hi INDiA | January 17, 2025 | The Community First by hi INDiA Weekly

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"Oligarchy Taking Shape In America," Says President Joe Biden In Farewell Address

Joe Biden referred to Donald Trump's close ties to billionaire Elon Musk and other tycoons, he said "a dangerous concentration of power" is taking shape in America.

Washington DC: Outgoing US President Joe Biden warned Americans about a "dangerous concentration of power" among a few wealthy people in the United States and urged them to "stand guard" against threats from oligarchs, disinformation and AI in a future under Donald Trump as he delivered a farewell address on Wednesday ahead of stepping down next week.

In a brief Oval Office speech, the Democrat touted his achievements in steering the US economy out of the deep crisis inflicted by the Covid-19 pandemic and said he had made the nation's alliances abroad stronger.

In a veiled reference to incoming President Trump's close ties to billionaire Elon Musk and other tycoons, he said an "oligarchy is taking shape in America"

-- and "a dangerous concentration of power." "Today, an oligarchy is taking shape in America of extreme wealth,

Trump's attorney general nominee quizzed on her loyalty to him

Donald Trump's nominee to be attorney general, Pam Bondi, said she would not use the US justice department to target people based on their politics during her confirmation hearing on Wednesday.

"There will never be an enemies list within the Department of Justice," she told senators as she was repeatedly pressed on her loyalty to Trump. "I will not politicise that office."

But Bondi, who would become the nation's top law enforcement official if confirmed to the role by a Senate vote, did not directly rule out launching investigations into those the presidentelect has clashed with.

"It would be irresponsible of me to make a commitment regarding anything," she said when asked whether she would investigate Jack Smith, who led two criminal cases against Trump.

Trump repeatedly threatened to investigate and potentially prosecute his political enemies during the election campaign.

Bondi, who is likely to be confirmed as the 87th US attorney general given the Republican majority in the chamber, stressed throughout the hearing that she would remain independent.

power and influence that literally threatens our entire democracy, our basic rights and freedom and a fair shot for everyone to get ahead," Biden said.

He said the ultra-rich people around Trump represent a concentration of "extreme wealth, power and influence that literally threatens our entire democracy." Recalling the warning issued by former president Dwight Eisenhower in his own farewell address in 1961 about the dangers of an outof-control military-industrial complex, he said, "I'm equally concerned about the potential rise of a tech industrial complex." The President also warned that Americans are succumbing to misinformation and that press freedoms are deteriorating and noted a "crumbling" media means people are increasingly vulnerable."Americans are being buried under an avalanche of misinformation and disinformation, enabling the abuse of power," he said, adding that "the free press is crumbling. Editors are disappearing."

Donald Trump Claims Full Credit For The "Epic" Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Deal

West Palm Beach: US President-elect

Donald Trump hailed a hostage release and ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas on Wednesday, agreed just five days before he returns to power.

"We have a deal for the hostages in the Middle East. They will be released shortly. Thank you!" Trump said on his Truth Social network, before there

was any official announcement from outgoing President Joe Biden's White House.

In another Truth Social post, Trump claimed full credit for the agreement, saying, “This EPIC ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of our Historic Victory in November". He believes his administration's commitment to seeking peace and negotiating deals has sent a powerful signal to the world. The deal is expected to involve a phased ceasefire, with Hamas releasing 33 of the roughly 100 hostages inside Gaza during an initial 42-day phase. Trump's special envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, played a key role in negotiating the agreement, working closely with President Biden's negotiators.

Biden warns 'dangerous' oligarchy taking shape in farewell address

Outgoing US President Joe Biden delivered a farewell address from the Oval Office, warning of a "dangerous" oligarchy of extreme wealth and power threatening American democracy. He criticized an ultra-wealthy "tech-industrial complex" for wielding unchecked influence, referencing figures like Elon Musk and issues like social media misinformation. Biden highlighted key achievements of his administration, including job creation, infrastructure investments, healthcare improvements, and guiding the country out of the pandemic. He expressed confidence that the benefits of these efforts would grow over time, stating, “The seeds are planted, and they’ll bloom for decades to come.”

In a sharp critique, Biden warned about climate change, accusing powerful interests of undermining progress

for profit. He also condemned social media companies for abandoning fact-checking, cautioning against misinformation that enables abuse of power.

The outgoing president extended best wishes to Donald Trump’s incoming administration while underscoring the challenges ahead. "So much is at stake right now," he noted, urging Americans to "stand guard" for their democracy.

Biden also announced a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, marking it as one of his toughest negotiations. The truce is set to take effect on January 19, a day before Trump assumes office. Trump credited his election victory for facilitating the deal, highlighting ongoing political tensions.

Closing his address, Biden called on Americans to protect their freedoms: "May you all be the keeper of the flame."

HiIndia Newsdesk

Gaza ceasefire deal agreed by Israel and Hamas, Qatar and US say

Israel and Hamas have agreed a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal following 15 months of war, mediators Qatar and the US say.

Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman Al Thani said the agreement would come into effect on Sunday so long as it was approved by the Israeli cabinet.

US President Joe Biden said it would "halt the fighting in Gaza, surge much neededhumanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians, and reunite the hostages with their families". Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the deal's final details were still being worked on, but he thanked Biden for "promoting" it. Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya said it was the result of Palestinian "resilience".

Many Palestinians and Israeli hostages' families celebrated the news, but there was no let up in the war on the ground in Gaza.

The Hamas-run Civil Defence agency reported Israeli air strikes killed more than

Mozambique

President Sworn In Amid Boycott

Mozambique's new President Daniel Chapo has been sworn in at a low-key ceremony in the capital, Maputo, that was marred by an opposition boycott following heavily disputed elections.

In his first presidential address, Chapo, 47, pledged to "devote all my energies" to promoting unity and human rights in a nation scarred by post-election violence.

New suspected Marburg outbreak in Tanzania kills eight - WHO

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned of a suspected new outbreak of the Ebola-like Marburg virus in north-west Tanzania, saying that at least eight people have already been killed by the disease.

On Tuesday, the WHO said that nine suspected cases of Marburg were reported in the region of Kagera over the last five days. "We would expect further cases in the coming days as disease surveillance improves," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on X.

20 people following the Qatari announcement. They included 12 people who were living in a residential block in the Sheikh Radwan neighbourhood of Gaza City, it said. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military.

Israel launched a campaign to destroy Hamas - which is proscribed as a terrorist organisation by Israel, the US and others - in response to an unprecedented crossborder attack on 7 October 2023, in which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 others were taken hostage. More than 46,700 people have been killed in Gaza since then, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry. Most of the 2.3 million population has also been displaced, there is widespread destruction, and there are severe shortages of food, fuel, medicine and shelter due to a struggle to get aid to those in need. Israel says 94 of the hostages are still being held by Hamas, of whom 34 are presumed dead. In addition, there are four Israelis who were abducted before the war, two of whom are dead.

'Grave concern' for Australian man reportedly killed by Russian forces

it added.

The Australian government is making "urgent enquiries" after reports suggest a man from the city of Melbourne has been killed by Russian forces.

Oscar Jenkins, a 32-year-old teacher, was captured last year while fighting for Ukraine.

A government spokesperson said the reports of his death have not been verified but there are "grave concerns for Mr Jenkins' welfare".

The Russian ambassador to Australia has been summoned to the country's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) to answer questions about Mr Jenkins, a statement said.

"The Russian Federation is obligated to treat all prisoners of war in accordance with international humanitarian law,"

Prisoners of War are protected from all acts of violence or intimidation by the Geneva convention.

DFAT said it is providing support to Mr Jenkins' family, who have requested privacy.

Mr Jenkins is one of seven Australians believed to have died fighting in Ukraine since Russia's invasion in 2022. However, he is the first thought to have been held as a prisoner of war.

A video surfaced in December last year showing Mr Jenkins, with his hands tied, being hit in the face and questioned by Russian forces.

He explains he is a teacher and also a soldier who lives in both Australia and Ukraine. They ask him if he is being paid to fight in Ukraine.

Zelensky offers exchange of North Korean soldiers

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says he is willing to hand over two captured North Korean soldiers to Pyongyang in exchange for Ukrainian prisoners of war in Russia.

"For those North Korean soldiers who do not wish to return, there may be other options available," Zelensky said on X. Those who want "to bring peace closer by spreading the truth about this war in Korean will be given that opportunity", he added.

UK must rejoin EU customs union, says Lib Dem Davey

The UK should negotiate a new customs union deal with the European Union, Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey is to say. In a speech on Thursday, he will argue it is needed to boost Britain's economy and its ability to deal with the incoming Donald Trump presidency from a position of strength.A Lib Dem source told the BBC the policy was not a step towards rejoining the EU, but a pragmatic move to "turbocharge" the economy.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Prisoners of War are protected from all acts of violence or intimidation by the Geneva convention (file image)

Trump's Inauguration

From S Jaishankar, Meloni To Musk, Who Is Invited?

HiIndia Newsdesk

Donald Trump's inauguration as the 47th President of the United States is expected to be a high-profile event, with several global leaders and influential figures confirming their attendance. The ceremony will take place on January 20 at the US Capitol, with proceedings starting at 12 pm ET (10:30 pm IST)

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has received an official invitation and plans to attend the inauguration, pending confirmation of her schedule. Meloni, a populist and staunch conservative leader, has been a vocal supporter of Trump's policies and has sought to strengthen ties between Italy and the US.

The Chinese President Xi Jinping also received an invitation from Donald Trump, with spokesperson Karoline Leavitt highlighting the invitation as an example of Trump "creating an open dialogue with leaders of countries that are not just our allies but our adversaries and our competitors". However, Xi Jinping will send a high-level envoy to represent Beijing.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has also received an invitation to attend the inauguration, although he has yet to confirm his attendance. Orban, one of Trump's closest foreign allies, has been a

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will represent India at the inauguration, following an invitation from the Trump-Vance inaugural committee.

key supporter of the president-elect's hard-right policies.

Argentine President Javier Milei will break tradition by attending the inauguration himself, rather than sending a representative.

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro also received an invitation for Trump's inauguration but is currently seeking to obtain a return of his confiscated passport, which was seized during an investigation into the 2023 attempted coup.

El Salvador President Nayib Bukele was one of the first world leaders to congratulate Trump on his victory

and has been invited to attend the inauguration. Bukele has been a key ally of Trump's in Central America.

Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya will attend the inauguration as part of Japan's effort to bolster ties with the new administration. Iwaya has stated that Japan aims to build a relationship of trust with the Trump administration, and his presence at the inauguration is seen as a significant gesture of goodwill. "We aim to build a relationship of trust with the Trump administration," Iwaya stated in an interview on NHK, Japan's public broadcaster.

Agencies Warn Of Trump's Inauguration Being A Target For Violent Extremists

The upcoming inauguration of Presidentelect Donald Trump is expected to be a highly secured event, with U.S. national security agencies warning that it could be an attractive target for violent extremists. Despite no specific credible threats, the agencies are taking precautions due to the heightened political environment and potential for violence.

Since the two assassination attempts on Trump, during the 2024 campaign and the recent attacks this year in New Orleans and Las Vegas, officials have been on high alert.

Perpetrators may see the swearing-in as "their last opportunity to influence the election results through violence," as a group of intelligence wrote in a threat assessment, accessed by POLITICO. The threat assessment, compiled by the FBI, Secret Service, Capitol Police, and other agencies, highlights various nightmare scenarios, including bomb hoaxes, swatting calls, drone flights, and vehicle-ramming attacks. Foreign terrorists, domestic extremists, and lone wolves are considered potential perpetrators. The assessment also notes that Iran has long sought revenge against Trump for the killing of Gen. Qassem Soleimani, with 700,000 users

Since the two assassination attempts on Trump, during the 2024 campaign and the recent attacks this year in New Orleans and Las Vegas, officials have been on high alert.

on Telegram threatening to assassinate him the day after Election Day.

Law enforcement officials are concerned that protests surrounding the inauguration could turn violent, with some groups having previously arranged protests that ended in arrests. The threat assessment mentions that past protests by some of these individuals have

involved traffic blockades, trespassing, property destruction, and resisting arrest.

To address these concerns, a massive security operation is being put in place.

Approximately 25,000 law enforcement and military personnel will be on-site to secure the inauguration, 4,000 officers will be reinforced in Washington D.C. from all over the country and nearly 1,000 officers supporting Capitol Police.

The Secret Service, FBI, and other agencies are working together to protect the event, with a dedicated planning team from the Capitol Police department focusing on the inauguration since May.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will represent India at the inauguration, following an invitation from the Trump-Vance inaugural committee. Jaishankar's attendance is seen as a significant gesture of support for Trump, who has sought to strengthen ties with India and other key Asian nations.

The foreign ministry statement read, "On the invitation of the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr. S. Jaishankar will represent the Government of India at the Swearing-In Ceremony of PresidentElect Donald J. Trump as the 47th President of the United States of America."

Other notable attendees at the inauguration will include Eric Zemmour, a far-right politician from France, and Nigel Farage, a UK politician and long-time Trump ally. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, is also expected to attend the inauguration with fellow billionaires - Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg. The inauguration will also be attended by former US Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton, who will be accompanied by their spouses, except for Michelle Obama. Joe Biden has confirmed his attendance, dismissing controversy surrounding his presence as "childish games."

Drake sues for defamation over Kendrick Lamar song

Drake is one of the best-selling artists of

Rap superstar Drake is suing Universal Music Group (UMG) for defamation and harassment, over its release of the Kendrick Lamar diss track Not Like Us last year.

The song, which formed part of a furious back and forth between the two stars, accused Drake and his entourage of being "certified paedophiles" who should "be registered and placed on neighbourhood watch".

In papers filed in New York, Drake's lawyers accused the record label of launching "a campaign to create a viral hit" out of a song that made the "false factual allegation that Drake is a criminal paedophile, and to suggest that the public should resort to vigilante justice in response". Universal has yet to respond to the allegations.

