DK Shivakumar, Siddaramaiah to meet Congress high command in Delhi, bat for cabinet berths for loyalists
Though it is not confirmed yet, some 15-20 are likely to be sworn in and veterans who were part of the Siddaramaiah cabinet are keeping their fingers crossed. BENGALURU: Chief Minister-designate DK Shivakumar and caretaker CM Siddaramaiah will be in Delhi on Monday to finalise the list of council of ministers with the Congress high command, including Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi. Though the power transition went off smoothly, the two leaders are likely to butt heads over the induction of their loyalists into the cabinet and prove their sway over the high command. They are expected to present their own list of legislators to take oath along with Shivakumar at Lok Bhavan’s glass house at 4.05 pm on Wednesday. Though it is not confirmed yet, some 15-20 are likely to be sworn in and veterans who were part of the Siddaramaiah cabinet are keeping their fingers crossed. They include Dr G Parameshwara, HK Patil, KH Muniyappa, MB Patil, Eshwar Khandre, Ramalinga Reddy, Priyank Kharge, Krishna Byre Gowda, Santhosh Lad, Zameer Ahmed Khan, K Venkatesh, Shivaraj Tangadagi and Dr HC Mahadevappa. The names of a few new faces, including AS Ponnanna, Saleem Ahmed, Speaker UT Khader, NA Haris, BK Hariprasad, TB Jayachandra, Basavaraj Rayareddy and Puttaranga are doing the rounds. “I met CM-designate Shivakumar. I interacted with him on a few issues. It was cordial … I came here to congratulate him and wish him all the best. The cabinet formation will be done after the chief minister goes, discusses with the high command and key leaders,” former law minister HK Patil told reporters after meeting Shivakumar. MB Patil, Bangarpet MLA SN Narayanaswamy, Malavalli MLA PM Narendra Swamy and former chief whip in the Assembly Ashok Pattan also met Shivakumar. After the swearing-in, a partial cabinet will be in place and the remaining vacancies are likely to be filled after the June 18 polls to four Rajya Sabha and seven MLC seats, sources said. On Sunday, scores of ministerial berth aspirants, including former ministers identified with the Siddaramaiah camp, like Santhosh Lad and Mahadevappa, met Shivakumar. First-time MLAs Basavaraj Shivaganga from Channagiri and Darshan Dhruvanarayana from Nanjangud also met their mentor. Asked who would take oath as ministers along with him on Wednesday, Shivakumar said, “I don’t know that. The party high command will decide. I will not comment on it.” Yathindra meets Shivakumar Siddaramaiah’s MLC-son Dr Yathindra, who is most likely to be sworn in as minister in the Shivakumar cabinet, called on Shivakumar at the Kumara Krupa Guest House on Sunday evening. “I am a ministerial aspirant. The high command has also assured me that I will be made a minister. I am waiting in anticipation. First, let the high command decide on inducting me as minister. I am ready to handle whichever portfolio assigned to me,” he told reporters. “I had only met Shivakumar at Vidhana Soudha and somewhere on the way. I wasn’t able to come to his office or home to congratulate him. So, I came to convey my wishes. No (major) discussions happened. Just a little talk about SIR and our Mysuru district politics,” he added. Devaraj B Hirehalli Courtesy : TNIE Note: This news is originally published on https:/thenewindianexpress.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
In another blow to Mamata Banerjee, 9 TMC councillors quit, Diamond Harbour municipal board dissolved
KOLKATA: In yet another setback for the Trinamool Congress (TMC) following its rout in the recent Bengal assembly elections, the board of Diamond Harbour municipality was dissolved on Sunday. This came after nine of the party’s councillors resigned, leading to the municipality going under administrative control. Diamond Harbour sub-divisional officer (SDO) Ayan Dattagupta has taken over as administrator of the civic body. It is the parliamentary constituency of Trinamool national general secretary Abhishek Banrejee. Eight of the nine councillors of the 16-ward municipality had sent in their resignations on May 25, while the ninth resigned on Sunday, leading to the dissolution of the board. They cited financial irregularities within the civic body, police harassment and intimidation as reasons for resigning. Administrative sources said municipal chairman Pranab Das forwarded the resignations to the state urban development and municipal affairs department, which then ordered the dissolution of the board. Courtesy : TOI Note: This news is originally published on https:/timesofindia.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Dalit Youth ‘Stripped, Assaulted and Dragged by Tractor’ in Rajasthan; Main Accused Arrested
A Dalit youth was allegedly subjected to inhuman treatment and assaulted in Rajasthan’s Jhunjhunu district, following which police arrested the main accused, officials said. The incident took place in Jhajhadiya Ki Dhani in Khinwasar village under the Gudhagaurji police station area. Police have identified the accused as Rakesh Dadiya, who was arrested after the victim filed a complaint. According to police, the victim, Pawan Meghwal, a resident of Jhajhadiya Ki Dhani, lodged an FIR alleging that he was forcibly taken away and assaulted by the accused. Victim Alleges He Was Taken to Isolated Spot and Assaulted In his complaint, Pawan said he was sitting at a local shop in the village on Monday evening around 8:30 pm when Rakesh arrived and allegedly forced him onto a tractor. The accused reportedly took him to a deserted location where he allegedly stripped him, forced him to consume alcohol, and assaulted him. “The accused took me to an isolated place, removed my clothes and beat me badly,” the victim alleged in his police complaint. Gold Chain and Cash Also Allegedly Stolen The complaint further stated that the accused allegedly snatched Pawan’s gold chain and took money from his pocket during the incident. The victim also accused the man of tying him to a tractor and dragging him, causing serious physical injuries. After the assault, Pawan somehow managed to contact his family members, who later informed the police. Police Say Accused Confessed During Questioning Taking the matter seriously, police launched an immediate operation and arrested Rakesh Dadiya from Khinwasar village. A police official said the accused was questioned after his detention and allegedly admitted involvement in the incident. “Considering the seriousness of the matter, immediate action was taken and the accused was arrested. Further investigation is ongoing,” police said. Authorities have not yet shared details about the charges filed, but the investigation into the case is continuing. Courtesy : TOP Note: This news is originally published on https:/theobserverpost.