Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hailed the Union Cabinet's approval of Phase-2 of the Jaipur Metro as a significant boost to urban mobility, while also commending the nod to two hydroelectric projects in Arunachal Pradesh and the increased subsidy for phosphate and potash fertilisers. In a series of posts on X, the prime minister said the cabinet's approval for Jaipur Metro Phase-2 is a significant step towards sustainable urban growth. "Jaipur is set for a major infrastructural upgrade! Cabinet approval for Jaipur Metro Phase-2 is a significant step towards sustainable urban growth. It will expand connectivity, reduce congestion and enhance 'Ease of Living'," he said. Jaipur is set for a major infrastructural upgrade! Cabinet approval for Jaipur Metro Phase-2 is a significant step towards sustainable urban growth. It will expand connectivity, reduce congestion and enhance ‘Ease of Living.’https://t.co/CXSugfyklF — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 8, 2026 The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the 41-km corridor comprising 36 stations as part of Jaipur Metro Project Phase-2, at a total project cost of over Rs 13,000 crore. Additionally, the cabinet approval for the Kalai-II Hydro Electric Project in Arunachal Pradesh will strengthen power supply, generate sustainable energy and bring infrastructure and opportunities to the region, the prime minister said. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the prime minister, approved an investment of Rs 14,105.83 crore for construction of Kalai-II Hydro Electric Project on Lohit river in Anjaw district of Arunachal. On the Kamala Hydro Electric Project, Modi said it will strengthen India's clean energy ecosystem while advancing integrated development across Arunachal Pradesh with a focus on power, infrastructure and community welfare. The cabinet committee an investment of Rs 26,069.50 crore for construction of Kamala Hydro Electric Project in Kamle, Kra Daadi and Kurung Kumey districts. Commenting on nutrients based subsidy rates on phosphate and potash fertilisers for the kharif season, the prime minister said even amid global challenges, the welfare of the country's farmers has remained a priority for the NDA government. "In this direction, an increase in nutrient-based subsidies has been approved for the Kharif season of 2026. This will ensure that our food providers continue to receive fertilisers at affordable rates as before," he said. A meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved a Rs 41,534 crore subsidy for phosphate and potash fertilisers for the 2025-26 kharif season, up by 12 per cent from the corresponding period a year ago. The subsidy rates will remain effective till September 30, 2026 This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
08 April,2026 07:43 PM IST | New Delhi | PTICongress on Wednesday questioned the Centre, calling Pakistan’s reported role in facilitating a ceasefire between the United States and Iran a “serious setback” to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s personalised style of diplomacy, reported the PTI. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said the development exposes what he described as the Prime Minister’s “self-styled Vishwaguru image”, the news agency reported. Ramesh stated that the global community would cautiously welcome the two-week ceasefire in the West Asia conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran. He claimed the conflict began on February 28 following targeted assassinations of senior Iranian leadership, shortly after Mr Modi’s visit to Israel, which he argued had affected India’s global standing. Criticism of India’s foreign policy approach According to the PTI, the Congress leader argued that Pakistan’s involvement in the ceasefire process undermines India’s long-standing policy of diplomatically isolating Pakistan over terrorism concerns in Jammu and Kashmir. He contrasted the current situation with the diplomatic efforts under former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh following the 2008 Mumbai attacks. Ramesh also questioned the government’s broader strategy, suggesting that Pakistan’s role challenges India’s narrative on the global stage. Remarks on US and Israel The Congress accused the Prime Minister of remaining silent on Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank, as well as statements made by US President Donald Trump, reported the PTI. Ramesh described this silence as a sign of political weakness. Priyanka Gandhi criticises west's language Senior Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also criticised Western nations for their language regarding Iran. She said the world is beginning to see through what she described as a “veil of morality”, adding that violence and injustice never succeed, while courage ultimately prevails, the news agency reported. The ceasefire agreement US President Donald Trump announced a pause in military action shortly before a deadline he had set for Iran. The ceasefire reportedly followed discussions involving Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and military chief Asim Munir, reported the PTI. Iran has indicated its willingness to accept the ceasefire and begin negotiations with the United States in Pakistan. However, uncertainty remains over the exact start of the truce, with reports of continued violence in parts of the region. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that while Israel supports the ceasefire with Iran, it does not extend to ongoing conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon. (with PTI inputs)
