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VASAN EYE CARE SHIMOGA TO LAUNCH ADVANCED CATARACT & RETINA SURGERY FACILITIES

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Vasan Eye Care Shimoga to Unveil Advanced Cataract & Retina Surgery Technology

Shimoga, Karnataka: Vasan Eye Care Hospital, Shimoga, is set to inaugurate its newly enhanced surgical facilities, introducing state-of-the-art technology for cataract and retina treatments. The upgrade includes the installation of a high-end Phaco machine and an ultra-modern surgical microscope, aiming to provide superior eye care services at affordable costs for the people of Shimoga district.

Addressing Growing Eye Health Concerns
Karnataka has been witnessing a significant rise in refractive errors among schoolchildren, particularly myopia, with over 1.73 lakh cases identified. Experts link this increase to excessive use of mobile phones and television screens, raising serious concerns about children’s eye health.

Dispelling Myths About Cataracts
Public misconceptions about cataracts remain widespread. Many believe the condition affects only the elderly, when in fact it can develop at any age—including in children. Another common myth is that cataracts can be cured through diet, exercise, or eye drops; however, surgical removal of the clouded lens remains the only proven treatment. Cataracts in younger individuals may result from diabetes, steroid use, trauma, or congenital factors. Modern cataract surgery is a simple, common procedure with a high success rate, contrary to the belief that it is dangerous or painful.

Eye Diseases and Treatment Options
Apart from cataracts, eye disorders such as myopia, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, and ocular cancers are prevalent. Treatments include spectacles, contact lenses, medication, laser therapy, and surgery. Preventive lifestyle measures—such as a balanced diet, protective eyewear, and quitting smoking—can significantly reduce risks.

Celebrating Over a Decade of Service
Since 2012, Vasan Eye Care Shimoga has been delivering high-quality eye care to the region. The new technology will further enhance its capabilities in treating cataract and retina conditions.

Inauguration on August 15
The enhanced facility will be inaugurated on August 15 at 11 a.m. by Shri B.Y. Raghavendra, Member of Parliament, Shimoga. Distinguished guests expected to attend include former Deputy Chief Minister Shri K.S. Eshwarappa, MLAs Shri Channabasappa S.N. and Mrs. Sharada Poorya Naik, former Deputy Mayor Mrs. Vijayalakshmi C. Patel, MLCs Shri Arun D.S. and Dr. Dhananjaya Sarji R., district president Shri Sundaresh H.S., and Kannada film actor & chartered accountant Shri Adarsha K.G.

Expert Team at Vasan Eye Care Shimoga
The hospital’s medical team comprises Dr. Prasanna Kumar R. (Chief Medical Officer, Phaco & Glaucoma Surgeon), Dr. Gunashree K.N. (Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon), Dr. Rashmi H.G., and Dr. Shruthi Bidari (General Ophthalmologists), who together ensure comprehensive and world-class eye treatment for patients.

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Experts, Activists Push for Mercury-Free Medical Devices to Protect Health and Environment

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Bengaluru, Aug. 12, 2025 – Health experts, environmentalists, and consumer rights advocates have renewed calls to phase out mercury-based thermometers and blood pressure monitors in India, warning of severe risks to human health and the environment.

The appeal came at a panel discussion hosted by Consumer VOICE and the Foundation for Sustainable Health India (FSHI) at Christ (Deemed to be University), focusing on mercury’s toxic impact, particularly on children, pregnant women, and nursing mothers.

Mercury devices, safe only when intact, release harmful vapours if broken or discarded carelessly—contaminating air, water, and soil, and entering the food chain. Dr. Dennis Xavier of St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences cited the Kodaikanal mercury contamination case to highlight the dangers and the need for safe disposal.

Under the Minamata Convention on Mercury, India is working with WHO to eliminate mercury devices, replacing them with digital or aneroid alternatives. The WHO lists mercury among the top 10 chemicals of major health concern, with even small exposures capable of damaging the nervous, digestive, and immune systems.

Speakers including Dr. Anil Joseph Pinto CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Dr. Lalitha (M.S. Ramaiah Medical College), Dr. V. Nagappa (former Karnataka State Pollution Control Board) and Dr. Anitha Varghese, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), stressed public awareness, strict waste management, and a rapid switch to safer devices.

