HC quashes 'hate speech' complaint against VCK leader Thirumavalavan

The Madras High Court has dismissed a complaint against VCK leader Thol Thirumavalavan for alleged hate speech towards Indian women during a 2020 online conference. Justice P Velmurugan found no evidence to support the claims, stating Thirumavalavan's remarks were general and referenced the book "Manu Smriti" without intent to incite hatred. The complaint was quashed.

Are schools open tomorrow? Check which states have announced a holiday on May 8

Several north Indian states have announced emergency measures following a thwarted Pakistani attack on military bases. Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, and Gujarat have closed schools, cancelled leaves, enforced blackouts, and heightened security near border regions.

Will IPL 2025 be suspended amid India-Pak tensions? Chairman says this

IPL chairman Arun Dhumal says tournament's continuation depends on reviewing the ongoing India-Pakistan military situation. A match in Dharamshala was stopped after drone attacks, with stadium evacuated and no definitive government directive received.

Ask officers not to demand money from parties to file counter affidavits: Allahabad HC to UP DGP

The Allahabad High Court has directed the Uttar Pradesh DGP to issue a circular prohibiting police officers from demanding money for filing counter affidavits. This follows allegations against investigation officer Madhusudan Verma, who reportedly requested Rs 3,000 from a party involved in a case. The court has ordered an inquiry into the matter and scheduled a follow-up hearing for July 23.

Election Commission interacts with BJP leaders as part of panel’s outreach

Election Commission met with BJP leaders to discuss electoral roll revisions and political party concerns. JP Nadda and other senior BJP members participated in the interaction, focusing on voter list updates and electoral process improvements.

Video: Blackouts and sirens in several towns of Kashmir, Punjab and Rajasthan

India thwarted a Pakistani drone attack, intercepting eight missiles targeting border areas. Blackouts and air raid sirens occurred in Jammu, Punjab, and Rajasthan following explosions. An IPL match was cancelled, and a high-level security meeting was held.

HC pulls up Jharkhand govt for not submitting reports on biomedical waste management

The Jharkhand High Court criticized the state government for failing to provide reports on biomedical waste management despite previous orders. A public interest litigation highlighted improper disposal practices. The court has given deputy commissioners another chance to report on waste disposal by June 16, while improvements have been noted, including the use of incinerators.

Will Indo-Pak tensions escalate? India says Pakistan’s actions will decide

India warns Pakistan of potential escalation after targeting terrorist sites following the Pahalgam attack, with Foreign Secretary Misri stating that Islamabad's actions will determine further tensions, emphasizing India's measured and self-defensive response.

6 killed as helicopter on way to Gangotri temple crashes

A helicopter en route to the Gangotri temple crashed near Gangnani in Uttarkashi, killing six people, including the pilot, and injuring one survivor. The crash occurred on the Rishikesh-Gangotri national highway, with the helicopter falling into a 200-250 meter gorge. The victims included five women, one of whom was the pilot's wife. An investigation is underway.

Jammu residents narrate horror on social media after loud explosions, blackout

Loud explosions and blackouts struck Jammu and Kashmir, causing panic. Residents reported missile-like projectiles, air raid sirens, and red flashes, sharing their fears on social media amid suspected drone attacks.

Ban continues on use of horses, mules on Kedarnath route due to virus outbreak

A ban on horse and mule movement to Kedarnath continues after 14 animals died from a viral infection. Uttarakhand officials plan a trial for healthy equines to resume goods transport. Animal Husbandry Minister Saurabh Bahuguna emphasized strict health checks and proposed measures to prevent further infections. Compensation for deceased animals and free treatment for quarantined ones were also announced.

Chhattisgarh girl who battled cancer is Class 10 board examination topper

Battling blood cancer, 17-year-old Ishika Bala topped Chhattisgarh's Class 10 board exam with 99.17%. Undeterred by illness, she aims to become an IAS officer, proving resilience and determination can overcome challenges.

Rohingya refugees need to be deported if held foreigners: SC

The Supreme Court of India ruled that Rohingya refugees identified as foreigners under Indian law must be deported. The court emphasized that UNHCR identity cards may not provide legal protection. It scheduled a final hearing for July 31, with concerns raised about recent deportations. The Solicitor General noted that deportation actions must comply with the law, as India is not a signatory to the refugee convention.

Judicial intervention vital in weeding out vexatious proceedings: SC

The Supreme Court of India quashed the criminal prosecution of two individuals accused of obstructing public servants, emphasizing the need for judicial intervention to prevent vexatious proceedings. The court found no substantial evidence of wrongdoing and criticized the earlier high court's failure to assess the case's merits, deeming the prosecution a product of malice and personal vendetta.

Completely disconnected with Umar Khalid: Sharjeel Imam tells Delhi HC

Activist Sharjeel Imam, accused in the February 2020 riots, argued in the Delhi High Court for bail, claiming he was "disconnected" from the events and had not incited violence. His counsel highlighted his long custody, family responsibilities, and lack of evidence linking him to conspiratorial meetings. The case will be heard again on May 21.

Maharashtra social justice dept reviews schemes to expand reach and boost funding

The Maharashtra Social Justice Department is reviewing its welfare schemes and scholarships to enhance financial support and relevance. Many current initiatives are outdated, with insufficient funding, such as a pre-matric scholarship of just Rs 150 for Scheduled Caste students. The budget for 2025-26 has increased significantly, allowing for improved assistance and expanded beneficiaries.