NEET paper leaked to Telegram group ‘Private Mafia’ ahead of exam; NTA officials under CBI scanner

Seven individuals arrested across multiple states as forensic analysis confirms matching physics and chemistry questions in Set 12.

 In a major development that compromises the sanctity of the medical entrance examination, details have emerged showing that the NEET 2026 paper was leaked on May 1 via a encrypted Telegram group named ‘Private Mafia’.

Initial reports indicate that several questions found in the Set Number-12 question paper shared within the clandestine group were completely identical to the official papers distributed during the national exam conducted on May 3.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which took over the pan-India probe, has placed senior officials of the National Testing Agency (NTA) on its radar to check for internal complicity. Investigators are currently verifying a viral video that surfaced online mapping out the leak timeline.

402-member group, password locked

The specialized Telegram channel used to orchestrate the leak had a highly guarded subscriber base of 402 members. According to sources familiar with the matter, the digital community was created back in 2024 specifically to facilitate competitive exam paper leaks.

Leak Channel Registry Log:

Group Alias: Private Mafia

Member Count: 402

Payload: NEET_UG_SET12.pdf

Timestamp: May 1, 11:38 PM

Decryption Key: LeakMafia@9466

Minutes before uploading the highly sensitive PDF file late on the evening of May 1, the channel administrator posted a broadcast message stating, "we are uploading the full paper soon."

The document was subsequently uploaded at approximately 11:38 PM, locked behind the password LeakMafia@9466. A follow-up directive from the admin urged members to "Solve the paper we have sent. There is a 99.99% chance that this will come in the exam."

Questions in allegedly leaked paper match

A granular comparison of the leaked digital document with the original Set Number-12 paper retrieved from exam centres shows an absolute match in technical questions. Local authorities confirmed that a specific physics question involving a velocity-time graph for a ball thrown vertically upwards matched 100 percent in both data points and visual layout.

Furthermore, questions 23 and 24 on the subsequent pages showed no variations. Question 23, which detailed a monochromatic light ray passing through a triangular prism ABC, retained the exact structural diagram and numerical options—ranging from 35 degrees to 55 degrees—in both copies. The complex circuit diagram printed for question 24 similarly mirrored the leaked Telegram PDF layout.

5 accused sent to 7-day custody

Taking swift action, the federal agency produced five key operators before Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court on Thursday. The accused, identified as Mangi Lal Binwal, his brother Dinesh Binwal, his son Vikas Binwal (all hailing from Rajasthan), Yash Yadav from Gurugram, and Shubham Khairnar from Nashik, were remanded to seven days of CBI custody.

Two other associates, including a beautician from Pune identified as Manisha Waghmare and Dhananjay Lokhande from Nashik, have also been detained in connection with the widening network.

Arguments of CBI's lawyer outline racket

Special Public Prosecutor Neetu Singh argued before Special CBI Judge Ajay Gupta that extended police custody was imperative to unearth a massive, cross-border institutional conspiracy. The prosecution noted that the leaked modules had been disseminated across multiple states under tight financial transactions.

The investigation revealed that Khairnar was the initial source who transmitted the files to Yadav on Telegram, who then established contact with Mangi Lal to secure a leaked copy for his younger son. The illicit transaction was reportedly locked in for a staggering sum of ₹10 lakh to ₹12 lakh per candidate, with candidates required to submit their Class 10 and 12 certificates alongside post-dated checks as security deposits.

Racket mixed hundreds of questions

To minimize suspicion from central invigilators, the masterminds did not rely on a singular leaked sheet format. Instead, tech-savvy handlers prepared comprehensive revision sets combining 500 to 600 questions across Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

"They did not provide the exact same questions linearly, but rather prepared a comprehensive set by combining hundreds of high-probability questions from all subjects so that no single center would raise an alarm," an investigative official stated on condition of anonymity.

Printed copies of these solved question banks were ultimately distributed to select candidates at safe-houses in Sikar and Jaipur just 24 hours before the examination commenced.

Tech evidence deleted from iPhone

The probe has run into digital roadblocks as primary accused Yash Yadav reportedly deleted crucial WhatsApp and Instagram chat histories right before his arrest, specifically targeting conversations with the Binwal family.

CBI forensic experts are currently deploying advanced data retrieval tools to recover the deleted logs from his iPhone. Moving forward, the agency is expected to summon printing press executives and regional NTA coordinators to determine the exact point of origin of the physical leak.

Loud sirens on mobiles as Government tests Emergency Alert System

Millions across India received a trial emergency alert message on Saturday as the NDMA conducted a pan-India test of its cell broadcast system.

