Two earthquakes struck the Jammu and Kashmir district of Doda in the early hours of Sunday, triggering tremors across the region. The first earthquake, measuring 4.6 on the Richter scale, was recorded at around 4:22 a.m. at a depth of 10 km. Shortly after, a second tremor of 3.0 magnitude occurred at approximately 4:37 a.m., with its epicentre located at latitude 33.090°N and longitude 75.928°E, also at a depth of 10 km. Doda lies in the seismically sensitive Himalayan belt, where frequent low-intensity earthquakes are common due to the ongoing convergence of tectonic plates. As a result, such tremors are regularly recorded in the region and typically do not lead to significant damage or strong ground shaking. Neighbouring areas, including Kishtwar and Bhaderwah, are also prone to similar seismic activity, although most incidents remain minor in nature and have limited impact. Experts attribute the region's vulnerability to the continuous collision between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, making the entire Himalayan arc one of the most earthquake-prone zones in the world. This includes regions spanning Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Nepal. Under the updated 2025 seismic classification and IS 1893 Earthquake Design Code, the Himalayan belt has been placed in India's highest-risk Zone VI, reflecting increased seismic hazards. Reports indicate that over 60 per cent of the country falls under moderate-to-high earthquake risk zones, with concerns also being raised about the possibility of a major earthquake in identified seismic gaps. Authorities, including the National Disaster Management Authority and the Bureau of Indian Standards, continue to stress the importance of preparedness measures such as earthquake-resistant construction, early warning systems, public awareness campaigns, and regular community drills. For real-time updates and seismic data, officials have advised citizens to refer to the National Centre for Seismology website or mobile application. 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.
12 April,2026 10:33 AM IST | Doda | IANSThe police have solved the horrific murder case of a five-year-old child at the hostel of a residential school in Bihar’s Jehanabad earlier this week. A guard at the school’s canteen has confessed to the crime, police said. He had allegedly sexually abused the boy and then slit his throat. A sharp blade used in the murder has been recovered by the police, and the guard, Mukesh alias Sudama, 46, has been arrested. The hostel’s operator, Tarun Kumar, had also been taken into custody earlier. During the inquiry, it was found that Mukesh’s wife had left him years ago. “The children at the hostel used to taunt him by calling him ‘impotent’, and this frustrated him,” said Superintendent of Police Aprajit Lohan. “The accused also had a dispute with the hostel operator and threatened to defame the hostel and force its closure,” he added. 46The age of the guard who confessed to the crime Death penalty held off in 2024 POCSO case Another case that has gained national attentionas the Supreme Court stayed the execution of Atul Nihale. The development of the 2024 POCSO came in March. A 5-year-old girl from Bhopal’s Shahjahanabad area was brutally sexually assaulted and dumped in a water tank. Bhopal’s Special Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 (POCSO) delivered a landmark verdict on March 18, 2025. Accused Atul Nihale was given a triple death sentence — the first such verdict in Madhya Pradesh under the new Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta and N V Anjaria stayed the death sentence awarded to Atul Nihale while hearing his appeal challenging the conviction imposed on him by the trial court. The horrifying data says a lot The latest NCRB data on total POCSO cases is of 2023 with 67,694 cases registered. In 2025 according to a report by Centre for Legal Action and Behaviour Change (C-LAB) for Children, an initiative by India Child Protection. There is an 18.6 per cent rise in POCSO cases filed in India in the past two years. 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
12 April,2026 09:12 AM IST | Jehanabad (Bihar) | AgenciesPrime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday promised to implement the Uniform Civil Code in West Bengal to end what he called the “politics of appeasement”, while asserting that the BJP would not let Bengalis become a minority in the state. Addressing a rally at Jangipur in Muslim-majority Murshidabad district, Modi said the BJP’s election manifesto, released by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday, is a roadmap to end TMC’s ‘Mahajungleraj’ in West Bengal. “The nation’s security is of paramount importance to us. The BJP resolves to implement UCC in West Bengal to end the politics of appeasement forever,” Modi said. His remarks came a day after the state BJP, in its manifesto, promised to implement the UCC within six months if it comes to power. Attacking the TMC, he said that the people of the state have not forgotten how the “ruling party in the state stood by the culprits of the RG Kar rape and murder incident”. 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
12 April,2026 08:49 AM IST | Kolkata | AgenciesIn a unique initiative to promote respectful behaviour, Borsar village in Madhya Pradesh’s Burhanpur district has introduced a rule imposing a Rs 500 fine or one hour of mandatory cleaning duty for using abusive language. The decision was taken unanimously by the Gram Panchayat, and posters announcing the rule have been displayed across the village. The move aims to regulate public conduct and reduce conflicts arising from verbal abuse. Deputy Sarpanch Vinod Shinde said that the initiative was introduced to curb the widespread use of derogatory language among both children and adults. “Earlier, people frequently used offensive words, including remarks targeting mothers and sisters. Now, anyone found doing so must either pay a fine of Rs 500 or perform one hour of cleaning work in the village,” he 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
