Lucknow Super Giants' Rishabh Pant faced social media backlash after another poor performance in IPL 2025, scoring just 2 runs off 5 balls against Punjab Kings. Bought for a record ₹27 crore, Pant has managed only 17 runs in three matches, increasing pressure on him. Fans dug up his pre-auction remark about Punjab Kings, mocking his struggles. "Expensive fraud," one fan tweeted. Pant’s dismissal to Glenn Maxwell added to his woes as LSG lost momentum. With his form under scrutiny, Pant needs a turnaround soon to justify his massive price tag. (PC: X/Mufaddal_vohra)

India's Meteorological Department has warned of an intense heatwave this summer, with above-normal temperatures expected across most states. Chief Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said states like Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha could see up to 11 heatwave days. In 2024, India recorded its hottest day at 50.5°C in Rajasthan’s Churu, with 733 heat-related deaths reported. Experts warn of undercounting and worsening conditions due to climate change. Mohapatra stressed that human activities, industrialization, and carbon emissions are accelerating extreme weather patterns, urging immediate action to mitigate rising temperatures. The health and agriculture sectors face significant risks. (PC: Getty Images)

Opposition parties, including Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and CPI(M), have vowed to oppose the Waqf Amendment Bill, calling it "divisive" and unconstitutional. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge said they would fight it "tooth and nail" in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday. The BJP-led government, with a strong majority, has allocated eight hours for debate. AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi labeled it a "Waqf barbaad bill," accusing the government of targeting Muslim religious freedom. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju dismissed opposition claims as misleading. Congress and BJP have issued whips to ensure attendance as tensions rise in Parliament. (PC: 

Punjab Kings (PBKS) secured their second consecutive win in IPL 2025, defeating Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by 8 wickets. Chasing 172, PBKS cruised to victory in just 16.2 overs, thanks to Prabhsimran Singh’s explosive 69 and captain Shreyas Iyer’s half-century. LSG, led by Rishabh Pant, struggled early, reduced to 35/3 in the powerplay. Nicholas Pooran (44) and Ayush Badoni (41) helped LSG post 171/6. PBKS dominated with aggressive batting, cementing their strong form in the tournament. (PC: BCCI)

A volcano erupted in southwestern Iceland near the town of Grindavik and the Blue Lagoon, spewing lava and smoke. A 1.2 km crack formed in the ground, and multiple earthquakes rocked the area. Local authorities evacuated residents, fearing lava flows would reach the town. Despite warnings, a few people chose to remain. The eruption is part of a series of volcanic activities on the Reykjanes Peninsula since 2021. Roads remain closed, and gas pollution is expected to spread toward Reykjavik. Grindavik residents had been evacuated before in 2023 due to volcanic risks. (PC: AP)

Bangladesh's Muhammad Yunus sparked outrage by suggesting China expand its influence in India's northeastern states, calling Bangladesh the "only guardian of the ocean" for the region. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma condemned Yunus's remarks, labeling them provocative and unacceptable. Tipra Motha chief Pradyot Manikya demanded a more aggressive stance from India, even suggesting a split with Bangladesh. Congress leader Pawan Khera also criticized the government's failure to secure the Northeast against growing Chinese influence. Yunus's comments signal Bangladesh's shift toward China amid strained ties with India, raising security concerns. (PC: AFP)

A burst gas pipeline in Putra Heights, Malaysia, ignited a massive fire on Tuesday, injuring 112 people and damaging 49 houses. The inferno, visible for miles, erupted near a gas station during Eid celebrations. National oil company Petronas confirmed the fire started at 8:10 a.m., with emergency teams isolating the pipeline. Selangor authorities evacuated residents, relocating them to mosques. Some victims suffered burns and breathing difficulties, with 63 hospitalized. Eyewitnesses described tremors and collapsing structures. Viral videos captured flames reaching 20 stories high. Investigations continue as Petronas shuts three gas stations as a precaution. (PC: AP)

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) posted 171/6 in their first home game of IPL 2025 against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Ekana Stadium. LSG skipper Rishabh Pant, bought for ₹27 crore, failed to deliver again, scoring just 12 runs. Shreyas Iyer, PBKS captain and ₹26.75 crore signing, put LSG to bat first, and his bowlers struck early, reducing them to 35/3 in the powerplay. Nicholas Pooran (44) and Ayush Badoni (41) helped LSG recover. PBKS now look to chase the target and secure crucial points. LSG must defend well to avoid another setback this season. (PC: BCCI)

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has called on secular parties, including BJP allies, to oppose the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in Lok Sabha on April 2. AIMPLB President Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani warned the bill threatens Waqf properties and contradicts constitutional rights under Articles 14, 25, and 26. "This move seeks to destroy communal harmony," Rahmani stated. The bill proposes 40 amendments, including non-Muslim representation in Waqf boards. The government claims modernization, but opposition parties demand scrutiny, alleging an agenda against Muslim communities. The bill had earlier been reviewed by a joint parliamentary committee. (PC: Hindustan Times)

Mandalay, Myanmar, has been devastated by a 7.7-magnitude earthquake, killing over 2,700 people and injuring 4,521. The true toll may exceed 10,000, with bodies being cremated in stacks. Survivors face severe shortages of food, water, and shelter, while aftershocks continue. The military junta has been criticized for restricting aid access. Russia and China have sent relief teams, but local rescue efforts remain overwhelmed. Residents recount sleepless nights, trauma, and despair as the city, once known for its golden pagodas, now reeks of death. Calls for unrestricted humanitarian aid grow as Myanmar struggles to recover. (PC: BBC)