Two Surya Kiran aircraft practising for the upcoming Aero India air show collided in Bengaluru Tuesday, leading to the death of one pilot.&nbsp;

The two&nbsp;planes were carrying a total of three pilots — one of the planes had a co-pilot but only two pilots were able to eject.&nbsp;

The crash took place at Bengaluru's Yelahanka air base.&nbsp;

Bengaluru Police added that a civilian was also hurt in the crash.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Inidan Air Force (IAF) on 2 aircraft of Surya Kiran Aerobatics Team crashed today in Bengaluru during rehearsal for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AeroIndia2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AeroIndia2019</a>: Three pilots were occupants. Two pilots ejected and have been evacuated to the Command Hospital. Third pilot sustained fatal injuries. <a href="https://t.co/eSjZPvipAr">pic.twitter.com/eSjZPvipAr</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1097773825528344578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Three pilots involved. One aircraft was flying with both seats occupied. I hope my chute count was wrong.
— Angad Singh (@zone5aviation) <a href="https://twitter.com/zone5aviation/status/1097742918889205760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Two aircraft of Surya Kiran Aerobatics Team crashed today at Yelahanka airbase in Bengaluru, during rehearsal for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AeroIndia2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AeroIndia2019</a>. One civilian hurt. Both pilots ejected, the debris has fallen near ISRO layout, Yelahanka new town area. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> <a href="https://t.co/gJHWx6OtSm">pic.twitter.com/gJHWx6OtSm</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1097757444501958657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Spot visuals: Two aircraft of Surya Kiran Aerobatics Team crashed today at Yelahanka airbase in Bengaluru, during rehearsal for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AeroIndia2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AeroIndia2019</a>. One civilian hurt. Both pilots ejected, the debris has fallen near ISRO layout, Yelahanka new town area. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> <a href="https://t.co/SaQ5NznTjF">pic.twitter.com/SaQ5NznTjF</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1097765712314085376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Surya Kiran is the Indian Air Force's aerobatics&nbsp;team.

The team was formed in 1996,&nbsp;is part of the IAF's 52nd Squadron, and usually performs with nine aircraft.&nbsp;

Aero India will be held in Bangalore from February 20 to 24.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Two Surya Kiran aircraft practising for the upcoming Aero India air show collided in Bengaluru Tuesday, leading to the death of one pilot. The two planes were carrying a total of three pilots — one of the planes had a co-pilot but only two pilots were able to eject.

Two Surya Kiran aircraft practising for the upcoming Aero India air show collided in Bengaluru Tuesday, leading to the death of one pilot. The two planes were carrying a total of three pilots — one of the planes had a co-pilot but only two pilots were able to eject. The crash took place at Bengaluru's Yelahanka air base. Bengaluru Police added that a civilian was also hurt in the crash. Inidan Air Force (IAF) on 2 aircraft of Surya Kiran Aerobatics Team crashed today in Bengaluru during rehearsal for #AeroIndia2019: Three pilots were occupants. Two pilots ejected and have been evacuated to the Command Hospital. Third pilot sustained fatal injuries. pic.twitter.com/eSjZPvipAr — ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2019 × Three pilots involved. One aircraft was flying with both seats occupied. I hope my chute count was wrong. — Angad Singh (@zone5aviation) February 19, 2019 × #WATCH Two aircraft of Surya Kiran Aerobatics Team crashed today at Yelahanka airbase in Bengaluru, during rehearsal for #AeroIndia2019. One civilian hurt. Both pilots ejected, the debris has fallen near ISRO layout, Yelahanka new town area. #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/gJHWx6OtSm — ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2019 × Spot visuals: Two aircraft of Surya Kiran Aerobatics Team crashed today at Yelahanka airbase in Bengaluru, during rehearsal for #AeroIndia2019. One civilian hurt. Both pilots ejected, the debris has fallen near ISRO layout, Yelahanka new town area. #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/SaQ5NznTjF — ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2019 × Surya Kiran is the Indian Air Force's aerobatics team. The team was formed in 1996, is part of the IAF's 52nd Squadron, and usually performs with nine aircraft. Aero India will be held in Bangalore from February 20 to 24.

Two Surya Kiran aircraft collide in Bengaluru, 1 pilot dead

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, who was highly praised for his resolute batting in first-ever Test series win Down Under, was at the receiving end after he was labelled as a 'cheat'.&nbsp;

The incident happened during the Ranji final semi-final against Karnataka in Bengaluru when some cricket fans called him a cheater for escaping a few dismissals.

A video of the incident also went viral where a group of spectators can be heard calling shouting cheater while Pujara walks off the ground at the tea break.

Pujara scored an unbeaten 131 to help Saurashtra beat Karnataka by five wickets to set up a summit clash against Vidarbha, to be played from February 3.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Not the best way to send the best player off for a tea break! Can't say he deserved it, but <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cheteshwar1</a> escapes many many umpiring errors and stays on! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pujara?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pujara</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CheaterCheater?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CheaterCheater</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NobodyEscapesChinnaswamyLove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NobodyEscapesChinnaswamyLove</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RanjiKarnataka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RanjiKarnataka</a> <a href="https://t.co/YLxQzHmSYn">pic.twitter.com/YLxQzHmSYn</a>
— Aditya Bardwaj S (@ABS_08_10) <a href="https://twitter.com/ABS_08_10/status/1089452115431313411?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Pujara's century went in vain as he didn't get due credit for the victory. He&nbsp;was given not out by the on-field umpire after he nicked a ball straight to the wicket-keeper Srinivas Sharath.

After getting a lifeline in the first innings, Pujara edged one behind in the second innings too when he was on 34. The umpire adjudged him not out.

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, who was highly praised for his resolute batting in first-ever Test series win Down Under, was at the receiving end after he was labelled as a 'cheat'.

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, who was highly praised for his resolute batting in first-ever Test series win Down Under, was at the receiving end after he was labelled as a 'cheat'. The incident happened during the Ranji final semi-final against Karnataka in Bengaluru when some cricket fans called him a cheater for escaping a few dismissals. A video of the incident also went viral where a group of spectators can be heard calling shouting cheater while Pujara walks off the ground at the tea break. Pujara scored an unbeaten 131 to help Saurashtra beat Karnataka by five wickets to set up a summit clash against Vidarbha, to be played from February 3. Not the best way to send the best player off for a tea break! Can't say he deserved it, but @cheteshwar1 escapes many many umpiring errors and stays on! #Pujara #CheaterCheater #NobodyEscapesChinnaswamyLove @RanjiKarnataka pic.twitter.com/YLxQzHmSYn — Aditya Bardwaj S (@ABS_08_10) January 27, 2019 × Pujara's century went in vain as he didn't get due credit for the victory. He was given not out by the on-field umpire after he nicked a ball straight to the wicket-keeper Srinivas Sharath. After getting a lifeline in the first innings, Pujara edged one behind in the second innings too when he was on 34. The umpire adjudged him not out.

Watch: Cheteshwar Pujara's century goes in vain after fans call him a 'cheater'

India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt Ltd. unveiled its all-new FZ-FI and FZS-FI with ABS, an addition to the 149 cc segment bike, in Bengaluru on Monday.&nbsp;

The FZ-FI model is priced at Rs. 95,000 (ex-showroom) and will be available in Metric Black and Racing blue colours. Meanwhile, the FZS-FI model which is priced Rs. 97,000 (ex-showroom) will come in Matt black, Dark matt blue, Gray &amp; Cyan Blue variants.&nbsp;

The third generation FZ, now coupled with stylish and sporty features, will flaunt a design proportion that resembles a classic ambush pose of an urban fighter.&nbsp;

Both FZ-FI and FZS-FI come with ABS and mount an air-cooled, 4-stroke, 149cc, SOHC, 2-valve, single-cylinder, fuel-injected 'Blue Core' engine that aggressively certifies the FZ breed by passing down a look based on machismo, big-boned feeling and emphasizes it during straight line acceleration.

The newly launched models are introduced in India on the backdrop of 'The Call of the Blue', a brand campaign launched by Yamaha, last year. The campaign holds the promise of energising the passion of motorcycling in India as per the global standards.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Motofumi Shitara, Chairman, Yamaha Motor India Group of companies said, "The excitement of The Call of the Blue continues with the launch of the new FZ-FI and FZS-FI with ABS in India today as a part of its offering of extraordinary motorcycling experiences from Yamaha. Following the outstanding response from YZF-R15 Version 3.0 launched in the last year, the company is confident to further create a niche in the 150 CC class segment with the new FZ-FI and FZS-FI and this new launch from Yamaha will strengthen the company’s presence in the deluxe class in India."

The company also announced to soon launch several other models enabled with the new ABS technologies.

India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt Ltd. unveiled its all-new FZ-FI and FZS-FI with ABS, an addition to the 149 cc segment bike, in Bengaluru on Monday. The FZ-FI model is priced at Rs.

India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt Ltd. unveiled its all-new FZ-FI and FZS-FI with ABS, an addition to the 149 cc segment bike, in Bengaluru on Monday. The FZ-FI model is priced at Rs. 95,000 (ex-showroom) and will be available in Metric Black and Racing blue colours. Meanwhile, the FZS-FI model which is priced Rs. 97,000 (ex-showroom) will come in Matt black, Dark matt blue, Gray & Cyan Blue variants. The third generation FZ, now coupled with stylish and sporty features, will flaunt a design proportion that resembles a classic ambush pose of an urban fighter. Both FZ-FI and FZS-FI come with ABS and mount an air-cooled, 4-stroke, 149cc, SOHC, 2-valve, single-cylinder, fuel-injected 'Blue Core' engine that aggressively certifies the FZ breed by passing down a look based on machismo, big-boned feeling and emphasizes it during straight line acceleration. The newly launched models are introduced in India on the backdrop of 'The Call of the Blue', a brand campaign launched by Yamaha, last year. The campaign holds the promise of energising the passion of motorcycling in India as per the global standards. Speaking on the occasion, Mr Motofumi Shitara, Chairman, Yamaha Motor India Group of companies said, "The excitement of The Call of the Blue continues with the launch of the new FZ-FI and FZS-FI with ABS in India today as a part of its offering of extraordinary motorcycling experiences from Yamaha. Following the outstanding response from YZF-R15 Version 3.0 launched in the last year, the company is confident to further create a niche in the 150 CC class segment with the new FZ-FI and FZS-FI and this new launch from Yamaha will strengthen the company’s presence in the deluxe class in India." The company also announced to soon launch several other models enabled with the new ABS technologies.

