New Delhi, May 1 -- The Indian stock market ended sharply lower on Thursday, weighed down by selling across most sectors. Escalating US-Iran war and elevated crude oil prices dampened risk-appetite, while a hawkish US Federal Reserve policy, weak rupee and relentless FII outflows added to selling pressure.

The Sensex plunged 582.86 points, or 0.75%, to close at 76,913.50, while the Nifty 50 settled 180.10 points, or 0.74%, lower at 23,997.55 on April 30.

On the Nifty options front, Chandan Taparia Head Derivatives & Technicals, Wealth Management, Motilal Oswal Financial Services said that the maximum Call Open Interest (OI) was at 24,500 then 24,300 strike, while maximum Put OI was at 24,000 then 23,800 strike.

"Call writing is seen at...