1. At ₹14,359 crore, assets of Karnataka MLAs is highest among all States: ADR
The total assets of the 223 MLAs in Karnataka stands at a staggering ₹14,359 crore — highest among all States and Union Territories in India — according to a report by Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and National Election Watch (NEW).
Karnataka is followed by Maharashtra at a distant second, where the assets of all its 284 MLAs amount to ₹6,679 crore, and Andhra Pradesh, whose 174 MLAs have assets amounting to ₹4,914 crore. The data was extracted from self-sworn affidavits of sitting MLAs filed prior to contesting their last election. This report covers 4,001 sitting MLAs belonging to 84 political parties and independent MLAs.
2. NHAI enforces ban on two-wheelers, autos on Bengaluru-Mysuru expressway
The ban on two-wheelers, autos, tractors, non-motorised vehicles, multi-axle hydraulic trailer vehicles, and quadri cycles from the main carriageways of the Bengaluru-Mysuru expressway began with diversions and fines on August 1.
National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) deployed personnel at all entry and exit points on the 119-km long six-lane expressway to enforce the ban. When The Hindu visited the expressway, the NHAI and police personnel were diverting slow-moving vehicles towards the service road, and imposing a penalty on violators. If a slow-moving vehicle enters expressway, the fine is ₹500.
3. Gruha Jyothi scheme to be launched on August 5
Energy Minister K.J. George announced that the Gruha Jyothi scheme will be launched on August 5 in Kalaburgi by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in the presence of AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge. Over 1.42 crore consumers, including 18,12,452 Bhagya Jyothi, Kuteera Jyothi and Amrutha Jyothi beneficiaries, have registered under the scheme so far. However, there is little clarity about how many applicants qualify for the scheme.
The Minister also said that Karnataka is working on a new electricity policy that will focus on non-conventional energy, to reduce cost of procurement and provide electricity at cheaper costs. The new policy will be announced after it is approved by the State Cabinet.
4. Premature to hand over Udupi voyeurism case to SIT: Karnataka CM
Since the alleged voyeurism incident in Udupi is being investigated by an officer of the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP), it is premature to hand over the case to a Special Investigation Team, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has said.
Mr. Siddaramaiah also pointed to the statement by member of the National Commission for Women Khushboo Sundar, where she dismissed the claims that hidden cameras were used to capture images of students in the washroom of the paramedical college.