Yamaha India launches third generation FZ-FI and FZS-FI with ABS, price starts from Rs.95000

Huge fire erupts in Bengaluru's Varthur lake

The IT capital of Bengaluru might be reaching new heights with entrepreneurship and investments, but still seems to fall terribly short when it comes to the quality of water it supplies to citizens. Studies have shown that nearly 80% of the drinking water being supplied is unfit for human consumption.&nbsp;

Located at a height of about 1000 metres above sea level, sourcing drinking water for a rapidly growing city like Bengaluru has always been a challenge. With the degradation of the city's lakes over the years, Bengaluru has become increasingly dependent on groundwater.&nbsp;

Nearly 40% of the city makes it own arrangements for water supply, as they do not have BWSSB connections. While water availability is one issue, the bigger problem is that of water quality.

&nbsp;A study by a research scientist in Bengaluru's urban and peri-urban areas found that nearly 80% of the water is contaminated and unfit for consumption. The water was found to contain disease-causing pathogens like E-coli, Salmonella etc.

‘If at all the water is contaminated with E-Coli and thermotolerant Coliforms, then it is unfit for drinking. So, we collected water samples from source and house levels and a majority of the samples were found to contain E-Coli and other coliforms. E-coli is the fecal indicator and it shows the water is fecally contaminated’, says G Sheeba, a Research Officer with the Trans-Disciplinary University in Bengaluru who conducted the study.

The research was conducted in areas that were densely populated and frequently reported cases of gastroenteritis. Tests were conducted on samples from source level, as well as consumption level. Bengaluru's lone Epidemic Diseases hospital over hundred cases of Acute gastroenteritis every month. The hospital in Bengaluru received 118 cases of acute gastroenteritis in November this year, 222 cases in October and 81 cases in September. The numbers also fluctuate depending on the season.

‘There is definitely contamination of water. At least, 95% of the water is contaminated. That is the reason we tell patients to not drink water without boiling or filtering. Those who do not boil water, face these health issues’ says Dr Ansar Ahmed, Medical Superintendent of the Epidemic Diseases Hospital. &nbsp;

Though the presence of pathogens in the drinking water makes it unfit for consumption according to WHO standards, experts in the city feel that problem is much deeper. While filtering and boiling can rid the water of pathogens, increasing cases of chemical and metal contamination, especially surrounding lakebeds is proving to be the biggest challenge.&nbsp;

‘I have seen higher instances of kidney failure in the city. As per statistics about ten years back, one in one lakh people used to have kidney failure, but now it is down to one in five thousand people. If things don’t change, we might have to have dialysis centres set up at our homes’ says IISc Professor Dr TV Ramachandra, who has researched on Bengaluru’s water problems for over 25 years now.

The IT capital of Bengaluru might be reaching new heights with entrepreneurship and investments, but still seems to fall terribly short when it comes to the quality of water it supplies to citizens.

The IT capital of Bengaluru might be reaching new heights with entrepreneurship and investments, but still seems to fall terribly short when it comes to the quality of water it supplies to citizens. Studies have shown that nearly 80% of the drinking water being supplied is unfit for human consumption. Located at a height of about 1000 metres above sea level, sourcing drinking water for a rapidly growing city like Bengaluru has always been a challenge. With the degradation of the city's lakes over the years, Bengaluru has become increasingly dependent on groundwater. Nearly 40% of the city makes it own arrangements for water supply, as they do not have BWSSB connections. While water availability is one issue, the bigger problem is that of water quality. A study by a research scientist in Bengaluru's urban and peri-urban areas found that nearly 80% of the water is contaminated and unfit for consumption. The water was found to contain disease-causing pathogens like E-coli, Salmonella etc. ‘If at all the water is contaminated with E-Coli and thermotolerant Coliforms, then it is unfit for drinking. So, we collected water samples from source and house levels and a majority of the samples were found to contain E-Coli and other coliforms. E-coli is the fecal indicator and it shows the water is fecally contaminated’, says G Sheeba, a Research Officer with the Trans-Disciplinary University in Bengaluru who conducted the study. The research was conducted in areas that were densely populated and frequently reported cases of gastroenteritis. Tests were conducted on samples from source level, as well as consumption level. Bengaluru's lone Epidemic Diseases hospital over hundred cases of Acute gastroenteritis every month. The hospital in Bengaluru received 118 cases of acute gastroenteritis in November this year, 222 cases in October and 81 cases in September. The numbers also fluctuate depending on the season. ‘There is definitely contamination of water. At least, 95% of the water is contaminated. That is the reason we tell patients to not drink water without boiling or filtering. Those who do not boil water, face these health issues’ says Dr Ansar Ahmed, Medical Superintendent of the Epidemic Diseases Hospital. Though the presence of pathogens in the drinking water makes it unfit for consumption according to WHO standards, experts in the city feel that problem is much deeper. While filtering and boiling can rid the water of pathogens, increasing cases of chemical and metal contamination, especially surrounding lakebeds is proving to be the biggest challenge. ‘I have seen higher instances of kidney failure in the city. As per statistics about ten years back, one in one lakh people used to have kidney failure, but now it is down to one in five thousand people. If things don’t change, we might have to have dialysis centres set up at our homes’ says IISc Professor Dr TV Ramachandra, who has researched on Bengaluru’s water problems for over 25 years now.

Bengaluru gets dirty drinking water, 80% unfit for human consumption

A look at Christmas traditions around the world

Tallest Christmas Tree in India unveiled in Bengaluru

Bengaluru celebrates Christmas with India's tallest tree

Study suggests nearly 80% of water is contaminated and unfit for consumption in Bengaluru

Nearly 80% of drinking water contaminated in Bengaluru: Study

Bengaluru hosts India's biggest night drone race

Kannada actor and politician Ambareesh passed away at a private hospital in Bengaluru due to cardiac arrest, sources have said. He was 66.

A former Union minister, Ambareesh was rushed to the hospital after he complained of breathing trouble and passed away on Saturday night, officials at the hospital said.

"Ambareesh was brought to the hospital around 9 pm and he passed away because of cardiac arrest," Vikram Hospital officials told PTI.

According to the hospital spokesman, Ambareesh was found unresponsive at his residence and the resuscitation efforts were initiated there and continued en route while he was shifted to the hospital.

"Despite all aggressive resuscitation efforts, he could not be revived and was declared deceased at 22:15 hrs," the spokesman added.

Ambareesh, a three-time Lok Sabha member and also a former State minister, is survived by actress Sumalatha and son Abishek.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Express my condolences on the passing away of veteran actor, former minister and popular icon Shri. Ambareesh. May the Almighty give strength to his family, friends, fans and followers to bear with this loss. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ambareesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ambareesh</a>
— Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman/status/1066577534333198336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Born as Malavalli Huchche Gowda Amarnath on May 29, 1952, Ambareesh was popularly known as a "rebel star" has acted in over 200 films in a more than four-decade-long movie career with a fan following of his own at the peak of his popularity.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
A wonderful human being ... my best friend ... I have lost you today and will miss you ... Rest In Peace <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ambrish?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ambrish</a>
— Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajinikanth/status/1066389120740519936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Ambareesh had not been keeping well in recent years and was hospitalised frequently. In 2014, he was shifted to the Mount Elizabeth Hospital in Singapore.

Entering the movie world through film "Nagarahavu" (king cobra), directed by veteran late Puttanna Kannagal in 1972, Ambareesh had carved a niche for himself in the Kannada film industry, particularly as an "angry" man, earning the title "rebel star".

Beginning his film career in antagonistic roles, he later emerged on his own to become a hero.

Ambareesh also had a successful career in politics having been an MLA, a Lok Sabha member and a former minister at the state and central levels.

He was in the Janata Dal, the JDS and the Congress in his political career that took a hit when he was asked to resign as minister for housing during the previous Siddaramaiah government.

Ambareesh had served as the Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting from 2006-2007 under former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh but had quit the post over the issue of formation of the Cauvery water dispute tribunal.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
He was not just a great actor, not just a proven politician but also great human being. Ambareesh, u ll be missed. 
 
I am deeply pained by his death. My condolences to all his family members, friends &amp; well-wishers. <a href="https://t.co/UitCU7MHss">pic.twitter.com/UitCU7MHss</a>
— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) <a href="https://twitter.com/siddaramaiah/status/1066391291662032896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He has won several state government film awards and was bestowed with the honorary doctorate by the Dharwad University.

As the news of his death spread, several political leaders including Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy and a host of film personalities visited Vikram Hospital.

A large number of emotional fans and followers also descended at the hospital with some saying that they became "orphans" without their "Ambareesh Anna".

Expressing shock over the demise, Kumaraswamy said Ambaresh's death "an era of love and affection in Kannada film industry has ended".

"He was a rebel who was loved by all. He has carved a unique place in both politics and films," said Kumaraswamy, who himself is a film producer.

Ambreesh had spoken to a couple of Kannada news channels earlier on Saturday, expressing shock and grief over a bus mishap in Mandya, his home district, in which 30 people were killed.

Speaking to reporters after visiting the hospital, Kumaraswamy said, the state government has decided to observe a three-day state mourning as a mark of respect for Ambareesh whose funeral would be held with full state honour.

Calling Ambareesh "Ajatashatru", the Chief Minister appealed to his fans to maintain calm and extend cooperation so that no hindrance is caused to the public at large and the funeral related formalities happen peacefully.

"I can understand your pain, tomorrow morning around 7:30 or 8 his body will be kept at Kanteerava Stadium for paying last respects," he said.

Recalling Ambreesh's bonding with Mandya and Mysuru region, Kumaraswamy said special buses will be arranged from there for his fans and friends to pay their last respects here in Bengaluru.

"We have to build a memorial for him here. Keeping this in view the family has decided to perform his last rites in Bengaluru," Kumaraswamy said while noting his contribution to state, films and politics.

Kannada actor and politician Ambareesh passed away at a private hospital in Bengaluru due to cardiac arrest, sources have said. He was 66. A former Union minister, Ambareesh was rushed to the hospital after he complained of breathing trouble and passed away on Saturday night, officials at the hospital said.

