NTA Announces NEET UG 2026 Re-Exam Date Following Cancellation

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has scheduled the NEET UG 2026 re-examination for June 21 after the initial May test was scrapped.

In a significant move to restore the integrity of medical entrance evaluations, the National Testing Agency (NTA) on Friday officially announced that the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test-Undergraduate (NEET-UG) 2026 will be re-conducted on June 21, 2026. The decision follows the dramatic cancellation of the May 3 exam earlier this week amid widespread allegations of paper leaks and institutional irregularities.

The re-exam will be held across the country on a Sunday, aiming to accommodate the over 22 lakh aspirants who find themselves back at the starting line.

High-level meeting precedes announcement

The announcement comes less than 24 hours after a high-stakes review meeting held at the residence of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Senior officials from the Ministry of Education and the NTA reportedly deliberated late into Thursday night to finalize a timeline that would minimize the delay in the academic calendar while ensuring foolproof security measures.

The NTA took to X (formerly Twitter) on Friday morning to confirm the schedule. "The National Testing Agency, with approval from the Government of India, has scheduled the NEET (UG) 2026 re-examination for Sunday, June 21, 2026," the post read. The agency further urged students and parents to rely strictly on official channels for updates to avoid misinformation.

CBI intensifies paper leak probe

As the NTA prepares for the logistical challenge of a nationwide re-test, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has significantly ramped up its crackdown on the alleged "paper leak mafia." On Thursday, the agency detained five individuals and formally arrested two more suspects believed to be the kingpins of the operation.

Sources close to the investigation indicate that the CBI is now scrutinizing the internal processes of the NTA. Investigators are looking into whether any insiders facilitated the breach or if the leak occurred during the transportation of sensitive materials to exam centers.

Logistical hurdles for 22 lakh students

The cancellation has left over 2.2 million medical aspirants in a state of flux. While some welcome the chance for a fair trial, many are reeling from the mental exhaustion of preparing for one of India's toughest competitive exams twice in two months.

"It's a double-edged sword," said an aspirant from New Delhi. "We are glad the cheaters are being caught, but the heat of June and the pressure of doing it all over again is daunting."

Education experts suggest that the June 21 date provides just enough time for the NTA to overhaul its digital security and set a fresh paper, though it will likely push back the subsequent counseling and admission sessions by several weeks.

Tightened security for June 21

To prevent a repeat of the May 3 debacle, the Education Ministry is expected to implement "multi-layered" security protocols for the re-exam. This may include biometric enhancements at centers and a change in the distribution chain of physical question papers.

The NTA has advised candidates to keep a close watch on the official portal for the release of fresh admit cards and specific guidelines regarding the NEET UG 2026 Re-Exam Date.

Congress Names VD Satheesan as Kerala Chief Minister After Prolonged Deliberations

Paravur MLA to lead UDF government following 102-seat victory

The Congress on Thursday named senior leader VD Satheesan as the Chief Minister-designate of Kerala, ending days of intense speculation and internal consultations within the party. The announcement comes nearly 10 days after the United Democratic Front (UDF) secured a decisive mandate in the state assembly elections.

Satheesan, who represents the Paravur constituency in Ernakulam district, is expected to take oath in the coming days. The development was welcomed by Congress leaders, with Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president Sunny Joseph terming it “a very good decision” that would strengthen the party and the alliance.

High command steps in after suspense

The selection process witnessed considerable suspense for over nine days, with multiple names doing the rounds. Congress high command had summoned several senior leaders, including former state unit presidents, to Delhi earlier this week for final discussions. A key meeting was held at Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence on May 9.

Party General Secretary Jairam Ramesh had indicated on Wednesday that all internal consultations had been completed, paving the way for the announcement. Sources said the delay was due to careful assessment of various factors, including legislative support and alliance sentiments.

Preference vs final choice

According to party insiders, Rahul Gandhi’s initial preference was for KC Venugopal. At a meeting of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP), Venugopal reportedly received backing from 75-80 per cent of the MLAs. Satheesan secured support from six legislators during the initial round of discussions.

However, the situation evolved in the following days. Three former state presidents extended support to Satheesan, which appears to have tilted the balance. Crucially, key UDF allies — the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and Kerala Congress (Joseph) — also conveyed their backing for the Paravur MLA.

UDF’s strong mandate

The Congress-led UDF registered a significant victory in the recently held assembly polls, winning 102 seats in the 140-member Kerala Legislative Assembly. The result marked a clear shift away from the Left Democratic Front (LDF), which had been in power for the previous term.

Despite the comfortable majority, the delay in naming the Chief Minister had invited criticism from the opposition, particularly the CPI(M), which questioned the Congress’s ability to provide stable governance.

