Congress MLA Vijay Wadettiwar questioned the Pahalgam terror attack, doubting if terrorists verified victims' religions before killing them, urging the central government to take responsibility. This sparked controversy, with the BJP criticizing Congress for allegedly excusing Pakistan and undermining national unity. The NIA has intensified its investigation into the deadly attack, which occurred in the Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam.
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The Centre has argued in the Supreme Court that the six-year disqualification for convicts from contesting elections is constitutionally sound and a lifetime ban should be decided by Parliament. An advocate had filed a petition seeking a lifetime ban on convicted politicians, but the government argued that time-bound penalties ensure deterrence without being excessively harsh. Courts cannot direct Parliament on legislative policy.
The Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab announced the launch of a massive campaign against drugs, involving the establishment of rehab and drug de-addiction centers. Scheduled to begin shortly, the initiative will involve strict inspections and preparations on a war footing. IAS officer Sandeep Kumar will oversee inspections, with District Commissioners held accountable for readiness.
Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna sought a report from Delhi High Court Chief Justice D K Upadhyay regarding the recovery of cash from Justice Yashwant Varma's residence. The CJI will consider setting up an inquiry panel based on the findings. Justice Varma was recently transferred back to Allahabad HC.
Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar has dismissed a breach of privilege notice filed by Congress's Jairam Ramesh against Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Dhankhar determined there was no breach of privilege, validating Shah's comments with historical documentation and stressing the need for responsible parliamentary conduct.
Israeli PM Netanyahu's Cabinet delayed approving a Gaza ceasefire agreement until Hamas resolves a last-minute issue. The deal aims to end over 15 months of conflict, facilitate humanitarian aid, and release hostages and prisoners. Qatar confirmed the agreement set to begin Sunday, with 33 Israeli hostages freed. Key details and exact terms remain undisclosed.
World-renowned tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passed away at 73 in San Francisco due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. A child prodigy, he rose to global acclaim, collaborating with both Indian and Western music legends. His innovative fusion music and captivating performances cemented his legacy as a cultural ambassador and earned him numerous awards, including four Grammys.
Sanjana Ganesan expressed her dismay on Instagram regarding the online attention her son, Angad, is receiving. She and Jasprit Bumrah are working hard to protect him from social media's negative impacts. Sanjana emphasized that their presence at the cricket stadium was to support Jasprit, not to invite unwanted scrutiny and judgment towards their child, urging for more kindness online.
US President Donald Trump softened his stance on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, expressing respect ahead of their meeting. This follows Trump's earlier labeling of Zelenskyy as a 'dictator.' The meeting will focus on a proposed mining rights deal, which involves sharing Ukraine’s mineral wealth with the US as compensation for military aid.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has raised concerns about the sudden increase of one crore voters between the Lok Sabha and Maharashtra assembly elections. He criticized the Election Commission for not providing voters' lists and accused BJP and RSS of misusing state institutions to undermine a fair electoral process.
India's trade dynamics reveal a shifting landscape, with the US emerging as a key partner, marked by increased exports and a growing trade surplus. Conversely, the trade deficit with China has widened significantly due to decreased exports, particularly in ore, and a surge in imports. This reflects changing global trade patterns and India's evolving export destinations.