08 April,2026 07:16 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentA Goa court has granted bail to Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, owners of the fire-ravaged nightclub Birch by Romeo Lane, in a forgery case, clearing the path for their release from jail, reported the PTI. The brothers had previously secured bail in connection with the December blaze that claimed 25 lives. Advocate Parag Rao, representing the Luthras, stated that Judicial Magistrate First Class (Mapusa) Jude Sequeira granted regular bail to the accused in the forgery matter. Rao confirmed that the brothers will soon be released from custody. The Luthras have been instructed to report to Mapusa police station daily for the next five days. Rao added that they are awaiting the detailed judgment. Allegations of forgery The case concerns allegations that the Luthra brothers used forged documents, including a fabricated No Objection Certificate (NOC), to obtain permissions and an excise licence to operate their nightclub in Arpora village, North Goa. Police allege that the forged NOC was later used to secure other regulatory clearances. Previous bail in fire case A Mapusa sessions court had already granted bail to the brothers on April 1 in connection with the deadly fire at Birch by Romeo Lane on December 6, 2025. Following the fire, the brothers reportedly fled to Thailand, from where they were deported to India on December 17 and subsequently arrested by Anjuna police. Ongoing investigation The forgery case was filed after a complaint by the health officer of Candolim Primary Health Centre, who claimed that his signature had been forged to obtain the health NOC. The nightclub fire prompted a comprehensive investigation into fire safety violations, licensing procedures, and alleged negligence in the operation of the club. Bail to co-owner Meanwhile, last month, a district court in Goa's Mapusa had granted bail to Ajay Gupta, co-owner of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub. Gupta had been arrested in New Delhi over three months ago before securing bail, his counsel had stated earlier. The tragic blaze occurred on December 6 at the nightclub in Goa, resulting in 25 fatalities and leaving several others injured. The incident triggered widespread outrage and prompted a detailed investigation into safety lapses, according to the ANI. (with PTI and ANI inputs)
08 April,2026 06:44 PM IST | Panaji | mid-day online correspondentAmid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, the Indian government has introduced a revised LPG allocation formula aimed at ensuring uninterrupted supply to critical industries. The move, announced by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, is intended to stabilise supply chains and protect sectors vital to the country’s economic resilience. Focus on Critical Sectors to Maintain Supply Chains Under the new policy, bulk LPG supplies will be prioritised for a wide range of industries, including pharmaceuticals, food processing, agriculture, polymers, packaging, paints, steel, ceramics, glass, and aerosols. These sectors are considered essential due to their direct impact on everyday consumption, healthcare, and industrial production. Officials noted that ensuring fuel availability for these industries is crucial to prevent disruptions in manufacturing and distribution, particularly at a time when global uncertainties threaten energy supplies. Allocation Capped, Supply Linked to Past Consumption As per the revised formula, industries will receive up to 70 per cent of their LPG consumption levels recorded before March 2026. This benchmark-based allocation aims to maintain fairness while ensuring that essential operations continue without major interruptions. However, the government has imposed an overall cap of 0.2 thousand metric tonnes per day for the entire industrial sector. This ceiling reflects the need to balance limited resources amid fluctuating global supply conditions. Priority for Units Without Alternative Fuel Options A key feature of the policy is the prioritisation of industries that cannot switch to alternative fuels such as piped natural gas (PNG). Factories where LPG is indispensable to the manufacturing process will receive supply preference to avoid production halts. At the same time, industries capable of transitioning to PNG have been encouraged to do so. Units are required to register with oil marketing companies and apply for PNG connections through city gas distribution networks. However, exemptions have been provided for industries where LPG remains a non-substitutable input, ensuring that operational efficiency is not compromised. Incentives for States to Promote Gas-Based Alternatives The Centre has already allocated 70 per cent of packaged non-domestic LPG to states and announced an additional 10 per cent allocation for those implementing reforms to promote PNG adoption. State governments have been advised to take proactive measures, including disseminating the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order 2026, leveraging reform-linked allocation benefits, and expediting policies related to compressed biogas. Surge in Demand for Smaller LPG Cylinders The policy shift comes alongside a noticeable rise in demand for smaller LPG cylinders across the country. Since late March, approximately 7.8 lakh 5-kg free trade LPG cylinders have been sold, indicating increased reliance on LPG amid supply concerns. Daily sales have also surged, crossing 1.06 lakh units on a single day earlier this week, compared to an average of around 77,000 per day in February. The trend highlights growing consumption pressures and the need for efficient allocation mechanisms. Strategic Move Amid Global Uncertainty The revised LPG allocation framework reflects the government’s effort to balance domestic industrial needs with evolving global energy dynamics. As tensions in key oil-producing regions continue to influence supply chains, such policy measures are expected to play a crucial role in maintaining economic stability and industrial continuity.
