US to Double Tariffs on Steel and Aluminium to 50%, Impacting Global Trade
US President Donald Trump announced a hike in tariffs on most foreign steel and aluminium imports to 50%, effective Wednesday. This move, aimed at protecting US industries and national security, is expected to impact businesses like automakers and construction, potentially raising consumer prices. While the UK receives a partial exemption, maintaining a 25% tariff, the steep increase for other nations could spark retaliatory measures and further strain global trade relations.
RBI Monetary Policy Committee Meets; Third Consecutive Repo Rate Cut Expected
The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has begun its meeting, with a decision on interest rates expected June 6. Economists anticipate a third consecutive 25 basis points cut in the repo rate to 5.75%, driven by benign inflation and signs of an economic slowdown. With CPI inflation below RBI's target and moderating GDP growth, the central bank is likely to maintain an accommodative stance to support domestic growth amid global uncertainties.
Punjab YouTuber Arrested for Alleged Espionage Links with Pakistani Operatives
Punjab Police arrested YouTuber Jasbir Singh, who runs the channel "JaanMahal Video," for alleged involvement in a Pakistani espionage network. Singh is accused of connections with Pakistani intelligence operative Shakir (alias Jutt Randhawa) and expelled Pakistani High Commission official Ehsan-ur-Rahim. He reportedly attended Pakistan National Day in Delhi on Danish's invitation and travelled to Pakistan multiple times. This arrest follows that of Haryana-based YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra in a similar case.
AAP's Manish Sisodia, Satyendar Jain Summoned in Alleged Delhi School Classroom Scam
Delhi's Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has summoned AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain in connection with an alleged ₹2,000 crore scam involving the construction of classrooms in government schools. The FIR, filed on April 30, cites financial irregularities and inflated costs. Sisodia, former Finance and Education Minister, and Jain, former PWD Minister, face questioning over lapses flagged by the Central Vigilance Commission. AAP has called the summons a "calculated political ploy" by the BJP.
Three Missing Indian Men Rescued by Iranian Police from Hostage Takers
Three Indian nationals from Punjab, who went missing in Iran after being lured with job offers in Australia, have been rescued by Iranian police in Varamin, southern Tehran. The men were allegedly abducted by a network of agents from Pakistan who demanded a ransom. The Indian Embassy in Tehran had actively pursued their case with Iranian authorities. The men were taken to Iran via Dubai as part of a "donkey route" scheme.
New South Korean President Pledges Strong US-Japan Ties, Dialogue with North Korea
South Korea's new President Lee Jae-myung, in his inaugural address, vowed to strengthen trilateral ties with the U.S. and Japan, and restart dialogue with North Korea to establish peace. He emphasized pragmatic diplomacy based on national interests and strong deterrence against North Korean aggression through the South Korea-U.S. alliance. Revitalizing the domestic economy amid global shifts and addressing inequality are his top priorities for his five-year term.
Elon Musk Denounces Trump's Funding Bill as "Disgusting Abomination"
Elon Musk has strongly criticized President Trump's proposed tax breaks and spending cuts bill, labeling it a "disgusting abomination" on X. This marks a sharp turn for Musk, a previous Trump supporter, as the legislation could curtail subsidies beneficial to Tesla. He threatened to campaign against politicians supporting the bill. The move adds complexity for Republicans navigating Trump's agenda and Musk's influence, with some fiscally conservative senators echoing Musk's concerns over federal spending.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Clinch Maiden IPL Title; Victory Parade Today!
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ended their 18-year wait by winning their first IPL title, defeating Punjab Kings by six runs in a thrilling final. Virat Kohli top-scored with 43 as RCB posted 190/9, and Krunal Pandya's crucial 2/17 helped restrict PBKS. Celebrations include a meeting with the Karnataka CM and an open-top bus victory parade from Vidhana Soudha to M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru today, allowing fans to join.
US Commerce Secretary Signals Imminent India-US Trade Deal
US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick expressed strong optimism for an India-US trade deal in the near future, stating both nations have found a "very good place" for agreement. He highlighted ongoing discussions to reduce India's high tariffs in exchange for market access for US businesses. Lutnick noted India's positive steps, such as shifting military purchases towards the US and addressing concerns over initiatives like a BRICS currency, fostering a stronger bilateral relationship.
Punjab Man Arrested for Sharing Army Secrets with Pakistan's ISI
Punjab Police arrested Gagandeep Singh from Tarn Taran for allegedly sharing sensitive information about Indian Army movements during "Operation Sindoor" with Pakistan's ISI. He was reportedly in contact with Pakistan-based Khalistani supporter Gopal Singh Chawla and received payments for espionage. A mobile phone containing classified data and details of over 20 ISI contacts was recovered. An FIR under the Official Secrets Act has been registered as investigations continue into the espionage network.
PM Modi Assures Full Central Support for Flood-Ravaged Assam
Prime Minister Narendra Modi telephoned Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to assess the severe flood situation in the state, assuring complete support from the Central government for relief and rehabilitation efforts. Continuous rainfall has inundated large areas, impacting over 5.35 lakh people across more than 20 districts and claiming 11 lives due to floods and landslides. Sarma briefed the PM on the ongoing relief operations undertaken by the state government.
Allahabad High Court Upholds Rs 273.5 Crore GST Penalty on Patanjali Ayurved
The Allahabad High Court dismissed Patanjali Ayurved Limited's petition challenging a Rs 273.5 crore GST penalty. The court affirmed that tax authorities can impose penalties under Section 122 of the GST Act through civil proceedings, without requiring criminal trials. The Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI) had accused Patanjali of "circular trading of tax invoices only on paper without actual supply of goods," leading to the substantial penalty.
Ayodhya's Ram Temple Aglow for Ram Darbar Pran Pratishtha
The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi temple in Ayodhya has been vibrantly illuminated ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony for the Ram Darbar, scheduled from June 3 to June 5. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is expected to attend the Saryu Jayanti Janmotsav celebrations in Ayodhya on June 5. Concurrently, local authorities have initiated measures to ban meat sales along key religious routes like Ram Path, with discussions on a liquor ban also underway.
Indian-Origin Man Critical in Australia After Police Arrest During Street Argument
Gaurav Kundi, a 42-year-old Indian-origin man, is on life support in Adelaide, Australia, with severe brain and neck injuries following a police arrest. The incident occurred when police intervened in a loud street argument between Kundi and his partner, Amritpal Kaur. While Kaur stated Kundi was drunk but not violent, she alleges excessive force by officers during the arrest. South Australia Police are investigating the circumstances, including a review of body camera footage.
Odisha Police Plan Extensive Security for Puri's Rath Yatra
Odisha Police are implementing massive security arrangements for the annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Puri, commencing June 27. Measures include CCTV surveillance, K9 squads, robust traffic management, and enhanced patrolling to prevent stampedes and criminal activities, ensuring devotee safety. With numerous VVIPs, including Union ministers, expected to attend, authorities are coordinating closely for a smooth festival, which begins with the 'Snan Yatra' on June 11 and spans a fortnight.