BJP threatens stir in Karnataka over Form 7 cases
DK Shivakumar leaves door open for independent probe into Form 7 misuse
Missed voter list? Mop-up drive may give you another chance during SIR drive in Karnataka
Drought-hit Karnataka seeks Rs 7,142 crore from Centre
Banks must act with due care over loan default: Karnataka high court
Fireball explosion leaves 6 of family injured in Bengaluru
Rusted streetlight pole falls, kills man in Bengaluru
Health officers protest, demand job security in Karnataka
'19 Km, 3 Hours And 17 Breakdowns': Bengaluru Woman Shares Her Peak-Hour Rain Ordeal
A Bengaluru woman details her three-hour journey covering 19 km due to heavy rain and traffic.
Volunteers join hands to protect Bengalurus garden city identity
Kannada cinema has a new headache: Paid reviews
So film teams recruit social-media stars to post slick, scripted messages on X and Instagram, ensuring a massive hype around a films release
Cong launches phase 2 of Sanghatan Srujan Abhiyan in DK
Lokayukta notice to corporation officials over waste management lapses
10-day Bengaluru Jaatre to bring citizens together
4 including 3 juveniles held for murder of BCom student in Bengaluru
Accident near Hebbal flyover in Bengaluru turns into extortion ordeal, alleges engineer
KSTDC to launch Mayura Ruchi on Wheels at major tourist destinations
In the first phase, KSTDC plans to deploy food vans at Hampi, Madikeri, Jog Falls, Nandi Hills, Mysuru, and other key tourist locations in Bengaluru
Couple Arrested in Alleged Rs 2 Crore Fraud Case Involving 120 Women in Udaipur
Udaipur, October 3, 2026: Pratap Nagar police have arrested a husband and wife from Bengaluru in connection with an alleged fraud of more than Rs 2 crore involving around 120 women in Udaipur. The two accused were produced before a Udaipur court on Saturday and were sent to seven days of police custody. Police are ... Read more Couple Arrested in Alleged Rs 2 Crore Fraud Case Involving 120 Women in Udaipur
Back by popular demand: BDS colleges in Karnataka raise management quota fees
FIR alleges manipulation of voter records in Bengalurus Malleswaram constituency
FIR alleges manipulation of voter records in Bengalurus Malleswaram constituency
Ktaka: C&AG seeks action against KAS officer over remarks on Gruha Lakshmi audit
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 3 (IANS) The Accountant General (Audit-I), Karnataka, Jahangir Inamdar, has written to Chief Secretary Shalini Rajaneesh seeking disciplinary action against Karnataka Administrative Service (KAS) officer N. Mahesh Babu over alleged vulgar and threatening remarks against the Accountant General (AG) and the Principal Accountant General in connection with audit findings related to the Gruha Lakshmi scheme. In the letter accessed by IANS, Inamdar sought verification of the remarks attributed to Mahesh Babu, Managing Director of the Karnataka State Women's Development Corporation, and requested the government to initiate disciplinary proceedings against him under the applicable Conduct Rules and CCA Rules if the allegations are found to be true. He also sought directions requiring the officer to tender an unconditional public apology to the Accountant General and the Principal Accountant General, Karnataka. The development comes after the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG) reportedly flagged the alleged misuse of around Rs 225 crore under the Gruha Lakshmi scheme, including the transfer of funds to accounts allegedly belonging to deceased and fictitious beneficiaries. According to the letter, media reports carried remarks attributed to Mahesh Babu in which he allegedly used derogatory and threatening language against the Accountant General and called for him to be physically assaulted. The letter described the alleged remarks as a matter of grave concern. Inamdar invoked the constitutional position of the C&AG and said the issue was not merely a personal dispute involving two officers. The C&AG is a constitutional authority under Article 148 of the Constitution. At the same time, the audit of state receipts and expenditure is carried out under Article 149, read with the Comptroller and Auditor General's (Duties, Powers and Conditions of Service) Act, 1971. C&AG reports are laid before the state legislature under Article 151(2). The letter stated that an attack on the Accountant General and the Principal Accountant General while they were discharging their official duties amounted to an attack on a constitutional institution and on the legislature's right to receive information regarding the expenditure of public money. Inamdar said the alleged remarks would be unacceptable from any citizen and were particularly serious as they were attributed to a serving KAS officer heading the corporation implementing the scheme under audit. He said such conduct, if established, would violate Rule 3 of the Karnataka Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1966. Inamdar added that such a statement had implications for financial propriety and the neutrality of the administration during an election period. He requested that the matter be examined independently of the alleged abusive remarks. The letter stressed that the objective of the audit of the Gruha Lakshmi scheme was to ensure that government funds reached the women for whom the scheme was intended. The sole objective of the audit of the scheme has been to ensure that the money reaches the women for whom it is meant, Inamdar said. He added that this objective could be achieved by facilitating the audit and acting on its findings rather than abusing those reporting them. He warned that public remarks allegedly targeting a constitutional authority could damage the audit process and undermine the credibility of the state's institutional mechanisms for ensuring accountability. Inamdar has therefore urged the Karnataka government to verify the remarks attributed to Mahesh Babu without delay and take appropriate disciplinary action if they are established. He has also sought an unconditional apology from the officer in the same public domain in which the alleged remarks were made. Inamdar clarified that the inputs on the Gruha Lakshmi scheme were furnished to the state government in response to a request from the government and were provided through an official D.O. letter. The letter had specifically stated that the audits had not reached the reporting stage and that the inputs were based on preliminary observations from a partial audit of limited data. They were therefore not to be treated as final audit conclusions, he said.
