Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially opened the new Pamban Bridge in Tamil Nadu, which spans the Palk Strait and serves as a symbol of India's engineering prowess. The first train to cross the bridge was flagged off by PM Modi, accompanied by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi. The bridge's clearance and waterway accessibility were demonstrated by an Indian Coast Guard boat navigating beneath it, followed by a train crossing to showcase its structural integrity and rail connectivity. Earlier, Union Minister Vaishnaw celebrated the BJP's foundation day at the bridge, hailing the party's commitment to Antyodaya and "Nation First, Always First."
After facing attacks from Pakistan, Prime Minister Modi vowed to not offer any off-ramps to their hostilities, instead promising a devastating response. His firm stance forced Pakistan to submit and offer to talk with India. This event marks a shift in Modi's philosophy, emphasizing that terrorism against India will be considered an act of war. His decision to instruct the armed forces to target terror headquarters rather than foot soldiers sends a strong message. In response, India used drones and missiles to attack Pakistani air bases, leading to a submissive retreat.
In an interaction with a news agency, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor addressed the recent ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, stating that the circumstances in 1971 and 2025 are not the same. He emphasized the need for peace and the government's responsibility to bring those responsible for the Pahalgam attack to justice. Tharoor also highlighted the differences between the Bangladesh liberation war in 1971 and the current situation with Pakistan.
Foreign Secretary of MEA bears brunt of online abuse after Pakistan ceasefire Vikram Misri, who has been a key figure in providing updates on India's military operation and ceasefire with Pakistan, has been the target of abusive comments and attacks on social media. The abuse, directed at Misri and his family, stems from political backlash over the government's response to Pakistan's ceasefire violation. Misri, a seasoned diplomat with an extensive career, has been praised for his calm and strategic handling of the situation.
After Russia's overnight bombing of Kyiv, President Trump publicly called on President Putin to halt the attacks and criticized the timing of the strikes. He also urged for a peace deal between the two countries, while also condemning Ukrainian President Zelenksy for drawing a red line on recognizing Crimea as part of Russia. High-level talks have failed to reach a resolution, with the president questioning why Ukraine did not fight for Crimea eleven years ago.
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta chaired a high-level meeting with department heads to discuss emergency preparedness measures. Among the key directions issued, the health department was instructed to ensure hospitals are ready with backup electricity, medicines, and clear duty rosters for staff. The power department was directed to promptly respond to power outages, while the DJB was asked to safeguard the water supply network. The CM also emphasized the need for coordination with central hospitals and disaster management authorities. The Food and Civil Supplies Department was also instructed to keep essential supplies stocked and the supply chain operational.
Margaret Thatcher, who ruled Britain for 11 years and was known for her strong leadership style, will be the first living politician to have a statue erected of her in the House of Commons. This decision breaks the tradition of waiting until a politician has been deceased for ten years before unveiling a statue and is causing some controversy among MPs. The Members' Lobby is the chosen location for the statue, which will join the bronze casts of other influential politicians such as Winston Churchill and Clement Atlee.
The Supreme Court on Friday set aside the Delhi High Court's order to delete a Wikipedia page on an ongoing defamation case between Asian News International (ANI) and Wikimedia. The bench reiterated the principle that courts should be open to public observation and welcome constructive criticism, and that media reporting about judicial proceedings cannot be curbed lightly. The Court also cited past judgments highlighting the importance of public scrutiny and gaze as a check against judicial caprice and maintaining public confidence in the administration of justice.
As the nation mourns the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack, retired Brigadier Deep Bhagat, a gallantry award-winning Indian Army veteran, has called for unity. In a video posted by his son, content creator Anish Bhagat, Brigadier Bhagat warned against falling into the trap of communal divide, which he claims is the goal of the perpetrators behind the massacre. He emphasized the need for Indians to stay united in the face of such tactics. The inspiring video has garnered over 4.5 million views and has received praise for the retired officer's wise words.
In response to Pakistan's escalating actions along India's western borders, the Indian Army launched Operation Sindoor and neutralized nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. In the wake of Pakistan's drone attacks, the Indian Army has demonstrated its robust air defense systems and declared zero tolerance for any violations of India's sovereignty. Fragments and debris of an unidentified projectile were also recovered from Punjab and Rajasthan, indicating the aggressive intentions of Pakistan.
After the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 27 civilians, including tourists, speculation is rife about India's response. It is reported that India may carry out surgical strikes and airstrikes against Pakistan. However, former Commander of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps Lt Gen Devendra Pratap Pandey (Retd) cautions against this move, stating that Pakistan is looking for escalation to divert attention from its internal and economic problems. He suggests exploring other options for punishment that will target the culprits behind the attack.