Israel, UAE report they are intercepting, responding to missiles despite ceasefire claim
Tel Aviv/Abu Dhabi: Fresh missile activity has been reported despite claims of a ceasefire between Iran and its adversaries. The Israeli military said it detected missile launches from Iran and confirmed that its defence systems were actively working to intercept the threat.
“Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat,” the military said in a statement.
At the same time, the United Arab Emirates also reported a missile threat. The Emirati National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Authority said air defence systems were responding.
“Air defense systems are currently responding to a missile threat. Please remain in a safe location and follow official channels for warnings and updates,” the agency said in a statement issued to residents.
The developments come even as reports suggest a ceasefire agreement is in place, indicating that hostilities may still be continuing despite the announced pause.
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VCK urges CM Vijay to enact stringent law against superstitious practices
Chennai (PTI): VCK MLA Vanni Arasu on Wednesday urged the newly formed Tamil Nadu government to enact a stringent law against superstitious practices, citing similar legislations in Karnataka and Maharashtra to curb exploitation in the name of black magic and rituals.
VCK, which won two seats in the 2026 Assembly election, has offered support to TVK to form a government during the floor test.
Speaking during the discussion on the confidence motion in the Assembly, Arasu highlighted that states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Rajasthan already have laws against witchcraft and sorcery.
"From 2013 in Maharashtra and 2020 in Karnataka, laws providing imprisonment for those who deceive through superstitious means have been in practice," he stated. The party noted that rationalist Narendra Dabholkar had fought for such a law in Maharashtra before being murdered by "Sanatana terrorists".
The VCK MLA further called on the government to prioritise scientific temper over beliefs in astrology and sorcery.
"Our government should give priority to projects that develop science without giving room for superstitions like astrology and black magic," Arasu said, citing Article 51A of the Indian Constitution, which defines the development of scientific temper as a fundamental duty of every citizen.
The party demanded a special law to prevent honour killings as well, which Arasu claimed are rising in Tamil Nadu as they once did in North Indian states.
The government was also urged to enact legislation protecting the "200-point roster system" for SC/ST employee promotions, utilising powers under Article 16(4A) of the Constitution.
Highlighting the recent arrest of 40 Tamil Nadu fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy, the VCK sought a permanent solution to protect them from such attacks.
The party called on the state government to take initiatives toward the "right of Eelam Tamils to rule themselves" and requested that the state officially observe May 18 as International Genocide Day.