Rental prices in Bengaluru rise sharply despite stagnant private-sector salaries.
Bidar youth held under UAPA Act, links with banned outfit
Bidar: A 24-year-old man from Karnatakas Bidar district has been arrested under the UAPA Act for allegedly maintaining links with members of banned terrorist organisations and persons involved in the illegal trafficking of firearms. Vishalkumar Maitre from Enakoor village used Instagram and WhatsApp to communicate with individuals linked to banned organisations. The first information report Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Bengaluru news: A 31-year-old man returned home late to find his house ransacked and two intruders inside. The intruders attacked him with an iron rod, causing a deep head injury, before fleeing on a bike. They stole 20 grams of gold jewellery and 45 grams of silver ornaments. His family was away on a trip to Andhra Pradesh during the incident.
Karnataka: Illegal pistol racket key accused held in Hyderabad
Bidar: Bidar district police have arrested Balbir Singh alias Shera Jadhav, allegedly a key accused in an illegal country-made pistol supply network, during a special operation in Hyderabad. According to Superintendent of Police Pradeep Gunti, Singh, a native of Nanded in Maharashtra, was arrested after police gathered information about his involvement in the illegal arms Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Kumaraswamy escalates attack on Karnataka CM over NICE project
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 3 (IANS) Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy on Saturday intensified his attack on Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, alleging irregularities in land transactions linked to the NICE Road project and questioning the alleged links between the Chief Minister's family and the Shobha apartment complex at Hosakerehalli in Bengaluru. The NICE (Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprise) project is a major infrastructure initiative involving the Bengaluru-Mysuru Infrastructure Corridor (BMIC), including the NICE Road, developed by Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprise Ltd (NICE). The project has been controversial mainly over land acquisition, compensation to farmers, the extent of land allotted to the project, and alleged violations of the original agreement. Kumaraswamy has demanded that the project be scrapped and has called upon people not to pay toll while travelling on the NICE Road. Kumaraswamy made the allegations after meeting farmers who had lost their land for the NICE Road project. He questioned the ownership of the Shobha apartment complex near the Hosakerehalli toll and alleged that the Chief Minister's family and his brother, D.K. Suresh, had links with the property. Who are Amashe Gowda, Bhagyalakshmi and Kempegowda? Kumaraswamy asked. He further questioned how the Chief Minister had purchased land in his and his mother's names, how it was possible to purchase land that had already been notified for a government project, and how the NOC had been obtained. He alleged that the property had helped create assets worth around Rs 2,000 crore through the construction of the high-rise Shobha apartment complex. Kumaraswamy further alleged that the NICE company had not issued NOCs to poor people whose land had been acquired around the project and had even denied an NOC to Siddaganga Mutt. However, he questioned how around 200-300 acres of land surrounding the NICE Road had allegedly been purchased by the Chief Minister and his family. He alleged that land had been taken from people through unfair means, including intimidation and coercion. Kumaraswamy compared Shivakumar to Shishupala, a character from the Mahabharata, saying that Lord Krishna had allowed Shishupala to commit 101 mistakes before taking action. Excessive greed, an insatiable hunger for land and the desire for more and more despite what God has given a person can lead him to commit one mistake after another, Kumaraswamy said. He added that the story of the state's Chief Minister was similar. Kumaraswamy alleged that the people of Karnataka had been watching Shivakumar's alleged actions and had given him a final opportunity. He further alleged that the NICE Road project itself was facing the danger of being taken over. He claimed that Shivakumar was attempting to acquire the entire project in association with a Hyderabad-based person in business. The NICE agreement will end next year. After that, the NICE Road will become a complete asset, Kumaraswamy alleged. He further claimed that even before that, the Chief Minister had ventured to swallow it. Kumaraswamy also claimed that attempts had been made to offer him inducements to remain silent on the NICE project. Why do you want to get involved in the NICE project? Stay silent on this issue. Take whatever you want, he alleged, claiming that he had rejected such approaches. Nobody can buy me. I am a man of the people. I live for the people and am ready to give my life for them, Kumaraswamy said. He asserted that the farmers affected by the NICE project and the people of Karnataka were united and that he would work to ensure that the NICE Road remained with the state. Kumaraswamy also demanded the immediate arrest of NICE Managing Director Ashok Kheny, alleging that he had made derogatory remarks about the late Siddaganga seer, Sri Sri Sri Shivakumara Mahaswamiji. He should be arrested immediately, Kumaraswamy said. He alleged that the Chief Minister had continued to protect Kheny and was colluding with him. Kumaraswamy further alleged that Kheny had appropriated property belonging to Siddaganga Mutt and accused Shivakumar of supporting him. Kumaraswamy's remarks are part of his continuing criticism of the Chief Minister over the NICE Road project and alleged land transactions connected to it.
