Big guns fire as Karnataka poll campaign ends

India's southern state of Karnataka goes to the polls today with three parties, the incumbent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the main opposition Congress and Janata Dal (Secular), battling it out. The BJP is hoping Prime Minister Narendra Modi's whirlwind tour of the state will help it retain the only southern state it controls, while the Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) are hoping to oust the BJP. The Election Commission of India said it seized INR3.88bn ($52m) in the run-up to the vote, compared with INR830m in 2018.

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.

IOS SAGAR returns home after month-long deployment in south-west Indian Ocean Region

The Indian Navy's IOS SAGAR mission concluded its month-long deployment in the south-west Indian Ocean, marking a significant step in maritime cooperation. The initiative involved joint exercises with nine partner nations, enhancing regional ties and security. Vice Admiral V Srinivas highlighted India's commitment to collective maritime interests and building partnerships in the Indian Ocean Region.

JeM's Pakistan bases: Fidayeen hub with Hamas links, NATO arms cache

Indian Air Force missile strikes targeted two Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) centers in Pakistan, linked to suicide attacks and arms smuggling. The Bahawalpur and Narowal facilities were involved in training terrorists and had connections with Hamas. The strikes were retaliation for a recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which killed 25 tourists and a guide.

World Bank chief Ajay Banga to visit Uttar Pradesh on Friday

World Bank President Ajay Banga will visit Uttar Pradesh on Friday to observe the state's development under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. His itinerary includes meetings with stakeholders, discussions with the chief minister, and visits to a THR plant and a beekeeping center. The visit underscores global interest in Uttar Pradesh's goal of becoming a $1 trillion economy.

Police bust cross-border militant recruitment network in Arunachal

Arunachal Pradesh Police have dismantled a militant recruitment and arms trafficking network linked to the National Socialist Council for Taniland and its armed wing, the United Tani Army. The investigation began after threatening social media posts. Several arrests were made, revealing attempts to traffic youth to militant camps in Myanmar, and connections to narcotics trafficking were also uncovered.

IndiGo suspends flights to Almaty, Tashkent till June 14 due to rerouting issues

IndiGo has suspended its direct flights to Almaty and Tashkent until June 14 due to operational range issues with its aircraft. The airline, which operates narrow-body planes, initially halted services until May 7 following the closure of Pakistan's airspace, requiring longer flight routes. The situation is influenced by escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.