India in 2 Minutes for the Week of May 8

Suvendu Adhikari calls aide’s killing pre-planned murder’

Bharatiya Janata Party leader Suvendu Adhikari alleged that the killing of his aide Chandranath Rath in West Bengal was a “cold-blooded, pre-planned murder” after assailants shot him at close range in Madhyamgram on May 6.

Mr Adhikari claimed the attackers conducted recce for several days before the attack. Mr Rath died on the spot, while his driver remains critically injured.

Pilots seek fresh probe into Air India crash

The Federation of Indian Pilots has urged authorities to further investigate the 2025 Air India Flight 171 crash, suggesting an electrical failure may have caused the fuel cut-off rather than pilot action.

The group said all technical possibilities must be examined before conclusions are drawn in the final crash report due next month.

US$1.9 billion relief scheme for businesses hit by Iran war

The Central government has approved a Rs181 billion (US$1.9 billion) emergency credit guarantee scheme to support businesses affected by Middle East disruptions linked to the Iran conflict.

The scheme offers government-backed loans to SMEs and aviation firms facing supply-chain stress, rising oil prices and inflation concerns amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the region.

India, Vietnam target US$25 billion trade By 2030

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India and Vietnam aim to raise bilateral trade to US$25 billion by 2030 after talks with Vietnamese President To Lam in New Delhi.

The countries will deepen cooperation in critical minerals, rare earths and energy security as both seek stronger economic and strategic ties.

SEBI sets up task force on AI cyber threats

Markets regulator SEBI has formed a special task force to tackle emerging cyber risks linked to AI-driven vulnerability detection tools.

The regulator warned that misuse of such systems could threaten financial institutions and directed stock exchanges and intermediaries to urgently report cyberattacks, system weaknesses and malicious digital activities.

Twin explosions trigger security alert in Punjab

Two explosions outside security installations in Punjab’s Jalandhar and Amritsar cities have put authorities on high alert.

No deaths were reported, but investigators suspect explosive devices were used.

The incidents come days after a failed blast attempt in Patiala linked to a Pakistan-backed separatist group, intensifying political concerns over law and order.

Tiger found dead in Panna reserve, 28th casualty this year

A two-year-old tiger recently rescued and fitted with a radio collar was found dead in the buffer zone of Panna Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh.

Wildlife activists called the death a “systemic failure” as Madhya Pradesh recorded its 28th tiger mortality of 2026, raising alarm over conservation and monitoring efforts.

Supreme Court expands to 38 judges

The Cabinet has approved increasing the strength of the Supreme Court from 34 to 38 judges to tackle mounting case backlogs.

Over 93,000 cases are currently pending before the apex court, while four judges are due to retire later this year, adding pressure on the judicial system.

Case filed against Palash over cheating, caste abuse

Music composer Palash Muchhal has been booked in Maharashtra on charges of cheating and caste abuse after a complaint by social worker Vignyan Mane, a friend of cricketer Smriti Mandhana, whose wedding with Mr Palash was called off at the last minute.

Mr Mane alleged he was cheated during investment discussions for a film project.

Court orders FIR in Jabalpur boat tragedy

A Jabalpur court has ordered a first information report against a cruise operator after a boat tragedy at Bargi Dam killed 13 people.

The court accused the operator of negligence and alleged he abandoned passengers during the sinking. Authorities completed rescue operations after recovering all missing victims from the river.

Diet Coke craze amid supply shortage

A shortage of Diet Coke linked to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz has sparked quirky “Diet Coke parties” across India.

Young fans are paying entry fees for themed events featuring music, cocktails, and can-painting activities, while organisers say even Coca-Cola has shown interest in the viral trend.

Pakistani athletes allowed for global events

The Indian government has clarified that Pakistani athletes can participate in international sporting events hosted in the country, although bilateral sporting ties remain frozen.

The move aligns with India’s ambitions to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and bid for the 2036 Olympics, despite continuing political tensions between the neighbours.