Commercial liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinder prices have been increased by Rs 195.50 from April 1, 2026, owing to rising global oil prices amid the ongoing West Asia conflict. Following the price hike, a 19-kg commercial cylinder in Mumbai now costs Rs 2,031.00, while in Delhi, it is priced at Rs 2,078.50. The last hike of Rs 114.50 was announced on March 1. The price rise is likely to affect hotels, restaurants, and small businesses that depend heavily on commercial gas. The latest revision comes against the backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia, involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which has led to a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global transit route for crude oil and energy supplies. Since late February, global oil prices have risen by nearly 50 percent due to the conflict. Commercial LPG cylinder rates (19 kg) Delhi – Rs 2,078.50 Mumbai – Rs 2,031.00 Kolkata – Rs 2,208.00 Bengaluru – Rs 2,246.50 However, in some respite to domestic LPG consumers, the government has kept the prices of domestic cylinders unchanged. The price of domestic cylinders was last increased by Rs 60 in March 2026. In Delhi, a 14.2-kg cylinder continues to cost Rs 913, while in Mumbai, it is available for Rs 912.50. Domestic LPG cylinder rates (14.2 kg) Delhi – Rs 913.00 Mumbai – Rs 912.50 Kolkata – Rs 939.00 Chennai – Rs 928.50 Bengaluru – Rs 915.50 Hyderabad – Rs 965.00 Jaipur – Rs 916.50 Lucknow – Rs 950.50 Patna – Rs 1,002.50 Chandigarh – Rs 922.50 Thiruvananthapuram – Rs 922.00 Meanwhile, aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices have also seen an increase following the April 1 revision. In Delhi, ATF prices rose to Rs 1,04,927 per kilolitre from Rs 96,638.14 in March, while in Mumbai, rates increased to Rs 98,247 from Rs 90,451.87. The Central government reduced excise duty on petrol to Rs 3 per litre and brought it down to zero for diesel, as per a Gazette notification issued under the provisions of the Central Excise Act, 1944. Additionally, a windfall tax of Rs 21.5 per litre has been imposed on diesel exports. Fuel prices in India are revised monthly by government-run oil companies based on international rates and currency exchange changes. (With ANI inputs)
02 April,2026 11:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday expressed strong confidence that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will form the government in Keralam in the near future, citing growing public support and the party's expanding grassroots presence in the state. Addressing public meetings in Varkala and Attingal, Fadnavis described Keralam as a sacred land and stated that the time has come for the BJP to take charge to protect its culture, heritage, and ensure all-round development under the leadership of Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi. Highlighting the BJP’s steady growth in the state, Fadnavis noted that the party has progressed from a phase where it used to lose elections to now having one Member of Parliament, a mayor, two municipal chairpersons, 32 panchayat heads, and over 600 corporators. He added that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is steadily expanding and people are increasingly supporting the BJP because it focuses on development rather than appeasement politics. Fadnavis pays tribute to slain workers The Maharashtra CM paid rich tributes to BJP workers who faced violence, stating that more than 300 karyakartas have been killed and many others injured in the state. He expressed happiness that Sadanandan Master, who lost both his legs in a political attack, has now become a Rajya Sabha member. Drawing parallels with states such as Tripura, Assam, and West Bengal — where the BJP has brought about political change —Fadnavis asserted that all eyes are now on Keralam. Development push under PM Modi The Maharashtra CM credited the Central Government under PM Modi for significant infrastructure growth in Keralam. He particularly highlighted the rapid progress of the Vizhinjam International Seaport, which has seen a sharp rise in container traffic and is now ranked 83rd globally. Operations at the port began in 2024 after years of delay, and it is expected to generate large-scale employment in the coming years. Fadnavis also mentioned ongoing projects including: Strengthening of bunkering facilities Expansion of railway infrastructure with modern trains such as Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat Redevelopment of railway stations Development of a dedicated rare earth corridor and logistics park Major highway expansions under the Bharatmala Project, including National Highway 66. He added that smart city projects in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, along with pipeline infrastructure in Kochi, are improving urban life and ensuring better access to basic services. Criticism of LDF and UDF Fadnavis sharply criticised both the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and United Democratic Front (UDF) governments and said that they have failed to fulfil even a single promise made to the people. He pointed out unfinished projects in Varkala such as a high-tech market, an