The UN human rights chief warned of potentially thousands more civilian deaths as Israel conducts a major ground offensive in Gaza. Volker Turk said given the military operations so far amid Gaza's decades-long occupation, he is alarmed by the prospect of "catastrophic consequences" from large-scale ground invasions. Israel has sent troops and armored vehicles into Gaza, backed by heavy airstrikes that knocked out most communications there. The Palestinian death toll has topped 7,700 since fighting erupted in early October. Over 1.4 million Gazans have been displaced, with many seeking shelter at UN sites. More than 1,400 Israelis were killed in Hamas's initial attacks.

Thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered in London on Saturday, demanding an end to Israel's attacks in Gaza. Similar rallies were anticipated in other UK cities. Home Secretary Suella Braverman had urged police to interpret certain chants as violent expressions. The protests come as Israel intensifies its strikes three weeks after Hamas attacked its territory. In Manchester, thousands attended a pro-Palestinian rally. International calls for a ceasefire continue. The protests are part of a global wave demanding cessation of hostilities and access for aid into Gaza, where thousands have been killed amid escalating conflict.

Indian para athletes clinched 111 medals at the Asian Para Games 2023, securing 29 gold, 31 silver, and 51 bronze, marking their best-ever performance. This achievement surpassed the previous record of 72 medals set in 2018. India's 303-member contingent competed in Hangzhou, finishing fifth behind China, Iran, Japan, and Korea. Notably, Indian para athletes also broke three world records, including javelin throw feats by Gurjar Sundar Singh and Sumit Antil. The men's compound team also set a world record. These accomplishments highlight India's outstanding performance at the continental event.

A gross misconduct hearing has concluded that Anish Sharma, a former Indian-origin Metropolitan Police Sergeant, breached professional standards with "inappropriate behavior" during his tenure. The hearing found Sharma guilty under categories of honesty, integrity, discreditable conduct, equality and diversity, and authority. He was accused of inappropriately touching a woman without consent and exposing himself during a party in 2021. Chief Superintendent Sean Wilson condemned Sharma's actions, stating he would never work in policing again. Following the hearing, Sharma will be added to the UK's College of Policing's Barred List, barring employment in relevant sectors.[ Representative Image ]

Amid the communication blackout in Gaza caused by intense Israeli bombardment, US representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez questioned the ethics of cutting off communication to 2.2 million people. Responding, Elon Musk announced that Starlink, created by SpaceX, would support connectivity for internationally recognized aid organizations in Gaza. Starlink, SpaceX's satellite network, aims to provide affordable internet access to isolated areas. The disruption hindered emergency services, with the Palestinian Red Crescent Society losing contact with Gaza operations. Palestinian telecom provider Jawwal cited destruction of international routes, and internet monitor NetBlocks reported a significant decline in connectivity.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has announced the annual Diwali on the Square celebration will take place at Trafalgar Square on October 29. The free public event from 1-7pm will feature dances, music, activities, and food that capture the festival's spirit. Attendees can enjoy performances by London's Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities, yoga workshops, puppet shows, and more. Mayor Khan hailed the event as embodying Diwali's symbolic victory of light over darkness. The family-friendly festivities aim to showcase London's diversity. Organizers anticipate the landmark Diwali celebrations will draw Londoners and visitors of all backgrounds. [Image Courtesy: Greater London Authority]

On October 28, 2023, Times Square in New York City will come alive with the annual Diwali festival, sponsored by Gopi Dairy and presented by KIA. Since 2013, this event has been a cherished tradition, showcasing the diverse elements of Indian culture. The festivities will feature performances from various communities, including South Asian, Indo-Caribbean, Dominican Folk Dance, and Afro-Latino groups, reflecting the vibrant cultural mosaic of New York City. Special dance performances by schoolchildren will emphasize the importance of cultural education, promoting peace and harmony. Gopi Dairy's CEO, Rostom Baghdassarian, expressed pride in supporting this festival of light and joy. [ Representative Image]

At least 32 people died and 18 remain missing after a methane explosion caused a fire at ArcelorMittal Temirtau's Kostenko mine in Kazakhstan. Operator ArcelorMittal said 206 of the 252 people at the mine were evacuated, with 18 seeking medical care. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev declared a national day of mourning on October 29th. He also ordered officials to halt investment cooperation with ArcelorMittal as the government and company finalize a deal to nationalize the steel mill. ArcelorMittal said it is committed to completing the transfer of ownership to minimize disruption.

London has witnessed a disturbing surge in hate crimes, with antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents nearly doubling in just over a week. The escalation follows the recent Israel-Hamas conflict, leading to growing tensions in Britain. Commander Kyle Gordon reported 408 antisemitic incidents and 174 Islamophobic offences recorded in the British capital this month, compared to 28 and 65 respectively during the same period last year. Pro-Palestinian demonstrations and Jewish group vigils have been held, and law enforcement has made 75 conflict-related arrests, emphasizing their strict response to hate crimes.

Tonight, India, Asia, Europe, Africa, and Russia will witness a mesmerizing partial lunar eclipse, starting at 11:31 PM IST. Astrophysicist Debi Prasad Duari confirmed the event, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Lakshmi Puja in West Bengal and Sharad Poonam. The penumbral eclipse begins at 11:31 PM IST, with the partial umbral eclipse starting at 1:05 AM IST on October 29. Maximum obscuration of the lunar disc occurs at 1:44 AM IST, concluding at 2:23 AM IST. Stargazers can enjoy this celestial display during the late hours of October 28 and early hours of October 29. [ Representative Image]