Olivia
Online
Yasir Mushtaq
@path2shah
Journalist
Bangalore
Joined November 2009
3.3K Following
7K Followers
12.7K Posts
Sowmya Reddy to Host Reading and Discussion on Sonia Gandhi’s Memoir in Bengaluru This Saturday
Bengaluru
An evening dedicated to reading, reflection, and discussion on #SoniaGandhi’s book ‘Belonging: A Journey of Love’ is scheduled to take place at #SapnaBookHouse in Jayanagar this Saturday, November 14.
The literary session, titled ‘Beyond the Pages,’ is being organized by Karnataka State Mahila #Congress President Sowmya Reddy.
Event Details:
• Date: Saturday,14th November 2026
• Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Venue: Sapna Book House, Jayanagar, #Bengaluru
@Sowmyareddyr @INCKarnataka
Three CRPF Personnel Injured in Kulgam Checkpoint Attack; Terrorists Caught on CCTV
Srinagar
Three Central Reserve Police Force (#CRPF) personnel sustained injuries on Wednesday afternoon after motorcycle-borne terrorists opened fire at a security checkpoint in south #Kashmir's #Kulgam, an attack caught on nearby CCTV cameras.
The incident occurred at approximately 2:03 PM when unidentified terrorists riding a two-wheeler approached the checkpoint manned by troops of the CRPF’s 46th Battalion. The attackers opened indiscriminate fire before fleeing the scene.
The injured personnel have been identified as Head Constable Somveer Singh, Constable Santanu Chandra, and Constable Rakesh Das. All three were promptly evacuated to the hospital for medical treatment, where doctors have confirmed that their conditions are stable.
Security forces cordoned off the area immediately following the firing and launched a search operation to track down the assailants.
Bengaluru Police Crack Housebreaking Case at Olympian M.M. Somaya’s Residence; 2 Arrested, 8 Medals Recovered
Bengaluru
The #BengaluruPolice have arrested two men in connection with the burglary at former Indian #hockey captain and #Olympian M.M. Somaya’s residence in #Indiranagar, recovering eight international medals alongside other stolen heirlooms and valuables.
The break-in occurred while Somaya and his family were visiting their native Kodagu district between October 25 and October 28. A neighbour alerted them that their front door was open. Upon returning to their home at 4th Cross, B.M. Kaval, the family discovered that the lock had been forced open and an assortment of gold, silver, and bronze sporting medals, cash, and other valuables were missing. A case was promptly registered at the Indiranagar Police Station.
Following the complaint, eight special investigation teams comprising around 85 personnel from various ranks,led by the Assistant Commissioner of Police (Halasuru Sub-Division) under the supervision of the Deputy Commissioner of Police (East Division),pursued leads across multiple angles, deploying technological tracing, human intelligence, and local informants.
On November 9, officers intercepted the two suspects near Hagalahalli Cross in Ramanagara, seizing the two-wheeler utilized during the commission of the crime. The accused confessed during questioning to carrying out the burglary alongside an associate.
The arrested individuals have been identified as:
• Manikya alias Manikanta (31): A Bengaluru resident working as a laborer, who has a history of 33 cases against him across Karnataka (25 cases) and Tamil Nadu (8 cases), including three proclamations and six non-bailable warrants.
• Bharat (25): Also a resident of Bengaluru, involved in two prior criminal cases.
Both suspects were produced before the court on November 10 and remanded to police custody for eight days.
Information elicited during interrogation led police to a gold company in Rajajinagar, where the duo had sold one gold and one silver international medal. The remaining items had been stashed at a residential property near H. Cross, Hoskote.In total, police recovered:
8 international medals (including gold, silver and bronze honors), 1 traditional Kodava sword, 1 Olympic kit bag, 1 camera and 1 two-wheeler used in the crime
Addressing reporters, #Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh lauded the East Division personnel for tracking down the suspects and securing complete recovery within a fortnight of the complaint, announcing a ₹1 lakh reward for the investigative team. He noted that the primary accused is an interstate offender also being probed for additional criminal charges, including a murder case across state borders.
Receiving his retrieved honors, an emotional #MMSomaya expressed deep relief and gratitude to the police force."I am really grateful to them; I feel I have won the Olympic medal once again," Somaya said, offering special praise to the Bengaluru Police officers for reassuring him from day one that the country's sporting heritage would be recovered.