HiIndia Newsdesk

the last decade

Saif Ali Khan

Attacked, Hospitalised

Saif Ali Khan was allegedly stabbed by an intruder, who barged in his Mumbai house. The incident took place around 2.30 am on Thursday. The actor is currently undergoing treatment at Mumbai's Lilavati Hospital. Police has started the investigation and an FIR against an intruder has been lodged at the Bandra Police Station. An intruder sneaked into Saif Ali Khan's house while he was sleeping with wife Kareena Kapoor and sons Taimur and Jeh, according to Police.

Arvind Kejriwal Declares Rs 1.7 Crore In Assets

New Delhi: Former Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader, Arvind Kejriwal is facing 14 criminal cases, including one related to the 2014 Lok Sabha elections in Amethi and others connected to alleged irregularities in the implementation of the Delhi Excise Policy. These pending cases were disclosed in his affidavit filed on Wednesday for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections on February 5. I

India-Bangladesh Border Talks In February

New Delhi: The twice postponed director general (DG) level talks between India and Bangladesh are likely to be held in the third week of February in New Delhi, with a focus on resolving the impasse over the proposed construction of a single-row fence by India to close gaps along the border with Bangladesh. During the meeting, New Delhi and Dhaka are also likely to discuss the issue of the rise in infiltration attempts post the regime change in Bangladesh, among other issues, news agency PTI reported quoting official sources.

"Conflict, Wars To Become More Violent, Unpredictable": Rajnath Singh

Pune: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday emphasised the need for the Armed Forces to transform into a modern warfare machine, citing the increasing use of unconventional methods in today's warfare -dynamic geopolitical world order and the constantly-changing character of warfare. He highlighted that conflicts and wars will become more violent and unpredictable, with the emergence of non-state actors and terrorism being major concerns. Addressing senior Army officials and other personnel at 'Gaurav Gatha', an event organised in Pune as part of the 77th Army Day celebrations, he said, "Conflicts and wars will become more violent and unpredictable. The emergence of non-state actors in many countries and their resorting to terrorism is also a matter of concern. Due to the

He highlighted that conflicts and wars will become more violent and unpredictable, with the emergence of non-state actors and terrorism being major concerns.

rapid technological advancements, future wars witness a change to a great extent. Cyber and space domains are rapidly emerging as new war zones. Along with

US Removes Restrictions On 3 Indian Nuclear Entities

New Delhi: In a significant move, the US on Wednesday removed restrictions on three Indian nuclear entities, over a week after NSA Jake Sullivan announced that Washington was finalising steps to "remove" hurdles for civil nuclear partnership between Indian and American firms.

The three entities are Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Indira Gandhi Atomic Research Centre (IGCAR) and the Indian Rare Earths (IRE), according

The three entities are Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Indira Gandhi Atomic Research Centre (IGCAR) and the Indian Rare Earths (IRE), according to the US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS).

to the US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS).

In an address at the IIT-Delhi last week, Jake Sullivan said the US will remove regulations that have prevented cooperation between Indian nuclear entities and American companies.

The removal of the three key Indian entities is being seen as an attempt by the outgoing Biden administration to facilitate the implementation of the landmark India-US civil nuclear pact that was sealed 16 years back.The move comes five days ahead of Donald Trump's inauguration as the 47th President of the US.

India Captain Rohit Sharma To Visit Pakistan Ahead Of Champions Trophy

Although India will play its Champions Trophy matches at a neutral venue, the team captain is expected to visit

the host nation Pakistan to attend the opening ceremony of the prestigious event, which is making a return after an eight-year hiatus, sources said.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is planning a grand opening ceremony of the Champions Trophy, tentatively scheduled for February 16 or 17, subject warm-up match itinerary. All team captains are to take part in the opening ceremony, which is a standard practice for ICC events.

"Indian Team captain will visit Pakistan to attend the opening ceremony of the Champions Trophy as PCB plans grand event, marking the return of a mega international cricket event to Pakistan after 29 years," sources told IANS.

this, a war of narrative as well as perception is also being fought all over the world. The military must focus on holistic capacity building and reforms."

Mr Singh stressed the importance of a robust security system, strong military, and secure borders to achieve Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047. He noted that the Ministry of Defence is working to bolster the strength of the Armed Forces by equipping them with the latest weapons and platforms, focusing on modernization through self-reliance. "India is currently going through a phase of transition. We are moving forward from being a developing country to a developed one. To become Viksit Bharat, every section of society will have to contribute. But their contribution will only be meaningful when our security apparatus is fool-proof and borders are safe.

Adani Group

The markets, especially the Adani Group company shares, have woken up to some interesting developments on Thursday, January 16. Earlier in the day, Hindenburg Research, a USbased short-selling activist group has announced its disbandment.

The Adani Group company shares on the Indian equity markets reacted to these developments in euphoria.

Jasprit Bumrah Out of Champions Trophy

Team India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah's participation in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy is under serious doubt, with the player asked to rest at home. Bumrah, who took 32 wickets during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, returned home last week after a long tour Down Under. According to a report in Times of India (TOI), Bumrah has been advised bed rest at home, and it is highly unlikely that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will rush the player's recovery process.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Breif News

Los Angeles braces for dangerous Santa Ana winds

At least 24 people have lost their lives to the wildfires that have ripped through Los Angeles city in California, with the toll expected to mount amid the battle with the blaze.

Firefighters have braced for high winds, as the Santa Ana winds are expected to return and further fuel the two monstrous wildfires that have already turned entire neighbourhoods to ashes. Meanwhile, data from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection showed that 40,588 acres of land have been burned in the blazes so far, and more than 12,000 structures have been destroyed across Los Angeles.

BCCI's New Rules Clip Gambhir’s Wings, Affect Players’ Wives

The BCCI has reportedly enforced some tough rules in the wake of Team India's horror show in Australia.

Following India’s disappointing 2024-25 Test campaign, the BCCI plans to implement stricter regulations. As per Dainik Jagran, families of players, especially wives, will only be allowed to stay for two weeks during 45-day tours, reversing the pre-2019 rule. Players must also travel on the team bus, discouraging lone travel.

The BCCI has also restricted head coach Gautam Gambhir's privileges. His manager, Gaurav Arora, can no longer stay in team hotels, travel on the team bus, or sit in VIP boxes.

Additionally, the BCCI will cap luggage allowances during air travel at 150kg, with excess costs borne by players.

In a meeting with top BCCI officials, captain Rohit Sharma, coach Gambhir, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar discussed the future of veteran players like Virat Kohli and Rohit. The board also proposed limiting the tenure of support staff to three years, citing stagnating performance.

More than one crore people took ‘Amrit Snan’ till 8.30am, says UP govt

The administration issued an order on Tuesday to streamline the 'Amrit Snan' of 13 Akharas. Shri Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani and Shri Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara will be the first ones to take Amrit Snan, followed by others of Shaivite and Vaishnavite faith.

Observed on January 14 every year, the festival is known by various names in different parts of the country, such as Pongal, Bihu, and Maghi. Devotees in several parts of the country perform rituals according to local traditions at different ghats.

The Maha Kumbh-2025, which is Poorna Kumbh, will take place until February 26. Key 'snan' dates include January 14 (Makar Sankranti—First Shahi Snan), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya— Second Shahi Snan), February 3 (Basant Panchami—Third Shahi Snan), February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri).

The Uttar Pradesh government said that more than one crore devotees took a holy dip until 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday to celebrate Makara Sankranti.

TikTok says report of possible sale to Musk 'pure fiction'

TikTok has called a report that China is considering allowing a sale of the social media company's US operations to Elon Musk "pure fiction."

The firm's comments came in response to a report by Bloomberg that Chinese officials are weighing an option that could see its business in America being sold to the world's richest person if the US Supreme Court upholds a ban on the app. Supreme Court justices are due to rule on a law that set a 19 January

deadline for TikTok to either sell its US operations or face a ban in the country. TikTok has repeatedly said that it will not sell its US operation.

"We can't be expected to comment on pure fiction," a TikTok spokesperson told BBC News. Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter, that one possible scenario being considered by Chinese officials would see Musk's X social media platform take control of TikTok's US operations.

X did not immediately reply to a BBC request for comment.

Musk is a close ally of US president-elect Donald Trump, who is set to return to the White House on 20 January. Last month, Trump urged the Supreme Court to delay its decision until he takes office to enable him to seek a "political resolution". His lawyer filed a legal brief with the court that says Trump "opposes banning TikTok" and "seeks the ability to resolve the issues at hand through political means once he takes office".

Biden: US Leading, China Won’t Surpass

Washington: Joe Biden said Monday that America was stronger on the global stage than it had been for decades, in a swansong foreign policy speech one week before Donald Trump's White House comeback. The outgoing US president took aim at Russia, China and Iran, and urged the West to maintain support for Ukraine in an address at the State Department setting out his international legacy.

But Biden's unspoken target was Trump as he touted his rebuilding of international alliances over the last four years after his Republican rival's chaotic first term.

Gaza Truce Deal "Possible This Week", Hamas Likely To Release 33 Israeli Hostages

Doha: Negotiators are very near to concluding a ceasefire deal, which would see Hamas turn over 33 Israeli hostages in the final week of the Biden administration before next Monday, in the latest signal that an agreement could be near. Israeli government believe that Hamas and its allies still hold 94 hostages taken from Israel during the October 7, 2023 attack, at least 34 of whom are dead.

The deal with Hamas would release 33 hostages, some of whom may not be alive, during the initial 42day ceasefire, Bloomberg reported quoting senior Israeli officials.

Truce Deal In Final Stage

US President-elect Donald Trump on Monday said he believed a ceasefire deal could be concluded before his inauguration next Monday. "We are very close to getting it done," he said in an interview with Newsmax. "They will get it done," he went on to predict. "I understand there's been a handshake and they're getting it finished, maybe by the end of the

week."

Hours before Trump's remarks, President Joe Biden said both sides were "on the brink of a proposal" during an address at the US State Department.

Similar claims were made by US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, who said on Monday that there was a "distinct possibility" for a deal as the "pressure is building for Hamas to come to yes."

"It's there for the taking so the question is now can we all collectively seize the moment and make this happen," Sullivan said in an interview at Bloomberg about the prospects for a deal.

HiIndia Newsdesk

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Steve Jobs' Kumbh Mela Letter Sells for Rs. 4.32 Crore

Laurene Powell Jobs, wife of the late Steve Jobs, is in India for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, where she was given the name "Kamala" by her guru, Swami Kailashanand Giri. Her visit coincides with the auction of a 1974 letter by Steve Jobs for $500,312 (Rs.4.32 crore).

Written before his 19th birthday to friend Tim Brown, the letter reveals Jobs’ plans to visit India for spiritual exploration, including the Kumbh Mela. Jobs had initially intended to meet Neem Karoli Baba but arrived after the saint's passing. Undeterred, he stayed at Kainchi Dham, deeply influenced by Hinduism, adopting Indian attire and Sadhu robes during his seven-month journey.

Laurene has embraced Indian traditions, practicing meditation and Pranayama, and plans to bathe in the Ganga River despite health challenges. Her visit reflects respect for Indian spirituality, fulfilling one of Jobs’ cherished aspirations.

US Regulator Sues Elon Musk Over Late Twitter Stake Disclosure

Washington: Elon Musk was sued on Tuesday by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which accused the world's richest person of waiting too long to disclose in 2022 he had amassed a large stake in Twitter, the social media company he later bought.

In a complaint filed in Washington, D.C. federal court, the SEC said Musk violated federal securities law by waiting 11 days too long to disclose his initial purchase of 5% of Twitter's common shares.

An SEC rule requires investors to disclose within 10 calendar days, or by March 24, 2022 in Musk's case, when they cross a 5% ownership threshold.

The SEC said that at the expense of unsuspecting investors, Musk instead bought more than $500 million of Twitter shares at artificially low prices before finally revealing his purchases on April 4, 2022, by which time he owned a 9.2% stake.

Centre's Key Nod Brings Fresh Trouble For Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia

New Delhi: In fresh trouble for Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal ahead of Delhi election, the Union Home Ministry has given the goahead to the Enforcement Directorate to prosecute the former Chief Minister in a money laundering case linked to the now-scrapped liquor policy. The Home Ministry, sources have said, has also okayed the agency's prosecution push in the case against senior AAP leader and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia.

This comes months after a Supreme Court ruling in November which said the Enforcement Directorate would need prior sanction like the Central Bureau of Investigation to prosecute public servants. While the ED has said Mr Kejriwal was the mastermind of alleged irregularities in the Delhi liquor policy case, the framing of charges was pending in a Delhi court since it did not have the clearance. The fresh development has now removed that obstacle. Weeks after

The development will likely sharpen the BJP's attacks on the ruling AAP in the run-up to the Delhi election.

the top court ruling, Mr Kejriwal had approached the Delhi High Court to challenge the trial court's decision to take note of the chargesheet against him. He

Severe fog in capital amid cold wave; flights delayed as visibility plummets

New Delhi:

A dense fog wrapped the national capital and surrounding areas Wednesday morning as cold wave conditions persisted in northern India.

Delhi recorded a temperature of 9 degrees Celsius in the morning with the weather office predicting fog again in the evening and night. At least seven flights have been cancelled and 184 others delayed so far with the airport asking fliers to stay updated about their flights.

"While landings and take-offs continue

Flights operations are normal in Delhi, but the airport has asked passengers to contact the airlines for updated flight information.

at Delhi Airport, flights that are not CAT III compliant may get affected. Passengers are requested to contact the airline concerned for updated flight information. Any inconvenience is deeply regretted," said Delhi Airport in repeated alerts.

At least 26 trains bounds for Delhi are also running late.

Train schedules were disrupted due to fog yesterday as well with at least 39 trains running late till 6:30 am on Tuesday.

