Sat Apr 12 01:00:51 UTC 2025: ## India Rejects EVM Hacking Claims, Favors Western Trade Partners: Top News
**New Delhi, April 12, 2025** – The Election Commission of India (ECI) firmly dismissed claims by U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard that Indian electronic voting machines (EVMs) are vulnerable to hacking. The ECI stated that the EVMs are secure and function like simple calculators.
Meanwhile, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal expressed a preference for India to strengthen trade ties with European and North American nations over China. This statement comes amid growing geopolitical tensions.
The extradition of Tahawwur Rana, an accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, was welcomed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who stated that justice for the victims has finally been served.
In other news, the Supreme Court of India ruled that Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi acted “erroneously” by delaying the assent of 10 state bills. An immigration judge ruled that Columbia University activist Mahmoud Khalil could be deported from the U.S.
Further, Congress leader Sachin Pilot stated that the Chief Ministerial candidate for the Bihar Grand Alliance will be decided post-election. Protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act continue in West Bengal. Experts are calling for increased activity from the SAARC Development Fund following cuts in USAID funding. Finally, Kolkata Knight Riders defeated Chennai Super Kings in the latest IPL 2025 match.
First Piper 