08 April,2026 04:27 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentExternal Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar will visit Mauritius and UAE from April 9-12, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Wednesday. During his visit to Mauritius, EAM Jaishankar will attend the 9th Indian Ocean Conference and meet Mauritius leadership to review the entire spectrum of bilateral ties. "He will also deliver the keynote address at the 9th Indian Ocean Conference. On the sidelines, EAM is expected to hold discussions with counterparts from other participating nations. The visit underscores India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, Vision MAHASAGAR, and commitment to the Global South," read a statement issued by the MEA. In the second leg of the visit, EAM Jaishankar will be on an official visit to the UAE from April 11. During the two-day visit, he will meet the UAE leadership to review close cooperation and deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries. The MEA, New Delhi-based India Foundation and the government of Mauritius are jointly organising the ninth Indian Ocean Conference, scheduled to be held from April 10 to 12. The annual flagship event held since 2016 brings together global leaders and experts to deliberate on key regional and global challenges in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). It serves as an important international platform aimed at promoting regional cooperation and addressing both emerging and traditional challenges in the strategically significant IOR. This year’s conference is being held under the theme 'Collective Stewardship for Indian Ocean Governance', which will guide discussions among heads of government, senior officials, private sector representatives, scholars, and policy experts, the India Foundation said on its website. The key areas of focus include maritime security, economic development, environmental sustainability, and evolving geopolitical dynamics. “The conference is expected to foster dialogue and collaboration among countries bordering the Indian Ocean, as well as major global powers with strategic interests in the region,” the foundation said. The announcement of EAM Jaishankar's visit to the UAE came just hours after the US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire. India has welcomed the agreement reached between the US and Iran, expressing hope that the ceasefire would lead to lasting peace in West Asia. In a statement, the MEA reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy are important for bringing an end to the conflict. It noted that the conflict in West Asia has caused suffering to people and disrupted the global energy supply. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
08 April,2026 04:18 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSAbdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi, Representative of Iran's Supreme Leader in India, on Wednesday asserted that Iran did not seek conflict with the United States, claiming that the war was “imposed” on the country. His remarks come in the backdrop of a temporary ceasefire agreement between the two nations, raising cautious hopes of de-escalation. Claims of Extensive US Attacks and Military Targeting Speaking in an interview, Ilahi alleged that the United States carried out over 10,000 attacks on Iran, primarily targeting its air defence systems and missile infrastructure. He claimed that the scale of aggression demonstrated a miscalculation by those who believed the conflict could be concluded swiftly, reported ANI. “Iran did not want this war,” Ilahi told ANI, adding that initial expectations of a quick outcome were misplaced. He also alleged that civilian areas, including homes, were affected during the hostilities. Iran Denies Targeting Civilians, Blames US Bases in Region Ilahi maintained that Iran refrained from targeting civilians and instead focused only on American military bases. He accused the United States of launching attacks on Iran from bases located in Arab countries, thereby drawing the region into the conflict, reported ANI. According to him, Iran’s response was limited to these installations, and it sought to avoid escalation with neighbouring nations. He expressed hope that regional countries would recognise the broader implications of such conflicts and avoid being drawn into future hostilities, reported ANI. Strong Warning Over Future Escalation Issuing a stern warning, Ilahi stated that Iran would respond forcefully if hostilities resumed. He suggested that critical global trade routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, could be impacted in the event of renewed conflict, reported ANI. He further indicated that Iran’s energy infrastructure would not remain the only target in any future escalation, signalling the potential for wider disruptions. Criticism of US Rhetoric and Leadership Ilahi also criticised statements attributed to Donald Trump, particularly remarks about Iran’s historical legacy. He argued that such rhetoric reflected a lack of understanding of Iran’s cultural and civilisational depth. He added that the conflict had triggered a strong domestic response, with citizens rallying to protect key infrastructure such as bridges, hospitals, and religious sites. Ceasefire Opens Door for Diplomatic Engagement The comments come shortly after the United States announced a temporary halt to its military campaign, proposing a two-week ceasefire window. Trump also indicated that a 10-point proposal put forward by Iran could serve as a basis for further negotiations. Ilahi confirmed that discussions between both sides are expected to continue, with multiple countries playing a role in facilitating the ceasefire. He emphasised that ensuring civilian safety remains a top priority for Iran, reported ANI. Uncertain Path Ahead Despite Temporary Calm While the ceasefire has provided a pause in hostilities, uncertainties remain over its long-term sustainability. Both sides appear to be testing diplomatic options even as tensions linger beneath the surface. The coming weeks are expected to be crucial in determining whether the temporary truce can evolve into a more permanent resolution or if the region risks slipping back into conflict. (With inputs from ANI)
