obscene video case which involves his son, sitting MP and candidate for Hassan Lok Sabha seat, Prajwal Revanna, during the questioning by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), sources said on Sunday. The SIT Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Blue-corner notice issued, Prajwal Revanna will be located soon: Karnataka home minister Hindustan Times
Complaint filed against BJP leaders over controversial video depicting Muslims, Rahul Gandhi
New Delhi: The Congress party in Karnataka has filed a formal complaint against BJP national president J P Nadda, its IT cell head Amit Malviya, and state unit chief B.Y. Vijayendra for posting a video on social media allegedly aimed at intimidating members of Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) communities. The letter, [] The post Complaint filed against BJP leaders over controversial video depicting Muslims, Rahul Gandhi appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Children of ex-CMs & firebrand expelled BJP leader spice up poll scene in Karnataka's Shimoga
Known as the heartland of socialist movement in Karnataka, Shivamogga is a part of the 'Malnad' region. The BJP has renominated MP and Yediyurappa's son B Y Raghavendra. The Congress has named Bangarappa's daughter Geetha Shivarajkumar, who is the wife of Karnataka film star Shivarajkumar and daughter-in-law of Kannada thespian late Rajkumar.
Lok Sabha election 2024 full schedule: Raichur to vote in phase 3 on May 7
EC announced 2024 Lok Sabha election dates with Raichur polls on May 7, results by June 4. Battle between BJP's Raja Amareshwar Naik and Congress' G Kumar Naik for re-election.
BJPs video targetting Muslims: TMC MP files complaint with Delhi Police
Trinamool Congress MP Saket Gokhale on Sunday, May 4, filed a complaint with Delhi Police against Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) Karnataka unit for its animation video targeting Muslims. He called the video shocking, disgusting and communal, adding that, as per the Supreme Courts mandated guidelines, the Delhi Police must register an FIR within 24 hours Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Revanna kicked out of hotel in England in the past, claims Dy CM Shivakumar
In a recent development in Karnataka's political arena, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has leveled serious allegations against JDS MLA HD Revanna, citing past misbehaviour during a visit to England, echoing claims made by LR Shivarame Gowda, ...
Political heavyweights' offspring, firebrand expelled BJP leader make Karnataka's Shimoga LS poll scene more vibrant The contest between children of two former Chief Ministers and the presence of an expelled BJP leader in the fray has spiced up the poll scene in Karnataka's Shimoga Lok Sabha constituency. It is for the fifth consecutive time since 2009, including a bypoll in 2018, the segment is witnessing a straight fight between the families two popular leaders and former Chief Ministers late S Bangarappa and B S Yediyurappa. Known as the heartland of socialist movement in Karnataka, Shivamogga is a part of the 'Malnad' region. The BJP has renominated MP and Yediyurappa's son B Y Raghavendra. The Congress has named Bangarappa's daughter Geetha Shivarajkumar, who is the wife of Karnataka film star Shivarajkumar and daughter-in-law of Kannada thespian late Rajkumar. Raghavendra has been elected to Parliament from this ''Gateway to Malnad'' three times. In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls and in the 2018 by-election, he defeated Geetha's brother Madhu Bangarappa, who is now a Minister in the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government. Madhu was then with JD(S). Raghavendra defeated Madhu by over 2.23 lakh votes in 2019. Raghavendra had in his first Lok Sabha election in 2009 defeated S Bangarappa. Geetha had contested from the seat on the JD(S) ticket in 2014 and lost to Yediyurappa by a huge margin. She had come third in that election behind Congress candidate Manjunath Bhandary. While the stage was almost set for a contest between Raghavendra and Geetha Shivrajkumar this time, BJP veteran K S Eshwarappa rebelled against the party over the denial of ticket to his son K E Kantesh from neighbouring Haveri. The former Deputy Chief Minister, who had also served as the party's state unit President, has entered the fray as an independent blaming Raghavendra's brother and state BJP President B Y Vijayendra and Yediyurappa for his son being overlooked. The 75-year-old Eshwarappa has been campaigning vigorously claiming that his fight is not against the BJP or Prime Minister Narendra Modi, but to ''purify'' the party in the state by setting it free from the clutches of Yediyurappa and sons. He accused them of trying to establish dynasty rule in the party, by sidelining several Hindutva leaders. Eshwarappa was expelled by the party for six years after he refused to bow out of the poll race. There are some apprehensions about Eshwarappa eating into BJP's votes, but party leaders and functionaries insist that it may only have ''marginal impact'' on the three-time MP's prospects, as the latter has established himself politically in the region, and has party's solid organisational strength behind him. Along with his work as an MP, Raghavendra is banking on the ''Modi factor'', Yediyurappa's strong leadership, and alliance partner JD(S)' votes getting transferred in his favour. ''With the support I'm getting, I'm confident of winning with an even bigger margin than last time. I have never thought about who the opponent is and have always concentrated on my work and achievements and that of our government,'' the 50-year-old Raghavendra said. On the other hand, through his sister Geetha Shivrajkumar's win, Madhu Bangarappa is hoping to avenge successive defeats his family faced in Lok Sabha polls, including that of his father 15 years ago. Geetha is relying on her late father Bangarappa's legacy, brother Madhu's political clout in the region being district in-charge Minister, husband Shivrajkumar's star image and popularity with some film stars too campaigning for her, and also Congress' organisational strength and its populist guarantee schemes. Congress is also hoping for the numerically strong Ediga community, of which late Bangarappa was the tallest leader, backing Geetha, along with other OBCs. ''From day one everything has been positive and I'm getting good response even in the remote areas, and I'm confident it will convert into votes as people are wanting change this time,'' Geetha said. While Congress eyes electoral dividends over Eshwarappa's rebellion, the BJP -- with Geetha's other brother and former Minister Kumar Bangarappa on its side - is hoping to bag a significant chunk of Ediga votes. Shimoga Lok Sabha segment has eight Assembly constituencies, out of which four are represented by BJP, Congress in three and JD(S) one. ''Geetha Shivarjkumar comes during elections and goes back, she will not remain here, she comes temporarily only during elections, but Raghanna (Raghavendra) is not like that he is from here and he is always here. Also, he has Modi and Yediyurappa's blessings, he will win,'' said a voter in Tirthahalli. ''Congress' guarantees schemes are definitely helping people, especially the poor, so it will have an impact in the polls, and Geetha Shivarajkumar will win. We want a woman to win. She is also the daughter of Bangarappa,'' a woman student in Shivamogga said.