 Mobile users across India were jolted by a loud, siren-like notification on Saturday morning as the central government conducted a massive trial of its integrated emergency alert system. At approximately 11:45 AM, smartphones across various circles began buzzing simultaneously, displaying a flash message in both English and Hindi, followed by an automated voice readout of the text.

The exercise, spearheaded by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), was part of a routine but critical test of the Cell Broadcast Alert System. While the sudden blaring of sirens caused brief moments of confusion in public spaces and markets, officials were quick to clarify that the buzz was merely a "sample testing message" and required no action from the public.

Nationwide reach of the trial

The testing was not limited to the national capital. Reports confirmed that residents in state capitals and major hubs like Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, and Bengaluru received the notification at the same time. To ensure inclusivity, the NDMA configured the system to push alerts in regional languages alongside Hindi and English, ensuring that the trial covered a diverse demographic.

Government sources indicated that the primary objective was to check the efficiency and reach of the network. "The idea is to ensure that in the event of an actual disaster, we can reach every single handset within a specific geographic area without delay," an official familiar with the development stated.

Indigenous tech powering alerts

The backbone of this initiative is the ‘SACHET’ system, an integrated alert portal developed by the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT). Built on the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP), SACHET is a home-grown solution designed to disseminate real-time information during emergencies like earthquakes, floods, or cyclones.

The system has already been deployed across all 36 States and Union Territories. Unlike traditional SMS, which can get delayed due to network congestion, the cell broadcast technology used here allows messages to be broadcast to all devices connected to a specific mobile tower simultaneously.

No internet required for alerts

One of the most significant features of this system is its ability to function without an active data connection. Since it operates on a broadcast frequency rather than a person-to-person messaging protocol, it bypasses the typical bottlenecks of mobile networks.

Local authorities confirmed that as long as a phone is within a network coverage area and the cell broadcast feature is enabled in the device settings, the alert will go through. This makes it an invaluable tool for disaster-prone regions where internet services are often the first to be disrupted during a crisis.

Massive scale of public safety

According to data shared by the government, the infrastructure for these alerts is already quite robust. Reports suggest that over 134 billion alerts have been sent in the past across 19 Indian languages, covering various weather-related warnings.

The Saturday test was aimed at fine-tuning the "audio-visual" impact—ensuring that the siren is loud enough to grab attention even if the phone is on silent or tucked away in a pocket.

Public reaction and future steps

While the government had issued a preliminary notice two days prior, many citizens were caught off guard by the intensity of the alarm. In local metro trains and offices, the sudden chorus of sirens led to several minutes of animated discussion.

The NDMA plans to continue these periodic tests to iron out technical glitches, such as certain handset models not triggering the audio component. Following the feedback from this nationwide trial, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is expected to work with smartphone manufacturers to ensure seamless integration across all operating systems.

For now, the government has urged the public not to panic when such messages appear, reiterating that these "planned disruptions" are essential for building a disaster-resilient India.

A woman died in an elephant attack in Madhya Pradesh’s Anuppur district after a wild elephant attacked her family on a forest route. Her husband and six-year-old son were also injured as the animal chased and tried to crush them.

Family Ambushed In Forest

A 28-year-old woman was killed in an elephant attack in Madhya Pradesh’s Anuppur district on Sunday afternoon after a wild elephant attacked a family returning from their field through a forest path in Bholgarh village.

The deceased was identified as Premvati Paw. Her husband Ramanuj Paw and their six-year-old son Deepak sustained injuries in the attack and are undergoing treatment, according to local officials.

Attack Near Bholgarh

The incident took place around 3 pm in Bholgarh village of Anuppur district when the family was walking back home from agricultural land through a forest stretch.

According to Ramanuj Paw, the elephant suddenly emerged on the route and charged at them before the family could move to safety. The attack unfolded within minutes and left little room for escape.

Wife Crushed To Death

Ramanuj said he tried to save his son by lifting him in his arms and running. During the attempt, the elephant allegedly pushed Premvati to the ground with its trunk.

The impact threw the child away from his mother’s arms. Ramanuj then picked up his son again and tried to flee, but the elephant knocked him down as well and attempted to trample him, leaving him injured.

The animal then turned back toward Premvati, who had fallen on the ground, and crushed her. She died on the spot, as per reports from the area.

Villagers Raised Alarm

Residents rushed to the spot after hearing screams and raised an alarm to drive the elephant away. Villagers said the elephant remained in the area for some time after the attack and moved back into the forest only after people gathered and shouted.

Local residents later shifted the injured father and son to hospital with assistance from nearby villagers. Hospital sources indicated both are out of immediate danger.

Forest Teams On Watch

Forest department personnel reached the area soon after the incident and began tracking the elephant’s movement. Officials said teams have been deployed to monitor the animal and alert nearby villages.

