Bangladesh's interim government expressed shock and concern over India allowing ousted PM Sheikh Hasina to deliver a public address from Delhi, warning it "sets a dangerous precedent" for bilateral relations. Hasina, living in exile since August 2024, accused Muhammad Yunus's administration of violence, minority persecution, and sexual assaults, urging citizens to overthrow the "murderous fascist" regime ahead of February 12 elections. Bangladesh's foreign ministry called her remarks "inciteful hate speech" that could destabilize the democratic transition, criticizing India for not honoring extradition obligations despite the International Crimes Tribunal's death sentence against her. The statement warned this undermines sovereignty norms and may impair future elected governments' ability to maintain mutually beneficial India-Bangladesh relations.

India's 77th Republic Day celebration strategically showcased indigenous military prowess before European Union leaders Antonio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen, signaling deepening India-EU defense cooperation. President Droupadi Murmu presided over the Kartavya Path parade where the EU dignitaries witnessed India's advancing self-reliance in defense manufacturing. The 90-minute spectacle, themed around 150 years of Vande Mataram, prominently displayed cutting-edge indigenous systems including the debut phased Battle Array Format featuring T-90 Bhishma tanks, Apache and Prachand helicopters, robotic dogs, and four autonomous unmanned combat vehicles. Following PM Modi's National War Memorial tribute, the parade blended military might with cultural diversity as Param Vir Chakra and Ashoka Chakra awardees marched alongside artists, demonstrating India's technological capabilities to key European partners.

The UAE scrapped plans to operate Islamabad International Airport shortly after President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's surprise three-hour India visit. Abu Dhabi lost interest in the project, agreed upon in August 2025, and failed to name a local partner. While Pakistani media didn't cite political motivations, the development comes amid growing UAE-Saudi tensions over Yemen and shifting Gulf alliances. As Pakistan pursues an "Islamic NATO" with Saudi Arabia and Turkey, the UAE has strengthened India ties through new defence deals. Following his Delhi visit, the UAE President approved releasing 900 Indian prisoners as goodwill. Both nations signed a Letter of Intent for a Strategic Defence Partnership Framework Agreement. (PC: NDTV)

Bangladesh has expressed strong objection after former prime minister Sheikh Hasina delivered a public address in New Delhi. Dhaka said it was “surprised” and “shocked” that India allowed the event to take place. In a statement, Bangladesh’s foreign ministry said the move set a “dangerous precedent” and could harm bilateral relations. Hasina, who has been in India since August 2024, made her first public speech since her removal from power. She criticised the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus and urged people to oppose it. Bangladeshi authorities said Hasina was convicted in absentia last year on serious charges. The speech came weeks before Bangladesh’s general election. (PC: HT)

A 28-year-old Indian-origin man, identified as Dilraj Singh Gill, was fatally shot in Burnaby, British Columbia, on January 22, police said, in what investigators believe was a targeted attack tied to ongoing gang conflict in the region. Officers from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) responded to reports of gunfire near Canada Way, finding Gill with fatal wounds; he was pronounced dead at the scene despite life-saving efforts. A burning vehicle later found nearby is believed to be connected to the homicide, and the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team is leading the probe, urging witnesses to come forward. (PC: India Today)

India will mark its 77th Republic Day on 26 January with a large parade in New Delhi. This year’s chief guests are European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa. Experts say the choice reflects India’s growing focus on ties with the European Union. The chief guest sits next to the president, giving the role strong diplomatic meaning. Since 1950, India has used the invitation to highlight key partners, from neighbours to major global powers. Former diplomats say decisions are based on strategic goals, regional balance and timing. Past guest lists have also reflected shifts or strains in India’s foreign relations. (PC: BBC)

A 28-year-old Indian-origin man was shot dead in Burnaby, Canada, and police say the killing may be linked to gang activity. The victim was identified as Dilraj Singh Gill, a Vancouver resident who was known to police. Officers responded to reports of shots fired near Canada Way on January 22 and found Gill at the scene. He died despite efforts to save him. Soon after, police found a vehicle on fire several kilometres away and said it was connected to the shooting. The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team is leading the probe. Police said the case appears linked to an ongoing gang conflict and urged witnesses to come forward. (PC: NDTV)

A 51-year-old Indian-origin man, Vijay Kumar, has been arrested in Gwinnett County, Georgia, US, after allegedly shooting his wife, Meemu Dogra (43), and three relatives during an apparent family dispute, police said. The incident happened early Friday at a home on Brook Ivy Court, where the victims — Gourav Cumar (33), Nidhi Chander (37), and Harish Chander (38) — were found with fatal gunshot wounds. Three children, including Kumar’s 12-year-old son, hid in a closet and survived, with the son’s 911 call alerting officers. Kumar faces multiple murder and assault charges; the motive remains under investigation. (PC: Facebook)

A 51-year-old Indian-origin man, Vijay Kumar, has been arrested in Lawrenceville, Georgia, after allegedly shooting his wife, Meemu Dogra (43), and three relatives dead following a family dispute early Friday morning. The victims also included Gourav Kumar (33), Nidhi Chander (37) and Harish Chander (38), all found with fatal gunshot wounds inside a residence. Three children present at the scene hid in a closet, and one of them, Kumar’s 12-year-old child, dialed 911, alerting police and leading to a swift response. Kumar faces multiple charges, including felony and malice murder and cruelty to children. The Indian Consulate in Atlanta expressed grief and is assisting the family. (PC: Facebook)

India and the European Union are expected to finalize a long‑pending Free Trade Agreement (FTA) this Tuesday during the India‑EU summit in New Delhi. The agreement will cut tariffs on European cars and wine while opening EU markets to Indian goods like textiles, electronics, and chemicals. Bilateral trade, which reached $136.5 billion in 2024‑25, is likely to grow significantly after the deal. Some challenges remain, including sensitive tariff reductions and non‑tariff barriers like carbon levies. Once signed, EU Parliament ratification may take over a year, but the pact marks a major step in India‑EU economic cooperation. (PC: Bloomberg)