After the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) kicked off its by-poll campaign in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister Ashwath Narayan expressed confidence that his party will win all 15 assembly seats.

He also targeted the opposition saying, "there is no coordination in the Congress" and added rival's ally Janata Dal-United (JDU) will not fight these polls together.

"We do not forget anybody in our party. We have given responsibility to every leader and will work under target which has been set. BJP does not need to win eight seats, we require only six seats. But, I am confident that we will win all the 15 assembly constituencies.," he said while speaking to ANI.

"Both Congress and JDS were indulged in a war of words. There is no coordination inside the Congress. Siddaramaiah is alone in the Congress party. Congress and JDS will never come together again," the Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister said.

The by-elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5. The results will be declared on December 9.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

After the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) kicked off its by-poll campaign in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister Ashwath Narayan expressed confidence that his party will win all 15 assembly seats.

After the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) kicked off its by-poll campaign in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister Ashwath Narayan expressed confidence that his party will win all 15 assembly seats. He also targeted the opposition saying, "there is no coordination in the Congress" and added rival's ally Janata Dal-United (JDU) will not fight these polls together. "We do not forget anybody in our party. We have given responsibility to every leader and will work under target which has been set. BJP does not need to win eight seats, we require only six seats. But, I am confident that we will win all the 15 assembly constituencies.," he said while speaking to ANI. "Both Congress and JDS were indulged in a war of words. There is no coordination inside the Congress. Siddaramaiah is alone in the Congress party. Congress and JDS will never come together again," the Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister said. The by-elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5. The results will be declared on December 9.

BJP confident of winning all 15 seats in Karnataka bypolls: Deputy CM Ashwath Narayan

Congress on Saturday released a list of its six candidates for the upcoming Assembly by-elections in Karnataka. 
 
The party has fielded Gananan Balachandra Mangasuli from Athani, Bharamgouda Alagouda Kage from Kagwad, and Lakhan Jarkiholi from Gokak Assembly constituencies. 
 
Venkatrao Ghorpade will be contesting from Vijayanagara, Rizwan Arshad from Shivajinagar and KB Chandrashekar from Krishnarajpet Assembly seat. 
 
Congress has also named Praveen Peter as its candidate for the forthcoming election to Legislative Council of Karnataka from Bangalore Teachers' constituency. 
 
Elections to 15 Assembly seats will be held on December 5.

Congress on Saturday released a list of its six candidates for the upcoming Assembly by-elections in Karnataka. The party has fielded Gananan Balachandra Mangasuli from Athani, Bharamgouda Alagouda Kage from Kagwad, and Lakhan Jarkiholi from Gokak Assembly constituencies.

Congress on Saturday released a list of its six candidates for the upcoming Assembly by-elections in Karnataka. The party has fielded Gananan Balachandra Mangasuli from Athani, Bharamgouda Alagouda Kage from Kagwad, and Lakhan Jarkiholi from Gokak Assembly constituencies. Venkatrao Ghorpade will be contesting from Vijayanagara, Rizwan Arshad from Shivajinagar and KB Chandrashekar from Krishnarajpet Assembly seat. Congress has also named Praveen Peter as its candidate for the forthcoming election to Legislative Council of Karnataka from Bangalore Teachers' constituency. Elections to 15 Assembly seats will be held on December 5.

Karnataka: Congress declares names of six candidates contesting Assembly by-polls

A day after Supreme Court's Karnataka verdict,15 out of 17 disqualified rebel MLAs, including those from Congress and JD(S) joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday in the presence of Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa here.

Out of the 17 disqualified MLAs, MTB Nagaraj is already a member of the BJP, while Roshan Baig has been left out. The top court has allowed 17 disqualified rebel MLAs to contest in the upcoming bypolls which are slated to be held on December 5.

Baig did not attend the joining program held at the party office here. According to sources, he was not allowed to take membership of BJP due to the IMA Ponzi scam and allegations against him in RSS worker Rudresh's murder case.

"We didn't come out of the coalition government just to save the state from evil politics. We came out of Congress and JD(S) and joined BJP, it's not anti-defection, it's political polarisation. We will stand with BJP leaders and we will work along with them as they have given us a chance to work along with them. I thank you all including Prime Minister, Home Minister and BJP working president JP Nadda," said H Vishwanath, one of the 17 disqualified MLAs.

The Supreme Court had on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then Karnataka speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law but said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state.

The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar in July earlier this year under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023. The move led to the collapse of the Congress-JD(S) coalition government, paving way for BJP to stake claim to form a new government in the state.

The disgruntled MLAs then moved the apex court challenging their disqualification. They sought quashing of the order passed by the Speaker and prohibition imposed on them to contest elections. The matter was reserved by the court on October 25. The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5.&nbsp;

A day after Supreme Court's Karnataka verdict,15 out of 17 disqualified rebel MLAs, including those from Congress and JD(S) joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday in the presence of Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa here.

A day after Supreme Court's Karnataka verdict,15 out of 17 disqualified rebel MLAs, including those from Congress and JD(S) joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday in the presence of Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa here. Out of the 17 disqualified MLAs, MTB Nagaraj is already a member of the BJP, while Roshan Baig has been left out. The top court has allowed 17 disqualified rebel MLAs to contest in the upcoming bypolls which are slated to be held on December 5. Baig did not attend the joining program held at the party office here. According to sources, he was not allowed to take membership of BJP due to the IMA Ponzi scam and allegations against him in RSS worker Rudresh's murder case. "We didn't come out of the coalition government just to save the state from evil politics. We came out of Congress and JD(S) and joined BJP, it's not anti-defection, it's political polarisation. We will stand with BJP leaders and we will work along with them as they have given us a chance to work along with them. I thank you all including Prime Minister, Home Minister and BJP working president JP Nadda," said H Vishwanath, one of the 17 disqualified MLAs. The Supreme Court had on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then Karnataka speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law but said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state. The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar in July earlier this year under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023. The move led to the collapse of the Congress-JD(S) coalition government, paving way for BJP to stake claim to form a new government in the state. The disgruntled MLAs then moved the apex court challenging their disqualification. They sought quashing of the order passed by the Speaker and prohibition imposed on them to contest elections. The matter was reserved by the court on October 25. The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5.

15 disqualified Karnataka MLAs join BJP

A day after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sc-upholds-disqualification-of-rebel-mlas-permits-them-to-contest-bypolls-261738">Supreme Court</a> permitted the disqualified Congress and JD(S) MLAs to contest the impending&nbsp; Karnataka bypolls on December 5, the Bharatiya Janata Party has released an official statement mentioning that 16 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in the state are all set to join the ruling&nbsp;BJP on Thursday, which excludes the name of&nbsp;Roshan Baig.

On Wednesday, sources shared that the BJP is open to the prospect of fielding all 17 disqualified Karnataka MLAs for the upcoming bypolls in the state. The top leadership, including chief Amit Shah and working president JP Nadda, have given their go-ahead for fielding the disqualified MLAs from their erstwhile seats, sources said.

The decision was reportedly taken at a high-level meeting held today, in which senior state leaders were also present. The by-polls in the state will be held on 15 out of the 17 seats on December 5. According to sources,&nbsp;Roshan Baig's name could not be included in BJP till he gets a clean chit in IMA Ponzi scam.

In the Karnataka elections, BJP had emerged as the largest party with 105 seats but failed to secure a majority in the 225-members assembly. The party is expecting that the by-polls on the 15 seats will boost their tally in the state. The 14-month old Congress-JD(S) coalition government, led by Kumaraswamy collapsed in July this year following a series of resignations from MLAs paving way for the BJP, which was the single largest party to form the government in Karnataka.

 
&nbsp;

A day after the Supreme Court permitted the disqualified Congress and JD(S) MLAs to contest the impending Karnataka bypolls on December 5, the Bharatiya Janata Party has released an official statement mentioning that 16 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in the state are all set to join the ruling BJP on Thursday, which excludes the name of Roshan Baig.

A day after the Supreme Court permitted the disqualified Congress and JD(S) MLAs to contest the impending Karnataka bypolls on December 5, the Bharatiya Janata Party has released an official statement mentioning that 16 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in the state are all set to join the ruling BJP on Thursday, which excludes the name of Roshan Baig. On Wednesday, sources shared that the BJP is open to the prospect of fielding all 17 disqualified Karnataka MLAs for the upcoming bypolls in the state. The top leadership, including chief Amit Shah and working president JP Nadda, have given their go-ahead for fielding the disqualified MLAs from their erstwhile seats, sources said. The decision was reportedly taken at a high-level meeting held today, in which senior state leaders were also present. The by-polls in the state will be held on 15 out of the 17 seats on December 5. According to sources, Roshan Baig's name could not be included in BJP till he gets a clean chit in IMA Ponzi scam. In the Karnataka elections, BJP had emerged as the largest party with 105 seats but failed to secure a majority in the 225-members assembly. The party is expecting that the by-polls on the 15 seats will boost their tally in the state. The 14-month old Congress-JD(S) coalition government, led by Kumaraswamy collapsed in July this year following a series of resignations from MLAs paving way for the BJP, which was the single largest party to form the government in Karnataka.

BJP says Karnataka's 16 disqualified MLAs set to join party

The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law and said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state.

"We are upholding the order of the Speaker," said Justice Ramana while reading out the judgment. The top court said that resignation does not take away the power of disqualification by the speaker. "Since we are deciding disqualification, resignation is not needed to be gone into. As such there is no doubt that disqualification has nothing to do with resignation," the court said.

The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar in July under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023. The move had led to a fall of the Congress-JD (S) coalition government, paving way for BJP to stake claim to form a new government in the state.

The disgruntled MLAs then moved the apex court challenging their disqualification. They sought quashing of the order passed by the speaker and prohibition imposed on them to contest elections.

The matter was reserved by the court on October 25. The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5. They were earlier scheduled to be conducted on October 21 but were deferred by the Election Commission (EC) as the petitions of disqualified MLAs were pending in the top court.

The poll body had withheld the elections for two seats -- Maski and Rajarajeshwari -- as the petitions against these Assembly constituencies are pending in the Karnataka High Court.

