In a bizarre bid to go viral, a family in Bengaluru packed an elderly man inside a gunny sack and tried to send him as a “human parcel” — triggering panic at a courier service centre in the city’s Vyalikaval area on Wednesday. The video of the episode has since gone viral on social media — just as the family intended, but for the wrong reasons — with the stunt now set to land them in legal trouble. In Bengaluru a girl staged a prank by putting an elderly man inside a sack and taking it to a courier shop as a parcel. Staff grew suspicious opened it and found the man. She later said it was to highlight travel struggles during festivals. The family joined in and later… pic.twitter.com/WgQpkc4mnH — VIZHPUNEET (@vizhpuneet) March 18, 2026 The alleged act, meant to highlight the difficulty in securing bus seats and rising fares during the festive season, quickly spiralled into a serious situation. According to police, the incident occurred at a courier office where a group of family members arrived carrying a large gunny sack and presented it as a parcel. When the package was opened, the staff were shocked to find an elderly man inside, visibly distressed and struggling to breathe. Alarmed by the situation, the courier staff immediately alerted the Vyalikaval police, who rushed to the spot and found a scene of confusion and concern. Preliminary inquiry revealed that the act was allegedly a pre-planned stunt intended to create a social media reel highlighting the difficulty of securing bus tickets during the upcoming Ugadi and Eid festivals. Elderly man found gasping in sack as ‘human parcel’ stunt backfires; family apologises The family reportedly tried to symbolically convey that “couriering a person” was the only option left due to sold-out bus seats. The elderly man placed inside the sack was later identified as the father of one of the women involved in the act. Police said the group comprised the woman, her husband, her mother-in-law, and her brother-in-law. Officers stated that the situation could have turned serious, as the man was found gasping for air when the sack was opened, raising concerns about possible suffocation. As the prank took a serious turn, the family tendered an apology for the stunt. They were taken to the Vyalikaval Police Station, where they issued a public apology for the incident. In a recorded video statement, they admitted that the act was irresponsible and dangerous, and said it was intended as a satirical protest. They clarified that their intention was not to commit any offence, but to highlight the difficulties faced by travellers due to high fares and limited bus connectivity during festival periods. The family said they had underestimated the seriousness of their actions and sought forgiveness from the public and the police, assuring that such a mistake would not be repeated. However, commenting on the development, Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh said the police would register a case in connection with the incident. “There is no treatment for such craziness. However, we will register a case as such actions send a wrong message on social media. We will also seek more details from the Deputy Commissioner of Police regarding the motive behind the act,” he said. (With IANS inputs)
18 March,2026 04:59 PM IST | Bengaluru | mid-day online correspondentThe India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for 14 districts across Maharashtra on Wednesday, warning of heavy thunderstorms, gusty winds, and isolated hail. Maharashtra districts under orange alert Marathwada and Vidarbha: Parbhani, Beed, Latur, Dharashiv, Chandrapur, Gadchiroli, Yavatmal After the recent dry heat in Vidarbha, weather patterns are shifting as pre monsoon instability develops over central India. The IMD indicates a short spell of showers and isolated thunderstorms in parts of the region over the next few days. Western Maharashtra: Kolhapur, Satara, Sangli North Maharashtra and others: Ahilyanagar, Pune, Jalna, Wardha These areas are likely to experience severe thunderstorms with lightning, winds of 50–60 kmph, and scattered hail. Coastal Maharashtra Alert issued for Mumbai, Thane, and Palghar, with light rain or thundershowers expected on Wednesday and Thursday. Raigad and Ratnagiri: Isolated thunderstorms with winds of 30–50 kmph possible. Sindhudurg: Higher alert for thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds (50–60 kmph), and possible hail. IMD predicts thundershowers in Mumbai, but city's climate remains warm and hazy The IMD has predicted light rain and thundershowers across Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, and Sindhudurg on Wednesday, indicating a possible early shift towards monsoon-like conditions in the state. However, Mumbai’s weather told a different story on the ground, with the city waking up to morning haze. Despite forecasts hinting at rainfall, heat and humidity persisted, with temperatures expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 33 degrees Celsius, as per IMD. The city’s air quality remained satisfactory, with the Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) SAMEER app reporting an overall AQI (Air Quality Index) of 87. AQI across Mumbai Bandra Kurla Complex: 99 Borivali East: 87 Byculla: 92 Andheri East: 101 Chembur: 92 Colaba: 64 Deonar: 119 Ghatkopar: 118 Kandivali East: 36 Kandivali West: 89 Bhandup West: 79 Malad West: 95 Mazgaon: 102 Powai: 33