Kannada actor and politician Ambareesh passed away at a private hospital in Bengaluru due to cardiac arrest, sources have said. He was 66. A former Union minister, Ambareesh was rushed to the hospital after he complained of breathing trouble and passed away on Saturday night, officials at the hospital said. "Ambareesh was brought to the hospital around 9 pm and he passed away because of cardiac arrest," Vikram Hospital officials told PTI. According to the hospital spokesman, Ambareesh was found unresponsive at his residence and the resuscitation efforts were initiated there and continued en route while he was shifted to the hospital. "Despite all aggressive resuscitation efforts, he could not be revived and was declared deceased at 22:15 hrs," the spokesman added. Ambareesh, a three-time Lok Sabha member and also a former State minister, is survived by actress Sumalatha and son Abishek. Express my condolences on the passing away of veteran actor, former minister and popular icon Shri. Ambareesh. May the Almighty give strength to his family, friends, fans and followers to bear with this loss. #Ambareesh — Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) November 25, 2018 × Born as Malavalli Huchche Gowda Amarnath on May 29, 1952, Ambareesh was popularly known as a "rebel star" has acted in over 200 films in a more than four-decade-long movie career with a fan following of his own at the peak of his popularity. A wonderful human being ... my best friend ... I have lost you today and will miss you ... Rest In Peace #Ambrish — Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) November 24, 2018 × Ambareesh had not been keeping well in recent years and was hospitalised frequently. In 2014, he was shifted to the Mount Elizabeth Hospital in Singapore. Entering the movie world through film "Nagarahavu" (king cobra), directed by veteran late Puttanna Kannagal in 1972, Ambareesh had carved a niche for himself in the Kannada film industry, particularly as an "angry" man, earning the title "rebel star". Beginning his film career in antagonistic roles, he later emerged on his own to become a hero. Ambareesh also had a successful career in politics having been an MLA, a Lok Sabha member and a former minister at the state and central levels. He was in the Janata Dal, the JDS and the Congress in his political career that took a hit when he was asked to resign as minister for housing during the previous Siddaramaiah government. Ambareesh had served as the Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting from 2006-2007 under former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh but had quit the post over the issue of formation of the Cauvery water dispute tribunal. He was not just a great actor, not just a proven politician but also great human being. Ambareesh, u ll be missed. I am deeply pained by his death. My condolences to all his family members, friends & well-wishers. pic.twitter.com/UitCU7MHss — Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) November 24, 2018 × He has won several state government film awards and was bestowed with the honorary doctorate by the Dharwad University. As the news of his death spread, several political leaders including Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy and a host of film personalities visited Vikram Hospital. A large number of emotional fans and followers also descended at the hospital with some saying that they became "orphans" without their "Ambareesh Anna". Expressing shock over the demise, Kumaraswamy said Ambaresh's death "an era of love and affection in Kannada film industry has ended". "He was a rebel who was loved by all. He has carved a unique place in both politics and films," said Kumaraswamy, who himself is a film producer. Ambreesh had spoken to a couple of Kannada news channels earlier on Saturday, expressing shock and grief over a bus mishap in Mandya, his home district, in which 30 people were killed. Speaking to reporters after visiting the hospital, Kumaraswamy said, the state government has decided to observe a three-day state mourning as a mark of respect for Ambareesh whose funeral would be held with full state honour. Calling Ambareesh "Ajatashatru", the Chief Minister appealed to his fans to maintain calm and extend cooperation so that no hindrance is caused to the public at large and the funeral related formalities happen peacefully. "I can understand your pain, tomorrow morning around 7:30 or 8 his body will be kept at Kanteerava Stadium for paying last respects," he said. Recalling Ambreesh's bonding with Mandya and Mysuru region, Kumaraswamy said special buses will be arranged from there for his fans and friends to pay their last respects here in Bengaluru. "We have to build a memorial for him here. Keeping this in view the family has decided to perform his last rites in Bengaluru," Kumaraswamy said while noting his contribution to state, films and politics.

Former union minister Ambareesh passes away in Bengaluru

This meal is not for the faint-hearted. A suspended table harnessed with 16 metal ropes160 feet above the ground let the gourmet the enjoy food, with a bit of adventure.&nbsp;

The first-of-its-kind restaurant was inaugurated for the first time in India in Bengaluru recently, However,&nbsp;hold your horses, it's a concept that exists in nearly 64 countries already.

Once seated and strapped, 22 diners engage in a culinary adventure of a lifetime, combined with a breathtaking view of the Nagawara Lake and Bengaluru city.

With no wall or side rails, the experience for a diner is that of being suspended in mid-air. The table rotates 360 degrees throughout the hour-long experience.&nbsp;

The guests are required to wear seatbelts, while the staff is equipped with safety harnesses. The planning, guidelines for execution, calculations and simulations have been approved by TUV Rheinland in Germany. The table and equipment also have been procured from the European country, said Nivedika Gupta, chief executive officer, Fly Dining.&nbsp;

In case of an emergency or heavy wind, the table can be lowered in a matter of minutes. A month after its Bengaluru launch, Fly Dining now hopes to set up this unique experience in all major cities of the country, she added.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

This meal is not for the faint-hearted. A suspended table harnessed with 16 metal ropes160 feet above the ground let the gourmet the enjoy food, with a bit of adventure.

This meal is not for the faint-hearted. A suspended table harnessed with 16 metal ropes160 feet above the ground let the gourmet the enjoy food, with a bit of adventure. The first-of-its-kind restaurant was inaugurated for the first time in India in Bengaluru recently, However, hold your horses, it's a concept that exists in nearly 64 countries already. Once seated and strapped, 22 diners engage in a culinary adventure of a lifetime, combined with a breathtaking view of the Nagawara Lake and Bengaluru city. With no wall or side rails, the experience for a diner is that of being suspended in mid-air. The table rotates 360 degrees throughout the hour-long experience. The guests are required to wear seatbelts, while the staff is equipped with safety harnesses. The planning, guidelines for execution, calculations and simulations have been approved by TUV Rheinland in Germany. The table and equipment also have been procured from the European country, said Nivedika Gupta, chief executive officer, Fly Dining. In case of an emergency or heavy wind, the table can be lowered in a matter of minutes. A month after its Bengaluru launch, Fly Dining now hopes to set up this unique experience in all major cities of the country, she added.

Up in the air: Dine in the sky in this Bengaluru restaurant 

Union Minister Ananth Kumar passed away in the wee hours of Monday in Bengaluru.

The 59-year-old political leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had not been keeping well for the past few months.

Kumar held charge of two key ministries - serving as Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers since May 2014 and as Minister of Parliamentary Affairs since July 2016 in the Narendra Modi government. Since 1996 he has represented Bengaluru South constituency in the Lok Sabha.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, "Extremely saddened by the passing away of my valued colleague and friend, Shri Ananth Kumar Ji. He was a remarkable leader, who entered public life at a young age and went on to serve society with utmost diligence and compassion. He will always be remembered for his good work."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Extremely saddened by the passing away of my valued colleague and friend, Shri Ananth Kumar Ji. He was a remarkable leader, who entered public life at a young age and went on to serve society with utmost diligence and compassion. He will always be remembered for his good work.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1061784899802152960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Ananth Kumar Ji was an able administrator, who handled many ministerial portfolios and was a great asset to the BJP organisation. He worked hard to strengthen the Party in Karnataka, particularly in Bengaluru and surrounding areas. He was always accessible to his constituents.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1061785099635613696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I spoke to his wife, Dr. Tejaswini Ji and expressed condolences on the passing away of Shri Ananth Kumar Ji. My thoughts are with his entire family, friends and supporters in this hour of grief and sadness. Om Shanti.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1061785790269640704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Union Minister DV Sadananda Gowda expressed grief over Kumar's demise and tweeted, "Shocked, it's unbelievable, my friend , Brother Ananthkumar is no more."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Shocked , it’s unbelievable , My friend , Brother Ananthkumar is no more . <a href="https://t.co/zMOYEn7gXc">pic.twitter.com/zMOYEn7gXc</a>
— Sadananda Gowda (@DVSBJP) <a href="https://twitter.com/DVSBJP/status/1061776579540455424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tweeted, "Deep sense of grief on hearing that Shri Ananth Kumar is no more with us. Served BJP all along. Bengaluru was in his head and heart, always. May God give his family the strength to bear with this loss."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Deep sense of grief on hearing that Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/AnanthKumar_BJP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnanthKumar_BJP</a> is no more with us. Served <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4Karnataka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4Karnataka</a> all along. Bengaluru was in his head and heart, always. May God give his family the strength to bear with this loss.
— Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman/status/1061777925186486277?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Born on 22 July 1959 in Bengaluru, Kumar did his graduation in the faculty of Arts (B.A) from K S Arts College, Hubli affiliated to the Karnataka University and later, completed his bachelors in law (L.L.B) from J.S.S. Law College affiliated to the Karnataka University.

He is survived by two daughters- Aishwarya and Vijeta and wife Tejaswini.

The mortal remains of Union Minister Ananth Kumar will be kept at National College, Bengaluru, for last tributes.

Union Minister Ananth Kumar passed away in the wee hours of Monday in Bengaluru. The 59-year-old political leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had not been keeping well for the past few months.

Union Minister Ananth Kumar passed away in the wee hours of Monday in Bengaluru. The 59-year-old political leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had not been keeping well for the past few months. Kumar held charge of two key ministries - serving as Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers since May 2014 and as Minister of Parliamentary Affairs since July 2016 in the Narendra Modi government. Since 1996 he has represented Bengaluru South constituency in the Lok Sabha. Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, "Extremely saddened by the passing away of my valued colleague and friend, Shri Ananth Kumar Ji. He was a remarkable leader, who entered public life at a young age and went on to serve society with utmost diligence and compassion. He will always be remembered for his good work." Extremely saddened by the passing away of my valued colleague and friend, Shri Ananth Kumar Ji. He was a remarkable leader, who entered public life at a young age and went on to serve society with utmost diligence and compassion. He will always be remembered for his good work. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 12, 2018 × Ananth Kumar Ji was an able administrator, who handled many ministerial portfolios and was a great asset to the BJP organisation. He worked hard to strengthen the Party in Karnataka, particularly in Bengaluru and surrounding areas. He was always accessible to his constituents. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 12, 2018 × I spoke to his wife, Dr. Tejaswini Ji and expressed condolences on the passing away of Shri Ananth Kumar Ji. My thoughts are with his entire family, friends and supporters in this hour of grief and sadness. Om Shanti. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 12, 2018 × Union Minister DV Sadananda Gowda expressed grief over Kumar's demise and tweeted, "Shocked, it's unbelievable, my friend , Brother Ananthkumar is no more." Shocked , it’s unbelievable , My friend , Brother Ananthkumar is no more . pic.twitter.com/zMOYEn7gXc — Sadananda Gowda (@DVSBJP) November 12, 2018 × Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tweeted, "Deep sense of grief on hearing that Shri Ananth Kumar is no more with us. Served BJP all along. Bengaluru was in his head and heart, always. May God give his family the strength to bear with this loss." Deep sense of grief on hearing that Shri @AnanthKumar_BJP is no more with us. Served @BJP4India @BJP4Karnataka all along. Bengaluru was in his head and heart, always. May God give his family the strength to bear with this loss. — Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) November 12, 2018 × Born on 22 July 1959 in Bengaluru, Kumar did his graduation in the faculty of Arts (B.A) from K S Arts College, Hubli affiliated to the Karnataka University and later, completed his bachelors in law (L.L.B) from J.S.S. Law College affiliated to the Karnataka University. He is survived by two daughters- Aishwarya and Vijeta and wife Tejaswini. The mortal remains of Union Minister Ananth Kumar will be kept at National College, Bengaluru, for last tributes.

