The Times of India
Elections 2026Karnataka / The Times of India
Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot walked out of the legislature after reading only two lines of his address, refusing to read cabinet-approved paragraphs critical of the Centre. This triggered a political storm, with the government accusing the BJP of influencing the Governor and the opposition alleging politicization of the address.
A South Korean businesswoman was allegedly sexually assaulted by an airline ground-handling employee at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport. The 32-year-old woman reported being subjected to manual frisking by the staff member under the guise of a baggage issue. The accused, identified as Mohammed Affaann Ahmed, has been arrested and charged under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Karnataka's Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot has reportedly refused to deliver his customary address to the legislature unless portions critical of the Centre are removed. The state government has rejected this demand, insisting the speech reflects cabinet-approved concerns about perceived injustice from the Union government. This standoff mirrors similar disputes in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
Karnataka witnesses a massive surge in cybercrime helpline calls, jumping from 1.3 lakh in 2022 to 24 lakh in 2025, indicating heightened public awareness. While prompt reporting within the 'golden hour' aids fund recovery, quick victim response remains a challenge, with significant losses despite increased reporting.
Bengaluru has been ranked the world's second most congested city in 2025, a significant jump from previous years. Commuters now face an average speed of just 13.9 kmph during rush hour, losing a staggering 168 hours annually. This alarming trend, attributed to rising vehicle numbers and stalled infrastructure, places Pune and Mumbai also among the top congested Indian cities.
A debt-ridden doctor allegedly murdered his uncle and aunt in Shivamogga using the anesthetic propofol to steal gold ornaments and settle his loans. The killings were discovered after the couple's son couldn't reach them. The accused, a family doctor, reportedly administered a lethal overdose during a house visit, then pawned the stolen jewelry.
Bengaluru braces for a dry, sunny winter day on January 22, 2026, with highs around 26.9C and lows near 14.1C. While pleasant, yesterday's 'poor' air quality (AQI 106) may persist, especially during peak traffic. Light breezes are expected, but dry conditions could keep pollutants suspended. Sensitive individuals should consider masks.
In a troubling incident at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport, a South Korean businesswoman reported being sexually harassed by a member of the airline's ground-handling team. The accused, lacking the authority to conduct proper security checks, reportedly inappropriately touched her and embraced her, all under the pretense of 'manual frisking' in a secluded area near the restrooms.
In a shocking turn of events, the proprietor of a local chaat stall and his accomplice were taken into custody, implicated in the alleged murder of the owner's estranged spouse. The 31-year-old woman was initially presumed to have taken her own life, found hanging in her residence.
Direct flights between Belagavi and New Delhi are temporarily suspended until January 26 due to airspace restrictions in the national capital for Republic Day. IndiGo flights have been cancelled, impacting business travellers, students, and those with urgent work. Normal operations are expected to resume on January 27.
Hindu leader Harshita Thakur faces a complaint for allegedly hurting religious sentiments and promoting disharmony during a procession in Belagavi. She is accused of making a provocative gesture towards a dargah, accompanied by religious slogans. Police have registered a case against Thakur and six others.

23 C