The Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFF) opened at the iconic Vidhana Soudha, with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah inaugurating the event. The festival brings together filmmakers, artists and cinema lovers from India and abroad, celebrating diverse voices and global storytelling.


BIFF 2026: Bengaluru International Film Festival Opens At Vidhana Soudha | WION

Bengaluru Police are investigating a major cyber fraud case involving a college dropout and his mother, accused of running an online scam worth ₹3.20 crore.


Cyber crime: How Bengaluru dropout, mother ran ₹3.20 cr cyber scam

A 34-year-old Accenture software engineer from Mangaluru, Sharmila, was found dead in her Ramamurthy Nagar apartment on January 3, 2026, after a fire broke out around 10:30 PM. Initially ruled as suffocation from smoke inhalation with no foul play suspected, postmortem revealed pre-fire injuries including hand wounds and smothering marks inconsistent with burns.


Bengaluru Flat Catches Fire & a Woman is Found Dead. But Something Else Killed Her

In an incident that was initially believed to be a case of accidental fire in a flat in an apartment in Bengaluru, a 18-year-old has been arrested for the murder of 34-year-old software engineer, identified as Sharmila Kushalappa. The body of software professional Sharmila was found in her apartment about a week ago.&nbsp;But after investigations opened in the case that was initially believed to be a fire caused by a short circuit in the house, police zeroed in on the victim's neighbour Karnal Kurai, originally a resident of Kerala.&nbsp;It was the forensic examination that revealed the victim had been suffocated to death and the fire was set intentionally to get rid of any evidence.&nbsp;On the day of the incident, Kurai, who lived with his single mother next door entered the victim’s flat through a sliding window at around 9 PM. He then asked for sexual favours from the woman which was declined after which he got enraged and killed her.&nbsp;The teen confessed to the crime during the police investigation.&nbsp;

On the day of the incident, Kurai, who lived with his single mother next door entered the victim’s flat through a sliding window at around 9 PM and demanded for sexual favours.

In an incident that was initially believed to be a case of accidental fire in a flat in an apartment in Bengaluru, a 18-year-old has been arrested for the murder of 34-year-old software engineer, identified as Sharmila Kushalappa. The body of software professional Sharmila was found in her apartment about a week ago. But after investigations opened in the case that was initially believed to be a fire caused by a short circuit in the house, police zeroed in on the victim's neighbour Karnal Kurai, originally a resident of Kerala. It was the forensic examination that revealed the victim had been suffocated to death and the fire was set intentionally to get rid of any evidence. On the day of the incident, Kurai, who lived with his single mother next door entered the victim’s flat through a sliding window at around 9 PM. He then asked for sexual favours from the woman which was declined after which he got enraged and killed her. The teen confessed to the crime during the police investigation.

On the day of the incident, Kurai, who lived with his single mother next door entered the victim’s flat through a sliding window at around 9 PM and demanded for sexual favours.

Bengaluru techie killed for resisting sexual favours, 18-year-old arrested

Bengaluru welcomed 2026 with vibrant celebrations as lakhs of people thronged the Central Business District (CBD), Indiranagar, Electronics City and Koramangala to mark the big hour. The city wore a festive look with music, countdown events and private parties adding to the cheer. A loud roar of celebration echoed across neighbourhoods as the clock struck midnight, accompanied by firecrackers and warm New Year wishes.


New Year 2026: Bengaluru rings in New Year with heightened security arrangements

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday compared the Congress government in Karnataka to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and accused it of executing anti-minority politics. He wrote on X that the Karnataka Congress government has evicted Muslim families who have been living for years in a colony in Bengaluru, adopting a bulldozer ‘policy of the state’. Pinarayi Vijayan said it is unfortunate that the minority-opposing politics of the Sangh Parivar is now being followed by the Congress government in Karnataka as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a post on X, Vijayan said, “When a regime rules through fear and brute force, constitutional values and human dignity become the first casualties,” drawing parallels with practices widely criticised in northern states.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The bulldozing of Faqir Colony and Waseem Layout in Bengaluru, uprooting Muslim families who have lived there for years, exposes the brutal normalisation of “bulldozer raj”. Sadly, the Sangh Parivar’s anti-minority politics is now being executed under a Congress Government in…&mdash; Pinarayi Vijayan (@pinarayivijayan) <a href="https://twitter.com/pinarayivijayan/status/2004545028744692212?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Reacting to the accusation, Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar said that external leaders should not interfere in such matters and it is regrettable that a senior leader like Pinarayi has commented on the issue without having full information about it.From December 20 to 23, the Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML) demolished homes in Waseem Layout and Fakir Colony in the city. It is claimed that these colonies had around 200 houses, housing approximately one thousand people.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinks-in-congress-exposed-digvijaya-singh-shares-old-photo-of-pm-modi-stirs-row-with-bjp-rss-praise-1766839574664">Chinks in Congress exposed?: Digvijaya Singh shares old photo of PM Modi, stirs row with BJP, RSS praise</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Houses demolished without notice,’ say families</h2>&nbsp;The affected families allege that BSWML carried out the demolition action without any prior notice to them. They said they were forcibly removed from their homes in the presence of police, after which bulldozers were used to demolish their houses. BSWML officials said that all the demolished houses were built illegally on government land.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-to-launch-mgnrega-bachao-campaign-on-jan-5-demand-repeal-of-vb-g-ram-g-act-kharge-1766830777227">Congress to launch ‘MGNREGA Bachao’ campaign on Jan 5, demand repeal of VB-G RAM G Act: Kharge</a><h2>‘Congress govt does not believe in bulldozer culture,’ says Deputy CM</h2>&nbsp;Shivakumar hit back at Pinarayi Vijayan over his criticism of the Bengaluru demolition drive, and said the Congress government does not believe in “bulldozer culture” and had acted only to protect government land from encroachment.Speaking to reporters at his Sadashivanagar residence, the Deputy CM said the demolished structures stood on encroached government land that was being used as a solid waste dumping site.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-the-year-of-wars-tariff-turmoil-and-climate-disasters-1766568207775">Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters</a>&nbsp;“The land that was cleared of encroachment was a solid waste pit. There are many health-related issues in the area due to this. We also have humanity, and we had given them an opportunity to move to other areas,” he said.&nbsp;Rejecting the ‘bulldozer raj’ charge, Shivakumar added, “We don’t have bulldozer culture. I appeal to Pinarayi Vijayan not to talk like that. We are only protecting government land in the middle of the city.”He also alleged the role of the land mafia in such settlements. “Land mafia sets up slums in order to encroach upon the land at a later stage. We will not allow that to happen,” he said, while assuring that eligible residents would be rehabilitated.

In a drive carried out from December 20 to 23, the Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML) demolished homes in Waseem Layout and Fakir Colony in the city. It is claimed that these colonies had around 200 houses, housing approximately one thousand people.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday compared the Congress government in Karnataka to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and accused it of executing anti-minority politics. He wrote on X that the Karnataka Congress government has evicted Muslim families who have been living for years in a colony in Bengaluru, adopting a bulldozer ‘policy of the state’. Pinarayi Vijayan said it is unfortunate that the minority-opposing politics of the Sangh Parivar is now being followed by the Congress government in Karnataka as well. In a post on X, Vijayan said, “When a regime rules through fear and brute force, constitutional values and human dignity become the first casualties,” drawing parallels with practices widely criticised in northern states.

In a drive carried out from December 20 to 23, the Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML) demolished homes in Waseem Layout and Fakir Colony in the city. It is claimed that these colonies had around 200 houses, housing approximately one thousand people.

Karnataka govt executing Sangh Parivar’s anti-minority politics: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan

In an appalling incident, a 34-year-old mechanic died on the streets of Bengaluru after a shocking series of events that exposed the deficiencies in emergency healthcare and public empathy. The mechanic, Venkataramanan, a father of two kids living in Balaji Nagar, complained of severe chest pain. His wife understood the gravity of the situation and took him on a motorcycle to seek medical assistance, but little did she know that her nightmare had started. The couple was turned away from two hospitals.&nbsp;They first stopped at a private hospital but were told that no doctor was available at the time. At the second hospital, an ECG was conducted which indicated that he had suffered a mild heart attack, but the staff reportedly neither started any emergency treatment nor arranged an ambulance. She was reportedly advised to take him elsewhere, but ambulance services failed to respond in time.They headed to another health facility but met with an accident on the way.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-ncr-air-pollution-measures-a-total-failure-only-for-interim-relief-supreme-court-1765970144168">Delhi-NCR air pollution measures a ‘total failure’, only for interim relief: Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">No Ambulance, No Help, No Humanity: A Death That Questions Bengaluru In a deeply disturbing incident, Bengaluru witnessed a tragic collapse of both emergency care and basic human compassion. Venkataramanan, a 34-year-old mechanic from South Bengaluru, suffered severe chest pain… <a href="https://t.co/I7Eb0m65hn">pic.twitter.com/I7Eb0m65hn</a>&mdash; Karnataka Portfolio (@karnatakaportf) <a href="https://twitter.com/karnatakaportf/status/2000973050502897904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>CCTV footage shows woman pleading with passing vehicles</h2>&nbsp;CCTV footage from the spot shows Venkataramanan’s wife pleading with passing vehicles for assistance with folded hands while her ill husband now lay injured on the road, but no one stopped.Several vehicles passed without stopping until a cab driver eventually stopped to help and took him to the hospital, where Venkataramanan was declared dead on arrival.&nbsp;Venkataramanan leaves behind a five-year-old son, an 18-month-old daughter, and his mother, who had already lost five other children.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-will-not-remain-silent-teach-a-lesson-assam-cm-himanta-sarma-warns-after-bangladesh-leader-s-remarks-1765967159840">‘Will not remain silent, teach a lesson’: Assam CM Himanta Sarma warns after Bangladesh leader’s remarks</a>&nbsp;Moreover, in a gesture of ungrudging generosity amid tragedy, the family has donated his eyes.&nbsp;<h2>‘Humanity failed to help my husband’</h2>&nbsp;“Humanity failed to help my husband. I was covered in blood, pleading for help, but no one came,” she told NDTV.“Humanity failed, but we did our bit by donating his eyes,” she added.&nbsp;The tragedy has left the family shattered. Venkataramanan’s mother struggled to find words. “I have no words. I don’t know what to say. My son is gone,” she said.&nbsp;Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fda-plans-to-put-black-box-warning-on-covid-vaccines-report-1765564652421"> FDA plans to put ‘black box’ warning on Covid vaccines: Report</a>&nbsp;His mother-in-law questioned the system’s response to medical emergencies. “The government should understand a health emergency. My daughter is left with two children. Who will look after them?” she asked.The incident has sparked fresh questions about emergency healthcare access, ambulance response, and public responsibility in India’s tech capital.

