Voting a choice, cannot make it mandatory: Delhi High Court

The Delhi High Court has refused to entertain a plea by BJP leader and lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay to make voting mandatory in Parliamentary and assembly elections, stating that voting is a right and a choice for people and constitutional courts cannot force citizens to vote. The court also refused to direct the Election Commission to treat the petition as a representation. Upadhyay had argued that compulsory voting would ensure every citizen has a voice, improve the quality of democracy, and secure the right to vote. He suggested that countries like Australia, Belgium and Brazil have successfully implemented compulsory voting and seen significant increases in voter turnout.

Delhi airport resumes normal operations, issues travel advisory

Delhi airport returns to normal operations amid India-Pakistan tensions, issuing guidance for travelers. Passengers advised to check flight status, arrive early, follow security protocols, and stay informed through official channels.

Not our duty to tell media what to delete, says Supreme Court

Supreme Court rejects Delhi High Court's order to remove Wikipedia page, emphasizing media freedom and open justice. The court stated it's not the judiciary's duty to dictate media content deletion, protecting press freedom and public discourse.

India steps up efforts to include Lashkar-e-Taiba front TRF in UNSC terror list

India is pushing the UN Security Council to list The Resistance Front (TRF), a Lashkar-e-Taiba front, as a terrorist organization following the Pahalgam attack. The efforts aim to increase pressure on Pakistan by highlighting the group's terrorist connections.

Closure of 24 airports extended till May 15 amid border conflict

Government extends closure of 24 airports near Pakistan border until May 15 due to heightened tensions. Airlines cancel flights to affected regions, implement stricter security measures, and offer ticket flexibility for passengers during this period.

Pahalgam satellite images demand increased at US firm weeks before terror attack: Report

A US tech firm saw unusual demand for Pahalgam satellite images before the terror attack, with 12 requests from February 2-22, 2025. The orders coincide with a partnership involving a Pakistan-linked company with a controversial history of illegal exports.

India opposes IMF $2.3 billion bailout package to Pakistan, abstains from voting

India abstained from IMF's $2.3 billion bailout package to Pakistan, citing concerns over potential misuse of funds for terrorism and questioning the effectiveness of previous IMF programs due to Pakistan's poor implementation record.

Horses with luggage sent to Kedarnath on trial basis, ban continues due to virus outbreak

Two healthy horses were tested on a trial basis for transporting luggage to Kedarnath, despite a ban on horse and mule use due to a recent infection outbreak that killed 14 animals. Officials hope positive results will lift the ban. Meanwhile, there is no shortage of supplies for pilgrims, and traders urge devotees to continue their journey.

‘Crowd mismanagement’: Report on Goa temple stampede that killed 6 submitted

A fact-finding report blamed crowd mismanagement, devotee rush, and a scuffle for the Goa temple stampede that killed six and injured 70. The committee recommended improved crowd monitoring, coordination, and evacuation routes.

Pakistani drone attack on Srinagar airport, Awantipora air base foiled

India's air defence system intercepted Pakistani drone attacks targeting Srinagar airport and Awantipora air base amid rising tensions between the two nations. On Friday, drones were spotted at 26 locations, including military sites, prompting security measures and blackouts in several regions. The situation escalated following a recent terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed 26 civilians.

India-Pakistan tensions escalate; multiple locations plunged into blackout | Full list

India and Pakistan tensions escalate, with blackouts enforced in multiple regions. Drones shot down in Rajasthan, shelling resumed in border districts. Punjab drone strike injured a family. Authorities urge residents to stay home and remain calm.

Man found dead in Jharkhand police station after being summoned for questioning

A 50-year-old man, Anil Mahato, was found dead by suicide at a police station in Jharkhand after being summoned for questioning related to allegations of inappropriate conduct with a minor. Despite preliminary investigations revealing concerning evidence, Mahato hanged himself using a blanket while an officer was away. The case is under further investigation by local authorities.

Proceedings under PDPP Act not maintainable against illegal encroachment: Allahabad HC

The Allahabad High Court ruled that proceedings under the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984, are not applicable for illegal encroachments on gram sabha land, which should be addressed under the Revenue Code, 2006. The court quashed the case against Brahmdutt Yadav, emphasizing that such matters should be resolved by revenue courts, not criminal proceedings.

Army Jawan from Andhra Pradesh killed in action along LoC in Jammu and Kashmir

An Indian Army jawan, Mudhavath Murali Naik, was killed during Pakistani shelling along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir. The 23-year-old Andhra Pradesh soldier died at 2 am, leaving behind grieving parents and receiving state honors.

Gurugram bans drones, gliders, fireworks amid India-Pakistan rising tensions

Gurugram bans drones, gliders, fireworks, and other flying objects from May 9 to July 7, 2025, due to rising India-Pakistan tensions and recent terror attacks. Violators face legal action under new security laws.

Punjab extends farishtey scheme for victims of war, terrorism

Punjab's 'farishtey' scheme will now provide free medical treatment to victims of war and terrorism, expanding its original focus on accident victims. The cabinet, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, also approved initiatives for crop diversification, cultural preservation through bullock cart races, and the creation of a 'Rangla Punjab Fund' for NRIs to support state development.