April 2, 2026

AI image NEW DELHI: India is preparing to rejig methodology for computing CPI and revamp monetary policy mandate for targeting retail inflation in 2026 after a year of benign price situation due to subdued food cost and GST reduction.Consumer Price Index (CPI) based retail inflation remained in the Reserve Bank’s comfort zone (2-6 per cent) and is likely to stay that way in the next year also, keeping open the possibility of at least one more reduction in rates by the central bank in the coming months.Besides cooling food prices, the decision of the government to reduce GST rates on about 400 items in September helped in further improving the price situation in the country. US Consumers Facing Food Inflation as Tariffs Hit Indian Rice Imports: Exporters Body The wholesale price index (WPI), too, showed clear signs of easing of inflationary pressures through 2025. Early months recorded positive but declining WPI inflation, reflecting softening price pressures especially in food and fuel categories.By June, WPI entered deflation and the downward trend continued with negative prints in July and October.CPI, or headline inflation, started declining in November 2024, and since then it has remained in the Reserve Bank’s comfort zone (2-4 per cent) till June 2025. Thereafter, it has slipped below 2 per cent.Food inflation, which constitutes about 48 per cent of the CPI, started declining from about 6 per cent in January and entered the negative territory in June. It was at (-) 3.91 in November, according to the latest data.With inflation breaching the RBI’s lower band target of 2 per cent, the debate around the government’s mandate to the central bank to keep inflation within the target of 2-4 per cent assumes significance.The Reserve Bank has already issued a consultation paper with regards to the inflation targeting regime. The government will come out with a new framework effective April 1, 2025, with the current five years regime set to end in March.Meanwhile, the government is working on a new CPI series with base year (2024 = 100) which will witness a comprehensive revision of coverage, item basket, weights and methodology used in index compilation.The exercise being done after more than a decade is aimed at substantially improving the representativeness, reliability, accuracy, and overall quality of the inflation data. The new series will be released in February.On inflationary expectations, RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra opined that the headline inflation is projected to be close to the 4 per cent target in H1:2026-27. Excluding precious metals, inflation is likely to be much lower, as has been the trend since the beginning of 2024.Further, good agricultural production, low food prices and exceptionally benign international commodity price outlook suggest that the CPI for the full year (2025-26) is likely to be around 2 per cent, half of what was projected at the beginning of the year.With inflation remaining in control, the Reserve Bank has cumulatively reduced the short-term benchmark lending rate (repo) by 125 basis since February 2025.”The most important aspect of inflation in 2026 will be the new index and its composition, which can drive any realistic forecasts as this should be in place in February 2026,” Bank of Baroda Chief Economist Madan Sabnavis said.”Assuming a normal monsoon, we can expect inflation to be very much under control in 2026. While the extremely low inflation numbers witnessed in 2025 will get reversed as the low base will result in higher numbers, on the whole it can be expected to be in the range of 4-4.5 per cent,” he said.This will not afford scope for any more rate cuts and hence February can be the final month when a rate call decision can be taken. Core inflation should ideally moderate as the GST impact fully plays through, Sabnavis added.ICRA Chief Economist Aditi Nayar said the divergence in the WPI and the CPI is driven by differences in the weighing pattern as well as the coverage of these indices.While the food segment has been in the deflationary zone across the wholesale and retail segments, services and non-food goods have prevented the CPI from falling in the deflationary zone, she said.”However, the presence of crude oil, higher weight for fuels, and low inflation in the wholesale manufactured segment has enabled food to pull down the WPI into the deflationary zone,” Nayar said.Commenting on the inflation scenario in the new year, Dharmakirti Joshi, Chief Economist, Crisil, said both CPI and WPI delivered a significant surprise this year, with each month recording lower-than-expected readings.In November, WPI continued in deflation territory, while CPI inflation was just 0.7 per cent. Excluding gold, CPI also registered deflation this month.”Exceptionally low inflation provided the RBI with room to cut rates, even as growth remained above trend. Looking ahead, we expect consumer inflation to rise to 5 per cent in FY27, largely due to base effects, while interest rates are likely to remain steady at 5.25 per cent. However, the transmission of the already announced rate cuts is expected to continue,” Joshi said.The Reserve Bank’s last bi-monthly monetary policy for 2025-26 is scheduled during February 4-6, 2026.