CCTV footage shows Venkataramanan’s wife pleading with passing vehicles for assistance with folded hands while her ill husband now lay injured on the road, but no one stopped. A cab driver eventually stopped and took him to the hospital, where Venkataramanan was declared dead on arrival.

In an appalling incident, a 34-year-old mechanic died on the streets of Bengaluru after a shocking series of events that exposed the deficiencies in emergency healthcare and public empathy. The mechanic, Venkataramanan, a father of two kids living in Balaji Nagar, complained of severe chest pain. His wife understood the gravity of the situation and took him on a motorcycle to seek medical assistance, but little did she know that her nightmare had started. The couple was turned away from two hospitals. They first stopped at a private hospital but were told that no doctor was available at the time. At the second hospital, an ECG was conducted which indicated that he had suffered a mild heart attack, but the staff reportedly neither started any emergency treatment nor arranged an ambulance. She was reportedly advised to take him elsewhere, but ambulance services failed to respond in time. They headed to another health facility but met with an accident on the way. Also Read: Delhi-NCR air pollution measures a ‘total failure’, only for interim relief: Supreme Court

CCTV footage shows Venkataramanan’s wife pleading with passing vehicles for assistance with folded hands while her ill husband lay injured on the road, but no one stopped. A cab driver eventually stopped and took him to the hospital, where Venkataramanan was declared dead on arrival.

‘Pleaded for help, humanity failed’: Man injured on way to hospital after heart attack dies on Bengaluru streets; family donates eyes

India’s technology capital Bengaluru is grappling with an alarming surge in cybercrime that is draining the city’s economy at an unprecedented pace. According to recent assessments, the city is suffering average daily losses of nearly ₹483 crore due to cyber fraud.


Bengaluru digital arrest scam: Bengaluru loses ₹1,543 crore to cybercrime

A facility to carry out Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul(MRO) of the Lockheed Martin C-130J Hercules aircraft is to come up in the southern Indian city of Bengaluru, India's aerospace hub. Tata Advanced Systems and Lockheed Martin today announced the groundbreaking of this facility that can offer support for the Indian Air Force's(IAF) fleet of Hercules aircraft, while also creating opportunities for broader regional and global support.&nbsp;&nbsp;The construction of the facility is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, and the facility is likely to receive the first C-130 for MRO operations in early 2027. The Indian Air Force operates a fleet of 12 C-130Js, making India one of 22 nations in the world that operate this aircraft for tactical airlift missions. &nbsp;According to the companies, the new facility would provide Depot‑level and heavy maintenance, Component repair, overhaul, and structural checks and testing, Structural restoration and avionics upgrades, Expanded training for Indian engineers and maintainers, and new opportunities for Indian suppliers across the C‑130 supply chain.&nbsp;&nbsp;The groundbreaking ceremony brought together senior officials from the Indian Air Force (IAF), government dignitaries, industry leaders, and senior executives from Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems. “Today’s groundbreaking reflects how far our collaboration with Tata Advanced Systems and India has come, and where we’re headed together,” said Lockheed Martin’s Chief Operating Officer Frank St. John. “For more than seven decades, we’ve grown alongside India’s expanding aerospace and defense industrial base. This new C-130 MRO facility strengthens that foundation. It brings world-class sustainment capability into India, improves readiness for the Indian Air Force, and creates opportunities that will support regional and global C-130 operators. We remain committed to building capability for India and from India for decades to come,” he said.&nbsp;“Today’s groundbreaking reflects how far our collaboration with Tata Advanced Systems and India has come, and where we’re headed together,” said Lockheed Martin’s Chief Operating Officer Frank St. John. “For more than seven decades, we’ve grown alongside India’s expanding aerospace and defense industrial base. This new C-130 MRO facility strengthens that foundation. It brings world-class sustainment capability into India, improves readiness for the Indian Air Force, and creates opportunities that will support regional and global C-130 operators. We remain committed to building capability for India and from India for decades to come.”&nbsp;Tata Advanced Systems, Lockheed Martin’s long-standing partner in manufacturing C-130 empennages(teail structures) and other aerostructure assemblies in India, will play a central role in operating the new facility. Last week, Tata Lockheed Martin Aerostructures Limited (TLMAL) celebrated the delivery of its 250th C-130J tail, marking a milestone. &nbsp;The upcoming Defence MRO facility in Bengaluru will join the existing global network of Lockheed Martin Certified Service Centers and will be strategically located to service C-130 variants including: C-130J Super Hercules, KC-130J and C-130 B-H legacy aircraft in the future.

Facility to maintain C-130J military aircraft to come up in Bengaluru

A facility to carry out Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul(MRO) of the Lockheed Martin C-130J Hercules aircraft is to come up in the southern Indian city of Bengaluru, India's aerospace hub. Tata Advanced Systems and Lockheed Martin today announced the groundbreaking of this facility that can offer support for the Indian Air Force's(IAF) fleet of Hercules aircraft, while also creating opportunities for broader regional and global support. The construction of the facility is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, and the facility is likely to receive the first C-130 for MRO operations in early 2027. The Indian Air Force operates a fleet of 12 C-130Js, making India one of 22 nations in the world that operate this aircraft for tactical airlift missions. According to the companies, the new facility would provide Depot‑level and heavy maintenance, Component repair, overhaul, and structural checks and testing, Structural restoration and avionics upgrades, Expanded training for Indian engineers and maintainers, and new opportunities for Indian suppliers across the C‑130 supply chain. The groundbreaking ceremony brought together senior officials from the Indian Air Force (IAF), government dignitaries, industry leaders, and senior executives from Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems. “Today’s groundbreaking reflects how far our collaboration with Tata Advanced Systems and India has come, and where we’re headed together,” said Lockheed Martin’s Chief Operating Officer Frank St. John. “For more than seven decades, we’ve grown alongside India’s expanding aerospace and defense industrial base. This new C-130 MRO facility strengthens that foundation. It brings world-class sustainment capability into India, improves readiness for the Indian Air Force, and creates opportunities that will support regional and global C-130 operators. We remain committed to building capability for India and from India for decades to come,” he said. “Today’s groundbreaking reflects how far our collaboration with Tata Advanced Systems and India has come, and where we’re headed together,” said Lockheed Martin’s Chief Operating Officer Frank St. John. “For more than seven decades, we’ve grown alongside India’s expanding aerospace and defense industrial base. This new C-130 MRO facility strengthens that foundation. It brings world-class sustainment capability into India, improves readiness for the Indian Air Force, and creates opportunities that will support regional and global C-130 operators. We remain committed to building capability for India and from India for decades to come.” Tata Advanced Systems, Lockheed Martin’s long-standing partner in manufacturing C-130 empennages(teail structures) and other aerostructure assemblies in India, will play a central role in operating the new facility. Last week, Tata Lockheed Martin Aerostructures Limited (TLMAL) celebrated the delivery of its 250th C-130J tail, marking a milestone. The upcoming Defence MRO facility in Bengaluru will join the existing global network of Lockheed Martin Certified Service Centers and will be strategically located to service C-130 variants including: C-130J Super Hercules, KC-130J and C-130 B-H legacy aircraft in the future.

The construction of the facility is expected to be completed by end 2026 and the facility is likely to receive the first C130 for MRO operations in early 2027

The factional fight inside the Karnataka Congress has reached a critical stage, with the leadership battle between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar intensifying by the day. While many in the party believed AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge—a veteran with nearly five decades of political experience—would step in as the key mediator, Kharge himself now appears increasingly helpless in resolving the crisis.

Karnataka CM Succession Battle Intensifies, MLAs Back Shivkumar For Chief Minister

A Bengaluru woman was defrauded of nearly ₹32 crore in a six-month-long digital arrest scam where fraudsters impersonating CBI officials kept her under constant Skype surveillance and forced her into 187 bank transfers. The scam involved psychological harassment and threats of arrest.


Bengaluru Woman Duped of Nearly ₹32 Crore in Elaborate Digital Arrest Scam

A 57-year-old software engineer in Bengaluru was duped of nearly ₹32 crore in a six-month-long "digital arrest" scam.
The fraudsters, who posed as Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officials, kept her under constant video surveillance and coerced her into making 187 bank transfers.
The ordeal started in September 2024, when the victim received a call from someone claiming to be from DHL.


Bengaluru Digital Arrest Scam: Woman Duped Of Nearly ₹32 Crore 

A shocking video from Bengaluru prison has gone viral, showing inmates drinking, dancing, and flouting jail rules. Authorities are investigating the incident amid concerns over prison management and security lapses.

Bengaluru Prison Scandal: Video Shows Inmates Drinking and Dancing Inside Jail

The Parappana Agrahara Jail in Bengaluru is under investigation following allegations that certain inmates have been receiving illegal special privileges. The probe seeks to uncover how privileges such as preferential treatment and unauthorized benefits were granted, raising serious questions about prison management and fairness. This scandal has led to calls for stricter oversight and reforms within the Karnataka prison system.

Parappana Agrahara Jail Under Scrutiny for Providing Special Privileges to Prisoners

The inmates of Bengaluru Central Jail are living a king-size life and have free access to liquor, snacks, phones, and entertainment, as there appears to be no security apparatus in place at the central jail in the capital of Congress-ruled Karnataka state. Videos and visuals of the amenities available to the inmates, including an ISIS recruiter, murder convict, and others accused of serious crimes, in incarceration can make many free souls envious. More videos are tumbling out and being shared on social media, and finally it seems that the jail authorities will face some action. Just a few hours after the state government pulled up officials for allowing VVIP treatment in Bengaluru’s Parappana Agrahara Central Jail, another video showing inmates dancing and partying with liquor and snacks has emerged.


Bengaluru jail scandal: Inmates seen using phones & watching TV

Bengaluru prison scandal: Parappana Agraahara jail faces probe over privileges to inmates 

A shocking murder case from Bengaluru has stunned India’s medical community. A respected surgeon allegedly used his medical expertise to kill his wife with a lethal IV injection in what investigators call a “medically precise” murder. Police have detailed the doctor’s calculated plan, digital trail, and how the evidence unraveled his web of lies. This is the full story behind the Bengaluru doctor’s spine-chilling crime.