Environmental activist Akshay Heblikar and Nilanjana Bose of Consumer VOICE urged households to adopt affordable mercury-free products, a transition already embraced by the healthcare sector.

“Every family’s choice to go mercury-free is a step towards protecting both health and the planet,” said S.J. Chander, CEO of FSHI.

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Major Waqf Property Fraud Unearthed in Bengaluru — Fake Deed, Illegal Khata and Trustee Inaction Alleged

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Bengaluru: A major case of Waqf property fraud has come to light in the city, involving allegations of illegal encroachment, forged documentation, and collusion between the President of Ayesha Amina Trust, certain Trustees, and BBMP officials.

Addressing a press conference at the Press Club of Bangalore today, Dr. Yaseen Shariff, a family member of Late Haji Nabi Shariff, accused Trust President Ahmed Shariff of illegally occupying 525 sq. ft. of Waqf land located at No. 5, Sadar Patrappa Road, O.T.C. Road Cross, Bengaluru – 560002.

According to Dr. Yaseen, the land was lawfully purchased by the Ayesha Amina Trust under a registered sale deed dated October 5, 1972, and has remained in the Trust’s possession for over five decades. It is also officially recorded as Waqf property with the Karnataka Board of Waqf (Reg. No. KTW/Reg/07/BNU/1982-83). In 2004, BBMP approved a building plan for a hostel on the site, and taxes for the property have been paid regularly.

Fraudulent Deed and Illegal Construction
In March 2023, Ahmed Shariff allegedly fabricated a “Deed of Declaration” claiming part of the land belonged to his late father, Haji Nabi Shariff, despite no legal record supporting such ownership. Using this document, he reportedly secured a fake BBMP Khata (No. 5/1) — which did not exist previously — and constructed six shops without BBMP approval.

Subsequently, on May 23, 2023, he executed six separate registered gift deeds transferring the shops to his wife and daughters. Later, on June 20, 2025, the entire block of shops and land was sold to Mr. Jaishankar through a registered sale deed — a transaction void under the Waqf Act, which prohibits sale, gift, or transfer of Waqf properties.

Alleged Collusion and Trustee Silence
Dr. Yaseen alleged that the Secretary and Trustees of the Ayesha Amina Trust failed to raise objections or initiate legal action, effectively enabling the encroachment. He also accused BBMP officials of facilitating the fraudulent Khata transfer and accepting property tax payments under false claims.

Demands for Action
Citing Section 52A of the Waqf Act, which makes unauthorised sale, gift, or transfer of Waqf properties a cognisable and non-bailable offence, Dr. Yaseen called for:

1. Immediate cancellation of Khata No. 5/1 and demolition of the illegal structure.


2. Restoration of property records to the Ayesha Amina Trust.


3. Criminal proceedings against Ahmed Shariff, Trustees, and complicit BBMP officials.


4. A high-level inquiry into Waqf property encroachments across Bengaluru.


5. Removal of current Trustees for dereliction of duty and violation of the Trust Deed.



“This is a clear case of land-grabbing and abuse of authority. If left unchecked, similar frauds will jeopardise many other Waqf properties,” Dr. Yaseen said, urging the Karnataka State Board of Waqf to file a police complaint and recover the property without delay.

The allegations emerge against the backdrop of nationwide protests over the Waqf Amendment Bill, amplifying demands for stronger enforcement to protect religious and charitable properties from encroachment and corruption.

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Dr. Akkai Padmashali Resigns from Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee

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Bengaluru: Transgender rights activist Dr. Akkai Padmashali has announced her resignation from the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), stepping down from her roles as State General Secretary and Vice President.

In a statement, Dr. Padmashali expressed gratitude to the Indian National Congress for inducting her into the party on September 20, 2020, and recalled the support extended by leaders including the late Smt. Indira Gandhi, Smt. Sonia Gandhi, the late Dr. Manmohan Singh, the late Shri Pranab Mukherjee, Shri Mallikarjun Kharge, Shri Rahul Gandhi, the late Shri Oscar Fernandes, Shri Siddaramaiah, Dr. G. Parameshwar, Shri Veerappa Moily, Shri Shashi Tharoor, Shri B.K. Hariprasad, and Shri U.T. Khader.

Highlighting ongoing socio-economic, political, educational, and legal challenges faced by transgender, intersex, and sexual minority communities, Dr. Padmashali said systemic marginalisation and exclusion from policy and justice mechanisms remain pressing concerns. She stated that working independently is now necessary to strengthen the movement and ensure constitutional rights for these communities at both the State and National levels.

