Ukrainian lawmakers approve nationwide state of emergency
Kyiv (AP): Lawmakers in Ukraine have approved a nationwide state of emergency amid fears of an all-out Russian invasion.
The parliament approved Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's decree that imposes the measure for 30 days starting Thursday.
The state of emergency allows authorities to impose restrictions on movement, block rallies and ban political parties and organisations in the interests of national security and public order.
The move follows Russian President Vladimir Putin's move Monday to recognise the independence of rebel regions in eastern Ukraine, where the nearly eight-year conflict has killed over 14,000.
Putin has sanctioned the deployment of Russian troops there to maintain peace and received a parliamentary approval to use military force outside the country.
Ukrainian authorities have repeatedly voiced concern that Russia could try destabilise the country by relying on Moscow supporters inside the country, including a pro-Russia political party represented in parliament.
The document also bans information materials that could destabilise the situation in the country, and gives government the right to impose curfews and conduct checks.
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Deputy Lokayukta Justice B. Veerappa conducts surprise inspections in Udupi, pulls up officials
Udupi: Deputy Lokayukta Justice B. Veerappa carried out surprise inspections at multiple locations in Udupi early Friday morning and expressed dissatisfaction over shortcomings in maintenance and sanitation.
The inspection began at the wastewater treatment plant in Nittur, where Justice Veerappa observed what he described as serious lapses in its functioning. He questioned the concerned officials, including the Municipal Commissioner, over the alleged discharge of untreated wastewater into the sea.
“You, who receive Rs 3 lakh every month for the maintenance of the unit, are discharging the wastewater directly into the sea without treating it,” he said during the inspection. Officials from the Environment Department were also pulled up in connection with the matter.
The Deputy Lokayukta later visited Malpe Port to review sanitation conditions. He noted the presence of accumulated waste, sewage flow and foul smell in and around the port area, and directed the authorities to take immediate corrective steps to improve hygiene.
Justice Veerappa also inspected the KSRTC bus stand at Bannanje, including the cleanliness of the canteen premises. During the visit, women staff working at the canteen brought to his notice the absence of facilities such as ESI benefits. He directed the contractor to address the issue without delay and indicated that further action would be taken if compliance was not ensured.