Bengaluru Doctor's Spine-Chilling Murder | A Lethal IV and a Medically Precise Crime

All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Mallikarjun Kharge was admitted to a hospital in Bengaluru on Wednesday morning for medical treatment. Meanwhile, Kharge is scheduled to visit Kohima on October 7 and address a public rally at Naga Solidarity Park. Lok Sabha MP S Supongmeren Jamir, President of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee, made the announcement during a press conference at Congress Bhavan in Kohima. According to Jamir, Congress expects a gathering of at least 10,000 people for the rally. The event, themed around "Safe Democracy, Safe Secularism, and Safe Nagaland," will also highlight key issues such as youth employment, entrepreneurship, good governance, and road connectivity. The statement said that the rally will be followed by separate meetings between Kharge and senior members of the Congress Political Affairs Committee, Pro-Committee, and presidents of the District Congress Committees (DCCs). The Congress MP emphasised that the rally is not only a party function but also a political platform to address challenges facing Nagaland and the Northeast. He appealed to citizens, especially minorities, to join the rally and voice their concerns, which he said would be carried forward by regional leaders. Kharge will be accompanied by national leaders, including Congress General Secretary (Organisation) KC Venugopal and the party's Nagaland in-charge, MP from Odisha, Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka, and other leaders. Jamir underlined that the rally is the beginning of a broader Congress campaign in the region, with the party taking a firm stand on issues such as the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), governance, and constitutional rights. He noted that the Congress high command is serious about addressing these concerns and may invite other political parties to join the movement on a common platform to safeguard democracy, secularism, and the future of Nagaland. Akuonuo Miachieo, Co-Convener of the Organising Committee and General Secretary of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC), appealed for cooperation and encouraged all citizens to ensure that the rally's message reaches every household in Nagaland.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge was admitted to the hospital while he was scheduled to visit Kohima on October 7 and address a public rally at Naga Solidarity Park. 

All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Mallikarjun Kharge was admitted to a hospital in Bengaluru on Wednesday morning for medical treatment. Meanwhile, Kharge is scheduled to visit Kohima on October 7 and address a public rally at Naga Solidarity Park. Lok Sabha MP S Supongmeren Jamir, President of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee, made the announcement during a press conference at Congress Bhavan in Kohima. According to Jamir, Congress expects a gathering of at least 10,000 people for the rally. The event, themed around "Safe Democracy, Safe Secularism, and Safe Nagaland," will also highlight key issues such as youth employment, entrepreneurship, good governance, and road connectivity. The statement said that the rally will be followed by separate meetings between Kharge and senior members of the Congress Political Affairs Committee, Pro-Committee, and presidents of the District Congress Committees (DCCs). The Congress MP emphasised that the rally is not only a party function but also a political platform to address challenges facing Nagaland and the Northeast. He appealed to citizens, especially minorities, to join the rally and voice their concerns, which he said would be carried forward by regional leaders. Kharge will be accompanied by national leaders, including Congress General Secretary (Organisation) KC Venugopal and the party's Nagaland in-charge, MP from Odisha, Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka, and other leaders. Jamir underlined that the rally is the beginning of a broader Congress campaign in the region, with the party taking a firm stand on issues such as the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), governance, and constitutional rights. He noted that the Congress high command is serious about addressing these concerns and may invite other political parties to join the movement on a common platform to safeguard democracy, secularism, and the future of Nagaland. Akuonuo Miachieo, Co-Convener of the Organising Committee and General Secretary of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC), appealed for cooperation and encouraged all citizens to ensure that the rally's message reaches every household in Nagaland. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge was admitted to the hospital while he was scheduled to visit Kohima on October 7 and address a public rally at Naga Solidarity Park.&nbsp;

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge admitted Bengaluru hospital ahead of Kohima rally

Doctors at a hospital in Bengaluru decided to transport a liver to another hospital via the Namma Metro to avoid the city’s notorious traffic and managed to arrive on time. A video of the team of medical professionals transporting the liver via Bengaluru’s Namma Metro has gone viral on social media. As per reports, it was the first time the Metro was used for such a medical emergency in the city. The patient had been battling severe hepatitis-related liver failure and was given a new lease of life after the donated liver was rushed to SPARSH Hospital in RR Nagar using the Metro.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Escorted by Doctors and security personnel, the donated liver was transported from Vydehi Hospital in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Whitefield?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Whitefield</a> to Rajarajeshwari Nagar for a life-saving transplant. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bangalore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bangalore</a> <a href="https://t.co/AdahY4vVuc">pic.twitter.com/AdahY4vVuc</a>&mdash; Bangalore Metro Updates (@WF_Watcher) <a href="https://twitter.com/WF_Watcher/status/1951592335521075510?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The organ had been ‘harvested’ from a 24-year-old accident victim and travelled from Whitefield to the hospital, covering over 31 kilometres and 30 Metro stations, in just 55 minutes.In the now-viral clip, the hospital team is seen deboarding the last coach of a Metro and rushing the organ container while being assisted by Metro ground staff. <h2>Green corridors created on Metro route</h2> For this special ride, green corridors were created at both ends of the Metro journey: a 5.5-kilometre stretch from the private hospital to Whitefield (Kodugodi) Metro Station and another 2.5-kilometre route from RR Nagar Metro Station to SPARSH Hospital, as per a hospital statement issued on Saturday.The key concern was the evening traffic, which could have delayed the transplant beyond the organ’s viability window, the hospital added.The last coach of a scheduled Purple Line service was cleared exclusively for the medical team, with full security arrangements and on-ground coordination. <h2>‘Time was of essence, Metro was fastest, safest option’</h2> “Time was of the essence. Had we taken the road, the organ could’ve been wasted due to heavy weekend traffic. The Metro gave us the fastest and safest option. We are deeply grateful to BMRCL and SOTTO Karnataka for their swift and wholehearted support,” said Dr Mahesh Gopasetty, HOD and Senior Consultant, Liver Transplant &amp; HPB Surgery, SPARSH RR Nagar.The transplant surgery was eventless and the patient was stable in the ICU under close post-operative care.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">ಮೊಟ್ಟಮೊದಲ ಬಾರಿಗೆ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NammaMetro?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NammaMetro</a> ಮೂಲಕ ಯಶಸ್ವಿಯಾಗಿ ಅಂಗಾಂಗ ಸಾಗಣೆಯನ್ನು ನಡೆಸಲಾಗಿದೆ. ಹೆಚ್ಚಿನ ವಿವರಗಳಿಗಾಗಿ ಮಾಧ್ಯಮ ಪ್ರಕಟಣೆಯನ್ನು ಪರಿಶೀಲಿಸಿ. <a href="https://t.co/tkxmfgi5Vc">pic.twitter.com/tkxmfgi5Vc</a>&mdash; ನಮ್ಮ ಮೆಟ್ರೋ (@OfficialBMRCL) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialBMRCL/status/1951575261180481552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The organ had been ‘harvested’ from a 24-year-old accident victim and travelled from Whitefield to the hospital, covering over 31 kilometres in just 55 minutes. In the video, the hospital team is seen deboarding the last coach of a Metro and rushing the organ container.

Doctors at a hospital in Bengaluru decided to transport a liver to another hospital via the Namma Metro to avoid the city’s notorious traffic and managed to arrive on time. A video of the team of medical professionals transporting the liver via Bengaluru’s Namma Metro has gone viral on social media. As per reports, it was the first time the Metro was used for such a medical emergency in the city. The patient had been battling severe hepatitis-related liver failure and was given a new lease of life after the donated liver was rushed to SPARSH Hospital in RR Nagar using the Metro.

The organ had been ‘harvested’ from a 24-year-old accident victim and travelled from Whitefield to the hospital, covering over 31 kilometres in just 55 minutes. In the video, the hospital team is seen deboarding the last coach of a Metro and rushing the organ container.

Bengaluru hospital transports liver for surgery via Namma Metro, avoids city’s notorious traffic | Watch

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised.&nbsp;In a shocking incident, charred remains of a 12-year-old boy were found on Thursday (Jul 31) after he was abducted by unknown assailants in Bengaluru. The body of the boy, which was discovered on the outskirts of the city, was severely mutilated and burnt. According to the police, the boy failed to return home after attending tuition classes, following which the family filed a complaint.&nbsp;According to the Bengaluru police, the boy, identified as Nishchit, a Class 7 student and the son of an Arekere resident, was kidnapped while returning from his tuition class. His father is a college professor.&nbsp;The boy left his home on his bicycle at 5 pm on Wednesday (Jul 30) to attend his classes. However, after he did not return home by 8 pm, his family contacted the tuition teacher, who informed them he had already left at 7:30 pm. Following a search by the family, the boy’s abandoned bicycle was found at a park in Shantiniketan Layout, Arikere, which comes under the jurisdiction of the Hulimavu Police Station. After enquiring with relatives and friends about their son, the parents filed a missing person complaint at 10:30 pm.&nbsp;The police said that the family received a ransom call from the kidnappers, who demanded Rs 5 lakh and warned them not to contact the police.&nbsp;After the police complaint was filed, the Hulimavu police intensified the investigation and search for the boy with CCTV footage and mobile location tracking. Meanwhile, the parents prepared Rs 5 lakh and were ready to give it to the kidnappers to bring their son back.&nbsp;However, when the kidnappers came to know that the family had informed the police, they tied the boy’s hands and beat him to death, the police said. The abductors then left the body on a stone by the roadside, set him on fire and fled the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;The boy’s body was found partially burnt in a deserted area on Kaggalipur Road in Bannerghatta after the police tracked the location of kidnappers’ mobile phones.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hulimavu police have already registered a case of kidnapping and murder, and an investigation has been intensified to search for the perpetrator.&nbsp;

The police said that the family received a ransom call from the kidnappers, who demanded Rs 5 lakh and warned them not to contact the police.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised. In a shocking incident, charred remains of a 12-year-old boy were found on Thursday (Jul 31) after he was abducted by unknown assailants in Bengaluru. The body of the boy, which was discovered on the outskirts of the city, was severely mutilated and burnt. According to the police, the boy failed to return home after attending tuition classes, following which the family filed a complaint. According to the Bengaluru police, the boy, identified as Nishchit, a Class 7 student and the son of an Arekere resident, was kidnapped while returning from his tuition class. His father is a college professor. The boy left his home on his bicycle at 5 pm on Wednesday (Jul 30) to attend his classes. However, after he did not return home by 8 pm, his family contacted the tuition teacher, who informed them he had already left at 7:30 pm. Following a search by the family, the boy’s abandoned bicycle was found at a park in Shantiniketan Layout, Arikere, which comes under the jurisdiction of the Hulimavu Police Station. After enquiring with relatives and friends about their son, the parents filed a missing person complaint at 10:30 pm. The police said that the family received a ransom call from the kidnappers, who demanded Rs 5 lakh and warned them not to contact the police. After the police complaint was filed, the Hulimavu police intensified the investigation and search for the boy with CCTV footage and mobile location tracking. Meanwhile, the parents prepared Rs 5 lakh and were ready to give it to the kidnappers to bring their son back. However, when the kidnappers came to know that the family had informed the police, they tied the boy’s hands and beat him to death, the police said. The abductors then left the body on a stone by the roadside, set him on fire and fled the scene. The boy’s body was found partially burnt in a deserted area on Kaggalipur Road in Bannerghatta after the police tracked the location of kidnappers’ mobile phones. Hulimavu police have already registered a case of kidnapping and murder, and an investigation has been intensified to search for the perpetrator.