Rahul Gandhi writes to Karnataka CM for extending support to Prajwal Revanna's victims - MSN
Rahul Gandhi writes to Karnataka CM for extending support to Prajwal Revanna's victims MSN
Chambal Ravines: Caste Dynamics Persist Despite Diminished Banditry
Chambal Ravines: Caste Dynamics Persist Despite Diminished Banditry Madhya Pradesh's Chambal region, once the staple for Bollywood's dacoit and gunslinger dramas, is also a massive caste cauldron where change is seeping in due to modernisation, say a section of people. The Gwalior-Chambal region, which is in the northern part of the state, borders Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and has three seats, namely Gwalior, Morena and Bhind, which is reserved for Scheduled Castes. A part of the Chambal region is in Shivpuri district and falls under Guna Lok Sabha seat. Gwalior, Morena and Bhind (SC) Lok Sabha seats are dominated by Other Backward Classes with a sizable population of SCs. Of the 24 assembly constituencies falling under these three Lok Sabha seats, the Congress had won 13 and the BJP 12 in the November 2023 elections, which was otherwise swept by the ruling party. Of the eight assembly segments of Gwalior and Bhind Lok Sabha seats, the BJP and the Congress won four each, while in Morena, the score was five in favour of the Congress and four for the BJP. The three assembly seats in Shivpuri were swept by the BJP. Bhuvnesh Singh Tomar, a professor at Centre for Studies in Journalism and Mass Communication in Gwalior's Jiwaji University, told PTI that caste sentiments were rooted even when the Gwalior-Chambal region was infested with bandits, dacoits or ''baghis'' (rebels) as these outlaws loved to call themselves. ''Casteism in politics is not new. It always existed in the Chambal region, except on occasions when towering leaders, like those from the Scindia family, contested. But a lot of social changes have taken place in the past three decades due to increased road connectivity and modernisation,'' Tomar said. Over the last two decades, the Dalits and backwards have become assertive and are playing a dominant role in politics, he said. ''The last two Lok Sabha elections in this area were held around the narrative set by the BJP. The indication this time is not clear as campaigning is very low-key. BJP candidates were looking weak earlier as the party fielded leaders from Gwalior and Morena, who lost polls earlier,'' he said. However, a strong organisational set-up and the Narendra Modi effect will benefit BJP candidates, Tomar claimed, adding that several leaders from the Congress, including sitting party MLA from Vijaypur (Morena LS seat) Ramniwas Rawat have joined the ruling dispensation. Devesh Sharma, a Morena-based lawyer, claimed caste politics had managed to segregate society, government offices, markets etc in the past three to four decades. ''Caste came first and then nationalism for the people of this region, which inspired so many films due to its ravines and bandits. These bandits used to influence politics in rural areas earlier but those days are long gone,'' he said. KK Mishra, media advisor to state Congress chief Jitu Patwari, told PTI that his party will win half the Lok Sabha seats in the Gwalior-Chambal region. ''Gwalior-Chambal region has traditionally supported the Congress and we will win half the seats here. The BJP knows this fact and will try to manipulate the elections through EVMs. The BJP is ahead only in publicity,'' Mishra alleged. The Congress is on very strong ground as was evident in the assembly polls results, he pointed out. However, state BJP spokesperson Pankaj Chaturvedi told PTI that his party would win all the Lok Sabha seats in the region. ''The BJP has gone to the voters on the guarantees of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the developmental works done by him as well as welfare schemes for the poor. We don't contest on the basis of caste or religion like Congress,'' he claimed. Chaturvedi further claimed that the people are aware that the Congress wants to snatch the quota of OBCs and give it Muslims on the basis of religion like they did in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. The ravines along the river Chambal, which runs through Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and gives the region its name, was infested with dacoits, though the last major gang, led by Rambabu Gadariya, ended some 15 years ago. Among the blockbuster films that had Chambal and its bandit lore as base include ''Sholay'', ''Mera Gaon Mera Desh'', ''Gunga Jumna'', ''Mujhe Jeene Do'' and ''Bandit Queen''. According to a BJP leader, the Gwalior Lok Sabha seat has 46 per cent OBCs and 20 per cent SCs, while STs form 5 per cent of the population. The rest are from the general category. The seat was represented by former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 1971. Jan Sangh stalwart and BJP founder member Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia won from Gwalior seat in 1962 on a Congress ticket, while her son Madhavrao Scindia was elected five times, four times from on a Congress ticket and once on the ticket of the Madhya Pradesh Vikas Congress, a party founded by him. The population profile in Morena Lok Sabha seat is 44 per cent OBCs, 20 per cent SCs, 6 per cent STs and the remainder in the general category. Madhya Pradesh assembly speaker Narendra Singh Tomar, a former Union minister, was elected from Morena in 2009 and 2014. He was chosen as MLA in the 2023 assembly polls. In Bhind, 43 per cent voters belong to the OBC segment, 23 per cent are SCs, 21 per cent are from the general category and 1 per cent are STs. Vijaya Raje Scindia was elected from Bhind LS seat in 1971. Her daughter Vasundhara Raje Scindia, former Rajasthan chief minister, incidentally, faced defeat from this seat in 1984 at the hands of Congress' Krishna Singh Judeo, who is part of the royal family of Datia.
Government sources: Election Commission's approval secured before lifting onion export ban
Government sources: Election Commission's approval secured before lifting onion export ban The Centre has taken permission from the Election Commission to lift the ban on exports of onion in view of the ongoing implementation of the Model Code of Conduct due to the Lok Sabha elections, sources said. According to government sources, the Department of Revenue under the finance ministry took the permission from the Election Commission to lift the ban on onion exports, subject to conditions of 40 per cent export duty, and also a minimum export price (MEP) of USD 550 per tonne. The government on Saturday lifted the ban on onion exports, a decision that can help boost income of a large section of farmers and comes ahead of the Lok Sabha polls in key producing regions including Maharashtra. The government has imposed a minimum export price (MEP) of USD 550 per tonne (around Rs 46 per kg) as well as 40 per cent export duty. Taking duty into account, the shipments will not be allowed below USD 770 per tonne (around Rs 64 per kg). The decision to lift the ban on exports of onion was on the recommendation of the Department of Consumer Affairs, which monitors the availability and price situation of onion in the country. On December 8 last year, the Centre had banned onion exports in early December to control retail prices amid concerns over likely fall in production. During the last 4-5 years, the country annually exported between 17 lakh and 25 lakh tonnes of onions. Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare on Saturday said the lifting of the ban would not lead to any price rise in retail markets. ''Prices will remain stable. If at all there is any increase, it should be very marginal,'' she said on Saturday, while asserting that the government is committed to protect the interests of both consumers and farmers. The directorate general of foreign trade (DGFT) in a notification on May 4, said that ''the export policy of onions is amended from prohibited to free subject to MEP of USD 550 per metric tonne with immediate effect and until further orders.'' On May 3, the finance ministry imposed a 40 per cent export duty. The decision assumes importance as it comes before the crucial Lok Sabha polls in key onion belts like Nashik, Ahmednagar and Solapur in Maharashtra. Farmers of this region have been demanding a lifting of the ban so that they can get a better price for their produce. Explaining the rationale behind the decision, Khare said the ''ban on onion exports has been removed from today (Saturday) because the supply situation is comfortable and prices are stable in both mandies as well as retail markets.'' The modal price at Lasalgaon mandi in Nashik was Rs 15 per kg in April. She said the decision has been taken after considering the latest estimates of onion production in rabi season at 191 lakh tonnes, which is comfortable. Availability and prices of onion in global markets were also factored in while taking this decision. The secretary said the monthly domestic demand of onion is around 17 lakh tonnes. ''Lifting of the ban would also encourage the farmers to put more area under onions. The monsoon forecast is above normal,'' Khare said. The secretary noted that the decision has been taken after wider discussions with stakeholders. A high-level team also visited key onion producing belts in Maharashtra to assess the ground situation. Khare also pointed out that the shelf life of onions is less and therefore a need was felt to export onions. The secretary said that the government is procuring 5 lakh tonnes of onions as buffer stock, so that it can intervene in the market in case of price rise. ''We are continuously monitoring the prices of all essential food items. We will continue to keep a watch on the availability and price situation,'' she said. A senior government official explained that there is an inter-ministerial committee (IMC) which reviews the prices, production, availability and exports of essential food items including onions. ''So do not think of this as an isolated instance of decision making by IMC,'' the official said, when asked whether the decision has been made in view of general elections. The official said the IMC has been taking a series of steps in various commodities including wheat and rice to boost domestic supply and keep prices under check. In March, the Union Agriculture Ministry released the data for onion production. As per the data, onion production in 2023-24 (First Advance Estimates) is expected to be around 254.73 lakh tonnes compared to around 302.08 lakh tonnes last year. This is due to a decrease of 34.31 lakh tonnes output in Maharashtra, 9.95 lakh tonnes in Karnataka, 3.54 lakh tonnes in Andhra Pradesh and 3.12 lakh tonnes in Rajasthan, the data showed. Last month, in an official statement, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution said the government has allowed export of 99,150 tonnes of onion to six neighbouring countries of Bangladesh, UAE, Bhutan, Bahrain, Mauritius and Sri Lanka. The Congress last month accused the Narendra Modi government of ''callously neglecting'' Maharashtra's onion farmers affected due to the ban on onion exports and said that its manifesto promises a predictable import-export policy to prevent such catastrophic last-minute policies being imposed on farmers.
