In a dramatic surprise inspection, Karnataka Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh went incognito on Bengaluru’s BMTC buses on Saturday night, July 11, 2026. Wearing a face mask to remain unrecognized, the minister traveled on over 10 different bus routes across the city to experience public transport from the perspective of an ordinary commuter.  


Karnataka transport minister carries out surprise checks across 10 BMTC buses

Karnataka minister goes undercover on BMTC buses, experiences reality of daily commute

A political showdown has erupted in Karnataka over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The BJP has accused state election officials of large-scale irregularities and demanded fresh door-to-door verification, while Congress has dismissed the allegations, triggering a heated war of words over the voter roll revision process.

Congress, BJP spar over Karnataka SIR

Karnataka is facing worsening drought-like conditions as weak monsoon rains continue to impact several districts. With reservoir levels nearing dead storage, the state has prioritised drinking water supply, launched fodder support for livestock, and is preparing to seek assistance from the Centre. Officials warn that despite a slight easing in the rainfall deficit, many regions remain under severe water stress.

Karnataka faces growing drought threat as reservoirs deplete

The long-standing Mekedatu dam dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu has flared up again, triggering a fresh political and legal battle. The Karnataka government has moved ahead by submitting the project report to the Centre, while Tamil Nadu continues to oppose the plan, citing water-sharing concerns. The issue has now become a major political test for the state leadership, as tensions rise over river water rights and regional interests.

Mekedatu dam row escalates: Tamil Nadu vs Karnataka clash over project 

The Mekedatu dam dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka has escalated. AMMK chief T V Dhinakaran on Monday urged the Tamil Nadu government to start contempt proceedings against Karnataka for allegedly continuing construction work on the Mekedatu project despite an apex court order. He also called on CM C Joseph Vijay to meet PM Narendra Modi and push for intervention to stop the Congress-led Karnataka government’s unilateral activities. The long-running water row is now back in the spotlight.


Tamil Nadu seeks legal action against DK Shivakumar

The recording, which surfaced earlier this week, purportedly features senior leader and former Chief Minister D.V. Sadananda Gowda making scathing remarks about the leadership of state president B.Y. Vijayendra. In the clip, the voice—alleged to be Gowda’s—advocates for waiting until November to "kick him out" to avoid internal confusion. While Sadananda Gowda has categorically denied that the voice is his, the incident has exposed the simmering tension following recent Legislative Council cross-voting scandals.


Karnataka: State BJP divided over Vijayendra's leadership

The Election Commission has launched a large-scale voter verification and enumeration exercise across Karnataka, covering more than 5.07 crore registered voters. Thousands of Booth Level Officers (BLOs) will conduct door-to-door visits to distribute and collect enumeration forms as part of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. Officials aim to update electoral rolls, identify unmapped voters, and improve voter data accuracy. Draft electoral rolls are expected to be published on August 5, with citizens given time to file objections and corrections before the final list is prepared.


Karnataka voter verification drive begins, 5.07 crore electors covered

Karnataka has begun its Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, with over 59,000 Booth Level Officers deployed across the state. Election officials say 46.5 lakh voters are yet to be verified or mapped, though they will remain on the electoral rolls and receive enumeration forms. The final revised voter list is scheduled to be published on October 7.

Karnataka SIR: Why are 46 lakh Karnataka voters yet to be verified?

Karnataka Chief Minister has issued a strong warning over gutka and pan masala products, stating that a complete ban could be imposed if harmful toxic substances are found in them. The statement has sparked fresh debate over public health risks linked to chewing tobacco products and their widespread consumption.


Karnataka CM warns of ban on gutka and pan masala over toxic concerns

A major dam project launch in Karnataka has brought renewed attention to water sharing, reservoir management and inter-state coordination.

Officials say the project is aimed at improving irrigation, water storage and long-term resource planning, while ensuring smoother coordination between agencies involved in water management. The development comes as concerns over water availability, climate variability and agricultural demand continue to grow across the region.


