Former Infosys CFO Mohandas Pai criticized the Devanahalli toll plaza near Bengaluru airport, questioning its high charges and unique placement on the main airport route. He highlighted the plaza's ₹308 crore revenue in 2023-24 and urged its removal, suggesting relocation further down Bellary Road. Pai emphasized no other Indian airport has a toll on its primary access road.
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Amid trade tensions, China signals openness to importing more Indian goods to address the growing trade deficit. Tragically, an Indian student in Canada was fatally shot, prompting investigations and condolences. In academic news, JEE Main 2025 Session 2 results were announced, highlighting both achievements and instances of unfair practices.
A bomb threat email initiated a security response at a Mumbai school. Authorities and explosive detection units examined the site. Similarly, two Tamil Nadu schools in Erode were evacuated after receiving email threats, which later proved to be hoaxes. Police and bomb squads conducted thorough searches at both locations.
The Supreme Court will hear Asaduddin Owaisi's plea on February 17, which calls for the enforcement of the 1991 Places of Worship Act. This act maintains religious site status as of August 15, 1947. Owaisi's petition followed a Supreme Court directive pausing any new or ongoing litigation aimed at reclaiming religious places until a final decision.
Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah faced strong criticism from BJP for his 16th budget, focused on Muslim community welfare. The budget included increased honorariums for Imams, significant funding for Waqf properties, and minority-focused education initiatives. BJP labeled it a 'modern Muslim League budget,' comparing it to governance in Pakistan and accusing it of undermining constitutional values.
The Supreme Court upheld the Department of Homeland Security's broad power to revoke visas, even for alleged fraud, barring judicial review. This reinforces agency discretion in immigration matters, potentially leaving petitioners vulnerable while deterring fraud. While critics raise concerns, the ruling allows petitioners to reapply or challenge future decisions if circumstances change.
A Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) outbreak in Pune, affecting 140 people, could have been contained within four days if adequate health measures were taken, according to virologist Dr T Jacob John. Key steps include prompt reporting, testing, water verification, public alerts, and disinfection of the water supply.
Eight members of the Banik family in South 24 Parganas died following a blast at their illegal fireworks factory. Two surviving family members, who ran the business, face serious charges. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause and legality of the operations. Police plan stricter regulations for firework factories to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Foreign investors are shifting their investments to Chinese equities at an unprecedented rate from India - which is a big shift in investment patterns between these two major Asian economies over the past six months. But not all is as bleak as it looks. Market experts have expressed their confidence in the long-term prospects of the Indian economy and its markets.
A controversy has erupted in Maharashtra after SP leader Abu Azmi defended Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, stating he was not cruel and built many temples. Maharashtra deputy CM Eknath Shinde condemned the statement, calling it an insult to Maharashtra's legacy and demanding an apology. He also said Azmi should be charged with treason.
The BCCI has announced the 2025 Women's Premier League schedule, with 22 matches across four cities. Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will open against Gujarat Giants on February 14. Baroda hosts the first six matches, followed by Bengaluru, then Lucknow. The final leg, including the Eliminator and Final, will be held in Mumbai on March 13 and 15 respectively.