On Bengal campaign trail, PM Modi stops for popular street snack ‘jhalmuri’ in Jhargram

by Hansraj Agrawal | Apr 19, 2026 | top-stories

In a candid moment during his Assembly election campaign in West Bengal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday made an unexpected stop in Jhargram for a quick bite of the popular Bengali street snack — the ‘jhalmuri’.

The Prime Minister was seen enjoying jhalmuri at a local stall, interacting with residents, sharing smiles, and at the same time creating a memorable moment of outreach beyond the campaign trail. He also shared jhalmuri with children and women who were present at the shop.

Locals were caught by surprise after PM Modi paid a visit to the shop during his trip to Jhargram to address a public meeting.

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Later, the Prime Minister shared moments from his visit to the snack shop on his social media handles.

“In between four rallies across West Bengal on a packed Sunday, I had some delicious jhalmuri in Jhargram,” PM Modi wrote on his X handle. After spending some time there, PM Modi left the area.

PM Modi was in West Bengal on Sunday to address four election rallies across the state, which will go to polls in the first phase of the Assembly elections on April 23.

The owner of the shop, Vikram Shaw, told a section of media persons that he was very happy to have served jhalmuri to the Prime Minister.

“He stopped his car and came out of his vehicle. He told me to make jhalmuri. I asked him whether he wanted it to be spicy; he told me to make it spicy. He told me that the jhalmuri was delicious. He also shared it with children and their parents. He asked them their names. I am very happy to meet him,” said Shaw.

Jhalmuri is a popular, spicy and crunchy street food snack from West Bengal. It is typically made by tossing puffed rice (muri) with chopped onions, tomatoes, boiled potatoes, roasted peanuts, chickpeas, chillies, and a distinctive dressing of raw mustard oil, lemon juice, and Bengali bhaja moshla (roasted spice blend).

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J&K govt takes over 58 more schools linked to banned Jamaat-e-Islami, citing security concerns

by Hansraj Agrawal | Apr 18, 2026 | top-stories

Jammu & Kashmir government continuing the process of taking direct control of educational institutions took over 58 schools affiliated with Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and Falah-e-Aam Trust (FAT).

Jammu and Kashmir administration ordered the takeover of management for 58 schools linked to the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and its educational wing, the Falah-e-Aam Trust (FAT). This move follows a larger action in August 2025 targeting 215 schools.

Authorities said The decision follows adverse reports by intelligence agencies, which indicated that these schools had direct or indirect links with banned organizations. The managing committees of these schools had their validity expired and were reported negatively by intelligence agencies. Deputy Commissioners concern is tasked with replacing current management with new, vetted committees. The authorities today since morning took over 58 schools affiliated directly or indirectly with Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and its educational wing, the Falah-e-Aam Trust (FAT) in 10 districts of Kashmir.

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While the government maintains this ensures educational stability, local political leaders have criticized the intervention, raising concerns about its impact.

The move is sanctioned under The Jammu and Kashmir School Education Rules 2010 (SRO 123 of 2010), SRO 292 of 2018, and SO 177 of 2022.

Order further said “The Deputy Commissioner concerned must immediately assume management of the 58 identified schools. A fresh managing committee will be proposed for each school after government verification and due diligence. The administration has been tasked to ensure the academic future of enrolled students is safeguarded—meaning their studies and exams should not be adversely affected.

Today’s action is part of the order earlier issued by J&K School Education Department of J&K government order Number: 578-JK(Edu) of 2025 which says to take over the management of schools found to be directly or indirectly affiliated with the proscribed Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) or its affiliate, Falah-e-Aam Trust (FAT).

Order was earlier issued that stated

“Whereas, the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India vide Notification S.O.1069(E) dated 28th February 2019 and further vide Notification S.O. 924(E) dated 27th February 2024, issued under subsection (1) of section (3) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (37 of 1967) declared the Jamaat-e-Islami (Jel), Jammu and Kashmir as an unlawful association; and

Whereas, the Intelligence Agencies have identified several schools which were found to be directly or indirectly affiliated with proscribed organization Jamat-e-Islami (Jel)/Falah-e-Aam Trust (FAT);and,

Whereas the validity of the Managing Committee of 58 such schools have expired / have been reported adversely upon by the Intelligence Agencies.