Top news developments in Karnataka on May 5, 2024 - The Hindu
Top news developments in Karnataka on May 5, 2024 The Hindu
Karnataka's Kalaburagi, or Gulbarga, is under the spotlight because it is not Congress president M Mallikarjun Kharge but his son-in-law Radhakrishna Doddamani in the fray. He will be taking on Bharatiya Janata Party's incumbent MP Umesh G Jadhav
Chittoor a blend of Telugu, Tamil cultures
CHITTOOR: Bordering Tamil Nadu, Chittoor Assembly constituency is a hub for diverse cultures and traditions, shaping the lifestyles of residents, who reflect a blend of Telugu and Tamil heritages. Apart from dairy and poultry industries, a significant portion of the population relies on mango cultivation for their livelihood. While the ruling YSRC is trying to retain the seat for the second consecutive time, with a new contender this time, the TDP is attempting to make a comeback in the Chittoor Assembly segment. The YSRC has fielded MC Vijayananda Reddy, the current APSRTC vice-chairman, as its candidate, while the TDP has chosen Gurajala Jagan as its candidate for this election. Interestingly, in the past, candidates representing the DMK and AIADMK parties have contested in this constituency, highlighting its strong Tamil influence. Chittoor, the administrative centre of the district, has also been home to leaders who made significant contributions to various political parties, including the Justice Party, Swatantra Party, and Krishikar Lok Party, both before and after Independence. Among them is Madabhusi Ananthsainam Ayyangar, a prominent figure who led the freedom movement in Chittoor district, served as a Member of Parliament for Chittoor Congress, and later became the Lok Sabha Speaker. The region has a rich history of producing numerous influential leaders who actively participated in the freedom movement and held esteemed positions such as chief ministers. The presence of Tamil film actor MG Ramachandran campaigning in Chittoor further underscores this influence. Despite being the district headquarters, Chittoor has not yet seen the appointment of a minister from this area. The political landscape of Chittoor constituency has witnessed several shifts over the years. The Congress, which held sway for nearly 25 years, ceded ground to the TDP in 1989. Notably, Chittoor Krishnaswamy Jayachandra Reddy, known as CK Babu, emerged as a formidable figure in politics. He initially won as an independent MLA in 1989, later joining the Congress and securing victory for three consecutive terms (1994, 1999, and 2009). The constituencys political history saw a mix of party victories. The first MLA from Chittoor constituency, Chinnama Reddy of the Congress, clinched victory in the 1952 election. However, in a 1953 by-election, Srungaram of the Krishikar Lok Party was elected. Chinnama Reddy reclaimed victory in 1955. In subsequent years, the political landscape witnessed victories from various parties. With the emergence of the TDP in 1983, NP Jhansi Lakshmi became the MLA, but in 1985, R Gopinathan of the Congress Party emerged victorious. After a two-decade hiatus, TDP candidate AS Manohar was elected as MLA in 2004, despite the Congress coming to power, defeating TDP. Following the states bifurcation in 2014, TDP candidate DA Satyaprabha secured victory. However, in 2019, she was defeated by YSRC candidate Jangalapalli Srinivasulu. This time, the YSRC nominated MC Vijayananda Reddy, the current APSRTC vice-chairman, as the constituency in-charge, subsequently granting him a ticket for the elections. Despite speculation that the Chittoor Assembly constituency, predominantly led by the Balija community, might sway towards the Jana Sena, the Telugu Desam Party surprised many by nominating developer and film producer Gurajala Jagan as its candidate in the initial list. Hailing from Chittoor, Gurajala Jagan made a name for himself as a realtor and developer in Bengaluru before venturing into establishing educational institutions. Transitioning into film production, he also initiated a charitable trust and organised various public outreach programmes in Chittoor in recent years. Following a setback in the 2019 polls and a leadership vacuum after former MLA AS Manohar retired from active politics, the TDP chose Gurajala Jagan as its candidate for the 2024 elections. Both Gurajala Jagan and YSRCs MC Vijayananda Reddy are political novices competing against each other after the ruling party replaced sitting MLA Arani Sreenivasulu. While the YSRC employs its trademark approach to secure its hold on Chittoor, Gurajala Jagan presents his own manifesto along with the TDPs six guarantees. Despite being the constituency headquarters, Chittoor lacks adequate education and healthcare facilities. Residents still rely on CMC-Vellore and SVIMS-Tirupati for specialised medical treatment and travel to Bengaluru or Chennai for higher education. I have plans to establish a multi-disciplinary super-specialty hospital and world-class educational institutions in Chittoor, said TDP nominee G Jagan Mohan. Farmers in Chittoor are advocating for establishing Chittoor as a poultry hub, driven by the surge in demand for traditional chicken meat in the market. Many small and medium farmers have embraced backyard poultry farming, particularly in rural areas like Chittoor rural and Gudipala mandals, opting to rear local breed chicks due to lower feed costs. With the increasing demand, farmers have also begun exporting local breed chicks to neighbouring Tamil Nadu and Karnataka from Chittoor district. Narrow roads with potholes and other civic issues have been haunting the residents of the Chittoor town. Traffic congestion in PCR junction, MSR junction and old bus stand areas is regularly seen in the town. Narrow roads in church road and also in other main areas of the town have witnessed traffic congestion. Potholed roads on rail over bridges have remained a permanent issue in the town. Number of vehicles and population has increased in the town when compared to previous years. But, the roads remain the same leading to traffic congestion in main circles of the town. Even residents of the outskirts colonies have been facing troubles getting drinking water during summer season, said M Siva Kumar, a private employee in Chittoor town.
Karnataka BJP posts video targetting Muslims, sparks outrage
A social media post by the Bharatiya Janata Partys Karnataka unit on Saturday, April 4, sparked outrage online. The animated video, captioned Beware.. Beware.. Beware..! in Kannada, featured apparent caricatures of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah placing an egg labelled Muslims in a nest of alongside three eggs marked as SC Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Karnataka sexual abuse case: SIT arrests JD-S MLA HD Revanna in kidnapping case The Financial Express
Karnataka HC quashes proclamation order against accused police officer in Bitcoin case, directs him to join probe The Indian Express
Complete all civil works by May 30, says BBMP Commissioner Tushar Girinath
BENGALURU : BBMP is getting ready for the monsoon and has directed other civic agencies to complete their work by May 20. It has asked the Storm Water Drain Department to take up intensive cleaning of drains every third week of every month till the rainy season is over. Addressing the media on the corporations monsoon preparedness, Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) Chief Commissioner Tushar Girinath said, BBMP started a 15-day intensive cleaning of its storm water drains from April 19 till May 3. Now the cleaning activity has been extended till May 10. Other agencies like Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) and Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM) also keep doing their work involving road cutting and other necessities. We have asked them to speed up and complete their work by May 20 so that we can take up intensive cleaning of drains every third week till the rainy season ends. He asked citizens to clean debris and other material dumped on the roadside for house construction at the earliest as it would prevent a free flow of water and also cause inconvenience. He said the zonal commissioner, Fire and Emergency Service Department, BBMP Forest Cell, BWSSB and BESCOM officials held a meeting, following which a WhatsApp ground has been created at 63 subdivisions to resolve complaints during monsoon. Officials will work in shifts and round the clock, he added. We are working in coordination with all departments. Intensive cleaning of storm water drains will be done along 859 km length of SWD once every three months, said Girinath. Till may 3, 75% of cleaning had been done and remaining will be done in a week.
Bengaluru Rain havoc: Bescom loses Rs 1.18 crore
BENGALURU: The thundershowers in Bengaluru and parts of south interior Karnataka on Thursday and Friday disrupted the power supply in many areas. The sudden change in weather resulted in substantial damage, including 33 high tension poles, 29 low tension poles, and 11 transformers. A total of 305 poles were damaged, with an estimated repair cost amounting to Rs 25.63 lakh. Additionally, 57 transformers were damaged, with an estimated repair cost of 86.20 lakh, along with repairs to 18 double pole structures, totalling to 6.67 lakh. Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (Bescom) said that the repairs of all of this amounted to Rs 1.18 crores or Rs 118.50 lakh, stated a press release issued on Saturday. Bescom said that the power supply was restored to the affected areas by 9 pm on Friday and thanked the technical teams for their swift efforts.
Extended weekend, lack of info led to low voter turnout in Bengaluru: Panel
BENGALURU: From extended weekends to voter apathy, lack of information on candidates contesting to the timing of the poll day were discussed on Friday to find reasons for low poll percentage in Bengaluru Urban district (BBMP limits), which voted on April 26 in the 2024 Lok Sabha election. The online discussion -- Low polling percentage in Bengaluru Urban district (BBMP) during Lok Sabha General Election 2024, what are the root causes? -- was organised by the Bangalore Political Action Committee (BPAC). The Voter Turnout Ratio (VTR) in Bengaluru Urban district decreased from 56.01% to 53.96% over the past decade (20142024), encompassing six elections. Dr Sandeep Shastri, the National Coordinator of the Lokniti Network, highlighted significant findings on Bengalurus voter turnout. He noted that except for the 1977 Lok Sabha election, where the turnout exceeded 60%, Bengaluru has consistently experienced lower voter participation, typically hovering around the 50% range. In six elections, turnout fell below the 50% mark. Recent surveys have revealed that a substantial number of registered voters either live outside the city or prefer to cast their votes in their hometowns rather than in Bengaluru, Shashtri mentioned. Vikram Rai, president, Bangalore Apartment Federation (BAF), presented the federations analysis on baseline errors in the electoral roll. He pointed out instances where registered voters within apartment complexes frequently change their residences, both within and outside the city, yet the Booth Level Officers (BLOs) fail to synchronise with citizens, leading to inaccuracies in the electoral roll. He emphasised the need for better coordination between BLOs and citizens to refine the enumeration process and address the high potential for inaccuracies, including the failure to remove outdated names from the roll. Sudheendra MG, the KPCC spokesperson, highlighted several issues regarding voter participation. As the block president of Mahalakshmi Layout, he noted that alongside voter apathy, there is a prevailing belief among the electorate that their individual votes hold little significance. Moreover, political parties are perceived to be less active in mobilizing voters to the polling stations compared to their efforts prior to the 1990s. Sudheendra also pointed out a specific case in Booth No 80, where discrepancies were found in the electoral rolls, with a significant number of families having shifted out of the area yet still listed as voters. He suggested that the Booth Level Agents (BLA) of parties should collaborate with BBMP officials to rectify such inaccuracies, improving the accuracy of voter turnout rates. Kaveri Kedarnath, former mandal president of Malleswaram from BJP, recounted her experience at Booth No 187 in the Malleswaram Assembly Constituency (ward 76 Gayatri Nagar). She observed that out of 996 voters, 40 had passed away, while 232 had relocated within or outside the constituency. Despite these changes, BLOs had not acted to update the voter information. She emphasised that while registering as a new voter is relatively straightforward, the process of shifting ones vote within or outside the Assembly constituency is more complex. Therefore, many individuals opt to re-register as new voters instead.