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos“No Racial Angle”: SSP Rules Out Alleged Slurs in Angel Chakma KillingCongress’ Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury Flags Attacks on Migrant Workers to PM Modi’Will Rid Bengal Of Infiltrators’: Amit Shah Slams Mamata Banerjee’s 14-Year Rule, Sounds Poll BugleFrom Defence To Civil Skies: HAL’s Dhruv-NG Helicopter Takes Flight In India’s Aviation PushJapanese Tourist Harassed in Varanasi on Christmas, Netizens Slam ‘Mob Culture’Chicken’s Neck Threat Sparks Sharp Reply As Nagaland Minister Warns Bangladesh Radicals BoldlyBilawal Bhutto Goes On Anti-India Rant, Says ‘Modi Is Afraid Of Asim Munir’ Since Operation SindoorDonald Trump Tells Netanyahu He Stopped India-Pakistan War The 70th Time Since Op Sindoor PausedFrom First Woman PM To Fierce Rivalry: Khaleda Zia’s Three Terms That Redefined Bangladesh PoliticsBangladesh Mourns As Former Prime Minister And BNP Chief Khaleda Zia Dies At 80123PhotostoriesFrom Shrekking to the Black Cat Boyfriend: 7 dating trends of 2025 that may shape relationships in 2026 tooLeBron James’ fitness philosophy: A closer look at the NBA legend’s typical routine, diet, and non-negotiablesArena Awakenings: Bengaluru Gears Up for Global Sporting Glory (In Pictures)The only place on Earth where sand, snow and sea meet–can you guess?This drink can remove excess sugar from the body naturally; recipe insideSnow guaranteed! Top 5 destinations to visit in India this January for 2026 winter funBengaluru’s Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Layout moves closer to habitation as development work picks upGukesh: 5 things teenagers should learn from the chess championChennai’s Thirumayilai set for major connectivity boost with stacked Metro tunnels for smoother travel3 common mistakes with potatoes to avoid and easy solutions123Hot PicksIndigo flight DisruptionsPAN-Aadhaar link statusKhaleda ZiaGold rate todayIncome Tax RefundBahrain Golden Visa 2025Bank Holidays DecemberTop TrendingErika KirkTravis KelceJEE Advanced RegistrationAnjel ChakmaMumbai Bhandup Bus AccidentRobert Kraft vs Gayle Benson Net WorthMLB Trade RumorsAntonio BrownBengaluru PG BlastWWE Raw Highligths

Vamsikrishna05 mins mins
AI image NEW DELHI: India is preparing to rejig methodology for computing CPI and revamp monetary policy mandate for targeting retail inflation in 2026 after a year of benign price situation due to subdued food cost and GST reduction.Consumer Price Index (CPI) based retail inflation remained in the Reserve Bank’s comfort zone (2-6 per cent) and is likely to stay that way in the next year also, keeping open the possibility of at least one more reduction in rates by the central bank in the coming months.Besides cooling food prices, the decision of the government to reduce GST rates on about 400 items in September helped in further improving the price situation in the country. US Consumers Facing Food Inflation as Tariffs Hit Indian Rice Imports: Exporters Body The wholesale price index (WPI), too, showed clear signs of easing of inflationary pressures through 2025. Early months recorded positive but declining WPI inflation, reflecting softening price pressures especially in food and fuel categories.By June, WPI entered deflation and the downward trend continued with negative prints in July and October.CPI, or headline inflation, started declining in November 2024, and since then it has remained in the Reserve Bank’s comfort zone (2-4 per cent) till June 2025. Thereafter, it has slipped below 2 per cent.Food inflation, which constitutes about 48 per cent of the CPI, started declining from about 6 per cent in January and entered the negative territory in June. It was at (-) 3.91 in November, according to the latest data.With inflation breaching the RBI’s lower band target of 2 per cent, the debate around the government’s mandate to the central bank to keep inflation within the target of 2-4 per cent assumes significance.The Reserve Bank has already issued a consultation paper with regards to the inflation targeting regime. The government will come out with a new framework effective April 1, 2025, with the current five years regime set to end in March.Meanwhile, the government is working on a new CPI series with base year (2024 = 100) which will witness a comprehensive revision of coverage, item basket, weights and methodology used in index compilation.The exercise being done after more than a decade is aimed at substantially improving the representativeness, reliability, accuracy, and overall quality of the inflation data. The new series will be released in February.On inflationary expectations, RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra opined that the headline inflation is projected to be close to the 4 per cent target in H1:2026-27. Excluding precious metals, inflation is likely to be much lower, as has been the trend since the beginning of 2024.Further, good agricultural production, low food prices and exceptionally benign international commodity price outlook suggest that the CPI for the full year (2025-26) is likely to be around 2 per cent, half of what was projected at the beginning of the year.With inflation remaining in control, the Reserve Bank has cumulatively reduced the short-term benchmark lending rate (repo) by 125 basis since February 2025.”The most important aspect of inflation in 2026 will be the new index and its composition, which can drive any realistic forecasts as this should be in place in February 2026,” Bank of Baroda Chief Economist Madan Sabnavis said.”Assuming a normal monsoon, we can expect inflation to be very much under control in 2026. While the extremely low inflation numbers witnessed in 2025 will get reversed as the low base will result in higher numbers, on the whole it can be expected to be in the range of 4-4.5 per cent,” he said.This will not afford scope for any more rate cuts and hence February can be the final month when a rate call decision can be taken. Core inflation should ideally moderate as the GST impact fully plays through, Sabnavis added.ICRA Chief Economist Aditi Nayar said the divergence in the WPI and the CPI is driven by differences in the weighing pattern as well as the coverage of these indices.While the food segment has been in the deflationary zone across the wholesale and retail segments, services and non-food goods have prevented the CPI from falling in the deflationary zone, she said.”However, the presence of crude oil, higher weight for fuels, and low inflation in the wholesale manufactured segment has enabled food to pull down the WPI into the deflationary zone,” Nayar said.Commenting on the inflation scenario in the new year, Dharmakirti Joshi, Chief Economist, Crisil, said both CPI and WPI delivered a significant surprise this year, with each month recording lower-than-expected readings.In November, WPI continued in deflation territory, while CPI inflation was just 0.7 per cent. Excluding gold, CPI also registered deflation this month.”Exceptionally low inflation provided the RBI with room to cut rates, even as growth remained above trend. Looking ahead, we expect consumer inflation to rise to 5 per cent in FY27, largely due to base effects, while interest rates are likely to remain steady at 5.25 per cent. However, the transmission of the already announced rate cuts is expected to continue,” Joshi said.The Reserve Bank’s last bi-monthly monetary policy for 2025-26 is scheduled during February 4-6, 2026.