Ayurvedic hospital, and the proposed “Ayurveda Global Village” on 63 acres. The Maharashtra CM further highlighted the severe drinking water crisis in Varkala, lack of medicines and doctors in local hospitals, and the absence of progress on the Dakshin Kashi project despite central funding. Fadnavis also accused the state government of not acting on a joint report prepared for the protection and rehabilitation of Varkala. Fadnavis says corruption cases should be handed over to CBI Referring to corruption allegations in the state, Fadnavis demanded that all such cases be handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for impartial investigation. He accused certain Communist Party of India (CPI) leaders of having proximity to opposition figures and mismanaging community properties. Grassroots campaign Fadnavis informed that an extensive padyatra covering nearly 160 kilometres was conducted across every panchayat in the Attingal Constituency over the past 10 days in which thousands of people, including women and children, participated despite challenging weather. He claimed that even the traditional supporters of CPI(Marxist) and the Congress are now seeking change. Senior BJP leaders including Manoj Kotak, candidate Advocate Smita Sundarasan, and several others were present on the stage during the meetings. Fadnavis urged the people of Keralam to support educated and capable representatives who can ensure transparency, inclusivity, and real development in the state. The address comes as the BJP intensifies its campaign ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections, focusing on development, good governance, and welfare schemes like Mudra Yojana for women and youth empowerment.
02 April,2026 10:28 PM IST | Kerala | mid-day online correspondentShiv Sena MP Milind Deora on Thursday urged the Centre to replicate Mumbai’s cluster redevelopment model across India, describing it as a sustainable solution to the country’s growing urban housing challenges. Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Deora highlighted the success of the scheme implemented under the leadership of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, stating that it has transformed housing for thousands of underprivileged citizens in Mumbai. Calls for National Adoption of Cluster Redevelopment Model Deora said that the cluster redevelopment initiative undertaken by the Maharashtra Housing Department has emerged as a model of inclusive and sustainable urban development. He expressed confidence that adopting this framework nationwide would help provide secure housing to millions of economically weaker citizens. He added that the scheme ensures that residents of slums and old structures are rehabilitated at the same location with improved living conditions and modern infrastructure. Urbanisation Key to India’s Economic Growth Highlighting the importance of urban development, Deora noted that nearly one-third of India’s population currently resides in cities, which contribute around two-thirds of the country’s gross domestic product. This share is expected to rise further in the coming years. He emphasised that urbanisation presents a major opportunity for India’s economic expansion and stressed the need for policy reforms that prioritise city-led growth. Push for Urban Reforms and Competitive Cities The Shiv Sena MP advocated for greater autonomy and efficiency in urban governance. He pointed out that municipal bodies have gained more powers following constitutional reforms and should be encouraged to adopt transparent and technology-driven systems. Deora suggested that cities should compete with each other in areas such as digital governance, time-bound approvals and efficient service delivery. He also recommended that cities implementing reforms effectively should be incentivised and recognised. Affordable Housing Central to Development Emphasising the role of housing in urban transformation, Deora stated that affordable housing is a critical component of sustainable urbanisation. He cited multiple redevelopment projects in Mumbai, including areas like Dharavi and Bhendi Bazaar, where cluster redevelopment is improving living standards. He said the ongoing efforts under the current Maharashtra government are enabling thousands of families living in slums and old chawls to access better housing within their existing communities. Suggests Centre Study Mumbai Model Deora noted that the Slum Rehabilitation Authority has provided housing to approximately 2.5 lakh families over the years. He urged the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to study Mumbai’s cluster redevelopment model in detail. According to him, the model has the potential to significantly shape India’s urban future if implemented on a national scale. ‘Model Can Transform Housing Nationwide’ Reiterating his demand, Deora said that extending the scheme across the country would ensure that hardworking citizens gain access to dignified housing. He added that the Maharashtra government is willing to present the model to the Centre for wider adoption. The proposal comes amid increasing focus on urban housing and infrastructure as India continues to witness rapid urban expansion.