After their&nbsp;disqualification, the strength of the 224-member Assembly had come down to 207. This had brought down the majority mark to 104. The BJP, which helms the government in the state, has 106 MLAs in the Assembly. With the by-poll elections, the majority mark will climb to 222 and the BJP will have to win a minimum of six out of fifteen seats to keep its majority.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law and said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law and said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state. "We are upholding the order of the Speaker," said Justice Ramana while reading out the judgment. The top court said that resignation does not take away the power of disqualification by the speaker. "Since we are deciding disqualification, resignation is not needed to be gone into. As such there is no doubt that disqualification has nothing to do with resignation," the court said. The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar in July under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023. The move had led to a fall of the Congress-JD (S) coalition government, paving way for BJP to stake claim to form a new government in the state. The disgruntled MLAs then moved the apex court challenging their disqualification. They sought quashing of the order passed by the speaker and prohibition imposed on them to contest elections. The matter was reserved by the court on October 25. The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5. They were earlier scheduled to be conducted on October 21 but were deferred by the Election Commission (EC) as the petitions of disqualified MLAs were pending in the top court. The poll body had withheld the elections for two seats -- Maski and Rajarajeshwari -- as the petitions against these Assembly constituencies are pending in the Karnataka High Court. After their disqualification, the strength of the 224-member Assembly had come down to 207. This had brought down the majority mark to 104. The BJP, which helms the government in the state, has 106 MLAs in the Assembly. With the by-poll elections, the majority mark will climb to 222 and the BJP will have to win a minimum of six out of fifteen seats to keep its majority.

SC upholds disqualification of Karnataka's rebel MLAs, permits them to contest bypolls

The date for filing nominations for the bye-elections to the 15 Assembly seats in Karnataka are from November 11-18, said Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the state, Sanjeev Kumar, on Sunday.

The date of polling has been set for December 5, while the counting of votes is scheduled to begin on November 9, Kumar said at a press conference.

The CEO added that the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) will also come into effect from tomorrow.

According to Kumar, more than 37 lakh 50 thousand voters will decide the fate of candidates in the upcoming by-polls, including 19.12 lakh male voters and 18.37 lakh female voters while 399 come under the others category.

The CEO added that a total of 4185 polling booths will be set up for the bye-elections and a total of 22,958 polling personnel will be required for the smooth conduct of the elections which will be done using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPATs).

The elections to the 15 Assembly seats were earlier slated for October 21 but later postponed to December 5 by the Election Commission (EC) as the case pertaining to the disqualification of 17 MLAs was pending in the Supreme Court.

The judgment on their disqualification was reserved by the apex court last month.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The date for filing nominations for the bye-elections to the 15 Assembly seats in Karnataka are from November 11-18, said Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the state, Sanjeev Kumar, on Sunday.

The date for filing nominations for the bye-elections to the 15 Assembly seats in Karnataka are from November 11-18, said Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the state, Sanjeev Kumar, on Sunday. The date of polling has been set for December 5, while the counting of votes is scheduled to begin on November 9, Kumar said at a press conference. The CEO added that the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) will also come into effect from tomorrow. According to Kumar, more than 37 lakh 50 thousand voters will decide the fate of candidates in the upcoming by-polls, including 19.12 lakh male voters and 18.37 lakh female voters while 399 come under the others category. The CEO added that a total of 4185 polling booths will be set up for the bye-elections and a total of 22,958 polling personnel will be required for the smooth conduct of the elections which will be done using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPATs). The elections to the 15 Assembly seats were earlier slated for October 21 but later postponed to December 5 by the Election Commission (EC) as the case pertaining to the disqualification of 17 MLAs was pending in the Supreme Court. The judgment on their disqualification was reserved by the apex court last month.

Filing of nomination from November 11, date of polling December 5 for 15 Karnataka Assembly seats: CEO

Doctors at government hospitals in Karnataka have been staging a sit-in for five days to protest against repeated cases of assault, demanding action against the attackers.

''I am not a terrorist, I am a doctor and I don't deserve to die at my workplace'', read a placard held by one of the 1000 government doctors protesting against another case of assault. The junior residents have been staging a sit-in for five days now, demanding action against the attackers. The incident itself took place on November 1 at Minto Hospital run by the Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute. At 3.30 pm, 30-35 members from Kannada Rakshana Vedike, a pro-Kannada organisation, barged into the hospital OPD premises.&nbsp;

The protesters were demanding compensation for several patients who had lost their eyesight following cataract surgeries in July this year. When the junior female doctor refused to speak to them, they allegedly heckled her and assaulted her physically.&nbsp;

''They demanded that the junior resident answer the questions being raised by the association. The doctor responded by saying 'I know Kannada. But I do not wish to speak with you'' which was inferred as 'I do not wish to speak in Kannada'. There was another case of assault on a male doctor on the same day for which we have also submitted the evidence. There is also evidence of mental abuse and physical manhandling by using expletives on the female doctor. They are not supposed to barge into the hospital without prior intimation. We have filed an FIR and they are non-bailable offences which warrants immediate action. But no action has been taken so far. This protest is to demand action against those responsible for this attack'', says Dr Venugopal, member of the Resident Doctors' Association.&nbsp;

The government on Monday announced compensation of Rs 3 lacs for patients who lost their eyesight and asked the protesting doctors to return to duty. But the doctors have been adamant on not returning to duty until the perpetrators are punished. ''Even the victims who lost their eyesight have grievances. The doctors have their own grievances. The police are taking action as per law. Forcing a procedure is not fair. We are educated people. The system is built for the people. Whatever their concern, we are here to address it. If they don't have confidence, how can the system run?'' said Ashwath Narayan, Deputy CM, Karnataka.&nbsp;

Female doctors were particularly shaken up after the incident where the doctor was physically assaulted by Ashwini Gowda. ''We work round the clock in casualty and ICU irrespective of gender. We are all doctors here. But it is a very sensitive issue that a female doctor got attacked. The government should take up the matter. There will be fear among students and parents. Our parents send us here to achieve well in our profession. But now they are worried for the safety and lives of their children. This is an important issue that is not getting the attention it deserves from the common man'', says Dr Rekha.&nbsp;

Doctors from Vani Vilas Hospital, Bowring Hospital, Minto Hospital and Victoria Hospital participated in the sit-in and have threatened to make it an indefinite strike if there is a delay in taking action against the attackers. ''There are many laws that have been brought to protect us. But numerous incidents of violence occur against medicos. None of the laws are effectively implemented. Every time we protest, they promise to tighten protection. But action against the culprits is never taken. This encourages more such acts'', says Dr Rekha.

Doctors at government hospitals in Karnataka have been staging a sit-in for five days to protest against repeated cases of assault, demanding action against the attackers.

Doctors at government hospitals in Karnataka have been staging a sit-in for five days to protest against repeated cases of assault, demanding action against the attackers. ''I am not a terrorist, I am a doctor and I don't deserve to die at my workplace'', read a placard held by one of the 1000 government doctors protesting against another case of assault. The junior residents have been staging a sit-in for five days now, demanding action against the attackers. The incident itself took place on November 1 at Minto Hospital run by the Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute. At 3.30 pm, 30-35 members from Kannada Rakshana Vedike, a pro-Kannada organisation, barged into the hospital OPD premises. The protesters were demanding compensation for several patients who had lost their eyesight following cataract surgeries in July this year. When the junior female doctor refused to speak to them, they allegedly heckled her and assaulted her physically. ''They demanded that the junior resident answer the questions being raised by the association. The doctor responded by saying 'I know Kannada. But I do not wish to speak with you'' which was inferred as 'I do not wish to speak in Kannada'. There was another case of assault on a male doctor on the same day for which we have also submitted the evidence. There is also evidence of mental abuse and physical manhandling by using expletives on the female doctor. They are not supposed to barge into the hospital without prior intimation. We have filed an FIR and they are non-bailable offences which warrants immediate action. But no action has been taken so far. This protest is to demand action against those responsible for this attack'', says Dr Venugopal, member of the Resident Doctors' Association. The government on Monday announced compensation of Rs 3 lacs for patients who lost their eyesight and asked the protesting doctors to return to duty. But the doctors have been adamant on not returning to duty until the perpetrators are punished. ''Even the victims who lost their eyesight have grievances. The doctors have their own grievances. The police are taking action as per law. Forcing a procedure is not fair. We are educated people. The system is built for the people. Whatever their concern, we are here to address it. If they don't have confidence, how can the system run?'' said Ashwath Narayan, Deputy CM, Karnataka. Female doctors were particularly shaken up after the incident where the doctor was physically assaulted by Ashwini Gowda. ''We work round the clock in casualty and ICU irrespective of gender. We are all doctors here. But it is a very sensitive issue that a female doctor got attacked. The government should take up the matter. There will be fear among students and parents. Our parents send us here to achieve well in our profession. But now they are worried for the safety and lives of their children. This is an important issue that is not getting the attention it deserves from the common man'', says Dr Rekha. Doctors from Vani Vilas Hospital, Bowring Hospital, Minto Hospital and Victoria Hospital participated in the sit-in and have threatened to make it an indefinite strike if there is a delay in taking action against the attackers. ''There are many laws that have been brought to protect us. But numerous incidents of violence occur against medicos. None of the laws are effectively implemented. Every time we protest, they promise to tighten protection. But action against the culprits is never taken. This encourages more such acts'', says Dr Rekha.

