R. Gurudath

Trinamool Congress candidate Jahangir Khan has withdrawn his nomination for the Falta re-poll, days before voting.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.

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

India have announced squads for the Afghanistan one-off Test and ODI series, with Ravindra Jadeja rested from the series. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli feature in the ODI squad, though Rohit and Hardik Pandya’s participation remains subject to fitness clearance. Shubman Gill will lead India in both formats, while Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey and Prince Yadav are among the notable inclusions.

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 Punjabi singer, Inder Kaur, was found dead in Neelon Canal five days after her alleged kidnapping at gunpoint. Her car, found nearby with blood stains, suggests she was murdered before being dumped. Police have arrested the father and friend of her former boyfriend, Sukhwinder Singh, who recently returned from Canada.

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.