The police said that the family received a ransom call from the kidnappers, who demanded Rs 5 lakh and warned them not to contact the police.

Bengaluru shocker: Charred remains of 12-year-old found after abduction; kidnappers made ransom call to parents

The Karnataka government has blamed the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise RCB for the&nbsp;Bengaluru stampede in which 11 people lost their lives. In a status report submitted to the High Court, the Congress-led government said the IPL franchise "unilaterally" posted messages on social media calling cricket fans to join the celebratory event of its maiden IPL victory. RCB, the report said, announced that entry was free in the Chinnaswamy Stadium, resulting in the swelling of the crowd to unmanageable numbers outside the gates of the iconic cricket ground. It also pointed out that RCB also posted a video by Indian cricket star Virat Kohli to draw the fans to its festivities.&nbsp;"On 04.06.2025, the RCB, unilaterally and without consultation/ permission from the Bangalore City Police, posted a photo at 7: 01 a.m on the official RCB handle on social media (Instagram, Facebook, "X") informing that there is free entry for people and inviting the public to participate in the Victory Parade, which would commence at Vidhana Soudha and conclude at Chinnaswamy Stadium. A second post on Social Media was made by RCB at 8:00 a.m. reiterating this information. Subsequently, on 04.06.2025, at 8:55 am, the RCB shared a video clip of Virat Kohli, on RCB's official handle @ @rcbtweets on X, in which he stated that the team intended to celebrate this victory with the people of Bengaluru city and RCB fans on 04.06.2025 in Bengaluru. Thereafter, RCB made one more post at 3:14 p.m. on 04.06.2024, announcing a Victory Parade to be held from Vidhana Soudha to the Chinnaswamy Stadium from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, stating that this victory parade would be followed by celebrations at the Chinnaswamy Stadium," the report said.&nbsp;The Karnataka government further said that the information about the distribution of free passes had not been communicated to the authorities by the RCB.&nbsp;"This post mentioned, for the first and only time, that free passes (limited entry) were available on shop.royalchallengers.com, and until this point, there had been no information regarding the disbursement of passes, implying that the event was open to all based on RCB's prior posts. The posts on RCB's official social media handles garnered immense engagement online ( with the first post receiving approximately 16 lakh views, the second post receiving approximately 4.26 lakh views, the third post receiving approximately 7.6 lakh views, and the fourth post receiving approximately 17 lakh views). Copies of these posts/announcements made by RCB on Social Media are produced herewith as Document No. 4 series (pg 56-61). This led to a public gathering of immense proportions, exceeding 3,00,000 individuals," it further added.&nbsp;The report said the turnout was far more than expected. It said the event organizers spread confusion by relaying messages at around 3.14 pm on the day of the incident that passes were required for entry, contradicting their earlier statements. "Mismanagement at the entry gates and delayed openings led to a stampede, resulting in injuries to seven police personnel. To prevent further unrest, the police permitted a restricted version of the event to proceed under controlled conditions," it added.&nbsp;Meanwhile,&nbsp;Karnataka Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said today that the government wasn't trying to play a blame game. He said strict action will be taken against those responsible.&nbsp;"This is not a blame game here. If there has been some mishandling of the situation, we will take action... Since so many people died, we have to wait for the report before coming to any conclusion," he said.

The Karnataka government has blamed the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise RCB for the Bengaluru stampede in which 11 people lost their lives.

The Karnataka government has blamed the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise RCB for the Bengaluru stampede in which 11 people lost their lives. In a status report submitted to the High Court, the Congress-led government said the IPL franchise "unilaterally" posted messages on social media calling cricket fans to join the celebratory event of its maiden IPL victory. RCB, the report said, announced that entry was free in the Chinnaswamy Stadium, resulting in the swelling of the crowd to unmanageable numbers outside the gates of the iconic cricket ground. It also pointed out that RCB also posted a video by Indian cricket star Virat Kohli to draw the fans to its festivities. "On 04.06.2025, the RCB, unilaterally and without consultation/ permission from the Bangalore City Police, posted a photo at 7: 01 a.m on the official RCB handle on social media (Instagram, Facebook, "X") informing that there is free entry for people and inviting the public to participate in the Victory Parade, which would commence at Vidhana Soudha and conclude at Chinnaswamy Stadium. A second post on Social Media was made by RCB at 8:00 a.m. reiterating this information. Subsequently, on 04.06.2025, at 8:55 am, the RCB shared a video clip of Virat Kohli, on RCB's official handle @ @rcbtweets on X, in which he stated that the team intended to celebrate this victory with the people of Bengaluru city and RCB fans on 04.06.2025 in Bengaluru. Thereafter, RCB made one more post at 3:14 p.m. on 04.06.2024, announcing a Victory Parade to be held from Vidhana Soudha to the Chinnaswamy Stadium from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, stating that this victory parade would be followed by celebrations at the Chinnaswamy Stadium," the report said. The Karnataka government further said that the information about the distribution of free passes had not been communicated to the authorities by the RCB. "This post mentioned, for the first and only time, that free passes (limited entry) were available on shop.royalchallengers.com, and until this point, there had been no information regarding the disbursement of passes, implying that the event was open to all based on RCB's prior posts. The posts on RCB's official social media handles garnered immense engagement online ( with the first post receiving approximately 16 lakh views, the second post receiving approximately 4.26 lakh views, the third post receiving approximately 7.6 lakh views, and the fourth post receiving approximately 17 lakh views). Copies of these posts/announcements made by RCB on Social Media are produced herewith as Document No. 4 series (pg 56-61). This led to a public gathering of immense proportions, exceeding 3,00,000 individuals," it further added. The report said the turnout was far more than expected. It said the event organizers spread confusion by relaying messages at around 3.14 pm on the day of the incident that passes were required for entry, contradicting their earlier statements. "Mismanagement at the entry gates and delayed openings led to a stampede, resulting in injuries to seven police personnel. To prevent further unrest, the police permitted a restricted version of the event to proceed under controlled conditions," it added. Meanwhile, Karnataka Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said today that the government wasn't trying to play a blame game. He said strict action will be taken against those responsible. "This is not a blame game here. If there has been some mishandling of the situation, we will take action... Since so many people died, we have to wait for the report before coming to any conclusion," he said.

Bengaluru stampede: The Karnataka government further said that the information about the distribution of free passes had not been communicated to the authorities by the RCB.

Virat Kohli video, RCB X posts: Bengaluru stampede report triggers row; govt claims not 'blame game'

It wasn’t just about lifting the title, winning the gold medal or breaching the elusive 90m mark at the Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium, in Bengaluru on Saturday (July 5). For India's poster boy, Neeraj Chopra, the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 was a statement — that Indian athletics deserves a stage. And that fans, federations, and families need to show up.&nbsp;Inside the stadium, as tricolours waved and chants of “Neeraj! Neeraj!” filled the air, India’s two-time Olympic medalist was in the spotlight. But even in victory, his mind was on something more enduring. What if people will not turn up? But Bengaluru changed that. The Neeraj Chopra Classic marked a rare sight in Indian sport — a stadium packed not for cricket or football, but for a javelin competition. For athletes. For the love of track and field.<h2>‘This is what we have wanted for years’</h2>“I felt really good today. For once, athletics got the support it deserves. This is what we’ve wanted for years,” Neeraj said after winning the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 in front of a packed stadium.&nbsp;What made the evening even more special was the crowd — loud, invested, and passionate. That, for Neeraj, was the biggest victory. “When I started out, there was nobody in the stands. We used to try so hard to get people to come for the nationals,” he recalled emotionally. “Now, people are finally noticing what track and field athletes go through," he added.&nbsp;The emotional core of Neeraj’s message wasn’t about his own greatness. It was about the many Indian athletes still waiting to be seen. It’s been a long road, but Neeraj knows this can’t stop at one successful event. “Please come and support our athletes — not just at big events, but at national-level meets too. You’ll see sprinters, long-distance runners, jumpers, throwers — all working just as hard.”<h2>‘Track and field is demanding but beautiful’</h2>In a country which is obsessed by cricket, Neeraj sees change. But he also sees the need for more — especially if India wants to compete globally across disciplines. “If parents start seeing that people attend these events, that there’s a future in athletics, they’ll start encouraging their kids too.”&nbsp;And this isn’t just about medals. Track and field is one of the hardest sports. It’s raw. It’s demanding. It’s beautiful. And if people give it a chance, they’ll fall in love with it,” Neeraj said with conviction. His ultimate dream? That one day, every major city in India hosts packed stadiums not just for cricket — but for athletes chasing 100m finishes, 2m jumps, and 85m throws.

Neeraj Chopras emotional plea to India Please come and support athletes not just at big events

It wasn’t just about lifting the title, winning the gold medal or breaching the elusive 90m mark at the Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium, in Bengaluru on Saturday (July 5). For India's poster boy, Neeraj Chopra, the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 was a statement — that Indian athletics deserves a stage. And that fans, federations, and families need to show up. Inside the stadium, as tricolours waved and chants of “Neeraj! Neeraj!” filled the air, India’s two-time Olympic medalist was in the spotlight. But even in victory, his mind was on something more enduring. What if people will not turn up? But Bengaluru changed that. The Neeraj Chopra Classic marked a rare sight in Indian sport — a stadium packed not for cricket or football, but for a javelin competition. For athletes. For the love of track and field. ‘This is what we have wanted for years’ “I felt really good today. For once, athletics got the support it deserves. This is what we’ve wanted for years,” Neeraj said after winning the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 in front of a packed stadium. What made the evening even more special was the crowd — loud, invested, and passionate. That, for Neeraj, was the biggest victory. “When I started out, there was nobody in the stands. We used to try so hard to get people to come for the nationals,” he recalled emotionally. “Now, people are finally noticing what track and field athletes go through," he added. The emotional core of Neeraj’s message wasn’t about his own greatness. It was about the many Indian athletes still waiting to be seen. It’s been a long road, but Neeraj knows this can’t stop at one successful event. “Please come and support our athletes — not just at big events, but at national-level meets too. You’ll see sprinters, long-distance runners, jumpers, throwers — all working just as hard.” ‘Track and field is demanding but beautiful’ In a country which is obsessed by cricket, Neeraj sees change. But he also sees the need for more — especially if India wants to compete globally across disciplines. “If parents start seeing that people attend these events, that there’s a future in athletics, they’ll start encouraging their kids too.” And this isn’t just about medals. Track and field is one of the hardest sports. It’s raw. It’s demanding. It’s beautiful. And if people give it a chance, they’ll fall in love with it,” Neeraj said with conviction. His ultimate dream? That one day, every major city in India hosts packed stadiums not just for cricket — but for athletes chasing 100m finishes, 2m jumps, and 85m throws.

