PM Narendra Modi welcomed Qatar Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani at the airport, marking his first visit to India in nine years. This gesture places Al-Thani among a select group of dignitaries who received this honor. Discussions will focus on enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, technology, and energy, and addressing regional and global issues, including the Gaza situation.
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The Supreme Court has granted bail to alleged middleman Christian Michel James in the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland chopper scam. James had been in custody for six years, and the investigation is still ongoing. He was extradited from Dubai and arrested in 2018, and now the trial court will set the bail conditions.
Two Indian nationals, Muhammed Rinash Arangilottu and Muraleedharan Perumthatta Valappil, were executed in the UAE after the country's highest court upheld their death sentences for murder. Despite diplomatic efforts and mercy petitions, the sentences were carried out. The Indian Embassy provided consular and legal assistance throughout the case.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings on Manipur's Statehood Day, which Congress criticized as hollow. They highlighted his failure to visit the violence-affected state since May 2023, accusing him of neglect and hypocrisy, and demanded an immediate visit to show concern.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is leading the 55th GST Council meeting in Jaisalmer. AAC blocks with high fly ash content will now face a lower 12% GST. Conversely, used vehicles, including electric ones, see an increased 18% rate on sale.
West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee plans to visit Sandeshkhali on December 30 for a public distribution program amidst earlier protests over sexual harassment accusations against local TMC leaders. The visit will focus on state-run schemes like 'Lakshmir Bhandar' and 'Banglar Bari', benefitting around 20,000 residents.
Nigerian boxing champion Gabriel Olanrewaju tragically died after collapsing during a fight in Ghana. The 40-year-old lost consciousness in the third round and later died in the hospital, raising concerns over the bout's organization and approval.
Sushmita Singh, the principal of a nursing college in Varanasi, ended her life by jumping in front of a train. The incident occurred near the Tarna overbridge. The police are investigating her mobile data to understand the reasons behind her suicide. Her body has been sent for post-mortem.
Dubai Capitals clinched a spot in the ILT20 Season 3 final with a thrilling last-ball win over Desert Vipers. Gulbadin Naib's impressive half-century and two wickets were pivotal, capping a successful run chase. Alex Hales' explosive 67 was in vain as the Capitals maintained their dominance with a fifth consecutive victory against the Vipers.
Delhi Police filed an FIR against AAP for allegedly posting AI-generated photos and videos of PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah on its official X handle. The content, involving AI-deepfake technology, portrayed BJP leaders in a negative light. AAP claims this is BJP's tactic as elections approach, alleging diversion from real issues and accusing BJP of illegal voter manipulation.
Flights between North India and the West face disruptions as Pakistan closes its airspace, effective Thursday. Indian carriers will take longer routes, potentially adding up to two hours to North America flights and an hour to Europe flights. IndiGo has already cancelled some flights, while Air India and SpiceJet advise passengers to expect extended routes and check flight status.