A new bill titled the End H-1B Visa Abuse Act of 2026 has been introduced in the US Congress, proposing a major overhaul of the H-1B visa programme. Led by Republican lawmaker Eli Crane, the legislation calls for a three-year suspension on issuing new H-1B visas, along with stricter rules like higher salary thresholds and tighter eligibility conditions. Supporters argue it aims to protect American jobs from alleged misuse of foreign labour hiring. However, the proposal has raised serious concern among Indian professionals and students, who form the largest group of H-1B beneficiaries, as it could significantly disrupt tech career opportunities in the US. (PC: HT)

Delhi’s political tension escalated after BJP leader Parvesh Verma launched a sharp attack on AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, calling him the “Rehman dacoit of Delhi.” He alleged that Kejriwal, after moving into a government bungalow at 95 Lodhi Estate, has constructed a second luxurious residence dubbed “Sheesh Mahal 2.” The BJP also released visuals and documents claiming lavish interiors and misuse of public funds. AAP leaders rejected the allegations, calling them fake and defamatory. The row comes amid internal AAP turmoil and recent MP resignations, further intensifying Delhi’s political confrontation. (PC: India Today)

Syrian authorities have arrested Amjad Youssef, the suspected leader behind the 2013 Tadamon massacre, one of the most brutal atrocities of the country’s civil war. The Interior Ministry confirmed he was detained in a security operation near Hama province after years in hiding following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government in 2024. Youssef is accused of overseeing the killing of around 288 civilians, including children, in Damascus, with evidence first exposed through leaked videos published by The Guardian in 2022. The arrest has been welcomed internationally as a major step toward justice, though concerns remain over fair trials and broader accountability for war crimes committed during the conflict. (PC: X)

Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt has revealed that the idea for the sequel Khalnayak Returns was born during his time in jail in the 1990s. Speaking at a recent Mumbai event, he shared that while serving his sentence, he discussed the possibility of a sequel with fellow inmates and even asked them for suggestions. According to Dutt, around 4,000 prisoners responded enthusiastically and shared written ideas, one of which eventually shaped the project. He later narrated the concept to director Subhash Ghai during parole, leading to the development of the film. The sequel revives his iconic role from the 1993 cult classic Khalnayak. (PC: News 18)

Uncertainty continues over the next round of US–Iran talks as no clear confirmation has emerged about when or whether negotiations will proceed in Islamabad. The Pakistani capital remains under strict security lockdown, with key areas sealed off and movement heavily restricted due to anticipated high-level diplomatic activity. Despite preparations by authorities and international attention on mediation efforts, both Washington and Tehran appear divided over direct engagement terms. Iran has reportedly shown reluctance for direct talks, preferring indirect channels through Pakistan. Meanwhile, Islamabad’s security measures have disrupted daily life, highlighting the sensitivity and volatility surrounding the proposed negotiations and broader regional tensions. (PC: AP)

S Sreesanth has once again sparked controversy by declaring that he has completely cut ties with former teammate Harbhajan Singh and even blocked him on Instagram. The dispute traces back to the infamous 2008 IPL 'slapgate' incident, which resurfaced after Harbhajan reportedly featured in a commercial referencing it. Sreesanth alleged that Harbhajan earned around Rs 80 lakh to Rs 1 crore from the advertisement and asked him to promote it, which he found insensitive. He stated that while he has forgiven Harbhajan, he cannot forget the incident. The former pacer said the commercialisation of the controversy led to his decision. (PC: AFP)

A group of around 240–250 members of the Bnei Menashe community from Manipur and Mizoram has been airlifted to Tel Aviv under Israel’s “Operation Wings of Dawn.” The community believes it is descended from one of the Ten Lost Tribes of Israel and has long sought relocation under Israel’s Law of Return. This latest move marks the first major batch in the ongoing migration plan coordinated by the Israeli government and Jewish agencies. Officials said the initiative aims to gradually bring thousands more to Israel for resettlement, conversion, and integration. The relocation reflects deep cultural and religious ties between the Northeast Indian community and Israel. 

Global music icon Rihanna created a viral sensation in Mumbai during her visit for the Fenty Beauty launch event. In a heartwarming and playful interaction, she stepped out to greet paparazzi and even invited them to join her for a photo-op, breaking the usual celebrity-media barrier. Videos circulating online show her smiling, blushing, and warmly engaging with photographers while also saying “Shukriya” to fans and media. Dressed in stunning outfits during her Mumbai appearance, Rihanna’s friendly and down-to-earth behaviour quickly won hearts across India. Her interaction added a memorable, human touch to the high-profile event, making her visit widely discussed on social media. 

An assistant professor from Assam, Dr. Atanu Nath of Tihu College, has been named among the winners of the prestigious 2026 Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics, often called the “Oscars of Science.” He is part of the international Fermilab Muon g−2 collaboration, which includes 376 scientists from global institutions. The team was recognised for its groundbreaking research on the muon’s magnetic properties, carried out at CERN, Brookhaven National Laboratory, and Fermilab. The award highlights decades of precision experiments that deepen understanding of particle physics beyond the Standard Model. Dr. Nath’s achievement brings pride to Assam and India, marking a significant global recognition of Indian participation in cutting-edge scientific research. 

A complaint has been filed against a woman who confronted Maharashtra BJP minister Girish Mahajan during a party rally in Mumbai’s Worli area over severe traffic congestion. The woman, visibly angry at being stuck for over an hour, questioned the minister and police over road blockages caused by the rally. The complaint, lodged by Zen Sadavarte, alleges that she used abusive language, obstructed public servants, and disrupted law-and-order management. However, Mumbai Police have clarified that no FIR has been registered against the woman so far. The minister also acknowledged that her frustration was partly justified but criticised her language. The incident has triggered political debate over public inconvenience during rallies and the balance between protest rights and civic order.