National Handloom Day 2026: From Alia Bhatt to Samantha Ruth Prabhu; Actresses who celebrated India's textile heritage as brides

The Royals enter the Doctor Who universe: King Charles and Queen Camilla beam into Commonwealth Games in TARDIS

Unitree Robotics targets $9 billion valuation in landmark IPO backed by DeepSeek and Tencent

India names 27 sites in Arunachal Pradesh

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata OTT: When will Kangana Ranaut's film stream online?

How many soldiers operate one S-400 battery?

Shakib Al Hasan ready to return to Bangladesh—under one condition

‘Fake news’: MEA rejects report claiming India sought defence pact with Israel after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey deal

Rockstar to unveil GTA 6 extended look ahead of November launch

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

Drug-resistant fungus that hides in hair and enters bloodstream reported in 23 US states

Technology transfer deal boosts India's defence manufacturing ambitions

Border row erupts in Europe after Ceuta crossings, Spain imposes border controls on Italy

Morale plummets on USS Abraham Lincoln: Are US sailors reaching a breaking point? | GRAVITAS

'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia

Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside

Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella vows to ‘defeat narco-terrorists’, signals hardline shift

New Friday OTT releases (August 7, 2026): Operation Safed Sagar, Vadhandhi, Main Vaapis Aaunga- 6 movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth scripts history as Indian Air Force gets its first woman ‘Top Gun’ pilot

RSS says Gen Z protests reflect genuine distress

Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...'

IAF officer held for sharing sensitive information in 'honey trap' case, booked under Official Secrets Act

Stray Kids under scrutiny? Fans react to Grammy submission silence after BTS boycott

Why the Su-30MKI doesn't need external fuel tanks to fly vast distances

Jugal Hansraj reunites with Shekhar Kapur after 40 years for Masoom: The Next Generation

New speed limits, automatic challans: Big traffic change coming to Delhi-Meerut Expressway. All you need to know

India officially names 27 places in Arunachal to counter China's renaming claims

Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

Why the Su-30MKI is one of the heaviest fighters ever built

Uttarakhand young innovator builds India's own flying vehicle, conducts first test flight: WATCH

Chilling video shows students take cover as teen opens fire at Thai school

Reese Witherspoon's father hospitalised after poolside incident in Nashville: Report

In Madhya Pradesh's Sehore, a minor argument snowballed into alleged communal clashes on Sunday (Dec 21). Tensions flared in Ashta town of Sehore district on Sunday night after a clash between two communities spiralled into violence, forcing police to use tear gas to bring the situation under control. The unrest also led to a temporary blockade of the busy Bhopal–Indore highway by members of the Karni Sena, according to reports.<h2>How the clash began</h2>According to officials, the trouble started around 9 pm near Alipur Chowk on the old Bhopal–Indore road. What began as a minor disagreement quickly escalated, with people from both sides gathering near the rest house close to Parvati Bridge. The confrontation soon turned violent, with stone-pelting reported from both sides.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chaos-at-thiruparankundram-during-islamic-event-public-protest-for-deepam-lighting-1766384624039">Chaos at Thiruparankundram during Islamic event; public push for Deepam lighting</a>Several parked vehicles and those passing through the area were damaged during the chaos, triggering panic among residents and commuters.Watch a video of the chaos here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Heavy stone pelting reported amidst clashes between two communities in Madhya Pradesh&#39;s Sehore; security heightened <a href="https://t.co/iR2qjV3WSu">pic.twitter.com/iR2qjV3WSu</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2002999085385826585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Karni Sena worker at centre of dispute?</h2>As per a Bhaskar English report, the initial argument involved a Karni Sena worker who was returning from a programme in Harda and a local youth. As word spread, more people assembled at the spot, and the situation slipped out of control. Stone-pelting followed, leading to damage to vehicles and public property.Following the incident, Karni Sena workers blocked the Bhopal–Indore highway in protest. The blockade led to long traffic jams on both sides near the Chaupati area, causing major inconvenience to travellers. After administrative intervention and negotiations, efforts were made to clear the road.By late night, traffic movement was gradually restored, though vehicles continued to move slowly for some time.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-extremists-emboldened-hasina-blames-yunus-govt-for-anti-india-hostility-in-bangladesh-1766380925403">'Extremists emboldened': Hasina blames Yunus for anti-India hostility in B'desh</a><h2>Police action and reinforcements</h2>Teams from Parvati and Ashta police stations rushed to the scene after receiving information about the violence. When the crowd refused to disperse, police fired tear gas shells and carried out a brief lathi charge to push people back.Given the seriousness of the situation, additional police forces were called in from nearby areas. Police presence was increased in sensitive pockets of the town, and continuous monitoring was put in place.<h2>Situation under control, probe underway</h2>Police said the situation is currently under control. In an X statement, SP Sehore said, "Following the incident that occurred on 21.12.25 between two parties in the Parvati police station area, the situation was fully brought under control immediately by the police during the night itself. The movement of the general public and vehicles, as well as commercial activities, are proceeding smoothly; there is peace in the area, and police forces have been deployed on site as a precautionary measure."&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">सीहोर दिनांक 21.12.25 को थाना पार्वती क्षेत्र अंतर्गत दो पक्षों के बीच हुई घटना उपरांत तत्काल पुलिस द्वारा रात्रि में ही पूरी तरह से स्थिति को नियंत्रित कर लिया गया है | आम लोगों का एवं वाहनों का आवागमन एवं व्यवसायिक गतिविधियां सुचारू रूप से संचालित हो रही है, क्षेत्र में शांति… <a href="https://t.co/dYq4XJQxEB">pic.twitter.com/dYq4XJQxEB</a>&mdash; SP_SEHORE (@SpSehore) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpSehore/status/2002989383281189277?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A minor argument in Ashta, Sehore spiralled into communal violence on Sunday night, with stone-pelting, damaged vehicles and police firing tear gas to regain control. Karni Sena workers later blocked the Bhopal–Indore highway. Police say the situation is now under control. Watch video here.

In Madhya Pradesh's Sehore, a minor argument snowballed into alleged communal clashes on Sunday (Dec 21). Tensions flared in Ashta town of Sehore district on Sunday night after a clash between two communities spiralled into violence, forcing police to use tear gas to bring the situation under control. The unrest also led to a temporary blockade of the busy Bhopal–Indore highway by members of the Karni Sena, according to reports. How the clash began According to officials, the trouble started around 9 pm near Alipur Chowk on the old Bhopal–Indore road. What began as a minor disagreement quickly escalated, with people from both sides gathering near the rest house close to Parvati Bridge. The confrontation soon turned violent, with stone-pelting reported from both sides. Also read | Chaos at Thiruparankundram during Islamic event; public push for Deepam lighting Several parked vehicles and those passing through the area were damaged during the chaos, triggering panic among residents and commuters. Watch a video of the chaos here:

A minor argument in Ashta, Sehore spiralled into communal violence on Sunday night, with stone-pelting, damaged vehicles and police firing tear gas to regain control. Karni Sena workers later blocked the Bhopal–Indore highway. Police say the situation is now under control. Watch video here.

Violence breaks out in MP’s Sehore after minor dispute, highway blocked. Watch video

The prices of gold and silver have hit record highs, in a pattern seen throughout 2025. This reflects the risk-averse sentiment of investors, who have amassed gold and silver. Its been the pattern in past decades too, with the price of gold rising in anticipation of, and during, crises. The current high prices, particularly since the Ukraine–Russia war of 2022 onwards, could indicate that the gloom and doom is likely to continue in 2026, if one goes by historical precedents.<h2>The rise of gold and silver in 2025</h2>Gold, which was around $2,624 per ounce at the start of 2025, is at a record high of around $4,400 per ounce by late December, a rise of around 68 per cent on the year. Silver is up from $29 per ounce to $69 per ounce, an even higher spike of 133 per cent on the year. This is one of the biggest annual rises for both metals since 1979.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gold-bet-to-surge-to-5-000-ounce-in-2026-1766295259367/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/gold-bet-to-surge-to-5-000-ounce-in-2026-1766295259367/embed</a><h2>Gold and silver: Safe-haven assets amid uncertainties</h2>Investors flock to these so-called safe-haven assets when geopolitical tensions continue, most of which have a direct impact on oil prices: the Ukraine–Russia war, US–Venezuela tensions, and conflicts in the Middle East, particularly the Gaza war.Silver is not only a safe haven, but also has strong industrial use in current technologies such as electric vehicles, solar energy and electronics.US tariffs under President Donald Trump, and trade wars have added to the uncertainties. There are also fears about inflation, both in the US and elsewhere. One of the longest US government shutdowns exacerbated the situation.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-asia-largest-undersea-gold-deposit-jiaodong-1766215700701">China uncovers Asia’s largest offshore gold deposit in East China Sea</a><h2>Interest rate cuts by central banks make gold more attractive</h2>The US central bank, the Federal Reserve, made several interest rate cuts in 2025, with more such cuts likely in 2026. Such interest rate cuts are leading more investors to opt for gold. When central banks cut interest rates, assets like bonds and savings become less attractive because they stop giving good yields to investors. Therefore, rate cuts often increase the demand for gold - which is a non-yield asset - as an alternative investment, boosting its price.&nbsp;Central banks, like the Reserve Bank of India, are also adding to their gold reserves, which crossed 880 metric tonnes by late 2025, as against 820 MT in mid 2024.<h2>A pattern in history: How precious metals rise ahead of and during global shocks and tensions</h2>Historically, investment in gold has risen as a hedge against ongoing uncertainties and as a way to counter the lowering of currency values.&nbsp;There is a clear pattern in which the prices of gold, and often silver to a lesser extent, rise ahead of or during major shocks such as wars, oil crises or economic turmoil.Gold often behaves like an earthquake predictor, surging beforehand as investors price in risk. It stabilises or dips as the crisis resolves.<h2>Gold price spike patterns since 1973</h2>After the Yom Kippur War and the OPEC oil embargo of 1973, oil prices quadrupled, causing both stagflation and inflation in America and globally. Gold price doubled from around $100 per ounce to over $200 per ounce by 1974. This was in anticipation of the crisis amid the fall in value of the dollar, the world’s reserve currency.The next big rise in gold prices was during the 1979–1980 oil crisis that came after events such as the Iranian Revolution and the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. That ‘oil shock’ led to high inflation, and gold peaked at around $850 per ounce. This remains the strongest bull run in gold connected to geopolitical shocks.The next big spike in the yellow metal took place during the Gulf War of 1990–1991, following Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait. Gold rose by around 20 per cent.The US invasion of Iraq in 2003 was another growth point for gold, which got sustained gains by around 50 per cent during the conflict that followed.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-us-dollar-dying-slowly-this-economist-thinks-so-as-gold-silver-surge-countries-including-india-trim-us-treasury-holdings-1765964339109">Is US dollar dying slowly? This economist thinks so as gold, silver surge, countries including India trim US Treasury holdings</a>&nbsp;During the global financial crisis of 2008, which followed the collapse of subprime mortgage market in the US, gold saw a period of growth until around 2009. Amid the disruption of global banking and stock crashes across the world, gold surged by around 25 per cent, in a classic case of a safe-haven response.The next big spike for gold was during the Covid pandemic that started in 2020. Global lockdowns and the shutdown of entire national economies led to a then-record growth in gold prices of nearly 27 per cent, to about $2,000 per ounce.&nbsp;Uncertainty about the economic future of the world, combined with stimulus packages by various governments, drove demand for the precious metal.<h2>Gold prices are a predictor of impending global tremors</h2>The current rally in gold is mainly due to the Russia–Ukraine war and other conflicts, and talk of another world war, which is yet to materialise. Geopolitical crises add a premium to gold prices, which grow as a pre-emptive measure to absorb shocks. Investors usually sense rising anxiety and risk before it becomes fully visible.That explains why gold, which was at around $2,624 at the start of 2025, rose with each shock this year: from the initial tariff threats by Trump, to the “Liberation Day” tariff announcements, to trade tensions with various countries and US sanctions on Venezuela. As mentioned, the US government shutdown, the Ukraine–Russia war amid a failing peace process, ongoing Middle East tensions and supply-chain disruptions are all adding to the rise.

Gold and silver prices are now at record highs,  reflecting rising global uncertainty. The precious metals usually surge ahead of wars, inflation and economic shocks, signalling crises before they unfold. Here is how

The prices of gold and silver have hit record highs, in a pattern seen throughout 2025. This reflects the risk-averse sentiment of investors, who have amassed gold and silver. Its been the pattern in past decades too, with the price of gold rising in anticipation of, and during, crises. The current high prices, particularly since the Ukraine–Russia war of 2022 onwards, could indicate that the gloom and doom is likely to continue in 2026, if one goes by historical precedents. The rise of gold and silver in 2025 Gold, which was around $2,624 per ounce at the start of 2025, is at a record high of around $4,400 per ounce by late December, a rise of around 68 per cent on the year. Silver is up from $29 per ounce to $69 per ounce, an even higher spike of 133 per cent on the year. This is one of the biggest annual rises for both metals since 1979. https://www.wionews.com/videos/gold-bet-to-surge-to-5-000-ounce-in-2026-1766295259367/embed Gold and silver: Safe-haven assets amid uncertainties Investors flock to these so-called safe-haven assets when geopolitical tensions continue, most of which have a direct impact on oil prices: the Ukraine–Russia war, US–Venezuela tensions, and conflicts in the Middle East, particularly the Gaza war. Silver is not only a safe haven, but also has strong industrial use in current technologies such as electric vehicles, solar energy and electronics. US tariffs under President Donald Trump, and trade wars have added to the uncertainties. There are also fears about inflation, both in the US and elsewhere. One of the longest US government shutdowns exacerbated the situation. Also read: China uncovers Asia’s largest offshore gold deposit in East China Sea Interest rate cuts by central banks make gold more attractive The US central bank, the Federal Reserve, made several interest rate cuts in 2025, with more such cuts likely in 2026. Such interest rate cuts are leading more investors to opt for gold. When central banks cut interest rates, assets like bonds and savings become less attractive because they stop giving good yields to investors. Therefore, rate cuts often increase the demand for gold - which is a non-yield asset - as an alternative investment, boosting its price. Central banks, like the Reserve Bank of India, are also adding to their gold reserves, which crossed 880 metric tonnes by late 2025, as against 820 MT in mid 2024. A pattern in history: How precious metals rise ahead of and during global shocks and tensions Historically, investment in gold has risen as a hedge against ongoing uncertainties and as a way to counter the lowering of currency values. There is a clear pattern in which the prices of gold, and often silver to a lesser extent, rise ahead of or during major shocks such as wars, oil crises or economic turmoil. Gold often behaves like an earthquake predictor, surging beforehand as investors price in risk. It stabilises or dips as the crisis resolves. Gold price spike patterns since 1973 After the Yom Kippur War and the OPEC oil embargo of 1973, oil prices quadrupled, causing both stagflation and inflation in America and globally. Gold price doubled from around $100 per ounce to over $200 per ounce by 1974. This was in anticipation of the crisis amid the fall in value of the dollar, the world’s reserve currency. The next big rise in gold prices was during the 1979–1980 oil crisis that came after events such as the Iranian Revolution and the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. That ‘oil shock’ led to high inflation, and gold peaked at around $850 per ounce. This remains the strongest bull run in gold connected to geopolitical shocks. The next big spike in the yellow metal took place during the Gulf War of 1990–1991, following Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait. Gold rose by around 20 per cent. The US invasion of Iraq in 2003 was another growth point for gold, which got sustained gains by around 50 per cent during the conflict that followed. Also read: Is US dollar dying slowly? This economist thinks so as gold, silver surge, countries including India trim US Treasury holdings During the global financial crisis of 2008, which followed the collapse of subprime mortgage market in the US, gold saw a period of growth until around 2009. Amid the disruption of global banking and stock crashes across the world, gold surged by around 25 per cent, in a classic case of a safe-haven response. The next big spike for gold was during the Covid pandemic that started in 2020. Global lockdowns and the shutdown of entire national economies led to a then-record growth in gold prices of nearly 27 per cent, to about $2,000 per ounce. Uncertainty about the economic future of the world, combined with stimulus packages by various governments, drove demand for the precious metal. Gold prices are a predictor of impending global tremors The current rally in gold is mainly due to the Russia–Ukraine war and other conflicts, and talk of another world war, which is yet to materialise. Geopolitical crises add a premium to gold prices, which grow as a pre-emptive measure to absorb shocks. Investors usually sense rising anxiety and risk before it becomes fully visible. That explains why gold, which was at around $2,624 at the start of 2025, rose with each shock this year: from the initial tariff threats by Trump, to the “Liberation Day” tariff announcements, to trade tensions with various countries and US sanctions on Venezuela. As mentioned, the US government shutdown, the Ukraine–Russia war amid a failing peace process, ongoing Middle East tensions and supply-chain disruptions are all adding to the rise.

