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EAM Jaishankar, Bangladesh envoy Hamidullah discuss advancing bilateral ties

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar met Riaz Hamidullah, the High Commissioner of Bangladesh to India, in New Delhi on Friday with discussions focusing on advancing bilateral ties.  In a post on X, EAM Jaishankar stated, "Met with High Commissioner Riaz Hamidullah of Bangladesh. Our conversation was focused on advancing our bilateral ties." India on Thursday said that it continues to assist Bangladesh and other neighbouring countries on the issue of energy supply requirements while balancing domestic needs, refining capacity, and diesel availability, reported IANS. MEA confirms supply of diesel to Bangladesh and other neighbouring countries According to IANS, while addressing a weekly media briefing on Thursday, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated that India has received energy requests from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and other neighbouring countries. He mentioned that India has been supplying diesel to Bangladesh since 2007 through various modes of transportation and continues to assist the South Asian nation, along with other neighbouring countries. “About energy, we have received requests from several of our neighbouring countries, and I had spoken about this earlier as well. We have received requests from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and some other neighbouring countries. As I had indicated earlier, India has been supplying diesel to Bangladesh since 2007 through various modes of transportation. We are continuing to assist Bangladesh and our other neighbours even currently. This is being done while factoring in our own requirements, refining capacity, and diesel availability," said Jaiswal, reported IANS. With the energy shipping routes having been impacted due to the ongoing West Asia conflict, he mentioned that the supply of LPG remains a matter of concern. "Therefore, we are prioritising domestic consumption and domestic consumers first. Their needs will be taken care of, and then we will decide how to manage LPG supply to commercial establishments. However, this remains a matter of concern due to the shortage of supply.” India High Commissioner meets BNP ministers in Dhaka to boost bilateral ties As per IANS, earlier this month, India's High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma, held a series of meetings with ministers of the newly-formed Tarique Rahman led Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) government, discussing ways to enhance bilateral cooperation between both countries. According to the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, Verma called on Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Bangladesh’s Minister of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives to explore various areas of common interest, including strengthening cooperation in local governance structures and rural development. Both sides agreed to strengthen bilateral engagement in areas such as rural economy, agricultural cooperatives, financial empowerment at grassroots, etc. “High Commissioner underlined that India-Bangladesh relations are founded on people-to-people ties and that India remains ready to engage with Bangladesh in a positive, constructive, and forward-looking manner to promote people-centric cooperation in all domains based on mutual interest and mutual benefit,” the Indian High Commission posted on X, reported IANS. Verma also met Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bangladesh’s Minister of Liberation War Affairs, reaffirming the strong historical bonds between the two countries rooted in the shared sacrifices during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. “They underlined the importance of working together on the basis of mutual respect and mutual trust to further strengthen people-to-people ties between the two countries,” said the Indian High Commission, reported IANS. (Inputs from IANS)

20 March,2026 03:49 PM IST | New Delhi [India] | mid-day online correspondent
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut. File Pic

