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India in its first response to US President Donald Trump’s controversial ‘hellhole’ remark, said it has seen the reports but stopped short of issuing a detailed response.Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge responded to a stern notice from the Election Commission, saying, “our people will reply to it.Voting turnout recorded nearly 89.3% till 5 pm in West Bengal amid poll violence, Tamil Nadu records 82.2% voter turnout till 5 pm.Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded to the opposition’s criticism over his unscheduled stop to buy “jhalmuri” during poll campaigning in West Bengal.The United States military has intercepted at least three Iranian-flagged oil tankers in Asian waters and redirected them away from positions near India, Malaysia and Sri Lanka, amid an ongoing maritime blockade on Iran.Here are the top 5 news of the day‘We’ve seen some reports’: MEA reacts to Trump’s ‘hell-hole’ remarkIndia issued a restrained response after US President Donald Trump reshared a post describing countries like India and China in derogatory terms. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We have seen some reports,” without further comment. The remark, made in the context of a US immigration debate, has triggered political reactions in India, with opposition parties calling it insulting and urging the government to respond strongly. Read full story‘Let the notice come, we will reply’: Kharge on EC ultimatum over ‘terrorist’ remarkCongress chief Mallikarjun Kharge said the party will respond to the Election Commission’s notice over his controversial “terrorist” remark on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asserting, “our people will reply to it.” The EC had issued a 24-hour ultimatum, taking serious note of the comment and possible violation of the Model Code of Conduct. The row has intensified political tensions, with the BJP demanding action. Kharge had earlier maintained that his remarks were misinterpreted. Read full story Watch ‘TMC IS FINISHED’: Modi Targets Mamata, As Record Turnout Marks Phase 1 Bengal Polls | Watch‘Thunderous jolt’: PM Modi hits back at TMC’s ‘jhalmuri’ dig with ‘chillies’ barbPrime Minister Narendra Modi hit back at the Trinamool Congress over its “jhalmuri” jibe during the West Bengal campaign, saying his simple act of eating the local snack had given the opposition a “thunderous jolt.” Using a “chillies” analogy, he suggested that while he enjoyed the food, it caused discomfort to his rivals. Read full storyUS intercepts 3 Iranian oil tankers near India, Malaysia amid maritime blockadeThe United States intercepted at least three Iranian oil tankers in Asian waters near India and Malaysia, redirecting them as part of an expanding maritime blockade on Iran. The move comes amid heightened tensions following the US-Iran conflict, with enforcement now extending beyond the Strait of Hormuz. The interceptions have disrupted global oil flows and underline escalating geopolitical strain, as Washington seeks to curb Iranian exports while diplomatic efforts remain stalled. Read full story WB Phase 1 sees 89.93% voter turnout till 5 pm amid violence; Tamil Nadu records 82.24% votes till 5 pmVoting turnout crossed 89.93% in West Bengal by 5 pm during Phase 1 polling, amid reports of violence, while Tamil Nadu recorded around 82.24% voter turnout in its single-phase assembly elections. Read full storyAbout the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil NaduMassive Poll Day: West Bengal Begins Voting, Tamil Nadu Sees Triangular Showdown“Trail Of Terror Revealed”: India EXPOSES Pak Over Terror Links At Washington EventArmy Chief’s Hawaii Visit Highlights Deepening India-US Military Strategy In Indo-PacificIndia Denies Crypto Scam Claims After Ship Fired Upon in Strait of Hormuz Tensions123PhotostoriesWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxuryThink you’re healthy and safe from a heart attack? 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