02 April,2026 07:30 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentMore than six lakh passengers have returned to India from West Asia since late February, as the government ramps up efforts to ensure the safe movement of citizens amid escalating regional tensions, reported news agency ANI. The update was shared by Aseem R Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf) at the Ministry of External Affairs, during an inter-ministerial briefing in the national capital. Over 6.24 Lakh Passengers Travelled Since February 28 Mahajan stated that approximately 6,24,000 passengers have travelled from the region to India since February 28, as the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran continues to impact normal travel routes, reported ANI. He added that airlines are operating limited non-scheduled flights between India and key West Asian destinations, depending on safety and operational feasibility. Special Flight Operations Continue Across Region Around 90 flights are expected to operate from the United Arab Emirates to India on Thursday alone. In addition, flights are continuing from airports in Saudi Arabia and Oman, facilitating the movement of Indian nationals, reported ANI. With partial reopening of airspace, Qatar Airways is expected to run 8 to 10 flights to India. However, airspace in Kuwait and Bahrain remains closed, prompting alternative arrangements, reported ANI. Airlines such as Jazeera Airways and Gulf Air are operating non-scheduled flights from Dammam in Saudi Arabia to India, helping stranded passengers from Kuwait and Bahrain reach home. Alternative Evacuation Routes Activated Due to ongoing airspace restrictions, the government has activated multiple transit routes to assist evacuation efforts. Indian nationals are being routed through Armenia and Azerbaijan from Iran, through Egypt and Jordan from Israel, and via Jordan and Saudi Arabia from Iraq, reported ANI. Passengers from Kuwait and Bahrain are also being moved through Saudi Arabia to access outbound flights to India. Indian National Injured in UAE Incident Providing an update on a recent incident, Mahajan confirmed that an Indian national was injured in Umm Al Quwain in the United Arab Emirates after debris from an intercepted drone fell near an industrial area, reported ANI. The injured individual is currently receiving treatment at a local hospital, and the Indian consulate is extending all necessary assistance. Government Monitoring Situation Closely The Ministry of External Affairs has stated that it is closely monitoring the evolving situation in West Asia. A dedicated control room remains operational to assist Indian nationals and their families, reported ANI. Indian missions and diplomatic posts across the region are functioning round the clock, providing regular updates and support to citizens, including students, workers, seafarers and residents. Safety of Indian Community Top Priority Officials reiterated that ensuring the safety, security and welfare of the Indian community in the region remains the government’s top priority. With the conflict entering its second month, authorities continue to adapt evacuation strategies and flight operations based on the changing security environment, reported ANI. Further measures may be introduced depending on how the situation develops in the coming days. (With inputs from ANI)
02 April,2026 06:34 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentA court in Maharashtra’s Nashik district on Thursday remanded self-styled godman Ashok Kharat to seven-day police custody in a second rape case, where he is accused of repeatedly sexually exploiting a woman since 2020 under the guise of religious rituals. Kharat, who was arrested by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Wednesday in connection with the second case, was produced via video conferencing from jail before Chief Judicial Magistrate B N Ichpurani, who remanded him to SIT custody till April 8, report PTI. The accused, a former merchant navy officer, was already in 14-day judicial custody in the first rape case and lodged at Nashik Road Central Jail, from where he was taken into SIT custody. Case registered under BNS and anti-black magic law Kharat was initially arrested on March 17 after a 35-year-old woman filed a rape complaint against him at the Sarkarwada police station in Nashik. A case was registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and the Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice and Other Inhuman, Evil and Aghori Practices and Black Magic Act, 2013. According to the complaint in the second case, the woman had been in contact with Kharat since 2013, when she first met him on a relative’s advice to help fix her marriage. Even after her marriage, Kharat allegedly remained in touch under the pretext of resolving family issues and sexually exploited her, as cited by PTI. The woman, who has two children, later separated from her husband due to marital differences. When she approached Kharat again regarding her future and remarriage, he allegedly continued to exploit her. He is accused of calling her to his office and raping her under the pretext of performing religious rituals. When she became pregnant, he allegedly gave her pills