12 April,2026 08:14 AM IST | Burhanpur | AgenciesA political debate has emerged in Maharashtra over comments made about the Warkari sect, a centuries-old spiritual movement dedicated to Lord Vitthal of Pandharpur. The row erupted after Sharad Pawar, in a magazine article, expressed concern that regressive elements had entered the tradition and that certain discourses were encouraging religious fanaticism. Responding to these remarks, Devendra Fadnavis strongly rejected the claims, stating that the article showed a lack of understanding of the sect’s values and history, reported PTI. Warkari sect The term ‘Warkari’ refers to devotees of Lord Vitthal who undertake an annual pilgrimage on foot to the temple town of Pandharpur in Maharashtra. The tradition is believed to be 800 to 900 years old and is deeply rooted in the Bhakti movement. It has inspired great saints and poets such as Tukaram and Namdev. The movement emphasises devotion, equality, humility and spiritual purity. Government’s stand on infiltration claims Addressing the issue, Fadnavis acknowledged that some individuals with alleged Urban Naxal links had tried to enter the Warkari movement in recent times. However, he stressed that such elements were not accepted by the community. He also mentioned that the government had taken note of such individuals and maintained records through relevant departments. According to him, the sect remains strong in its core values and rejects any attempts to distort its teachings, as per PTI. Philosophy of inclusiveness Fadnavis highlighted that the Warkari tradition promotes harmony, purification of the mind and unity with nature. He described it as a rich and inclusive movement that continues to bring people together regardless of social or economic background. He reiterated that the tradition stands for brotherhood and spiritual growth, rather than division or extremism. Debate on freedom of expression While criticising Pawar’s article as “completely incorrect,” Fadnavis also acknowledged that everyone has the right to express their views. He said that in literary forums, diverse opinions are often presented, and public figures may choose to share their perspectives, reported the news agency. He added that Pawar, being a senior political leader, has the prerogative to write and express his thoughts, even if others may disagree with them. (With PTI Inputs)
11 April,2026 11:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe government on Saturday hiked export duty, or windfall tax, on diesel to Rs 55.5 per litre and on aviation fuel ATF to Rs 42 a litre. The duty hikes would be applicable with immediate effect, the finance ministry said in a notification. The government had, on March 26, imposed an export duty of Rs 21.50 a litre on diesel, and Rs 29.5 per litre on Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF). The duties were levied to increase domestic availability of the fuel amid the war in West Asia. They were also aimed at not allowing exporters to take undue advantage due to price differences, as globally crude oil prices had risen since the beginning of the war. On February 28, the United States and Israel launched military strikes against Iran, triggering sweeping retaliation from Tehran. On April 8, Iran, the United States and Israel agreed on a two-week ceasefire in the war that tore across the Middle East and disrupted the global energy market.Export duty on petrol continues to remain nil. 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.
11 April,2026 08:07 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIGadchiroli Police in Maharashtra organised a free health camp at the newly established police outpost in Bangadi village, aiming to provide medical services to residents in remote and tribal areas. The initiative covered people from Bangadi and Gundnur villages, where a total of around 80 citizens underwent medical examination by a team of specialist doctors, officials said. The camp was conducted jointly by the Gadchiroli Police Hospital, District Hospital Gadchiroli, Zilla Parishad Gadchiroli and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The programme was held under the guidance of Superintendent of Police Nilotpal, with the aim of extending healthcare services to inaccessible regions. Specialist doctors examine residents According to an official statement, a team of doctors, including physicians, paediatricians and gynaecologists, carried out examinations. The doctors examined the patients thoroughly and gave necessary medical advises were given to those who visited the camp for check-ups. Medical professionals who participated in the camp included Dr Dhananjay Khandagale (Physician, District Hospital Gadchiroli), Dr Mukesh Atyalgade (Paediatrician, Women and Child Hospital Gadchiroli), Dr Pravin Kilnake (Medical Superintendent, Rural Hospital Chamorshi, Gynaecologist), Dr Roshni Kirange (Police Hospital Medical Officer) and Dr D. S. Mohan (CRPF Medical Officer, 09 Battalion). Patients were given free medicines and health advice, especially on nutrition and common illnesses. Referrals and further treatment Out of the 80 people examined, 10 patients were referred to higher medical centres for further treatment and detailed check-ups, officials said. Children were screened by paediatric specialists, while women, including pregnant mothers, received gynaecological consultations and guidance. Focus on awareness and welfare activities During the camp, awareness activities were also conducted using mobile exhibitions. These highlighted the sacrifices of martyred security personnel and the role of the police force in maintaining law and order, the police said. Officials said that such initiatives aim to build trust between security forces and local communities while improving access to healthcare. Ongoing welfare initiatives in Gadchiroli According to police records, since 2021, the force has conducted - - 191 health camps covering over 42,000 people - 5 blood donation drives collecting 4,361 units of blood - Eye screening under “Operation Roshan”, covering 9,971 people and 1,412 cataract surgeries