The India Meteorological Office (IMD) had forecast dense fog in the morning and a cloudy sky later in the day along with chances of light rain during evening or night. The average air quality remains in the "poor" category.

had said the Enforcement Directorate did not have the sanction to prosecute him. Mr Kejriwal and Mr Sisodia were arrested in money laundering cases linked to the Delhi liquor policy and are currently out on bail. Both leaders have trashed the charges against them and have accused the BJP of using probe agencies to harass political rivals.

South Korean president arrested

South Korean investigators have arrested President Yoon Suk Yeol at his residence in Seoul

He is now being interrogated at the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) whose summonses he had previously ignored

Yoon is under investigation on charges of insurrection, following a shortlived attempt to impose martial law in December

The arrest followed an hours-long standoff between authorities and his security staff and supporters, which saw investigators reportedly sc scaling the compound's walls with ladders

US Moves Forward on Greenland Purchase, Trump Granted Negotiation Powers

Washington DC: Donald Trump's plan to buyout Greenland has taken a serious turn. Republicans have started gathering support in the House of Representatives to pass a new bill to authorise the US President to enter formal negotiations to purchase Greenland.

The bill titled 'Make Greenland Great Again Act' is being circulated to gather co-sponsors for it. As of Monday, the bill already had 10 sponsors. It is being led by Republican congressman Andy Ogles and congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. This makes it official that Donald Trump, who will become US

The 'Make Greenland Great Again Act,' led by Republican lawmakers Andy Ogles and Diana Harshbarger, is gaining traction with 10 sponsors as of Monday. The bill is being circulated to gather more co-sponsors.

President next week, is serious about buying Greenland and making its a part of the United States. He had said it on multiple occasions in recent weeks and had even asked his advisers back in 2019 - during his previous term as President - how it can be done.

President-elect Trump has even made it clear that under his presidency, the US will not hesitate the use of the military and economic measures to persuade Denmark and Greenland if a buyout option is declined by either of them. Greenland is a matter of US national security and Washington under the Trump administration will go to any extent on matters of national security, Donald Trump has said.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Over To Virat Kohli As Rohit Sharma Makes Big Ranji Trophy Call To Prolong Test Career

India's Test captain Rohit Sharma has set the perfect example for others to follow by deciding to join Mumbai's Ranji Trophy team for a nets session. As per reports, Rohit will be part of the Mumbai team that will be practicing in the nets at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on Tuesday morning. Rohit didn't wait for long before resuming training sessions after his return from an underwhelming tour of Australia, where India suffered a 1-3 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Rohit resumed training at the MCABKS ground to prepare himself for the Champions Trophy.

Mumbai are scheduled to take on Jammu & Kashmir in the next round of the Ranji Trophy. While Rohit hasn't yet confirmed of his availability for selection in the Ranji Team, he has decided to get a few net sessions under his belt to better his skills against the red-ball. A call on his participation in the team is also likely to be taken soon.

"He will be coming for practice sessions with the Mumbai Ranji Trophy team

Gambhir, Agarkar Clash Over India’s Captaincy Choice

As the new Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary steps into the shoes vacated by Jay Shah, the hunt for Rohit Sharma's long-term captaincy successor has begun. Rohit reportedly came close to hanging his boots in the Test format during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia but was made to change his mind by some 'well-wishers'. Rohit even claimed in an interview during the Sydney Test that he has no retirement plans at present, but Saturday's BCCI meeting with chief selector Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir has painted a different picture.

Bumrah had to sit out half of the 5th Test in Sydney due to a back issue. If he gets India's full-time Test captaincy, such issues could prove to be detrimental. While there's no denying that Bumrah is the best candidate to fill in the void that would be created by Rohit's exit, the board and selectors also want a solid Plan B for cases where Bumrah isn't available. The BCCI and selectors want to groom another strong captaincy candidate, who will be officially named the team's vicecaptain. The player would lead the team in Bumrah's absence. The two names that have been floated are Rishabh Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

and it is still not decided whether he will be playing the next Ranji Trophy game against J&K. He will inform the MCA in due course," Indian Express quoted a source in the MCA as saying. Rohit last featured in the Ranji Trophy,

India's top-tier domestic red-ball tournament, in 2015 against Uttar Pradesh. The country's Test and ODI skipper felt the need to get back to basics after struggling to score runs in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. In Australia,

Devastating Los Angeles Fires Prompt 2028 Olympics Debate

The Los Angeles wildfire disaster has cast a shadow over preparations for the 2028 Olympics, raising questions over whether the city can deliver a safe and successful Games. So far, none of the more than 80 venues due to stage Olympic competition in Los Angeles have been directly affected by the infernos that have left at least 24 people dead and reduced entire neighborhoods to smouldering ruins. But experts say the ongoing disaster has underscored the challenges of staging the world's largest sporting event in a region increasingly under threat of wildfires. "The situation is clearly grave and given the prospect of significant climate change, you do have to wonder whether the current situation might be repeated, possibly even during the Games," Simon Chadwick, professor of sport and geopolitical economy at Skema

The Los Angeles wildfire disaster has cast a shadow over preparations for the 2028 Olympics, raising questions over whether the city can deliver a safe and successful Games

Business School in Paris told British daily The iPaper.

"This raises very serious questions, not least about insurance, and whether Los Angeles' big-ticket 2028 attraction might be about to become an uninsurable mega-event."

While the flames that razed Pacific Palisades came uncomfortably close to the Riviera Country Club -- which will host 2028's Olympic golf tournament -- the overwhelming majority of venues are situated outside what would be regarded as high-risk fire zones.

Rohit Sharma has shown redball commitment by deciding to join Mumbai's Ranji Trophy team in the nets. Will Virat Kohli do the same?

Rohit only registered scores of 3,9, 10, 3, 6 in four Test matches while averaging a woeful 10.93 with the bat.

After the conclusion of the series, which saw Australia lift the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time in a decade, India head coach Gautam Gambhir publicly expressed his desire to see those committed to red-ball cricket spend some time playing the Ranji Trophy.

"I would always like everyone to play domestic cricket. That is how much importance domestic cricket needs to be given. Not only one game, but if they are available and have the commitment to play red-ball cricket, everyone should play domestic cricket. It's as simple as it can get. If you don't give importance to domestic cricket, you will never get the desired players that you want in Test cricket," Gambhir had said in Sydney.

BCCI Criticized for Ignoring 664-Average Batter

Out-of-favour India batter Karun Nair is currently wreaking havoc in domestic cricket. Exploiting his terrific run of form, the righthanded batter slammed his fourth successive hundred, fifth in total of this edition of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, as Vidarbha outclassed Rajasthan by nine wickets to move into the semifinals of the premier domestic 50-over tournament.

Karun continued his red-hot form in this iteration of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, striking his fifth hundred overall - a whirlwind unbeaten 82ball 122 with the help of 13 fours and five sixes.

Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa spoke about how several players are overlooked despite good form in domestic cricket. He started with the example of Abhimanyu Easwaran before citing the name of Karun and his achievements. Uthappa also slammed India's cricket ecosystem.

"If you are not going to let him play, then why are you giving hope to him. Just tell him that you don't believe that he can succeed in international cricket, just play and score runs in domestic cricket. If you are giving him a chance, and this has happened with so many players, Karun Nair, he was removed from the team after his 300 and only two Test matches."

HiIndia Newsdesk

Transform Your Life

with Just 2 Hours of Weekly Exercise

There's no question that exercise is good for the heart. Regular exercise lowers blood pressure and cholesterol and reduces the chances of having a heart attack or stroke.

But sometimes it can be hard to find the time (and motivation) to exercise. So, what's the least amount of exercise you can get away with doing while still seeing these benefits? That answer depends on how fit you are to begin with.

Here's some good news: the lower your starting point is in terms of fitness, the less you have to do to see a benefit.

So, if you're someone who's completely sedentary, then only a small amount of exercise is needed to see a reduction in cardiac risk. From a starting point of virtually zero exercise, an hour or two a week of leisurely cycling or brisk walking might be all you need to reduce your risk of death from cardiovascular disease by as much as 20%.

But as you get fitter and increase

Many people struggle to do the recommended amount of exercise each week. But research suggests even a small amount has powerful effects.

complete an endurance event, such as a marathon, found that once participants reached seven to nine hours a week of training, they saw noticeable changes in their heart's structure.

the amount you exercise, the cardiovascular health gains diminish and eventually plateau. This is sometimes referred to as a J-shaped curve. A sedentary person who goes from doing nothing to exercising a couple of hours a week will see the greatest reductions in cardiovascular risk during this period. If they increase the amount they exercise to four hours a week, there would be additional – albeit smaller –reductions in risk (around 10%). But the benefits to cardiovascular health appear to max out after four to six hours a week – with no additional gains beyond this point for everyone. However, one study in which sedentary people were trained to

Training at this level gives the same reductions in cardiovascular risk as training four to six hours a week. But participants had an increase in their amount of heart muscle, as well as dilation of their cardiac chambers. The heart is like any other muscle: if trained enough, it will get bigger. These changes occurred as early as three months after starting. So, while the additional hours of exercise don't provide further benefit in terms of reducing cardiovascular disease risk, these changes in the heart's structure will mean improvements in fitness – and hopefully, running a faster marathon. These sorts of changes were previously

only thought possible in elite athletes – but this study is proof that if we're willing to commit, we can not only get the cardiovascular benefits but also develop the heart of an athlete.

After you start doing an hour or two of

cardiovascular risk, you need to break a sweat. High-intensity interval training (Hiit) is one time-efficient way of maximising your returns from exercise. It's typically a 20-minute workout comprising short, 30 to 60-second bursts of intense exercise followed by a brief rest in between. Despite how short these workouts are, their intensity means that after several weeks of Hiit, you'll probably see many benefits – including reductions in blood pressure and cholesterol. However, most Hiit studies have been too small to measure if there's an effect on overall cardiovascular risk.

A word of caution is needed if you have cardiovascular disease. There are several conditions – such as cardiomyopathy (genetic heart muscle disease), ischemic heart disease (narrowing of heart arteries) and myocarditis (heart inflammation, usually viral) – where strenuous exercise is advised against. People with these health conditions should stick to low or moderate-intensity

exercise a week to improve your heart health, something incredible and unexpected might happen. You might actually enjoy it. Four hours a week is the sweet spot that gives the greatest reduction in cardiovascular risk – but if you enjoy training or find a sport you love, you shouldn't let this stop you doing more.

Up the intensity

The idea of going from never exercising to working out four hours a week can be daunting – especially if you don't have much spare time. This is where the intensity of your workouts is important. If you want the biggest bang for your buck in terms of reducing

exercise. This will still be beneficial for your heart, while not putting you at risk of harm. If finding time to exercise in the week is a challenge and you're only able to work out at weekends, rest assured this is still beneficial. One retrospective study of over 37,000 people found those who did their week's worth of physical activity over just one of two days had the same reduction in cardiovascular disease risk as those who did activity spread throughout the week. So, for a self-professed lazy person who wants to improve their cardiovascular health, the message is simple: even a small amount of any type of exercise can make a big difference.

U.S. DOJ: Trump Likely to Be Convicted If Not Elected

The report concludes that the evidence would have been enough to convict Trump at trial, but his imminent return to the Presidency, set for Jan. 20, made that impossible

U.S. Special Counsel Jack Smith's report concluded that Donald Trump engaged in an "unprecedented criminal effort" to stay in power after his 2020 election loss but was prevented from facing trial due to his imminent re-election. Smith's investigation resulted in a four-count indictment, accusing Trump of attempting to obstruct the collection and certification of votes. Despite evidence that could have led to a conviction, Trump’s return to office on January 20, 2025, stopped the case.Trump dismissed the investigation, calling Smith a "lamebrain prosecutor" and labeling the cases politically motivated. The report also details accusations that Trump illegally retained sensitive documents after leaving office in 2021, with that portion of the case still under legal proceedings. Both

investigations found Trump spread false claims about voter fraud and pressured lawmakers not to certify the election, culminating in the January 6 Capitol attack. Legal challenges delayed the cases, and the Supreme Court largely sided with Trump on executive immunity.

Biden Seeks to Remove Cuba's Terrorism Label in Prisoner Deal

President Joe Biden notified Congress of his intent to lift the U.S. designation of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism, the White House announced, as part of a deal facilitated by the Catholic Church to free political prisoners on the island.

Senior U.S. administration officials, who previewed the announcement on the condition of anonymity, said ”many dozens” of political prisoners and others considered by the U.S. to be unjustly detained would be released by the end of the Biden administration at noon on Jan. 20.

The U.S. would also ease some economic pressure on Cuba, as well as a 2017 memorandum issued by then-President Donald Trump toughening U.S. posture toward Cuba.

The determination by the outgoing one-term Democrat is likely to be reversed as early as next week after Mr.Trump, the Republican who is now president-elect, takes office and Secretary of State-designate Marco Rubio assumes the position of America’s top diplomat.

UK Minister Tulip Siddiq Resigns Over Sheikh Hasina Ties

The British Minister responsible for financial services and fighting corruption resigned on Tuesday (January 14, 2025) after weeks of questions over her financial ties to her aunt Sheikh Hasina, ousted last year as prime minister of Bangladesh.

Tulip Siddiq, 42, had repeatedly denied any wrongdoing and Prime Minister Keir Starmer said last week he had full confidence in her.

Meta to Cut 5% Staff, Plans Rehiring

The U.S. would also ease some economic pressure on Cuba, as well as a 2017 memorandum issued by thenpresident Donald Trump toughening U.S. posture toward Cuba.

Meta Platforms will trim about 5% of its "lowest performers" and plans to hire for the impacted roles this year, a company spokesperson said on Tuesday. CEO Mark Zuckerberg has also warned employees about more such job cuts this year to "raise the bar" on performance management, the spokesperson said. The Facebook parent had a total workforce of more than 72,000 as of September 30.