@seemantsingh96 @DcpEastBcp @indiranagaraps
Who to follow
Arun Dev
@ArunDev1
A lapsed idealist and a quiet journalist. Assistant Editor @HindustanTimes. Bylines @TimesOfIndia, @TheQuint & @DNA. Personal account. Likes can be bookmarks.
Yacoob
@yacoobExpress
Special Correspondent @ The New Indian Express, Nature Lover, ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ನಿವಾಸಿ, ಕನ್ನಡಿಗ, Dr Rajkumar ಅಭಿಮಾನಿ
Anusha Ravi Sood 
@anusharavi10
Journalist | Published Translator | Editor of https://t.co/i6WcWBvT9M | Have really sold tea, really! | Email: [email protected]
Deepavali Firecracker Fallout: 44 Admitted to Bengaluru’s Minto Eye Hospital; 3 Undergo Surgery as Bystanders Suffer Worst Impact
Bengaluru
A total of 44 people have been admitted to the state-run Minto Ophthalmic Hospital in #Bengaluru after sustaining eye injuries during #Deepavali celebrations, according to hospital administration. Doctors confirmed that three patients underwent surgical management yesterday to treat severe ocular trauma.
Out of the 44 reported cases, 28 patients suffered grievous eye injuries, while 16 sustained simple injuries. The data highlights that bystanders bore the brunt of the firecracker mishaps, accounting for 26 cases, whereas 18 patients were injured while bursting #crackers themselves.
The influx of casualties saw a sharp climb over the festival weekend, peaking on November 10 with 16 reported cases. The hospital had earlier recorded 14 cases on November 9, 12 cases on November 8, and a single case each on November 6 and 7.
Children accounted for nearly 41% of the victims, with 18 pediatric patients admitted,comprising 15 boys and 3 girls. Among the 26 adult victims, 22 are men and 4 are women.
In terms of the cracker types involved, 'Bijili' crackers caused the highest number of recorded injuries at 15 cases, followed by 7 caused by 'Atom bombs' and 4 by 'Laxmi' crackers. Ten cases involved unspecified #fireworks .
Geographically, Bengaluru accounted for the majority with 37 victims. The remaining patients arrived from other districts across #Karnataka, including Raichur (2), Doddaballapur (1), Mysuru (1), Bagalkot (1),Tumakuru (1) and Hoskote (1).
Medical teams at Minto Hospital remain on high alert as specialized surgical interventions and follow-up care continue for the admitted patients.
@DHFWKA @utkhader
RSS Activist Files Police Complaint Against Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge at Banashankari Station Over Social Media Post
Bengaluru
A formal police complaint was submitted on Tuesday at the Banashankari Police Station seeking the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against #Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge for allegedly circulating misleading information and attempting to disturb social harmony.
The complaint was lodged by #RSS activist Tejas A. Gowda, a resident of #Bengaluru, who accused the minister of using his official handle on the social media platform ‘X’ to link the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to a major arms recovery case.
According to the written submission received by the police on November 10,Priyank Kharge's social media post attempted to associate the RSS with the recent seizure of approximately 44,250 live cartridges in Bihar and Haryana. The complainant alleged that through deliberate statements and insinuations, an impression was created connecting the organisation with criminal activities, carrying the potential to create hostility and disturb communal peace across the state.
The complaint seeks criminal proceedings under Sections 192, 196, and 353 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023."Holding a constitutional office does not confer immunity from criminal law," Gowda stated, urging law enforcement to act independently under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) without political interference.
The complainant has further requested the investigating officers to secure the electronic records of the social media posts, coordinate with police authorities in Bihar and Haryana for case details, and verify whether false information was knowingly disseminated. Copies of the social media posts from Kharge's account and another handle titled "Fact Myths" were enclosed with the submission.
Police officials acknowledged receipt of the complaint, but an official FIR had not been registered at the time of reporting. Meanwhile, #PriyankKharge is yet to issue any statement regarding the matter.
@PriyankKharge @RSSorg @BJP4Karnataka @INCKarnataka @banashankarips
This Deepavali, police residential quarters across Bengaluru came alive with festive spirit and shared smiles.
