The Supreme Court refused to allow lakhs of West Bengal voters, whose names were deleted, to vote before their appeals are decided. Over 34 lakh appeals are pending just days before polling on April 23. The Chief Justice said, “We cannot create a situation where we burden the appellate tribunal judges.” Petitioners argued genuine voters should not lose their right. Senior advocate Kalyan Banerjee said people want to vote and seek relief. The court stressed a balance between voter rights and proper checks. Justice J B Pardiwala said the court will try to find a “via media” between rights and verification needs. (PC: India Today)

Donald Trump warned China of 50% tariffs if it supports Iran with weapons. He said, “they get a 50 per cent tariff” if such actions are confirmed. Reports claimed China may send air defence systems to Iran, but Beijing denied it. Trump also suggested China buy oil from the United States or Venezuela instead. He said the US could sell oil at lower prices. The warning adds to rising tensions between the US and China during the ongoing conflict.

Workers in Noida protested low wages, saying “we work 12 hours a day” but earn only ₹13,000 a month. Many demanded higher pay as living costs rise. The protest turned violent after clashes with police. Vehicles were burnt and stones were thrown in Phase 2 and Sector 60. Officials said the unrest also caused heavy traffic jams on nearby roads. Authorities held meetings to discuss wage hikes, overtime pay, and safety. Police were deployed in large numbers. Workers said their salaries have not increased despite rising rent and daily expenses. (PC: PTI)

Jan Egeland of the Norwegian Refugee Council said India and China should give more foreign aid. He said, “it’s time” they support global relief efforts. He also warned that cutting aid to boost defence spending is a “major strategic mistake”. Egeland said many countries are reducing aid while crises grow. He noted that the United States cuts have already affected humanitarian work. He added that lack of aid could increase migration and instability. He urged nations to balance security spending with support for vulnerable people. (PC: Ed Prior/Norwegian Refugee Council)

Violence broke out in Noida as workers protesting for higher wages blocked key roads. The Noida Link Road and parts of NH-9 were shut, causing heavy traffic jams. Police said “provocative elements” are being identified and warned of strict action. Vehicles were burnt and stones were thrown during clashes. Delhi Police tightened security at border points and advised people to avoid affected routes. Officials said the situation is under control, but tension remains. Authorities urged the public not to spread rumours.

GE Aerospace has signed a deal with the Indian Air Force to set up an engine repair depot in India. The facility will support F404-IN20 engines used in the HAL Tejas Mk1. It will be owned and run by the IAF, with technical support from GE. The move will reduce delays and improve aircraft availability. Officials said it will cut dependence on foreign repair centres. The project also supports India’s push for self-reliance and better defence preparedness.

Dhurandhar: The Revenge, starring Ranveer Singh, has become the highest-grossing Indian film without Gulf and China markets. The film earned ₹14.75 crore on day 25. Its domestic total stands above ₹1,083 crore, while worldwide earnings have crossed ₹1,700 crore. It has beaten films like Pushpa 2 and Baahubali 2: The Conclusion in this category. The film opened strong and continued steady collections despite a slowdown. The cast also includes Arjun Rampal and R. Madhavan.

Delhi Police is on high alert after a workers’ protest in Noida turned violent. Workers demanding higher wages blocked roads and damaged property. Police said “no one will be allowed to breach law and order”. Security has been increased on roads linking Noida to Delhi. Barricades and vehicle checks are in place. Officials said the situation in Noida is “under control” with forces deployed. Authorities are also holding talks with workers on wages, bonuses, and safety to prevent further unrest. (PC: PTI)

The United States will begin blocking Iranian ports from 3pm UK time (7:30pm IST), Donald Trump said after failed talks with Iran. The US Navy will stop ships entering or leaving Iranian ports and coastal areas. Iran called the move “ridiculous” and warned of strong action. Trump also attacked Pope Leo, calling him “weak on crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy” after criticism of the war. The Strait of Hormuz remains tense as shipments stay disrupted. Oil prices have crossed $100 again. Markets are reacting with uncertainty, and fears of wider conflict are rising. 

Talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad failed after key disagreements. Iran said a call from Benjamin Netanyahu to JD Vance changed the course of negotiations. Iranian officials claimed the call shifted focus and stalled progress. The US said Iran rejected its “final and best offer”. Issues included nuclear activity, frozen assets, and security in the Strait of Hormuz. Tensions remain high, and the fragile ceasefire is now uncertain. Both sides have signalled they may continue diplomatic efforts. (PC: AFP)