Month: April 2026

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision to stay one week’s transit bail granted to Congress leader Pawan Khera, in connection with the FIR filed by Riniki Bhuyan Sharma over the passport row.

When asked about Congress MP Rahul Gandhi demanding a probe into multiple passports allegations against Himanta’s wife Riniki Bhuyan Sharma, the Chief Minister asked the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha to disclose his passport in public.

CM Sarma said, “According to me, the Telangana Court cannot grant transit bail as he is not a resident of Telangana. The law will take its own course… Will he (Rahul Gandhi) say the same if I level such allegations against him? Before speaking, Rahul Gandhi must remember that he is not god. He should disclose his passport before the media, and I will also present my wife’s passport.”

The Supreme Court today stayed the Telangana High Court’s order granting one-week transit anticipatory bail to Congress leader Pawan Khera, while issuing notice to him on a plea filed by the Assam government challenging the relief.

A bench of Justices JK Maheshwari and Atul S Chandurkar issued notice to Khera seeking a response within three weeks on a plea filed by the Assam government seeking a stay of the anticipatory (transit) bail granted to him by the Telangana High Court. The bench, however, noted that in case Khera wants to apply for anticipatory bail in Assam, today’s apex court order would not come in the way.

Khera had alleged that CM Sarma’s wife holds three passports, from India, the UAE, and Egypt, and owns undisclosed luxury properties in Dubai, along with a company in Wyoming, USA. The Sarma family has strongly denied these claims and filed an FIR against the Congress leader.

Meanwhile, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi had asserted that the party stands with party leader Pawan Khera. In an X post, Rahul Gandhi called Himanta Biswa Sarma the “most corrupt” CM in the country and demanded a probe into allegations levelled by Congress.

“The present CM of Assam is the most corrupt in the country. He will not escape the law. His abuse of state power to harass his political opponents and critics is against the Constitution. The questions that are being raised have to be probed. Transparency, accountability of power and the rule of law are the basis of our Constitutional values. The Congress Party stands with Pawan Khera. We will not be intimidated,” Gandhi wrote on X on Monday. (ANI)

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Wednesday strongly hit back at what he described as external pressure and military aggression against Iran, asserting that any attempt to impose force on the Islamic Republic would ultimately fail amid a fragile ceasefire and diplomatic engagements to secure a complete halt to hostilities in West Asia.

According to Iranian state media ISNA, Pezeshkian emphasised that Iran remains committed to constructive dialogue but will not yield to coercion, as reports suggest a possible second round of talks between Washington and Tehran after the first round of talks ended in a stalemate in Islamabad.

“We emphasise constructive dialogue, but will not be forced to surrender. Any attempt to impose will or force Iran to surrender is doomed to failure, and the people will never accept such an approach. Iran is not seeking war,” he said, as quoted by ISNA.

His remarks come amid heightened tensions following a US-imposed blockade targeting Iranian ports, further escalating the already strained relations between Tehran and Washington.

Pezeshkian also questioned the legality and morality of recent actions against Iran by the US and Israeli forces, raising concerns over the attacks impacting civilian infrastructure.

“With what authorisation and for what crime was the attack on our country carried out?” he asked, adding, “What justification does targeting civilians, elites, children, and destroying vital centres–including schools and hospitals–have within the framework of international law and humanitarian principles?” as quoted by ISNA.

The Iranian President reiterated that while the country seeks peace and diplomatic engagement, it will firmly resist any form of external aggression or pressure that undermines its sovereignty.

Earlier in the day, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that a full blockade of Iran’s ports has been successfully implemented, with US forces asserting maritime dominance across key regional waterways, particularly the Strait of Hormuz.

In a statement, CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper stated that within just 36 hours of initiating the blockade, US forces had effectively stopped all maritime trade flowing in and out of Iran.