Satheesan’s political profile

A seasoned politician and former Leader of Opposition in the assembly, VD Satheesan enjoys considerable experience both inside and outside the legislature. Known for his organisational skills and sharp debating abilities, he has held several key positions within the party over the decades. His selection is being seen as a move that balances experience with the need for a fresh face at the helm.

Party workers in several districts expressed relief at the resolution of the leadership question, hoping it would allow the new government to focus on immediate governance challenges including infrastructure, employment, and flood preparedness.

Challenges ahead for new dispensation

The incoming UDF government will assume office at a time when Kerala continues to grapple with economic pressures, high unemployment among the youth, and recurring natural calamities. Managing factional equations within the Congress and keeping allies satisfied will be among the early tests for Satheesan.

Observers note that the new Chief Minister will also have to navigate Centre-state relations, especially on issues concerning financial devolution and coastal security.

With the formal swearing-in expected soon, attention now shifts to the composition of the ministry and the priorities the government sets for its five-year term. The smooth transition of leadership within the UDF is being viewed as a positive sign by supporters who hope the alliance can deliver on its poll promises.

Gujarat Cargo Ship Sinks in Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions

MSV Haji Ali hit near Oman coast, all crew rescued

In the latest incident to heighten concerns over maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, a Gujarat-owned cargo ship sank after being struck by what initial reports described as a drone or missile-like projectile on May 13. The vessel, identified as the MSV Haji Ali, was en route from Berbera Port in Somalia to Sharjah when the attack occurred in Omani waters.

Oman Coast Guard teams responded swiftly and rescued all 14 crew members safely despite the ship catching fire after the strike. The vessel became stranded off the Omani coast around 3:30 am, according to ship owner Sultan Ahmed Ansar, a resident of Dwarka in Gujarat.

This marks yet another setback for Indian-linked shipping in the region as the ongoing Iran-related conflict, referred to in Israeli operations as “Operation Roaring Lion,” continues to disrupt vital sea lanes. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global oil and cargo traffic, with multiple vessels already facing threats in recent weeks.

Owner confirms route and timeline

Speaking to local media, Ansar said the Haji Ali was engaged in routine cargo movement when the incident occurred. Details of the exact weapon used are still under investigation, but sources familiar with the matter pointed to heightened activity by regional actors in the area. No group has immediately claimed responsibility.

Indian authorities are monitoring the situation closely. Similar to the safe passage provided to the India-bound LPG tanker MV Sunshine earlier on May 14, naval and maritime agencies have been coordinating security for Indian-flagged or owned vessels traversing the Gulf. The Haji Ali incident, however, ended differently with the loss of the ship.

Netanyahu’s secret UAE visit sparks diplomatic row

Parallel to the maritime incident, a political controversy erupted over reports of a secret visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the United Arab Emirates. Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office confirmed the visit took place during the ongoing operation, but the UAE has denied the claims, creating confusion and diplomatic friction between the two sides.

The visit, if confirmed independently, comes at a sensitive time when backchannel engagements and public posturing often shape narratives in West Asian geopolitics. Analysts suggest such high-level movements could signal efforts to coordinate on security matters amid the broader conflict involving Iran.

Iranian assertions and regional fallout

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, currently in New Delhi for a BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting, claimed that Iranian security forces had prior information about developments in the region. His remarks added to the war of words as multiple actors trade allegations.

Meanwhile, US officials have continued to defend actions against Iran. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated that Iran’s missile capabilities were intended to shield a future nuclear breakout, a charge Tehran has consistently denied. US President Donald Trump, ahead of talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, warned that Iran must compromise or face consequences, while noting discussions on the Hormuz crisis alongside trade issues.

Economic and strategic implications

The sinking of the Haji Ali and repeated incidents in the Strait of Hormuz have raised insurance costs and forced shipping companies to reassess routes. For India, which relies heavily on energy imports through the Gulf, any prolonged disruption poses risks to fuel security and trade.

Gujarat, with its strong maritime connections and ports like Kandla and Mundra, has deep stakes in the region. Families of seafarers, many hailing from coastal districts such as Dwarka, often bear the human cost of these conflicts.

On the diplomatic front, South Korean officials blamed Iran for a separate attack on one of their cargo ships, while operations to clear unexploded ordnance continue in Iranian areas. Hezbollah also reported fresh attacks on Israeli positions in southern Lebanon, adding layers to the multi-front tensions.

Safe passages continue amid uncertainty

Despite the risks, several vessels including a Chinese supertanker carrying two million barrels of crude have managed to transit the strait. Indian agencies continue to extend support to merchant ships, as seen with the MV Sunshine.

