Senior Republicans reacted strongly to Former US President Donald Trump’s conviction on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. They accused the trial of being politically motivated and criticized the judicial system. Trump called the trial "rigged" and a "disgrace." His campaign saw a surge in donations and began selling special caps. Experts warn that this distrust in institutions could fuel political unrest in an already volatile election year. Historian Tim Naftali noted that Trump's actions are likely to increase partisan attacks on the judicial system, posing a significant threat to democratic stability.

Delhi court has reserved its order on Arvind Kejriwal's bail plea in the Delhi liquor scam case until June 5. Kejriwal, currently on interim bail until June 1, filed for regular bail and a seven-day interim bail extension on medical grounds. The court highlighted that Supreme Court rules prohibit him from seeking an interim bail extension. The Enforcement Directorate argued against the interim bail, noting Kejriwal is not in custody. Kejriwal had earlier claimed significant weight loss and high ketone levels, requiring medical tests. He must surrender on Sunday if no extension is granted.

Extreme heat in Northwest India will cause dust storms, reducing rainfall. The IMD predicts dust storms in Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh over the next three days. Temperatures are expected to hit record highs, with places like Churu and Phalodi likely exceeding 50°C. Rising global temperatures will contribute to this trend. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra of IMD explains the dust storms will result from local conditions. Temperatures in many areas will range from 45-48°C. The IMD has clarified an error in Nagpur, where faulty sensors falsely recorded temperatures as high as 56°C.

OpenAI revealed it stopped a covert campaign by Israeli firm STOIC aimed at disrupting the Indian elections. The campaign, called "Zero Zeno," used AI to generate anti-BJP and pro-Congress content. OpenAI acted within 24 hours to block accounts linked to the operation. The BJP labeled this a "dangerous threat" to democracy. Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar called for a deep investigation into the interference. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman emphasized their commitment to preventing misuse of AI in political influence operations.

The southwest monsoon is expected to arrive in Madhya Pradesh by June 15, two days ahead of its usual onset. This comes after the monsoon made an early start over Kerala and the northeastern region on Thursday. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the state is likely to receive above-normal rainfall this season, with an average rainfall of 949 mm. Last year, the monsoon arrived on June 25 but covered the entire state quickly. If the advancement continues normally, the monsoon is expected to reach south Madhya Pradesh by June 17.

The seventh phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections saw a 40.09% voter turnout by 1 PM. Himachal Pradesh led with 48.63%, while Bihar lagged at 35.65%. Voting is happening in 57 constituencies across eight states and a Union Territory. Notable candidates include PM Narendra Modi in Varanasi and actress Kangana Ranaut in Mandi. Voting ends at 6 PM, marking the conclusion of this major electoral process. In West Bengal, BJP candidate Rekha Patra cast her vote, expressing confidence in her party's success despite alleged disruptions.

A Noida businessman, Rajat Bothra, was duped of Rs 9.09 crore in an online trading fraud through a WhatsApp group. The group, which promised lucrative stock market profits, convinced Bothra to invest small amounts, eventually leading to a total loss of Rs 9.09 crore. The fraud was reported to the Cyber Crime police station, and Rs 1.62 crore has been frozen in Bothra's account. Investigations are ongoing, with bank accounts linked to the scam traced to Chennai, Assam, Bhubaneswar, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Police are working to recover the remaining amount and apprehend the cyber criminals.

Pop sensation Katy Perry electrified the pre-wedding celebrations of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in Cannes, delivering a stellar performance of her hit song 'Fireworks.' The star-studded event, also featuring Indian singer-actor Guru Randhawa, saw guests dancing and singing along to Perry's tunes. Perry, draped in a stunning silver gown, reportedly earned millions for her performance at the lavish affair dubbed La Vite E Un Viaggio. With 800 guests aboard a space-themed cruise, the extravagant bash at a £40 million estate in Cannes was a highlight, signaling the grandeur of the impending nuptials on July 12.

Amid the seventh phase of Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal, Sandeshkhali and Bhangar witnessed outbreaks of violence and tension. Allegations surfaced of voter intimidation by the Trinamool Congress (TMC), with the BJP accusing the state police of running a 'midnight operation' under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's directive to intimidate voters. Reports indicate clashes started Friday night, with women protesting against alleged threats by local TMC activists. BJP leaders Suvendu Adhikari and Amit Malviya shared videos and claims of police intimidation. The incidents highlight escalating tensions in the state's electoral landscape.

Prem Lal, one of 29 booth-level officers in Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul-Spiti district, arrives early Thursday morning in icy conditions. Assigned to Tashigang, a village at 15,256 feet, Lal and his team are set to manage the world’s highest polling station. Tashigang, near the India-China Line of Actual Control, falls under the Mandi Lok Sabha seat. This election sees Bollywood star Kangana Ranaut (BJP) against Vikramaditya Singh (Congress). The Tashigang polling station, serving 62 voters from Tashigang and Gete, is designated as a model booth. Lal joins his colleagues, prepared for the demanding days ahead.