“A blockade of Iranian ports has been fully implemented as U.S. forces maintain maritime superiority in the Middle East. An estimated 90 per cent of Iran’s economy is fueled by international trade by sea. In less than 36 hours since the blockade was implemented, U.S. forces have completely halted economic trade going into and out of Iran by sea,” the statement read.

CENTCOM revealed that more than 10,000 US personnel, including Sailors, Marines, and airmen, alongside over a dozen warships and dozens of aircraft, are involved in the blockade operation. (ANI)

Actors Madhuri Dixit and Triptii Dimri starrer ‘Maa Behen’ is now moving to the next stage.

Director Suresh Triveni, in a social media post, shared a glimpse from the film’s sets featuring the lead stars in a candid moment. “Agle padav ki taiyaar #maabehen,” he wrote.

Madhuri Dixit, along with Triptii and Dharna Durga, could be seen joining the frame as the trio smiled, looking at the mobile phone.

Many commented on the post, as many expressed high anticipation for the film.

Triptii dropped heart emojis in the comment section.

The teaser of ‘Maa Behen’ was unveiled in January this year.

Directed by Suresh Triveni, the film centres around the constantly squabbling mother and daughters who find themselves in the “middle of a situation with a dead body in their kitchen.”

Madhuri plays Rekha, while Triptii Dimri and Dharna Durga play her daughters in the film.

In the teaser, the ‘Animal’ actress was seen fighting with her on-screen mother, Madhuri Dixit, over her mannerisms as she wears a sleeveless blouse in the house. The situation takes a downturn when they discover a dead body in their kitchen. After getting over a panic attack, the trio decides to team up to cover the crime. Ravi Kishan also plays a prominent role in the film.

The film was announced at the Netflix India Slate in Mumbai.

At the event, Dixit expressed her happiness at working in the comedy genre.

“It’s a dark comedy. When Suresh ji came, I am a big admirer of his work. When I heard the story, I felt like doing it because I haven’t done comedy in a long time,” said Madhuri Dixit at the event.

Triptii Dimri said she has learnt a lot from Madhuri Dixit in the film. “It was a very nice experience working with her. It was like one happy family together. I am her big fan, I learned a lot from her.”

The film’s release date has not yet been announced. (ANI)

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Samrat Choudhary took oath as Bihar Chief Minister on Wednesday.

Chaudhary arrived at, the Governor’s residence, Bihar Lok Bhavan earlier in the morning to be sworn in as CM, succeeding Nitish Kumar, who had served as leader of the state for over a decade before deciding to go to the Rajya Sabha.

Bihar Governor Syed Ata Hasnain administered the oath of office to Samrat Choudhary at Lok Bhavan in Patna. He becomes the first Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Chief Minister of Bihar following the resignation of Nitish Kumar.

The 57-year-old has big shoes to fill as he is set to succeed Nitish Kumar, who was sworn in as CM for a record 10th time in 2025 after the NDA registered a landmark victory in the assembly elections.

His elevation marks the end of an era dominated by Nitish Kumar’s “Sushasan” (good governance) and the beginning of a new chapter for the NDA in Bihar.

Choudhary’s rise to power is notable, given his humble beginnings in politics. He started his career in the 1990s with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and later joined the BJP in 2018.

Born in 1968, Samrat Choudhary comes from a family deeply rooted in politics. His father, Shakuni Choudhary, was a six-time MLA from the Tarapur constituency. His mother, Parvati Devi, won the same seat in 1998 for the now-defunct Samta Party.

Before BJP and JD(U) renewed their alliance in 2024, Choudhary was the sharpest critic of Nitish Kumar. In 2022, he had publicly declared he would not remove his saffron turban (popularly known as muretha in Bihar) until Nitish Kumar was removed from power.

He was appointed as the BJP’s state president in 2023 and later became the Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar in 2024.

After NDA successfully defended its rule in the 2025 assembly election, speculations about Nitish Kumar’s move away from state politics grew stronger and stronger. Samrat Choudhary, with his strong hold within the OBC community, combined with his aggressive political style, was always in the fray to succeed the CM.

