A tragic incident unfolded in Kelagere village, Channapatna taluk, where a 40-year-old employee of the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (BESCOM) reportedly died by suicide after being targeted by a cyber fraudster impersonating a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officer. The victim, identified as Kumar, succumbed to the psychological distress caused by relentless extortion, highlighting the severe implications of digital fraud.

According to police reports, Kumar took his own life by hanging from a tree near his village on July 17, 2023. His suicide note revealed the torment he faced, detailing the threats made by an individual who claimed to be Vikram Goswami, a supposed CBI officer. The fraudulent caller alleged that an arrest warrant had been issued against Kumar, which left him in a state of fear and panic.

The harassment began with an initial demand for Rs 1.95 lac, which Kumar transferred to the fraudster’s account. Over the following days, the intimidation escalated, resulting in a total of Rs 11 lac being extorted from him through multiple transactions. The distressing note contained mobile numbers associated with the fraudsters, and Kumar expressed his anguish, stating, “I am ending my life due to harassment and ill health.” He urged authorities to take his situation seriously and warned that others could become victims of similar scams if the criminals were not apprehended.

Investigation Underway

The MK Doddi Police have initiated an investigation based on the contents of the suicide note. Authorities are currently working to unlock Kumar’s mobile phone, aiming to collect more evidence and verify the details of the financial transactions. Police sources confirmed that they are tracing the mobile numbers and bank accounts mentioned in the note to identify the fraudsters involved.

Kumar’s family and local residents are calling for stringent action against those responsible for this tragic event. They have raised significant concerns regarding the rising trend of cybercrime, particularly digital extortion, which creates a dangerous environment for unsuspecting individuals.

This devastating incident underscores the urgent need for increased awareness about online scams and the profound psychological impact such harassment can have on victims. As the investigation continues, community members hope it will lead to greater vigilance and preventive measures against cyber fraud in the future.

The Tamil Nadu state archaeology department has made significant strides in uncovering the history of the ancient Tamil civilization at the excavation site of Keeladi. Since taking over excavations from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in 2018, the department has obtained 29 radiocarbon dates from the US laboratory Beta Analytics. These dates, ranging from 580 BCE to 200 CE, confirm that Keeladi was contemporaneous with the urbanization of the Gangetic plains, linking it to India’s second wave of urbanization that began in the 6th century BCE.

Insights from Excavation

Archaeologists have meticulously examined a variety of artifacts to understand how people lived along the banks of the Vaigai River approximately 2,500 years ago. The findings include residue in bowls and potsherds, as well as skulls and bone fragments. Additionally, the discovery of fossilized algae in terracotta pipes and ring wells has provided further insights into the daily lives of these ancient communities.

These excavations not only highlight the advanced nature of this early civilization but also suggest the presence of complex societal structures and trade activities. The evidence collected from Keeladi indicates that the inhabitants engaged in agricultural practices and had sophisticated methods of water management, which would have been crucial for sustaining their way of life.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The historical context of Keeladi sheds light on the broader narrative of ancient Indian history, particularly the evolution of urban centers in the region. The site’s findings have the potential to reshape the understanding of ancient Tamil culture, which has often been overshadowed by narratives centered on other historical regions.

According to experts, the artifacts and radiocarbon dating reveal that Tamil Nadu was a vibrant hub of activity and culture long before many other regions in India. This challenges existing historical timelines and emphasizes the importance of further archaeological research in uncovering the complexities of early Tamil civilization.

The ongoing efforts at Keeladi underscore the significance of archaeology in piecing together the past. As excavations continue, the Tamil Nadu state archaeology department aims to preserve and promote the historical heritage of the area, fostering a deeper appreciation for the region’s ancient roots.

With these developments, Keeladi stands as a testament to the rich history of the Tamil people and serves as an important site for both scholars and enthusiasts eager to learn more about India’s ancient civilizations.

The State Bank of India (SBI) has set the floor price for its upcoming Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP) at ₹811.05 per share. This decision comes as the bank prepares to raise funds through the issuance of new equity shares aimed at bolstering its capital base.

The floor price reflects a discount of nearly 2.5% from the current market price of SBI shares. This pricing strategy is designed to attract institutional investors while ensuring that the bank can effectively tap into the capital markets amid ongoing economic challenges.

Financial Context and Implications

SBI’s move to establish this floor price is significant in the context of the Indian banking sector, which has faced various pressures over the past year. The QIP is expected to enhance the bank’s capital adequacy ratio, allowing it to better support its lending activities and meet regulatory requirements.

Investors are likely to view this QIP as a strategic opportunity, particularly given the bank’s strong performance metrics and its role as a leading financial institution in India. The funds raised through this initiative will be pivotal in financing growth initiatives and expanding SBI’s market presence.

Market Reactions and Future Prospects

Market analysts are closely monitoring SBI’s QIP, as the response from institutional investors could set the tone for future capital raising efforts within the sector. The bank’s decision to offer shares at a discounted rate may incentivize participation, ultimately benefiting its long-term financial health.

As of October 2023, SBI continues to be a key player in the Indian banking landscape, and this latest financial maneuver illustrates its commitment to maintaining a robust capital structure. By positioning itself strategically within the market, SBI aims to navigate the complexities of the financial environment while delivering value to its shareholders.

In summary, the establishment of a floor price at ₹811.05 per share is a calculated step for SBI, reflecting both its growth ambitions and the current market conditions. Investors and analysts alike will be watching closely as the QIP unfolds, anticipating its impact on the bank’s trajectory in the coming months.

The Government of India has appointed Puneet Kumar Goel as the new Chief Secretary of Manipur, effective July 16, 2025. This decision was announced through an order issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Goel, an officer from the 1991 batch of the AGMUT cadre, replaces Prashant Kumar Singh, who is from the 1993 batch of the Manipur cadre.

Singh has been reassigned as the Secretary of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes. He previously took up the role of Chief Secretary of Manipur in January 2025, a position that demands significant administrative expertise and leadership within the state.

Background of the New Chief Secretary

Puneet Kumar Goel brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served in various capacities across different regions. His extensive background in administration is expected to enhance the governance structure in Manipur. The Chief Secretary plays a pivotal role in coordinating the activities of the state government and ensuring effective implementation of policies, making Goel’s experience particularly relevant in this context.

The appointment of Goel comes at a critical time for Manipur, which has been navigating various socio-economic challenges. With effective leadership, the government hopes to address pressing issues and foster development in the region.

Implications of Leadership Changes

The transition from Singh to Goel signifies a strategic move by the central government to bolster administrative efficiency in Manipur. Leadership changes at such levels often reflect broader governmental priorities and the need for fresh perspectives on state management.

Officials and stakeholders in Manipur will be observing how Goel’s approach influences governance and policy implementation. His success in this role will likely depend on his ability to engage with local leaders and address the unique challenges faced by the state.

The new appointment highlights the dynamic nature of administrative roles in India and the central government’s ongoing efforts to ensure effective governance across various regions.