Union Minister Ananth Kumar passes away at 59 in Bengaluru

Ballari mining baron and former BJP minister G Janardhan Reddy was arrested Sunday by the Bengaluru Central Crime Branch.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
We have taken the decision to arrest him on the basis of credible evidence and witnesses statements. We will produce him before the magistrate. We are going to recover the money &amp; give it to the investors: Alok Kumar, Additional CP, Central Crime Branch, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bengaluru?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bengaluru</a> <a href="https://t.co/0MvDauU8mO">pic.twitter.com/0MvDauU8mO</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1061529481012232192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ANI added that the Central Crime Branch had also arrested Ali Khan, a close aide of Reddy's.&nbsp;

Reddy was arrested in connection with the alleged Ambident ponzi scheme.&nbsp;

Syed Ahmed Fareed, the owner of Ambident, had claimed he had paid Rs 18 crore to be let off when the ponzi scheme came to light. Fareed said Reddy, who had been a minister in the then BS Yeddyurappa government, had asked for the money during a meeting at a hotel.&nbsp;

Fareed said the money had been paid; that it had been routed to Reddy's aide.&nbsp;

Reddy and two brothers wield enormous influence in Ballari.&nbsp;

Janardhan Reddy himself had been disowned by Amit Shah during campaigning for the assembly elections held in the state in May this year.&nbsp;

But his two brother — Gali Karunakara Reddy and Gali Somashekhara Reddy — were given tickets by the party.

Last week, the BJP lost the Lok Sabha byelections from Ballari.&nbsp;

Ballari mining baron and former BJP minister G Janardhan Reddy was arrested Sunday by the Bengaluru Central Crime Branch. We have taken the decision to arrest him on the basis of credible evidence and witnesses statements.

Ballari mining baron and former BJP minister G Janardhan Reddy was arrested Sunday by the Bengaluru Central Crime Branch. We have taken the decision to arrest him on the basis of credible evidence and witnesses statements. We will produce him before the magistrate. We are going to recover the money & give it to the investors: Alok Kumar, Additional CP, Central Crime Branch, #Bengaluru pic.twitter.com/0MvDauU8mO — ANI (@ANI) November 11, 2018 × ANI added that the Central Crime Branch had also arrested Ali Khan, a close aide of Reddy's. Reddy was arrested in connection with the alleged Ambident ponzi scheme. Syed Ahmed Fareed, the owner of Ambident, had claimed he had paid Rs 18 crore to be let off when the ponzi scheme came to light. Fareed said Reddy, who had been a minister in the then BS Yeddyurappa government, had asked for the money during a meeting at a hotel. Fareed said the money had been paid; that it had been routed to Reddy's aide. Reddy and two brothers wield enormous influence in Ballari. Janardhan Reddy himself had been disowned by Amit Shah during campaigning for the assembly elections held in the state in May this year. But his two brother — Gali Karunakara Reddy and Gali Somashekhara Reddy — were given tickets by the party. Last week, the BJP lost the Lok Sabha byelections from Ballari.

Ballari mining baron Janardhan Reddy arrested in Bengaluru in connection with ponzi scheme

Bengaluru residents fight for clean air

The historic one-off test between India and Afghanistan will commence on June 14 and the craze for the match is already at its peak.

Afghanistan - which received the test playing nation status last June - will play their inaugural game at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Ireland was another country which joined the ranks of full member nations of the International Cricket Council, taking the total number of Test-playing countries to 12.

The Indian cricket board, BCCI, has consistently backed Afghanistan, who played a home match against Ireland last year at a stadium in Greater Noida, on the outskirts of New Delhi.

The Greater Noida Sports Complex Ground is also known as Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex.&nbsp

The stadium became the home ground for the Afghanistan cricket team after they decided to shift their home ground from Sharjah, UAE.

As per reports, Chief Executive of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan will be the chief guest at the inaugural match, to further strengthen the increasing ties between the two countries. &nbsp

Afghan cricket grew out of the refugee camps in Pakistan where many families were based after they fled the Afghan conflict in the 1980s and 1990s.

Now the country is producing world-beaters like 19-year-old spinner Rashid Khan. &nbsp

In March, the teenager became the fastest bowler to reach 100 one-day international wickets. He is currently ranked as the world's top-ranked Twenty20 bowler.

Khan was also one of a handful of Afghan players in this year's Indian Premier League and proved to be one of the most dangerous bowlers.&nbsp

He took 21 wickets for runners-up Kane Williamson-led Hyderabad, who paid 9 crores for his services.

As the country continues to make inroads into the world of cricket, the men’s team has progressed from being a disorganised band of reckless hitters of the ball in the early 2000s to a well-balanced team.

On the other hand, Pakistan, which has been demanding bilateral cricket with India, continues to exploit the ties by funding terror attacks on borders.&nbsp

India and Pakistan have not played bilateral cricket since 2012 due to political tensions between the two neighbours.

Afghanistan have come a long way since making its World T20 debut in 2010. They are ranked ninth in the shortest format and 11th in the 50-over format.

After featuring regularly in the World T20, the Afghans made the 50-over World Cup debut in 2015.

They played six games in the tournament co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand with their sole win coming against Scotland.

Meanwhile, the stand-in India skipper Ajinkya Rahane has also made it clear that they will not take debutants Afghanistan lightly when the two teams lock horns on Thursday.&nbsp

Afghanistan received the test playing nation status last June

The historic one-off test between India and Afghanistan will commence on June 14 and the craze for the match is already at its peak. Afghanistan - which received the test playing nation status last June - will play their inaugural game at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Ireland was another country which joined the ranks of full member nations of the International Cricket Council, taking the total number of Test-playing countries to 12. The Indian cricket board, BCCI, has consistently backed Afghanistan, who played a home match against Ireland last year at a stadium in Greater Noida, on the outskirts of New Delhi. The Greater Noida Sports Complex Ground is also known as Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex. The stadium became the home ground for the Afghanistan cricket team after they decided to shift their home ground from Sharjah, UAE. As per reports, Chief Executive of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan will be the chief guest at the inaugural match, to further strengthen the increasing ties between the two countries. Afghan cricket grew out of the refugee camps in Pakistan where many families were based after they fled the Afghan conflict in the 1980s and 1990s. Now the country is producing world-beaters like 19-year-old spinner Rashid Khan. In March, the teenager became the fastest bowler to reach 100 one-day international wickets. He is currently ranked as the world's top-ranked Twenty20 bowler. Khan was also one of a handful of Afghan players in this year's Indian Premier League and proved to be one of the most dangerous bowlers. He took 21 wickets for runners-up Kane Williamson-led Hyderabad, who paid 9 crores for his services. As the country continues to make inroads into the world of cricket, the men’s team has progressed from being a disorganised band of reckless hitters of the ball in the early 2000s to a well-balanced team. On the other hand, Pakistan, which has been demanding bilateral cricket with India, continues to exploit the ties by funding terror attacks on borders. India and Pakistan have not played bilateral cricket since 2012 due to political tensions between the two neighbours. Afghanistan have come a long way since making its World T20 debut in 2010. They are ranked ninth in the shortest format and 11th in the 50-over format. After featuring regularly in the World T20, the Afghans made the 50-over World Cup debut in 2015. They played six games in the tournament co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand with their sole win coming against Scotland. Meanwhile, the stand-in India skipper Ajinkya Rahane has also made it clear that they will not take debutants Afghanistan lightly when the two teams lock horns on Thursday.

India set to host war-ravaged Afghanistan in historic one-off Test

The voting for Jayanagar constituency in Karnataka's Bengaluru city is underway.

The election was countermanded after the death of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate B.N. Vijayakumar, who was the sitting MLA from the seat.

Currently, BJP has fielded his brother B.N. Prahalad.

Earlier on June 5, JD-S decided to support the Congress after withdrawing its candidate Kalegowda from the Jayanagar assembly constituency that.

The H.D. Kumaraswamy-led party will now support Congress candidate Sowmya Reddy, the daughter of heavyweight R. Ramalinga Reddy.

The party added that it would campaign for the Congress as well.

Counting of votes for the 222 of the 224 assembly seats in Karnataka took place on May 15.

The Bharatiya Janata Party had emerged as the single largest party with 104 seats, while the Congress had managed to win 78 seats and the JD(S) 37 seats.

However, after days of high-political drama in the state, the Congress and the JD(S) came together and managed to form the government in the state in partnership.

The election was countermanded after the death of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate B.N. Vijayakumar, who was the sitting MLA from the seat

The voting for Jayanagar constituency in Karnataka's Bengaluru city is underway. The election was countermanded after the death of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate B.N. Vijayakumar, who was the sitting MLA from the seat. Currently, BJP has fielded his brother B.N. Prahalad. Earlier on June 5, JD-S decided to support the Congress after withdrawing its candidate Kalegowda from the Jayanagar assembly constituency that. The H.D. Kumaraswamy-led party will now support Congress candidate Sowmya Reddy, the daughter of heavyweight R. Ramalinga Reddy. The party added that it would campaign for the Congress as well. Counting of votes for the 222 of the 224 assembly seats in Karnataka took place on May 15. The Bharatiya Janata Party had emerged as the single largest party with 104 seats, while the Congress had managed to win 78 seats and the JD(S) 37 seats. However, after days of high-political drama in the state, the Congress and the JD(S) came together and managed to form the government in the state in partnership.

Bengaluru: Voting underway in Jayanagar constituency after election was countermanded

The same gun was used to kill journalist-activist Gauri Lankesh and rationalist M M Kalburgi in Karnataka, the state forensic science laboratory has confirmed in a report, sources in the SIT said. The forensic report submitted to the Special Investigation Team probing the killing of Lankesh is part of the first charge sheet filed recently by the SIT naming KT Naveen Kumar as an accused.

This is the first official confirmation of the link between the two killings which happened after a gap of two years of each other. Kalburgi (77) was shot dead in his house on August 30, 2015, in Dharwad and 55-year old Lankesh on September 5, 2017&nbspin Bengaluru. The SIT members had earlier talked about the same-gun theory but for the first time it has come out in the open to show that Kalburgi's murder was the handiwork of the same gang.

The bullets in both cases "have been fired through a single country made pistol chambered for 7.65 mm caliber pistol cartridges," a source said quoting the report.

The report also pointed out that the scratches formed by the firing pin on the bullets tallied among themselves. Lankesh, who was known for her strong anti-Hindutva stand, was shot dead in front of her house, triggering a nationwide outrage. The SIT formed to investigate her murder has formally arrested Naveen Kumar of Maddur as one of the accused.

