Rescued in 2008, bonded labourers finally get justice in Bengaluru court

Bonded Labour

What sets this case apart is its conviction – which is rare in bonded labour cases – and that the judge interlinked it with sections of the SC/ST Act.

TNM Staff

Representative image from Picxy by Rajastills

For three years, they were denied their freedom, with only the men allowed to venture to the market once a week. They had to leave their families behind at the brick kiln to ensure they would return. After 14 hours of backbreaking work making bricks, a family which had three people working earned only Rs 400 to 500 a week, amounting to just Rs 28 per person per day, at most. This was the life of 12 men, women and children from the Sabara community, a Scheduled Tribe from Odisha, who were trafficked to Devanahalli in Bengaluru Rural district. Now, 12 years after they were rescued in 2008 with the help of International Justice Mission (an NGO that works against bonded labour and other forms of violent oppression), they have finally gotten justice with the Additional Sessions Court in Bengaluru Rural district convicting the brick kiln owner to three years of imprisonment and a fine of Rs 52,000 under section 18 of the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, Section  374 (Unlawful compulsory labour) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Section 14 of the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, and Section 3 of the Scheduled Castes and Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The 12 people were from six families, and the brick kiln owner also made the children aged 12 and 13 work as well. Their wages were much lower than the minimum wage of Rs 140 per day as mandated by the Karnataka government at the time. “Mere payment of wages is insufficient, but the accused has to pay sufficient wages in accordance with the law that was in existence at the time of the incident,” the judgment notes. What sets this case apart, besides the fact that this case actually saw a conviction – which is rare in bonded labour cases – is that the judge interlinked section 3 (1) and (vi) of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act along with the law against bonded labour. Section 3 (1) of the Act provides punishments for atrocities against the SC and ST persons, while (vi) criminalises anyone who “compels or entices a member of a Scheduled Caste or a Scheduled Tribe to do ‘begar’ or other similar forms of forced or bonded labour other than any compulsory service for public purposes imposed by government.” Prathima M, Head, Strategic Intervention, International Justice Mission (IJM) who first brought the case to light, said that this was the first case where the victims of bonded labour hailed from Odisha that IJM assisted the government in Karnataka. “The victims have received justice from the court. Although 86.6% of victims of bonded labour are from the SC/ST background (as per the report of the National Commission on Rural Labour 199; and as mentioned in the Ministry of Labour and Employment annual report 2019-20), it is very rare that an offender gets convicted under Sec 3 (1) and (vi) of the SC/ST Act for exploiting victims as bonded labourers.” What also worked well in this case is that the relevant officials ensured that their testimonies were up to the mark, the caste certificates of the victims were procured by writing to the District Collectors of the victims’ native places, and a translator was also appointed by the judge so that the victims, who only knew Odia, were able to record their statements properly. The Release Certificates were also issued to the adults in a timely manner after an enquiry. “From this case we understand that at least since 2008, bonded labour is evolving with human trafficking components and inter-state victims. In this case, there is a reference to the middleman who brought these labourers from Odisha to Bengaluru by paying them an advance and transporting them to Bangalore where the owner receives them and extracts work by exploiting them under bonded labour conditions,” IJM pointed out in a media release. Section 370 of the IPC that penalising human trafficking has been amended to clearly define the above as trafficking, which is applicable to agents as well as middlemen. Read: It’s 2020 but bonded labour is still a reality in India: Here’s why

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/36iKlpc
via IFTTT

House panel says drugmakers inflated prices to boost profits and reap bonuses

The Democrat-led reports come just weeks before Election Day, and amid efforts by President Donald Trump to show progress on slashing drug costs.

from Health Care https://ift.tt/3l4w83h
via IFTTT

HD Kumaraswamy says PM Modi offered to make him CM for 5 years without interference

Politics

HD Kumaraswamy made the claim while campaigning for the Sira by polls in Tumakuru.

TNM Staff

File image/PTI

Former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Wednesday raised a storm as he claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had offered to make him Chief Minister for five years with the assurance that he won’t be touched. This sensational claim was made by HDK as he was campaigning for his party in Sira where by-elections are due to be held on November 3.  JD(S) is fighting to retain the Assembly seat in Sira, Tumakuru which is a JD(S) bastion. Sira bye polls were necessitated by the death of sitting Janata Dal (S) MLA B Satyanarayana.  "BJP was also ready to make me CM. Narendra Modi personally offered this to me. He said nobody will be able to touch you for 5 years, you take a decision",he said.  Lashing out at PM Modi, Kumaraswamy added, "If I speak against Modi he has a troll army that will attack me. Mukesh Ambani has made Rs 90 crores per hour during the lockdown. Modi should make this man his economic advisor. We don't need this kind of money, pls ask them to give at least Rs 90 per hour to our hard working youth. You decide if you want to bring a government like this". It may be recalled that post the 2018 Assembly polls, while the BJP was the party with the highest number of seats, they were still short by 9 seats to form the government. The JD(S) and Congress had formed a post-poll alliance with the top brass of the Congress party led by Sonia Gandhi leading the talks with former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda. At that time, it was speculated that the JD(S), having the option to sway both sides, were also approached by the BJP. However, Kumaraswamy was dislodged from his seat 13 months after becoming the CM in 2018 after days of uncertainty and hectic political negotiations. Eighteen ruling MLAs of the erstwhile ruling Congress-JD(S) coalition MLAs had resigned from their posts to jump ship to the BJP to pave way for the current BS Yediyurappa government. Most of the 18 such rebels have been rewarded with ministerial posts. As reported earlier on Tuesday, the Election Commission of India announced that Sira in Tumakuru and RR Nagar in Bengaluru will go for polls on November 3.  Incidentally, both the seats are known to be Vokkaliga belts which is the core voter base of the JD(S). Praising the former MLA, Kumaraswamy said that Sathyanarayana had continued to remain in the JD(S) even though he was approached by the BJP and offered lucrative details. 

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/3l36E6K
via IFTTT

No school visits till October 15, Karnataka education department announces

COVID-19

The state government cited the increase in COVID-19 cases in the state for the decision.

TNM Staff

Representational image

The Karnataka Primary and Secondary Education Department announced on Wednesday that it will not allow high school students to visit schools to get doubts clarified till October 15. The state government cited the increase in COVID-19 cases in the state for the decision. The state government had suggested two weeks ago that it would allow students who have doubts to seek clarifications in their respective subjects even though regular classes will not be held. The Central government had allowed high school students to attend schools to clarify doubts from September 21. The central government stated that the children had to present consent forms signed by parents if they wished to attend school.  The state government however said that in Karnataka, this will not be allowed till September 30. Now, this has been extended to October 15 and a decision will be taken after consultation with health experts.  Many private schools had planned to conduct practical classes in the month of October – which will now have to be cancelled.  This had led to speculations that Karnataka would reopen schools soon. A section of parents had vehemently opposed the reopening of schools amid the pandemic. Minister of State for Primary and Secondary Education Suresh Kumar said that the Karnataka government would hear the views of several people including politicians, academics and health experts before taking any final decision on this matter. Soon after returning from Bidar district this week, the minister asserted, he would convene a meeting of different stakeholders along with the departments concerned to decide on reopening of schools.