Earlier today, before the oath taking, Union Minsiter Chirag Paswan met Chaudhary to wish him all the best for his future tenure.

Paswan wrote on X, “Today, before taking the oath as the Chief Minister of Bihar in Patna, I met with my brother Shri Samrat Choudhary ji and congratulated him on being elected as the leader of the NDA legislature party, extending my best wishes. I am fully confident that under your leadership, Bihar will reach new heights of development, good governance, and prosperity.”

Choudhary’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the party’s outreach among OBC communities, particularly the Koeri/Kushwaha group. (ANI)

As Parliament gears up for a special session in a few days to discuss and pass the Women’s Reservation Bill, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati backed the proposed 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lower House of Parliament.

She said that it is at least a start to giving women their due representation.

“It may be a small number, but it is a start, and we welcome it. If not 50, then 33 will do,” Mayawati said while addressing a press conference here.

“Our party BSP, has continuously called for giving 50 per cent reservation to women before too. But no other party wanted to agree to it, neither does it look like they will agree to it. We also thank most revered Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar for giving equal vote to women, just like men got (universal adult franchise),” she said.

She said that, despite the delay in implementing the law passed first in 2023, her party still welcomes it, expressing the need to give reservations to historically marginalised women.

“Although there is a significant delay but regardless of the delay, our party welcomes it. If separate reservations are provided for the truly exploited and marginalised women, especially those from the SC, ST, and OBC communities who are constantly being marginalised socially, politically, and economically, it would be both appropriate and historic,” she said.

Talking about the rhetoric of women’s empowerment, she said that while there is a lot of talk about giving rights to women, it is fixed policy and strong will which have deterred women from getting their rightful share.

“From tomorrow, a three-day session of parliament is starting. Just like there is a lot of talk about women empowerment, but due fixed policy, and strong willpower, there is perhaps not been a proper discussion on it. Just like other marginalised groups, women too are facing different crimes and violence against them still,” added.

She further slammed the Congress for historically delaying women’s reservation, calling caste a factor which influenced the party’s policy post-independence.

“The then Congress government, influenced by its petty casteism, refused to accept it and later passed it in bits and pieces. Thus, Baba Saheb Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar had to resign from the post of the country’s first Law Minister in protest against the lack of reservation for OBCs and no concrete steps taken for the safety, respect, and betterment of women,” she said.

Earlier on Tuesday, the government proposed increasing the number of Lok Sabha seats to 850 as part of its intention to implement the Women’s Reservation Act from the 2029 Lok Sabha polls, with 815 seats proposed to the states and the remaining 35 for the Union Territories, according to sources.

The Lok Sabha has 543 seats at present. The government intends to move a Constitution amendment bill for the implementation of a 33 per cent reservation for women in the Lok Sabha from 2029 in a special sitting of Parliament on April 16, 17,18.

In addition, the proposed delimitation will raise the number of seats for all states. The special sitting of the budget session will discuss amendments to Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023, and the proposed Delimitation Bill. (ANI)

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has convened an emergency meeting of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MPs at 11:00 am on Wednesday to discuss the impact of the delimitation exercise on the state.

The meeting is set to take place to discuss the potential repercussions that Tamil Nadu may face in connection with the proposed constituency delimitation exercise. Key issues likely to be addressed include the impact on the state’s political representation and concerns over fairness in the redistribution of parliamentary seats.

As Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023, is linked to the delimitation process in the Lok Sabha, the government has proposed to increase the number of seats in the House to 850, with 815 seats proposed to the States and the remaining 35 for the Union Territories. The Lok Sabha has 543 seats at present.

MK Stalin along with several other opposition leaders, has flagged that the proposed Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, 2026, does not increase the seats in the Lok Sabha on a pro-rata basis and will allegedly shrink the representation of southern states in the House.