According to officials, surveillance has been intensified in the affected forest belt to prevent further encounters. The department has also advised residents not to use isolated forest routes without prior information.

Repeated Human Conflict

Human-elephant conflict has remained a serious concern in Anuppur for more than a decade. Forest department records show that 16 people have died in elephant attacks in the district between 2011 and 2026.

The situation has worsened in recent months. In the last 120 days alone, four people have died in elephant-related incidents in Anuppur and Jaithari forest ranges, with two deaths reported in each range.

Officials have repeatedly flagged the growing movement of elephants near habitation zones, especially in villages located close to forest corridors. The recurring attacks have raised fresh concerns over forest monitoring and village safety, making this a significant Public Interest Story in the latest India News Update cycle.

Safety Measures Under Review

The latest Anuppur elephant attack has triggered fear in the region and renewed concern over wildlife movement near settlements. Villagers have demanded stronger monitoring, faster warning systems and safer movement routes in elephant-prone pockets. Officials are expected to review ground surveillance and response measures in the coming days.

A Swiss plane heading to Zurich was forced to abort take-off at Delhi Airport after one of its engines failed and caught fire late on Saturday night, triggering an emergency evacuation and leaving six passengers injured. The incident involved Swiss International Air Lines flight LX147, which was scheduled to depart from Indira Gandhi International Airport for Zurich with 232 people on board, including four newborns.

According to officials, the aircraft was preparing for departure at around 1.08 am when the crew detected a technical malfunction during take-off. The pilot immediately halted the aircraft on the runway after an engine failure led to signs of fire and smoke, prompting emergency response teams to rush to the spot.

Emergency evacuation launched

Airport authorities said all passengers and crew were evacuated using emergency slides after the aircraft came to a stop on the runway. Six passengers sustained minor injuries during the evacuation process and were provided immediate medical attention.

Officials confirmed that the aircraft was carrying 232 people, including passengers, crew members and four infants. No fatalities were reported. Emergency services responded within minutes and secured the aircraft before the situation escalated further.

The swift evacuation prevented a more serious outcome, according to airport officials familiar with the response. Operations at the affected section of the runway were temporarily disrupted as emergency checks were carried out.

Smoke seen from gear

Swiss International Air Lines said in an official statement that the aircraft involved was an Airbus A330. The airline said smoke was first noticed coming from the left-side landing gear as the aircraft moved into position for take-off.

“As soon as the aircraft entered the runway for departure, smoke was observed from the left landing gear area. The take-off was immediately aborted in line with standard safety protocol,” the airline said.

The carrier added that its local teams in Delhi were assisting affected passengers and coordinating with airport authorities. It said a technical team would examine the aircraft and determine the exact cause of the malfunction.

Airline begins probe

Swiss Air said it was working closely with Indian aviation authorities to assess the incident and support passengers affected by the disruption. The airline also said its technical experts would travel to Delhi to inspect the aircraft and assist in the investigation.

Sources indicated that the aircraft has been grounded pending inspection. Passengers were moved to the terminal and alternate arrangements were being explored for onward travel to Zurich.

As per reports, airline staff remained on site through the night to coordinate accommodation, meals and rebooking support for stranded passengers.

Second incident in 10 days

The latest Delhi Airport incident marks the second major aircraft safety scare at the airport in less than two weeks. On April 16, two aircraft one operated by SpiceJet and the other by Akasa Air  were involved in a ground collision at the same airport.

In that incident, a SpiceJet aircraft arriving from Leh reportedly struck an Akasa Air aircraft that was parked and preparing for departure to Hyderabad. The collision damaged both aircraft, though all passengers were safely deboarded and no injuries were reported.

The back-to-back incidents have renewed focus on operational safety and ground handling standards at one of India’s busiest airports.

Safety under scrutiny

The latest incident is likely to draw closer regulatory attention to aircraft maintenance, runway safety and emergency response systems at Delhi Airport. While aviation officials have not indicated any systemic lapse so far, two major incidents in quick succession may prompt a broader review.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation is expected to seek a detailed report on the Swiss plane incident as part of routine safety oversight. Aviation experts say such incidents, while rare, underline the importance of rapid crew response and emergency preparedness.

What happens next

A full technical inspection of the Swiss plane is now underway, and authorities are expected to review cockpit data, maintenance logs and runway response records. Swiss Air is likely to submit its preliminary findings after the aircraft is examined in coordination with Indian authorities.

In a major anti-Naxal breakthrough, 47 Naxalites linked to South Bastar surrendered before Telangana Police, handing over 32 weapons and a large cache of ammunition. Officials said the surrendered cadre included senior operatives from the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZCM), divisional and area-level formations, making it one of the most significant recent setbacks for the Maoist network operating along the Chhattisgarh-Telangana border.

