IBTimes

A year after the devastating cross-border shelling in Poonch that claimed 14 civilian lives, including four children, the scars of that tragic night remain fresh. Residents continue to grapple with trauma, loss, and a lingering sense of insecurity, while key promises such as bunker construction and improved medical infrastructure remain unfulfilled.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has announced the formation of a parents brigade across Jammu and Kashmir to strengthen grassroots efforts against drug abuse. Launching the Drug-Free J&K campaign in Budgam, he emphasized community participation, early intervention, and collective responsibility.

Veteran film producer R. B. Choudary died in a tragic road accident near Udaipur on Tuesday, shocking the South film industry. The founder of Super Good Films played a key role in shaping several successful careers across Tamil and Telugu cinema. His body was brought to Chennai today.

The 70-crore lawsuit filed by former IndusInd Bank executive Gobind Jain against IndusInd Bank and the Reserve Bank of India highlights larger concerns around corporate governance, disclosure delays, and regulatory oversight rather than just an employment dispute.

The personal assistant to BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari was shot dead by unidentified motorcycle-borne assailants in West Bengal days after the BJP's Assembly poll victory in the state. Two others, including the driver and BJP associate Buddhadeb Bera, were critically injured in the attack.

The Strait of Hormuz appeared set to reopen after the US and Iran announced steps to lift blockades on the crucial global shipping route. US President Donald Trump said he was pausing the blockade to allow space for negotiations, while Iran's IRGC confirmed ships would be allowed to pass through the Strait.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Wednesday dismissed claims linking the shift of the IPL 2026 final from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad with demands for tickets for legislators, asserting that the decision was likely driven by logistical considerations rather than political pressure.

Iran has introduced a new system requiring ships to obtain permission before passing through the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions with the United States amid threats of military action and maritime restrictions. The move comes after Tehran warned vessels linked to the US and Israel could be denied safe passage.

The MLA's family claimed they had earlier requested authorities to relocate the health facility, alleging the building had become dilapidated. In a video shared online, Syed's wife accused officials of misbehaving with her when they arrived with police to break open the lock.

The makers of Spirit have officially confirmed that the film is on schedule and will release worldwide on March 5, 2027, putting an end to speculation about delays. Starring Prabhas in the lead, the film reunites producer Bhushan Kumar and director Sandeep Reddy Vanga after the success of Animal.

G. Parameshwara said the rapid rise of actor-politician Vijay in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections came as a surprise and attributed the outcome to young voters seeking change after decades of Dravidian party rule. He said decisions regarding the Congress-DMK alliance would need to be reviewed by senior party leaders.

While Punjab's Director General of Police said the blasts were part of a design by Pakistan to cause disturbance, Bhagwant Mann alleged a BJP hand in the attacks. Punjab Police and central agencies have launched an intensive probe, and security has been tightened across the state.

The Nifty climbed 298.15 points, or 1.24 per cent, to settle at 24,330.95, while the Sensex surged 940.73 points, or 1.22 per cent, to end at 77,958.52.

Gold and silver prices surged up to 3 per cent on Wednesday amid weakness in the dollar index and falling oil prices. On the MCX, gold futures rose nearly 1.8 per cent to around Rs 1,52,400 per 10 grams, while silver futures jumped over 3 per cent to Rs 2,51,699 per kg.

The BJP-led NDA secured a sweeping victory with 82 seats in the 126-member Assembly, while Congress managed only 19 seats. Hazarika said the result reflected public trust in Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and the BJP's governance and development agenda.

The UAE said its air defence systems intercepted missile and drone attacks launched from Iran amid escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. The renewed hostilities between the US and Iran have further strained a fragile ceasefire, with both sides engaging in military activity.

ECI has directed West Bengal's Chief Secretary and CAPF personnel to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards post-poll violence. Clashes and vandalism were reported across parts of the state, with TMC alleging attacks on its party offices and workers by BJP supporters.

Mamata Banerjee's refusal to resign after losing the West Bengal elections raises constitutional questions. Under Article 164, the Governor can dismiss a Chief Minister lacking majority and order a floor test. If a crisis persists, President's Rule may be imposed.

Donald Trump congratulated Narendra Modi on what the White House called a historic and decisive election victory in West Bengal. The win marks the first time the BJP has taken control of the state, ending Mamata Banerjee's 15-year rule.

Go bold or go home! Kim Kardashian, Kylie Jenner and Kendall Jenner dominate the Met Gala 2026 with striking, bold silhouettes, ditching the theme and setting the runway ablaze with their sensual looks.

India shines at Met Gala: Isha Ambani wore a 1,800-carat diamond blouse featuring Nita Ambani's jewels, paired with a gold saree. Karan Johar wore a hand-painted ensemble by Manish Malhotra, inspired by Raja Ravi Varma's iconic artworks.

The United States has urged allies to help secure the Strait of Hormuz as it launches Project Freedom to protect commercial shipping amid tensions with Iran. US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said the Trump-ordered mission is defensive.

Claire Mazumdar is the founding CEO of Bicara Therapeutics, a Boston-based biotech firm focused on cancer therapies, now valued at over $1.6 billion. She holds degrees from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Stanford University, including a PhD in cancer biology.

The attack follows the launch of Project Freedom by the US military, under which guided missile destroyers are escorting merchant vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. Fujairah currently serves as the UAE's only operational oil export zone, making it a critical energy hub.

Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Naga Chaitanya were spotted attending the same wedding reception in Hyderabad years after their 2021 divorce. Both arrived with their respective partners. Samantha with Raj Nidimoru and Naga Chaitanya with Sobhita Dhulipala. However, they didn't interact with each other.

Announcing a 100-day target to eradicate drug abuse, Manoj Sinha highlighted strict enforcement measures, including FIRs, arrests, property seizures, and licence cancellations.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah termed the results of the five-state Assembly elections, particularly in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, as a political earthquake with long-term national implications.

The 2026 assembly election results across key states signal a major political shift, with actor-turned-politician Vijay making a powerful debut in Tamil Nadu. BJP wins big, while leaders like Mamata Banerjee, M. K. Stalin and Pinarayi Vijayan faced major setbacks.

The incident comes amid heightened tensions between United States and Iran, following military actions and a blockade that has disrupted global shipping. Nearly 2,000 vessels remain stranded in the strait, a critical route for around 20% of global oil and gas trade.

Himanta Biswa Sarma described the BJP-led NDA's performance in Assam as a historic mandate, stating that voters have once again backed the alliance for a third consecutive term under the leadership of Narendra Modi.

Chief Secretary of West Bengal, has issued a directive to all departments to ensure that no official files or documents are removed, damaged, or copied without authorisation. The order mandates strict monitoring of records and requires departmental heads to maintain full accountability.

The Trinamool Congress appears to be losing its earlier dominance, while the BJP and smaller parties make gains. Statements from key leaders highlight evolving political dynamics as counting continues across the state.

In Karnataka bypoll developments, the Indian National Congress has taken a strong lead in Bagalkot, with candidate Umesh Meti ahead by 17,205 votes after 21 rounds of counting, making his victory almost certain. The bypoll was held following the demise of former MLA H.Y. Meti

A 28-year-old man in Krishnagiri allegedly attempted suicide after rumours suggested Vijay's party might lose in the Tamil Nadu elections, reported The Times of India. Identified as K Mahendran, he slit his throat near his home before vote counting.

The Bharatiya Janata Party is closing in on the 200-seat mark in the West Bengal Assembly elections 2026, signalling a major political shift in the state. The All India Trinamool Congress, led by Mamata Banerjee, is facing a significant setback after 15 years in power.

TVK is leading in 101 seats in the 234-member assembly, putting it well ahead of the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)-led alliance, which is ahead in around 50 seats.

The US has launched Project Freedom to escort stranded commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions in the Middle East. Announced by Donald Trump, the operation aims to ensure safe passage through one of the world's most critical oil transit routes.

N. Chandrababu Naidu said the NDA's electoral gains reflect growing public confidence in the leadership of Narendra Modi and his vision of a Viksit Bharat. He congratulated Modi, Amit Shah, and NDA leaders, adding that the results send a message that votersespecially young Indiaprioritise credibility and development.

Amid continued reports of immoral and illegal activities, the Jammu administration has tightened regulations on spa and massage centres, making it mandatory for owners to submit affidavits ensuring compliance with the law.

An Indian Army contingent has departed for Cambodia to take part in the second edition of the India-Cambodia joint military exercise, CINBAX-II 2026, scheduled from May 4 to 17 in Kampong Speu province.

Ayushmann Khurrana, Sara Ali Khan, and Rakul Preet Singh are promoting their film. A recent event drew backlash as Wamiqa Gabbi was embarrassed when a host asked about Mika Singh's role in her birth, while Sara Ali Khan was trolled for wearing heels and walking uncomfortably.

Ek Din review: Starring Junaid Khan and Sai Pallavi, the film, produced by Aamir Khan Productions, is a one-time watch. A remake of a Korean film has left moviegoers underwhelmed, with many calling it disappointing.

Following Operation Epic Fury, Donald Trump's claim that hostilities have terminated signals only a ceasefire, not an end to the conflict. Despite US tactical gains, the broader outcome remains unresolved, with Iran retaining deterrence through asymmetric capabilities.

Counting of votes for the West Bengal Assembly Elections will begin at 8 a.m. on Monday across 77 centres in the state. Evolution of TMC under Mamata Banerjee reflects a move beyond symbolic women's representation to a structured, multi-layered leadership model, with a strong pipeline of women leaders.

Tamil Nadu will enter its peak summer phase, Agni Natchathiram (Kathiri Veyil), from May 4 to May 28, with temperatures expected to rise sharply across the state. Interior districts may see highs up to 43C, while coastal areas like Chennai will face high humidity.

The clarification came after a widely circulated post on X by a user claimed that India's power grid had hit a record demand of 277 GW amid rising summer temperatures, alleging critical coal shortages at thermal power plants and load-shedding in several states.

Iran has responded to a nine-point proposal from the United States with a broader 14-point plan, demanding guarantees of non-aggression and the withdrawal of US forces from surrounding regions. Iran's proposal includes lifting sanctions, releasing frozen assets, ending naval blockades, and securing compensation.

Vinesh Phogat revealed she is one of the victims in the sexual harassment case against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, breaking her silence publicly for the first time. She also raised concerns over Asian Games trials being held at a venue linked to him, questioning fairness and highlighting the emotional toll on athletes.

In a deeply disturbing case from Pune, the father of a four-year-old rape and murder victim has demanded the death penalty for the accused and requested politicians not to visit his home until justice is delivered. The family is currently performing the child's last rites and has appealed for privacy during this time.

A brazen daylight robbery took place at a jewellery showroom in Karimnagar, where five armed robbers stormed the store posing as customers. They opened fire to create panic, injuring multiple employees, and looted valuables before fleeing the scene.