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Demand for “the greater the number, the greater the share”: Reservation, caste census, reservation in promotions, and strict laws against mob lynching; Memorandum submitted to ADM
The Bhim Army Jai Bhim organization submitted a memorandum to the Additional Magistrate on Monday regarding various demands. The organization demanded the implementation of reservation in all pillars of democracy to improve the economic and social status of Dalit, backward, minority, and tribal communities. The memorandum was led by District President Kanchan Rao. District President Kanchan Rao stated that Constitution-maker Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar had established reservation for the upliftment of the exploited, oppressed, and deprived classes, but even after 75 years of independence, the conditions of these classes have not improved as expected. He said that Dalit, backward, minority, and tribal communities have still not fully integrated into the mainstream. Demand for Reservation in Government and Private Sectors In the memorandum, the organization demanded the implementation of reservation in government and private industries based on the principle of “the greater the number, the greater the share.” Demands were also raised to restore reservation in promotions and fill all backlog vacancies. Demand for Proportional Reservation in NEET, JEE, and UPSC In the field of education, the organization demanded reservation for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, and minorities in competitive examinations like NEET, JEE, and UPSC, in proportion to their population. Furthermore, demands were made for the continuation of the “zero-balance” admission system in schools, colleges, and universities under Article 15 of the Constitution and for the full implementation of University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations. Demand for a Law to Prevent Mob Lynching The Bhim Army expressed concern over incidents of mob lynching against Dalits, Muslims, backward classes, minorities, and tribal communities. The organization demanded strict laws to prevent such incidents. The memorandum also included a demand for a CBI investigation into alleged false cases of cow slaughter and fake encounters. The organization also demanded that the cow be declared the national animal. Questions were also raised regarding the caste census and lateral entry. The organization demanded that the central and state governments conduct a caste census. They stated that this would reveal the actual population of various communities and ensure appropriate participation based on that. The organization also demanded a complete abolition of the lateral entry system into government services. Several organization officials and workers were present during the memorandum submission. Ankit Srivastava | Jaunpur Courtesy: Hindi News
Dalit family in Amla threatened with eviction from village: Family files police complaint, case under investigation
A case of harassment and expulsion of a Dalit family from the village has come to light in Daulatpur village, within the Amla police station area of Bareilly. The victim’s family has accused the miscreants of breaking into their home, vandalizing it, and threatening to kill them. A named complaint was filed at the police station on Monday, demanding legal action. In the complaint filed with the police, the victim stated that a villager owns a farm behind his house, to which he has provided access. It is alleged that the accused now wants to take advantage of his helplessness and take over the house. On the afternoon of May 26th, the accused, along with his two sons, entered the victim’s house armed with sticks and rods. They hurled casteist slurs and threw out household items. The miscreants also threatened to kill the victim’s family if they did not vacate the house within a week. The victim has appealed to the police to ensure his safety and take appropriate legal action by filing a report against the accused. Aonla Inspector Binu Singh, providing information on the matter, stated that the police are investigating the case based on the complaint received. If found guilty in the investigation, appropriate action will be taken against the individuals involved as per the law. Pradeep Kumar | Aonla Courtesy: Hindi News
‘Karnataka has never had a Dalit CM so far’: Congress leader SR Patil