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/30lRxNx
via IFTTT

Yediyurappa calls Babri demolition verdict historic, says he’s personally very happy

Babri demolition verdict

A special court in Lucknow acquitted all the 32 accused in the Babri Masjid demolition case, including LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi.

TNM Staff

Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa welcomed the Lucknow court verdict acquitting all accused in the Babri Masjid demolition case. Speaking to the media after the verdict, Yediyurappa called the decision historic and credited Lal Krishna Advani for the ‘victory’. “The Lucknow court verdict regarding the Babri demolition is historic. Lal Krishna Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, Uma Bharati and all the other accused were acquitted and the court said there was no premeditated conspiracy,” said Yediyurappa. Speaking about his personal involvement as a RSS worker at the time, Yediyurappa added, “I was personally involved in the movement so I am very happy today. Many were waiting eagerly for the verdict. This is yet another example of how revolution can never die. Nobody can forget Advani's speech from that historic day. As a result of that great man’s fight, this historic verdict has come. Ram mandir work has begun already and the people for this victory are people like Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi and Uma Bharathi.” Taking to Twitter minutes after the on-camera statement, the Karnataka Chief Minister said, “Satyameva Jayate. I welcome the Special CBI Court verdict acquitting all accused including our senior leaders Shri LK Advani, Shri Murli Manohar Joshi, Km Uma Bharti, and others.” Expressing joy after being acquitted, Lal Krishna Advani said, “I welcome the judgment by the Special Court in the Babri Masjid demolition case. Judgment vindicates my personal belief that I have maintained all these years and also that of BJP's belief but most importantly, our commitment towards the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.” A special CBI court in Lucknow on Wednesday acquitted all the 32 accused in the 1992 Babri Masjid demolition case, in which BJP veterans LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi are among those accused. Reading out the 2,000-page judgment, the CBI judge SK Yadav said that the Babri demolition in December 1992 was “not pre-planned” and that it happened at the “spur of the moment.” The court also noted that the CBI had failed to prove the case against the accused.  The court had on September 16 directed all the 32 surviving accused to remain present in the court on the day of the judgment. Lal Krishna Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, Kalyan Singh, Uma Bharti, Satish Pradhan and Mahant Nritya Gopal Das attended the proceedings via video conferencing.  

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/34fuHby
via IFTTT

Patients with ILI, SARI symptoms must get COVID-19 tests, Karnataka govt orders

Coronavirus

Those displaying symptoms of influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) will now be tested for the coronavirus.

TNM Staff

The Karnataka government has made it compulsory for private medical establishments to conduct COVID-19 tests on all patients displaying symptoms of influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infection (SARI). In an order issued by the state Health and Family Welfare department, it was stated that, "All private medical establishments treating ILI/SARI patients are instructed to either test patients for COVID-19 infection if they have in-house testing facility as per testing rates notified by the government or draw swab of such patients for sending them to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) approved private or government labs." The order stated that the number of COVID-19 cases are increasing in the state and that symptomatic carriers who have a higher viral load are the major source of the spread. So far, private medical establishments were asked to enter details of ILI/SARI patients on a health portal. Such patients were sent to swab collection centres in the state for testing. "However, it is noted that in many cases, the patients are not being tested, resulting in late identification of COVID-19 infection and consequently more fatalities,” the government order said. The southern state reported its highest increase in COVID-19 cases in a single day on Tuesday with 10,453 new cases. Even Bengaluru reported its highest increase in infections with 4,868 new cases reported in a 24-hour period. Of the 7,201 symptomatic people tested in Bengaluru on September 28, 3,071 tested positive for the coronavirus. The positivity rate among symptomatic persons was highest in Bengaluru Rural district where 302 people of the 507 symptomatic patients tested were found to be infected with the virus. Karnataka currently has over 1 lakh active COVID-19 cases. 

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/3mXqp14
via IFTTT

Karnataka HC strikes down 25% reservation for domicile students in NLSIU Bengaluru

Law

The Karnataka government in March had passed an amendment to this effect.

TNM Staff

File image

In a major setback to the state government, the Karnataka High Court on Tuesday struck down the National Law School India University (NLSIU) Amendment Act, 2020 which allowed 25% reservation to domicile students.  Passing the judgement, a division bench led by Justice BV Nagarathna said the state government’s role in NLSIU is negligible and that it had no locus standi to decide on functionings of the premier institution. The order said that only the NLSIU executive council is empowered to take such a decision.  It further said that when the original NLSUI law was passed, it was clear that the institution will be an autonomous one of national level. The bench further said that if the court allows the state government to exercise control, it will lead to two power centres in the administration, with the executive council already in place. The bill was passed on March 19 earlier this year by the Karnataka legislature and came into effect on April 27. With this, 25% seats in the institution were reserved for any student who studied in Karnataka for 10 years or more regardless of his or her mother tongue. Following this law, the NLSUI had increased its student intake capacity to 120 from 80 in its BA.LLB course. The amendment was challenged in the High Court by a former student and the Bar Council of India. As part of the arguments, the state government said with the entrance exam for the law school being extremely competitive, talented students from Karnataka will find it hard to compete if they are not from privileged backgrounds.  Defending its decision, the state government had said the move was to preserve local talent citing only 33 of the 800 graduates in the last decade had joined the Karnataka Bar Council. In its order, the court has said that reservation does not help students as it will only restrict them to the state.

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/2SaDiXx
via IFTTT

Karnataka govt mulls stern rules to ensure physical distancing as COVID-19 cases rise

COVID-19

Medical Education Minister K Sudhakar said political and religious meetings held post-lockdown led to a surge in cases.

PTI

Representational image

Warning of stern action against people flouting physical distancing rules in public places, Karnataka Medical Education Minister K Sudhakar on Tuesday said regulations on COVID-19 for the public will be out soon after discussions with the Chief Minister. "Coronavirus has been on a high in the past two months in the state. Despite raising awareness of the dangers caused by the virus, the general public has been negligent by not wearing masks," Sudhakar was quoted as saying by his office, in a release. To combat this, the state government is keen on bringing in stern rules against those flouting physical distancing norms in public. A detailed directive will be out in a few days, he said. The Minister on Wednesday held a meeting with an expert committee regarding COVID-19. Stating that political and religious gatherings have been on a high following the easing of lockdown restrictions, Sudhakar said this has led to rapid spread of the virus. Hence, it has been decided to stop such large gatherings. Events that have to be held in unavoidable circumstances with a maximum of only 100 people would be allowed with prior permission from the district administrations, he said. However a final decision will be taken after consulting administrations in districts that have a large number of infections. The Minister said the government planned to organise awareness programmes jointly with cinema stars, religious heads, political leaders and artists. Hailing the 'notable role' of the media in raising awareness about coronavirus, he said the government was mulling over organising a special workshop for mediapersons. The workshop will be organised within a week, he said. The COVID-19 positive rate in seven of 11 districts is 12 %, he said, adding that the death rate was 1.5 %. Steps are being taken to reduce this to less than 1 %, he said.

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/2GeqlcT
via IFTTT

'Ploy to divert attention from illegalities': Indian govt refutes Amnesty's claims

Controversy

The government said that all the "glossy statements" about humanitarian work were a "ploy to divert attention" from Amnesty's activities which violated Indian laws.

