Uteruses of 2,200 women in Kalaburagi removed in major racket
What's the story
2,200 women of the Lambani and Dalit communities in Kalaburagi have had their uteruses removed in a major racket. Hysterectomies were needlessly performed on them. Social workers were also incentivised if they brought in patients for surgeries. The racket was busted in 2015 and four hospitals soon lost their licences, but they continue to operate till now. Check out more updates from the region.
Environment
BBMP to buy compost waste from citizens
The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is considering a scheme wherein citizens can sell their compost to the civic body. It plans to establish collection centres in all wards. The manure bought from the citizens will be used in the 1,300 parks around the city. "The investment is of just Rs.900 for three buckets and coco peat," said BBMP Commissioner Manjunath Prasad.
Startups
Bangalore maintains lead as a startup capital
In the last two years, 4,000 startups in Karnataka received investments of about $1 billion, maintaining its lead as one of startup capitals of the world. Governor Vajubhai R. Vala attributed this track record to "the state's vibrant startup policy". With an annual growth rate of 10-12%, Karnataka continues to lead in IT and biotechnology sectors in India.
Education
College teachers under the scanner of education department
The Department of Higher Education has asked all colleges to send for assessment one-hour videos of their faculty's teaching session by February 15. The department has also asked government college principals to discuss dress code for teachers with students. A uniform dress code with an ID badge has been suggested. Most are shocked by this "outrageous" proposal and allege violation of rights as teachers.
Yelahanka
Man nabbed from prohibited area of Yelahanka Air Force Station
24-year-old Mamnoon from Bulandshahr, UP, was detained after he was found suspiciously around the Air Force Station Yelahanka, while calling someone in Saudi Arabia. He was one of the labourers allowed to work inside. Photos of the restricted areas of the airbase and nine SIM cards have been recovered from him. The case has been referred to the Central Crime Branch.
Foreign students
Home Minister G. Parameshwara warns colleges against overstaying foreign students
Home Minister G. Parameshwara instructed educational institutions to stay aware of overstaying foreign students, saying colleges would be held responsible in case of misdeeds. Officials have been asked to identify overstaying foreign nationals. Meanwhile, DG-IGP Roopak Kumar Dutta said, "For years, we have been disciplining girls. The time has come to tell the boys in the house to cleanse their mind."
Mass molestation
Panel blames Bengaluru Police for New Year's Eve mass molestation
Panellists at a gender sensitisation seminar of the Bengaluru Police blamed cops for mishandling the molestation incidents on New Year's Eve. Women feel their identity will be better protected by media than police, said a panelist. Ironically, the coordinators of their own women and children helpline services were left out during planning of the seminar. Panellists included Priyanka Londhe, Juthika Banerjee and Brinda Adige.