The #BengaluruPolice Commissioner, Seemant Kumar Singh, along with senior officers and DCPs from all divisions, joined police personnel and their families to celebrate the festival of lights.
From exchanging sweet treats to lighting green crackers together at Nandini Layout and across the city, the celebrations were a heartfelt reminder that we are one big family.
To the dedicated officers who keep #Bengaluru safe 24/7, and the families who stand strong behind them, Happy #Deepavali to all!
@BlrCityPolice @seemantsingh96 @KarnatakaCops @DgpKarnataka @PriyankKharge @DCP_ECITY @DCPNorthBCP @DCPSOUTHWESTBCP @DcpEastBcp @DCPCentralBCP
CCB Busts Illegal All-Night ‘Diwali After Dark’ House Party in Bengaluru; Organizers Booked
Bengaluru
The Central Crime Branch (#CCB) Women Protection Wing raided an unauthorized, commercial all-night private party hosted inside a residential duplex in the Yamaluru area of #Bengaluru, registering a criminal case against the organizers, residents, and premises owners.
Acting on specific intelligence gathered late on Sunday night, CCB officials uncovered that an event billed as "#DIWALI After Dark" was being operated covertly out of a private house without the necessary civic, police or excise clearances.
According to the complaint lodged by CCB Police Inspector Praveen K. Y., the raid targeted House at Cross Winds, Agrahara Road. Organizers associated with the handle "#FVSocials404" and the event-listing platform "#HOPZYXAPP" had allegedly mobilized attendees using targeted WhatsApp groups, Instagram posts, and third-party event aggregators.
Investigators found that the organizers converted the residential duplex into a makeshift commercial nightclub, charging steep entry fees via digital listings,Rs. 1,710 for individual men, Rs. 1,080 for women, and Rs. 2,400 for couples, alongside other tiered access charges.
Attendees were provided access to illicit hookah setups, unrestricted alcohol consumption, tobacco products and high-decibel music that stretched into the early hours of Monday morning.
The Marathahalli police have named five accused in the FIR:
• Arihant (A1) and Abhinav (A2), identified as organizers behind FV Socials 404
• Parth K. (A3), representing the HOPZYX platform
• Anurag Chouhan (A4), resident of the duplex premises
• The property owner and other unidentified affiliates (A5), for aiding and abetting the unlawful gathering
The accused face charges under Sections 15(A), 32, 34, and 38(A) of the Karnataka Excise Act, 1965 (for illegal possession and facilitating illicit liquor consumption); Sections 7 and 8 of the COTPA, 2003 (for unlawful tobacco and hookah distribution); and Sections 102 and 105 of the Karnataka Police Act.
Further investigation is underway.
@BlrCityPolice
Tamil Nadu Police Deny Bomb Attack at Kannada Thespian Rajkumar's Kin's House, Say Loud Crackers Shattered Windowpanes
Erode, Tamil Nadu
#TamilNadu’s Erode District Police have dismissed reports circulating in sections of the media claiming that a country-made bomb was hurled at the residence of a relative of legendary #Kannada actor Dr. Rajkumar. Police clarified that the incident was the result of high-decibel firecrackers burst during #Diwali celebrations, which shattered windowpanes due to intense sound and vibrations.
According to an official press release issued by the #Erode District Police, reports surfaced alleging an explosive attack on the house located in Thotta Gajanur (Thotta Kajanur) village, falling under the jurisdiction of the Thalavady police station.
A preliminary inquiry revealed that Manoj Raj (41), son of Kathiraiya Vathiyar and a distant relative of actor #Rajkumar residing in the village, had hosted friends at his residence on November 9 to celebrate Diwali. During the festivities, a few local residents set off loud firecrackers in the vicinity. The resultant shockwaves and severe vibrations caused the window glass panes of the house to break.
Following the incident, Thalavady police personnel inspected the spot, conducted an inquiry, and registered a case against the individuals responsible for bursting firecrackers beyond the legally permitted time limits.
Terming the media reports of a bomb attack "exaggerated" and contrary to the ground realities, the district police appealed to the public and media outlets to refrain from circulating or republishing misleading claims to prevent unnecessary panic and confusion.