Now therefore, in view of the above and in order to safeguard the academic future of the students enrolled in these schools in exercise of the powers conferred by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir through The Jammu and Kashmir School Education Rules 2010 notified vide SRO 123 of 2010 read with SRO 292 of 2018 and SO 177 of 2022, it is hereby ordered that:

1. The Managing Committee of the 58 schools as given in Annexure ‘A’ shall be taken over by the District Magistrate/ Deputy Commissioner concerned who shall propose a fresh Managing Committee in due course for the concerned schools after getting these duly verified.

The Concerned District Magistrate/ Deputy Commissioner, on taking over these Schools, shall take appropriate steps in consultation and in coordination with School Education

Department so that to ensure that the academic career of the students enrolled in these schools is not affected in any manner. He shall also take all necessary measures to ensure quality education as per NEP norms in these schools.

The Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt of India, by Notifications S.O.1069(E) (Feb 28, 2019) and S.O.924(E) (Feb 27, 2024), declared JeI as an unlawful association under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and affiliated organizations like FAT have been banned for alleged involvement in unlawful activities, radicalization, support to secessionism and terrorism, and fraudulently acquiring government or community property for school construction.

Meanwhile the action is criticized by Several opposition political parties in Jammu and Kashmir, saying Jammu Kashmir government’s decision to take over the management of schools linked to the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) is unconstitutional.

The opposition termed the move an “administrative overreach” and a “betrayal,” accusing the elected government of implementing the BJP’s agenda. They labeled the takeover an “attack on the institutions and culture of J&K,” accusing the government of implementing the order against the interests of local people.

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Who is Mohammed Ayan? Amravati sex scandal suspect’s alleged AIMIM links spark political row

by Hansraj Agrawal | Apr 18, 2026 | top-stories

A major political and social scandal erupted in Amravati, Maharashtra, after the arrest of Mohammed Ayan, alias Tanveer, the alleged ringleader of an extensive sexual exploitation ring involving at least 180 victims. The case has captured nationwide attention not only because of the scale of the alleged crimes, but also because of Ayan’s alleged connections with the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), a political party led by Asaduddin Owaisi.

Political connection to AIMIM and viral video of Ayan

A 57-second video has been circulated on social media purportedly showing Mohammed Ayan attending an AIMIM political rally and allegedly standing on stage with Asaduddin Owaisi as he was speaking. Additionally, there are claims that Ayan received a formal invitation or certificate from an AIMIM MP in Amravati according to the sources circulating online.

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Manipulator’s approach: Reportedly, Ayan contacted victims utilising various channels such as WhatsApp and Snapchat with the intention of impersonating potential partners and ultimately developing relationships.

Methods of coercion: Police alleged Ayan obtained intimate videos of the victims through various means without first seeking their consent. Subsequently, Ayan is alleged to have used the video footage to blackmail and further exploit the victims.

Extent of the criminal activity: Investigators have established that Ayan also travelled to cities such as Mumbai and Pune to assist some of his victims exit their homes.

BJP MP Dr. Anil Bonde has claimed there is an established network of 350 recorded videos. Seven victims have come forward to police; they believe the number of individuals will increase as the investigation continues to develop.

Arrests and court proceedings

Public attention on the matter increased when multiple “MMS” videos surfaced on the internet, which sparked public outcry in Achalpur and Paratwada. Victims were fearful of making a report; therefore, police instituted an action of suo motu to expedite the arrest of Ayan.

Uzer Khan – Uzer Khan is the second suspect who has been arrested for his part in downloading the videos from Now Ayan’s cell phone and distributing them on various forms of social media. He is currently being interrogated.

ALSO READ | Delhi weather: Mercury set to hit 42°C after Friday’s storm; IMD warns of rising heat in North India

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Delhi-NCR weather update: Rain lashes parts of national capital, IMD predicts… | Visuals

by Hansraj Agrawal | Apr 17, 2026 | top-stories

Delhi-NCR weather update: Light rain lashed parts of the national capital on Friday evening, bringing much-needed relief from the prevailing weather conditions. The showers provided a respite to residents across several areas of Delhi.