Four more persons have been arrested for allegedly plotting to kill another rationalist and writer K S Bhagawan, also a strong critic of Hindutva. The SIT is also probing whether they have any links with the Gauri murder case.&nbsp

This is the first official confirmation of the link between the two killings which happened after a gap of two years of each other. Kalburgi (77) was shot dead in his house on August 30, 2015, in Dharwad and 55-year old Lankesh on September 5, 2017 in Bengaluru

The same gun was used to kill journalist-activist Gauri Lankesh and rationalist M M Kalburgi in Karnataka, the state forensic science laboratory has confirmed in a report, sources in the SIT said. The forensic report submitted to the Special Investigation Team probing the killing of Lankesh is part of the first charge sheet filed recently by the SIT naming KT Naveen Kumar as an accused. This is the first official confirmation of the link between the two killings which happened after a gap of two years of each other. Kalburgi (77) was shot dead in his house on August 30, 2015, in Dharwad and 55-year old Lankesh on September 5, 2017&nbspin Bengaluru. The SIT members had earlier talked about the same-gun theory but for the first time it has come out in the open to show that Kalburgi's murder was the handiwork of the same gang. The bullets in both cases "have been fired through a single country made pistol chambered for 7.65 mm caliber pistol cartridges," a source said quoting the report. The report also pointed out that the scratches formed by the firing pin on the bullets tallied among themselves. Lankesh, who was known for her strong anti-Hindutva stand, was shot dead in front of her house, triggering a nationwide outrage. The SIT formed to investigate her murder has formally arrested Naveen Kumar of Maddur as one of the accused. Four more persons have been arrested for allegedly plotting to kill another rationalist and writer K S Bhagawan, also a strong critic of Hindutva. The SIT is also probing whether they have any links with the Gauri murder case.

Same gun used to kill Gauri and Kalburgi: Forensic report

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-summons-shashi-tharoor-in-sunanda-pushkar-case--142361">Delhi court summons Shashi Tharoor as the accused in Sunanda Pushkar death case</a>

Shashi Tharoor has been summoned, as the accused, by a Patiala House court in the Sunanda Pushkar death case. Tharoor has been asked to appear before the court on July 7.&nbsp;

The Congress leader has been asked to appear before the court on the morning of July 7. Tharoor is currently in London but is likely to return to India soon.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/constitution-is-in-danger-people-living-in-insecurity-goa-archbishop-142320">Constitution in danger, most people living in insecurity: Archbishop of Goa</a>

Archbishop of Goa and Daman Father Filipe Neri Ferrao has said that the Constitution is in danger and that many people are living in an atmosphere of insecurity.

In a letter addressed to Christians, he said the Constitution should be understood better as general elections are drawing closer. The archbishop also said that human rights are under attack and democracy appears to be in peril.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengaluru-ola-driver-allegedly-molests-passenger-forces-her-to-strip-142425">Bengaluru: Ola driver allegedly molests passenger, forces her to strip</a>

A 26-year-old woman was allegedly molested in Bengaluru by an Ola driver who forced her to strip, news reports said Tuesday.&nbsp;

The news reports said the Ola driver got the woman to strip by threatening to call his friends and have her gang-raped if she did not do his bidding. The driver then allegedly took photos of the woman.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-kims-singapore-summit-to-be-guarded-by-gurkhas-142378">Trump-Kim Singapore summit to be guarded by Gurkhas</a>

When US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un meet for their historic summit in Singapore later this month, they will be protected by men from one of the fiercest warrior tribes in the world — the Gurkhas of Nepal.

While both leaders will bring their own personal security teams, elite Singaporean police, including its Gurkha Contingent, will be securing the summit venue, roads and hotels, according to diplomats familiar with VIP security in the island state.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-priyanka-chopras-quantico-gets-slammed-on-twitter-for-showing-indians-as-terrorists--142423">Priyanka Chopra's 'Quantico' slammed on Twitter for showing Indians as terrorists</a>

Priyanka Chopra's TV series Quantico has run into controversy. The series, which is in its third season now, had an episode where ‘Indian nationalists’ plot a terrorist attack in Manhattan with the intention of blaming it on Pakistan.

The episode has been slammed by Indians on Twitter.&nbsp;

Delhi court summons Shashi Tharoor as the accused in Sunanda Pushkar death case Shashi Tharoor has been summoned, as the accused, by a Patiala House court in the Sunanda Pushkar death case. Tharoor has been asked to appear before the court on July 7. The Congress leader has been asked to appear before the court on the morning of July 7. Tharoor is currently in London but is likely to return to India soon. Constitution in danger, most people living in insecurity: Archbishop of Goa Archbishop of Goa and Daman Father Filipe Neri Ferrao has said that the Constitution is in danger and that many people are living in an atmosphere of insecurity. In a letter addressed to Christians, he said the Constitution should be understood better as general elections are drawing closer. The archbishop also said that human rights are under attack and democracy appears to be in peril. Bengaluru: Ola driver allegedly molests passenger, forces her to strip A 26-year-old woman was allegedly molested in Bengaluru by an Ola driver who forced her to strip, news reports said Tuesday. The news reports said the Ola driver got the woman to strip by threatening to call his friends and have her gang-raped if she did not do his bidding. The driver then allegedly took photos of the woman. Trump-Kim Singapore summit to be guarded by Gurkhas When US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un meet for their historic summit in Singapore later this month, they will be protected by men from one of the fiercest warrior tribes in the world — the Gurkhas of Nepal. While both leaders will bring their own personal security teams, elite Singaporean police, including its Gurkha Contingent, will be securing the summit venue, roads and hotels, according to diplomats familiar with VIP security in the island state. Priyanka Chopra's 'Quantico' slammed on Twitter for showing Indians as terrorists Priyanka Chopra's TV series Quantico has run into controversy. The series, which is in its third season now, had an episode where ‘Indian nationalists’ plot a terrorist attack in Manhattan with the intention of blaming it on Pakistan. The episode has been slammed by Indians on Twitter.

News brief: Big stories of the day

A 26-year-old woman was allegedly molested in Bengaluru by an Ola driver who forced her to strip, news reports said Tuesday.&nbsp;

The news reports said the Ola driver got the woman to strip by threatening to call his friends and have her gang-raped if she did not do his bidding. The driver then allegedly took photos of the woman.&nbsp;

The incident took place in the early hours of June 1 while the woman, a city-based architect, was on her way to the airport to catch a flight to Mumbai.&nbsp;

The news reports said the woman had caught the Ola cab from her home in JB Nagar.&nbsp;

The driver however&nbsp;stopped the car at a deserted spot near the airport,&nbsp;locked her in, and assaulted her.&nbsp;

He allegedly snatched her phone, and threatened to call his friends and have her gang-raped if she alerted anybody.&nbsp;

To get away from him, the reports said the woman assured him she would not tell anyone.&nbsp;

The driver then dropped her to the airport, from where she complained to the police.&nbsp;

The reports said the driver was arrested within 3 hours.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
We regret the unfortunate experience the customer had. We've zero tolerance for such incidents&driver's been blacklisted. Safety of customers our top priority. We're extending full support to police in probe: Ola spox on Ola driver arrested for molesting woman passenger in K'taka <a href="https://t.co/dm5XxXyYpI">pic.twitter.com/dm5XxXyYpI</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1003973027338448896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Ola meanwhile released a statement saying they had "zero tolerance for such incidents" and had "blacklisted" the driver.&nbsp;

The Ola driver got the woman to strip by threatening to call his friends and have her gang-raped if she did not do his bidding. The driver then allegedly photos of the woman

A 26-year-old woman was allegedly molested in Bengaluru by an Ola driver who forced her to strip, news reports said Tuesday. The news reports said the Ola driver got the woman to strip by threatening to call his friends and have her gang-raped if she did not do his bidding. The driver then allegedly took photos of the woman. The incident took place in the early hours of June 1 while the woman, a city-based architect, was on her way to the airport to catch a flight to Mumbai. The news reports said the woman had caught the Ola cab from her home in JB Nagar. The driver however stopped the car at a deserted spot near the airport, locked her in, and assaulted her. He allegedly snatched her phone, and threatened to call his friends and have her gang-raped if she alerted anybody. To get away from him, the reports said the woman assured him she would not tell anyone. The driver then dropped her to the airport, from where she complained to the police. The reports said the driver was arrested within 3 hours. We regret the unfortunate experience the customer had. We've zero tolerance for such incidents&driver's been blacklisted. Safety of customers our top priority. We're extending full support to police in probe: Ola spox on Ola driver arrested for molesting woman passenger in K'taka pic.twitter.com/dm5XxXyYpI — ANI (@ANI) June 5, 2018 × Ola meanwhile released a statement saying they had "zero tolerance for such incidents" and had "blacklisted" the driver.

Bengaluru: Ola driver allegedly molests passenger, forces her to strip

In an emotional speech before stepping down as Chief Minister, B S Yeddyurappa today accused the Congress-JDS combine of forming an "opportunistic" alliance and said the popular mandate had been subverted due to their "conspiracy".

Yeddyurappa admitted he had expected opposition MLAs to cross-vote. To realise the public mandate and with development in mind, he said he asked members for a vote of conscience.

"It is true that I had spoken to a few of them (in the opposition)," Yeddyurappa said.

Stating that BJP believes in the democratic system, he said he had expected MLAs "on the other side" would understand that in today's political situation, things would change if his government came to power, when the Narendra&nbsp;Modi government is at the Centre. "Some people had agreed to cooperate," he said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hd-kumaraswamy-to-take-oath-as-karnataka-chief-minister-on-monday-138283">HD Kumaraswamy to take oath as Karnataka Chief Minister on May 23</a>&nbsp;

He however added, "Who am I to question in politics? Expectation is different, there may be differences." Assuring people that "till his last breath", he will travel across Karnataka, he said he would explain the developments and ensure that the party wins all 28 seats of the state in the Lok Sabha elections next year and "give it as a gift to Prime Minister Narendra Modi".

Yeddyurappa, who announced his decision without facing the trust vote after not being able to rustle up the numbers, charged that the JDS-combine had kept the MLAs in captivity.

"You kept MLAs in captivity. The situation of those MLAs was so pitiable that they could not speak to their families on phone," he said in his speech after moving the motion of confidence to face the trial of strength.Taunting Congress and JDS, a glum-looking Yeddyurappa said, "Today the family members may be a bit happy as they are seeing them (MLAs)."

Governor Vajubhai Vala had given a 15-day window to Yeddyurappa, but it was truncated by the Supreme Court, which ordered that the floor test be held within a day itself. Yeddyurappa said the Congress did not get people's mandate, nor did the JDS.

He said those who traded charges and counter-charges, after being defeated at the hustings, were indulging in "opportunistic politics"&nbsp;against the people's mandate and had come to an understanding.

The Governor had invited the BJP as it had emerged as the single largest party, Yeddyurappa said.

"I feel today it is like agni pareekshe (trial by fire).

It is not the first time. All my life it has been agni pareekshe," he said, tracing the journey of the BJP when it had only two members and the present state it had reached.

