New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi during Diwali events in Queens, saying he grew up in an India that celebrated pluralism. Visiting several Hindu temples, Mamdani said Modi and the BJP promote a vision that “only has room for certain kinds of Indians.” He added that his criticism comes from his belief in equality and inclusion. Mamdani said he would represent all New Yorkers, even those who disagree with him. His comments have drawn sharp reactions from Indian leaders and Hindu Americans, some accusing him of being “anti-Indian” and spreading false claims. (PC: X)

In an interview with Al Jazeera, Taliban Defence Minister Mohammad Yaqoob dismissed Pakistan's claims that India played a role in recent border clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Yaqoob termed the allegations as "unfounded, illogical, and unacceptable," emphasizing that Afghanistan maintains an independent foreign policy and does not use its territory against other nations. He reiterated Kabul's commitment to strengthening ties with both India and Pakistan based on mutual respect and national interests. Yaqoob also called for international mediation by Qatar and Turkey to uphold the peace agreement between Afghanistan and Pakistan.     

Delhi's air quality plummeted to the 'very poor' category following Diwali celebrations, with some areas recording 'severe' levels. The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 338 as of 8 AM on Wednesday, October 22, 2025. Notably, Punjabi Bagh and Wazirpur had AQIs of 433 and 401, respectively, both in the 'severe' category. The spike in pollution is attributed to widespread firecracker use beyond the stipulated time, leading to a toxic mix of pollutants and heavy metals. Experts warn of worsening conditions due to factors like stubble burning and unfavorable meteorological conditions. (PC: PTI)  

A Lithuanian couple braved treacherous, icy conditions to scale Poland’s highest peak, Mount Rysy, while carrying their nine-month-old baby. Despite repeated warnings from guides and rescuers and lacking proper gear, they continued their ascent. The father later realised he could not safely descend and attempted to borrow crampons from a guide. The guide eventually carried the baby down to safety. The incident, captured on video, quickly went viral and sparked widespread outrage, with many condemning the parents’ decision as “beyond reckless.”   

Several districts in Tamil Nadu have declared holidays for schools and colleges following continuous heavy rainfall that has disrupted daily life across the region. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has also issued a yellow alert for 10 districts in Kerala, warning of more rain, thunderstorms, and possible flooding. Areas in Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, and Thoothukudi witnessed severe downpours leading to waterlogging and traffic delays. Disaster management teams are on high alert, and residents in low-lying and hilly regions have been advised to remain cautious due to risks of landslides and flash floods.    

Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked US President Donald Trump for his Diwali greetings, saying that India and the US should “illuminate the world with hope.” In his message on X, Modi added that the two democracies must stand united against terrorism in all forms. His post came a day after Trump celebrated Diwali at the White House and claimed he had spoken to Modi about trade issues. During the celebration, Trump lit a traditional brass lamp and praised the festival’s message of light over darkness and good over evil. Modi’s reply emphasized friendship and shared values. (PC: India Today)

Jewellery worth €88 million was stolen from the Louvre Museum in Paris in a bold daylight robbery. The stolen pieces included a diamond tiara worn by Empress Eugenie and a necklace gifted by Emperor Napoleon. Four masked thieves used power tools to break in through a balcony and escaped within eight minutes on scooters. French President Emmanuel Macron called it an attack on France’s heritage. Officials admitted major security lapses, with alarms and CCTV not working in several rooms. Investigators believe the jewels may already have been melted or smuggled out of France by professional criminals. (PC: BBC)

Former Punjab Police chief Mohammed Mustafa has claimed his family is being targeted in a “dirty” rival conspiracy following the death of his 33-year-old son, Aqil Akhtar. Found unconscious at his house in Panchkula and later declared dead, the family says his death resulted from a drug overdose. Videos of Aqil emerged in which he alleged his father and mother, former minister Razia Sultana, were having an affair and conspiring against him. A special investigation team has now been formed to probe the case and related claims. (PC: NDTV)  

US President Donald Trump celebrated Diwali at the White House with Indian-American officials, lighting a traditional lamp and praising the festival’s message of “light over darkness.” Trump said he spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi about trade and regional peace, calling Modi “a great friend.” He also claimed India would reduce its Russian oil imports, though India has denied such talks. Trump defended his tariffs on Indian goods, saying they strengthen the US economy and prevent wars. The Indian government has rejected his claim of brokering peace between India and Pakistan, calling it a bilateral understanding.

On the occasion of Diwali at the White House, Donald Trump lit lamps and extended warm wishes to the people of India. He announced that he had spoken with Narendra Modi, with discussions focusing on boosting trade between the US and India, and on maintaining peace with Pakistan — emphasising that “we have no war with Pakistan and India.” Trump also touched on tariffs on Indian goods and upcoming tariff hikes on China, while referencing wider global peace-efforts including the Middle East. (PC: ANI)