08 April,2026 04:18 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentWest Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday strongly criticised the alleged large-scale deletion of voter names from electoral rolls, asserting that her party will once again approach the courts to challenge the exclusions. Her remarks come amid escalating political tensions over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise conducted in the state, reported PTI. Over 90 Lakh Names Deleted During Roll Revision According to official data, more than 90.83 lakh names have been removed from the voter list following the revision process. The deletions account for approximately 11.85 per cent of the total electorate, which stood at 7.66 crore in October 2025, reported PTI. Banerjee questioned the scale and intent of the deletions, stating that such measures would not weaken her party’s electoral prospects. She alleged that the exercise disproportionately impacted genuine voters and raised concerns about the transparency of the process, reported PTI. TMC to Move Court Against Exclusion of Voters Reiterating her party’s legal strategy, Banerjee said the Trinamool Congress would challenge the deletions in court to ensure that eligible voters are reinstated. She emphasised that the right to vote is a constitutional guarantee and cannot be arbitrarily curtailed, reported PTI. “We will move court again to resist the exclusion of names,” she said, adding that denying citizens their voting rights undermines the democratic framework. She also questioned the decision to freeze electoral rolls while disputes remain unresolved, reported PTI. Earlier in February, Banerjee had approached the Supreme Court of India seeking intervention in the SIR process. Allegations Against BJP and Election Commission The Chief Minister launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Election Commission of India, accusing them of manipulating electoral rolls for political advantage, reported PTI. Addressing a rally in Arambagh in Hooghly district, Banerjee alleged that attempts were being made to influence voters through inducements. She further claimed that individuals were being contacted over the phone and subjected to intimidation, reported PTI. “It is working at the behest of the BJP,” she alleged, referring to the Election Commission, while claiming that people were being pressured during the revision process, reported PTI. Political Rhetoric Intensifies at Public Rallies At another rally in Balagarh, Banerjee escalated her criticism, warning voters against supporting the BJP. She claimed that a change in power could impact cultural and dietary freedoms in the state, reported PTI. Her remarks reflect the intensifying political discourse in West Bengal as parties gear up for upcoming electoral battles, with voter rolls becoming a central point of contention. Electoral Integrity at the Centre of Debate The controversy surrounding voter deletions has triggered a broader debate on electoral integrity and transparency. While authorities maintain that the revision exercise is aimed at removing duplicate and ineligible entries, opposition parties argue that it risks disenfranchising legitimate voters. With the Trinamool Congress preparing for another legal challenge, the issue is expected to remain at the forefront of political discourse in the state in the coming weeks. (With inputs from PTI)
08 April,2026 03:57 PM IST | Kolkata | mid-day online correspondentMost districts in Maharashtra are expected to witness a dry weather after days of light to moderate rains in past week, according to an India Meteorological Department (IMD) weather bulletin. Meanwhile, the weather department has issued a yellow alert for Mumbai, Thane, and Raigad, forecasting hot and humid conditions with rising temperatures on April 10 and April 11. A similar alert has been issued for Ratnagiri. Commuters and residents have been advised to take precautions against the heat while enjoying the break from the recent rains. Temperatures across Maharashtra Maharashtra on Wednesday continued to witness warm conditions across most regions, with maximum temperatures largely staying in the mid-to-high 30 degrees Celsius, though slightly below normal in several interior districts, as per the IMD's latest weather report. Heat persists in interior regions Cities like Jalgaon (36.4 degrees Celsius), Malegaon (36.6 degrees Celsius), and Osmanabad (36.9 degrees Celsius) recorded high daytime temperatures, while Sholapur emerged as the hottest at 38.0 degrees Celsius. However, most of these readings remained 1–4 degrees Celsius below normal, indicating a marginal dip from typical April heat levels. Coastal belt relatively milder Coastal areas, including Alibag (32.7 degrees Celsius), Dahanu (33.6 degrees Celsius), and Ratnagiri (31.7 degrees Celsius), saw comparatively milder conditions. Humidity levels remained high, particularly in Mumbai-Colaba (86 per cent in the morning) and nearby regions, contributing to discomfort. Mumbai sees warm and humid conditions In Mumbai, temperatures hovered around 32.2 degrees Celsius at Colaba and 31.8 degrees Celsius at Santacruz, both slightly below normal. Minimum temperatures remained around 25–26 degrees Celsius, with high humidity levels making conditions feel warmer. Cooler nights in some regions Hilly areas like Mahabaleshwar recorded a maximum of 29.2 degrees Celsius, with a cooler minimum of 16.8 degrees Celsius. Interior cities such as Nashik (20.4 degrees Celsius) and Satara (20.4 degrees Celsius) also experienced relatively cooler nights. Humidity trends across Maharashtra Morning humidity remained high across several regions, including Sangli (82 per cent) and Kolhapur (80 per cent), while it dropped significantly by evening in interior districts like Jalgaon and Beed. Overall, while temperatures remain high, a slight dip below normal in many areas has offered marginal relief. Weather conditions are expected to remain largely stable, with warm days and humid conditions continuing across the state.