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos“No Racial Angle”: SSP Rules Out Alleged Slurs in Angel Chakma KillingCongress’ Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury Flags Attacks on Migrant Workers to PM Modi’Will Rid Bengal Of Infiltrators’: Amit Shah Slams Mamata Banerjee’s 14-Year Rule, Sounds Poll BugleFrom Defence To Civil Skies: HAL’s Dhruv-NG Helicopter Takes Flight In India’s Aviation PushJapanese Tourist Harassed in Varanasi on Christmas, Netizens Slam ‘Mob Culture’Chicken’s Neck Threat Sparks Sharp Reply As Nagaland Minister Warns Bangladesh Radicals BoldlyBilawal Bhutto Goes On Anti-India Rant, Says ‘Modi Is Afraid Of Asim Munir’ Since Operation SindoorDonald Trump Tells Netanyahu He Stopped India-Pakistan War The 70th Time Since Op Sindoor PausedFrom First Woman PM To Fierce Rivalry: Khaleda Zia’s Three Terms That Redefined Bangladesh PoliticsBangladesh Mourns As Former Prime Minister And BNP Chief Khaleda Zia Dies At 80123PhotostoriesFrom Shrekking to the Black Cat Boyfriend: 7 dating trends of 2025 that may shape relationships in 2026 tooLeBron James’ fitness philosophy: A closer look at the NBA legend’s typical routine, diet, and non-negotiablesArena Awakenings: Bengaluru Gears Up for Global Sporting Glory (In Pictures)The only place on Earth where sand, snow and sea meet–can you guess?This drink can remove excess sugar from the body naturally; recipe insideSnow guaranteed! Top 5 destinations to visit in India this January for 2026 winter funBengaluru’s Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Layout moves closer to habitation as development work picks upGukesh: 5 things teenagers should learn from the chess championChennai’s Thirumayilai set for major connectivity boost with stacked Metro tunnels for smoother travel3 common mistakes with potatoes to avoid and easy solutions123Hot PicksIndigo flight DisruptionsPAN-Aadhaar link statusKhaleda ZiaGold rate todayIncome Tax RefundBahrain Golden Visa 2025Bank Holidays DecemberTop TrendingErika KirkTravis KelceJEE Advanced RegistrationAnjel ChakmaMumbai Bhandup Bus AccidentRobert Kraft vs Gayle Benson Net WorthMLB Trade RumorsAntonio BrownBengaluru PG BlastWWE Raw Highligths


India inflation likely to remain low in 2026, new CPI series on anvil

NEW DELHI: India is preparing to rejig methodology for computing CPI and revamp monetary policy mandate for targeting retail inflation in 2026 after a year of benign price situation due to subdued food cost and GST reduction.Consumer Price Index (CPI) based retail inflation remained in the Reserve Bank’s comfort zone (2-6 per cent) and is likely to stay that way in the next year also, keeping open the possibility of at least one more reduction in rates by the central bank in the coming months.Besides cooling food prices, the decision of the government to reduce GST rates on about 400 items in September helped in further improving the price situation in the country.

US Consumers Facing Food Inflation as Tariffs Hit Indian Rice Imports: Exporters Body

The wholesale price index (WPI), too, showed clear signs of easing of inflationary pressures through 2025. Early months recorded positive but declining WPI inflation, reflecting softening price pressures especially in food and fuel categories.By June, WPI entered deflation and the downward trend continued with negative prints in July and October.CPI, or headline inflation, started declining in November 2024, and since then it has remained in the Reserve Bank’s comfort zone (2-4 per cent) till June 2025. Thereafter, it has slipped below 2 per cent.Food inflation, which constitutes about 48 per cent of the CPI, started declining from about 6 per cent in January and entered the negative territory in June. It was at (-) 3.91 in November, according to the latest data.With inflation breaching the RBI’s lower band target of 2 per cent, the debate around the government’s mandate to the central bank to keep inflation within the target of 2-4 per cent assumes significance.The Reserve Bank has already issued a consultation paper with regards to the inflation targeting regime. The government will come out with a new framework effective April 1, 2025, with the current five years regime set to end in March.Meanwhile, the government is working on a new CPI series with base year (2024 = 100) which will witness a comprehensive revision of coverage, item basket, weights and methodology used in index compilation.The exercise being done after more than a decade is aimed at substantially improving the representativeness, reliability, accuracy, and overall quality of the inflation data. The new series will be released in February.On inflationary expectations, RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra opined that the headline inflation is projected to be close to the 4 per cent target in H1:2026-27. Excluding precious metals, inflation is likely to be much lower, as has been the trend since the beginning of 2024.Further, good agricultural production, low food prices and exceptionally benign international commodity price outlook suggest that the CPI for the full year (2025-26) is likely to be around 2 per cent, half of what was projected at the beginning of the year.With inflation remaining in control, the Reserve Bank has cumulatively reduced the short-term benchmark lending rate (repo) by 125 basis since February 2025.