Wishing success to the government’s vision of “Sarva Janangada Shantiya Totada Sarkara” (a government for the peace of all communities), Dr. Padmashali called for continued advocacy for social justice and equality.

City Today News 9341997936

Public Health Experts Push for Mercury-Free Medical Devices in India

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SJ Chander: CEO of FSHI
Neelanjana: Consumer Voice Lead Health New Delhi
Dr Manoj : Assistant Professor Department of Chemistry, Christ University
Dr.Anitha Vergis: Head of the Department Chemistry, Christ University at press meet held at press club of Bengaluru

Bengaluru, India — Public health specialists, environmental advocates, and consumer rights groups have issued a strong call for the complete phase-out of mercury-based thermometers and sphygmomanometers in India, citing serious health and environmental hazards. The appeal came during a panel discussion hosted by Consumer VOICE and the Foundation for Sustainable Health India (FSHI) at Christ (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru.

Experts cautioned that while mercury devices are safe when intact, broken or improperly disposed of instruments release toxic vapours that can harm the lungs, kidneys, and nervous system, and contaminate the environment. Drawing lessons from the mercury contamination incident in Kodaikanal, Dr. Dennis Xavier, Professor and Head of Pharmacology at St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences, stressed the dangers of mercury exposure and the importance of safe handling and disposal.

India, a signatory to the Minamata Convention on Mercury, is working with the Ministries of Health and Environment and WHO India to eliminate mercury-based medical devices and promote digital and aneroid alternatives. The World Health Organization ranks mercury among the top 10 chemicals of major public health concern, especially dangerous for children, unborn babies, and nursing infants.

A 2011 Toxics Link report estimated that around eight tonnes of mercury are released in India each year from medical measuring devices—69% from blood pressure monitors and the rest from thermometers—largely due to unsafe disposal.

Dr. Lalitha of M.S. Ramaiah Medical College warned that mercury exposure during pregnancy or lactation poses serious risks to future generations. Former Karnataka State Pollution Control Board officer Dr. B. Nagappa urged all healthcare facilities to strictly follow mercury spill protocols, train staff, and adopt safer alternatives.

Environmental activist Akshay Heblikar and Consumer VOICE’s Nilanjana Bose highlighted the need for households to follow the healthcare sector’s lead in switching to mercury-free devices, which are now accurate, affordable, and widely available.

“This movement empowers people to safeguard both public health and the environment,” said S.J. Chander, CEO of FSHI.

Understanding Mercury: Protecting Our Health and Environment
Date: 12th August, 2025
Venue: CHRIST (Deemed to be University)
Room no. 529, 5th floor, R and D block, Bangalore Central Campus

Registration& Tea  ; 10.00 am to 10.15 am
Inaugural Session: 10.15 am to 11. 00 am
Invocation: 
Watering the plants : Dignitaries
Welcome Address: Dr. Anitha Varghese, HoD, Dept. of Chemistry,
Christ (Deemed to be University)
Opening Remaks:  Ms Anu Agarawal Consultant WHO India (tbc)
Setting the Tone:                            India’s Commitment to the Minamata Convention :
                                                           Ms Nilanjana Bose, Consumer Voice
Key note Address:                 Dr. Dennis Xavier, Prof. & HoD, Dept. of Pharmacology,
St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences
Presidential Address:                    Dr. Anil Joseph Pinto, Registrar, Christ (Deemed be University)
Vote of Thanks:
Panel Discussion
11:15 – 12:30 PM
Moderator:
Dr. Manoj, Asst Prof. Dept of Chemistry, Christ (Deemed to be University)
Panellists
Public Health Challenges of Mercury
Dr Lalitha K. Prof and HoD. Dept of Community Medicine
M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences

Environmental Impact of Mercury and its prevention & mitigation
Mr. Akshay Heblikar, Director, Eco Watch

Challenges in disposal of Mercury
Dr. B. Nagappa, Former Senior Scientific Officer, KSPCB

Social Mobilization for Prevention
S. J. Chander, CEO, Foundation for Sustainable Health India (FSHI)

Q&A Session
Concluding Remarks by Moderator
Pledge: Commitment to Use Mercury-Safe Products
All Participants

City Today News 9341997936