Rajya Sabha polls 2026: Sanjay Raut backs Mamata’s ‘undeclared emergency’ claims

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Friday claimed that senior BJP leaders, along with Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, know that Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee cannot be defeated in West Bengal, reported ANI.  "You (BJP) cannot defeat Mamata Banerjee. Defeating Mamata Banerjee in West Bengal is not just difficult, it’s impossible. This is known to Amit Shah, PM Modi, and the entire BJP. Even the Chief Election Commissioner knows this. That’s why they have taken complete control over West Bengal," Raut told ANI. Labelling the transfers of top government officials as "taking complete control," Raut said that the people of the country stand with Mamata Banerjee and added that she will be victorious in the two-phase West Bengal assembly polls scheduled for April 23 and 29. Sanjay Raut slams transfers, predicts Mamata Banerjee victory in Bengal "Transfer of the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), and Commissioner, what will be achieved by doing this? Why don’t similar transfers and postings happen in other states like Maharashtra and Assam? The people of the country are with Mamata Banerjee. We are all with her, and once again, Mamata Banerjee will be victorious in West Bengal," the UBT Sena MP said, reported ANI.  His remarks come after the West Bengal CM slammed the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the ruling BJP at the Centre, alleging that the state was being selectively targeted and calling the transfers of more than 50 senior officials an "undeclared emergency." In a post on X, Banerjee claimed that the large-scale transfer of senior officials reflects political interference rather than administrative necessity. Bengal targeted, over 50 senior officials removed, says Mamata Banerjee "The manner in which the Election Commission has singled out and targeted Bengal is not just unprecedented, it is deeply alarming. Even before the formal notification of elections, more than 50 senior officials, including the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, DGP, ADGs, IGS, DIGs, District Magistrates, and Superintendents of Police, have been summarily and arbitrarily removed," she said, the news agency reported.  Calling it "political interference of the highest order," Banerjee said such actions undermine constitutional principles and indicate a "systematic politicisation of institutions meant to remain impartial." She also raised concerns over delays in publishing supplementary electoral rolls, claiming it violates Supreme Court directions and creates uncertainty among citizens. The West Bengal assembly elections will be conducted in two phases on April 23 and April 29, 2026, with the counting of votes scheduled for May 4. West Bengal first phase elections begin March 30, polling April 23 According to the ECI, the first phase, covering 152 assembly constituencies, will begin with the issuance of the gazette notification on March 30, 2026. The last date for filing nominations for this phase is April 6, while scrutiny of nominations will take place on April 7. Candidates will be allowed to withdraw their nominations until April 9. Polling for the first phase will be held on April 23. For the second phase, which covers 142 assembly constituencies, the gazette notification will be issued on April 2, 2026. The last date for filing nominations is April 9, and scrutiny of nominations will take place on April 10. Candidates can withdraw their nominations until April 13. Voting for this phase is scheduled for April 29. (With ANI inputs)

20 March,2026 03:48 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. File Pic

PM Modi, HM Shah to lead BJP’s high stakes Kerala push ahead of Assembly polls

With the campaign for the April 9 Assembly elections entering its decisive phase, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led BJP is preparing an all out offensive in Kerala, deploying its top national leadership in a bid to script a historic breakthrough.  According to IANS, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and other senior leaders comprising various Chief Ministers are set to descend on the state, underscoring the party’s determination to open its account in the 140 member Assembly. According to party sources, PM Modi will undertake two whirlwind tours across key districts, addressing rallies and energising cadres. BJP targets key Kerala seats, confident after Suresh Gopi's win The BJP’s campaign blueprint focusses on high visibility outreach in politically significant regions such as Kasargod, Palakkad, Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Thrissur. The party draws confidence from its recent electoral gains, most notably actor-turned-politician Suresh Gopi’s emphatic victory in the Thrissur Lok Sabha constituency, where he secured a margin exceeding 70,000 votes, reported IANS. This was followed by the BJP wresting control of the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation in the December local body polls another first in a state where it has traditionally struggled for space. Yet, the numbers present a mixed picture. While the BJP polled 15.64 per cent vote share in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, it saw a marginal dip to 14.71 per cent in the 2025 local body polls. Despite this, the party remains upbeat, pointing to its second place finishes in nine constituencies in the 2021 Assembly elections as evidence of growing traction, reported IANS. BJP president Rajeev confident of party securing multiple seats ahead of Assembly polls State BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar has expressed confidence that the party will not only break its long standing electoral barrier but also secure multiple seats in the upcoming Assembly. However, challenges persist. Kerala’s unique demographic composition where minorities, including Muslims and Christians, account for around 42 per cent of the population remains a critical factor, as per IANS. Party strategists acknowledge that sustained outreach to community leaders will be crucial as national figures step up engagement in the days ahead. As the campaign intensifies, the BJP’s high voltage push signals a determined attempt to convert incremental gains into a historic electoral foothold in Kerala, reported IANS. (Inputs from IANS)

20 March,2026 03:17 PM IST | Thiruvananthapuram | mid-day online correspondent
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India says Indus Waters Treaty will stay in abeyance till Pakistan mends ways