Haveri constituency: A fight between former Chief Minister and son of a former MLA
The seat where BJP has won successively in the last four elections is considered to be a safe bet and that seems to be the reason for Mr. Bommai trying his luck from here in Lok Sabha election
Anitha Rao: Busting taboos one period at a time
BENGALURU: If Covid has taught us anything, it is hygiene and the relentless effort one must take to prevent viruses and infections. However, women are always the ones losing out in this bargain. With a mission to create awareness around menstruation, address the taboos and encourage basic hygiene practices, Anitha Rao, a 40-yr-old social entrepreneur and activist, embarked on a journey about a decade ago. Anitha took the first step after she visited government schools and slums near her residence. I didnt just want to do social service without understanding what Indians lack and our grassroots issues. On my visit, I saw that women lacked basic hygiene and had no information on menstruation and many deemed it to be unlucky, Anitha told TNSE. She added that in India, about 355 million women and girls menstruate every month, however only 36 per cent of them know why it happens, where it happens, and why its crucial to have a healthy body. She further explained that only 16 per cent of urban women practice menstrual hygiene. Neither my mother nor my grandmother told me about menstrual hygiene. When I belong to an educated family and nobody told me, how would those living in rural areas and slums know, she questioned. In 2019, she officially registered the Sakriya Charitable Trust, which conducts menstrual hygiene sessions for underprivileged women. A single-woman army of her Trust, she takes sessions on menstruation across various sections of society through unique initiatives. Anitha Rao explains the function of reusable pads and menstrual cups to girls, in one of her workshops Before she began taking sessions, Anitha spent six months understanding the subject. She spoke to several doctors, vetted her information and read about the taboos, not just in India but also around the world. So far, the NGO has impacted one lakh women. With a background in aviation, Anitha was 19 when she started earning and travelled over 63 countries as an airhostess for Gulf Air, followed by a stint with Etihad Airways in Bahrain between 1998 and 2005. She recalled some instances from her trips where she was taken aback by the unawareness among young girls and women. In the interiors of Kolar, many women were not wearing underpants. They didnt know anything about breast or cervical cancer. They had no knowledge about why it is important to change pads every four to eight hours. Not just basic information, her sessions also create awareness on different kinds of blood flows and what they indicate. Pink blood indicates ovarian cancer and abortion, jam-like blood could mean fibroids, yellowish blood is due to hormonal imbalance, etc. Nobody tells women what a healthy period blood should look like, not even doctors, she explained. Anitha Rao with women officiers at Bangalore Central jail during one of her visits She also conducts awareness campaigns in cemeteries. I carry a small model with me and explain the process step-by-step. Many didnt even know why women dont menstruate during pregnancy. All they know is the pelvic region is used for excretion and reproduction. Anitha said that most NGOs only distribute pads in rural areas, but do not impart knowledge about the process. The social entrepreneur visits Bangalore Central Prison 3-4 times a month.There is nobody to take care of the inmates. They have become friends with me and are happy to see me. Weve even screened them for oral and cervical cancer, dental checkups and recently we even organised eye checks, giving 37 women new glasses, says Anitha. Anithas sessions have also been conducted across police stations, with prison police, traffic police, BMTC, KSRTC, and other groups. Through the trust, we built a female-only washroom in one of the police stations. After my sessions at jails in Bengaluru and Kalaburagi, I am planning to visit Mandya and Mysurus prisons too, she said. In December 2020, her trust collaborated with local NGOs and volunteers from Kashmir to Kanyakumari to launch Sakriya Period Part Abhiyan. They created and screened a video on menstrual hygiene in regional languages and made it inclusive for speech and hearing impaired and other differently-abled individuals. They also screened it in orphanages and public spaces at the same time, across all states. During this one-hour programme in 2021, nearly 17,000 children and women benefitted. The initiative received a Kalams World Record. A chart explaining what a healthy period flow looks like Not only rural but many urban government schools and colleges lack basic infrastructure for girls, Anitha said, adding that school washrooms dont have latches or dustbins. If we want girls not to drop out, these steps need to be taken. Awareness needs to be spread vigorously, she emphasised. On sustainability, she said plastic pads need to be banned, awareness needs to be created that such pads are not biodegradable. There is change, but it is happening at a small scale, and will take some time. Menstrual cups and reusable pads can be one solution. However, its very difficult to convince rural women to use these newer, more sustainable means, she shares. Spread the word! Sakriya became the first NGO to create a mural on menstrual hygiene on Namma Metro in Bengaluru. The NGO will create menstrual hygiene awareness at bus-stands, railway stations, airports and other public places through these murals.
Boss joke lands employee in jail in Bengaluru
BENGALURU : A hotel helper ended up behind the bars after he took his owners suggestion seriously, and stole a bike parked in front of the hotel. Shaheem C, alias Shazz, is a native of Thalassery in Kerala. He was working at a hotel in Madivala. When Shaheem requested his owner to clear his salary dues, pending for over a month so he could visit Kerala, the owner denied him his salary, and instead suggested that Shazz should break the lock of a bike and use it to ride to Kerala Ninenteen-year-old Shazz took his suggestion too seriously and started researching how to break a bikes lock, on social media. He successfully broke a bikes lock, and headed to Thalaserry on the stolen bike. The bike owner filed a complaint at the Madivala police station. The police found Shazz, wearing the hotel uniform breaking the lock, through CCTV footages. When questioned, the hotelier informed that Shazz had gone to Kerala. The police tracked his mobile, and as he returned to Bengaluru, the police arrested him and recovered the bike, a few days ago. In another incident, Chamarajpet police arrested a Mubarak (25) a resident of Hedge Nagar for stealing four vehicles across the city. The police recovered all four bikes worth Rs 2.5 lakh from the accused.
Women groups demand action against Revanna
BENGALURU : Over 700 women including several women welfare groups and social rights activists across the country have signed a petition against the alleged crimes committed against women by Prajwal Revanna and HD Revanna. The petition was initiated by the All-India Feminist Alliance (ALIFA) and Women for Democracy (WFD). The community has written to the National Commission for Women (NCW), calling for strong legal action and has questioned the lack of prompt and strict action by the commission. The letter reads, Why has the response of the custodian of womens rights in the country (NCW) remained so minimal when no less than a Member of Parliament and a sitting MLA face grave charges of sexual abuse and violence against multiple women. The group held NCW accountable and said that if it had taken timely and stringent action in previous cases, such incidents would not have happened. We do not hesitate in saying that the NCW has failed the women of this country, by allowing the institution to become an agency for political vendetta and agendas of the ruling party at the Centre. The lack of swift action in numerous cases of violations of womens rights, only establishes that the Commission is no longer keen on upholding womens rights as per its mandate in the NCW Act of 1990, stated the letter which included the 700 signatories. The activists have demanded that NCW issue summons to the father-son duo and initiate a swift inquiry, recommending appropriate legal and criminal action against them as per the powers vested in the commission. Other demands include the protection of the identities of survivors as well as adequate safety and security for all the women who have faced sexual abuse under the Witness Protection Scheme, 2018. Ensure necessary psychological, medical, financial and legal support to all the survivors, as well as rehabilitation under NALSAs compensation scheme for Women Survivors of Sexual Assault, 2018. Direct all online platforms and digital search engines to de-index and take down the videos and images, to protect the safety and dignity of the survivors. Circulation and distribution of this content online and offline must be strictly forbidden and stern legal action must be taken, read the letter.