According to officials, the surrendered Naxalites were active in different parts of Bastar and collectively carried a bounty of Rs 1.5 crore. The group included senior functionaries, platoon commanders and armed cadre associated with core Maoist structures in South Bastar.

Senior Cadres Included

Among those who surrendered was Hemla Ithu alias Vijja, a DKSZCM member and in-charge of the South Bastar divisional committee. Podiyam Lachhu alias Manoj, identified as the commander of the 9th platoon, also laid down arms along with several other active operatives.

Police said the presence of senior commanders in the surrender group marks a serious organisational setback for the Maoist structure in South Bastar. Officials indicated that the surrender has weakened both leadership and field operations in the region.

Arms and Ammunition Seized

During the surrender, the cadre deposited 32 weapons and 515 live rounds of ammunition. The recovered weapons included one light machine gun, four AK-47 rifles, three SLRs, two INSAS rifles, two muskets, one BGL gun, two air guns, one pistol, one revolver and 12 single-shot firearms.

Officials said the surrender of weapons is significant because it directly reduces the operational capacity of the Maoist network. Security agencies are also examining the recovered arms for intelligence and link analysis.

Why They Surrendered

Telangana Police attributed the surrender to sustained anti-Naxal operations, coordinated intelligence-based action and the state’s rehabilitation policy. According to officials, continuous pressure from police forces in both Telangana and Chhattisgarh narrowed movement corridors and weakened support systems for armed cadres.

Sources indicated that the rehabilitation framework offered by Telangana, along with increasing operational pressure, pushed several cadre members to return to the mainstream. Officials said surrendered cadre would be extended support under the state rehabilitation programme.

Cadre Structure Hit

Police said the surrendered group represented a substantial section of the Maoist chain of command. Of the 47 who surrendered, 28 were linked to DKSZCM, while 15 belonged to the 9th and 30th platoons. The remaining cadre were associated with lower-level support and field units.

Officials described the surrender as a strategic gain in the wider anti-Naxal campaign, particularly in the South Bastar zone where Maoist influence has historically remained strong. Security agencies believe only scattered armed cadre remain active in the affected belt.

Earlier Surrenders Matter

The latest development follows a series of large surrenders in the Bastar region over the past few months. On March 31, 25 Naxalites surrendered in Bijapur. Inputs from that group led security forces to a major Maoist dump containing Rs 3 crore in cash and 7 kg of gold, part of a larger seizure estimated at Rs 14 crore.

Earlier, 34 Naxalites had surrendered across four districts, while another 108 cadre laid down arms in Jagdalpur nearly two months ago. Officials had then said the surrendered group carried rewards worth Rs 3.95 crore and turned over cash, gold and 101 weapons.

The Chhattisgarh heatwave conditions have intensified across the state, with soaring daytime temperatures pushing life out of gear in several districts. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the next three days are expected to remain extremely hot, with no significant change in maximum temperatures, followed by a slight dip thereafter. Officials have also issued a heatwave warning across multiple regions, urging residents to take precautions amid rising temperatures.

Rajnandgaon hottest spot

Rajnandgaon emerged as the hottest location in the state, recording a blistering 45.5°C on Friday. The figure marks one of the highest temperatures of the season so far, reflecting the severity of the ongoing Chhattisgarh heatwave. Other districts have also reported above-normal temperatures, contributing to widespread heat stress across the region.

IMD issues alert

The IMD has cautioned that hot and dry conditions will continue, with intermittent heatwave spells likely in several pockets. However, meteorologists have also indicated the possibility of isolated weather activity, including thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph in some areas on April 26. Light rainfall cannot be ruled out in select regions, even as the heatwave persists simultaneously.

Raipur under heat

In the state capital Raipur, the maximum temperature is expected to hover around 45°C, while the minimum may remain near 28°C. Weather experts suggest that the city will continue to experience heatwave-like conditions, adding to discomfort for residents. The ongoing Chhattisgarh heatwave has significantly impacted daily life, with reduced outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours.

Weather variation expected

Officials attribute the rising temperatures to a combination of atmospheric conditions, including a trough extending from Vidarbha to South India and cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal–Odisha region. These patterns are driving hot and dry winds over central India. Despite this, sporadic weather changes could bring temporary relief in some pockets through light rain and thunderstorms.

Anganwadi timings revised

In response to the severe heat, the state administration has revised timings for Anganwadi centres across Chhattisgarh. From April 23 to June 30, centres will operate from 7 am to 11 am, while services for children will be limited between 7 am and 9 am. The decision aims to protect children and staff from the peak impact of the Chhattisgarh heatwave. Normal timings will resume from July 1.