Gold and silver prices are now at record highs, &nbsp;reflecting rising global uncertainty. The precious metals usually surge ahead of wars, inflation and economic shocks, signalling crises before they unfold. Here is how

Gold and silver at record highs mean the world is heading for bigger crises? Lessons from history

Scientists have found proof of mathematics being used by a society long before formal numbers were invented. The Halafian culture of northern Mesopotamia painted floral patterns on pottery that follow mathematical systems, such as geometry, symmetry, and spatial long division. A new study published in the Journal of World Prehistory reveals how mathematics was known even during prehistoric times, without even the existence of numbers. Archaeologists from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem came across pottery from a prehistoric culture known as the Halafian. This society lived in northern Mesopotamia from 6200 to 5500 BCE, that is 8,200 to 7,500 years ago. Analysis of the flower motifs on them showed that they were placed in a pattern. Around 700 fragments with such depictions were found.&nbsp;The researchers put them under the scanner and found that they followed a geometrical pattern. Study authors Yosef Garfinkel and Sarah Krulwich found that the petals were arranged in a geometric sequence: 4, 8, 16, 32, and 64. This was a time when the formal number system did not exist. This means that the scientists have found proof of mathematics being used even when it wasn't a thing. The flower motifs on the pottery showed the Halafian people knew about spatial long division before the invention of numbers. The mathematical concepts on these pottery are years older than the first written mathematical texts from Sumer in southern Mesopotamia.<h2>Divisions and sequence through art</h2>The study authors said that it is hard to know how much mathematical ability prehistoric communities had without the existence of written evidence. But the discovery and analysis of the vegetal decoration of Halafian pottery vessels "enables some understanding of these aspects." Krulwich said in a statement, "These patterns show that mathematical thinking began long before writing. People visualised divisions, sequences, and balance through their art." Garfinkel believes the Halafians were using these concepts in their daily lives, such as for "sharing harvests or allocating communal fields."&nbsp;The other thing about the discovery is the use of flowers in an artistic medium. The pieces discovered from the time of ancient humans till now only had animals and humans on them. Plants only appeared after early Homo sapiens were already using them for various uses. The latest finding shows the time when flowers became a part of human artistic expression. &nbsp;

Mathematical concepts were being used by a society that lived way before formal numbers started being used. Scientists have found evidence of long division and geometry being used by the Halafian culture, as depicted on their pottery.

Scientists have found proof of mathematics being used by a society long before formal numbers were invented. The Halafian culture of northern Mesopotamia painted floral patterns on pottery that follow mathematical systems, such as geometry, symmetry, and spatial long division. A new study published in the Journal of World Prehistory reveals how mathematics was known even during prehistoric times, without even the existence of numbers. Archaeologists from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem came across pottery from a prehistoric culture known as the Halafian. This society lived in northern Mesopotamia from 6200 to 5500 BCE, that is 8,200 to 7,500 years ago. Analysis of the flower motifs on them showed that they were placed in a pattern. Around 700 fragments with such depictions were found. The researchers put them under the scanner and found that they followed a geometrical pattern. Study authors Yosef Garfinkel and Sarah Krulwich found that the petals were arranged in a geometric sequence: 4, 8, 16, 32, and 64. This was a time when the formal number system did not exist. This means that the scientists have found proof of mathematics being used even when it wasn't a thing. The flower motifs on the pottery showed the Halafian people knew about spatial long division before the invention of numbers. The mathematical concepts on these pottery are years older than the first written mathematical texts from Sumer in southern Mesopotamia. Divisions and sequence through art The study authors said that it is hard to know how much mathematical ability prehistoric communities had without the existence of written evidence. But the discovery and analysis of the vegetal decoration of Halafian pottery vessels "enables some understanding of these aspects." Krulwich said in a statement, "These patterns show that mathematical thinking began long before writing. People visualised divisions, sequences, and balance through their art." Garfinkel believes the Halafians were using these concepts in their daily lives, such as for "sharing harvests or allocating communal fields." The other thing about the discovery is the use of flowers in an artistic medium. The pieces discovered from the time of ancient humans till now only had animals and humans on them. Plants only appeared after early Homo sapiens were already using them for various uses. The latest finding shows the time when flowers became a part of human artistic expression.

Mathematical concepts were being used by a society that lived way before formal numbers started being used. Scientists have found evidence of long division and geometry being used by the Halafian culture, as depicted on their pottery.

8,200-year-old calculations: Ancient humans knew geometry and long division way before numbers were invented

Chaudhary Charan Singh was one of the most influential agrarian leaders and a key personality in the post-Independence political history of India. He briefly served as the fifth Prime Minister in 1979–80 and was also known for his strong advocacy for farmers and rural India. Singh was the first leader outside the Indian National Congress (INC) to form a government and also became the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh. He is the second deputy prime minister to become prime minister after his predecessor, Morarji Desai.<h3>Who was Chaudhary Charan Singh? Here are 10 interesting facts about his life and legacy:</h3>Former Prime Minister of India Chaudhary Charan Sing was a dedicated politician from a farming background, known for advocating for farmers' rights. He introduced land reforms, empowered tillers, and worked to improve market linkages for agricultural produce, laying the groundwork for MSP.&nbsp;1. Born in rural Uttar Pradesh&nbsp;Chaudhary Charan Singh was born on December 23, 1902, in Noorpur village of present-day Uttar Pradesh, shaping his lifelong connection with farmers and villages.&nbsp;2. Trained as a lawyer&nbsp;He studied law at Agra College and later practised as a lawyer, using his legal background to champion peasant rights.&nbsp;3. A staunch farmers’ leader&nbsp;Charan Singh dedicated his politics to farmers, opposing zamindari and feudal land systems that exploited cultivators.&nbsp;4. Architect of land reforms&nbsp;As Uttar Pradesh’s Chief Minister, he played a key role in abolishing the zamindari system and pushing land redistribution.&nbsp;5. Fifth Prime Minister of India&nbsp;He became India’s fifth Prime Minister in July 1979, though his tenure lasted less than a year due to political instability.&nbsp;6. Never faced Parliament as PM&nbsp;Charan Singh resigned before proving his majority in the Lok Sabha, making his premiership unique in Indian politics.&nbsp;7. Strong critic of urban-centric policies&nbsp;He consistently argued that India’s progress depended on empowering villages rather than focusing only on cities and industries.&nbsp;8. Founder of Lok Dal&nbsp;He established the Lok Dal, which later influenced several regional and national political formations.&nbsp;9. Known for ideological rigidity&nbsp;Charan Singh was respected for sticking to his principles, even when it cost him political power or alliances.&nbsp;10. Bharat Ratna awardee&nbsp;In 2024, he was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, recognising his lifelong contribution to farmers and rural India.&nbsp;The legacy of the former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Sing endures as a symbol of grassroots politics and unwavering commitment to India's agrarian backbone. His ideas continue to inspire the political figures to focus their responsibility with a leadership role towards farming, rural development and social justice.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chaudhary Charan Singh was the first leader outside the Indian National Congress (INC) to form a government and also became the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh. He is the second deputy prime minister to become prime minister after his predecessor, Morarji Desai.

Chaudhary Charan Singh was one of the most influential agrarian leaders and a key personality in the post-Independence political history of India. He briefly served as the fifth Prime Minister in 1979–80 and was also known for his strong advocacy for farmers and rural India. Singh was the first leader outside the Indian National Congress (INC) to form a government and also became the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh. He is the second deputy prime minister to become prime minister after his predecessor, Morarji Desai. Who was Chaudhary Charan Singh? Here are 10 interesting facts about his life and legacy: Former Prime Minister of India Chaudhary Charan Sing was a dedicated politician from a farming background, known for advocating for farmers' rights. He introduced land reforms, empowered tillers, and worked to improve market linkages for agricultural produce, laying the groundwork for MSP. 1. Born in rural Uttar Pradesh Chaudhary Charan Singh was born on December 23, 1902, in Noorpur village of present-day Uttar Pradesh, shaping his lifelong connection with farmers and villages. 2. Trained as a lawyer He studied law at Agra College and later practised as a lawyer, using his legal background to champion peasant rights. 3. A staunch farmers’ leader Charan Singh dedicated his politics to farmers, opposing zamindari and feudal land systems that exploited cultivators. 4. Architect of land reforms As Uttar Pradesh’s Chief Minister, he played a key role in abolishing the zamindari system and pushing land redistribution. 5. Fifth Prime Minister of India He became India’s fifth Prime Minister in July 1979, though his tenure lasted less than a year due to political instability. 6. Never faced Parliament as PM Charan Singh resigned before proving his majority in the Lok Sabha, making his premiership unique in Indian politics. 7. Strong critic of urban-centric policies He consistently argued that India’s progress depended on empowering villages rather than focusing only on cities and industries. 8. Founder of Lok Dal He established the Lok Dal, which later influenced several regional and national political formations. 9. Known for ideological rigidity Charan Singh was respected for sticking to his principles, even when it cost him political power or alliances. 10. Bharat Ratna awardee In 2024, he was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, recognising his lifelong contribution to farmers and rural India. The legacy of the former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Sing endures as a symbol of grassroots politics and unwavering commitment to India's agrarian backbone. His ideas continue to inspire the political figures to focus their responsibility with a leadership role towards farming, rural development and social justice.

Chaudhary Charan Singh was the first leader outside the Indian National Congress (INC) to form a government and also became the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh. He is the second deputy prime minister to become prime minister after his predecessor, Morarji Desai.

Who was Chaudhary Charan Singh? Know 10 interesting facts about farmer-first leader who became India's 5th PM

A Pakistani man who disappeared in 1997 was found nearly 30 years later after a shepherd found his body preserved in ice in the Supat Valley. Naseeruddin is said to have entered a cave when he was 31 years old and was never seen again. His family searched for him but could not find any traces of him or clues about his disappearance. For years, no one knew what had happened to him. The mystery has now been solved, as in July 2025, a local shepherd named Omar Khan discovered the missing man’s body fully intact. The surprising thing was that his clothes were also just the same, and he even had his ID on him in perfect condition, Khan told BBC Urdu.&nbsp;Naseeruddin's body was preserved in the glacial ice like a mummy for 28 years. He froze quickly, and his body lay there without any exposure to moisture and oxygen. His body was revealed because of the melting glaciers owing to climate change. Notably, Pakistan has around 7,000 glaciers, second only to Earth's polar regions. But now they are melting just like the others because of the warming climate. Decreased snowfall and more sunlight directly reaching the glaciers have led to them losing mass.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-alarmed-at-noticing-a-scary-feeding-trait-in-the-only-antarctic-bug-1765445210475">Scientists alarmed at noticing a scary feeding trait in the only Antarctic bug</a>&nbsp;Glaciers trap evidence of the world gone by, with even ancient viruses being found buried deep within them. Scientists regularly drill them to uncover secrets about what life was like on Earth thousands of years ago. In 1991, Ötzi, also known as The Iceman, was found in the Italian Alps. Its tissues and organs were also intact, and scientists could even see what he had eaten in his last meal. However, his freezing was different from what happened to the Pakistani man who underwent cryogenic freezing. In 2024, partial remains of mountaineer Sandy Irvine, who disappeared on Everest a century ago, were also recovered.<h2>Antarctic ice sheet collapse</h2>As global warming continues to threaten the world, more secrets could tumble out. The Antarctic ice sheet is also at risk of a major collapse. The "Doomsday Glacier", also known as the Thwaites Glacier in West Antarctica, is at risk of a collapse, and when that happens, global sea levels could rise to dramatic levels, threatening several coastal communities.

A glacier in Pakistan perfectly preserved the dead body of a man who vanished in 1997. He has only now been discovered, with his clothes also fully intact, along with his body. Naseeruddin's family has finally found closure after nearly 30 years.

A Pakistani man who disappeared in 1997 was found nearly 30 years later after a shepherd found his body preserved in ice in the Supat Valley. Naseeruddin is said to have entered a cave when he was 31 years old and was never seen again. His family searched for him but could not find any traces of him or clues about his disappearance. For years, no one knew what had happened to him. The mystery has now been solved, as in July 2025, a local shepherd named Omar Khan discovered the missing man’s body fully intact. The surprising thing was that his clothes were also just the same, and he even had his ID on him in perfect condition, Khan told BBC Urdu. Naseeruddin's body was preserved in the glacial ice like a mummy for 28 years. He froze quickly, and his body lay there without any exposure to moisture and oxygen. His body was revealed because of the melting glaciers owing to climate change. Notably, Pakistan has around 7,000 glaciers, second only to Earth's polar regions. But now they are melting just like the others because of the warming climate. Decreased snowfall and more sunlight directly reaching the glaciers have led to them losing mass. Also Read: Scientists alarmed at noticing a scary feeding trait in the only Antarctic bug Glaciers trap evidence of the world gone by, with even ancient viruses being found buried deep within them. Scientists regularly drill them to uncover secrets about what life was like on Earth thousands of years ago. In 1991, Ötzi, also known as The Iceman, was found in the Italian Alps. Its tissues and organs were also intact, and scientists could even see what he had eaten in his last meal. However, his freezing was different from what happened to the Pakistani man who underwent cryogenic freezing. In 2024, partial remains of mountaineer Sandy Irvine, who disappeared on Everest a century ago, were also recovered. Antarctic ice sheet collapse As global warming continues to threaten the world, more secrets could tumble out. The Antarctic ice sheet is also at risk of a major collapse. The "Doomsday Glacier", also known as the Thwaites Glacier in West Antarctica, is at risk of a collapse, and when that happens, global sea levels could rise to dramatic levels, threatening several coastal communities.