Slum pockets get water 2 hours a week; No water problem, says BWSSB
BENAGALURU : The slum pockets of DJ Halli and Chikka Banaswadi, which previously had continuous water supply for 24 hours every day, are now getting water for merely two hours a week, and are forced to buy water. A significant part of their income is being spent on buying water every day. TNIE visited the slum pocket and interacted with the residents. The migrant population told TNIE that they were hopeful that before the Lok Sabha elections, someone would address their water shortage concerns. We have always been and will continue to be neglected. Since our voting rights belong elsewhere, we are not considered priority citizens here, said a migrant labourer from West Bengal. Initially, some kids went to schools here, but now we have asked them to help us with daily chores and bring water instead. We buy water from whoever is willing to sell, irrespective of quality, a labour said. I am unable to cover the education cost of my kids, as my auto wash business is not generating any income these days, he added. The locality in DJ Halli which houses approximately 40-50 people, receives two hours of water per week. One hour is allocated for drinking water, while the other hour is dedicated for treated water, both on separate days, said Reshma, a resident of the locality. The lanes are so narrow that we cannot call the water tankers inside. Neither we can afford to pay for the services, she added. The area has multiple meat shops, furniture stores, and paint labourers, along with a migrant population relying on daily earnings for their livelihoods. Residents lament that frequent delays in the water supply is disrupting their daily routine, in turn directly affecting their income. Ramesh, a resident of Chikka Banasawadi, stated that his house needs around 20 pots of water daily, costing Rs 40. The expense is a big concern. Even the nearby public borewell has dried up, he said, and added that despite the water quality, they continue to use it due to a lack of alternatives. When TNIE brought the issue of water shortage to the notice of BWSSB Chairman Ram Prasath Manohar, he dismissed the issue and went on to say that there have not been any complaints from the above slum pockets. Inspections and weekly meetings being held to assess areas experiencing water shortage and identify any associated issues, Manohar said.
Solving cyber crime a Task for the force
BENGALURU : Majority of the cyber crime cases reported, conclude with closure reports, usually filed where there are not sufficient grounds to investigate, shortly after the victims bank accounts are blocked. Due to the trend of increasing complexity and limited manpower within the city police department, cyber fraud cases are not being prioritised, said a senior officer attached to cyber crime investigations said. The fraudsters are more dedicated in planning the crime than the whole investigation planning. Most of the time, cyber crime investigations are on the back foot when other obligations such as bandobast or election duty or dealing with law and order crimes take priority, the senior official highlighted. The official added that, unlike minor law and order incidents like chain snatching, which are addressed with utmost seriousness, not always is a specialized team working exclusively on the cyber crime. Given this trend, detection will remain unattainable even if the reporting percentage rises. In conventional crimes, even if the amount of money lost is not significant, the visual panic it creates is evident, unlike cybercrime, where apart from the victim, nobody else is visibly affected by the incident, a senior official highlighted, and further said that unlike in conventional crime, where investigating officers can often trace the accused using CCTV footage and other physical evidence, tracking down a cyber fraudster is nearly impossible, due to multiple IP addresses. Solving cyber crime cases often involves coordination between interstate law enforcement authorities, and once the accused is tracked down, it can solve more than 100 cases at a time as the fraudster uses thousands of SIM cards, multiple laptops, and phones, and tries different modus operandi on multiple victims. While increasing the number of police forces involved in cracking these cases is essential, banks and telecom companies must also ensure that online payments cannot be completed while someone is still on a call. This is necessary because these fraudsters often distract victims on calls, said the senior official. He added that an SMS alert or call should be triggered, whenever uses a different IP address to login, or makes payments at unusual times in case of net banking.
BJP leaders say love jihad on rise, CT Ravi wants SIT probe
HUBBALLI : Senior BJP leaders BY Vijayendra and CT Ravi have alleged that love jihad cases are on the rise in Karnataka. Vijayendra, who is the state BJP president, further went on to say that Karnataka was going the Kerala way. Ravi, a former minister, demanded a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe into such incidents. Vijayendra told reporters in Hubballi on Saturday that the Congress State Government was also giving shelter to murderers. An atmosphere of fear has been created among Hindu girls. The minority appeasement policies of the Congress government have led to the deterioration of law and order in Karnataka, Vijayendra said. Anti-social and anti-national elements have developed a sense of security as they believe that the Congress will come to their rescue, he charged. Meanwhile, Ravi said that Karnataka was seeing an increase in love jihad cases after the Congress came to power in the state last year. It was not just a coincidence but a deliberate attempt by some anti-national groups. Some groups have been targeting those who do not follow the Sharia law, he said. Ravi said that during the Mughal emperor Aurangzebs regime, religious conversions were done by force, adding that certain groups were now following love jihad. Going a step ahead, these forces have now given a call for vote jihad. So, to get into the depth of recent love jihad cases, a SIT should be constituted to probe them, he added.
Priyanka Gandhi takes on PM Modi over Covid vaccine
DAVANAGERE : Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Saturday attacked the Modi government on the issue of Covid-19 vaccine and claimed that many healthy youngsters who had taken the jab are getting heart attacks. She was speaking at an election rally in Davanagere. Priyanka alleged that the vaccine manufacturer gave the BJP a donation of Rs 52 crore. There was a recent report that vaccine takers were suffering from cardiac problems, she alleged. Many youths are having cardiac arrests, but the big media are not showing the truth as they are controlled by big businessmen who are supporting PM Modi, Priyanka said. By getting donations through electoral bonds, the BJP has become the richest party not only in the country but in the world, she said. But they are freezing the Congress accounts and are trying to derail democracy, she added. Further, she also said that if the Congress hadnt given the guarantees to the people of Karnataka, they would have been in trouble. The country is gripped with several burning problems like unemployment, inflation but Prime Minister Narendra Modi has never designed the programmes to overcome them. He is also not addressing the problems of the country properly, she said, adding that Modi has brought down the decorum of the PMs Office, which was held by Jawharlal Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shastri, and others. If the prime minister doesnt address the problems faced by the public, how can the country develop, she asked. Priyank also said the voice of the Opposition was being silenced and two chief ministers are in jail. She further alleged that Modi, who has been in office for 10 years, doesnt speak about development but speaks about Pakistan. She questioned the validity of Modis statements, specifically regarding the Congress alleged plans to confiscate gold from households using X-ray machines. She also urged the voters to elect a new PM and take the country on the right track. Priyanka urged the voters to think about the future of individuals and individual development and vote in a big way in the ongoing General Elections. We have given a good candidate in Davanagere, elect her and send her to the Parliament, she urged the voters campaigning for Dr Prabha Mallikarjun.
No bail, HD Revanna in SIT custody
BENGALURU: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Saturday evening arrested Holenarasipur MLA HD Revanna in the kidnap case registered against him at KR Nagar police station in Mysuru district by the son of one of the victims of the alleged sexual abuse involving the MLA and his son and Hassan MP Prajwal Revanna. Two FIRs were registered against Revanna. The first on a complaint of sexual harassment filed by one of the victims in Holenarasipur town police station in Hassan district on April 28. The second based on a kidnap complaint filed by another victims 20-year-old son on May 2 in KR Nagar police station, for which Revanna was arrested. Revanna was picked up by the SIT from his father and former PM HD Deve Gowdas house at Padmanabhanagar in Bengaluru after his anticipatory bail was rejected by the Peoples Representative Court. Minutes after the bail application was rejected, a team of SIT officials headed by SP CA Simon went to Deve Gowdas house. The SIT was trailing Revanna after he left Holenarasipura four days ago saying that he would not run away, but fight the case legally. The SIT kept a hawks eye on him to ensure he did not escape. The officials were waiting for the courts order. After the court denied him anticipatory bail, the SIT officers, who were there, immediately informed their colleagues who were already positioned near Deve Gowdas house to move ahead and arrest Revanna. The SIT had credible information that Revanna was in his fathers house. A team of five SIT officials, in two vehicles, rushed to Deve Gowdas house. Security near the SIT office on Palace Road was beefed up after JDS MLA HD Revanna was arrested and brought there from the residence of his father former PM HD Deve Gowda, in Bengaluru on Saturday | Shashidhar Byrappa Revanna minces no words As the doors were not opened, the SIT officials waited outside the house for about 45 minutes, during which they ensured there were no escape routes. Around 6.50pm, Revanna was arrested when he came out of his fathers house. Revanna went with the SIT officials without mincing words. He was whisked away by the SIT in an SUV and brought to their office on Palace Road at 7.34 pm. The entire proceedings outside Deve Gowdas house were videographed by the SIT. Judge Santhosh Gajanan Bhat refused to grant interim anticipatory bail after hearing arguments of senior counsel Murthy D Naik, representing Revanna, and special public prosecutor BN Jagadeesha. Referring to an apex court judgment on granting of limited anticipatory bail, the special court said as rightly argued by the special public prosecutor, the protection of life and liberty of the victim would be of paramount consideration and it is a fundamental right. It is also relevant to note that the court has to balance the equities of the complainant/victim and the rights granted to the accused. Further, the dictum of the apex court at the same time would clearly indicate that the anticipatory or the interim bail cannot be granted in a mechanical manner, the court said. The court has to look into the seriousness of the allegations levelled and also with all facts and circumstances of the case. Since the victim is yet to be traced, it would not be appropriate to admit the petitioner on interim anticipatory bail. However, at this juncture, it is made clear that the observations made here are not with respect to the merits or demerits of the case, the judge said. SIT takes victims to Revannas house, Prajwals MP quarters Officers of the Special Investigation Team visited the residence of JDS MLA H D Revanna in Holenarasipur town and the official quarters of MP Prajwal Revanna in Hassan and conducted a spot mazhar. Two victims, a woman and her daughter, accompanied the team. The officers took the victims to particular spots in Revannas house, including the bedroom, storeroom and kitchen, and recorded their statements. The MLAs wife Bhavani Revanna was present in the house. The victims had lodged a complaint with Holenarasipur Town police that Revanna and his son Prajwal had sexually assaulted them at various places in the house. The team also visited the official quarters of Prajwal on RC Road on Saturday night. Officers visited different spots along with the victims in the quarters and video recorded their statements. Additional police force has been deployed around the premises. Revanna undergoes medical tests Revanna, who was taken to the SIT office to complete the arrest formalities, was subjected to mandatory medical tests at Bowring and Lady Curzon Hospital in the evening. After undergoing tests for 90 minutes, Revanna was taken back to the SIT office around 11pm. Revanna spent the night at the office. Action will be taken as per law, says CM Reacting to the arrest of JDS MLA H D Revanna on Saturday night, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has said he will not interfere in the case and action has to be taken against the accused as per law. Speaking to a section of the media in Chikkodi on Saturday night, the CM said the police arrested Revanna after his plea for anticipatory bail was rejected by the court.
