Manas K. Das

Trinamool Congress candidate Jahangir Khan has withdrawn his nomination for the Falta re-poll, days before voting. The Election Commission had previously scrapped the original polls due to severe electoral offenses and subversion of the democratic process. Observer reports highlighted significant irregularities, including EVM tampering and voter intimidation. This development follows criticism from West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.

A severe Ebola outbreak, caused by the rare Bundibugyo virus, has claimed 130 lives with over 500 suspected cases. The World Health Organization warns of high risk to neighboring nations, stressing human-to-human transmission via bodily fluids and contact with infected animals. Emergency response systems are being activated to combat the escalating crisis.

Hello, Doctor — our first-of-its-kind digital clinic for TOI+ subscribers — went live recently and the response has been phenomenal. You too can send in your questions; our editorial team will get India’s leading doctors to respond with clear, evidence-based guidance in everyday language

A model-actor's suspicious death case in Bhopal intensifies as her husband, a lawyer, is denied anticipatory bail and a reward is offered for his arrest. Allegations of dowry harassment and abetment to suicide are being probed by a Special Investigation Team. Conflicting claims emerge from both families regarding the circumstances leading to her death.

The race for the final IPL playoff spot intensifies with five teams vying for one berth. Rajasthan Royals are best positioned, needing just one win, while Punjab Kings control their destiny. Kolkata Knight Riders, Delhi Capitals, and Chennai Super Kings require victories and favorable results elsewhere. Every remaining match significantly impacts the playoff picture.

The Supreme Court dismissed pleas to recall its stray dog relocation and sterilization order, issuing directions to states to augment infrastructure. The court allowed euthanasia for rabid or dangerous stray dogs, emphasizing the need for expert assessment and adherence to animal welfare laws.

But Delhi policy wonks just don’t get it. These centres today are drivers of services exports & GDP growth. Now, India needs a policy to make them catalyse our educational, research, and deep-tech ecosystem

Meta is laying off around 8,000 employees on Wednesday, May 20, with notification emails going out in three regional waves starting at 4 AM local time. A leaked memo from HR chief Janelle Gale tells North American staff to work from home as the cuts roll out. Meanwhile, 7,000 workers are being reassigned to four new AI-focused organisations as Mark Zuckerberg restructures Meta around flatter teams, fewer managers, and a $145 billion AI bet.

A US-Israeli war with Iran has triggered significant global economic fallout, with companies reporting at least $25 billion in losses due to soaring oil prices and disrupted trade routes. Businesses worldwide are implementing cost-cutting measures, including price hikes and reduced production, as the conflict impacts various sectors, particularly airlines.

Economists say that if the situation does not improve in the coming days, then more hikes may be in the offing. However, the approach of gradual hikes in petrol and diesel prices is to avoid an immediate inflation shock to the economy.