PTI

Representational image

The Union Home Ministry on Tuesday strongly refuted Amnesty International's allegation that it was being subjected to an "incessant witch-hunt", saying India, by settled law, does not allow interference in domestic political debates by entities funded by foreign donations. Coming down heavily on the organisation, the ministry also said all the "glossy statements" about humanitarian work and speaking truth to power are nothing but a "ploy to divert attention" from their activities which were in clear contravention of laid down Indian laws. The Amnesty International's statement was "unfortunate, exaggerated and far from the truth," the home ministry said. "Such statements are also an attempt to extraneously influence the course of investigations by multiple agencies into the irregularities and illegalities carried out over the last few years," the home ministry said in a detailed statement. The home ministry said the Amnesty International had received permission under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) only once and that too 20 years ago, on December 19, 2000. Since then the organisation, despite its repeated applications, has been denied FCRA approval by successive governments since as per law it is not eligible for it. However, in order to circumvent the FCRA regulations, Amnesty UK remitted large amounts of money to four entities registered in India by classifying it as Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). A significant amount of foreign money was also remitted to Amnesty (India) without MHA's approval under the FCRA. "This mala fide rerouting of money was in contravention of extant legal provisions," it said. Owing to these illegal practices of Amnesty, the previous government had also rejected the repeated applications of Amnesty to receive funds from overseas, the home ministry said.This had led Amnesty to suspend its India operations once during that period as well. The home ministry said this bipartisan and purely legal approach towards Amnesty, under different governments, makes it clear that the entire fault lies in the dubious processes adopted by Amnesty to secure funds for its operations. "The stand taken and the statements made by Amnesty International are unfortunate, exaggerated and far from the truth," the home ministry said. The home ministry said Amnesty is free to continue humanitarian work in India, as is being done by many other organisations. "However, India, by settled law, does not allow interference in domestic political debates by entities funded by foreign donations. "This law applies equally to all and it shall apply to Amnesty International as well," the home ministry statement said. India has a rich and pluralistic democratic culture with a free press, independent judiciary and a tradition of vibrant domestic debate, it said. The people of India have placed unprecedented trust in the current government, the home ministry said. "The Amnesty's failure to comply with local regulations does not entitle them to make comments on the democratic and plural character of India," it said. Earlier in the day, the Amnesty International said it is halting all its activities in India due to freezing of its accounts and claimed that it is being subjected to an "incessant witch-hunt" over unfounded and motivated allegations. The Amnesty India said the organisation has been compelled to let go of staff in India and pause all its ongoing campaign and research work. "The complete freezing of Amnesty International India's bank accounts by the Government of India which it came to know on 10 September 2020, brings all the work being done by the organization to a grinding halt," the Amnesty said in its statement.

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/33eth1N
via IFTTT

Writer and literary critic GS Amur passes away in Bengaluru

Obituary

The writer, known for his proficiency in both Kannada and English, was a recipient of several prestigious honours, including the Sahitya Akademi Award, Rajyotsava Award and Bharatiya Bhasha Award.

TNM Staff

GS Amur

Veteran writer and literary critic Dr G S Amur died on Monday due to age related ailments. He was 95 and he passed away at his residence in Bengaluru, his family members said. The literateur, known for his proficiency in both Kannada and English, was a recipient of several prestigious honours, including the Sahitya Akademi Award, Rajyotsava Award and Bharatiya Bhasha Award. GS Amur was born in Bommanahalli of Dharwad district in 1925. He had a long career as an English professor at various universities in Maharashtra and Karnataka. His much acclaimed books in Kannada include 'Are Kannada Kadambariya Belavanige', 'Arthaloka', 'Vyavasaya' and 'Kaadambariya Swaroopa'. Amur's English works included 'Forbidden Fruit, Views on Indo-Anglian Fiction' and 'Colonial Consciousness in Commonwealth Literature'. In his condolence message, Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa said Amur got his doctorate for his thesis on 'The Concept of Comedy: A Re-statement’. "Amur had equal command over English and Kannada. He was the leading figure in critiquing the modern Kannada literature," he said. As a noted critic of English literature, he wrote extensively about the works of late RK Narayan and Raja Rao, both hailing from the state. His works on the poetry of Jnanapeetha awardee, the late Da. Ra. Bendre, and on the works of AN Krishnaraya, Sriranga and on the evolution of the Kannada novel are highly acclaimed and enjoy a vast readership even to this day. He received the Sahitya Academy Award in 1996 and the highest literary award of Kannada, the Pampa award, in 2006. Recently, he was chosen for the Nrupatanga award for lifetime work in literary criticism. 

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/33aM12g
via IFTTT

2 months after seizing 750 MDMA tablets in Bengaluru, NCB nabs 4 in drug case

Crime

The drugs were also reportedly sold to college students in Udupi, Karnataka.

TNM Staff

The Narcotics Control Bureau in Bengaluru has arrested four members of a drug syndicate following detailed analysis of a parcel which was sent to India from the Netherlands in July this year. Apart from selling these drugs all over the country online, the accused also used to sell the contraband to college students in Udupi, Karnataka, the central agency said. After intercepting the parcel in July, the NCB had, at the time, seized 750 MDMA tablets which were ordered through the dark web. The payment for the same was made with bitcoins. In a press note, the NCB said, “On the basis of specific information the NCB BZU had seized a parcel destined to India from Netherlands on 30/07/2020 from foreign post office. The said parcel was found to contain 750 tablets (142 gms) of MDMA. There was no address mentioned of the consignee on the parcel. Thus, detailed technical analysis with manual intelligence was carried out. On 24/09/2020, the detailed investigation in the case with the help of digital analysis led NCB team to the arrest of all the syndicate members.” The accused have been identified as consignee K Pramodh, mastermind Fahim and their associates, A Hashir and SS Shetty.  The NCB said Fahim had learnt the concept of purchasing drugs online on the darknet after watching a web series. He started purchasing bitcoins and used them to order drugs from the darknet. “Fahim used to deliver consignment at various addresses in India and thereafter collect from there. He further sold the drugs to students of various colleges in Udupi. Further investigations of the forward linkages are underway,” the NCB said. These arrests come after the NCB earlier this month had raided the residence of a Bengaluru corporator and his son in connection with another case. Earlier in August, the NCB had managed to bust an international drug racket in multicity raids including in Bengaluru which had eventually led to the ongoing drugs case against the Sandalwood industry.

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/3jfpPJI
via IFTTT

Child allegedly beaten to death by self-styled godman and brother in Karnataka

Crime

The ‘baba’ claimed that the child was possessed by ‘evil spirits’ and proceeded to beat her as part of the ‘treatment’.