For Neeraj Chopra, the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 was a statement — that Indian athletics deserves a stage. And that fans, federations, and families need to show up

Neeraj Chopra's emotional plea to India: Please come and support athletes — not just at big events

When the sun set behind the stands of the Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium on July 5th, Bengaluru held its breath. Neeraj Chopra, two-time Olympic medalist, reigning world champion, and a national icon, stood at the edge of the runway, javelin in hand — not just as an athlete, but as the architect of the very event he was about to compete in: the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025.&nbsp;And then came the roar. As Neeraj began his run-up, the stadium rose. Flags waved. Children cheered. Adults leaned forward. With a final, violent snap of the arm, the javelin soared across the sky. It wasn’t just a throw — it was a statement. 86.18 metres. A winning mark. A fitting end to a day that had already begun rewriting the history of Indian athletics. But behind the smiles and celebration lay something deeper — a complex web of pressure, responsibility, and quiet anxiety.&nbsp;After the event, Neeraj sat down for a candid press conference. Not one to hide behind cliches, he opened up — not just about the competition, but about the immense strain of playing dual roles. “Pressure of being the host was more,” he admitted. “I was training, yes. But I was also making sure the logistics were perfectly in lune, all the athletes were comfortable, the schedule was on time.”&nbsp;For three to four days leading into the event, Neeraj was clocking 8 to 9 hours of non-stop activity. He wasn’t just throwing — he was organising, coordinating and leading from the front. From food arrangements at the hotel to checking everything at the stadium, he was involved in it all.&nbsp;“At one point, I was telling the organisers that you can go and pick up the javelins instead of using the car,” he said with a small laugh. “That’s how much this meant to me.”&nbsp;For all his global accolades, Neeraj remains deeply grounded. And despite being the poster boy of Indian athletics, he confessed to feeling nervous before the event — unsure if the crowd would show up, unsure if people would be there. “I’ve trained here in Bengaluru before. I’ve played here during my early years. But this… this was something else,” he said emotionally.&nbsp;As he walked into the arena, chants of “Neeraj! Neeraj!” echoed from all corners. Kids waved the national flag. A standing ovation greeted him before he even made his first throw. “It was emotional. I wasn’t expecting such a turnout,” he said. “It made me want to throw further. But also, it added pressure.”&nbsp;The conditions weren’t easy. A swirling headwind played its part with the technique of even the best throwers not coming up to the mark. Neeraj’s first attempt was fouled — a reminder that this sport, even for its greats, is never forgiving. “I was too close to the line. I over-committed. My coach told me to relax. Energy is good, but you need to use it wisely," he explained.&nbsp;On his next attempts, Neeraj adjusted. Technically tighter, more composed, and emotionally centered, he found his rhythm. “I had seen Julius Yego and Rumesh in really good form. They were pushing me. That helped. I knew I had to be sharp.” His winning throw came in the third round. He felt it the moment it left his hand. “The throw felt clean, powerful. I didn’t need to look at the distance — I knew it had crossed 86.”&nbsp;When asked what he would feel when he finally returned to his hotel room after what was an emotional night for him, Neeraj didn’t opt for drama. He opted for truth. “Will I cry? I don’t know. I haven’t cried in a long time. Not even I won the at the Olympics,” he said softly. “But I will be happy. My family is here. I’ll sit with them, laugh with them. That’s what matters.”&nbsp;For Neeraj, the medal — even the event — wasn’t just about sport. It was about legacy. About building something that lives beyond him. “We’ve done it once. Now we’ll do it again. And better,” he promised.&nbsp;Neeraj Chopra — athlete, champion, host, leader — had just pulled off one of the most significant evenings in Indian athletics. And as he packed up his spikes and stadium lights were turned off, one thing became clear: The throw was brilliant. The competition was successful. But the real triumph was this —India showed up for athletics. And it was because Neeraj Chopra led the way.

I might not cry but I didnt expect such crowd says Neeraj Chopra after an emotional night in Bengaluru

When the sun set behind the stands of the Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium on July 5th, Bengaluru held its breath. Neeraj Chopra, two-time Olympic medalist, reigning world champion, and a national icon, stood at the edge of the runway, javelin in hand — not just as an athlete, but as the architect of the very event he was about to compete in: the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025. And then came the roar. As Neeraj began his run-up, the stadium rose. Flags waved. Children cheered. Adults leaned forward. With a final, violent snap of the arm, the javelin soared across the sky. It wasn’t just a throw — it was a statement. 86.18 metres. A winning mark. A fitting end to a day that had already begun rewriting the history of Indian athletics. But behind the smiles and celebration lay something deeper — a complex web of pressure, responsibility, and quiet anxiety. After the event, Neeraj sat down for a candid press conference. Not one to hide behind cliches, he opened up — not just about the competition, but about the immense strain of playing dual roles. “Pressure of being the host was more,” he admitted. “I was training, yes. But I was also making sure the logistics were perfectly in lune, all the athletes were comfortable, the schedule was on time.” For three to four days leading into the event, Neeraj was clocking 8 to 9 hours of non-stop activity. He wasn’t just throwing — he was organising, coordinating and leading from the front. From food arrangements at the hotel to checking everything at the stadium, he was involved in it all. “At one point, I was telling the organisers that you can go and pick up the javelins instead of using the car,” he said with a small laugh. “That’s how much this meant to me.” For all his global accolades, Neeraj remains deeply grounded. And despite being the poster boy of Indian athletics, he confessed to feeling nervous before the event — unsure if the crowd would show up, unsure if people would be there. “I’ve trained here in Bengaluru before. I’ve played here during my early years. But this… this was something else,” he said emotionally. As he walked into the arena, chants of “Neeraj! Neeraj!” echoed from all corners. Kids waved the national flag. A standing ovation greeted him before he even made his first throw. “It was emotional. I wasn’t expecting such a turnout,” he said. “It made me want to throw further. But also, it added pressure.” The conditions weren’t easy. A swirling headwind played its part with the technique of even the best throwers not coming up to the mark. Neeraj’s first attempt was fouled — a reminder that this sport, even for its greats, is never forgiving. “I was too close to the line. I over-committed. My coach told me to relax. Energy is good, but you need to use it wisely," he explained. On his next attempts, Neeraj adjusted. Technically tighter, more composed, and emotionally centered, he found his rhythm. “I had seen Julius Yego and Rumesh in really good form. They were pushing me. That helped. I knew I had to be sharp.” His winning throw came in the third round. He felt it the moment it left his hand. “The throw felt clean, powerful. I didn’t need to look at the distance — I knew it had crossed 86.” When asked what he would feel when he finally returned to his hotel room after what was an emotional night for him, Neeraj didn’t opt for drama. He opted for truth. “Will I cry? I don’t know. I haven’t cried in a long time. Not even I won the at the Olympics,” he said softly. “But I will be happy. My family is here. I’ll sit with them, laugh with them. That’s what matters.” For Neeraj, the medal — even the event — wasn’t just about sport. It was about legacy. About building something that lives beyond him. “We’ve done it once. Now we’ll do it again. And better,” he promised. Neeraj Chopra — athlete, champion, host, leader — had just pulled off one of the most significant evenings in Indian athletics. And as he packed up his spikes and stadium lights were turned off, one thing became clear: The throw was brilliant. The competition was successful. But the real triumph was this —India showed up for athletics. And it was because Neeraj Chopra led the way.

India's poster boy Neeraj Chopra clinched the title at the inaugural edition of the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 in Bengaluru on Saturday (July 5)

'I might not cry, but I didn't expect such crowd', says Neeraj Chopra after an emotional night in Bengaluru

India's poster boy and dubbed as ‘The Golden Arm’ one, Neeraj Chopra clinched the trophy of the inaugural edition of the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 with a sensational throw of 86.18m in front of a packed Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium on Saturday (July 5). Julius Yego came in at second with a throw of 84.51m and Rumesh Pathirage came in at third with a best throw of 84.34m.&nbsp;Neeraj Chopra entered the field with a standing ovation from the crowd and thunderous round of applause, one which reverberated around the city of Bengaluru. As he got &nbsp;ready for his run up, the crowd held its breath and applauded even though his first throw was a foul. As he stepped up for his second throw, the entire stadium backed him with chants of Neeraj Neeraj Neeraj and he didn't disappoint as he threw 82.99m. His third throw was even better at 86.18m as he did his iconic celebration with both his hands in air and screaming in passion. His fourth throw was a foul. His fifth throw was at 84.07m.&nbsp;Notably, this was also the first time that Neeraj Chopra's grandfather Dharm Singh Chopra, was also watching his grandson compete live from the stand. Prior to the competition, the crowd cheered as the players came out on the field for warm-up. With each javelin going in the air, the crowd's applaud only got higher and higher. The elite line-up included Sahil Silwal, Rohit Yadav, Martin Konecny, Thomas Rohler, Yash Vir Singh, Julius Yego, Sachin Yadav, Rumesh Pathirage, Cyprian Mrzyglod, Luiz Mauricio Da Silva, Curtis Thompson and Neeraj Chopra.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier in the evening, outside the Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium in Bengaluru, the wind carried both a breeze and a buzz. Young fans lined up early, eyes wide with anticipation, waiting to catch a glimpse of their javelin heroes. Neeraj Chopra’s jerseys were flying off the stalls like hot cakes, the tricolour fluttered proudly in many little hands, and chants of "Neeraj! Neeraj! Neeraj!" were already starting to rise.&nbsp;Local dance and music troops brought the stage alive with energetic performances, turning the entry gates into mini-festivals. The atmosphere in Bengaluru felt different — electric yet grounded, festive yet reverent. It wasn’t just children who were excited; entire families had shown up and teenagers with face paint. It was as if the city had paused its usual rhythm to come together for a sporting celebration.&nbsp;Inside the stadium, it was no different. The stands were a sea of blue and saffron. Kids stood up on their seats, proudly waving the Indian flag. And when Neeraj Chopra stepped onto the field, time seemed to hold its breath — until, all at once, the silence cracked open into a thunderous roar. The name echoed again and again: Neeraj. Neeraj. Neeraj.&nbsp;This wasn’t just sport. This was emotion. This was India showing up for one of its own.

