House panel ready to address gov's concerns over Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill: Rizwan Arshad
Bengaluru: Rizwan Arshad, MLA and head of the Select Legislative Committee that reviewed the Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill, stated that the governor’s action does not signify a rejection of the Bill but rather a request for specific clarifications.
Speaking to The New Indian Express, Arshad downplayed the concerns, especially those surrounding the 74th Amendment, and said, “No exact point of the Act was raised.” He dismissed claims of constitutional flaws in the Bill.
Addressing concerns about the proposed Metropolitan Planning concept, first introduced by the Congress government, Arshad assured that the committee would take the issue seriously. “Metropolitan Planning was proposed when Congress was in power. We will consider all aspects of it moving forward,” he said, noting that the committee remains open to making refinements to the Bill.
One of the most contentious issues has been the proposal to split the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), with critics fearing it could follow the path of the Delhi civic body’s trifurcation, added the report.
However, Arshad remained confident, stating, “Delhi civic body’s trifurcation failed due to unequal revenue distribution. In contrast, we’ve carefully accounted for that, ensuring a balanced approach for Bengaluru’s future. Bengaluru has to be divided for administrative efficiency, and we have taken all objections into consideration.”
Reaffirming that the governor’s request for clarifications was not a setback for the state government, Arshad concluded, “We’re fully prepared to provide all clarifications. There is no cause for alarm.”
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Arrive 3 hours early: Airlines urge passengers as centre tightens airport security after Pak attack
New Delhi: Airlines have asked passengers to reach airports at least three hours before departure after the Centre increased security measures in response to Pakistan’s ongoing attack, reported India Today.
According to the Ministry of Civil Aviation, all passengers will now face a Secondary Ladder Point Check (SLPC) before boarding. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has directed all airports and airlines to step up security.
Air India said, “Passengers are advised to arrive at least three hours prior to departure. Check-in closes 75 minutes before departure.” Akasa Air and IndiGo issued similar advisories, asking passengers to allow more time for security checks.
All passengers must carry valid photo ID and will undergo secondary checks before boarding. Visitor entry to terminals has been banned, and Air Marshals will be deployed as required.
The moves come as India’s defence systems shot down Pakistani missiles and drones in Jammu, Punjab, and Rajasthan. At least 21 airports are shut till May 10, and several flights are cancelled. Civilian aircraft are avoiding airspace over Pakistan and India’s western corridor, data from Flightradar24 shows.
