Latest news with #Parvathi
Time of India
10-06-2025
- Time of India
ED locks Rs 100 crore properties in Muda scam, total now Rs 400 crore
MYSURU: Enforcement Directorate , which is probing the alleged Mysore urban development authority site scam, has attached 92 properties in Muda-developed layouts collectively valued at Rs 100 crore. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and family were under the scanner in the alleged scam as the CM's wife, Parvathi, had been allotted 14 sites in fashionable layouts in Mysuru in a land-swap deal for three acres and 16 guntas under the 50:50 scheme. After a controversy erupted, she returned the sites to Muda. A Lokayukta probe had cleared the CM in the alleged case. Earlier, about 160 sites, worth Rs 300 crore, had been attached, taking total value of seized land to Rs 400 crore. Karnataka govt recently renamed the urban body as Mysuru Development Authority. ED has invoked Prevention of Money-Laundering Act, 2002 to attach the properties, which effectively pre-empts any transaction on these properties in prime Mysuru city locations. The attached properties are registered in the names of institutions such as housing cooperative societies, or individuals. An ED press note claimed its probe revealed large-scale scam in the allotment of Muda sites by flouting govt orders and by fraudulent means. Muda officers allegedly illegally allotted sites to ineligible individuals & institutions, it said.
Hindustan Times
10-06-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
ED attaches 92 additional properties in MUDA case
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has attached 92 immovable Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) sites valued at ₹100 crore in connection with its money laundering probe into irregularities in land allotment by MUDA, the agency said on Tuesday. Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah and his wife BM Parvati are under the ED scanner in the case. 'ED Bengaluru Zone has provisionally attached 92 immovable properties (MUDA sites) having market value of ₹100 crore (approximately) on Monday under the provisions of the prevention of money laundering act (PMLA) in connection with the MUDA case. The attached properties are registered in the name of entities such as housing cooperative society and individuals who are front or dummy for influential persons including MUDA officials,' ED said in a statement on Tuesday. ED's probe is based on a Karnataka Lokayukta first information report (FIR), which was closed by the state's anti-corruption body in February this year saying the allegations against Siddaramaiah, his wife Parvathi M, and two others could not be substantiated due to insufficient evidence. The financial crimes probe agency has already filed a protest petition before a special court in Bengaluru. In a detailed statement on Tuesday, ED said its probe revealed a 'large-scale scam in allotment of MUDA sites by flouting various statutes and government orders or guidelines and by other fraudulent means'. Also Read: Karnataka HC issues notice to CM, his wife in Muda case 'The role of ex-MUDA commissioners including GT Dinesh Kumar has emerged as instrumental in illegal allotment of compensation sites to ineligible entities or individuals. The evidence with respect to obtaining bribe for making illegal allotments in the form of cash, bank transfer, movable/ immovable properties have been gathered during the course of the investigation. The modus operandi for making illegal allotment involved identification of ineligible beneficiaries and making allotment using fake documents or incomplete documents in direct violation of government orders and also back dating of allotment letters in some cases,' ED said. ED further said that the illegal gratification received for making these illegal allotments was routed through a co-operative society and bank accounts of the relatives or associates of the officers playing key roles in the allotment process. 'The gratification thus received was further used to purchase some of these illegally allotted MUDA sites in the name of relatives of MUDA officers,' the statement added. The financial crimes probe agency had earlier attached 160 MUDA sites having a market value of ₹300 crore. With regard to Karnataka CM, specific allegations are that a 3.16 acre land plot was gifted to Parvathi by her brother, Mallikarjuna Swamy in 2010. MUDA illegally developed the land between 2011-13, following which Parvathi, in 2014, sought compensation. In 2017, MUDA agreed to compensate her, and in 2022, she was given 14 plots. After the controversy came to light, Siddaramaiah offered to return the 14 plots if his wife was given ₹56 crore as compensation. The MUDA 50:50 scheme, announced in 2016, entailed offering 50% of the developed sites as compensation to the original land owners. The controversial scheme was scrapped in 2023. In a statement in January this year, ED had said that 'Siddaramaiah has used his political influence to get compensation of 14 sites in the name of his wife in lieu of 3 acres 16 guntas of land acquired by MUDA. The land was originally acquired by MUDA for ₹3,24,700. The compensation in the form of 14 sites at posh locality is worth ₹56 crore (approx)'.
