The Congress party has strongly condemned the Enforcement Directorate’s charge sheet against Sonia and Rahul Gandhi in the National Herald money laundering case, calling it "vendetta politics" orchestrated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh accused the BJP government of using law enforcement for political intimidation, asserting the party’s leadership will not be silenced. The charge sheet, also naming Sam Pitroda and Suman Dubey, was filed under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The matter is listed for hearing on April 25 at Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court. The case was originally filed by BJP leader Subramanian Swamy. (PC: Hindustan Times)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, during his visit to Vietnam, urged regional unity against “unilateral bullying” in global trade—a veiled swipe at the United States amid rising trade tensions. Xi’s Southeast Asia tour, which includes Malaysia and Cambodia, comes as US President Donald Trump threatens more tariffs, accusing China and Vietnam of plotting against America. Vietnam narrowly avoided steep US tariffs after a 90-day pause. Xi emphasized strengthening global supply chains and rules-based trade, while Trump dismissed the trip as a ploy. Analysts say China is using the moment to position itself as a reliable economic partner in the region. (PC: Getty Images)

In an exciting IPL 2025 clash at Mullanpur, Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and chose to bat first against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Iyer, now leading PBKS, faces off against his former team, whom he led to the IPL title last season. Both teams are tied at 6 points, though PBKS have played one game fewer than KKR. Speaking at the toss, Iyer made a humorous remark saying he "doesn’t remember" his last match against KKR, sparking laughs. PBKS aim to return to winning ways after recent setbacks in the league. (PC: X/IPL)

A California Senate bill (SB 509), aimed at curbing "transnational repression," has ignited tensions between pro-Khalistani groups and Indian-Americans, including Sikhs and Hindus. Backed by Khalistan supporters, the bill would train police to recognize foreign government efforts to intimidate diaspora members. Critics argue the bill risks stigmatizing Indian-American communities as proxies of the Indian state, without evidence of such issues in California. Co-authored by Sikh-American lawmaker Jasmeet Bains, it cites cases involving Khalistani figures Pannun and Nijjar. Indian advocacy groups call it vague, politically motivated, and potentially harmful to free speech and peaceful activism. (PC: India Today)  

The Enforcement Directorate has filed a chargesheet in the National Herald money laundering case, naming Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi as primary accused. Also named are Sam Pitroda and Suman Dubey. The case, linked to the acquisition of Associated Journals Limited (AJL) by Young Indian Pvt Ltd, involves alleged misuse of over ₹2,000 crore in assets. The ED has already issued notices to seize properties worth ₹661 crore under PMLA. The court has set April 25 for cognisance proceedings. The charges include bogus donations, rent, and advertisements allegedly used to generate illegal proceeds of crime. (PC: Reuters)

Authorities in Ayodhya are on high alert after the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust received an email threatening a bomb attack on the Ram Mandir. An FIR was filed at the local cyber police station by trust official Mahesh Kumar. Security was intensified across Ayodhya, Barabanki, and nearby areas, with a thorough search operation conducted. The cyber cell has launched a full investigation into the source of the threat. With the Ram Mandir drawing over 135 million visitors in 2024, surpassing even the Taj Mahal, police have ramped up surveillance and patrolling to ensure public safety.

India has become the first country to recover fully from the market losses triggered by US President Donald Trump's tariff announcement. On April 15, the NSE Nifty 50 index surged 2.4%, regaining levels seen before the tariffs were signed. Experts credit India's resilience to strong domestic investment, minimal Chinese exposure, and rising manufacturing capabilities. While global markets reel from the US-China trade war, India is seen as a safe investment haven. Lower interest rates, falling oil prices, and potential US-India trade deals have also boosted investor confidence, signaling India's growing strength as a global economic player.

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala briefly halted operations to allow a centuries-old Hindu temple procession to pass through its runway. As part of the Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple’s Painkuni festival, ornate chariots and decorated elephants traversed a 2km runway stretch. This rare tradition dates back to 1932, when the Travancore royal family built the airport. Now managed by Adani Group, the airport coordinates closures twice a year for these events, rescheduling flights and enhancing security. It’s one of the few airports globally that pauses for religious rites, blending sacred heritage with modern aviation. (PC: BBC)

Violent protests erupted in West Bengal and Assam over the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, altering management of Muslim charitable properties. In Murshidabad, clashes led to three deaths, including a Hindu father and son, and a 17-year-old boy. Protesters set ablaze malls, vehicles, and attacked homes. Over 500 residents fled to Malda district. Fresh violence occurred in South 24 Parganas. Authorities imposed prohibitory orders, suspended internet, and deployed troops following a court directive. More than 200 arrests were made. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged peaceful protests, while BJP accused her party of appeasement. The Waqf law, passed by Parliament, has been criticized for targeting Muslims, though the government claims it aims for reform. (PC: BBC & Maktoob Media)

On April 14, 2025, comedian Vir Das criticized Air India for failing to provide a pre-booked wheelchair for his wife, who has a broken leg, after their ₹50,000-per-seat flight from Mumbai to Delhi. He also reported broken tables, leg rests, and a malfunctioning seat. Air India responded, expressing empathy and attributing the delay—not denial—to unusually high demand for wheelchairs and staff shortages at the time. The airline stated that cabin crew offered assistance, including deplaning via an ambulift, and acknowledged that the experience fell short of expectations. Air India emphasized its commitment to improving accessibility and comfort for all passengers. (PC: Air India & Vir Das/Instagram)