Bengaluru: Polling for the by-elections for the two assembly seats Chincholi and Kundagol began on Sunday morning.
Except at one booth in Rustampur Taluk of Chincholi constituency where error in the EVM machine was reported, polling began smoothly and on time.
Chincholi assembly constituency was being represented by Umesh Jadhav from Congress who joined BJP earlier this year, while Kundgol was being represented by minister C S Shivalli who died of cardiac arrest earlier in March this year.
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
New Delhi: Kash Patel, Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, is reportedly likely to be removed from his position in the administration of Donald Trump, according to recent media reports citing senior White House officials.
The development comes amid a series of controversies surrounding Patel, with reports suggesting that his position has become increasingly tenuous. A White House official was quoted as saying that it is “only a matter of time” before action is taken.
The report surfaced shortly before a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, adding to the tense political environment.
Patel, who gained prominence for his strong stance against what he described as the “deep state” and his alignment with Trump’s political messaging during the 2024 election campaign, has faced scrutiny over allegations related to past alcohol-related incidents. Reports indicate that he had acknowledged two prior arrests linked to public drinking during his student years.
Further pressure has come from members of the Democratic Party, who have called for Patel to undergo an evaluation related to alcohol consumption patterns. Despite the allegations, Patel has maintained that he has never been intoxicated while on duty.
In March, a hacking incident reportedly linked to an Iran-associated group compromised Patel’s personal email account, leading to the publication of personal material. A Justice Department official confirmed that the breach appeared to be authentic.
The situation follows the recent dismissal of Pam Bondi as US Attorney General earlier this month, a move reportedly driven by dissatisfaction within the administration over legal and political developments. Patel is considered to be among officials whose positions may be under review following her removal.
Despite ongoing speculation, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that President Trump continues to have confidence in Patel. In response to media reports, Patel has filed a $250 million lawsuit against The Atlantic, alleging defamation over claims regarding his conduct.