Time of India
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Maadeva Movie Review: A Gritty Old-School Action Drama That Demands a Strong Stomach
By Susmita Sameera Vinod Prabhakar plays the titular role of Maadeva, a stoic and emotionally numb hangman. In a striking opening scene, he calmly executes a death-row inmate and then nonchalantly sits down to eat biryani at the same spot — a chilling glimpse into his hardened soul. This detachment persists throughout his daily life: he shows no concern for a pregnant woman needing a seat or a child playing nearby. Maadeva is a man who has long shut himself off from all emotion. Enter Parvathi (played by Sonal Monteiro), a compassionate and determined young woman. With her mother imprisoned, Parvathi seeks help from someone on the inside — Maadeva. Her warmth and persistence clash with Maadeva's cold indifference. The heart of the story lies in this emotional tug-of-war: Can Parvathi melt the ice around Maadeva's heart? Can this broken man learn to feel again? Or will his haunting past continue to consume him, keeping him trapped in emotional darkness? As Maadeva's journey unfolds, we dive into his backstory — personal trauma, village conflicts, and the reasons behind his emotional numbness. Alongside the central plot are several compelling subplots, including Parvathi's family struggles and the looming presence of multiple antagonists. Chief among them is Samudhra (played by Srinagar Kitty), a formidable foe — along with a surprise villain who adds an unexpected twist to the narrative. The film's biggest strength lies in its stellar cast and powerful performances. Vinod Prabhakar delivers one of his best, portraying the shades of a broken man with intense depth, reminiscent of Upendra in Anatharu. His action impresses, but it's his monstrous side that's hardest to watch. Sonal Monteiro charms as the kind-hearted village girl, offering a strong contrast. Srinagar Kitty is stylish and menacing as the villain. The most crowd-favourite moments come from OG ladies of Kannada — Shruthi in a chilling never-seen-before role, and Malashri's whistle-worthy cameo in all her glory. Achyuth Kumar and the rest of the cast fit their roles perfectly. This is an old-school action drama set in the 1980s, centred around a hangman, so viewers should be prepared for some intense and unsettling scenes. While the film delivers strong visuals, engaging music, well-placed songs, and a well-woven mix of family and romantic drama, it can't be called a full-fledged family entertainer due to a few extremely disturbing moments. That said, fans of gritty, hard-hitting action will find plenty to enjoy — especially massy dialogue moments like 'I come to kill, not to save,' which add to the film's raw appeal. If you're comfortable with a bit of gore and love old classic-style action dramas, this one is worth a watch.
India.com
17-05-2025
- India.com
Top 7 Must-Visit Places In Visakhapatnam This Summer
Visakhapatnam, popularly called Vizag with love is a cozy coastal city that lies on the eastern seaboard of India. The place is bestowed with scenic beaches, lush greenery and rich cultural heritage making it an ideal destination for summer vacationers who seek a laid-back sojourn or thrilling escapades. Whether you are a nature lover, history aficionado or you just want to go somewhere quiet and peaceful, Visakhapatnam caters to everyone's desires. Here we provide you with some of the best places to visit during summer in Vishakapatnam: 1. Rushikonda Beach Rushikonda Beach located just 8 kms away from the heart of Visakhapatnam city enjoys its reputation as one of the best beaches in town. It has sun-kissed sands and crystal clear blue waters which make it attractive for sunbathing, swimming or even wind surfing and jet skiing over water at this beach. Additionally surrounded by lush green hills these also offer awe-inspiring views and possibilities for trekking adventures. 2. Kailasagiri Hill Park Kailasagiri Hill Park will give you panoramic views of the City and Bay of Bengal too. This picturesque park situated on top of hill comprises manicured gardens, exciting rope-way rides as well as massive statues of Lord Shiva together with Goddess Parvathi. With favourable climatic conditions such as cool breeze visitors can relax here while having picnics with friends and family members. 3. Araku Valley Araku valley is situated about 114 km far away from Visakhapatnam city where one may enjoy refreshing temperatures away from extreme heat associated with summers elsewhere . It is known for its abundant coffee plantations, stunning waterfalls along with tribal culture that tourist could take advantage off during their visit here by riding on Araku Valley Railway which is an exciting train journey, hiking in Anantagiri Hills or visiting tribal museum to learn about local traditions and customs. 4. Simhachalam Temple Lord Narasimha temple commonly known as Simhachalam Temple is a fine example of architectural genius and religious tolerance located at the top of a hill 16 km away from Visakhapatnam. The ancient shrine has intricate carvings and stone pieces that make it so outstanding among other shrines around and in addition to these, there are quiet surroundings with nature sound. Chandanotsavam is an annual festival held here during April-May months, which attracts devotees not only from across the city but also from far off areas. 5. Borra Caves Another underground attraction called Borra caves situated amidst the Anantagiri hills approximately 90 kilometers away from Visakhapatnam serves as the major source of tourist attraction . The caverns are millions year old limestone formations abounding with splendid stalactite action leading to this area being deemed as enchanting landscape while walking through lighted walkways tourists can view natural configurations created by water over time including various geological wonders. 6. Indira Gandhi Zoological Park For family day out choose Indira Gandhi Zoological Park where you will be able to see wide ranges of plant life along with animals variety found here ? This zoo covers an area of 625 acres comprising Bengal tigers, Asiatic lions, Indian elephants and other animals. Moreover other entertainment options include toy train rides on children's park facilities for bird watching within premises itself along pathways made inside greenery. 7. Submarine Museum Ramakrishna Beach Road in Vishakhapatnam houses INS Kursura Submarine Museum which tells story about India's naval history across times . It is situated within a retired submarine that was used by navy personnel hence one can expect artifacts related to military service and interactive displays giving an insight into what life it takes for a person living in these submarine. This is a place to see if you are interested in history or would like to learn about how submarines operate during war time. Conclusion The city of Visakhapatnam combines natural beauty, cultural heritage and modern facilities making it one of the best summer holiday destination in India. The town has everything one could want; adventure, relaxation or spiritual awakening among others. Therefore pack your suitcase, get out into the sun and travel in style to Vizag this summer!