Karnataka: Government doctors stage sit-in to protest assault

Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa kicked up another storm over the contentious historical figure Tipu Sultan when he said that his government was absolutely against celebrating the former ruler of Mysuru.&nbsp;

He went a step further and stressed that his government was working towards dropping lessons on the Tiger of Mysuru from textbooks in the state. 'I don't think Tipu was a freedom fighter. We are against everything to do with Tipu, including his references in textbooks' said the Chief Minister while addressing the media in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

The statement comes just a day after Suresh Kumar, the state's Primary and Secondary Education Minister formed a committee to look into a proposal to drop references to Tipu Sultan from school textbooks.&nbsp;

The committee is set to meet on November 7 and will be submitting a report on the same.&nbsp;

The committee was formed after MLA Appachu Ranjan shot multiple letters alleging that history was being distorted in the textbooks and that the ruler was a bigot and not a freedom fighter.&nbsp;

While speaking to WION, Ranjan said that Tipu is being unfairly glorified in the textbooks and hence he placed the demand to drop the lessons before the government.&nbsp;

'I am saying that Tipu should be dropped from textbooks because the books say he is a freedom fighter. But he is not at all a freedom fighter. He fought only to expand his kingdom. If Tipu was a freedom fighter, he would not have looted temples in Mangalore and other places. There are many examples where he forcibly converted subjects to Islam. That is the reason I feel Tipu should not be called a freedom fighter. We should tell the truth to our younger generation. That is the reason I am insisting that Tipu should be dropped from textbook lessons.' said Ranjan.&nbsp;

Just days after swearing-in as Chief Minister of Karnataka in July this year, BS Yediyurappa cancelled the controversial Tipu Jayanti celebrations. The Tipu Jayanti festivities had become a bone of contention between the Congress and the BJP after the then Siddaramaiah government had made it a state-sponsored festival. The BJP had hit back at the Congress government, accusing it of attempting to please minorities while hurting sentiments of people in Kodagu and Mangaluru who view the 18th-century ruler as a tyrant. However, historians believe that debate is being generated for purely political gains without any academic merit.&nbsp;

'A blanket statement saying all references to Tipu Sultan is school textbooks should be removed is very odd and completely unacceptable.&nbsp;

I say it's odd because this very Chief Minister had donned the costume of Tipu Sultan 7 years ago at a function to say he identified with what Tipu Sultan stood for. This debate cannot be on the knowledge that is new as Tipu Sultan has been dead for more than 200 years now. The other reason is if you have a problem with Tipu Sultan because of the violence he inflicted on a particular community, you must have an objection to all kings because all kings have killed people from one community or another. Every community can now say that their ancestors were killed by a certain king so there should be no references to him.' says Prof Chandan Gowda, Historian.&nbsp;

The debate has however boiled down to a single question of whether Tipu Sultan was a freedom fighter. While critics of the ruler feel he was no freedom fighter and was merely protecting his kingdom, historians have a different view on the matter. 'Tipu Sultan had a sense that the British were not like any other enemy. He did try to get the Nizam of Hyderabad and Marathas to unite against the British. Which he was not able to do. So his struggle to keep them out can be seen as part of freedom struggle history. If Kittur Rani Chennamma can be part of the freedom struggle, Tipu Sultan qualifies for it... There was no India at that time. Tipu was defending Mysuru. But if defending Mysuru is all that he cared for then that's all he would've done. Would he then have tried to build a larger alliance of the Marathas and the Nizam to keep them(British) out of Peninsular India?' questions Prof Gowda.&nbsp;

The controversial Tipu Jayanti was celebrated for three years on November 10, amidst tight security up until 2018. While 65000 police personnel including Rapid Action Force had been deployed for the celebrations, in 2017 Section 144 had to be imposed in Kodagu to contain the violence. As Karnataka struggles with over 100 taluks being hit by floods and unprecedented rains leading to loss of crops and life, politicians continue to fight over a historical figure from the 18th century.

Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa kicked up another storm over the contentious historical figure Tipu Sultan when he said that his government was absolutely against celebrating the former ruler of Mysuru.

Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa kicked up another storm over the contentious historical figure Tipu Sultan when he said that his government was absolutely against celebrating the former ruler of Mysuru. He went a step further and stressed that his government was working towards dropping lessons on the Tiger of Mysuru from textbooks in the state. 'I don't think Tipu was a freedom fighter. We are against everything to do with Tipu, including his references in textbooks' said the Chief Minister while addressing the media in Bengaluru. The statement comes just a day after Suresh Kumar, the state's Primary and Secondary Education Minister formed a committee to look into a proposal to drop references to Tipu Sultan from school textbooks. The committee is set to meet on November 7 and will be submitting a report on the same. The committee was formed after MLA Appachu Ranjan shot multiple letters alleging that history was being distorted in the textbooks and that the ruler was a bigot and not a freedom fighter. While speaking to WION, Ranjan said that Tipu is being unfairly glorified in the textbooks and hence he placed the demand to drop the lessons before the government. 'I am saying that Tipu should be dropped from textbooks because the books say he is a freedom fighter. But he is not at all a freedom fighter. He fought only to expand his kingdom. If Tipu was a freedom fighter, he would not have looted temples in Mangalore and other places. There are many examples where he forcibly converted subjects to Islam. That is the reason I feel Tipu should not be called a freedom fighter. We should tell the truth to our younger generation. That is the reason I am insisting that Tipu should be dropped from textbook lessons.' said Ranjan. Just days after swearing-in as Chief Minister of Karnataka in July this year, BS Yediyurappa cancelled the controversial Tipu Jayanti celebrations. The Tipu Jayanti festivities had become a bone of contention between the Congress and the BJP after the then Siddaramaiah government had made it a state-sponsored festival. The BJP had hit back at the Congress government, accusing it of attempting to please minorities while hurting sentiments of people in Kodagu and Mangaluru who view the 18th-century ruler as a tyrant. However, historians believe that debate is being generated for purely political gains without any academic merit. 'A blanket statement saying all references to Tipu Sultan is school textbooks should be removed is very odd and completely unacceptable. I say it's odd because this very Chief Minister had donned the costume of Tipu Sultan 7 years ago at a function to say he identified with what Tipu Sultan stood for. This debate cannot be on the knowledge that is new as Tipu Sultan has been dead for more than 200 years now. The other reason is if you have a problem with Tipu Sultan because of the violence he inflicted on a particular community, you must have an objection to all kings because all kings have killed people from one community or another. Every community can now say that their ancestors were killed by a certain king so there should be no references to him.' says Prof Chandan Gowda, Historian. The debate has however boiled down to a single question of whether Tipu Sultan was a freedom fighter. While critics of the ruler feel he was no freedom fighter and was merely protecting his kingdom, historians have a different view on the matter. 'Tipu Sultan had a sense that the British were not like any other enemy. He did try to get the Nizam of Hyderabad and Marathas to unite against the British. Which he was not able to do. So his struggle to keep them out can be seen as part of freedom struggle history. If Kittur Rani Chennamma can be part of the freedom struggle, Tipu Sultan qualifies for it... There was no India at that time. Tipu was defending Mysuru. But if defending Mysuru is all that he cared for then that's all he would've done. Would he then have tried to build a larger alliance of the Marathas and the Nizam to keep them(British) out of Peninsular India?' questions Prof Gowda. The controversial Tipu Jayanti was celebrated for three years on November 10, amidst tight security up until 2018. While 65000 police personnel including Rapid Action Force had been deployed for the celebrations, in 2017 Section 144 had to be imposed in Kodagu to contain the violence. As Karnataka struggles with over 100 taluks being hit by floods and unprecedented rains leading to loss of crops and life, politicians continue to fight over a historical figure from the 18th century.

Karnataka government might drop Tipu Sultan chapters from textbooks

Former Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Saturday visited the state's most affected region by this year's monsoon floods and held interactions with the locals.

During the visit, the locals of Basathwada village of Hukkeri Taluk here voiced the problems they were facing due to the floods.

Since Belagavi is the most affected district in the state this monsoon, political leaders have been visiting the region to take stock of the situation and the relief operations being undertaken to provide relief to flood victims.

Earlier, senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah had tweeted a letter for Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa and said, "Flood affected victims felt relieved when we went to assess the situation. So a session in Belagavi would be a morale boost for the victims of North Karnataka. I would request BS Yeddyurappa to call for a session in Belagavi for 15-25 days instead of 3 days in Bengaluru."

He claimed that parts of Karnataka are reeling under post-flood and drought-related issues with no adequate measures from the Central and State governments.

"People have lost everything and are left with very little hope for the future. As representatives, it is our duty to instil confidence and renew their hope," he had said.

On September 24, the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) had held a protest in Belagavi asking for more relief for those affected during the floods and raised the demand for it to be declared as a 'national calamity'.

This also comes ahead of Assembly by-polls to the 15 assembly seats in Karnataka, which are scheduled to be held on December 5.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Former Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Saturday visited the state's most affected region by this year's monsoon floods and held interactions with the locals. During the visit, the locals of Basathwada village of Hukkeri Taluk here voiced the problems they were facing due to the floods.

Former Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Saturday visited the state's most affected region by this year's monsoon floods and held interactions with the locals. During the visit, the locals of Basathwada village of Hukkeri Taluk here voiced the problems they were facing due to the floods. Since Belagavi is the most affected district in the state this monsoon, political leaders have been visiting the region to take stock of the situation and the relief operations being undertaken to provide relief to flood victims. Earlier, senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah had tweeted a letter for Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa and said, "Flood affected victims felt relieved when we went to assess the situation. So a session in Belagavi would be a morale boost for the victims of North Karnataka. I would request BS Yeddyurappa to call for a session in Belagavi for 15-25 days instead of 3 days in Bengaluru." He claimed that parts of Karnataka are reeling under post-flood and drought-related issues with no adequate measures from the Central and State governments. "People have lost everything and are left with very little hope for the future. As representatives, it is our duty to instil confidence and renew their hope," he had said. On September 24, the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) had held a protest in Belagavi asking for more relief for those affected during the floods and raised the demand for it to be declared as a 'national calamity'. This also comes ahead of Assembly by-polls to the 15 assembly seats in Karnataka, which are scheduled to be held on December 5.

Karnataka: Kumaraswamy visits flood-affected Belagavi, interacts with locals

Senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Saturday slammed Karnataka cabinet minister C C Patil for claiming that the state does not have enough funds to help the flood victims.

Speaking to ANI, the former chief minister of Karnataka said, "It shows their (Karnataka government) negligence. Every month the state government gets tax. The state gets its share of taxes. They get several kinds of taxes. If he is saying that the treasury is empty it reflects his knowledge about the financial issues."

"They do not have any will to help people amidst hardships. This government has completely failed to provide relief to the victims," he added.

Notably, after being criticised by residents for not visiting flood-affected areas in Gadag district, Cabinet Minister CC Patil on Wednesday visited Sevala Nagar village and talked to people about the problems they face.