and forced her to terminate the pregnancy. Alleged exploitation began in February 2020 The complaint states that Kharat exploited the woman from February 2020 and threatened to harm her and her children if she resisted. After the first rape case against him came to light, the woman gathered the courage to file a complaint on March 21, reported PTI. Due to security concerns, Thursday’s court proceedings were conducted via video conferencing, and Kharat was not produced in person. During the hearing, public prosecutor Shailendra Bagde, representing the SIT, argued that the accused was not cooperating with the investigation and sought his custody. Defence lawyer Sachin Bhate opposed the plea, but the court overruled him and granted SIT custody. When asked by the judge if he had anything to say, Kharat declined to comment. Ten FIRs registered against Kharat so far So far, at least 10 FIRs, eight related to alleged sexual assault or exploitation and two for cheating, have been registered against Kharat. The SIT has also received more than 100 complaints against him over the phone. Meanwhile, a cheating case linked to a land deal was registered at Shirdi police station in Ahilyanagar district against Kharat and his wife earlier this week. His wife has been absconding since then. On Wednesday, the SIT detained Kharat’s son, Harshvardhan, for questioning from their residence in Karmayogi Nagar, Nashik. He was later released, reported PTI. Kharat, who heads a temple trust in Sinnar, Nashik district, had reportedly interacted with several political leaders over the years. Last week, the SIT, along with a forensic team, searched his office and recovered documents, files, and other evidence. Notably, a 20-foot remote-controlled mechanised snake was also seized from his office. Investigators said Kharat allegedly used it to convince followers that he possessed supernatural powers. (With PTI inputs)
02 April,2026 05:40 PM IST | Nashik | mid-day online correspondentParliament on Thursday passed a bill seeking to recognise Amaravati as the sole and permanent capital of Andhra Pradesh with the Rajya Sabha giving its nod to it with a voice vote, reported news agency PTI. The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which will scuttle any future bid to alter the decision of making Amaravati the capital of the southern state was passed by the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, reported PTI. Replying to the debate on the bill in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai said Andhra Pradesh is getting a new capital in Amaravati and gave his best wishes to the state. "We hope that Andhra Pradesh touches new heights of development and plays a meaningful role in fulfilling the dream and resolve of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in achieving 'Viksit Bharat'," said the minister while terming it a historic occasion. Supporting the bill, Masthan Rao Yadav Beedha of TDP said after a lot of planning, Amaravati was chosen for its history, location and potential. Several other members, including TDP member and Minister of Civil Aviation K Rammohan Naidu also supported the bill. Andhra Education Minister Nara Lokesh thanks Central government Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Minister for Education and IT, Nara Lokesh, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his leadership and commitment to ensuring the passage of the bill. He acknowledged the Centre's pivotal role in bringing together support from across political parties in favour of Andhra Pradesh. Immediately after the bill was passed in the Lok Sabha, Minister Lokesh rushed to New Delhi and met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Parliament. On behalf of the people of Andhra Pradesh, he personally conveyed his thanks for the Centre's steadfast support in granting legal backing to Amaravati. According to TDP, this development is being seen as a defining moment for Andhra Pradesh, reaffirming confidence in Amaravati as the state's sole and permanent capital while signalling strong coordination between the state and the Centre. Earlier, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu termed the passage of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha as a "historic and deeply emotional moment," welcoming the recognition of Amaravati as the state's sole capital. (With inputs from PTI and ANI)
02 April,2026 05:13 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentThe India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Pune as the city is witnessing unseasonal heavy rain, lightning, and hailstorms across several parts of the city on Thursday afternoon, causing waterlogging and disrupting daily life. After a sharp rise in temperatures earlier in the day, a sudden weather shift brought intense showers to Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad around 2:30 pm, catching commuters and pedestrians off guard during peak hours. Many were seen scrambling for shelter as the downpour intensified. Areas including Sinhagad Road, Dhankawadi, Katraj, Hadapsar, Lohegaon, Baner, Bibwewadi, and Kharadi reported rainfall accompanied by hailstones, leading to chaos and traffic disruptions. Several localities also experienced waterlogging