IPL 2025 Suspended Indefinitely Amid India-Pakistan Tensions; Foreign Players Depart
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) suspended the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 indefinitely due to escalating India-Pakistan tensions. The decision came after a match was abandoned mid-way, with officials citing the inappropriateness of continuing cricket during the conflict. Franchises like Royal Challengers Bengaluru confirmed the safe return of players and staff to their home bases, while numerous overseas players and support staff have begun flying out of India following the league's suspension.
BSF Kills Seven Terrorists, Foils Major Infiltration Bid in J&K's Samba Sector
The Border Security Force (BSF) successfully foiled a major infiltration attempt along the International Border in Jammu and Kashmir's Samba sector, killing seven heavily armed terrorists. The incident occurred on the intervening night of May 8-9 when a large group of terrorists, reportedly aided by fire cover from Pakistan Rangers, tried to cross into Indian territory. BSF troops detected the attempt through their surveillance grid and neutralized the threat.
India Opposes Fresh IMF Loans to Pakistan Citing Terror Financing Concerns
India opposed the International Monetary Fund's proposal for new loans totaling $2.3 billion to Pakistan, abstaining from the crucial vote. New Delhi expressed concerns that the funds could be misused to finance state-sponsored cross-border terrorism, especially amid the recent conflict. Despite India's opposition, Pakistan's Prime Minister's Office later announced that the IMF board had approved an immediate disbursement of approximately $1 billion under the existing Extended Fund Facility arrangement for the country's troubled economy.
Govt Assures Ample Essential Supplies, Banks to Maintain Services Amid Tensions
Amid heightened India-Pakistan tensions, the Indian government moved to reassure the public about the availability of essential goods and services. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman directed banks to ensure uninterrupted customer services. Union Food Minister Pralhad Joshi warned traders against hoarding, stating ample food stocks are available. Similarly, oil companies assured sufficient supplies of petrol, diesel, and LPG, advising against panic buying. These measures aim to maintain stability and prevent shortages.
26/11 Mumbai Attack Accused Tahawwur Rana Sent to Tihar Jail
Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key accused in the 2008 Mumbai 26/11 terror attacks, has been sent to Tihar Jail until June 6 by a Delhi court. Rana was produced before a special National Investigation Agency (NIA) judge under heavy security. His extradition from the US was approved last year for his alleged role in the attacks orchestrated by Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, which claimed 166 lives.
Supreme Court Urges Centre Not to Discharge Women SSC Army Officers Denied Permanent Commission
The Supreme Court on Friday urged the Central government not to release Short Service Commission (SSC) women Army officers who are challenging the denial of permanent commission to them. Hearing their plea, the apex court emphasized the importance of their morale, stating, "Let's not bring their morale down." The case pertains to ongoing efforts by women officers to achieve parity with their male counterparts regarding permanent roles within the armed forces.
India Thwarts Pakistani Drone & Missile Attacks; PM Modi Reviews "Operation Sindoor"
Amid escalating India-Pakistan tensions, India successfully thwarted Pakistani attempts to target military installations using Turkish drones and missiles. Indian forces responded proportionately, employing advanced air defence systems like S-400, Barak-8, and Akash. Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed "Operation Sindoor" with top security officials, including NSA Ajit Doval and service chiefs, to discuss future actions and ongoing ceasefire violations by Pakistan, following India's earlier strikes on terror infrastructure.
India Strikes Back: 'Operation Sindoor' Neutralises 100 Terrorists, Lahore Air Defence
Following the Pahalgam terror attack, India launched 'Operation Sindoor', striking nine terror targets in Pakistan and PoK. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh informed political leaders that precision strikes neutralized around 100 terrorists, including JeM's Abdul Rauf Azhar, brother of Masood Azhar. India also countered Pakistani drone and missile attacks on military targets in North/West India, successfully neutralising Pakistan's Air Defence system in Lahore. Pakistan reported four soldiers injured in the Lahore drone attack.
Pahalgam Attack Was 'Original Escalation'; De-escalation Choice With Pakistan: India
India firmly stated that the Pahalgam terror attack, killing 26 tourists, was the "original escalation" by Pakistan, compelling India's response via 'Operation Sindoor'. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasized that India's actions were "controlled, precise, measured, and non-escalatory". External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar warned that any future military attack on India would receive a firm response. India asserted that the choice for de-escalation now rests with Pakistan, which initiated the hostilities.
Nationwide Alert: Airports Shut, Blackouts in Border Regions, States Bolster Security
India remains on high alert due to escalating tensions with Pakistan. The government extended the closure of at least 24 airports, primarily in northern and western regions, until May 15. Border areas in states like Punjab, Jammu, and Rajasthan experienced blackouts, sirens, and sounds of explosions. The Home Ministry urged states to strengthen civil defence measures, and many states cancelled leaves for essential government personnel to ensure preparedness and public safety.
Govt Briefs All Parties on Operation Sindoor; Opposition Backs Forces
The central government held an all-party meeting to brief leaders on 'Operation Sindoor' and the subsequent situation. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh shared details, stating around 100 terrorists were neutralized. Opposition parties, including Congress represented by Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, expressed full support for the government and armed forces. Kharge mentioned Rahul Gandhi suggested convening a Parliament session to send a unified message globally and boost public confidence.
US Adopts Neutral Stance on India-Pak Tensions; India to Challenge Pak IMF Loan, World Bank Rebuffs Pakistan on Indus Treaty
The United States has largely distanced itself from the India-Pakistan conflict, with Vice President J.D. Vance stating it's "fundamentally none of our business" while urging de-escalation. Meanwhile, India plans to oppose Pakistan's $1.3 billion IMF loan request, highlighting its terror record. In a further setback for Pakistan, the World Bank clarified it has no role in mediating the Indus Water Treaty dispute following India's actions regarding the treaty.
India Bans Pakistan-Origin Content on OTT Platforms Amid Tensions
The Indian government, through the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, has directed OTT platforms, streaming services, and digital intermediaries to immediately stop streaming Pakistan-origin content, including web series and films. This advisory comes amid heightened tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack and India's retaliatory strikes (Operation Sindoor). The move aims to counter the wave of fake news and propaganda allegedly emanating from Pakistan.
World Reacts: US, UK Urge De-escalation; Nations Issue Travel Advisories
International powers responded to the escalating India-Pakistan tensions. The UK Parliament debated the situation, appealing for de-escalation efforts. US President Trump offered help, urging both nations to stop "tit for tat" actions, while a top US Army General stated the situation is being watched closely. Amidst the conflict, Singapore advised citizens to defer non-essential travel to J&K and Pakistan, while Israel revised its advisory urging nationals to leave the Kashmir region immediately.
Heightened Security: 13 Civilians Killed in LoC Firing, Borders on Alert, Airports Shut
The India-Pakistan escalation has had significant civilian impact and prompted security measures. Pakistan's ceasefire violations killed 13 civilians and injured 59 along the LoC in J&K's Poonch sector. Border states Punjab and Rajasthan are on high alert, cancelling police leave and closing schools in border districts. Air travel was severely disrupted, with 27 airports shut until May 10, leading to the cancellation of over 430 domestic flights.