Kerala’s Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau has formed an SIT, led by SP Mahesh Kumar, to probe alleged 36.24 lakh irregularities in Adiya Sishtam Ghee sales at Sabarimala, following sharp High Court observations. About 13 lakh linked to uncredited sales was detected. The probe will examine records, stock movement and officials’ roles under court monitoring.
A US-backed Gaza ceasefire has entered phase two despite unresolved disputes over Hamas’s refusal to commit to disarmament and Israel’s unclear troop withdrawal plans. Phase one returned most hostages but saw alleged violations, casualties and limited aid delivery. Humanitarian shortages persist, while political and security arrangements remain uncertain.
Israel’s military issued an evacuation warning for residents of Sohmor village in southern Lebanon ahead of planned air strikes on Hezbollah targets. The army said attacks aim to prevent rebuilding of militant infrastructure. The warning comes despite a ceasefire, as Israel says Hezbollah must be fully disarmed. Recent strikes have continued across southern Lebanon.
The US said Iran halted 800 scheduled executions of protesters after pressure from Trump, as Gulf allies urged restraint from military action. The White House said all options remain open and warned of grave consequences. Treasury imposed new sanctions. Rights groups report thousands killed amid protests, repression, and internet blackouts across the country.
Bageshwar Dham head priest Dhirendra Krishna Shastri said children of those who stop believing in the Vedas will become “Naved and Javed.” Announcing a new gurukul in Madhya Pradesh, he stressed that knowledge lasts a lifetime. Shastri, with a popular YouTube following, has faced past controversies over government privileges and public statements.
A viral WhatsApp link during Sankranti promises “PhonePe Pongal Grand Gift – ₹5,000 for users.” However, opening it shows a “404” error. Cybersecurity experts warn that this is a scam, and clicking it can hack your phone. Users are advised to ignore, delete, and avoid sharing such suspicious messages.
Delhi govt has increased night shelters and rescue efforts for the homeless amid severe cold. Around AIIMS–Safdarjung and G B Pant Hospital, shelter capacity now includes 350 beds and temporary subways. DUSIB runs 197 permanent shelters and 250 pagoda shelters citywide, with night inspections and a 24/7 control room ensuring safety, bedding, and meals.
Kerala superstar Mammootty’s hit crime thriller ‘Kalamkaval’ is now streaming on Sony LIV ahead of its January 16 release. Directed by Jithin K. Joshy, the film has grossed around ₹85 crore worldwide. Available in Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi, it stars Vinayakan, Rajisha Vijayan, and Sruthi Ramachandran, with music by Mujeeb Majeed.
Telangana CM A Revanth Reddy asked the Indian Army to consider moving its Southern Command headquarters from Pune to Hyderabad. During a meeting with army and state officials, he also requested a Sainik School in Telangana, faster resolution of land and administrative issues, and special officers for smooth army-government coordination.
In the U19 World Cup, Team India beat the USA easily today at the Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo. Indian batter Abhigyan scored 42 as the top scorer. The USA batted first and were all out for 107. Rain shortened the match, setting a DLS target of 96 runs. India chased it comfortably, reaching the target […]