Karnataka Dam Launch: Focus On Water Sharing, Project Coordination

A major milestone for southern India's water infrastructure was marked with the launch of the renovated Tungabhadra Dam gate project in Karnataka. The ₹51-crore upgrade brought together the Chief Ministers of Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, along with Union Minister C.R. Patil. Leaders highlighted the project's importance for irrigation, water management, and regional cooperation. Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said the enhanced irrigation capacity will benefit thousands of farmers and strengthen agricultural productivity across the region.


Tungabhadra Dam Revamp Unveiled: Three CMs Join Landmark Irrigation Event 

Bengaluru is witnessing a worrying rise in underage drinking, prompting Karnataka authorities to tighten enforcement at liquor-serving establishments. A major study has found that nearly one in three adolescents and young adults in the city consume alcohol—significantly higher than the national average. In response, the government has introduced a strict "No ID, No Entry" policy aimed at preventing minors from accessing bars, pubs, and other alcohol-serving venues.

Bengaluru Cracks Down On Underage Drinking With 'No ID, No Entry' Rule

Speculation is mounting that DK Shivakumar could take oath as Karnataka Chief Minister on June 3 amid intense political discussions.
Reports suggest Congress leadership has been holding key meetings regarding a possible leadership transition in the state.

Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar Makes First Big Announcement After Taking Charge 

An astrologer named 'Bellur Dwarkanath' has come into focus for predicting DK Shivakumar's elevation as Karnataka CM 40 years ago. He is considered to be Shivakumar's long-term astrologer. Earlier, controversy rocked Tamil Nadu after CM Vijay appointed his personal astrologer as his advisor.


Astrologer Claims 'Predicted Shivakumar's Elevation as Karnataka CM 40 Years Ago'

After months of speculation and years of political anticipation, DK Shivakumar is set to take over as Karnataka's next chief minister on June 3. The leadership transition follows the Congress party's long-discussed power-sharing arrangement, with Siddaramaiah proposing Shivakumar's name and legislators unanimously backing the move. As the state prepares for a new chapter, attention is now shifting to cabinet formation, where the party is expected to balance regional, caste and factional interests while projecting unity ahead of the second half of its term.


Karnataka Politics: DK Shivakumar Set To Take Oath As Karnataka CM

Political buzz is intensifying in Karnataka amid speculation over a possible leadership change, with DK Shivakumar emerging as a frontrunner in the chief ministerial race. The developments have sparked fresh discussions within the Congress party over power-sharing, governance and the state’s political future.

Karnataka Change Of Guard: DK Shivakumar Frontrunner In CM Race

Political suspense is building in Karnataka as the Congress leadership begins crucial discussions over the state’s next Chief Minister. Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar have arrived in Delhi amid growing speculation about a possible leadership transition. While DK Shivakumar is seen by many as a strong frontrunner, the final decision is expected to rest with the Congress high command. The developments are being closely watched across Karnataka’s political circles.


Karnataka CM Race Heats Up: DK Shivakumar Emerges Frontrunner 

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is reportedly likely to announce his resignation during an upcoming Cabinet meeting, according to political sources. The development has triggered intense speculation within the state’s political circles, with discussions underway about leadership transition and its impact on the ruling government.

CM Siddaramaiah Likely to Announce Resignation in Cabinet Meet

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is expected to step down soon following intense political deliberations within the Congress leadership. The move comes after high-level meetings in Delhi involving Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and other senior leaders, where a leadership transition for the state was reportedly finalised.


Congress Pushes Karnataka Leadership Transition | DK Shivakumar Emerges Strong CM Contender

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is expected to step down soon following intense political deliberations within the Congress leadership. The move comes after high-level meetings in Delhi involving Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and other senior leaders, where a leadership transition for the state was reportedly finalised.