TNM Staff

Image for representation

A three-year-old child, who was reportedly suffering from night terrors, was allegedly murdered by a self-styled godman and his brother on Sunday at Ajjikyaathanahalli village in Chitradurga district of Karnataka, in an attempt to ‘cure’ her of them. According to multiple reports, the parents took their child to the self-styled godman for treatment as the child was experiencing nightmares. The ‘baba’ claimed that the child was possessed by ‘evil spirits’ and allegedly beat up the child for almost an hour while the parents who were standing nearby did not intervene. The accused have been identified as Rakesh (19) and his brother Purushotham (21) who were living in a hut in the outskirts of the village and used to run a ‘clinic’ where they allegedly claimed to rid people of the evil spirits. When they realised that they had murdered the child, they allegedly lied to the parents that their child would regain consciousness in a couple of hours and fled from the scene. When the child did not wake after a couple of hours, the parents Praveen and Baby rushed her to a nearby health centre where the doctors declared that the child was dead upon arrival. Praveen who owns a tea shop in the village has another child, a one-year-old son, according to a report in the Times of India. A police complaint was filed with the Chikkajajur police who arrested the accused nearly 300 km away from the scene of the crime as the duo had fled to Davanagere district. The accused are currently in judicial custody. They have been booked under the Indian Penal Code section 302 (murder) and section 3 of the Karnataka Prevention and Eradication of Inhuman Evil Practices and Black Magic Act, 2017, for practising black magic under which the accused can be jailed up to seven years, and in case of death, can be imprisoned for life.

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/3n3bH8Y
via IFTTT

Sira and Tumakuru bypolls in Karnataka on November 3

Politics

Results for these elections will be declared on November 10.

TNM Staff

File image

The Election Commission of India, on Tuesday, announced that bypolls for two Assembly seats in Karnataka—Sira in Tumakuru and RR Nagar in Bengaluru—will be held on November 3. The result of these elections will be declared on November 10. The Sira seat had fallen vacant with the demise of B Sathyanarayana, the former MLA of the JD(S) after he succumbed to an advanced chronic liver disease at the age of 69 on August 4. The RR Nagar seat had remained vacant with the resignation of former Congress MLA and now BJP leader Munirathna. Munirathna was among the 17 who resigned with 16 other MLAs of the then ruling coalition to pave the way for the current BS Yediyurappa-led government. While many of his fellow “rebels” have been re-elected and secured ministerial posts, the election in RR Nagar was stalled due to a legal case until now.  MLC elections Similarly, elections to the four vacant Legislative Council seats in Karnataka will be held on October 28, the EC said on Tuesday. The four seats belonged to the category of Karnataka South-East Graduates' constituency, Karnataka West Graduates, Karnataka North-East Teachers and Bengaluru Teachers' constituency and have been vacant since June 30. R Chowda Reddy Thoopalli, SV Sankanur, Sharanappa Mattur and Puttanna represented the four constituencies in the Legislative Council. The EC had put the elections on hold for an undeclared period due to the coronavirus scare though the tenure of the four incumbents ended on June 30. According to the schedule announced by the Commission, the notification for the elections will be issued on October 1 while the last date of filing nominations is October 8. Scrutiny of nominations will take place on October 9 and the last date for the withdrawal of candidature is October 12. Polling will take place on October 28 from 8 am to 5 pm while the counting will be on November 2. The EC also issued guidelines for conduct of the elections in view of the COVID pandemic.

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/3nbOj9o
via IFTTT

Viral message says Bengaluru police seeking info on bachelor tenants, cops deny

Controversy

Bengaluru City Police Commissioner Kamal Pant clarified even if any cop has given any such oral instruction, it has no credence.

Soumya Chatterjee

Representational image

A screenshot of a notice purportedly issued by an apartment association in Bengaluru’s Whitefield asking residents to share personal details of bachelor tenants has gone viral and triggered much outrage. The notice further said that the local police have asked details of all tenants, especially bachelors and spinsters, as many such people living alone have been found to be consuming drugs. While the apartment association which purportedly issued this notice is yet to be identified, police have denied any involvement. Responding to a query on the “notice”, Bengaluru City Police on Twitter said that neither Kadugodi Police or Whitefield Police has issued such a notice. Clarification: Please be informed that no such notice/ circular has been issued by Whitefield and Kadugodi Police Stations. — BengaluruCityPolice (@BlrCityPolice) September 29, 2020 The note claims that residents are supposed to provide the police with the “name, contact number and flat number of bachelors/spinsters”. In addition, their vehicle numbers are also to be provided if they are going out or coming in late at night. Further residents are asked to report “suspicious activities like late night parties, drug consumption or storage or buying/selling the same”. The note which is also a clear case of moral policing also says, “Police affirmed to not worry….even if your suspicion goes wrong…” and that the police will carry random searches in all apartments in the Kadugodi area. Speaking with TNM, Bengaluru City Police Commissioner Kamal Pant, denied knowledge about the particular notice and questioned the veracity of the contents.   “We need to know which policeman has said this. If this is an oral advice given by a policeman, then it has no credence. I don’t think any policeman will be stupid enough to do this? If the police have to maintain surveillance, they will do it anyway,” he told TNM. The Commissioner also clarified that the police need a warrant under CrPC (criminal procedure code) 165 for a search to be carried out in an ongoing investigation and have to record the reason and subsequently satisfy the court about the need for such a warrant. ACP (Assistant Commissioner of Police) Whitefield Manoj Kumar also denied knowledge of any such instruction given by the police to apartment associations. He also said, “Random searches based on no proper grounds cannot be done. Only when there is information from an accused or a witness that something is hidden somewhere, we can conduct a search and seizure operation.” While police denied any development, some residents TNM spoke to alleged that police are keeping an informal database of bachelors and foreign nationals who stay as tenants in light of high-profile drug cases and increased seizures of contrabands. 

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/30igj12
via IFTTT

Bengaluru police search private channel after complaint related to ‘sting’ on BSY family

Controversy

The police carried out searches at the offices of Power TV and the residence of a company official on Monday.