On Tuesday, MK Stalin issued a strong warning to the Central government over the proposed delimitation exercise, alleging that the Union government intends to “bulldoze” a Constitutional amendment without proper consultation with states.

He said Tamil Nadu would launch a massive agitation if the state’s interests are harmed or if southern states are disproportionately affected.

In a video, CM Stalin said, “This video serves two purposes: to speak about the grave danger that has now reached the very doorstep of Tamil Nadu, and to issue a clear warning to the Union BJP government. Even amidst the relentless pace of election campaigning, this duty cannot be set aside. The day after tomorrow, on April 16, a special session of Parliament is being convened. More accurately, it is being forcibly convened in the midst of elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. In this session, the Union government intends to bulldoze through a Constitutional amendment on delimitation.”

The Chief minister further said Tamil Nadu and other southern states had earlier followed population control and family planning measures as advised by the Centre, but were now facing potential consequences for it.

Meanwhile, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has demanded a pro-rata basis increase in the number of seats in the Lok Sabha. (ANI)

Indian-flagged LPG vessel ‘Jag Vikram’, which crossed the Strait of Hormuz on April 11, arrived at Kandla Port on April 14 carrying 20,400 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), officials said.

The vessel docked late on Tuesday night at Oil Jetty No. 1 at Kandla Port. The unloading process is expected to begin shortly and is likely to strengthen the country’s LPG supply chain.

The vessel’s arrival comes amid continued monitoring of maritime energy supply routes in the region.

The transit marks a breakthrough for New Delhi, as it is the first Indian ship to navigate the strategic corridor after the announcement of a 14-day ceasefire between the US and Iran, aimed at cooling regional hostilities and restoring essential maritime trade routes.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and the Ministry of External Affairs are in coordination to bring back a total of 15 Indian-flagged vessels stranded at the Strait of Hormuz.

Addressing an inter-ministerial briefing on Monday, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Additional Secretary Mukesh Mangal said, “We, in coordination with MEA, are trying, putting our efforts to bring our vessels back. And as soon as it is possible for our vessels to sail from the Strait of Hormuz, those vessels will come back. At present, a total of 15 Indian-flagged and Indian-owned vessels are there.”

Additional Secretary Mukesh Mangal further provided a reassuring update on the status of vessels and crew members in the Gulf region, highlighting that no incident has been reported involving Indian vessels in the past 24 hours.

“We have received no report of any incident related to an Indian-flagged vessel in the last 24 hours. The Ministry has facilitated safe repatriation of more than 2177 Indian seafarers till now, including 93 seafarers in the last 24 hours,” he said.

The ministry emphasised its commitment to ensuring seafarer welfare and uninterrupted maritime operations, highlighting continuous coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian missions, and maritime stakeholders.

“Operations are normal at every Indian port, and there have been no reports of any congestion,” the Ministry added.

The importance of the passage of Jag Vikram is further highlighted by the fact that nearly 90 per cent of India’s liquefied petroleum gas imports are sourced from nations in the Gulf region. (ANI)

Gorakhpur’s Divya Singh has created history by becoming the first Indian woman to reach the Mount Everest Base Camp by bicycle and hoist the flag at an altitude of 17,560 feet.

On March 24, 2026, Divya became the first Indian woman–and the second woman globally–to reach the base camp of the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest (at an altitude of 17,560 feet), by bicycle. At that time, the temperature at the Everest Base Camp stood at -12 degrees Celsius.

Divya’s cycling expedition commenced on March 16, 2026, from Kathmandu. The journey took her through Kathmandu, Salleri, Surkhe, Phakding, Sagarmatha National Park, Namche Bazaar, Deboche, Pheriche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep, before finally reaching the Mount Everest Base Camp. The entire cycling expedition took a total of 14 days.

Speaking to ANI, Divya shared that during her trek to Mount Everest Base Camp about a year and a half ago, she learned that no Indian woman had ever reached there by bicycle. This inspired her to take on the challenge herself.

