In a day marked by significant developments across diplomacy, domestic policy, and tragic incidents, India issued a strong condemnation of violence in Bangladesh, while the Centre deferred a key tax decision. From the sports field to a horrific crime in Hyderabad and a storm abroad, here are the top stories you need to know.
India Condemns Violence Against Minorities in Bangladesh
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has strongly condemned the recent acts of violence targeting Hindu communities and other minorities in neighbouring Bangladesh. The Indian government dismissed attempts to label these incidents as mere "media exaggeration" or "political violence." Official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal specifically highlighted the brutal killing of a Hindu youth in Mymensingh and demanded that the perpetrators be swiftly brought to justice. The statement serves as a firm diplomatic message to the Sheikh Hasina-led government in Dhaka regarding the safety of minority populations.
Centre Postpones Decision to Lower GST on Air Purifiers
In a move that will disappoint many in pollution-choked cities, the Centre on Friday deferred its decision to reduce the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on air purifiers. This follows a suggestion from the Delhi High Court to re-examine the issue. Additional Solicitor General N Venkatraman informed the court that, according to guidelines from the Health Ministry, air purifiers cannot be classified as medical devices. This classification is crucial for determining the tax slab, meaning hopes for a cheaper solution to indoor air pollution have been put on hold for now.
Other Major Headlines Across India and the World
Cricket Injury in Jaipur: Young Mumbai batsman Angkrish Raghuvanshi, who also plays for Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL, suffered a serious head injury during a Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Uttarakhand in Jaipur. The 21-year-old, fielding at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, was stretchered off the field and rushed to a hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
Hyderabad Woman Succumbs to Burns: In a shocking case of domestic violence in Hyderabad, 26-year-old Chityala Triveni died after allegedly being set on fire by her husband. The incident occurred in their rented house in Tilak Nagar. Her husband, K Venkatesh (32), a daily-wage labourer, has been arrested. Police reports indicate the couple's son recounted that his father woke him up, showed him a petrol bottle, and ominously stated, "your mother will die today," before the alleged act.
Powerful Storm Batters Southern California: Following the Christmas storms, Southern California is grappling with another powerful weather system this week. The region is experiencing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and snowfall, leading to flooded roads, mudslides, and debris-clogged towns. Areas like Wrightwood, a mountain town northeast of Los Angeles, were particularly hard-hit, prompting authorities to issue evacuation warnings for resident safety.