TNM Staff

Rakesh Shetty and BS Yediyurappa

Bengaluru police has begun an investigation against the management of a private television channel and carried out searches at the offices of Power TV and the residence of an official at the television channel on Monday. The police investigation was based on a complaint filed by the director of a construction company who was featured in a report by the channel which alleged acts of corruption. Power TV, a private Kannada television channel, ran a series of programmes last month using the audio of a sting operation allegedly done by an official in the channel on a member of the Chief Minister's family.  A police complaint was filed on September 24 by Chandrakanth Ramalingam, the director of a construction company - Ramalingam Construction Company Limited (RCCL) -  against Power TV.  The director's complaint alleged that an official from Power TV coerced him into making statements that he had made payments to political figures. He also alleged that these conversations were recorded by the channel without his consent. Chandrakanth also raised serious allegations that Rakesh Shetty said he would ensure Chandrakanth's outstanding amounts for various government contracts are paid and he would take commission for it. Police registered a case under the charges of criminal intimidation, forgery cheating and criminal conspiracy against officials of Power TV. Police obtained a search warrant to conduct searches in Power TV's office and the residence of Haseebur Rahanman, a company official. The search was limited to collecting physical and digital evidence relevant to the case. However, according to sources, police seized equipment and ensured that the channel went off air. RCCL, as per its website, is involved in construction and irrigation projects in Karnataka. Chandrakanth Ramalingam was arrested in 2016 by the ED and CBI in relation to a case of cash seizure and money laundering. TNM cannot describe the news report by Power TV since a temporary injunction obtained by BJP worker C Nagaraja Gowda from a civil judge prohibits the airing of "allegations against the Chief Minister of Karnataka, his family members and the BJP on the basis of false, fabricated and concocted stories prepared or edited by the defendants until the next hearing.” The injunction was granted on September 2 and as many as 55 defendants are mentioned in the order restricting them from reporting on the issue. Complicating matters further is a defamation case filed by Vijayendra, son of Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa, on September 20, which names three officials from Power TV - Rakesh Shetty, managing director and editor-in-chief; and anchors Chandan Sharma and Rehman.  “Being in public life is not easy. You refuse illegal demands & reject requests of News channel head and the channel turns vicious against you & your family members. I won't take this lying down, Power TV. My first response - Criminal defamation - is on its way. More will follow,” Vijayendra said in a tweet.  Being in public life is not easy. You refuse illegal demands & reject requests of News channel head and the channel turns vicious against you & your family members. I won't take this lying down, Power TV. My first response - Criminal defamation - is on its way. More will follow. pic.twitter.com/4ZtjAOGSE6 — Vijayendra Yeddyurappa (@BYVijayendra) September 20, 2020 The opposition Congress, in a press conference on September 23, demanded Yediyurappa’s resignation and an independent probe on the allegations raised by Power TV’s sting operation.  “Propriety and probity in public life demands a complete, thorough and independent investigation of the allegations of corruption against BS Yeddyurappa and his family members. This is only possible by way of a time bound and an independent probe by a sitting Supreme Court judge or by the Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court himself, aided and assisted by an SIT,” the Karnataka Congress said in a press release.  The Congress also raked up the issue in the Karnataka Assembly where an emotional Yediyurappa challenged the Congress to prove the allegations made by the channel.

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/2EHie7N
via IFTTT

As workations, homestays gain popularity, Karnataka tourism hopes for revival

Tourism

Tourism stakeholders in Kodagu, Chikmagalur, Mysore and Hassan districts are reporting rooms fully booked over weekends.

Susheela Nair

Pic courtesy: Porcupine Castle, Kodagu

While the travel industry in most states in India is battling the adverse impact of the coronavirus outbreak and the resultant lockdown, stakeholders in the tourism sector in Karnataka are attempting a comeback with the removal of intra-state and inter-state travel restrictions from early September in line with the Unlock 4 guidelines of the Government of India. After the state government relaxed the COVID-19 induced restrictions, the Karnataka Tourism Force (KTF) earlier this month spearheaded a bikers’ rally to revive tourism in the state in collaboration with the Indian Motorcycle Riders Group. This innovative venture rekindled the spirit of travel and created awareness that it was safe to travel in the state. “The symbolic ride was planned to publicise the fact that Karnataka is safe to travel as long as the new norms of physical distancing and self-safety are followed. We at KTF are hopeful that the rally will lay the foundation for a new beginning and encourage more people to come out and support the travel fraternity,” said M Ravi, Vice President, KTF. Feeling claustrophobic cooped up in their homes and fatigued after the stifling lockdown, people were yearning for a change of place and a break from the monotony of their homes. Realising that it is not going to be business as usual for the tourism sector, stakeholders felt the need to tap into the robust domestic market to essay a recovery. Tour operators, resort and homestay owners are curating innovative tourism concepts and packages to promote domestic travel and retain high-spending customers. Tourism stakeholders in the districts of Kodagu, Chikmagalur, Mysore and Hassan are in a jubilant mood with rooms fully booked over weekends. One leading resort in Kodagu is chock-a-block with bookings till November end. These hotels capitalised on the idea that travelling to drive-able distances within the state is safe. With adequate safety parameters and physical distancing, such local travel can be a boost for those on both the demand and supply side. Workations To lure the tourists back, homestays and resorts have come up with the innovative idea of ‘workation’ where tourists can stay and work from the resort or homestay. Under this option, good internet connectivity, rooms, office furniture and food service are provided. All these are incorporated into affordable packages ranging from three days to one or two weeks. This concept has elicited good response from techies in Bengaluru who liked the idea of working surrounded by greenery and nature, undisturbed in complete privacy. The most sought-after workation destinations are in Kodagu and Chikmagalur. Workation | Pic credit: Porcupine Castle, Kodagu The concept of workation initiated by Porcupine Castle, a hilltop resort in Kodagu, post lockdown relaxations and permission to open resorts and hotels in June, has been a big hit. “We procured a dozen dongles and installed broadband cables to welcome the wi-fi tribe. We offered a good package with wi-fi connection and other facilities, wherein the guest can work and relax with family in a relaxing ambience. Our excellent wi-fi was our trump card and received overwhelming response. Guests are also offered nominal prices if staying for over 10 days,” explained Anila V Paul, Director of the resort. The resort had an inspector from the public health centre to train their staff while the district office monitors the tourists and their documents. The resort’s naturalist has been trained to double up as a COVID inspector. Also read: Jaipur, Goa, Kochi to become top vacation destinations: OYO report The Serai in Chikmagalur has hosted software professionals from Bengaluru and Mangalore. “We also have ‘Back to School’ packages whereby students can avail online classes from the property. We targeted people who haven’t travelled for 5 months and gave them an opportunity to step out from the confines of their homes,” said Anand Menon, Senior General Manager, The Serai. Homestays According to Revathy Iyer, owner of Silver Brook Estate, a boutique homestay in Kodagu, “People prefer homestays as we have fewer guests. Owners staying in the homestay is an assurance for the guests that they are in a safe environment. Moreover, we’re able to provide home-cooked food and the comfort of personal touch to our customers. Safety has always been our priority. With less guests, it’s easy to implement safety norms like physical distancing and sanitisation.” Trekking in Kodagu | Photo credit: Susheela Nair “We avoid online booking as it’s difficult to check the credentials of the guests. We prefer direct booking or rely on known travel agents like Arjun Tours. We even have an MNC employee staying with us for the past three months, working from here. Instead of WFH, they are working from a different location. As vacations are unfeasible right now, we recommend everyone take a workation,” Revathy added. But on the contrary, the footfall in other regions of Karnataka, except Hampi, has not been very encouraging. The state’s stunning 320-km long coastline is home to India’s best beach and temple country, palm-fringed beaches, lush green fields, forests and rivers with the distant roar of the Arabian Sea for company. “But adequate awareness and promotion is woefully lacking. Gokarna is what Goa was in the 1950s to 1970s with only a handful of good resorts,” lamented Rachael Ravi, Managing Director, Red Earth Resort, Gokarna. Blessed with a pristine and unexploited coastline, Karnataka has the opportunity to become part of a larger beach tourism landscape along with Goa and Kerala, which have some of the country’s popular beaches and backwaters. Experts feel that unlike Goa’s crowded and commercialised stretches, Karnataka can create a classy coastal destination focused on ethnic culture, serenity, exclusivity and adventure. While a series of projects have reached the blueprint stage, only a few have reached the sands. In promising news for the state’s tourism sector, Karnataka unveiled a new tourism policy aiming to create 10 lakh jobs and attract Rs 5,000 crore investments in the sector by 2025. The policy was launched by Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa and Tourism Minister CT Ravi on World Tourism Day on Sunday. Susheela Nair is an independent food, travel and lifestyle writer, and photographer based in Bangalore. She has contributed content, articles and images on food, travel, lifestyle, photography, environment and ecotourism to several reputed national publications. Her writings constitute a wide spectrum, including guide books, brochures and coffee table books.