India has reiterated that the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) will be held in abeyance till “the global epicentre of terror” Pakistan mends its ways.  Pakistan “must uphold the sanctity of human life before talking of upholding the sanctity of treaties”, India’s Permanent Representative P Harish said on Thursday at an event held in the UN to mark World Water Day. “India has always been a responsible upper riparian state”, he said. “But responsibility is a two-way street. Pakistan must unconditionally abjure terrorism as an instrument of its state policy”, as per IANS. India hits back at Pakistan over IWT, cites wars and terror attacks Harish was responding to Pakistan's raising of the IWT as if it were an aggrieved party, impinging on a high-level event commemorating International Water Day, which focused on the UN Sustainable Development Goal of ensuring access to safe water and sanitation for all. According to IANS, India signed the IWT “in good faith, in a spirit of goodwill and friendship”, but “Pakistan violated this spirit by inflicting three wars and thousands of terror attacks on India”, he said. “Tens of thousands of innocent Indians became victims of Pakistan-sponsored terror attacks”, he said. India put the IWT signed with Pakistan in 1960 in abeyance after the Pahalgam religion-based terrorist attack last year by The Resistance Front, an outfit linked to the Pakistan-backed Lashkar-e-Tayiba. “Our patience and magnanimity did not change Pakistan’s ways. Eventually, we were compelled to announce that the Treaty will be held in abeyance until Pakistan, the global epicentre of terror, credibly and irrevocably ends its support for all forms of terrorism”, Harish said, reported IANS. Moreover, a revision to the territory was needed because of “fundamental changes over the last 65 years” due to technology, demographic and ecological changes, which Islamabad refused to discuss, he said. "All our efforts to discuss modifications to the Treaty with Pakistan were rebuffed”, he said. India highlights Jal Jeevan Mission at World Water Day event According to IANS, on the theme of the meeting held earlier in the week, because the World Water Day celebrated on March 22 falls on a Sunday this year, he said India placed a high priority to the sustainable development goal of universal access to safe water and sanitation. "Through the Jal Jeevan Mission, India is implementing one of the world’s largest programmes to provide piped drinking water to rural households”, he said. Launched in 2019, the Mission has so far brought safe tap water to 81.76 per cent of rural households – a total of 158 million. “Community participation is a cornerstone of this effort, with village water committees, many of them led by women, playing a key role in planning, monitoring and maintaining local water systems”, Harish said, reported IANS. “Here at the United Nations, our collective efforts can be most impactful when they focus on areas that unite us, like strengthening national capacities, particularly in developing countries, promoting technological innovation and advancing scientific cooperation”, he added, reported IANS. (Inputs from IANS)

20 March,2026 03:16 PM IST | United Nations | mid-day online correspondent
Rahul Gandhi. File pic

People of Kerala ready for change, says Rahul Gandhi; pitches for UDF govt

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday said that the people of Kerala are ready for a political change, as he strongly pitched for the United Democratic Front (UDF) ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. In a message shared on social media platform X, Gandhi expressed confidence in the UDF’s leadership and said the alliance represents the aspirations of the people of the state. ‘People want a govt that listens and delivers’ Gandhi said the message from Kerala is clear — citizens are seeking a government that is responsive, accountable and effective. “The people are ready for change. They want a government that listens, understands and delivers with honesty,” he said, signalling the Congress party’s intent to challenge the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF). UDF reflects people’s aspirations, says Gandhi Highlighting the composition of the alliance, Gandhi said the UDF brings together experienced leaders and young candidates who understand local issues. “Team UDF is Team Kerala,” he said, adding that each candidate represents the voice and trust of the people. Personal connect with Kerala emphasised The former Wayanad MP described Kerala as his “home” and its people as his “family,” expressing gratitude for their support and affection. He said he would continue to work closely with the people of the state and contribute to its development. Congress releases candidate list Gandhi’s remarks came a day after the Congress announced its list of 92 candidates for the Assembly elections scheduled for April 9. The party has decided to rely on its state leadership and has chosen not to field its Members of Parliament in the elections. Focus on alliance strategy The Congress is contesting 92 seats, leaving the remaining constituencies to its allies within the UDF and select independent candidates. The move reflects a strategy to strengthen regional leadership and present a unified front against the LDF. Congress eyes return to power The Congress has been out of power in Kerala for nearly a decade and is aiming to regain control through a coordinated campaign. Gandhi concluded his message with a confident assertion: “Kerala will win. UDF will lead,” reinforcing the party’s campaign narrative ahead of the polls.