"If people of the state had thought for a second and had given us 113 seats, the picture of this state would have changed, and the picture of development would have changed.But God's will was different" he said on a philosophical note.

To Kumaraswamy, he said "I have come through struggle. Someone said if you don't give me power I will end my life...I won't say that. Whether I get power or not, I will give my life for the people."

Yeddyurappa said he is indebted to people who have shown him love. "Due to our Congress' friends conspiracy, the public mandate and democratic system has been subverted," he said.

"In the wake of this, I'm not pressing this motion of confidence, and I will resign. I will go to people against this politics of anti democracy and seek justice. I will directly go to the Governor and submit my resignation as Chief Minister," he said.&nbsp;

To realise the public mandate and with development in mind, Yeddyurappa said he asked opposition MLAs for a vote of conscience

In an emotional speech before stepping down as Chief Minister, B S Yeddyurappa today accused the Congress-JDS combine of forming an "opportunistic" alliance and said the popular mandate had been subverted due to their "conspiracy". Yeddyurappa admitted he had expected opposition MLAs to cross-vote. To realise the public mandate and with development in mind, he said he asked members for a vote of conscience. "It is true that I had spoken to a few of them (in the opposition)," Yeddyurappa said. Stating that BJP believes in the democratic system, he said he had expected MLAs "on the other side" would understand that in today's political situation, things would change if his government came to power, when the Narendra Modi government is at the Centre. "Some people had agreed to cooperate," he said. Also read: HD Kumaraswamy to take oath as Karnataka Chief Minister on May 23 He however added, "Who am I to question in politics? Expectation is different, there may be differences." Assuring people that "till his last breath", he will travel across Karnataka, he said he would explain the developments and ensure that the party wins all 28 seats of the state in the Lok Sabha elections next year and "give it as a gift to Prime Minister Narendra Modi". Yeddyurappa, who announced his decision without facing the trust vote after not being able to rustle up the numbers, charged that the JDS-combine had kept the MLAs in captivity. "You kept MLAs in captivity. The situation of those MLAs was so pitiable that they could not speak to their families on phone," he said in his speech after moving the motion of confidence to face the trial of strength.Taunting Congress and JDS, a glum-looking Yeddyurappa said, "Today the family members may be a bit happy as they are seeing them (MLAs)." Governor Vajubhai Vala had given a 15-day window to Yeddyurappa, but it was truncated by the Supreme Court, which ordered that the floor test be held within a day itself. Yeddyurappa said the Congress did not get people's mandate, nor did the JDS. He said those who traded charges and counter-charges, after being defeated at the hustings, were indulging in "opportunistic politics" against the people's mandate and had come to an understanding. The Governor had invited the BJP as it had emerged as the single largest party, Yeddyurappa said. "I feel today it is like agni pareekshe (trial by fire). It is not the first time. All my life it has been agni pareekshe," he said, tracing the journey of the BJP when it had only two members and the present state it had reached. "If people of the state had thought for a second and had given us 113 seats, the picture of this state would have changed, and the picture of development would have changed.But God's will was different" he said on a philosophical note. To Kumaraswamy, he said "I have come through struggle. Someone said if you don't give me power I will end my life...I won't say that. Whether I get power or not, I will give my life for the people." Yeddyurappa said he is indebted to people who have shown him love. "Due to our Congress' friends conspiracy, the public mandate and democratic system has been subverted," he said. "In the wake of this, I'm not pressing this motion of confidence, and I will resign. I will go to people against this politics of anti democracy and seek justice. I will directly go to the Governor and submit my resignation as Chief Minister," he said.

Yeddyurappa admits he asked opposition MLAs to cross-vote

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/passenger-plane-crashes-in-cuba-killing-more-than-100-people-138046">Passenger plane crashes in Cuba, killing more than 100 people</a>

More than 100 people were killed in a fiery crash of a Boeing 737 passenger plane in Cuba on Friday, with just three seriously injured survivors in hospital after being pulled from the wreckage, officials and state media said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ten-dead-in-texas-school-shooting-student-arrested-138048">Ten dead in Texas school shooting, student arrested</a>

Ten people, mostly students, were killed in a deadly attack when a 17-year-old fellow student opened fire at his Texas High school on Friday.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jds-congress-mlas-head-back-to-bengaluru-for-floor-test-today-138058">JD(S), Congress MLAs arrive in Bengaluru for floor test today</a>

Newly-elected JD(S) and Congress lawmakers from Karnataka, who had been camping in two hotels in Hyderabad to avoid any poaching bids, arrived in Bengaluru today&nbspfor the crucial floor test in the state assembly.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-floor-test-in-karnataka-section-144-imposed-in-mangalore--138055">Ahead of floor test in Karnataka, section 144 imposed in Mangalore</a>

To avoid any kind of mishap in Karnataka ahead of the floor test, the&nbspadministration has imposed Section 144 in the state's Mangalore city.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/pm-modi-to-inaugurate-india's-longest-road-tunnel-in-j&k-today-138056#photo-138050">PM Modi to inaugurate India's longest road tunnel in J&K today</a>

Zojila tunnel will India's longest road tunnel and Asia's longest bi-directional tunnel. The 14.2 km tunnel is estimated to cost over 6,000 crores and will cut travel time between Srinagar to Leh

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-pm-modi-to-inaugurate-kishanganga-hydroelectricity-plant-that-was-once-halted-by-pakistan-138063">J&K: PM Modi to inaugurate Kishanganga Hydroelectricity plant that was once halted by Pakistan</a>

PM Modi will inaugurate&nbspKishanganga Hydroelectric Plant, the Megawatt hydroelectricity project&nbspin Jammu and Kashmir today.&nbsp

Passenger plane crashes in Cuba, killing more than 100 people More than 100 people were killed in a fiery crash of a Boeing 737 passenger plane in Cuba on Friday, with just three seriously injured survivors in hospital after being pulled from the wreckage, officials and state media said. Ten dead in Texas school shooting, student arrested Ten people, mostly students, were killed in a deadly attack when a 17-year-old fellow student opened fire at his Texas High school on Friday. JD(S), Congress MLAs arrive in Bengaluru for floor test today Newly-elected JD(S) and Congress lawmakers from Karnataka, who had been camping in two hotels in Hyderabad to avoid any poaching bids, arrived in Bengaluru today&nbspfor the crucial floor test in the state assembly. Ahead of floor test in Karnataka, section 144 imposed in Mangalore To avoid any kind of mishap in Karnataka ahead of the floor test, the&nbspadministration has imposed Section 144 in the state's Mangalore city. PM Modi to inaugurate India's longest road tunnel in J&K today Zojila tunnel will India's longest road tunnel and Asia's longest bi-directional tunnel. The 14.2 km tunnel is estimated to cost over 6,000 crores and will cut travel time between Srinagar to Leh J&K: PM Modi to inaugurate Kishanganga Hydroelectricity plant that was once halted by Pakistan PM Modi will inaugurate&nbspKishanganga Hydroelectric Plant, the Megawatt hydroelectricity project&nbspin Jammu and Kashmir today.

The BJP today alleged that the Congress has forged the signatures of many of its legislators while submitting the party's list of MLAs to the Governor claiming it had the numbers to form the government.

Addressing reporters here, Union Human Resources Minister Prakash Javadekar said one was at a loss to understand how Congress could collect the signatures of all the MLAs even before they arrived in Bengaluru and attended the Congress Legislature Party meeting.

He said forging signatures and other documents were not something new to the Congress.

When the polls in Manipur threw up a hung Assembly, Congress submitted a forged letter of support of the Manipur People's Party. However, it was found that the grand old party had forged it, he said.

In Karnataka also, the Congress had resorted to their age-old practice, Javadekar said, adding the party has become synonymous with the word forgery.

Defending Governor Vajubhai Vala's action in inviting BJP to form the government, Javadekar said he had only followed the rulebook as there was no pre-poll alliance in Karnataka and Congress and JDS were bitter foes before the poll, where the parties' leaders called each other names.

"During his election campaign in Karnataka, Congress President Rahul Gandhi had termed JDS as the 'B' team of BJP. He had said that JD(S) means nothing but Janata Dal Sangh Parivar. Now they are trying to cobble together an alliance, which is nothing but a sheer opportunistic move," he said.

TheGovernor did the right thing by inviting the single largest party tt&nbspform the government and prove the majority on the floor of theHouse, he added.

Javadekar said it was sad that Congress has held its MLAs captive in 'isolated resorts', severing contacts with their families and not even being allowed to watch newschannels.

Referring to Congress President Rahul Gandhi's remark at Raipur today that the judiciary had been suppressed, Javadekar reminded him of the dark days ofthe Emergency in 1975.

"The grand old party had not only overturned the judicial system but also suppressed the freedom of the press. Instead of seeking pardon for their sins, the Congress leader is tryingto create a false perception," he said.

Against the backdrop of the developments in Karnataka, Gandhi asserted at an event in Raipur that the Constitution is under 'severe attack', even as he said the judiciary and the press were under "fear" that usually happens in Pakistan under "dictatorship" and some African countries ruled by Generals.

He alleged there was an atmosphere of fear in the country with even institutions such as the judiciary and the press being suppressed and threatened.

When the polls in Manipur threw up a hung Assembly, Congress submitted a forged letter of support of the Manipur People's Party. However, it was found that the grand old party had forged it, he said.

The BJP today alleged that the Congress has forged the signatures of many of its legislators while submitting the party's list of MLAs to the Governor claiming it had the numbers to form the government. Addressing reporters here, Union Human Resources Minister Prakash Javadekar said one was at a loss to understand how Congress could collect the signatures of all the MLAs even before they arrived in Bengaluru and attended the Congress Legislature Party meeting. He said forging signatures and other documents were not something new to the Congress. When the polls in Manipur threw up a hung Assembly, Congress submitted a forged letter of support of the Manipur People's Party. However, it was found that the grand old party had forged it, he said. In Karnataka also, the Congress had resorted to their age-old practice, Javadekar said, adding the party has become synonymous with the word forgery. Defending Governor Vajubhai Vala's action in inviting BJP to form the government, Javadekar said he had only followed the rulebook as there was no pre-poll alliance in Karnataka and Congress and JDS were bitter foes before the poll, where the parties' leaders called each other names. "During his election campaign in Karnataka, Congress President Rahul Gandhi had termed JDS as the 'B' team of BJP. He had said that JD(S) means nothing but Janata Dal Sangh Parivar. Now they are trying to cobble together an alliance, which is nothing but a sheer opportunistic move," he said. TheGovernor did the right thing by inviting the single largest party tt&nbspform the government and prove the majority on the floor of theHouse, he added. Javadekar said it was sad that Congress has held its MLAs captive in 'isolated resorts', severing contacts with their families and not even being allowed to watch newschannels. Referring to Congress President Rahul Gandhi's remark at Raipur today that the judiciary had been suppressed, Javadekar reminded him of the dark days ofthe Emergency in 1975. "The grand old party had not only overturned the judicial system but also suppressed the freedom of the press. Instead of seeking pardon for their sins, the Congress leader is tryingto create a false perception," he said. Against the backdrop of the developments in Karnataka, Gandhi asserted at an event in Raipur that the Constitution is under 'severe attack', even as he said the judiciary and the press were under "fear" that usually happens in Pakistan under "dictatorship" and some African countries ruled by Generals. He alleged there was an atmosphere of fear in the country with even institutions such as the judiciary and the press being suppressed and threatened.

