China, controlling the origins of the Indus and Sutlej rivers in Tibet, technically has the capability to disrupt their flow, raising geopolitical concerns for India and Pakistan. Though only 10-20% of the rivers’ water originates from Tibet, China’s hydro projects like those at Zada Gorge and Senge Tsangpo could regulate flow. Experts warn China might use this leverage if India further suspends the Indus Water Treaty. While water diversion is possible, such actions carry ecological risks and could breach international water laws. No water-sharing treaty exists between India and China, heightening uncertainty amid ongoing regional tensions. (PC: News18)

The Supreme Court on Tuesday began hearing petitions against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. Chief Justice BR Gavai stated that laws passed by Parliament are presumed constitutional and courts cannot interfere unless a glaring issue is evident. The petitioners, represented by Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi, argue the law enables the state to seize Waqf land without due process. Sibal criticized the requirement that a person must have practiced Islam for five years to create a Waqf. The Centre, represented by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, urged the court to focus on the three previously identified key issues. (PC: Hindustan Times)

Lucknow Super Giants legspinner Digvesh Singh Rathi has been suspended for one match and fined 50% of his match fee following a heated on-field altercation with Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Abhishek Sharma. The incident occurred during SRH’s six-wicket victory in Lucknow. Digvesh's aggressive send-off provoked a fiery exchange, leading to on-field intervention. As this was Digvesh’s third Level 1 offense of the season, he accumulated five demerit points, triggering the suspension. Abhishek Sharma, too, was penalized—fined 25% of his match fee and handed one demerit point. Digvesh will miss LSG’s upcoming game against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad. (PC: BCCI)

The Trinamool Congress has nominated its national general secretary, Abhishek Banerjee, to represent the party in the all-party Operation Sindoor delegation after MP Yusuf Pathan opted out. The delegation is part of India's global outreach against terrorism. The move follows TMC’s objection to the Centre’s unilateral selection of delegates without consulting the party. Mamata Banerjee emphasized that the party, not the Centre, should decide its representative. Abhishek Banerjee reiterated support for the national interest but asserted the party's autonomy in nominations. Operation Sindoor involves global visits to counter terrorism narratives and build international support. (PC: India Today)

The UN’s humanitarian chief, Tom Fletcher, has issued a dire warning that 14,000 babies in Gaza could die within 48 hours unless critical aid reaches them immediately. Despite Israel ending an 11-week blockade, only five aid trucks entered Gaza on Monday, and the supplies have not yet reached civilians. Fletcher stressed the urgent need for relief during an interview with the BBC. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes killed at least 38 Palestinians overnight. The UK, France, and Canada have urged Israel to halt its renewed offensive and allow more aid. Netanyahu insists the war could end if Hamas releases hostages. (PC: BBC)

Incessant rainfall continues to batter Bengaluru, claiming five lives as the city grapples with severe flooding and waterlogging. Two individuals, a 63-year-old man and a 12-year-old boy, died of electrocution in an apartment in BTM Layout. A housekeeping worker also died in Mahadevapura, while lightning strikes in Raichur and Karwar claimed two more lives. The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for Bengaluru and yellow alerts across multiple Karnataka districts. Deputy CM DK Shivakumar said that 70% of the city’s flood-prone spots have been addressed, while the remaining areas are being attended to urgently. (Hindustan Times)

Haryana-based travel vlogger Jyoti Malhotra has been arrested for allegedly spying for Pakistan’s ISI. With over 4 lakh YouTube subscribers, Malhotra is among 11 arrested individuals tied to a larger ISI module using social media influencers for espionage and propaganda. Authorities revealed she had contact with operatives up to the Pak-Afghan terror hub and was evasive during questioning. Deleted chats with a Pakistani official and suspicious foreign trips to Pakistan, China, and Bangladesh are under investigation. Malhotra’s role in sharing sensitive information has raised serious national security concerns amid ongoing tensions post-Pahalgam attack. (PC: India Today)

Pakistan has extended the closure of the sole runway at Rahim Yar Khan airbase until June 6 following severe damage from Indian airstrikes on May 10. Originally scheduled to reopen on May 18, the extended closure suggests ongoing extensive repair work. Satellite images released by India show a large crater on the runway and damage to structures. The airbase, a key Pakistan Air Force installation, was among six military targets hit during India’s retaliation under ‘Operation Sindoor’ after a terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22. The strikes marked the worst India-Pakistan military escalation in decades. (PC: AP)

A major train tragedy was averted in Uttar Pradesh’s Hardoi district after alert loco pilots spotted and removed wooden blocks tied with earthing wire to railway tracks near Dalelnagar and Umartali stations. The first attempt targeted the Dibrugarh-bound Rajdhani Express (20504), which stopped in time. A second plot aimed at the Kathgodam Express (15044) was also foiled. Authorities, including the GRP, RPF, and local police, are investigating. Superintendent Neeraj Kumar Jadaun visited the site and issued instructions. The quick response of train crews likely prevented a catastrophic accident. The miscreants behind the sabotage remain unidentified. (PC: News18)

After a two-hour phone call with Vladimir Putin, President Donald Trump announced Russia and Ukraine would “immediately start negotiations” for a ceasefire. However, Putin only confirmed interest in a potential “memorandum” for future peace, underscoring the ambiguity. Trump, who once claimed he could end the war in 24 hours, now suggests talks must involve Russia, Ukraine, and possibly the Pope. He hinted he may step back if talks fail, raising fears of a US withdrawal from mediation and support. Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed concern, stressing the importance of continued American engagement as drone strikes from Russia intensify the conflict. (PC: Getty Images)