Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 01:20pm on 31 Jan 2025,Friday International
The Rashtrapati Bhavan condemned Congress leader Sonia Gandhi’s remark calling President Droupadi Murmu a “poor thing,” stating it was “in poor taste” and “hurt the dignity” of the office. Gandhi’s comment, made after Murmu’s address to Parliament, sparked political outrage. BJP chief JP Nadda called it “elitist” and “anti-tribal,” while BJP MP Sambit Patra said it was “totally inappropriate.” The President’s office rejected claims she was tired, emphasizing her commitment to marginalized communities. The statement suggested Congress leaders misunderstood Indian linguistic nuances, making the comment “unfortunate and entirely avoidable.”
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 12:15pm on 31 Jan 2025,Friday International
U.S. President Donald Trump blamed diversity hiring policies for the recent plane crash near Washington, D.C., despite no evidence linking them to the tragedy. He criticized Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recruitment under the Biden administration and signed an executive order ending diversity efforts in aviation. Trump also replaced the FAA head and ordered a review of safety protocols. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg called Trump's remarks "despicable," while Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer condemned his speculation. The FAA defended its hiring standards, stating all employees meet rigorous qualifications. Investigators are still determining the cause of the crash.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 12:09pm on 31 Jan 2025,Friday International
A speeding truck crashed into a vehicle carrying Maha Kumbh Mela devotees in Uttar Pradesh’s Ghazipur on Friday evening, leaving several feared dead. The accident occurred in Kusmi Kala near the Nandganj police station. Officials are assessing casualties as rescue operations continue. This tragedy follows a deadly stampede in Prayagraj earlier this week, which killed at least 30 people and injured 60 during the holy Mauni Amavasya dip. Authorities have urged strict traffic monitoring in the region. Eyewitnesses described the scene as devastating, with injured devotees receiving emergency medical aid at nearby hospitals.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 10:34am on 31 Jan 2025,Friday International
A recent collision between a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter and an American Eagle Flight 5342 near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport has raised concerns over the safety of the Black Hawk. In service since 1979, the helicopter is renowned for its reliability in combat and transport. Despite over 5,000 units built, the Black Hawk has been involved in several fatal accidents, including a recent crash in Kentucky. Experts suggest the crew’s limited number of crew chiefs and possible lack of awareness of the jet’s presence may have contributed to the incident. The Army is reviewing its aviation safety measures.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 08:42am on 31 Jan 2025,Friday International
Kinnar Akhara removed Mamta Kulkarni from the prestigious post of Mahamandaleshwar after internal tensions surfaced within the religious organization. Kulkarni's appointment, which had been controversial due to her past in Bollywood, was met with resistance from several members. Juna Akhara expelled both Kulkarni and her guru, Laxmi Narayan Tripathi, citing growing discontent. The decision came after rumors suggested Tripathi might be relieved of her duties. Kulkarni had recently performed 'pind daan' at Sangham Ghat, and Tripathi defended her appointment, stating Kulkarni had been in touch with the Akhara for over a year.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 07:49am on 31 Jan 2025,Friday International
Elon Musk has been nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for his contributions to free speech. European Parliament member Branko Grims confirmed the nomination, citing Musk’s defense of fundamental rights and global dialogue. A Norwegian MP, Marius Nilsen, had also nominated Musk in 2024 for his role in fostering open communication. Grims shared a confirmation email from the Nobel Committee, thanking co-proposers. "Musk has done more for free speech in the third millennium than anyone else," he said. The nomination has sparked global debate over Musk’s influence on modern discourse.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 06:26am on 31 Jan 2025,Friday International
Investigators recovered black boxes from the American Airlines flight that collided with a US Army Black Hawk helicopter near Washington DC’s Reagan Airport, killing 67. Divers searching the Potomac River have retrieved 28 bodies. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is analyzing flight data. Reports indicate only one air traffic controller was on duty, raising staffing concerns. President Trump speculated on hiring standards and ended diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices in aviation. China confirmed two nationals among the victims, while Russia mourned its citizens. A preliminary NTSB report is expected in 30 days.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:45am on 31 Jan 2025,Friday International
Donald Trump warned BRICS nations, including India, against replacing the U.S. dollar, threatening 100% tariffs on those attempting to create an alternative currency. In a TruthSocial post, Trump said the U.S. would demand a commitment from BRICS members to avoid backing any currency against the dollar. The warning follows Russia’s 2024 statement supporting national currencies over the dollar. Trump also pledged 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico and 10% on China over fentanyl concerns. As BRICS discussions on currency alternatives gain momentum, Trump's stance highlights growing geopolitical tensions.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 08:12pm on 30 Jan 2025,Thursday International
American Airlines plane collided with a military helicopter in Washington DC on Wednesday night, leaving 67 dead. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the crash and will release a preliminary report within 30 days. President Donald Trump expressed condolences, blaming air traffic control hiring practices but provided no evidence. The helicopter's location and angle of flight are key areas of focus. Authorities confirm that no one survived the crash, which involved 64 passengers on the plane and 3 on the helicopter. The identities of the victims will be revealed by the DC medical examiner.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 08:02pm on 30 Jan 2025,Thursday International
Plane crash near Washington DC killed several figure skaters, including Russian coaches Yevgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, and two teenage skaters, Spencer Lane and Jinna Hahn, along with their mothers. The American Airlines plane collided mid-air with a US Army helicopter on Wednesday evening, falling into the Potomac River. At least 28 bodies have been recovered. The group was returning from a skating camp in Wichita, Kansas. US Figure Skating confirmed several community members were on board. Rescue teams have switched to a recovery operation, with no survivors expected.