Patil, also the minister in-charge of Gadag district, told the locals that the state government is spending a huge amount in the flood-affected areas despite lack of funds.

"You are aware of how much money the government is spending in flood-affected areas. You even know that the government doesn`t have money. We are also not getting our MLA funds. We will see later if you want to leave this village and want to shift to a different village. I will make the arrangements," Patil said.

The death toll has gone up to 13 following the devastation caused by incessant rain and floods in Karnataka between October 18 to 24.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Saturday slammed Karnataka cabinet minister C C Patil for claiming that the state does not have enough funds to help the flood victims.

Senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Saturday slammed Karnataka cabinet minister C C Patil for claiming that the state does not have enough funds to help the flood victims. Speaking to ANI, the former chief minister of Karnataka said, "It shows their (Karnataka government) negligence. Every month the state government gets tax. The state gets its share of taxes. They get several kinds of taxes. If he is saying that the treasury is empty it reflects his knowledge about the financial issues." "They do not have any will to help people amidst hardships. This government has completely failed to provide relief to the victims," he added. Notably, after being criticised by residents for not visiting flood-affected areas in Gadag district, Cabinet Minister CC Patil on Wednesday visited Sevala Nagar village and talked to people about the problems they face. Patil, also the minister in-charge of Gadag district, told the locals that the state government is spending a huge amount in the flood-affected areas despite lack of funds. "You are aware of how much money the government is spending in flood-affected areas. You even know that the government doesn`t have money. We are also not getting our MLA funds. We will see later if you want to leave this village and want to shift to a different village. I will make the arrangements," Patil said. The death toll has gone up to 13 following the devastation caused by incessant rain and floods in Karnataka between October 18 to 24.

Siddaramaiah tears into Karnataka minister for claiming state has no funds for flood victims

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday said places over Coastal Karnataka, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam are likely to receive heavy rainfall today.

The weather forecast agency further predicted that heavy downpour is also likely to batter Odisha, Konkan, Goa, Telangana, Rayalaseema, Interior Karnataka, Kerala and Mahe.

Apart from these places, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada and Tamilnadu, Puducherry and Karaikal are also likely to receive heavy rainfall throughout the day, the IMD stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.

In Delhi, the sky will mainly be clear with the maximum and minimum temperatures hovering around 32 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius.

The thunderstorm accompanied by lightning is very likely at isolated places over Jammu and Kashmir, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Gangetic and West Bengal.

Also, the strong winds (speed reaching 45-55 kmph) very likely over the east-central Arabian Sea.

A squally weather along Maharashtra-GoaKarnataka-Kerala coasts, Lakshadweep area and north Tamil Nadu-Andhra Pradesh-Odisha coasts.

The organisation had advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next couple of days.

The IMD further stated in its advisory that a well-marked low-pressure area over central parts of the Arabian Sea with the associated cyclonic circulation extending up to 4.5 km above mean sea level persists.

"It is very likely to concentrate into a depression during the next 36 hours. It is likely to move initially east-northeastwards over the east-central Arabian Sea till October 25 and then west-northwestwards with gradual intensification," the weather forecast agency stated.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday said places over Coastal Karnataka, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam are likely to receive heavy rainfall today.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday said places over Coastal Karnataka, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam are likely to receive heavy rainfall today. The weather forecast agency further predicted that heavy downpour is also likely to batter Odisha, Konkan, Goa, Telangana, Rayalaseema, Interior Karnataka, Kerala and Mahe. Apart from these places, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada and Tamilnadu, Puducherry and Karaikal are also likely to receive heavy rainfall throughout the day, the IMD stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin. In Delhi, the sky will mainly be clear with the maximum and minimum temperatures hovering around 32 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius. The thunderstorm accompanied by lightning is very likely at isolated places over Jammu and Kashmir, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Gangetic and West Bengal. Also, the strong winds (speed reaching 45-55 kmph) very likely over the east-central Arabian Sea. A squally weather along Maharashtra-GoaKarnataka-Kerala coasts, Lakshadweep area and north Tamil Nadu-Andhra Pradesh-Odisha coasts. The organisation had advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next couple of days. The IMD further stated in its advisory that a well-marked low-pressure area over central parts of the Arabian Sea with the associated cyclonic circulation extending up to 4.5 km above mean sea level persists. "It is very likely to concentrate into a depression during the next 36 hours. It is likely to move initially east-northeastwards over the east-central Arabian Sea till October 25 and then west-northwestwards with gradual intensification," the weather forecast agency stated.

Coastal Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh likely to receive heavy rainfall: IMD

Former Prime Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) Chief, HD Deve Gowda on Tuesday stated that his party will be contesting alone in the upcoming election for local bodies in Karnataka.

Gowda while speaking to ANI said, "We are going to contest on our own. There is no question of any alliance with anybody in the coming local body elections in the state."

Further speaking on the Supreme Court`s hearing on the petition filed by 17 rebel Karnataka Congress-JD (S) MLAs, Gowda stated, "We are going to wait for Supreme Court`s verdict and if there will be elections for 15 constituencies, we are going to contest."

Gowda also asserted that as per the surveys conducted by various agencies, Shiv Sena and BJP alliance might get the majority.

"I am not going to bother about the election results of Haryana and Maharashtra but as per the survey conducted by various agencies, Congress and NCP may not get the majority and Shiv Sena and BJP might get the majority," said Gowda.

Gowda further mentioned about the damage caused across various parts of North Karnataka due to heavy rains.

"I know that severe damage has occurred in various parts of North Karnataka due to heavy rains so it is up to the state government to take all necessary steps. We can only demand the state government to take necessary measures. I have written two letters to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on this issue," said Gowda.&nbsp;

Former Prime Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) Chief, HD Deve Gowda on Tuesday stated that his party will be contesting alone in the upcoming election for local bodies in Karnataka.

Former Prime Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) Chief, HD Deve Gowda on Tuesday stated that his party will be contesting alone in the upcoming election for local bodies in Karnataka. Gowda while speaking to ANI said, "We are going to contest on our own. There is no question of any alliance with anybody in the coming local body elections in the state." Further speaking on the Supreme Court`s hearing on the petition filed by 17 rebel Karnataka Congress-JD (S) MLAs, Gowda stated, "We are going to wait for Supreme Court`s verdict and if there will be elections for 15 constituencies, we are going to contest." Gowda also asserted that as per the surveys conducted by various agencies, Shiv Sena and BJP alliance might get the majority. "I am not going to bother about the election results of Haryana and Maharashtra but as per the survey conducted by various agencies, Congress and NCP may not get the majority and Shiv Sena and BJP might get the majority," said Gowda. Gowda further mentioned about the damage caused across various parts of North Karnataka due to heavy rains. "I know that severe damage has occurred in various parts of North Karnataka due to heavy rains so it is up to the state government to take all necessary steps. We can only demand the state government to take necessary measures. I have written two letters to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on this issue," said Gowda.

We are going to contest on our own in local body elections, no question of alliance: Deve Gowda

Increase of 700 Tiger numbers pose fresh challenges with Karnataka Forest departments.

Man Eater Tiger captured in Karnataka

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday said that isolated places over Coastal Karnataka, Konkan and Goa are likely to receive heavy rainfall today.

The weather forecast agency further predicted heavy downpour is also likely to batter south Madhya Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal.

The thunderstorm accompanied by lightning very likely at isolated places over Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, north Haryana and Chandigarh.

The squally weather with the wind speed of 45-55 kilometers is very likely over the East-central Arabian Sea and adjoining Karnataka and south Konkan coast.

The fishermen have been advised not to venture into these areas for the next few days.

According to IMD, the low-pressure area persists over the southeast Arabian Sea and adjoining the Lakshadweep area.

The associated cyclonic circulation extends up to 5.8 km above mean sea level.

A trough runs from the above cyclonic circulation to Telangana across Kerala, South Interior Karnataka and Rayalseema between 3.1 and 5.8 km above mean sea level, stated IMD in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.

Under the influence of the above systems, heavy rainfall is likely to occur over major parts of peninsular India during next 3-4 days with likely occurrence of heavy to very heavy falls over Coastal Karnataka during next 48 hours.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday said that isolated places over Coastal Karnataka, Konkan and Goa are likely to receive heavy rainfall today. The weather forecast agency further predicted heavy downpour is also likely to batter south Madhya Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday said that isolated places over Coastal Karnataka, Konkan and Goa are likely to receive heavy rainfall today. The weather forecast agency further predicted heavy downpour is also likely to batter south Madhya Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal. The thunderstorm accompanied by lightning very likely at isolated places over Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, north Haryana and Chandigarh. The squally weather with the wind speed of 45-55 kilometers is very likely over the East-central Arabian Sea and adjoining Karnataka and south Konkan coast. The fishermen have been advised not to venture into these areas for the next few days. According to IMD, the low-pressure area persists over the southeast Arabian Sea and adjoining the Lakshadweep area. The associated cyclonic circulation extends up to 5.8 km above mean sea level. A trough runs from the above cyclonic circulation to Telangana across Kerala, South Interior Karnataka and Rayalseema between 3.1 and 5.8 km above mean sea level, stated IMD in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin. Under the influence of the above systems, heavy rainfall is likely to occur over major parts of peninsular India during next 3-4 days with likely occurrence of heavy to very heavy falls over Coastal Karnataka during next 48 hours.

Coastal Karnataka, Goa likely to receive heavy rainfall: IMD

A Man-eater tiger was captured in Karnataka. Tiger population in India is up by 33% in 2018. Can Indian forests hold the growing population of tigers? Watch our report.