@erd_smc @chnpolice @tnpoliceoffl @KarnatakaCops
People, Media Can Celebrate Tipu Jayanti Themselves; Govt Will Extend Support: U.T. Khader
Bengaluru
Ahead of the annual #TipuJayanti observance on November 10, Minister for Minorities Welfare Waqf U.T. Khader stated that citizens, civic organizations and media houses are entirely free to celebrate the occasion independently, questioning why the public relies solely on official state sponsorship.
Addressing reporters who questioned whether the state government would officially organize celebrations for November 10, the minister addressed the recurring political controversy and urged community members and civic bodies to take the initiative.
'If the government has to do everything, why do you just sit and wait? Can't you do it yourselves? Did we say no?' Khader asked, recalling the fallout from past observances. He pointed out that while the previous #Siddaramaiah-led administration introduced official state celebrations,which were subsequently scrapped under the #BJP government,little public defense was mounted for the government amidst heavy political backlash.
'When Siddaramaiah faced issues and was being heavily criticized for it, did anyone stand up and speak in his favor?' #UTKhader asked. 'All I told our people was: what was the point of granting it only to spark unrest and controversy?'
Emphasizing that private and community commemorations face no restriction, U. T. Khader called on households, social clubs, civic groups and media houses to lead the charge on November 10. He specifically challenged broadcast news channels to air half-hour documentaries highlighting #TipuSultan's history and message of communal harmony rather than expecting the state machinery to carry the sole responsibility.
Responding to a reporter's contention that it remains the government's duty to conduct the anniversary, U. T. Khader clarified that the administration has not abdicated its role, noting that official steps would be decided after taking ground realities into account.
'The government will do it,it has done so in the past, and everyone knows what transpired back then,' he said. 'We will assess the situation and act accordingly. But it's not like only the government must celebrate it. Local organizations and institutions everywhere can do it. In fact, everyone should come forward and whatever cooperation is needed from the government, it will be fully extended.'
@utkhader @BJP4Karnataka @INCKarnataka @siddaramaiah
Over 50 Eye Injury Cases Reported Across Bengaluru Eye Hospitals Amid Cracker Bursting
Bengaluru
Festivities in the city have led to a sharp uptick in emergency #ophthalmic admissions, with major eye care centers in #Bengaluru reporting dozens of firecracker-related injuries over the past few days, many involving children and bystanders.
At #NarayanaNethralaya in Rajajinagar, doctors treated 31 patients for firecracker-related eye trauma between November 7 and 5:00 PM on November 9, 2026. The hospital administration highlighted that children under 18 years accounted for nearly half of the casualties, with 15 pediatric cases reported. Furthermore, eight individuals sustained injuries purely as bystanders without actively handling #crackers themselves.
Of the 31 cases handled at the hospital, 19 were male and 12 were female. While 23 patients suffered self-inflicted injuries during cracker bursting, eight were caught in the vicinity. Medical teams managed 30 patients conservatively with outpatient medical care, while one severe case required surgical intervention.
Meanwhile, the government-run #MintoOphthalmic Hospital has also witnessed a heavy influx of trauma patients. Since November 6, the premier state-run facility has received 24 patients up until 8:30 PM on Monday. The victims span various age groups and have presented with injuries ranging from minor superficial trauma to major sight-threatening damage. In terms of the mode of injury, the majority are bystander or third-party injuries. According to the hospital administration, most cases have been reported from Bengaluru, while one patient from Raichur and another from Doddaballapura were referred to the facility.
With celebrations underway, ophthalmologists across the city have reiterated that safety precautions, maintaining safe distances, and seeking immediate medical intervention within the golden hour are critical to preventing irreversible vision loss.
@NNethralaya @DHFWKA @utkhader
KRV Members Visit NAAC Office Over Halting Rajyotsava Celebrations
Bengaluru
Activists belonging to the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (#KRV – Shivarame Gowda faction) visited the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (#NAAC) office in #Bengaluru on Monday, condemning the administration for halting #KannadaRajyotsava celebrations over the past two years.
The protest erupted following allegations by internal staff that NAAC Director Prof. Ganesan Kannabiran had systematically suppressed local cultural observances and harassed #Kannadiga employees.According to aggrieved staff members, Kannada Rajyotsava celebrations,a two-decade-long tradition at the national accreditation body,were abruptly discontinued under Kannabiran’s tenure.
