Combing operations launched amid suspected naxal sightings around Karnataka-Kerala border
Udupi: Amid suspected Naxal sightings in and around the areas of Karnataka bordering Kerala, the police have launched combing operations in the neighbouring areas and made adequate arrangements for upcoming Lok Sabha elections, officials said on Sunday.
The general elections in Karnataka will be held in two phases on April 26 and May 7 for its 28 constituencies.
Speaking to PTI videos, Arun K, Superintendent of Police Udupi said that some days ago, there were suspected Naxal sightings in and around the Karnataka-Kerala border. However, around five-six years ago, there were no Naxal sightings on this side of Karnataka.
"We have coordinated with anti-Naxal force and have started combing operations in the neighbouring areas. We have started the anti-Naxal squads in the concerned district and are also trying to collect information from the local public regarding any Naxal activities," he said.
The officer further said it has been ensured that all the Naxal-affected polling booths will be given central paramilitary force protection on the day of polling.
"As of now, we don't expect any issues, but we have made adequate arrangements to ensure peaceful elections," he said.
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Lebanon appoints new representative for talks with Israel, rejects linkage to Iran
Beirut: Lebanon’s has moved to underline its independent position in ongoing regional developments, amid attempts to link the country to the broader conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
President Joseph Aoun, while announcing the appointment of former US ambassador Simon Karam as Lebanon’s representative in talks with Israel, made it clear that Karam would be the sole representative for Lebanon and that there would be no substitute.
The move comes in response to what the Lebanese officials see as efforts by Iran to tie Lebanon’s situation to the wider regional conflict. Iran had indicated that there would be no ceasefire involving the US, Israel and Iran unless it also included a ceasefire in Lebanon.
Some groups, including Hezbollah and its supporters, had expressed support for linking the situations, citing concerns that the Lebanese government has limited leverage in negotiations with Israel. Lebanon is not formally a party to the conflict, and its army is considered weak.
However, others, including Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, have opposed this approach. They view Iran’s stance as an attempt to influence Lebanon’s internal affairs and see it as undermining the country’s sovereignty.
Officials backing the government’s position say the move is aimed at reaffirming Lebanon’s sovereignty and ensuring that decisions about peace and ceasefire within the country are not dictated externally.
They also see it as a safeguard, so that any breakdown in talks between the US, Israel and Iran does not automatically lead to renewed conflict in Lebanon.
