QUICKREADS

ED summons Lalu Prasad, kin for questioning in land-for-jobs case
The Enforcement Directorate has summoned RJD leader Lalu Prasad, his wife Rabri Devi, and son Tej Pratap Yadav for questioning related to a land-for-jobs money laundering case. Lalu is set to appear in Patna on Wednesday, while his family is asked to come on Tuesday. The case involves allegations of corruption during Lalu's tenure as railway minister.

Fact check: Gaza photos falsely shared as attack on Sialkot, Pakistan
India conducted precision missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam massacre. Misinformation circulated falsely using Gaza photos, but the operation targeted specific camps without civilian casualties.

9 terror camps bombed to smithereens in 26 minutes
Indian forces bombed 9 terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Pakistan in 26 minutes, targeting key terrorist training facilities in response to the Pahalgam attack. Operation Sindoor was precise, avoiding collateral damage, and demonstrated India's military capability.

Sindoor serves justice: India strikes at 9 terror locations in Pakistan, PoK
India conducted precision strikes on nine terror locations in Pakistan and PoK, targeting terrorist infrastructure in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack. The 26-minute Operation Sindoor hit bases of LeT and JeM, with no civilian casualties, escalating bilateral tensions.

Ban on taking horses and mules on Kedarnath route continues
The ban on horses and mules for the Kedarnath pilgrimage continues after 14 animals died from an infectious virus. Local operators and organizations have requested an extension. A team of 22 doctors is monitoring the situation, and unhealthy animals will be barred from the route. Healthy animals must test negative for viruses before being allowed to operate.

Pakistan: Reserve the right to respond at a time, place, manner of choosing
Pakistan condemned India's military strikes on terrorist sites, reserving the right to respond at its chosen time and manner. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif vowed retaliation, claiming 26 killed and 46 injured across six locations, and called for national unity.

Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif reacts to Indian Operation Sindoor strike against terror: 'We will...'
Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif vows retaliation after India's Operation Sindoor strike on nine terror camps, killing 26. Pakistan condemns the action as "unprovoked" and promises to take revenge, warning of potential escalation in tensions.

Railway Ministry directs all zones to ensure prime condition of engine ACs
The Railway Ministry has instructed its 17 zones to undertake a month-long initiative to ensure the air conditioning systems in train engines are functioning properly to combat summer heat. The ministry emphasizes improving working conditions for staff to enhance safety. The All India Loco Running Staff Association has welcomed this move, hoping for future AC installations in all locomotives.

Mock drills in India: Sirens, blackouts, evacuations amid Pakistan standoff
India conducted nationwide civil defence mock drills amid rising tensions with Pakistan, involving strategic blackouts in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Patna. The exercise tested emergency preparedness through sirens, power cuts, and evacuation procedures across multiple states.

Govt clears conversion of 2.1 lakh square metres of leasehold land into ownership for Maha Metro
The Maharashtra government has approved the conversion of over 2.1 lakh square metres of leasehold land to ownership for Maha Metro, facilitating commercial use for affordable housing, hospitals, and educational institutions. This decision will support metro projects in Nagpur, Pune, and Pimpri-Chinchwad, enabling Maha Metro to generate funds for loan repayments and operational costs.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah chairs security review meet post Operation Sindoor
Union Home Minister Amit Shah led a security review meeting with Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors of border states on Wednesday, emphasizing a strong response to terrorism following the Pahalgam attack. He highlighted Operation Sindoor's success, which targeted terrorist camps. Shah urged states to maintain vigilance, ensure essential services, and combat anti-national propaganda, while fostering public awareness and coordination among security forces.

Delhi airport issues alert after India’s strikes in Pakistan
Delhi Airport issued a travel advisory following India's overnight strikes on nine targets in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir to dismantle terror infrastructure. Some flights were affected, and passengers were urged to check with airlines for updates. The strikes, part of 'Operation Sindoor,' aimed to retaliate against the Pahalgam terror attack while ensuring civilian safety.

Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrimage to reopen for Indians after 5 years in June
The Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrimage for Indian tourists will resume in mid-June after a five-year halt due to COVID-19 restrictions. The Chinese government will allow 20,000 Indian visitors, with easier access through the Rasuwa-Kerung route from Nepal. The pilgrimage, significant for Hindu and Buddhist devotees, will be open from June to September.

CJI designate Justice BR Gavai lauds former CJI NV Ramana for his contribution to judiciary
Chief Justice of India designate Justice BR Gavai praised former CJI NV Ramana for his contributions to the judiciary, particularly in making justice accessible to the public. Gavai described Ramana as the "people's chief justice," highlighting his efforts to connect with citizens and his commitment to diversity. Gavai is set to assume his role on May 14.

Mock drills, blackout rehearsals conducted at several locations in Punjab
Authorities in Punjab conducted nationwide civil defense mock drills on Wednesday, simulating emergency scenarios like fires and rescues in cities including Ferozepur, Ludhiana, and Amritsar. Blackout rehearsals involved temporary power cuts and activated air raid sirens to enhance emergency response readiness amid rising tensions with Pakistan. Multiple agencies participated, ensuring public awareness and safety during the exercises.

Pak's top security body authorises army to revenge Indian strikes 'at a time, place, and manner of its choosing'
Pakistan's National Security Council authorized military retaliation against India following deadly missile strikes that killed 26 and injured 46. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the strikes as "unprovoked" and claimed the armed forces are prepared to respond. International calls for restraint emerged amid escalating tensions, with leaders urging dialogue to prevent further conflict.