18 March,2026 04:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a rare and encouraging development, Puri’s Blue Flag-certified beach witnessed dozens of Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings emerging simultaneously from their nests and making their way to the sea — a first-of-its-kind coordinated movement recorded at the site. The event has sparked optimism among conservationists, who see it as a positive sign for ongoing efforts to protect marine biodiversity along Odisha’s coastline. Rare coordinated emergence observed Forest officials and local volunteers reported that the hatchlings surfaced during the early hours and instinctively moved towards the Bay of Bengal. Such synchronized emergence is uncommon at Puri’s Blue Flag beach, making the sight particularly significant. The moment drew attention not only for its rarity but also for what it represents — a tangible outcome of sustained conservation initiatives. Today the blue flag beach Puri , for the first time witnessed hatchlings Olive Ridley turtles heading towards sea in group which is something really an incredible moment. I Captured this video at early morning.#BlueFlagBeach#IncredibleOdisha#IncredibleNature pic.twitter.com/SpU1l1SgUU — Sudarsan Pattnaik (@sudarsansand) March 18, 2026 Odisha remains key nesting ground India hosts one of the world’s largest populations of Olive Ridley turtles, with Odisha’s coastline serving as a major nesting hub. Each year, between December and March, thousands of female turtles arrive on these shores for mass nesting — a phenomenon known as “arribada,” where large numbers come ashore to lay eggs in a short span. Lifecycle from nest to sea After laying eggs in shallow sand pits, the female turtles return to the sea, leaving the eggs to incubate naturally for about 45 to 60 days. Between February and April, hatchlings begin to emerge. Guided by natural light reflecting off the horizon, they instinctively crawl toward the sea, often in groups — a behaviour that improves their chances of survival. Conservation success amid challenges What makes this journey even more remarkable is the turtles’ lifelong connection to their birthplace. Scientists believe that Olive Ridley turtles possess a natural navigation ability that allows them to remember the magnetic signature of the beach where they were born. Experts say the successful emergence at Puri indicates improved habitat conditions and effective protection measures, including monitoring of nesting sites and restrictions on human activity in sensitive zones. However, survival rates remain low. Hatchlings face multiple threats, including predation by birds and crabs, accidental capture in fishing nets, and marine pollution.
18 March,2026 04:25 PM IST | Puri | mid-day online correspondentThe Indian naval ship INS Trikand has successfully concluded its port call at Port Louis, Mauritius, on March 13, marking a significant step in reinforcing maritime cooperation between India and the island nation. As per the official statement, during its visit, the warship participated in the 58th Mauritius National Day celebrations on March 12. The Indian Navy contingent, along with a naval band and the ship’s integral helicopter, took part in the parade and flypast held at the Champ de Mars, adding grandeur to the national festivities. As part of official engagements, Commanding Officer Captain Sachin Kulkarni called on Rampersad Sooroojebally and Anurag Srivastava, underscoring the importance of diplomatic and security cooperation between the two countries. The ship also hosted a cultural evening on board, attended by senior Mauritian ministers and officials. Mahend Gungapersad graced the event as the Chief Guest, highlighting the strong people-to-people ties shared by India and Mauritius. Along with the ceremonial engagements, INS Trikand also carried out a series of professional and community-oriented activities. These included training sessions for personnel of the Mauritius National Coast Guard, focusing on critical areas such as harbour and sea watchkeeping, firefighting, and damage control. The ship was opened to visitors on March 12, attracting over 500 attendees. The visit also featured sports fixtures, cultural exchanges, and outreach programmes aimed at deepening bilateral engagement. Upon departure, INS Trikand conducted a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) and joint Exclusive Economic Zone surveillance with CGS Valiant before proceeding for its next operational deployment. The successful port call reaffirms the enduring maritime partnership between India and Mauritius and aligns with India’s MAHASAGAR vision—Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions—further strengthening strategic ties in the Indian Ocean region. INSV Kaundinya flagged into Mumbai Harbour after a historic Oman voyage Earlier in March, the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Kaundinya was ceremonially flagged into Mumbai Harbour by Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, marking the successful completion of her maiden overseas voyage to the Sultanate of Oman, an official statement issued by the Defence PRO said. The flag-in ceremony will commemorate the vessel’s return across the Arabian Sea, reaffirming India’s enduring maritime heritage and centuries-old India–Oman ties across the Indian Ocean, it said. A unique symbol of India’s ancient shipbuilding traditions, INSV Kaundinya is a traditionally constructed stitched ship, built entirely using age-old techniques in which wooden planks are hand-stitched with coir rope and sealed with natural resins. The vessel represents a revival of India’s historic maritime craftsmanship and reflects efforts to preserve and rediscover Indic knowledge systems.