As the conflict enters a critical phase, with the US seeking additional defence funding and regional players adjusting positions, the safety of commercial shipping remains a pressing concern. Observers will be watching how Oman, India, and other stakeholders coordinate to secure these vital waters in the coming days.

The incident involving the Gujarat ship once again underscores the fragile balance in one of the world’s most important maritime corridors.

UP storm kills 94, heatwave bakes Rajasthan; IMD issues red alert

A violent thunderstorm accompanied by winds gusting up to 80 kmph swept through 30 districts of Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday, killing at least 94 people. Prayagraj reported the highest number of fatalities at 17, followed by Bhadohi with 16 deaths. Officials confirmed the storm also uprooted hundreds of trees and brought down electricity poles, disrupting road and power networks across large swathes of the state.

Death toll mounts in UP

Among the most distressing reports came from Bareilly, where a young man was swept away along with a tin shed as the wind gained sudden intensity. In Banda, the mercury touched 45.4°C even as the storm lashed other parts. According to state disaster management officials, most deaths were caused by wall collapses, falling trees and flying debris. An alert for strong winds and rain has been issued for 51 districts on Thursday as well.

Heatwave scorches Rajasthan

While UP battled the storm, Rajasthan remained locked in a severe heatwave spell. For the fourth consecutive day, Jaisalmer recorded the country’s highest temperature at 46.1°C on Wednesday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Thursday in Bikaner, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Barmer, warning of extreme heat. Heatwave conditions are also expected in 13 other districts across the state.

Madhya Pradesh on orange alert

More than 25 districts in Madhya Pradesh are reeling under heatwave conditions, which the IMD predicts will continue until May 18. Khajuraho logged 45.4°C on Wednesday. An orange alert for heatwave and “warm nights” – when night temperatures remain unusually high – has been sounded for Indore, Ujjain, Dhar and Ratlam. Local authorities have advised residents, especially the elderly and children, to avoid stepping out between noon and 4 pm.

Haryana sees rising mercury, yellow alert

In Haryana, maximum temperatures rose by 1.1°C over the past 24 hours, with five cities crossing the 40°C mark. Narnaul was the hottest at 42.5°C. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for heatwave conditions in the state starting May 17. Meanwhile, Bihar is bracing for a different kind of weather: seven districts including Purnia and Katihar are under an orange alert for heavy rain on Thursday.

Forecast for next two days

The weather department expects heatwave conditions to persist on May 15 over parts of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Dust storms with winds of 50-60 kmph are likely in Jharkhand. On May 16, rain and strong winds may affect Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan and western UP. Hailstorms are possible in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal and Uttarakhand, along with lightning alerts for Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh and the northeastern states.

Ground reports from Gonda and Unnao showed uprooted neem trees crushing parked cars, while in Mumbai, children were spotted carrying umbrellas even under the harsh sun – a small reminder of how uneven this pre-monsoon season has been. With the red alert still in place, officials have urged people in affected zones to stay indoors and keep emergency helplines handy.

Modi Austerity Appeal Sparks Fuel Cuts in 12 States

Tripura halves office staff, CMs slash convoys after PM's petrol-saving call

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent push for fuel conservation is rippling through state governments, with leaders in 12 states rolling back extravagance in official travel and operations. From slashed convoys to work-from-home mandates, the measures aim to curb petrol-diesel use amid global supply strains.

The momentum picked up after Modi's back-to-back appeals on May 10 in Hyderabad and May 11 in Vadodara. He urged citizens to skip foreign trips, cut gold buys, reduce cooking oil, and opt for public transport like metros and carpooling. "Postpone non-essential travel for weddings or holidays—it's in the national interest," he said in Hyderabad. The next day in Vadodara, he doubled down: use electric buses where possible and bring foreign tourists to India instead.

PM Leads by Example

Modi himself set the tone Wednesday, zipping through Delhi with just two vehicles—far short of the usual 12-15 convoy. Sources in the PMO confirmed the scaled-back setup, signaling top-level commitment to the austerity drive.

States wasted no time. In Uttar Pradesh, the Yogi Adityanath government announced seven key steps Tuesday, including halving convoys for the CM, ministers, MLAs, and officers. They'll also switch to virtual meetings and enforce two work-from-home days weekly. One day a week, officials must use public transport like buses or metros.

Tripura's Bold Staff Rotation

Tripura went furthest on staffing. Only 50% of Group C and D employees will report to offices daily, with the rest working remotely. Departments must draw up weekly rosters, exempting essential services. "This saves expenses and fuel," an official note said, per local reports.

