Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, responding to Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar's invite, stated, "While I am currently out of Delhi, it would be my privilege and indeed my duty to meet you at your earliest convenience as soon as I am back in Delhi." Kharge accused the government of a "predetermined and premeditated" mass suspension of MPs, expressing concern over the alleged orchestration. Dhankhar had expressed dismay, noting, "painfully" suffering Kharge's rejection and claimed disruptions in Parliament were "deliberate and strategized." The exchange emphasizes the need to uphold constitutional values amid tensions post-Winter Session.

A charter flight carrying 303 Indian passengers, en route to Nicaragua from Dubai, was permitted to continue its journey after being grounded in France over human trafficking suspicions. Operated by Romanian charter company Legend Airlines, the flight faced scrutiny from French authorities at Vatry airport, east of Paris. The passengers, including 11 unaccompanied minors, underwent questioning by judges, leading to the cancellation of hearings due to procedural irregularities. The Indian Embassy in France confirmed the development, emphasizing the detainees' predominantly Indian origin. The destination of the flight remains uncertain, raising questions about its next course—India, Nicaragua, or Dubai.

Former wrestler Sakshi Mallik hints at a possible change in her retirement decision following the suspension of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) by the Union Sports Ministry. Expressing uncertainty about the suspension details, Mallik emphasizes the wrestlers' fight for justice, particularly for women wrestlers. While praising the ministry's decision, she hints at reconsidering her retirement based on developments in the upcoming federation, "I will tell you about the decision according to the federation that would be formed" She said. The ministry criticizes WFI's actions as a "blatant disregard" for legal norms. Sanjay Singh's appointment as WFI chief, closely associated with the former president, sparks protests, leading to star wrestlers questioning the election results.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu admits the toll on his forces is "difficult" with over a dozen soldiers killed, reaching a total of 154 in the Gaza ground assault. Despite Saturday's deadly escalation, Netanyahu asserts the necessity to continue with "full force until the end" in the mission to eliminate Hamas and secure hostages' safe return. Gaza's health ministry reports 166 additional deaths, pushing the total to 20,000 since October. International pressure for a ceasefire persists, exemplified by the UN's call for aid deliveries. Israel claims control in Gaza's north, while Netanyahu denies US influence on military expansion and addresses concerns about Hezbollah's alliance in Lebanon.

Slovakian police apprehend a 64-year-old man in Zilina who threatened to replicate Prague's recent mass shooting. The suspect, now facing charges for causing public alarm, called emergency services outlining intentions to emulate the tragic event. In Prague, arrests follow similar threats, including one man seeking a firearm and another threatening the gunman's family. Security incidents persist, with an imitation grenade scare at IP Pavlova and a false bomb threat evacuating Prague Airport's Terminal 2. The Czech Republic, in a state of unease, observes national mourning, emphasizing solidarity and support for the shooting victims' families.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to embark on a five-day (Dec 25-29) visit to Russia from Monday, aiming to discuss bilateral and global issues. The visit includes meetings in Moscow and St. Petersburg. The MEA highlights the stable and resilient India-Russia partnership. Jaishankar will engage with Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry and Trade Denis Manturov on economic matters. Discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will cover various issues. The annual India-Russia leaders' summit won't occur this year. Jaishankar's visit underscores the enduring Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia.

India records 322 new Covid-19 cases, prompting states to enhance preparedness. Kerala reports 128 cases, Karnataka adds 96, Maharashtra notes 103 active cases, and Tamil Nadu reports 123. With the active caseload reaching 3,742, states issue fresh guidelines. Tamil Nadu directs surveillance and ensures hospital readiness. Union Health Ministry advises hospitals to conduct drills, especially after detecting the new JN.1 sub-variant. Maharashtra focuses on RT-PCR testing, conducting 658 tests out of 1,791. Hospitals instructed to check equipment functionality and stock essential drugs. Concerns rise among smaller hospitals as cases surge.

Olympic wrestler Bajrang Punia stands firm, refusing to retrieve his Padma Shri amid the Wrestling Federation of India's suspension. Punia asserts, "I will not take back Padma Shri. I will think about it only after justice is delivered." The decision follows Sanjay Singh's appointment as WFI chief, triggering protests by top wrestlers over sexual harassment allegations. The Sports Ministry's suspension prompts Punia's stance. Meanwhile, Sakshi Malik hints at a possible return, emphasizing the fight for justice for women wrestlers, "I have not seen anything in writing yet. I don't know whether only Sanjay Singh has been suspended or the entire body has been suspended. Our fight was not with the government. Our fight is for women wrestlers, I have announced my retirement but want the upcoming wrestlers should get justice," she stated. The government faces criticism, leading to the ministry's call for a temporary body to oversee WFI operations.

In a gun battle with security forces, atleast 3 Maoists were killed in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district. The clash occurred during an anti-Maoist operation by the District Reserve Guard and Bastar Fighters. The exchange of fire took place on a hill near Dabbakunna village, resulting in the recovery of three Maoist bodies and the seizure of explosives and weapons. The identity of the deceased Maoists remains unknown, prompting an ongoing search operation in the vicinity.

President Sanjay Singh of the suspended Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) plans to engage in dialogue with Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the Sports Ministry's decision to suspend the newly elected WFI. The Ministry claimed the new body operated under the former office-bearers' influence. Singh expressed readiness to explore legal options if dialogue fails, emphasizing that decisions were consensus-driven. He stated, "We will explain that we have followed rules... It was not my personal decision," highlighting the need for smooth federation operation. Wrestlers protested Singh's association with Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, accused of harassment. Singh defended their bond, stating, "There has been a bond and friendship from that time between us."