18 March,2026 04:18 PM IST | Port Louis, Mauritius | mid-day online correspondentThe Supreme Court on Wednesday issued a circular clarifying that the Eid-ul-Fitr holiday will be observed in accordance with the Government of India’s official declaration, while confirming that the court registry will remain open on March 21 regardless of the moon sighting. Holiday to depend on government notification The apex court stated that the observance of the Eid holiday will depend on the official announcement made by the government, which is based on the sighting of the crescent moon marking the beginning of Shawwal. As per the circular, Eid-ul-Fitr may be celebrated either on March 20 (Friday) or March 22 (Sunday), depending on lunar visibility. The court will observe the holiday on the date declared as a gazetted holiday. Registry to function on March 21 The Supreme Court clarified that even if Eid falls on a different date, the court registry will remain operational on Saturday, March 21. “In case Eid-ul-Fitr is observed either on March 20 or March 22… this Hon’ble Court and Registry will observe the holiday accordingly, but the Registry will remain open on March 21,” the circular stated. This ensures that administrative and filing-related work continues uninterrupted on that day. Eid date subject to moon sighting Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon. As a result, the exact date of the festival can vary across regions and countries. In India, Eid is typically observed a day after the moon is sighted, leading to slight variations in the date each year. Eid al-Fitr is observed during the first three days of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar, with its exact date depending on the sighting of the crescent moon across regions. According to IslamicFinder and Time and Date, the festival’s timing varies each year based on lunar observations. In South Asia, the festival is usually marked a day later. Updates from the Ruyat-e-Hilal Committee of India suggest that countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh are likely to sight the moon on the evening of March 19, placing Eid on Friday, March 20, 2026.
18 March,2026 04:09 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentA Russian oil tanker that was originally headed for China has abruptly changed course in the South China Sea and is now en route to India, reflecting New Delhi’s aggressive push to secure energy supplies amid ongoing global disruptions, according to reports. The Aframax tanker Aqua Titan, carrying Urals crude, is expected to arrive at New Mangalore Port on March 21, according to ship-tracking data, as per reports. Tanker makes mid-sea U-turn towards India The vessel had initially departed from a Baltic Sea port in late January with its destination set as Rizhao in China. However, in mid-March, while navigating Southeast Asian waters, the tanker made a sudden course correction and began heading towards India. The rerouting comes shortly after the United States allowed India to temporarily increase imports of Russian oil, prompting a surge in purchases by Indian refiners, as per reports. India ramps up Russian oil imports India has significantly increased its crude oil imports from Russia in recent weeks, as part of efforts to secure stable energy supplies amid disruptions in the Middle East. The ongoing conflict involving Iran has impacted key global shipping routes and oil flows, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, creating uncertainty in supply chains. Move linked to global supply disruptions With oil supplies from the Middle East facing challenges due to geopolitical tensions, India has turned to alternative sources, including Russia, to meet its growing energy demand. Industry data suggests that Indian refiners have stepped up procurement of Russian crude to offset potential shortages and maintain domestic fuel stability. Earlier shipments navigated sensitive routes The development follows the recent arrival of Indian-flagged LPG carriers that successfully navigated the strategically sensitive Strait of Hormuz to deliver fuel to Gujarat ports. These shipments highlighted India’s diplomatic and logistical efforts to ensure uninterrupted energy supplies despite heightened risks in global shipping corridors. Indian vessel 'Jag Laadki' carrying over 80,000 MT crude oil reaches Gujarat's Mundra Port Meanwhile, Indian-flagged tanker 'Jag Laadki', carrying around 80,886 metric tonnes (MT) of crude oil, arrived at Mundra Port in Gujarat on Wednesday amid the West Asia conflict, officials said. A day earlier, LPG carrier 'Nanda Devi' arrived at Vadinar port in Gujarat's Devbhumi Dwarka district, carrying 46,500 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) navigating through the Strait of Hormuz. On Monday, another vessel - 'Shivalik' - carrying LPG docked at Mundra Port. Adani Ports, which operates Mundra Port, said in a statement that the crude oil carried by Jag Laadki was sourced from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and loaded at Fujairah Port there. "Measuring 274.19 metres in length overall and 50.04 metres in beam, the tanker boasts a deadweight tonnage of approximately 164,716 tonnes and a gross tonnage of about 84,735 tonnes," it said. The tanker's arrival at the Mundra Port underscores the facility's critical role in handling substantial crude imports, it said.