Siddaramaiah Expected To Step Down As Karnataka's Chief Minister Soon

A tragic incident at an elephant camp in Karnataka turned deadly after two elephants reportedly clashed during bath time, leading to the death of a tourist from Chennai. The incident, said to have taken place in Kodagu, was partially caught on camera as mahouts rushed in to calm the animals amid panic. The shocking event has raised fresh concerns over tourist safety and animal management practices at elephant camps frequented by visitors.


Karnataka Elephant Camp Tragedy: Tourists Will No Longer Be Permitted To Feed Elephants By Hand 

The India Meteorological Department has warned of a below-normal monsoon in Karnataka, raising concerns over a looming water crisis. As many as 26 districts could face drinking water shortages if rainfall remains deficient. In response, Siddaramaiah has activated contingency measures to manage the situation. Authorities are preparing for the worst as the state braces for a challenging season ahead.


IMD Warns Of Weak Monsoon In Karnataka, Water Crisis Looms Across 26 Districts 

In a move aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles, the Karnataka Health & Family Welfare Services Department has issued a new advisory recommending government officers cut down on fried snacks, milk-based items, and even coffee. The guidance focuses on improving workplace nutrition and overall well-being, though it has sparked debate over how practical such restrictions are in daily routines.


Karnataka Govt Issues New Nutrition Advisory, Recommends Cutting Fried Snacks

A political storm has hit Karnataka as Chief Minister Siddaramaiah removed his political secretary and MLC Naseer Ahmed following a growing rift within the Congress party. The tensions reportedly stem from disagreements over the Davanagere South bypoll, exposing cracks within the state unit.


India: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Fires Naseer Ahmed as Political Secretary

A tragic incident has been reported from Karnataka’s Shivamogga district, where a 27-year-old veterinarian died after being attacked by a pregnant hippopotamus during a late-night health check at the Tyavarekoppa Lion and Tiger Safari Zoo. The doctor was conducting a routine thermal scan inside the enclosure when the animal suddenly turned aggressive.


Karnataka: Vet Killed by Pregnant Hippo in South India 

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rain alert for Karnataka, following a sudden 30-minute hailstorm in Kalaburagi. Local authorities warn residents to stay cautious as weather conditions remain unpredictable.

Heavy Rain Alert: IMD Issues Heavy Rain Alert for Karnataka | Kalaburagi Hit by 30-Minute Hail Burst

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said on Friday that social media will be banned for children below the age of 16 years in the state that is known for its IT sector and houses India’s Silicon Valley, Bengaluru. The Karnataka government is proposing the ban amid rising concerns of digital addiction and becoming one of the first Indian states to impose such a restriction. Concerns have been rising over online safety and excessive screen time among minors. CM Siddaramaiah made the announcement while presenting his 17th state budget.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Social media will be banned for children under the age of 16 to prevent the adverse effects of increasing mobile usage. The ban is aimed at preventing the negative impact on children caused by increasing mobile phone usage,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-iran-using-decoys-to-fool-enemies-internet-says-israel-bombed-a-helicopter-painting-1772792063782">Is Iran using decoys to fool enemies? Internet says Israel bombed a helicopter painting</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;State IT and Biotechnology Minister Priyank Kharge had told the Assembly earlier this year that the government was examining possible measures to ensure responsible use of artificial intelligence and social media among young users.&nbsp;In the previous assembly session, Karnataka IT minister Priyanka Kharge had indicated that the government was exploring the possibility of restricting social media access for children. Kharge told the Assembly that the state government was examining possible measures to ensure responsible use of artificial intelligence and social media among young users.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-seeks-return-of-all-iris-dena-dead-sri-lanka-rushes-to-arrange-cold-storage-facilities-1772718118058">Iran seeks return of all IRIS Dena dead; Sri Lanka rushes to arrange cold storage facilities</a>&nbsp;Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao had also expressed concerns about the impact of excessive screen exposure on children.BJP MLA and former minister Suresh Kumar had urged the state government to take the issue seriously, warning that unregulated social media exposure could harm both education and family environments.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-seafarer-killed-in-missile-strike-on-tanker-in-strait-of-hormuz-1772707708065">Mumbai seafarer killed in missile strike on tanker in Strait of Hormuz</a>&nbsp;Besides Karnataka, several other states in India have been mulling a ban on the use of social media or mobile phones for children amid mounting concerns on online safety, screen addiction, and overuse.&nbsp;Goa’s IT minister had also said that the state is examining the possibility of restricting social media use for children below 16 years, citing rising concerns over digital addiction, cyberbullying, and online safety risks.&nbsp;The moves come amid a growing global debate on regulating children’s access to social media, with several countries already announcing restrictions.