This comes after Thursday turned out to be the hottest day of the season so far in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR).

IMD forecast Delhi-NCR

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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted that the city is likely to witness thunderstorms accompanied by rain. However, no alert had been issued for the region at this time, while the forecast for Saturday and Sunday indicates a “partly cloudy sky.”

Earlier, IMD scientist Dr. Shashi Kant told news agency ANI, “A western disturbance has been observed for the past 24 hours. Due to this, there is a possibility of rain accompanied by thunderstorms in the northern Indian states of Jammu-Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. In the plains, there will be partly cloudy skies during the day, along with very light rain. A drop of 2 degrees is expected in temperatures across the region. In Delhi, temperatures between 39 and 42 degrees were recorded in the last 24 hours, with a maximum of 41.4 degrees noted. This is 2-4 degrees above normal… Today, there is a likelihood of relief from the heat in northwest India. In central India, heatwave conditions may persist for the next 3 days, after which there will be a change in the weather…”

Watch visuals here:

#WATCH | Delhi | Rain lashes parts of the national capital this evening

Visuals from Parliament pic.twitter.com/QsVg9rjtYM
— ANI (@ANI) April 17, 2026

Visuals from the Moti Bagh area:

#WATCH | Delhi: Heavy downpour in the National Capital Region today brought much‑needed relief from the summer heat. Visuals from the Moti Bagh area. pic.twitter.com/h0S1yDV7vT
— ANI (@ANI) April 17, 2026

Heatwave alert for Delhi-NCR?

According to IANS, it was earlier predicted that the temperatures across the Delhi-NCR region are set to rise sharply over the next few days, according to the latest forecast issued by the IMD.

The mercury is reportedly expected to cross the 40-degree Celsius mark soon, intensifying heatwave-like conditions across the region.

At the same time, deteriorating air quality continues to pose serious health risks to residents.

In Delhi, an AQI of 310 was recorded in Bawana, 268 in Anand Vihar, 281 in Ashok Vihar, and 191 in Aya Nagar. Experts warn that an AQI exceeding 300 falls under the ‘very poor’ category and can have serious health implications with prolonged exposure.

In Greater Noida, the AQI at Knowledge Park-V was recorded at 368, placing it firmly in the ‘very poor’ category, while Knowledge Park-III reported an AQI of 275. In Noida, Sector-116 recorded an AQI of 312, also in the ‘very poor’ category. Other areas such as Sector-1 (269), Sector-125 (259), and Sector-62 (253) continue to report AQI levels ranging from ‘poor’ to ‘very poor’.

Ghaziabad remains the worst-affected area in the NCR, with Loni recording an AQI of 387 — the highest in the region. Nearby areas also reported alarming levels, including 362 in Ved Vihar-Loni, 334 in Indirapuram, 285 in Vasundhara, and 282 in Sanjay Nagar.

(with agencies’ inputs)

Also check- Delhi heatwave: Temperature hits 40.3°C as GRAP 1 returns amid ‘poor’ air quality

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Kashmir SIA finds no link of Jaish-e-Mohammad in Delhi Red Fort blast case

by Hansraj Agrawal | Apr 16, 2026 | top-stories

Red Fort Blast Case: The State Investigation Agency (SIA), Kashmir, has indicated that there is no link between the notorious anti-India terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and the Red Fort blast case. In a chargesheet filed in the “Doctors Terror Module” case, the SIA said the group was operating independently and showed an inclination towards reviving the Al-Qaeda-affiliated militant outfit Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH) in Kashmir.

Giving what is effectively a clean chit to JeM in the Red Fort blast case, the agency stated that the group’s name was deliberately used to create fear and exploit its notoriety.

The chargesheet, filed in connection with an FIR registered at Police Station Nowgam in Srinagar, names ten accused linked to the covert module, which is also associated with the Delhi Red Fort blast. However, investigators have found no evidence connecting Jaish-e-Mohammad to either the module or the blast.

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According to an SIA handout, the case dates back to October 19, 2025, when threatening posters were pasted in the Nowgam area in the name of JeM. The posters were intended to spread panic, disturb public order, and challenge India’s sovereignty.