due to the heavy showers. As per reports, the weather pattern has become increasingly erratic, with hot afternoons followed by sudden evening rains, giving a monsoon-like feel in early April. IMD issues orange alert for Pune According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Pune is likely to see a slight rise in maximum and minimum temperatures over the next two days. However, skies are expected to remain partly to overcast, with chances of light rain, gusty winds, and thunderstorms in the evening. The IMD has issued an orange alert for the city. The IMD has also forecast thunderstorms across several parts of Maharashtra, excluding Mumbai, on Thursday and Friday. An orange alert has been issued for districts including Nandurbar, Dhule, Jalgaon, Nashik, Ahilyanagar, Beed, Jalna, Pune, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar on Thursday. Meanwhile, a yellow alert has been issued for the entire Vidarbha region, western Maharashtra, and parts of Konkan, excluding Palghar, Sindhudurg, and Kolhapur. For Friday, an orange alert has been sounded for Parbhani and Hingoli, while Jalgaon, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Ahilyanagar, Beed, and Jalna remain on alert. Weather in Mumbai Meanwhile, Mumbai on Thursday morning woke up to clear skies with the IMD predicting temperatures likely to touch 32 degrees Celsius on April 2. The weather was expected to remain largely pleasant across Mumbai on Thursday with the minimum temperature likely to settle at approximately 26 degrees Celsius, the IMD said in its morning weather bulletin. AQI in Mumbai Mumbai’s air quality has gradually improved over the week. According to the Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) Sameer app, Mumbai’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was on Thursday recorded 'Satisfactory' at 09:05 am and stood at 60. A health impact message stated, "Minor breathing discomfort to sensitive people." AQI recorded in parts of the city Bandra Kurla Complex: 91 (Satisfactory) Borivali East: 76 (Satisfactory) Byculla: 56 (Satisfactory) Malad West: 55 (Satisfactory) Deonar: 99 (Satisfactory) Colaba: 63 (Satisfactory) Meanwhile, the air quality was recorded as 'Satisfactory' in Thane which reported an AQI at 74 on Thursday morning. In Kalyan AQI was recorded at 57 (Satisfactory), and in Navi Mumbai at 68 was also in 'Satisfactory' category.
02 April,2026 04:32 PM IST | Pune | mid-day online correspondentWest Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday strongly condemned the attack on judicial officers in Malda, alleging a larger political conspiracy aimed at destabilising the state ahead of Assembly elections, reported news agency PTI. Addressing public rallies in Sagardighi and Suti, Banerjee accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to incite unrest and create conditions for the imposition of President’s Rule in West Bengal, reported PTI. CM Alleges Larger Political Conspiracy Banerjee claimed that Union Home Minister Amit Shah was orchestrating a “blueprint” to fuel instability in the state. She urged people not to fall into what she described as a deliberate attempt to provoke communal tension and violence, reported PTI. According to her, the unrest linked to the Malda incident was being used to tarnish the image of West Bengal and justify extraordinary political intervention. Condemns Attack on Judicial Officers The Chief Minister condemned the gherao of judicial officers during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, stressing that while citizens have the right to protest, any form of aggression against judicial authorities is unacceptable, reported PTI. She reiterated that maintaining law and order and respecting institutions must remain a priority, even during periods of political tension. Criticism of Election Commission’s Role Banerjee also criticised the Election Commission of India, accusing it of failing to ensure the safety of judicial officers despite being in control of the administrative machinery during the election period, reported PTI. She claimed that key administrative powers had been taken away from the state government following the announcement of elections, making the Election Commission responsible for maintaining security. Supreme Court Orders Independent Probe The controversy escalated after the Supreme Court of India took serious note of the Malda incident, describing it as a failure of the state administration. The court directed that an independent probe be conducted by central agencies and instructed authorities to ensure adequate deployment of forces at sensitive locations. The court also emphasised the need to protect officials involved in the electoral revision process. Claims of Voter Deletion Raise Political Tensions Banerjee alleged that large-scale deletion of voter names was taking place across the state, affecting minorities, economically weaker sections and other vulnerable groups. She claimed that even in her Bhabanipur constituency, thousands of names had been removed from electoral rolls, reported PTI. The voter revision exercise has emerged as a major political flashpoint ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, with the ruling party accusing opponents of attempting to influence electoral outcomes. Appeal for Calm Amid Rising Political Heat Despite her sharp criticism, Banerjee repeatedly appealed to citizens to maintain peace and avoid reacting to provocations. She emphasised that political battles should be fought democratically through elections rather than through violence or unrest, reported PTI. The developments have intensified political tensions in West Bengal, with both the ruling party and the opposition trading allegations as the state moves closer to a crucial electoral contest. (With inputs from PTI)