08 April,2026 03:30 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has flagged a massive backlog in the finalisation of accounts of Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and autonomous bodies in Jammu and Kashmir, with large number of accounts remaining in arrears as on March 31, 2024. The CAG urged the UT government to ensure strict adherence to timelines for preparation and submission of accounts to strengthen financial discipline, transparency and governance. The audit panel warned that the persistent backlog undermines transparency and legislative oversight, and recommended that the government ensure companies, corporations and autonomous bodies submit their annual accounts within a stipulated time-frame. The CAG report on Union Territory (UT) finances for the year ended March 31, 2024, said, "Accounts in respect of only four companies were audited up to 2022-23. In respect of 35 companies and corporations, audit of 139 accounts was in arrears for periods ranging from one to twelve years." According to the report, eight autonomous bodies have together failed to submit 40 annual accounts, with delays ranging from three to 14 years. The CAG stressed that delays in finalisation of accounts keep the results of government investments outside legislative scrutiny, hampering timely corrective measures and weakening accountability. The report highlighted that several key entities have accumulated significant arrears. Jammu and Kashmir Overseas Employment Corporation Ltd tops the list with 12 pending accounts since 2010-11, followed by Jammu and Kashmir Minerals Limited and two inactive companies - Jammu and Kashmir International Trade Centre Corporation Ltd and Jammu and Kashmir Road Development Corporation Ltd - each with nine years of arrears. Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation Ltd has eight pending accounts since 2014-15, while Jammu and Kashmir Medical Supplies Corporation Ltd has seven accounts pending since 2015-16, it added. Jammu and Kashmir Police Housing Corporation Ltd has six years of arrears, and Jammu and Kashmir Asset Reconstruction Ltd also has six accounts pending since 2017-18. Among other major defaulters, Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Corporation Ltd has five accounts pending since 2017-18, while the Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) has five pending accounts with no accounts submitted since 2018-19, it said. Several infrastructure and transport-related entities also reported delays. Jammu and Srinagar Mass Rapid Transit Corporations have four accounts pending each since 2019-20, while Jammu and Kashmir Power Transmission Corporation Ltd, Jammu and Kashmir Power Corporation Ltd and Srinagar Smart City Ltd have four pending accounts each. Jammu Smart City Ltd has three accounts pending, while Jammu and Kashmir Forest Development Corporation Ltd has three pending accounts. The report further noted that multiple corporations, including Jammu and Kashmir Projects Construction Corporation Ltd and Jammu and Kashmir Handicrafts (Sales and Export) Development Corporation Ltd, have four pending accounts each. Among eight autonomous bodies, the CAG said that the Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) accounts for the highest pendency with 14 accounts pending from 2009-10 to 2022-23. Similarly, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), Srinagar and Jammu have three pending accounts each for the period 2020-21 to 2022-23. Jammu and Kashmir Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has not submitted four accounts from 2015-16 to 2018-19, it added. Other bodies with arrears include Jammu and Kashmir Housing Board (four accounts), Khadi and Village Industries Board (three), Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board (four), and State Legal Services Authority (five), it added. Similarly, accounts of the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs departments in Kashmir and Jammu have remained pending for decades, with some periods dating back to the 1970s, it said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
08 April,2026 03:11 PM IST | Jammu | PTIAhead of the West Bengal Assembly Election 2026, a meeting between a delegation of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the full bench of the Election Commission of India (ECI) ended on a tense note on Wednesday, with both sides trading allegations over the conduct of the discussion, reported the PTI. The meeting reportedly lasted around seven minutes. TMC Rajya Sabha MP Derek O'Brien claimed that Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar asked the delegation to “get lost” at the end of the meeting. He said the delegation had submitted letters from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and raised concerns about alleged links between some poll officials and the BJP, as per the PTI. Election commission responds According to the PTI, sources within the Election Commission rejected the allegations and said the CEC had a “straight talk” with the TMC leaders. They accused Derek O’Brien of shouting during the meeting and claimed he even asked the CEC not to speak. O’Brien also alleged