Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday attacked the BJP government in Uttarakhand after a retired Army brigadier was killed allegedly in crossfire between two groups, saying law and order in the state has "completely collapsed". The leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha said that under the "irresponsible" leadership of the BJP, Uttarakhand is living under the shadow of violence, murder and fear. "The brutal, broad-daylight murder of Retired Brigadier V.K. Joshi who had stepped out for a morning walk in Dehradun -- clearly demonstrates that law and order in Uttarakhand has completely collapsed," Gandhi said in his post in Hindi on X. देहरादून में मॉर्निंग वॉक पर निकले एक सेवानिवृत्त ब्रिगेडियर वी के जोशी जी की दिनदहाड़े निर्मम हत्या साफ बताती है कि उत्तराखंड की कानून-व्यवस्था पूरी तरह ध्वस्त हो चुकी है।सरहद पर देश की रक्षा में जीवन समर्पित करने वाले ही आज अपने शहर में ही असुरक्षित हैं - आम नागरिक और कई… — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) March 31, 2026 "Those who dedicated their lives to defending the nation at the borders are today unsafe within their own city; ordinary citizens and various communities are forced to live in fear," he said. Under BJP rule, only criminals remain fearless and secure, Gandhi alleged. "Our Uttarakhand once synonymous with peace and security is under the irresponsible leadership of the BJP, living under the shadow of violence, murder and fear," the former Congress chief said. Joshi was shot on Monday during the crossfire between two groups following a dispute over a bill at a nightclub, police said. Four people, including a nightclub owner, have been arrested in connection with the incident that took place in Johri village on Mussoorie Road in the Rajpur area, they 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.
31 March,2026 01:52 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIWest Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to influence the upcoming Assembly elections by allegedly adding “illegal voters” from other states to the electoral rolls in West Bengal, reported news agency PTI. Claims of Voter List Manipulation Surface Addressing a public rally in Chandrakona in Paschim Medinipur district, Banerjee alleged that individuals from states such as Bihar, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh were being brought in to alter the voter base in favour of the BJP, reported PTI. She claimed that the alleged move was part of a larger strategy to influence the election outcome. “The BJP is trying to include illegal voters from outside states in Bengal’s electoral rolls,” she said, warning party workers and supporters to remain vigilant, reported PTI. Abhishek Banerjee Flags Sudden Surge in Applications Banerjee further stated that Abhishek Banerjee had to rush to the office of the Election Commission of India in Kolkata after receiving information about a sudden spike in voter registration applications, reported PTI. According to her, nearly 30,000 forms were allegedly submitted in a single day seeking inclusion of new voters, raising concerns within the Trinamool Congress (TMC) about the authenticity of these applications. Accusations Against BJP and Election Commission The Trinamool Congress chief also accused the BJP of colluding with the Election Commission to manipulate electoral rolls. She alleged that names of women and minority voters were being removed under the pretext of verification exercises, reported PTI. “The BJP and the Election Commission are undermining democratic rights,” Banerjee claimed, adding that her party would oppose any such attempts strongly, reported PTI. Appeals to Voters and Political Messaging In her address, Banerjee urged voters to focus on her leadership rather than individual candidates contesting from different constituencies. She appealed to the electorate to consider her as the representative across all 294 Assembly seats in the state, reported PTI. She also raised concerns about cultural and social issues, alleging that the BJP could impose restrictions on food habits if it comes to power in the state. Additionally, she reiterated her opposition to the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in West Bengal. High-Stakes Electoral Battle Ahead West Bengal is set to witness a closely watched electoral contest, with polling scheduled in two phases on April 23 and April 29. The counting of votes will take place on May 4. In the previous Assembly elections held in 2021, the Trinamool Congress secured a decisive victory, winning 213 seats in the 294-member Assembly. The BJP emerged as the principal opposition with 77 seats, while the Congress and Left Front failed to win any seats. With campaigning intensifying, the political atmosphere in the state remains charged, as both the ruling TMC and the BJP prepare for another high-stakes electoral showdown. (With inputs from PTI)
