Beef dishes are disappearing from restaurant menus across West Bengal after the BJP government enforced stricter cow slaughter rules following its election victory in the state. Several iconic eateries in Kolkata have stopped serving beef steaks, chops and biryani due to supply shortages and fears linked to the new restrictions ahead of Eid al-Adha. Restaurants such as Shaikh’s, Mocambo and Oly Pub confirmed disruptions in beef supply, while The Burger Shop announced the permanent removal of beef from its menu. The BJP government, led by chief minister Suvendu Adhikari, has intensified enforcement of decades-old cattle slaughter laws after defeating former chief minister Mamata Banerjee. (PC: The Independent)

The satirical Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and National Parasitic Front (NPF) have gone viral on social media after controversial remarks by Chief Justice Surya Kant comparing some unemployed youth to “cockroaches” and “parasites”. Founded by Abhijeet Dipke, the CJP quickly gained massive attention online with meme-driven campaigns, parody manifestos and mock political promises focused on unemployment, governance and electoral reforms. The NPF soon emerged as its satirical rival, presenting itself as an “opposition” movement. Though both groups describe themselves as satire, they have struck a chord with many young Indians frustrated over jobs, politics and rising economic pressures. (PC: HT)

The Indian rupee weakened by 33 paise on Wednesday to hit a record low of 96.89 against the US dollar, later slipping further to 96.92 during early trade. Analysts attributed the decline to elevated crude oil prices near $110 per barrel, pressure on India’s foreign exchange reserves, strong US dollar demand and continued foreign investor outflows. India, which imports nearly 90 per cent of its crude oil requirements, faces increased dollar outflow as global energy prices surge amid geopolitical tensions linked to the Iran-US conflict. Rising US Treasury yields and expectations of tighter Federal Reserve policy have further strengthened the dollar. The rupee has reportedly fallen more than 8 per cent against the dollar in 2026 alone. (PC: News18)

Twisha Sharma died by suicide and was not murdered, according to Sanjay Kumar, who cited post-mortem findings and collected evidence. Twisha was found hanging at her in-laws’ home in Bhopal on May 12, while her family alleged dowry-related harassment and filed criminal charges against her husband Samarth Singh and mother-in-law Giribala Singh. Police stated that no signs of drug use were found despite allegations made by the mother-in-law. Authorities also admitted procedural lapses involving the belt allegedly used in the hanging but maintained it would not impact the investigation. Twisha’s family continues demanding a second post-mortem examination. (PC: NDTV)

Shashi Tharoor has gone viral after defending the Idli in a social media debate. The discussion began when an X user called Rasgulla "an idli dipped in sugar syrup." Tharoor replied that comparing the two was a "profound cosmological misunderstanding." He described idli as "a masterclass in biotechnology" and praised its fermentation process. His witty response won praise online and sparked a wider conversation about Indian food, regional pride, and the deep cultural meaning attached to iconic dishes.

Delhi recorded its hottest May day in two years on Tuesday as the temperature reached 45.1°C. The India Meteorological Department said Ridge was the hottest area at 46.5°C. Other parts of the city also crossed 45°C. Night temperatures stayed above 28°C, giving little relief. No rain was recorded during the day. The intense heat was caused by dry winds and strong sunlight. Meanwhile, the Commission for Air Quality Management imposed GRAP Stage 1 after Delhi’s Air Quality Index reached 208, which falls in the "poor" category.

Indian airlines have asked state-run oil companies to delay any increase in aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices. Air India, IndiGo and SpiceJet made the request as oil prices rise due to the conflict in West Asia. Fuel makes up about 40% of airline operating costs. Higher fuel prices could lead to more expensive air tickets. The government is discussing the matter and may take a decision before June 1. Airlines are also facing higher costs because of a weaker rupee and disruptions to international flight routes. (PC: AP)

Delhi court on Tuesday rejected the interim bail plea of activist Umar Khalid in the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case. Khalid had sought 15 days of bail to attend his uncle’s Chehlum ceremony and care for his mother, who is scheduled for surgery. The Karkardooma court said the reasons were not strong enough to justify temporary release. The judge noted that Khalid’s father and sisters could look after his mother and said the surgery was minor. Khalid is accused under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in the larger conspiracy case linked to the riots, which killed 53 people and injured over 700. (PC: PTI)

Squadron Leader Saanya has created history by becoming the first woman officer in the Indian Air Force to earn the prestigious Cat-A Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) qualification. The IAF announced the achievement on social media, calling it a proud milestone for the force and an inspiration for aspiring aviators across the country. Air Chief Marshal A P Singh felicitated Squadron Leader Saanya for her accomplishment. The Cat-A qualification is considered one of the highest standards for flying instructors in the IAF. Her achievement highlights the growing role of women officers in India’s defence forces and aviation sector.

The investigation into the death of model and actor Twisha Sharma has come under fresh scrutiny after an AIIMS Bhopal post-mortem report revealed that the alleged nylon belt used in her hanging was not shown to doctors during the autopsy. The report stated that doctors found two parallel ligature marks on her neck but could not scientifically match them with the alleged material. It also noted multiple simple injuries on other parts of her body. Twisha’s family has demanded a second autopsy at AIIMS Delhi and a CBI probe, alleging lapses in evidence handling and questioning the fairness of the investigation. (PC: The Indian Express)