CM Convoys Slashed Across Board

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu ordered a 50% cut in convoy vehicles for district tours, urging ministers and VIPs to travel only when needed. Goa CM Pramod Sawant followed suit, trimming his six-vehicle entourage to three.

Haryana's Nayab Singh Saini pared down to security essentials and pledged one vehicle-free day weekly. Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma's convoy dropped from 14-16 to five vehicles—spotted en route to Jaipur airport Wednesday for a Delhi trip. Odisha CM Mohan Majhi exited office with just four vehicles, including two police ones.

Eco Shifts in Bihar, MP

Bihar saw Deputy CM Samrat Chaudhary arrive at the secretariat in an electric vehicle for Wednesday's cabinet meet, though media noted a trailing 20-vehicle petrol convoy. Ministers are now limiting to one or two cars for events.

Madhya Pradesh clamped down on VIP movements, capping ministers' convoys and banning rally vehicles on tours. CM Mohan Yadav's Z+ secured local Bhopal runs fell from 13 to eight vehicles. Energy Minister Pradyumna Singh Tomar scooted to Panchanan Bhawan on an e-scooter, while High Court Justice DD Bansal cycled three kilometers to work.

Public Transport Push in Delhi, Punjab

Delhi Education Minister Aashish Sood made headlines Tuesday, taking the metro from INA to Karkardooma, then an e-rickshaw to a school event in Surajmal Vihar. Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria directed his office to shun four-wheelers every Wednesday after an officers' huddle.

Maharashtra's Ashish Shelar scrapped a Cannes Film Festival trip, citing tough times and reining in departmental spends.

These steps underscore the Modi austerity appeal's reach, targeting government bloat while nudging public behavior. Officials hint at more measures if fuel prices stay volatile, with eyes on long-term shifts like natural farming to cut fertilizer imports. For now, the changes signal a pragmatic response to economic pressures.

Prateek Yadav’s last rites today in Lucknow; postmortem points to cardiac arrest

Late SP patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav’s younger son Prateek Yadav will be cremated at Baikunth Dham; doctors preserve viscera for further probe.

The final journey of Prateek Yadav, the younger brother of Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav, is set to take place at Lucknow’s Baikunth Dham on Thursday afternoon. Prateek, the son of the late Mulayam Singh Yadav and his second wife Sadhana Gupta, passed away on Wednesday morning. He was 38.

The sudden demise has sent shockwaves through Uttar Pradesh’s political circles, drawing leaders across party lines to the Yadav residence to pay their final respects. Prateek, who largely steered clear of the active political life pursued by his brothers and father, was a well-known figure in the real estate and fitness industry in the state capital.

Postmortem reveals cardiac arrest

Medical authorities at King George’s Medical University (KGMU), where the autopsy was conducted, confirmed on Thursday that the primary cause of death was cardiac arrest. However, the report has added layers to the investigation, noting six injury marks on Prateek's body.

According to hospital sources, three of these injuries appeared to be approximately a week old, while the other three were sustained within 24 hours of his passing. Given the high-profile nature of the case, officials have preserved the viscera for further histopathological examination to rule out any underlying complications.

A family in mourning

The atmosphere at the family's Lucknow residence remained somber throughout the night. Prateek’s wife and BJP leader, Aparna Yadav, who was in Assam at the time of the tragedy, rushed back to Lucknow late Wednesday. Witnesses described an emotional scene as she reached the house, breaking down while embracing her two daughters.

Aparna reportedly stayed beside the body throughout the night. SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, along with his wife and MP Dimple Yadav, were among the first to reach the civil hospital and later the postmortem house on Wednesday. Akhilesh, who shared a complex but private bond with his younger brother, appeared visibly shaken during the morning's rituals.

Medical history and complications

While the postmortem cited cardiac arrest, doctors who had been monitoring Prateek’s health indicated he had been battling a serious lung condition. Sources at the hospital stated he was suffering from pulmonary embolism—a condition where blood clots block the arteries in the lungs. This condition often leads to sudden respiratory distress and can put immense pressure on the heart, eventually triggering the fatal arrest.

Life away from the spotlight

Born in 1987 to Sadhana Gupta and later legally adopted by Mulayam Singh Yadav, Prateek’s upbringing was distinctly different from the rest of the Saifai clan. An alumnus of the University of Leeds in the UK, he chose to invest his energy into his passion for luxury automobiles and high-end fitness centers rather than the rigors of election campaigning.

Despite his wife Aparna Yadav joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2022, Prateek maintained a neutral public stance, often seen as the bridge between the family’s differing political leanings. His presence was a constant at family gatherings, even as the internal dynamics of the Yadav family shifted over the years.