Health advisory issued

Health authorities have advised citizens, especially children, elderly individuals, and those with pre-existing illnesses, to avoid direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours. Increased water intake, light clothing, and limited outdoor activity have been recommended. Doctors warn that prolonged exposure to extreme heat may lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and other heat-related illnesses.

Outlook ahead

Meteorological officials suggest that the heatwave conditions may persist for a few more days before a marginal drop in temperature is observed. However, warm nights are also expected to continue, offering little relief after sunset.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has uncovered an alleged foreign funding network linked to religious activities in Chhattisgarh, with investigators claiming that nearly Rs 95 crore entered India over six months through foreign debit cards. According to officials, the money was allegedly routed into the country between November 2025 and April 2026 and used in part for Christian missionary-linked operations in the state’s tribal and Maoist-affected districts.

The Chhattisgarh Christian funding probe has placed focus on Bastar and Dhamtari, where central agencies say nearly Rs 6.5 crore was spent on religious outreach and associated activities. The findings have emerged from an ongoing money laundering investigation involving foreign nationals, digital financial trails and suspected regulatory violations.

Airport detention triggers case

The investigation gained momentum after immigration authorities detained a foreign national, identified as Micah Mark, at Bengaluru International Airport. Officials said he was intercepted on the basis of an ED-issued lookout circular.

During the search, authorities recovered 24 foreign debit cards from his possession. Investigators suspect the cards were used to withdraw cash from ATMs across India in a structured manner to avoid scrutiny and bypass formal financial reporting systems.

TTI under scanner

At the centre of the case is ‘The Timothy Initiative’ (TTI), an organisation that agencies say is linked to Christian evangelical work. ED officials allege that TTI and its associates operated a covert funding structure to support activities in India without routing money through authorised regulatory channels.

According to investigators, the organisation is not registered under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), yet foreign funds were allegedly used to support operations on the ground. Officials are now examining whether this constituted a direct violation of India’s foreign funding and anti-money laundering laws.

Cash withdrawals tracked

ED said its searches on April 18 and 19 covered six locations across the country. During the operation, officials tracked repeated ATM withdrawals allegedly made using foreign debit cards issued by Truist Bank in the United States.

Investigators believe the method was designed to fragment transactions and avoid detection by regulators. Instead of formal banking transfers, funds were allegedly brought into India through multiple withdrawals, reducing the chances of immediate compliance alerts.

Officials also said digital accounting and billing tools were used to maintain transaction records, with parts of the system believed to have been operated from outside India.

Seizures and evidence

During the raids, ED seized 25 foreign debit cards, Rs 40 lakh in cash, electronic devices and digital records. Investigators also collected documents that may help establish the financial chain, beneficiary network and end use of funds.

Officials indicated that the case may involve a larger organised money laundering structure with interstate and international links. The agency is now examining the role of intermediaries, local facilitators and financial handlers connected to the network.

Bastar focus sharpens 

The alleged use of foreign funds in Bastar and Dhamtari has drawn particular attention because both regions remain sensitive from a security and tribal policy standpoint. Officials are assessing whether the funds were used only for religious expansion or if there were broader local influence operations attached to them.

The probe has also raised questions around financial surveillance, compliance enforcement and the monitoring of foreign-linked religious funding in conflict-prone districts. The matter is likely to figure in wider Government Updates and internal security reviews.

Investigation widens further

The ED has not announced arrests beyond the detention linked to the airport interception, but officials said the investigation remains active and more summons are likely. Financial records, digital devices and cross-border transactions are now under forensic review.

India’s rise as Vishwaguru certain and unstoppable: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat

Highlighting the successful construction of the Ram Temple as a symbol of national resolve, Mohan Bhagwat urges citizens to embrace Indian traditions to fuel the country's global ascent.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat on Saturday asserted that India’s journey toward becoming a ‘Vishwaguru’ (global teacher) is an inevitability that cannot be stalled. Speaking at the National Cancer Institute in Nagpur, Bhagwat drew parallels between the skepticism surrounding the Ram Mandir and the current skepticism regarding India’s global status.

The RSS chief was addressing a gathering during the Bhoomi Pujan ceremony for the Bharat Durga Shakti Sthal temple. He noted that just as the grand temple in Ayodhya now stands manifest despite decades of doubt, India’s moral and cultural resurgence is a factual reality. This India News Update highlights a growing emphasis on civilizational identity in the national discourse.

Building on firm resolve

Bhagwat emphasized that the nation's future depends on the collective courage and self-reliance of its citizens. He told the audience that doubting the country’s trajectory is unnecessary if the people remain committed to their internal values.

