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  • Beltangady: Sister of 1986 Rape-Murder Victim Seeks SIT Probe into Decades-Old Case

    Beltangady, August 11, 2025: Indravati, the sister of Padmalatha, who was brutally raped and murdered in 1986, visited the Special Investigation Team (SIT) office in Beltangady on Monday to demand a fresh investigation into the unresolved case.

    Accompanied by CPM leader B M Bhat and supporters, Indravati arrived at the SIT office to submit a formal request for reinvestigating her sister’s case. She stated that the complaint would be officially filed once senior SIT officials were present.

    Padmalatha, a resident of Boliyaru, was a victim of a horrific rape and murder nearly four decades ago. The case has remained unsolved, prompting renewed calls for justice.

    The SIT was established following claims by an anonymous witness alleging that multiple bodies were buried in Dharmasthala village, linked to past crimes. The team has been actively investigating these claims, and a dedicated SIT office, functioning as a police station, was recently set up in Beltangady to handle such cases.

  • Viral Video Claiming Jessica Radcliffe Killed by Orca Debunked as Fake

    August 11, 2025: A widely shared video claiming that 23-year-old marine trainer Jessica Radcliffe was fatally attacked by an orca during a live show has been debunked as a fabrication. Circulating on platforms like TikTok and Facebook, the clip, which some versions claim was triggered by Radcliffe’s menstrual blood in the water, has been viewed millions of times but lacks any credible evidence.

    No Record of Jessica Radcliffe or the Incident

    Investigations reveal no trace of Jessica Radcliffe in media reports, marine park records, or occupational safety databases. Fact-checking outlets, including Vocal Media and Kenyan news site The Star, have confirmed the absence of obituaries, official statements from marine parks, or any documentation of a similar incident. The Star also noted that the video’s audio, including crowd reactions, appears to be AI-generated, adding to its deceptive nature.

    Fabricated Video Using AI and Old Footage

    The viral clip is a product of manipulated older footage combined with artificial intelligence and computer-generated imagery (CGI). It uses staged captions, AI-generated crowd noises, and carefully edited visuals to create a convincing but false narrative. The name “Jessica Radcliffe” is likely fictional, designed to give the story a veneer of authenticity.

    Historical Context of Orca Incidents

    While the Radcliffe video is a hoax, real tragedies involving orcas and trainers have occurred. In 2010, SeaWorld trainer Dawn Brancheau was killed by the orca Tilikum in Orlando, an incident highlighted in the 2013 documentary Blackfish, which sparked debate over captive marine mammals. Other cases include the 2009 death of Spanish trainer Alexis Martinez, killed by an orca named Keto during a rehearsal, and a 1991 incident in Canada where a trainer was dragged underwater by three orcas. These rare but tragic events underscore the risks of working with highly intelligent and powerful orcas, also known as killer whales.

    Public Urged to Verify Information

    The fabricated video serves as a reminder of the dangers of viral misinformation, particularly when amplified by realistic AI-generated content. Authorities and fact-checkers urge the public to verify claims through credible sources before sharing. No evidence supports the existence of Jessica Radcliffe or the alleged orca attack, confirming the story as a hoax designed to exploit social media engagement.

  • Udupi Police Launch Rs 2.5 Crore CCTV Surveillance Project and Drishti Night Patrol Scheme

    Udupi, August 11, 2025: The Udupi district police, in collaboration with the Udupi District Chamber of Commerce, have launched a Rs 2.5 crore surveillance project to install 601 CCTV cameras across 207 junctions to enhance safety and curb criminal activities. Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar announced the initiative during a press conference on Monday.

    In the initial phase, 10 Automatic Number Plate Reader (ANPR) cameras will be installed at sensitive locations, including Mala, Hosmar, and Sacharipete (Karkala Rural PS); Sanur (Karkala Town PS); Someshwara (Hebri PS); Hosangadi (Amasbail PS); Dali (Kollur PS); Mel Gangolli (Gangolli PS); Malpe Beach (Malpe PS); and City Bus Stand (Udupi Town PS). Additionally, 10 high-quality cameras will be placed at key junctions, including Kalsanka, Karavali, Indrali Bridge, Santhekatte, Service Bus Stand, and Old KSRTC Bus Stand (Udupi CMC limits); M Kodi Junction and Kandlur Market (Kundapura Sub-Division); and Baradi and Naravi (Karkala Sub-Division). Footage will be monitored round-the-clock at local police stations and the District Police Control Room.

    The police have also introduced the “Drishti scheme,” a night patrolling program to prevent theft, crimes against women, and drug-related offenses, while ensuring the safety of commercial establishments, lone-house residents, and senior citizens. Security guards, funded by local residents, will patrol from 10 PM to 6 AM, reporting suspicious activities to beat police or the control room. The scheme is operational in 12 locations—two each in Udupi City, Shirva, and Gangolli police stations, and one each in Kundapura, Hebri, Karkala Town, Hiriyadka, Shankaranarayana, and Brahmavar police stations—with plans to expand to 21 more locations.