Preparations for final journey

Security has been tightened around the Vikramaditya Marg area and the route leading to Baikunth Dham. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was among the dignitaries who visited the family to offer condolences, briefly interacting with Aparna Yadav and her children.

The funeral procession is expected to begin shortly, with a large number of Samajwadi Party workers and family well-wishers gathering to bid farewell to the 38-year-old.

Mouni Roy Seeks Privacy Amid Divorce Buzz With Suraj Nambiar

Actress denies ‘false narratives’ after social media activity sparks speculation

Actor Mouni Roy has appealed for privacy amid growing rumours surrounding her marriage to businessman Suraj Nambiar after fans noticed changes in the couple’s social media activity earlier this week.

The speculation began after social media users claimed the couple had unfollowed each other on Instagram. Several fan pages also pointed out that Mouni had either removed or archived photographs featuring Suraj from her profile. Reports further suggested that Suraj’s Instagram account was no longer active, adding fuel to ongoing divorce rumours.

Instagram Activity Triggers Buzz

The online chatter intensified late Tuesday evening when screenshots of the couple’s profiles began circulating across entertainment pages and gossip forums. Within hours, hashtags related to Mouni Roy and Suraj Nambiar started trending on X and Instagram.

Neither Mouni nor Suraj has officially confirmed any separation. However, the actress addressed the growing speculation through an Instagram Story, asking media platforms and users to avoid spreading “false narratives”.

“Humbly requesting all the media houses not to publish false narratives and give us space and privacy. Please,” Mouni wrote in her brief statement.

The post was widely shared by fan accounts and entertainment portals soon after it went live.

Silence From The Couple

Despite the online frenzy, the couple has maintained silence beyond Mouni’s appeal for privacy. Sources familiar with celebrity circles said there has been no formal confirmation of divorce proceedings or legal separation.

Reports circulating online suggest Suraj has been based in Dubai while Mouni continues to work primarily out of Mumbai. The long-distance nature of the relationship has become a point of discussion among fans, though no verified details have emerged regarding any marital issues.

For now, much of the speculation remains rooted in social media observations rather than confirmed developments.

Old Interviews Resurface

As rumours gained momentum, several of Mouni’s older interviews discussing marriage and relationships resurfaced online. In one interaction, the actress had spoken about handling disagreements maturely and avoiding prolonged conflicts.

Another interview that went viral showed Mouni describing Suraj not as her “better half” but as her “biggest supporter”. Fans have since revisited these clips, with many expressing hope that the couple is simply choosing to stay private.

Entertainment watchers noted that celebrity relationships often come under intense scrutiny, especially when public social media behaviour changes suddenly.

Dubai Meeting Story Returns

Amid the renewed attention, Mouni and Suraj’s love story has also re-entered public conversation. The two reportedly met during a New Year gathering in Dubai around 2018-19.

In an earlier interview with Curly Tales, Mouni recalled how Suraj confidently approached her at a party and took her phone to dial his own number after she hesitated to share contact details.

The actress had described the gesture as bold and memorable, saying their connection grew naturally over frequent visits and conversations before eventually turning serious.

Goa Wedding Remembered

The couple married in Goa on January 27, 2022, in ceremonies blending Bengali and Malayali traditions. Their wedding photographs quickly became popular across social media, with several celebrities from television and Bollywood attending the celebrations.

Over the past few years, the pair often shared glimpses from vacations, festivals and personal moments online. They were also seen together at industry gatherings and public events.

Suraj, known for his work in investment banking and business ventures in Dubai, has largely stayed away from the entertainment spotlight despite public curiosity surrounding the relationship.

Disha Patani Mention Adds Speculation

Adding another layer to the ongoing rumours, reports claimed actor Disha Patani had also unfollowed Suraj on Instagram. Disha is considered one of Mouni’s close friends and has frequently appeared with the couple during holidays and outings.

The development prompted further speculation online, although neither Disha nor those associated with the actors commented publicly on the matter.

For now, the entertainment industry continues to watch closely, but with no official confirmation from either side, the rumours remain unverified. Mouni Roy’s request for privacy appears to be the only direct response from the couple as attention around their marriage continues to grow.

New order permits hijab, kalava, rudraksha and janeu in classrooms under disciplinary guidelines

The Karnataka government has moved to reverse one of the state's most contentious education policies by formally withdrawing the 2022 hijab ban in schools and colleges. The new directive clears the way for students to wear hijab alongside other religious symbols including kalava, rudraksha and janeu, provided they adhere to institutional discipline and rules.

The decision marks a significant administrative shift nearly four years after the original prohibition sparked widespread unrest across the state's educational institutions.