A glacier in Pakistan perfectly preserved the dead body of a man who vanished in 1997. He has only now been discovered, with his clothes also fully intact, along with his body. Naseeruddin's family has finally found closure after nearly 30 years.

Pakistani man who vanished inside a cave 28 years ago is found frozen in time with his ID

Blind Bulgarian mystic Baba Vanga predicted contact with a new alien civilisation in 2026, according to her followers. Her prophecies are not written down anywhere, and her niece, Krasimira Stoyanova, and some of her other followers documented her visions after her death. However, experts have cautioned that her predictions, which reportedly started after she lost her eyesight at the age of 12, have no proof and should be taken with a pinch of salt. One of her predictions for the new year is now going viral, as she is believed to have seen a "large spacecraft" arrive on Earth in November 2026. This will be the first official contact between humans and extraterrestrial beings, according to the prophecy.<h2>Alien disclosure in 2025 - The Trump briefing</h2>Baba Vanga was said to have made a similar prediction for November 2025 as well, according to which aliens would reach Earth and make contact during a major sporting event. While some people tried linking it to 3I/ATLAS, the interstellar comet in the solar system, nothing of the sort happened. But now, the same prophecy has returned for the year 2026, and many believe it could turn true. A few days ago, Polymarket, the world's largest prediction market, said that there was a 12 per cent chance that alien existence could be "officially acknowledged" in 2025. There have been reports that US President Donald Trump has been briefed about aliens and UFOs, and officials would declassify previously classified UFO/UAP files before the end of this year.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/baba-vanga-2026-predictions-world-war-earthquakes-rise-of-ai-and-alien-visit-1758258170363">Baba Vanga 2026 predictions: World War, earthquakes, rise of AI and alien visit</a>&nbsp;According to platform data, odds soared from single digits to the mid-70s on December 7 within hours, and even touched 81 per cent at one point in time. The bet will be resolved only if previously classified documents, videos or reports relating to UFOs are released, and no vague leaks will be considered. Despite this, more than $233,000 reportedly ended up in the contract at share prices of around 76 to 77 cents.<h2>3I/ATLAS ‘alien’ talk</h2>The year 2025 was filled with talks about aliens and UFOs, especially after 3I/ATLAS was discovered in July. Some scientists even claimed, citing its trajectory and timing, that it could be an "alien mothership" coming to "seed out planet" with "tiny probes." But, NASA, ESA and several other astronomers dismissed all such claims, saying that it was a comet.<h2>Baba Vanga other prophecies for 2026</h2>Some of the other prophecies made by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/list-of-baba-vanga-prophecies-for-2026-world-war-alien-contact-and-more-1758263520846">Baba Vanga for 2026</a> include a global war that could spiral from the current tensions. She is also believed to have seen the fall of the West and the rise of Vladimir Putin as a world leader. More natural disasters, such as earthquakes and floods, could ravage the world in 2026, according to her believers who think she foresaw them in her visions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Baba Vanga alien prediction: Are aliens and UFOs real? The Blind Bulgarian mystic is said to have predicted the first official contact with otherworldly beings in 2026. This comes amid reports that Trump has been briefed about UFOs being real.

Blind Bulgarian mystic Baba Vanga predicted contact with a new alien civilisation in 2026, according to her followers. Her prophecies are not written down anywhere, and her niece, Krasimira Stoyanova, and some of her other followers documented her visions after her death. However, experts have cautioned that her predictions, which reportedly started after she lost her eyesight at the age of 12, have no proof and should be taken with a pinch of salt. One of her predictions for the new year is now going viral, as she is believed to have seen a "large spacecraft" arrive on Earth in November 2026. This will be the first official contact between humans and extraterrestrial beings, according to the prophecy. Alien disclosure in 2025 - The Trump briefing Baba Vanga was said to have made a similar prediction for November 2025 as well, according to which aliens would reach Earth and make contact during a major sporting event. While some people tried linking it to 3I/ATLAS, the interstellar comet in the solar system, nothing of the sort happened. But now, the same prophecy has returned for the year 2026, and many believe it could turn true. A few days ago, Polymarket, the world's largest prediction market, said that there was a 12 per cent chance that alien existence could be "officially acknowledged" in 2025. There have been reports that US President Donald Trump has been briefed about aliens and UFOs, and officials would declassify previously classified UFO/UAP files before the end of this year. Also Read: Baba Vanga 2026 predictions: World War, earthquakes, rise of AI and alien visit According to platform data, odds soared from single digits to the mid-70s on December 7 within hours, and even touched 81 per cent at one point in time. The bet will be resolved only if previously classified documents, videos or reports relating to UFOs are released, and no vague leaks will be considered. Despite this, more than $233,000 reportedly ended up in the contract at share prices of around 76 to 77 cents. 3I/ATLAS ‘alien’ talk The year 2025 was filled with talks about aliens and UFOs, especially after 3I/ATLAS was discovered in July. Some scientists even claimed, citing its trajectory and timing, that it could be an "alien mothership" coming to "seed out planet" with "tiny probes." But, NASA, ESA and several other astronomers dismissed all such claims, saying that it was a comet. Baba Vanga other prophecies for 2026 Some of the other prophecies made by Baba Vanga for 2026 include a global war that could spiral from the current tensions. She is also believed to have seen the fall of the West and the rise of Vladimir Putin as a world leader. More natural disasters, such as earthquakes and floods, could ravage the world in 2026, according to her believers who think she foresaw them in her visions.

Baba Vanga alien prediction: Are aliens and UFOs real? The Blind Bulgarian mystic is said to have predicted the first official contact with otherworldly beings in 2026. This comes amid reports that Trump has been briefed about UFOs being real.

Baba Vanga's 'large spacecraft' prophecy goes viral amid Trump's reported UFO briefing

The US Justice Department said Sunday (Dec 22) that a photograph containing an image of President Donald Trump has been restored to its online Epstein files database after being temporarily removed for review. The image, released late Friday as part of a large dump of records related to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, shows a desk drawer containing several photographs. People were quick to spot that one of the pictures appears to show Trump alongside Epstein’s longtime associate Ghislaine Maxwell and others. However, soon after the picture was removed, triggering widespread condemnation.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-are-epstein-files-still-redacted-doj-denies-cover-up-meant-to-shield-trump-1766367317764">Why are Epstein files still redacted? DOJ denies cover-up meant to shield Trump</a><h2>Protecting victims or Trump?</h2>The photograph disappeared from the Justice Department's website on Saturday, prompting speculation and accusations of political interference. In a statement posted on X, the department said the image had been taken down temporarily to determine whether additional redactions were needed to protect victims."The Southern District of New York flagged an image of President Trump for potential further action to protect victims," the statement said. "Out of an abundance of caution, the Department of Justice temporarily removed the image for further review."After that review, officials concluded that the photograph did not depict any of Epstein's victims. "It was determined there is no evidence that any Epstein victims are depicted in the photograph, and it has been reposted without any alteration or redaction," the department said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/ZbpE6Uq6xh">pic.twitter.com/ZbpE6Uq6xh</a>&mdash; U.S. Department of Justice (@TheJusticeDept) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheJusticeDept/status/2002843217633632644?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Trump has not been accused of any wrongdoing in connection with Epstein, who died by suicide in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for recruiting underage girls for Epstein.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/house-democrats-drop-epstein-photos-from-disturbing-paedophilic-lolita-quotes-on-bosoms-to-price-tag-for-girls-shocking-pics-reveal-bill-gates-1766131614452">Epstein files: Disturbing paedophilic quotes on bosoms to price tags for girls, here's what shocking new pics reveal</a><h2>'Biggest coverups in American history'?</h2>The brief removal of the image quickly drew criticism from Democrats in Congress. House Oversight Committee Democrats publicly questioned Attorney General Pam Bondi, asking whether the takedown signaled a broader effort to conceal information. In a post on X, they asked, "is this true? What else is being covered up? We need transparency for the American public."Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer also weighed in, warning on social media that the incident raised concerns about transparency. "If they're taking this down," he wrote, "they’re taking this down, just imagine how much more they’re trying to hide … This could be one of the biggest coverups in American history".

The DOJ has restored an Epstein file photo, which shows Trump. This was done after the photo was briefly removed, allegedly “for review,” to protect victims. The takedown sparked backlash and allegations of a cover-up.

The US Justice Department said Sunday (Dec 22) that a photograph containing an image of President Donald Trump has been restored to its online Epstein files database after being temporarily removed for review. The image, released late Friday as part of a large dump of records related to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, shows a desk drawer containing several photographs. People were quick to spot that one of the pictures appears to show Trump alongside Epstein’s longtime associate Ghislaine Maxwell and others. However, soon after the picture was removed, triggering widespread condemnation. Also read | Why are Epstein files still redacted? DOJ denies cover-up meant to shield Trump Protecting victims or Trump? The photograph disappeared from the Justice Department's website on Saturday, prompting speculation and accusations of political interference. In a statement posted on X, the department said the image had been taken down temporarily to determine whether additional redactions were needed to protect victims. "The Southern District of New York flagged an image of President Trump for potential further action to protect victims," the statement said. "Out of an abundance of caution, the Department of Justice temporarily removed the image for further review." After that review, officials concluded that the photograph did not depict any of Epstein's victims. "It was determined there is no evidence that any Epstein victims are depicted in the photograph, and it has been reposted without any alteration or redaction," the department said.

The DOJ has restored an Epstein file photo, which shows Trump. This was done after the photo was briefly removed, allegedly “for review,” to protect victims. The takedown sparked backlash and allegations of a cover-up.

Trump photo vanishes from Epstein files, then reappears. DOJ claims it was deleted 'out of an abundance of caution'

Passengers on an easyJet flight from Spain to London's Gatwick Airport claim that the airline let a dead woman board the flight, even though the staff said that she was fit to fly when she got on the plane. Those who saw the 89-year-old being wheeled in say that she looked "lifeless". Others say they saw her carers propping up her head to make her appear "alive". According to people on board the flight, her carers told airline staff she was unwell and had fallen asleep. Just when the flight was about to take off, the crew noticed that she was unresponsive and confirmed that she had died. The plane was turned around from the runway and delayed by 12 hours. Angry passengers are asking how the airline could allow a dead body on board the flight, while the airline has pushed back against these allegations, saying she was alive and had a valid "fit to fly" certificate.&nbsp;Personal trainer and wellbeing expert Petra Boddington told The Sun that she noticed the woman at the airport. After boarding, she saw a crew member wheeling her in. She sat in a strange position, and many of the passengers reportedly expressed shock, saying, "Oh my god, she looks dead". Boddington added, "It wasn't just me that thought it, it was everybody else that she went past." She says that some people saw those accompanying her "holding her head up". The woman was put in the special assistance seat at the end of a row with her two carers next to her.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elderly-man-fined-for-spitting-out-leaf-that-blew-into-his-mouth-i-am-anxious-about-going-out-1765426914512">Elderly man fined for spitting out leaf that blew into his mouth: 'I am anxious about going out'</a><h2>Crew noticed the woman was unresponsive before takeoff</h2>As the plane began preparing for takeoff, scheduled for 11:15 am, the crew noticed something was amiss with the woman during their final pre-flight checks, witnesses said. A doctor was called on board, who declared she was dead. There is no clarity over the time of her death, although easyJet maintains that she died on board and was not wheeled in in that condition. However, passengers were livid that the airline let her on board. Tracy-Ann Kitching, one of the passengers, wrote on Facebook, "easyJet – you are unbelievable! Why did you let a dead person on our flight?!"&nbsp;She called out special assistance, the service that helps disabled people board a flight, saying they should have raised the issue. "I saw her wheeled onto the plane; someone was holding her head as they went past me! An actual doctor onboard [confirmed] she was already dead when they put her in her seat," she wrote. Kitching hopes the Spanish authorities will take action against the people who brought her on board.&nbsp;

Passengers of the easyJet flight from Spain to London slammed the airline for letting a dead woman on the flight. However, the airline says she was alive during boarding and had a fit-to-fly certificate. Those on board alleged she looked “dead”.

Passengers on an easyJet flight from Spain to London's Gatwick Airport claim that the airline let a dead woman board the flight, even though the staff said that she was fit to fly when she got on the plane. Those who saw the 89-year-old being wheeled in say that she looked "lifeless". Others say they saw her carers propping up her head to make her appear "alive". According to people on board the flight, her carers told airline staff she was unwell and had fallen asleep. Just when the flight was about to take off, the crew noticed that she was unresponsive and confirmed that she had died. The plane was turned around from the runway and delayed by 12 hours. Angry passengers are asking how the airline could allow a dead body on board the flight, while the airline has pushed back against these allegations, saying she was alive and had a valid "fit to fly" certificate. Personal trainer and wellbeing expert Petra Boddington told The Sun that she noticed the woman at the airport. After boarding, she saw a crew member wheeling her in. She sat in a strange position, and many of the passengers reportedly expressed shock, saying, "Oh my god, she looks dead". Boddington added, "It wasn't just me that thought it, it was everybody else that she went past." She says that some people saw those accompanying her "holding her head up". The woman was put in the special assistance seat at the end of a row with her two carers next to her. Also Read: Elderly man fined for spitting out leaf that blew into his mouth: 'I am anxious about going out' Crew noticed the woman was unresponsive before takeoff As the plane began preparing for takeoff, scheduled for 11:15 am, the crew noticed something was amiss with the woman during their final pre-flight checks, witnesses said. A doctor was called on board, who declared she was dead. There is no clarity over the time of her death, although easyJet maintains that she died on board and was not wheeled in in that condition. However, passengers were livid that the airline let her on board. Tracy-Ann Kitching, one of the passengers, wrote on Facebook, "easyJet – you are unbelievable! Why did you let a dead person on our flight?!" She called out special assistance, the service that helps disabled people board a flight, saying they should have raised the issue. "I saw her wheeled onto the plane; someone was holding her head as they went past me! An actual doctor onboard [confirmed] she was already dead when they put her in her seat," she wrote. Kitching hopes the Spanish authorities will take action against the people who brought her on board.

Passengers of the easyJet flight from Spain to London slammed the airline for letting a dead woman on the flight. However, the airline says she was alive during boarding and had a fit-to-fly certificate. Those on board alleged she looked “dead”.