18 March,2026 03:44 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentPrime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the loss of lives in the tragic fire incident in Madhya Pradesh's Indore district and announced financial assistance for the victims of the incident, reported ANI. In a message, the Prime Minister said he was "deeply pained" by the incident and extended condolences to the bereaved families. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured in the mishap. "Deeply pained by the loss of lives in a fire mishap in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM @narendramodi," Prime Minister Office (PMO) stated in a post on X. Deeply pained by the loss of lives in a fire mishap in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The… — PMO India (@PMOIndia) March 18, 2026 Earlier, Madhya Pradesh Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya visited the site of the fire incident in Indore that claimed the lives of seven people on Wednesday morning and reviewed the situation with officials on the ground. The Minister also directed officials to constitute an expert committee to probe the incident and a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) can be formed to prevent such incidents in the future. Seven killed in early morning fire at residential house in Indore According to ANI, the fire broke out in a 3-storey residential house situated in the Brijeshwari Annexe residential locality in Indore at around 4 am and spread rapidly, leaving seven persons dead on the spot. After receiving information about the incident, Vijayvargiya reached the spot and interacted with the administration regarding rescue and relief operations. "This incident is very sad and alarming. As this is an era of EV (electric Vehicles) and the fire was triggered by the charging point of the EV, which is a matter of concern. We have asked the District Collector and Commissioner of Police (CP) to constitute an expert committee to investigate the incident so that a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) can be formed to prevent such incidents in the future. Today, every individual thinks of buying an EV and I also think if I have to purchase the next vehicle it will be an EV. But if fire breaks out due to charging of EV then it is quite an alarming situation," Vijayvargiya told reporters. Indore Commissioner of Police Santosh Kumar Singh said that soon after receiving the information about the incident, the firefighters rushed to the spot, began the rescue operation and brought the fire under control. "As soon as we received information about the incident, we informed our fire tender team to rush to the spot. Initially, it was a horrifying situation, but the team managed to bring the fire under control. Three people were rescued, and unfortunately, seven people have died in the incident. The fire has been completely brought under control," Singh said, reported ANI. (Inputs from ANI)
18 March,2026 03:23 PM IST | New Delhi [India] | mid-day online correspondentThe Delhi government’s Irrigation and Flood Control (IFC) Department has issued a tender to procure two boats for monitoring, survey, and inspection operations on the Yamuna river, officials said, the IANS reported. The move comes as the department seeks dedicated vessels to assist in river monitoring, flood management, and inspection visits by senior officials. The tender, floated on March 12, seeks two boats at an estimated combined cost of around Rs 6.2 crore, with each vessel priced at approximately Rs 3.1 crore. The procurement is expected to be completed within five months after the bidding process concludes, which is slated for March 19. Each boat will be designed to accommodate 16 to 20 persons and will measure about 13 metres in length, 4.3 metres in width, and 2.1 metres in height. The vessels will feature enclosed cabins equipped with air-conditioning and seating for officials. Interior features The interiors of the boats are planned with comfort and functionality in mind. Each cabin will have customised business-class push-back seats made of vegan leather, integrated hand rests with wooden finishes, bottle holders, and ambient LED lighting. Facilities will also include a pantry for serving food, washrooms, and a fresh water storage capacity of around 400 litres, according to the IANS. The boats will also feature an open rear deck with sofa-type seating for three to four persons, enabling senior officials to interact with the public during inspection visits and river surveys. Technical specifications and safety The vessels will be powered by 300-horsepower four-stroke engines and will carry fuel tanks with a capacity of 700 to 1,000 litres. Each boat will have a displacement of roughly 12 tonnes at full load and will be capable of reaching speeds up to 25 knots. Safety and operational equipment will include tracking devices, very high frequency (VHF) radio signal stations, fire pumps, emergency medical equipment, and depth sounders capable of measuring water depth