Karnataka Dy CM Shivakumar urges public participation in socio-economic survey
Bengaluru (PTI): Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Saturday called on people to take part in the social and educational survey being conducted by the Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes, saying it is vital to ensuring justice for future generations.
Flagging off the survey in the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) area, Shivakumar said, “The survey is starting in GBA areas today. The survey was conducted at my residence today, and I have provided all the details. I appeal to all communities to participate in the survey and provide all the details.”
Responding to concerns that the questionnaire contains too many questions, he said, “I also saw the questionnaire. It needs simplification. Patience is low in urban areas.”
On concerns about personal questions in the survey, he clarified, “The court has ruled that these questions are not mandatory, and no one can be forced to respond. Providing a response to some of these questions is optional. I have also told the interviewers to be sensitive to the needs of the interviewed in Bengaluru city, especially.”
Addressing reports of reluctance among people to participate, Shivakumar said, “It is our duty to educate them and we are doing it diligently.”
On complaints regarding server issues for the survey, he said, “The people concerned will fix it. There is a provision to participate in the survey online as well.”
The survey, which will continue until October 7, involves about 1.75 lakh enumerators—mostly government school teachers— covering approximately seven crore people in around two crore households across the state.
Officials said the exercise, estimated to cost Rs 420 crore, will be conducted “scientifically” using a 60‑question format prepared for the process.
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.
3 Indian students among those injured in Australia’s Bondi Beach attack
Melbourne (PTI): Three Indian students were among 40 people injured in the terrorist attack on Sydney's Bondi Beach in Australia, according to a media report on Tuesday.
Two out of these three students are believed to be receiving treatment in the hospital, The Australia Today news portal reported.
The names of the Indian students injured during Sunday's attack have not been disclosed yet.
ALSO READ: Affront to non-Hindi speaking people: Chidambaram slams use of Hindi words in bills' names
The Indian students sustained injuries during the shooting, and their exact condition has not been formally confirmed yet, it said.
Naveed Akram, 24, and his father, 50, opened fire on a gathering during the Jewish festival Hanukkah by the Sea celebration.
At least 15 people were killed in the attack, including a 10-year-old child. Five of the injured remain in critical condition, while two injured police officers are in serious but stable condition, it added.
New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said the investigation is expanding as new information emerges, including international travel by the alleged attackers and the discovery of extremist material, the report said.