"Have Message For Donald Trump": Ex-Justin Trudeau Ally Jagmeet Singh's Big Warning

New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh has warned US President-elect Donald Trump sternly over his plans to annex Canada.

New Delhi: Jagmeet Singh, leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP) and once an ally of former Canadian Prime Minister

Justin Trudeau, has warned US President-elect Donald Trump sternly over his plans to annex Canada. In a video posted on the social media site X (formerly Twitter) said, "I have a message for Donald Trump. Our country (Canada) is not for sale. Not now, not ever."

Singh said that Canadians are proud people, they are proud of their country and ready to "fight like hell to defend it."

The NDP leader boasted about being a good neighbour and extending support to the US amid the Los Angeles fire that has killed at least 24 people so far. "Right now, with the forest fires

ravaging homes, Canadian firefighters showed up. That is who we are. And we show up and support our neighbours." Singh vowed retaliation if the US imposes tariffs on Canada. He said, "If Donald Trump thinks, if you think you can pick a fight with us, there will be a price to pay. I have committed that if Donald Trump imposes tariffs on us, we should respond with retaliatory tariffs in kind. I think that anyone running as Prime Minister should do the same." Trump has been vocal about his plans to take charge of Canada and make it the 51st US state. "Many Canadians want Canada to become the 51st State," Trump posted on his social media platform 'Truth Social' earlier in December.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Tulip Siddiq had repeatedly denied any wrongdoing and Prime Minister Keir Starmer said last week he had full confidence in her. File | Photo Credit: AP

HiIndia Newsdesk

President-elect Donald Trump faced an investigation led by special counsel Jack Smith

'Entire country is in festive mood,' said PM Modi in J&K While addressing a public gathering in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ganderbal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “This day is very special. Today, every corner of the country is in a celebratory mood. Maha Kumbh Mela is beginning today in Prayagraj and millions of devotees are reaching there for holy bath. Today, Punjab and the entire North India is filled with the joy of Lohri. This day is being celebrated as Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and various other festivals. I extend my good wishes to all who are celebrating these festivals.”

Maha Kumbh Begins

Petal shower to chopper ride to holy dip

Maha Kumbh 2025, expected to bring over 45 crore people to Prayagraj over a period of one-anda-half months, will begin on Monday with the first snan, or holy bath.

Even before the Kumbh officially began, the Sangam — the meeting point of the rivers Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati — witnessed a huge gathering of pilgrims. According to officials, around 50 lakh people took the holy bath at the Sangam in Prayagraj on Sunday.

The Uttar Pradesh government’s Horticulture Department has made preparations to shower flower petals on pilgrims on all major snan days, starting Monday. Over 20 quintals of rose petals will be used for this purpose and they will be showered over an area of 4,000 hectares, officials said.

The Tourism Department has announced the start of a special helicopter ride from Monday onwards to witness the Kumbh. This will be priced at Rs 1,296.

Rs. 2 Trillion: Expected Revenue from Maha Kumbh for UP

New Delhi: The Maha Kumbh Mela began at Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj this morning, with more than 50 lakh people taking the first holy dip at Sangam, the point where the Ganga, Yamuna and mythical Saraswati rivers meet. Dubbed the largest gathering of humanity in the world, the millennia-old Kumbh Mela is expected to bring more than 40 crore people to Prayagraj, which is more than the population of the US and Russia.

Maha Kumbh Mela, dubbed the largest gathering of humanity in the world, is expected to bring more than 40 crore people to Prayagraj.

Maha Kumbh 2025 is projected to generate up to Rs 2 lakh crore in economic growth for Uttar Pradesh. According to estimates, the event may generate Rs 2 lakh crore if each of 40 crore visitors spends an average of Rs 5,000.

Rs 2,000,000,000,000: The Revenue Maha Kumbh Is Likely To Generate For UPMaha Kumbh Mela, dubbed the largest gathering of humanity in the world, is expected to bring more than 40 crore people to Prayagraj.

Maha Kumbh 2025: An estimated 45 crore people are expected to visit Prayagraj over next 45 days.

According to officials, all 13 Akharas that take part in the Kumbh have entered the Kumbh site with their processions.

Visitors to Prayagraj for the Kumbh have come from across the country and from different parts of the world. Among them was Laurene Powell Jobs, wife of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs.

Foreign Ministry Summons Bangladesh Envoy

New Delhi: The Foreign Ministry today summoned Nural Islam, Deputy High Commissioner of Bangladesh to India, to discuss the escalating tensions between New Delhi and Dhaka. On Sunday, the Bangladeshi Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma following allegations that India was attempting to construct fences at five specific locations along the 4,156-kilometre Indo-Bangladeshi border.

These actions were said to be in violation of a bilateral agreement governing border activities.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Breif News

Millions start bathing in holy rivers at India's biggest Hindu festival

Millions have arrived to attend the Hindu festival of Kumbh Mela (also known as Mahakumbh) - described as humanity's biggest gatheringin northern India's Prayagraj city on Monday. The event - held once every 12 years - starts on Monday and over the next six weeks, the devout will bathe at Sangam - the confluence of India's most sacred Ganges river with the Yamuna river and the mythical Saraswati. Hindus believe that taking a dip in the sacred river will cleanse them of sins, purify their soul and liberate them from the cycle of birth and death - as the ultimate goal of Hinduism is salvation.

About 400 million pilgrims are expected to attend the 45-day spectacle, which is so large it can be seen from space.

In photos: World's biggest religious festival begins in India

On Monday, five to eight million worshippers are expected to bathe while the following day, numbers are expected to exceed 20 million. Tuesday's spectacle will be special as it will see ash-smeared naked Hindu holy men with matted dreadlocks, known as Naga sadhus, take a dip in the northern Indian city at dawn. But authorities are racing against time to get the city ready to host millions who will continue to

450 Million

Visitors in 45 days

pour in throughout the festival.

To accommodate the pilgrims and tourists, a vast tent city, sread over 4,000 hectares, has been set up on the banks of the river. But on Sunday, just hours before proceedings were due to begin, many parts of the sprawling grounds in Prayagraj still appeared to be a work in progress. Some of the camps set up by saints and other worshippers had no water and intermittent power supplies. Thousands of toilet cubicles were still yet to be set up and many already installed were unusable because of missing water connections.

Administration official Vivek Chaturvedi told the BBC that organisers were hampered by the fact that this year the monsoon waters took longer to recede which narrowed the window for construction activities. But, he insisted, "preparations are almost complete and all systems will be in place to welcome the visitors".

"We have laid 650km (403 miles) of temporary roads and set up tens of thousands of tents and toilets. More than 100,000 people, including over 40,000 police and security officials, are working round-the-clock to make it a success," Mr Chaturvedi said.

How big is the festival?

• Area: 4,000 hectares

• 160,000 tents

• 40,000 police and security officials

• 15,000 sanitation workers

• 99 parking lots for over half a million vehicles

• 30 floating pontoon bridges over the river

• 67,000 street lights

• 150,000 toilets; 25,000 bins

• 200 water ATMs and 85 tube wells

India's biggest MAHA

biggest Hindu festival KUMBH

Steve Jobs' Wife 'Kamala' Attends Maha Kumbh, To Take A Dip In River Ganga

Laurene Powell Jobs or 'Kamala', the widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, has arrived in Prayagraj to participate in the Maha Kumbh Mela. A devoted follower of Swami Kailashnand Giri, the Acharya Mahamandleshwar of Niranjini Akhara, Ms Laurene reached the spiritual camp on Saturday night, accompanied by a 40-member team. She will stay in Kumbh and is also planning to take a dip in Ganga. Dressed in a peach-yellow salwar suit with a Rakshasutra on her arm and a Rudraksha mala around her neck, 'Kamala' was warmly welcomed at the camp on Sunday, as per news agency ANI. The reception included a grand trumpet fanfare, and she was served hot masala tea in a traditional kulhad.

What is Kumbh Mela?

The festival, which concludes on 26 February, has been recognised as an Intangible Heritage of Humanity by the United Nations agency Unesco. Its origin is rooted in a mythological story about a fight between the gods and demons over a Kumbh (a pitcher) of nectar that emerged during the churning of the ocean.

As the two sides fought over the pot of elixir that promised them immortality, a few drops spilled over and fell in four cities - Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nasik.

As the fight went on for 12 celestial years – each equal to 12 years on Earth – Kumbh Mela festival is held every 12 years in the four cities. An ardh or a half Kumbh is organised halfway between

The mela is organised in all the four cities, but the biggest festivals, where previous attendance records are broken, are always held in Prayagraj. Hindu seer Mahant Ravindra Puri said the festival this time round was "extra special" and described it as "a Maha [great] Kumbh".

"That's because the current alignment of planets and stars is identical to what existed at the moment of the spill," he told the BBC. "Such perfection is being observed after 12 Kumbh festivals or 144 years," he said.nAnkit Srinivas The row of boats stands where the darker waters of Yamuna (left) meet the lighter, shallower waters of Ganges (right)Ankit SrinivasnSangam in Prayagraj is the confluence of India's most sacred Ganges river with Yamuna and the mythical invisible SaraswatibFor festival-goers, a major attraction is the presence of naked Naga sadhus, or ascetics, and it is a spectacle to watch as they hurl themselves into the icy waters.

But for the devout, it holds special significance - they believe that the waters get imbued with the purity of the saints' thoughts and deeds. Over the weekend, groups of holy men arrived at the mela grounds in large noisy processions.nOne group of ash-smeared men, some naked and some dressed in just loin cloth or marigold garland draped around their necks, marched in holding tridents, swords and small two-headed drums.

Another group had its leaders on chariots escorted to their campsite in a large procession with a music band, dancers, horses and camels.

What are the big bathing days?

The bathing dates and auspicious times are decided by astrologers, based on the alignment of specific planets and constellations.

There are six particularly auspicious days to bathe this time:

13 January: Paush Purnima

14 January: Makar Sankranti

29 January: Mauni Amavasya

3 February: Basant Panchami

12 February: Magh Purnima

26 February: Maha Shivaratri

Three of these - 14 and 29 January, and 3 February - have been designated as Shahi Snan (or the royal bath) days when the Naga sadhus will bathe. The largest gathering is expected on 29 January when 50 to 60 million worshippers are expected to take to the waters.

Oscar Lunch Canceled Amid LA Wildfires

The body that awards the Oscars said Monday it was cancelling its ritzy nominees' luncheon, as Los Angeles grapples with enormous wildfires.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences also moved its nomination announcement online, as Hollywood tries to navigate the somber mood at a time it would usually be celebrating award season. "We are all devastated by the impact of the fires and the profound losses experienced by so many in our community," said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang.

Santosh,” a film by British-Indian Sandhya Suri is UK’s official entry to Oscars

Sandhya Suri’s acclaimed film Santosh has been selected by the UK to be its official submission to the Oscars for Best International Film. A crime thriller, the feature has also been named as one of the Top 5 international films of 2024 by the National Board of Review. The film follows the lead character by the name Santosh, who is a young widow. She is desperate to support herself, and accepts an opportunity to inherit her husband’s job as a

The United Kingdom (UK) has chosen Hindi language movie Santosh, directed by Sandhya Suri and starring Shahana Goswami and Sunita Rajwar as it's official entry for Oscars 2025.

police officer in the rural badlands of India. Quickly taken under the wing of Sharma, a charismatic and commanding older female inspector, Santosh begins an investigation into a low-caste girl’s brutal murder that plunges her into a gritty world of crime and corruption, forcing her to confront not only the brokenness of the system around her, but her own place within it.

Starring Shahana Goswami and Sunita Rajwar, the film is written and directed by Sandhya Suri.

Born in England, Suri, has in the past released a documentary in 2005, I for India. She also released a documentary in 2018 titled Around India with a Movie Camera.

India-Pak Rivalry: Cricket Legends Speak in Netflix Documentary

One of the oldest and most intense rivalries in cricket is undoubtedly the one between Indian and Pakistan, which is entrenched in the long-standing history between both countries. While the cricket has always been fiercely contested, the off-ground activities between the two countries in the political front has resulted in a legacy that is more than just about the cricket. Now, Netflix is bringing a documentary that aims to understand this rivalry, and underscore the impact of the same in the psyche of the biggest cricketing nations in the world. Titled The Greatest Rivalry: India vs Pakistan, the documentary will premiere on Netflix on February 7.

Directed by Chandradev Bhagat and Stewart Sugg, The Greatest Rivalry, would feature interviews of legends of the game like Sourav Ganguly, Sunil Gavaskar, Virender Sehwag, Shoaib Akhtar, Inzamam Ul-Haq, Waqar Younis, Javed Miandad, and Ravichandran Ashwin.

Tiku Talsania Suffers Stroke, Wife Denies Heart Attack

On Saturday, it was reported that actor Tiku Talsania, famous for his roles in the 1997 film Ishq and 1993 film Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa, suffered a heart attack and was in critical condition in hospital. Now, the 70-year-old actor’s wife, Deepti Talsania, has spoken to NDTV and clarified the actor suffered a brain stroke.

Deepti shared, “He suffered a brain stroke, not a heart attack. He had gone to attend a film screening and started feeling unwell around 8 pm. He was immediately admitted to the hospital.” Tiku is currently receiving treatment at Mumbai’s Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. His son, Rohaan Talsania is a music composer. His daughter, Shikha Talsania, is an actress.

Ram Charan’s film sees massive dip, collects Rs 72.5 crore

Ram Charan and Kiara Advani’s political actioner Game Changer, directed by Shankar, made quite a strong impression with its trailer. Billed as one of South Cinema’s big-budget films, released after Pushpa 2: The Rule, fans were excited to see what the movie had to offer. Unfortunately, many are disappointed with Game Changer, which is also reflecting in the film’s box office figures. As per industry tracker Sacnilk, Ram Charan’s film saw a major dip of 57.84 per cent in its collections on Saturday.

Manisha Koirala on Single Life at 54: ‘I Won’t Compromise’

Veteran actor Manisha Koirala opened up about the need for a life partner.