The confrontation followed a formal complaint sent by an internal whistleblower to Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Kannada activist bodies, alleging that more than 15 local contract workers were terminated overnight on flimsy grounds after they questioned the ban on the annual festivities. The administration has also been accused of ousting an existing local security agency to accommodate an out-of-state firm.
During the visit, KRV leaders strongly objected to the behavior of the administration, warning that disrespect toward Karnataka's culture, language and workforce would not be tolerated in an institution functioning on land gifted by the state government.
Following the escalation, NAAC officials committed to organizing a grand Kannada Rajyotsava celebration on the council premises. The KRV has reiterated its demand for the unconditional reinstatement of all local Kannadiga personnel who were unlawfully removed.
@karave_KRV @NAAC_India @DKShivakumar
'No Rift, Siddaramaiah Is Our Leader': D.K. Shivakumar Rebuts Speculation After Meeting
Bengaluru
Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Monday firmly dismissed reports of friction between him and #Siddaramaiah, stating unequivocally that there is "no displeasure, neither big nor small," within the party leadership.The remarks came after #DKShivakumar called on former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at his residence in #Bengaluru on Monday to extend #Deepavali festival greetings.
Addressing the media later in the day at Mekhri Circle, D. K.Shivakumar brushed aside persistent speculation about growing discord between the two top leaders."I came to see our leader," he told reporters when asked about the discussions. "Whatever narrative is being projected to you in different ways,we discussed everything that we needed to apprise him of regarding all that."
When reporters pressed on whether there was any underlying friction or displeasure, he shot back: "There is no displeasure of any kind,neither major nor minor. Some opposition parties have specifically deployed people to fabricate such controversies. In politics, critics and opponents are necessary. Only when they exist can people like us practice clean politics."
Later, speaking to journalists near the Town Hall, D.K.Shivakumar reiterated party unity and outlined the administrative and political topics covered during their interaction.
"Siddaramaiah is our leader, and we had several critical matters to deliberate upon," he said, adding that discussions covered upcoming local body elections, party organizational strategies, and compliance with court directives. "With respect to court orders concerning the SC and ST communities, I have convened a meeting with all relevant MLAs. Following that, I will also meet legislators representing other communities."
Asked about demands from various organizations calling for the immediate implementation of the socio-educational survey report (#CasteCensus), D. K. Shivakumar affirmed the Congress party's resolve."Whatever commitment our party has made, we will fulfill that commitment. There is no ambiguity about it," Chief Minister maintained. "On the caste census matter, our party has been prepared from the very beginning. We remain firmly committed to it while also keeping a close watch on the court proceedings."
@DKShivakumar @siddaramaiah @INCKarnataka
Woman, Paramour Held for Smothering Husband to Death in Bengaluru; Murder Staged as Heart Attack
Bengaluru
The Bengaluru police have arrested a 36 year old woman and her paramour for allegedly murdering her husband and attempting to pass it off as a fatal heart attack.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Anitha, 36, and Thalasani Madhusudhan Reddy, 48, both natives of Sri Sathya Sai district in #AndhraPradesh and residing in the #ElectronicCity area.
According to #Bengaluru police, the incident occurred in the early hours of October 12, 2026. The victim’s brother, Rajendra, had initially lodged a complaint stating that his elder brother, Upendra, slipped and fell on his way to the bathroom and suffered a fatal heart attack. Acting on the complaint, the police had registered an Unnatural Death Report under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
However, the subsequent post-mortem examination report raised suspicions, pointing to asphyxiation. Further investigation, supported by witness questioning, CCTV footage analysis, and Call Detail Records (CDR), revealed that Anitha was in an illicit relationship with Madhusudan Reddy. Viewing Upendra as an obstacle to their affair, the duo conspired and smothered him to death while also strangling him in the early hours of October 12. To cover up the crime, they circulated false claims among relatives and neighbors that Upendra had succumbed to a fall and a subsequent cardiac arrest.
Following the findings, Electronic City Police Station Sub-Inspector Basavaraj Angadi lodged a formal complaint on November 5, altering the case to a murder investigation under Sections 103,238 and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with Section 3(2)(v) of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
@DCP_ECITY @BlrCityPolice
Bengaluru Family Mass Murders: Two Bodies Recovered from Shiradi Ghat; All Seven Victims Traced
Bengaluru
Bringing a grim closure to the massive multi-state search operation, the #Bengaluru Police have recovered the remaining two bodies in the gruesome family mass murder case.