31 March,2026 01:42 PM IST | Kolkata | mid-day online correspondentSenior Sharad Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (SP) leader Eknath Khadse, along with his daughter Sharda Khadse, has been booked by police in Maharashtra’s Jalgaon district for allegedly cheating an elderly woman and unlawfully taking possession of her land using forged documents, officials said, reported the PTI. According to police, the land in question was classified as ‘Mahar Watan’—a category of ‘inam’ land historically granted to members of the Mahar community (now classified under Scheduled Castes) in recognition of hereditary village services. Authorities alleged that illegal possession of the land was secured in the name of Khadse’s daughter from an 82-year-old woman, the news agency reported. Complaint filed by elderly victim The alleged fraud came to light after the complainant, Chamelibai Tukaram Tayade, lodged a formal complaint on March 9 with the Jalgaon district Superintendent of Police. She accused Khadse, his daughter, and certain government officials of wrongdoing in connection with the land transaction. Preliminary inquiry by EOW Following the complaint, the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Jalgaon police conducted a preliminary inquiry into transactions spanning from 2002 to 2025. Based on its findings, a case was registered under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) relating to cheating, fraud, and forgery, as well as under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, as the complainant belongs to a Dalit community, as per the PTI. Allegations of false promises and forged documents According to the PTI, as per the FIR, Khadse allegedly assured the victim and her family in 2002 that a sugar factory would be established on their ‘Mahar Watan’ land located at Manpur Shivar in Jalgaon district. He reportedly promised compensation and employment opportunities to family members. Police stated that an initial payment of Rs 51,000 was made to the victim, along with assurances that each family member would receive Rs 1 lakh from the proposed project’s management. No project, land allegedly transferred illegally However, the complainant later discovered in 2025 that no sugar factory had been set up on the land. Instead, Khadse had established a company, Tapi-Purna Sugar Allied Industries Ltd, for the project and allegedly took possession of the land by manipulating official documents, the news agency reported. Investigators claim that sale agreements were altered and the land was transferred to his daughter’s name without proper authorisation. The FIR further alleges that the accused conspired to exploit the victim’s illiteracy and lack of awareness to gain control over the property over a prolonged period. Case transferred for further probe The case was initially registered at Bodwad Police Station and has since been transferred to the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) in Muktai Nagar for further investigation. As per legal provisions, cases involving alleged wrongful occupation of land belonging to SC/ST individuals must be probed by an officer of at least Deputy Superintendent rank, reported the PTI. Khadse denies allegations, calls it political vendetta Responding to the allegations, Khadse denied any involvement in the land deal and described the case as politically motivated. He stated that the transaction had taken place decades ago and questioned the timing of the complaint. Notably, Khadse had previously served as a senior minister in the BJP-led Maharashtra government between 2014 and 2019. He resigned from the cabinet in 2016 following allegations of misusing his position to facilitate the purchase of state-owned land in Pune’s Bhosari industrial area by his family members. (with PTI inputs)
31 March,2026 01:38 PM IST | Jalgaon | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday expressed strong confidence in the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) prospects in Assam, predicting a historic third consecutive victory for the party in the upcoming Assembly elections, reported news agency ANI. Fadnavis Predicts Massive BJP Victory Speaking to reporters, Fadnavis said the BJP is poised to secure a hat-trick win in Assam, adding that the party would surpass all previous electoral records. He credited the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for creating a strong positive wave across the state, reported ANI. According to Fadnavis, the BJP’s governance and development initiatives have resonated with voters, positioning the party for a decisive mandate. “The BJP will register a massive victory in Assam,” he asserted. Himanta Biswa Sarma Confident of Historic Mandate Echoing similar sentiments, Sarma expressed optimism about the BJP’s chances in the elections. He highlighted the enthusiastic public response to the party’s outreach campaign, the “Vijay Sankalp Yatra,” stating that large crowds and widespread support reflect growing confidence in the BJP, reported ANI. Sarma also took aim at opposition leaders, including Badruddin Ajmal, asserting that the BJP has significantly weakened its political opponents