Times of India

The Supreme Court heard arguments regarding the Waqf Amendment Act. Senior advocates challenged the law's constitutionality. They raised concerns about denotification powers and board composition. The Centre defended the Act, calling Waqf a secular concept. Arguments centered on religious freedom and property rights. The court reserved interim orders after hearing all sides. The decision is pending.

In separate incidents, two individuals were arrested for trespassing at Salman Khan's Mumbai residence. Jitendra Kumar Singh, a fan, attempted to enter Galaxy Apartments on Tuesday, while Isha Chabria claimed she was invited by the actor the following day. Both were apprehended and face house trespassing charges.

India U-19 wicketkeeper-batter Harvansh Singh hails from Gandhidham, a small town in Gujarat's Rann of Kutch. Growing up, he saw his father, Damandeep Singh, and uncle, Kunwarajeet Singh, play cricket in their town while also donning the keeping gloves. Now, Harvansh's family is settled in Canada. His father drives a truck in Brampton. Harvansh lives in Gandhidham with his mother and has made a promise to his father that one day he will get them back to India.

The US Commerce Secretary announced a new "gold card" visa program, initiated by President Trump, aimed at attracting wealthy international investors. Requiring a $5 million investment, it offers permanent residency, work authorization, and a path to citizenship, potentially replacing the EB-5 program. Strong interest is anticipated, with the initiative framed as a strategy to reduce the national debt.

Operation Sindoor reshaped South Asia's strategic landscape. India retaliated against Pakistan following a terror attack. The operation involved air, cyber, naval, and informational domains. India demonstrated its strategic sovereignty. It challenged Pakistan's nuclear deterrence. India now controls the escalation narrative. The country established a precedent for pre-emptive action. India also showcased narrative warfare proficiency.

In an IPL 2025 match between Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants, GT won the toss and chose to field. GT bowler Arshad Khan had a tough start, falling twice during his run-up in the second over, causing concern but fortunately, he managed to complete the over after physio attention.

The UK has agreed to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, ending decades of British control. This controversial deal allows the UK and US to retain joint use of the Diego Garcia military base for 99 years.

Rishabh Pant refuted social media rumors suggesting his release from the Lucknow Super Giants, dismissing claims that his Rs 27 crore price tag was deemed excessive. Pant urged for responsible and credible news reporting, criticising the spread of misinformation.

He flew too close to the swamp. And unlike his rockets, he didn’t land softly.

The government is set to re-issue dated government securities totaling Rs 27,000 crore on Friday, split between securities maturing in 2029 and 2054. The Reserve Bank of India will conduct the underwriting auction using a multiple price-based method. This move aims to enhance transparency and promote better investment planning, contributing to the stability of the Government Securities market.

A security incident occurred early Thursday at the CIA headquarters in Virginia. Security guards shot at a woman near the main gate. The gate was closed, and employees were asked to use alternate routes. Fairfax County police are assisting with traffic control. The shooting was nonfatal. Further details about the suspect are awaited.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar highlighted the Pakistan army chief's religious views as a factor in the Pahalgam attack, where terrorists killed 26 civilians after identifying their religion. He asserted India's claim over Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, demanding its return. While Jaishankar acknowledged that several countries, including the United States, reached out during the crisis, he also made it clear that the ceasefire resolution was entirely bilateral, not mediated by any third party.

India anticipates that Turkey and China will press Pakistan to cease its backing of cross-border terrorism, especially after the Pahalgam attack raised concerns about Turkey's ties with Islamabad. NSA Ajit Doval conveyed India's firm stance against terrorism originating from Pakistan to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in May.

The central government has announced a 4% reservation in central government housing for Divyangjans, reflecting a commitment to empowerment and an inclusive India. This initiative aligns with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan, aiming to ensure fair access and promote universal accessibility for people with disabilities in all aspects of life.

The CBI has filed a chargesheet against former J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik and five others in the Kiru hydropower corruption case. This follows a 2022 request from the J&K government for a CBI inquiry into irregularities in awarding civil contracts worth ₹2,200 crore for the Kiru Hydro Electric Power Project.

Anupam Mittal, Shark Tank judge, recently addressed workplace miscommunication on LinkedIn. He noticed Indian employees hesitate to seek clarity due to fear of embarrassment. Mittal contrasts this with US culture, where asking questions is encouraged. He suggests strategies like asking employees to repeat instructions and observing body language. Mittal emphasizes that effective communication means being understood well.

Ross Gerber, a prominent Tesla bull, has sold a significant portion of his Tesla shares, citing concerns about the company's future. This decision followed a substantial drop in Tesla's stock value after Elon Musk's controversial actions.

A soldier died in a gunfight with terrorists in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir. The operation, named 'Op Trashi,' is ongoing in Chhatru. Joint forces initiated it after intelligence about 3-4 Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists. Operations intensified after the Pahalgam attack on tourists. India responded with strikes in Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir but paused after Pakistan requested a ceasefire. Security operations continue.

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Thursday lauded Operation Sindoor, emphasizing Prime Minister Modi's firm message to challenging neighbors and the global community that terrorism will face consequences. Speaking at Goa Raj Bhavan, he highlighted India's confident stance and the international recognition of its armed forces' capabilities during the strategic operation.