Times of India

Middle East conflict escalates, pushing crude oil prices above $126 per barrel and straining India's state-run oil companies. Facing mounting losses, these companies seek permission to raise pump prices, but the government hesitates, balancing consumer protection against financial pressures and potential inflation.

Canada's intelligence agency has identified Khalistani elements as a national security threat, citing their promotion of a violent extremist agenda and connections to Canadian citizens. The report highlights the 40th anniversary of the Air India Flight 182 bombing, a deadly attack linked to such groups.

Assam Congress President Gaurav Gogoi alleged election security lapses, claiming BJP workers were seen inside strong rooms. He dismissed exit polls as a 'game of TRP' and asserted that support is shifting towards Congress, with individuals distancing themselves from Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Air India is slashing nearly 100 flights through July due to soaring jet fuel costs and airspace restrictions, making international routes unprofitable. This move deepens the crisis for the airline, which already faces significant losses. The situation is exacerbated by global oil price shocks impacting India's oil marketing companies, with fuel prices surging dramatically.

Mumbai Indians are struggling in IPL 2026 with six defeats in eight matches, continuing last season's poor form. Key players like Jasprit Bumrah and Suryakumar Yadav are experiencing slumps, while the absence of Rohit Sharma has disrupted team stability and opening partnerships. The middle order has consistently failed to fire, leading to significant batting collapses.

A 28-year-old man, Yatendra Pal Singh, was murdered by poisoning with aluminium phosphide at his in-laws' residence. Police confirmed the cause of death after a viscera examination report, leading to the arrest of his wife and father-in-law. The investigation is ongoing to determine the motive and the involvement of other family members.

Spirit Airlines, a prominent low-cost carrier, has ceased operations after 34 years, citing an immediate shutdown. The airline's abrupt closure follows failed federal intervention and mounting financial losses exceeding $2.5 billion since 2020. This development impacts approximately 17,000 employees and cost-conscious travelers.

Delhi Capitals achieved a remarkable seven-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals, successfully chasing down 226. KL Rahul's composed 75 and Pathum Nissanka's explosive 62 laid the foundation. Pacer Kyle Jamieson, despite an expensive spell, admitted to an unusual fear facing 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, highlighting the importance of early wickets.

Tamil Nadu's 2026 Assembly elections are poised for a significant youth impact, with over 1.22 crore voters aged 18-29 forming a crucial bloc. First-time voters cite empowerment and safety as key drivers. The emergence of actor Vijay's party, TVK, adds a new dynamic, potentially influencing results in closely contested seats and reshaping the state's political future.

Mobile users in Delhi-NCR may receive test alert messages. The government is trialing a new disaster alert system across India. This system uses advanced technology to send emergency warnings quickly. Users might get repeated messages in different languages. These are only test notifications, and no action is needed. The system is undergoing evaluation before its official launch.

West Bengal opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari has voiced strong concerns regarding the deployment of contractual workers for vote counting in two constituencies, deeming it a threat to democratic integrity.

President Trump described US naval actions enforcing a blockade of Iranian ports as "like pirates," highlighting the profitable seizure of ships and cargo. He also cited military action against Iran's nuclear program to protect the region and noted internal divisions within Iran's leadership complicating negotiations.

The Supreme Court of India dismissed TMC's plea against deployment of Central staff for West Bengal vote counting, recording the Election Commission of India’s assurance that its April 13 circular will be followed. It said rules were not violated and noted TMC agents would be present. The Calcutta High Court had earlier rejected the plea.

Ravichandran Ashwin has voiced concerns over Ravindra Jadeja's cautious batting against spin in T20s, noting a persistent struggle to accelerate. Jadeja's strike rate against spin has been low since 2020, leading to a more passive role, even when promoted ahead of others. Ashwin suggests Jadeja's mindset mirrors MS Dhoni's, preferring to take the game deep and target pacers.

Two First Information Reports have been lodged against Rajya Sabha MP Sandeep Pathak in Punjab, following his recent switch from the Aam Aadmi Party to the BJP. While official details of the charges remain undisclosed, the registrations occurred shortly after his defection, amidst escalating political realignments in the state. Further information is anticipated.

Israel has reportedly sent its advanced 'Iron Beam' laser defence system and surveillance tech to the UAE to counter Iranian threats, marking a significant defence cooperation step. This deployment, alongside US military sales to regional allies, underscores escalating tensions and a bolstered regional security posture amid the ongoing US-Iran conflict.

Construction workers near Bargi Dam bravely plunged into choppy waters, risking their lives to rescue over a dozen tourists when a cruise vessel capsized. Without safety gear, these unheralded heroes formed human chains and used ropes, saving many before professional rescuers arrived. Their selfless courage earned them state government recognition and rewards.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the Mumbai-Pune Expressway's 'missing link,' a significant infrastructure upgrade costing Rs 7,000 crore. He drove a G-Wagen during the event, which he hailed as an 'economic multiplier.' While the project promises enhanced connectivity, the inauguration on Maharashtra Day led to considerable traffic congestion, for which Fadnavis later apologized.