Exit polls show tight Bengal race, Supreme Court weighs in on hate speech, and Arsenal draw with Atletico
Today at a glance
Exit polls project a narrow BJP majority in West Bengal's high-stakes assembly election, while Tamil Nadu sees a rare three-way contest. The Supreme Court rejected new hate speech legislation but emphasized public figures' responsibility, and denied activist Teesta Setalvad's passport release. In global news, former FBI director James Comey surrendered over charges of threatening Trump's life, while Arsenal and Atletico Madrid played to a tense 1-1 draw in the Champions League semi-final.
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Supreme Court rejects new hate speech law
India1 min read
The Supreme Court dismissed a petition seeking fresh legislation to tackle hate speech in India, but delivered a stern message to public figures. The bench emphasized that inflammatory rhetoric undermines fraternity and tears at the fabric of societal harmony. Instead of new laws, the court stressed that existing provisions are adequate if enforced properly. The ruling puts the onus on political leaders, religious figures, and influencers to exercise restraint in their public statements, warning that hate speech erodes the constitutional values of unity and peaceful coexistence.
The Supreme Court refused to return activist Teesta Setalvad's passport, keeping it under judicial custody for now. The bench said it would reconsider her request only after receiving a detailed travel itinerary explaining where and why she needs to travel. Setalvad, a prominent human rights activist, has been embroiled in legal battles related to the 2002 Gujarat riots investigations. The court's cautious approach reflects ongoing concerns about her travel plans. Her legal team must now submit specific documentation before any further hearing on passport release.
Exit polls project a narrow BJP majority in West Bengal's 294-seat assembly, though two major polling agencies withheld their predictions. The results suggest a closely contested battle in one of India's most politically charged states. In Tamil Nadu, most exit polls back the ruling DMK alliance, but AxisMyIndia delivered a surprise forecast: actor-turned-politician Vijay's TVK party could emerge as the single-largest party in a rare three-way contest. The actual results will determine whether these projections hold up. Counting day will reveal if anti-incumbency waves or regional loyalties prevailed.
Former FBI director James Comey surrendered to authorities after prosecutors charged him with threatening Donald Trump's life through an Instagram post. The case centers on a 2025 photograph of a seashell that investigators claim was coded language inciting violence against the former president. Comey, who Trump fired in 2017, has maintained a contentious relationship with the Republican leader. Prosecutors argue the post violated federal statutes on threatening a president or former president. The case highlights America's deepening political divisions and the scrutiny of social media communications by public figures. India angle: The case underscores global concerns about social media regulation and political speech that India has also grappled with through its IT Rules.
Teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has vindicated Rajasthan Royals' controversial signing decision by topping the IPL 2026 run charts with explosive batting. Former England cricketer Stuart Broad praised the franchise's astute scouting and foresight in securing the young prodigy early. Initially questioned for investing heavily in an unproven teenager, RR's gamble has paid spectacular dividends. Broad believes if Sooryavanshi enters the next auction, his value will skyrocket into record-breaking territory. The youngster's fearless stroke play and consistency have made him one of cricket's hottest properties, proving age is just a number in modern T20 cricket.
Arsenal, Atletico share spoils in Champions League
Sport1 min read
Arsenal and Atletico Madrid played to a tense 1-1 draw in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final, with both goals coming from the penalty spot. Viktor Gyokeres converted a 44th-minute penalty to put the Gunners ahead just before halftime. Atletico responded in the second half when Julian Alvarez equalized from the spot in the 56th minute. The evenly matched contest leaves everything to play for in the return leg at the Wanda Metropolitano. Both defenses held firm after the penalties, with neither side able to find a decisive breakthrough in a cagey tactical battle.
