1. As the Legislature session enters third day, stage is set for re-introduction of the Karnataka Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Bill (better-known as anti-conversion bill) to replace the ordinance that is in force. This was cleared in the Cabinet on Wednesday, paving the way for its tabling anytime in the course of the ongoing session. The bill, which was earlier passed in the Assembly, was not tabled in the Council where the ruling BJP earlier lacked a majority.
2. A heated debate is on in the Legislature session on flooding in Bengaluru and the demolition drive undertaken since to bring down buildings that have come up encroaching lake beds and storm water drains. Meanwhile, the drive continues today, even as residents of the area are alleging that all are not equal in the drive and the powerful are being spared.
3. Today is the birth anniversary of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, the visionary engineer and bureaucrat who is credited with envisioning many big projects during the rule of the Mysuru kings whom he served as a diwan. The Institution of Engineers, Karnataka State Centre, Bengaluru, is organising 55th Engineers’ Day as part of it on the IE premises, on Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Veedhi, from 5 p.m. onwards. Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry is organising Founder's Day celebration and Sir M.V. Memorial award presentation. Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai will participate in the event as chief guest and will deliver a memorial address. FKCCI will confer Sir M. Visvesvaraya award on Dr. M.R. Jaishankar, Chairman and Managing Director of Brigade Enterprises.