Filing Form 7 is a constitutional right, cannot be stopped: Ktaka LoP blasts Congress govt
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 3 (IANS) Karnataka Leader of the Opposition (LoP) R. Ashoka on Saturday charged the state government with indulging in goondaism and alleged that the police were being used to target BJP workers who had submitted Form 7 applications. Form 7 is an application prescribed by the Election Commission of India (ECI) for objecting to the inclusion of a person's name in the electoral roll or seeking the deletion of a name from the voter list. Speaking to reporters after a meeting, Ashoka stated: Filing Form 7 is our right. It is for the Election Commission to decide whether a voters records are correct or not. He said that expecting Election Commission officials to act according to the wishes of the Congress was unconstitutional. Ashoka said that Form 6 and Form 7 were prescribed applications under the electoral process and alleged that Congress leaders had protested outside the Election Commission office against the filing of Form 7 applications and pressured election authorities to initiate criminal cases against those who submitted them. Because of this, police are registering criminal cases against BJP workers. All police stations have become Congress offices, he alleged. Referring to the Kogilu Cross area in Bengaluru, Ashoka alleged that Bangladeshi nationals had been brought and settled on 15 acres of land and that attempts had been made to include more than 300 families in the electoral rolls. He said that the BJP had opposed the move and approached the court. Ashoka further alleged that former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and ministers B.Z. Zameer Ahmed Khan and Krishna Byre Gowda had supported the residents and that a decision had been taken to provide them with houses, which was later withdrawn. He alleged that the Congress was opposing Form 7 applications because of concerns over the deletion of names of alleged illegal immigrants from electoral rolls. Because of this, the Congress is afraid of defeat everywhere. That is why Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and all the ministers staged a sit-in in front of the Election Commission office, Ashoka said. He alleged that Congress leaders had earlier posted about the protest on social media and later denied holding a sit-in. He said the BJP had submitted a complaint to the Police Commissioner and that the Congress had subsequently issued a statement denying that such a protest had taken place. Ashoka said BJP workers would not withdraw from the issue even if police cases were registered against them. Even if the police register cases, BJP workers will not back down. If the cases are not withdrawn, we will intensify the agitation further, he said. Questioning objections to the filing of Form 7, Ashoka said applications could be printed and submitted online in accordance with the prescribed process. He also rejected allegations that the applications had been printed by the RSS. He accused the Congress of lecturing the BJP on constitutional issues despite its own historical record, referring to the Emergency imposed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Ashoka also warned police officers against misusing their powers and said they would have to face consequences if they acted improperly. The government will last only one more year. If police officers misuse their power, they will have to regret it later, he said. Ashoka added that an NDA government would come to power in the state and that action would be taken against officers who misused their authority. On the drought situation, Ashoka said a Central government team had arrived in Karnataka to assess the situation and urged the state government to provide accurate figures on crop losses and the impact of the drought. It is not merely an inspection. Accurate figures must be given to them, he said. Ashoka claimed that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi government had provided twice the relief compared with the previous Manmohan Singh government and alleged that the Congress government in Karnataka had failed to provide adequate relief to farmers. He said the BJP would independently inspect drought-affected areas in the first phase, including Chikkaballapur, Doddaballapur, Chamarajanagar and Mandya. We will also visit places where farmers have died by suicide, he said. Ashoka and other BJP leaders on Friday urged the Director General of Police (DGP) to stop registering FIRs against people who have submitted Form 7 applications seeking the deletion of names from electoral rolls. Former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, BJP State President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra, Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, MPs and MLAs, along with Ashoka, met the DGP and submitted a memorandum.
Bengaluru news: Harish Varadharajan moved his agritech business from Chennai to Bengaluru and found significant advantages in the city's ecosystem. After one year, he noted improved access to investors, talent and customers, which helped his business grow. Bengaluru's favorable climate also reduced operational costs for his company. Other entrepreneurs shared mixed reviews about relocating, with some favoring Nashik for its agricultural resources.
Second Talent Launches Hire Offshore for Hiring Full-Time Indian Developers at One Monthly Fee
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], October 3: Second Talent today launched Hire Offshore in India, giving companies in the US, Europe and Australia a way to hire full-time Indian developers while the platform handles local employment, payroll and equipment.
Gold, silver rate today, October 3: Check latest prices in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru and Chennai
Gold prices declined in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru and Chennai on October 3, with 24K gold priced at 14,918 per gram in Mumbai, Bengaluru and Chennai, while Delhi recorded 15,046 per gram. Silver was priced at 235 per gram in Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru, while Chennai recorded 245 per gram.
Form 7 row: Former Karnataka CM Yediyurappa warns of statewide protests over FIRs against BJP workers Bengaluru: Former Karnataka Chief Minister and BJP Central Parliamentary Committee member, B.S. Yediyurappa, on Saturday warned of statewide protests if the FIRs registered against BJP workers for submitting bulk Form-7 applications were not withdrawn. He was speaking to the [] The post Form 7 row: Former Karnataka CM Yediyurappa warns of statewide protests over FIRs against BJP workers appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Todays Gold Rate in India October 3: Gold prices down in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru
22, 24 carat Gold prices down across metro cities on October 3
Special Trains to Run Between Charlapalli-Bengaluru, Tirupati-Vijayapura
The BengaluruCharlapalli Weekly Special Train (No. 07066) will depart from Bengaluru at 3.50 pm on October 6, 13, 20 and 27, and November 3, 10, 17 and 24.