02 April,2026 04:23 PM IST | Suti/Sagardighi | mid-day online correspondentThe Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has appointed Ashok Kumar Mittal as its new Deputy Leader in the Rajya Sabha, replacing Raghav Chadha in a significant organisational reshuffle. The move signals a shift in the party’s parliamentary strategy, particularly with a stronger focus on its Punjab leadership, reported news agency IANS. Party communicates change to Rajya Sabha secretariat Sources confirmed that the party, led by Arvind Kejriwal, has formally written to the Rajya Sabha Secretariat to implement the leadership change in the Upper House. The communication seeks recognition of Ashok Mittal as the new Deputy Leader, effectively ending Raghav Chadha’s tenure in the role, reported IANS. Additionally, the party has reportedly requested the Secretariat not to allocate speaking time to the outgoing deputy leader, indicating a clear and immediate transition. Sanjay Singh continues as leader in Upper House Sanjay Singh will continue as the party’s leader in the Rajya Sabha and also serves as the chairperson of its parliamentary party. The leadership restructuring appears aimed at recalibrating responsibilities within the party’s Upper House representation, reported IANS. Punjab representation gains prominence The decision to elevate Ashok Mittal, a Rajya Sabha MP from Punjab, underscores the growing importance of the state within AAP’s national political framework. Punjab remains the only state where the party currently holds power, and its representation in the Rajya Sabha is substantial, reported IANS. Out of AAP’s 10 members in the Upper House, seven are from Punjab, including Raghav Chadha, Rajinder Gupta, Ashok Kumar Mittal, Sandeep Kumar Pathak, Vikramjit Singh Sahney, Harbhajan Singh and Sant Balbir Singh. The remaining MPs from Delhi are Swati Maliwal, Narain Dass Gupta and Sanjay Singh. Signs of internal strain surface Raghav Chadha’s removal comes amid reports of strained relations between the MP and the party leadership. While neither side has publicly acknowledged any discord, political circles have been abuzz with speculation regarding internal differences. Despite the change, Chadha has remained active in raising public interest issues in Parliament over the past several months. However, the leadership reshuffle suggests a possible recalibration of roles within the party. Speculation over political realignment The development has also fuelled speculation about potential shifts in political alignments ahead of upcoming Assembly elections in Punjab. Observers believe the leadership change could be part of a broader strategy to consolidate the party’s base in the state. Previous internal discord adds context The reshuffle follows earlier tensions within the party involving Swati Maliwal, who had publicly expressed dissatisfaction after a dispute with the leadership. Despite the episode, she continues to serve as a Rajya Sabha MP. Strategic reset ahead of key political battles With this move, AAP appears to be undertaking a strategic reset within its parliamentary ranks. By promoting a Punjab-based leader to a key position in the Rajya Sabha, the party is signalling its intent to strengthen its political footing in the state while streamlining leadership dynamics at the national level. (With inputs from IANS)
02 April,2026 03:44 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentCongress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday strongly criticised the Central government over the proposed legislation concerning Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), calling it “discriminatory” and vowing to repeal it if his party returns to power. Congress Slams Bill as ‘Institutional Injustice’ Rahul Gandhi alleged that the government is attempting to institutionalise discrimination against CAPF personnel through the proposed law. He stated that the bill undermines the morale and career progression of personnel serving in forces such as the Central Reserve Police Force, Border Security Force, Central Industrial Security Force and Indo-Tibetan Border Police. According to him, the legislation perpetuates long-standing concerns about inequity in leadership opportunities within paramilitary forces. Claims of Denied Opportunity to Speak in Parliament The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha also claimed that he was denied the opportunity to speak on the bill in Parliament. He said he had requested adjustments to the schedule as he was on a pre-planned visit to Assam, but the government did not accommodate the request. He alleged that the timing of the bill’s introduction was deliberate and intended