India: Man-eater tiger captured in Karnataka

In July 2019 India had reasons to cheer after the Prime Minister announced the All India Tiger Estimation results of 2018. In four years, India had seen an increase of 700 of these big cats. But with the growth in tiger population, bigger challenges now face the forest departments. On October 13, a 4-day operation by the Karnataka Forest department led to the capture of a young tiger from around the Bandipur Tiger Reserve. The tiger had been tormenting villagers, by killing 2 people and over a dozen cattle. 6 veterinarians, multiple teams and forest department elephants identified the tiger using camera traps and pug marks and managed to tranquilise it. But while the department has been lauded for capturing the big cat, the problems are bigger than that.&nbsp;

After India hit an all-time low of 1400 tiger in the 2006-2007 period, concerted efforts by conservation activists, forest departments and the government led to a healthy increase in big cat numbers. In 2014 India reported figures of 2226 and a 33% increase on that in 2018 with 2967 big cats. Tigers are extremely territorial animals and require an average of 10-12sqkm area, depending on the prey population. There are over 130 tigers in Bandipur Tiger Reserve that is spread across 912sqkm. With territories shrinking, the tigers are venturing into villages and hamlets.

'Man-animal conflict is a serious issue right now. Karnataka has been a successful state in the country with tiger numbers going up. A census report came this August. Every four years we see a 30% rise in Karnataka. With 524 tigers in Karnataka and forest areas largely remaining the same the issue(of man-animal conflict) is bound to exist. The tigers are safe inside and keep breeding. But the young tigers have to come out as stronger ones are inside and the young should find their own territory. Yes, there are issues of tigers spilling out. Though we have adjoining forest areas where the tiger can venture, every sanctuary has a saturation point and man-animal conflict is going to increase seriously in the future' says Sanjai Mohan, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests(Wildlife), Karnataka.&nbsp;

Joseph Hoover, a conservationist who was part of the tiger capture operation in Bandipur says villagers have reported multiple sightings of tigers in the last few months. 'At this point in time, there are far too many tigers in Bandipur and Nagarahole. These forest areas cannot hold that many tigers. This way we are seeing so many tigers come out of their territory because there is no space. A tiger that has already established territory will not let another tiger come in. In Nagarhole, problems are bigger than Bandipur. Tigers are venturing into hamlets and that is an issue. Every week we hear stories about tigers venturing into someone farm and this is becoming worrisome. Are we prepared to capture them? Do we have the right equipment? Are we mentally, physically and technologically prepared for it?' questions Hoover.&nbsp;

India is believed to be home to 60% of the global tiger population and Karnataka has the second-highest population in the country with 524 tigers. Villagers have also highlighted the worsening of the problem due to forest fires, that devoured close to 11,000 acres in Bandipur this year alone. 'I was there when the tiger was captured. Villagers came up to us and said another tiger and a cub were spotted in another area. How do you keep them inside the forest area? You cannot obviously keep everything fenced like how they have done in Kruger National Park. This is where the challenge lies. That is why we told the forest dept that we should be better prepared. We saw the on-ground realities. We knew the tiger was close by, but we couldn't identify where it was. Had we had the thermal imagery facility we could have identified where the tiger was and tranquilised it on the second day. Lack of equipment was the issue.' says Hoover

The change big cat behaviour has also been a cause of concern. Tigers are extremely shy animals and have traditionally known to stay away from human habitats. But the tiger that was captured was not only sighted frequently villagers in farms but had also killed two farmers. In one incident, it had stayed in the bushes near the deceased farmer, despite villagers creating a ruckus to chase it away. 'Tiger is a very shy animal but in this case, it was a very bold animal that could look into your eyes. It is a male in its prime and we don't know why it took to killing humans. One theory is when it was trying to kill the cattle the humans might have come in the way.' says Hoover.&nbsp;

But the forest department says that the situation is yet to reach alarming levels. While the man-eater's behaviour has been odd considering it is a young tiger that is uninjured, it could just be an aberration. 'The tiger still wants to live deep in the forest and live on natural prey. Bandipur has around 130 tigers, but only 1 tiger has shown this behaviour. But issues are there. As tiger numbers increase they need independent area and this problem will increase.' says Sanjai Mohan.&nbsp;

Over 120 villages are in close proximity of the Bandipur forest area, but this is only in Karnataka. Bandipur is adjoined by BTR Tiger Reserve, Nagarahole, Madumalai, Sathyamangalam and Wayanad that form the Nilgiri Ecosphere with a dense population of the big cats. So what is the solution to the issue? The National Tiger Conservation Authority has repeatedly asked for buffer zones to be increased, but state governments have not made any real progress on that front. 'As far as tigers are concerned, the barricades are unable to stop them. But right now the situation is not alarming. But in the future when the situation worsens we have to see. The way forward is to have many rescue centres, where the captured tigers can feel at home. In a zoo, it is confined to a very small place. It is better to have areas in the forests that can be earmarked and fenced where we can place tigers exhibiting such behaviour.' says Sanjai Mohan.

In July 2019 India had reasons to cheer after the Prime Minister announced the All India Tiger Estimation results of 2018. In four years, India had seen an increase of 700 of these big cats.

In July 2019 India had reasons to cheer after the Prime Minister announced the All India Tiger Estimation results of 2018. In four years, India had seen an increase of 700 of these big cats. But with the growth in tiger population, bigger challenges now face the forest departments. On October 13, a 4-day operation by the Karnataka Forest department led to the capture of a young tiger from around the Bandipur Tiger Reserve. The tiger had been tormenting villagers, by killing 2 people and over a dozen cattle. 6 veterinarians, multiple teams and forest department elephants identified the tiger using camera traps and pug marks and managed to tranquilise it. But while the department has been lauded for capturing the big cat, the problems are bigger than that. After India hit an all-time low of 1400 tiger in the 2006-2007 period, concerted efforts by conservation activists, forest departments and the government led to a healthy increase in big cat numbers. In 2014 India reported figures of 2226 and a 33% increase on that in 2018 with 2967 big cats. Tigers are extremely territorial animals and require an average of 10-12sqkm area, depending on the prey population. There are over 130 tigers in Bandipur Tiger Reserve that is spread across 912sqkm. With territories shrinking, the tigers are venturing into villages and hamlets. 'Man-animal conflict is a serious issue right now. Karnataka has been a successful state in the country with tiger numbers going up. A census report came this August. Every four years we see a 30% rise in Karnataka. With 524 tigers in Karnataka and forest areas largely remaining the same the issue(of man-animal conflict) is bound to exist. The tigers are safe inside and keep breeding. But the young tigers have to come out as stronger ones are inside and the young should find their own territory. Yes, there are issues of tigers spilling out. Though we have adjoining forest areas where the tiger can venture, every sanctuary has a saturation point and man-animal conflict is going to increase seriously in the future' says Sanjai Mohan, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests(Wildlife), Karnataka. Joseph Hoover, a conservationist who was part of the tiger capture operation in Bandipur says villagers have reported multiple sightings of tigers in the last few months. 'At this point in time, there are far too many tigers in Bandipur and Nagarahole. These forest areas cannot hold that many tigers. This way we are seeing so many tigers come out of their territory because there is no space. A tiger that has already established territory will not let another tiger come in. In Nagarhole, problems are bigger than Bandipur. Tigers are venturing into hamlets and that is an issue. Every week we hear stories about tigers venturing into someone farm and this is becoming worrisome. Are we prepared to capture them? Do we have the right equipment? Are we mentally, physically and technologically prepared for it?' questions Hoover. India is believed to be home to 60% of the global tiger population and Karnataka has the second-highest population in the country with 524 tigers. Villagers have also highlighted the worsening of the problem due to forest fires, that devoured close to 11,000 acres in Bandipur this year alone. 'I was there when the tiger was captured. Villagers came up to us and said another tiger and a cub were spotted in another area. How do you keep them inside the forest area? You cannot obviously keep everything fenced like how they have done in Kruger National Park. This is where the challenge lies. That is why we told the forest dept that we should be better prepared. We saw the on-ground realities. We knew the tiger was close by, but we couldn't identify where it was. Had we had the thermal imagery facility we could have identified where the tiger was and tranquilised it on the second day. Lack of equipment was the issue.' says Hoover The change big cat behaviour has also been a cause of concern. Tigers are extremely shy animals and have traditionally known to stay away from human habitats. But the tiger that was captured was not only sighted frequently villagers in farms but had also killed two farmers. In one incident, it had stayed in the bushes near the deceased farmer, despite villagers creating a ruckus to chase it away. 'Tiger is a very shy animal but in this case, it was a very bold animal that could look into your eyes. It is a male in its prime and we don't know why it took to killing humans. One theory is when it was trying to kill the cattle the humans might have come in the way.' says Hoover. But the forest department says that the situation is yet to reach alarming levels. While the man-eater's behaviour has been odd considering it is a young tiger that is uninjured, it could just be an aberration. 'The tiger still wants to live deep in the forest and live on natural prey. Bandipur has around 130 tigers, but only 1 tiger has shown this behaviour. But issues are there. As tiger numbers increase they need independent area and this problem will increase.' says Sanjai Mohan. Over 120 villages are in close proximity of the Bandipur forest area, but this is only in Karnataka. Bandipur is adjoined by BTR Tiger Reserve, Nagarahole, Madumalai, Sathyamangalam and Wayanad that form the Nilgiri Ecosphere with a dense population of the big cats. So what is the solution to the issue? The National Tiger Conservation Authority has repeatedly asked for buffer zones to be increased, but state governments have not made any real progress on that front. 'As far as tigers are concerned, the barricades are unable to stop them. But right now the situation is not alarming. But in the future when the situation worsens we have to see. The way forward is to have many rescue centres, where the captured tigers can feel at home. In a zoo, it is confined to a very small place. It is better to have areas in the forests that can be earmarked and fenced where we can place tigers exhibiting such behaviour.' says Sanjai Mohan.

Growing tiger numbers leads to big cats spilling out of forests in Karnataka

President Ram Nath Kovind will embark on a three-day visit to Karnataka on October 10.

According to the schedule, President Kovind will first arrive in Mysuru where he will visit the royal palace and inaugurate the centenary celebration of the Maharaja Jayachamaraja Wadiyar.

He on October 11 will visit the Sree Srikanteshwara Temple at Nanjanagud and Sree Chamundeshwari Temple atop the Chamundi Hills, which will be followed by attending the ground-breaking and foundation laying ceremony of the JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, in Varuna village.

On the final day of his visit, the President will meet the Chief Justice and judges of the Karnataka High Court followed by a visit to the residence of former union minister and BJP leader late HN Ananth Kumar.