SIR row: Karnataka BJP urges DGP-IGP to withdraw FIRs against party workers over Form-7 applications
SIR row: Karnataka BJP urges DGP-IGP to withdraw FIRs against party workers over Form-7 applications Bengaluru: BJP Karnataka President and MLA, B.Y. Vijayendra, on Thursday met Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG-IGP) M.A. Saleem and urged the police department to withdraw the FIRs registered against BJP workers for submitting Form-7 applications, while alleging [] The post SIR row: Karnataka BJP urges DGP-IGP to withdraw FIRs against party workers over Form-7 applications appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Central drought team assures CM Shivakumar of submitting objective report after 3-day Karnataka visit Bengaluru: The Central drought assessment team will undertake a three-day tour of Karnataka to assess the ground situation and submit an objective report based on field observations and data provided by state government officials, Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Ministry Joint [] The post Central drought team assures CM Shivakumar of submitting objective report after 3-day Karnataka visit appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
CM Shivakumar briefs Central drought study team on Karnatakas rainfall deficit, crop losses
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 3 (IANS) Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Saturday held a meeting with a high-level Central government team that arrived in Karnataka to assess the ground situation arising from rainfall deficiency and drought in the state. Deputy Chief Minister and Revenue Minister G. Parameshwara also participated in the meeting held at the Chief Ministers official residence-cum-office, Krishna. During the meeting, the state government gave the Central drought study team a detailed account of the situation in drought-hit taluks, including the rainfall deficit, crop losses, drinking water shortage and fodder availability for livestock. Officials explained the ground-level situation prevailing in various drought-affected parts of the state and briefed the Central team on the impact of inadequate rainfall on agriculture and water resources. The meeting was attended by Ajit Kumar Sahu, who is heading the Central drought study team, along with other members of the team. State Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh, Additional Chief Secretaries Gaurav Gupta and Tushar Girinath, State Disaster Management Department Secretary Manoj Kumar Meena and State Disaster Management Department Commissioner Honnamba were among the senior officials present at the meeting. The Central team is visiting Karnataka to assess the actual drought situation and crop losses on the ground before the state seeks relief from the Union government based on the extent of the damage. It can be noted that the three teams from the Centre have begun assessing the drought situation and crop losses in Karnataka, with the state government estimating the overall damage at between Rs 50,000 crore and Rs 60,000 crore. Deputy Chief Minister and Revenue Minister G. Parameshwara said the state would submit a final memorandum seeking drought relief from the Centre after the assessment of all affected areas is completed. The three central teams comprise officials from various Union ministries, including the Agriculture and Environment ministries. They will visit different regions of the state to verify the ground situation, assess crop losses and examine the availability of water. Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Parameshwara said one team would cover the Tumakuru, Chitradurga and Davanagere region, another would visit North Karnataka, while the third would inspect the Mysuru region. The teams would be briefed by the state government before undertaking their field visits. They would also interact with deputy commissioners and local officials and verify the information submitted by the state government.
Central teams begin drought assessment in Karnataka; crop losses may touch Rs 60,000 Cr: Deputy CM
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 3 (IANS) Three teams from the Centre have begun assessing the drought situation and crop losses in Karnataka, with the state government estimating the overall damage at between Rs 50,000 crore and Rs 60,000 crore. He also stated that eligible voters had been deleted from electoral rolls through Form-7 applications and said that the truth will emerge after the probe. Deputy Chief Minister and Revenue Minister, G. Parameshwara, said on Saturday that the state would submit a final memorandum seeking drought relief from the Centre after the assessment of all affected areas is completed. The three central teams comprise officials from various Union ministries, including the Agriculture and Environment ministries. They will visit different regions of the state to verify the ground situation, assess crop losses and examine the availability of water. Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Parameshwara said one team would cover the Tumakuru, Chitradurga and Davanagere region, another would visit North Karnataka, while the third would inspect the Mysuru region. The teams would be briefed by the state government before undertaking their field visits. They would also interact with deputy commissioners and local officials and verify the information submitted by the state government. Karnataka has declared 217 of its 240 taluks as drought-hit. Of these, the losses in 177 taluks have already been assessed at around Rs 46,000 crore, which has been included in the second memorandum submitted to the Centre. The assessment of losses in another 40 taluks declared drought-hit on October 1 is underway. Once the assessment of all 217 taluks is completed, the total crop and related losses could reach Rs 50,000 crore to Rs 60,000 crore, Parameshwara said. The state government has already submitted two memoranda to the Centre seeking drought relief. The second memorandum covered 177 taluks and estimated the losses at around Rs 46,000 crore. A third and final memorandum covering all 217 drought-hit taluks will be submitted after the central teams complete their assessment and the remaining loss assessment is finalised. Parameshwara said the recent rainfall would not adversely affect the drought assessment. Though the rain could provide some relief in terms of drinking water availability, it would not substantially benefit crops that had already suffered damage. The central teams would be provided details of rainfall and drought conditions recorded during May, June, July, August and September, he said. The drought situation will not be assessed only on the basis of the recent rainfall, Parameshwara said. Regarding the 22 taluks that have not been declared drought-hit, he said ground-truthing would be conducted to establish the actual situation. Some of these taluks could also qualify as drought-hit after assessment, while certain taluks in the coastal region may not meet the required criteria. We will take action based on the actual situation found during the assessment, he said. On allegations that eligible voters had been deleted from electoral rolls through Form-7 applications, Parameshwara said an investigation should be conducted to establish the facts. He rejected BJP criticism that Congress leaders had staged a protest at the Chief Electoral Officers office, saying they had gone there to submit a memorandum seeking action over the allegations. We had gone to submit a memorandum to the Election Commission. Since we did not receive a proper response, we remained there until they responded. We are the people running the government. Why would we go there to stage a protest? he asked. Parameshwara said FIRs had already been registered at several places in connection with Form-7 applications. He alleged that applications had been collected, signed and submitted in bundles and said the Election Commission had been requested to initiate criminal proceedings wherever necessary. He claimed that some bundles contained applications relating to 50 to 60 people belonging to the same community, raising questions about how their personal and electoral details were obtained. Where were these applications printed? Who printed them? How did the people submitting them obtain all this information? There is a suspicion that several things have happened behind this, he said. He added that the government would provide the necessary documents and evidence to the appropriate investigating agencies at the appropriate stage. Parameshwara said the allegations should be investigated impartially and that the government would accept the findings of such an inquiry. If the investigation establishes that no wrongdoing took place and everything was proper, we are ready to accept it. But our allegation is that there was wrongdoing, and we will provide the evidence. Let the concerned authorities investigate. The truth will emerge after the investigation, he said.
