Top 5 news of the day: Massive anti-terror ops launched in J&K; Centre defends Waqf law in SC; and more

Today’s top stories cover major developments in politics, international relations, business and sports. The terror attack in Pahalgam has drawn international solidarity while back in India, the Centre defended changes to the Waqf law. The Supreme Court issued a strong message to Rahul Gandhi over his remarks on Savarkar. Meanwhile, India’s forex reserves see a significant boost, and cricket icon Sehwag shares grounded advice for young IPL sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi.
Massive operations in J&K to nab Pahalgam perpetrators
The operation to catch three escaped terrorists has entered its second day, with security forces tightening their multi layered cordon. Searches are focused on Udhampur’s forested areas and nearby regions in Kishtwar, Kathua, Rajouri, and Poonch. According to a security official, the army, police, and CRPF are continuing their efforts in Dudu-Basantgarh to track the fugitives. On April 22, the serene meadows of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir turned into a scene of unspeakable horror, when terrorists launched a brutal attack that claimed 26 lives. Watch latest updates
Centre defends Waqf amendments in SC
The Centre told the Supreme Court that the Waqf Amendment Act is a legitimate legislative action and does not infringe on religious freedoms. It emphasised inclusivity, noting that only two non-Muslims would be allowed among 22 council members. Dismissing the petitions as based on false premises, the government said the amendments followed an in-depth review and aimed to curb misuse of waqf-related provisions, ensuring accountability and better governance of religious endowments. Read full story
SC stays Rahul Gandhi summons in Savarkar defamation case
The Supreme Court on Friday stayed the Allahabad high court order refusing to quash summons to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in connection with the defamation case concerning his remarks about Veer Savarkar. It warned Gandhi against making irresponsible statements about revered freedom fighters and reminded him of Indira Gandhi’s praise for Savarkar. The remarks, made during the 2022 Bharat Jodo Yatra, led to legal action. Read full story
Forex reserves hit $686.1 billion in April
India’s foreign exchange reserves jumped by $8.31 billion to reach $686.145 billion for the week ending April 18. The Reserve Bank of India noted consistent growth over seven weeks. The surge includes a $4.57 billion rise in gold reserves and a $3.5 billion increase in foreign currency assets. SDRs and IMF reserve positions also saw marginal gains. The reserves are now inching closer to the all-time high of $704.885 billion recorded in September 2024. Read full story
Sehwag’s wake-up call to young IPL star Suryavanshi
Cricket legend Virender Sehwag has urged 14-year-old IPL newcomer Vaibhav Suryavanshi to stay grounded amid early fame. Suryavanshi, who debuted with a Rs 1.1 crore contract and a strong performance, was advised to focus on long-term consistency, citing Virat Kohli as an example. Despite a blazing 52-run start with Jaiswal, Suryavanshi’s Royals lost to RCB, who were powered by Kohli and Padikkal’s half-centuries. Read full story