    The initiatives, supported by community collaboration, aim to strengthen law enforcement and public safety across Udupi district.

  • Two Youths from Same Family Missing After Being Swept Away in Yallapur Stream

    Yallapur, August 10, 2025 – In a tragic incident on Sunday, two youths from the same family in Madanasara village, Yallapur taluk, went missing after being swept away by strong currents in Kavalagi stream while returning from a fishing trip.

    The missing individuals have been identified as Mahmad Rafeek Saab Saiyad (27) and Mahmad Haneef Saab Saiyad (25), both residents of Madanasara village. According to reports, a group of eight people had crossed Kavalagi stream to fish at Bedthi stream on Sunday morning. Around 5:30 PM, while returning and crossing Kavalagi stream, a sudden surge in water flow swept the two men away.

    A case has been registered at the Yallapur police station. Police, along with fire brigade personnel, have visited the site and initiated a search operation for the missing youths. The incident has raised concerns about safety near streams during unpredictable water flow conditions, and authorities are continuing their efforts to locate the men.

  • WIM Katipalla Hosts Successful BLS Workshop

    Katipalla, August 11, 2025: The Women India Movement (WIM) Katipalla organized a highly successful Basic Life Support (BLS) workshop for its members, focusing on First Aid and CPR training. The event, held in collaboration with Known Academy and Heart Hub, drew significant participation from WIM members eager to enhance their emergency response skills.

    The workshop was led by Dr. Usama Kazi, whose engaging presentation and clear instructions made complex techniques accessible to all attendees. Dr. Kazi’s expertise shone through as he guided participants through hands-on simulations, empowering them to respond confidently in emergency situations. Members described the practical training as invaluable, highlighting how it fostered a strong sense of preparedness.

    The event underscored WIM Katipalla’s commitment to equipping its members with life-saving skills, further strengthening community resilience.

  • Udupi-Manipal Police Intensify Night Patrolling to Curb Crime and Traffic Violations

    Udupi, August 10, 2025 – In response to rising complaints about theft, drunk driving, and public misbehaviour, police in Udupi city and Manipal have rolled out enhanced night patrolling and strict regulatory measures to maintain law and order and ensure public safety. The initiative, effective immediately, also aims to curb reckless driving and monitor student activities with the reopening of schools and colleges.

    Strict Closing Times for Commercial Establishments

    In Manipal, all shops and commercial establishments are required to close by 10 PM, while in Udupi and surrounding areas, closing times are set between 10:30 PM and 11 PM. Non-compliance will result in one or two warnings, followed by legal action. Liquor shops must shut by 10:30 PM, bars by 11:30 PM, and clubs, star hotels, and boarding houses by midnight. Police are also cracking down on late-night liquor purchases and roadside consumption, as well as gambling and loitering, with authorities actively questioning suspicious individuals.

    Enhanced Night Patrols and Checkposts

    To address drunk driving and speeding, multiple checkposts have been established across Udupi and Manipal, particularly on weekends. Continuous night patrols are in place at key locations, including Perampalli, KoiN Circle, MIT, Eshwar Nagar, and Alevoor Road in Manipal, as well as Clock Tower, City, and Service Bus Stands in Udupi city. These efforts aim to deter traffic violations and enhance public safety.

    Helmet Awareness Campaign

    To promote helmet usage among two-wheeler riders, Udupi police have launched a creative campaign featuring characters Ravi Anna and Bhanu from the recently released film Su From So. A special poster shows the characters wearing helmets on a scooter, with the slogan, “Wear a helmet like Ravi Anna” and the tagline, “Your safety is our right.”

    Public Cooperation Encouraged

    District Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar emphasized that the police are strictly enforcing the beat system and regulations to maintain law and order. He urged the public to report any concerns, assuring prompt responses to complaints. Residents can contact the police control room for assistance.

    The measures reflect a proactive approach to addressing community concerns and ensuring safety in the Udupi-Manipal region, particularly during nighttime hours.

  • Mangaluru Lifeguard and Record-Holder Drowns in Municipal Pool

    Mangaluru, August 10, 2025: A tragic incident occurred at the municipal swimming pool in Ladyhill, Mangaluru, where K. Chandrashekar Rai Surikumaru, a 52-year-old swimming coach and lifeguard, drowned on Sunday, August 10.

    According to sources, the pool was closed to the public for scheduled maintenance work. Rai reportedly entered the water for a swim during this period and drowned under circumstances that remain unclear. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the incident.

    Rai gained recognition in 2023 when he earned a place in the Worldwide Book of Records by performing 28 underwater somersaults in one minute at the same Ladyhill pool. His sudden death has shocked the local community, where he was known for his expertise and contributions to swimming.

    Police are continuing their inquiries to ascertain the details surrounding the tragedy.

  • BJP Expels Rajasthan Spokesperson Krishna Kumar Janu Over Controversial Remarks

    Jaipur, August 10, 2025: The Rajasthan unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has expelled its state spokesperson, Krishna Kumar Janu, for six years, following his public criticism of the party’s leadership. The decision, announced on August 8, 2025, by BJP state disciplinary committee chairperson Onkar Singh Lakhawat, was officially attributed to Janu’s failure to adequately respond to a show-cause notice issued on June 20 regarding his opposition to the appointment of Harshini Kulhari as the Jhunjhunu district president.

