Important News - 2025-05-19
19 May 2025
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Defence (3)
Bandi Sanjay Highlights Success of Operation Sindoor During Tiranga Rally
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar led a 'Tiranga Rally' from Geetha Bhavan Junction to Ramnagar Junction in Karim Nagar on Monday evening. During the rally, he emphasized that India is always prepared to eliminate terrorists whenever the nation is under threat. He highlighted the success of 'Operation Sindoor,' a military operation that showcased the strength and valour of the Indian armed forces. The operation involved precision strikes on terrorist camps inside Pakistani territory, resulting in the elimination of nearly 100 terrorists. The operation lasted for 23 minutes and was a response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack, which he condemned as a stain on humanity. The rally saw participation from BJP cadres and people from various walks of life, all expressing solidarity with the armed forces.
Indian Army Thwarts Pakistan’s Drone and Missile Attacks on Golden Temple in Amritsar
On May 19, 2025, the Indian Army revealed that Pakistan had attempted to target the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) in Amritsar, Punjab, using drones and missiles. The attacks, which occurred on the night of May 7-8, were successfully intercepted and neutralized by the Indian Army's air defence systems, including the indigenous Akash missiles and L-70 air defence guns. Major General Kartik C. Seshadri, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 15 Infantry Division, stated that the Indian Army acted in a calibrated and measured manner, ensuring no collateral damage. He also accused Pakistan of using terrorism as a national policy and targeting not only military installations but also civilian population centers and religious sites. The Golden Temple, a sacred place for Sikhs and a symbol of faith for many, was specifically targeted, but the Indian Army's air defence gunners successfully thwarted the attacks. Major General Seshadri emphasized that the Indian armed forces would continue to counter all such threats effectively.
Politics (4)
BJP Criticizes Congress Government's 'Sadhana Samavesha' Amid Stalled Development in Karnataka
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has raised concerns over the Congress government in Karnataka organizing the 'Sadhana Samavesha' event to mark its second anniversary, claiming that development in the state has stalled. BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra criticized the event, stating that no significant development projects, schemes for farmers, or employment opportunities for youth have been introduced under the current administration. He also accused the Congress government of failing to deliver on its promises, calling the event a 'progress meet for zero progress.' Additionally, BJP released a poster titled 'Karnataka looti – Congress duty,' alleging that the government has increased taxes and engaged in corruption while halting development. Opposition Chief Whip in the Legislative Council N. Ravikumar also highlighted the irony of Bengaluru facing severe flooding on the eve of the event, pointing to the city's poor infrastructure under the Congress regime.
Congress Government in Karnataka Completes Two Years Amid Challenges
The Congress government in Karnataka has completed two years in power under Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's leadership. During this period, the government has focused on implementing social welfare schemes while facing numerous controversies. To mark the occasion, a 'Sadhana Samavesha' (achievement rally) will be held on May 20 in Hosapete, Vijayanagara district, highlighting the government's focus on its five guarantee schemes, which have cost approximately INR 80,000 crore. Siddaramaiah, who presented the state's 16th budget in March 2025, has also completed seven years as Chief Minister, aiming to surpass the record of D. Devaraj Urs. The government has faced criticism for its handling of issues such as price hikes and corruption, with the opposition BJP and JD(S) accusing the Congress of mismanagement. Despite these challenges, the Congress has managed to increase its Lok Sabha seats in the state from one in 2019 to nine in 2024.
BJP Leader Demands Vigilance Probe into Tirumala Tulabharam Scam During YSRCP Rule
BJP State spokesperson and TTD Trust Board member G. Bhanuprakash Reddy has called for a vigilance investigation into the alleged ‘Tulabharam scam’ at the Tirumala temple during the YSR Congress Party government's tenure (2019-2024). Reddy filed a formal complaint with the Director-General of Police (Vigilance and Enforcement) and the Superintendent of Police (V&E) in Tirupati on Monday. Tulabharam is a traditional practice where devotees offer donations equivalent to their weight in items like bananas, rice, jaggery, or coins to Lord Venkateswara. Reddy alleged that the donations collected during this period were misappropriated, with contract employees diverting funds for personal use instead of depositing them into the TTD exchequer. He claimed that only smaller amounts were deposited to avoid suspicion, and the remaining funds were siphoned off. Reddy also pointed out that despite the NDA government’s initiation of vigilance probes into other irregularities after coming to power in 2024, the Tulabharam case was overlooked. He accused influential individuals of being involved, as complaints from devotees during the previous government were ignored.
Harish Rao Criticizes Chief Minister for Unfulfilled Promises and Nallamala Declaration
Senior leader of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) and former minister T. Harish Rao has criticized Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy for announcing the Nallamala Declaration without implementing previous promises. Rao highlighted the incomplete and uncertain implementation of the Rythu Declaration and BC Declaration, which were made before the assembly elections. He accused the Congress government of making announcements with fanfare but lacking sincere efforts to follow through. Rao also pointed out the partial implementation of farm loan waivers, delays in paddy procurement, and the denial of investment support. Additionally, he raised concerns about the treatment of the Chenchu tribe during the Chief Minister's event, questioning the government's commitment to social justice. Rao emphasized the unmet promises, including the Mahalaxmi scheme, Kalyan Lakshmi support, and the Vidya Bharosa card, among others. He also mentioned the pending issues of dearness allowance, pay revision, and pension for state government employees.