Phenomenal Neeraj Chopra clinches NC Classic 2025 title

India's poster boy and dubbed as ‘The Golden Arm’ one, Neeraj Chopra clinched the trophy of the inaugural edition of the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 with a sensational throw of 86.18m in front of a packed Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium on Saturday (July 5). Julius Yego came in at second with a throw of 84.51m and Rumesh Pathirage came in at third with a best throw of 84.34m. Neeraj Chopra entered the field with a standing ovation from the crowd and thunderous round of applause, one which reverberated around the city of Bengaluru. As he got ready for his run up, the crowd held its breath and applauded even though his first throw was a foul. As he stepped up for his second throw, the entire stadium backed him with chants of Neeraj Neeraj Neeraj and he didn't disappoint as he threw 82.99m. His third throw was even better at 86.18m as he did his iconic celebration with both his hands in air and screaming in passion. His fourth throw was a foul. His fifth throw was at 84.07m. Notably, this was also the first time that Neeraj Chopra's grandfather Dharm Singh Chopra, was also watching his grandson compete live from the stand. Prior to the competition, the crowd cheered as the players came out on the field for warm-up. With each javelin going in the air, the crowd's applaud only got higher and higher. The elite line-up included Sahil Silwal, Rohit Yadav, Martin Konecny, Thomas Rohler, Yash Vir Singh, Julius Yego, Sachin Yadav, Rumesh Pathirage, Cyprian Mrzyglod, Luiz Mauricio Da Silva, Curtis Thompson and Neeraj Chopra. Earlier in the evening, outside the Sri Kanteerava Outdoor Stadium in Bengaluru, the wind carried both a breeze and a buzz. Young fans lined up early, eyes wide with anticipation, waiting to catch a glimpse of their javelin heroes. Neeraj Chopra’s jerseys were flying off the stalls like hot cakes, the tricolour fluttered proudly in many little hands, and chants of "Neeraj! Neeraj! Neeraj!" were already starting to rise. Local dance and music troops brought the stage alive with energetic performances, turning the entry gates into mini-festivals. The atmosphere in Bengaluru felt different — electric yet grounded, festive yet reverent. It wasn’t just children who were excited; entire families had shown up and teenagers with face paint. It was as if the city had paused its usual rhythm to come together for a sporting celebration. Inside the stadium, it was no different. The stands were a sea of blue and saffron. Kids stood up on their seats, proudly waving the Indian flag. And when Neeraj Chopra stepped onto the field, time seemed to hold its breath — until, all at once, the silence cracked open into a thunderous roar. The name echoed again and again: Neeraj. Neeraj. Neeraj. This wasn’t just sport. This was emotion. This was India showing up for one of its own.

Neeraj Chopra entered the field with a standing ovation from the crowd and thunderous round of applause, one which reverberated around the city of Bengaluru

Ferrari SF90 Stradale seized in Bengaluru over unpaid road taxThe owner pays Rs 1.42 crore in Karnataka's biggest tax recovery from a single vehicleThe Karnataka Transport Department recently seized a high-end Ferrari SF90 Stradale in Bengaluru for tax evasion. As owner was asked to pay Rs 1.42 crore in road tax for using the Mumbai-registered vehicle on Karnataka roads without clearing state dues.<h2>Ferrari under the radar in tax drive</h2>Officials had been monitoring the Ferrari for several days as part of a wider crackdown on luxury vehicles operating without valid tax clearance. The car, valued at around Rs 7.5 crore, was registered in Mumbai but was being regularly driven in Bengaluru.&nbsp;The Ferrari SF90 was stopped and inspected, following which officials found that no road tax had been paid in Karnataka. The owner was served a notice and given time until the same evening to pay the tax. If unpaid, legal action was to follow.<h2>Record tax recovery in Karnataka</h2>The vehicle’s owner cleared the amount of Rs 1,41,59,041, and then the authorities released the car after verification. Officials confirmed that this was one of the highest amounts recovered. &nbsp;The Transport Department said its special drive will continue against supercars and luxury vehicles operating without valid tax documentation. Over 30 such high-end cars have reportedly been flagged in recent inspections.<h2>What makes the Ferrari SF90 Stradale special?</h2>The Ferrari SF90 Stradale is one of the most powerful cars in the world. It comes with a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine combined with three electric motors, delivering a total of 986 horsepower. It can go from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 340 km/h.

The Ferrari SF90 was seized in Bengaluru for not paying road tax. The Mumbai-registered car had to pay Rs 1.42 crore to get it back. This is part of a crackdown on luxury cars without local tax in Karnataka.


Ferrari SF90 Stradale seized in Bengaluru over unpaid road tax The owner pays Rs 1.42 crore in Karnataka's biggest tax recovery from a single vehicle The Karnataka Transport Department recently seized a high-end Ferrari SF90 Stradale in Bengaluru for tax evasion. As owner was asked to pay Rs 1.42 crore in road tax for using the Mumbai-registered vehicle on Karnataka roads without clearing state dues. Ferrari under the radar in tax drive Officials had been monitoring the Ferrari for several days as part of a wider crackdown on luxury vehicles operating without valid tax clearance. The car, valued at around Rs 7.5 crore, was registered in Mumbai but was being regularly driven in Bengaluru. The Ferrari SF90 was stopped and inspected, following which officials found that no road tax had been paid in Karnataka. The owner was served a notice and given time until the same evening to pay the tax. If unpaid, legal action was to follow. Record tax recovery in Karnataka The vehicle’s owner cleared the amount of Rs 1,41,59,041, and then the authorities released the car after verification. Officials confirmed that this was one of the highest amounts recovered. The Transport Department said its special drive will continue against supercars and luxury vehicles operating without valid tax documentation. Over 30 such high-end cars have reportedly been flagged in recent inspections. What makes the Ferrari SF90 Stradale special? The Ferrari SF90 Stradale is one of the most powerful cars in the world. It comes with a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine combined with three electric motors, delivering a total of 986 horsepower. It can go from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 340 km/h.

The Ferrari SF90 was seized in Bengaluru for not paying road tax. The Mumbai-registered car had to pay Rs 1.42 crore to get it back. This is part of a crackdown on luxury cars without local tax in Karnataka.

Why the Ferrari SF90 Stradale made headlines in Karnataka: owner pays Rs 1.42 crore in road tax

Thomas Rohler is no stranger to pain. The German javelin thrower, who won gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics, has spent years chasing, achieving, and recovering from the sport’s most elusive number — 90 metres. Now in Bengaluru to take part in the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, Rohler brings with him not just medals and technique, but a grounded, honest perspective about what it really takes to hit that mark — and why the world often misunderstands it.&nbsp;Rohler reflected on the toll a 90m throw takes on the body and the mind. "Any 90m throw has a huge impact on the body," he said while talking to WION. “Once you throw 90m, the next thing you’re going to do is rest. Because the impact is high.” It’s not a dramatic exaggeration."&nbsp;Rohler explains that the force exerted during the final block phase of the throw is equivalent to having the weight of a small car—roughly a ton—on the block foot. “People need to understand… this is not yoga,” he said with a mix of sarcasm and seriousness. “It’s really tough.”&nbsp;It’s an apt description of a sport that often looks graceful but is, at its core, a controlled act of violence. The thrower must sprint with speed, position their leg with precision, and unleash energy through their body in a split second—all while avoiding injury. Rohler, like many in the sport, has battled injuries and setbacks throughout his career. But the physical toll is only one part of the equation.&nbsp;What happens after a 90m throw, he suggests, is just as taxing. “Doing it again and again is a mental challenge,” he explained. “It’s about dealing with the pressure from the outside.” Once an athlete breaks the 90m barrier, expectations grow. The 33-year-old, with a smile, admits even he fell into that trap. “I also did it very often. We all mess up with the expectations.”&nbsp;The German further went on to talk how perceptions have shifted in recent years. “We need to look back to 2012 London Olympics. You won the Olympic Games with a 84m throw” Rohler recalled. “Now people expect you to throw 90m. If you don’t do it, people ask, ‘Was it a bad day?’” His frustration isn’t with ambition, but with unrealistic expectations—especially from those who may not understand just how rare and magical a 90m throw is.&nbsp;And rare it is. In the long history of the sport, only a small handful of men have ever thrown beyond 90m. Rohler compares it to the very top tier of cricketers. “If you look at a cricket team, all these top players… if we talk about the top-top-top players, it’s the same like comparing to 90m of javelin,” he said. “It’s still magical.”&nbsp;For the German, that magic is what the sport needs to hold on to. The number itself shouldn’t become routine or expected. “There’s only a few moments in life you get the chance to achieve it as an athlete,” he said. “But also to see it as a spectator.”&nbsp;As the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 is set to take place in Bengaluru on July 5, Thomas Rohler's presence is a reminder that even in a sport driven by distance, wisdom still carries the farthest. And if he’s teaching anything this week, it’s that chasing greatness is never effortless, and never should be taken for granted.