Karnataka IT minister Priyanka Kharge had indicated that the state government was exploring the possibility of restricting social media access for children. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao had also expressed concerns about the impact of excessive screen exposure on children.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said on Friday that social media will be banned for children below the age of 16 years in the state that is known for its IT sector and houses India’s Silicon Valley, Bengaluru. The Karnataka government is proposing the ban amid rising concerns of digital addiction and becoming one of the first Indian states to impose such a restriction. Concerns have been rising over online safety and excessive screen time among minors. CM Siddaramaiah made the announcement while presenting his 17th state budget. “Social media will be banned for children under the age of 16 to prevent the adverse effects of increasing mobile usage. The ban is aimed at preventing the negative impact on children caused by increasing mobile phone usage,” he said. Also Read: Is Iran using decoys to fool enemies? Internet says Israel bombed a helicopter painting State IT and Biotechnology Minister Priyank Kharge had told the Assembly earlier this year that the government was examining possible measures to ensure responsible use of artificial intelligence and social media among young users. In the previous assembly session, Karnataka IT minister Priyanka Kharge had indicated that the government was exploring the possibility of restricting social media access for children. Kharge told the Assembly that the state government was examining possible measures to ensure responsible use of artificial intelligence and social media among young users. Also Read: Iran seeks return of all IRIS Dena dead; Sri Lanka rushes to arrange cold storage facilities Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao had also expressed concerns about the impact of excessive screen exposure on children. BJP MLA and former minister Suresh Kumar had urged the state government to take the issue seriously, warning that unregulated social media exposure could harm both education and family environments. Also Read: Mumbai seafarer killed in missile strike on tanker in Strait of Hormuz Besides Karnataka, several other states in India have been mulling a ban on the use of social media or mobile phones for children amid mounting concerns on online safety, screen addiction, and overuse. Goa’s IT minister had also said that the state is examining the possibility of restricting social media use for children below 16 years, citing rising concerns over digital addiction, cyberbullying, and online safety risks. The moves come amid a growing global debate on regulating children’s access to social media, with several countries already announcing restrictions.

Karnataka IT minister Priyanka Kharge had indicated that the state government was exploring the possibility of restricting social media access for children. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao had also expressed concerns about the impact of excessive screen exposure on children.

Karnataka, home to India’s Silicon Valley, to ban social media for children under 16

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced plans to restrict social media access for children under 16. The proposal, revealed during the ₹4.48 lakh crore 2026–27 state budget, aims to tackle the growing impact of excessive mobile and social media usage among young users. If implemented, Karnataka could become the first Indian state to introduce such a restriction.

India: Karnataka to Restrict Social Media Access for Under-16s

Karnataka politics erupts in chaos as BJP and JD(S) demand Excise Minister R.B. Timmapur's resignation over an alleged ₹6,000 crore liquor scam involving bribes for licenses and transfers.