Kumaraswamy questions Shivakumar over alleged land purchases near NICE road by kin
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 3 (IANS) Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, on Saturday questioned the ownership of land and the construction of a Shobha apartment complex near the NICE Road toll plaza at Hosakerehalli in Bengaluru. He alleged that Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and his family members benefited from land transactions in the area. Taking to social media X, Kumaraswamy asked who owns the Shobha apartment complex and what relationship the property has with Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, his family and his brother D.K. Suresh. Who owns the Shobha apartment near the Hosakerehalli toll? What connection does it have with the family of Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and his brother D.K. Suresh? Kumaraswamy asked. He also questioned the identities and roles of individuals named Amasegowda, Bhagyalakshmi and Kempegowda in connection with the land transactions. Kumaraswamy alleged the Chief Minister and his mother had acquired the land and questioned how it could have been purchased after the land had reportedly been notified for a government project. How was this land purchased in the name of the Chief Minister and his mother? How was it possible to purchase land that had once been notified for a government project? How was the NOC obtained? he asked. The Union Minister alleged that the construction of the high-rise Shobha apartment complex on the land had resulted in the creation of property valued at around Rs 2,000 crore. He further alleged that the NICE company had not issued NOCs to poor people whose lands had been acquired in the vicinity of the project. He also claimed that the company had denied an NOC to Siddaganga Mutt. On one hand, the NICE contractor has not given NOCs to poor people for the acquired land around the project. It has even denied an NOC to Siddaganga Mutt. But how did the Chief Minister and his family manage to purchase 200-300 acres of land around this road? Kumaraswamy asked. Kumaraswamy alleged that the Chief Minister and his family had acquired the land through unfair means, and added that the land transactions and the circumstances under which NOCs were issued should be examined. Kumaraswamy's latest allegations are part of his broader criticism of the Bangalore-Mysore Infrastructure Corridor, popularly known as the NICE project. He has previously alleged large-scale irregularities in land acquisition and questioned land purchases by CM Shivakumar's brother D.K. Suresh despite portions of the land having been notified for the project. He has also questioned the subsequent issuance of NOCs by NICE. Shivakumar has denied wrongdoing in relation to his assets and land holdings, saying that his assets were acquired legally and disclosed to the Income Tax Department. He has also rejected allegations concerning an alleged investment in Shobha Developers, arguing that increases in property value do not by themselves establish wrongdoing. Union Minister Kumaraswamy on Friday accused Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar of attempting to take over the NICE project in collusion with Hyderabad-based businessman Mahesh Reddy. The NICE (Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprise) project is a major infrastructure initiative conceived to develop a road corridor connecting Bengaluru and Mysuru, along with peripheral roads and associated infrastructure. The project involved the acquisition of large tracts of agricultural and other land from several villages in Karnataka. Kumaraswamy alleged that Mahesh Reddy, who is based in Hyderabad and is involved in real estate and other businesses, had joined hands with Shivakumar to take over the entire NICE project and exploit the land acquired for it. He also alleged that several influential persons were involved in the alleged attempt.
Annual elders fest Hiriyara Habba in Bengaluru on October 4
The organisers are expecting 800 senior citizens from 40 old-age homes across Bengaluru to come together for the event, supported by over 800 volunteers
Annual elders fest Hiriyara Habba in Bengaluru on October 4
The organisers are expecting 800 senior citizens from 40 old-age homes across Bengaluru to come together for the event, supported by over 800 volunteers
Karnataka government orders faster file disposal in secretariat
Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has directed officials to strictly follow the provisions of the Secretariat Manual-2005 to ensure faster disposal of files and reduce delays in administrative decision-making. The Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms has issued a circular instructing section officers and senior officials not to keep new correspondence or files pending without valid Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Why Airbnb-style rentals are becoming a flashpoint in societies
Pralhad Joshi questions legality of CM
Hubballi: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has launched a strong attack on Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar over the latters dharna at the office of the Chief Electoral Officer in Bengaluru, questioning whether the protest was held with the necessary permission. Addressing a press conference in Hubballi, Joshi accused Shivakumar of putting political considerations ahead of Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Chris Gayle's Iconic 175-Run Record For RCB Broken By 20-Year Proteas Star
The 20-year-old left-hander surpassed Gayle's unbeaten 175 for Royal Challengers Bengaluru against Pune Warriors India in the 2013 Indian Premier League, ending the West Indian's 13-year hold on the...
Amid threat, Karnataka govt releases contractors Rs 2,400 crore dues
Business trends and success tips: entrepreneur advice from Gifts World Expo
In this photo essay, we showcase highlights from Gifts World Expo 2026 at Palace Grounds, Bengaluru.
Back from movie, Bengaluru man finds house ransacked and gets attacked by robbers
Quantum World Ventures looks to move the technology beyond the lab
The Bengaluru-based startup is developing quantum and AI applications for medical technology while building an education business and exploring longer-term opportunities in security.