'Dead' 89-year-old woman allowed to board flight from Spain, passengers claim

The US Justice Department on Sunday (Dec 21) rejected claims that it redacted newly released Jeffrey Epstein files to shield President Donald Trump, as backlash grew over what victims and lawmakers described as a heavily censored and incomplete disclosure. A tranche of Epstein-related records was released on Friday (Dec 19). The release contained many pages blacked out and several photographs obscured, which triggered anger among survivors of the late sex offender. Critics accused the administration of failing to comply with a law mandating the full release of all Epstein files.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/house-democrats-drop-epstein-photos-from-disturbing-paedophilic-lolita-quotes-on-bosoms-to-price-tag-for-girls-shocking-pics-reveal-bill-gates-1766131614452">Epstein files: Disturbing paedophilic quotes on bosoms to price tags for girls, here's what shocking new pics reveal</a><h2>Not protecting Trump</h2>Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche on Sunday denied any political interference, telling NBC's Meet the Press that the department was "not redacting information around President Trump." When asked whether any material had been removed for political reasons, Blanche said, "Absolutely, positively not."One of the most controversial decisions involved censoring group photographs that included Trump. Blanche said the images were initially removed out of "concern" for the women pictured. The Justice Department later reposted the photos without alterations after determining "there is no evidence that any Epstein victims are depicted."<h2>Democrats slam Trump admin redactions</h2>Democratic lawmakers, however, remain unconvinced. Representative Jamie Raskin accused Trump of blocking transparency, arguing that the redactions amounted to a cover-up. "It's all about covering up things that, for whatever reason, Donald Trump doesn't want to go public, either about himself (or) other members of his family, friends," Raskin told CNN.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-rewrites-white-house-history-with-brutal-plaques-mocking-biden-and-obama-see-pics-here-1766025457861">Trump rewrites White House history with brutal plaques mocking Biden and Obama. See pics HERE</a>The released material included images of former president Bill Clinton and references to high-profile figures such as Mick Jagger and Michael Jackson. Officials said the redactions were meant to protect victims' privacy, but the scale of the blackouts has only intensified public suspicion.<h2>MAGA base miffed by the release?</h2>Criticism also came from within Trump's own party. Republican Representative Thomas Massie said the release violated both the spirit and letter of the law. Speaking on CBS's Face the Nation, Massie claimed a 60-count indictment implicating prominent individuals had not been made public, calling it a case of "selective concealment.""They're flouting the spirit and the letter of the law. It's very troubling the posture that they've taken. And I won't be satisfied until the survivors are satisfied," said Massie.Trump had initially opposed releasing the files tied to Epstein, who died by suicide in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Facing pressure from Congress, including Republicans, he ultimately signed legislation compelling their release.

The US Justice Department denied redacting Epstein files to protect Trump, saying edits were to shield victims. Lawmakers and survivors slammed the heavily blacked-out release as a cover-up, with criticism coming from Democrats and Trump allies alike over “selective concealment.”

The US Justice Department on Sunday (Dec 21) rejected claims that it redacted newly released Jeffrey Epstein files to shield President Donald Trump, as backlash grew over what victims and lawmakers described as a heavily censored and incomplete disclosure. A tranche of Epstein-related records was released on Friday (Dec 19). The release contained many pages blacked out and several photographs obscured, which triggered anger among survivors of the late sex offender. Critics accused the administration of failing to comply with a law mandating the full release of all Epstein files. Also read | Epstein files: Disturbing paedophilic quotes on bosoms to price tags for girls, here's what shocking new pics reveal Not protecting Trump Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche on Sunday denied any political interference, telling NBC's Meet the Press that the department was "not redacting information around President Trump." When asked whether any material had been removed for political reasons, Blanche said, "Absolutely, positively not." One of the most controversial decisions involved censoring group photographs that included Trump. Blanche said the images were initially removed out of "concern" for the women pictured. The Justice Department later reposted the photos without alterations after determining "there is no evidence that any Epstein victims are depicted." Democrats slam Trump admin redactions Democratic lawmakers, however, remain unconvinced. Representative Jamie Raskin accused Trump of blocking transparency, arguing that the redactions amounted to a cover-up. "It's all about covering up things that, for whatever reason, Donald Trump doesn't want to go public, either about himself (or) other members of his family, friends," Raskin told CNN. Also read | Trump rewrites White House history with brutal plaques mocking Biden and Obama. See pics HERE The released material included images of former president Bill Clinton and references to high-profile figures such as Mick Jagger and Michael Jackson. Officials said the redactions were meant to protect victims' privacy, but the scale of the blackouts has only intensified public suspicion. MAGA base miffed by the release? Criticism also came from within Trump's own party. Republican Representative Thomas Massie said the release violated both the spirit and letter of the law. Speaking on CBS's Face the Nation, Massie claimed a 60-count indictment implicating prominent individuals had not been made public, calling it a case of "selective concealment." "They're flouting the spirit and the letter of the law. It's very troubling the posture that they've taken. And I won't be satisfied until the survivors are satisfied," said Massie. Trump had initially opposed releasing the files tied to Epstein, who died by suicide in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Facing pressure from Congress, including Republicans, he ultimately signed legislation compelling their release.

The US Justice Department denied redacting Epstein files to protect Trump, saying edits were to shield victims. Lawmakers and survivors slammed the heavily blacked-out release as a cover-up, with criticism coming from Democrats and Trump allies alike over “selective concealment.”

Why are Epstein files still redacted? DOJ denies cover-up meant to shield Trump

In 2025, key market trends shaping India's economy include robust Infrastructure Spending, a strong rebound in Private Consumption, significant growth in Manufacturing (PLI Scheme impact), and a booming Digital Economy (e-commerce, digital payments). Let's have a look at the top 7 trends.

Business year-ender 2025: Top 7 market trends that shaped India’s economy this year

&nbsp;The Winter Solstice 2025 is an astronomical event which has drawn people for thousands of years. It occurs on December 21 as it is not only the longest night of the year, but it is also a big change in our relationship with the Sun. The astronomical winter officially starts when the Northern Hemisphere tilts away into its deepest darkness. On this day, the Sun reaches its lowest point in the sky at noon, and then from the next day, light hours gradually increase, signalling the slow return of longer days.&nbsp;This phenomenon happens because of the Earth’s axial tilt of about 23.5 degrees. During the winter solstice, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted farthest away from the Sun, causing sunlight to spread over a larger area and deliver less warmth and light. As a result, the Sun follows its shortest path across the sky, making this the darkest day of the year.<h3>When is the Winter Solstice 2025?</h3>The solstice is not a whole day event but a precise moment when the Sun comes directly overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn. In 2025, this will occur on Sunday, December 21. Although the event happens simultaneously worldwide, the recorded time varies depending on location and time zone.&nbsp;For instance, the solstice will take place at 3:03 PM UTC and GMT, 8:33 PM IST, and 10:03 AM EST. While clocks may show different times, the astronomical moment remains the same across the globe.&nbsp;Winter Solstice 2025 gives a deeper meaning than a calendar date alone. It marks the shortest day and longest night of the year, which symbolises a pause in nature before renewal starts. From December 22, daylight in the Northern Hemisphere will gradually increase. As the Sun sets early on this day, it also signals a turning point, when darkness reaches its peak and the return of longer, brighter days officially begins.

The Winter Solstice happens because of the Earth’s axial tilt of about 23.5 degrees. During the winter solstice, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted farthest away from the Sun, causing sunlight to spread over a larger area and deliver less warmth and light.

The Winter Solstice 2025 is an astronomical event which has drawn people for thousands of years. It occurs on December 21 as it is not only the longest night of the year, but it is also a big change in our relationship with the Sun. The astronomical winter officially starts when the Northern Hemisphere tilts away into its deepest darkness. On this day, the Sun reaches its lowest point in the sky at noon, and then from the next day, light hours gradually increase, signalling the slow return of longer days. This phenomenon happens because of the Earth’s axial tilt of about 23.5 degrees. During the winter solstice, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted farthest away from the Sun, causing sunlight to spread over a larger area and deliver less warmth and light. As a result, the Sun follows its shortest path across the sky, making this the darkest day of the year. When is the Winter Solstice 2025? The solstice is not a whole day event but a precise moment when the Sun comes directly overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn. In 2025, this will occur on Sunday, December 21. Although the event happens simultaneously worldwide, the recorded time varies depending on location and time zone. For instance, the solstice will take place at 3:03 PM UTC and GMT, 8:33 PM IST, and 10:03 AM EST. While clocks may show different times, the astronomical moment remains the same across the globe. Winter Solstice 2025 gives a deeper meaning than a calendar date alone. It marks the shortest day and longest night of the year, which symbolises a pause in nature before renewal starts. From December 22, daylight in the Northern Hemisphere will gradually increase. As the Sun sets early on this day, it also signals a turning point, when darkness reaches its peak and the return of longer, brighter days officially begins.

The Winter Solstice happens because of the Earth’s axial tilt of about 23.5 degrees. During the winter solstice, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted farthest away from the Sun, causing sunlight to spread over a larger area and deliver less warmth and light.

Winter Solstice 2025: When is the darkest day of the year? Everything you need to know

The Justice Department released more documents Saturday from the Jeffrey Epstein files, after an initial release on Friday included thousands of photos, police reports, and other material as the first records to come to light under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. They include court documents from past cases against Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. The court documents include the 2019 grand jury testimony, which outlines abuse by Jeffrey Epstein in New York and Florida.&nbsp;<h2>‘Epstein used his victims to recruit other young girls’</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;An FBI agent told a 2019 grand jury in New York that Epstein used his victims to recruit other young girls, testimony released on Saturday shows.In the testimony, the FBI agent said he interviewed multiple victims in New York and Florida, who told him that they would go to Epstein’s home to give him a massage and that “things progressed each additional time.”The agent further recalled what they learned about a 2005 police raid at Epstein’s West Palm Beach home. A massage table, phone messages, sex toys, and other things were found in the raid. In a room, they found message pads that included one note saying, “She has a female for Mr. JE,” and a date of birth.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-mooted-direct-ukraine-russia-talks-in-miami-for-ending-war-says-zelensky-1766250794855">US has mooted direct Ukraine-Russia talks in Miami for ending war, says Zelensky</a><h2>Maxwell’s role in Epstein’s abuse detailed in testimony</h2>&nbsp;An FBI agent who testified before a 2019 federal grand jury revealed Ghislane Maxwell’s role in Epstein’s abuse. “Ghislane Maxwell was like a cool older sister and made comments like, ‘This is what grownups do,’” a survivor of Epstein’s abuse told the agent.&nbsp;The agent also described interviews with three different women, who, as teenagers, were abused by Epstein. The women described Maxwell being either present or waiting just outside as Epstein sexually abused them in massage rooms at his residences in Palm Beach, New York, and New Mexico, as well as another location in London.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-s-ex-pm-imran-khan-wife-bushra-bibi-sentenced-to-17-years-in-toshakhana-case-after-trial-in-adiala-jail-1766229127874">Pakistan’s ex-PM Imran Khan, wife Bushra Bibi sentenced to 17 years in Toshakhana case after trial in Adiala Jail</a><h2>‘Epstein abused one 14-year-old girl’</h2>&nbsp;The FBI agent testified that, after the first time Epstein abused one 14-year-old girl, Maxwell called her and said, “In sum and substance, ‘Well, aren’t you a clever girl, Jeffrey was very impressed.’”She said that she “was flown all over the world” with Epstein for years. She also told the agent about an incident after she turned 18.She “said that Maxwell had shown her to a bedroom, and on the bed was a schoolgirl outfit.”“Maxwell said, ‘Well, I thought it would be adorable if you gave Jeffrey his tea in this,’” the agent said."So [she] felt like she had to put it on so she put it on, took Epstein his tea, and Epstein then slapped her on the buttocks and reached under the skirt and touched her.”Asked what the woman’s demeanor was like, recounting this during her witness interview, the agent replied, “She was crying; she was very upset.”The agent said a schoolgirl outfit was recovered from Epstein's New York mansion by law enforcement in 2019.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-yunus-trying-to-bring-islamists-to-power-via-rigged-poll-threat-to-india-is-real-hasina-s-son-sajeeb-wazed-1766140132399">‘Yunus trying to bring Islamists to power via rigged poll, threat to India is real’: Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed</a><h2>Handwritten notes show messages for Epstein, including missed call from Trump</h2>&nbsp;Over a dozen handwritten messages left for Epstein were also shown in what appears to be a 2019 grand jury presentation.&nbsp;Several similar messages for “Mr. JE” reference females being available or asking if they are, while two others focus on whether a female can work. Another message appears to be from a girl trying to talk to “JE” about college.&nbsp;&nbsp;Another message shows that now-President Donald Trump called Epstein. The call time is recorded as 5:18, but the message is not dated, and no reason is mentioned for the call.&nbsp;There were a total of 18 messages in the presentation. All callers were redacted except for the ones referencing Trump and one Darren.

In the testimony, the FBI agent said he interviewed multiple victims in New York and Florida, who told him that they would go to Epstein’s home to give him a massage and that “things progressed each additional time.”

The Justice Department released more documents Saturday from the Jeffrey Epstein files, after an initial release on Friday included thousands of photos, police reports, and other material as the first records to come to light under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. They include court documents from past cases against Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. The court documents include the 2019 grand jury testimony, which outlines abuse by Jeffrey Epstein in New York and Florida. ‘Epstein used his victims to recruit other young girls’ An FBI agent told a 2019 grand jury in New York that Epstein used his victims to recruit other young girls, testimony released on Saturday shows. In the testimony, the FBI agent said he interviewed multiple victims in New York and Florida, who told him that they would go to Epstein’s home to give him a massage and that “things progressed each additional time.” The agent further recalled what they learned about a 2005 police raid at Epstein’s West Palm Beach home. A massage table, phone messages, sex toys, and other things were found in the raid. In a room, they found message pads that included one note saying, “She has a female for Mr. JE,” and a date of birth. Also Read: US has mooted direct Ukraine-Russia talks in Miami for ending war, says Zelensky Maxwell’s role in Epstein’s abuse detailed in testimony An FBI agent who testified before a 2019 federal grand jury revealed Ghislane Maxwell’s role in Epstein’s abuse. “Ghislane Maxwell was like a cool older sister and made comments like, ‘This is what grownups do,’” a survivor of Epstein’s abuse told the agent. The agent also described interviews with three different women, who, as teenagers, were abused by Epstein. The women described Maxwell being either present or waiting just outside as Epstein sexually abused them in massage rooms at his residences in Palm Beach, New York, and New Mexico, as well as another location in London. Also Read: Pakistan’s ex-PM Imran Khan, wife Bushra Bibi sentenced to 17 years in Toshakhana case after trial in Adiala Jail ‘Epstein abused one 14-year-old girl’ The FBI agent testified that, after the first time Epstein abused one 14-year-old girl, Maxwell called her and said, “In sum and substance, ‘Well, aren’t you a clever girl, Jeffrey was very impressed.’” She said that she “was flown all over the world” with Epstein for years. She also told the agent about an incident after she turned 18. She “said that Maxwell had shown her to a bedroom, and on the bed was a schoolgirl outfit.” “Maxwell said, ‘Well, I thought it would be adorable if you gave Jeffrey his tea in this,’” the agent said. "So [she] felt like she had to put it on so she put it on, took Epstein his tea, and Epstein then slapped her on the buttocks and reached under the skirt and touched her.” Asked what the woman’s demeanor was like, recounting this during her witness interview, the agent replied, “She was crying; she was very upset.” The agent said a schoolgirl outfit was recovered from Epstein's New York mansion by law enforcement in 2019. Also Read: ‘Yunus trying to bring Islamists to power via rigged poll, threat to India is real’: Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed Handwritten notes show messages for Epstein, including missed call from Trump Over a dozen handwritten messages left for Epstein were also shown in what appears to be a 2019 grand jury presentation. Several similar messages for “Mr. JE” reference females being available or asking if they are, while two others focus on whether a female can work. Another message appears to be from a girl trying to talk to “JE” about college. Another message shows that now-President Donald Trump called Epstein. The call time is recorded as 5:18, but the message is not dated, and no reason is mentioned for the call. There were a total of 18 messages in the presentation. All callers were redacted except for the ones referencing Trump and one Darren.

In the testimony, the FBI agent said he interviewed multiple victims in New York and Florida, who told him that they would go to Epstein’s home to give him a massage and that “things progressed each additional time.”

