Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday chaired a top security meeting in Delhi where he reaffirmed India’s resolve to deal a crushing blow to terrorism and underlined that the armed forces have complete operational freedom to decide on the mode, targets, and timing of the response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, officials aware of the matter said.
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THE BIG STORY
PM gives forces operational freedom for Pahalgam reply
The meeting at the prime minister’s residence was the latest in a series of security huddles following the worst terror attack in India in nearly years, and was attended by defence minister Rajnath Singh, national security adviser Ajit Doval, chief of defence staff General Anil Chauhan, and the three service chiefs. It will be followed up with a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security, headed by the PM, on Wednesday.
Later in the evening, Modi also met Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat. Read more
THE BIG QUESTION
Mark Carney wins Canada elections: What it means for ties with India
The Liberal Party won the Canadian general election, giving former central banker and incumbent PM Mark Carney a mandate to govern, a stunning turnaround in fortunes since his predecessor Justin Trudeau’s popularity plummeted. Carney’s gamble of triggering an early election, however, fell short of securing the majority he sought.
Carney’s party had about 43.6% of the national vote, securing or leading in 168 of the 172 seats needed for a majority in the House of Commons, meaning the government would be forced to work with other parties to pass budgets and other legislation. Under the tightest scenarios, the Bloc Quebecois, which runs candidates only in French-speaking Quebec, might hold the balance of power. The NDP with seven seats could also be involved, depending on the final tally for the Liberals. Read more.
During Mahakumbh, Ayodhya leads as most preferred spiritual destination: Survey
Ayodhya led with 22.55% of respondents naming it as their top choice. Sangam in Prayagraj followed at 19.96%, while Varanasi received 12.72% of the votes. Mathura stood at 6.31%, and Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar at 2.67%. Read more.
Photo of the Day
A red-hot day at the Red Fort
Tourists trudge through the heat at Red Fort on Tuesday. (Credit: Raj K Raj/HT Photo)
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