BENGALURU: Senior Congress leader SR Patil said it is natural for people from the “downtrodden and marginalised communities” to hope that someone from their fold becomes the Karnataka Chief Minister. Patil noted that Karnataka has never had a Dalit Chief Minister so far. He also said that Dalit leader G Parameshwara has been given due respect. Speaking to reporters, he said, “The downtrodden people are protesting. It is quite natural for anyone to aspire to become the Chief Minister. Karnataka has never had a Dalit Chief Minister so far. Therefore, it is natural for people from the downtrodden and marginalised communities to hope that someone from their community becomes the Chief Minister and to express that aspiration through protests. I do not agree with the view that G Parameshwara has not been given importance. He is a senior leader of the Congress party and has been given due respect and an appropriate position both in the party and in the government. I am very proud of the government. The government is functioning well, and I am proud of its achievements”.. Karnataka Chief Minister-designate DK Shivakumar will meet the party high command in New Delhi on Monday to discuss cabinet berths and other key political developments, Congress sources stated. Earlier on Sunday, DK Shivakumar said that he does not know how many leaders will be inducted into his cabinet and will take oath with him on June 3. When asked if other leaders would be sworn in with him, he told reporters in Bengaluru, “I don’t know. Whatever the party high command decides will happen.” Shivakumar, after his three-year stint as the Deputy Chief Minister, is set to assume the office as the Karnataka CM. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for June 3 at Lok Bhavan in Bengaluru. DK Shivakumar formally submitted a letter to Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot informing him about his unanimous election as CLP leader. This came after the voluntary resignation of former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on May 28. The Governor dissolved the previous Council of Ministers immediately, but asked Siddaramaiah to continue until the new government is sworn in. Courtesy : Public TV English Note: This news is originally published on https:/publictvenglish.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
No SC status for Dalit Christians under existing constitutional framework, asserts BJP leader
Any claims suggesting otherwise are contrary to established legal provisions, says Devanand, accusing the YSRCP of attempting to incite Dalit Christians on the issue for political gain Individuals who have converted from Hinduism to other religions are not eligible for Scheduled Castes (SC) reservations under the existing constitutional framework, and Dalit Christians currently do not enjoy SC status in India, according to BJP State vice-president G. Devanand. The courts across the country had repeatedly clarified the legal position regarding SC reservations and the eligibility criteria prescribed under the Constitution, Mr. Devanand said in a statement on Sunday. “Any claims suggesting otherwise are contrary to established legal and constitutional provisions,” the BJP leader said. Criticising certain political parties for demanding SC status for Dalit Christians, Mr. Devanand alleged that such campaigns were misleading the public and creating unrealistic expectations among members of the community. He said it was inappropriate to encourage demands that run contrary to judicial pronouncements and constitutional provisions. The BJP leader specifically accused the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) of attempting to incite Dalit Christians on the issue for political gain. He described the use of sensitive social issues for electoral purposes as irresponsible. Mr. Devanand stressed that respecting the Constitution and the judgments delivered by courts was the responsibility of every citizen, and urged the government to take appropriate action against those who were spreading misinformation and creating misunderstandings or tensions among different sections of society. He further stated that discussions and demands concerning reservation policies should be pursued only within the framework prescribed by the Constitution and the judiciary. Calling for social harmony, Mr. Devanand appealed to the public to remain vigilant against attempts that could disturb peace and communal amity in society. G.V.R. SUBBA RAO Courtesy : The Hindu Note: This news is originally published on https:/thehindu.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
VCK panel lauds Thirumavalavan for backing TVK, hails CM Vijay for inducting 8 Dalit minister
The committee also passed a resolution expressing appreciation to Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay for appointing eight Dalit ministers to key portfolios in the State Cabinet. CHENGALPATTU: The Chengalpattu district executive committee of the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) passed a resolution congratulating party president Thol Thirumavalavan for extending support to the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) to form a government despite the party not securing a majority on its own. The committee also passed a resolution expressing appreciation to Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay for appointing eight Dalit ministers to key portfolios in the State Cabinet. The resolutions were adopted at the district executive committee meeting held at a private marriage hall near Singaperumal Koil on Saturday. The meeting, held under the direction of Thirumavalavan, was chaired by district secretary Kethu alias Thennavan. VCK headquarters secretary Thagadur Tamizhchelvan attended as a special invitee and addressed party functionaries. Another resolution urged party functionaries from the district to participate in large numbers in the VCK awards function and conference scheduled to be held in Chennai on June 14. The meeting further resolved to intensify publicity efforts for the conference through wall posters, banners and grassroots mobilisation, with a target of bringing more than 5,000 participants from the district. The district executive committee also urged the Tamil Nadu government to install a 125-foot statue of Dr BR Ambedkar in the State, similar to those established in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Courtesy : DT Next Note: This news is originally published on https:dtnext.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Telangana CM warns SIR could affect Dalits, Adivasis, and migrant workers’ voter registration
Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has raised concerns regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list, set to begin in Telangana in June 2026. He highlighted potential risks for vulnerable groups, particularly Dalits, Minorities, Adivasis, Tribals, and migrant workers, whose names might be removed during the revision process. During a Congress Political Affairs Committee meeting, the Chief Minister cautioned that the SIR could pose significant challenges for Lambada, Adivasi, and migrant workers. He said, “In several constituencies, a significant number of people have migrated elsewhere. The possibility of the omission of votes of Dalits, minorities, and women was also not ruled out in the SIR.” Conversely, Telangana BJP President N Ramchander Rao stated that the SIR has no political motives and is a routine task carried out by the Election Commission of India (ECI). Speaking to ANI, he explained that the objective of the SIR is to improve the accuracy of voter rolls by removing discrepancies, similar to exercises conducted in West Bengal and other states. He added, “Like in Bengal and other places, where the fake voters and illegal immigrants are there, they will be deleted. And what Bengal has done, or what the SIR has done, is detect, delete, and deport. So this is what a voter list has to see–whether the voter list contains the real names, whether there are any fake voters in there, whether there are any dead voters, or whether there are any transferred and shifted voters. So SIR has no political overtones in it. It is a regular exercise done by the Election Commission of India.” The Telangana Congress has called for the SIR process to be conducted with transparency. A delegation of state Congress leaders has met with the State Chief Electoral Officer, urging that the revision be carried out transparently and extended over a sufficient period, noting no major elections are scheduled in the state. On May 14, 2026, the Election Commission of India announced the Phase-III Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls across 16 States and three Union Territories, covering over 360 million electors, including Telangana. The Commission said the revision would be coordinated with the ongoing house listing component of the Census to ensure efficient use of resources. For Telangana and Punjab, the qualifying date is October 1, 2026. The schedule includes a preparation phase from June 15 to June 24, 2026; Booth Level Officer visits from June 25 to July 24, 2026; and rationalisation completed by July 24, 2026. The draft electoral roll will be published on July 31, 2026, with claims and objections open between July 31 and August 30, 2026. The notice phase and disposal will continue from July 31 to September 28, 2026, and the final roll will be published on October 1, 2026. Courtesy : TNM Note: This news is originally published on https:/thenewsmill.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights
Delhi Govt to issue Pink Saheli Smart Cards free of cost to women andtransgenders; how to get your card and which documents are required, explained
The Delhi government recently announced that the old paper Pink Tickets will be completely phased out by the end of July this year. New Delhi: There is great news for the women of Delhi. They will no longer need to stand in long queues or brave crowds to obtain their DTC bus ‘Pink Passes.’ The Delhi government is now transitioning from paper tickets to a ‘Pink Card’ system. Furthermore, starting in August, paper tickets will be completely discontinued. To ensure women do not face hardship when purchasing these Pink Cards, the Rekha Gupta-led Delhi government is set to organise special camps across most of the city’s neighbourhoods and streets. What is Pink Saheli Smart Card? The Pink Saheli Smart Card is a digital initiative launched by the Delhi government on March 2, 2026. With this card, you will no longer need to obtain paper-based pink tickets from the bus conductor repeatedly. The Pink Saheli Smart Card functions as a type of National Common Mobility Card (NCMC); you simply need to ‘tap’ it upon boarding the bus, and your free journey will be automatically registered digitally. Old Paper Tickets to be Discontinued from July If you are still relying on the old paper-based Pink Tickets for your commute, they will be discontinued from July. The Delhi government recently announced that the old paper Pink Tickets will be completely phased out by the end of July this year. Consequently, starting in August, only those possessing a Pink Saheli Smart Card will be eligible to travel for free on DTC buses. When and Where Will Special Camps Be Held? To spare women from having to stand in long queues at SDM offices or DTC depots amidst hot and humid weather, the government is organizing these special camps. Acting under the directives of Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the government—in collaboration with Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs)—will set up these camps right within your own neighbourhoods. This initiative is set to launch on Sunday in Central Delhi’s Nabi Karim area and will gradually be expanded to cover all other parts of Delhi as well. Who Is Eligible, And What Are The Criteria? The Pink Digital Smart Card scheme is designed primarily for all women and transgender citizens residing in Delhi. Any woman or girl living in Delhi who is over the age of 12 can obtain her card under this scheme free of cost. This card will not only enable free bus travel but can also be topped up with funds to be used like a standard smart card on the Delhi Metro, Namo Bharat, and other public transport services. Which Documents Are Required For The Pass? To obtain the Pink Digital Smart Card, applicants must possess and produce an Aadhaar card with a Delhi address, an active mobile number, and two passport-sized photographs. Government officials present at the camps will verify these documents, and your Digital Pink Saheli Smart Card will be issued to you on the spot. Written by: Tahir Qureshi Edited by: Tahir Qureshi Courtesy : India.com Note: This news is originally published on https:/india.com/bha and is used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes, especially human rights