Times of India

A fire erupted at Hotel Rituraj in Kolkata's Mechhua wholesale fruit market, resulting in one death and multiple injuries. A man died after jumping from a ledge in panic, while another fractured his leg attempting to escape. Firefighters and disaster management teams rescued several individuals, some suffering from smoke inhalation, as concerns arose about others potentially trapped inside.

Pakistani army violated the ceasefire along the Line of Control, initiating unprovoked small-arms fire in the Naushera, Sunderbani, and Akhnoor sectors. Indian troops responded promptly and proportionately. This escalation occurs amidst heightened tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack. PM Modi has granted the armed forces complete operational freedom to respond to Pakistan.

IAS officer Ashok Khemka, known for his integrity and numerous transfers, is retiring after 34 years of service. He gained prominence for cancelling a land deal linked to Robert Vadra in 2012. Khemka, an IIT and TIFR alumnus with a law degree, served in various departments, often for short periods.

In Mangaluru, a man was lynched near Kudupu following allegations of shouting pro-Pakistan slogans during a cricket match. Police have arrested 15 individuals and booked 19 in connection with the incident. Home Minister G Parameshwara has appealed for peace, confirming the death and ongoing investigation.

At least seven people were killed and several injured when a wall collapsed at the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Simhachalam, Andhra Pradesh, early Wednesday morning. The incident, triggered by heavy rain and strong winds around 2.30am, occurred just before the temple's first darshan on Akshaya Tritiya. Rescue efforts by NDRF and state teams are ongoing. Authorities have assured a thorough investigation and compensation for victims.

President Trump indicated that tariff discussions with India are progressing positively, raising hopes for a potential agreement. Both nations are actively pursuing "early mutual wins" to finalize key aspects of the bilateral trade agreement by the Fall of 2025. Discussions have already commenced, with further in-person sectoral engagements planned for late May to achieve tangible outcomes before the deadline.

US President Donald Trump defended his trade policies, asserting China would likely bear the tariff costs. In an ABC News interview, Trump dismissed concerns about price increases, stating China was "ripping us off." He doubled down on China tariffs, saying 'They deserve it.

An Air India Express flight from Pune to Jaipur faced a setback. A passenger fell ill due to a faulty air conditioning system. The flight had to return to the bay before takeoff. The airline provided medical assistance to the affected passenger. Passengers were offered refunds or rescheduling options. Air India Express regretted the inconvenience caused to its passengers.

Pakistan claims to have shot down an Indian quadcopter, alleging airspace violation amid escalating tensions and cross-border firing. This incident follows the Pahalgam attack, further straining relations as both nations engage in retaliatory measures, including trade suspensions and military posturing. With heightened rhetoric and media fueling the conflict, the region teeters on the brink of a broader confrontation.

Jadavpur University administration removed the controversial "Azad Kashmir" graffiti from Technology Bhavan following a demand from the Trinamool Chhatra Parishad unit. The removal, prompted by the Pahalgam incident, was initiated after a March decision to erase the graffiti as part of a campus beautification drive.

In Faridabad's Jawahar Colony, Jitendra, 49, was arrested for allegedly strangling his live-in partner, Sonia, 40, after a dispute regarding his daughter. He hid her body in a bed compartment for two days, attempting to conceal the smell with incense. After the odour worsened, he fled, later confessing to his grandmother, who alerted the police on April 26.

In Satna district, Madhya Pradesh, a masked gunman invaded Jaitwara police station and shot head constable Prince Garg in the chest. The off-duty policeman was critically injured and is receiving treatment. Police have identified the suspect as Adarsh alias Acchu Sharma, a 20-year-old with a criminal history, and have launched a manhunt with twelve teams.

Swedish police are investigating a shooting in Uppsala after multiple people were injured in the city centre. Authorities received numerous calls reporting loud bangs, and officers arriving at the scene discovered individuals with injuries consistent with gunfire. A large area has been cordoned off as investigators work to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Mark Carney's Liberals surged in the polls, fueled by his 'Canada Strong' message and perceived ability to counter Trump. However, a late shift in Trump's rhetoric allowed the Conservatives to close the gap, resulting in a Liberal minority government. Carney now faces navigating a minority parliament, needing support from other parties to enact his agenda amid economic uncertainty.

A dramatic final over defined Kolkata Knight Riders' innings against Delhi Capitals. Andre Russell's monstrous six and a series of wickets, including a stunning catch, electrified the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Delhi's bizarre review for a non-existent edge after a run-out added to the spectacle. KKR ultimately reached 204/9, but the over's thrilling twists and turns stole the show.