Petitioners opposing the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, have strongly disputed the Centre’s claim of a 116% increase in waqf properties since 2013, arguing that the statistics are based on incorrect or misrepresented data. In an affidavit filed in the Supreme Court, they clarified that the reported rise includes properties previously registered, now updated on the Waqf Asset Management System of India (WAMSI), not newly acquired ones. The petitioners also raised concerns about the potential impact of the Act on waqf properties, urging the Court to stay its implementation due to potential constitutional issues. (PC: HT PRINT)

A tragic stampede occurred at the Sree Lairai Devi temple in Shirgao, Goa, during the annual Lairai Devi Jatra festival on Saturday, leaving six people dead and around 50 injured. The incident happened in the early morning hours as tens of thousands of devotees gathered for the event, which includes the traditional fire-walking ritual known as 'Agnidivya'. The stampede was triggered when people standing on a slope lost balance and fell, leading to panic and chaos. Emergency services responded swiftly, and the injured were rushed to hospitals. Prime Minister Modi and CM Sawant expressed condolences, and an inquiry is underway. (PC: The Hindu)

Days before the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists, Indian intelligence agencies had flagged potential targeting of tourists near Srinagar, particularly in hotels on the outskirts in the Zabarwan range. This led to heightened security and combing operations in areas like Dachigam and Nishat. Despite these measures, the operation was called off on April 22, the day of the attack. Officials suggest that terrorists aimed to disrupt Prime Minister Modi's planned visit to flag off the first train from Katra to Srinagar last month, which was postponed due to weather. The attack involved two local terrorists mingling with tourists and two Pakistani terrorists executing the killings. (PC: PTI)

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has obtained crucial voice and handwriting samples of Tahawwur Rana, a key accused in the 2008 Mumbai attacks that killed 166 people. Rana, currently facing extradition from the U.S., is accused of aiding Pakistani-American terrorist David Headley in planning the attacks. These samples will be analyzed to strengthen evidence linking him to the plot. The move is part of India’s continuing efforts to secure justice for one of its deadliest terror attacks. (PTI)

On May 1, 2025, Hindu activist Suhas Shetty was brutally hacked to death by a gang in Mangaluru’s Kinnipadavu village. CCTV footage captured the gruesome attack in which Shetty, a key accused in the 2022 Fazil murder case, was ambushed while traveling with others. He died at AJ Hospital. Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara confirmed the arrest of eight suspects and seizure of weapons and vehicles used. The BJP has demanded a probe by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), calling the murder communal in nature. VHP held a bandh in protest, heightening regional tensions and public outcry. (PC: HT File)

On May 3, 2025, a deadly stampede struck the Sree Lairai Devi Temple in Shirgao village, Goa, during the crowded annual Lairai Jatra festival. At least six devotees were killed and over 50 injured when panic erupted near a sloped area of the temple grounds, causing people to fall and get trampled amid the dense crowd. Thousands had gathered from across Goa and neighboring states for the event. Emergency responders rushed the injured to local hospitals. Authorities have launched an investigation, while national and state leaders expressed deep condolences and pledged assistance to the victims’ families. 

During a Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting, party leaders condemned the Modi government’s inaction following the deadly April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. The CWC called for strong diplomatic and strategic measures against Pakistan, holding it accountable for cross-border terrorism. The party also pressed the Centre to release a clear timeline for the nationwide caste census, emphasizing its importance for policy planning. Additionally, Congress demanded the removal of the 50% cap on reservations to ensure greater social justice for marginalized communities. The meeting stressed justice for victims and national unity. (PC: PTI)

During the annual Lairai Zatra festival at the Sree Lairai Devi temple in Shirgao, Goa, a sudden stampede killed six devotees and injured over 60 others. The incident occurred in the early hours as thousands gathered for traditional rituals involving fire-walking. Eight critically injured victims were rushed to Goa Medical College. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant ordered an immediate investigation and visited the injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow and assured central assistance. In mourning, Goa canceled all state-sponsored events for three days. Authorities are reviewing crowd management protocols for future festivals. (PC: The Indian Express)

A tragic stampede at Goa's Lairai Temple during the annual Lairai Jatra festival resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries. The incident occurred when a sudden electric shock from a malfunctioning wire led to panic among the large crowd of devotees, causing a deadly rush. Eyewitnesses reported that the electric shock caused immediate chaos, leading to people being trampled. Emergency services responded promptly, but the dense crowd hindered rescue operations. Authorities have initiated an investigation into the cause of the electric malfunction and are reviewing safety protocols to prevent such incidents in the future. The state government has announced compensation for the victims' families and assured strict action against those found negligent.

Karnataka Cooperation Minister KN Rajanna has ignited controversy by stating that individuals chanting pro-Pakistan slogans should be "shot dead." This comment follows allegations that Congress supporters shouted "Pakistan Zindabad" in the Vidhana Soudha after Rajya Sabha election results. Three arrests have been made, and a Forensic Science Laboratory investigation is underway. Rajanna also endorsed Uttar Pradesh's stringent law enforcement measures, including demolishing properties of accused individuals, to curb anti-social activities. The BJP has intensified demands for the Congress government's dismissal, citing compromised state security. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has promised strict action if the allegations are confirmed. The incident has escalated political tensions, with opposition parties accusing the Congress of endangering Karnataka's safety. (PC: Instagram)