“Ever since I got to know about Mount Everest, I have wanted to see it in person. About one and a half years ago, I went trekking to the Mount Everest Base Camp and got to know that no woman has ever reached there by bicycle, and it occurred to me that I should try this,” she said.

She said the journey was challenging due to high-altitude conditions, which caused issues like motion sickness, low oxygen levels, rapid heartbeat, and other physical difficulties.

“It was not easy; there were difficulties. When you reach high altitude, the entire environment changes. Your body reacts differently. You experience motion sickness, lack of oxygen, fast heartbeat and other environmental challenges,” said Divya.

Divya’s mentor, Kumar Singh, reiterated that although many people have reached Mount Everest Base Camp, no Indian woman had done so on a bicycle. Taking it as a challenge, Divya took it as a personal mission and began intense training, preparing her body for the challenge and ultimately achieving remarkable success.

Notably, Divya hails from the village of Banauda, under the post office of Amtoura, in the Piprauli Block of Gorakhpur District. Divya’s father, Santraj Singh, is a farmer, while her mother, Urmila Singh, is a government school teacher. (ANI)

On the occasion of Baisakhi, a delegation from the Sikh community met Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami at his residence, extended greetings, and discussed key initiatives, including the proposed ropeway project to Hemkund Sahib aimed at improving pilgrimage accessibility.

The delegation included Narenderjit Singh Bindra, President of the Hemkund Sahib Trust; Surendra Singh Namdhari, Chairman of the Uttarakhand Farmers Commission; and MLA Suresh Gadiya, along with several eminent citizens and social representatives.

The delegation honoured the Chief Minister with a traditional saropa and extended heartfelt greetings on the occasion of Baisakhi. The atmosphere was filled with devotion, harmony, and, reflecting the rich traditions and cultural values of the Sikh community.

On this occasion, Narenderjit Singh Bindra praised the efforts of the central and state governments for the welfare, dignity, and protection of the religious sentiments of the Sikh community. He noted that several historic decisions taken by the government have given a renewed identity to the Sikh society.

He specifically highlighted the proposed ropeway project to Hemkund Sahib, estimated at around ₹1,740 crore, stating that it would prove to be a milestone for devotees. The project will make the mountainous journey easier, safer, and more convenient, especially benefiting the elderly, women, and Devotees with Disabilities.

Bindra described the observance of Veer Bal Diwas as a historic step that effectively conveys the unparalleled sacrifice of the Sahibzadas of Guru Gobind Singh to the younger generation. He also appreciated the national-level commemoration of the martyrdom day of Guru Tegh Bahadur, calling it a reflection of the country’s deep respect for Sikh history and culture.

He further mentioned that the initiative by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to bring back the sacred Guru Granth Sahib from Kandahar, Afghanistan, was a moment of immense pride for the Sikh community.

Welcoming the delegation, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami extended his heartfelt Baisakhi greetings and said that Baisakhi is not merely a festival but a symbol of rich cultural traditions, agricultural prosperity, and social unity.

Sharing emotional memories from his childhood, he said that the sacred land of Nanakmatta Sahib and the teachings of Gurbani have had a profound influence on his life, inspiring him to follow the path of truth, service, and dedication.

He emphasised that the Sikh community has always played a leading role in nation-building–be it in the freedom struggle, defence of the country’s borders, or social service–serving as a source of inspiration for all.

He further stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, several important and historic decisions have been taken for the respect and convenience of the Sikh community. Through Veer Bal Diwas, the sacrifices of the Sahibzadas have gained national recognition, and the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur is being honoured across the country.

The Chief Minister also referred to the Prime Minister’s resolve from Kedarnath Temple that “the third decade will belong to Uttarakhand,” stating that this vision is now becoming a reality. Rapid progress is being made in roads, railways, air connectivity, tourism, pilgrimage, and infrastructure development across the state.

