Times of India

India's anti-conversion laws, intended to prevent forced religious conversions, are under scrutiny as the Supreme Court reviews their legality. Numerous individuals, like Sonu Saroj and Nadeem, have faced harassment, arrest, and prolonged legal battles under these laws, even after acquittal. Victims recount violence, social stigma, and lasting fear, highlighting the laws' impact on religious freedom and personal lives.

Security forces aim to eliminate Naxalism before March 2026. Operation Blackforest saw success with coordinated efforts. Forces eliminated 31 Maoists. Anti-Naxal operations continue in multiple states. Maoists are requesting ceasefire and dialogue. Surrenders have increased this year. Operations will continue during the monsoon. Forces are confident to locate and neutralise Maoists. Maoists may resort to desperate attacks.

Abhijit Pujare, a Nalasopara resident, received compensation of approximately Rupees one crore. He lost his leg when his bus crashed near Pune in 2021. The Motor Accident Claims Tribunal ordered the compensation. RN Cabs Pvt Ltd and United India Insurance Co Ltd will jointly pay the amount. The accident occurred due to the bus driver's rash driving.

NSA Ajit Doval and Iranian security council secretary Ali Akbar Ahmadian discussed expanding cooperation, particularly on Chabahar Port and the INSTC. Ahmadian highlighted the deep-rooted ties and potential for collaboration, emphasizing the importance of strategic projects for regional peace. The conversation occurred after heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, with Iran offering assistance in de-escalation.

A new study reveals that Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common hospital bacteria in India, can degrade medical-grade plastic. This bacteria breaks down materials used in sutures and implants. Researchers isolated an enzyme, Pap1, that degraded 78% of a plastic sample in a week. The bacteria can also consume plastic as its only food source.

Former President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with prostate cancer after a routine physical exam revealed a nodule. Doctors confirmed the cancer has spread to his bones but is hormone-sensitive, allowing for effective management. Biden and his family are reviewing treatment options, adding to his medical history that includes past skin cancer treatments and public scrutiny over his health.

Mayawati has reinstated her nephew, Akash Anand, as the chief national coordinator of the BSP, just over a month after he was brought back into the party. This decision, announced during an all-India meeting, signals a move towards decentralization within the party. Akash pledged his loyalty and commitment to the BSP's mission, expressing gratitude to Mayawati for the opportunity.

In Delhi, a disagreement regarding DJ services turned deadly. Bheem Sen, an 18-year-old, was fatally stabbed in Mahendra Park. The incident occurred after an argument with a juvenile about a DJ booking. Police arrested four individuals, all believed to be juveniles. They are being processed as Children in Conflict with Law. The investigation is ongoing to recover the weapon.

First responders in Hyderabad were deeply affected by the tragic scene of an elderly woman found dead, embracing four children in a fire-ravaged home. Despite attempts to rescue the Modi household residents, seven bodies were recovered, including the woman and children found huddled together. The rescuers described the unbearable sight of the victims, highlighting the devastating impact of the fire.

The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) arrested Shehzad Wahab from Rampur, a suspected Pakistani spy involved in cross-border smuggling from Moradabad. He allegedly maintained direct contact with Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) operatives, providing sensitive information related to India's internal security and facilitating financial transactions. Shehzad is also suspected of recruiting individuals for ISI and supplying Indian SIM cards to agents.

Mehbooba Mufti advocated for a permanent ceasefire along the Pakistan border in J&K, emphasizing humanitarian relief for civilians affected by artillery fire and drone incursions. Omar Abdullah echoed the call for peace, criticizing the disconnect between war rhetoric and the reality faced by border residents. Both leaders urged prioritizing the safety and well-being of civilians in conflict zones.

In a bid to dismantle terrorist networks, J&K police conducted extensive searches at multiple locations in Poonch, targeting overground workers who provide crucial support to terrorists. Simultaneously, the State Investigation Agency (SIA) raided locations in Kashmir, focusing on sleeper cell networks and seizing incriminating material. Authorities also detained alleged terrorist associates under the Public Safety Act.

The Indian Army and J&K police safely neutralised 42 unexploded Pakistani shells in Poonch. These shells targeted civilian areas after India's strikes on terrorist camps. An unexploded mortar shell was also destroyed in Samba district. The Army's bomb disposal squads carried out controlled explosions. The operations eliminated risks to civilian lives and property. Authorities followed safety protocols during the process.

Following the Pahalgam terror attack, stakeholders organized a roadshow from Srinagar to Pahalgam to revive tourism. The roadshow aimed to convey that Kashmir is safe. It was stopped 30km before Pahalgam due to security concerns. Participants included shikara operators, hoteliers, and travel agents. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed dismay over the impact on tourism.

Gujarat Titans showcased their dominance by defeating Delhi Capitals by 10 wickets, securing their playoff berth in IPL 2025. Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan's unbeaten 205-run partnership led GT to effortlessly chase down DC's 200-run target. Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings also secured playoff spots, while Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, and Lucknow Super Giants compete for the final slot.

In Shahjahanpur, a 31-year-old woman's body was discovered inside a suitcase at her residence, prompting a police investigation. Her husband, Ashok Kumar, has been detained for questioning. Ashok claims he found his wife hanging and, in a panic, placed her in the suitcase.

In Lohaghat, Champawat, a PWD officer faced repercussions after invoking a village ritual in an official order. Following the disappearance of Assistant Engineer Jai Prakash's service book, Executive Engineer Ashutosh Kumar instructed staff to offer rice at a temple, seeking divine justice. This action led to his immediate transfer to Pauri.