in the state, reported ANI. BJP Claims Transformation of Assam The Assam Chief Minister further emphasised that the state has undergone a significant transformation under BJP rule. He pointed to development initiatives, cultural revival, and governance reforms as key factors driving voter support, reported ANI. Sarma claimed that the BJP has consolidated its position among indigenous communities, adding that the party enjoys widespread backing across the state. His remarks come amid intensified campaigning and heightened political rhetoric ahead of the polls, reported ANI. Congress-BJP Face-Off for 126 Seats The upcoming elections will see a direct contest between the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Congress. The BJP is aiming to retain power for a third consecutive term, while the Congress is seeking a political comeback in the northeastern state. Sarma is set to contest from his traditional Jalukbari constituency, a seat he has held for multiple terms. Polling on April 9, Counting on May 4 As announced by the Election Commission of India, polling for all 126 Assembly constituencies in Assam will be conducted in a single phase on April 9. The counting of votes is scheduled for May 4. With both major parties intensifying their campaigns, the political battle in Assam is expected to be closely watched, as the BJP seeks to reinforce its dominance while the opposition attempts to regain lost ground. (With inputs from ANI)
31 March,2026 01:24 PM IST | Jorhat | mid-day online correspondentShiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi on Tuesday said that efforts to curb Naxalism in India cannot be attributed to a single government but it was a collective effort. Speaking to ANI, Chaturvedi accused the present regime of claiming sole credit for ending Naxalism and termed it “unfortunate.” “The action against Naxalism began during the UPA era, and now they are trying to take credit for its end. This cannot be the contribution of just one government. It is a continuous process. If someone tries to claim sole credit for it, that is unfortunate,” she said. Congress denies claims of shielding Naxalites in Chhattisgarh Earlier in the day, Congress leader Manickam Tagore rejected Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s charge that the Congress government in Chhattisgarh had “shielded Naxalites.” Tagore refuted the allegations, defending the Congress and stating that the party had lost several leaders in the fight against Naxalism. He asserted that the credit for combating Naxalism should go to security forces rather than political leaders. “We expected the Home Minister to speak in his official capacity, but he spoke like a BJP leader. His speech was disappointing and full of political allegations, with no truth to the accusations. The Congress party has sacrificed many of its leaders in the fight against Naxalite attacks. The credit should go to the security forces, not to the Home Minister, who is engaging in political rhetoric,” he told ANI. Amit Shah accuses Rahul Gandhi of supporting Naxalism The remarks came after Amit Shah on Monday launched a sharp attack on Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of supporting Naxalism “throughout his political career.” Shah also criticised Gandhi for reposting a video of a protest at India Gate, where slogans were allegedly raised in support of Naxal leader Madvi Hidma, who was killed in an encounter with security forces in Andhra Pradesh in November last year. “When Hidma was killed, slogans were raised at India Gate saying, ‘Kitne Hidma maroge, har ghar se Hidma niklega.’ Rahul Gandhi shared that video. How can they escape responsibility? They have supported Naxalism since the 1970s. The Congress party’s left-wing ideology is responsible for the deaths of 20,000 people,” Shah said while replying to a debate in the Lok Sabha on efforts to eliminate Left-Wing Extremism. The “Naxal Mukt Bharat” (Naxal-free India) mission is a strategic initiative of the Union Home Ministry under the Modi government to eradicate Left-Wing Extremism by March 31, 2026. (With ANI inputs)
31 March,2026 01:17 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentThe Congress on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on Union Home Minister Amit Shah, mocking his recent speech in the Lok Sabha and claiming he delivered a lengthy address without using what it described as his “favourite word of abuse.” Congress Mocks Shah’s 90-Minute Speech The opposition party’s remarks came a day after Shah spoke in the Lok Sabha during a debate on efforts to eliminate Left-Wing Extremism (LWE). Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh took a dig at the home minister, stating that Shah had “ranted for 90 minutes” but refrained from using language that had previously drawn objections and been expunged from parliamentary records. Ramesh also referred to an earlier instance where certain remarks made by Shah in Parliament were removed from official proceedings, suggesting that the minister had exercised restraint this time. Taking a swipe at Shah, Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said, "Yesterday, the Home Minister accomplished a miracle in the Lok Sabha. He raved and ranted for 90 minutes without once using his favourite word of abuse - which has had to be expunged on previous occasions." Shah Declares Major Success Against Naxalism In his Lok Sabha address, Shah asserted that India is close to being free from Naxal violence, claiming that the central leadership and organisational structure of Maoist groups have been nearly dismantled. He credited the government’s sustained security operations for the progress made in tackling extremism. Shah also reiterated the government’s commitment to completely eliminating Left-Wing Extremism, pointing to a deadline set for March 31, 2026, to achieve this objective. Allegations Against Congress and Rahul Gandhi During the debate, Shah targeted the Congress and its leadership, alleging that the party had failed to address the Naxal issue during its years in power. He also accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of being seen publicly with individuals sympathetic to Naxal ideology and sharing content perceived as supportive of Maoist groups on social media. The remarks triggered strong reactions from opposition members, who protested in the House and demanded an apology, calling some of Shah’s statements offensive. Heated Exchanges in Parliament Continue The political sparring follows a series of confrontations between the treasury benches and the opposition in recent parliamentary sessions. Earlier this month, tensions had escalated during a debate linked to a motion concerning Om Birla, with both sides engaging in sharp exchanges. Congress leaders have repeatedly accused the government of stifling opposition voices, while the ruling side has countered by alleging disruptions and lack of participation from opposition members. Debate Ahead of Government Deadline The Lok Sabha discussion on Left-Wing Extremism took place just a day before the government’s self-imposed deadline for ending Naxal violence in the country. Shah highlighted that significant progress has been made in regions historically affected by insurgency, often referred to as the “Red Corridor,” spanning multiple states. Calling it a major achievement of the government led by Narendra Modi, Shah said that the vision of a Naxal-free India is now within reach. However, the opposition remains critical, questioning both the claims and the political tone of the government’s messaging on the issue.
31 March,2026 01:12 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentSenior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi was discharged from Sir Ganga Ram Hospital on Tuesday morning after successfully recovering from a systemic infection, doctors confirmed, reported news agency PTI. Admitted with Fever, Underwent Week-Long Treatment Gandhi had been admitted to the hospital on the night of March 24 at approximately 10:20 pm after experiencing fever-related symptoms. She remained under medical supervision for seven days, during which doctors closely monitored her condition and administered appropriate treatment, reported PTI. Responded Well to Antibiotics, Say Doctors According to hospital chairman Dr Ajay Swaroop, the Congress leader was diagnosed with a systemic infection and responded positively to a course of antibiotics. Her recovery was steady, allowing doctors to discharge her once her condition stabilised, reported PTI. "Sonia Gandhi was admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital on the night of March 24, 2026, at 10:22 PM with fever. According to Dr. Ajay Swaroop, Chairman, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, she was treated with antibiotics for a systemic infection under the supervision of Dr. D. S. Rana, Dr. S. Nundy, and Dr. Arup Basu, and responded well to the treatment. She has now recovered and has been discharged from the hospital this morning for further treatment and follow-up at home," according to hospital authorities. What is a Systemic Infection? Medical experts explained that a systemic infection occurs when harmful pathogens, such as bacteria, enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. Unlike localised infections that affect a specific area, systemic infections can impact multiple organs and require timely medical intervention to prevent complications. Advised Rest and Continued Care at Home Doctors have advised Gandhi to continue her recovery at home, with regular follow-ups and prescribed medication. Sources indicated that she will remain under observation as part of precautionary care, ensuring complete recovery, reported PTI. Previous Hospitalisations in Recent Years This is not the first time the veteran leader has required hospitalisation. In June last year, Gandhi was admitted for stomach-related issues and kept under observation in the gastroenterology department. Earlier that same month, she had also been admitted to Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital for treatment. Despite recurring health concerns, Gandhi has continued to remain active in political affairs. Her recent discharge has brought relief to party members and supporters, who had been closely following updates on her health. The Congress party has not issued an official statement beyond confirming her recovery, but leaders and workers have expressed relief over her improved condition. (With inputs from PTI)