Epstein files release: 2019 grand jury testimony outlines abuse by ‘JE’ in New York, Florida

The world's richest man got even richer after a US court decision. The Delaware Supreme Court on Friday (Dec 20) cleared Tech Billionaire Elon Musk's long-contested $56 billion Tesla pay package, reversing an earlier judgment of a lower court. The court ruled that the earlier decision of the lower court to cancel Musk's 2018 pay plan was too extreme a remedy and that the lower court did not give Tesla a chance to say what fair compensation should be.&nbsp;Following the decision, Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s net worth rose to $749 billion, nearly three times that of the world’s second-richest person, Google co-founder Larry Page, who is worth $252.6 billion. Musk is now closer than ever to becoming the first trillionaire, according to Forbes' billionaires index.&nbsp;The five-judge appeals panel determined that Chancellor Kathaleen McCormick of the state's Court of Chancery ruled improperly in ordering a rescission, the invalidating of Musk's package in its entirety. Musk's 2018 package has the approval of the majority shareholders of the company, but it ended up in court after a Tesla Shareholder, Richard Tornetta, challenged the compensation as excessive.&nbsp;The court struck down the award in January 2024 after a five-day trial, describing the process as “deeply flawed.” McCormick noted that Tesla’s board was vulnerable to manipulation by Musk, the paradigmatic ‘Superstar CEO,’ and she upheld her ruling in December 2024 following an appeal.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-critical-documents-missing-in-new-epstein-file-release-says-ro-khannabill-clinton-ghislaine-maxwell-jeffrey-epstein-files-release-1766233062120">‘Critical documents missing’ in new Epstein file release, says Ro Khanna, ‘likely shielding other rich and powerful’</a>&nbsp;Despite this, Tesla’s board has consistently supported Musk, approving an “interim” compensation award of around $29 billion in August and later announcing a pay package that could reach $1 trillion.&nbsp;Elon Musk made his wealth by co-founding seven companies, including electric car maker Tesla, rocket company SpaceX, and AI startup xAI.&nbsp;He owns about 12% of Tesla, which he first invested in 2004 and has led as CEO since 2008. &nbsp;SpaceX, founded in 2002, is valued at $800 billion based on a private tender offer in December 2025, with Musk owning an estimated 42% stake.&nbsp;In 2022, Musk bought Twitter in a $44 billion deal and merged it with xAI in March 2025. The combined company is valued at around $125 billion, including debt.&nbsp;Musk also founded The Boring Company, which focuses on tunnelling, and Neuralink, a brain-implant startup. Together, these two companies have raised about $2 billion from private investors.

Elon Musk is now worth nearly three times compared to the second richest person on earth, the Google founder Larry Page, is worth $252.6 billion.

The world's richest man got even richer after a US court decision. The Delaware Supreme Court on Friday (Dec 20) cleared Tech Billionaire Elon Musk's long-contested $56 billion Tesla pay package, reversing an earlier judgment of a lower court. The court ruled that the earlier decision of the lower court to cancel Musk's 2018 pay plan was too extreme a remedy and that the lower court did not give Tesla a chance to say what fair compensation should be. Following the decision, Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s net worth rose to $749 billion, nearly three times that of the world’s second-richest person, Google co-founder Larry Page, who is worth $252.6 billion. Musk is now closer than ever to becoming the first trillionaire, according to Forbes' billionaires index. The five-judge appeals panel determined that Chancellor Kathaleen McCormick of the state's Court of Chancery ruled improperly in ordering a rescission, the invalidating of Musk's package in its entirety. Musk's 2018 package has the approval of the majority shareholders of the company, but it ended up in court after a Tesla Shareholder, Richard Tornetta, challenged the compensation as excessive. The court struck down the award in January 2024 after a five-day trial, describing the process as “deeply flawed.” McCormick noted that Tesla’s board was vulnerable to manipulation by Musk, the paradigmatic ‘Superstar CEO,’ and she upheld her ruling in December 2024 following an appeal. Also Read: ‘Critical documents missing’ in new Epstein file release, says Ro Khanna, ‘likely shielding other rich and powerful’ Despite this, Tesla’s board has consistently supported Musk, approving an “interim” compensation award of around $29 billion in August and later announcing a pay package that could reach $1 trillion. Elon Musk made his wealth by co-founding seven companies, including electric car maker Tesla, rocket company SpaceX, and AI startup xAI. He owns about 12% of Tesla, which he first invested in 2004 and has led as CEO since 2008. SpaceX, founded in 2002, is valued at $800 billion based on a private tender offer in December 2025, with Musk owning an estimated 42% stake. In 2022, Musk bought Twitter in a $44 billion deal and merged it with xAI in March 2025. The combined company is valued at around $125 billion, including debt. Musk also founded The Boring Company, which focuses on tunnelling, and Neuralink, a brain-implant startup. Together, these two companies have raised about $2 billion from private investors.

Elon Musk is now worth nearly three times compared to the second richest person on earth, the Google founder Larry Page, is worth $252.6 billion.

Elon Musk becomes first person to cross $700 billion in net worth, closing in on trillionaire status

It's tough to imagine a modern construction without Cement, the material that has become the bedrock of construction due to its capacity to hold the structural integrity of modern structures and has been one of the pillars enabling rapid urbanisation. But we may no longer have to put ecology at risk by breaking mountains for the valuable material, as an engineering lab in Melbourne, Australia, came up with a building material that offers similar strength to construction but can be made by using Soil, water and recycled cardboard only. A team from RMIT University in Australia has created a material known as cardboar-confined rammed earth (CCRE) that can potentially replace one of the most polluting elements of Modern infrastructure: Cement. It is responsible for around 8 per cent of CO2 emissions and is a key contributor to ecological destruction as a key constituent of Cement; the limestone is obtained by crushing mountains.<h2>Cement-free construction gets modern upgrade</h2>Researchers have reworked the ancient rammed-earth technique to create CCRE by replacing cement stabilisers with recycled cardboard tubes. These tubes act as both formwork and reinforcement, allowing soil and water to be compacted by hand or simple tools. Once dried, the structure becomes load-bearing without requiring cement, kilns or energy-intensive curing processes.<h2>Strong, simple and low-Carbon</h2>Lab tests published in Structures show that cardboard-reinforced soil can outperform cement-stabilised rammed earth in compressive strength, especially with tube thickness between 1 mm and 4 mm. Advanced versions using carbon fibre reinforcement achieved strength levels comparable to high-performance concrete, while maintaining a low environmental footprint.<h2>Turning waste into building material</h2>With Australia sending over 2.2 million tonnes of paper and cardboard to landfills each year, CCRE offers a way to reuse this waste in construction. Lightweight cardboard moulds can be transported easily, while soil and water are sourced locally, cutting costs and reducing dependence on industrial materials.<h2>Designed for hot Climates and easy scaling</h2>Like traditional rammed earth, the system provides high thermal mass, enabling passive cooling and lower energy use in hot climates. The modular design allows builders to adjust strength by changing tube thickness and soil mix, making it suitable for low-rise housing, emergency shelters and climate-resilient infrastructure.

A lab in Melbourne has developed cardboard-confined rammed earth (CCRE), a composite made using only soil, water and recycled cardboard, which could potentially replace cement, the most polluting material in modern construction. 

It's tough to imagine a modern construction without Cement, the material that has become the bedrock of construction due to its capacity to hold the structural integrity of modern structures and has been one of the pillars enabling rapid urbanisation. But we may no longer have to put ecology at risk by breaking mountains for the valuable material, as an engineering lab in Melbourne, Australia, came up with a building material that offers similar strength to construction but can be made by using Soil, water and recycled cardboard only. A team from RMIT University in Australia has created a material known as cardboar-confined rammed earth (CCRE) that can potentially replace one of the most polluting elements of Modern infrastructure: Cement. It is responsible for around 8 per cent of CO2 emissions and is a key contributor to ecological destruction as a key constituent of Cement; the limestone is obtained by crushing mountains. Cement-free construction gets modern upgrade Researchers have reworked the ancient rammed-earth technique to create CCRE by replacing cement stabilisers with recycled cardboard tubes. These tubes act as both formwork and reinforcement, allowing soil and water to be compacted by hand or simple tools. Once dried, the structure becomes load-bearing without requiring cement, kilns or energy-intensive curing processes. Strong, simple and low-Carbon Lab tests published in Structures show that cardboard-reinforced soil can outperform cement-stabilised rammed earth in compressive strength, especially with tube thickness between 1 mm and 4 mm. Advanced versions using carbon fibre reinforcement achieved strength levels comparable to high-performance concrete, while maintaining a low environmental footprint. Turning waste into building material With Australia sending over 2.2 million tonnes of paper and cardboard to landfills each year, CCRE offers a way to reuse this waste in construction. Lightweight cardboard moulds can be transported easily, while soil and water are sourced locally, cutting costs and reducing dependence on industrial materials. Designed for hot Climates and easy scaling Like traditional rammed earth, the system provides high thermal mass, enabling passive cooling and lower energy use in hot climates. The modular design allows builders to adjust strength by changing tube thickness and soil mix, making it suitable for low-rise housing, emergency shelters and climate-resilient infrastructure.

A lab in Melbourne has developed cardboard-confined rammed earth (CCRE), a composite made using only soil, water and recycled cardboard, which could potentially replace cement, the most polluting material in modern construction.&nbsp;

No longer need cement for building: Dirt, water and waste-based material could be the future of construction

The fresh tranche of Epstein files released by the Justice Department on Friday (Dec 19) triggered renewed scrutiny on Former British Royal Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's ties with Jeffrey Epstein, with multiple photographs featuring him, including him being in compromising positions with alleged victims of Epstein's sex crime enterprise. One image that caught widespread attention online shows the disgraced former Prince Andrew lying across the laps of five women. His head rested near one woman's lap, above the bare legs of another. He appears relaxed, smiling with his eyes closed, with Epstein's long-term partner and associate in child sex trafficking, Ghislaine Maxwell, who can be seen smiling at the former Duke of York.<h2>Early association with Epstein</h2>Andrew’s links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein date back more than two decades. Photographs from 1999 first showed Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell and Andrew together at Balmoral, marking the beginning of their acquaintance.&nbsp;&nbsp;Virginia Giuffre first publicly made allegations against Prince Andrew in 2009 through interviews and legal filings connected to Epstein’s criminal case. Public attention intensified in November 2019, when Andrew’s BBC Newsnight interview defending the friendship drew widespread criticism and prompted him to step back from public royal duties.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-critical-documents-missing-in-new-epstein-file-release-says-ro-khannabill-clinton-ghislaine-maxwell-jeffrey-epstein-files-release-1766233062120">‘Critical documents missing’ in new Epstein file release, says Ro Khanna, ‘likely shielding other rich and powerful’</a><h2>Allegations, lawsuit and civil settlement</h2>In February 2022, Andrew settled a civil lawsuit filed by Virginia Roberts Giuffre, who alleged he sexually abused her in 2001 when she was 17 and being trafficked by Epstein and Maxwell. The settlement, reported to be around £12 million, resolved the case without Andrew admitting liability. Giuffre’s posthumous memoir, Nobody’s Girl, published in October 2025, renewed scrutiny of his conduct.<h2>Loss of royal status and titles</h2>Under mounting pressure, King Charles III announced in October 2025 that Andrew would surrender his titles and step back further from royal life. A Letters Patent dated 3 November 2025 formally stripped him of the style of “His Royal Highness”, the title of “Prince” and other honours, and removed him from the Roll of the Peerage. He is now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and has been ordered to vacate Royal Lodge in Windsor.<h2>No criminal charges and unanswered questions</h2>British police have said they will not pursue criminal charges, citing insufficient evidence of illegal conduct. Giuffre died by suicide in April 2025, and her family described the removal of Andrew’s titles as a victory for survivor accountability. Critics argue the newly released DOJ files remain heavily redacted, leaving major questions about Epstein’s wider network and the role of powerful figures unresolved.

The newly released photographs under the Epstein Files Transparency Act have renewed focus on former British royal Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s two-decade-long ties with the disgraced financier and convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The fresh tranche of Epstein files released by the Justice Department on Friday (Dec 19) triggered renewed scrutiny on Former British Royal Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's ties with Jeffrey Epstein, with multiple photographs featuring him, including him being in compromising positions with alleged victims of Epstein's sex crime enterprise. One image that caught widespread attention online shows the disgraced former Prince Andrew lying across the laps of five women. His head rested near one woman's lap, above the bare legs of another. He appears relaxed, smiling with his eyes closed, with Epstein's long-term partner and associate in child sex trafficking, Ghislaine Maxwell, who can be seen smiling at the former Duke of York. Early association with Epstein Andrew’s links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein date back more than two decades. Photographs from 1999 first showed Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell and Andrew together at Balmoral, marking the beginning of their acquaintance. Virginia Giuffre first publicly made allegations against Prince Andrew in 2009 through interviews and legal filings connected to Epstein’s criminal case. Public attention intensified in November 2019, when Andrew’s BBC Newsnight interview defending the friendship drew widespread criticism and prompted him to step back from public royal duties. Also Read: ‘Critical documents missing’ in new Epstein file release, says Ro Khanna, ‘likely shielding other rich and powerful’ Allegations, lawsuit and civil settlement In February 2022, Andrew settled a civil lawsuit filed by Virginia Roberts Giuffre, who alleged he sexually abused her in 2001 when she was 17 and being trafficked by Epstein and Maxwell. The settlement, reported to be around £12 million, resolved the case without Andrew admitting liability. Giuffre’s posthumous memoir, Nobody’s Girl, published in October 2025, renewed scrutiny of his conduct. Loss of royal status and titles Under mounting pressure, King Charles III announced in October 2025 that Andrew would surrender his titles and step back further from royal life. A Letters Patent dated 3 November 2025 formally stripped him of the style of “His Royal Highness”, the title of “Prince” and other honours, and removed him from the Roll of the Peerage. He is now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and has been ordered to vacate Royal Lodge in Windsor. No criminal charges and unanswered questions British police have said they will not pursue criminal charges, citing insufficient evidence of illegal conduct. Giuffre died by suicide in April 2025, and her family described the removal of Andrew’s titles as a victory for survivor accountability. Critics argue the newly released DOJ files remain heavily redacted, leaving major questions about Epstein’s wider network and the role of powerful figures unresolved.

