Karnataka / The Times of India
Biocon Chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw highlighted Bengaluru's poor roads and garbage issues after an overseas visitor's critique. Karnataka ministers responded, stating development work is underway. The state's Deputy Chief Minister attributed pothole problems to the previous government. This infrastructure debate continues between political parties.
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah condemned a lawyer's alleged shoe-hurling attempt at CJI Justice B R Gavai, calling it a stark reminder of persistent caste-based prejudice. He urged legal action against the perpetrator and supporters, emphasizing that such divisive politics fuel Manuvaadi attitudes. The incident occurred during court proceedings, with the lawyer citing religious protest.
Major Manivannan concluded his tenure as Social Welfare Department principal secretary, leaving a legacy of administrative reforms and the successful implementation of Karnataka's internal reservation matrix. His initiatives, including e-Office, DBT, and enhanced transparency in bill processing, aimed to improve governance. Manivannan's diverse career, including military service and public administration studies, underscores his commitment to public service.
Congress leader RV Deshpande criticized Karnataka's five guarantee schemes. He stated the programs benefit women but worsen the situation for men. Deshpande highlighted issues with bus travel and the distribution of free rice. The opposition BJP seized on his remarks, calling the schemes unscientific. The government has allocated significant funds for these initiatives.
A senior Congress leader in Karnataka, RV Deshpande, publicly criticized the state government's five guarantee schemes, calling them a 'lottery' for women and stating men's situations have worsened. He specifically pointed out the free bus travel scheme, claiming buses are now dominated by women, leaving little space for men.
Bangalore experiences a cool, cloudy October 14, 2025, with a 91% chance of patchy rain and temperatures ranging from 19.8C to 27.4C. Yesterday's air quality was moderate (AQI 105), advising sensitive individuals to carry masks. The week ahead forecasts continued rain, with Sunday offering the driest and most pleasant conditions.
Bengaluru's Durga Puja celebrations saw Barsha Bengali Association clinch The Award of Excellence for their Yakshagana-inspired pandal, Chitragana. Other accolades included RT Nagar Bengali Socio-cultural Trust for 'Theme' and 'Cultural Programme', PBCA for 'Best Idol', and ECCA for 'Sabeki Pujo'. Maitree Bandhan recognized diverse talents across various categories.
Bengaluru commuters face alarming safety issues. A businessman was assaulted for questioning a toll detour, a call centre employee was attacked after cancelling an auto ride, and a social media influencer was trapped during an Uber trip. These incidents highlight growing concerns for passenger security on city roads.
Bengaluru-based GalaxEye is set to launch India's largest privately built commercial satellite, Drishti, in early 2026 aboard a SpaceX mission. This 160-kg satellite will utilize proprietary SyncFused OptoSAR technology, fusing optical and SAR data for advanced geospatial analysis. Drishti aims to provide real-time environmental and structural insights for diverse applications, marking a significant advancement for India's private space sector.
Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge urged the CM to ban RSS activities in public places, citing concerns over alleged anti-constitutional slogans and aggressive tactics impacting youth. While the CM is reviewing the request, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar praised the RSS for its service, creating internal discord within the Congress party.
Bengaluru braces for moderate rain and mild temperatures today, October 13, 2025, hovering between 20.7C and 26.7C, with a 92% rain chance. Yesterday's moderate AQI of 103 could see improvement with the showers. Residents are advised to carry umbrellas and consider masks. The week ahead promises continued wet weather, offering a brief respite on October 15.