Air India Express has terminated the services of around 25 employees who called in sick at the last minute, causing widespread disruptions to its flight operations. The employees' sudden absence led to the cancellation of over 90 flights. In a termination letter, the airline stated that the employees' actions amounted to a concerted effort to disrupt services, violating company rules and applicable laws. The letter noted that a large number of cabin crew members reported sick around the same time, indicating a pre-meditated abstention from work without a justifiable reason.

Prince Harry was deeply impacted by Kate Middleton's cancer diagnosis, says royal author Christopher Andersen. Once close, Harry learned of Kate's diagnosis through her public announcement. He wants to reconnect, but Prince William's unwillingness due to lingering family tensions makes it unlikely. Kate announced her diagnosis in March, sharing she's in early chemotherapy and seeking privacy. The type of cancer remains undisclosed. Harry's desire to reconnect highlights the complicated family dynamics, making a reconciliation seem distant.

SpaceX launched 23 internet satellites into space on Wednesday from Kennedy Space Center. The Falcon 9 rocket's first stage returned to Earth and landed on a droneship in the Atlantic Ocean, its third launch and landing. The upper stage deployed the Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit. This was SpaceX's 47th orbital mission and its 32nd dedicated to the Starlink broadband mega constellation. The company has conducted multiple successful launches and landings in 2024. The mission marked another step forward in SpaceX's efforts to provide global internet connectivity through its Starlink satellite network.

Russia has come out in support of India, rejecting US claims of an Indian plot to assassinate a pro-Khalistan activist. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the US has provided no reliable evidence and is disrespecting India's sovereignty. She criticized the Washington Post for its coverage, saying the term "repressive regime" better applies to Washington's own policies. Russia's support comes as tensions between India and the US continue over the alleged plot against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. India has denied any involvement, and Russia's backing adds weight to its stance.

Maldives' Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer arrives in India for crucial talks amidst strained relations. Zameer's visit aims to mend ties following Maldives' call for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel. Scheduled discussions with top Indian officials to cover various bilateral and regional issues. Both sides express hope for productive talks to boost cooperation. India extends a warm welcome, emphasizing the visit's significance. Talks with Indian counterpart Dr S Jaishankar to address mutual concerns. Zameer's visit expected to give momentum to bilateral cooperation.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami took action against forest personnel for neglecting forest fires in Nainital and Pauri Garhwal districts. He stressed reviving local fire management traditions and involving the public in maintaining fire lines. Dhami prioritized water conservation in forest projects and directed the creation of ponds to increase moisture levels. He commended the work of the Himalayan Environmental Studies and Conservation Organization and proposed engaging self-help groups to collect pine needles, aiming to prevent future fires.

The Election Commission of India has ordered repolling at four booths in Madhya Pradesh's Betul Lok Sabha seat following a bus fire carrying polling staff and EVMs. The incident prompted the directive after a report from the district administration. Repolling will occur in Chikhlimal, Dudar Raiyat, Kunda Raiyat, and Rajapur of the Multai assembly segment. Betul's Collector, Narendra Suryavanshi, confirmed preparations are underway, with liquor shops to close within a 3 km radius of polling stations. The move aims to ensure a fair electoral process after the unfortunate mishap.

In a major breakthrough, security forces killed a top Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander and National Investigation Agency's (NIA) most wanted terrorist, Basit Ahmed Dar, in an encounter in Kashmir's Kulgam district on Wednesday night. Two other LeT terrorists, Momin Gulzar and Fahim Ahmed Baba, were also killed in the operation. Dar, who led the LeT offshoot group The Resistant Front (TRF), was involved in 18 killings, including those of security personnel, civilians, and minorities. The Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, hailed the operation as a significant achievement.

Karan Brar, accused of killing Hardeep Singh Nijjar, entered Canada on a student visa. He claimed to have obtained the visa quickly through a Punjab-based agency, EthicWorks Immigration Services. A promotional video showed Brar holding a passport with a Canadian study permit. He enrolled in a Calgary college in 2020. The college confirmed his attendance but denied any ties to the agency. The investigation is ongoing. This raises concerns about the student visa process and potential security risks.

In a significant move, the US paused a bomb shipment for Israel amid fears of a major ground operation in Rafah, Gaza. The shipment included 1,800 2,000lb bombs and 1,700 500lb bombs. Concerns over civilian casualties and humanitarian needs led to the delay, despite Israel's ongoing conflict with Hamas. The decision reflects growing pressure on President Biden to address the escalating violence. Talks between the US and Israel are ongoing, with the US emphasizing the potential impact of bombs in densely populated areas. The delay underscores US efforts to mitigate civilian harm in Gaza.