Manisha opened up about her career, struggle with cancer, missing a life partner and much more. When asked about the need for a partner, Manisha instantly smiled and asked, “Who said I don’t have one?” She added, “I have made peace with who I am and the life that I have and if a companion has to walk into my life, I don’t want to compromise and let go of the quality of life that I have. If the companion can add to it and walk alongside, I am more than happy. But I don’t want to change what I have right now.”

Elaborating further about her life, Manisha said she is looking for the right balance. “If a companion has to happen, it will happen. It will be in tandem with each other rather than me trying to discover a companion because my life is full. I am leading a great quality of life and I just hope it continues. The sense of choice, freedom, and fulfillment that I get, I wish to continue that.”

Manisha Koirala tied the knot with Nepali businessman Samrat Dahal on June 19, 2010 in Kathmandu. But, the duo parted ways two years later in 2012 and she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in the same year.

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Zofeen Maqsood

I Had The Best Chance

"When Trump was running again for re-election, I really thought I had the best chance of beating him. But I also wasn't looking to be president when I was 85 years old, 86 years old,"

Mr Biden

Federal government to cover 100% of costs - Biden

President Biden has announced that the federal government will cover "100% of the cost of measures to protect lives and property in Southern California for six months".

"I’ve told the Governor and officials to spare no expense and do whatever they need to contain the fires and protect families," he wrote on X.

We earlier reported that Biden approved a slew of emergency measures, including a major disaster declaration allowing residents to request cash for necessities, increased federal funding for disaster relief and the deployment of firefighting helicopters and military planes to help fight the fires.

Biden Halts New Offshore Drilling

President Joe Biden announced on Monday what he called a permanent stop to new oil and gas drilling across more than 625 million acres of US coastal waters, saying he was making the move because drilling posed unnecessary risks to the environment, public health and the coastal communities’ economies.

National Guard Called In Fresh Fire Erupts

New Delhi: The Los Angeles County Sheriff,

has likened the devastation caused by raging wildfires in the region to the aftermath of an atomic bomb. "It looks as though an atomic bomb dropped in these areas," Mr Luna

said on Thursday.

A fresh fire erupted Thursday evening in the West Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles, rapidly consuming over 900 acres within hours. Firefighters have been stretched thin across Southern California as they battle multiple wildfires that have destroyed thousands of structures and

Pakistan, Bangladesh Invited For An 'Undivided India' Event, Islamabad Confirms

New Delhi: India has invited Pakistan and Bangladesh, among other neighbouring countries to participate in an 'undivided India' seminar being organised to mark 150 years of the India Meteorological Department. This is a first-of-its-kind initiative by the government to keep differences aside

Invites have been sent to Pakistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Besides the subcontinent, invitations have been sent to officials from the Middle East, central and Southwest Asia too.

and celebrate the shared history of the Indian subcontinent in unison. Invites have been sent to Pakistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Besides the subcontinent, invitations have been sent to officials from the Middle East, central and Southwest Asia too.

UK Introduces First-Ever Sanctions to Combat Migrant Smuggling

The UK has announced a pioneering sanctions regime to combat migrant smuggling and dismantle the criminal networks fueling irregular migration.

Touted as the world’s first of its kind, the measures aim to disrupt illicit financial flows supporting smuggling operations and target individuals enabling dangerous journeys.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the government’s commitment to dismantling crime gangs, crippling their financial systems, and safeguarding UK borders under the Labour government’s

Among the hardest-hit areas are Pacific Palisades and Altadena, where multimillion-dollar homes have been reduced to ashes.

forced mass evacuations.

The Pacific Palisades fire has scorched over 19,000 acres, while the Altadena fire has consumed 13,000 acres. Combined, these fires have displaced tens of thousands of residents.

California's National Guard has been deployed to assist in managing the crisis.

"We're throwing everything at our disposal - including our National Guard service members - to protect communities in the days to come," Governor Gavin Newsom said. He also issued a warning against looting, which has reportedly broken out in some evacuation zones.

Among the hardest-hit areas are Pacific Palisades and Altadena, where multimillion-dollar homes have been reduced to ashes. Celebrities such as Paris Hilton, Anthony Hopkins, and Billy Crystal are among those affected. Nearly 180,000 residents remain under evacuation orders, and the death count continues to climb.

"This is absolutely an unprecedented, historic firestorm," said Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.

Top Passports of 2025 Announced

The Henley Passport Index 2025 has revealed a significant drop in India's ranking, slipping five places from 80th to 85th, in the list of the world's most powerful passports.

• Singapore (195 destinations)

• Japan (193)

• France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Finland, South Korea (192)

• Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway (191)

• Belgium, New Zealand, Portugal, Switzerland, United Kingdom (190)

• Greece, Australia (189)

• Canada, Poland, Malta (188)

• Hungary, Czechia (187)

• Estonia, United States (186)

• Lithuania, Latvia, Slovenia, United Arab Emirates (185)

Taliban Urge India for Afghan Visas

Plan for Change. This initiative includes reducing perilous small boat crossings across the English Channel and ending the reliance on asylum hotels to address soaring net migration.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy detailed the legislation, highlighting its focus on preventing, deterring, and disrupting smuggling activities while ensuring collaboration with international allies, including France, Belgium, and the Netherlands through the Calais Group.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper reiterated the government’s efforts to dismantle smuggling networks through robust actions and collaboration.

Recently announced upgrades to Serious Crime Prevention Orders will impose restrictions like travel bans and social media blackouts on suspected smugglers. The standalone sanctions, expected to take effect this year, mark a bold step in the UK’s strategy to combat organised immigration crime and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.

Hours after India and Taliban-ruled Afghanistan held their first high-level meeting, the Taliban announced that they had urged Delhi to issue visas to Afghan businessmen, patients and students.Hafiz Zia Ahmad, deputy spokesperson for the Afghanistan Foreign Ministry, in a series of posts on X, said the request for issue of visas was conveyed by acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri when they met in Dubai Wednesday. To assuage Indian security concerns, Muttaqi and the Taliban delegation, sources said, assured the Indian side that there would be no threat from those who would travel to India.

Breif News

HiIndia Newsdesk

Robert Luna,

"I can see people with a lot of potential. When I was in Gujarat, I would say that I want to go after preparing (team) for the next 20 years. I am doing it. My success lies in how I prepare my team who will be able to deftly handle things. This is my benchmark for me."

More than 2 Million Indians visited the U.S. in 2024

The latest data from the U.S. International Trade Administration reveals that Over 2 million Indians traveled to the U.S., between January and November 2024. The number shows a significant increase of 26 percent of visitors compared to last year in the same period.

The U.S. Mission to India also said that it issued more than 1 million nonimmigrant visas for the second consecutive year in 2024. Over five million Indians already have a nonimmigrant visa to visit the United States and each day the Mission issues thousands more

Anushka, Virat Visit Spiritual Leader with Kids; Actor Embraces ‘Bhakti’

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli guard their family’s privacy quite strictly but recently, the celebrity couple and their children – Vamika and Akaay – visited a spiritual leader where they were filmed.

In the video, which is being shared by the social media handles of the spiritual leader Premanand Govind Sharan Ji Maharaj, the couple can be seen bowing down to him along with their kids.

The voice introducing them announces that the celebrity couple often listens to his satsang. As he asks them if they are happy, Virat nods in affirmation.

Towards the end of the video, Anushka asks the guru, “I just request you to give me Prem Bhakti.” The guru responds, “After getting so much, it is quite difficult to turn towards Bhakti.”

We are not neutral

World trusts us, for peace… I tell Russia & Ukraine, Israel & Palestine

Underlining that “the world trusts us because there is no duplicity in us”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Friday while “we are not neutral… I will cooperate in every effort” for peace, be it between “Russia and Ukraine, Israel and Palestine”.

In a conversation with Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamat, Modi said India’s standing in the world had increased because of its actions.

“The world trusts us because there is no duplicity in us. What we say is clear. We repeatedly said we are not neutral. I am in favour of peace, and

Boeing, Google Donate $1M Each to Trump Inauguration

US aviation giant Boeing has confirmed to BBC News that it is contributing $1 million (£812,600) to the inauguration fund for President-elect Donald Trump. “We are pleased to continue Boeing’s bipartisan tradition of supporting US Presidential Inaugural Committees,” a Boeing spokesperson said, noting the company has made similar contributions to the last three presidential inaugurations. Google has also joined the list of major corporations donating to the fund. “Google is pleased to support the 2025 inauguration, with a livestream on YouTube and a direct link on our homepage,” said Karan Bhatia, Google’s global head of government affairs and public policy.

I will cooperate in every effort for it. I tell this to Russia and Ukraine, Israel and Palestine. Our credibility has increased because of this. The world thinks that India says what it believes.” He also mentioned how he was denied a visa to the US after the Gujarat riots. “I was an elected Chief Minister here, and the US refused to give me a visa. I felt this was an insult to the country and an elected government, just because some people spread some lies. I addressed a press conference that day and said I want an India where the world will stand in a queue for our visa. I can see the time now is India’s,” he said.

Adani Offers 1 Crore Free 'Arti Sangrah' Copies

New Delhi: Days ahead of the inauguration of Mahakumbh 2025 in UP's Prayagraj, the Adani Group's spiritual side and its ‘Seva Hi Saadhna hai' pledge is drawing everyone's attention.

Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani met the Trustees and officials of the iconic Gita Press on Friday and vowed to present ‘Aarti Sangrah' to 1 crore devotees heading to the holy city's Sangam for the Shahi Snan, during the highly auspicious period.

The billionaire also shared pictures of his meeting with the Gita Press Trustees, appreciating their over 100 years of service to the nation through the Sanatan literature.

Donald Trump 1st US President To Be Sentenced As Felon, But Avoids Jail, Penalty

A judge has sentenced US President-elect Donald Trump to an "unconditional discharge," bringing to an end the first criminal trial of a former US president. The sentence in the hush-money payment case means the incoming president has been spared any penalty, including jail time or a fine, but he will still take office as the first US president with a felony conviction.

"Never before has this court been presented with such a unique and remarkable set of circumstances," Justice Juan Merchan said shortly before announcing the sentence, calling it a "truly extraordinary case".

Appearing via video call from Florida and flanked by his attorney and two prominent American flags, Trump declared he was "totally innocent". It was the first time in this year-and-half long legal saga that Trump had uttered more than a "not guilty" or given a brief affirmative answer. Granted the chance to speak ahead of his sentencing, Trump railed against the case for several minutes.

Donald Trump Hush Money Case Sentencing: This means that the President-elect has been found guilty of his charges, but will not face any jail time or penalty because he has been elected President of the United States and will take oath to the country's highest office on January 20.

Zofeen Maqsood

HiIndia Newsdesk

Indian American Entrepreneur Sues PayPal over Racial Discrimination

Zofeen Maqsood

Nisha Desai, an Indian American founder of New York based venture firm Andav Capital, has sued PayPal for alleged racial discrimination. Desai claims that she was excluded from the payment giant’s diversity and equity program because she is Asian. In the wake of Black Lives Matter, back in 2020 PayPal made a $530 million commitment to support Black and minority-led businesses.

Desai claims in a lawsuit that she applied to be considered for the financial commitment but was overlooked because she is Asian. According to the lawsuit the program exclusively focused on Black and Hispanic-led enterprises, as reported in TechCrunch.

In a lawsuit filed in a New York federal court, Desai alleges, “Funds majorityowned by individuals of other races, including Asian Americans, are not given equal consideration.” The lawsuit adds, “Worse, PayPal and its senior

Nisha Desai

management have repeatedly trumpeted the program’s focus on race, bragging in statements and press releases that PayPal’s program is for some races and ethnicities and not others.”

Desai also said, in the lawsuit that she, “spent 1.5 months seeking funding before PayPal stopped communicating,

Authorities Nab Fake Firefighter in Palisades Evacuation Area

LOS ANGELES, CA- Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna announced during a Sunday press briefing that a man was arrested Saturday night near the Palisades Fire for impersonating a firefighter. Sheriff Luna stated, "While in the Malibu area, I noticed someone who appeared to be a firefighter sitting down. I later learned he was in handcuffs after being caught burglarizing a home." The suspect was handed over to the Los Angeles Police Department. The arrest was part of multiple enforcement actions as wildfires continued to devastate Southern California. In the Palisades area, another individual was arrested Saturday night for violating curfew orders. Additionally, six arrests were made near the Eaton Fire, three for curfew violations and others for charges re-lated to drugs and weapons. Sheriff Luna emphasized, "The individuals we’re encountering have no legiti-mate reason to be in these areas."

Since the fires began, approximately 29 arrests have been made, including 25 related to the Eaton Fire and four to the Palisades Fire. Among these, two individuals were detained on suspicion of attempting to start new fires.

Fire

Curfews and Health Warnings

To ensure public safety, evacuation zones for the Palisades and Eaton fires remain under curfew from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. Sheriff Luna urged residents to avoid affected areas, warning that violations could lead to arrests. “If you’re not authorized to be in these areas, stay out,” he reiterated.

Officials also cautioned that wildfire ash contains harmful toxins such as lead, arsenic, and asbestos. Chris Thomas, a spokesperson for the Palisades Fire response team, warned, "Stirring up ash means breathing in toxic materials."

Residents will only be permitted to return after safety evaluations, and protective gear will be required.

Desai alleges, “Funds majority-owned by individuals of other races, including Asian Americans, are not given equal consideration.”

even as the company invested $100m in 19 venture capital firms led by Black and Hispanic people.” Desai said in a complaint, “To PayPal and its executives, Asian Americans might be minorities, but they’re the wrong kind of minority.”

Desai also says in the lawsuit that she met numerous times with executives at PayPal and its venture arm, PayPal Ventures, about her qualifications for receiving a financial grant, but Desai alleges that PayPal’s head of public policy and research explicitly told her in a July 2020 meeting that the program preferences Black and Hispanic-led firms “over other races and ethnicities, including Asian Americans.”