Senior IAF officer reviews fifth Gen fighter programme in Bengaluru
From kodubale to filter coffee, Bengaluru gets a taste of nostalgia
Winning the medal was special but there was no time to celebrate: Tilottama Sen
Beyond mental illness: What it takes to build a happier society
Eastward ho! Hoskote, 30km from Bengaluru, to be next transport gateway
Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat to Halt at Two Stations in AP
Railway sources said as per the proposed schedule, the train will leave Mumbai at 10:30 p.m. and reach Bengaluru at 2:50 p.m. the following day.
Fake PAN card used in private firm officers name in Bengaluru
Rs 927-crore homebuyer fraud: ED arrests Ozone Urbana chief
Mother, son drown in Chikkaballapura dam
Brothers sell fake Louis Vuitton products at Whitefield store in Bengaluru, booked
Want to become a regional corporate giant: Milky Mist's TSathish Kumar
It is a myth that a firm needs a corporate office in a high-rise in a major city like Chennai or Bengaluru, Kumar says. The Milky Mist corporate office sits directly above factory in a rural setting
Form 7 row: Why the 224-seat probe matters to both EC, political parties
Shivakumar, BJP & JD(S) spar over protest at EC office
Will hang myself in public if proven I own land in NICE project area: Kumaraswamy
2BHK rent is 70,000 and deposit is 4 lakh; Bengaluru rents break records
A 2BHK in Bengaluru, with a rent of 70,000 and a deposit of 400,000, attracted attention. The price of this minimally equipped flat sparked debate on social media. Users even compared it to apartments in France.2BHK rent is 70,000 and deposit is 4 lakh; Bengaluru rents break re...
Bengaluru man scripts own kidnap, seeks Rs 90 lakh from dad
Ahead of RBI policy meet, Karnataka MP flags rising prices and rural distress
Bengalureans mark Gandhi Jayanti with protests over civic woes
Shivakumars protest is conspiracy to protect fake voters: Bommai
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 2 (IANS) Former Karnataka Chief Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Basavaraj Bommai on Friday accused Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar of staging a dramatic protest before the Election Commission office as part of an attempt to protect fake voters. In a press statement, Bommai said that if the Chief Minister had objections to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, they could be raised through Booth Level Agents (BLAs) and Booth Level Officers (BLOs) in each constituency. He said the Election Commission had provided the facility to raise objections through Form 7 to facilitate the removal of ineligible or duplicate voters from electoral rolls. The Election Commission has given a person the authority to raise objections regarding 31 voters. Therefore, it is not correct for the Chief Minister to argue that exercising this authority is itself wrong, Bommai said. He alleged that some objections had been submitted in groups and questioned who had filed them. Bommai alleged that those now highlighting the objections may themselves have facilitated the submissions and were doing so because they feared that the SIR exercise would end the practice of fake and duplicate voting and voting in the names of deceased persons. He appealed to election officials to work fearlessly without succumbing to pressure. I want to tell the election officials not to succumb to any pressure. They must work fearlessly under the Election Commission and other laws, Bommai said. He added that action should be taken against those violating the rules, while officials carrying out their duties in accordance with Election Commission guidelines should be protected. Bommai expressed confidence that the Election Commission would ensure the process was conducted properly. Meanwhile, Bommai condemned personal remarks allegedly made against Union Minister Pralhad Joshi during a farmers protest in Hubballi. He said some protesters had crossed the limits of decency by making derogatory personal remarks against Joshi and his family and demanded that those responsible apologise immediately. Bommai said Joshi was making efforts to resolve issues faced by sugarcane growers and had even attempted to invite farmers to Delhi for discussions. It is highly condemnable to use abusive and derogatory language against an honest minister personally and against his family, Bommai said. He added that such behaviour would not be accepted and expressed the belief that even farmers and farmers organisations would not approve of it. Bommai urged protesters to exercise restraint and avoid personal attacks in future. Personal attacks are not appropriate under any circumstances. Those who made personal allegations against Pralhad Joshi should apologise to him and his family for causing them distress, he said.
Bengal: SER announces 19 pairs of special trains for festive rush
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 2 (IANS) With the festive season approaching, South Eastern Railway (SER) has announced a number of special trains to clear the passenger rush. These trains will be run between various locations before Durga Puja, Diwali and Chhath for the convenience of passengers. Coaches have also been added to regular trains to increase capacity. SER will run 19 pairs of special trains. These will make 344 trips during the festival season. In addition, one pair of special trains operated by other zonal railways will also run through SER's network. We have also added 30 coaches permanently to various trains, further enhancing passenger-carrying capacity and strengthening the availability of accommodation on regular services, an official said. The special trains will originate from stations such as Shalimar, Santragachi, Digha, Ranchi, Hatia and Adityapur, and will run towards Charlapalli, Visakhapatnam, Khurda Road, Ajmer, Naharlagun, Puri, Thiruvananthapuram, Malda Town, Anand Vihar, Bano, Alipurduar, Bengaluru, Mumbai and Lucknow. A lot of planning was involved, the official said, adding that reservation details had been studied to understand where people from a particular place wanted to travel. The trains were decided accordingly. SER had run 19 special train services during the festive season in 2025. These trains had made 356 trips. Subsequently, eight pairs of these special trains were regularised as permanent services, providing passengers with continued connectivity beyond the festival season. In addition, 28 special trains from other zones passed through SER's jurisdiction. In 2025, as many as 74 coaches were augmented on a permanent basis on various regular trains to meet the additional demand. These arrangements will help those travelling to tourist destinations during the festival season, as well as those returning home from their places of occupation, the official said. He added: Hopefully, these arrangements will be sufficient. If required, further arrangements can be made depending on demand.