    However, the expulsion closely follows the circulation of a viral video in which Janu lambasted the BJP for its alleged “humiliating” treatment of prominent Jat leaders, including former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik and former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. In the video, Janu expressed dismay over the lack of a state funeral for Malik, who passed away recently at age 79, describing it as a sign of “tiraskar” (disdain) by the party. He also criticized the absence of a formal farewell for Dhankhar, who resigned from the Vice Presidency last month citing health reasons, calling it a breach of Jat cultural values and an act of “arrogance” by the government.

    Janu accused the BJP leadership of sidelining veteran figures such as L.K. Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, Yashwant Sinha, Praveen Togadia, Sanjay Joshi, and Vasundhara Raje, while alleging that former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan had been reduced to a “puppet.” He urged Jat leaders within the BJP to speak out against the party’s direction, invoking the community’s historical resistance to injustice, referencing figures like Guru Nanak Dev, Jambhoji Maharaj, and Dayanand Saraswati.

    The BJP’s disciplinary committee deemed Janu’s remarks damaging to the party’s image and internal discipline, particularly ahead of key political activities in Rajasthan. The expulsion highlights the party’s strict stance against public dissent, especially concerning high-profile figures. Janu, however, remained defiant, vowing to continue opposing “whatever is wrong in the party” and reaffirming his commitment to his ideological path.

    The move has sparked discussions in Rajasthan’s political circles, with some viewing it as a necessary measure to maintain party discipline, while others see it as an attempt to suppress dissent within the influential Jat community ahead of upcoming elections.

    Krishna Kumar Janu (In Middle) | Photo Credit: Facebook

  • PM Modi Inaugurates Three Vande Bharat Express Trains in Bengaluru

    Bengaluru, August 10, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched three Vande Bharat Express trains on Sunday, marking a significant step in bolstering India’s high-speed rail network. The inauguration took place at Krantiveera Sangolli Rayanna (KSR) Railway Station in Bengaluru, where Modi personally flagged off the Belagavi–Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express.

    Arriving in Bengaluru at 10 AM on a special flight from New Delhi, the Prime Minister landed at HAL Airport and proceeded by helicopter to a military base near Mekhri Circle. From there, he traveled by road to KSR Railway Station for the event.

    In addition to the Belagavi–Bengaluru train, Modi virtually inaugurated two other Vande Bharat Express trains: the Amritsar–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and the Ajni (Nagpur)–Pune routes, further expanding the reach of India’s semi-high-speed rail services.

    The launch underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing rail infrastructure and enhancing connectivity across key regions.

    PM Modi Inaugurates Three Vande Bharat Express Trains in Bengaluru | Photo Credit : Suchith Kidiyoor | X

  • Mangaluru: Six Arrested, Over 5 Kilos of Ganja Seized in City-Wide Drug Crackdown

    Mangaluru, August 9, 2025: In a major operation under the ‘Drug-Free Mangaluru’ campaign, the Mangaluru city police arrested six individuals on August 8, seizing over 5 kilograms of ganja in a targeted crackdown on drug peddling networks focusing on college students, youth, and local residents.

    Kudroli: Ganja Peddler Nabbed

    Abdul Samad, alias Chammu, was arrested in the Kudroli–Khandatpalli area for covertly supplying ganja to college students and young adults. Police recovered 1.04 kilograms of ganja from his possession. A case has been registered at Mangaluru North police station, and Samad is in judicial custody.

    Mulki: College-Focused Peddling Busted

    In Kolnadu–Angappayyanakadu, under Mulki police station limits, Dharmalinga, a resident of Angappayya Kadu, was apprehended for selling ganja to students, laborers, and youth. Authorities seized 1.09 kilograms of ganja. A case has been filed, and investigations are ongoing.

    Bajpe: Bihar Duo Caught in Inter-State Drug Trade

    Daulat Kumar Sharma and Mohammad Khushalam, both from Bihar, were arrested in Maravoor under Bajpe police station for supplying ganja and bhang to local youth. Police seized 1.189 kilograms of ganja and 219 grams of bhang. Both are in custody, with a case registered.

    Padil: Two Youths Arrested

    In Kankanady police station limits near Padil, Karthik and Mohit were intercepted while attempting to sell 800 grams of ganja. The duo has been arrested and remanded to custody, with a case filed.

    Mangaluru East: Kerala Engineering Student Held

    Pranav K V, an engineering Peak student from Malappuram, Kerala, was arrested by Mangaluru East police for supplying ganja to students and locals. Police seized 1.1 kilograms of ganja from him. He has been remanded, and a case has been registered.

    Ongoing Investigation

    Police Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy stated, “Interrogations have revealed leads on broader supply networks, including buyers linked to the arrested individuals. Dedicated teams are working across all police stations to apprehend others involved.” The operation underscores the police’s commitment to curbing the drug menace in Mangaluru.