The bodies were retrieved from the dense forest area along the #ShiradiGhat stretch.
The deceased have been identified as Shankar, another brother-in-law of the accused cab driver Indushekhar, and Shankar’s wife, Nalini.
With this recovery, police have successfully accounted for all seven victims murdered by Indushekhar and scattered across isolated ghats and forest belts spanning #Karnataka and #TamilNadu
• Shiradi Ghat Forest Area: Shankar (brother-in-law) and Nalini (Shankar’s wife)
• Chamundi Hills Forest Area: Shivakumar (brother-in-law) and Divya (Shivakumar’s wife)
• Yercaud Forest Area (Salem, Tamil Nadu): Sunita (wife of the accused) and Roopavati (mother-in-law)
• Nandi Hills Area: A minor family member
Following intensive disclosures made by the accused during sustained interrogation, specialized search teams tracked the trail of bodies through challenging forest terrains over multiple days.
With all seven bodies recovered and sent for post-mortem examinations, the investigation now pivots entirely toward forensic verification, establishing the exact timeline of the killings and determining the exact motive behind the horrific mass murders.
@DCPNorthBCP @BlrCityPolice
Bengaluru Family Mass Murders: Two More Bodies Recovered Near Chamundi Hills; Toll Reaches Five
Bengaluru
In a rapidly escalating investigation into the gruesome mass murder of seven family members, the #Bengaluru Police on Sunday recovered two more bodies from the Chamundi Hills forest area near #Mysuru.
The latest victims have been identified as Shivakumar, the brother-in-law of accused cab driver Indushekhar and Shivakumar’s wife, Divya.
With this recovery, five of the seven victims have now been accounted for across three different locations:
• Chamundi Hills Forest Area: Shivakumar (brother-in-law) and Divya (sister-in-law), recovered today.
• Yercaud Forest Area (Salem, Tamil Nadu): Sunita (wife) and Roopavati (mother-in-law), recovered yesterday wrapped in polythene and cloth.
• Nandi Hills: A minor family member, recovered earlier in the probe.
Indushekhar stands accused of killing seven members of his extended family and dumping their bodies across forested stretches in #Karnataka and neighboring Tamil Nadu. Acting on details divulged during his sustained interrogation, search teams have been tracing the trail of concealed bodies across difficult forest terrain.
Search operations remain underway to locate the bodies of the remaining two victims.
@BlrCityPolice @DCPNorthBCP
Rizwan Arshad Rebuts Oil Marketing PSUs on E20 Petrol; Demands Independent Testing Mechanism
Bengaluru
Karnataka Minister for Food, Civil Supplies, Consumer Affairs and Legal Metrology Rizwan Arshad, addressing the media regarding claims made by public sector oil marketing companies (OMCs), stated that the state government firmly stands by its findings on #E20 petrol.
Responding to a joint statement issued by Indian Oil Corporation Limited (#IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (#BPCL), and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (#HPCL), the Minister asserted that while the OMCs’ release is long on technicalities, it remains conspicuously silent on the central question of how much #ethanol is actually being blended into fuel dispensed at retail outlets across the state.
Minister Arshad noted that concerns raised regarding E20 fuel have routinely been suppressed. He pointed out that when the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (#SIAM) flagged the presence of chloride and sulphur causing component damage in July 2026, the representation was withdrawn within days amid central pressure.
Highlighting similar patterns where automakers warned of warranty invalidations, insurers denied engine damage claims, and Automotive Research Association of India (#ARAI) findings remained withheld from the public, the Minister underscored that while commercial entities may yield to pressure, the #Karnataka government would not back down on defending consumer rights.
Addressing the OMCs' procedural objections regarding fuel collection, the Minister refuted claims that protocol was breached, clarifying that every sample was drawn by authorised officers under Clause 7 of the Motor Spirit and High Speed Diesel Order, 2005. He added that labels were jointly signed with dealers and density readings were recorded on the spot in accordance with Clause 8(3) of the Order. Riswan Arshad explained that initial samples were sent to the OMCs’ own laboratories at IOCL, BPCL, and HPCL, yet none of their test reports specified the ethanol percentage despite established IS 17021:2018 testing protocols. It was this failure by the refiners' in-house facilities that prompted the state to commission independent testing through NABL-accredited and ISO-certified laboratories under the Quality Council of India framework.