31 March,2026 12:52 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentCongress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants the ruling LDF to win the Assembly elections in Kerala. Addressing an election rally here, Gandhi reiterated his charge that the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) is fighting the combined forces of the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the BJP. Two former CPI(M) leaders - V Kunhikrishnan and T K Govindan - who are contesting as independents with the support of the UDF, were also present on the stage."This election is a fight between two ideologies - that of the Left Front led by CPI(M) and that of the UDF. For the first time, we are seeing a partnership between the BJP and the Left Front," he said. He said that it is quite surprising that a Left party is aligning with an extreme Right party, because they have diametrically opposite ideologies. "So the question is, how is it possible that a Left party combines with a Right party? This is like a puzzle," Gandhi said. "Some answers to the puzzle are sitting on the stage. There are two veteran leaders from CPI(M) here today. Why are they sitting on our stage and not campaigning for CPI(M) and the chief minister?" he asked. Gandhi alleged that what is today called the Left Front is no longer a Left or even a centrist formation. "In fact, they are partnering with the BJP because they are corporate parties. They are no longer parties of the people. The proof is sitting on the stage now. People with Left-minded thinking are with the Congress, and the party is supporting them," he said. Questioning the BJP's stand in Kerala, Gandhi said that while the prime minister speaks about religion, temples and God elsewhere, he does not raise the Sabarimala gold loss issue in the state. He alleged that CPI(M) leaders were involved in the gold loss at Sabarimala and accused the BJP of remaining silent on the issue. "The so-called defender of Hinduism does not speak about Sabarimala when he comes to Kerala. He wants the Left Front to win the election in the state," Gandhi said. He further said that Left leaders contesting elections as independents with the support of the UDF show that the CPI(M) is no longer a true Left party. 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.
31 March,2026 12:52 PM IST | Kannur (Kerala) | PTIUnion Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday unveiled the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) ‘Sankalp Patra’ (manifesto) for the upcoming Assam Assembly elections at an event held at Vajpayee Bhawan in Guwahati. The launch programme was attended by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, and state BJP president Dilip Saikia, along with other senior party leaders and workers. Addressing the gathering, Sitharaman said the manifesto reflects the BJP’s vision for a “secure, developed and self-reliant Assam”, and outlines 31 key commitments aimed at accelerating growth across sectors. She emphasised that the party’s promises are rooted in its governance track record and focus on inclusive development. Highlighting political contrasts, the Finance Minister took a swipe at Congress, stating that the party had limited organisational presence in Assam during its tenure, while the BJP has significantly expanded its grassroots network over the past decade. She also underlined the frequency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visits to the state, asserting that such engagement reflects the Centre’s commitment to Assam’s progress. “The Sankalp Patra is not just a document of promises, but a roadmap backed by performance and accountability,” Sitharaman said, adding that the BJP government has prioritised infrastructure, welfare schemes and economic opportunities in the state. Chief Minister Sarma, in his remarks, said the manifesto builds upon the achievements of the current government and aims to further strengthen development initiatives, particularly in healthcare, education and connectivity. The BJP is gearing up for a high-stakes electoral battle in Assam, with the manifesto expected to play a central role in shaping its campaign narrative ahead of the Assembly polls. The party leaders expressed confidence that the commitments outlined in the Sankalp Patra would resonate with voters and ensure a decisive mandate in the upcoming elections. The 126-member Assam Legislative Assembly will go to polls in a single phase on April 9, while the counting of votes is scheduled to take place on May 4. 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.