NICE project: Kumaraswamy accuses Shivakumar of deal with Hyderabad businessman
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 2 (IANS) Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy on Friday accused Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar of attempting to take over the NICE project in collusion with Hyderabad-based businessman Mahesh Reddy. The NICE (Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprise) project is a major infrastructure initiative conceived to develop a road corridor connecting Bengaluru and Mysuru, along with peripheral roads and associated infrastructure. The project involved the acquisition of large tracts of agricultural and other land from several villages in Karnataka. Kumaraswamy alleged that Mahesh Reddy, who is based in Hyderabad and is involved in real estate and other businesses, had joined hands with Shivakumar to take over the entire NICE project and exploit the land acquired for it. He also alleged that several influential persons were involved in the alleged attempt. Addressing reporters after meeting people who had lost land for the NICE project, Kumaraswamy alleged that land acquired for the road project was being used for real estate activities. Your cup of sins is full, Kumaraswamy said, targeting Shivakumar. You can acquire 10,000 acres, but do it legally and earn through the right means. Who has stopped you? The Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway has already been built. Why is another road required? he asked. He alleged that 1.75 lakh acres had been identified between Bengaluru and Mysuru and claimed that there was an attempt to exploit the land. Kumaraswamy further alleged that a red carpet was being rolled out for Telangana-based businessman Mahesh Reddy. How many crores is the deal for? I have all the information about who Mahesh Reddy is. The time will come when everything will be revealed, he said. Kumaraswamy stated that the Karnataka High Court had already made strong observations regarding the NICE project and that the NICE company had approached the Supreme Court challenging them. He said the matter was scheduled to come up for hearing on October 5 and that the farmers agitation would take a new turn thereafter. Responding to allegations that he himself owned land within the NICE project area, Kumaraswamy challenged Shivakumar to prove it. If it is proved that I have purchased even a piece of land in the NICE project area, I will publicly hang myself, he said. Kumaraswamy said he had already released the first set of documents alleging irregularities involving Shivakumar and the NICE contractor and claimed that several more sets of documents would be released. He alleged that Shivakumar had acquired around 200 to 300 acres in the B.M. Kaval area and questioned how the land had been purchased and why it was acquired within the NICE project area. Taking members of the media and the public to the area, Kumaraswamy claimed that the land was fertile agricultural land and alleged that around 300 acres belonged to the Chief Minister. Kumaraswamy said he had purchased 44 acres in Bidadi before entering politics and claimed that he was using the land for agriculture and animal husbandry and not for real estate activities. If I have illegally acquired even one inch of land, I will immediately retire from politics, he said. He also accused Shivakumar of threatening innocent people and taking away their land. Kumaraswamy said he would continue the agitation until land lost by farmers was returned. Kumaraswamy demanded the immediate arrest of NICE promoter Ashok Kheny, alleging that Kheny had made derogatory remarks against Shivakumara Mahaswamiji. He accused the Chief Minister of protecting Kheny and alleged that the two were working together in matters related to the NICE project. Kumaraswamy further alleged that Kheny had exploited property belonging to Siddaganga Mutt and accused Shivakumar of supporting him. I am not fighting this for political gain. My objective is to get the land back to the farmers, he said. He alleged that Shivakumar and Mahesh Reddy had conspired to exploit land in the NICE project area and said he would not allow it. Kumaraswamy also claimed that attempts had been made to persuade him to stay away from the NICE issue. Why do you need to get involved in the NICE issue? Stay silent and take whatever you want, Kumaraswamy claimed he was told through intermediaries. He said he had rejected such approaches and alleged that attempts had been made to offer him financial support, including funds for election expenses. I cannot be bought by anyone. I am a man of the people. I live for the people and am ready to give my life for them, he said. Kumaraswamy stated that he was under considerable pressure to stop the agitation ahead of the elections. He alleged that instead of responding to the questions he had raised and the documents he had released, his opponents were attempting to divert attention by discussing other matters. Kumaraswamy said he had travelled along the NICE Road from Madavara to Electronic City and met people affected by the project at several locations. He said meetings were held at different places to hear the grievances of affected people, with a larger meeting organised at Sompura. Our struggle will not end here. A major agitation will be organised along with the people. Our protest will remain peaceful, he said. Kumaraswamy said another meeting of key leaders would be convened soon and that the next course of action would be decided after the Supreme Court hearing on October 5. He appealed to people who had lost their land not to lose hope and assured them of his support. Kumaraswamy began his tour around 10 a.m. and first inspected land near the NICE toll plaza at Madavara. He later visited Thotadaguddahalli, Anchepalya, Tirumalapura, K.G. Srikantapura, Ganganahalli, Kachohalli, Hosahalli, Gollarahatti, Kodigehalli, Ramasandra, Kommaghatta, Kengeri, Electronic City, Konappana Agrahara, Begur, Sompura, B.M. Kaval, Talaghattapura and several other villages. He received petitions from affected residents and assured them that efforts would be made to address their grievances. At B.M. Kaval, Kumaraswamy also inspected what he alleged was 200 to 300 acres of land belonging to Shivakumar. He claimed that the land was located at the unfinished end of the NICE Road. Kumaraswamy was accompanied by Legislative Council member Javare Gowda, former MLA A. Manjunath, Greater Bengaluru JD(S) president H.M. Ramesh Gowda, senior leader Rudresh and others.
