Karnataka Cabinet Expansion: Shivakumar Warned Against Lobbying
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has been instructed not to entertain any lobbying for the upcoming cabinet expansion, according to sources. The directive comes amid intense jockeying for ministerial berths within the ruling Congress party. Shivakumar, who also serves as the state Congress president, is expected to play a key role in finalizing the new faces in the cabinet.
The expansion aims to fill vacancies and accommodate allies, with the party high command keen on maintaining regional and caste balance. Shivakumar has been asked to ensure transparency and merit-based selection, discouraging any backdoor dealings. The final list is likely to be submitted to the Chief Minister and the party leadership soon.
Lucknow Fire: Smoke Inhalation Primary Cause of 15 Deaths
In a tragic incident in Lucknow, 15 people lost their lives in a fire that broke out in a commercial building late Tuesday night. Officials confirmed that smoke inhalation was the primary cause of death, not burn injuries. The fire, which started on the ground floor of a multi-story building, trapped many occupants on upper floors. Rescue operations were hampered by narrow lanes and overcrowding.
“The victims succumbed to toxic smoke before flames reached them,” said a senior fire department official. The building lacked adequate fire safety measures, including emergency exits and smoke detectors. Authorities have ordered a probe into the incident and vowed strict action against those responsible for safety lapses.
Other Top Stories
In national news, the monsoon session of Parliament is set to begin next week, with key bills on data protection and electoral reforms expected to be tabled. Meanwhile, the Indian rupee weakened against the US dollar amid global economic uncertainties. In sports, the Indian cricket team prepared for the upcoming Test series against Australia with a training camp in Bengaluru.