The President will also pay a visit to the Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Sansthana (S-VYASA) University at Jigani in Bengaluru Urban district before leaving for Ahmedabad.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind will embark on a three-day visit to Karnataka on October 10. According to the schedule, President Kovind will first arrive in Mysuru where he will visit the royal palace and inaugurate the centenary celebration of the Maharaja Jayachamaraja Wadiyar.

President Ram Nath Kovind will embark on a three-day visit to Karnataka on October 10. According to the schedule, President Kovind will first arrive in Mysuru where he will visit the royal palace and inaugurate the centenary celebration of the Maharaja Jayachamaraja Wadiyar. He on October 11 will visit the Sree Srikanteshwara Temple at Nanjanagud and Sree Chamundeshwari Temple atop the Chamundi Hills, which will be followed by attending the ground-breaking and foundation laying ceremony of the JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, in Varuna village. On the final day of his visit, the President will meet the Chief Justice and judges of the Karnataka High Court followed by a visit to the residence of former union minister and BJP leader late HN Ananth Kumar. The President will also pay a visit to the Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Sansthana (S-VYASA) University at Jigani in Bengaluru Urban district before leaving for Ahmedabad.

President Kovind to embark on 3-day visit to Karnataka on October 10

BBMP Corporator M Goutham Kumar was elected as the Mayor of Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) on Tuesday.

He will be serving as the 53rd Mayor of the city. Kumar, who enjoyed the support of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state unit, polled 129 votes as against 110 votes polled by Congress candidate Satyanarayana.

Kumar is 42 years old and has earlier held various posts under the BJP's city unit.

He was the secretary of BJP's Shantinagar unit for four years and has also served in the State Yuva Morcha for six years.

He has also served as the city secretary of BJP Bengaluru. In the year 2013-14, he also served as the BBMP accounts committee chairman.

BBMP Corporator M Goutham Kumar was elected as the Mayor of Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) on Tuesday. He will be serving as the 53rd Mayor of the city.

BBMP Corporator M Goutham Kumar was elected as the Mayor of Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) on Tuesday. He will be serving as the 53rd Mayor of the city. Kumar, who enjoyed the support of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state unit, polled 129 votes as against 110 votes polled by Congress candidate Satyanarayana. Kumar is 42 years old and has earlier held various posts under the BJP's city unit. He was the secretary of BJP's Shantinagar unit for four years and has also served in the State Yuva Morcha for six years. He has also served as the city secretary of BJP Bengaluru. In the year 2013-14, he also served as the BBMP accounts committee chairman.

Karnataka: BJP's Goutham Kumar elected as Bengaluru mayor

Congress leader DK Shivakumar on Thursday moved the Delhi High Court for bail in connection with the money laundering case.

Shivakumar`s legal team approached the High Court after his earlier bail plea was dismissed by a special court in Delhi on Wednesday.

The special court had dismissed his bail plea stating that the Karnataka Congress leader is "not entitled to bail" at this stage.

The bail plea was rejected by special court judge Ajay Kumar Kuhar, who said that investigation agency must get a free and fair chance to reach a logical conclusion.

The court added that the "accused is not entitled to bail" at this stage of the investigation, adding that the Enforcement Directorate arguments had presented some crucial documents and list of 317 alleged bank accounts of the accused.

The court had also directed the Tihar jail authorities to take care of his all medical issues and take him to Ram Manohar Lohia, Safdarjung and AIIMS hospitals if needed.

Shivakumar, who is currently lodged in Tihar Jail under judicial custody of Enforcement Directorate, sought bail on health grounds. However, the ED opposed the bail stating that the accused may influence witness and tamper proofs.

DK Shivakumar is currently lodged in Tihar Jail under judicial custody of ED till October 1.

Congress leader DK Shivakumar on Thursday moved the Delhi High Court for bail in connection with the money laundering case. Shivakumar`s legal team approached the High Court after his earlier bail plea was dismissed by a special court in Delhi on Wednesday.

Congress leader DK Shivakumar on Thursday moved the Delhi High Court for bail in connection with the money laundering case. Shivakumar`s legal team approached the High Court after his earlier bail plea was dismissed by a special court in Delhi on Wednesday. The special court had dismissed his bail plea stating that the Karnataka Congress leader is "not entitled to bail" at this stage. The bail plea was rejected by special court judge Ajay Kumar Kuhar, who said that investigation agency must get a free and fair chance to reach a logical conclusion. The court added that the "accused is not entitled to bail" at this stage of the investigation, adding that the Enforcement Directorate arguments had presented some crucial documents and list of 317 alleged bank accounts of the accused. The court had also directed the Tihar jail authorities to take care of his all medical issues and take him to Ram Manohar Lohia, Safdarjung and AIIMS hospitals if needed. Shivakumar, who is currently lodged in Tihar Jail under judicial custody of Enforcement Directorate, sought bail on health grounds. However, the ED opposed the bail stating that the accused may influence witness and tamper proofs. DK Shivakumar is currently lodged in Tihar Jail under judicial custody of ED till October 1.

DK Shivakumar files bail plea in Delhi High Court in connection with money laundering case

JD-S leader H D Kumaraswamy on Tuesday attacked Congress leader Siddaramaiah for some of his comments and said he was not a 'parrot' domesticated by Sidaramaiah.

The comments came in the wake of a tweet by Siddaramaiah against Kumaraswamy.

"Yes Mr H D Kumaraswamy, it is true that the parrots which I believed in are haunted. It is my whole fault that even after four decades of political companionship, we made a coalition with vultures. Doesn`t it bite @INC?," Siddaramaiah said.

Speaking to media persons in Channapatna, Kumaraswamy stated, "I am not a parrot domesticated by Siddaramaiah. There are several like him who prospered under H D Deve Gowda. I became CM due to blessings from the Congress high command."&nbsp;

Kumaraswamy further accused Siddaramaiah of not listening to the directives of Congress high command resulting in the collapse of Congress-JDS coalition.

"He (Siddaramaiah) didn't listen to the Congress high command when they gave certain directives and that is why the govt didn`t last. After leaving Congress, setting up a regional entity is something that I did, does Siddaramaiah have guts to do anything for regional pride?", he added.

JD-S leader H D Kumaraswamy on Tuesday attacked Congress leader Siddaramaiah for some of his comments and said he was not a 'parrot' domesticated by Sidaramaiah.

JD-S leader H D Kumaraswamy on Tuesday attacked Congress leader Siddaramaiah for some of his comments and said he was not a 'parrot' domesticated by Sidaramaiah. The comments came in the wake of a tweet by Siddaramaiah against Kumaraswamy. "Yes Mr H D Kumaraswamy, it is true that the parrots which I believed in are haunted. It is my whole fault that even after four decades of political companionship, we made a coalition with vultures. Doesn`t it bite @INC?," Siddaramaiah said. Speaking to media persons in Channapatna, Kumaraswamy stated, "I am not a parrot domesticated by Siddaramaiah. There are several like him who prospered under H D Deve Gowda. I became CM due to blessings from the Congress high command." Kumaraswamy further accused Siddaramaiah of not listening to the directives of Congress high command resulting in the collapse of Congress-JDS coalition. "He (Siddaramaiah) didn't listen to the Congress high command when they gave certain directives and that is why the govt didn`t last. After leaving Congress, setting up a regional entity is something that I did, does Siddaramaiah have guts to do anything for regional pride?", he added.

Not a parrot domesticated by Siddaramaiah: HD Kumaraswamy

BS Yediyurappa-led Karnataka government has issued notification regarding the revised fines on select traffic offences.

The state government has slashed rates on several traffic offences under, The Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, but has kept penalties for drunken driving unchanged.

As per the latest order issued on Saturday, the fine for not wearing a helmet and seat belt while driving has been reduced to Rs 500 as against the prescribed amount of Rs 1000 in the new Motor Vehicle Act.

For allowing an unauthorised person to drive vehicles, the fines for two-wheelers and three-wheelers will be Rs 1000, Rs 2000 for LMV and Rs 5000 for other vehicles.

The rates have been slashed "In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 200 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 (Central Act 59 of 1988) read with Section 21 of the General Clauses Act, 1897," read the notification by the state government.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister, Laxman Sangappa Savadi had earlier said the fine rates under the new Act will be revised.

Before that, Yediyurappa had directed the state transport department to slash fines under the amended Motor Vehicles Act 2019.

"Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa today instructed officials to study the Gujarat model of revised traffic fines to implement something similar in Karnataka," the Chief Minister's office said in a statement.

Gujarat has already reduced the fine for not wearing a helmet and set belt to Rs 500 as against the prescribed amount of Rs 1000 in the new Motor Vehicle Act. Driving without a valid license will cost Rs 2,000 to bikers and Rs 3,000 to four-wheelers as against Rs 5,000 mentioned in the act.

States like Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal and Punjab have put the new rules on hold.

BS Yediyurappa-led Karnataka government has issued notification regarding the revised fines on select traffic offences. The state government has slashed rates on several traffic offences under, The Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, but has kept penalties for drunken driving unchanged.

BS Yediyurappa-led Karnataka government has issued notification regarding the revised fines on select traffic offences. The state government has slashed rates on several traffic offences under, The Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, but has kept penalties for drunken driving unchanged. As per the latest order issued on Saturday, the fine for not wearing a helmet and seat belt while driving has been reduced to Rs 500 as against the prescribed amount of Rs 1000 in the new Motor Vehicle Act. For allowing an unauthorised person to drive vehicles, the fines for two-wheelers and three-wheelers will be Rs 1000, Rs 2000 for LMV and Rs 5000 for other vehicles. The rates have been slashed "In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 200 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 (Central Act 59 of 1988) read with Section 21 of the General Clauses Act, 1897," read the notification by the state government. Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister, Laxman Sangappa Savadi had earlier said the fine rates under the new Act will be revised. Before that, Yediyurappa had directed the state transport department to slash fines under the amended Motor Vehicles Act 2019. "Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa today instructed officials to study the Gujarat model of revised traffic fines to implement something similar in Karnataka," the Chief Minister's office said in a statement. Gujarat has already reduced the fine for not wearing a helmet and set belt to Rs 500 as against the prescribed amount of Rs 1000 in the new Motor Vehicle Act. Driving without a valid license will cost Rs 2,000 to bikers and Rs 3,000 to four-wheelers as against Rs 5,000 mentioned in the act. States like Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal and Punjab have put the new rules on hold.

