Top 5 news of the day: G6 nations pushed Canada for India's inclusion at G7 summit; EC hits back at Rahul Gandhi's 'match fixing' claims; & more

NEW DELHI: India’s inclusion at the upcoming G7 Summit has drawn attention after Canadian expert Vina Nadjibulla revealed it was the result of a strong push from the other six members, positioning Canada as the outlier.Domestically, a political storm brewed as the Election Commission of India hit back at Rahul Gandhi’s “match-fixing” allegations, calling them baseless. Meanwhile, in Chhattisgarh, a major anti-Maoist operation led to the killing of seven insurgents, including two top CPI (Maoist) leaders.Here are the top 5 news stories of the day:G6 nations pushed for India’s inclusion at G7 summit, says Canadian expertIndia’s invitation to the G7 Summit came after a strong push from the other six member nations, according to Vina Nadjibulla of the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada.

She said Canada was the “outlier,” while the G6 supported India’s presence to strengthen strategic and economic ties. Nadjibulla stressed diplomacy isn't about preference but necessity. PM Modi accepted the invite extended by Canadian PM Mark Carney amid efforts to resume bilateral dialogue.

Read full storyECI rejects Rahul Gandhi’s ‘match-fixing’ allegation in Maharashtra polls The Election Commission of India has dismissed Rahul Gandhi’s claims of “match-fixing” in the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections as “completely absurd.”

Responding to the Congress leader’s article alleging electoral rigging, the ECI said all processes are transparent and carried out under law with representatives from all parties present. It added that only 90 appeals were filed regarding electoral rolls, reflecting minimal complaints.

The poll body called Gandhi’s claims misinformation that disrespects lawful conduct. Read full storyElon Musk deletes critical Trump tweets, fuelling speculation of reconciliation Elon Musk has deleted several tweets critical of Donald Trump, including claims about the Epstein files, prompting speculation of a thaw in their strained relationship.

James Fishback, known for his support of Trump, noted Musk’s deleted posts and urged him to issue an apology. The move comes after a public fallout over Musk’s attack on Trump’s legislative legacy and government subsidies. The deletions hint at possible efforts by Musk to repair ties.

Read full storyTop Maoist leaders among 7 killed in major anti-Naxal operation in Chhattisgarh Seven Maoists, including high-ranking leaders Sudhakar and Bhaskar, were killed in encounters with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district over the past three days. The operations, underway in Indravati National Park, involved Chhattisgarh police, CRPF, and CoBRA units.

Officials recovered arms, including AK-47 rifles, and confirmed injuries to some personnel due to harsh forest conditions. This marks the third major blow to Maoist leadership in the region in three weeks. Read full storyKL Rahul’s ton power India A to 348 vs England Lions KL Rahul slammed a classy 116 on his return to red-ball cricket, leading India A to 348 in the second unofficial Test against England Lions. Supported by Dhruv Jurel’s fluent 52 and Karun Nair’s 40, Rahul’s innings helped the visitors recover from early blows by Chris Woakes, who took 3/50. England Lions started Day 2 with a steady 41/1, with Anshul Kamboj providing the early breakthrough. Follow live updates