Imran Khan’s sons have spoken about their father’s condition in jail. In an interview with Sky News, they said the former Pakistan prime minister is kept in a “death cell.” They claimed he faces mental pressure and harsh treatment every day. The sons said Khan is cut off from people and basic facilities. They called it psychological torture. They also said the family fears for his safety. According to them, jail rules are not being followed. They warned his health is at risk. The sons said they may never see their father again. Pakistani authorities have not responded to these claims. (PC: India Today)

Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a major legislative push to crack down on hate speech and extremist “preachers of hate” in the wake of the deadly Bondi Beach terror attack, which killed 15 people at a Hanukkah event. The government will adopt recommendations from an antisemitism envoy, introducing aggravated hate speech offences, increased penalties for violent hate speech, and a federal offence for serious vilification. New powers will allow visa cancellation for those who spread division, and a task force will ensure antisemitism education across schools. Critics call for even stronger action, including banning hate preachers and a royal commission. 

Delhi has implemented strict anti-pollution measures from December 18, barring entry of non-BS VI vehicles into the city and refusing fuel at petrol pumps to vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate as part of Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan to tackle hazardous air quality. Authorities deployed 580 police personnel and 37 enforcement vans at 126 checkpoints to enforce the curbs. The rules target around 1.2 million non-compliant vehicles from neighbouring NCR areas, aiming to cut emissions and improve public health amid worsening smog. 

The fourth India vs South Africa T20 International in Lucknow was abandoned without a ball bowled due to thick smog and extremely poor visibility at Ekana Stadium, triggering criticism of scheduling matches in northern cities during peak winter pollution. Air Quality Index (AQI) levels soared in the hazardous range, making play unsafe and leading to six inspections before officials called off the game. Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav claimed Delhi’s pollution had spread to Lucknow, calling it smog, not fog, and questioned state policies on air quality. The incident sparked broader debate on environmental planning for major events. (PC: HT)

Pilot unions — including the Indian Pilots Guild and the Federation of Indian Pilots — have raised serious concerns about alleged corruption and regulatory failures within the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Ministry of Civil Aviation. They told a parliamentary panel that unsafe practices, improper extensions of flight-duty regulations, and improper approvals have compromised safety and operational standards. The issue follows major flight disruptions at IndiGo, prompting pilots to urge stronger oversight and accountability. The complaints are now being examined by the transport-tourism parliamentary committee, with responses from DGCA and ministry officials expected. (PC: Reuters)  

India’s vice-captain Shubman Gill has been ruled out of the fourth T20I against South Africa due to a foot injury after a series of low scores and continued poor form, sparking debate about his place in the side. Fans on social media questioned whether his absence was performance-related rather than just injury-linked, with many trolling his recent struggles at the top order. Gill managed just 32 runs in the first three T20Is, prompting criticism and calls for opportunities for others like Sanju Samson. The controversy highlights growing pressure ahead of the T20 World Cup. 

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced that the Oscars ceremony and related events will shift from traditional TV to exclusive global streaming on YouTube starting in 2029, under a multi-year deal running through 2033. YouTube will broadcast the main ceremony, red-carpet coverage, behind-the-scenes content, Governors Ball access, and other Academy programming, aiming to reach a broader international audience and expand engagement. ABC will continue airing the Oscars through 2028, including the centennial show. Academy leaders say the partnership will enhance accessibility and inspire new filmmakers worldwide. (PC: AP)

India on Wednesday summoned Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to protest threats to the Indian High Commission in Dhaka. The Ministry of External Affairs raised concerns over rising security risks and anti-India remarks by Bangladeshi leaders. India said extremist groups were planning actions near its mission. It also rejected claims that India was involved in events inside Bangladesh. New Delhi said it supports peace, stability and fair elections in the country. India reminded Bangladesh of its duty to protect diplomatic missions. The move came after a Bangladeshi leader warned of sheltering anti-India groups. India said such statements were unacceptable. (PC: X)

Warner Bros has rejected a $108 billion hostile takeover bid from Paramount. The company asked shareholders to back its deal with Netflix instead. Warner Bros said a partnership with Netflix will offer more choice and value to viewers. It also said the deal will help creators reach larger audiences. Paramount made its offer directly to shareholders after its earlier bids were rejected. Paramount offered a higher price per share than Netflix. However, the Warner Bros board said Netflix is the better partner. Shareholders can still choose which offer to support. Any deal will need regulatory and shareholder approval. (PC: X)

The fourth T20I between India and South Africa was abandoned in Lucknow due to dense smog and poor visibility. The toss was delayed several times before officials called off the match without a ball being bowled. The AQI in Lucknow touched 411, raising serious safety concerns for players. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor criticised the venue choice and said the match should have been held in Thiruvananthapuram. He pointed out that Kerala had much cleaner air. Fans expressed anger over the cancellation. Many questioned hosting matches in north India during peak winter smog season. (PC: India Today)