Schemes (1)
A.P. Government Focuses on Awareness and Treatment for Genetic Blood Disorders
Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Y. Satya Kumar Yadav emphasized the need for greater public awareness about genetic blood disorders like thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, and hemophilia, which require lifelong medication. Speaking at a two-day training program on 'Advance Modalities in Diagnosis and Treatment in Blood Disorders,' organized by the National Health Mission Blood Cell and Hemophilia Society in Vijayawada, he highlighted the importance of early detection for timely treatment and reduced complications. The Minister noted that Andhra Pradesh has 1,900 hemophilia patients and around 2,100 each for thalassemia and sickle cell anemia. The state government provides free treatment and medicines through five Integrated Centres for Hemoglobinopathy and Hemophilia (ICHH), along with a ₹10,000 pension for patients. Efforts are also underway to reduce the cost of injections for hemophilia patients. Additionally, sickle cell anemia screening in tribal areas has covered over 10 lakh people out of 19 lakh, identifying 2,100 cases and 19,000 carriers. The Minister urged health staff to expedite the screening process and ensure continuous monitoring of patients to prevent complications. The training program aimed to enhance awareness among health professionals about these disorders.
World Affairs (1)
Oriental Orthodox Churches Mediate in Malankara Church Dispute
Efforts to resolve a long-standing dispute within the Malankara Church have gained momentum with the involvement of three Oriental Orthodox Churches. The 15th meeting of the heads of these churches, held at St. Bishoy’s Monastery in Wadi El Natrun, Egypt, saw the participation of key religious leaders, including Catholicos Baselios Joseph of the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church and Baselios Mar Thoma Mathews III of the Malankara Orthodox Church. The meeting, led by Pope Tawadros II of the Coptic Orthodox Church and Catholicos Aram I of the Armenian Orthodox Church, aimed to facilitate peace negotiations. The leaders issued a common declaration expressing solidarity and support for the decisions made by the Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch. However, the Orthodox Church raised concerns about the legitimacy of the meeting, emphasizing the need for broader representation from all Oriental Orthodox Churches. The Jacobite faction welcomed the initiative, urging an open-minded approach to the dialogue. The Oriental Orthodox Churches, which reject the decisions of the Council of Chalcedon, recognize only the first three ecumenical councils, while the Eastern Orthodox Churches acknowledge seven. The Armenian Apostolic Church is divided into two Catholicosates, based in Etchmiadzin and Antelias, respectively.
Miscellaneous (3)
Man Bites Off Woman’s Finger in ₹30,000 Chit Fund Dispute in Madhura Nagar
A violent incident occurred in Madhura Nagar on Monday, where a 45-year-old woman, Latha, had her right index finger bitten off by B. Hemanth, a 26-year-old sales executive, during a dispute over a ₹30,000 chit fund repayment. Hemanth, accompanied by his wife Mamatha, had visited their former landlord Sujitha to demand the repayment. Mamatha had previously managed chit fund schemes when the couple resided in Jubilee Hills. The argument escalated when Sujitha questioned the demand, leading to the physical altercation. Latha, who intervened, sustained severe injuries, and the severed finger could not be reattached due to her weak condition. The Madhura Nagar police have registered a case based on Sujitha’s complaint.
Man Arrested for Murder of Woman Offering Job Assistance in Medchal
A 24-year-old man, Katiike Rakesh, was arrested for the murder of Dasari Lalitha, a woman who had offered to help him find a job. The incident occurred in Athvelly village, Medchal, on May 16, 2023. Lalitha’s body was found mutilated and partially burnt in her rented residence. Rakesh, a labourer from Saidabad, Dilsukhnagar, and native of Kamareddy, had previously attempted theft at a local milk shop. Lalitha, who worked at a wine shop in Kistapur, invited Rakesh and his mother to her home on May 15, offering to assist Rakesh in finding employment. During the meeting, Rakesh noticed Lalitha’s jewellery and planned to rob her. After consuming toddy, Rakesh’s mother left, while he stayed with Lalitha. When Lalitha fell asleep, Rakesh attempted to steal her ornaments. Upon resistance, he slit her throat with a kitchen knife, mutilated her body, and set it on fire before fleeing with the stolen items. Police identified and arrested Rakesh based on technical evidence and CCTV footage near the crime scene. They seized five grams of gold jewellery, 60 grams of silver ornaments, ₹3,500 in cash, a mobile phone, and the room key from him. Further investigation is ongoing.
Vijayawada Municipal Corporation Conducts Mock Drill to Enhance Fire Safety Awareness
Following the tragic fire incident at Gulzar Houz in Hyderabad on May 18, which claimed 17 lives, the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC) conducted a mock drill on May 19 to educate its staff on fire safety measures. The drill aimed to enhance awareness about fire prevention, evacuation procedures, and emergency response techniques. Vijayawada Mayor Rayana Bhagyalakshmi emphasized the importance of preparedness at workplaces and homes, while VMC Commissioner H.M. Dhyanachandra highlighted the need for staff to be well-informed about fire safety and share this knowledge with their families and the public. During the drill, fire personnel demonstrated critical actions such as responding to fire alarms, evacuating buildings, managing smoke-filled areas, and using ladders and ropes for rescue operations. Practical tips for home safety, such as using wet towels to cover leaking gas cylinders and extinguishing small kitchen fires with flour or lids, were also shared. The event saw participation from VMC staff, district officials, and corporators.
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