Amit Chakravarty, HR head of NewsClick, seeks government witness status in the anti-terror case, claiming vital information. Arrested in October over pro-China funding allegations, Chakravarty filed for pardon, citing material knowledge. Delhi Police arrested NewsClick founder Prabir Purkayastha and Chakravarty in October, investigating UAPA violations. The portal faces scrutiny for alleged funds from China. Delhi Police allege a larger conspiracy involving foreign funds from China. NewsClick denies all charges, asserting its independence. The case unfolds as Chakravarty's plea goes before a magisterial court, adding complexity to the ongoing probe.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extends warm Christmas wishes, saying, "Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas! May this festive season bring joy, peace, and prosperity to all." He encourages celebrating the spirit of Christmas, emphasizing harmony and compassion, and recalls the teachings of Lord Christ. Midnight mass prayers at Delhi's Sacred Heart Cathedral Catholic Church and Bengaluru's St. Francis Xavier's Cathedral marked the festive eve. Christmas, observed globally on December 25, unites billions in religious and cultural celebrations, resonating with carol singing, dazzling lights, and the joyous spirit of the season.

Dense fog wreaked havoc on flight operations in Delhi, Bengaluru, Kolkata, and Hyderabad, causing delays and disruptions. The India Meteorological Department predicts very dense fog across the country till January 2. In Delhi, eight flights heading to Indira Gandhi International Airport were diverted due to zero visibility. The Delhi airport issued an advisory, notifying passengers of potential impacts on non-CAT III compliant flights. The CAT III instrument, an anti-fog landing system, is crucial in poor visibility conditions. Airlines, including IndiGo and SpiceJet, informed passengers about low visibility, urging them to check for updated flight information.            

Former J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti was house arrested, preventing her visit to Surankote following the deaths of three civilians in Poonch. Security forces had questioned eight individuals in connection with a militant ambush, resulting in four soldiers' deaths. Mufti, expressing concern on social media, highlighted the grim "ground reality" in the region, accusing the government of neglecting the true situation. The incident underscores tensions in J&K, with Mufti urging awareness and questioning how long the facade of normalcy can be maintained amid perilous circumstances.            

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid heartfelt tributes to the late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his 99th birth anniversary. Visiting the 'Sadaiv Atal' memorial with President Droupadi Murmu, PM Modi acknowledged Vajpayee's enduring commitment to nation-building. In a tweeted video, Modi praised Vajpayee's unique humor, describing how he could defuse tense moments with a well-timed joke. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a pivotal figure in Indian politics, led the BJP to power and served as Prime Minister for a total of six years. His birth anniversary serves as a reminder of his profound impact on the nation's political landscape.

Olympic wrestler Bajrang Punia stands firm, refusing to retrieve his Padma Shri amid the Wrestling Federation of India's suspension. Punia asserts, "I will not take back Padma Shri. I will think about it only after justice is delivered." The decision follows Sanjay Singh's appointment as WFI chief, triggering protests by top wrestlers over sexual harassment allegations. The Sports Ministry's suspension prompts Punia's stance. Meanwhile, Sakshi Malik hints at a possible return, emphasizing the fight for justice for women wrestlers, "I have not seen anything in writing yet. I don't know whether only Sanjay Singh has been suspended or the entire body has been suspended. Our fight was not with the government. Our fight is for women wrestlers, I have announced my retirement but want the upcoming wrestlers should get justice," she stated. The government faces criticism, leading to the ministry's call for a temporary body to oversee WFI operations.

In a gun battle with security forces, atleast 3 Maoists were killed in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district. The clash occurred during an anti-Maoist operation by the District Reserve Guard and Bastar Fighters. The exchange of fire took place on a hill near Dabbakunna village, resulting in the recovery of three Maoist bodies and the seizure of explosives and weapons. The identity of the deceased Maoists remains unknown, prompting an ongoing search operation in the vicinity.

President Sanjay Singh of the suspended Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) plans to engage in dialogue with Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the Sports Ministry's decision to suspend the newly elected WFI. The Ministry claimed the new body operated under the former office-bearers' influence. Singh expressed readiness to explore legal options if dialogue fails, emphasizing that decisions were consensus-driven. He stated, "We will explain that we have followed rules... It was not my personal decision," highlighting the need for smooth federation operation. Wrestlers protested Singh's association with Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, accused of harassment. Singh defended their bond, stating, "There has been a bond and friendship from that time between us."

In a shocking turn of events, retired Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mohammad Shafi Mir was ruthlessly gunned down by terrorists while reciting Azan in a mosque in Gantamulla Bala, Baramulla district, Jammu and Kashmir. The assailants mercilessly fired upon Mir, leading to his tragic demise. Swiftly responding, the J&K police cordoned off the area, launching a comprehensive investigation into the act of terror. This distressing incident follows a recent attack on a police inspector in Srinagar, underscoring the persistent security challenges in the region. As the community mourns Mir's loss, authorities intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators, ensuring justice prevails in the face of this reprehensible crime.

Massive fire erupted at Ankura Hospital in Hyderabad on Saturday, triggered by a short-circuit in outdoor terrace lights, as reported by hospital management. Approximately 15 patients inside were promptly relocated to another facility, averting casualties. The fire department swiftly contained the blaze, ensuring the safety of staff and patients. Despite the alarming incident, the hospital assures ongoing precautions for continued safety. Authorities are investigating the cause, highlighting the importance of vigilance in maintaining fire prevention measures.