According to the RSS chief, if the current generation moves forward with a clear resolve, the transformation into a global leader will be visible within their lifetime. He urged the public to live with a sense of purpose that contributes to a "strong and morally empowered" nation.

Rejecting the Western lens

A significant portion of the address focused on the need for intellectual decolonization. Bhagwat argued that the "Western lens," which has dominated Indian thought for over 150 years, is insufficient for understanding the true essence of India.

He suggested that citizens must shed foreign ideological layers to reconnect with Sanatan values. Per his remarks, understanding India requires looking at its history and civilization through its own indigenous perspective rather than through borrowed academic frameworks.

Cultural shift in daily life

The RSS chief linked the concept of a ‘Vishwaguru’ to practical changes in the lifestyle of the common man. He called for a return to Indian traditions in language, attire, and dietary habits.

Bhagwat noted that self-realization begins with small but meaningful shifts in daily behavior. By incorporating Indian culture into routine life, he believes the vision of a self-confident India will move from a conceptual dream to a living reality.

High-profile gathering in Nagpur

The event saw a significant presence of political and spiritual leaders, reflecting the importance of the project. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis shared the stage with various seers.

Among the prominent spiritual figures were Swami Avdheshanand Giri Maharaj, Sadhvi Ritambhara, and Dhirendra Shastri. The ceremony also marked the foundation stone laying for a multi-national hospital within the institute’s campus.

Context of recent statements

This speech follows a series of recent high-profile addresses by the RSS chief. In Mumbai earlier this year, he reiterated that the Sangh considers all residents of India as Hindus in a cultural sense, rather than a narrow religious one.

In late 2023, Bhagwat had spoken in Hyderabad regarding the revival of Sanatan Dharma as a global necessity. He often references the early skepticism faced by RSS founder Dr. Hedgewar to illustrate how persistence leads to national impact.

Future outlook for India

As per the latest Government Updates and policy shifts, the narrative of "Viksit Bharat" aligns closely with the cultural resurgence described by Bhagwat. The focus now shifts to how these ideological goals translate into socio-economic growth.

EC Suspends 5 Officers in Bengal Polls

Election Commission cracks down on Diamond Harbour police for neutrality lapses post phase one voting. Rahul Gandhi campaigns in three key spots today amid high-stakes battle.

The Election Commission of India suspended five police officers in West Bengal's Diamond Harbour district on Saturday for serious misconduct and failing to uphold poll neutrality. The move targets lapses during the ongoing 2026 Legislative Assembly elections, just after the first phase recorded over 90% voter turnout.

Disciplinary proceedings started immediately against the officials. Sources indicated the action stemmed from a Chief Electoral Officer report dated April 22.

Suspended Officers

Authorities named the following in the order: Sandip Garai, Additional SP, Diamond Harbour; Sajal Mondal, SDPO, Diamond Harbour; Mausam Chakraborty, Inspector-in-Charge, Diamond Harbour Police Station; Ajay Bag, Inspector-in-Charge, Falta Police Station; and Subhechha Bag, Officer-in-Charge, Usthi Police Station.

The EC directed swift compliance and warned the local SP for oversight failures.

This marks the latest in a series of suspensions to enforce model code rules.

Rahul's Rally Schedule

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi addresses three rallies today. He kicks off at 3 pm in Hooghly, moves to Shahid Minar Ground in Kolkata at 4:45 pm, and wraps at High School Ground in South 24 Parganas by 5:45 pm.news.

Permissions cleared after earlier hurdles, party sources said.

The events target key phase two areas amid tight campaigns.

Phase One Turnout Surge

West Bengal saw historic polling in 152 constituencies across 16 districts. Turnout hit 91.91% to 92.88%, with women and first-timers driving numbers.newsonair.

Coochbehar topped at 96.04%, sources reported.

High participation signals strong public mood post deletions from rolls.

TMC Claims Century

TMC general secretary Abhishek Banerjee declared his party scored a "century" in phase one. During a Diamond Harbour roadshow Friday, he said BJP leaders panic and push false narratives via media.

"I’m not an astrologer, but my predictions hold," Banerjee added.

He predicted TMC dominance in 152 seats.

BJP's Bold Forecasts

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma claimed BJP wins 110 seats in phase one, eyeing 200 overall. At a Baguiati rally Friday, he vowed to oust infiltrators if voted in.

"We will reach double century in Bengal," Sarma asserted.

Party spokesperson CR Kesavan slammed TMC's "anarchic misrule."

EC's Neutrality Push

The suspensions underscore EC's zero-tolerance on poll code violations. Officials acted on verified reports of bias in sensitive Diamond Harbour, a TMC stronghold.

