The Times of India

Around 30 passengers had a narrow escape when a private bus caught fire and was completely gutted on the TumkurBengaluru National Highway. The bus, en route to Kalaburagi, veered off the road due to construction, hit an electric pole, and quickly became engulfed in flames. Passengers and crew evacuated safely before the blaze intensified.

A farmer's unique protest in Bengaluru, using radishes to highlight alleged bribery demands by revenue officials, has brought attention to stalled civic work. Prasanna Kumar staged his demonstration after a Lokayukta order for a farm approach road remained unfulfilled for months. He claims officials sought money, offering his produce as an alternative to payment.

Karnataka has been selected by the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) to host an executive course on wildlife conservation. Senior officials from 23 countries will visit Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserves to learn from the state's successful tiger and elephant conservation strategies. This program serves as a precursor to the global IBCA summit in 2026.

In a troubling incident in Gangavathi, four Muslim youths have been apprehended following their alleged assault on salesman Venkatesh Avalamand. The salesman reported that after confronting him about his association with a Muslim woman, the youths invaded his privacy by checking his phone, demanding he profess love, and recording the encounter.

Attention Namma Metro riders! Brace yourself for a 5% fare increase taking effect on February 9th, with minimum fares climbing to 11 and maximum fares hitting 95. The Bengaluru Metro authorities have based this decision on the Fare Fixation Committee's suggestions to ensure a balanced budget and dependable service. However, smart card users can still enjoy some exciting discounts!

A Belagavi court has sentenced 12 individuals, including six women, to five years of rigorous imprisonment for the shocking Hosavantamuri stripping and assault case. The crime, which occurred in December 2023, saw the victim paraded and assaulted after her son eloped with an engaged girl. The swift conviction followed a fast-track trial initiated by the Karnataka High Court.