The newly released photographs under the Epstein Files Transparency Act have renewed focus on former British royal Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s two-decade-long ties with the disgraced financier and convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Former British Prince in Epstein files: Royal titles revoked, legal settlement reached, and survivor’s suicide

The US Justice Department on Friday (Dec 19) released a fresh tranche of a long-awaited records from investigators into one of the most politically explosive cases of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The heavily redacted disclosure sparked a wave of criticism and questions over the material, individuals and information that is kept away from the pubic eye. The newly released documents contain photographs featuring influential individuals, including Former US President Bill Clinton, Michael Jackson, British Royal Prince Andrew, among others within Epstein's social circle. Democratic Representative Ro Khanna, who co-authored the Epstein Files Transparency Act with Republican Thomas Massie, on Friday said that the most important documents were missing from the DoJ's initial release of the investigation into disgraced financier Epstein's sex crime enterprise. He accused the government of withholding the documents that the law required to be made public. “The most important documents are missing,” Khanna told CNN, reacting to the Justice Department’s release of thousands of records under the Epstein Files Transparency Act earlier in the day. He said the material made public so far is heavily redacted and fails to include key documents.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-could-have-stopped-epstein-s-abuse-new-release-reveals-1996-child-porn-complaint-was-ignored-1766228498936">FBI could have stopped Epstein’s abuse; new release reveals 1996 child porn complaint was ignored</a>Raising questions over the intent behind releasing heavily redacted documents, Khanna said the disclosure does not answer key questions for the public: “Who are the other rich and powerful men on the island, raping these young girls or covering up?”<h2>What are two key missing documents?&nbsp;</h2>According to Khanna, the two documents include a 60-count federal indictment drafted by a Florida prosecutor in 2007 and an 82-page memo summarising the evidence supporting the charges against Epstein.&nbsp;However, then-US Attorney in Florida, Alex Acosta, offered Epstein a plea deal to avoid federal prosecution. Under the deal, Epstein pleaded guilty to lesser state charges, served at least two years in jail, registered as a sex offender, and made financial restitution. Acosta later served as President Trump’s first Labour Secretary from 2017 to 2019, resigning amid renewed scrutiny of Epstein’s case.&nbsp;Khanna co-authored the Epstein Files Transparency Act with Republican Rep. Thomas Massie. The law, signed last month by President Donald Trump, required the Justice Department to release all files related to Epstein by Friday, with exceptions only for survivors’ personal information and a few narrowly defined categories. &nbsp;

Raising questions about the purpose of releasing heavily redacted documents, Khanna said the disclosure fails to answer key public concerns, including who the other wealthy and influential men on the island were, either abusing young girls or covering up the crimes.

The US Justice Department on Friday (Dec 19) released a fresh tranche of a long-awaited records from investigators into one of the most politically explosive cases of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The heavily redacted disclosure sparked a wave of criticism and questions over the material, individuals and information that is kept away from the pubic eye. The newly released documents contain photographs featuring influential individuals, including Former US President Bill Clinton, Michael Jackson, British Royal Prince Andrew, among others within Epstein's social circle. Democratic Representative Ro Khanna, who co-authored the Epstein Files Transparency Act with Republican Thomas Massie, on Friday said that the most important documents were missing from the DoJ's initial release of the investigation into disgraced financier Epstein's sex crime enterprise. He accused the government of withholding the documents that the law required to be made public. “The most important documents are missing,” Khanna told CNN, reacting to the Justice Department’s release of thousands of records under the Epstein Files Transparency Act earlier in the day. He said the material made public so far is heavily redacted and fails to include key documents. Also Read: FBI could have stopped Epstein’s abuse; new release reveals 1996 child porn complaint was ignored Raising questions over the intent behind releasing heavily redacted documents, Khanna said the disclosure does not answer key questions for the public: “Who are the other rich and powerful men on the island, raping these young girls or covering up?” What are two key missing documents? According to Khanna, the two documents include a 60-count federal indictment drafted by a Florida prosecutor in 2007 and an 82-page memo summarising the evidence supporting the charges against Epstein. However, then-US Attorney in Florida, Alex Acosta, offered Epstein a plea deal to avoid federal prosecution. Under the deal, Epstein pleaded guilty to lesser state charges, served at least two years in jail, registered as a sex offender, and made financial restitution. Acosta later served as President Trump’s first Labour Secretary from 2017 to 2019, resigning amid renewed scrutiny of Epstein’s case. Khanna co-authored the Epstein Files Transparency Act with Republican Rep. Thomas Massie. The law, signed last month by President Donald Trump, required the Justice Department to release all files related to Epstein by Friday, with exceptions only for survivors’ personal information and a few narrowly defined categories.

Raising questions about the purpose of releasing heavily redacted documents, Khanna said the disclosure fails to answer key public concerns, including who the other wealthy and influential men on the island were, either abusing young girls or covering up the crimes.

‘Critical documents missing’ in new Epstein file release, says Ro Khanna, ‘likely shielding other rich and powerful’

After months of campaigning and public pressure, the US Department of Justice (DOJ) released parts of the highly redacted Epstein Files on Friday (Dec. 20). The released chunk includes thousands of documents, photographs of the disgraced financier's long-time partner and key individual in Epstein's criminal enterprises. Notable figures like Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and former president Bill Clinton, who is featured in multiple photographs in compromising positions with victims.&nbsp;Despite a 30-day deadline, the DoJ said not all the documents will be released on Friday, and the files are heavily redacted to protect the identities of the victims. However, critics pointed out that the DoJ protected many influential individuals in the guise of protecting victims and violated the Epstein Files Transparency Act.&nbsp;A former employee of Jeffrey Epstein filed a complaint with the FBI in 1996, warning investigators about his interest in “child pornography”, nearly a decade before authorities began closely examining his predatory behaviour.<h2>FBI report surfaces after years of denial</h2>The woman, Maria Farmer, has long said that she contacted federal investigators in the summer of 1996. However, the FBI never publicly acknowledged her complaint, nor did it confirm the report to Farmer herself. As a result, some observers of the Epstein case accused her of fabricating the allegation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-lavish-lifestyle-to-threatening-victims-shocking-revelations-from-new-epstein-files-1766207867494/1766207867495">Epstein files: From lavish lifestyle to threatening victims – SHOCKING revelations</a> That changed on Friday, when thousands of Epstein-related documents were released. Among them was a handwritten FBI report confirming Farmer’s account.&nbsp;According to the complaint, Farmer had taken photographs of her two younger sisters, aged 16 and 12, for her personal artwork. In an interview, she clarified that the photographs included nude images. The FBI report states that Epstein stole the photographs and their negatives.&nbsp;The report further alleges that Epstein asked Farmer to take pictures of young girls at swimming pools. It also says he threatened to “burn her house down” if she disclosed the existence of the photographs.&nbsp;Farmer said she did not hear back from the FBI until roughly a decade later, when a broader investigation into Epstein began. That investigation ultimately led to Epstein’s controversial 2008 plea deal in Florida.&nbsp;She said that after attempting to report Epstein in 1996, she lived in fear for years, believing she had put herself in danger by speaking out.

Newly released files show that Maria Farmer, who worked for Epstein in the 1990s, urged the FBI to investigate him, but her complaint went nowhere for years.

After months of campaigning and public pressure, the US Department of Justice (DOJ) released parts of the highly redacted Epstein Files on Friday (Dec. 20). The released chunk includes thousands of documents, photographs of the disgraced financier's long-time partner and key individual in Epstein's criminal enterprises. Notable figures like Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and former president Bill Clinton, who is featured in multiple photographs in compromising positions with victims. Despite a 30-day deadline, the DoJ said not all the documents will be released on Friday, and the files are heavily redacted to protect the identities of the victims. However, critics pointed out that the DoJ protected many influential individuals in the guise of protecting victims and violated the Epstein Files Transparency Act. A former employee of Jeffrey Epstein filed a complaint with the FBI in 1996, warning investigators about his interest in “child pornography”, nearly a decade before authorities began closely examining his predatory behaviour. FBI report surfaces after years of denial The woman, Maria Farmer, has long said that she contacted federal investigators in the summer of 1996. However, the FBI never publicly acknowledged her complaint, nor did it confirm the report to Farmer herself. As a result, some observers of the Epstein case accused her of fabricating the allegation. Also Read: Epstein files: From lavish lifestyle to threatening victims – SHOCKING revelations That changed on Friday, when thousands of Epstein-related documents were released. Among them was a handwritten FBI report confirming Farmer’s account. According to the complaint, Farmer had taken photographs of her two younger sisters, aged 16 and 12, for her personal artwork. In an interview, she clarified that the photographs included nude images. The FBI report states that Epstein stole the photographs and their negatives. The report further alleges that Epstein asked Farmer to take pictures of young girls at swimming pools. It also says he threatened to “burn her house down” if she disclosed the existence of the photographs. Farmer said she did not hear back from the FBI until roughly a decade later, when a broader investigation into Epstein began. That investigation ultimately led to Epstein’s controversial 2008 plea deal in Florida. She said that after attempting to report Epstein in 1996, she lived in fear for years, believing she had put herself in danger by speaking out.

Newly released files show that Maria Farmer, who worked for Epstein in the 1990s, urged the FBI to investigate him, but her complaint went nowhere for years.

FBI could have stopped Epstein’s abuse; new release reveals 1996 child porn complaint was ignored

US lawmakers release 68 new photos from Jeffrey Epstein’s estate just before a Trump deadline for wider disclosures. The images show cryptic scenes, shocking sexual images and well-known faces like Bill Gates. Scroll down to see.

Epstein files: Disturbing paedophilic quotes on bosoms to price tags for girls, here's what shocking new pics reveal

Scientists studying whales, wild humpback, sperm and fin whales in northern Norway, have registered a double win. They have identified a deadly whale virus, known as cetacean morbillivirus, circulating above the Arctic Circle, by just studying their exhaled breath, also known as "blow". This is a breakthrough in non-invasive health monitoring methods for these creatures in Arctic regions. This was done using drones, and scientists say such methods can help detect the virus early, as it has been linked to several mass strandings of whales and dolphins worldwide. &nbsp;King's College London and The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in the UK were part of the study, and they published their findings in BMC Veterinary Research.&nbsp;Consumer drones equipped with sterile Petri dishes hovered over whale blowholes to capture respiratory droplets between 2016 and 2025. The samples were taken from humpback, sperm, and fin whales across the Northeast Atlantic, including northern Norway, Iceland, and Cape Verde. Along with blow samples, skin biopsies, and an organ sample were screened for infectious agents in the lab. "Drone blow sampling is a game-changer. It allows us to monitor pathogens in live whales without stress or harm, providing critical insights into diseases in rapidly changing Arctic ecosystems," co-author of the study, Professor Terry Dawson of the Department of Geography, King's College London, said.<h2>Virus is linked to many mass mortality events</h2>They found cetacean morbillivirus in humpback whale groups in northern Norway, a sperm whale, and a stranded pilot whale. A strain of this virus was first identified in dolphins. The highly pathogenic virus infecting whales, dolphins and porpoises, researchers said. Since its discovery in 1987, the virus has triggered multiple mass mortality events in cetacean populations. It causes respiratory issues in the animals, along with neurological and immune damage.&nbsp;Scientists are worried that the virus can spread during feeding interactions in winter when humans and birds come in contact with the whales. They also found herpesviruses in the whales, but no traces of avian influenza virus or the bacteria Brucella were detected. Helena Costa, lead author at Nord University, said, "Going forward, the priority is to continue using these methods for long-term surveillance."&nbsp;

Scientists have detected a deadly whale virus, known as cetacean morbillivirus, in the animals in Norway using a method where they simply collected samples from whale blow, the droplets from their breath. 

Scientists studying whales, wild humpback, sperm and fin whales in northern Norway, have registered a double win. They have identified a deadly whale virus, known as cetacean morbillivirus, circulating above the Arctic Circle, by just studying their exhaled breath, also known as "blow". This is a breakthrough in non-invasive health monitoring methods for these creatures in Arctic regions. This was done using drones, and scientists say such methods can help detect the virus early, as it has been linked to several mass strandings of whales and dolphins worldwide. King's College London and The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in the UK were part of the study, and they published their findings in BMC Veterinary Research. Consumer drones equipped with sterile Petri dishes hovered over whale blowholes to capture respiratory droplets between 2016 and 2025. The samples were taken from humpback, sperm, and fin whales across the Northeast Atlantic, including northern Norway, Iceland, and Cape Verde. Along with blow samples, skin biopsies, and an organ sample were screened for infectious agents in the lab. "Drone blow sampling is a game-changer. It allows us to monitor pathogens in live whales without stress or harm, providing critical insights into diseases in rapidly changing Arctic ecosystems," co-author of the study, Professor Terry Dawson of the Department of Geography, King's College London, said. Virus is linked to many mass mortality events They found cetacean morbillivirus in humpback whale groups in northern Norway, a sperm whale, and a stranded pilot whale. A strain of this virus was first identified in dolphins. The highly pathogenic virus infecting whales, dolphins and porpoises, researchers said. Since its discovery in 1987, the virus has triggered multiple mass mortality events in cetacean populations. It causes respiratory issues in the animals, along with neurological and immune damage. Scientists are worried that the virus can spread during feeding interactions in winter when humans and birds come in contact with the whales. They also found herpesviruses in the whales, but no traces of avian influenza virus or the bacteria Brucella were detected. Helena Costa, lead author at Nord University, said, "Going forward, the priority is to continue using these methods for long-term surveillance."

Scientists have detected a deadly whale virus, known as cetacean morbillivirus, in the animals in Norway using a method where they simply collected samples from whale blow, the droplets from their breath.&nbsp;

Scientists identify deadly whale virus linked to mass strandings from just their breath

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's posts dominated X (formerly Twitter), with eight out of the ten most liked tweets in India over the past 30 days coming from his account. The Elon Musk-owned social media giant introduced a new feature showcasing the most liked tweets in a country over the last month. No other politician's posts featured in the list apart from the prime minister. &nbsp;PM Modi's post presenting a copy of the Hindu scripture, the Bhagwat Gita, to Russian President Vladimir Putin during his India visit became the most liked post in the last 30 days with 231K likes and 6.7 million views.&nbsp;“Presented a copy of the Gita in Russian to President Putin. The teachings of the Gita give inspiration to millions across the world," the post read.&nbsp;In second place, the post welcoming President Putin to Delhi received significant attention, reaching 10.6 million users and earning 214K likes. In this post, PM Modi wrote, "Delighted to welcome my friend, President Putin, to India. Looking forward to our interactions later this evening and tomorrow. India-Russia friendship is a time-tested one that has greatly benefitted our people. @Kremlin Russia_E."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yunus-govt-condemns-lynching-of-hindu-man-says-violence-has-no-place-1766143705105">Yunus government condemns lynching of Hindu man, says violence has no place in New Bangladesh</a>&nbsp;Among other liked posts, PM Modi's tweet on the Ram Mandir Dhwajarohan ceremony and his congratulatory message to the blind women's cricket team also received significant attention, garnering 140K and 147K likes, respectively. The posts reached 3.1 million and 5.5 million users, reflecting substantial engagement. "To witness the Dharma Dhwajarohan Utsav at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir is a moment crores of people in India and the world have waited for. History has been made in Ayodhya, and this inspires us even more to walk the path shown by Prabhu Shri Ram," wrote PM Modi on the Dhwajarohan ceremony.&nbsp;"Congratulations to the Indian Blind Women's Cricket Team for creating history by winning the inaugural Blind Women's T20 World Cup! More commendable is the fact that they stayed unbeaten in the series. This is indeed a historic sporting achievement, a shining example of hard work," said PM Modi on India's victory in the blind Women's T20 World Cup.