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/3mZx9LW
via IFTTT

Close shave for Karnataka MLA as rain-damaged bridge caves in

Rains

Raja Venkatappa Naik had gone to inspect the damaged bridge, which had developed cracks when a section of the bridge caved.

PTI

A legislator from Karnataka had a close shave on Monday morning when a section of a damaged bridge that he was inspecting, suddenly collapsed. The incident took place when Janata Dal (Secular) MLA Raja Venkatappa Naik was taking stock of the damage to a bridge in Karnataka's Raichur district. Videos of the incident, which took place in Mallat village in the district's Sirwara Taluk, have surfaced online and show the MLA close to the part of the bridge that caved in.  Raja Venkatappa Naik, who represents the Manvi constituency in the state Assembly, had gone to inspect the damaged bridge, which had developed cracks. He stood at the edge of the damaged bridge over a swollen stream and a large number of local residents came and stood right behind him.  Unable to bear the weight, a portion of the damaged bridge caved in and four people were injured. They were hospitalised and their condition is stable, officials said. After the collapse, residents retreated backwards and stood at the entrance of the bridge. Few people in the middle of the bridge were stuck after it collapsed.  Raja Venkatappa Naik however was a few feet away from the part that collapsed.  The MLA was also taken to a hospital for check-up but his condition is stable.  In the 2018 Karnataka Assembly elections, Raja Venkatappa defeated Hampayya Nayak Ballatgi of the Congress to become the MLA of Manvi constituency. He is the lone MLA from the Janata Dal (Secular) party to be elected in Raichur district of Karnataka. 

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/348gLQD
via IFTTT

Karnataka Law Minister JC Madhuswamy tests positive for coronavirus

Health

Madhuswamy had attended the recently concluded Karnataka Assembly session.

TNM Staff

JC Madhuswamy

Karnataka Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister J C Madhuswamy tested positive for the novel coronavirus on Monday. The private hospital where he was admitted said he tested positive for the virus. The minister underwent the COVID-19 test after his driver and cook contracted the virus, his associates said. He had attended the recently concluded Karnataka Assembly session. Prior to him, Deputy Chief Minister Govind Karjol and Gandhinagar MLA Dinesh Gundu Rao also tested positive. Congress leader HK Patil too tested positive for the virus following the conclusion of the monsoon session of the Assembly.  Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa, Health Minister B Sriramulu, Forest Minister Anand Singh, Tourism Minister C T Ravi, Agriculture Minister B C Patil, Leader of Opposition Siddaramaiah and Congress state chief D K Shivakumar are among those who tested positive for the virus and recovered. Suresh Angadi, who was the Minister of State for Railways and the Belagavi MP, BJP Rajya Sabha member Ashok Gasti and Basavakalyan Congress MLA B Narayan Rao, have died after being infected with the coronavirus. The monsoon session of the Assembly was reduced to six days over fears of rising number of infections among MLAs. More than 100 members of the Vidhana Soudha secretariat staff as well as ministers have tested positive for the virus. So far cumulatively, 5,82,458 COVID-19 positive cases have been confirmed in the state, which includes 8,641 deaths and 4,69,750 discharges, the health department's bulletin said.

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/30hLOs3
via IFTTT

Trump admin begins shipping rapid coronavirus tests to states

The first shipments, totaling 6.5 million tests, will be sent this week, and the amount each state receives will be based on population data.

from Health Care https://ift.tt/30horiu
via IFTTT

‘Will investors come to Bengaluru?’: Opposition slams Tejasvi Surya’s terror hub remark

Politics

Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa, however, defended Tejasvi Surya’s comments stating that he just meant terror activities have increased recently.

Pooja Prasanna

A day after the BJP MP Tejasvi Surya called Bengaluru as the epicentre of terror activities, Karnataka CM BS Yediyurappa has defended the comment saying that he just meant that terror activities in the state capital have increased recently. This even as the Opposition has been censuring his remark made in New Delhi on Sunday.  The Chief Minister, answering questions from the media on Surya’s comments said, “This is what he meant. Nowadays, in Bengaluru, terror activities are increasing day by day. That's why this(NIA unit) will be helpful to us.”  The newly-appointed national president of BJP’s youth wing met the Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday and in a press conference afterwards said that Bengaluru has become the "incubation centre" for terror activities. Calling the city the epicentre of terror activities, Surya had urged for a fully functional NIA unit in Bengaluru.  The Opposition has been castigating Surya for his comment, vehemently objecting to the city being projected as a terror hub.   KPCC president, DK Shivakumar tweeted saying, ‘BJP MP @Tejasvi_Surya calling Bengaluru, a global city known for Technology and Innovation, as an epicenter of terror is highly condemnable. GDP growth has crashed and with such statements, which investor will come to Bengaluru & Karnataka? Will PM and FM @nsitharaman answer? BJP MP @Tejasvi_Surya calling Bengaluru, a global city known for Technology and Innovation, as an epicenter of terror is highly condemnable. GDP growth has crashed and with such statements, which investor will come to Bengaluru & Karnataka? Will PM and FM @nsitharaman answer? — DK Shivakumar (@DKShivakumar) September 28, 2020 Sowmya Reddy, Congress MLA said, “Namma Bengaluru a #terrorHub? Wth. I take offence to that. My city is beautiful, cosmopolitan, diverse, IT/BT Hub, safe, peaceful/silicon city. I WILL NOT let a one guy tarnish the image of our city. Never. NO WAY. #proudofmycity’” Namma Bengaluru a #terrorHub? Wth. I take offence to that. My city is beautiful, cosmopolitan, diverse, IT/BT Hub, safe, peaceful/silicon city. I WILL NOT let a one guy tarnish the imagine of our city. Never. NO WAY. #proudofmycity — Sowmya Reddy | ಸೌಮ್ಯ ರೆಡ್ಡಿ (@Sowmyareddyr) September 27, 2020 Srivatsa YB, national campaign in-charge for Indian Youth Congress tweeted, “Calling Bengaluru a Terror Hub is a huge injustice to a vibrant city known worldwide as a Tech & Intellectual Hub. Why is @Tejasvi_Surya tarnishing Bengaluru's image? Does he have any proof to back his claim? To suit its politics, BJP is causing huge damage to B'luru & Karnataka” Calling Bengaluru a Terror Hub is a huge injustice to a vibrant city known worldwide as a Tech & Intellectual Hub Why is @Tejasvi_Surya tarnishing Bengaluru's image? Does he have any proof to back his claim? To suit its politics, BJP is causing huge damage to B'luru & Karnataka — Srivatsa (@srivatsayb) September 27, 2020 Prathap Kanagal, JD(S) social media in-charge wrote, “Bengaluru was IT Hub for decades but As per @Tejasvi_Surya, in 6 years under Modi rule it become terrorism hub. Bengaluru was one of the safest cities across the globe all these years, but under Modi and Amit Shah even Bengaluru is in Danger just like Hindu in danger under Modi” Bengaluru was IT Hub for decades but As per @Tejasvi_Surya, in 6 years under Modi rule it become terrorism hub. Bengaluru was one of the safest cities across the globe all these years, but under Modi and Amit Shah even Bengaluru is in Danger just like Hindu in danger under modi. — Prathap ಕಣಗಾಲ್ (@Kanagalogy) September 28, 2020 BJP insiders say that the Karnataka Chief Minister who attempted to display a weak defence is very unhappy that despite the party being in power, both in the state and the Centre, such comments have been made by Surya. Many leaders in the party believe that this is an extension of the internal rift between some RSS leaders close to Surya and the BJP veteran in the state, Yediyurappa. Many in the Karnataka government too are aggrieved with the statement which they read as an attempt to get attention at the expense of the government’s image in the state. 

