In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court sharply criticized the West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) for orchestrating a widespread recruitment scam involving over 25,000 illegal appointments between 2016 and 2021. The court highlighted a “staggering scale of manipulation” and systematic cover-up at every stage—ranging from tampered documents to politically influenced selections. Declaring the appointments illegal, the court ordered their immediate cancellation and directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe the entire recruitment process. The verdict intensifies pressure on the Mamata Banerjee government and underscores deep-rooted corruption in West Bengal’s education recruitment system. (PC: Millennium Post)

Global stock markets tumbled after U.S. President Donald Trump announced sweeping new tariffs, triggering fears of a global trade war. The S&P 500 fell 4.8%, its worst day since the 2020 COVID crash, erasing $2 trillion in value. Major firms like Apple, Nike, and Target saw shares drop over 9%. Trump’s plan includes a minimum 10% tariff on all imports and sharply higher duties on goods from China (54%) and the EU (20%). China, the EU, and Canada have vowed retaliation. Analysts warn the tariffs may fuel inflation, stall growth, and risk pushing the U.S. into recession. (PC: Reuters)

Kolkata Knight Riders’ all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer delivered a powerful response to critics questioning his hefty IPL 2025 price tag with a standout performance against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Iyer played a crucial role in KKR’s victory, showcasing his batting prowess under pressure. In post-match comments, he acknowledged the scrutiny but emphasized focusing on team success over personal opinions. The performance not only boosted KKR’s campaign but also reaffirmed Iyer’s value in the squad. His composed innings silenced detractors and marked a strong comeback statement, reminding fans and analysts why KKR invested heavily in him during the IPL auction. (PC: PTI)

South Korea’s Constitutional Court has officially rejected the National Assembly’s impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk-yeol, which accused him of abusing his power and unlawfully interfering in prosecutorial investigations. The court unanimously ruled that the charges did not meet the threshold for removal from office, citing a lack of concrete constitutional or legal violations. The impeachment motion, led by opposition lawmakers, had plunged the country into political uncertainty. With the verdict, Yoon remains in power, but the controversy has deepened political divisions, sparking protests and renewed debate over executive accountability in South Korea’s democratic system. (PC: The Guardian)

  A new report highlights that approximately 33% of High Court judges in India are related to sitting or retired judges, or prominent lawyers. The trend, often referred to as "legal pedigree," points to a systemic entrenchment of familial influence within the Indian judiciary. This revelation has reignited debates over nepotism, meritocracy, and transparency in judicial appointments. While some argue that legal exposure from family can inspire judicial careers, critics say it limits diversity and opportunities for first-generation legal professionals, underscoring the need for more inclusive reforms in the selection process. (PC: The Print)  

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in Parliament, calling it a "watershed moment" for the country. The bill aims to streamline the administration and utilization of Waqf properties, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and better management of these assets. The government's push for the legislation seeks to improve accountability, provide better governance of Waqf properties, and support the development of properties under Waqf institutions. Modi emphasized that the move will contribute to a more inclusive and empowered society, benefiting all communities. (PC: ANI)  

The Rajya Sabha passed the Waqf Amendment Bill with 128 votes in favour and 95 against, a day after its clearance in the Lok Sabha. The bill seeks to enhance transparency in the functioning of Waqf Boards and prevent illegal encroachments on Waqf properties. It introduces stricter regulations on land ownership and mandates prior government sanction before land acquisition. The bill has sparked political debate, with the opposition alleging it undermines minority rights. However, the government maintains that the amendments are aimed at safeguarding Waqf assets and ensuring their lawful use for community welfare. (PC: ANI)

Veteran Bollywood actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, celebrated for his powerful portrayal of patriotism in Indian cinema, died at the age of 87 in Mumbai. Known as ‘Bharat Kumar’ for his nationalistic films like Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, and Kranti, he was a trailblazer in promoting patriotic themes through mainstream cinema. He was honored with the Padma Shri in 1992 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015 for his cinematic contributions. Kumar passed away peacefully at his residence, leaving behind a legacy that deeply influenced Indian film and national identity. (PC: Wikipedia)  

The Rajya Sabha has passed the Waqf Amendment Bill with 128 votes in favor and 95 against. Earlier, the Lok Sabha approved the bill after a 12-hour debate, with 288 votes supporting it and 232 opposing. Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju introduced the bill, saying it aims to improve transparency. The opposition raised concerns about its impact but failed to pass any amendments. The discussion in Rajya Sabha started after the Question Hour. With the Budget Session ending on April 4, this was a crucial decision. The bill now moves forward for implementation. (PC: PTI)

Voting has started in the Rajya Sabha for the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025. The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha after a 12-hour debate, with 288 votes in favor and 232 against. All amendments proposed by the opposition were rejected. The government argues the bill brings transparency, while the opposition raises concerns over its impact. The clause-by-clause voting process is ongoing. The outcome is crucial as the Parliament session ends soon. The nation watches as lawmakers make their final decision. (PC: PTI)