Karnataka News

BBMP officials have locked Mantri Mall in Bengaluru, suspending its trade license due to 50 crore rupees in tax arrears. Despite previous warnings and closures, the mall failed to address its liabilities. The move signals BBMP's commitment to tax compliance. Mantri Mall plans to contest the closure in court. The action raises concerns about economic recovery post-pandemic.

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has secured a Rs 1,500 crore loan from the World Bank to enhance flood mitigation in Bengaluru, refurbishing stormwater drains and beautifying their banks. Additionally, BBMP Jalmandal will use a Rs 1,000 crore loan for upgrading the sewage system, with these projects commencing after the upcoming elections.

A 28-year-old man from Kalaburagi tragically ended his life by leaping from a paying guest accommodation in Whitefield, Bengaluru. Despite his efforts, he couldn't secure employment, highlighting the challenges faced by many young migrants. Whitefield police are investigating the incident, recognizing the pressures of the competitive job market on mental health.

In Begur, Bengaluru, a routine water purifier service turned into a nightmare for Mihika when the technician allegedly sexually abused her. She confronted him, locked herself in, and sought help from a friend who subdued the technician. Despite the initial escape, police traced and questioned him, filing a case under IPC Section 354 A (sexual harassment).

The Congress-led government in Karnataka's decision to appoint a Muslim member, 'Nawaz', to oversee a Hindu temple event has sparked controversy. Traditionalists argue temple committees should be solely Hindu, prompting criticism from the BJP and advocacy groups. The move highlights broader debates over governance and representation within religious institutions in the state.

Raghuram Prasad, a 33-year-old man from Belathur Colony in Bengaluru, passed away after a confrontation stemming from a minor road mishap. Prasad, returning from a temple fair with his nephew, got into an altercation when a woman's car brushed against his motorcycle. The situation escalated, resulting in an alleged assault by the woman's husband, Anil. 

A real estate businessman, Karthikeyan, was brutally murdered in Banasawadi, Bengaluru, by a gang of miscreants wielding machetes. The attack occurred late at night while Karthikeyan was near his home. Eyewitnesses reported the attackers arriving on both two and four-wheelers. Although the motive remains unclear, investigators suspect it may be linked to ongoing rivalries within the real estate sector. 

Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL) plans to plant 15,000 saplings to offset trees removed in Namma Metro's expansion. Costing Rs 76.9 crores, initial planting will focus on Dabus Town. Reforestation includes Doddaballapur's KIADB lands. BMRCL previously relocated 856 trees and transplanted 1,193. Ahead of the monsoon, BMRCL will prune 750 trees on the East-West Corridor and 380 on the North-South Corridor. 

A cyclonic formation in the Bay of Bengal is set to bring substantial rainfall across Karnataka for a week. Southern districts are already experiencing showers, with rain expected to spread to the entire state. Some regions will face a heat wave alongside rain, with temperatures rising notably. Nanjangud recorded the highest rainfall recently, while Kalaburagi registered the highest temperature.

MP Prajwal Revanna is expected to return to Bengaluru amid allegations of rape and intimidation following his departure on April 26 amidst scandal. The SIT has issued a blue-corner notice against him. Speculations abound regarding his return, possibly today, after the conclusion of the second phase of Lok Sabha elections in the state. The SIT has stationed a team at the airport to apprehend him.

In Phase 3 of the Lok Sabha elections in Hubballi and Kalaburagi, Karnataka, joint families exhibited remarkable solidarity by turning out to vote. In Hubballi, 69 members of a single-family voted together, while in Kalaburagi, 30 members of another family cast their votes collectively. These heartwarming displays of civic duty highlight the importance of active participation in democracy.

The Central Crime Branch seized counterfeit goods worth Rs 95 lakh in multiple raids across the city, following complaints from major companies. Counterfeit items mimicking brands like Hindustan Unilever and Reckitt Benckiser were found. Three men were arrested, linked to an established counterfeiting network. The operation highlights significant risks to consumer safety and brand integrity.

In Karnataka, beer sales hit a record high in April, with 48.72 lakh boxes sold, likely due to rising temperatures and election excitement. This marked a significant increase from previous years. Conversely, sales of IML liquor declined, possibly due to the growing preference for beer during the summer months.

The Mysore Zoo has implemented innovative cooling measures, including water jets, sprinklers, and fans, to protect animals from summer heat. Special diets with water-rich foods and hydration supplements are provided, while ice blocks and mud ponds offer additional relief. Rooftop gardens and whitewashed roofs help minimize heat absorption.

The Meteorological Department forecasts rainfall from May 7 to 12, offering relief to Karnataka. Youth in Sompur Hobali address the drought's impact on wildlife by placing water containers in Nelamangala taluk's hills. Led by Gourapura Rudresh, the group's efforts highlight environmental conservation and compassion for all living beings.