Karnataka: CM Slams Opposition Over Drought Delegation Boycott; BMTC Trials ADAS

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has criticised the opposition BJP and JD(S) for declining to join an all-party delegation to the Centre seeking drought relief, saying their decision shows a lack of interest in farmers' welfare. He accused the BJP of playing a drama of deceit and asserted that the state government would continue working for farmers regardless of the opposition's stance.

The Chief Minister said an all-party meeting would be convened to discuss the drought situation and the K. Kasturirangan Committee report. He also challenged those demanding higher compensation for farmers to press the Union Government for funds, stating that he had already asked them to secure compensation and would contribute as well.

Separately, Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara acknowledged that the state's finances are under pressure due to the five guarantee schemes, after several ruling party lawmakers, ministers and Congress leaders publicly raised concerns. He said the pressure could not be concealed, but noted that the government had consciously estimated the cost when announcing the schemes. The initial estimate of ₹40,000 crore to ₹45,000 crore has now crossed ₹50,000 crore, he said.

In Bengaluru, the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) will install Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) technology in 50 buses as a pilot project to improve safety and prevent accidents. The system is intended to monitor driver alertness and behaviour and provide real-time warnings about safety risks on city roads. A tender has been called for the 50 buses, with the selected agency required to operate and maintain the system for two years from the go-live date. The setup will include road-facing and driver-facing cameras, two side cameras, sensors, an on-board controller, storage, software and connectivity equipment.

Meanwhile, the Special Investigation Team probing a spurious drugs manufacturing and sale racket arrested alleged kingpin R. Prashanth at Kempegowda International Airport upon his return from abroad. Prashanth had been absconding and was reportedly hiding in Azerbaijan; a lookout notice had been issued against him. Officials said the arrest followed a statement by another accused, Veeresh Jain, who runs a shop at Minerva Circle in Bengaluru. Prashanth is being questioned by the SIT.