Delhi Police have arrested a hotel cook after investigations found his alleged negligence may have triggered a devastating fire at a Malviya Nagar hotel that killed 21 people earlier this week. The probe revealed multiple safety lapses, including improper handling of cooking equipment and violations of basic fire norms inside the premises. Officials said the blaze rapidly spread through the building, trapping guests and causing mass casualties. Authorities are also examining other staff members and management for possible lapses. The incident has raised serious concerns about fire safety compliance and enforcement in Delhi’s hospitality sector, prompting a deeper ongoing investigation into accountability and regulatory failures. (PC: News 18)

Supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), led by Abhijeet Dipke, assembled at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar to stage a protest highlighting issues related to education reforms, exam irregularities, and youth unemployment. The demonstrators demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, alleging administrative failures in the education system. The protest witnessed a significant crowd as participants raised slogans and submitted their demands to authorities. Security personnel were deployed to maintain order while monitoring the situation closely. Organisers claimed the movement represents growing frustration among students and job seekers. The demonstration has intensified political debate over education policy and youth welfare, drawing attention from national media and public figures supporting civic activism. (PC: X)

Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that any sanctions or threats directed at India would ultimately “boomerang,” emphasizing India’s growing global influence. Speaking in the context of shifting geopolitical alliances, he highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has strengthened its strategic autonomy and international standing. Putin praised India-Russia relations, describing them as stable and mutually respectful despite external pressures. He suggested that attempts to pressure India economically or politically would be counterproductive in the long run. The remarks come amid ongoing global tensions involving sanctions regimes and trade realignments. The statement reinforces India’s position as a key global player balancing relationships with multiple major powers while maintaining independent foreign policy decisions. (PC: NDTV)

A report by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) reveals that 13 out of 14 ministers in the Karnataka cabinet are crorepatis, showing high wealth concentration among top leaders. The study also notes that several ministers have declared criminal cases in their election affidavits. Based on candidate disclosures, the report highlights concerns over transparency and accountability in public office. It includes details on assets, liabilities, and legal records submitted during elections. The findings have renewed debate on electoral reforms and the growing presence of wealthy individuals with legal challenges in India’s political system. (PC: ANI)

R Praggnanandhaa has created history by becoming the first Indian to win the prestigious Norway Chess title. Competing against an elite field featuring top grandmasters like Magnus Carlsen, Hikaru Nakamura, and Fabiano Caruana, he delivered a consistent and composed performance throughout the tournament. Praggnanandhaa showcased exceptional strategic depth, strong preparation, and calm endgame skills under pressure, which helped him secure crucial victories and draws in key rounds. His triumph marks a major milestone for Indian chess on the global stage, highlighting the country’s rising dominance in the sport. The victory also strengthens his reputation as one of the brightest young talents in modern chess. (PC: Getty Images)

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), founded by Abhijeet Dipke, has claimed that it has received permission from Delhi Police to hold its planned protest at Jantar Mantar on June 6. The movement, which is focused on issues such as education reforms, exam irregularities, and youth unemployment, has been gaining significant online traction. Earlier reports had suggested that Delhi Police had not received any formal application for permission, raising questions about the legality of the gathering. However, CJP spokespersons now assert that due procedures were followed and approval has been secured. The protest is expected to draw supporters, with activist Sonam Wangchuk also expressing solidarity, warning of a hunger strike if any arrests take place. Authorities have not officially confirmed the permission claim yet. (PC: HT)

A worsening air leak aboard the International Space Station briefly prompted NASA to place five astronauts on standby for a possible evacuation on June 5. The precautionary order followed a sudden increase in air loss within the Russian Zvezda service module, where two leaks were identified. Four Crew-12 members and another NASA astronaut were instructed to move into a docked SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft before the alert was lifted roughly two hours later after consultations with Roscosmos. One leak was sealed, while repairs continued on the second. Officials stressed there was no immediate threat to crew safety, and normal station operations subsequently resumed. (PC: News18)

Russian President Vladimir Putin praised India’s talent pool, educational standards and technological capabilities while addressing the plenary session of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2026. Speaking during a session moderated by Geeta Mohan, Putin described India-Russia relations as trust-based and brotherly. He highlighted India’s globally recognised workforce, particularly its software professionals and coders, saying Indian talent has earned worldwide renown. Putin also called India one of the leading players in the global IT industry and praised its independent foreign policy. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he credited India’s economic growth to sustained government efforts and projected stronger bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors.

State-run Oil India Limited has discovered natural gas at the Sri Vijayapuram-3 exploratory well in the Andaman Sea, marking a significant development in India’s offshore energy exploration efforts. The well, located around 15 kilometres off the east coast of the Andaman Islands, was drilled in waters approximately 355 metres deep. Initial testing conducted at depths exceeding 1,900 metres confirmed the presence of natural gas, with continuous flaring observed during operations. Oil India has begun collecting samples to assess the gas’s quality, composition and commercial potential. The discovery could strengthen domestic energy resources and support India’s long-term energy security objectives if further evaluations prove successful.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was briefed on the capabilities of India’s indigenous Zorawar light tank, a high-altitude combat platform developed to strengthen military preparedness along the Himalayan frontier. Designed jointly by DRDO and L&T, the 25-tonne tank was developed in just 19 months and is tailored for operations in mountainous terrain, particularly along the Line of Actual Control. Zorawar combines mobility, firepower and advanced technology, including AI-enabled systems, modern surveillance capabilities and enhanced protection. It is intended to counter China’s Type-15 light tank and can be rapidly deployed by air, rail or road. The project marks a major milestone in India’s defence self-reliance efforts.