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Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk’s wife told the Supreme Court that his NSA detention relied on irrelevant material and denied him effective representation. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal argued key videos were not supplied and the order was copy-pasted. The government maintains Wangchuk incited violence. The court will continue hearing the case on January 13.
Ahead of Maharashtra’s civic polls, the State Election Commission has barred advance payments under the Ladli Behna scheme, citing the model code of conduct. While regular installments may continue, advance disbursal and addition of new beneficiaries are prohibited. The move follows opposition complaints alleging the timing could influence voters before polling.
Iran deployed tens of thousands of pro-government supporters following nationwide protests over inflation and rising prices, while at least 544 protesters have died. Authorities warned families to keep children away, and internet access remains restricted. US President Trump claimed Iran is seeking talks after his military warning over the crackdown on dissent.
AAP MP Raghav Chadha spent a day delivering orders with Blinkit, highlighting the pressures faced by gig workers. Riding pillion, he showcased the challenges of ultra-fast deliveries and called for safer working conditions. His effort underscores the human cost behind quick commerce, amid ongoing debates over worker rights and 10-minute delivery expectations.
The UAE has stopped funding scholarships for students planning to study in the UK, citing fears of radicalisation by Muslim Brotherhood influences. While degrees remain privately accessible, government-backed funding now excludes British universities. Student numbers have dropped sharply, and UK qualifications hold reduced recognition in the UAE.
Former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar was admitted to AIIMS, Delhi, for an MRI after fainting twice last week. He had a history of blackouts and recently underwent angioplasty. Dhankhar, 74, resigned in July 2025 citing health reasons, becoming the third Vice President in India’s history to step down mid-tenure.
Tamil Nadu BJP leader K Annamalai responded defiantly to Raj Thackeray’s “Rasmalai” jibe, daring threats against him in Mumbai. Backed by CM Devendra Fadnavis, Annamalai emphasized Mumbai’s need for capable governance ahead of January 15 civic polls, calling it India’s financial capital and criticizing opposition attempts to intimidate him.
Telangana CM Revanth announced that the Pranam program will support senior citizens. He warned govt employees neglecting their parents that 10–15% of their salaries could be deducted. A bill regarding this will be introduced in the upcoming budget session. He criticized those lacking parental responsibility, questioning their societal accountability.
Calling India indispensable to Washington, US ambassador-designate Sergio Gor said both nations are actively working toward a trade deal despite challenges. He highlighted strong Modi–Trump ties and cooperation across security, technology and health sectors. Gor also announced India’s upcoming inclusion as a full member of the US-led Pax Silica alliance.
Telangana minister Uttam Kumar Reddy said the Supreme Court heard the state’s objections on the Polavaram–Nallamala Sagar issue and advised filing a civil suit under Article 131 instead of Article 32. He said Telangana will soon file the suit seeking an injunction and hoped discussions between both Chief Ministers could help resolve the issue.
The Supreme Court issued notice to the Centre and Election Commission on a PIL challenging provisions of the 2023 law granting lifetime immunity to the CEC and ECs. The court questioned its constitutionality, noting such protection exceeds limits set even for judges, and agreed the issue needs detailed judicial scrutiny.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan led a day-long satyagraha in Thiruvananthapuram, accusing the BJP-led Centre of political bias and denying rightful funds to the state. Joined by ministers and MLAs, he said the protest aimed to defend Kerala’s constitutional rights and urged unity against what he called deliberate obstacles to development.
Bhojpuri singer Ritesh Pandey has quit Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraj Party, ending his brief political stint after the party’s poor Bihar election results. Announcing the decision on social media, Pandey said he entered politics sincerely but chose to step away to focus on serving people through his music and acting career.
Iran has reportedly activated military-grade jammers to cripple Starlink as nationwide protests intensify. Traffic disruption rose from 30% to over 80%, cutting a vital lifeline for protesters. Experts say such sophisticated GPS and microwave jamming likely required assistance from Russia or China, though Tehran may claim domestic capability.
Vietnam has introduced a new law allowing users to skip video advertisements on YouTube and other digital platforms after just five seconds. The regulation permits users to reject static and pop-up ads. Authorities have mandated that platforms and advertisers must remove any ad violations within 24 hours of notice. The move aims to curb intrusive […]