WION Exclusive Its magical but it hurts Rio Olympics gold medalist Thomas Rohler on living the 90m life

Thomas Rohler is no stranger to pain. The German javelin thrower, who won gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics, has spent years chasing, achieving, and recovering from the sport’s most elusive number — 90 metres. Now in Bengaluru to take part in the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, Rohler brings with him not just medals and technique, but a grounded, honest perspective about what it really takes to hit that mark — and why the world often misunderstands it. Rohler reflected on the toll a 90m throw takes on the body and the mind. "Any 90m throw has a huge impact on the body," he said while talking to WION. “Once you throw 90m, the next thing you’re going to do is rest. Because the impact is high.” It’s not a dramatic exaggeration." Rohler explains that the force exerted during the final block phase of the throw is equivalent to having the weight of a small car—roughly a ton—on the block foot. “People need to understand… this is not yoga,” he said with a mix of sarcasm and seriousness. “It’s really tough.” It’s an apt description of a sport that often looks graceful but is, at its core, a controlled act of violence. The thrower must sprint with speed, position their leg with precision, and unleash energy through their body in a split second—all while avoiding injury. Rohler, like many in the sport, has battled injuries and setbacks throughout his career. But the physical toll is only one part of the equation. What happens after a 90m throw, he suggests, is just as taxing. “Doing it again and again is a mental challenge,” he explained. “It’s about dealing with the pressure from the outside.” Once an athlete breaks the 90m barrier, expectations grow. The 33-year-old, with a smile, admits even he fell into that trap. “I also did it very often. We all mess up with the expectations.” The German further went on to talk how perceptions have shifted in recent years. “We need to look back to 2012 London Olympics. You won the Olympic Games with a 84m throw” Rohler recalled. “Now people expect you to throw 90m. If you don’t do it, people ask, ‘Was it a bad day?’” His frustration isn’t with ambition, but with unrealistic expectations—especially from those who may not understand just how rare and magical a 90m throw is. And rare it is. In the long history of the sport, only a small handful of men have ever thrown beyond 90m. Rohler compares it to the very top tier of cricketers. “If you look at a cricket team, all these top players… if we talk about the top-top-top players, it’s the same like comparing to 90m of javelin,” he said. “It’s still magical.” For the German, that magic is what the sport needs to hold on to. The number itself shouldn’t become routine or expected. “There’s only a few moments in life you get the chance to achieve it as an athlete,” he said. “But also to see it as a spectator.” As the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 is set to take place in Bengaluru on July 5, Thomas Rohler's presence is a reminder that even in a sport driven by distance, wisdom still carries the farthest. And if he’s teaching anything this week, it’s that chasing greatness is never effortless, and never should be taken for granted.

Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, co-organised by two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra and JSW Sports, and sanctioned by the Athletics Federation of India, marks a major leap forward for Indian athletics

WION Exclusive | It’s magical, but it hurts': Rio Olympics gold medalist Thomas Rohler on living the 90m life

In a worst-possible-case scenario on Saturday (May 17), the rain could play spoilsport in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> return leg&rsquo;s opener between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bengaluru" rel="dofollow">Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)</a> and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Bengaluru. As per AccuWeather, thunderstorms, heavy on occasion, could headline Saturday&rsquo;s blockbuster. Beginning in the afternoon, the showers could continue till late evening, potentially interrupting the game.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) further predicts one or two spells of rain during the game time.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-gets-underway-with-blockbuster-rcb-vs-kkr-in-bengaluru-heres-what-we-know-9077582" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025 gets underway with blockbuster RCB vs KKR in Bengaluru. Here&rsquo;s what we know</a>
Meanwhile, rain also had to do with both teams deciding on their training session timings before the marquee clash. While the hosts held their training session from 2 PM to 5 PM on the match-day eve, a decision team director Mo Bobat said, was taken considering the patchy weather conditions in the city, the travelling side began their practice from 5 PM onwards but ended at around 6:30 PM.
Rain, however, continued to pour in abundance since Friday night at around 9:30 PM when both teams completed their practice sessions. It didn&rsquo;t stop for at least three to four hours, while it was the same case the previous night.
<h2>What happens if rain plays spoilsport?</h2>
If rain causes no result on Saturday, with each team bagging one point, it&rsquo;s going to be curtains for KKR, who will, at best, finish at 14 points in as many games (should they win their last league match) while it will put RCB in the playoff spot.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-sunil-gavaskar-explains-how-mi-captain-hardik-pandya-made-mumbai-fans-cheer-for-him-after-booing-him-last-season-9078115" rel="dofollow">Gavaskar explains how MI captain Pandya made Mumbai fans cheer for him after booing throughout last season</a>
Even in case of a washout, RCB can finish in the top two and thus qualify for Qualifier 1, the winner of which reaches the final, while the loser would get another chance to reach the summit clash in Qualifier 2.
<h3>&lsquo;Not much you can do&rsquo;</h3>
Bobat reflected on the outcome of a washout at the venue on Saturday, adding that outside of wanting the players to feel calm and relaxed about the game, there are things one cannot control, and rain and results are part of them.
"When you get to game day, you can't control it," Bobat said on match eve. "So, actually you want your players to feel as clear and relaxed as possible. You trust them to make decisions in the moment, regardless of what happens.
"We don't overthink any of those things really. If the game's rain-affected, it's rain-affected. It's not something any of us control. So, we don't really think too much about that, but it might influence our preparation,&rdquo; he continued.&nbsp;

As per AccuWeather, thunderstorms could headline Saturday’s blockbuster. Beginning in the afternoon, the showers could continue till late evening, potentially interrupting the game. Sports, Cricket

In a worst-possible-case scenario on Saturday (May 17), the rain could play spoilsport in the IPL 2025 return leg’s opener between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Bengaluru. As per AccuWeather, thunderstorms, heavy on occasion, could headline Saturday’s blockbuster. Beginning in the afternoon, the showers could continue till late evening, potentially interrupting the game. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) further predicts one or two spells of rain during the game time. Also read | IPL 2025 gets underway with blockbuster RCB vs KKR in Bengaluru. Here’s what we know Meanwhile, rain also had to do with both teams deciding on their training session timings before the marquee clash. While the hosts held their training session from 2 PM to 5 PM on the match-day eve, a decision team director Mo Bobat said, was taken considering the patchy weather conditions in the city, the travelling side began their practice from 5 PM onwards but ended at around 6:30 PM. Rain, however, continued to pour in abundance since Friday night at around 9:30 PM when both teams completed their practice sessions. It didn’t stop for at least three to four hours, while it was the same case the previous night. What happens if rain plays spoilsport? If rain causes no result on Saturday, with each team bagging one point, it’s going to be curtains for KKR, who will, at best, finish at 14 points in as many games (should they win their last league match) while it will put RCB in the playoff spot. Also read | Gavaskar explains how MI captain Pandya made Mumbai fans cheer for him after booing throughout last season Even in case of a washout, RCB can finish in the top two and thus qualify for Qualifier 1, the winner of which reaches the final, while the loser would get another chance to reach the summit clash in Qualifier 2. ‘Not much you can do’ Bobat reflected on the outcome of a washout at the venue on Saturday, adding that outside of wanting the players to feel calm and relaxed about the game, there are things one cannot control, and rain and results are part of them. "When you get to game day, you can't control it," Bobat said on match eve. "So, actually you want your players to feel as clear and relaxed as possible. You trust them to make decisions in the moment, regardless of what happens. "We don't overthink any of those things really. If the game's rain-affected, it's rain-affected. It's not something any of us control. So, we don't really think too much about that, but it might influence our preparation,” he continued.

IPL 2025: Will rain play spoilsport in Bengaluru? Check out weather forecast for RCB-KKR game

Bengaluru's infrastructure was the centre of attention after the TCS World 10K marathon, with several runners incurring injuries reportedly due to the poor condition of the the city's road. BJP MP Tejasvi Surya lashed out against the civic authorities for the city's pothole-filled roads and emphasising the perilous pitfalls the participants had to encounter during the course of the event.
Surya, who took part in the event, was furious at the condition of the roads, which he claimed made the marathon into more of an 'obstacle course' than a competitive run. "Not a single stretch was free from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/potholes">potholes</a>," Surya said, highlighting how the condition of the roads posed real threats to the runners. His criticism was not just of the physical harm but also of the harm it did to the image of the city.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-this-former-india-cricketer-reveals-whats-finally-clicking-for-delhi-capitals-and-royal-challengers-bengaluru-9011600">IPL 2025: This former India cricketer reveals what&rsquo;s finally clicking for Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru</a>
The TCS World 10K, an annual event that attracts top athletes from around the globe, was reportedly marred by injuries as participants had to navigate the poorly maintained roads. The roads, filled with deep potholes and uneven surfaces, led to several runners sustaining injuries. This sparked a public outcry, with many questioning the city&rsquo;s readiness to host such high-profile events.
<h2>See Tejasvi Surya's post on X:</h2>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
My open letter to Bengaluru Incharge Minister Sri DK Shivakumar &amp; BBMP Commissioner Sri Tushar Girinath after the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TCS10K?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TCS10K</a> : Respected Sirs, It was nice to see both of you at the flag off of the TCS World 10K in Bengaluru this morning. It shows that you value events of this&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/LRclUvLJj9">pic.twitter.com/LRclUvLJj9</a>
&mdash; Tejasvi Surya (@Tejasvi_Surya) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tejasvi_Surya/status/1916419453270499514?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Surya compared the situation to that of Mumbai, which had hosted a successful marathon with smooth roads recently, and pointed out the contrast between the two cities' infrastructures. He was dismayed that Bengaluru, widely considered India's tech capital, was not doing better in providing even basic facilities such as proper roads for its people, much less hosting international events.
"Bengaluru is projecting itself as the 'Silicon Valley' of India, but what image are we presenting if our city's roads are so bad?" Surya questioned, urging immediate action from the local civic authorities to fix and maintain the city's infrastructure.
This is being criticised at a moment when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bengaluru">Bengaluru</a> is already battling many urban ills such as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/traffic-jam">traffic jams</a>, bad public transport, and worn-out roads. Surya's statement has sparked controversy on social media as well as among citizens, most of whom opine that the infrastructure of Bengaluru needs an urgent change to cater to its increasing population as well as the world.
Meanwhile, city maintenance body Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has assured necessary action to address to the problems raised.

India News, Sports: Tejasvi Surya wrote an open letter to deputy CM DK Shivakumar, saying that roads in city are pathetic and not a single stretch was free from potholes

Bengaluru's infrastructure was the centre of attention after the TCS World 10K marathon, with several runners incurring injuries reportedly due to the poor condition of the the city's road. BJP MP Tejasvi Surya lashed out against the civic authorities for the city's pothole-filled roads and emphasising the perilous pitfalls the participants had to encounter during the course of the event. Surya, who took part in the event, was furious at the condition of the roads, which he claimed made the marathon into more of an 'obstacle course' than a competitive run. "Not a single stretch was free from potholes," Surya said, highlighting how the condition of the roads posed real threats to the runners. His criticism was not just of the physical harm but also of the harm it did to the image of the city. Also Read: IPL 2025: This former India cricketer reveals what’s finally clicking for Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru The TCS World 10K, an annual event that attracts top athletes from around the globe, was reportedly marred by injuries as participants had to navigate the poorly maintained roads. The roads, filled with deep potholes and uneven surfaces, led to several runners sustaining injuries. This sparked a public outcry, with many questioning the city’s readiness to host such high-profile events. See Tejasvi Surya's post on X: My open letter to Bengaluru Incharge Minister Sri DK Shivakumar & BBMP Commissioner Sri Tushar Girinath after the #TCS10K : Respected Sirs, It was nice to see both of you at the flag off of the TCS World 10K in Bengaluru this morning. It shows that you value events of this… pic.twitter.com/LRclUvLJj9 — Tejasvi Surya (@Tejasvi_Surya) April 27, 2025 Surya compared the situation to that of Mumbai, which had hosted a successful marathon with smooth roads recently, and pointed out the contrast between the two cities' infrastructures. He was dismayed that Bengaluru, widely considered India's tech capital, was not doing better in providing even basic facilities such as proper roads for its people, much less hosting international events. "Bengaluru is projecting itself as the 'Silicon Valley' of India, but what image are we presenting if our city's roads are so bad?" Surya questioned, urging immediate action from the local civic authorities to fix and maintain the city's infrastructure. This is being criticised at a moment when Bengaluru is already battling many urban ills such as traffic jams, bad public transport, and worn-out roads. Surya's statement has sparked controversy on social media as well as among citizens, most of whom opine that the infrastructure of Bengaluru needs an urgent change to cater to its increasing population as well as the world. Meanwhile, city maintenance body Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has assured necessary action to address to the problems raised.