“The most important aspect of inflation in 2026 will be the new index and its composition, which can drive any realistic forecasts as this should be in place in February 2026,” Bank of Baroda Chief Economist Madan Sabnavis said.“Assuming a normal monsoon, we can expect inflation to be very much under control in 2026. While the extremely low inflation numbers witnessed in 2025 will get reversed as the low base will result in higher numbers, on the whole it can be expected to be in the range of 4-4.5 per cent,” he said.This will not afford scope for any more rate cuts and hence February can be the final month when a rate call decision can be taken. Core inflation should ideally moderate as the GST impact fully plays through, Sabnavis added.ICRA Chief Economist Aditi Nayar said the divergence in the WPI and the CPI is driven by differences in the weighing pattern as well as the coverage of these indices.While the food segment has been in the deflationary zone across the wholesale and retail segments, services and non-food goods have prevented the CPI from falling in the deflationary zone, she said.“However, the presence of crude oil, higher weight for fuels, and low inflation in the wholesale manufactured segment has enabled food to pull down the WPI into the deflationary zone,” Nayar said.Commenting on the inflation scenario in the new year, Dharmakirti Joshi, Chief Economist, Crisil, said both CPI and WPI delivered a significant surprise this year, with each month recording lower-than-expected readings.In November, WPI continued in deflation territory, while CPI inflation was just 0.7 per cent. Excluding gold, CPI also registered deflation this month.“Exceptionally low inflation provided the RBI with room to cut rates, even as growth remained above trend. Looking ahead, we expect consumer inflation to rise to 5 per cent in FY27, largely due to base effects, while interest rates are likely to remain steady at 5.25 per cent. However, the transmission of the already announced rate cuts is expected to continue,” Joshi said.The Reserve Bank’s last bi-monthly monetary policy for 2025-26 is scheduled during February 4-6, 2026.



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. NEW DELHI: Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi said on Thursday the Indian Navy was just minutes away from launching strikes on Pakistan from the sea during Operation Sindoor, when Pakistan requested a halt to kinetic actions. Speaking at the Naval Investiture Ceremony, Admiral Tripathi said, “Operation Sindoor demonstrated exemplary readiness and resolve of the Indian Navy, as our units undertook swift deployment and maintained a highly aggressive posture throughout the period. It is not a hidden fact anymore that we were just minutes away from striking Pakistan from sea, when they requested the stoppage of kinetic actions.”Admiral Tripathi said the Navy’s actions during the operation strengthened national confidence and showed its capabilities at the highest level. Referring to an interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said, “Besides Operation Sindoor and the relentless operational tempo through the year, we were also very proud to showcase the breadth and depth of our operational capabilities to the honourable Prime Minister during a historic 17-hour overnight embarkation with the Indian Navy on the Western Seaboard.”Operation Sindoor was launched after the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, in which 26 people were killed. The operation targeted and destroy terrorist bases in Pakistan, killing several terrorists.Naval officers honoured for Op Sindoor The Navy chief on Wednesday also awarded Yudh Seva Medals to Vice Admiral A N Pramod and Vice Admiral Rahul Vilas Gokhale for their roles in Operation Sindoor.Vice Admiral Pramod, DGNO, was recognised for planning and executing India’s response amid tensions with Pakistan. His deployment in the North Arabian Sea denied Pakistan Navy operational space.Vice Admiral Gokhale was honoured for ensuring missile readiness and combat deployment of 22 warships within 96 hours, helping restrict Pakistan’s naval movement.Captain Suraj Rebeira, Captain Vikas Garg, Captain Piyush Katiyar, Commander Rajeshwar Sharma, Commander Vivek Kuriakose, Commander Kapil Kumar, Lieutenant Commander Rishabh Purbia and Chief Mechanical Engineer Manoj Kumar were also awarded Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry) for their roles in the operation.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi Puts Deesa Airbase In Strategic Focus, India’s Big Defence Push Near Pakistan Border’India Was On Verge Of Striking Before Pakistan Requested Halt During Op Sindoor’: Indian Navy ChiefVice Admiral A.N. Pramod Gets Yudh Seva Medal For Leading Navy Ops In Operation SindoorPM Modi Warns Against Rumours, Stresses Timely Info During West Asia War CrisisFrom Stealth Warships To Silent Submarines: These Naval Deployments Paralyzed Pak In Op SindoorAmid Hormuz Crisis, India May Get First Delivery Of Iranian Crude Oil After 7 YearsIndia Eyes Coal Gasification As Substitute For Energy Imports Amid Iran War Supply ShocksKerala Election 2026: LDF vs UDF vs BJP, Who Will Win the Battle?| PINARAYI VIJAYANTrump Says Iran War Could End In 2-3 Weeks, With Or Without Deal; US Planning To Pull Out Of NATO?Jaishankar’s ‘Europe’s Problem’ Remark Comes Full Circle As UK Adopts ‘Not Our War’ Stance On Iran123PhotostoriesHow Nasa’s Artemis II took shape: From origins to orbiting the MoonWhat are net-zero homes? How they are shaping sustainable real estate trendsApril K-Drama release calendar: From ‘Bloodhounds 2’ to ‘Yumi’s Cells 3’, here’s the 10 dramas you need to look out forLow energy, poor sleep, weight gain? Doctors explain early metabolic decline, and how to fix itHanuman Jayanti 2026: 10 most powerful Hanuman temples in India8 easy-care succulents that reward you with stunning flowers7 ways meditation scientifically rewires the brain10 home names inspired by Indian traditions and their meaningsHanuman Jayanti 2026: Why Laddoos are offered as bhog to Lord Hanuman and other traditional dishes prepared during the festival5 powerful benefits of chanting Om Namah Shivaya123Hot PicksUAE healthcare rulesLeBron JamesNASA Artemis IIKristi Noem HusbandUS Iran WarPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingJa MorantNASA Artemis IINew Income Tax Act 2025Insolvency and Bankruptcy CodeUS birthright citizenshipPunjab BJP blastIran ceasefireArjun TendulkarSameer RizviIran war news

. NEW DELHI: Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi said on Thursday the Indian Navy was just minutes away from launching strikes on Pakistan from the sea during Operation Sindoor, when Pakistan requested a halt to kinetic actions. Speaking at the Naval Investiture Ceremony, Admiral Tripathi said, “Operation Sindoor demonstrated exemplary readiness and resolve of the Indian Navy, as our units undertook swift deployment and maintained a highly aggressive posture throughout the period. It is not a hidden fact anymore that we were just minutes away from striking Pakistan from sea, when they requested the stoppage of kinetic actions.”Admiral Tripathi said the Navy’s actions during the operation strengthened national confidence and showed its capabilities at the highest level. Referring to an interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said, “Besides Operation Sindoor and the relentless operational tempo through the year, we were also very proud to showcase the breadth and depth of our operational capabilities to the honourable Prime Minister during a historic 17-hour overnight embarkation with the Indian Navy on the Western Seaboard.”Operation Sindoor was launched after the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, in which 26 people were killed. The operation targeted and destroy terrorist bases in Pakistan, killing several terrorists.Naval officers honoured for Op Sindoor The Navy chief on Wednesday also awarded Yudh Seva Medals to Vice Admiral A N Pramod and Vice Admiral Rahul Vilas Gokhale for their roles in Operation Sindoor.Vice Admiral Pramod, DGNO, was recognised for planning and executing India’s response amid tensions with Pakistan. His deployment in the North Arabian Sea denied Pakistan Navy operational space.Vice Admiral Gokhale was honoured for ensuring missile readiness and combat deployment of 22 warships within 96 hours, helping restrict Pakistan’s naval movement.Captain Suraj Rebeira, Captain Vikas Garg, Captain Piyush Katiyar, Commander Rajeshwar Sharma, Commander Vivek Kuriakose, Commander Kapil Kumar, Lieutenant Commander Rishabh Purbia and Chief Mechanical Engineer Manoj Kumar were also awarded Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry) for their roles in the operation.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi Puts Deesa Airbase In Strategic Focus, India’s Big Defence Push Near Pakistan Border’India Was On Verge Of Striking Before Pakistan Requested Halt During Op Sindoor’: Indian Navy ChiefVice Admiral A.N. Pramod Gets Yudh Seva Medal For Leading Navy Ops In Operation SindoorPM Modi Warns Against Rumours, Stresses Timely Info During West Asia War CrisisFrom Stealth Warships To Silent Submarines: These Naval Deployments Paralyzed Pak In Op SindoorAmid Hormuz Crisis, India May Get First Delivery Of Iranian Crude Oil After 7 YearsIndia Eyes Coal Gasification As Substitute For Energy Imports Amid Iran War Supply ShocksKerala Election 2026: LDF vs UDF vs BJP, Who Will Win the Battle?| PINARAYI VIJAYANTrump Says Iran War Could End In 2-3 Weeks, With Or Without Deal; US Planning To Pull Out Of NATO?Jaishankar’s ‘Europe’s Problem’ Remark Comes Full Circle As UK Adopts ‘Not Our War’ Stance On Iran123PhotostoriesHow Nasa’s Artemis II took shape: From origins to orbiting the MoonWhat are net-zero homes? How they are shaping sustainable real estate trendsApril K-Drama release calendar: From ‘Bloodhounds 2’ to ‘Yumi’s Cells 3’, here’s the 10 dramas you need to look out forLow energy, poor sleep, weight gain? Doctors explain early metabolic decline, and how to fix itHanuman Jayanti 2026: 10 most powerful Hanuman temples in India8 easy-care succulents that reward you with stunning flowers7 ways meditation scientifically rewires the brain10 home names inspired by Indian traditions and their meaningsHanuman Jayanti 2026: Why Laddoos are offered as bhog to Lord Hanuman and other traditional dishes prepared during the festival5 powerful benefits of chanting Om Namah Shivaya123Hot PicksUAE healthcare rulesLeBron JamesNASA Artemis IIKristi Noem HusbandUS Iran WarPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingJa MorantNASA Artemis IINew Income Tax Act 2025Insolvency and Bankruptcy CodeUS birthright citizenshipPunjab BJP blastIran ceasefireArjun TendulkarSameer RizviIran war news

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Supreme Court NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Thursday took serious notice on Malda incident where seven judicial officers engaged in the special intensive revision (SIR) exercise were held hostage for several hours. The court also issued showcause notices to top West Bengal officials, including the chief secretary and DGP.The strong response came after reports that the officers, including three women, were detained in Malda by a group of voters whose names had been deleted from the electoral rolls.The court asked the chief secretary and DGP to explain why action should not be taken against them, calling the incident an “abdication of duty” and seeking reasons for their “inaction.”Terming the episode “deplorable,” the top court said the protest appeared to be a “calculated and motivated” attempt to demoralise judicial officers and disrupt the ongoing electoral process. It added that it would not allow anyone to interfere with the process or take the law into their own hands to carry out a psychological attack on officials.The court observed that it was imperative for the Mamata Banerjee-led state government to inform the Election Commission and seek deployment of central forces to ensure the safety of judicial officers. It also allowed the Election Commission to seek either a CBI or NIA probe into the incident.Noting a “complete breakdown of law and order” in the state, the court directed that central forces be deployed to protect officers handling objections under the SIR process.The Supreme Court further appealed to leaders across political parties not to politicise the issue and to speak in one voice on ensuring the safety of officials performing their duties. It also stressed that those entrusted with maintaining law and order must remain more vigilant.What happened in MaldaThe incident took place during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists. Seven judicial officers, including three women, were surrounded and held for several hours by protesters.Officials said the protest began outside the Kaliachak 2 Block Development Office when people demanded a meeting with the officers. After being denied entry, the crowd started protesting around 4 pm and later blocked the premises, continuing late into the night.The protests were triggered by the deletion of names from voter lists and spread across Malda, with road blockades reported in multiple areas, affecting normal life.BJP reactsUnion minister and BJP leader Sukanta Majumdar condemned the incident and blamed the situation on statements by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.In a video message, he alleged that the officers’ vehicles were vandalised and roads were blocked during the incident. He also said the situation in West Bengal was worrying.”What happened is something that scares everyone. 7 judicial magistrates had gone there. They were not only stopped there but their vehicles were also vandalised. When SP was rescuing them from there, women judicial magistrates’ vehicles were vandalised. Roads were blocked to see that no vehicle passes through. During the rule of Left Front, Anita Dewan – a woman official, was dragged out of her vehicle and beaten to death. This was a similar plan. Mamata Banerjee’s continuous instigating statements are responsible for this,” said Majumdar.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi Puts Deesa Airbase In Strategic Focus, India’s Big Defence Push Near Pakistan Border’India Was On Verge Of Striking Before Pakistan Requested Halt During Op Sindoor’: Indian Navy ChiefVice Admiral A.N. 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Supreme Court NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Thursday took serious notice on Malda incident where seven judicial officers engaged in the special intensive revision (SIR) exercise were held hostage for several hours. The court also issued showcause notices to top West Bengal officials, including the chief secretary and DGP.The strong response came after reports that the officers, including three women, were detained in Malda by a group of voters whose names had been deleted from the electoral rolls.The court asked the chief secretary and DGP to explain why action should not be taken against them, calling the incident an “abdication of duty” and seeking reasons for their “inaction.”Terming the episode “deplorable,” the top court said the protest appeared to be a “calculated and motivated” attempt to demoralise judicial officers and disrupt the ongoing electoral process. It added that it would not allow anyone to interfere with the process or take the law into their own hands to carry out a psychological attack on officials.The court observed that it was imperative for the Mamata Banerjee-led state government to inform the Election Commission and seek deployment of central forces to ensure the safety of judicial officers. It also allowed the Election Commission to seek either a CBI or NIA probe into the incident.Noting a “complete breakdown of law and order” in the state, the court directed that central forces be deployed to protect officers handling objections under the SIR process.The Supreme Court further appealed to leaders across political parties not to politicise the issue and to speak in one voice on ensuring the safety of officials performing their duties. It also stressed that those entrusted with maintaining law and order must remain more vigilant.What happened in MaldaThe incident took place during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists. Seven judicial officers, including three women, were surrounded and held for several hours by protesters.Officials said the protest began outside the Kaliachak 2 Block Development Office when people demanded a meeting with the officers. After being denied entry, the crowd started protesting around 4 pm and later blocked the premises, continuing late into the night.The protests were triggered by the deletion of names from voter lists and spread across Malda, with road blockades reported in multiple areas, affecting normal life.BJP reactsUnion minister and BJP leader Sukanta Majumdar condemned the incident and blamed the situation on statements by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.In a video message, he alleged that the officers’ vehicles were vandalised and roads were blocked during the incident. He also said the situation in West Bengal was worrying.”What happened is something that scares everyone. 7 judicial magistrates had gone there. They were not only stopped there but their vehicles were also vandalised. When SP was rescuing them from there, women judicial magistrates’ vehicles were vandalised. Roads were blocked to see that no vehicle passes through. During the rule of Left Front, Anita Dewan – a woman official, was dragged out of her vehicle and beaten to death. This was a similar plan. Mamata Banerjee’s continuous instigating statements are responsible for this,” said Majumdar.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi Puts Deesa Airbase In Strategic Focus, India’s Big Defence Push Near Pakistan Border’India Was On Verge Of Striking Before Pakistan Requested Halt During Op Sindoor’: Indian Navy ChiefVice Admiral A.N. 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. SRINAGAR: In a significant move that was promptly decried by the Opposition as a bid to help J&K’s “super elite” retain valuable real estate, particularly hotel owners in Gulmarg which includes a landmark property owned by CM Omar Abdullah’s cousin, the state assembly Wednesday admitted a private member’s bill introduced by a legislator from the governing National Conference that seeks to protect existing land leaseholders across the union territory.The bill, called land grants bill, was introduced by Tanvir Sadiq, an NC member.This is the first private member’s bill admitted by the assembly. It seeks to counter the Jammu and Kashmir Land Grants Rules, 2022, implemented by the J&K Lieutenant Governor’s administration under the J&K Reorganisation Act, 2019. The 2022 rules bar extension of leases after expiry and provide for the auction of such properties through open bidding to any Indian citizen.Responding to the Bill, Omar said opposing it at the stage of introduction would restrict discussion in the House. He said he wanted a detailed debate after which the government would take a call on whether to support it.BJP and the Peoples Conference criticised the Bill outside the Assembly, accusing the government of safeguarding affluent stakeholders, particularly hotel owners in Gulmarg. PDP legislator Waheed Parra tore a copy of the Bill inside the House, alleging it was aimed at shielding hoteliers, particularly the Nedous hotel in Gulmarg, whose land leases had expired.Sadiq rejected the criticism, saying not a single BJP or PDP member opposed his “bill inside the House”. “But barely an hour later, the leader of opposition, Sunil Sharma, opposed it from Assam and their B-team, PDP, here suddenly discovered their voice.”“My bill is clear… legal and transparent land allotment protection of public land from Lakhanpur to Sonmarg, from Gulmarg to Kishtwar… this is about dignity and fairness for the people of J&K,” he said, adding that leasehold land across J&K, including for schools and shops, is impacted by 2022 rules.Sharma described the bill as protecting “elite interests”.People’s Conference president and MLA Handwara Sajad Lone alleged the bill overwhelmingly “favours Kashmir’s super elite while excluding the underprivileged”. He said the bill pertains to some of the most valuable real estate in Kashmir, which he estimated to be worth between Rs 70,000 crore and Rs 1 lakh crore or even more.Rules framed under Article 370 were restricting leases to permanent residents of J&K, while Article 35A prohibited people from outside from buying property in J&K and Ladakh. However, under the 2022 rules, leases of 55 out of 59 hotels in Gulmarg have expired, leaving property owners to face eviction and their properties to be put up for auction.On August 3, last year, the J&K administration under the LG took over the Nedous Hotel. The hotel was the first to be sealed after the Gulmarg Development Authority issued a 24- hour eviction notice to it.Nedous was the first hotel built in Gulmarg meadow in 1888. It was built by Michael Adam Nedou, a hotelier from Dubrovnik (now Croatia), who had earlier opened hotels in Lahore and Srinagar. His son, Michael Henry Nedou, known as Harry, converted to Islam and married Mir Jan, a local Gujjar Muslim woman. Their daughter, Akbar Jahan, would later marry Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, the grandfather of CM Omar Abdullah. The hotel is currently owned by CM’s cousin Omar K Nedou.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAmid Hormuz Crisis, India May Get First Delivery Of Iranian Crude Oil After 7 YearsIndia Eyes Coal Gasification As Substitute For Energy Imports Amid Iran War Supply ShocksKerala Election 2026: LDF vs UDF vs BJP, Who Will Win the Battle?| PINARAYI VIJAYANTrump Says Iran War Could End In 2-3 Weeks, With Or Without Deal; US Planning To Pull Out Of NATO?Jaishankar’s ‘Europe’s Problem’ Remark Comes Full Circle As UK Adopts ‘Not Our War’ Stance On IranPM Modi To Chair Key Security Meet To Review West Asia Situation Amid Energy, Supply Chain ConcernsRBI Resets Digital Payments Rule In India To Fight Rising Fraud Risks, OTP Alone Won’t Work AnymoreINS Malwan Delivered To Indian Navy, Strengthens India’s Coastal Anti-Submarine Warfare’Where Was Your PM?’ Mallikarjun Kharge Attacks Modi Govt, Sparks War Of Words With Kiren RijijuMassive Opposition Protests Forces Modi Govt To Pause Foreign Contribution (FCRA) Bill In Lok Sabha123PhotostoriesHanuman Jayanti 2026: Why Laddoos are offered as bhog to Lord Hanuman and other traditional dishes prepared during the festival5 powerful benefits of chanting Om Namah Shivaya10 everyday items linked to cancer risk we use daily: Doctor explains hidden dangers and simple ways to reduce exposure10 ‘superpowers’ women possess that are biologically impossible for men13 Full moons of 2026: Here are their dates and namesAjay Devgn birthday special: ‘Zakhm’, ‘Company’ to ‘Drishyam’, films that defined his career journeyThis Indian dish was ordered 200+ times every minute on Eid al-Fitr: What makes it so specialAxar Patel’s ‘Haksh Villa’ in Nadiad, Gujarat reflects the cricketer’s relaxed lifestyle and luxury car collectionPuducherry assembly elections 2026: From Jose Charles Martin to VP Ramalingam, top 10 richest candidates10 surprising facts about slugs: From blue blood to 27,000 teeth123Hot PicksUAE healthcare rulesLeBron JamesNASA Artemis IIKristi Noem HusbandUS Iran WarPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingRBI Forex ruleNASA Artemis IINew Income Tax Act 2025Insolvency and Bankruptcy CodeUS birthright citizenshipPunjab BJP blastIran ceasefireArjun TendulkarSameer RizviIran war news

. SRINAGAR: In a significant move that was promptly decried by the Opposition as a bid to help J&K’s “super elite” retain valuable real estate, particularly hotel owners in Gulmarg which includes a landmark property owned by CM Omar Abdullah’s cousin, the state assembly Wednesday admitted a private member’s bill introduced by a legislator from the governing National Conference that seeks to protect existing land leaseholders across the union territory.The bill, called land grants bill, was introduced by Tanvir Sadiq, an NC member.This is the first private member’s bill admitted by the assembly. It seeks to counter the Jammu and Kashmir Land Grants Rules, 2022, implemented by the J&K Lieutenant Governor’s administration under the J&K Reorganisation Act, 2019. The 2022 rules bar extension of leases after expiry and provide for the auction of such properties through open bidding to any Indian citizen.Responding to the Bill, Omar said opposing it at the stage of introduction would restrict discussion in the House. He said he wanted a detailed debate after which the government would take a call on whether to support it.BJP and the Peoples Conference criticised the Bill outside the Assembly, accusing the government of safeguarding affluent stakeholders, particularly hotel owners in Gulmarg. PDP legislator Waheed Parra tore a copy of the Bill inside the House, alleging it was aimed at shielding hoteliers, particularly the Nedous hotel in Gulmarg, whose land leases had expired.Sadiq rejected the criticism, saying not a single BJP or PDP member opposed his “bill inside the House”. “But barely an hour later, the leader of opposition, Sunil Sharma, opposed it from Assam and their B-team, PDP, here suddenly discovered their voice.”“My bill is clear… legal and transparent land allotment protection of public land from Lakhanpur to Sonmarg, from Gulmarg to Kishtwar… this is about dignity and fairness for the people of J&K,” he said, adding that leasehold land across J&K, including for schools and shops, is impacted by 2022 rules.Sharma described the bill as protecting “elite interests”.People’s Conference president and MLA Handwara Sajad Lone alleged the bill overwhelmingly “favours Kashmir’s super elite while excluding the underprivileged”. He said the bill pertains to some of the most valuable real estate in Kashmir, which he estimated to be worth between Rs 70,000 crore and Rs 1 lakh crore or even more.Rules framed under Article 370 were restricting leases to permanent residents of J&K, while Article 35A prohibited people from outside from buying property in J&K and Ladakh. However, under the 2022 rules, leases of 55 out of 59 hotels in Gulmarg have expired, leaving property owners to face eviction and their properties to be put up for auction.On August 3, last year, the J&K administration under the LG took over the Nedous Hotel. The hotel was the first to be sealed after the Gulmarg Development Authority issued a 24- hour eviction notice to it.Nedous was the first hotel built in Gulmarg meadow in 1888. It was built by Michael Adam Nedou, a hotelier from Dubrovnik (now Croatia), who had earlier opened hotels in Lahore and Srinagar. His son, Michael Henry Nedou, known as Harry, converted to Islam and married Mir Jan, a local Gujjar Muslim woman. Their daughter, Akbar Jahan, would later marry Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, the grandfather of CM Omar Abdullah. The hotel is currently owned by CM’s cousin Omar K Nedou.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAmid Hormuz Crisis, India May Get First Delivery Of Iranian Crude Oil After 7 YearsIndia Eyes Coal Gasification As Substitute For Energy Imports Amid Iran War Supply ShocksKerala Election 2026: LDF vs UDF vs BJP, Who Will Win the Battle?| PINARAYI VIJAYANTrump Says Iran War Could End In 2-3 Weeks, With Or Without Deal; US Planning To Pull Out Of NATO?Jaishankar’s ‘Europe’s Problem’ Remark Comes Full Circle As UK Adopts ‘Not Our War’ Stance On IranPM Modi To Chair Key Security Meet To Review West Asia Situation Amid Energy, Supply Chain ConcernsRBI Resets Digital Payments Rule In India To Fight Rising Fraud Risks, OTP Alone Won’t Work AnymoreINS Malwan Delivered To Indian Navy, Strengthens India’s Coastal Anti-Submarine Warfare’Where Was Your PM?’ Mallikarjun Kharge Attacks Modi Govt, Sparks War Of Words With Kiren RijijuMassive Opposition Protests Forces Modi Govt To Pause Foreign Contribution (FCRA) Bill In Lok Sabha123PhotostoriesHanuman Jayanti 2026: Why Laddoos are offered as bhog to Lord Hanuman and other traditional dishes prepared during the festival5 powerful benefits of chanting Om Namah Shivaya10 everyday items linked to cancer risk we use daily: Doctor explains hidden dangers and simple ways to reduce exposure10 ‘superpowers’ women possess that are biologically impossible for men13 Full moons of 2026: Here are their dates and namesAjay Devgn birthday special: ‘Zakhm’, ‘Company’ to ‘Drishyam’, films that defined his career journeyThis Indian dish was ordered 200+ times every minute on Eid al-Fitr: What makes it so specialAxar Patel’s ‘Haksh Villa’ in Nadiad, Gujarat reflects the cricketer’s relaxed lifestyle and luxury car collectionPuducherry assembly elections 2026: From Jose Charles Martin to VP Ramalingam, top 10 richest candidates10 surprising facts about slugs: From blue blood to 27,000 teeth123Hot PicksUAE healthcare rulesLeBron JamesNASA Artemis IIKristi Noem HusbandUS Iran WarPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingRBI Forex ruleNASA Artemis IINew Income Tax Act 2025Insolvency and Bankruptcy CodeUS birthright citizenshipPunjab BJP blastIran ceasefireArjun TendulkarSameer RizviIran war news

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