The controversy erupted in late December 2021 when six Muslim girls at a college in Karnataka's Udupi district were prevented from attending classes in hijab. Their protest quickly snowballed into a statewide flashpoint. Within weeks, Hindu students began appearing in colleges wearing saffron shawls, turning educational spaces into flashpoints for religious tension.

By early 2022, sporadic violence had pushed the state government to intervene with what officials framed as a neutrality measure.

In February 2022, the then-BJP administration issued a sweeping order mandating uniform compliance across government pre-university colleges. The notification barred any clothing deemed to affect "equality, unity and public order" — language broad enough to encompass religious attire.

The effect was immediate and visible. Across government institutions, management began enforcing the directive, turning away hijab-wearing students from classrooms and enforcing what became known as the hijab ban.

The row reached Karnataka High Court by March 2022, where judges upheld the ban, ruling that hijab had not been established as an "essential religious practice" in Islam. The verdict appeared final, but Muslim organisations challenged it in the Supreme Court.

Nearly eight months later, in October 2022, a two-judge Supreme Court bench delivered what effectively became a stalemate. Justice Hemant Gupta sided with the state, supporting the ban. Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia disagreed sharply, arguing that student education and personal choice superseded uniform requirements and calling the ban misguided.

Because the judges split, constitutional precedent required referral to a larger bench for final determination. That larger bench has not delivered a ruling.

The legal limbo persisted for four years. While the larger Supreme Court bench remained seized of the matter, regular hearings stalled. The Karnataka High Court's 2022 order remained the operative legal position — technically still in force since the apex court had not completely overturned it.

Facing mounting pressure and an indefinite wait for judicial closure, the Congress government chose administrative action. Rather than wait further for the Supreme Court's larger bench, state authorities formally withdrew the ban order at the administrative level.

Students can now wear hijab in classrooms, reversing what had become a flashpoint in state education policy. The new framework also legitimises other religious symbols — kalava, rudraksha and janeu among them — provided students remain within school discipline and uniform norms where applicable.

The move effectively acknowledges that restricting religious expression had created more social friction than institutional order.

For students and families who endured the ban, the reversal offers relief after years of navigating school corridors with uncertainty. For some institutional administrators, it may require recalibrating dress code enforcement to balance inclusivity with school discipline.

The decision will likely close a chapter on one of Karnataka's most visible social policy disputes, though questions about implementation and institutional consistency may emerge as the new order settles into practice.

The larger Supreme Court bench, if and when it delivers its verdict, may offer constitutional finality — but administratively, the ban is now history.

Trump, Xi Meet for Strategic Summit in Beijing Amid Trade and Taiwan Tensions

Presidents discuss trade, semiconductors, and contentious Taiwan issue during two-hour talks

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a closely watched two-hour meeting in Beijing on Thursday, with both leaders striking a cautiously optimistic tone even as underlying tensions over trade, Taiwan, and technology remained front and centre.

The meeting at the Great Hall of the People marked Trump's first visit to China in eight years and came with significant ceremonial trappings. Xi welcomed Trump with a guard of honour, while Trump arrived at the airport to a rare high-level reception from Chinese Vice President Han Zheng—a gesture that diplomatic observers noted broke with usual protocol and signalled China's desire to reset relations.

Opening Remarks Set Positive Tone

During opening remarks, both leaders spoke of partnership and mutual benefit. Trump told Xi, "It's an honour to be your friend," and said US-China relations would "be better than ever before." Xi responded by emphasising that the two nations should be "partners and not rivals," calling a stable China-US relationship "a boon for the world."

However, beneath the diplomatic pleasantries lay sharper differences. Xi explicitly warned Trump that mishandling the Taiwan issue could push bilateral ties into "a very dangerous place," according to Chinese state media Xinhua. The Chinese leader called Taiwan "the most important issue" in US-China relations—a clear signal that Beijing sees this as non-negotiable.

Business Delegation Signals Economic Focus

Trump brought with him 17 leading American business executives, including Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Apple's Tim Cook. The presence of such high-profile figures suggested Trump's administration wanted to emphasise economic cooperation and push for increased Chinese purchases of American goods.

Following the presidential talks, Xi met separately with the US business delegation. He told them that China's door "will only open wider" to American businesses and welcomed reciprocal cooperation. The Chinese leader also acknowledged that American companies had been "deeply involved in China's growth."

Multiple Issues on the Table

The agenda covered several contentious areas. Trade tensions remain significant, with Trump having previously warned of imposing heavy tariffs on Chinese goods. Both sides have also clashed over semiconductor technology and rare earth minerals, with China controlling much of the global supply while the US seeks alternatives.

