Bengaluru: "We have agreed to implement internal reservations to ensure equal development of all backward classes," clarified Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara.

Speaking to reporters near his residence in Sadashivnagar, he responded to accusations that he, along with AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, Minister H.C. Mahadevappa, and Priyank Kharge, were opposing the internal reservation policy. "It is incorrect to involve our names unnecessarily," he stated.

He added, "I have directly discussed the internal reservation issue with AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge. The claims that we oppose its implementation are far from the truth. This kind of talk should cease."

Dr. Parameshwara emphasised that they have reached a unanimous decision regarding the implementation of internal reservations. "If we were to oppose it, we would openly express that. We are not intimidated into acceptance. We have agreed to implement internal reservations for the equal development of all," he asserted.

He mentioned that he has held discussions with legislators from backward classes and noted that while some previously opposed reservations, there is currently no dispute regarding their implementation. "However, the data is not accurate, and if implemented without proper data, it will lead to complications," he warned.

He also stated that he could not attend the cabinet meeting due to his visit to Mumbai for the Maharashtra elections. "I welcome the formation of a committee for internal reservations, and the three-month deadline given is significant. Everyone has agreed to the implementation of internal reservations," he said.

"Let the BJP be pleased with their claims, but it is wrong for anyone to state that we are against internal reservations. There is no clear data regarding the castes of backward classes. I am not aware of such data being available for caste enumeration," the minister further added.

In response to the Maharashtra Assembly elections, he mentioned that the Congress party is contesting in coalition. "Out of 288 constituencies, the Congress is contesting in 103, while other coalition parties are competing in the remaining seats. The Congress-led coalition government will be formed by winning a majority," he stated.

On the issue of Waqf raised by the BJP, he clarified that the Chief Minister has instructed that no notices should be issued to farmers until the matter is resolved. "This issue has ended here. Until the inquiry is completed, no notices should be given to any farmers," he concluded.

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.



Saharsa (PTI): More than 150 children were taken ill after allegedly consuming food that was part of the mid-day meal in a school in Bihar’s Saharsa district, a senior official said on Thursday.

The incident occurred at a middle school in Baluaha village of the district.

The official said that 115 children were undergoing treatment at the Sadar Hospital, while around 50 students were admitted to Mahishi Public Health Centre.

“We received information that several children fell ill after consuming the mid-day meal in Baluaha. The children were initially treated at the primary health centre, but later, many were referred to the Sadar Hospital,” Saharsa District Magistrate Deepesh Kumar told reporters.

“According to doctors, the health condition of the children has improved, but they will be kept under observation for some time. There is no need to panic. Some kids are having mild fever. They are being treated accordingly,” Kumar said.

Meanwhile, family members of some children claimed that a snake was found in the container in which cooked pulses was stored at the school.

Of the 545 students present in the school, 200 had already eaten their meals by the time the snake was spotted, and later complained of stomach ache and vomiting, they said.

Regarding the claims, the DM said food samples have been collected from the school.

“We will be able to comment on this only after the results of the tested samples arrive,” he said.