Nine killed in lightning strike incidents in Bihar
Patna (PTI): Nine people were killed after being struck by lightning in six districts of Bihar in the last 24 hours, officials said on Saturday.
The lightning deaths were reported from Jehanabad, Madhepura, East Champaran, Rohtas, Saran and Supaul districts, they said.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed grief over the death of nine people due to lightning and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh to each of the deceased's family members.
According to a statement issued by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) on Saturday, Jehanabad district reported three deaths followed by two in Madhepura, one each in East Champaran, Rohtas, Saran and Supaul.
The CM urged people to follow advisories issued by the Disaster Management Department.
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DK Suresh urges CM to exercise caution regarding caste census
Bengaluru: Former MP DK Suresh has urged the Chief Minister to tread carefully on the issue of the caste census. Addressing the media at his residence in Sadashivanagar on Friday, he stated that the Union government has already announced a census, and conducting the caste survey using the necessary criteria during this time would not lead to confusion. “It is better to wait until the census is conducted,” he suggested.
He further added that Siddaramaiah is their leader and expressed his desire to see him remain the Chief Minister for the full five-year term. "With the blessings of Goddess Chamundeshwari, Siddaramaiah will overcome all allegations, and no one can destabilise him," he said.
Expressing concern over recent developments, Suresh noted that they are not in the state’s interest. He urged all political leaders to be cautious before people take to the streets. “People voted for Congress in Karnataka and for the NDA coalition at the Centre with the hope for development. But, the elected leaders are engaging in accusations and counter-accusations, disrespecting the people of Karnataka," he lamented.
He emphasised that addressing the pressing issues is the responsibility of both the state and central governments. "Instead of indulging in such infighting, the governments should focus on solving problems faced by farmers and the youth," he stated, warning that if this continues, people might be compelled to resort to protests.
Commenting on statements made by MLAs ST Somashekar and GT Devegowda in support of Siddaramaiah, Suresh said that those who filed complaints did their job, and the court has taken cognizance by ordering an investigation. “Everyone should remain patient until the investigation is completed, and it is up to the investigating officers to determine what is right and what is wrong,” he remarked.
Responding to a question about BJP MLA Muniratna's case, Suresh noted that he was unaware of the details but termed the situation unpleasant. “Recent developments are embarrassing and not conducive to Karnataka’s progress. The state was once recognized for its good governance and development, but the current situation is distressing,” he commented.
On the statement made by Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan that Suresh should contest the Channapatna by-election, Suresh expressed gratitude for Zameer's faith and affection. He said that the party will decide on the appropriate candidate once the election is announced.
When asked about separate meetings being held by Dalit leaders, Suresh responded that leaders of their community often come together to discuss various issues. “There is nothing wrong with it. We need to discuss how to handle the state's developments. Dr. G Parameshwara served as KPCC president for eight years, and Satish Jarkiholi was the working president. It’s natural to deliberate on matters concerning our society,” he concluded.
