An Indian-origin chief executive officer has made serious allegations, claiming his company is being targeted in an extortion attempt demanding a staggering $3 million. The CEO asserts that the threat involves the use of illegally obtained confidential information, putting the startup's sensitive data and operations at risk.
Tourism Triumph for West Bengal
In a significant development for India's travel sector, West Bengal has emerged as the top destination for foreign tourists, outperforming traditional favourites like Goa, Rajasthan, and Kerala. This shift highlights changing travel patterns and Bengal's growing appeal on the international tourism map, marking a notable achievement for the state's tourism department.
Other Key News Highlights
The news landscape features several other important stories. Filmmaker Kiran Rao shared a health update following an appendix surgery, humorously noting her plans to "party" into 2026 were interrupted by the medical emergency. In Kerala's Kannur, a Congress-run club was vandalised, with furniture damaged and posters destroyed; the party has pointed fingers at the CPI(M).
Political tensions flared as Congress MP Manickam Tagore compared the RSS to Al-Qaeda, accusing the Sangh of breeding hate, a statement that prompted strong backlash from the BJP. In a swift police action, Yamunanagar police arrested a 20-year-old in connection with the sexual assault of a four-year-old girl.
Business, Tech, and Lifestyle Briefs
In the corporate world, a generous boss made headlines after selling his company and giving employees ₹3.6 crore each, a move that stunned the internet. On the tech front, Amazon has paused its drone delivery operations in Italy due to regulatory challenges, while India's satcom rollout awaits security clearances and spectrum pricing, as per an update from Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia.
Health news offered natural alternatives, suggesting four ways to cut cholesterol by a third without statins. In sports, former Pakistan cricketer Imad Wasim announced his divorce from wife Sannia Ashfaq, citing repeated conflicts. The world of sports ownership also came into focus with a profile on low-profile billionaire Stan Kroenke, who owns teams like the Los Angeles Rams and Arsenal.
Other updates include a recruitment drive for 300 Specialist Doctor posts under NHM Punjab, a call from Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat for the return of 26,000 Nehru documents to the PM Museum, and astronomical news about asteroid Apophis's rare close flyby of Earth in 2029. In Bengaluru, apartments are transforming into party hubs for New Year celebrations, and YouTuber Dhruv Rathee responded to backlash over a thumbnail featuring Janhvi Kapoor.
