A deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal has strengthened into Cyclone Ditwah, moving north-northwest at around 15 km/h. The India Meteorological Department warns the storm is likely to make landfall along the Tamil Nadu–Andhra Pradesh coast by 30 November, bringing heavy rainfall and high winds to the region. Evacuation preparations and alerts have been activated in coastal districts, with residents advised to stay tuned to updates and follow official guidance. Authorities urge fishermen to remain ashore and coastal settlements to brace for possible flooding and disruptions. (PC: X)

Investigators probing Hong Kong’s tragic high-rise fire at Wang Fuk Court suspect highly flammable Styrofoam board used during renovation played a key role in how rapidly the blaze spread. The foam was found on windows, reportedly part of construction materials installed to protect glass during works. Experts also warn that the bamboo scaffolding wrapped in plastic sheeting acted like a “chimney,” enabling flames to travel swiftly across the exterior of the densely packed towers. Authorities have arrested three construction executives amid gross-negligence manslaughter probes. 

The Supreme Court of India has directed comedian Samay Raina and three other comedians to use their platforms to host shows featuring successful stories of people with disabilities, to raise funds for their treatment. The court emphasized that this is a “social burden” rather than a punishment, urging well-known influencers to channel their popularity for a constructive public cause. The move follows criticism over previous insensitive content, underscoring that freedom of speech must respect human dignity. (PC: X)

Following a shooting near the White House that critically injured two National Guard soldiers, the United States has indefinitely suspended all immigration processing for Afghan nationals. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said the halt will remain until a full review of security and vetting protocols is completed. President Donald Trump condemned the attack as “an act of terror” and demanded a re-examination of all Afghan immigrants admitted under the 2021 Operation Allies Welcome. (PC: X)

India’s disappointing 0-2 Test series loss to South Africa has reignited criticism of coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill, as their “stubborn insistence” on all-rounders and omission of domestic stars like Sarfaraz Khan and Abhimanyu Easwaran draws ire. Analyst suggest that Ajit Agarkar, chairman of selectors, is “tied down” despite mounting pressure and public blame, because Gambhir and Gill hold decision-making power. With India underperforming, names like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Rajat Patidar and Rinku Singh are now being floated for a comeback. A former BCCI selector warns that only Gambhir truly controls the future of the squad. (PC: AFP)

A woman in her 20s was killed and a man critically injured in a shark attack at Kylies Beach in Crowdy Bay, New South Wales. The man was airlifted to Newcastle hospital after a bystander applied a makeshift tourniquet, likely saving his life. Authorities said a large bull shark, one of the few dangerous shark species, was involved. The beach is closed, and “smart” drumlines and drone patrols have been deployed. Surf Life Saving NSW urged locals to stay out of the water. This marks the fifth fatal shark attack in Australia this year. (PC: BBC)

India’s long home dominance in Test cricket has crashed in the past year. Once unbeatable under Virat Kohli, the team has now lost two home series in a single year for the first time in four decades. New Zealand beat India 0–3 last year, and South Africa have now won 2–0. Many key players retired or left Tests, and Gautam Gambhir’s new team has struggled with unstable plans and frequent changes. Senior players say there is no clear path for transition. India have lost five of their last seven home Tests, raising major concerns about direction and leadership. (PC: India Today)

Rumours about the death of Pakistan’s jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan spread online after Afghan media claimed he was killed in Adiala Jail. The report said Khan died from mistreatment, but Pakistan’s government strongly denied the claims. His three sisters said they were assaulted while trying to meet him and had not seen him for over three weeks. PTI supporters held a sit-in outside the jail but ended their protest after police agreed to allow family visits. Khan has been in jail since August 2023 on corruption charges. His family says he is being kept in a “death cell”. (PC: NDTV)

US President Donald Trump called for a full review of all Afghan nationals who entered the country under the Biden administration. His statement came after two National Guard members were shot near the White House. The suspect, an Afghan man who arrived in 2021, is in custody. Both soldiers were shot in the head and are in critical condition. The FBI is treating the attack as a possible act of terror. The White House was briefly locked down. US immigration officials have stopped processing Afghan cases. Trump also ordered 500 more Guard members to Washington. Joe Biden said he was “heartbroken”. (PC: Sky News)

Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir took charge as the country’s first Chief of Defence Forces after a major constitutional change. The new post gives him control of the army, navy and air force. It also puts him in charge of Pakistan’s nuclear weapons. The 27th Amendment removed the old Joint Chiefs role and extended Munir’s tenure until at least 2030. He now has legal protection similar to the president. Analysts say Munir is now Pakistan’s most powerful man. Critics warn that politicians have given too much power to the military. Supporters say the move will bring stability. (PC: NDTV)