Professor Ron Hira, an Indian-origin expert, argues that U.S. employers prefer H-1B visa holders over domestic workers for two key reasons: lower wages and greater control. He explains that H-1B workers’ legal status is tied to their employer, making them “indentured” and less likely to switch jobs or report abuses. While the program does attract some highly skilled talent, Hira stresses that many H-1B workers possess skills readily available in the American labor market. Citing Disney and University of California cases, he warns the program often displaces U.S. workers. He calls for stronger protections, clarifying H-1B is a labor not immigration policy.

Astrophotographer Andrew McCarthy has captured a breathtaking image dubbed “The Fall of Icarus”, showing skydiver Gabriel C. Brown perfectly aligned with the blazing sun. Shot in hydrogen-alpha light to reveal the sun’s atmosphere, the surreal frame required immense planning and precision. McCarthy described the feat as “absolutely preposterous” and possibly the first of its kind. Brown, a YouTuber and musician, leapt from a small aircraft at 3,500 feet, while McCarthy positioned his camera 8,000 feet away to achieve the alignment. The rare shot, blending science, art, and adventure, has gone viral, with both McCarthy and Brown sharing behind-the-scenes celebrations online.

Dr. Shaheen Shahid, prime suspect in the Delhi Red Fort blast linked to Jaish-e-Mohammad, faces mounting revelations. Investigators discovered she held three passports with different addresses and guardians, including her father, husband, and brother. Records show at least three trips to Pakistan and six foreign visits, including Thailand. Authorities are probing seven bank accounts across Kanpur, Lucknow, and Delhi, which saw transactions worth ₹1.55 crore over seven years, with notable deposits between 2014–2017. GSVM Medical College has delisted her from its faculty board following her name surfacing in the terror probe. Meanwhile, NIA arrested Amir Rashid Ali, alleging conspiracy with bomber Umar Nabi, marking a breakthrough in the case. (PC: X)

The NIA has arrested Jasir Bilal, also known as Danish, a key co-conspirator in the Delhi blast that killed 14 people. Danish, from Qazigund in Anantnag, was being trained by bomber Dr Umar to become a suicide attacker. Investigators say he gave technical support by modifying drones and trying to make rockets for future attacks. Danish first met Umar at a mosque, where he was allegedly brainwashed. His father died after self-immolation during a dispute with police. The NIA has also arrested Amir Rashid Ali, whose car was used in the blast. The probe is still underway. (PC: India Today)

President Donald Trump said he plans to meet New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani and added they will “work something out.” His comments mark a softer tone after months of attacking Mamdani, whom he had wrongly called a “communist” and even threatened to deport. Mamdani, a progressive Democrat, won the election by defeating Andrew Cuomo. He earlier said he would work with anyone, including the President, if it helps New Yorkers. The White House said no date has been set for the meeting. Trump also said he wants “everything to work out well for New York.” (PC: The Hindu)

RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav said the rift in his family will be solved privately, calling it “an internal family matter.” He made the remark at a meeting of RJD legislators in Patna, where Tejashwi Yadav was unanimously chosen as leader of the legislative party. His statement follows daughter Rohini Acharya’s exit from politics after she alleged abuse and interference by Tejashwi’s aides. Her sisters also left the family home, citing broken trust. Misa Bharti said, “These things happen in families and get settled through talks.” BJP leaders have used the feud to criticise the RJD. (PC: HT)

Bangladesh's interim leader Muhammad Yunus welcomed the death sentence for ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, declaring "no one is above the law." The International Crimes Tribunal convicted Hasina on three counts: incitement, ordering killings, and failing to prevent atrocities during July-August 2024 student protests. Judge Golam Mortuza Mozumder pronounced the death penalty. Yunus stated the verdict offers "vital, if insufficient, justice" to thousands harmed and families grieving losses. Bangladesh's foreign ministry sought Hasina's extradition from India under bilateral agreements, warning refuge for convicted individuals would be "highly unfriendly" and disregard justice. India responded diplomatically, remaining "committed to best interests of Bangladesh's people, including peace, democracy, inclusion and stability," promising constructive engagement with stakeholders.

Pakistani rapper Talha Anjum sparked international controversy after waving India's tricolour at his Nepal concert, accepting the flag from a fan and draping it while performing. The 30-year-old Karachi native, co-founder of rap duo Young Stunners with 3 million Instagram followers, defended his actions on X, stating "My art has no borders" and pledging to repeat the gesture. He emphasized his expression was rooted in humanity, not politics, declaring "Urdu rap will always be borderless." The incident intensified existing tensions with Indian rapper Naezy, who previously dismissed Anjum's popularity and made threatening remarks. While some applauded the gesture as South Asian unity, Pakistani critics accused him of crossing a line and disrespecting his homeland.

India formally acknowledged Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal verdict sentencing Sheikh Hasina to death for alleged crimes against humanity during July's student protest crackdown. The Ministry of External Affairs stated India "remains committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh, including peace, democracy, inclusion and stability." Dhaka requested Hasina's immediate extradition, warning countries housing her commit "an extremely unfriendly act and disregard for justice." Bangladesh submitted formal extradition request in December 2024. However, the 2013 bilateral extradition treaty allows India to refuse if deemed "politically motivated", a phrase Hasina repeatedly uses. Article 8 permits rejection on political grounds. India has provided refuge since Hasina fled during 2024's unrest. (PC: The CSR Journal & X)

The National Investigation Agency revealed that terrorists behind Delhi's November 10 Red Fort suicide car bomb attack planned to weaponize drones and manufacture rockets, mirroring Hamas's October 7, 2023 Israel attack tactics. NIA arrested second suspect Jasir Bilal Wani alias Danish from Srinagar, following yesterday's arrest of Amir Rashid Ali in Delhi. Both Jammu and Kashmir residents worked with suicide bomber Umar Un Nabi. Danish, from Anantnag district, provided technical support by modifying drones with large batteries and cameras to carry heavier bombs. The white-collar terror module planned deploying weaponized drones over crowded areas for maximum casualties. NIA is investigating all angles and pursuing multiple leads while India strengthens drone strike and anti-drone capabilities. (PC: CNN & BBC)