The Taiwan issue looms largest. China considers Taiwan its territory and has consistently opposed US military aid to the island. Trump has indicated he plans to discuss a $11 billion US weapons package with Xi—precisely the kind of move that has drawn Beijing's ire.

Other topics included developments in West Asia and the Ukraine crisis, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio hoping to persuade China to play a "more active role" in resolving tensions in the Middle East, particularly around Iran.

The Iranian Oil Question

One under-the-radar but significant issue is China's continued purchase of Iranian oil. Despite US sanctions on Tehran, Beijing has maintained large-scale oil imports to meet its energy needs. The Trump administration wants China to reduce these purchases to pressure Iran economically, but China has consistently resisted external pressure on energy policy matters.

Agricultural Hopes

American farmers are watching the summit closely. The previous trade war led China to reduce soybean purchases from the US, forcing many farmers to store unsold crops. The White House has indicated China could purchase 250 lakh metric tonnes of soybeans this year, though farmers are pushing for written commitments rather than verbal assurances.

A Reset or Business as Usual?

Chinese state media carried commentaries ahead of the meeting calling for a "reset" in relations, while also reiterating Beijing's "red lines" on Taiwan, democracy and human rights, China's political system, and technological development.

The meeting concludes a carefully orchestrated visit that included a tour of the Temple of Heaven—one of Beijing's most iconic sites—where Trump posed for photographs with Xi. A state dinner is planned, reflecting China's effort to convey the importance it places on the relationship.

Whether this summit will yield concrete agreements or merely reset the tone remains to be seen. Both leaders have invested significant political capital in the visit, but the fundamental disagreements on trade, technology, and Taiwan suggest that deeper tensions will likely persist beneath the surface of diplomatic cordiality.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) this afternoon declared the Class XII main examination results for the 2025-26 session, recording an overall pass percentage of 85.20 per cent. The outcome marks the first full-scale implementation of On Screen Marking (OSM) for evaluation, a shift the board says has eliminated longstanding issues like totalling and posting errors.

Officials confirmed that over 17.68 lakh students appeared for the exams this year, held between February 17 and April 9. The number is a slight increase from last year's 16.94 lakh. While the pass percentage has dipped from 2025's 88.39 per cent, the board stressed that the digital evaluation process has made results more accurate and transparent.

A digital-first evaluation

The board evaluated a staggering 98,66,622 answer books using OSM. According to CBSE, the system allows evaluators to mark digital copies of answer sheets from anywhere in the country, removing the need to physically transport lakhs of scripts to designated centres.

"We have trained nearly 70,000 evaluators for this shift," a senior official said. "The system flags incomplete checks and ensures every answer follows the marking scheme. Human intervention in manual addition is now zero."

Teachers across the country have largely welcomed the move. Many examiners told CBSE that OSM reduced their clerical workload, letting them focus on quality assessment rather than counting marks. The board claims daily evaluation capacity has also gone up, from 20-25 answer books in the old system to about 30 scripts per day now.

Regional performance and gender gap

Region-wise, Trivandrum topped the charts with a 95.62 per cent pass rate, followed by Chennai (93.84%) and Bengaluru (93.19%). Delhi as a whole recorded 91.97 per cent, with the east and west regions performing closely. Patna and Prayagraj were at the lower end with 74.45 per cent and 72.43 per cent respectively.

Girls continued to outperform boys. The pass percentage for girls stood at 88.86 per cent, compared to 82.13 per cent for boys. Transgender candidates recorded 100 per cent pass rate for the second year running. Students with special needs (CWSN) logged a 90.16 per cent pass rate, with over 5,700 such candidates appearing.

No merit list has been declared, continuing the board's policy to avoid unhealthy competition. However, merit certificates will be issued to the top 0.1 per cent of students who scored the highest marks in individual subjects. These will be delivered via DigiLocker.

Where to check results

Students can access their digital mark sheets through the CBSE website, results.nic.in, or directly via their DigiLocker accounts using Aadhaar or a PIN shared by schools. The Umang app is also an option. For students abroad, a separate support ticket system has been set up. Printed certificates will reach regular students through their schools in the coming weeks.

Hours after declaring the Class XII results, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) announced that supplementary examinations will be held on July 15 for students placed in the compartment category or those seeking improvement in one subject.

The move comes as data shows 1,63,800 candidates – or 9.26 per cent of those who appeared – have been placed in the compartment category this year. This is a noticeable increase from 2025, when 1,29,057 students (7.63 per cent) landed in the same category.

Who can appear

Officials said three groups of students will be eligible for the July single-day exam. First, those who passed but wish to improve their performance in exactly one subject. Second, candidates from the 2026 batch placed in compartment. And third, students who appeared in 2025 and remain in compartment – this will be their final opportunity, as the board grants only three chances to clear compartment exams.

