Times of India

Pakistan has requested an emergency meeting with the United Nations Security Council to address its escalating tensions with India, citing concerns over alleged aggressive actions and the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. The UNSC, under the presidency of Greece, scheduled closed consultations for May 5 to discuss the matter.

A Pakistani politician, Sher Afzal Khan Marwat from Imran Khan's PTI, stated he would flee to England if war with India broke out. This statement comes amid heightened tensions following a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir. India has said it will pursue the preparators of the the Pahalgam attack.

Ajay Devgn's Raid 2 has stormed the box office, garnering an estimated Rs 70.75 crore during its opening weekend, fueled by strong advance bookings and positive reviews. The action-drama, directed by Rajkumar Gupta, features Devgn reprising his role as an IRS officer battling corruption, with Riteish Deshmukh as the antagonist.

US President Donald Trump's recent announcement of a 100% tariff on foreign-made films has sparked concerns about a potential trade war. Citing the decline of Hollywood and alleged propaganda, Trump aims to revitalize American movie production. However, this move adds to existing trade tensions, particularly with China, impacting global supply chains.

Despite Congress's claim that PM Modi reversed his stance on caste enumeration due to their pressure, the party highlighted the government's 2021 decision against a caste census and its plea to the Supreme Court to avoid ordering one. Congress is now questioning Modi's apparent U-turn and directing state units to rally for caste census implementation and the removal of reservation barriers.

The Supreme Court has affirmed that in gangrape cases, proving each accused committed the complete act of rape isn't necessary for conviction. The court emphasized that if one member of a group commits rape with shared intent, all involved are equally responsible and punishable under Section 376(2)(g) of IPC, highlighting the principle of joint liability based on common intention.

Amid escalating tensions, the IAF chief briefed PM Modi on operational readiness, including long-range fighter sorties and heightened air defense. This meeting, following a similar briefing from the Navy chief, underscores India's preparedness for potential punitive strikes against Pakistan. The IAF is conducting regular combat air patrols and increasing operational readiness platforms, with Rafales equipped for swift action.

Punjab's assembly will convene a special session due to a water-sharing dispute with Haryana, triggered by the Centre's directive for Punjab to release additional water. Punjab is resisting, claiming it lacks surplus water, leading to escalated tensions ahead of annual water allocation. Political solidarity is seen in Punjab, while Haryana defends its demand, intensifying the conflict.

Telangana's draft bill on gig workers revives the debate once led by Rajasthan, where a pioneering 2023 law remains stalled. Gig workers in Rajasthan struggle with low earnings and lack of social security, as the promised welfare measures face bureaucratic delays. Amidst this, a cooperative framework and union efforts offer a glimmer of hope for a more equitable future.

The Supreme Court will decide on Monday regarding interim orders on petitions challenging the Waqf Amendment Act, 2025, concerning its impact on traditional Islamic ties and religious freedom. The Centre defends the Act as secular, countering claims of religious interference and emphasizing the need to prevent misuse of the 2013 amendment, which allegedly led to encroachment on properties.

Following a recent student suicide, the third in five months, BITS Pilani K K Birla Goa Campus is implementing several measures to support student well-being. These include curriculum revisions, offering exam flexibility for distressed students, and developing a 'Student Wellbeing Dashboard' for personalized support. The institution is also introducing new courses on mental and physical wellness and stress management.

Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose's report to Amit Shah on Murshidabad communal strife suggests President's rule if the situation worsens. The report recommends a judicial inquiry and central intervention. Trinamool Congress criticizes the report as politically motivated. BJP supports intervention due to law-and-order concerns. Congress focuses on ensuring fair elections. The governor visited affected areas after mob violence and suggested CAPF camps in sensitive zones.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar criticized Europe, stating India seeks partners, not hypocritical preachers. He emphasized the need for mutual understanding and sensitivity in international partnerships, particularly regarding differing perspectives on the Russia-Ukraine war and tensions with Pakistan. Jaishankar also advocated for realism in engaging with both Russia and the United States, focusing on shared interests.

The Election Commission of India is set to launch ECINET, a unified platform consolidating over 40 existing election-related apps and portals. This single-point app aims to simplify the user experience for nearly 100 crore electors and 26 lakh other stakeholders by providing easy access to electoral data and services.

CRPF constable Munir Ahmad was dismissed for allegedly concealing his marriage to a Pakistani woman, despite claiming he informed the department and his wife's long-term visa was pending. He appealed to PM Modi and Amit Shah, stating he followed procedures and the High Court acknowledged his wife's stay. Ahmad maintains his wife wasn't overstaying as her LTV application was under consideration.

Following the death of Imtiyaz Ahmad Magray, detained during a counter-terrorism operation after the Pahalgam attack, the J&K government is facing calls for a judicial inquiry. Magray's body was found in a river, with police claiming he drowned while attempting to escape. Political figures express concern over alleged custodial deaths and the potential for collective punishment in the region.

Over 100 UK MPs and peers are pressing Foreign Secretary David Lammy to intervene for the release of Jagtar Singh Johal, a British Sikh imprisoned in India since 2017 on terrorism charges. Despite an acquittal in one case due to lack of evidence, Johal remains detained, with concerns raised about torture and forced confessions.

Assam Police took swift action following a torture allegation. The incident involved Sanjit Moran at Bordumsa police station in Tinsukia. Five police personnel faced suspension, including sub-inspectors Jayanta Kalita and Rajib Deka. Constables Bishal Jyoti Basudev Boro, Bhaiti Das, and Rajib Deka were also suspended. An inquiry is underway, and authorities promise strict action if the allegations hold true. Locals protested, demanding justice for Moran.

Prabhsimran Singh's brilliant 91 propelled Punjab Kings to a 37-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants. His explosive innings, supported by Shashank Singh's cameo, lifted Punjab to 236/5. Arshdeep Singh's early wickets crippled Lucknow's chase, despite Ayush Badoni's valiant 74, restricting them to 199/7 and securing a crucial win for Punjab.