The Hindu
14-05-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
Turbulent, but afloat
The Congress government in Karnataka is all set to mark its second anniversary on March 20 with a mega event in Hosapete in north Karnataka. It has been an eventful two years for the man in the hot seat. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has adroitly managed the State's economy, including the cost of funding the Congress' five 'guarantees'; handled the social welfare agenda; and met developmental and infrastructural needs even if this has meant raising the prices of fuel and liquor to mop up additional resources. His government has rolled out programmes and increased allowances to several segments of society. It has spent close to ₹80,000 crore on the five 'guarantees', including free bus rides for women. It has also successfully conducted a Global Investors' Meet this year and exceeded its target by netting ₹10 lakh crore worth of investments. But the Chief Minister has also weathered many a political storm, including attempts to usurp his post, factionalism in the Congress, alleged scams, and the combined onslaught of the Bharatiya Janata Party and Janata Dal (Secular). His series of troubles began with the alleged multi-crore scam in the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation, which is still under investigation by the Enforcement Directorate. This was followed by the alleged illegal allotment of 14 sites (now surrendered) by the Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) to his wife Parvathi; political tensions over the State Backward Classes Commission's Socio-Economic and Educational Survey; and the problem of factionalism. On many occasions, Karnataka also faced social tensions, but the government handled these situations firmly and thwarted attempts to foment caste and communal strife. After its relentless campaign in the 2023 Assembly elections regarding the '40% commission' corruption charges against the previous BJP government, the Congress, ironically, now finds itself tainted in the same manner and seemingly unable to leap ahead on the developmental front. The government set up a judicial inquiry commission to probe the alleged commission in awarding public contracts during the BJP government's tenure. But so far, no conclusive evidence has been found barring some serious lapses and irregularities in COVID-19 management. Meanwhile, the government has also been on a collision course with Raj Bhavan and the Narendra Modi-led Union government. It strongly protested against Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot for sanctioning the prosecution of Mr. Siddaramaiah in the MUDA land issue, even while he has not sanctioned prosecution of JD(S) leader and Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy despite repeated requests by the Karnataka Lokayukta. The government also faulted the Governor for withholding Bills passed by the State legislature and for reserving for the President's assent its Bill providing a 4% quota for Muslims (under the Other Backward Classes quota) in public contract works. The Congress dispensation has also often attacked the Modi regime for denying fair share in the devolution of taxes to Karnataka, cutting grants under the 15th Finance Commission, and delaying clearances for long-pending irrigation projects. The government has waded through several law and order issues too. In 2024, a bomb exploded in a café in Bengaluru. The same year, a student, Neha Hiremath, in Hubballi, was stabbed to death; recently, a Hindutva activist, Suhas Shetty, in Mangaluru, was murdered. A few borrowers who were unable to repay loans taken from unregistered microfinance institutions died by suicide. The State Police have also allegedly misused privileges in the gold smuggling case involving actor Ranya Rao. Amid speculation over a possible leadership change, the factions loyal to Mr. Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar have been involved in shadow fighting in a bid to undermine each other for the last two years. Ultimately, the intervention of All India Congress Committee chief Mallikarjuna Kharge forced the warring factions to calm down, at least for the time being. With India and Pakistan agreeing to a ceasefire, the government has decided to go ahead with its 'Sadhana Samavesha (achievements rally)' on May 20. But going forward, it certainly needs more peace between its factions.