The Minister dismissed the OMCs’ internal compliance reports, emphasizing that internal testing cannot substitute for independent third-party verification. Pointing out that blending is an automated operation carried out exclusively at the six supply terminals servicing Karnataka rather than at retail pumps, he stated that any excess ethanol detected points directly to failures at the source.
Demanding that fuel quality testing be permanently shifted away from self-regulated oil company facilities to an independent oversight mechanism, #RizwanArshad announced that he will soon convene a meeting with representatives of all oil marketing companies to enforce compliance and safeguard public interest.
@ArshadRizwan @HardeepSPuri @HPCL @BPCLimited @karnataka_ioc @tehseenp
Oil PSUs Refute Karnataka’s Claims of Excess Ethanol Blending in Petrol; Seek Joint Testing
Bengaluru
Oil marketing companies (OMCs),Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (#HPCL), Indian Oil Corporation Limited (#IOCL) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (#BPCL), have strongly refuted allegations made by the Karnataka government regarding fuel outlets dispensing #petrol with #ethanol levels far above the mandated limit.
The pushback follows a report flagged by the #Karnataka government alleging that retail outlets in the state were selling petrol with ethanol concentrations reaching between 26% and 31.2%, significantly higher than the permitted 20% (E20) threshold.
Responding to the allegations, the three public sector undertakings released separate but coordinated statements clarifying that the claims are not supported by testing conducted under prescribed scientific procedures. The refiners stated that nationwide quality checks, including tests on samples drawn from Karnataka, fully comply with regulatory benchmarks.
According to the oil companies, out of 893 fuel samples tested across 27 States and Union Territories,which included 56 samples collected from Karnataka,all were found to be well within the permissible 19% to 21% ethanol blending range.
To address the dispute and maintain consumer confidence, IOCL, BPCL, and HPCL have formally requested a transparent, joint testing exercise with the Karnataka government to carry out an independent and scientifically verifiable assessment.
@ArshadRizwan @iocl_pbd @HPCL @BPCLimited
Congress Members Taken into Custody During Protest Over Excessive Ethanol Blending in Bengaluru
Bengaluru
Several members of the #Bengaluru Central District #Congress Committee were taken into custody by the police on Monday after staging a demonstration against the alleged illegal and excessive blending of #ethanol in #petrol.
The protest was held outside an HP petrol bunk opposite Nataraja Theatre near Mantri Mall. Demonstrators raised slogans against oil marketing companies and the #BJP government's fuel policies, citing recent laboratory test findings that reportedly pointed to ethanol blending beyond permissible limits. Protesters alleged corruption and raised slogans against Union Ministers Hardeep Singh Puri and Nitin Gadkari.
As protesters attempted to intensify the demonstration, police intervened to prevent disruptions to vehicular movement in the busy area. The protesters were subsequently taken into custody.
@BJP4Karnataka @INCKarnataka @ArshadRizwan @HPCL @HardeepSPuri @nitin_gadkari
Bengaluru Family Mass Murders: Two More Bodies Recovered Near Chamundi Hills; Toll Reaches Five
Bengaluru
In a rapidly escalating investigation into the gruesome mass murder of seven family members, the #Bengaluru Police on Sunday recovered two more bodies from the Chamundi Hills forest area near #Mysuru.
The latest victims have been identified as Shivakumar, the brother-in-law of accused cab driver Indushekhar and Shivakumar’s wife, Divya.
With this recovery, five of the seven victims have now been accounted for across three different locations:
• Chamundi Hills Forest Area: Shivakumar (brother-in-law) and Divya (sister-in-law), recovered today.
• Yercaud Forest Area (Salem, Tamil Nadu): Sunita (wife) and Roopavati (mother-in-law), recovered yesterday wrapped in polythene and cloth.
• Nandi Hills: A minor family member, recovered earlier in the probe.
Indushekhar stands accused of killing seven members of his extended family and dumping their bodies across forested stretches in #Karnataka and neighboring Tamil Nadu. Acting on details divulged during his sustained interrogation, search teams have been tracing the trail of concealed bodies across difficult forest terrain.