A compliance report due by 11 am Saturday.

Such steps aim to restore faith in free polls.

Voter Impact Unfolds

Actions reassure voters amid claims of arbitrary deletions disenfranchising lakhs, as Congress MP Manish Tewari noted. High turnout counters bias fears.deccanherald

Public watches for fair phase two.

Campaign Heats Up

RJD's Tejashwi Yadav backed Mamata Banerjee for a fourth term during North 24 Parganas roadshows. BJP candidates like Dilip Ghosh sense change mood.youtube

TMC slams Union HM Amit Shah's visits.

BCB Pulls Mustafizur, Nahid from PSL 2026

Bangladesh Cricket Board withdraws NOCs for pacers Mustafizur Rahman and Nahid Rana after their key roles in ODI series win over New Zealand; players stay back for national duties.

Lead Breaking News

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) withdrew No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for pacers Mustafizur Rahman and Nahid Rana on Thursday, barring them from the remaining Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 matches. Officials cited injury risks and workload management after the duo starred in Bangladesh's 2-1 ODI series triumph over New Zealand from April 17-23. Lahore Qalandars and Peshawar Zalmi lose their strike bowlers mid-tournament.

Key Player Performances

Mustafizur and Nahid delivered match-winning spells during the series in Dhaka. Nahid Rana claimed eight wickets at an average of 16.75, earning Player of the Series honours in his breakout campaign. Mustafizur bagged five wickets across the three ODIs, sealing Bangladesh's comeback after an opening loss. Sources close to the team hailed their efforts as pivotal.

NOC Withdrawal Details

BCB officials confirmed the decision in a statement late Wednesday. Mustafizur faces scans for a niggling injury and enters a supervised rehab program. "The Board has withdrawn the NOC issued to Mustafizur Rahman. He will not feature in the rest of PSL 2026," it noted. Nahid stays back to rest ahead of the two-Test series against Pakistan starting May 8 at Sher-e-Bangla Stadium.

PSL Stints Cut Short

Both pacers cut short promising league runs. Mustafizur played five matches for Lahore Qalandars, marking his return after the 2017-18 edition. Nahid featured in four games for Peshawar Zalmi in his PSL debut. The tournament continues behind closed doors in Lahore and Karachi amid security protocols.

Injury and Workload Focus

Board sources indicated growing concerns over fast bowler burnout. Mustafizur's recent IPL release due to domestic unrest added context, though BCB prioritised fitness now. Nahid's rapid rise demands careful handling, officials said. This marks a firm shift under the new committee led by figures aligned with Tarique Rahman's influence.

Team and League Impact

Lahore Qalandars and Peshawar Zalmi scramble for replacements, potentially weakening their playoff push. PSL organisers expressed disappointment but respected the NOC pullback. For Bangladesh, the pace duo bolsters preparations for Tests and beyond, signalling national priorities over T20 leagues.

Future Cricket Outlook

Bangladesh eyes a strong home Test series against Pakistan. Nahid's emergence pairs with Mustafizur's guile for a potent attack. BCB plans workload audits for all pacers ahead of global tours. This latest news today underscores India news update trends in player management across borders.

India bids to host 2038 Asian Games in Ahmedabad; OCA team to visit

India formally proposes Ahmedabad as the host city for the 2038 Asian Games, with the Olympic Council of Asia set to conduct a feasibility recce soon.

India has formally submitted a proposal to host the 2038 Asian Games, earmarking Ahmedabad as the primary host city. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) presented the vision during the Executive Board meeting of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) held in Sanya, China, on Thursday.

The continental governing body has acknowledged India's interest and confirmed that an evaluation team will visit the country shortly. This technical committee will assess the existing infrastructure and the rapid development currently underway in Gujarat’s capital. The move aligns with India's broader strategy to establish itself as a global sporting superpower.

Multi-nation race for 2038

India is not alone in its pursuit of the 2038 slot. According to officials, South Korea and Mongolia have also expressed formal interest in hosting the event. The OCA board discussed these preliminary proposals in Sanya, noting that the competition for the games will be rigorous given the long-term infrastructure commitments required.

The 2026 edition is slated for Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, followed by Doha in 2030 and Riyadh in 2034. By targeting 2038, India aims to secure the next available window in the continental calendar, reinforcing its recent successful bid for the 2030 Centenary Commonwealth Games.

Ahmedabad as sports epicenter

The Gujarat government has already fast-tracked the construction of world-class facilities to support this ambitious bid. Central to this plan is the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave. This massive complex, spread over 355 acres, is designed to house an aquatics center, a tennis hub, and multiple indoor arenas.

