The Times of India News

Karnataka government will provide compensation up to Rs 5 lakh and alternative housing to families affected by demolitions in Kogilu. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced disciplinary action against officials for allowing encroachments, citing inhumane landfill conditions. He warned of strict measures against future land grabs, acknowledging political pressure influenced the decision.

A 26-year-old TV serial actress, Nandini MC, allegedly died by suicide in her Bengaluru PG accommodation. A Kannada death note revealed her distress over life and a failed acting career, despite rejecting a government job offer. Her family stated she pursued acting after discontinuing engineering.

A 30-year-old Bengaluru man, Suraj Shivanna, died by suicide in a Nagpur hotel. This followed his wife Ganavi's death and a dowry harassment case. His mother, Jayanti, attempted suicide after discovering him. The family had fled Bengaluru due to alleged threats from Ganavi's family. The investigation is ongoing.

Karnataka-registered vehicles are facing hefty penalties of up to Rs 10,000 for alleged pollution violations, despite possessing valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates. These challans, often issued by other states based on ANPR camera data, are reportedly due to inaccuracies in the central Parivahan database. Transport authorities are investigating the system flaw causing these wrongful penalties.

Bengaluru is witnessing a surge in mental health concerns, with therapy rooms overflowing and waitlists growing. Institutions are stepping in with support initiatives, reflecting a growing awareness and willingness to address well-being. Despite cost barriers and persistent stigma, residents are increasingly seeking help and adopting healthier habits, marking a significant shift towards shared responsibility for mental health.

A 30-year-old man, facing dowry harassment and abetment to suicide charges after his wife's death, died by suicide in a Nagpur hotel. He had fled Bengaluru with his family due to threats from his in-laws. His mother also attempted suicide but survived.

The Congress has begun accepting applications for aspiring candidates for the upcoming Greater Bengaluru City Corporation elections, signaling readiness for the long-delayed polls. Applications are due by January 15, with a fee of Rs 50,000 for general candidates and Rs 25,000 for SC/ST applicants. The party also aims to hold Zilla and Taluk Panchayat elections within three months.

Maharashtra's anti-drug unit, in a joint operation with Bengaluru police, seized raw materials worth Rs 1.2 crore intended for drug manufacturing. Four individuals were arrested in Maharashtra, Belagavi, and Bengaluru following the apprehension of a key peddler in Mumbai. Karnataka's Home Minister clarified the seized items were precursors, not finished drugs, emphasizing intensified anti-drug efforts.

Bagalagunte police arrested Subham Shukla, a 27-year-old textile businessman. He is accused of cheating a woman of gold and cash exceeding Rs 75 lakh. Shukla also allegedly raped her 16-year-old sister. The victims' father filed the complaint. Shukla has been remanded in judicial custody. Investigations are ongoing.