India has strongly criticised Donald Trump after he shared a social media post describing the country as a “hellhole,” calling the remarks “uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste.” The controversy stems from Trump reposting a transcript of a podcast discussing US birthright citizenship and immigration, which also made negative claims about Indians in the tech sector. New Delhi stressed that such comments do not reflect the reality of India–US relations, which are based on mutual respect and shared interests. The episode risks straining ties that were gradually improving after tensions over tariffs, immigration policies, and geopolitical differences. (PC: Bloomberg)

Israel has begun relocating members of the Bnei Menashe from Manipur under Operation Wings of Dawn. About 250 people were flown via Delhi this week, part of a plan announced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The community claims descent from a biblical tribe and has sought to return to Israel for religious reasons. Many cite limited access to Jewish practices in remote areas. Israel says the move will help “strengthen” its northern regions. Economic factors and ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur have also pushed migration, though some earlier migrants reported hardship and discrimination. (PC: India Today)

A probe by The Telegraph found rental ads in London seeking tenants based on religion. Listings on social media used phrases like “Muslims only” and “Hindus only.” Such ads violate the Equality Act 2010, which bans bias in housing. A firm named Roshan Properties posted several such listings before its page was removed. One landlord reportedly refused non-Muslim tenants. The law allows limited exceptions in shared homes. Gumtree said it has strict rules against discrimination and expects users to follow them. (PC: India Today)

France has removed the airport transit visa requirement for Indian passport holders passing through its airports. The rule took effect on April 10, 2026, and was confirmed by the French Embassy. It applies only to travellers who stay in the international transit area and do not enter the country. The embassy said the move followed a commitment by President Emmanuel Macron during his India visit in February. The updated rule has been added to official visa systems. France joins Germany in easing transit rules, aiming to simplify travel and reduce costs for Indian passengers using European hubs. (PC: NDTV)

India has strongly criticized U.S. President Donald Trump for referring to the country as a “hellhole” in a reshared anti-immigration post. The Ministry of External Affairs described the remark as “uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste,” stressing that it misrepresents India’s image and undermines strong bilateral ties. India also highlighted the depth of its strategic partnership with the United States across trade, defence, and technology. The controversial comment sparked political reactions domestically and prompted diplomatic concern, with officials emphasizing the importance of respectful discourse in international relations. (PC: AP)

India has strongly criticised remarks amplified by Donald Trump, who reposted content describing the country as a “hell-hole.” The Ministry of External Affairs termed the comments “uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste,” stressing they do not reflect the reality of India-US relations built on mutual respect and shared interests. The controversy stems from a podcast by Michael Savage, where he criticised US birthright citizenship and used derogatory language for India, China and immigrants. The episode has triggered diplomatic pushback from India, highlighting sensitivities around rhetoric targeting nations amid broader debates on immigration policy and international relations between major global powers currently.

Indian travellers can now transit through France without an airport transit visa, after a rule change effective April 10, 2026, confirmed by India’s external affairs ministry. The move follows commitments by President Emmanuel Macron to ease travel for Indian nationals. A revised decree published April 9 removed the requirement for those remaining within the international transit zone en route to non-Schengen destinations. However, travellers who need to clear immigration, change airports, or stay overnight will still require a short-stay visa. Officials say the step strengthens India-France ties and simplifies global connectivity for Indian flyers significantly. It is expected to reduce paperwork, costs, and waiting time for passengers using French hubs overall. (PC: HT)

Ministry of External Affairs gave a brief response after Donald Trump reposted a comment calling India and China a “hellhole”. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal avoided a detailed reply. He said, “We have seen some reports. That's where I leave it.” The statement came during a media briefing when he was asked about the remark. The ministry did not offer further clarification or reaction. The response reflects a cautious approach by India on the issue. There has been no official comment beyond the short statement so far. (PC: HT)

US President Donald Trump has sparked controversy after posting a letter on Truth Social describing countries including India and China as “hellholes” while criticising birthright citizenship in the United States. The post also alleged that immigrants, particularly from India and China, dominate hiring in California’s tech sector, limiting opportunities for others, though no evidence was provided. His remarks come amid ongoing debates over immigration policy and citizenship laws in the US. The comments have drawn criticism for their tone and generalisations, potentially straining diplomatic sentiment. The episode highlights how immigration rhetoric remains a politically charged issue ahead of key policy discussions and elections.

A group of Indian tourists faced allegations of stealing hotel property at Asvara Resort Ubud in Bali after staff noticed missing items during checkout. Resort employees halted their departure and searched luggage, recovering items including towels, robes, utensils, a hair dryer and a remote box. A viral video of the incident triggered strong online reactions, with many criticising the behaviour while others cautioned against generalising. Authorities confirmed the tourists had stayed from April 16 to 19, and the matter was resolved without legal action after items were identified. The episode has reignited debate about tourist conduct and reputational impact abroad.