Amid H-1B uncertainty, US firms hire remote employees: Newsweek

With the H-1B visa program facing uncertainty ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s impending return to the White House, many US companies have started hiring remote employees based in other countries to bypass the process, according to a media report.

“This growing trend speaks to the existing challenges and limitations of the current visa programs, which carry significant administrative and financial costs,” Newsweek reported.

It’s happening “all the time,” Kathleen Campbell Walker, partner and immigration practice group chair at the law firm Dickinson Wright, was cited as saying by Newsweek. Employers are pursuing alternate paths to visas in large part due to the administrative burdens and risk of dealing with existing programs.

“I only go into H-1B when I have no choice, because it’s costly, it’s uncertain as far as the lottery, and it is the most highly regulated option that I have to present to an employer to choose from,” Walker said.

20 Arrested for Burglaries During LA Wildfires

LOS ANGELES, CA- Amid the devastating wildfires sweeping through Southern California, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna announced a firm stance against looting and evacuation order violations.

As of Thursday, Luna confirmed the arrest of 20 individuals for alleged looting in fire-affected areas. "Depriving these poor people who have been through so much is absolutely unacceptable," Luna said. He warned that the number of arrests is expected to rise as deputies continue to patrol evacuation zones.

Luna emphasized that anyone found in evacuation areas without authorization will be subject to immedi-ate arrest. "If you are in one of these areas, and you do not belong there, you are going to be subject to arrest," he stated. He further noted that individuals refusing to evacuate when ordered may face either a misdemeanor or felony charge. "Our first choice isn't enforcement or arrest," Luna explained. "It's to help people. But if crimes are com-

mitted, those responsible will be held accountable."

The sheriff highlighted the dangers posed by residents who defy evacuation orders, saying that their ac-tions force deputies into "heroic measures" to rescue them, putting more lives at unnecessary risk.

"Our deputies are constantly putting their lives on the line," Luna said. "And every example I'm given is a result of somebody who chose not to evacuate."

To bolster public safety, Luna has significantly increased the number of deputies in fire zones, many of whom are tasked with removing unauthorized vehicles. On Wednesday, bulldozers were seen clearing highways to ensure emergency vehicles could access affected areas.

As of Thursday, 180,000 people in Los Angeles County are under mandatory evacuation orders, with an additional 200,000 under evacuation warnings.

HiIndia Newsdesk

NYPD Cracks Down on Obstructed License Plates Amid Congestion Pricing Rollout

NEW YORK, NY — In the first week of New York City’s congestion pricing initiative, the NYPD has issued nearly 100 summonses for improper or obscured license plates. Between January 7 and 8 alone, officers handed out 81 summonses to drivers violating license plate visibility rules.

On Tuesday, the city announced plans to impose stricter fines and establish clear guidelines to ensure li-cense plates remain fully visible. The proposed rules prohibit any material—such as dirt, rust, glass, plastic coverings, or substances— that renders a license plate unreadable. Parking or idling with an obstructed plate could lead to a $50 fine under the new regulations. Currently, fines for obscured plates range from $100 to $500. “Drivers who obscure their license plate think they are above the law and put everyone at risk,” said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “By expanding the definition of what is illegal, we aim to hold reck-less drivers accountable and create safer, more accessible streets for all.”

“Ensuring public safety is a shared responsibility,” added NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch. “Our vigilant enforcement of traffic rules helps make people feel safe and improves the quality of life in our city.”

Since the start of Mayor Eric Adams’ administration, the city has removed over 73,000 "ghost" cars and unregistered motorized vehicles, including scooters, bikes, and ATVs, from its streets.

A public hearing on the proposed rule will take place online on February 6 at 10 a.m., offering an oppor-tunity for public feedback. Written comments will be accepted until 5 p.m. on the same day.

Mayor of Clark, NJ Accused of Using Town

Staff for Personal Business Operations

CLARK, NJ — Clark Mayor Salvatore Bonaccorso, who served since 2001, pleaded guilty to charges of offi-cial misconduct and forgery, announced Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. The 64-year-old admitted to using township employees and resources for his personal landscaping business and falsifying permit appli-cations to unlawfully obtain approvals for removing underground storage tanks. As part of his plea agreement,

City Council Members Urge Action: Support Federal Deportation of Undocumented Immigrants

CHICAGO, IL - Aldermen Raymond Lopez (15th) and Silvana Tabares (23rd) have proposed amending Chicago's ordinance that prohibits police cooperation with federal immigration authorities. The amendment, set for a vote during next Wednesday’s City Council meeting, seeks to address concerns that the current policy inadvertently harms law-abiding undocumented residents by failing to notify federal authorities of serious criminal activity.

Lopez and Tabares argue that shielding undocumented individuals involved in dangerous crimes could re-sult in federal authorities targeting entire communities, creating collateral deportations. “Our goal is to protect those who deserve our protection: law-abiding undocumented and non-citizen residents who con-tribute positively to our city,” the aldermen said in a joint statement.

However, Alderman Byron Sigcho Lopez (25th) opposes the amendment, dismissing it as political theater.

“We already have due process for addressing criminal behavior, whether

you are undocumented or not,” he stated, calling the proposal “shameful.”

This amendment, initially introduced in 2023 amid a surge of migrants in Chicago, has reignited debates over immigration enforcement. Last month, former border czar Tom Homan criticized Chicago’s leader-ship, threatening to prosecute officials who impede federal deportation efforts. Governor JB Pritzker dis-missed Homan's remarks but echoed support for deporting violent undocumented criminals.

Lopez emphasized that the amendment prioritizes community safety over political divisions. “This ensures federal authorities focus solely on those engaged in illegal activity, preserving Chicago's immigrantfriendly legacy,” he said.

The proposal remains contentious, with stark divisions among city leaders over its potential impact.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine Proclaims

October as Hindu Heritage Month

Bonaccorso forfeited his position and is permanently barred from holding public office. Additionally, his company, Bonaccorso & Son LLC, is prohibited from bidding on public con-tracts or conducting tank removals for private properties for several years. The state recommends three years of probation and a $15,000 fine, the maximum penalty for a third-degree crime.

The investigation revealed that Bonaccorso operated his oil tank removal business from his township of-fice, using taxpayer-funded resources and employees for personal gain. He also forged an engineer’s sig-nature on fraudulent permits, bypassing required inspections. The fraudulent permits between 2017 and 2023 were linked to jobs worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Attorney General Platkin condemned Bonaccorso’s actions as a betrayal of public trust, emphasizing a commitment to rooting out corruption in New Jersey. Bonaccorso’s actions mark the latest controversy, following prior calls for his resignation in 2022 over leaked racist and sexist comments.

COLUMBUS, OH - Governor Mike DeWine of Ohio has officially signed HB 173 into law, incorporating an amendment by former State Senator Niraj Antani to designate October as “Hindu Heritage Month” in Ohio. Expressing his gratitude, former Republican State Senator Antani said, “I am deeply grateful to Governor DeWine for signing this bill and designating October as Hindu Heritage Month in Ohio. The Governor has consistently maintained a strong relationship with the Hindu community across the state, and I appreciate his leadership. After

two years of dedicated effort, I am thrilled to celebrate this milestone for our com-munity.”

The signing ceremony was attended by prominent Hindu leaders from Ohio and across the nation, including representatives from the Hindu American Foundation, Association of Indians in America (AIA), Vishwa Hin-du Parishad of America (VHPA), BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, Hindu ACTION, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS), and Dr. Amol Soin, former President of the State Medical Board of Ohio. October 2025 will mark the first official Hindu Heritage Month in Ohio under this new law.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Clark Mayor Salvatore Bonaccorso

Aldermen Raymond Lopez (15th ward)

Stomach Virus Outbreaks Surge in New Jersey Following Holiday Gatherings

Highly Contagious Illness Spreads Quickly with Symptoms Like Diarrhea, Vomiting, and Stomach Pain

NEW JERSEY – A significant spike in Norovirus cases has been reported in New Jersey following holiday gatherings, according to the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH). In December 2024, the NJDOH recorded 70 outbreaks of Norovirus or Norovirus-like illnesses, a dramatic increase compared to 15 out-breaks reported in December 2023, spokesperson Dalya Ewais confirmed to Patch. This represents a 66% rise in outbreaks year-over-year.

While these statistics highlight outbreaks, they do not include individual cases of Norovirus, as these are not reportable.

Additional data from WasteWaterScan indicates a rise in Norovirus presence in wastewater treatment plants across New Jersey, further signaling increased transmission.

The outbreak is not confined to New Jersey. Nationally, the CDC reported 91 outbreaks of Norovirus during the week of Dec. 5 across 14 states, excluding New Jersey. Norovirus, a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intes-tines), leads to symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain. It is easily transmitted through contaminated food, surfaces, and close contact with infected individuals. The virus can remain

Sumiti Mehta Sworn

In as Natomas Unified School District Trustee

SACRAMENTO, CA – Sumiti Mehta was officially sworn in as a Trustee of California’s Natomas Unified School District Board, with State Senator Angelique Ashby administering the oath. During the ceremony, the Trustees elected their 2025 officers: Micah Grant as President, Scott Dosick as Vice President, and Me-hta as Clerk.

A dedicated Natomas resident since 2009, Mehta has actively contributed to local education and commu-nity service. Her involvement includes serving on the NP3 School Board, Natomas Parks and Recreation Commission, and multiple Natomas Unified committees such as the Parent Advisory Committee. Mehta’s efforts have focused on addressing the challenges faced by students, particularly from disadvantaged backgrounds. As a mother of two— one attending UCLA and the other in eighth grade—Mehta brings a parent’s perspec-tive to her role. Raised in India, she moved to the U.S. in 2007 and has since become a prominent youth advocate. Reflecting on her journey, Mehta said, “As an immigrant, mom, and woman of color, I deeply understand the hurdles faced by parents advocating for their children.”

Cook County Treasurer

Highlights Property Tax Relief for Seniors

CHICAGO, IL- Amid rising property tax bills forcing senior citizens to consider selling their homes, Cook County Treasurer María Pappas is reminding eligible senior homeowners of a state program that can pro-vide muchneeded financial relief.

in stool for up to two weeks after symptoms resolve, allowing continued spread.

There is no specific treatment for Norovirus. On average, the virus causes 19 to 21 million illnesses, 109,000 hospitalizations, and 900 deaths annually in the U.S., with the majority of cases occurring between November and April.

To prevent the spread of Norovirus:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water (hand sanitizer is less effective).

• Avoid preparing food or caring for others when sick.

For more information, visit the CDC and NJDOH websites.

Indian American Organizations Mobilize Amid Southern California Wildfires

Indian American Organizations

Mobilize Amid Southern California Wildfires

Indian American organizations have stepped up to provide critical aid and support to affected communities

HI INDIA NEWS DESK

LOS ANGELES, CA – With devastating wildfires continuing to ravage Southern California, several Indian American organizations have stepped up to provide critical aid and support to affected communities. Here's how they are helping:

• Jain Center, Buena Park

The Jain Center of Southern California (JCSC) has launched a “Seva in Action” initiative in collaboration with Shreeji Mandir Belflower and other community groups. They are collecting donations of clothing, food items, and bedding for those impacted by the fires. Contact for Help or Donations: 714742-2304

• Pasadena Hindu Temple

The temple is actively providing food and

assistance to evacuees and individuals experiencing power out-ages. Visit for Meals or Support: Contact Pandit Ji via WhatsApp at 626-679-8777

• United Sikhs

Working with local Gurdwaras, United Sikhs is distributing essential aid to displaced families.

Contact for Assistance: +1-855-USUMEED

• Other Relief Efforts

Uber: Offering free rides worth $40 to evacuees.

LA 211 and Airbnb: Providing free housing for up to one week for evacuees, including those from the Pali-sades area. More Information: www.211la.org

Meanwhile, closures continue in areas like Malibu, where institutions, including the iconic Hindu temple, have posted notices announcing temporary shutdowns due to the fires. For those affected, these efforts reflect the community’s commitment to supporting one another during this challenging time.

The Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral Program allows homeowners aged 65 and older to "borrow" funds from the state to cover their property taxes. The program functions as a loan with a reduced annual interest rate of 3%, helping seniors remain in their homes without the immediate burden of property tax payments.

“Our senior homeowners are finding it increasingly difficult to pay their taxes,” Pappas said. “This program can make the difference between staying in their home, falling behind on taxes, or being forced to sell.”

Eligibility Criteria:

• Applicants must be 65 years or older by June 1 of the application year.

• Household income must not exceed $65,000 annually.

• Applicants must have lived in the home for at least three years.

• Property taxes must be current, with no pending special assessments.

• Applicants must have adequate insurance coverage.

Seniors can defer up to $7,500 annually in property taxes. Any remaining balance beyond this limit must still be paid by the homeowner. Deferred taxes must be repaid upon the sale or transfer of the property, or within one year after the homeowner’s death.

Key Updates to the Program:

• The interest rate has been reduced from 6% to 3% for fiscal year 2023 and beyond.

• The maximum deferral amount increased from $5,000 to $7,500.

• The income threshold for eligibility rose from $55,000 to $65,000, effective through fiscal year 2025. Applications for fiscal year 2024 will be available starting January 2025 and must be submitted by March 1, 2025.

Homeowners can visit cookcountytreasurer.com under the "Seniors" tab for detailed program information, including a downloadable brochure, application forms, and instructional videos available in English, Span-ish, and Polish.

"Watch it," Pappas urged senior homeowners. "It may help you stay in your home."

The program's recent adjustments reflect efforts by lawmakers to make it more accessible and beneficial for seniors grappling with financial challenges tied to property taxes.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Mitu Walia Crowned Mrs. Bharat USA, Classic 2024

of Mrs. Bharat USA, Classic 2024, and Mrs. Bharat California 2024 at the Miss Bharat USA pageant held on December 8, 2024, in New Jersey. Organized by MyDreamTvUSA, the event saw Walia crowned by Bollywood star Neelam Kothari.

