Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has strongly criticized former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi for his recent comments regarding the Indian Army following the Pahalgam attack. Afridi had urged the United Nations to intervene in Kashmir, describing the situation as "appalling." In response, Dhawan took to Twitter, advising Afridi to focus on his own country's issues and stating, "Pehle khudke desh ki haalat sudharo... Zyaada dimaag mat lagao." Other Indian cricketers, including Virat Kohli, Kapil Dev, and Ishant Sharma, also expressed their disapproval of Afridi's remarks. Kohli emphasized his commitment to India's interests, while Kapil Dev questioned Afridi's relevance. The incident has sparked widespread criticism from Indian sports personalities. (PC: AFP & NDTV)

On April 29, 2025, the Supreme Court of India addressed petitions concerning the alleged misuse of Pegasus spyware. The bench, comprising Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh, observed that while possessing spyware for national security isn't inherently wrong, its deployment against private individuals raises concerns. The court emphasized that national security cannot be compromised, stating, "What is wrong if the country is using the spyware... We cannot compromise or sacrifice the security of the nation." However, it acknowledged the need to protect the privacy rights of civil individuals under the Constitution. The court also noted that the expert committee's report on the matter cannot be made public due to its sensitive nature. (PC: Mint & Sangfor Technologies)

Following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people, the Jammu and Kashmir government has shut approximately 50 tourist destinations and trekking trails across the Valley due to inadequate security presence. Closed sites include Gurez Valley, Verinag, Bangus Valley, Yusmarg, Dodapathri, Kousarnag, and the Kaman post in Uri. In Srinagar, tourists are now barred from visiting the historic Jamia Masjid. While major destinations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam remain open, certain areas within them are restricted. Authorities have established checkpoints to prevent tourist access beyond designated zones, prioritizing safety amid heightened security concerns. (PC: Travelsetu & WanderOn)

At the United Nations, India labeled Pakistan a "rogue state" following Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif's admission of supporting terrorist groups. Indian envoy Yojna Patel highlighted this confession during a UN session, emphasizing Pakistan's history of training and funding terrorists. She referenced the recent Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians were killed, marking it as the deadliest since the 2008 Mumbai attacks. Patel criticized Pakistan for misusing the UN platform to propagate baseless allegations against India and stressed the global community's need to recognize Pakistan's role in fueling terrorism. India also expressed appreciation for international support post-Pahalgam and underscored the importance of initiatives like the Victims of Terrorism Association Network (VoTAN) to support terrorism victims.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that individuals defending Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack are under scrutiny. Among those arrested are AIUDF MLA Aminul Islam, a police constable, a journalist, and a medical student. The arrests, made under UAPA, IT Act, and CrPC, were based on social media posts advocating armed struggle. Sarma emphasized that only those with violent intents were targeted and noted support from the Muslim community for the arrests. He reiterated Assam's zero-tolerance policy towards any pro-Pakistan sentiments linked to terrorism. The state continues its crackdown on individuals promoting anti-national sentiments, with further arrests anticipated. (PC: Instagram)

India has scaled back its demand for increased UK work visas for IT and healthcare professionals in ongoing free trade negotiations, agreeing to a modest annual quota of 100 additional visas. This concession follows British concerns over net migration. While the mobility chapter of the deal is finalized, India is now focusing on securing exemptions from UK national insurance contributions for short-term Indian workers, arguing they already contribute to Indian pension schemes. Additionally, India is challenging the UK's proposed carbon border adjustment mechanism, which could impose taxes on high-emission imports like steel and cement starting in 2027. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is addressing these issues during his visits to London and Brussels. (PC: X/Piyush Goyal)

Jagmeet Singh, leader of Canada's New Democratic Party (NDP), announced his resignation after losing his seat in the recent federal election. Overcome with emotion, Singh addressed supporters, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support and acknowledging the party's electoral setbacks. His departure marks the end of an era for the NDP, which faced significant challenges during the campaign. Singh's leadership tenure was characterized by advocacy for social justice and progressive policies. The NDP will now undergo a leadership transition as it seeks to rebuild and redefine its role in Canadian politics. Singh's resignation underscores the shifting political landscape following the election results. (PC: The Tribune)

Following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists, Pakistan has repositioned radar systems to forward locations in the Sialkot sector, anticipating potential Indian airstrikes. Electronic warfare units have also been deployed near the Ferozepur sector to monitor Indian movements. A TPS-77 radar site was recently established at Chor Cantonment, 58 km from the international border. Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif described an Indian military strike as "imminent." Ceasefire violations continue for the fifth day along the Line of Control, with Pakistani forces initiating unprovoked firing in Kupwara, Baramulla, and Akhnoor sectors, prompting retaliatory action from the Indian Army. (PC: PTI & NDTV)

Mark Carney's Liberal Party has secured a minority government in Canada's 2025 federal election, extending their tenure in power. Carney, a former central banker and political newcomer, succeeded Justin Trudeau in March. The Liberals' campaign emphasized defending Canadian sovereignty against U.S. President Donald Trump's aggressive trade policies, including imposed tariffs and provocative remarks about annexation. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre conceded defeat but pledged to hold the minority government accountable. The election also saw the resignation of NDP leader Jagmeet Singh following significant losses. Carney now faces the challenge of navigating complex trade negotiations with the U.S. while addressing domestic economic concerns. (PC: Hindustan Times)

Pakistan has violated the ceasefire agreement for the fifth consecutive night, targeting Indian positions along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla, Kupwara, and Akhnoor sectors. The unprovoked firing involved mortars and small arms, prompting a strong retaliation from the Indian Army. These repeated violations have heightened tensions in the region, with concerns over civilian safety and potential escalations. The Indian Army remains vigilant, ensuring the security of the affected areas and responding appropriately to maintain peace and order. (PC: The Conversation & The Taiwan Times)