31 March,2026 12:09 PM IST | Guwahati | IANSThe Bengaluru Police have arrested a bike taxi driver on charges of inappropriately touching a 25-year-old woman rider throughout her journey. The incident was reported within the limits of the Indiranagar police station in the city, said officials on Tuesday. The arrested person has been identified as Mohammad Khizar. According to the police, the victim had booked a bike ride from BTM Layout to Indiranagar. She alleged that the accused repeatedly touched her inappropriately during the journey. The victim has also told police that she had confronted the driver about his misbehaviour, and the driver continued to touch her inappropriately throughout. The young woman later approached the Indiranagar police and filed a complaint against the accused. Acting swiftly, the police arrested him. The police are now probing to find out whether the accused is involved in other cases. A case has been registered against the accused under Section 75 (sexual harassment) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). More details are yet to emerge regarding the incident. The incident has raised concerns over the safety and security of lakhs of women, especially those who use bike taxi services in Bengaluru around the clock. It can be recalled that a Rapido auto-rickshaw driver was booked on September 16, 2025, for allegedly molesting a woman passenger by touching her inappropriately during the ride in Bengaluru. The incident took place when the woman had booked an auto through the app-based app from Kumaraswamy Layout near Dayananda Sagar College to her home. The Wilson Garden police in Bengaluru, on November 8, 2025, arrested a bike taxi rider for allegedly molesting a woman during a ride. The incident came to light after the victim recorded the act on her mobile phone and posted the video on social media before filing a police complaint. In an Instagram detailing the incident, the woman said it took place while she was returning to her paying guest accommodation from Church Street in Bengaluru. "The captain tried to grab my legs while riding. It happened so suddenly that I couldn't even process it, let alone record it," she wrote. 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.
31 March,2026 11:54 AM IST | Bengaluru | IANSTwo people reportedly lost their lives after being struck by lightning while on their way to a temple near a village as unseasonal rains hit Jalna district of central Maharashtra on Monday, the police said, reported the PTI. A third person accompanying them sustained injuries in the incident. The deceased have been identified as Govind Prahlad Lahane (21) and Aditya Dagdu Bedre (20). The tragic incident occurred near Mahakala village under Ambad tehsil, according to local police officials, according to the PTI. As per the Ambad police, the trio were travelling to Apegaon village to offer prayers at the revered Vigneshwar Mahadev Temple when sudden unseasonal rainfall, accompanied by thunder and lightning, forced them to seek shelter beneath a tree, as per the PTI. However, a powerful bolt of lightning struck the tree, killing both Lahane and Bedre instantly at the scene. The third youth suffered serious injuries and was rushed to a hospital in Ambad, where he is currently undergoing treatment. Widespread unseasonal rainfall According to the PTI, several parts of Jalna district witnessed unexpected rainfall on Monday. Areas including Bhokardan, Jalna, Ambad and Jafrabad tehsils experienced showers, while stormy conditions were also reported in Ramnagar and Ner regions of Jalna tehsil. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an ‘orange’ alert for Jalna district for March 31, warning of adverse weather conditions, including thunderstorms and lightning. Farmers advised to take precautions Authorities have urged farmers to take necessary precautions to safeguard harvested crops from potential damage due to the sudden weather changes. Thunderstorms, rains likely in till April 4 Earlier, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted a fresh spell of cloudy weather and thunderstorms is expected in parts of Maharashtra from March 30, with rain likely in several regions. According to the weather department, on March 30, areas including Khandesh, Marathwada, West Vidarbha and parts of central Maharashtra’s ghat regions may witness thunderstorms, gusty winds, rain and possible hail in some places. Other parts of Vidarbha may also see changes in weather conditions. The intensity of rainfall is likely to reduce slightly on March 31. However, unstable weather and scattered thunderstorms may continue in affected regions, the weather department stated. Rain activity to increase from April 1 It further said that between April 1 and 4, the rainfall activity is expected to increase again, with cloudy skies, afternoon thunderstorms and chances of hailstorms in parts of central Maharashtra, Khandesh, Marathwada and Vidarbha. (with PTI inputs)
31 March,2026 11:47 AM IST | Jalna | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT