A youth from Durg district’s Patan area has alleged that he was threatened over the phone after putting a newspaper report related to an Enforcement Directorate (ED) investigation on his WhatsApp status. The complainant, identified as Parmeshwar Singour of Ruhi village, has alleged that the caller abused him and threatened to take him to the police station while beating him.

According to the complaint, the youth subsequently left his village after receiving information that the caller had arrived there and was looking for him. Patan police have registered a case under Section 351(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and are examining the allegations and the audio recording submitted by the complainant. 

WhatsApp status led to phone call

The incident relates to September 3, when Singour reportedly posted a newspaper clipping concerning the ED investigation into alleged irregularities in the Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission (CGPSC) recruitment process on his WhatsApp status.

The report referred to an ED investigation in which the agency had alleged that more than ₹3 crore was collected from job aspirants and that around ₹2.80 crore was allegedly handed over to a person named Anil Chandrakar.

Singour told police that he had shared the report out of curiosity and had no personal connection with any of the people named in it.

Caller allegedly threatened to take him to police station

According to the complaint, Singour received a call around 1:40 pm on September 4 from a person who identified himself as Anil Chandrakar.

Singour has alleged that the caller abused him over the WhatsApp status and threatened to take him to the police station while beating him. He reportedly tried to explain that he had only shared a newspaper report and had not intended to insult or target anyone.

The complainant has said that the conversation was recorded using his friend Bhola Ram Singour’s mobile phone. He subsequently submitted the recording to police on a pen drive.

Youth left village after receiving another call

Singour has further alleged that around 3:10 pm the same day, he was informed by a villager, identified in the complaint as Hitendra Patel, that the man who had called him had arrived in the village and was looking for him.

The complainant has alleged that he was also warned that he could be killed. Fearing for his safety, he left the village and has said he remains concerned about returning home.

These are allegations made in the police complaint and have not been established independently.

Two people named Anil Chandrakar are involved

A key point in the case is that the Anil Chandrakar mentioned in the ED investigation and the Anil Chandrakar accused of making the alleged threat are different individuals, according to the report and the complaint.

The alleged threat was made by a grocery shop operator from Jamgaon M, while the person named in the ED investigation is connected to the agency's probe into alleged proceeds from the CGPSC recruitment case.

The distinction is significant because the WhatsApp status concerned the ED case, while the alleged phone threat relates to a separate individual who shares the same name.

What ED has alleged in CGPSC case

The broader issue stems from the ED's investigation into alleged irregularities, question-paper leaks and corruption in the 2020 and 2021 CGPSC State Service examinations.

According to the ED, question papers were allegedly provided through private intermediaries to relatives of accused persons and selected candidates in exchange for illegal payments. The agency has said the alleged arrangement was intended to facilitate fraudulent selection for senior government positions, including Deputy Collector and Deputy Superintendent of Police.

The ED has further alleged that Utkarsh Chandrakar and Dr Vikash Chandrakar collected more than ₹3 crore in cash from job aspirants on the promise of providing leaked CGPSC-2021 question papers. The agency said approximately ₹2.80 crore was allegedly handed over to Anil Chandrakar. 

The ED arrested Utkarsh Chandrakar on September 1 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act and said digital devices, financial records and property-related documents were seized during searches at five locations in Chhattisgarh.

Police investigation underway

Singour has told police that he has no connection with the CGPSC case and is neither a witness nor a participant in the investigation. He has submitted the newspaper clipping and the alleged phone-call recording as part of his complaint.

Patan police have registered the case under Section 351(4) of the BNS. The investigation is expected to establish the identity of the caller, examine the recorded conversation and verify the allegations made by the complainant.

At present, the alleged threats remain part of the complaint and police investigation; the accused person's version was not available in the material reviewed for this report.

The Chhattisgarh High Court has ruled that a private religious body or an organisation describing itself as a Sharia court cannot exercise the powers of a court established under law to determine a person's marital status or legally dissolve a marriage.

Justice Amitendra Kishore Prasad held that the Idara-E-Shariya Islami Court in Raipur had no legal authority to declare that a woman was divorced from her husband. The court set aside the legal effect of its January 18, 2022 communication, while making it clear that the broader constitutional validity of Talaq-e-Hasan was not being decided in the case.

What the High Court ruled

The case concerned a Muslim woman who challenged an order issued by the private religious body during a matrimonial dispute. The organisation had issued a communication declaring her divorced.

The High Court held that the Idara-E-Shariya Islami Court was neither constituted nor recognised as a court under the Constitution or any statute. Therefore, its communication could not legally alter the woman's marital status or create, extinguish or modify the legal rights and obligations of either spouse. 

The judgment drew a distinction between a religious opinion and a legally enforceable judicial decision.

Religious opinion cannot replace a court order

The court made clear that private religious institutions may provide religious advice or facilitate voluntary reconciliation, but they cannot assume the adjudicatory powers of statutory courts.

In other words, a religious body's opinion may have significance for those who voluntarily seek such guidance, but it does not automatically acquire the force of law or become enforceable through legal or coercive mechanisms. 

The High Court relied on the Supreme Court's earlier judgment in Vishwa Lochan Madan v. Union of India, which held that bodies such as Dar-ul-Qaza and institutions issuing fatwas are not courts created by law and cannot issue binding verdicts determining people's legal rights.

How the marital dispute began

According to the judgment, the petitioner, identified as Nirosh Abbasi, had married Mohd Abid Khan on July 18, 2020, following the death of her first husband.

A matrimonial dispute subsequently arose. The husband claimed that he had communicated Talaq-e-Hasan to her in three stages — on August 31, September 30 and October 30, 2021.

The woman, meanwhile, complained of alleged harassment and cruelty. An FIR was registered at Mahila Thana, Raipur, under Sections 498-A and 34 of the Indian Penal Code. 

During the proceedings, the Idara-E-Shariya Islami Court issued its January 18, 2022 communication declaring her divorced.

The woman challenged the authority of the religious body to determine her marital status.

High Court leaves Talaq-e-Hasan issue open

Importantly, the judgment does not decide whether Talaq-e-Hasan itself is constitutionally valid or invalid.

The High Court treated that as a separate and broader legal question and noted that the issue was pending before the Supreme Court. It therefore confined its ruling to the authority of the private religious body to determine the woman's legal marital status. 

This distinction is important: the court's ruling concerns the legal authority of the Idara-E-Shariya Islami Court, rather than a final determination on the constitutional validity of the particular form of divorce.

FIR and other legal remedies unaffected

The High Court also clarified that its decision would not prejudice the criminal proceedings or prevent either party from pursuing remedies available under law.

The pending criminal case and other legal rights are to be dealt with by the competent authorities in accordance with applicable law. 

Petition partly allowed

The High Court partly allowed the petition and held that the January 18, 2022 communication, insofar as it purported to determine the woman's marital status or dissolve her marriage, was without legal authority.

The ruling reinforces the principle that private religious institutions cannot assume the jurisdiction of courts established by law. A religious body can offer an opinion or assist in reconciliation, but a legally enforceable change in marital status must come through the competent legal process. 

After a brief slowdown in rainfall activity, Chhattisgarh is likely to see the monsoon become active again over the next few days, with light to moderate rain, showers and thunderstorms expected at several places. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast fairly widespread to widespread rainfall over Chhattisgarh from September 8 onward, with isolated heavy rainfall also possible during September 9–12. 

The change comes as weather systems over northern and central India influence the monsoon pattern. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are also possible, making caution advisable during periods of intense weather.

Rainfall activity likely to increase

The latest IMD forecast indicates that rainfall activity over Chhattisgarh is expected to increase from September 8. The department has forecast fairly widespread to widespread rainfall over the state during September 8–13, while isolated heavy rainfall is possible between September 9 and 12. 

The forecast suggests that the current break in rainfall is unlikely to persist for long. Several parts of the state may receive intermittent showers rather than continuous heavy rain.

Rajnandgaon records 33°C

Rajnandgaon recorded a maximum temperature of 33°C, making it the hottest among the locations highlighted in the state weather report.

IMD's Rajnandgaon station recorded 33°C on September 7, with no rainfall during the preceding 24-hour observation period. Its forecast for September 8 also indicates a maximum temperature of around 33°C, with a possibility of thunderstorms and lightning.

The rise in daytime temperatures comes after several days of comparatively limited rainfall activity.

Thunderstorms and lightning remain a concern

The return of rainfall could also bring thunderstorms and lightning in some areas. IMD's local forecast for Rajnandgaon specifically indicates the possibility of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning on September 8 and 9, with similar conditions continuing as rain activity increases. 

Residents are advised to avoid open areas and exposed locations during thunderstorms and to follow official weather alerts, particularly if lightning activity becomes intense.

Rainfall deficit remains at 4%

Despite renewed showers, the state's cumulative monsoon rainfall remains slightly below normal, according to the figures provided in the report.

From June 1 to September 7, Chhattisgarh had received around 950.6 mm of rainfall against a normal of approximately 990.8 mm, leaving the state around 4% below its normal seasonal rainfall.

The state-wide figure, however, masks considerable variation between districts.

Balrampur receives 70% more rain

Balrampur has recorded the highest rainfall among the districts mentioned in the report. It received around 1,436.7 mm of rain against a normal of 846.1 mm, putting the district approximately 70% above normal.

Other districts with relatively high seasonal rainfall include Sarangarh-Bilaigarh (1,105 mm), Mungeli (1,054.1 mm), Raipur (1,050.6 mm) and Baloda Bazar (967.2 mm).

The uneven distribution highlights the contrast in rainfall across different parts of Chhattisgarh despite the state's overall deficit.

Bemetara faces 41% rainfall deficit

Bemetara has recorded the lowest rainfall among the districts cited in the report, with approximately 539.9 mm against its normal rainfall of 910.5 mm.

That represents a 41% deficit.

Other districts with comparatively low rainfall include Kabirdham, which has received around 595.6 mm, Surguja at 632.3 mm, Kanker at 729.1 mm and Jashpur at 765.8 mm.

What to expect in Raipur

Raipur is also likely to experience changing weather conditions, with showers accompanied by thunder and lightningpossible.

The city's maximum temperature is expected to remain around 32°C, while the minimum could stay close to 25°C, according to the weather information cited in the report.

Overall, the next few days are likely to bring a return of monsoon activity across Chhattisgarh after the recent lull. While widespread rainfall could help reduce the seasonal deficit in some areas, the possibility of lightning and isolated heavy showers means residents should monitor updated IMD advisories.

Three officers of the Chhattisgarh State Administrative Service are reportedly under consideration for induction into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) through the promotion quota, with a Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) meeting proposed in New Delhi.

The names being discussed are Abhishek Agrawal, Sachin Bhutda and Rajiv Pandey. The committee is expected to examine their eligibility, service records and other relevant criteria before the process moves towards a final decision.

The possible induction is part of the process through which eligible State Civil Service officers are inducted into the IAS against vacancies in the state cadre.

DPC meeting proposed in Delhi

According to the information provided, the DPC meeting is proposed to be held in Delhi to consider the cases of Chhattisgarh State Administrative Service officers.

Chhattisgarh Chief Secretary Vikas Sheel and General Administration Department (GAD) Secretary Mukesh Bansal are expected to participate in the meeting on behalf of the state government.

The committee is to be chaired by UPSC Chairman Dr Ajay Kumar. The panel will examine the service records and eligibility of the officers whose names have been forwarded for consideration.

Three officers in focus

The names of Abhishek Agrawal, Sachin Bhutda and Rajiv Pandey are reportedly among those being considered for the IAS induction this year.

Five vacancies are reportedly available for induction from the State Administrative Service. However, the cases of two other officers are understood to have issues that could affect their consideration this time.

As a result, the three names currently being discussed are expected to remain in focus during the DPC process.

However, being considered by the DPC does not mean that IAS induction has been approved. The final outcome will depend on the committee's assessment and subsequent government orders.

Earlier, three officers received IAS induction

The latest process follows the induction of three officers from the 2013 batch of the Chhattisgarh State Administrative Service last year.

The officers who received IAS induction included Sumit Agrawal, Sandeep Agrawal and Ashish Tikaria.

The current exercise is part of the continuing process of considering eligible officers from the same batch and other applicable service criteria for induction into the IAS.

Service record will be examined

The DPC's assessment is expected to cover the officers' service records, eligibility and other prescribed factors.

Such committee proceedings are an important stage in the selection process because State Civil Service officers are not automatically inducted into the IAS simply on the basis of seniority or the availability of vacancies.

The committee's recommendations have to go through the prescribed administrative process before an officer formally enters the IAS cadre.

Final order required for IAS induction

Even if the DPC recommends an officer, formal induction into the IAS requires the subsequent completion of the central government process and issuance of the necessary orders.

Therefore, the names currently being discussed should be viewed as under consideration, rather than as confirmed IAS appointments.

The outcome of the proposed DPC meeting will determine which officers are recommended for induction against the available vacancies.

Administrative circles watching the decision

The process has attracted attention in Chhattisgarh's administrative circles because IAS induction through the promotion quota represents a significant career progression for State Administrative Service officers.

With three names reportedly emerging as the main contenders for the available vacancies, the focus will now be on the DPC's assessment and the recommendations that follow.

The final status of the officers will become clear only after the competent authorities complete the prescribed process and issue formal orders.

Doctors at the Government Medical College and Associated Hospital in Raigarh successfully removed an approximately 8-kg abdominal tumour from a 46-year-old woman in a high-risk surgery after the mass had become deeply attached to the intestines and was affecting surrounding organs.

The complex procedure was performed by a multidisciplinary team comprising specialists from the departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, General Surgery and Anaesthesia. The patient, identified as Champa Yadav from Jhalmala village, had reportedly been suffering from severe abdominal pain, swelling and vomiting for about a month before being admitted to the medical college on August 22.

Patient admitted in critical condition

According to the information provided by the hospital team, Yadav was in a serious condition when she arrived at the facility. Her blood pressure had dropped to around 84/54 mmHg and she was also found to have significant anaemia.

Imaging investigations, including CT scan and ultrasound, revealed a large tumour occupying the abdomen. The mass had displaced the uterus and was exerting pressure on the left ureter, affecting the kidney. Liver-related parameters were also reported to have deteriorated.

Given the patient's condition, doctors decided to stabilise her before attempting the major surgery.

Blood transfusions before surgery

The medical team first worked to improve her overall condition and correct the severe blood loss. Multiple units of packed red blood cells were reportedly administered, along with antibiotics and supportive treatment.

Doctors proceeded with surgery only after the patient's condition became sufficiently stable for the high-risk procedure.

Tumour found attached to intestines

The surgery was performed on September 1 under general anaesthesia. During an exploratory laparotomy, doctors encountered the major challenge of separating the large tumour from the intestines, where it was deeply attached.

Because of the complexity of the procedure and the proximity of vital structures, specialists from General Surgery were involved along with the gynaecology and anaesthesia teams.

The doctors carefully separated the tumour from the intestines and protected both ureters during the procedure. The tumour, along with the uterus, was subsequently removed. The combined specimen was reported to weigh around 8 kg.

Patient recovering after operation

The surgery was completed successfully and the patient was shifted to the recovery area following the procedure. She has been receiving intravenous fluids, pain-management medication and postoperative care.

According to the information provided, her condition is currently stable and she is gradually recovering.

The case highlights the importance of coordinated care in complicated abdominal and gynaecological surgeries, particularly when a large mass is affecting multiple organs and requires the involvement of specialists from different departments.

Three departments involved in surgery

The operation was conducted under the guidance of Medical College Dean Dr Santosh Kumar and Hospital Superintendent Dr Durgashankar Patel.

The medical team included Obstetrics and Gynaecology department head Dr Raghavendra Mahilange, Dr Kunti Chaudhary and Dr Anees Bhagat. The Anaesthesia team was led by department head Dr Ashok Singh Sदार, while the General Surgery team included Dr Nikhilesh Shinde.

Nursing and paramedical personnel also supported the procedure and postoperative management.

The details of the patient's symptoms, clinical condition, procedure and recovery are based on the information supplied for this report. The available Raigarh district government website confirms the medical college and associated government hospital, but an independent official release specifically documenting this surgery was not located during verification.

The protest by MBBS intern doctors in Madhya Pradesh intensified on Tuesday as demonstrators continued their agitation over a demand for higher stipends, with regular outpatient services affected at Hamidia Hospital in Bhopal.

Intern doctors who had been protesting since Monday remained on the road near Kamla Park through the night. The agitation followed a confrontation with police on Monday when doctors attempting to march towards the Chief Minister’s residence were stopped and water cannons were used. Reports also said a doctor was injured during the confrontation. 

The interns are seeking an increase in their monthly stipend from around ₹14,337 to ₹30,000 and have been pressing for a written government order on the issue.

OPD services affected at Hamidia

The continuing protest has affected routine medical services at Hamidia Hospital. Intern and junior doctors have stayed away from regular OPD work, while elective operation theatre services have also been affected.

Emergency services, however, have continued, according to reports. The disruption has particularly affected patients who had arrived at the hospital for consultations, investigations and routine treatment.

Long queues were reported at the hospital as the availability of junior doctors in the OPD was reduced. Patients and their attendants also faced difficulties because access to the hospital was restricted amid the protest and police deployment.

Doctors remain at Kamla Park

The protesting interns have continued their sit-in on the road near Kamla Park, demanding direct dialogue with the government.

The doctors have said they want the government to formally address their stipend demand rather than provide only verbal assurances. Reports from Monday said the interns had sought an increase from ₹14,337 to ₹30,000 and were asking for a written order before ending their agitation. 

The protest site has also become a focal point for traffic restrictions in central Bhopal.

Police deployment, traffic restrictions

Police have increased security around the protest location and roads leading towards the Chief Minister’s residence have been barricaded.

Traffic movement in parts of the old city and adjoining areas has been affected as protesters remained on the road. Reports on Monday said congestion extended across alternative routes, with a traffic jam reported over a stretch of around 1.5 km from VIP Road towards Polytechnic Square.

On Tuesday, commuters in areas around Kamla Park, Royal Market and routes connecting the old city were also facing restrictions and slower movement.

Dispute over Monday's police action

Monday's confrontation remains a major point of contention between the protesters and the administration.

The doctors alleged that police used force against them during their attempt to move towards the Chief Minister's residence. Police, meanwhile, said the water cannon was used after protesters crossed or attempted to cross barricades and there was a confrontation near the hospital's emergency access area.

According to a police explanation reported after the incident, the action was taken after pushing and confrontation at the emergency gate. 

The dispute over the police response has added another layer to the original stipend-related protest.

Protest spreads beyond Bhopal

The agitation has also received support from junior doctors and medical groups, with reports of demonstrations at MY Hospital in Indore against the police action in Bhopal.

The wider participation could increase pressure on the state government to open formal negotiations with the protesting interns.

For patients, however, the immediate concern remains the availability of routine healthcare services at government hospitals. With emergency services continuing but OPD and elective services affected, the duration of the protest will determine how significantly public healthcare delivery is disrupted.

The stipend figures and doctors' demands are reported as claims made by the protesting interns and corroborated by multiple reports. The police justification for the water-cannon action is presented separately from the doctors' allegations. The protest and service disruption are ongoing developments and may change as government-doctor talks progress.

Madhya Pradesh cadre IAS officer Anil Kumar Damor, who had recently been transferred from the post of Additional Collector in Vidisha to a new assignment in Bhopal, died on Tuesday after suffering a heart attack. He was a 2019-batch IAS officer.

According to reports, Damor's health suddenly deteriorated on Tuesday morning following which he was taken to Atal Bihari Vajpayee Government Medical College in Vidisha. Doctors declared him dead after examination.

His sudden death has triggered grief among administrative officials and employees in Vidisha and across the state government machinery. Colleagues and associates reached the medical college after receiving the news. His post-mortem was being conducted at the hospital, according to the reports.

Recently transferred to Bhopal

Damor had been serving as Additional Collector in Vidisha. In a recent reshuffle of 32 IAS officers in Madhya Pradesh, the state government transferred him from Vidisha to the Panchayat and Rural Development Department in Bhopal as Deputy Secretary. (Amar Ujala)

The transfer had come shortly before his death. He was preparing to take up his new assignment in Bhopal after being relieved from his Vidisha posting.

The Vidisha district administration's official website had also listed Anil Kumar Damor as Additional Collector in its administrative directory, confirming his association with the post. (Vidisha District Website)

Colleagues remember his approachable nature

Colleagues described Damor as a cordial and approachable officer who maintained a friendly rapport with both fellow officers and government employees.

His colleagues recalled his informal and accessible manner of working, saying he was known for interacting with staff without the distance often associated with senior administrative positions.

His sudden death has therefore been felt not only as the loss of a government officer but also as the loss of a colleague and friend within the administrative establishment.

Administrative career in Madhya Pradesh

Damor had held administrative responsibilities in Madhya Pradesh before serving as Additional Collector in Vidisha.

His tenure in Vidisha included responsibilities related to district-level administration and coordination with various government departments. Records from the Vidisha district administration show him serving as Additional Collector in the district. (Vidisha District Website)

Reports also indicate that he had been associated with several administrative assignments during his career.

Family from Jhabua

Damor was originally from Jhabua district in Madhya Pradesh. He is survived by his wife and two children.

According to the information available, his son is studying in Class 11, while his daughter is also pursuing her education.

His death came shortly after his transfer to a new responsibility in the state capital, making the news particularly difficult for his colleagues and associates who had expected to see him take charge of his next assignment.

The cause of death has been reported as a heart attack based on the information available at the time of publication. Details concerning the post-mortem and any subsequent official medical confirmation may be updated as authorities release further information.

The by-election for the president's post of Tikamgarh Municipal Council has been postponed until further orders by the Madhya Pradesh State Election Commission, putting on hold the nomination process that was scheduled to begin on Tuesday.

The decision means candidates who were preparing to file their nomination papers from September 8 will now have to wait for a fresh election schedule. The postponement was communicated by Tikamgarh Collector and District Election Officer Vivek Shrotriya. (Maha Media News)

The rural panchayat elections, however, will continue according to the previously announced schedule, according to the information available following the commission's order.

Nomination process cancelled for now

Under the earlier election programme, the nomination process for the municipal president's post was scheduled to begin on September 8. Candidates could submit their nomination papers until September 15, followed by scrutiny on September 16.

The last date for withdrawal of candidature was September 18, when the final list of candidates and election symbols were also to be announced.

With the latest order, these steps will not take place according to the earlier timetable.

Voting was scheduled for September 29

The now-postponed election was scheduled to be held on September 29 from 7 am to 5 pm. Counting of votes and declaration of the result were scheduled for October 3 from 9 am.

Tikamgarh was among three municipal president posts included in Madhya Pradesh's 2026 urban local body by-election programme. The other two were the president's posts of Susner in Agar-Malwa district and Kukshi in Dhar district.

The commission's latest decision has therefore interrupted a process that had formally moved towards the nomination stage.

President's post became vacant

The by-election became necessary after the removal of Tikamgarh Municipal Council president Abdul Gaffar from the post.

According to the information provided for the report, Gaffar was disqualified following allegations of financial irregularities and was barred from contesting elections for six years. Following the vacancy, Deputy Collector Anjali Sharma was assigned charge of the municipal council's presidency.

The official Tikamgarh Municipal Council website still lists Abdul Gaffar as the council president, indicating that administrative records may not yet have been updated following the latest developments. 

Political activity had intensified

The election announcement had triggered political activity in Tikamgarh, with prospective candidates from both the Bharatiya Janata Party and Congress reportedly beginning preparations for the president's post.

The earlier schedule had given aspirants a clear timeline to enter the contest, but the postponement has now put those preparations on hold.

For political parties, the immediate focus will shift to the reasons behind the commission's decision and the timing of the revised election programme.

Fresh schedule awaited

The State Election Commission is expected to issue a revised schedule before the municipal by-election process resumes.

Until a new programme is announced, candidates will not be able to proceed with nominations for the Tikamgarh municipal president's post. The postponement also means the previously announced September 29 polling date and October 3 counting date no longer apply to this election.

The commission's decision has come just as the nomination process was scheduled to begin, leaving prospective candidates and local political parties waiting for further instructions.

The September 8 nomination, September 29 polling and October 3 counting dates were part of the earlier election schedule and should not be presented as current dates after the postponement. The State Election Commission's fresh programme will determine the revised timeline. The rural panchayat election schedule remains separate and, according to the available report, continues as announced. 

Madhya Pradesh has received an average 790.8 mm (31.1 inches) of rainfall so far this monsoon season, covering around 83.5% of the rainfall expected up to this stage, according to the latest figures cited in the state weather update.

The rainfall pattern, however, remains uneven across the state. While 12 districts, including Bhopal, have received rainfall above their respective normal levels, 31 districts are still reporting deficits. The eastern parts of Madhya Pradesh have performed relatively better, while several districts in the western region continue to lag behind.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued rainfall activity in parts of the state, with Rewa and Shahdol divisions likely to remain among the more active areas through September 11. 

Bhopal among districts with above-normal rain

The districts reported to have received more rainfall than normal include Bhopal, Rajgarh, Shivpuri, Niwari, Maihar, Bhind, Sheopur, Singrauli, Sidhi, Satna, Mauganj and Umaria.

Several other districts have also crossed 90% of their seasonal rainfall benchmark, including Umaria, Anuppur, Agar-Malwa, Tikamgarh, Chhatarpur, Panna, Gwalior, Guna, Datia, Khargone and Burhanpur.

The distribution remains sharply uneven. Mauganj has recorded the highest rainfall in the state at around 53 inches, while Alirajpur has received the lowest at approximately 13.6 inches, according to the figures provided.

31 districts still facing rainfall deficit

Despite heavy spells in several parts of the state, Madhya Pradesh's overall rainfall remains below normal.

The state has received around 790.8 mm, compared with the normal cumulative rainfall of about 840.6 mm for this point in the season. That leaves the state around 6% below normal.

The eastern part of the state has improved significantly following heavy rainfall during the past week. Districts in and around the Jabalpur, Rewa, Sagar and Shahdol divisions have generally moved closer to their seasonal averages.

However, a number of districts remain in deficit. The gap is particularly visible in parts of western Madhya Pradesh, where several districts continue to record rainfall deficits ranging from single digits to more than 50%.

Rewa, Shahdol to remain active

The IMD's latest Madhya Pradesh bulletin indicates that rain and thunderstorm activity will continue in different parts of the state. On September 7, rainfall was reported at many places in the Gwalior-Chambal divisions, while several areas of Narmadapuram and Sagar also received rain. Isolated rainfall was recorded in parts of Indore, Rewa and Shahdol divisions.

The weather department also forecast thunderstorms and lightning in a large number of districts, along with gusty winds of around 30–40 kmph at isolated places. 

The forecast is linked to weather systems including a low-pressure area over central Uttar Pradesh and associated cyclonic circulation, as well as the monsoon trough extending across central India. (Mausam)

Eastern MP improves after heavy spells

The eastern region has seen a notable improvement in its seasonal rainfall position following repeated wet spells.

Several districts in the Jabalpur, Rewa, Sagar and Shahdol regions have experienced heavy rainfall during the recent period. This has helped narrow the seasonal deficit and, in some areas, pushed rainfall close to or above normal.

The situation also explains why the state's rainfall map remains divided between wetter eastern districts and comparatively drier western areas.

June deficit still weighs on season

The seasonal rainfall deficit has its roots partly in a relatively weak June.

According to the supplied weather data, Madhya Pradesh received about 14% less rainfall than normal in June. Rainfall improved during July and August, but breaks in the monsoon prevented the early-season shortfall from being fully recovered.

The state's overall normal annual monsoon rainfall is around 37.3 inches. With more rain still possible during September, the final seasonal position will depend on the frequency and intensity of rainfall during the remaining weeks.

Bhopal receives significant seasonal rainfall

Bhopal has been among the better-performing districts in terms of cumulative rainfall.

The IMD's September 7 bulletin recorded 1,080.4 mm of rainfall in Bhopal since June 1, with 3.6 mm recorded in the preceding 24 hours at the observation station. 

The city was forecast to experience generally cloudy conditions with light rain and thunderstorms, along with lightning activity. 

With rainfall expected to continue in parts of Madhya Pradesh, residents in vulnerable and low-lying areas have been advised to monitor official weather warnings, particularly during thunderstorms and periods of heavy rain.

Rainfall figures represent cumulative seasonal data and can change with subsequent rainfall. Forecasts are time-sensitive; readers should refer to the latest IMD updates before making travel or weather-sensitive plans.

The investigation into the suspected illicit liquor tragedy in Madhya Pradesh's Sagar district has widened, with police FIRs naming around 30 people, including two licensed liquor contractors, in connection with two brands identified in complaints as ‘Bambaiya Whisky’ and ‘Sagar Gold’.

The cases relate to the Banda and Shahgarh areas, where several people fell ill after consuming liquor sold at reportedly low prices. The officially confirmed death toll stood at 13 as of September 7, according to the district administration, which has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident. However, subsequent reports citing villagers, hospital sources and cremation records put the toll as high as 22, while authorities have not officially confirmed that higher figure. 

The inquiry will establish the exact cause of death and determine whether consumption of illicit or substandard liquor was responsible for the fatalities. 

Two FIRs name licensed contractors

The first FIR, registered at Banda police station, names licensed liquor contractor Yashwant Singh Thakur in connection with the alleged sale of the ‘Bambaiya Whisky’ brand.

A second FIR at Vinayaka police station names licensed contractor Siddharth Kushwaha in connection with allegations surrounding ‘Sagar Gold’.

The FIRs also name several other individuals allegedly involved in manufacturing, transporting, supplying or selling the liquor. Police are investigating whether the two brands were part of a wider illegal distribution network operating through villages and local outlets.

Importantly, the allegations contained in the FIRs have not yet been established in court.

‘Bambaiya Whisky’ case

According to the Banda FIR, complainant Anup Singh Lodhi told police that liquor was allegedly being sold illegally in his village.

The complaint states that a new, cheaper brand was being promoted to customers. It alleges that a quarter bottle of ‘Bambaiya Whisky’ was sold for around ₹70, reportedly ₹20 below the prevailing price.

The FIR further alleges that Rajendra Lodhi consumed the liquor before falling seriously ill. He was taken first to Banda hospital and subsequently referred to Sagar, where he died during treatment.

The complaint also refers to other deaths allegedly linked to liquor consumption.

Police have named multiple individuals in the case, including Yashwant Thakur, Manish Lodhi, Ashish Sahu and several alleged sellers and intermediaries.

‘Sagar Gold’ case

A separate complaint registered at Vinayaka police station concerns another brand, ‘Sagar Gold’.

According to the FIR, a resident of Patan told police that his nephew became seriously ill after allegedly consuming liquor purchased from a local seller.

The complaint alleges that the quarter bottle was sold for ₹60, with the seller reportedly describing it as a cheaper new brand.

The man subsequently developed vomiting and other symptoms and was taken to hospital, where he died during treatment, according to the complaint.

The FIR names licensed contractor Siddharth Kushwaha along with several other people allegedly connected with the supply and sale of the liquor.

Police are now examining the alleged chain from procurement and manufacturing to transportation and retail sale.

Seven liquor shops sealed

Following the incident, the district administration sealed seven liquor shops as a precautionary measure. These include outlets in Barethi, Banda, Shahgarh, Magardha, Vinayaka, Dalpatpur and Baraytha.

Samples of liquor found at the outlets have also been collected and sent for testing. The laboratory findings are expected to be important in determining whether the liquor contained toxic or prohibited substances and whether it was connected to the deaths.

The administration's action comes amid growing questions over how allegedly illicit liquor reached consumers in the affected villages.

Magisterial inquiry ordered

Sagar Collector and District Magistrate Pratibha Pal has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident.

The inquiry will examine the circumstances surrounding the illnesses and deaths, establish the actual cause of death, identify those responsible and determine whether there were lapses by regulatory departments.

The investigation will also examine the alleged manufacturing, storage and distribution chain and whether officials responsible for liquor regulation failed to perform their duties. (The Statesman)

The administration has appointed the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Jaisinagar as the inquiry officer.

UP connection remains disputed

A proposed Uttar Pradesh connection has also become a point of dispute.

Sagar police had indicated a possible link to Lalitpur in Uttar Pradesh, but officials in Lalitpur subsequently rejected the claim, describing the information circulated by Sagar police as misleading and asking for evidence to be shared if such a link exists. (Amar Ujala)

The disagreement means the source of the suspected illicit liquor remains an important part of the ongoing investigation.

Meanwhile, the tragedy has triggered political criticism in Madhya Pradesh. Congress leaders have accused the government and enforcement machinery of failing to prevent the alleged illegal liquor network. Those are political allegations and have not been established as findings of the ongoing inquiry.

Death toll and cause remain under investigation

The Sagar administration has officially confirmed 13 deaths, while the number of affected people has continued to change as authorities conduct medical screening and investigate cases from different villages. 

Reports of a higher toll have emerged from local sources, but the exact number and the medical cause of each death must be established through official records, post-mortem findings and the ongoing magisterial investigation.

The case has therefore developed into both a criminal investigation and a public-health inquiry, with authorities examining not only the suspected liquor itself but also the supply network and possible regulatory failures.

