Former MLA Raghupathi Bhat voices discontent over BJP's Vidhan Parishad candidate selection
Udupi: Former MLA Raghupathi Bhat expressed his discontent with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) after the party announced its candidates for the Vidhan Parishad. The ticket for the teacher constituency was given to the Chikkamagaluru candidate of the JDS party and the ticket for the graduate constituency was given to the BJP candidate from Shivamogga.
Bhat, who has been a longstanding member of the BJP and has served in various capacities since 1994, voiced his disappointment on Facebook.
The BJP decided to field candidates from different regions for the teacher and graduate constituencies, deviating from its tradition of nominating candidates from the coastal region for four decades. Bhat highlighted this departure, stating that despite the presence of educated and capable individuals from Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, Chikkamagaluru, and Kodagu, the party chose candidates from other areas.
Recalling his own experience, Bhat mentioned that despite being denied a ticket in the previous Assembly election, he continued to support the party. He was assured by party elders that he would be allowed to contest in the graduate constituency election. Consequently, he actively participated in the membership campaign and contributed significantly to the party's efforts in Shivamogga.
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MEA reports more than 200 Indians enlisted in Russian military since 2022; 26 deaths confirmed
More than 200 Indian nationals have joined the Russian armed forces since 2022, with 26 are confirmed dead, MEA—The Ministry of External Affairs have informed the Upper house of the Parliament: Rajya Sabha.
In a written response, the Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, has stated that at least 202 Indians are reported to have joined the Russian army. Among these recruited personnels, 26 have lost their lives; while, seven individuals have been reported missing by Russian authorities. He added that the remains of two deceased Indian nationals were cremated in Russia.
Singh noted that the sustained diplomatic efforts by the Indian government have led to the early discharge of 119 individuals. He further added that the discussions are going smoothly with the Russians to secure the release of the remaining personnel, with efforts underway to facilitate the early discharge of 50 more Indian nationals.
According to the minister, the Union government is in contact with Russian authorities to ensure the safety, welfare, and prompt return of Indian citizens serving in the Russian army. The issue, he said, is being addressed at multiple levels, including interactions between senior leaders, ministers, and officials of both countries.
The said disclosure was made in response to queries raised by Saket Gokhale, the MP of Trinamool Congress, and Randeep Singh Surjewala, the MP of INC, regarding the number of Indians allegedly recruited into the military service in Russia; Along with the details of deaths and missing persons reported since 2022.
