Union Home Minister Amit Shah chairs a security review meeting on Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the need to strengthen counter-terrorism operations and eradicate the terror ecosystem. The meeting follows a recent terrorist ambush by Jaish-e-Muhammad's proxy PAFF, resulting in four soldiers' deaths. Shah directs enhanced security measures and underscores a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism under PM Modi's leadership. The move aims to curb rising violence in the region, attributed to cross-border attempts to reignite terror activities. Shah also advises strategic deployment in vulnerable areas for effective counter-terrorism efforts.

Singer Chinmayi Sripaada expressed outrage as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, Congress leader P Chidambaram, and actor Kamal Haasan appeared at an event with lyricist Vairamuthu, whom she accused of sexual harassment in 2018. Sharing a post of the leaders with Vairamuthu at a book launch, Sripaada lamented the alleged promotion of her molester while she faced repercussions. Stalin shared a video of the event on New Year's Day. Sripaada, who has persistently sought justice, urged for a change in the system that shields sex offenders. Seventeen women have accused Vairamuthu of harassment.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has accused Canadian politics of providing space to Khalistani forces and enabling their activities detrimental to India-Canada relations. "The core issue is that Khalistani groups have been given substantial space in Canadian politics and allowed to engage in actions that clearly damage the bilateral relationship and are not in India or Canada's interest," Jaishankar stated in an interview with ANI. He emphasized that the longstanding Khalistan matter is unrelated to the G20 summit in New Delhi. Jaishankar contended that Canadian politicians bolstering Khalistani elements harms diplomatic ties despite not benefitting either country.

Four police commandos and one Border Security Force (BSF) jawan sustained injuries in an ambush by militants in Manipur's Moreh town, near the Myanmar border. The attack followed clashes that claimed four lives in Thoubal district a day prior. Gunmen targeted the security forces' vehicles with RPGs during a search operation. The wounded officials are receiving treatment at the Assam Rifles Hospital. Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh urged Lilong residents to maintain peace, warning of stern action against those responsible. Ethnic violence has plagued Manipur since May, with over 100 casualties and thousands displaced.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that India has made Pakistan's policy of using cross-border terrorism to bring India to the negotiating table "irrelevant." In an interview with ANI, Jaishankar stated that the Modi government's approach has ensured that Pakistan can no longer use terrorism as "legitimate" leverage. He emphasized that India is willing to engage with Pakistan if it creates a "conducive environment free of terror and hostility." However, Jaishankar asserted that India will not "play that game now" of tolerating cross-border attacks. He remarked that while Pakistan is a neighbor, India will only deal with it on terms where terrorism is not considered a valid tactic.

Truck and bus drivers staged widespread protests across multiple states in India, opposing the stringent provisions of the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (Second) 2023, which imposes up to a 10-year jail term and a Rs 7 lakh fine for hit-and-run cases. Maharashtra witnessed "rasta roko" demonstrations causing disruptions, while Chhattisgarh experienced a strike by over 12,000 private bus drivers, leaving commuters stranded. In West Bengal, drivers blocked the national highway in protest. Punjab reported a significant number of commercial vehicles refraining from operation, leading to disruptions on roads. Protests also unfolded in Madhya Pradesh, with drivers staging agitation in Bhopal, causing road blockades and fuel supply concerns.

Bengaluru traffic police took strict measures on New Year's Eve, catching around 330 motorists driving under the influence of alcohol during a special drive. Conducted on Sunday, the police checked over 7620 vehicles, registering cases against the offenders. Unfortunately, the night also witnessed 14 road accidents in and around Bengaluru. On December 31, 2023, till midnight, one fatal accident and ten non-fatal accidents occurred. In the early hours of January 1, 2024, three fatal accidents were reported. Authorities remain vigilant to curb drunk driving and enhance road safety in the city.

In a significant development for Ayodhya's grand Ram temple, Karnataka's acclaimed sculptor Arun Yogiraj's idol of Lord Ram Lalla has been chosen for the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi announced the selection, praising Yogiraj's craftsmanship. The consecration ceremony is set for January 22, 2024. Former Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa expressed joy, hailing the pride brought to Rama devotees. Yogiraj's mother, Saraswathi, shared her happiness, revealing her wish to witness the crafting. Trustee Bimlendra Mohan Pratap Mishra confirmed the idol selection, emphasizing its captivating nature during the trust meeting. Champat Rai highlighted the divine and childlike features as crucial factors in the selection process.            

Four people were shot dead, and five critically injured in a recent outbreak of violence in Manipur's Thoubal district. As a response, curfew has been reimposed in Thoubal, Imphal East, Imphal West, Kakching, and Bishnupur districts. Chief Minister N Biren Singh condemned the violence, promising swift action against the perpetrators. The attackers, yet to be identified, reportedly donned camouflage attire and targeted locals. The motive appears linked to extortion, leading to clashes with enraged residents. This incident compounds the prevailing ethnic tensions, with Manipur witnessing a series of violent episodes in recent weeks, raising concerns and necessitating heightened security measures.            

The central government declares gangster Goldy Brar a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Linked to the banned Khalistani outfit Babbar Khalsa International, Brar is accused of cross-border affiliations, multiple killings, radical ideology, and making threatening calls to pro-nationalist leaders. A member of the Lawrence Bishnoi Gang, Brar claimed responsibility for Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala's 2022 murder. Involved in arms smuggling and plotting to disrupt peace in Punjab, he faces an Interpol Red Corner Notice for extradition. In an exclusive interview, Brar previously mentioned actor Salman Khan being on their "kill list."