Actor Rajpal Yadav has addressed misconceptions surrounding his jail term, stating he was not imprisoned due to inability to repay a ₹5 crore debt but because of a larger legal issue. The case stems from a cheque bounce dispute linked to a loan taken in 2010 for his film Ata Pata Laapata, which failed commercially. Yadav revealed that if it were just about ₹5 crore, the matter would have been resolved earlier, as losses escalated significantly. He also defended himself against fraud allegations, emphasizing that film failures are common and not criminal acts, while expressing faith in the judiciary. (PC: HT)

US President Donald Trump has announced the extension of the ceasefire with Iran, delaying its expiry to allow time for Tehran to submit a formal proposal and continue negotiations. The move, reportedly influenced by mediation efforts from Pakistan, aims to prevent further military escalation and keep diplomatic channels open. However, the US will maintain its naval blockade of Iranian ports, which Iran has criticised as a violation of the truce. Uncertainty remains as Iran has not confirmed participation in upcoming talks, while both sides continue to exchange warnings, highlighting fragile peace prospects. (PC: India Today)

At least 13 people were killed and over 40 injured after a massive explosion at a firecracker manufacturing unit in Mundathikode, Thrissur, during preparations for the famous Thrissur Pooram. The blast occurred on April 21, 2026, when workers were handling fireworks materials inside the facility. Many victims suffered severe burn injuries, with five reported in critical condition. Around 40–70 workers were believed to be present at the site. Rescue efforts were hampered by continuous smaller explosions. Authorities have launched an investigation, with suspected safety lapses and improper storage of explosives being key concerns. 

Prime Minister Balen Shah is facing growing protests in Nepal weeks after taking office. Demonstrations have spread across Kathmandu and reached Singha Durbar. Students and political groups are opposing the government’s move to sideline student unions. Many called it a “repressive approach”. Another trigger is a customs duty on goods brought from India, which residents say affects daily needs. Protesters are also demanding the resignation of Home Minister Sudan Gurung over alleged financial issues. The government now faces pressure on multiple fronts. (PC: India Today)

Police in Bengaluru have arrested a 27-year-old woman for allegedly killing her partner at her home in Ajanapura on Tuesday. The victim, Kiran, had been called over in the morning. Police said she tied him to a chair and later set him on fire. Officers suspect the act was planned in advance. “There is a strong suspicion that the petrol was arranged earlier,” an officer said. The two worked together and had been in a relationship for about a year. Police said tensions had grown over marriage. The accused is in custody and further investigation is underway. (PC: HT)

The Election Commission of India will examine a complaint by Opposition parties against Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his April 18 address. Leaders from Left parties and others wrote to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging the speech violated the Model Code of Conduct. Sources said the matter will be reviewed by the Commission’s code division. The poll code has been in force since March 15. CPI(M) leader M A Baby said using a public broadcaster during elections “creates an uneven playing field”. Around 700 citizens also filed similar complaints. (PC: X)

One year after the militant attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 tourists, families of victims say the grief remains deep. The April 22, 2025 attack was one of the deadliest on civilians in Kashmir in decades. Aishanya Dwivedi, whose husband Shubham was killed during their trip, said she has kept their room unchanged. “I did not get enough time to make a lot of memories,” she said. Rajesh Narwal, father of naval officer Vinay Narwal, said the family still cannot speak about the loss. “We are still grieving,” he said. Both families are trying to rebuild life after tragedy. (PC: BBC)

A woman in Mumbai confronted Maharashtra minister Girish Mahajan after a BJP protest rally caused heavy traffic in Worli on Tuesday. She had been stuck for hours while going to pick up her child from school. The woman stepped out of her vehicle and walked toward the rally. “Get out of here. You are causing a traffic jam,” she told the minister. She also asked why the march was not held at a nearby open ground. Police officers later moved her aside and heard her complaint. A video of the confrontation spread widely online and drew political reactions. 

Violence erupted inside a gurdwara in Moers, leaving multiple people injured after two groups clashed during a prayer gathering. Witnesses reported chaos, with kirpans, knives, pepper spray, and a suspected blank-firing pistol used amid panic inside the premises. Nearly 100 police personnel, including a Special Task Force and a helicopter, were deployed to control the situation. Authorities recovered cartridge cases but found no active gunman; one suspect is in custody. According to reports by Bild and Neue Ruhr Zeitung, the clash may be linked to an internal dispute over gurdwara management and community funds. Investigations remain ongoing.

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill has cleared Parliament, meaning anyone aged 17 or younger today in the United Kingdom will never legally buy cigarettes. The law raises the legal smoking age annually, aiming to eliminate future smokers. It also expands government powers over nicotine product flavours, marketing, and packaging, while tightening vaping restrictions in areas like cars with children, playgrounds, schools, and hospitals. Health minister Baroness Merron called it a “landmark” intervention to save lives. Critics, including Lord Naseby, warned of impacts on retailers and stressed education over restrictions. (PC: X)