20 March,2026 02:40 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
They also discussed expanding cooperation in trade & investments, heritage conservation and development partnership. Pic/X

India, Cambodia discuss expanding cooperation in trade, development partnership

Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), P Kumaran held a meeting with Cambodian delegation led by Secretary of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, KHY Sovanratana in New Delhi on Friday, discussing expanding cooperation in trade and investments, heritage conservation and development partnership.  "Secretary (East) Shri P Kumaran met a Cambodian delegation led by Secretary of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr. KHY Sovanratana to review India’s capacity building initiatives for Cambodia, including training of Cambodian diplomats at Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service (SSIFS), Ministry of External Affairs. They also discussed expanding cooperation in trade and investments, heritage conservation and development partnership," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X, reported IANS. India and Cambodia deepen defence ties at Phnom Penh military talks Last month, India and Cambodia reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral defence cooperation during high-level military engagements held in the southeast Asian nation's capital, Phnom Penh, an official statement said.  On the sidelines of the Army-to-Army Staff Talks in Phnom Penh, the Indian Army's Additional Director General, International Cooperation, Major General Akaash Johar, called on the Royal Cambodian Army's Commander, Lt General Mao Sophan, and the two sides held detailed discussions on enhancing joint military engagement, expanding training cooperation, and further strengthening bilateral defence ties. The two countries emphasised increasing joint military exercises, widening the scope of training cooperation and strengthening coordination in the defence sector, as per IANS. Particular emphasis was placed on military capacity building, professional military education, and the exchange of operational experience as key pillars of cooperation. Cambodia to send more personnel to India for military training According to IANS, officials noted that India seeks to translate defence partnerships with friendly nations into practical, ground-level cooperation beyond formal dialogues. Cambodia appreciated the training standards and professional expertise of the Indian armed forces and expressed interest in sending more personnel to India for training and specialised courses in the future. Both sides reiterated their commitment to strengthening defence ties as a long-term strategic partnership aimed at promoting regional peace, stability and security. India and Cambodia share warm and cordial relations. In the context of India’s ‘Act East’ policy and ASEAN, Cambodia is an important interlocutor and a good partner, according to Indian Embassy in Cambodia statement. In contemporary times, cooperation between two nations has expanded in various fields such as institutional capacity building, human resource development and extension of financial assistance in infrastructure projects, social security projects and capacity building in defence, reported IANS. (Inputs from IANS)

20 March,2026 02:36 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
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Man dies in elevator at RG Kar hospital, family alleges no operator on duty

In a shocking case, a man died after being trapped in an elevator in the controversial state-run R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata on Friday.  The relatives and friends of the deceased person were protesting within the R.G. Kar premises at the time the report was filed. The deceased person had been identified as Arup Bandopadhyay, a resident of Dum Dum in the northern outskirts of Kolkata, according to IANS. It is learnt that he was trapped in the elevator of the hospital building housing the trauma care centre, and he died in the elevator. “His son is admitted to the trauma care centre of the same hospital. This morning, he was trying to reach the trauma care centre, which is housed on the fifth floor of one of the hospital buildings, and then he got trapped in the elevator,” said one of the aggrieved relatives of the deceased person. Patient dies after being trapped in hospital elevator for over an hour As per IANS, the relatives and friends of the deceased person alleged that there was no elevator operator while the mishap took place. “The deceased person was trapped in the elevator, which got stuck in the midway, for over an hour, and during that period, no hospital staff or elevator operator was available to reactivate the elevator,” the aggrieved relative added. The hospital authorities have claimed that the complaints in the matter will be addressed, and a thorough investigation into the matter will be carried out. At the time the report was filed, the hospital authorities had not come forward with any explanation on the possible reasons behind the death. Already, a huge police contingent from the local Tala Police station had arrived at the hospital premises, and the police are trying to persuade the aggrieved relatives and friends of the deceased persons to withdraw from the hospital premises, reported IANS. To recall, R.G. Kar has been in the national headlines over the ghastly rape and murder of a woman doctor of the hospital within the premises on the morning of August 2024. Later, an investigation also started over the massive financial irregularities at the hospital, and there is a large-scale perception that the tragedy with the victim was because she became aware of those financial irregularities. The erstwhile controversial principal of R.G. Kar, accused of being the mastermind of the financial irregularities, was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and is still behind bars, reported IANS. (Inputs from IANS)

20 March,2026 02:36 PM IST | Kolkata | mid-day online correspondent
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Govt notifies income tax rules 2026; new compliance regime from April 1

