Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 594-km-long Ganga Expressway, Uttar Pradesh’s longest highway, connecting Meerut to Prayagraj. The six-lane (expandable to eight) access-controlled corridor is designed to cut travel time from 10–12 hours to about six hours, with a speed limit of up to 120 kmph. Built at an estimated cost of around ₹36,000 crore, the expressway passes through 12 districts, boosting regional connectivity and economic growth. It includes modern features like an emergency airstrip, smart infrastructure, and improved logistics support. The project is expected to enhance trade, reduce congestion, and transform transportation across Uttar Pradesh. (PC: X)

Voting in Phase 2 of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 recorded 89.99% turnout till 5 pm, higher than 80.4% in 2021 for the same seats. Polling will continue till 6 pm. Officials expect the final figure to rise further. The high turnout comes amid complaints from parties over EVM issues and disruptions in some areas. The Election Commission of India called the complaints “serious” and ordered checks. It said a repoll will be held if tampering is confirmed. Despite tensions, voting continued in most booths with security in place. (PC: India Today)

Mamata Banerjee alleged bias by central forces during West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 before casting her vote in Bhabanipur. She told reporters, “Central forces are working for a particular party.” She also claimed “atrocities” since the previous night. “I have never seen this type of democracy,” she said. Banerjee added that no state police were present at booths and alleged the CRPF had “captured it all”. She said, “They should secure the border, instead of securing one political party.” Voting is underway till 6 pm. Observers expect turnout to match or exceed the high participation seen in the first phase. 

The United Arab Emirates can increase oil exports to India after leaving OPEC. From May 1, it is no longer bound by output limits. Officials called it a “policy-driven evolution aligned with long-term market fundamentals”. The move allows higher production and more shipments through the Habshan-Fujairah pipeline. This route bypasses the Strait of Hormuz, a key global chokepoint. The pipeline can carry up to 1.5 million barrels per day. India, which imports most of its oil, may benefit from stable and quicker supplies. The UAE already provides about 9–10% of India’s crude needs. (PC: India Today)

Voting was stopped at some booths in Falta during Bengal Phase 2 polls after the Bharatiya Janata Party alleged EVM tampering. The party said its voting button was “blocked using a tape” in several booths. BJP leader Amit Malviya demanded repolling in affected areas. The Trinamool Congress denied the charges and called them false. Spokesperson Riju Dutta said the matter falls under the Election Commission. Officials said complaints will be checked and repolling ordered if needed. The area is part of Diamond Harbour, linked to Abhishek Banerjee. (PC: NDTV)

The Board of Control for Cricket in India said it will seek an explanation from Riyan Parag after a video showed him vaping in the dressing room. The clip was captured during an Indian Premier League match between Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings. It went viral on social media. A BCCI official said, “We will be seeking an explanation… as vaping is not allowed.” The board added that further action will depend on his response. The incident reportedly happened after Parag was dismissed during the match in Mullanpur. 

Anant Ambani has offered to relocate hippos linked to Pablo Escobar to India. The animals are descendants of hippos Escobar kept in Colombia. After his death in 1993, they spread in the wild and multiplied. Reports say about 80 hippos could be moved to a private zoo run by the Ambani family. The proposal aims to help control the growing population. Authorities in Colombia have been exploring ways to manage the animals. The offer has brought attention to the unusual issue of Escobar’s hippos.

Voting in West Bengal’s final phase crossed 61% by early afternoon amid reports of tension and complaints. A BJP candidate, the mother of the RG Kar victim, alleged, “TMC workers… attacked me while shouting ‘go back’.” The Bharatiya Janata Party also claimed its symbol was blocked on EVMs in some booths. The Trinamool Congress denied the charges. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused central forces of acting for the BJP. Officials said polling was largely peaceful despite incidents. Repolling in some booths is being considered as authorities review complaints. (PC: HT)

Tensions rose during Phase 2 voting in West Bengal as Suvendu Adhikari faced off with Trinamool Congress supporters outside a booth in Bhabanipur. Supporters raised “Joy Bangla” slogans, while Adhikari responded with “Jai Shri Ram.” He also called the crowd “outsiders.” Security forces used mild force to disperse the gathering. Elsewhere, reports of clashes, EVM issues and vandalism came from several districts. A BJP agent was allegedly attacked in Nadia, while protests were reported in Howrah after a voting delay. Officials said polling remained largely peaceful despite scattered incidents. (PC: X)

JD Vance has raised concerns that Donald Trump may not be getting full facts on the Iran war, a report said. In private meetings, he questioned claims made by Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth about US success. Officials said Vance asked if the “rosy portrayal” of the war was accurate. He also raised concerns about falling missile stockpiles. Publicly, Vance has praised Hegseth, saying he is “doing a great job.” Reports suggest he is avoiding direct conflict but wants clarity on strategy. Some officials believe the briefings may be overly positive. (PC: NDTV)