A post by Prime Minister Narendra Modi featuring him presenting a Russian-language edition of the Bhagavad Gita to President Vladimir Putin became India’s most-liked tweet over the past 30 days.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's posts dominated X (formerly Twitter), with eight out of the ten most liked tweets in India over the past 30 days coming from his account. The Elon Musk-owned social media giant introduced a new feature showcasing the most liked tweets in a country over the last month. No other politician's posts featured in the list apart from the prime minister. PM Modi's post presenting a copy of the Hindu scripture, the Bhagwat Gita, to Russian President Vladimir Putin during his India visit became the most liked post in the last 30 days with 231K likes and 6.7 million views. “Presented a copy of the Gita in Russian to President Putin. The teachings of the Gita give inspiration to millions across the world," the post read. In second place, the post welcoming President Putin to Delhi received significant attention, reaching 10.6 million users and earning 214K likes. In this post, PM Modi wrote, "Delighted to welcome my friend, President Putin, to India. Looking forward to our interactions later this evening and tomorrow. India-Russia friendship is a time-tested one that has greatly benefitted our people. @Kremlin Russia_E." Also Read: Yunus government condemns lynching of Hindu man, says violence has no place in New Bangladesh Among other liked posts, PM Modi's tweet on the Ram Mandir Dhwajarohan ceremony and his congratulatory message to the blind women's cricket team also received significant attention, garnering 140K and 147K likes, respectively. The posts reached 3.1 million and 5.5 million users, reflecting substantial engagement. "To witness the Dharma Dhwajarohan Utsav at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir is a moment crores of people in India and the world have waited for. History has been made in Ayodhya, and this inspires us even more to walk the path shown by Prabhu Shri Ram," wrote PM Modi on the Dhwajarohan ceremony. "Congratulations to the Indian Blind Women's Cricket Team for creating history by winning the inaugural Blind Women's T20 World Cup! More commendable is the fact that they stayed unbeaten in the series. This is indeed a historic sporting achievement, a shining example of hard work," said PM Modi on India's victory in the blind Women's T20 World Cup.

A post by Prime Minister Narendra Modi featuring him presenting a Russian-language edition of the Bhagavad Gita to President Vladimir Putin became India’s most-liked tweet over the past 30 days.

PM Modi dominates X engagement with 8 of India’s 10 most-liked posts. Know which tweets got highest attention

Hair loss may be a painful experience for an individual, but for governments, it has not been a serious concern. Well, that is no more the case after South Korean president Lee Jae Myung described balding as 'a matter of survival' and argued that medical treatment for hair loss should be covered under the national health insurance scheme.&nbsp;President Myung made the suggestions during a meeting with senior officials, saying that the medical treatment for hair loss should not be seen as "cosmetic" as it is viewed in past, but should be considered as "a matter of survival."&nbsp;South Korea’s national health insurance scheme currently provides coverage for hair loss treatments linked to medical conditions. However, it does not extend this benefit to individuals with hereditary hair loss, as the condition does not pose a threat to life, Health Minister Jeong Eun-kyeong said at a meeting on Tuesday.<h2>Why is baldness a serious issue for Lee</h2>South Korea is known for its strict beauty standards, and baldness has become a stigma and can significantly hamper young people's lives. Out of 240,000 people in the country who visited hospitals for hair loss last year, 40% were in their 20s or 30s, according to authorities. The country's cosmetic and hair-loss treatment market is believed to be among the biggest around the world.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yunus-govt-condemns-lynching-of-hindu-man-says-violence-has-no-place-1766143705105">Yunus government condemns lynching of Hindu man, says violence has no place in New Bangladesh</a>&nbsp;The president first made this proposal during his unsuccessful 2022 presidential election campaign, but later dropped it following criticism over populist pandering. The move was based on feedback gathered by Lee's team, which found that the hair loss issue resonates with people, especially among the young adults.&nbsp;Lee's proposal put South Korea's intense cultural focus on Physical appearance. According to a 2024 survey of young adults found that 98 per cent of respondents believed that attractive people have social advantages in several domains.&nbsp;

South Korea’s strict beauty standards mean baldness carries a strong stigma, especially for young people, where hair loss is often linked to ageing and affects social and professional perceptions.

Hair loss may be a painful experience for an individual, but for governments, it has not been a serious concern. Well, that is no more the case after South Korean president Lee Jae Myung described balding as 'a matter of survival' and argued that medical treatment for hair loss should be covered under the national health insurance scheme. President Myung made the suggestions during a meeting with senior officials, saying that the medical treatment for hair loss should not be seen as "cosmetic" as it is viewed in past, but should be considered as "a matter of survival." South Korea’s national health insurance scheme currently provides coverage for hair loss treatments linked to medical conditions. However, it does not extend this benefit to individuals with hereditary hair loss, as the condition does not pose a threat to life, Health Minister Jeong Eun-kyeong said at a meeting on Tuesday. Why is baldness a serious issue for Lee South Korea is known for its strict beauty standards, and baldness has become a stigma and can significantly hamper young people's lives. Out of 240,000 people in the country who visited hospitals for hair loss last year, 40% were in their 20s or 30s, according to authorities. The country's cosmetic and hair-loss treatment market is believed to be among the biggest around the world. Also Read: Yunus government condemns lynching of Hindu man, says violence has no place in New Bangladesh The president first made this proposal during his unsuccessful 2022 presidential election campaign, but later dropped it following criticism over populist pandering. The move was based on feedback gathered by Lee's team, which found that the hair loss issue resonates with people, especially among the young adults. Lee's proposal put South Korea's intense cultural focus on Physical appearance. According to a 2024 survey of young adults found that 98 per cent of respondents believed that attractive people have social advantages in several domains.

South Korea’s strict beauty standards mean baldness carries a strong stigma, especially for young people, where hair loss is often linked to ageing and affects social and professional perceptions.

‘Matter of survival’: Why South Korean president seeks government funding for hair loss treatment

As 3I/ATLAS reaches its closest point to Earth, scientists are saying that the interstellar comet is acting strangely. What is being called a mysterious "heartbeat" has changed over time, according to researcher and author Andrew Collins. He has also claimed that the object could be connected to cosmic calendars used by ancient civilisations. Collins has presented evidence of what he calls a "heartbeat", pulsing in a 15.48-hour cycle, which he says aligns with Earth's 24-hour day. Other astronomers detected rhythmic bursts from 3I/ATLAS, blasting out every &nbsp;16.16 hours soon after it was discovered. In September, fresh data from Spain's Two-meter Twin Telescope showed this pulsing had changed. Using data from all the telescopes that have been observing the interstellar object, Collins has now connected this strange pulsing to the timing systems used by the ancient Chinese and Indians.&nbsp;He states that old Chinese clocks and Indian meditation practices followed a 144-second timing system hundreds of years ago. Collins claims the "heartbeat" of 3I/ATLAS also follows this pattern. After analysing the pulses of lightning, he found that it has a 15.48-hour cycle at the moment, which fits exactly into 387 of these units. On the other hand, Earth's full 24-hour day fits precisely into 600. He is amazed to see such precise numbers, and says the comet has been "broadcasting" a universal math pattern, which cannot be a coincidence.<h2>Collins says 3I/ATLAS could be intelligently designed</h2>According to him, such precise signalling could mean that 3I/ATLAS has been intelligently designed since it is sending out a signal at precisely the same time difference instead of releasing bursts of gases in an erratic manner. Collins, a science and history writer for 40 years, cited the anomalies put forward by Harvard scientist Avi Loeb to claim that it is not a regular comet. Collins said in his paper submitted to ResearchGate, "The many anomalies associated with 3I/ATLAS strongly hint that it is not a mundane comet but what might be described as a directed comet."&nbsp;He thinks that 3I/ATLAS could be an intelligent form of life and a "directed comet" which "wakes up" in star systems. Meanwhile, NASA, ESA and other astronomers have dismissed all claims about it being an extra-terrestrial object sent by an alien civilisation. They are sure that it is a comet and is acting like one.&nbsp;

3I/ATLAS is pulsing after every 15.48 hours, which a science writer claims aligns perfectly with the ancient Chinese clock system and the Indian meditation practices. He says the “heartbeat” is too precise to be a coincidence. 

As 3I/ATLAS reaches its closest point to Earth, scientists are saying that the interstellar comet is acting strangely. What is being called a mysterious "heartbeat" has changed over time, according to researcher and author Andrew Collins. He has also claimed that the object could be connected to cosmic calendars used by ancient civilisations. Collins has presented evidence of what he calls a "heartbeat", pulsing in a 15.48-hour cycle, which he says aligns with Earth's 24-hour day. Other astronomers detected rhythmic bursts from 3I/ATLAS, blasting out every 16.16 hours soon after it was discovered. In September, fresh data from Spain's Two-meter Twin Telescope showed this pulsing had changed. Using data from all the telescopes that have been observing the interstellar object, Collins has now connected this strange pulsing to the timing systems used by the ancient Chinese and Indians. He states that old Chinese clocks and Indian meditation practices followed a 144-second timing system hundreds of years ago. Collins claims the "heartbeat" of 3I/ATLAS also follows this pattern. After analysing the pulses of lightning, he found that it has a 15.48-hour cycle at the moment, which fits exactly into 387 of these units. On the other hand, Earth's full 24-hour day fits precisely into 600. He is amazed to see such precise numbers, and says the comet has been "broadcasting" a universal math pattern, which cannot be a coincidence. Collins says 3I/ATLAS could be intelligently designed According to him, such precise signalling could mean that 3I/ATLAS has been intelligently designed since it is sending out a signal at precisely the same time difference instead of releasing bursts of gases in an erratic manner. Collins, a science and history writer for 40 years, cited the anomalies put forward by Harvard scientist Avi Loeb to claim that it is not a regular comet. Collins said in his paper submitted to ResearchGate, "The many anomalies associated with 3I/ATLAS strongly hint that it is not a mundane comet but what might be described as a directed comet." He thinks that 3I/ATLAS could be an intelligent form of life and a "directed comet" which "wakes up" in star systems. Meanwhile, NASA, ESA and other astronomers have dismissed all claims about it being an extra-terrestrial object sent by an alien civilisation. They are sure that it is a comet and is acting like one.

3I/ATLAS is pulsing after every 15.48 hours, which a researcher claims aligns perfectly with the ancient Chinese clock system and the Indian meditation practices. He says the “heartbeat” is too precise to be a coincidence.&nbsp;

3I/ATLAS 'heartbeat' aligns with a 144-second timing system used by ancient Indians, researcher claims

A California funeral home made a terrible and strange mistake when it handed over a bag with the brain of a young man to his father. It has been accused of mishandling human remains, ABC7 news reported. The man's father has filed a lawsuit that says the funeral director was supposed to give him a bag of his clothes. When he reached home, he realised the bag contained his son's brain. Alexander Pinon, 27, passed away on May 19 of this year. The incident happened at the Lima Family Erickson Memorial Chapel on Willow Street in San Jose. Samer Habbas, the family's attorney, told the outlet's I-Team, "They wanted to have a dignified farewell for him." According to the lawsuit, they opted for a "full-service memorial tribute package" worth $10,000. The family also wanted Pinon to be buried in nice clothes. So they asked the funeral director to return his original clothes.&nbsp;He took the bag home, put the clothes in the laundry and out tumbled what resembled brain. He did not know at the time that it was his son's brain, Habbas said. Alex's father took it out of the washing machine and handed it to Anita Singh at the funeral home. Habbas said, "Ms Singh took the bag back from him. Never disclosed whose brain it was, never gave information, no apologies, and said, 'I'll take that from here.'" Alex was buried at Oak Hill Memorial Cemetery the next day.<h2>Anita left the brain out in a box for over two months</h2>Several weeks later, someone who worked at the funeral home reached out to his father and told him that it was Alex's brain in the bag. The whistleblower added that after the incident, Anita Singh placed it in a box and put it in the funeral home's courtyard. It remained there for over two and a half months, and an employee spotted it when the stench of a "rotting human brain" became overwhelming. Habbas told ABC7 News that the funeral home tried to cover up its mistake.&nbsp;Habbas says the Lima Family funeral home referred them to its owner, Service Corporation International or SCI, the larges funeral service company in North America that operates under the Dignity Memorial brand. The company refused to comment on the issue, saying that since it is an active litigation, "we won't be commenting on this matter." Pinon's parents are also not ready to talk about the matter, and the lawyers are working on a plan to bury the brain.&nbsp; &nbsp;

A San Jose funeral home handed the father of a dead man his brains instead of his clothes. A lawsuit claims the funeral director acted indifferently when confronted about it. She then left the brain in a box outside for over two months.

A California funeral home made a terrible and strange mistake when it handed over a bag with the brain of a young man to his father. It has been accused of mishandling human remains, ABC7 news reported. The man's father has filed a lawsuit that says the funeral director was supposed to give him a bag of his clothes. When he reached home, he realised the bag contained his son's brain. Alexander Pinon, 27, passed away on May 19 of this year. The incident happened at the Lima Family Erickson Memorial Chapel on Willow Street in San Jose. Samer Habbas, the family's attorney, told the outlet's I-Team, "They wanted to have a dignified farewell for him." According to the lawsuit, they opted for a "full-service memorial tribute package" worth $10,000. The family also wanted Pinon to be buried in nice clothes. So they asked the funeral director to return his original clothes. He took the bag home, put the clothes in the laundry and out tumbled what resembled brain. He did not know at the time that it was his son's brain, Habbas said. Alex's father took it out of the washing machine and handed it to Anita Singh at the funeral home. Habbas said, "Ms Singh took the bag back from him. Never disclosed whose brain it was, never gave information, no apologies, and said, 'I'll take that from here.'" Alex was buried at Oak Hill Memorial Cemetery the next day. Anita left the brain out in a box for over two months Several weeks later, someone who worked at the funeral home reached out to his father and told him that it was Alex's brain in the bag. The whistleblower added that after the incident, Anita Singh placed it in a box and put it in the funeral home's courtyard. It remained there for over two and a half months, and an employee spotted it when the stench of a "rotting human brain" became overwhelming. Habbas told ABC7 News that the funeral home tried to cover up its mistake. Habbas says the Lima Family funeral home referred them to its owner, Service Corporation International or SCI, the larges funeral service company in North America that operates under the Dignity Memorial brand. The company refused to comment on the issue, saying that since it is an active litigation, "we won't be commenting on this matter." Pinon's parents are also not ready to talk about the matter, and the lawyers are working on a plan to bury the brain.

A San Jose funeral home handed the father of a dead man his brains instead of his clothes. A lawsuit claims the funeral director acted indifferently when confronted about it. She then left the brain in a box outside for over two months.

California funeral home gives dead man's brain instead of clothes to his father, then leaves it out to rot for over 2 months

Nuno Loureiro, a professor of nuclear science and engineering and of physics at MIT, was shot dead at his Boston home on Monday (December 15). The man who killed him was found dead earlier this week. No motive for the killing has been revealed by the police. However, Leah Foley, US attorney for the District of Massachusetts, said that the killer and Loureiro attended the same school in Portugal between 1995 and 2000. The suspect, Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, attended the same academic program in Portugal as the MIT professor, Foley said, adding, "My understanding is that they did know each other." Loureiro was known for his work in the field of nuclear fusion, and his work was focused on creating a virtually limitless, clean energy source.<h2>Loureiro worked on fusion science and engineering</h2>According to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, "his research addressed complex problems lurking at the centre of fusion vacuum chambers and at the edges of the universe."Loureiro's work helped other scientists understand the behaviour of plasma, including turbulence, "and uncovered the physics behind astronomical phenomena like solar flares." His area of focus was fusion science and engineering, on which he started working years before joining MIT.His research on "magnetised plasma dynamics, magnetic field amplification, and confinement and transport in fusion plasmas" played a major role in designing fusion devices, ultimately being able to "harness the energy of fusing plasmas, bringing the dream of clean, near-limitless fusion power closer to reality."&nbsp;&nbsp;Deepto Chakrabarty, the William A. M. Burden Professor in Astrophysics and head of the Department of Physics, said that he provided a new scientific direction with "his recent work on quantum computing algorithms for plasma physics simulations."&nbsp;At MIT, he started with trying to solve the problem of plasma turbulence, a "super-hot state of matter that serves as the fuel for fusion reactors" and "better contain the plasma to harvest electricity." Loureiro also worked on astrophysics as his work helped reveal fundamental mechanisms of the universe.&nbsp;

Nuno Loureiro was a nuclear science professor at MIT. His work was focused on nuclear fusion and better containing the plasma to harvest electricity. According to MIT, his work could help produce limitless energy in a clean manner. 