The government on Friday notified the Income tax Rules, 2026, paving the way for the implementation of the new Income tax Act, 2025 from April 1, 2026. The updated framework focuses on improving transparency, strengthening compliance and simplifying tax procedures, reported news agency IANS. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) published the rules in the official e-Gazette, replacing earlier provisions and outlining detailed norms for the financial year 2026–27. Focus on transparency and digital tracking Officials said the new rules do not introduce additional taxes but aim to enhance monitoring through stricter disclosures and increased use of digital systems, reported IANS. Key areas such as capital gains, stock market transactions and non-resident taxation have been brought under tighter reporting requirements to ensure better compliance. HRA rules retained with added disclosure requirement The rules retain the existing structure for House Rent Allowance (HRA) exemptions. Salaried individuals in metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune and Ahmedabad can continue to claim up to 50 per cent of their salary as exemption, while the limit remains 40 per cent for other cities, reported IANS. However, a new requirement mandates taxpayers to disclose their relationship with the landlord in a specified format, adding an extra layer of transparency. Stricter norms for stock exchanges and trading data The rules introduce tighter conditions for stock exchanges to qualify as recognised platforms for derivatives trading. Exchanges must obtain approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and maintain detailed transaction records, including client-level information such as PAN and unique identification numbers, reported IANS. They are also required to preserve audit trails for seven years and submit monthly reports to the tax department, ensuring closer scrutiny of trading activities. Clarity on capital gains classification The government has provided clearer guidelines on how to determine whether capital gains are short-term or long-term. In cases involving converted securities, the holding period of the original asset will be included. Separate provisions have also been outlined for assets declared under the Income Declaration Scheme, 2016, reported IANS. Treatment of specific asset categories The rules specify that gains arising from short-term or self-generated assets, such as goodwill, will be treated as short-term capital gains. Other assets will be classified based on their nature and holding period, reported IANS. Step towards modernising tax system The notification follows draft proposals released earlier this year and is part of a broader effort to modernise India’s taxation framework. Officials said the reforms aim to balance ease of compliance with stronger oversight, ensuring a more transparent and efficient tax administration system going forward, reported IANS. (With inputs from IANS)

20 March,2026 02:30 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
Prime Minister Narendra Modi. File Photo

India scripting decisive chapter in global energy landscape: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said India is emerging as a key force in the global energy landscape, driven by rapid progress in electrification, clean energy and domestic manufacturing. The Prime Minister made the remarks while sharing an article by Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy Shripad Yesso Naik, which outlined the country’s evolving energy strategy. Focus on clean energy and self-reliance Highlighting India’s energy transition, PM Modi said the shift is being guided by practical policy decisions and a strong push towards self-reliance. “With a strong focus on electrification, clean energy and manufacturing, India is shaping a decisive chapter in the global energy landscape,” he said in a post on social media platform X. He added that the government’s emphasis on Aatmanirbharta is helping build a resilient and future-ready energy ecosystem. Rapid transformation of energy sector The Prime Minister noted that India’s expanding clean energy capacity, increased electrification and growing domestic manufacturing capabilities are positioning the country as a major player globally. The transformation is being supported by sustained policy interventions and investments across the energy value chain. Call to global investors Earlier this week, PM Modi invited global investors to participate in India’s energy growth story, urging them to “make, invest, innovate and scale” in the country. In a message delivered at the Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 in New Delhi, he said India stands at a defining moment in its energy journey as the world’s fastest-growing major economy. Platform for collaboration and innovation The Prime Minister said the summit aims to bring together stakeholders from across the power and energy ecosystem to exchange ideas, foster partnerships and chart a roadmap for sectoral growth. He expressed confidence that such initiatives would help accelerate innovation and strengthen collaboration, ultimately contributing to improved quality of life and sustainable development. Driving future-ready energy ecosystem Modi reiterated that India’s energy strategy is focused on sustainability, innovation and long-term growth. With increasing investments and policy support, the country is positioning itself as a global hub for clean energy and advanced manufacturing, while ensuring energy security for its growing economy.