The names of the liquor brands, contractors and other individuals mentioned in this report are based on allegations and FIRs and do not constitute a finding of guilt. The officially confirmed death toll was 13 as of September 7, while reports of 22 deaths were emerging by September 8 without corresponding official confirmation. The exact cause of death and responsibility will depend on forensic, post-mortem and magisterial findings.

A security lapse was reported at Madhya Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Health Minister Rajendra Shukla’s residence in Rewa after Youth Congress workers protesting over the death of a pregnant woman and her newborn allegedly crossed the security cordon and reached the premises on September 6.

The incident has raised questions over security arrangements at the Amhिया residence, particularly after reports emerged of a masked person being seen among those who entered the premises. Police are examining the circumstances and attempting to establish the identity and role of the individual. 

Protest over Kalpana Mishra’s death

The Youth Congress protest was linked to the death of pregnant woman Kalpana Mishra and her newborn at Rewa’s Sanjay Gandhi Memorial Hospital. The case has triggered sustained political and public criticism of the hospital administration and the state health system.

Congress workers reached Shukla’s residence demanding accountability and action against those they hold responsible for the deaths. The protest escalated when some demonstrators allegedly crossed the police security arrangements and reached the entrance and parts of the residential premises. 

Masked person becomes focus of inquiry

A masked individual was reportedly seen amid the protesters during the incident. Some reports have also carried allegations from the Deputy CM’s family and staff that people with covered faces entered the premises with an intention to create a disturbance.

However, the identity and exact role of the masked person have not been independently established. Police investigation, including examination of available video footage, is expected to determine whether the individual was merely part of the protesting crowd or was involved in any specific unlawful activity. 

Police action after security breach

Following the confrontation, police intervened to remove protesters from the premises and several people were detained. Separate reports say an FIR has been registered in connection with the incident, with the number of accused varying across reports as police continue identifying people from video footage and other evidence. 

The incident has subsequently become a political issue in Rewa. BJP workers and local traders also held a protest on September 7, demanding action against those accused of entering the Deputy CM’s residence.

Hospital controversy intensifies

The protest comes against the backdrop of growing controversy over the Sanjay Gandhi Memorial Hospital. The Madhya Pradesh government has already taken administrative action in connection with the episode.

Dr Rahul Mishra was removed as hospital superintendent and replaced by Dr Priyank Sharma. Earlier, two doctors and two nursing officers were suspended in connection with the case. The government has also ordered a magisterial inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Kalpana Mishra’s death. 

Political confrontation grows

The hospital controversy has increasingly turned into a political confrontation between the BJP and Congress in Rewa. Congress leaders have targeted Rajendra Shukla in his capacity as Health Minister and demanded accountability, while BJP leaders have criticised the manner in which the Youth Congress protest was conducted.

The dispute has now expanded beyond the hospital case, with the alleged breach of security at the Deputy CM’s residence becoming a separate law-and-order issue.

Police investigation will establish facts

The immediate focus is on determining how protesters crossed the security arrangements, who entered the premises and whether anyone committed a specific offence after entering.

The reported presence of a masked individual is also part of the emerging controversy, but there is currently no verified basis to describe that person as a criminal or intruder without the outcome of the police investigation.

The episode highlights the security challenge posed by high-profile political protests, while the underlying hospital controversy continues to await the findings of the administrative inquiry.

Two minor sisters died after drowning in a pond near Sohagi Hills in Madhya Pradesh’s Rewa district on Monday evening. The girls, aged 8 and 14, reportedly fell into the pond while playing. The SDRF team later launched a search operation and recovered both bodies, which were handed over to the police. 

Victims Identified

The deceased have been identified as Pushpanjali Yadav, 8, and Neeta Yadav, 14. Both sisters were residents of Gram Post Sohagi. Their father has been identified as Indrabhan Yadav.

According to the preliminary information available, the sisters were playing near the pond when they fell into the water. The exact circumstances leading to the incident are being investigated by the police. 

SDRF Launches Search Operation

After information about the drowning reached the authorities, an SDRF team began a search operation in the pond.

Rescuers subsequently located and recovered the bodies of both girls. The bodies were handed over to the police for further legal and procedural action.

Police Begin Investigation

Police have taken the bodies into custody and started the required proceedings. Investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the incident to establish exactly how the two children entered the pond.

At this stage, the preliminary account indicates that the girls fell into the water while playing. Further details are expected to emerge as the police investigation progresses. 

Village Grieves Loss of Two Sisters

The deaths of the two sisters have left their family and the local community in shock. Grief spread across Sohagi after news of the incident reached the village.

The incident has also once again highlighted the risks children can face around open water bodies, particularly when ponds and other water-filled areas are accessible without close adult supervision.

Investigation Underway

The police are continuing their inquiry and will establish the sequence of events based on available evidence and statements. No other circumstances surrounding the deaths have been established in the information currently available.

The incident is being treated as a drowning case, with further details awaited from the police investigation.