Belthangady: K. Vasanta Bangera, a prominent political figure and five-time MLA from Belthangady, passed away at the age of 79 in a private hospital in Bangaluru on May 8, around 4 pm.

Born on January 15, 1946, Bangera was the first son of Kede Subba Pujari and Devaki. His health had recently deteriorated significantly, leading to his admission to a hospital in Bangaluru for treatment.

Following his demise, arrangements are being made to transport his body to Belthangady, where he is expected to arrive early on May 9. Family sources have indicated that arrangements will be made for the public to pay their final respects to Bangera.

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 (PTI): Days after making a historic debut at the T20 World Cup, Italy cricket has been rocked by sexual harassment allegations by a women's team player against women's cricket co-ordinator Prabath Ekneligoda, who has been suspended by the nation's cricket board, the Federazione Cricket Italiana (FCRI) informed.

According to a statement released by FCRI, the allegations are the subject of an investigation by the federal prosecutor.

"The Federation confirms that, during 2025, the President of the federation acting within her institutional responsibilities and with the full safeguarding of the athletes and other parties involved in mind, ordered the immediate precautionary suspension of the individual concerned from all federal duties and activities," ESPN Cricinfo quoted the the board as saying in a statement.

"This measure was adopted pending a thorough and definitive assessment of the circumstances. The decision was taken as a prudent and responsible step, aimed at preventing any undue speculation, preserving the integrity of the sporting environment, and ensuring that any fact-finding takes place in the appropriate forums, with full respect for personal dignity, due process and the presumption of innocence."

According to reports, Ekneligoda's lawyer has denied the allegations, claiming "ulterior motives" were behind them.

FCRI media manager Rakbir Hasan confirmed to the website that Ekneligoda had travelled with the board president Maria Lorena Haz Paz at the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka but didn't have any official duties.

"It is further noted that proceedings are currently under way before the Federal Prosecutor's Office, which is responsible for carrying out the assessments and investigations provided under sporting regulations," the FCRI said.