The pageant included four rounds: Talent, Indian Heritage, Bollywood Retro/

Vintage, and Q&A. Mitu’s performance of Punjabi folk dance earned her 1st Runner-Up in the Talent Round. She radiated elegance as a traditional Punjabi bride in the Indian Heritage Round and embraced retro charm during the Bollywood segment. Her powerful Q&A response stood out, emphasizing women’s empowerment and inclusivity. She said, “Social media amplifies voices for change. As a brown woman in construction, I challenge stereo-types and show women can be homebuilders too. I advocate for inclusivity and push for change. Wear your confidence like a crown!”

Beyond pageantry, Walia is an architect with Landsea Homes, specializing in multifamily housing projects aimed at reducing homelessness. She is also a passionate advocate for Celiac disease and has launched an allergy-free bakery to support children with dietary restrictions. As a mother of two, she balances her professional achievements with her dedication to health, safety, and equality.

Report Reveals Rise in Anti-Indian Hate on X Platform

WASHINGTON, DC – A new report by the Center for the Study of Organized Hate (CSOH), titled “Anti-Indian Hate on X: How the Platform Amplifies Racism and Xenophobia”, highlights a troubling surge in anti-Indian racism and xenophobia on X (formerly Twitter). This increase coincided with Indianorigin technologist Sri-ram Krishnan’s appointment as an adviser to the Trump administration on Artificial Intelligence. The report identifies a December 26 post by Vivek Ramaswamy as a catalyst for the backlash. Ramaswa-my’s critique of “normal” American culture compared to that of “foreign-born” engineers sparked signifi-cant hostility online. Ramaswamy,

alongside Elon Musk, had recently been appointed to lead the Depart-ment of Government Efficiency (DOGE), tasked with reducing government waste. Additionally, Krishnan’s advocacy for H-1B visa reforms further fueled the hate campaign.The CSOH found that, between December 22, 2024, and January 3, 2025, 128 documented posts targeting individuals of Indian descent garnered 138.54 million views. Twelve of these posts labeled Indians as a “demographic threat to white America.” The campaign used longstanding stereotypes, portraying Indians as “job thieves” and contributors to a perceived demographic shift, while dehumanizing tropes described them as “inferior” and “uncivilized.”

Despite violating X’s hate policies, 125 posts remained active as of January 3, 2025, and only one of 85 in-volved accounts was suspended. The CSOH criticized X for enabling the spread of hate under the guise of free speech and urged stricter pol-icy enforcement, proactive monitoring, and stakeholder engagement to mitigate the harm caused by online hate campaigns.

Aries

Ganesha says that the people of Aries will be able to convince the world with their ability and strength this week. They will also get full support of luck in getting desired success in every field of life.

Taurus

Ganesha says that this week the people of Taurus will need to take every step in life carefully. This week you have to avoid getting misled by others, otherwise, you may have to give and take. During this, you will not be able to get the desired cooperation from your relatives.

Gemini

Ganesha says that this week is going to bring some problems for the people of the Gemini zodiac in terms of health and relationships. At the beginning of the week itself, due to the emergence of seasonal or any chronic disease, you may not only have to face physical but also mental problems.

Cancer

Ganesha says that Cancerians will heave a sigh of relief if a solution to a major problem is found at the beginning of the week itself. If you have any dispute going on in the court, then the decision can come in your favor or your opponents can take the initiative to negotiate with you.

Leo

Ganesha says that the people of the Leo zodiac will get many opportunities to move forward in life and achieve desired success this week, but they will have to avoid losing them due to laziness and pride. Unemployed people will get new employment opportunities at the beginning of the week.

Virgo

Ganesha says that this week has brought auspiciousness and desired success for the people of Virgo. From the beginning of the week, your planned tasks will be seen to be completed on time, due to which you will get to see tremendous enthusiasm. Employed people will get the full support of both seniors and juniors in the field.

Libra

Ganesha says that the dreams of the people of the Libra zodiac will be

Author Bio:

Chirag Daruwalla is the best celebrity astrologer who is one of the most famous names in the astrology world. Chirag Daruwalla has more than 18+ years of experience. You can ask for any advice related to career, health, finance, business, money, and love marriage. He has complete knowledge, solutions, and guidance to all the problems related to life. If you want to avail his astrological services then you can visit his website chiragdaruwalla.com. For guidance on problems related to your life, you can talk to Astrologer Chirag Daruwalla on Call/ Whatsapp: +91 8141566266 or also mail: info@ chiragdaruwalla.com

seen to come true this week. At the beginning of the week itself, you will heave a sigh of relief when a major problem is solved with the help of a special person. In whatever direction you will try this week, you will get the full support and cooperation of your friends and relatives.

Scorpio

Ganeshasays that the people of the Scorpio zodiac will be able to get whatever they want this week due to their intelligence, discretion, and speech. At the beginning of the week, you can make a big decision to solve any family-related issue. The special thing is that while doing this, you will get full cooperation and support from your loved ones.

Sagittarius

Ganesha says that this week has brought auspiciousness and good luck for the people of Sagittarius. At the beginning of the week, some great news related to career or business can be heard. Employed people will become additional sources of income and the economic condition will be strong.

Capricorn

The people of Capricorn will need to think a lot before taking any step this week. The workload and responsibilities may suddenly increase on the heads of the employed people, while the opponents can do the work obstructing their work.

Aquarius

Ganesha says that the people of Aquarius will get the full results of the efforts and hard work done earlier this week. At the beginning of the week, you will heave a sigh of relief when the dispute related to land and building is resolved.

Pisces

Ganesha says that this week is going to be very auspicious for the people of Pisces. From the beginning of the week, he will find good luck working in every area of his life. This week will prove to be very auspicious for the employed class. Seniors will be seen appreciating your work in the workplace and juniors will get full support.

HiIndia Newsdesk

( Celebrity Astrologer Chirag Daruwalla)

FREMONT,

– Mitu Walia, a Fremont, CA resident, won the prestigious titles

Mitu Walia

(L-R) Sriram Krishnan & Vivek Ramaswamy

Seattle Police Chief Fires Officer Over Fatal Collision with Indian Student

HiIndia Newsdesk

SEATTLE, WA – Interim Seattle Police Chief Sue Rahr announced on January 6 the termination of Officer Kevin Dave, who fatally struck 23-year-old Northeastern University graduate student Jaahnavi Kandula in January 2023. Kandula, originally from India, was crossing a South Lake Union intersection when Dave, speeding at up to 74 mph in a 25-mph zone, hit her with his patrol car. She was thrown nearly 140 feet and died from her injuries.

An investigation by the Seattle Office of Police Accountability found that Dave violated departmental poli-cies by failing to use emergency lights during an emergency response and neglecting his duty to drive safe-ly.

“I cannot accept the tragic consequences of his dangerous driving,” Rahr stated, emphasizing that while Dave’s intent may have been to assist an overdose victim, his decisions caused an irreparable loss of life.

King County prosecutors declined to file criminal charges, citing insufficient evidence of impairment or recklessness. However, in March 2024, the Seattle City

Macy’s to Close 66 Stores, Including One in New Jersey

NEW JERSEY — Macy’s has announced it will move forward with plans to close 66 stores, including its lo-cation at the Essex Green Shopping Center in Orange, New Jersey, the company confirmed on Thursday. These closures are part of Macy’s broader restructuring strategy, labeled the “Bold New Chapter,” which was initially revealed last February.

The majority of the closures are set to take place in the first quarter of 2025. Over the next three years, Macy’s plans to shut down 150 underperforming stores while increasing investments in 350 strong-er-performing locations. The company aims to achieve “sustainable, profitable sales growth” by focusing on these higher-performing stores, according to a news release.

“Closing any store is never easy,” said Macy’s Chairman and CEO Tony Spring.

“But as part of our Bold New Chapter strategy, we are closing underproductive Macy’s stores to allow us to focus our resources and prioritize investments in our go-forward stores, where customers are already responding positively to bet-ter product offerings and elevated service.”

Macy’s closure plans reflect the brand’s shift toward optimizing its operations while striving to maintain its position in the competitive retail landscape.

Kandula’s death drew global outrage after Officer Daniel Auderer mocked her death in a leaked recording, referring to her as having “limited value.”

Attorney’s Office fined Dave $5,000 for sec-ond-degree negligent driving. He later agreed to pay the fine, complete

a traffic safety course, and per-form 40 hours of community service.

Kandula’s death drew global outrage after Officer Daniel Auderer mocked her death in a leaked recording, referring to her as having “limited value.” Auderer was fired in 2024. Kandula’s family has filed a $110 mil-lion wrongful-death lawsuit against the city and Dave, with the trial scheduled for September 2025.

Hotels Open Doors with Discounts for California Fire Evacuees

LOS ANGELES, CA - Wildfires raging across Los Angeles County have consumed over 25,000 acres in just 24 hours, displacing more than 100,000 residents. The Palisades Fire has devastated over 15,000 acres in Malibu and Pacific Palisades, while the Eaton Fire scorched nearly 11,000 acres in Pasadena and Altadena, claiming at least five lives. Additional fires, including the Sunset Fire in the Hollywood Hills, continue to ig-nite, worsening the crisis. Hotels across Los Angeles have stepped up to support evacuees by offering discounted rates and essential services.

The Hotel Association of Los Angeles issued a statement, expressing solidarity with those affect-ed and first responders: “We are devastated by the destruction. Hotels are providing discounted rates, ne-cessities, and temporary shelter,

A Legacy of Service: Dr. Sudarshan Kapoor Receives Prestigious Honor

FRESNO, CA – The Human Rights Coalition of the Central Valley (HRCCV) honored its founder and longtime leader, Dr. Sudarshan Kapoor, with a special celebration at the Fresno State Library as he retires from his leadership role. The event highlighted Dr. Kapoor’s decades-long contributions to promoting nonviolence, human rights, and peaceful advocacy in the San Joaquin Valley.

Key figures paid tribute to Dr. Kapoor’s work, including Fresno State President Dr. Saúl Jiménez Sandoval and civil rights icon Dolores Huerta, who joined via Zoom. Huerta commended Kapoor for preserving the legacies of Mahatma Gandhi and Cesar Chavez through initiatives like the Peace Garden at Fresno State.

Desi Doctor Kept Indian Women Servants on Low Pay, License

Revoked

Zofeen Maqsood

An Indian American physician by the name of Harsha Sahni in NJ had her medical license permanently revoked. Sahni, who had a rheumatology practice in Colonia, New Jersey, pleaded guilty to federal charges of conspiracy to conceal and harbor aliens and filing a false tax return last February.

Sahni has been found guilty of illegally recruiting and harboring two Indian women as her household servants on a low pay.

including for pets. Many hotels are donating bedding and personal care items to shelters.”

Evacuees can find discounted accommodations across the region, including in areas such as Canoga Park, North Hollywood, and Downtown Los Angeles. Prominent hotels like The Garland, The Hoxton, and Shera-ton Universal are among those assisting displaced residents.

For details on available hotels and contact information, visit the official Hotel Association website or refer to local resources.

As fire crews battle to contain the flames, community members are encouraged to support relief efforts through donations and by spreading awareness of available resources for evacuees. The situation remains dire, and authorities urge caution for those in affected areas.

Sahni is to begin serving a 27-month prison sentence. It may be noted that Sahni had been temporarily suspended from the practice of medicine since September 2023, as the State pursued an administrative action to revoke her license in the wake of her criminal plea.

According to the DOJ press release, from 2013 through August 2021, Sahni conspired with others to conceal and harbor two foreign nationals from India, who Sahni recruited to work for Sahni and her family in their homes in New Jersey. Sahni harbored the victims for her and her conspirators’ financial gain and paid the victims’ families in India in exchange for their labor. Sahni caused the victims to believe that they would be arrested and deported if they interacted with law enforcement. Sahni instructed the victims to tell other people that they were related to Sahni, and Sahni used fake names and addresses in furtherance of the conspiracy. From 2013 to 2019, Sahni also failed to pay certain taxes notwithstanding that the victims were Sahni’s household employees.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Officer Kevin Dave Jaahnavi Kandula

Dr. Sudarshan Kapoor

DOJ Sues to Prevent Merger Between Global Business Travel Group and CWT Holdings

$570M Acquisition Would Allow the World’s Largest Travel Management Company to Eliminate its Sec-ond-Largest Rival, Limiting Travel Management Options for American Businesses

HiIndia Newsdesk

WASHINGTON,DC- The Justice Department has filed a civil antitrust lawsuit to block Global Business Travel Group Inc. (Amex GBT), the world’s largest business travel management company, from acquiring CWT Holdings LLC (CWT), the third-largest in the sector.

The $570 million deal, Amex GBT’s fifth acquisition of a travel management company since 2018, would harm competition, according to the complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York.

Division stated, “This acquisition is the latest in a series of acquisitions by Amex GBT that will further consolidate an already concentrated market.”

The lawsuit alleges the merger would reduce competition in the business travel management services market for U.S. global and multinational companies, leading to higher prices, diminished innovation, and fewer options. Acting Assistant Attorney General Doha Mekki of the Justice Department’s Antitrust

Indian American Businessman Caught in Medicare Fraud Pleads Guilty

NEWYORK, NY – A New York-based businessman has pleaded guilty to his role in a significant health care fraud and kickback scheme, according to U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna.

Mansinh Chaudhari, 55, of Illinois, admitted in Newark federal court to conspiring to commit health care fraud and violating the Federal Anti-Kickback Statute. Chaudhari owned a consulting company in New York that purchased Medicare beneficiary information to ensure Medicare reimbursements for COVID-19 tests. He then sold this information to medical providers in multiple states, including New Jersey, Tennessee, and Colorado. These providers fraudulently submitted Medicare claims for up to eight monthly over-the-counter COVID-19 tests that beneficiaries neither needed nor ordered. To conceal the scheme, fake agreements and fraudulent invoices for services such as marketing and consulting were created. The fraudulent activi-ties caused Medicare to incur over $5.3 million in losses.