Karnataka slashes penalties for traffic offences under Motor Vehicle Act

Amid public outcry over hefty fines levied under the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/most-of-the-states-support-new-motor-vehicle-rules-gadkari-250331">New Motor Vehicles Act</a>, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister, Laxman Sangappa Savadi on Wednesday said the fine rates under the new Act will be revised by today evening.

Earlier, Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa had directed the state transport department to slash fines under the amended Motor Vehicles Act 2019.

"Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa today instructed officials to study the Gujarat model of revised traffic fines to implement something similar in Karnataka," the Chief Minister's office said in a statement.

Gujarat has already reduced the fine for not wearing a helmet and set belt to Rs 500 as against the prescribed amount of Rs 1000 in the new Motor Vehicle Act.

Driving without a valid license will cost Rs 2,000 to bikers and Rs 3,000 to four-wheelers as against Rs 5,000 mentioned in the act. States like Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal and Punjab have put the new rules on hold.

Amid public outcry over hefty fines levied under the New Motor Vehicles Act, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister, Laxman Sangappa Savadi on Wednesday said the fine rates under the new Act will be revised by today evening.

Amid public outcry over hefty fines levied under the New Motor Vehicles Act, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister, Laxman Sangappa Savadi on Wednesday said the fine rates under the new Act will be revised by today evening. Earlier, Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa had directed the state transport department to slash fines under the amended Motor Vehicles Act 2019. "Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa today instructed officials to study the Gujarat model of revised traffic fines to implement something similar in Karnataka," the Chief Minister's office said in a statement. Gujarat has already reduced the fine for not wearing a helmet and set belt to Rs 500 as against the prescribed amount of Rs 1000 in the new Motor Vehicle Act. Driving without a valid license will cost Rs 2,000 to bikers and Rs 3,000 to four-wheelers as against Rs 5,000 mentioned in the act. States like Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal and Punjab have put the new rules on hold.

Karnataka to announce revised fine rates under new Motor Vehicles Act today

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said that the registrar will look into the urgent listing of the petition filed by 15 disqualified Congress-JD(S) MLAs against their ouster under the anti-defection law from the Karnataka Assembly.

Senior advocate V Giri mentioned the matter before a bench headed by Justice NV Ramana for the urgent listing.

In the petition, the legislators of the former JD(S)-Congress coalition government sought directions to quash the order passed by former Karnataka Assembly Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar rejecting their resignation and disqualifying them from the Assembly.

In the petition, the legislators termed the then Speaker's decision as "wholly illegal, arbitrary and mala fide".

The petitioners also asserted that their resignations were "voluntary and genuine".

"Not only had they themselves submitted their resignations on July 6, but also appeared in person before the Speaker and submitted their resignation afresh on July 11 in accordance with the directions of the apex court passed on the same day," the plea submitted.

The ousted legislators further contended that the former Speaker rejected their resignation on "wholly extraneous grounds".

"The Speakers'&nbsp;insistence on them attending the proceedings before him on the date of the trust vote clearly speaks volumes of the manner in which the disqualification proceedings have been conducted against them," the petition said.

They also urged the court to call for the records of the proceedings before the then Speaker pertaining to the resignation and disqualification.

Kumar had disqualified 17 rebel MLAs, days after the Congress-JD(S) government collapsed after losing the confidence motion in the Assembly.

The leaders were disqualified by the Speaker, stating that they have "incurred disqualification under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution (anti-defection law) and the disqualification would last till the end of the term of the Assembly May 23, 2023."&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said that the registrar will look into the urgent listing of the petition filed by 15 disqualified Congress-JD(S) MLAs against their ouster under the anti-defection law from the Karnataka Assembly.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said that the registrar will look into the urgent listing of the petition filed by 15 disqualified Congress-JD(S) MLAs against their ouster under the anti-defection law from the Karnataka Assembly. Senior advocate V Giri mentioned the matter before a bench headed by Justice NV Ramana for the urgent listing. In the petition, the legislators of the former JD(S)-Congress coalition government sought directions to quash the order passed by former Karnataka Assembly Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar rejecting their resignation and disqualifying them from the Assembly. In the petition, the legislators termed the then Speaker's decision as "wholly illegal, arbitrary and mala fide". The petitioners also asserted that their resignations were "voluntary and genuine". "Not only had they themselves submitted their resignations on July 6, but also appeared in person before the Speaker and submitted their resignation afresh on July 11 in accordance with the directions of the apex court passed on the same day," the plea submitted. The ousted legislators further contended that the former Speaker rejected their resignation on "wholly extraneous grounds". "The Speakers' insistence on them attending the proceedings before him on the date of the trust vote clearly speaks volumes of the manner in which the disqualification proceedings have been conducted against them," the petition said. They also urged the court to call for the records of the proceedings before the then Speaker pertaining to the resignation and disqualification. Kumar had disqualified 17 rebel MLAs, days after the Congress-JD(S) government collapsed after losing the confidence motion in the Assembly. The leaders were disqualified by the Speaker, stating that they have "incurred disqualification under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution (anti-defection law) and the disqualification would last till the end of the term of the Assembly May 23, 2023."

Supreme Court to look into plea filed by disqualified Karnataka MLAs against their ouster

Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa on Monday said that the inter-ministerial central team is in the state to assess the damage caused due to the floods and will submit a report to the Centre in two days.

"The Centre has sent a study team to our state. The team has come to study flood-hit areas here. They will give the report to the Centre in two days. I am sure that the central government will give sufficient funds to the state," he told reporters here.

"The central government has sent the team to our state first. They know the situation in the state. Amit Shah and Nirmala Sitharaman had come here before and did aerial surveys," he added.

The Home Ministry has constituted teams to conduct on-the-spot situation assessments of the damage and relief operations in the flood-affected states of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Bihar, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Kerala and Karnataka.

So far, at least 82 people have lost their lives in flood-related incidents in Karnataka.

In light of the ongoing crisis, Yediyurappa has directed the newly-inducted ministers in his cabinet to tour the flood-affected districts extensively for two days from Wednesday and asked them to provide relief to the flood victims on priority.

Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa on Monday said that the inter-ministerial central team is in the state to assess the damage caused due to the floods and will submit a report to the Centre in two days.

Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa on Monday said that the inter-ministerial central team is in the state to assess the damage caused due to the floods and will submit a report to the Centre in two days. "The Centre has sent a study team to our state. The team has come to study flood-hit areas here. They will give the report to the Centre in two days. I am sure that the central government will give sufficient funds to the state," he told reporters here. "The central government has sent the team to our state first. They know the situation in the state. Amit Shah and Nirmala Sitharaman had come here before and did aerial surveys," he added. The Home Ministry has constituted teams to conduct on-the-spot situation assessments of the damage and relief operations in the flood-affected states of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Bihar, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Kerala and Karnataka. So far, at least 82 people have lost their lives in flood-related incidents in Karnataka. In light of the ongoing crisis, Yediyurappa has directed the newly-inducted ministers in his cabinet to tour the flood-affected districts extensively for two days from Wednesday and asked them to provide relief to the flood victims on priority.

Karnataka floods: Inter-ministerial team to submit report to Centre in two days, says Yediyurappa

Former Karnataka Chief Minister and Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Sunday came down heavily on JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy for treating him as an "enemy" and blamed him for the slump of Congress-JD(S) coalition government in the state.

"HD Kumaraswamy never treated me as a friend or confidant, but instead considered me as an enemy and that led to all the problems," the leader told the media persons.&nbsp;

The war of words between the two leaders has been going on unabatedly since last month after their 14-months long turbulent coalition government lost the vote of confidence in the Assembly.

Siddaramaiah had earlier held former Prime Minister Deve Gowda, father of former HD Kumaraswamy, responsible for the collapse of the government.

His rebuttal came in the light of accusations levelled by Gowda, who said that the former wanted to make BJP leader BS Yediyurappa the chief minister instead of his son Kumaraswamy, adding that the two had worked together in the past.

Former Karnataka Chief Minister and Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Sunday came down heavily on JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy for treating him as an "enemy" and blamed him for the slump of Congress-JD(S) coalition government in the state.

Former Karnataka Chief Minister and Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Sunday came down heavily on JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy for treating him as an "enemy" and blamed him for the slump of Congress-JD(S) coalition government in the state. "HD Kumaraswamy never treated me as a friend or confidant, but instead considered me as an enemy and that led to all the problems," the leader told the media persons. The war of words between the two leaders has been going on unabatedly since last month after their 14-months long turbulent coalition government lost the vote of confidence in the Assembly. Siddaramaiah had earlier held former Prime Minister Deve Gowda, father of former HD Kumaraswamy, responsible for the collapse of the government. His rebuttal came in the light of accusations levelled by Gowda, who said that the former wanted to make BJP leader BS Yediyurappa the chief minister instead of his son Kumaraswamy, adding that the two had worked together in the past.

Former Karnataka chief minister Kumaraswamy considered me as enemy: Siddaramaiah

Onion prices have doubled to Rs 30 per kilograms in parts of Karnataka due to a shortage in supply caused by heavy rains and floods in North Karnataka and adjacent parts of Maharashtra, according to traders.

"Before floods, 1 kilograms onion used to cost around Rs 15, now it touches Rs 30 in the wholesale market and Rs 40 in retail shops and street vendors. We import onions from Maharashtra and also use the onions that are grown here but recent floods have damaged the roads in North Karnataka affecting the supply," said a trader, Subramani.

"Even trucks from Pune are stuck in major cities. We are waiting for fresh goods. Big trade agencies like Mourya Export in Pune, BLS Murthy and Nagappa Chetty in Bengaluru are also in a panic," he further added.

Ranchita, a housewife said,&nbsp;"It is hard to run a house if the prices of onion will keep rising like this. People can not afford such costly onions. The prices of onion have now gone up to Rs 40, and if this continues, it will not be easy for a very large section of society to manage their house."