A detailed investigation revealed that the poster campaign was part of a larger conspiracy aimed at reviving the banned outfit AGuH. The accused had formed a clandestine network engaged in radicalisation, recruitment, and preparations for carrying out terrorist attacks.

Investigators found that the accused deliberately used JeM’s name to mislead security agencies while covertly working towards rebuilding AGuH. This tactic was aimed at creating psychological impact and masking their actual objectives.

Significantly, the module included highly educated individuals, including medical professionals, who allegedly misused their positions and institutional access for unlawful activities. The accused were also found to be spreading extremist propaganda through digital platforms.

The probe further revealed that the group had procured materials and conducted experiments related to explosive fabrication, including at residential premises and facilities linked to Al-Falah Medical College/University.

Investigators said the group had identified Triacetone Triperoxide (TATP), a highly volatile explosive used in several global terror incidents, as a preferred material due to the ease of sourcing its components. The scale of material accumulation has raised serious concerns among security agencies about the potential impact had the plot not been foiled.

The SIA said it has dismantled the entire network and gathered substantial evidence, including recoveries, digital forensics, scientific analysis, and witness testimonies, establishing the involvement of the accused.

Those named in the chargesheet include Arif Nisar Dar alias Sahil, Yasir-ul-Ashraf Bhat, Maqsood Ahmad Dar alias Shahid, Irfan Ahmad Wagay alias Owais, Zameer Ahmad Ahanger alias Mutlashi, Dr Muzamil Shakeel Ganaie alias Musaib, Dr Adeel Ahmad Rather alias Javaid, Dr Shaheen Saeed, Tufail Ahmad Bhat, and Dr Umar Un Nabi(killed in the Red Fort suicide attack).

The chargesheet has been filed before a competent court.

The SIA reiterated its commitment to dismantling terror networks and preventing the misuse of professional institutions and digital platforms. Officials said further investigation in the case is ongoing.

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Delhi NCR weather today: Temperatures reach over 40°C and it feels like summer is here again | Check IMD latest forecast

by Hansraj Agrawal | Apr 16, 2026 | top-stories

Delhi NCR weather today: After a brief period of pleasant weather, Delhi is now experiencing an extreme increase in heat. According to the IMD, many locations in Delhi have officially recorded temperatures higher than 40°C, confirming the official beginning of summer.

After an early morning low of 26°C on Thursday, which provided some relief from the heat, it was quickly followed up by daytime heating that has caused that relief to disappear during what have been mostly cloudy days.

Temperatures will continue to rise

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The IMD forecasts that maximum temperatures will range from 39°C to 41°C this weekend, all of which are significantly warmer than the past week’s below-normal temperatures (due to rainfall and western disturbances).

IMD 5-day outlook for Delhi:

16 April: Mostly cloudy; high 39°C, low 26°C.

17 April: Partly cloudy; high 41°C, low 23°C.

18 April: Clear most of the day and cloudy late in the day; high 41°C, low 21°C.

19 April: Partly cloudy; high 41°C, low 22°C.

20 April: Mostly clear; high 40°C, low 21°C.

Heat wave advisories are declared when the air temperature exceeds 4.5 degrees C (8 degrees F) of the normal value. However, the trend at present is WAY above what we would expect it to be for this time of year.

Health advisory for people

With temperatures being 40 degrees C (104 degrees F), health experts and the IMD are advising residents of Delhi to take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses:

Avoid sun during peak: Limit outdoor activities between noon and 4:00 p.m. when sun exposure is at its highest.

Maintain hydration: Drink plenty of water and electrolyte-replenishing fluids at all times, even when you are not thirsty.

Use electronic tools (applications) to track weather and traffic: Delhi residents should use applications such as the mParivahan and weather apps to monitor the weather in real-time and plan their commutes accordingly.

According to meteorologists, the continuing dry northwesterly wind flow with no significant western disturbance for the next several days will keep Delhi under a “heat dome” for some time.

ALSO READ | Lok Sabha delimitation 2026: Everything you need to know about the three bills transforming the 2029 elections

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