He said that both the central and state governments are working together to make Uttarakhand a strong, prosperous, and self-reliant state, opening new dimensions of development.

The Chief Minister stated that the Delhi-Dehradun Economic Corridor, recently launched by the Prime Minister, is a historic and long-term project for Uttarakhand. It will significantly reduce travel time between Delhi and Dehradun, giving a major boost to tourism, trade, and investment.

He added that the corridor will not only strengthen connectivity but also create new employment opportunities for the youth and accelerate regional development.

Chief Minister Dhami said that the ropeway project to Hemkund Sahib, with an estimated cost of ₹1,700-₹1,800 crore, will be developed using modern technology while ensuring strict adherence to environmental standards.

This project will significantly reduce travel time and provide a safe and convenient pilgrimage experience, while also strengthening the local economy and boosting tourism in the region.

The Chief Minister reaffirmed that the state government is fully committed to the convenience and safety of Sikh pilgrims. Infrastructure along the Hemkund Sahib route is being continuously upgraded, including better roads, healthcare facilities, sanitation, accommodation, and security arrangements.

He stated that the government’s objective is to ensure that every pilgrim visiting Uttarakhand experiences a safe, comfortable, and spiritually enriching journey.

He also shared that whenever he gets the opportunity, he considers it a privilege to visit Gurudwaras and perform seva, which he regards as an important part of his life.

Concluding his address, Chief Minister Dhami once again extended his Baisakhi greetings and said that the festival inspires us to strengthen the spirit of unity, hard work, and service. He expressed confidence that with the combined efforts of the central and state governments, Uttarakhand will continue to progress and establish a distinct identity among the leading states of India. (ANI)

A major election rally for Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president Vijay was abruptly cancelled in Tiruppur district on Tuesday after at least 15 supporters collapsed due to severe heat and overcrowding.

Following the incident and severe congestion, a scheduled six-kilometre roadshow by the leader was cancelled on police advice.

The incident occurred as thousands of supporters gathered hours in advance to catch a glimpse of the actor-turned-politician during his intensive campaign tour for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections.

The rally, which was expected to be a massive show of strength in the textile hub of Tiruppur, turned chaotic as the afternoon temperatures soared.

The crowd began assembling at the venue from 10 a.m. in anticipation of the campaign. Vijay, who was expected to address the public at 4 p.m., arrived at approximately 4:45 p.m. Due to the scorching sun and high temperatures during the afternoon, 13 women and two men fainted. They were immediately transported to nearby hospitals via ambulance for medical treatment.

Local volunteer teams and police personnel rushed the affected individuals to nearby primary health centres. Most are reported to be in stable condition.

Upon receiving news of the medical emergencies and the deteriorating crowd conditions, Vijay and the TVK leadership decided to cancel the address to prevent a repeat of the tragic 2025 Karur stampede.

Following a campaign event at the Perumanallur Four Road junction, Vijay was scheduled to travel to Pooluvapatti as part of a roadshow. Although the police had granted permission, a massive influx of supporters along the Perumanallur-Tiruppur stretch led to severe congestion, making movement impossible.

Based on police advice, the roadshow was called off, and Vijay subsequently left for Coimbatore via the Salem-Cochin National Highway.

The incident follows a recent stampede in Karur, which resulted in the deaths of 41 people. Following a Supreme Court order emphasising the need for an independent probe, the Karur stampede case was transferred from a state-level Special Investigation Team (SIT) to the CBI.

The agency continues to examine the circumstances of that event, scrutinising crowd management arrangements, the timeline of the leader’s arrival, and coordination between party organisers and local authorities.

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu will go to the polls in a single phase on April 23, with the counting of votes scheduled for May 4.

The main contest is expected between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance, which includes the Indian National Congress, DMDK and VCK, and the National Democratic Alliance led by AIADMK with BJP and PMK as allies.

Actor-turned-politician Vijay is also set to make his electoral debut with his party TVK, which could turn the contest into a three-way fight. (ANI)