Morning news wrap: Shashi Tharoor criticises Pakistan's terror links, India becomes fourth biggest economy and more

Today’s top stories revolve around global diplomacy, economic milestones, and local incidents. Indian leaders raised their voices on terrorism during visits abroad, major jump in global economic rankings, Meanwhile, Bengaluru businessman was allegedly assaulted by a delivery man. On the global front, a suspected sabotage disrupted power during the Cannes Film Festival. Here’s what you need to know.

Shashi Tharoor criticises Pakistan’s terror links, hails Operation Sindoor

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, who is leading an all-party Indian delegation to the US, said the Pahalgam terror attack was designed to “provoke a backlash in the rest of India” by targeting Hindus. Speaking at the Consulate, Tharoor warned Pakistan that continued denial and safe haven for terrorists will now invite precise retaliation. The multi-party delegation includes representatives from the BJP, Shiv Sena, JMM, and others, and will travel to five countries to present India’s unified anti-terror stance. Get full updates here

Asaduddin Owaisi condemns misuse of religion by terrorist groups

At a high-level delegation visit to Bahrain, AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi condemned terrorist groups for distorting Islamic teachings to justify violence. He asserted that the Quran forbids killing innocents. The delegation, led by BJP MP Baijayant Panda, aimed to counter global misinformation about India’s anti-terror actions, especially after the Pahalgam attack. The group also included MPs from BJP, AIMIM, and diplomats, uniting across party lines in calling for international accountability on terrorism. Read full story here

NITI Aayog CEO says India is now a $4 trillion economy, eyes global top three by 2028

India has overtaken Japan to become the world’s fourth largest economy, confirmed NITI Aayog CEO B V R Subrahmanyam, citing IMF data. With a GDP crossing $4 trillion, only the US, China, and Germany now rank higher. Speaking at the 10th Governing Council meeting, Subrahmanyam said India is on track to become the third largest economy in 2.5–3 years. He also responded to global manufacturing concerns, including Trump’s remarks on Apple, asserting India remains a cost-effective hub. Read full story here

Businessman assaulted, sustains skull fracture after Zepto delivery agent attacks

A Bengaluru man, Shashank S, alleges that he was assaulted by a Zepto delivery executive after a dispute over address confusion. The argument escalated when Shashank questioned the agent for allegedly being rude to his sister-in-law. Shashank claims he was punched repeatedly, resulting in a facial injury and skull fracture that may require surgery. The incident, captured on CCTV, has led to a police case under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. R ead full story here

Power outage hits France, impacts Cannes film festival, probe underway

A massive power outage hit France’s Alpes-Maritimes region on Saturday, including Cannes, during the final day of the Cannes Film Festival. Authorities suspect deliberate sabotage, citing fires at an electrical substation and pylon damage. The blackout affected over 160,000 homes before power was restored by evening. Despite the disruption, Cannes organisers confirmed the closing ceremony would proceed using independent power. Police have launched an investigation into the suspected arson, with no arrests made yet. Read full story here