Higher-than-normal heatwave days likely between April and June, with temperatures expected to cross 40°C in several regions

Large parts of India, including the northern Indo-Gangetic plains and western states such as Gujarat and Maharashtra, are expected to experience a higher-than-normal number of heatwave days during the summer months, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The IMD chief stated that regions in north India, eastern coastal areas, and adjoining western parts are likely to witness frequent heatwave conditions between April and June.

Temperatures in several climatologically prone regions are expected to rise above 40 degrees Celsius. Areas such as Vidarbha in Maharashtra typically record temperatures of around 41–42°C during this period, while states like Uttar Pradesh and Haryana may see temperatures reaching 40–44°C in May.

The weather office noted that heatwave conditions are likely across multiple regions, including Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, parts of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra. Eastern states such as Odisha, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana are also expected to face similar conditions.

Officials emphasised the need for preparedness as high temperatures are a recurring feature during April, May, and early June before the onset of the monsoon, although variations may occur year to year.

To mitigate risks, the IMD has been expanding its outreach efforts, especially for vulnerable populations such as outdoor workers. Alerts and forecasts are being shared through mobile-based systems, display boards, and coordinated communication channels to ensure timely access to heat-related advisories.

The department also provides seasonal forecasts in advance, along with weekly and district-level updates, to help authorities and the public prepare for extreme weather conditions during the summer months.

Extended restriction comes after election authorities flag unusual spike in liquor sales ahead of voting

The Election Commission has extended the duration of the liquor ban to 96 hours in parts of West Bengal ahead of the first phase of Assembly elections scheduled for April 23.

Typically, the sale of liquor is prohibited 48 hours before polling. However, authorities decided to enforce the restriction earlier than usual this time, effectively doubling the dry period. The ban has already come into effect in constituencies going to polls in the first phase.

According to the poll body, the decision was taken after monitoring agencies observed an unusual surge in liquor sales across the state. Officials noted a sharp increase in the lifting of packaged liquor by retailers from state-run depots during April 2026 compared to the same period last year.

The Election Commission also pointed to a rise in the number of “sensitive” liquor outlets identified under its monitoring framework. Data gathered from surveillance and reporting systems indicated patterns that raised concerns about possible misuse during the election period.

Authorities believe that such spikes in liquor sales could potentially be linked to attempts to influence voters, prompting stricter enforcement measures to ensure a level playing field.

The extended ban aims to maintain law and order and prevent inducements during the electoral process. Officials reiterated that steps are being taken to ensure free, fair, and transparent polling, with strict monitoring across districts.

The elections in West Bengal are expected to witness a high-stakes contest, with major political parties gearing up for a closely fought battle.

Court directs matter to Chief Justice after petitioner’s social media remarks raise concerns over judicial integrity

In a significant development, the Allahabad High Court has seen a judicial recusal in the ongoing dual citizenship case involving Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

Justice Subhash Vidyarthi of the Lucknow bench has withdrawn from hearing the petition that sought registration of an FIR against Gandhi over allegations of holding dual citizenship. The case will now be placed before the Chief Justice for assignment to a different bench.

The recusal came after the court took note of certain social media posts made by the petitioner, which were seen as casting aspersions on the judiciary. The judge observed that these remarks indicated a lack of faith in the court and raised concerns about maintaining judicial propriety.

The petition, filed by a private individual, alleges that Rahul Gandhi may have held British citizenship, a claim that has been contested and remains under legal scrutiny. The matter had earlier seen the court consider whether an FIR should be registered and whether Gandhi, as the proposed accused, should be given an opportunity to present his side before any such direction.

Earlier proceedings in the case had drawn attention after the court initially dictated an order related to the registration of an FIR but later revisited the procedural aspect of issuing notice to Gandhi before moving forward.

With the judge stepping aside, the case is expected to face a brief procedural delay until a new bench is constituted. Legal experts indicate that the next stage will involve fresh hearings, where the court may decide on issuing notice and examining the merits of the allegations.

The development adds another layer to the politically sensitive case, which has already seen multiple legal turns in recent days.