SC to Hear MP Minister's Plea Over Remarks on Colonel Qureshi; FIR Filed
The Supreme Court will hear a plea on May 16 by a Madhya Pradesh Minister, Kunwar Vijay Shah, challenging a High Court order concerning his controversial remarks targeting Colonel Sofia Qureshi. An FIR has also been registered against the BJP leader for his comments. The case brings the minister's conduct and statements about Col. Qureshi under judicial scrutiny, highlighting issues of public accountability.
Schools in J&K Border Areas Reopen as Tensions Ease
Educational institutions in the border areas of Jammu and Kashmir have reopened, indicating a de-escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan. The resumption of classes brings a semblance of normalcy to students and communities previously affected by cross-border hostilities. This positive development offers hope for sustained peace and stability along the sensitive frontier regions, allowing children to return to their studies.
Five Killed, Including Two Children, as Moving Bus Catches Fire in Lucknow
A tragic incident in Lucknow saw five people, including two children, killed when a private bus carrying 80 passengers caught fire while in motion. The mishap occurred early Thursday morning around 5 am in the Mohanlalganj area on Kisan Path. Police have initiated an investigation into the cause of the fire that engulfed the bus, leading to the fatalities and raising concerns about passenger safety.
Tom Cruise's 'Mission: Impossible – Final Reckoning' Earns 5-Minute Ovation at Cannes
Tom Cruise’s latest action film, "Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning," received an enthusiastic five-minute standing ovation at its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival. The audience celebrated Cruise's dedication to performing breathtaking and death-defying practical stunts. The grand event featured an orchestra playing the franchise's iconic theme, with Cruise expressing gratitude for entertaining audiences for three decades with the series.
Justice BR Gavai Sworn In as 52nd Chief Justice of India
Justice BR Gavai was sworn in as the 52nd Chief Justice of India by President Droupadi Murmu. He will have a tenure of over six months, until November 23, 2025. Justice Gavai is notably the first Buddhist CJI and the second from the Dalit community to hold the nation's highest judicial office. His appointment marks a significant moment for the Indian judiciary, commencing his term with an oath administered in Hindi.
PM Modi Chairs Cabinet Committee on Security Amid National Concerns
Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a crucial meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) in New Delhi, focusing on top-level discussions regarding national security. This meeting, preceding a Union cabinet gathering, was the 11th high-level security review led by the PM since April 23. These regular assessments underscore the government's sustained focus on addressing comprehensive national response measures and ongoing critical security challenges facing India.
India Condemns China's 'Preposterous' Arunachal Renaming Attempts
India strongly criticized China's repeated efforts to rename locations in Arunachal Pradesh, labeling them "preposterous." The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) firmly stated that the northeastern state is an integral and inalienable part of India. This sharp response followed Beijing's announcement of Chinese names for places in the region, which China claims as 'Zangnan' or southern Tibet, further straining diplomatic relations between the two nations.
India Blocks China's State-Affiliated Global Times X Account
India has blocked the X (formerly Twitter) account of Global Times, a Chinese state-affiliated media outlet known for its strong pro-Beijing rhetoric and frequent criticism of India. The publication has previously faced accusations of spreading disinformation. This action by New Delhi signifies a firm stance against certain Chinese media narratives, particularly amid ongoing bilateral tensions and concerns over information manipulation affecting national interests.
Pakistan Repatriates BSF Jawan to India
Pakistan handed over Border Security Force (BSF) jawan Shaw to Indian authorities. Shaw was apprehended by Pakistani Rangers on April 23 from along the India-Pakistan International Border in Ferozepur district. His capture occurred a day after the Pahalgam terror attack. The return of the jawan is a development in cross-border incidents, though circumstances of his apprehension and return remain key to understanding the dynamics.
Indian-Origin Anita Anand Appointed Canada's New Foreign Minister
Anita Anand, a Canadian politician of Indian heritage, has been appointed Canada's new Foreign Minister in a major cabinet reshuffle by Prime Minister Mark Carney. Anand, the first Hindu to hold this post, took her oath on the Bhagavad Gita. Her appointment is significant as it comes during a period of strained India-Canada relations, with hopes that her tenure might help navigate and resolve complex diplomatic issues between the two countries.
Former Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar Takes Helm as UPSC Chairman
Ajay Kumar, a retired 1985-batch IAS officer of the Kerala cadre and former Defence Secretary, has been appointed the new Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). His appointment was cleared by President Droupadi Murmu. Kumar, who served as Defence Secretary from August 2019 to October 2022, succeeds Preeti Sudan, whose tenure ended on April 29. He brings extensive administrative experience to the crucial constitutional body.
External Affairs Minister Jaishankar's Security Cover Upgraded
The security cover for External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has been elevated to Z-category. He will now receive protection from an armed contingent of CRPF personnel, comprising over a dozen commandos, during his movements and stays nationwide. This enhancement in security is reportedly due to increased threat perceptions, particularly amid ongoing India-Pakistan tensions, reflecting the critical nature of his role in national security and foreign policy.
Praggnanandhaa Draws to Maintain Joint Lead in Chess Classics; Gukesh Falters
Indian chess sensation R Praggnanandhaa secured a draw against Poland's Duda Jan-Krzysztof in the Chess Classics tournament, maintaining his joint lead. Playing with black pieces in an English opening, Praggnanandhaa adeptly handled early tactical challenges. However, fellow Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh suffered another loss, marking a mixed day for India at the prestigious event. Praggnanandhaa's consistent performance continues to be a highlight for Indian chess.
Hollywood Royalty: Leonardo DiCaprio Presents Robert De Niro with Honorary Palme d'Or at Cannes
At the Cannes Film Festival 2025, iconic actor Robert De Niro was honored with an Honorary Palme d'Or for his lifetime contributions to cinema. The prestigious award was presented by fellow Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio. The ceremony saw jury members and attendees give a standing ovation, celebrating De Niro's illustrious career and profound impact on the film industry over several decades, a truly fitting tribute to a cinematic legend.
Foreign Secretary to Brief Parliamentary Panel on Pakistan Developments on May 19
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is scheduled to brief the Parliament's Standing Committee on External Affairs on May 19 regarding the current situation with Pakistan. The committee, chaired by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, will be updated on recent developments, including India's strikes on terror sites in Pakistan and the subsequent interactions. This briefing underscores parliamentary engagement on critical foreign policy and national security matters.