Sex scandal may not have much impact on polling
The sex scandal allegedly involving Janata Dal (Secular) MP Prajwal Revanna that triggered a high-decibel political slugfest is unlikely to have much of an impact on the voting in 14 Lok Sabha constituencies in Karnataka that will go to the polls on Tuesday. Prajwal Revanna, the JDS-BJP combine candidate from Hassan constituency and looking at retaining his seat, is facing serious charges of sexually harassing several women. His father and JDS MLA, HD Revanna, is also named as accused in two FIRs. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) is probing the cases against members of one of the most influential political families in Karnataka, perhaps in the country. The three generations of the family of former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda are currently members of both the Houses of Parliament and the state legislature. All three seats Hassan, Mandya, and Kolar contested by JDS went to polls in the second phase on April 26. Now, in the third phase, the BJP is in a direct contest with the Congress in 14 seats. BJPs alliance partner JDS is not a major force in those seats, although it has a presence in some pockets in North Karnataka. Hours after voting in the second phase of polls in the seats in Vokkaliga-dominated Old Mysuru region, the scandal exploded into becoming a major topic of discussion in political circles across India. As the details of the horrendous crimes started coming out, Congress used it to attack the BJP by accusing it of turning a blind eye to atrocities on women. It became one of the electoral issues in their campaigning. The Congress no-holds-barred attack may have pre-empted the BJPs plans to aggressively use womens safety issues to attack the Congress government in the state. The BJP was going hammer-and-tongs against the Siddaramaiah government over law-and-order issues, especially Neha Hiremaths murder on the college campus in Hubballi. The scandal involving its alliance candidate put the BJP on the backfoot to some extent, causing embarrassment to its top leaders. As a damage-control measure, JDS suspended Prajwal from the party and BJP turned the tables to question the State Government over delay in taking action against Prajwal as law and order is a state subject. While the issue remains a point of political discussion, it is unlikely to impact voters decisions. The major factors in these elections include: the BJPs emphasis on Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership and the Central Governments performance in the last 10 years, Congress focus on its five guarantee schemes, promises made in its manifesto for the Lok Sabha polls, and its sustained campaign against the Centre over alleged discrimination against Karnataka. The BJP, which in 2019 swept all 14 seats that will be going to the polls on May 7, will be banking on support from Lingayats as well as other communities to retain the seats. Congress is hoping to consolidate support from Dalits, backward classes, and minorities, while also trying to breach BJPs Lingayat fortress as it tries to improve its performance in North Karnataka. Determined to regain the lost ground, AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge has been spending considerable time in his home district Kalaburagi, while also campaigning vigorously in other states. The scandal would have had a major impact on the elections had it exploded ahead of the April 26 polls in the Vokkaliga-dominated Old Mysuru region. The video clips were allegedly circulated days before the polls in Hassan. But the issue was confined to the Hassan Lok Sabha constituency. This is said to have damaged the JDS prospects in the constituency as it struggles to retain its home turf. But the question remains: why did it not come out in a big way before polls in Old Mysuru, escalating only hours after polling? Was Congress concerned about the possible backlash from a section of the Vokkaliga community? The Vokkaliga community members will not condone wrongdoings by anyone. However, if they had perceived it as an attempt to target former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowdas family, it might have proved counterproductive. Prajwal has to face the full force of the law, and the process has been set in motion. Another shameful part of the entire episode is the indiscriminate circulation of video clips without even morphing the identities of the victims. Will the state government show the same kind of alacrity and seriousness in punishing those responsible for circulating the videos? The videos should have been brought to the notice of law enforcement authorities at the first instance, not after they were circulated. No one condones crimes against women. Hopefully, the investigation covering all aspects will be pursued at the same pace even after the polls. Ramu Patil Assistant Resident Editor ramu@newindianexpress.com
SIT approaches CBI for Blue Corner Notice against Prajwal
BENGALURU : The Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is probing the alleged rape and sexual harassment cases against Hassan MP Prajwal Revanna, has approached the CBI to issue a Blue Corner Notice against the MP. The CBI, which is the nodal agency for INTERPOL matters in India, is authorised to issue the Blue Corner Notice based on documents and evidence provided to it by the SIT against the MP, who is now abroad. The Blue Corner Notice is issued to collect information about the accuseds movement, location or activities. Since Prajwal has gone abroad using his diplomatic passport, the central agencies will have his travel details. Without SIT approaching them, the CBI cannot directly issue the Blue Corner Notice against Prajwal. The CBI can also turn down the request of SIT if there is no proper evidence against the accused. The SIT officials have also informed Chief Minister Siddaramaiah about the possibility of CBI issuing the Blue Corner Notice against Prajwal. The chief minister held a meeting with SIT officials on Saturday on the cases against Prajwal. Siddaramaiah instructed the officials to take immediate action to arrest Prajwal. The officials assured him of arresting Prajwal and getting him back at the earliest. Prajwal did not appear before the SIT although it issued a notice to him on Tuesday and lookout notices on Thursday and Friday against him. He is said to have gone to Germany on April 27. Prajwal, who has a diplomatic passport, does not need any visa to go abroad. After the first notice was issued, the MP, through his advocate, had sought a weeks time to appear before the SIT. However, his petition was turned down. It is said that Prajwal has booked a return ticket to Bengaluru from Munich on May 15 and will land in Bengaluru in the wee hours of May 16. Meanwhile, eight more officials have been deputed to the SIT to speed up the investigation. Rahul asks CM to provide all support to victims Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday said the case involving JDS MP Prajwal Revanna has deeply disturbed the nation and upholding justice for the victims is crucial for maintaining faith in the legal system. Responding to former AICC president Rahul Gandhis letter asking the state government to provide support to the victims, the CM stated, Rahul Gandhi has written a letter, emphasising support for the victims. We are committed to providing all necessary assistance to ensure a fair process. In his letter to the CM, Rahul stated that the victims deserve our compassion and solidarity as they fight their battle for justice. We have a collective duty to ensure that all parties responsible for these heinous crimes are brought to book. Prajwal Revanna sexually assaulted and filmed hundreds of women over several years. Many who looked up to him as a brother and son were brutalized in the most violent manner and robbed of their dignity. The rape of our mothers and sisters warrants the strictest possible punishment, he stated. Rahul said he was shocked to learn that as far back as December 2023, Home Minister Amit Shah was informed by BJP G Devaraje Gowda about Prajwals antecedents, especially his history of sexual violence and the presence of videos filmed by the perpetrator. What is even more shocking is that despite these gruesome allegations being brought to the notice of the senior-most BJP leadership, the Prime Minister campaigned and canvassed for a mass rapist, he stated. Prajwal will surrender before SIT: JDS leader JDS leader and former minister CS Puttaraju said JDS MLA HD Revanna surrendered before SIT after taking his father former PM HD Deve Gowdas blessings. Puttaraju said party MP Prajwal Revanna will also surrender before the SIT. Prajwal is currently travelling abroad.