Ktaka govt urges CWMA to reduce Cauvery water release to TN
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 2 (IANS) The Karnataka government on Friday urged the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) to reconsider its direction to release 4,000 cusecs of Cauvery water per day to Tamil Nadu at Biligundlu, citing severe drought conditions and depleted reservoir levels. Water Resources Minister N. Cheluvarayaswamy said Karnataka had submitted an official request to the CWMA on Friday seeking a review of the decision taken at the authoritys 58th meeting held on September 24, 2026. At the meeting, the CWMA directed Karnataka to release 4,000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu at Biligundlu for 15 days. Cheluvarayaswamy said the southwest monsoon had completely withdrawn from Karnataka and inflows into the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS), Hemavathi, Harangi and Kabini reservoirs had declined sharply. The total water available for use in these four reservoirs is currently only 49 TMC. Karnataka has to preserve this water very carefully to meet the states drinking water requirements, protect the environment and compensate for evaporation losses until June 2027, the Minister said. He said around 47 taluks in the Cauvery basin had already been declared drought-hit and that the entire basin was facing severe drought conditions. Despite the shortage of water, Karnataka had strictly complied with all directions issued by the CWMA during the current water year, he added. From June 1 to September 30, 44.21 TMC of water was recorded at Biligundlu, Cheluvarayaswamy said. The Minister also pointed out that the northeast monsoon, which is generally favourable for Tamil Nadu, was expected to be normal or above normal, increasing the likelihood of higher inflows into the neighbouring state. Considering all these facts, Karnataka is in a difficult situation where it is not possible to release a substantial quantity of water from the KRS and Kabini reservoirs, he said. Cheluvarayaswamy said the state had therefore requested the CWMA to reconsider its earlier decision and reduce the mandated release at Biligundlu from 4,000 cusecs to 2,000 cusecs per day. He said the reduction was necessary in view of the severe drought situation in the Cauvery basin and the limited water available in Karnatakas reservoirs. The state has requested the authority to take Karnatakas difficult situation into consideration and reduce the water release to 2,000 cusecs per day, the Minister said.
Bag swap to smuggle 10cr ganja thwarted at Bengaluru airport, 4 held
SIR amounts to vote theft, say protesters in Bengaluru
Karnataka CM backs residents demand on Bilekahalli-IIMB station, writes to BMRCL
Young driver held for impersonating sex educator, cheating users
Better-quality roads in Bengaluru are my priority: Krishna Byre Gowda
Karnataka SIR: BJP man admits to filling Form 7s. All of Muslims
Bengaluru: Amid furore over alleged mass deletions of voters of the minority community with rampant use of Form 7 in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls in Karnataka, a new audio clip is doing the rounds on social media where a BJP worker can be heard discussing deletions with a local Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Bengaluru company cheated of Rs 8.1 crore in Goa land deal, ex-councillor held
Eleven, including a couple, held in assault case in Bengaluru
Bengaluru PG theft news: A man pretending to be a tenant in a Bengaluru paying guest accommodation stole two laptops and cash. After agreeing to pay monthly rent, he left the owner claiming he needed rest. The owner returned to find the room ransacked and immediately alerted the police. The investigation is ongoing, with nearby CCTV footage being reviewed for further leads. Authorities warn PG owners to verify tenants and ensure compliance with regulations.
Bengaluru man stages own kidnapping, demands Rs 90L from father
Bengaluru: The RR Nagar police have arrested a 40-year-old man for allegedly staging his own kidnapping and demanding Rs 90 lakh from his father as ransom. The accused has been identified as Manish. According to the police, he allegedly planned the fake kidnapping with the help of two associates to extract money from his father, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper service likely to start this month, to operate six days a week
The service, numbered 27652 from KSR Bengaluru to CSMT and 27651 in the return direction, has been approved based on the minutes of a meeting held on February 16, 2026, as per the Railway Board communication accessed by The Hindu
Karnataka education dept appoints nodal officers to meet conditions for ADB loan
ECI order on SIR a victory for voters across country, says Karnataka CM Shivakumar
ECI order on SIR a victory for voters across country, says Karnataka CM Shivakumar Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Friday welcomed the Election Commission of Indias direction to state election authorities to conduct a special drive to identify and enrol eligible voters left out after the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), terming it a [] The post ECI order on SIR a victory for voters across country, says Karnataka CM Shivakumar appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Ozone Urban Infra MD held over Rs 927 cr buyers
Bengaluru: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested Ozone Urban Infra Developers Pvt Ltd Chairman and Managing Director S. Vasudevan in a money laundering investigation linked to an alleged Rs 927.22 crore financial fraud involving homebuyers. The ED arrested Vasudevan on September 30 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002. He was subsequently produced before Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
BJP seeks police action over Shivakumar
Bengaluru: The BJP has approached the Bengaluru City Police Commissioner seeking action over a protest led by Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and his Cabinet colleagues at the State Chief Electoral Officers office in Bengaluru. The delegation, headed by Leader of Opposition R Ashoka, accused the government of using the premises of a constitutional institution for Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Mumbai-Bangalore Vande Bharat Sleeper news: The Vande Bharat Sleeper service aiming to connect Bengaluru and Mumbai is expected to launch later this month. This new service will significantly reduce travel time between the two major cities. It is planned to operate six days a week, covering the route in under 16 hours. Current travel options require approximately 24 hours, highlighting the need for faster transportation.
On Instagram, Koushik Kharvis incredible journey from being a food delivery agent to becoming a successful entrepreneur went viral. The engineering graduate said that he once hid his job from his friends, as he did not want to be seen as a delivery boy.