'Signatures of several Congress MLAs in letter to Governor forged'

Polling in RR Nagar in Bengaluru has been deferred to may 28.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, 9,746 voter IDs were recovered from a flat in the area.&nbsp;

Both the Congress and the BJP accused each other of being responsible for the ID cards.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at a campaign rally that the Congress was making fake voter IDs in order to avoid defeat.&nbsp;

The Congress meanwhile said both the owner and tenant of the flat from where the voter IDs were recovered were BJP leaders.&nbsp;

The counting of votes at RR Nagar will take place on May 31.&nbsp;

Karnataka goes to the polls on May 12. The results will be out on May 15.&nbsp;

The counting of votes at RR Nagar will take place on May 31. Karnataka goes to the polls on May 12

Polling in RR Nagar in Bengaluru has been deferred to may 28. Earlier this week, 9,746 voter IDs were recovered from a flat in the area. Both the Congress and the BJP accused each other of being responsible for the ID cards. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at a campaign rally that the Congress was making fake voter IDs in order to avoid defeat. The Congress meanwhile said both the owner and tenant of the flat from where the voter IDs were recovered were BJP leaders. The counting of votes at RR Nagar will take place on May 31. Karnataka goes to the polls on May 12. The results will be out on May 15.

Polling in Bengaluru's RR Nagar, where fake voter IDs were found, deferred to May 28

Two days after the discovery of a huge cache of Electors Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) at an apartment in Bengaluru, police on Thursday registered an FIR naming a sitting Congress MLA Munirathna as one of the accused.

Briefing reporters, the chief electoral officer of Karnataka Sanjeev Kumar said all the reports on the case had been submitted to the Election Commission of India.

Similarly, the deputy commissioner had visited the spot, gathered information and sent a report to headquarters.

He said the commission would take a decision soon whether to countermand the election in Rajarajeshwari Nagar assembly constituency where the seizures were made.

Declining to divulge more information, Kumar said, "Every detail of the FIR cannot be shared but what you are saying (about the sitting MLA being an accused) is a fact.."

Asked about the recommendation he has made to the ECI, Kumar said it was not something to be discussed as sharing the details would vitiate the process of decisionmaking.

The CEO said about 800 EPICs found in the apartment were verified and they were found to be 100 per cent genuine and original.

"Some of them are as old as 2012, which cannot be manufactured overnight."

Kumar also clarified that the integrity of the electoral list was not compromised.

"That can be completely ruled out because more than 800 have been thoroughly verified. There is no problem with the electoral roll," he said.

The CEO said the FIR was registered under various IPC sections and the Representation of People Act-1951.

Explaining the modus operandi, Kumar said a systematic survey was carried out in the RR Nagar constituency of each household with photographs of voters and their houses.

Details like their names, cases and even requirements like widow pension card, old age pension card and ration card was done, he said.

"Systematically, it is for influencing the voters. That is very much there. That is the precise case."

To a question whether a person accused of electoral malpractice can contest elections, Kumar said, "Let us not jump to conclusion. FIR is not a charge sheet. FIR is not even a conviction. There are three stages."

Munirathna, however, refuted the allegation.

"I have built many houses under Rajiv Awas Yojana. After giving so many facilities in the constituency, why did I or my party require to collect the voter ID?" he said.

He said such incidents used to take place in Hebbal assembly constituency in Bengaluru where voter IDs of the minorities were collected.

Following registration of the FIR, BJP national president Amit Shah accused Congress of making desperate attempts to win elections in an "undemocratic" way.

He said the developments in the last three days have sent a shockwave among those having faith in democracy.

"The way bogus EPIC were made in a flat at RR Nagar, the way counterfoils of forms for inclusion of voters were found, the way colour printers and computers were found there, it tells us how desperately the Congress wants to win the election," Shah said.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Chief Electoral Officer said the commission would take a decision soon whether to countermand the election in Rajarajeshwari Nagar assembly constituency where the seizures were made

Two days after the discovery of a huge cache of Electors Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) at an apartment in Bengaluru, police on Thursday registered an FIR naming a sitting Congress MLA Munirathna as one of the accused. Briefing reporters, the chief electoral officer of Karnataka Sanjeev Kumar said all the reports on the case had been submitted to the Election Commission of India. Similarly, the deputy commissioner had visited the spot, gathered information and sent a report to headquarters. He said the commission would take a decision soon whether to countermand the election in Rajarajeshwari Nagar assembly constituency where the seizures were made. Declining to divulge more information, Kumar said, "Every detail of the FIR cannot be shared but what you are saying (about the sitting MLA being an accused) is a fact.." Asked about the recommendation he has made to the ECI, Kumar said it was not something to be discussed as sharing the details would vitiate the process of decisionmaking. The CEO said about 800 EPICs found in the apartment were verified and they were found to be 100 per cent genuine and original. "Some of them are as old as 2012, which cannot be manufactured overnight." Kumar also clarified that the integrity of the electoral list was not compromised. "That can be completely ruled out because more than 800 have been thoroughly verified. There is no problem with the electoral roll," he said. The CEO said the FIR was registered under various IPC sections and the Representation of People Act-1951. Explaining the modus operandi, Kumar said a systematic survey was carried out in the RR Nagar constituency of each household with photographs of voters and their houses. Details like their names, cases and even requirements like widow pension card, old age pension card and ration card was done, he said. "Systematically, it is for influencing the voters. That is very much there. That is the precise case." To a question whether a person accused of electoral malpractice can contest elections, Kumar said, "Let us not jump to conclusion. FIR is not a charge sheet. FIR is not even a conviction. There are three stages." Munirathna, however, refuted the allegation. "I have built many houses under Rajiv Awas Yojana. After giving so many facilities in the constituency, why did I or my party require to collect the voter ID?" he said. He said such incidents used to take place in Hebbal assembly constituency in Bengaluru where voter IDs of the minorities were collected. Following registration of the FIR, BJP national president Amit Shah accused Congress of making desperate attempts to win elections in an "undemocratic" way. He said the developments in the last three days have sent a shockwave among those having faith in democracy. "The way bogus EPIC were made in a flat at RR Nagar, the way counterfoils of forms for inclusion of voters were found, the way colour printers and computers were found there, it tells us how desperately the Congress wants to win the election," Shah said.

Karnataka fake voter IDs: FIR registered against sitting Congress MLA

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh today launched a scathing attack on the Modi government for its "disastrous policies" and "economic mismanagement", and said the country was facing crises that were avoidable.

Singh attacked the government over a series of banking sector frauds, saying the money swindled almost quadrupled from Rs 28,416 crore in September 2013 to Rs 1.11 lakh crore in September 2017.

"Perpetrators of these frauds meanwhile escape with impunity. The economic mismanagement of the Modi government, and I say this with great care and responsibility, is slowly eroding the trust of the general public in the banking sector," he said.

"Our nation today is experiencing difficult times. Our farmers are facing an acute crisis, our aspirational youth are not finding opportunities, and the economy is growing below its potential," Singh told reporters here.

He said the "unfortunate truth" was that each of these crises was "entirely avoidable".

"It pains me to see how rather than standing up to all these challenges, the governments response has been to stifle dissent when deficiencies are pointed out," he said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>It pains me to see how rather than standing up to all these challenges, the governments response has been to stifle dissent when deficiencies are pointed out'</h5>
</blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=It pains me to see how rather than standing up to all these challenges, the governments response has been to stifle dissent when deficiencies are pointed out'" target="_blank">&nbsp;</a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">×</a></div>
</div>
</div>

Noting that economic policy has a significant impact on the lives of people, he said it was essential that those tasked with decision making pay careful attention to policies and programmes and not act on mere whims and fancies.

"India is a complex and diverse country and no one person can be the repository of all wisdom," he said in an apparent dig at Modi.

He said every time an answer was sought for any of the "disastrous policies" of the BJP government, "all we hear is that the intentions are virtuous".

Singh said the intentions of the Modi government which it claimed were good, had resulted in "massive" losses for the country.

"Its lack of reasoning and analysis is costing India and our collective future."

The former prime minister said under the UPA governments the growth rate averaged 7 per cent. It was 8 per cent at one point of time despite turbulent global conditions, he said.

The NDA government, he said, clocked inferior growth rate despite a favourable international climate and low oil prices. In fact, growth rate under the NDA is lower in spite of the change in the methodology to determine it "which paints a rosier picture than reality", Singh said. 
According to Singh, two "major avoidable blunders" of the Modi government had been demonetisation and hasty implementation of GST.

He said the losses the economy suffered due to these blunders had severely hurt the micro, small and medium enterprises and resulted in the loss of tens of thousands of jobs. 
Besides, exports as a share of the GDP plunged to a 14 year low at a time when the global economy was reviving and exports of other Asian nations like Vietnam were growing substantially, he said.

Singh said petrol and diesel prices were at a "historic high" despite a fall in international crude oil prices because the Modi government had chosen to levy "excessive" excise duty.