The traders fear that the onion prices may rise further up to Rs 60 due to the festival season. 
&nbsp;

Onion prices have doubled to Rs 30 per kilograms in parts of Karnataka due to a shortage in supply caused by heavy rains and floods in North Karnataka and adjacent parts of Maharashtra, according to traders.

Onion prices have doubled to Rs 30 per kilograms in parts of Karnataka due to a shortage in supply caused by heavy rains and floods in North Karnataka and adjacent parts of Maharashtra, according to traders. "Before floods, 1 kilograms onion used to cost around Rs 15, now it touches Rs 30 in the wholesale market and Rs 40 in retail shops and street vendors. We import onions from Maharashtra and also use the onions that are grown here but recent floods have damaged the roads in North Karnataka affecting the supply," said a trader, Subramani. "Even trucks from Pune are stuck in major cities. We are waiting for fresh goods. Big trade agencies like Mourya Export in Pune, BLS Murthy and Nagappa Chetty in Bengaluru are also in a panic," he further added. Ranchita, a housewife said, "It is hard to run a house if the prices of onion will keep rising like this. People can not afford such costly onions. The prices of onion have now gone up to Rs 40, and if this continues, it will not be easy for a very large section of society to manage their house." The traders fear that the onion prices may rise further up to Rs 60 due to the festival season.

Monsoon fury: Onion prices double in parts of Karnataka

Heavy rain has been predicted for Kerala and coastal Karnataka in the next 24 hours, according to the weather department.

"Under the influence of convergence of lower-level westerlies, Kerala and coastal Karnataka is likely to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places during next 24 hours and isolated heavy rainfall during the subsequent four days," Indian Meteorological Department posted on Twitter.

Approximately 40 lakh people in 22 districts of Karnataka have been badly affected by floods in the state.

The weather forecasting agency, in another tweet, also predicted that places in Odisha might receive heavy rainfalls in the three coming days.

"A cyclonic circulation lies over West-central and adjoining Northwest Bay of Bengal off Odisha coast between 1.5 and 4.5 km above mean sea level. Under its influence, isolated heavy to very heavy falls are very likely over Odisha in the next 72 hours," another tweet read.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Heavy rain has been predicted for Kerala and coastal Karnataka in the next 24 hours, according to the weather department. "Under the influence of convergence of lower-level westerlies, Kerala and coastal Karnataka is likely to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places during next 24 hours and isolated heavy rainfall during the subsequent four days," Indian Meteorological Department posted on Twitter.

Heavy rain has been predicted for Kerala and coastal Karnataka in the next 24 hours, according to the weather department. "Under the influence of convergence of lower-level westerlies, Kerala and coastal Karnataka is likely to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places during next 24 hours and isolated heavy rainfall during the subsequent four days," Indian Meteorological Department posted on Twitter. Approximately 40 lakh people in 22 districts of Karnataka have been badly affected by floods in the state. The weather forecasting agency, in another tweet, also predicted that places in Odisha might receive heavy rainfalls in the three coming days. "A cyclonic circulation lies over West-central and adjoining Northwest Bay of Bengal off Odisha coast between 1.5 and 4.5 km above mean sea level. Under its influence, isolated heavy to very heavy falls are very likely over Odisha in the next 72 hours," another tweet read.

IMD issues heavy rainfall alert for Kerala, coastal Karnataka

Karnataka chief minister B S Yediyurappa on Tuesday expanded his cabinet with the induction of 17 legislators as ministers at Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru.

The oath-taking ceremony was administered by Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala.&nbsp;

The development comes a day after Yediyurappa received the final list of ministers from Bharatiya Janata Party President and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday.

The BJP government had been under attack by the opposition parties over delay in the constitution of the Cabinet.

On July 29, Yediyurappa proved the majority of his government in the state Assembly after winning the trust vote through voice vote. He took oath as the chief minister of Karnataka for the fourth time on July 26.

The Congress-JD(S) coalition government fell last week after losing the trust vote in the Karnataka Assembly. Following the defeat, Kumaraswamy submitted his resignation to Governor Vajubhai Vala at Raj Bhavan, along with his cabinet ministers.

 
(With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka chief minister B S Yediyurappa on Tuesday expanded his cabinet with the induction of 17 legislators as ministers at Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru. The oath-taking ceremony was administered by Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala.

Karnataka chief minister B S Yediyurappa on Tuesday expanded his cabinet with the induction of 17 legislators as ministers at Raj Bhavan in Bengaluru. The oath-taking ceremony was administered by Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala. The development comes a day after Yediyurappa received the final list of ministers from Bharatiya Janata Party President and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday. The BJP government had been under attack by the opposition parties over delay in the constitution of the Cabinet. On July 29, Yediyurappa proved the majority of his government in the state Assembly after winning the trust vote through voice vote. He took oath as the chief minister of Karnataka for the fourth time on July 26. The Congress-JD(S) coalition government fell last week after losing the trust vote in the Karnataka Assembly. Following the defeat, Kumaraswamy submitted his resignation to Governor Vajubhai Vala at Raj Bhavan, along with his cabinet ministers. (With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka cabinet expansion: 17 MLAs take oath as ministers in B S Yediyurappa government

After forming the government on July 26 following the collapse of the Congress-JD(S) coalition, 17 ministers will take an oath of office on Tuesday in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-cabinet-expansion-to-take-place-on-tuesday-says-chief-minister-b-s-yediyurappa-244012">Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa's cabinet</a>.

The Chief Minister, who drew Opposition's criticism for the delay in cabinet expansion, proposed names of 17 MLAs including K S Eshwarappa, Jagdish Shettar, C T Ravi and Basavaraj Bommai to Governor Vajubhai Vala on Monday.

MLAs including Govind Makthappa Karajol, Dr Ashwath Narayan C N, Laxman Sangappa Savadi, R Ashoka, B Sreeramulu, S Suresh Kumar, V Somanna, Kota Shrinivas Poojari, J C Madhu Swamy, Chandrakantagouda Channappagouda Patil, H Ganesh, Prabhu Chauhan and Jolle Shashikala Annasaheb will take oath today at Raj Bhavan here between 10:30 am to 11:30 am.

On Monday, Yediyurappa said, "Within 2-3 hours, I am going to get the final list from Amit Bhai (BJP President Amit Shah). So, cabinet expansion will be done tomorrow."&nbsp;

After forming the government on July 26 following the collapse of the Congress-JD(S) coalition, 17 ministers will take an oath of office on Tuesday in the Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa's cabinet.

After forming the government on July 26 following the collapse of the Congress-JD(S) coalition, 17 ministers will take an oath of office on Tuesday in the Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa's cabinet. The Chief Minister, who drew Opposition's criticism for the delay in cabinet expansion, proposed names of 17 MLAs including K S Eshwarappa, Jagdish Shettar, C T Ravi and Basavaraj Bommai to Governor Vajubhai Vala on Monday. MLAs including Govind Makthappa Karajol, Dr Ashwath Narayan C N, Laxman Sangappa Savadi, R Ashoka, B Sreeramulu, S Suresh Kumar, V Somanna, Kota Shrinivas Poojari, J C Madhu Swamy, Chandrakantagouda Channappagouda Patil, H Ganesh, Prabhu Chauhan and Jolle Shashikala Annasaheb will take oath today at Raj Bhavan here between 10:30 am to 11:30 am. On Monday, Yediyurappa said, "Within 2-3 hours, I am going to get the final list from Amit Bhai (BJP President Amit Shah). So, cabinet expansion will be done tomorrow."

Karnataka cabinet expansion: 17 ministers to take oath today

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/40-dead-14-missing-in-flood-hit-karnataka-since-august-1-242332">death toll due to floods</a> rose to 82 in Karnakata on Monday, news agency ANI reported. While nine people were still reported to be missing.

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Karnataka: Death toll in flood-related incidents rises to 82. 9 people missing. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaFloods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaFloods</a> <a href="https://t.co/cDsk60hUnu">pic.twitter.com/cDsk60hUnu</a>
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In the wake of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/people-suffering-from-floods-but-karnataka-government-focused-on-phone-tapping-case-deve-gowda-244218">rising death toll</a>, Karnataka Government released Rs 195 crore for relief measure and to provide immediate compensation of Rs. 10,000 to the flood victims.

Heavy rainfall is predicted during the next 24 hours at most places over coastal Karnataka and south interior Karnataka and at a few places over the northern interior of the state, the Indian Meteorological Department had said on Sunday.

The districts which are expected to receive heavy rainfall are Hassan, Kodagu, Chamarajanagar, Chikkaballapur, Bangalore Urban, Bangalore Rural, Ramanagara, Mysore, Mandya Tumkur and Kolar.

Out of the 22 flood battered districts, the maximum deaths have occurred in Belagavi, where 15 people were killed.

Rescue teams deployed in the state have rescued over seven lakh people till now, ANI reported.

The death toll due to floods rose to 82 in Karnakata on Monday, news agency ANI reported. While nine people were still reported to be missing. Karnataka: Death toll in flood-related incidents rises to 82.

The death toll due to floods rose to 82 in Karnakata on Monday, news agency ANI reported. While nine people were still reported to be missing. Karnataka: Death toll in flood-related incidents rises to 82. 9 people missing. #KarnatakaFloods pic.twitter.com/cDsk60hUnu — ANI (@ANI) August 19, 2019 × In the wake of the rising death toll, Karnataka Government released Rs 195 crore for relief measure and to provide immediate compensation of Rs. 10,000 to the flood victims. Heavy rainfall is predicted during the next 24 hours at most places over coastal Karnataka and south interior Karnataka and at a few places over the northern interior of the state, the Indian Meteorological Department had said on Sunday. The districts which are expected to receive heavy rainfall are Hassan, Kodagu, Chamarajanagar, Chikkaballapur, Bangalore Urban, Bangalore Rural, Ramanagara, Mysore, Mandya Tumkur and Kolar. Out of the 22 flood battered districts, the maximum deaths have occurred in Belagavi, where 15 people were killed. Rescue teams deployed in the state have rescued over seven lakh people till now, ANI reported.

Karnataka floods: Death toll rises to 82 as state government releases Rs 195 crore for relief measure

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