to prevent a full debate on the issue. Leadership Structure of CAPFs Under Scrutiny Gandhi highlighted concerns regarding the leadership structure within CAPFs, stating that top positions are largely occupied by officers from the Indian Police Service through deputation. He argued that this limits career advancement for personnel who have risen through the ranks within the forces. Referring to his interaction with an injured officer, he said many personnel feel that their service and sacrifices are not adequately recognised in terms of promotions and leadership roles. Congress Promises Policy Reversal Reiterating his party’s stance, Gandhi assured CAPF personnel that Congress would repeal the legislation if it comes to power. He emphasised that those serving on the frontlines of national security should have equal opportunities to lead their respective forces. He added that morale among security personnel is directly linked to national security, and policies perceived as unfair could have wider implications. Bill Passed in Rajya Sabha Amid Opposition Protest The Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026, was recently passed in the Rajya Sabha through a voice vote amid a walkout by Opposition members. The bill is now listed for consideration in the Lok Sabha. Debate Over Deputation and Supreme Court Context The proposed legislation outlines provisions for appointing Indian Police Service officers to senior positions in CAPFs through deputation. This comes despite earlier judicial observations suggesting a gradual reduction in such deputations and a review of cadre structures. The issue continues to generate political debate, with Opposition parties raising concerns over fairness, representation and institutional balance within India’s security forces.
02 April,2026 03:26 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentA police officer in Maharashtra’s Akola district has been arrested following serious allegations of misconduct involving a woman in custody, triggering public outrage and swift departmental action, reported news agency IANS. Allegations Surface from Within Police Custody The incident took place at the Civil Lines police station in Akola, where a woman was lodged after being arrested by cyber police in connection with an alleged fraud case involving Rs 80 lakh. She had been produced before a court and remanded to four days of police custody, reported IANS. During this period, the woman alleged that an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) demanded sexual favours from her while she was under detention. The accusation has raised serious concerns about the safety and rights of individuals in police custody, reported IANS. Complaint Escalated by Woman Officer According to officials, the woman reported the incident to a female police officer at the station. The matter was promptly escalated to senior authorities. Upon receiving the complaint, a senior officer visited the police station and took immediate cognisance of the situation, reprimanding the accused ASI, reported IANS. The woman subsequently filed a formal complaint, leading to the registration of a case against the officer at the same police station. Swift Action: Suspension and Arrest Following the complaint, the police department moved quickly to suspend the accused officer pending investigation. A search operation was launched, and the ASI was later apprehended by the local crime branch the same night, reported IANS. Authorities have assured that strict action will be taken in accordance with the law, and that the investigation will be conducted impartially. Incident Triggers Public Outrage The seriousness of the allegations has sparked concern among citizens and drawn attention to issues of accountability within law enforcement agencies. The case has also reignited discussions on the need for stronger safeguards for individuals, especially women, in police custody. Senior officials have reiterated that any form of misconduct by police personnel will not be tolerated and will be dealt with firmly. Similar Case Reported Earlier in Uttar Pradesh In a separate incident reported on March 21 in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, a police constable was suspended and booked for allegedly making inappropriate demands to a 25-year-old rape survivor, reported IANS. The accused, identified as Imran Khan, was posted at the Quarsi police station and allegedly asked the survivor to meet him in a hotel room and engage in sexual relations in exchange for action on her complaint. The survivor recorded phone conversations as evidence and approached senior officials, reported IANS. Following her complaint, Senior Superintendent of Police Neeraj Kumar Jadaun ordered the constable’s suspension and directed that a case be registered against him. Call for Stronger Oversight Both incidents have underscored the urgent need for stricter monitoring mechanisms and accountability within police systems to prevent abuse of power and ensure justice for victims. Authorities have indicated that internal reviews and corrective measures may be strengthened in light of such cases. (With inputs from IANS)
02 April,2026 01:40 PM IST | Akola | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