Chaudhari faces up to 10 years in prison for conspiracy to commit health care fraud and an additional five years for conspiracy to violate the Federal AntiKickback Statute. Each charge also carries a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the financial loss caused. His sentencing is set for April 29.

Amex GBT and CWT executives reportedly anticipated that the merger would consolidate the market and financially benefit the combined firm by eliminating competitive pressure. Internal communications re-vealed that Amex GBT executives viewed the acquisition as a way to stem customer losses to CWT. Simi-larly, CWT’s

owners believed the acquisition should command a higher price, citing the increased revenues Amex GBT would gain by removing a major competitor. The complaint highlights that Amex GBT and CWT are two of the three largest players in the industry, which CWT has described as “oligopolistic.” Few other companies can provide travel management services at the scale required by global and multinational businesses in the U.S. Currently, both firms compete intensely, with CWT pursuing innovative strategies to win clients from Amex GBT. This competition has led to better services and lower prices for customers. If the merger proceeds, the Justice Department warns, it will eliminate this rivalry, leaving customers with higher costs, reduced choices, and stifled innovation in a critical market.

#AskYunusWhy Campaign Sparks Awareness in Bay Area Over Bangladeshi Minority Rights

OAKLAND, CA – A new billboard campaign, #AskYunusWhy, has launched across the Bay Area to spotlight the persecution of religious minorities in Bangladesh. Organized by the United Hindu Council (@UHC_Media) and Hindu Americans in Silicon Valley, the campaign seeks to raise awareness about the plight of Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians under Mohammad Yunus' interim government following Sheikh Hasina’s ouster.

The first billboard appeared before Christmas on Freeway 880-N and Market Street in Oakland, with a sec-ond unveiled in January on San Mateo-Hayward CA92 Westbound. Over the next three months, six addi-tional digital billboards will target high-traffic Bay Area locations, including major bridges, with messages urging accountability and action.

Ramya Ramakrishnan, Community Outreach Director for the Hindu American Foundation (HAF), praised the grassroots efforts, stating, “People are asking how they can make their voices heard by those in power and are frustrated with biased media coverage that ignores the full scope of the atrocities faced by Hindu mi-norities. This campaign is their way of taking action.”

The initiative emphasizes the increasing persecution of religious minorities in Bangladesh and aims to spark public discourse and political engagement to address these ongoing issues.

Sheriffs Nationwide Back Kash Patel for Top FBI Post

WASHINGTON, DC – The National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA) has officially endorsed Kash Patel as the next director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), expressing strong support for his nomination in a letter addressed to Senate Judiciary Committee leaders. The letter also criticized the current state of law enforcement under the Biden administration.

"We are pleased to give our enthusiastic endorsement of Mr. Patel’s nomination to be the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and urge the Committee to hold hearings expeditiously," wrote NSA President Kieran Donahue in the letter to Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IO) and Dick Durbin (D-IL), the ranking member and chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, respectively.

"We believe there will be broad support for Mr. Patel, and we look forward to his swift confirmation by the full United States Senate," Donahue added.

Indian Americans in Pacific Palisades Face Raging Fire

Zofeen Maqsood

The raging fires in California have claimed 11 lives and burned 35,000 acres, forcing 180,000 people to evacuate. Six active blazes, including in Palisades, Eaton, and Calabasas, have destroyed an estimated 10,000 buildings. Many affected areas are affluent neighborhoods, home to high-profile residents, including influential Indian Americans.

Priyanka Chopra, who owns a mansion in L.A. with her husband Nick Jonas, shared an image of the fires near her home, raising concerns about possible evacuation. Anita Verma Lallian, an Indian-American film producer and real estate developer residing in Pacific Palisades, one of the worst-hit areas, expressed her heartbreak on Instagram. “Seeing it engulfed in flames feels like losing a part of our hearts,” she wrote, thanking firefighters and neighbors for their support.

Celebrity chef Pratik Bhakta, also affected, evacuated his home and urged others to prepare emergency kits. The community remains resilient, united in gratitude for the brave efforts of firefighters.

HiIndia Newsdesk

AAPI Unite to Bring Warmth to the Needy

CHICAGO, IL- Continuing its tradition of spreading comfort and warmth to the needy across the United States, the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) has relaunched its Share-the-Warmth program. Supported by numerous local Chapters, this initiative aims to provide thousands of blankets to homeless shelters and underprivileged communities nationwide.

“This noble initiative, started in 2019, has become an annual tradition of giving,” said Dr. Satheesh Kathula, President of AAPI. “Through the generosity of our members, we are making a meaningful impact in the lives of those in need.”

Dr. Raghu Lolabhattu, Chair of the program, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming success of this year’s drive. “The holiday season is a time to care and share. Over the years, AAPI and its Chapters have helped

countless individuals stay warm by donating blankets, and the response has been phenomenal.”

Dr. Malti Mehta, Co-Chair, highlighted that the program was first launched during the presidency of Dr. Suresh Reddy and has been carried forward

annually. Local Chapters, like the New Jersey Chapter led by founder Dr. Binod Sinha, have played a key role in its success. AAPI Secretary Dr. Raj Bhayani urged members to contribute generously, emphasizing the positive impact of their support. Jersey City Mayor Steven M. Fulop will join the New Jersey Chapter’s Blanket Donation Drive this year, further strengthening community ties.

“AAPI is proud to give back to the communities we live and work in,” said Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, Presi-dent-Elect of AAPI. “This program demonstrates the commitment of our members to serve the less fortu-nate.” Founded in 1982, AAPI is the largest ethnic medical organization in the U.S., representing over 120,000 physicians of Indian origin. For more details and to participate in the Share-A-Blanket Drive, visit www. aapiusa.org.

Indian Man Found Dead in NJ Wildlife Area, Five Arrested for Homicide

MANCHESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ – Five men, including Sandeep Kumar of New York and four others from In-diana, have been charged in connection with the murder of 35-year-old Kuldeep Kumar, an Indian national whose body was found decomposed in a New Jersey wildlife area.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Sandeep Kumar, 34, of South Ozone Park, New York, faces charges of murder and

conspiracy. He is currently in custody at Ocean County Jail awaiting a detention hearing.

The investigation began on December 14, 2024, when Kuldeep Kumar’s body was discovered in the Greenwood Wildlife Management Area, Manchester Township. A postmortem revealed multiple gunshot wounds to the chest, ruling the death a homicide. Identified by the FBI, Kuldeep Kumar had been reported missing on October 26, 2024, by family members in Ozone Park, New York.

Authorities determined that Sourav Kumar, 23; Gaurav Singh, 27; Nirmal Singh, 30; and Gurdeep Singh, 22, all from Greenwood, Indiana, conspired to carry out the murder. They were apprehended on December 20 in Greenwood, Indiana, by a joint task force and are detained at Johnson County Jail, awaiting extradition.

The investigation is ongoing, with speculation about ties to an international gang. Prosecutors emphasize the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.

Oak Park Police Warn

Residents of Phone Scam Impersonating Officers

OAK PARK, IL- Oak Park police are alerting residents about a phone scam involving individuals imperson-ating officers from the department.

In a social media post on Saturday, police revealed that several residents had reported receiving calls from someone claiming to be a sergeant from the Oak Park Police Department. The caller allegedly demanded immediate payment to avoid arrest for a citation or warrant.

Authorities have confirmed that these calls are fraudulent and emphasize that they are not legitimate. Residents are urged not to provide payment or share financial information over the phone under any cir-cumstances.

Anyone who receives such a scam call is encouraged to report it to Oak Park police by contacting their nonemergency line at 708-386-3800.

CBP Seizes Counterfeit Tiffany Jewelry Worth $30K at Champlain Port

CHAMPLAIN, NY – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Champlain Port of Entry, Cargo Facility, have seized multiple shipments of counterfeit jewelry valued at nearly $30,000. Between December 2024 and January 6, 2025, CBP officers inspected several shipments containing what appeared to be high-end Tiffany & Co. pieces. After thorough examination, the items were confirmed as counterfeit and seized for Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) violations.

"If genuine, these pieces would have had an MSRP value of approximately $29,989," said Champlain Port Director Steve Bronson. "CBP plays a vital role in safeguarding consumers and businesses

against fraudulent goods. I’m proud of our officers’ dedication in identifying these violations.”

CBP is authorized to detain, seize, and

destroy counterfeit goods bearing infringing trademarks or copyrights recorded through its e-Recordation program. Violations may include

misclassification, false country-oforigin markings, health and safety concerns, and valuation issues. Counterfeit goods not only threaten the competitiveness of legitimate businesses but can also jeopardize consumer safety and national security. Importing counterfeit merchandise is illegal, and consumers may face penalties even if the violation is unintentional.

CBP encourages the public to report suspected counterfeit imports through its E-Allegation tool, which allows anonymous reporting of trade violations. To educate consumers about the risks of counterfeit products, CBP has launched initiatives like the "Truth Behind Counterfeits" campaign, highlighting the dangers associated with purchasing counterfeit goods.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Sandeep Kumar, 34

(L-R) Sourav Kumar 23, Gaurav Singh 27, Gurdeep Singh 22 & Nirmal Singh 30 from Indiana and Sandeep Kumar, 34 from New York faces charges of murder and conspiracy

Seized counterfeit Tiffany & Co. Jewelry as an Intellectual Property Rights violation at the Port of Cham-plain, New York.

hi INDiA | January 17, 2025 | The Community First

India's biggest Hindu festival MAHA KUMBH

"Oligarchy Taking Shape In America," Says President Joe Biden In Farewell Address

Trump's attorney general nominee quizzed on her loyalty to him

Donald Trump Claims Full Credit For The "Epic" Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Deal

Biden warns 'dangerous' oligarchy taking shape in farewell address

Gaza ceasefire deal agreed by Israel and Hamas, Qatar and US say

Mozambique

President Sworn In Amid Boycott

New suspected Marburg outbreak in Tanzania kills eight - WHO

Zelensky offers exchange of North Korean soldiers

UK must rejoin EU customs union, says Lib Dem Davey

Trump's Inauguration

From S Jaishankar, Meloni To Musk, Who Is Invited?

Agencies Warn Of Trump's Inauguration Being A Target For Violent Extremists

Drake sues for defamation over Kendrick Lamar song

Saif Ali Khan

Attacked, Hospitalised

Arvind Kejriwal Declares Rs 1.7 Crore In Assets

India-Bangladesh Border Talks In February

"Conflict, Wars To Become More Violent, Unpredictable": Rajnath Singh

US Removes Restrictions On 3 Indian Nuclear Entities

India Captain Rohit Sharma To Visit Pakistan Ahead Of Champions Trophy

Adani Group

rise as Hindenburg founder disbands short-seller

Jasprit Bumrah Out of Champions Trophy

Los Angeles braces for dangerous Santa Ana winds

BCCI's New Rules Clip Gambhir’s Wings, Affect Players’ Wives

More than one crore people took ‘Amrit Snan’ till 8.30am, says UP govt

TikTok says report of possible sale to Musk 'pure fiction'

Biden: US Leading, China Won’t Surpass

Gaza Truce Deal "Possible This Week", Hamas Likely To Release 33 Israeli Hostages

Truce Deal In Final Stage

Breif News

Steve Jobs' Kumbh Mela Letter Sells for Rs. 4.32 Crore

US Regulator Sues Elon Musk Over Late Twitter Stake Disclosure

TOP STORIES OF THE WEEK

Centre's Key Nod Brings Fresh Trouble For Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia

Severe fog in capital amid cold wave; flights delayed as visibility plummets

South Korean president arrested

US Moves Forward on Greenland Purchase, Trump Granted Negotiation Powers

Over To Virat Kohli As Rohit Sharma Makes Big Ranji Trophy Call To Prolong Test Career

Gambhir, Agarkar Clash Over India’s Captaincy Choice

Devastating Los Angeles Fires Prompt 2028 Olympics Debate

BCCI Criticized for Ignoring 664-Average Batter

Transform Your Life

with Just 2 Hours of Weekly Exercise

Up the intensity

U.S. DOJ: Trump Likely to Be Convicted If Not Elected

Biden Seeks to Remove Cuba's Terrorism Label in Prisoner Deal

UK Minister Tulip Siddiq Resigns Over Sheikh Hasina Ties

Meta to Cut 5% Staff, Plans Rehiring

"Have Message For Donald Trump": Ex-Justin Trudeau Ally Jagmeet Singh's Big Warning

Maha Kumbh Begins

Petal shower to chopper ride to holy dip

Rs. 2 Trillion: Expected Revenue from Maha Kumbh for UP

Foreign Ministry Summons Bangladesh Envoy

Millions start bathing in holy rivers at India's biggest Hindu festival

450 Million

Visitors in 45 days

How big is the festival?

India's biggest MAHA

biggest Hindu festival KUMBH

Steve Jobs' Wife 'Kamala' Attends Maha Kumbh, To Take A Dip In River Ganga

What is Kumbh Mela?

What are the big bathing days?

Oscar Lunch Canceled Amid LA Wildfires

Santosh,” a film by British-Indian Sandhya Suri is UK’s official entry to Oscars

India-Pak Rivalry: Cricket Legends Speak in Netflix Documentary

Tiku Talsania Suffers Stroke, Wife Denies Heart Attack

I Had The Best Chance

Mr Biden

Federal government to cover 100% of costs - Biden

Biden Halts New Offshore Drilling

TOP STORIES OF THE WEEK

National Guard Called In Fresh Fire Erupts

Pakistan, Bangladesh Invited For An 'Undivided India' Event, Islamabad Confirms

UK Introduces First-Ever Sanctions to Combat Migrant Smuggling

Top Passports of 2025 Announced

Taliban Urge India for Afghan Visas