up to 500 metres. The supplying agency will also provide maintenance and spare parts for two years, the news agency reported. Purpose and usage Officials said the boats are intended for multiple functions: monitoring river conditions, conducting surveys, facilitating inspection visits, and supporting flood monitoring and rescue operations during the monsoon season. They will also assist during major river festivals such as 'Chhath Pooja', as per the IANS. Currently, the I and FC department relies on hired boats for bathy-metric surveys, rescue operations, monsoon monitoring, and official inspections, as noted in the department’s annual report released last month. The new vessels are expected to provide dedicated support for these tasks and improve operational efficiency. Recreational projects on the Yamuna In addition to the monitoring boats, the Delhi government has procured a 40-seater vessel for a proposed recreational cruise service on the Yamuna, covering the route between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur. The project aims to introduce ferry services and recreational cruises, though its launch has been delayed. (With IANS Inputs)
18 March,2026 03:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentElaborate arrangements are being made for President Droupadi Murmu's upcoming visit to Ayodhya on March 19. The road leading up to the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple has been adorned with saffron flags and pennant banners. Workers were seen putting up banners across the city, depicting President Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Speaking about the arrangements and security measures, Ayodhya's District Magistrate (DM) Nikhil Tikaram Funde, told IANS, "We are working towards ensuring a hassle free event", as per IANS. He added that 'VIP darshan' will be closed on that day but common people will be allowed to visit the temple except for the time period during the President's visit. Responsibilities and measures has been planned for President Murmu's visit SSP Ayodhya, Gaurav Grover, said, "Today we have been briefed about the security measures and our responsibilities during President Murmu's visit. Right from her landing at the airport to the route that will be taken by her to reach the venue, everything has been planned accordingly." He added, "We will also ensure that common people who will come for 'darshan', don't face any difficulties." President Murmu is scheduled to participate in a series of religious ceremonies at the Ram Mandir Ayodhya, including the installation of the Ram Yantra on the temple’s second floor and Vedic rituals as part of special celebrations marking the Hindu New Year. During her visit, the President will also install the Shri Ram Yantra and Shri Ram Naam temple on the second floor of the temple complex and take part in Vedic prayers that will begin at around 9 AM. The rituals will be performed by 51 Vedic scholars from southern India, Kashi, and Ayodhya under the guidance of priest Ganeshwar Shastri, reported IANS. President Murmu to visit temple, felicitate construction workers amid tight security According to IANS, President Murmu will also honour nearly 400 workers who contributed to the construction of the temple and hoist a flag at one of the temples located along the outer precinct, known as the parkota. The President’s convoy is expected to reach the temple complex at around 11 AM and she will remain there for nearly four hours. The event will see participation from several religious and social leaders, including spiritual leaders. Around 5,000 special guests have been invited for the occasion, while elaborate arrangements are being made for security, seating, transport, and accommodation. Officials said the temple trust also plans to open access to additional shrines within the complex for devotees after the President's programme. Under the proposed system, about 5,000 devotees will be allowed daily to visit temples within the parkota area through a pass-based arrangement. Meanwhile, the number of devotees visiting Ayodhya continues to rise, with about 1,500 pilgrims from Punjab arriving in the city by a special train on Saturday to offer prayers to Ram Lalla, reported IANS. (Inputs from IANS)
18 March,2026 02:49 PM IST | Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) | mid-day online correspondentThe Indian-flagged crude oil tanker Jag Laadki has safely docked at Adani Ports’ Mundra terminal in Gujarat, carrying approximately 80,886 metric tonnes of crude oil sourced from the United Arab Emirates, officials confirmed on Wednesday, reported news agency IANS. The vessel was loaded at Fujairah Port and reached Mundra amid heightened global energy concerns and ongoing disruptions in key shipping routes. Major crude shipment reaches Indian shores Port authorities said the tanker berthed at Mundra following standard maritime coordination and safety procedures. The cargo is expected to be discharged for refinery operations, contributing to India’s fuel supply stability, reported