MRPL registers net profit of Rs 3,596 cr in FY 23-24
MANGALURU: Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) has earned a net profit of Rs 3,596 crore during FY 2023-24, up by Rs 2,638 crore profit in FY 2022-23. The board of directors of MRPL, a subsidiary company of ONGC and Schedule A Mini Ratna Category I Company, during its 262nd meeting held on May 3, approved its Standalone and Consolidated Audited Financial Results for the fourth quarter (Q4 FY 2023-24) and year (FY 2023-24) ended March 31, 2024. In 2023-24, the company earned a revenue of Rs 1,05,223 crore from operations (Rs 1,24,736 Crore in FY 2022-23) and a profit before tax of Rs 5,521 Crore (Rs 4,239 Crore in FY 2022-23). The gross margin (GRM) was US$ 10.36 per bbl (FY 2022-23 GRM of US$ 9.88 per bbl). Total reduction in interest bearing Long Term Borrowings was Rs 5,058 crore (ie from Rs 14,837 crore as on March 31, 2023 to Rs 9,779 Crore as on March 31, 2024). The Debt Equity Ratio improved from 1.70 as on March 31, 2023 to 0.94 as on March 31, 2024. The major highlights for the fourth quarter (Q4 FY 2023-24) include the highest crude throughput in a Quarter 4.51 MMT (Previous best was 4.42 MMT during Q4 FY 2015-16). The company for the first time processed KGD6 Crude from Ruby FPSO off Kakinada (API-45.50) in the month of February and KG-D98 Crude (API-33.77) from East Godavari block, in March.
Railway meet addresses land acquisition issues
BENGALURU: To expedite railway projects and streamline land acquisition processes, General Manager, South Western Railway Arvind Srivastava attended a coordination meeting with the Chief Secretary of Karnataka Rajneesh Goel on Friday. The meeting focused on addressing critical issues related to railway land and the acquisition of land for ongoing railway projects in the state. One of the primary agendas of the meeting was to discuss the challenges and progress concerning land acquisition for various ongoing new line projects i.e. Rayadurga - Tumakuru via Kalyanadurga, Tumakuru - Chitradurga Davanagere, Munirabad (Ginigera) Raichur, Shivamogga Shikaripura - Ranebennur, Belagavi Dharwad, Hassan Belur. The General Manager emphasised the importance of acquiring land promptly to ensure the timely completion of these vital railway infrastructural developments, said a press release from the South Western Railway. During the discussion, the status of land acquisition for ongoing new line projects across Karnataka was reviewed and provided an opportunity to identify bottlenecks and devise strategies to expedite the acquisition process. He emphasised the importance of seamless coordination between various stakeholders to ensure the smooth progress of railway projects across the state.
IN-SPACe norms for launching satellites
BENGALURU : To promote ease of doing business, space regulator Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) introduced norms and guidelines for the effective implementation of the Indian space policy, which the booming space industry has been demanding for a while. This will help stakeholders to better understand the regulations and streamline the activities from building, launching and setting up ground stations. The document also includes information on how private players can share remote sensing data. The 147-page report lists norms, guidelines and procedures (NGP) for the effective implementation of the Indian Space Policy 2023 that will authorize space activities. The NGP aims to provide transparency for the Non-Government Entities (NGEs). According to the report any entity whether Indian or foreign, carrying out space activities from Indian territory will need authorisation from IN-SPACe. For foreign companies, they should have a subsidiary or partnership with an Indian entity. The applicants will also have to take measures to reduce the generation of space debris under the applicable Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UN-COPUOS) (2007). During the mission planning stages, the private party needs to determine collision risk based on the background Space Object density during the transit phase. The mission orbit should be selected by considering the Space Object density in the neighbouring orbital regime to ensure that the cumulative collision probability over the mission life is less than 1 in 1000. It is recommended to avoid selecting mission orbits in densely populated orbital regions wherever feasible, states the NGP report.
Coaching centres involved in setting of question papers: KAMS
BENGALURU: After the fiasco of out of syllabus questions appearing in the CET question papers conducted by the Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) this year, the Associated Managements of Primary and Secondary Schools in Karnataka (KAMS) has written a letter to the Minister of Higher Education, MC Sudhakar, and demanded appropriate action must be taken against those responsible for formulating such confusing question papers. Despite the governments decision to award grace marks for the out-of-syllabus question, the association has sought suspension of the officers, and an investigation into the matter. KAMS in the letter alleged that many coaching centres are in cahoots with education department employees, and are interfering in the process of preparing question papers, and they need to be punished. Those who prepared the question papers need to be investigated for their connection with coaching centres. Many institutions in the name of integrated coaching, have their own curriculum which only benefits the students that are a part of those coaching centres, affecting lakhs who dont prescribe to them, read the letter.
PM Modi, Amit Shah behave as if they knew nothing about their ally JD(S): Priyanka Gandhi
Ms. Gandhi questioned the silence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah on the involvement of an NDA ally in the sex scandal in Karnataka
Day after rain, CESC staff in Mysuru struggle to restore power
MYSURU: Staff of the Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC) and Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) were pressed into restoration works after hundreds of trees and electricity poles were uprooted in the city in the Fridays heavy downpour resulting in several areas plunging into complete darkness for hours together. One person was dead and several others were injured in the rain fury. The deceased has been identified as Shivakumar of Marashettahalli in Myusru taluk. To take shelter from rain, he was standing under a zinc sheet roof which fell on him due to wild winds, killing him on the spot. In another incident, four others, including an auto driver, were injured after a tree fell on his rickshaw. In the third incident, three students were injured after a tree fell on the scooter near JSS Medical College. They sustained injuries in their head and are recovering. Meanwhile, the CESC and corporation staff swung into action and pressed earth movers into service to clear the trees and the streets. Pourakarmikas attached to the MCC had to skip their garbage collection duty and join the restoration work. The power supply was restored in many localities by noon. The CESC had to replace over 300 damaged electricity poles. M Jameel Ahmad, a resident of Yadavgiri, said several uprooted trees and electricity poles had blocked the road completely. He said residents were facing serious problems due to long power outages. CESC and MCC staff must work in tandem to ensure early restoration of power supply, he said. Many residents complained of their electronic appliances being damaged due to power fluctuation. Several streetlight also bore the brunt of the rain fury. Angry villagers stage protest Villagers of Sulekhobe staged a protest in front of the Mennyam panchayat office in Hanur taluk over callousness of officials in visiting the damaged banana plantation. Villagers alleged that banana plantations in more than 20 acres were damaged and there are also reports of crop loss in Kollegal, Chamarajanagar and parts of Gundlupet. The alleged that the CESC staff are yet to replace the damaged electricity poles that fell on several houses. They want the officials to visit the affected areas immediately. Newlywed man struck by lightning dies A 34-year-old newlywed man died after being struck by a massive lightning at his residence on Friday night. Somasundar, a resident of Parvathamukhi in Subramanya village in Kadaba taluk, is the deceased. The incident occurred when Somasundar was collecting dry arecanut before rain began. Though he was immediately shifted to the hospital, he was declared brought dead. Somasundar was operating a car washing business near Subramanya and he got married just 10 days ago. Rains across Sullia, Uppinangady and Subramanya damaged a few trees and electric poles. At Kinnigoli, an ancient tree estimated to be around 1,000 years old, which is considered the birthplace of Sri Kanthabare and Boodabare, the legendary figures of Kollur in Mulki, got uprooted on Friday.
Silent period for Phase-3 poll sets in from May 5
BENGALURU: All sorts of loud political campaigning using loudspeakers, microphones, banners and mega rallies will end at 6 pm on Sunday (May 5). After which political parties and candidates can only carry out door-to-door campaigning. This is because 14 parliamentary constituencies -- Chikkodi, Belgaum, Bagalkot, Bijapur, Gulbarga, Raichur, Bidar, Koppal, Bellary, Haveri, Dharwad, Uttara Kannada, Davangere and Shimoga -- are going to the polls on May 7. The office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Karnataka (CEO) said that from 6 pm on Sunday, state borders in districts going to the polls will also be sealed. Additional CEO Venkatesh Kumar R told The New Sunday Express that from the silent period till the polls are over, the sale of liquor is not permitted. Liquor cannot be brought from other states also. As per Election Commission directions, liquor outlets in other states falling within 5km of the Karnataka border too should remain closed. Bidar, Kalaburagi, Raichur, Yadgir, Ballari, Uttara Kannada, Belagavi and Vijayapura share borders with Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Goa and Maharashtra. The CEOs office also requested state governments of neighbouring states to give all employees and labourers paid holiday on May 7 to allow them to vote. The state government has declared a general holiday that day for all government offices, educational institutions and public sector undertakings falling within these constituencies. Also, business enterprises, industries and other institutions have been directed to sanction a paid holiday to allow daily wagers and permanent staff working with them to vote. Kumar said that many people in North Karnataka work in Maharashtra, Hyderabad and other places. The district administrations were directed to call them and persuade them to come to their respective constituencies to vote. The election officials said that no opinion polls are permitted. Restrictions on opinion polls were imposed from Phase-1 elections. There is a ban from April 19 to 6.30 pm on June 1, Kumar said. The election officials have also directed all parties and candidates to ensure that no one except residents remain in the constituency.
