QUICKREADS

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot’s remark on rape cases fans row, BJP mounts attack
The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party in Rajasthan on Sunday termed “unfortunate” and “shameful” chief minister Ashok Gehlot's recent remark that incidents of murder after rape have increased ever since a law to hang the rape accused came into force. While Union minister of Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, flayed Gehlot for making “controversial statements to hide failures”, deputy leader of opposition in Rajasthan Assembly, Rajendra Rathore, dared him to move a resolution against the law.

LG Sinha visits J&K's Uri to assess damage after Pakistani shelling in border villages
Jammu and Kashmir's Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visited the Uri sector to assess damage from recent Pakistani shelling. He instructed local authorities to provide immediate relief to affected families and ensure their safety. Sinha interacted with residents of heavily shelled areas and emphasized national support for those impacted by the violence.

Tech Tonic | Why are AI companies this interested in Google Chrome?
AI companies eye Google Chrome for its massive user base and data potential, amid potential forced divestiture by DOJ. Perplexity, OpenAI, and others show interest in acquiring the browser, signaling a transformative shift towards AI-driven browsing experiences.
228 flights cancelled in 2 days at Delhi airport as India-Pak tensions persist
Delhi Airport cancels 228 flights in two days due to India-Pakistan tensions. Airspace restrictions affect domestic and international travel. 24 airports closed, security heightened after Pakistani drone and missile attack. Passengers advised to expect delays and cooperate with staff.

NIA chargesheets four persons for involvement in supplying weapons to Naxals
The National Investigation Agency has filed charges against four individuals?Vikash Kumar, Satyam Kumar, Devmani Rai, and Ahmad Ansari?for allegedly supplying weapons to Naxalites and other criminal groups. They are charged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities Act following an investigation linked to the seizure of an AK-47 in Bihar.

Congress organises nationwide ‘Jai Hind Yatra’ in support of armed forces
Congress launched nationwide 'Jai Hind Yatra' rallies supporting armed forces, condemning Pakistan's terror activities. The party praised Indian military's cross-border strikes, urged public solidarity, and opposed international financial aid to Pakistan.

‘Avoid panic buying; India has enough food, fertiliser, fuel stocks’: Centre
India assures ample supplies of food, fertilizers, and fuel amid tensions with Pakistan. Government urges against panic buying, confirms stable prices and smooth supply lines. Officials emphasize sufficient stocks and readiness to maintain essential services if needed.

Chandigarh administration cancels UT employees' leaves amid tensions with Pakistan
The Chandigarh Administration has canceled leaves for UT employees amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, requiring them to remain at their headquarters. Similarly, the Haryana government has imposed restrictions on state employees, particularly in the health department. These measures follow recent missile strikes by Indian forces on terror targets in Pakistan in response to a previous attack.

BJP functionary booked over objectionable Facebook posts in Uttar Pradesh's Ballia
An FIR has been filed against Anil Soni, a BJP office-bearer in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, for allegedly posting offensive remarks on Facebook targeting the Muslim community. The complaint cites derogatory comments about Prophet Muhammad and a controversial post about sugarcane juice. Protests erupted locally, demanding legal action, and police confirmed that investigations are underway.

Pope Leo XIV: Revisiting Cardinal Robert Prevost’s two trips to Kochi
Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, was ordained priests in Kochi in 2004. As an Augustinian, he's the first American pope, known for humility and compassion. His two visits to India deeply impacted local Catholic communities, emphasizing simplicity and support for the oppressed.

Pakistan SC strengthens army chief Asim Munir as it upholds military trials for civilians involved in protests
Pakistan's Supreme Court has upheld military trials for civilians involved in the May 9 protests following Imran Khan's arrest. A 5-2 majority ruled that over 100 demonstrators could be prosecuted under military jurisdiction, while dissenting justices maintained these trials are unconstitutional. The court also mandated amendments to the Army Act to allow appeals against military court convictions.

India, Chile to start negotiations for free trade deal on May 26
India and Chile will start free trade agreement negotiations on May 26 in New Delhi, aiming to boost bilateral trade and collaboration in critical minerals, digital services, and investment sectors, following the signing of terms of reference for a comprehensive economic partnership.

SC rejects BJP leader’s plea to enforce NEP’s three-language formula in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal
Supreme Court dismisses BJP leader's plea to enforce NEP's three-language formula in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and West Bengal. The court lacks power to compel states to adopt the policy and questioned the petitioner's relevance to the issue.

Delhi temples hold prayers for Indian Army's safety, national unity
Temples in Delhi are conducting prayers and "havan" ceremonies for the safety of armed forces and the nation's well-being amid the India-Pakistan military conflict. Rituals include recitations of "Durga Saptashati," "Hanuman Chalisa," and "Vishnu Sahasranama," focusing on peace and national harmony. Collective prayers aim to foster unity, spiritual resilience, and gratitude towards Mother Earth.

Centre authorises Army Chief to call up Territorial Army amid India-Pak tensions
Government authorizes Army Chief to mobilize Territorial Army units amid rising India-Pakistan tensions, enabling deployment of 32 infantry battalions across key military commands to support regular forces.

Meghalaya imposes 2-month night curfew along Indo-Bangladesh border amid rising tensions
A night curfew has been imposed in East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, due to concerns over illegal border activities amid tensions between India and Pakistan. The curfew, effective from May 8, 2025, restricts movement near the Indo-Bangladesh border and bans gatherings of five or more people. Bangladesh has urged both nations to exercise restraint following India’s military response to a recent terror attack.