that none of the other election commissioners spoke during the interaction. He further claimed that a member of the delegation made remarks about notices moved in Parliament regarding the CEC. Assurance on upcoming elections Election Commission sources said that the upcoming elections in West Bengal would be conducted in a “fear-free, violence-free, intimidation-free, and inducement-free” manner, the news agency reported. They reiterated the panel’s commitment to ensuring free and fair polls. Mamata Banerjee files nomination papers Meanwhile, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday filed her nomination from her native Assembly constituency of Bhabanipur in South Kolkata. The list of proposers in her nomination form reflected the “cosmopolitan” nature of Bhabanipur, which is considered a cauldron of people from almost the entire country, reported IANS. The proposers in her nomination form include Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim’s wife, Ismat Hakim (representing the Muslims), actress-turned-politician and Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha member Koel Mallick’s husband, Nishpal Singh Rane (representing the Punjabis), local Trinamool Congress block President Bablu Singh (representing the Biharis) and Bhabanipur Education Society representative Miraj Shah (representing the Gujaratis). The Chief Minister started from her residence at Harish Chatterjee Street in South Kolkata and walked down, leading a procession to submit her nomination at the Alipore Survey Building, which is barely a kilometre away from her residence. She was accompanied while leading the procession by Firhad Hakim, her brothers Kartik Banerjee and Swapan Banerjee, her sister-in-law Kajari Banerjee, and the local party councillor, Sandip Bakshi, among others, reported IANS. (with PTI and IANS inputs)
08 April,2026 03:09 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentThe situation remained tense but calm across five valley districts in Manipur on Wednesday, with curfew, internet suspension and heavy police deployment in place, after violence broke out over a bomb attack that left two children dead in Bishnupur a day ago, a senior officer said. No fresh violence was reported this morning, but clashes between security forces and protesters broke out late on Tuesday in some places in Imphal East and West districts, prompting the police personnel to fire tear gas shells to disperse the demonstrators, he said. They also burnt tyres on the streets at Khurai Lamlong and Wangkhei in Imphal East district, and at Uripok and Kwakeithel in Imphal West, and demanded action against those involved in the killing of the two children. "The situation has been brought under control after the overnight clashes. No fresh violence was reported this morning. The overall situation remains calm," the officer said. Curfew and internet suspension have been in force in Imphal East and West, Bishnupur, Thoubal and Kakching districts, he said. Violence broke out in Manipur's Bishnupur district on Tuesday as two children were killed in the bomb attack on their home, while two others were shot dead when a mob stormed a CRPF camp during a protest against the blast, the police said. A group of people also torched two oil tankers and a truck, vandalised a police outpost and stopped the movement of vehicles on key roads to protest the bomb attack. Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh chaired an all-party meeting to review the prevailing situation in the state. It all started with suspected militants hurling a bomb at a house in Moirang Tronglaobi, killing a five-year-old boy and his six-month-old sister and injuring their mother, when all of them were sleeping early on Tuesday, the police said. Angered by the incident, around 400 people attacked a CRPF camp, prompting security forces to open fire, leaving two of them dead and about 20 others injured. The protesters were unhappy with the security forces for allegedly failing to take action against the militants. The chief minister condemned the bomb attack and said the investigation would be handed to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The representatives of political parties expressed deep concern over the law and order situation and emphasised the need to maintain peace, unity, and communal harmony. At least 260 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in the ethnic violence between Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and hills-based Kuki-Zo groups in Manipur since May 2023. The state has been under the President's rule for nearly a year since February 2025. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
08 April,2026 02:20 PM IST | Imphal | PTIADVERTISEMENT
-1775657395122_d.png?tr=w-436,h-271 "PM Modi highlights push for sustainable urban growth. File Pic")
-1775645123335_d.png "External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar")
-1775641101957_d.png "Decades-old pending accounts highlight systemic governance issues. PIC/CAG")
-1775638066210_d.png "People block a road in protest after two children were killed and their mother was injured in a bomb attack, in Bishnupur district. PIC/PTI")