IANS. A spokesperson for Adani Ports said the terminal continues to play a key role in handling critical energy imports and ensuring seamless logistics for the country’s energy needs. Vessel specifications highlight capacity The Jag Laadki is a large crude carrier, measuring 274.19 metres in length with a beam of 50.04 metres. It has a deadweight tonnage of approximately 1,64,716 tonnes and a gross tonnage of around 84,735 tonnes, making it capable of transporting substantial volumes of crude oil, reported IANS. Boost to energy security amid global disruptions The arrival of the tanker comes at a time when global energy supply chains are facing uncertainty due to geopolitical tensions, particularly in West Asia. Officials said such shipments are crucial to maintaining refinery output and ensuring uninterrupted fuel availability, reported IANS. India has been actively managing its energy imports to mitigate risks arising from disruptions in international shipping routes. Earlier LPG shipments reached Gujarat ports The development follows the recent arrival of two Indian-flagged LPG carriers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, which delivered large quantities of liquefied petroleum gas to ports in Gujarat after navigating the strategically sensitive Strait of Hormuz, reported IANS. These shipments were facilitated through diplomatic coordination to ensure safe passage amid rising security concerns in the region. Strait of Hormuz remains critical energy corridor The Strait of Hormuz continues to be one of the most vital routes for global energy trade, accounting for nearly one-fifth of the world’s seaborne oil shipments. Recent tensions in the region have impacted maritime traffic, prompting countries, including India, to take proactive measures to secure energy supplies. Discharge operations underway under supervision Officials said cargo discharge operations at Mundra will be carried out in accordance with safety and environmental protocols, under the supervision of port authorities and refinery representatives, reported IANS. The successful arrival of Jag Laadki underscores India’s continued efforts to safeguard its energy supply chain amid evolving global challenges. (With inputs from IANS)
18 March,2026 02:36 PM IST | Bhuj | mid-day online correspondentFollowing the resignation of Assam Lok Sabha MP, Pradyut Bordoloi, from the Congress, party leader Priyanka Gandhi on Wednesday termed the development as "unfortunate" and "truly regrettable," expressing disappointment over his exit, reported IANS. Bordoloi reportedly submitted his resignation to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, ending his long association with the party amid allegations of internal dissatisfaction. Priyanka Gandhi expresses concern over exit; Pappu Yadav warns of possible poll impact Speaking to reporters outside Parliament, Priyanka Gandhi said, “It’s very unfortunate. I think he was upset over one ticket allocation, and I wish we had had a chance to discuss it. It’s truly regrettable.” Meanwhile, Purnia MP Pappu Yadav said the party is taking the resignation seriously and acknowledged its significance. “The BJP often creates such break-ups. While it may not affect the party’s core ideology, such developments can have an impact during elections. The top leadership will certainly take this seriously,” he said. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP, Priyanka Chaturvedi, also expressed concern, alleging that leaders from the Congress are being repeatedly poached. “It is a matter of concern that leaders from the Indian National Congress are being drawn into the Bharatiya Janata Party, with even elected representatives switching sides,” she said, as per IANS. Oppositions raise questions behind Bordoloi's exit According to IANS, echoing similar concerns, Samajwadi Party spokesperson Ashutosh Verma pointed to two possible reasons behind the resignation. “Either he did not receive adequate respect within the Congress, or there may have been external pressure. In recent years, several Opposition leaders have shifted towards the BJP,” he said. On Tuesday, in a letter addressed to Mallikarjun Kharge, Bordoloi expressed “an overwhelming sense of sadness” while announcing his decision to step down from all posts, privileges, and responsibilities within the party. The brief resignation letter, dated March 17, did not specify the reasons behind his exit, but sources indicate that the move comes amid growing internal dissent and shifting political alignments in Assam. Bordoloi also recently wrote a letter to the Congress leadership expressing his displeasure with the functioning of the Congress party and its state president, Gaurav Gogoi, reported IANS. The central leadership of the Congress did not issue any statement on Bordoloi's letter, which might have fuelled his exit from the party. (Inputs from IANS)
18 March,2026 02:03 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
-1773826093301_d.png "High-spec boats to aid Yamuna river surveys. File Pic")