11 April,2026 07:52 PM IST | Gadchiroli | mid-day online correspondentThe Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has started a dedicated Safety Awareness Week focused on the proper use of lifts, escalators and travelators across its metro network. The campaign aims to reduce accidents caused due to careless or unsafe use and improve overall passenger awareness and discipline inside stations, reported ANI. At present, the Delhi Metro operates and maintains 965 lifts, 1,297 escalators and 42 travelators across its stations. The system plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth, fast and accessible travel for millions of commuters every day, including senior citizens, women, and persons with reduced mobility. Unique station record at Kashmere Gate One of the key highlights of the network is the Kashmere Gate Metro Station, which holds a world record for having the highest number of escalators in a metro station, with a total of 53 escalators. This makes it one of the busiest and most important interchange stations in the entire network, handling a very large volume of passengers daily and connecting multiple metro lines efficiently, as per the news agency. Activities during the awareness week As part of the campaign running from April 7 to 13, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has deployed scout and guide volunteers along with DMRC staff at several stations. These volunteers are stationed near lifts and escalators holding placards to guide passengers on safe usage and correct behaviour. In addition, street plays (nukkad nataks) are being performed at select high-footfall stations to spread awareness in an engaging and easy-to-understand manner. Informational leaflets are also being distributed among commuters, highlighting key safety tips and preventive measures. Focus on safety and accessibility The campaign is designed to educate passengers about best practices for using lifts and escalators safely, including standing properly, avoiding rushing, and supervising children. It also aims to promote preventive behaviour to reduce avoidable accidents during daily travel. Special attention is being given to elderly passengers and persons with disabilities, ensuring they receive proper assistance, priority access and guidance while using these facilities across stations, reported the news agency. Importance of passenger responsibility The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has stated that it gives high priority to the maintenance and smooth functioning of all lifts, escalators and travelators. However, officials noted that many accidents still occur due to lack of caution and unsafe behaviour by passengers. This awareness week has therefore been introduced to encourage responsible behaviour, improve discipline, and ensure safer and more comfortable journeys for all commuters across the metro network. (With ANI Inputs)
11 April,2026 07:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentNearly seven years after Ladakh was carved out as a separate Union Territory in 2019, residents have finally received a key administrative update in their Aadhaar records, reported the PTI. Earlier, Aadhaar cards still showed “Jammu and Kashmir” in the state field, even though Ladakh had been officially separated. This mismatch continued for a long time and remained a matter of concern for many residents. This inconsistency created confusion and difficulties for residents while using Aadhaar for identity verification and accessing various government as well as private services. In several cases, it also led to delays in documentation and verification processes, causing inconvenience in day-to-day transactions. Government intervention and coordination with UIDAI The issue was taken up by the newly appointed Ladakh Lt Governor VK Saxena, after which the Union Territory administration approached UIDAI to resolve the matter on a priority basis. Following this, a centralised correction mechanism was developed. Instead of requiring individuals to visit Aadhaar centres one by one, the update was carried out using Ladakh-specific PIN codes. These were verified in coordination with the Department of Posts and then shared with UIDAI for system-wide correction. This approach ensured faster implementation and helped avoid inconvenience for thousands of residents across the region. Relief for residents of Ladakh The updated Aadhaar records now correctly reflect Ladakh as the “state” entry. Officials said this change removes long-standing procedural hurdles and improves ease of living for people in the region, as per the news agency. Residents no longer need to physically visit Aadhaar centers for corrections. They can now download updated e-Aadhaar copies directly from the official UIDAI portal. Those who prefer a physical version can also order a PVC Aadhaar card online by paying a nominal fee, making the process more accessible and convenient. Administrative significance of the move Officials said the correction is not just a technical update but also an important step in formally recognising Ladakh’s separate identity in official records. It improves accuracy in Aadhaar-linked databases and supports better service delivery across departments. According to the administration, the change reflects a broader effort toward responsive governance, administrative efficiency and smoother public service delivery in Ladakh, ensuring citizens face fewer bureaucratic hurdles in the future. (With PTI Inputs)
