QUICKREADS

‘How long will I get security’: Hate crime witness fears for safety
The 48-year-old tailor, Rajkumar Sharma (whose employer was Kanhaiya Lal) turned around to see two knife-wielding men repeatedly striking at Lal’s neck. He pushed his stool away in the extremely congested shop and kicked one of the attackers in the leg. But it hardly made a difference. “The attacker turned around and took a big swipe at my head with his knife. I ducked and escaped by a few centimetres,” he said.

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.

NIA asks tourists, locals to share photos, videos of Pahalgam attack
NIA seeks public help to investigate the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists, requesting people to share photos, videos, and information via provided contact numbers to aid in unraveling the attack's details and identifying perpetrators.

Jaishankar, Doval work the phones after Op Sindoor ends, deliver a clear message
India conducted targeted strikes on terror bases in Pakistan after the Pahalgam attack, with Jaishankar and Doval briefing international partners. They emphasized a measured response, zero tolerance for terrorism, and readiness to retaliate if Pakistan escalates tensions.

Judiciary among last remaining spaces for common person's hope: Ex-CJI N V Ramana
Former Chief Justice N V Ramana emphasized the judiciary as a vital "space of hope" for citizens during the launch of his book, "Narratives off the Bench: A Judge Speaks." He discussed systemic judicial issues and advocated for reforms, including legal aid and diversity. Ramana's reflections aim to demystify the judiciary and encourage pro bono work among lawyers for better access to justice.

Operation Sindoor: Mamata puts Bengal govt on alert, cancels leaves of officials
Mamata Banerjee placed administration on high alert following Kashmir airstrike, cancelling staff leaves, conducting mock drills, and cautioning media against spreading misinformation. She emphasized national unity and responsible reporting during heightened tensions.

Naga groups, tribal leaders reaffirm unity and inclusiveness in political process
Naga Political Groups and tribal apex bodies have reaffirmed an inclusive approach to the Naga political process during a recent conclave in Kohima. They emphasized the importance of unity and called for all groups to participate in the ongoing reconciliation efforts. A day of prayer is planned for May 18 to seek divine intervention in the political issues facing the Naga people.

Slain gangster Aman Sao's mother moves J'khand HC seeking CBI probe into encounter
Kiran Devi, mother of slain gangster Aman Sao, has petitioned the Jharkhand High Court for a CBI investigation into her son's alleged police encounter on March 11. She claims police conspired to kill him and presents evidence of injuries inconsistent with an encounter. Her lawyer argues that the ATS team has a history of fake encounters.

After Operation Sindoor, Jaishankar discusses ‘zero terror tolerance’ with Japan, France, Spain counterparts
India conducted military strikes on terror targets in Pakistan's Operation Sindoor, responding to the Pahalgam attack. Jaishankar discussed 'zero terror tolerance' with foreign ministers of Japan, France, Spain, and others, highlighting India's measured response to cross-border terrorism.

Parts of Delhi, Mumbai go dark in blackouts amid mock drills after Operation Sindoor
India conducted nationwide civil defence mock drills, simulating blackouts and emergency responses in major cities amid rising tensions with Pakistan. Landmarks went dark, sirens blared, and military preparedness was tested to evaluate response capabilities to potential security threats.

SC flags irregularities in defence land allotment to pvt entities, mulls setting up probe team
The Supreme Court of India has raised concerns over irregularities in the allotment of defense lands to private entities, suggesting the establishment of a probe team. During a hearing on a 2014 PIL, justices highlighted potential collusion among defense estate officers and influential individuals in leasing and selling valuable properties, prompting calls for a thorough investigation.

‘Stay alert to deal with any situation’: Amit Shah tells 10 border states after Op Sindoor
Amit Shah convened a high-level meeting with border states after Operation Sindoor, emphasizing preparedness, alert services, and vigilance against potential threats. He stressed cooperation, communication, and readiness to counter any situation while maintaining public calm and national security.

India orders power transmission system for upcoming dam on Chenab
India orders power transmission system for a 1000 MW hydroelectric project on the Chenab River, following suspension of the Indus Water Treaty after the Pahalgam terror attack. The move aims to accelerate dam construction and limit water flow to Pakistan.

Puri's titular king urges ISKCON to convince Digha temple to remove 'Jagannath Dham' name
Bhubaneswar's titular king, Divyasingha Deb, urged ISKCON to convince the Digha temple trust to remove 'Jagannath Dham' from its newly consecrated temple name, emphasizing that only Puri holds this title. He cited declarations from religious authorities, asserting the exclusive significance of Puri as the true 'Jagannath Dham.' The request highlights concerns over economic implications tied to pilgrimage tourism.