Hundreds of Bhatkal expats fly home to vote
BHATKAL/BENGALURU : Hundreds of people from Bhatkal, who are working in West Asia, are returning home just to exercise their franchise on May 7. This, it is said to be in response to the appeal by Bhatkal Tanzeem. It is learnt that the travel expenses of these voters are met by the Tanzeem. Taking a cue from Kerala, where a large number of residents who are working abroad, came down to vote, the Tanzeem has appealed to the people of Bhatkal, who are working abroad, to return home and exercise their franchise without fail. Bhatkal comes under the Uttara Kannada Lok Sabha constituency. BJP candidate Vishveshwara Hegde Kageri said he was told that the Tanzeem pays the travel expenses of those who come to Bhatkal to vote. We are keeping a tab on it. If we find any such thing, we will complain to the Election Commission, he said. However, Inayathullah Shabandari, president of Majlise Islah Wa Tanzeem, Bhatkal, said the Tanzeem has no role in this. Many of them are coming to India now just to vote. They are coming on their own, bearing the expenses themselves. Most of them are rich. Only for those, who are not financially sound but are willing to come to vote, there are Tanzeems and Jamaats representing our people across West Asia. They have agreed to help them to an extent. We have branches of the Jamaat in Dubai, Mumbai and other places. It is in the interest of democracy, he told TNIE. We decided to appeal to our people after we saw Keralites working in West Asia participating in the Lok Sabha elections in Kerala in large numbers. About 40,000 people visited Kerala just to vote. We do not have such big numbers, ours will be in hundreds, he said. He said he is not sure how many will come and vote from West Asia. Around 15,000 people from Bhatkal are in Dubai, Jeddah, Qatar, Kuwait and other countries in West Asia. We hope at least 10% of them will come and vote, Inayathullah said.
Lingayats dont vote on caste lines in Dharwad
HUBBALLI : To deny BJP candidate Pralhad Joshi a fifth term from the Dharwad parliamentary segment, Congress is pitting him against the Lingayat community. Though the same strategy by the party has not been fruitful earlier, this time it hopes to get the support of Dingaleshwar Swami of Shirahatti Bhavaikya Peeth, who had filed his nomination papers to contest as an independent but later withdrew. Though Lingayats voters constitute over 25 per cent of the total electorate in the Dharwad segment, they have never voted along caste lines. In the last 17 elections, they have elected candidates from other communities majority of the times, except when transport baron Vijay Sankeshwar contested and won thrice. Of the other four MPs, three were Brahmins and one an OBC. In the first general election in 1952, DB Karmakar, a Brahmin, of Congress won against Kissan Mazdoor Praja Partys CT Kambali, a Lingayat. In 1957, Karmakar defeated independent candidate BN Munavalli, who was also a Lingayat. From 1962 to 1977, Brahmin candidate Sarojini Mahishi, who contested four elections, won twice against Lingayat candidates. In 1980, Mahishi, who was contesting on the Janata Party ticket, was defeated by DK Naikar from the Kuruba (OBC) community. He defeated Lingayat candidates fielded by either Janata Party or Janata Dal in the next three elections. Naikar, however, was defeated in 1996 by Sankeshwar, who was the first Lingayat elected from the constituency. He went on to win in 1998 and the 1999 snap elections against candidates from his community. In the 2004 election, the constituency again elected a Brahmin, Pralhad Joshi, who was contesting against retired bureaucrat BS Patil of Congress. Though the Grand Old Party put up Lingayat candidates against Joshi in the next three elections, it did not taste any success. Joshi defeated Manjunath Kunnur in 2009 and Vinay Kulkarni in 2014 and 2019. It has been proved time and again that the Lingayat community has always elected candidates from other communities, despite it being the most-populous community in the segment. But in this election, Vinay Kulkarni of Congress has been raising the Lingayat betrayal issue quite vigorously. He was denied the ticket as the court has barred him from entering Dharwad district for his alleged involvement in the killing of BJP member Yogishgouda Goudar. During campaigning, Vinay has been alleging that Joshi lured Lingayat seers with money and is creating a divide in the Lingayat community. The community would have no meaning unless Joshi is defeated in this election, he states during his campaigning. On the other hand, Dingaleshwar Swami has declared a holy war against Joshi, accusing the Union minister of dishonouring Lingayat seers and suppressing community leaders. Despite withdrawing from the contest, the pontiff has been campaigning against Joshi and is appealing to Lingayats to teach him a lesson to salvage the communitys pride. Whether these efforts would tilt the scales will be known on June 4.
INTERVIEW| Hassan sex scandal will boomerang on Congress, says HD Kumaraswamy The New Indian Express
INTERVIEW| Hassan sex scandal will boomerang on Congress, says HD Kumaraswamy
KALABURAGI : JDS state president HD Kumaraswamy believes that the sex scandal allegedly involving his nephew Hassan MP Prajwal Revanna and brother HD Revanna will boomerang on Congress. In an interview with TNIE , the former CM says such allegations will not affect the prospects of the BJP-JDS alliance in the Lok Sabha polls. Excerpts: What will be the repercussions of the alleged sex scandal? The issue will boomerang on Congress and may lead to the collapse of the Siddaramaiah government in the near future. But right now, I cannot tell you how this will happen. Will it not be a setback for the BJP-JDS alliance in the LS polls? Setback? There is no question of setback at all. The issue has created some sort of temporary mental agony in our family, especially for my father (former PM HD Deve Gowda) and mother. Such allegations will not affect the alliances prospects in the LS polls. We will win most of the seats in the elections held for 14 seats in Karnataka on April 26. Also, my nephew Prajwal, brother-in-law Dr CN Manjunath and the Kolar candidate (M Mallesh Babu) will win the elections. What about BJP? Our political rivals dragged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah into this issue unnecessarily. In what way they or BJP is connected to this incident? Our opponents just wanted to create an issue to defame us as well the PM and HM. People are not fools to reject BJP and the PM on such issues. They are wise enough to judge why such issues were raked up at the time of elections even as they were alleging that these things happened a few years ago. Whats your take on the allegations? As the Special Investigation Team is probing the case, it will not be fair to comment on it. But the investigating agency certainly has to verify the allegations as some say 400 women were harassed sexually by Prajwal and some others say the number is above 3,000. Is it possible? Yesterday, a woman who claimed to be former zilla panchayat member complained that she was raped at gunpoint in 2021. Then why did she keep mum these three years? Have you met your father and mother after these allegations broke out? I went to my fathers house and was with him and my mother for a couple of days. They are aged and it is natural that when such complaints are made against anybodys son and grandson, they would become mentally troubled. As a son, it is my duty to console them and to give them courage. I have done my duty. But my opponents tried to portray that I met my father to discuss appointing a suitable advocate for my brother and nephew. Revanna is competent enough to take care of himself and his son. Have you spoken to Revanna on the issue? Yes I have spoken about this with my brother and he has told me that he is innocent and false charges are being levelled against him.
Getting AIIMS to Raichur will be my utmost priority: Kumar Naik
G Kumar Naik, Congress nominee for Raichur, pledges to boost development by bringing AIIMS, improving infrastructure, education, and employment. Support from district leaders and positive voter response to guarantee schemes strengthen his campaign.
Ahead of 3rd Phase Of Polls HD Revanna Arrested
Karnataka JD(S) MLA HD Revanna has been taken into custody by the Special Investigation Team that's looking into kidnapping allegations by a woman; it is also probing rape allegations against his son Prajwal Revanna in the obscene videos case.
Im prepared, I just need a chance: Priyanka Jarkiholi
Priyanka Jarkiholi, daughter of Minister Satish Jarkiholi, enters politics by contesting in Chikkodi. TOI interview reveals her independent decision, public response, and readiness for mainstream politics amidst anti-incumbency sentiment.
'Neha, Prajwal cases may have sparked debates, but won't affect voter decisions'
Former CM Jagadish Shettar contests Belgaum seat for BJP, confident in victory due to PM Modi's appeal and local rapport. Focuses on national issues over caste, aiming to boost regional development with industrial growth if elected.
Karnataka News | Revanna Sex Scandal Updates: HD Revanna Has Been Arrested | English News | News18
Revanna Sex Scandal Case: H.D. Revanna arrested from father Deve Gowdas residence in kidnap case
Priyanka Gandhi links heart attack risks to handling of Covid-19 vaccines
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized Modi's Covid-19 vaccine handling, alleging ties to heart attacks and corruption. She accused BJP of questionable donations, lack of achievements, and benefiting select few.
BJPs Kolkata Uttar LS candidate files complaint with EC against Trinamool candidate
BJPs Kolkata Uttar LS candidate files complaint with EC against Trinamool candidate Kolkata: Tapas Roy, the BJP candidate for West Bengals Kolkata-Uttar Lok Sabha seat, has filed a complaint with the Election Commission (EC) against Trinamool Congress candidate Sudip Bandopadhyay accusing the latter of running his party office occupying space within a renowned school [] The post BJPs Kolkata Uttar LS candidate files complaint with EC against Trinamool candidate appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