11 April,2026 05:38 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThree prison personnel, including a deputy jailor, have been suspended following the death of an inmate under suspicious circumstances at the district jail in Uttar Pradesh's Pratapgarh, officials said on Saturday, reported the PTI. The incident occurred on Friday when an inmate sustained severe burn injuries inside the jail premises. He later died, raising concerns about safety and supervision within the prison. District Jail Superintendent Rishabh Dwivedi identified the deceased as Deepak alias Rahul, an undertrial prisoner from Unnao. Background of the case The inmate had been lodged in jail since November 1, 2025 following orders of a special POCSO court. He was facing charges related to rape and offences under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, according to the PTI. The case had been registered at Kandhai police station in Pratapgarh. Officials Suspended, probe ordered The suspended personnel include Deputy jailor Dhruv Narayan Srivastava, Chief warder Akhilesh Singh and a staff member identified as Prasad, the news agency reported. The officials have directed the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Prisons to carry out a departmental inquiry into the incident. Suicide suspected, investigation ongoing According to Rishabh Dwivedi, the incident appears to be a case of suicide at first glance. However, he said the exact sequence of events will only be confirmed after a detailed investigation. The body has been sent for postmortem examination. A forensic team is also investigating the circumstances surrounding the death to determine what exactly happened inside the prison. Life convict attacks jail staff in Maharashtra's Thane, booked Meanwhile, in an another incident, a life convict has been booked for allegedly assaulting and threatening a jail constable in Maharashtra’s Thane district after being denied an unauthorised meeting with his brother, police said last week, reported the PTI. The incident took place on April 2, when the convict was being escorted back to prison following a court appearance. The accused, Avinash Jadhav, is currently serving a life sentence at Thane Central Jail, the news agency reported. According to police, he became enraged after a constable prevented his brother from approaching him inside the sessions court premises in Mumbai. The constable had reportedly stopped the brother from handing over an item and instructed him to maintain distance. Officials said that upon returning to the jail, Jadhav confronted the constable at the prison entrance. He allegedly assaulted the officer, shouted at jail staff, and issued threats, creating a disturbance and intimidating on-duty personnel. The victim, a 42-year-old constable, was supervising a group of undertrials and convicts at the time of the incident, as per the PTI. Case registered under BNS Police have registered a case against Jadhav under Section 132 (assault or criminal force to deter a public servant from duty) and other relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Further investigation into the matter is currently underway. (with PTI inputs)
11 April,2026 04:50 PM IST | Pratapgarh (UP) | mid-day online correspondentAs many as 149 leopards have died in Madhya Pradesh in the last 14 months, according to information obtained through a Right to Information (RTI) application filed by wildlife activist Ajay Dubey. It stated that the leopard deaths were reported between January 2025 and March 2026. The figures have raised serious concerns about wildlife safety and infrastructure planning. Road accidents identified as leading cause Data shows that road and highway accidents are the biggest cause of deaths, accounting for around 31 per cent of fatalities. Approximately 46 leopards were killed in vehicle collisions, including 19 deaths on highways alone. Wildlife experts say that increasing road networks passing through forest areas have significantly contributed to these incidents. Other causes of leopard deaths in MP Apart from accidents, several other factors have contributed to the deaths - - Natural causes such as disease and old age: 24 per cent (36 deaths) - Intraspecies conflict (territorial fights): 21 per cent (31 deaths) - Poaching and retaliatory killings: 14 per cent (21 deaths) - Undetermined causes: 9 per cent (13 deaths) - Electrocution: around 1 per cent (8 deaths) Some deaths were also linked to traps and snares allegedly set by poachers. Concerns over infra, habitat loss Experts have pointed out that many deaths occurred near highways and other infrastructure projects cutting through important forest corridors. These “linear infrastructure” developments often disrupt animal movement and increase the risk of accidents. Leopards are also increasingly found near human settlements, which raises the chances of conflict, vehicle collisions and accidental electrocution. Activist raises alarm Ajay Dubey described the situation as alarming, stating that such a high number of deaths reflects poor implementation of wildlife protection measures. He said that while the state is known for its strong wildlife reputation, the rising number of leopard deaths highlights gaps in safety planning and enforcement of conservation guidelines. Dubey said, “The staggering loss of 149 leopards in just 14 months reveals a grim reality for Madhya Pradesh. While the state takes pride in its ‘Tiger State’ status, it has inadvertently become a graveyard for leopards. The fact that nearly one-third of these deaths are caused by road accidents underscores a systemic failure to implement safe corridors and hold linear infrastructure projects accountable to NTCA protocols. We are not just losing animals; we are losing the balance of our ecosystem to negligence.”
11 April,2026 04:22 PM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavADVERTISEMENT
-1775921936067_d.png "Devendra Fadnavis counters criticism of centuries-old Warkari movement. File Pic")
-1775918264525_d.png "India increases windfall tax on fuel to boost domestic availability. Representational Image")
-1775911394512_d.png "DMRC conducts safety campaign at stations to prevent lift and escalator accidents. Representational Pic")
-1775909151904_d.png "Aadhaar change eases long-pending issue for Ladakh residents. Representational Pic")