Further infrastructure is being developed at the Karai Sports Hub in Gandhinagar. This 143-acre site will feature a dedicated athletics stadium and a high-tech shooting complex. These projects are intended to serve a dual purpose, supporting both the 2038 Asian Games and India’s ongoing pitch for the 2036 Olympic Games.

Return after five decades

If successful, the 2038 Games would mark the return of the "Asiad" to Indian soil after a gap of 56 years. India famously hosted the inaugural Asian Games in 1951 and the 1982 edition, both of which were centered in New Delhi. This would be the first time the event is hosted outside the national capital.

"We have shared our vision for 2038 with the OCA leadership," an IOA statement confirmed. The meeting, attended by IOA President PT Usha and OCA chief Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, focused on athlete pathways and regional collaboration alongside the formal hosting pitch.

Strategic infrastructure cost benefits

Sports ministry sources indicated that hosting the 2038 Asian Games is a "logical and cost-effective" step. Since Ahmedabad will already have completed its infrastructure for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and potentially the 2036 Olympics, the marginal cost for the Asian Games would be significantly lower.

By reusing existing world-class venues, India hopes to avoid the "white elephant" syndrome often associated with large-scale sporting events. The integrated urban development plan for Ahmedabad includes multimodal transport hubs and athlete villages that can be repurposed for residential use post-games.

Evaluation team’s upcoming visit

The upcoming OCA recce is expected to focus on technical specifications, including broadcast capabilities, transport logistics, and hotel inventory. The evaluation team will also review the "Sports City" draft budget, which has seen record allocations from the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation this year.

"The visit will be a critical milestone," said a senior official from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. "It allows us to demonstrate that our timelines for the 2030 and 2036 projects are on track, making 2038 a seamless transition for the continental body."

Long-term sporting roadmap

This latest development is part of a larger "India News Update" regarding the country’s 10-year mission to boost its Olympic profile. Beyond the Asian Games, India has already secured the hosting rights for the 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Bhubaneswar.

The 2038 Asian Games bid is viewed as the final piece of the puzzle in India's decade of dominance in sports administration. As the nation awaits the OCA's feedback, the focus remains on the rapid execution of ground-level projects in Ahmedabad to ensure the city is "Games-ready" well ahead of schedule.

Congress Leader’s Son Shot Dead In Janjgir Home Invasion

Three Masked Men Attack Family

Three masked assailants stormed the residence of a former block Congress vice-president in Chhattisgarh’s Janjgir-Champa district late Thursday night. The attackers shot dead the leader’s 19-year-old son and critically injured his younger sibling.

The incident occurred around 12:30 am in Karhi village under the Birra police station limits. Police said the assailants entered the house and opened fire indiscriminately. The victim, Ayush Kashyap, suffered bullet wounds to the head and chest and died on the spot. His 16-year-old brother Ashutosh remains critical.

Parents Locked In Separate Room

According to preliminary investigation, the three masked men first locked the parents inside a room. They then targeted the children sleeping in another room. Ayush, a second-year BA LLB student, was hit twice. Ashutosh, a Class 10 student, sustained a bullet injury on his shoulder.

Cash And iPhone Stolen

Police sources indicated that the attackers fled with around Rs 60 in cash and an iPhone. The family has three children. Their daughter Prerna Kashyap, a BPM officer posted in Jagdalpur, was also home on leave during the attack. She witnessed the shooting.

Sister Recounts Earlier Visit

Prerna told police that three young men had come to their house a week ago asking about Ayush. She added that all three attackers wore masks during Thursday night’s assault. The family said the assailants also took three mobile phones before escaping.

Father Alleges Sand Trade Rivalry

The victim’s father, Sammlal Kashyap, alleged that the murder stemmed from a sand mining business dispute. “Ayush had recently purchased a hyva truck and a JCB. He had become active in the trade. That is the only reason someone would want him dead,” Kashyap told police.

Local Congress leaders, including MLA Vyas Kashyap and Jaijaipur MLA Baleshwar Sahu, visited the crime scene late Thursday night.

Police Launch Massive Manhunt

Acting Superintendent of Police Nivedita Paul and Additional SP Umesh Kashyap reached the spot along with cyber and forensic teams. Officials confirmed that the attackers used motorcycles. Police have set up barricades across the town and are scanning CCTV footage from nearby areas.

“We are also analysing call detail records to identify the suspects,” an officer said. The body has been sent for post-mortem. The younger brother continues to receive treatment at the district hospital.

What Next

Authorities have formed multiple teams to track down the three masked assailants. Investigators are examining whether a recent land dispute or sand mining rivalry motivated the attack. Police expect to make arrests within 48 hours based on technical surveillance leads.