Nuno Loureiro, a professor of nuclear science and engineering and of physics at MIT, was shot dead at his Boston home on Monday (December 15). The man who killed him was found dead earlier this week. No motive for the killing has been revealed by the police. However, Leah Foley, US attorney for the District of Massachusetts, said that the killer and Loureiro attended the same school in Portugal between 1995 and 2000. The suspect, Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, attended the same academic program in Portugal as the MIT professor, Foley said, adding, "My understanding is that they did know each other." Loureiro was known for his work in the field of nuclear fusion, and his work was focused on creating a virtually limitless, clean energy source. Loureiro worked on fusion science and engineering According to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, "his research addressed complex problems lurking at the centre of fusion vacuum chambers and at the edges of the universe." Loureiro's work helped other scientists understand the behaviour of plasma, including turbulence, "and uncovered the physics behind astronomical phenomena like solar flares." His area of focus was fusion science and engineering, on which he started working years before joining MIT. His research on "magnetised plasma dynamics, magnetic field amplification, and confinement and transport in fusion plasmas" played a major role in designing fusion devices, ultimately being able to "harness the energy of fusing plasmas, bringing the dream of clean, near-limitless fusion power closer to reality." Deepto Chakrabarty, the William A. M. Burden Professor in Astrophysics and head of the Department of Physics, said that he provided a new scientific direction with "his recent work on quantum computing algorithms for plasma physics simulations." At MIT, he started with trying to solve the problem of plasma turbulence, a "super-hot state of matter that serves as the fuel for fusion reactors" and "better contain the plasma to harvest electricity." Loureiro also worked on astrophysics as his work helped reveal fundamental mechanisms of the universe.

Nuno Loureiro was a nuclear science professor at MIT. His work was focused on nuclear fusion and better containing the plasma to harvest electricity. According to MIT, his work could help produce limitless energy in a clean manner.&nbsp;

MIT professor Nuno Loureiro was working to produce 'clean, near-limitless' energy

In a funny yet painful moment, a Camel being paraded as part of a nativity performance unexpectedly kicked a woman in the face. The incident occurred during the annual Christmas spectacular at the Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, Texas, on Saturday.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Camel kicks woman in face, knocking her out at a Texas megachurch Christmas celebration in Houston <a href="https://t.co/DBQvCfGzY0">pic.twitter.com/DBQvCfGzY0</a>&mdash; Dallas Texas TV (@DallasTexasTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/DallasTexasTV/status/2001782312388927907?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The viral video circulating on Social media captures the camel, which was being escorted by a man in costume back kicking with its hind legs a woman who sat near the aisle. The woman was instantly knocked out. She was rushed to the hospital for treatment and is reportedly recovering well. The video instantly went viral and had more than a million views.&nbsp;"Our team responded immediately, and emergency services were engaged," a Church spokesperson responded immediately following the attack, as reported by local outlet Houston Chronicle. “We then discontinued walking animals within the audience seating areas for the remainder of the shows.”&nbsp;People on social media reacted, ranging from sympathy to humour. “Smelling camel shit on a Sunday doesn't get you closer to Jesus.” “Oof, that's gotta hurt, hope she's ok. Maybe walking camels through a church with tons of people for a show was a bad idea." “Sorry for laughing, but damn”. Germans called this “schadenfreude”- deriving pleasure from others' misfortune.&nbsp;<h2>Baptist Church's and their opulence</h2>The Champion Forest Baptist Church is known for being too flashy. The church has campuses in multiple locations with 7,000 weekly attendees. and is known for its Broadway-style production, with costumes and live animals. It's not just the Chamion Baptist Church; many other Texas megachurches have shows with acrobatics, camels and Santa on a sleigh flying over the crowd. The churches in the US have flourished under Trump with Federal Funding and Security Grants, State and Denominational Support, and, as usual, their private funding.

A camel kicked a woman unconscious during a Christmas nativity show at a Texas megachurch in Houston. The viral video has crossed a million views online.

In a funny yet painful moment, a Camel being paraded as part of a nativity performance unexpectedly kicked a woman in the face. The incident occurred during the annual Christmas spectacular at the Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, Texas, on Saturday.

A camel kicked a woman unconscious during a Christmas nativity show at a Texas megachurch in Houston. The viral video has crossed a million views online.

WATCH| Camel knocks out woman during Texas Megachurch Christmas celebration

The death of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi on Thursday (Dec 18), days after being shot by unidentified assailants, has sparked overnight protests in Bangladesh, with rampaging violent mobs attacking the Indian High Commission, media houses and the party offices of the Awami League (AL). A year after AL leader and former prime minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted and fled to India, Hadi was campaigning to fight the elections as an independent candidate. Bangladesh interim government chief Muhammad Yunus promised to bring to justice those behind his killing. There is no proof linking the AL or India to the killing but the anti-India sentiment is rising. Here are the top developments:<h2>Who was Sharif Osman Hadi, and how did he die?</h2>Sharif Osman Hadi was a 32-year-old leader of Inqilab Mancha, a radical student group of Dhaka University at the forefront of the violent student-led street protests that led to the downfall of Hasina’s government. In his rousing speeches, he had made several provocative statements, including some that targeted India for the perceived support of the Hasina regime. Along with other youth leaders, Hadi emerged as a face of the Bangladesh uprising of August 2024.On December 12, Hadi was shot in the head by masked attackers in Dhaka while leaving a mosque during his election campaign as an independent candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency for the general elections scheduled for next February. He was airlifted to Singapore on December 15 for advanced treatment, having sustained injuries and brain stem damage. He died at the Singapore General Hospital’s neurosurgical ICU on Thursday (Dec 18) in Singapore.<h2>Who killed Sharif Osman Hadi?</h2>A manhunt was launched by police, who released the names of two key suspects.One of them is Foysal Karim Masud, whose family members were arrested. Police also offered a reward of 5 million taka (around $42,000) for any information leading to the apprehension of the suspects. At least 20 people have been held so far. The investigation is continuing.Immediately after the shooting, unfounded allegations were made against the Awami League and India, with the killing seen in Bangladesh as politically motivated to destabilise the country ahead of the elections.Hadi was known for his anti-India rhetoric, having threatened to join India’s north-eastern states with Bangladesh. His supporters are alleging, without proof, that some suspects have fled to India and are demanding their extradition.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-violence-protesters-set-fire-to-major-media-offices-after-youth-leader-s-death-1766113879433">Bangladesh violence: Protesters set fire to major media offices after youth leader’s death | WATCH</a><h2>Indian diplomatic missions targeted in Hadi death protests</h2>Since the news of Hadi’s death, protesters took to the streets, attacking government property and media houses, including the offices of prominent newspapers like The Daily Star and Prothom Alo. Some journalists were reportedly trapped during the attacks on the media houses.India’s High Commission in Dhaka and the diplomatic mission in Chattogram were also targeted, according to reports. Some in the crowds were seen chanting anti-India slogans and accusing authorities of failing to protect Hadi.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-violence-angry-protesters-target-indian-mission-in-chittagong-after-sharif-osman-hadi-s-death-1766116747294">Bangladesh protest: Vandals attack Indian Mission in Chittagong after Sharif Osman Hadi’s Death</a>The offices of the Awami League and several cultural institutions were attacked, with student groups from Dhaka University and other institutions joining the rallies.The protesters are demanding justice and the resignation of the home affairs adviser&nbsp;Inqilab Mancha declared Hadi a “martyr in the struggle against Indian hegemony”. While calling for calm, groups like the National Citizen Party (NCP) and others urged unity against “fascist forces”.<h2>What did Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus say?</h2>In a televised address on Thursday night, the interim government’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus called Hadi’s death an “irreparable loss to the nation’s political and democratic sphere”.He described the attack on Hadi as a premeditated effort by a “powerful network” to derail democracy and elections.Yunus also promised a transparent investigation with “no leniency” towards perpetrators. He urged calm and restraint, and asked people to allow law enforcement agencies to do their work.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-violence-erupts-after-uprising-leader-osman-hadi-s-death-1766113429184/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-violence-erupts-after-uprising-leader-osman-hadi-s-death-1766113429184/embed</a><h2>Bangladesh mourns Hadi as questions are raised on free and fair elections</h2>The government has declared a day of state mourning on Friday (Dec 19). &nbsp;National flags will be flown at half-mast, and special prayers will be held nationwide to honour Hadi and in support of his family.&nbsp;The situation in the South Asian nation remains tense, bringing into doubt whether the interim government can ensure a violence-free and fair election, the first since the 2024 uprising, in February

The death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi has led to violent protests across Bangladesh. Indian diplomatic missions, media houses and Awami League offices are being targeted. 

The death of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi on Thursday (Dec 18), days after being shot by unidentified assailants, has sparked overnight protests in Bangladesh, with rampaging violent mobs attacking the Indian High Commission, media houses and the party offices of the Awami League (AL). A year after AL leader and former prime minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted and fled to India, Hadi was campaigning to fight the elections as an independent candidate. Bangladesh interim government chief Muhammad Yunus promised to bring to justice those behind his killing. There is no proof linking the AL or India to the killing but the anti-India sentiment is rising. Here are the top developments: Who was Sharif Osman Hadi, and how did he die? Sharif Osman Hadi was a 32-year-old leader of Inqilab Mancha, a radical student group of Dhaka University at the forefront of the violent student-led street protests that led to the downfall of Hasina’s government. In his rousing speeches, he had made several provocative statements, including some that targeted India for the perceived support of the Hasina regime. Along with other youth leaders, Hadi emerged as a face of the Bangladesh uprising of August 2024. On December 12, Hadi was shot in the head by masked attackers in Dhaka while leaving a mosque during his election campaign as an independent candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency for the general elections scheduled for next February. He was airlifted to Singapore on December 15 for advanced treatment, having sustained injuries and brain stem damage. He died at the Singapore General Hospital’s neurosurgical ICU on Thursday (Dec 18) in Singapore. Who killed Sharif Osman Hadi? A manhunt was launched by police, who released the names of two key suspects.One of them is Foysal Karim Masud, whose family members were arrested. Police also offered a reward of 5 million taka (around $42,000) for any information leading to the apprehension of the suspects. At least 20 people have been held so far. The investigation is continuing. Immediately after the shooting, unfounded allegations were made against the Awami League and India, with the killing seen in Bangladesh as politically motivated to destabilise the country ahead of the elections. Hadi was known for his anti-India rhetoric, having threatened to join India’s north-eastern states with Bangladesh. His supporters are alleging, without proof, that some suspects have fled to India and are demanding their extradition. Also read: Bangladesh violence: Protesters set fire to major media offices after youth leader’s death | WATCH Indian diplomatic missions targeted in Hadi death protests Since the news of Hadi’s death, protesters took to the streets, attacking government property and media houses, including the offices of prominent newspapers like The Daily Star and Prothom Alo. Some journalists were reportedly trapped during the attacks on the media houses. India’s High Commission in Dhaka and the diplomatic mission in Chattogram were also targeted, according to reports. Some in the crowds were seen chanting anti-India slogans and accusing authorities of failing to protect Hadi. Also read: Bangladesh protest: Vandals attack Indian Mission in Chittagong after Sharif Osman Hadi’s Death The offices of the Awami League and several cultural institutions were attacked, with student groups from Dhaka University and other institutions joining the rallies. The protesters are demanding justice and the resignation of the home affairs adviser Inqilab Mancha declared Hadi a “martyr in the struggle against Indian hegemony”. While calling for calm, groups like the National Citizen Party (NCP) and others urged unity against “fascist forces”. What did Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus say? In a televised address on Thursday night, the interim government’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus called Hadi’s death an “irreparable loss to the nation’s political and democratic sphere”. He described the attack on Hadi as a premeditated effort by a “powerful network” to derail democracy and elections. Yunus also promised a transparent investigation with “no leniency” towards perpetrators. He urged calm and restraint, and asked people to allow law enforcement agencies to do their work. https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-violence-erupts-after-uprising-leader-osman-hadi-s-death-1766113429184/embed Bangladesh mourns Hadi as questions are raised on free and fair elections The government has declared a day of state mourning on Friday (Dec 19). National flags will be flown at half-mast, and special prayers will be held nationwide to honour Hadi and in support of his family. The situation in the South Asian nation remains tense, bringing into doubt whether the interim government can ensure a violence-free and fair election, the first since the 2024 uprising, in February

The death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi has led to violent protests across Bangladesh. Indian diplomatic missions, media houses and Awami League offices are being targeted.&nbsp;

trending

Violence breaks out in MP’s Sehore after minor dispute, highway blocked. Watch video

Gold, silver at record highs. Could it indicate world is going into crisis mode?

Geometry, long division were used 8,200yrs ago, long before invention of numbers

Who was Chaudhary Charan Singh? 10 interesting facts about India's 5th PM

Pakistani man who vanished inside a cave 28 years ago is found frozen in time

Baba Vanga's 'large spacecraft' prophecy goes viral amid Trump's UFO briefing

Trump photo vanishes from Epstein files, then reappears. DOJ claims...

'Dead' 89-year-old woman allowed to board flight from Spain, passengers claim

Why are Epstein files still redacted? DOJ denies cover-up meant to shield Trump

Business year-ender 2025: Top 7 market trends that shaped India’s economy

Winter Solstice 2025: When is darkest day of year? Everything you need to know

Epstein files: 2019 grand jury testimony outlines abuse by ‘JE’ in NY, Florida

Elon Musk becomes first person to cross $700 billion in net worth

No longer need cement for building: Dirt, water and waste-based material could be the future of construction

Ex British prince in Epstein files: Titles revoked, settled case, survivor dies

‘Critical documents missing’ in new Epstein file release: Ro Khanna

Epstein Files reveal 1996 child porn complaint ignored by FBI

Paedophilic quotes on bosoms to price tags for girls, new Epstein pics reveal...

Scientists identify deadly whale virus linked to mass strandings from blow

PM Modi dominates X engagement with 8 of India’s 10 most-liked posts

Why South Korean president seeks government funding for hair loss treatment

3I/ATLAS 'heartbeat' aligns with 144-sec timing system used by ancient Indians

California funeral home gives dead man's brain to father, leaves it out to rot

MIT professor Loureiro was working to produce 'clean, near-limitless' energy

WATCH| Camel knocks out woman during Texas Megachurch Christmas celebration

Hadi death brings Bangladesh to boil again - Anti-India protests, arson and more