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/3ihfaNG
via IFTTT

Sandalwood drugs case: Bail rejected for Ragini Dwivedi, Sanjana Galrani

Crime

The special court also rejected anticipatory bail applications filed by two other accused.

TNM Staff

In a setback for Kannada actors Ragini Dwivedi and Sanjana Galrani, a special Bengaluru court on Monday denied bail to them in connection with the high-profile Sandalwood drugs case. The bail hearing for the other accused in the case was adjourned. The special Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) court also rejected the anticipatory bail applications filed by two accused in the case, Vinay Kumar and Shiva Prakash, who have evaded arrest till now. The police are also on the lookout for actor Vivek Oberoi’s brother-in-law, Aditya Alva, who has been named in the case.  Police have so far arrested high-profile party planner Viren Khanna, alleged drug peddlers Loum Pepper Samba, Rahul Tonse, Prashanth Ranka and Niyaz in connection with the case.  As reported earlier, even though the Central Crime Branch (CCB) of the Bengaluru police has made high-profile arrests, they might not be able to make a watertight case in absence of material evidence. Sources in the CCB have said that the agency is relying on electronic evidence. Other than the probe by the CCB, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is also probing the two actors along with other co-accused on charges of money laundering. Incidentally, the First Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate on Thursday had granted ED permission to probe the charges. Among others, the ED is expected to question Viren Khanna, Sanjjana's friend and real estate businessman Rahul Tonse, and Ragini's associate BK Ravi Shankar who are among the arrested in connection with the same case.  Actor Ragini Dwivedi who had initially skipped summons by the Central Crime Branch of Bengaluru police on September 3 was arrested on the next day for allegedly not cooperating with investigation officials, following raids at her residence. Sanjana Galrani, who was also subsequently raided in connection with the same case, was arrested on September 8. After a brief period in police custody, they were sent to judicial custody on September 14.

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/3458zkb
via IFTTT

Karnataka CM says no land owned by SC/ST will be touched, as farmers protest

Politics

“Even if you protest today, I ask you to come and discuss with us later,” the CM said.

TNM Staff

Reacting to the wide-scale demonstrations by farmers and Dalit groups on account of Monday’s statewide bandh against the recently passed contentious land reforms, Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa called for the withdrawal of protests as he defended his government’s stance. Trying to assuage the protesters, the CM said the interests of Dalits and tribals will be protected. “Even if you protest today, I ask you to come and discuss with us later. No irrigated land will be used for anything other than agriculture. No SC/ ST land will be touched.” He added, “I tried convincing protesters but they had their heart set on satyagraha.” He called for the protests to be withdrawn and claimed that the government has taken these decisions keeping the best interests of farmers in mind. The call by farmer organisations for a state-wide bandh on Monday saw protest marches across the state as many Dalit groups, labour unions and pro-Kannada outfits lent support to the farmers. Defending the new APMC law, Yediyurappa said, “Farmers can sell their crop anywhere where they get a good price, this is complete freedom to sell anywhere and this is what I have fought for many years. There was a time, if farmers sold in other districts, there were cases against them.” He added, “Farmers can also choose to sell in APMC too like earlier. That door is also not closed. It is a historic decision. I ask farmer friends to see how it goes for six months and I believe your issues in selling crops will be eased.” On the new land reforms, Yediyurappa claimed that nobody will have the right to take lands of small farmers. “Due to this amendment, anyone can do agriculture. Where there is no use of agriculture, the land can be used for other purposes and people will get jobs. Keeping this in mind we have brought these Acts. In the coming days, I request farmer groups to not confuse farmers. Farmers, I am with you. Don't encourage the protests,” the CM appealed.  As reported earlier, farmers, Dalits, labour organisations have been up in arms against three ordinances that the state government passed in the recently concluded Monsoon Session of the Karnataka Assembly despite staunch opposition. The three laws are Karnataka Land reforms (Amendment)  2020, Karnataka Agricultural Produce Marketing (Regulation and Development) (Amendment) , 2020 and Industrial Disputes and certain other laws (Amendment)  2020. Protesting farmers and opposition parties have said that the land reforms make it easier for land hoarding as it increases the ceiling for landownership and also removes the non-agricultural income bar on owning farmlands. On the APMC reforms, those opposing have said that it will leave farmers especially marginal vulnerable farmers at the mercy of the corporates in absence of a strong regulated market.

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/3ie4S0y
via IFTTT

Karnataka Bandh: Protests across state, partial shutdown in Bengaluru

Protests

The 12-hour bandh was called by farmer organisations, Dalit groups and labour unions; pro-Kannada outfits also joined in.

TNM Staff

Life across Karnataka was affected by the 12-hour state-wide bandh called by farmer organisations, Dalit groups and labour unions against the passing of the contentious farm laws. Many pro-Kannada activists also joined the protests in support of the farmers. No incidents of violence were reported as a result of the bandh. Police across the state detained protesters as they attempted to stop the movement of people. In Bengaluru, areas like Town Hall, City Railway Station and Majestic Bus Stand saw large gatherings of protesters who shouted slogans against the BJP. Activists of the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike’s women wing staged a protest at the Kempegowda International Airport before being arrested. A large rally of protesters, who were part of various groups, marched from Town Hall to Freedom Park via the Mysore Bank Circle in Bengaluru.   A sea of colours marching to recliam democracy, to assert the rights of farmers, workers and all Indians. Withdraw #FarmBills #labourcodes @narendramodi @BSYBJP Green, Blue,Red and Yellow !#ಕರ್ನಾಟಕಬಂದ್#ರೈತಮತ್ತುಕಾರ್ಮಿಕರಜೊತೆಗೆ #Withfarmersandworkers#Karnatakabandh pic.twitter.com/41YLcf5dbL — vinaysreenivasa ವಿನಯ (@vinaysreeni) September 28, 2020   The call for a bandh on Monday comes as farmers urge both the state and union governments to withdraw the “anti-farmer” bills, which according to them, are pro-corporate and against marginal farmers.  In many parts of the state, farmers have blocked state and national highways. Traffic flow in the Outer Ring Road in Bengaluru was also temporarily stopped by protesters.  There was a significant drop in the number of cabs and auto services too, as well as a slight decrease in private vehicle usage. Public transport was also affected to some extent. The Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) said that, out of the 2100-odd scheduled departures, 1700 buses had left their respective stations. “Buses will be run depending on current demand”, a BMTC official said. Protests were held by farmers and pro-Kannada groups in major urban areas of Mysuru and Mangaluru too. Police in Mysuru detained multiple protesters. Many buses going from Mysuru city centre to rural and suburban areas were stopped.  #KarnatakaBandh Protest in #Mysuru pic.twitter.com/bNeixxWFPu — Kiran Parashar (@KiranParashar21) September 28, 2020 Similar protests were held in Tumkur, where a joint protest was led by farmer organisations and pro-Kannada outfits.  The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) said bus services across the state also took a hit with 1000 out of the 1600 scheduled operations plying only till 11 am. Services were temporarily suspended by the North East Karnataka Road Transport Corporation in Bagalkot in light of the protests.  Amongst districts, town centres of Kodagu, Chikkamagalauru, Hassan and Chamrajanagara in the southern interior of Karnataka wore a deserted look, with many establishments remaining closed. However, bike rallies were conducted by protesters in Shivamogga. In north Karnataka, protests were held in Hubbali, Dharwad, Haveri and Chitradurga.  Farmers in Bellary conducted a bullock cart rally. Other than Mangaluru and Udupi, coastal Karnataka did not see as many protests as the rest of the state. READ| Farmer, Dalit groups protest in Bengaluru ahead of Karnataka bandh on Monday    