Karnataka Chaos: BJP Demands Timmapur Resignation in ₹6K Cr Scam

Two men allegedly died by suicide in Karnataka’s Davangere district after a married woman reportedly eloped with her lover, triggering a chain of tragic events. Harish, who had been married to Saraswati for just two months, ended his life after learning that his wife had left him to be with another man. Shortly after Harish’s death, Rudresh, Saraswati’s uncle and the person who had arranged the marriage, also died by suicide.&nbsp;Police later arrested Saraswati on charges of abetment of suicide. According to investigators, Saraswati left her home on Friday (January 23), telling her family she was going to a temple, but did not return. Her parents subsequently filed a missing person complaint, following which it emerged that she had eloped with her lover, Shivakumar.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-fire-horror-27-feared-dead-in-momo-factory-blaze-bjp-accuses-tmc-of-cover-up-1769778488786">West Bengal fire horror: 27 feared dead in momo factory blaze; BJP accuses TMC of cover-up</a>&nbsp;After discovering the elopement, Harish allegedly died by suicide, leaving behind a note in which he accused Saraswati and Shivakumar of harassing and threatening him. The note also reportedly named two of Saraswati’s relatives, Ganesh and Anjeenamm, holding them responsible for his extreme step.&nbsp;Rudresh died by suicide soon after Harish’s death, police said. Officials said that both deaths appeared to be linked to severe emotional distress, while adding that the investigation is ongoing. Further inquiry revealed that Saraswati had been in a relationship before her marriage, a fact Harish was reportedly aware of. Despite this, he pursued the marriage after convincing her family. Rudresh had acted as the matchmaker.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-us-tensions-hezbollah-says-a-strike-on-iran-would-ignite-the-region-wion-1769785554779/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-us-tensions-hezbollah-says-a-strike-on-iran-would-ignite-the-region-wion-1769785554779/embed</a>&nbsp;Davangere Superintendent of Police Uma Prashant said that two cases have been registered under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act at Davangere Rural Police Station. Complaints have been lodged by both parties, and a detailed probe is underway. “Two cases have been registered under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act within the jurisdiction of Davangere Rural Police Station. Two people died by suicide. Complaints have been filed from both sides in this regard. Investigation has been initiated.”

Karnataka shocker: Woman elopes with lover two months after wedding; husband, matchmaker die by suicide

Two men allegedly died by suicide in Karnataka’s Davangere district after a married woman reportedly eloped with her lover, triggering a chain of tragic events. Harish, who had been married to Saraswati for just two months, ended his life after learning that his wife had left him to be with another man. Shortly after Harish’s death, Rudresh, Saraswati’s uncle and the person who had arranged the marriage, also died by suicide. Police later arrested Saraswati on charges of abetment of suicide. According to investigators, Saraswati left her home on Friday (January 23), telling her family she was going to a temple, but did not return. Her parents subsequently filed a missing person complaint, following which it emerged that she had eloped with her lover, Shivakumar. Also Read: West Bengal fire horror: 27 feared dead in momo factory blaze; BJP accuses TMC of cover-up After discovering the elopement, Harish allegedly died by suicide, leaving behind a note in which he accused Saraswati and Shivakumar of harassing and threatening him. The note also reportedly named two of Saraswati’s relatives, Ganesh and Anjeenamm, holding them responsible for his extreme step. Rudresh died by suicide soon after Harish’s death, police said. Officials said that both deaths appeared to be linked to severe emotional distress, while adding that the investigation is ongoing. Further inquiry revealed that Saraswati had been in a relationship before her marriage, a fact Harish was reportedly aware of. Despite this, he pursued the marriage after convincing her family. Rudresh had acted as the matchmaker. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-us-tensions-hezbollah-says-a-strike-on-iran-would-ignite-the-region-wion-1769785554779/embed Davangere Superintendent of Police Uma Prashant said that two cases have been registered under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act at Davangere Rural Police Station. Complaints have been lodged by both parties, and a detailed probe is underway. “Two cases have been registered under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act within the jurisdiction of Davangere Rural Police Station. Two people died by suicide. Complaints have been filed from both sides in this regard. Investigation has been initiated.”

Two men died by suicide in Karnataka’s Davangere after a newly married woman eloped with her lover. Police have arrested the woman for abetment to suicide

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