In response to a Maldivian MP's social media post criticizing PM Modi's Lakshadweep visit, Maldives Envoy Ibrahim Shaheeb was summoned by India's MEA. Following the controversy, President Mohamed Muizzu took swift action, suspending ministers Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna, and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid. Shiuna had referred to PM Modi as a "clown" and "puppet" in deleted posts, prompting official distancing from the remarks by the Maldivian government. The incident underscores diplomatic tensions, emphasizing the need for respectful discourse.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu embarks on a state visit to China amidst a diplomatic row with India. The trip, his first bilateral visit since taking office, follows the suspension of three deputy ministers over derogatory remarks about PM Narendra Modi's promotion of India's Lakshadweep archipelago. Some view the visit as an attempt to divert tourism from the Maldives. Controversial comments on social media triggered dismay from prominent Indians. India, a crucial tourism contributor, faces strained relations with Muizzu perceived as pro-Chinese. Competing for influence, both India and China have vested interests in the Maldives, further complicating regional dynamics

The Supreme Court will pronounce its verdict on the premature release of 11 convicts in the Bilkis Bano case today. Bilkis Bano was 21 years old and five months pregnant when she was gang-raped during the 2002 Gujarat riots. Her three-year-old daughter was among the seven family members killed. The 11 men were convicted in 2008 but released prematurely on August 15, 2022 after 15 years in jail. A bench headed by Justice BV Nagarathna will decide if the remission granted by the Gujarat government was valid. The verdict is significant as it will have implications on the rights of victims versus convicts when remission is considered. Bilkis Bano and others have challenged the early release, calling it unconstitutional and opposing the remission process.

Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer denounced derogatory comments by Maldivian ministers against PM Narendra Modi and India. He emphasized that such remarks are "unacceptable" and don't reflect the official stance of the Maldives government. Zameer reaffirmed the commitment to fostering a positive dialogue with neighbors. The controversy arose after a Maldivian deputy minister and officials disparaged PM Modi's Lakshadweep visit. Former President Solih condemned the "hateful language," urging the preservation of the enduring friendship with India. Ex-Foreign Minister Shahid called for identifying responsible officials. The incident sparked a significant uproar, prompting calls for accountability and reinforcing diplomatic ties.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina clinched her fifth term as the Awami League and its allies won over 50% of seats in the 12th general elections, with the opposition boycotting the polls. Hasina secured victory in the Gopalganj-3 constituency, obtaining 249,965 votes amid sporadic violence. Of the 264 announced seats, Awami League won 204, and allied Jatiya Party secured nine more. The main opposition party, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), boycotted the election, calling a nationwide strike. Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan labeled BNP's move as fearing defeat, while Hasina dubbed BNP a "terrorist organization

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced the closure of all government and private schools for students up to Class 10 from January 8 to January 14 due to severe cold weather conditions. The decision aims to ensure the safety of students amid chilly temperatures. Multiple cities in Punjab, including Amritsar, Ludhiana, and Patiala, reported minimum temperatures ranging from 5.8 to 7 degrees Celsius. The closure is in response to the ongoing cold spell, with morning fog affecting visibility in various areas of the state.

The Israeli army declares the successful dismantling of Hamas's command structure in northern Gaza, stating that militants now operate sporadically and without commanders. Around 8,000 militants are reported killed. Israel focuses on dismantling Hamas in south and central Gaza. Since the conflict's start, Israel claims to have killed over 22,000 people, according to Gaza's health ministry. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expresses concern about the conflict spreading and calls for a ceasefire during his regional trip. Gaza's devastation continues, with ongoing casualties and destruction.

Ahead of Ayodhya's Shri Ram Mandir consecration on January 22, AIUDF Chief Badruddin Ajmal advises Assam's Muslims to avoid train travel from January 20-25. Accusing BJP of hostility towards Muslims, Ajmal prompts controversy. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju calls for unity, stating Lord Ram symbolizes India. BJP's Giriraj Singh rebukes Ajmal, emphasizing BJP's inclusive approach. PM Narendra Modi to inaugurate the grand temple with over 60,000 expected attendees. Ajmal's remarks draw criticism, while BJP emphasizes respect for all religions amidst preparations for the historic event.

A potential four-day strike on the London Underground has been called off as the RMT, following talks with Transport for London, suspended planned action over pay. The strike, which would have disrupted almost all tube services, was initiated by RMT members protesting a 5% pay increase offer from TfL, citing higher inflation rates. RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch confirmed the suspension, highlighting improved funding for negotiations. The dispute involved objections to freezing salary bands for low-paid roles and demands for travel benefit restoration. The move spared London from estimated £50m losses in the hospitality industry.

Indian Navy successfully averted a hijacking bid on the merchant vessel MV Lila Norfolk in the North Arabian Sea, rescuing 21 crew members, including 15 Indians. Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the Navy's swift 2000 km rescue mission at the DGP conference, where the grateful crew chanted 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai'. PM Modi also praised ISRO's achievement, with Aditya L1 reaching its final orbit for uninterrupted solar observation. The solar observatory, positioned 1.5 million km from Earth at the Lagrange L1 point, is set to enhance our understanding of solar activities over the next five years.