20 March,2026 02:21 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
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President Murmu visits Neem Karoli Baba Ashram, meets Premanand Maharaj

President Droupadi Murmu, who is on a three-day visit to Uttar Pradesh, on Friday met Premanand ji Maharaj at his ashram Radha Keli Kunj in Mathura. The President listened to the sermon given by the saint, officials said. Droupadi Murmu also offered prayers at Baba Neem Karoli Ashram in Vrindavan. She had a 'darshan' at the Lord Hanuman temple inside the ashram premises. She also offered a laddu weighing approximately 50 kg to the deity. Twenty devotees recited Sunder Kaand during the prayers, Radha Krishan Pathak, president of Neem Karoli Baba Ashram, Vrindavan, said, reported PTI. Murmu also offered prayers and performed aarti at the Samadhi of Baba Neem Karori ji Maharaj. She meditated in solitude in the 'kutia' (room), where Baba Neem Karori ji Maharaj lived and meditated, and saw an exhibition on his life before leaving the ashram, Pathak said, reported PTI. Later in the day, she will also visit the Udiya Baba Ashram and Davanal Kund in Vrindavan. The President will also inaugurate the new Oncology Block of Ramakrishna Mission Sevashram (Charitable Hospital) at Vrindavan and visit Vatsalya Gram. On March 21, President Murmu is scheduled for a 'darshan' and participation in an 'aarti' at Danghati Mandir in Govardhan. She will also undertake Govardhan Parikrama. The President reached Mathura on Thursday evening. Governor Anandiben Patel, UP ministers and senior officials welcomed her when she landed at the Cantt helipad. She first had a 'darshan' at the ISKCON temple in Vrindavan and later participated in an 'aarti'. The President also visited Prem Mandir and saw one of the major attractions of the temple, the laser show, on the first day of her visit. Later, she went to seek blessings at the Radha Krishna temple. She worshipped the deity according to rituals and performed evening 'aarti'. Self-reliant India only possible with healthy citizens: Murmu Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu on Friday said that a self-reliant India is only possible when its citizens are healthy. Murmu was speaking at the inauguration of the Nand Kishor Somani Oncology Block of Ramakrishna Mission Sevashram. "An empowered ('sashakt') and 'Aatma Nirbhar' Bharat is only possible when the citizens are healthy," she said. "Today, cancer is one of the most serious health challenges. Timely detection of the disease and high-level treatment can play a decisive role in saving the life of the patient. But, for some families, it seems that due to their economic circumstances, treatment of this disease seems impossible," she said. (With inputs from PTI)

20 March,2026 02:11 PM IST | Mathura | mid-day online correspondent
Jayant Chaudhary. Pic/X

Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary gets death threat, probe launched

Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary received a death threat via phone call and WhatsApp messages on Friday, triggering a swift response from Delhi Police and prompting an inter-state investigation, reported news agency IANS. Authorities said security around the minister has been enhanced as a precaution. Threat call received by minister’s aide According to officials, the threat was received by the minister’s Private Assistant, Vishvendra Shah, from an unidentified number. The caller allegedly issued a direct threat to shoot the minister, reported IANS. Shah said the calls were received when the minister had left his residence for Parliament. After multiple attempts, one of the calls was answered, during which the threat was conveyed, reported IANS. WhatsApp message contained sensitive details The caller also sent a WhatsApp message containing an image that reportedly included the minister’s official tour schedule along with a threat of violence, reported IANS. Officials said the presence of such detailed information has raised serious concerns about a possible leak, as the minister’s itinerary is typically shared only with authorised officials, reported IANS. Caller traced to Murshidabad Preliminary investigation has traced the origin of the call to Murshidabad in West Bengal. The caller claimed to be from the region, reported IANS. Delhi Police have coordinated with West Bengal Police, and efforts are underway to track down and apprehend the suspect, reported IANS. Suspect identified, search underway Investigators have identified a suspect named Israil, who is believed to be linked to the threatening communication. Police are examining all angles, including how the accused may have accessed sensitive information about the minister’s movements, reported IANS. Security tightened, probe continues Following the incident, security arrangements for the minister have been strengthened. Authorities said all aspects of the case, including the potential breach of confidential information, are being thoroughly investigated, reported IANS. Minister’s background Jayant Chaudhary currently serves as Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and is a member of the Rajya Sabha. Officials have assured that strict action will be taken against those responsible for issuing the threat. (With inputs from IANS)

20 March,2026 01:31 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
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