"Instead of passing on the benefits of low prices to the people, the Modi government has punished the people," he said.&nbsp;

'Our farmers are facing an acute crisis, our aspirational youth are not finding opportunities, and the economy is growing below its potential,' Singh said

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh today launched a scathing attack on the Modi government for its "disastrous policies" and "economic mismanagement", and said the country was facing crises that were avoidable. Singh attacked the government over a series of banking sector frauds, saying the money swindled almost quadrupled from Rs 28,416 crore in September 2013 to Rs 1.11 lakh crore in September 2017. "Perpetrators of these frauds meanwhile escape with impunity. The economic mismanagement of the Modi government, and I say this with great care and responsibility, is slowly eroding the trust of the general public in the banking sector," he said. "Our nation today is experiencing difficult times. Our farmers are facing an acute crisis, our aspirational youth are not finding opportunities, and the economy is growing below its potential," Singh told reporters here. He said the "unfortunate truth" was that each of these crises was "entirely avoidable". "It pains me to see how rather than standing up to all these challenges, the governments response has been to stifle dissent when deficiencies are pointed out," he said. It pains me to see how rather than standing up to all these challenges, the governments response has been to stifle dissent when deficiencies are pointed out' × Noting that economic policy has a significant impact on the lives of people, he said it was essential that those tasked with decision making pay careful attention to policies and programmes and not act on mere whims and fancies. "India is a complex and diverse country and no one person can be the repository of all wisdom," he said in an apparent dig at Modi. He said every time an answer was sought for any of the "disastrous policies" of the BJP government, "all we hear is that the intentions are virtuous". Singh said the intentions of the Modi government which it claimed were good, had resulted in "massive" losses for the country. "Its lack of reasoning and analysis is costing India and our collective future." The former prime minister said under the UPA governments the growth rate averaged 7 per cent. It was 8 per cent at one point of time despite turbulent global conditions, he said. The NDA government, he said, clocked inferior growth rate despite a favourable international climate and low oil prices. In fact, growth rate under the NDA is lower in spite of the change in the methodology to determine it "which paints a rosier picture than reality", Singh said. According to Singh, two "major avoidable blunders" of the Modi government had been demonetisation and hasty implementation of GST. He said the losses the economy suffered due to these blunders had severely hurt the micro, small and medium enterprises and resulted in the loss of tens of thousands of jobs. Besides, exports as a share of the GDP plunged to a 14 year low at a time when the global economy was reviving and exports of other Asian nations like Vietnam were growing substantially, he said. Singh said petrol and diesel prices were at a "historic high" despite a fall in international crude oil prices because the Modi government had chosen to levy "excessive" excise duty. "Instead of passing on the benefits of low prices to the people, the Modi government has punished the people," he said.

Our nation today is experiencing difficult times: Manmohan Singh

Traffic congestion doesn't only cause inconvenience, other than contributing to the dipping air quality, traffic jams also cost the economy. Boston Consultancy Group, a global consultancy firm has come up with a report stating that traffic congestion in top Indian cities -- Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Kolkata -- cost nearly Rs. 1.5 lakh crore annually to the economy.&nbsp;

According to the report, commuters usually end up spending almost one-and-a-half time longer to travel the usual distance during peak hours -- 7 to 9 am and 6 to 8 pm.&nbsp;

Kolkata was rated the worst city when it came to traffic congestion followed by Bengaluru. The report suggested Delhiites to still have a better experience with traffic congestions over commuters in cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai and Kolkata, owing to a better road network.&nbsp;

The report surveyed almost 300 people from each city and studied the top modes of transportation used by the public. Delhi, for instance, had most people commuting via private cards while for Mumbaikars public transport like the local train was the top choice of transportation.&nbsp;

The report also suggested Bengaluru to be in a pressing need of better road network.&nbsp;

According to a report, commuters usually end up spending almost one-and-a-half time longer to travel the usual distance during peak hours

Traffic congestion doesn't only cause inconvenience, other than contributing to the dipping air quality, traffic jams also cost the economy. Boston Consultancy Group, a global consultancy firm has come up with a report stating that traffic congestion in top Indian cities -- Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Kolkata -- cost nearly Rs. 1.5 lakh crore annually to the economy. According to the report, commuters usually end up spending almost one-and-a-half time longer to travel the usual distance during peak hours -- 7 to 9 am and 6 to 8 pm. Kolkata was rated the worst city when it came to traffic congestion followed by Bengaluru. The report suggested Delhiites to still have a better experience with traffic congestions over commuters in cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai and Kolkata, owing to a better road network. The report surveyed almost 300 people from each city and studied the top modes of transportation used by the public. Delhi, for instance, had most people commuting via private cards while for Mumbaikars public transport like the local train was the top choice of transportation. The report also suggested Bengaluru to be in a pressing need of better road network.

Traffic congestion in 4 top Indian cities costs economy nearly Rs 1.5 lakh crore: Report

In one of the biggest asset declaration for the upcoming Karnataka elections, the state's Energy Minister DK Shivakumar's wealth has shown an increase of Rs 589 crore since the last assembly polls.

The declaration revealed an increase of Rs 589 crore in his wealth since 2013 elections.&nbsp;In 2013, Shivkumar's declared asset amounted to Rs 251 crore&nbsp;and Rs 75 crore in 2008. For the 2018 Karnataka polls, his 94-page affidavit revealed an asset of over Rs 840 crore.

The Congress leader filed his nomination for the Kanakapura constituency near Bengaluru on Thursday for the polls to be held on May 12.

His wealth tops the list of over 100 candidates who filed their nominations since April 17.

Much of the increase in his wealth is linked to an increase in the market value of land holdings.&nbsp;Besides his name, his assets are also shown in the name of his wife.

The Congress minister had organised a stay of about 43 MLAs from Gujarat in Bengaluru ahead of Rajya Sabha elections. Following which his properties were searched twice by the Income Tax officials.&nbsp;Tax officials then claimed to have uncovered over Rs 300 crore of undisclosed income from Shivkumar and his associates.

Considered as a strong leader in the Vokkaliga community, he is leading the party's campaign committee for the state polls.

The declaration revealed an increase of Rs 589 crore in his wealth since 2013 elections. In 2013, Shivkumar's declared asset amounted to Rs 251 crore and Rs 75 crore in 2008. For the 2018 Karnataka polls, his 94-page affidavit revealed an asset of Rs 840 crore

In one of the biggest asset declaration for the upcoming Karnataka elections, the state's Energy Minister DK Shivakumar's wealth has shown an increase of Rs 589 crore since the last assembly polls. The declaration revealed an increase of Rs 589 crore in his wealth since 2013 elections. In 2013, Shivkumar's declared asset amounted to Rs 251 crore and Rs 75 crore in 2008. For the 2018 Karnataka polls, his 94-page affidavit revealed an asset of over Rs 840 crore. The Congress leader filed his nomination for the Kanakapura constituency near Bengaluru on Thursday for the polls to be held on May 12. His wealth tops the list of over 100 candidates who filed their nominations since April 17. Much of the increase in his wealth is linked to an increase in the market value of land holdings. Besides his name, his assets are also shown in the name of his wife. The Congress minister had organised a stay of about 43 MLAs from Gujarat in Bengaluru ahead of Rajya Sabha elections. Following which his properties were searched twice by the Income Tax officials. Tax officials then claimed to have uncovered over Rs 300 crore of undisclosed income from Shivkumar and his associates. Considered as a strong leader in the Vokkaliga community, he is leading the party's campaign committee for the state polls.

Karnataka Congress leader's assets show an increase of Rs 589 crore in five years

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) services on Thursday announced an extension of Super Priority Visa service (SPV) to Pune and Bengaluru.

The decision will help Indians get a visa decision in 24 hours or less.

It will act as an optional service for citizens in India who need to travel to UK on urgent basis.

"SPV applications are assessed to exactly the same high standard as all other applications but are handled by UKVI at the highest priority, with dedicated staff members processing cases at the front of the queue and an express courier service ensuring quick return to the customer. This means that the 24-hour turnaround is achievable and secure," stated an official British High Commission release.

Other than Pune and Bengaluru this specialized service would also be available in Delhi, Chennai and Mumbai.

"I am pleased that the Super Priority Visa service is being extended to even more Indian cities, giving many more UK visa customers the opportunity to receive a visa decision in 24 hours or less if needed," said Immigration Minister, Caroline Nokes.

Nokes also said that India is the "first country in the world to receive this service in 2013."

The British High Commission, in the release also stated the extension of this service aims to support the UK-India Technology Partnership, which will include establishing 'tech clusters' in these strategically important cities.

This announcement is part of a wider package of measures from UKVI as it seeks to bring about a marked improvement of its visa service, which includes greater use of digital technology and additional optional services for customers.

The decision will help Indians get a visa decision in 24 hours or less

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) services on Thursday announced an extension of Super Priority Visa service (SPV) to Pune and Bengaluru. The decision will help Indians get a visa decision in 24 hours or less. It will act as an optional service for citizens in India who need to travel to UK on urgent basis. "SPV applications are assessed to exactly the same high standard as all other applications but are handled by UKVI at the highest priority, with dedicated staff members processing cases at the front of the queue and an express courier service ensuring quick return to the customer. This means that the 24-hour turnaround is achievable and secure," stated an official British High Commission release. Other than Pune and Bengaluru this specialized service would also be available in Delhi, Chennai and Mumbai. "I am pleased that the Super Priority Visa service is being extended to even more Indian cities, giving many more UK visa customers the opportunity to receive a visa decision in 24 hours or less if needed," said Immigration Minister, Caroline Nokes. Nokes also said that India is the "first country in the world to receive this service in 2013." The British High Commission, in the release also stated the extension of this service aims to support the UK-India Technology Partnership, which will include establishing 'tech clusters' in these strategically important cities. This announcement is part of a wider package of measures from UKVI as it seeks to bring about a marked improvement of its visa service, which includes greater use of digital technology and additional optional services for customers.

UK extends 24-hour visa service to Pune, Bengaluru

The Income Tax Department has warned salaried taxpayers not to file incorrect tax returns.&nbsp

The "cautionary advisory"&nbspwas issued after the department stumbled upon instances of the malpractice in Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Ludhiana.&nbsp

The advisory, issued on Monday, said the offence was punishable under provisions of the Income Tax Act.&nbsp

News reports said Thursday that the advisory warned taxpayers against using the services of “unscrupulous intermediaries”. The reports added that alarm bells had gone off in Bengaluru after&nbspincorrect claims were made in tax returns filed through a man posing as a chartered accountant

The reports added that the department also threatened to refer the cases to other enforcement agencies for further action.&nbsp

The reports quoted officials from the department as saying the advisory was issued after surveys in three cities showed salaried taxpayers claiming benefits on house property that they did not own.&nbsp

Similarly, the survey threw up instances of people claiming donations to institutions when none had in fact been made.&nbsp

The advisory was issued after the department stumbled upon instances of the malpractice in Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Ludhiana

The Income Tax Department has warned salaried taxpayers not to file incorrect tax returns. The "cautionary advisory"&nbspwas issued after the department stumbled upon instances of the malpractice in Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Ludhiana. The advisory, issued on Monday, said the offence was punishable under provisions of the Income Tax Act. News reports said Thursday that the advisory warned taxpayers against using the services of “unscrupulous intermediaries”. The reports added that alarm bells had gone off in Bengaluru after&nbspincorrect claims were made in tax returns filed through a man posing as a chartered accountant The reports added that the department also threatened to refer the cases to other enforcement agencies for further action. The reports quoted officials from the department as saying the advisory was issued after surveys in three cities showed salaried taxpayers claiming benefits on house property that they did not own. Similarly, the survey threw up instances of people claiming donations to institutions when none had in fact been made.

Don’t file incorrect returns, I-T Department warns salaried taxpayers

bengaluru

Bengaluru, News on Bengaluru, stories on Bengaluru, articles on Bengaluru, Bengaluru stories at Wion, Bengaluru news, Bengaluru latest news