Pothole chaos turns Bengaluru Marathon into an obstacle course! BJP MP Tejasvi Surya hits out

It’s a perfect Sunday for cricket fans. Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, and Rohit Sharma will be in action today at the Indian Premier League. Royal Challengers Bengaluru take on Punjab Kings in Chandigarh, while Chennai Super Kings face Mumbai Indians. Bengaluru and Punjab will be playing again in less than 48 hours.

IPL 2025: Punjab Kings and RCB face each other again within 48 hours

Three persons — two from Delhi and one from Rajasthan — were recently arrested in Bengaluru for defrauding a major private bank of Rs 1.32 crore by creating 18 fake court orders while impersonating government officials. Watch to know more!

Three swindlers dupe private bank in Karnataka of Rs 1.32 crore using fake govt email ID

Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara&rsquo;s shocking comment amid huge outcry over a man groping a woman on a Bengaluru street is fuelling public anger. Replying to questions over the shocking video, the home minister, who is in charge of law and order, said such incidents can occur in a big city like Bengaluru.
&ldquo;The cops are working 24X7. Some incidents happen here and there. In such a big city, such incidents will happen,&rdquo; Parameshwara&rsquo; said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m970f5bh-e3f15u36-x2ld3c1v">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Bengaluru: Karnataka Home Minister G Parmeswara says, "Incidents like these tend to happen here and there in a big city like this. Whatever legal action needs to be taken will be done in accordance with the law. I have also instructed our commissioner to increase beat&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/28wRCjTGB3">https://t.co/28wRCjTGB3</a> <a href="https://t.co/ylkawbEzzD">pic.twitter.com/ylkawbEzzD</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1909135959972827247?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
&ldquo;I keep telling the police commissioner daily to be careful, to monitor all areas through patrolling. This is something I say almost every day. When some incidents happen here and there, of course people&rsquo;s attention will be drawn towards them,&rdquo; the home minister said.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/petrol-diesel-prices-to-go-up-indian-govt-raises-excise-duty-heres-how-it-will-affect-your-pocket-8935187" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Petrol, diesel prices to go up? Indian govt raises excise duty. Here&rsquo;s how it will affect your pocket</a>
In CCTV footage that has gone viral, a man is seen following two women in an alley of the BTM Layout neighbourhood. He suddenly gropes one woman, who tries to resist, and flees.&nbsp; The woman has not come forward to file a complaint, but police have registered a case under relevant sections.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-discovered-over-93000-tonnes-of-uranium-since-2020-report-8934892" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India has discovered over 93,000 tonnes of uranium since 2020: Report</a>
The BJP has slammed the Siddaramaiah government over the incident and said the video has exposed the reality of the law and order situation in Bengaluru and claimed that the city is becoming &ldquo;increasingly unsafe&rdquo; for women.
BJP spokesperson Prashanth G said, &ldquo;This is such an insensitive remark. Is he normalising sexual assault and crimes against women? He is shying away from responsibility and doesn't want to be accountable.&rdquo;
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BJP MLA and former deputy chief minister Ashwath Narayan said the state home minister&rsquo;s remark reflects his helplessness.
&ldquo;The groping incident is condemnable. The home minister&rsquo;s response is disgusting and demotivating. His statement shows how helpless he is as a home minister,&rdquo; said Narayan.
Hitting out at the Karnataka home minister for &ldquo;trivialising&rdquo; the incident, BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla called it reflective of a &ldquo;misogynistic, patriarchal, sexist and obnoxious&rdquo; mindset.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m970fpsl-kva5ptco-ohw18hts">
The Home Minister of Karnataka has downplayed an incident that has deeply shocked the nation, especially the people of Karnataka and women. A man sexually assaulted a woman, and the CCTV footage clearly captured the crime. Even after nearly four days, the Karnataka Police are yet&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/iHwgbngEXv">pic.twitter.com/iHwgbngEXv</a>
&mdash; BJP (@BJP4India) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India/status/1909190299064098998?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
 "Today, we have come across such a statement from the Home Minister of Karnataka, which has made us feel embarrassed and ashamed of ourselves... Three to four days have lapsed since the shocking incident took place, but the Karnataka Police have been unable to catch the accused. Instead of showing seriousness and taking action, there is a statement from the Home Minister of Karnataka, and it appears that he stands by the molester," he said.
Deputy Leader of Opposition in the state legislative assembly, Arvind Bellad, also slammed the Congress government in Karnataka and said, &ldquo;Predators get the benefit of systemic apathy? Bengaluru deserves better. Karnataka deserves leadership, not excuses!&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m970jrkb-2c7c70pg-gwaggby3">
A woman is stalked and molested on the streets of Bengaluru, and the Home Minister of Karnataka responds with a shrug: &lsquo;Such incidents do take place in a large city.&rsquo; This is not just insensitive &mdash; it&rsquo;s a shocking normalization of sexual violence. Instead of expressing outrage&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/lHC6mVTXOR">pic.twitter.com/lHC6mVTXOR</a>
&mdash; Arvind Bellad (@BelladArvind) <a href="https://twitter.com/BelladArvind/status/1909201181575954858?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
 Last year, a similar incident was caught on camera in August. A woman in Bengaluru's Konanakunte area was groped by a man during her morning walk. The accused, who was a cab driver, was arrested two days after the incident took place. According to government data, Bengaluru saw a significant increase in crime against women in 2023, and police registered 3,260 cases, including 1,135 related to molestation. (With inputs from agencies)

India News: In CCTV footage that has gone viral, a man is seen following two women in an alley of the BTM Layout neighbourhood. He suddenly gropes one woman, who tries to resist, and flees.

Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara’s shocking comment amid huge outcry over a man groping a woman on a Bengaluru street is fuelling public anger. Replying to questions over the shocking video, the home minister, who is in charge of law and order, said such incidents can occur in a big city like Bengaluru. “The cops are working 24X7. Some incidents happen here and there. In such a big city, such incidents will happen,” Parameshwara’ said. #WATCH | Bengaluru: Karnataka Home Minister G Parmeswara says, "Incidents like these tend to happen here and there in a big city like this. Whatever legal action needs to be taken will be done in accordance with the law. I have also instructed our commissioner to increase beat… https://t.co/28wRCjTGB3 pic.twitter.com/ylkawbEzzD — ANI (@ANI) April 7, 2025 “I keep telling the police commissioner daily to be careful, to monitor all areas through patrolling. This is something I say almost every day. When some incidents happen here and there, of course people’s attention will be drawn towards them,” the home minister said. Also Read | Petrol, diesel prices to go up? Indian govt raises excise duty. Here’s how it will affect your pocket In CCTV footage that has gone viral, a man is seen following two women in an alley of the BTM Layout neighbourhood. He suddenly gropes one woman, who tries to resist, and flees. The woman has not come forward to file a complaint, but police have registered a case under relevant sections. Also Read | India has discovered over 93,000 tonnes of uranium since 2020: Report The BJP has slammed the Siddaramaiah government over the incident and said the video has exposed the reality of the law and order situation in Bengaluru and claimed that the city is becoming “increasingly unsafe” for women. BJP spokesperson Prashanth G said, “This is such an insensitive remark. Is he normalising sexual assault and crimes against women? He is shying away from responsibility and doesn't want to be accountable.” Also Read | Saudi Arabia temporarily bans visas for India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and 11 other countries - Here’s why BJP MLA and former deputy chief minister Ashwath Narayan said the state home minister’s remark reflects his helplessness. “The groping incident is condemnable. The home minister’s response is disgusting and demotivating. His statement shows how helpless he is as a home minister,” said Narayan. Hitting out at the Karnataka home minister for “trivialising” the incident, BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla called it reflective of a “misogynistic, patriarchal, sexist and obnoxious” mindset. The Home Minister of Karnataka has downplayed an incident that has deeply shocked the nation, especially the people of Karnataka and women. A man sexually assaulted a woman, and the CCTV footage clearly captured the crime. Even after nearly four days, the Karnataka Police are yet… pic.twitter.com/iHwgbngEXv — BJP (@BJP4India) April 7, 2025 "Today, we have come across such a statement from the Home Minister of Karnataka, which has made us feel embarrassed and ashamed of ourselves... Three to four days have lapsed since the shocking incident took place, but the Karnataka Police have been unable to catch the accused. Instead of showing seriousness and taking action, there is a statement from the Home Minister of Karnataka, and it appears that he stands by the molester," he said. Deputy Leader of Opposition in the state legislative assembly, Arvind Bellad, also slammed the Congress government in Karnataka and said, “Predators get the benefit of systemic apathy? Bengaluru deserves better. Karnataka deserves leadership, not excuses!” A woman is stalked and molested on the streets of Bengaluru, and the Home Minister of Karnataka responds with a shrug: ‘Such incidents do take place in a large city.’ This is not just insensitive — it’s a shocking normalization of sexual violence. Instead of expressing outrage… pic.twitter.com/lHC6mVTXOR — Arvind Bellad (@BelladArvind) April 7, 2025 Last year, a similar incident was caught on camera in August. A woman in Bengaluru's Konanakunte area was groped by a man during her morning walk. The accused, who was a cab driver, was arrested two days after the incident took place. According to government data, Bengaluru saw a significant increase in crime against women in 2023, and police registered 3,260 cases, including 1,135 related to molestation. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Disgusting, misogynistic’: Karnataka minister slammed for ‘happens in big city...’ remark on Bengaluru groping

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