Search operations remain underway to locate the bodies of the remaining two victims.
@BlrCityPolice @DCPNorthBCP
Bengaluru Mass Murder Case: Police Recover Bodies of Cab Driver’s Wife, Mother-in-Law from Tamil Nadu Forest
Bengaluru
In a major development in the gruesome mass murder case involving cab driver Indushekhar, the #BengaluruPolice have recovered two more bodies from a forest area in #TamilNadu. The deceased have been identified as the suspect’s wife, Sunita and his mother-in-law, Roopavati.
Indushekhar stands accused of murdering seven members of his extended family, including his wife. During interrogation, the suspect confessed to dumping two of the victims' bodies in a forested stretch across the state border.
Following the disclosure, a special team from the #Bengaluru Police was dispatched to the Yercaud forest area in #Salem district, Tamil Nadu. Search personnel combed the dense terrain and recovered two bodies, both wrapped in layers of polythene and cloth to conceal them.
This discovery follows the earlier recovery of a minor family member's body near Nandi Hills. With three victims now accounted for, police teams continue intensive search operations across identified locations to trace the remains of the four remaining victims. Further investigation is underway.
@DCPNorthBCP @BlrCityPolice
BJP to Launch Statewide Protests Against Karnataka Government Over Price Hikes; Bengaluru Stir on Nov 11
Bengaluru
Accusing the #Congress-led Karnataka government of burdening citizens with relentless price increases on essential commodities, the Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party (#BJP) State President B. Y. Vijayendra announced a statewide agitation, starting with a day-long demonstration at Freedom Park in #Bengaluru followed by padayatras across all assembly constituencies and gram panchayats.
Addressing a press conference at his residence on the occasion of #Deepavali, the BJP state chief declared that the party has decided to forego festival celebrations in solidarity with citizens distressed by escalating living costs."The common man is angry and afraid to even celebrate festivals due to frequent price hikes on essential commodities," he stated, adding that the state government’s sole tangible record over its tenure has been escalating the cost of living.
Listing the recent revisions, B.Y.Vijayendra ighlighted steep increases across property taxes, alcohol, stamp duty, bus fares, curd, and milk,noting that milk prices alone had been revised multiple times, rising by ₹8 to ₹10, alongside a ₹15 hike on curd.
Connecting the price surges directly to the state's welfare expenditure, he alleged that the administration's #GuaranteeSchemes were being financed at the public's expense."We are not opposing the guarantee schemes; Congress made these promises in its election manifesto, and it is their duty to fulfill them. But at what cost?" he asked.
He claimed that bus fares have surged by 45% to 50%, while over half of rural bus services have been discontinued, disrupting access for school and college students. He further noted that the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (#KSRTC) is incurring massive operational losses, with the state government reportedly owing more than ₹7,500 crore to the transport corporation.
Contrasting the current administration’s policies with previous governance, he pointed out that during former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa’s tenure, a ₹2 incentive for dairy #farmers was funded directly by the state exchequer rather than passed onto consumers.
To demand an immediate rollback of the hikes, the BJP will hold a protest at Freedom Park on Wednesday (11th November) from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, featuring party MPs, MLAs, MLCs, and former representatives, before scaling the agitation across all 224 assembly segments in Karnataka.
@BYVijayendra @BJP4Karnataka @INCKarnataka @JanataDal_S @DKShivakumar
Youth Congress Puts Up Counter-Banners Across Bengaluru Against H.D. Kumaraswamy’s Remarks
Bengaluru
The Karnataka Pradesh Youth #Congress on Sunday hit back sharply at Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy over his alleged controversial comments directed at #Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge, putting up counter-banners across several prominent locations in #Bengaluru.
The row erupted following #HDKumaraswamy’s remarks referring to #PriyankKharge as a “privileged Dalit” and questioning how many more years he and his father, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, would continue to contest from reserved constituencies.
In a direct response, the Karnataka Pradesh #YouthCongress Committee mounted hoardings and banners targeting the former Union Minister.
The move has escalated the war of words between the ruling Congress and the #NDA alliance in the state, with Youth Congress leaders asserting that such derogatory statements undermine the constitutional rights of marginalized communities.
@IYCKarnataka @INCKarnataka @hd_kumaraswamy @JanataDal_S
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