"The supplementary examination will be a single-day affair. Detailed schedules and subject-specific dates will be released separately," the controller of examinations, Dr. Sanyam Bhardwaj, noted in the release.

Registration and deadlines

Schools and students must note that the online List of Candidates (LOC) submission for supplementary exams will open on June 2. A detailed circular is expected shortly. Crucially, the board has made it clear that no changes – whether addition or deletion of names or subjects – will be entertained once the LOC is submitted.

"Schools and students are advised to follow the schedule strictly. No application will be accepted after the last date," the notification read.

Post-result facilities from May 18

For students unhappy with their marks, the re-evaluation process begins on May 18. CBSE clarified that because OSM has digitally evaluated every answer book, the usual complaints about totalling or posting errors are no longer relevant. However, the board said re-evaluation will be extended as per previous years' policies.

All applications for re-evaluation must be made online. Officials warned that no offline requests will be entertained, and late submissions will be rejected outright.

Printed documents for private students

Separately, the board addressed document delivery for private candidates. Electronic mark sheets will reach their DigiLocker accounts via Aadhaar. For most regions, printed documents will be sent to the address provided in the exam form. The exception is students under Delhi East and Delhi West regional offices – they will need to collect physical copies from their respective examination centres.

What about foreign students?

CBSE has also extended DigiLocker access to students of affiliated schools abroad. Those facing issues can create a support ticket on the NAD portal under the category "CBSE International Student 2026" or simply log in to results.digilocker.gov.in. Their printed certificates will be routed through their schools.

The supplementary exam schedule, officials said, has been kept tight to avoid clashing with entrance tests and to allow students time to prepare.

While students checked their results today, behind the scenes, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) completed what it calls the world's largest On Screen Marking (OSM) exercise – evaluating nearly one crore answer books without moving a single physical script across a city.

The numbers are staggering. According to data released alongside the results, CBSE used 88,000 computers at over 6,000 evaluation centres to assess 98,66,622 answer sheets. Around 70,000 evaluators, assisted by 17,500 assistant head examiners and 3,889 head examiners, completed the process digitally.

Why OSM changes the game

For years, parents and students worried about totalling errors, lost answer books, or evaluator bias. The board claims OSM has addressed most of these. "The system ensures every answer is evaluated as per the marking scheme," the press release noted. "Evaluators award marks only through the digital interface – no manual addition, no lost pages."

Teachers who participated in the process told the board that the training, conducted by CBSE, was manageable and the interface user-friendly. One key advantage: evaluators can now work from their own schools, even abroad, without reporting to a central physical location. This, officials said, has dramatically cut down logistical costs and time.

Coordination with NTA and sports quota students

In a bid to reduce student stress, CBSE said it shared data with the National Testing Agency (NTA) well in advance. Students whose board exams were scheduled between April 2 and April 8 had their JEE Main dates adjusted to avoid clashes. Similarly, special examinations for students participating in national or international sports events were held on April 11 and 13, shortly after the main exams ended.

The board also released its date sheet unusually early this year. The first version came out on October 20, 2025 – 109 days before the first exam. A final version with minor corrections followed on December 31, giving students 47 days of clear preparation time.

Handling over 40,000 subject combinations

One often overlooked challenge: CBSE permits students to choose any combination of subjects, leading to over 40,000 unique subject combinations this year alone. Officials said scheduling errors were avoided by mapping every combination against available dates, and by avoiding major entrance exam dates.

A live webinar on February 13, 2026, attended by more than 4 lakh teachers and school staff from over 30,000 schools, was conducted to walk through examination policies. "Frequently Asked Questions" documents were also circulated to all examination functionaries.

What about West Asia and international students

Given the ongoing situation in some West Asian countries, CBSE decided to release results for students from that region simultaneously with the rest of India. Examinations that were cancelled there have not affected result timelines, the board clarified.

For schools abroad – CBSE now has affiliations in 27 countries from Japan to Ghana – access to the Parinam Manjusha digital repository has been extended. Schools can log in using credentials already shared to download their students' digital documents.

Eco-friendly and transparent

The board estimates the move to digital evaluation has saved massive amounts of paper. Beyond environmental benefits, officials say the transparency of the process – every click is logged, every mark is traceable – has improved trust among parents and students. While the pass percentage has dropped from the previous year, the board maintains that OSM has made results more accurate and fair.

Re-evaluation requests, if any, will now be handled online, with no scope for tampering or lost files. "This is a paradigm shift," the release concluded. "Results are now accurate, timely, and fair."