Forty Conservative backbenchers defy the government's Criminal Justice Bill, opposing its clause targeting homelessness. The bill, intended to replace the 200-year-old Vagrancy Act, faces staunch resistance over provisions allowing police to move on rough sleepers. Rebels, supported by opposition MPs, aim to amend the bill, expressing concern over potential criminalization of homelessness. Charities like Crisis warn of the broad definition of "nuisance begging" and its implications. Conservative MP Bob Blackman leads efforts to alter the bill, urging ministers to reconsider. Amidst growing dissent, the fate of the contentious legislation remains uncertain.

Germany has enacted partial legalization of marijuana, permitting individuals aged 18 and above to possess up to 25g of cannabis publicly and cultivate three marijuana plants at home. The law, effective from April 1, also allows possession of up to 50g of cannabis within private residences. However, strict regulations prohibit advertising, consumption by minors, or smoking within 200 meters of designated areas like schools and playgrounds. Non-commercial cannabis clubs, limited to 500 adult members per club, will be permitted starting July. Despite controversy and opposition concerns, the government aims to curtail the black market while prioritizing health protection through education campaigns.

A strange sickness, called "Havana Syndrome," affecting American diplomats worldwide, has been linked to a Russian spy unit, according to a joint investigation report. The illness causes dizziness and other odd symptoms. While Russia denies involvement, US officials are unsure of the cause. Some think it's from secret Russian weapons. Over 1,000 cases have been reported, but MRI scans haven't shown brain injuries. Investigators say the spy unit may have used energy weapons. Victims share ties to Russia. US officials take the issue seriously, but some doubt the report. The illness remains a mystery, causing concern and confusion.            

Hackers targeted Russia's prison system following Navalny's death. They breached a contractor's site, sharing Navalny's image and allegedly stealing data on 800,000 prisoners. The hackers altered prices on the prison shop to one ruble. Despite warnings, they persisted, even damaging a server. Experts confirm the authenticity of the leaked data. This act, termed "hacktivism," mirrors a trend since Ukraine's conflict, showing the power of cyber activism. The hackers, claiming to be Russian expats, vow to fight until Russia is free from Putin's rule. The prison system and authorities are yet to respond.

Author J.K. Rowling has openly defied Scotland's new hate crime laws, daring authorities to arrest her upon her return. Criticizing the legislation for potentially stifling free speech, Rowling condemned its failure to extend protections to women. Her remarks come amidst a heated debate over transgender rights, with Rowling asserting her stance on defending women's rights against accusations of transphobia. The controversial author's challenge underscores concerns over the legislation's scope and its impact on public discourse.

Tens of thousands of Israelis flood Jerusalem, demanding action to free captives held by Hamas in Gaza and oust Prime Minister Netanyahu. Protesters block highways, wave flags, and clash with police, branding Netanyahu as responsible for security failures. The rally marks the largest demonstration since the Gaza conflict erupted in October. Families of captives vow nightly protests, intensifying pressure on the government. Netanyahu, already facing dissent over judicial reforms, faces renewed scrutiny over handling of the hostage crisis. Amidst escalating tensions, calls for swift action and elections echo through the streets.      

In a two-week operation, Israel's military devastates al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City, accusing Hamas of using it as a base. The IDF claims to have killed 200 "terrorists" and detained hundreds, uncovering weapons and intelligence. The health ministry reports dozens dead, with bodies found in and around the complex. Patients endured bombings and lack of medical care. Amid international calls for assistance, Gaza's health ministry seeks aid to reopen Nasser hospital. The conflict, resulting in thousands of Palestinian casualties, underscores the ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis in the region.            

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina responded to the 'Boycott India' campaign by challenging opposition leaders to burn their wives' Indian saris. Hasina, known for her love of saris, questioned the sincerity of the boycott and accused BNP leaders of hypocrisy. She also challenged them to cook without Indian spices. The campaign, fueled by online sentiment, saw a drop in sales of Indian products in Dhaka markets. Opposition parties, including BNP, initially distanced themselves but later joined the movement, prompting criticism from Hasina's Awami League.            

More than 250 patients a week in England may have died unnecessarily last year due to very long waits for a bed in Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments, new estimates suggest. A study by the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) indicates that patients are put at risk by spending hours in A&E, especially after a decision has been made to admit them. The NHS aims for 76% of A&E patients to be seen within four hours, but only 70.9% were seen within that timeframe in March. The risk of death increases after five hours, with over 1.5 million patients waiting 12 hours or more in 2023.            

Pakistan's Islamabad High Court temporarily suspends the 14-year jail sentence of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi in the Toshakhana corruption case. The court grants bail pending further appeals, with their cases to be heard after Eid. Khan and Bibi were convicted in January for alleged corruption in state gifts received before general elections. However, Khan remains detained due to other convictions, while Bibi's release is uncertain pending resolution of another case. The decision provides temporary relief for the prominent political figures amidst ongoing legal battles.