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/345MPo9
via IFTTT

Karnataka unveils new tourism policy, aims to create 10 lakh jobs

Policy

The policy was launched by Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa and Tourism Minister C T Ravi on Sunday.

PTI

KAPU BEACH | SUSHEELA NAIR

On 'World Tourism Day', Karnataka unveiled a new tourism policy aiming to create 10 lakh jobs and attract Rs 5,000 crore investments in the sector by 2025. "Our aim is to increase the contribution of tourism to 20 per cent from 15 per cent of the gross state domestic product (GSDP) and attract more domestic and overseas tourists across the state, which has more to offer than rich flora and fauna," said Chief Minister BS. Yediyurappa on Sunday. The Tourism policy encourages greater participation of the local community in tourism activities to create inclusive socio-cultural growth and generate economic benefits for the people of Karnataka, a press release by the state government said. The policy was launched by Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa and Tourism Minister C T Ravi. A tourism development fund has been established under Karnataka Tourism Infrastructure Ltd (KTIL) as a strategic intervention for the development of land bank under Department of Tourism, it said. Karnataka plans to promote the state in domestic and international markets and leverage the brand of "One State, Many Worlds". An investment facilitation cell shall be set up under the Department of Tourism to act as the nodal agency for enabling, facilitating and monitoring investments, it added. The incentives under the policy include financial assistance of up to Rs 1 lakh for tourism projects undertaking sustainability measures such as water conservation and harvesting, adopting renewable energy sources, and adopting pollution control measures. The policy also provides for capital investment subsidy and interest subsidy with certain specifications. It also provides for concessions like exemption on stamp duty, concessions on registration charges, reimbursement of land conversion charges, exemption on motor vehicle tax, complimentary infrastructure assistance among other benefits. The policy also mentioned the Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations.

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/3j4lHwd
via IFTTT

Bengaluru records 4217 COVID-19 cases on Sunday in highest single-day spike

Health

With this, the city now has 44,274 active cases.

TNM Staff

PTI : Image for representation

Bengaluru Urban district reported the highest number of COVID-19 cases in a single day since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic with 4,217 cases reported on Sunday. Karnataka's COVID-19 tally shot up to 5,75,566, after 9,543 cases were reported across the state on the same day. This includes 1,04,724 cases which are currently active. The death toll also increased to 8,582 so far with 79 more succumbing to the infection in a 24-hour period. Bengaluru registered 4,217 fresh cases, taking its tally to 2,20,847, including 44,274 active cases, while 1,73,736 were discharged so far, with 3,306 over the last 24 hours. The capital city registered 15 of the 79 fresh deaths, followed by Ballari at nine, while the rest were scattered over 20 other districts. Most of the dead had a history of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) or Influenza-like illness (ILI). After Bengaluru Urban, Mysuru district accounted for most number of new cases at 952 followed by Dakshina Kannada at 460, Hassan at 408, Udupi at 320, Ballari at 310 and others. Bengaluru Urban district tops the list of districts in positive cases with 2,20,847 infections, followed by Mysuru at 33,300 and Ballari at 30,943. Among discharges too, Bengaluru Urban tops with a total of 1,73,736 discharges, followed by Ballari at 26,560 and Mysuru at 26,101. A total of 45,86,780 samples have been tested so far, out of which 67,857 were tested on Sunday alone. Of the 835 patients in the intensive care units (ICU), 264 are in Bengaluru Urban district hospitals, while 93 are in Dharwad, 80 are in Ballari, 62 are in Hassan and 47 are in Kalaburagi.  

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/36c8u0B
via IFTTT

Karnataka Bandh on Monday: What to expect

Strike

Bengaluru City Police Commissioner said that free movement of individuals will be ensured.

TNM Staff

File image/PTI

Farmers in Karnataka are holding a statewide bandh on Monday,September 28, in protest against the BJP-ruled state and union governments over the recently introduced contentious farm and land use laws. The call for strike between 6am-6pm called by farmer organisations have been supported by labour unions. Farmers have threatened to block all state and national highways too. Police across the state including in Bengaluru will keep a tight vigil to maintain law and order and allow free movement of people. “We will not let anyone curtail movement of people. We will make adequate security arrangements. We will have 12,000 civil police, 47 KSRP (Karnataka State Reserve Police) platoons, 24 CAR (City Armed Reserve) platoons. Four additional commissioners, 16 DCPs (Deputy Commissioner of Police) will patrol the city,” Bengaluru City Commissioner Kamal Pant told TNM. While the state government has said normal life will remain unaffected, many private stakeholders including those in Bengaluru have voluntarily come forward with their support to the strike. Public buses, metro are likely to run as per normal while cabs and auto services are likely to be affected.  Speaking on the Bandh, Deputy Chief Minister of Laxman Savadi who holds the transport portfolio clarified that services of all the four road transport corporations including the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation will be available, and the Police Department has been requested to provide additional security. Meanwhile, taxi and auto services are likely to be affected across the state. Tanveer Pasha, President of the Ola TaxiForSure and Uber Drivers' Association, said there won’t be any app-hailed cabs during the bandh. Similarly, Peace Auto and Taxi Association, Bharath Vehicles drivers union have also said that they won’t be operating during the bandh hours. Since the start of the previous week from Monday, Bengaluru had seen many protests by the farmers and Dalit groups who want the government to roll back the newly introduced reforms.  The state government has passed the Karnataka Land reforms (Amendment) Ordinance 2020, Karnataka Agricultural Produce Marketing (Regulation and Development) (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 and Industrial Disputes and certain other laws (Amendment) ordinance 2020. At the same time, the Union government on September 20 had passed the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill, the Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020 and the Farmers’ (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020 under controversial circumstances. According to the protesters and the Opposition, these legislations are detrimental to small scale farmers especially Daits who anyway have little patches of land. This is because pre-existing ceilings on land ownership and income bar for land ownership is being diluted creating an ideal ground for land hoarding. Further, they say that the deregulation of Essential Commodities Act, APMC Acts are also going to leave farmers at the mercy of corporations.

from Karnataka https://ift.tt/3kRVp0O
via IFTTT