In a pre-arranged meeting, India's High Commissioner Munu Mahawar was assured by Maldives' Ambassador-at-Large, Dr. Ali Naseer Mohamed, that recent derogatory remarks against PM Narendra Modi by suspended ministers don't represent Maldives' stance. Maldivian officials stressed the government's awareness of personal views on social media not aligning with official positions. This response followed India's strong concerns conveyed to Maldivian envoy Ibrahim Shaheeb over ministers' comments on a video promoting Lakshadweep tourism. The incident has strained relations, with Indians reportedly reconsidering trips to the Maldives. Senior Maldivian politician Qasim Ibrahim warns of potential harm to longstanding ties.

Mumbai police apprehended Ajesh Kumar Omprakash Gill and Gurusevak Singh Tejsing for attempting to enter Salman Khan's Panvel farmhouse on January 4. The duo, claiming to be fans, climbed a tree to bypass the boundary fence. Charged with trespassing, they provided fake names and Aadhaar cards upon capture. Salman Khan, under Y+ security since threats in 2023, received a warning from the Lawrence Bishnoi Gang. The gang claimed Canada-based Goldy Brar sought communication with the actor. Both accused are in police custody, with an ongoing investigation into the incident.

Thefts of certain Hyundai and Kia models have skyrocketed by 1,000% in the past three years, spurred by social media posts revealing theft techniques. Data from the Highway Loss Data Institute reveals theft insurance claims for these vehicles surged over 1000% from H1 2020 to H1 2023. In the latter period, Hyundai and Kia thefts were over seven times higher than other manufacturers. Older models, especially those made between 2015 to 2019, lacking advanced anti-theft tech, are most vulnerable. A $200 million settlement was reached earlier this year with Hyundai and Kia for vehicle owners, including anti-theft software installation.            

Snowfall blankets central London as an ice warning adds to travel concerns across southern England and Wales. The Met Office issues a yellow warning until early Tuesday, cautioning about wintry showers and icy patches. Temperatures, not expected to rise above 3C, coupled with strong winds, intensify the cold, making it feel like -3C. Commuters are advised to plan routes, expect delays, and exercise caution on roads. An amber health alert is in effect for the north-west, West Midlands, East Midlands, and south-west, anticipating prolonged cold impacts. The public is urged to check on vulnerable individuals. The Met Office recommends using cat litter to mitigate slipping on icy surfaces.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his congratulations to Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for securing a historic fourth consecutive term in the recently-concluded parliamentary elections. Modi expressed his felicitations on X (Formerly known as Twitter,) "Spoke to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and congratulated her on her victory for a historic fourth consecutive term in the Parliamentary elections." also applauding the people of Bangladesh for the successful conduct of the elections. Sheikh Hasina's Awami League emerged victorious in the 12th Bangladesh general election, boycotted by the main opposition and its allies. The leaders affirmed their commitment to strengthening the enduring partnership between India and Bangladesh.

Around 500 students from Chaudhary Devi Lal University in Sirsa, Haryana, have accused a professor of sexual assault, prompting them to write a letter to Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. The students allege the professor exploited them after summoning them to his chamber, with claims of threats when objections were raised. Despite two internal investigations clearing the professor, the students persist, asserting evidence destruction and political influence. The accused professor denies the allegations, attributing them to political vendetta. Authorities are set to register an FIR following a preliminary probe, amid heightened concerns over university safety.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi lauds the Supreme Court's verdict, declaring the Gujarat government's release order for 11 Bilkis Bano rape case convicts null and void. Gandhi takes a dig at the BJP, asserting they are 'patrons of criminals.' He states, "The tendency to 'kill justice' for electoral gains is dangerous for the democratic system." Bilkis Bano's tireless struggle, he notes, is "a symbol of the victory of justice against the arrogant BJP government." Sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra echoes the sentiment, saying, "With this order, the veil over the anti-women policies of the Bharatiya Janata Party has been removed." Opposition parties, including Trinamool Congress and Shiv Sena, express satisfaction, hailing Bilkis Bano's relentless pursuit of justice.

The 81st Golden Globe Awards witnessed Oppenheimer's triumph, clinching five victories, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Cillian Murphy. In a stellar moment, Succession's Kieran Culkin secured Best TV Actor in a Drama. The glamorous affair at The Beverly Hilton showcased Hollywood's finest, with Margot Robbie and Leonardo DiCaprio in attendance. Notable wins included Poor Things for Best Comedy and Succession for Best TV Drama. Christopher Nolan's directorial prowess was recognized, adding to Oppenheimer's glory. The ceremony marked the commencement of the awards season, blending cinematic and television achievements, honoring outstanding contributions across the entertainment spectrum.

Search interest in Lakshadweep has hit a two-decade high, surging globally after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit, coinciding with a diplomatic clash with Maldives. Google data spanning 20 years reveals a remarkable 2024 spike, prompting India's MyGov platform to highlight the renewed global fascination. MakeMyTrip notes a 3,400% surge in Lakshadweep searches, capitalizing on which, the platform announces a 'Beaches of India' campaign. This surge follows controversial remarks by Maldivian ministers, sparking a diplomatic row with India. The intensified interest showcases a global captivation with the archipelago's natural beauty and cultural richness.

As Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu arrived in Beijing to finalize bilateral agreements, China's state media addressed India's diplomatic discord with the Maldives. The Global Times editorial called for an "open-minded" perspective on South Asian issues. Concurrently, the Maldives government suspended three ministers for derogatory remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Lakshadweep visit. The Maldivian government distanced itself, stating these were "personal opinions" not reflecting official views. Tensions between India and the Maldives have risen since Muizzu, perceived as pro-China, assumed power, defeating the India-friendly predecessor. The Global Times editorial underscores China's commitment to equal partnership and respecting the Maldives' sovereignty.