A luxury vanity van near Gandhi Maidan, Patna, where Prashant Kishor is on a hunger strike, has caused a political row. Kishor is protesting in support of students demanding the cancellation of the BPSC exam over alleged irregularities. Opposition parties criticised the use of the van, calling it a show of privilege. Kishor denied using the van, saying it’s meant for basic needs during the strike. He defended his focus on student issues, questioning critics' priorities. The protest has led to an FIR against Kishor and rising tensions, with students demanding a re-exam and action on the paper leak allegations.

Dense fog disrupted flight operations at Delhi airport for the second day. Over 400 flights were delayed, and 45 were cancelled due to low visibility. Nineteen flights, including domestic and international, were diverted early in the morning. Airlines like IndiGo and Air India temporarily paused operations. The CAT III system, which supports low-visibility landings, helped some flights continue. Passengers were advised to check updates with airlines. Fog also affected other cities like Chandigarh and Patna. Airport officials said they are working to minimise disruptions. Delhi airport, which manages 1,300 flights daily, faced major delays despite these efforts.

The Health Ministry has assured citizens that India is ready to manage respiratory illnesses like Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). It said the situation in China, where cases are rising, is "not unusual." Officials are closely monitoring updates from the WHO. India's health system and surveillance are equipped to handle such cases. A recent drill confirmed the nation’s readiness. Citizens are advised to stay calm, maintain hygiene, and seek medical help if needed. HMPV causes cold-like symptoms but can be severe for children, the elderly, and those with weak immunity. The government is watching developments and will act promptly if required.

Australia coach Andrew McDonald has accused India’s players of “intimidating” teenager Sam Konstas during the celebration of Usman Khawaja’s dismissal on Day 1 of the fifth Test at the SCG. McDonald expressed concern about the on-field altercation between Konstas and India’s captain, Jasprit Bumrah. He described the celebration as “quite intimidating,” though he acknowledged it was within the game’s rules. McDonald checked on Konstas’ well-being, highlighting the need to ensure the young player’s mental state was unaffected. Despite McDonald’s concerns, no fines or charges have been issued by the ICC regarding the incident.

India has addressed the heated debate over the H-1B visa program, emphasizing its importance for the tech industry and economic ties between India and the US. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the mobility of skilled professionals as crucial for mutual benefit. The US issued approximately 78% of H-1B visas to Indian professionals in the fiscal year 2023, underscoring their significant role in the US tech sector. Support for the program has come from figures like President-elect Donald Trump and Elon Musk, who has pledged to defend the initiative. India seeks to strengthen its economic and technological partnership with the US.

King Charles expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of Edward Pettifer, 31, stepson of Alexandra Pettifer, formerly Tiggy Legge-Bourke, a royal nanny. Edward was among 14 killed in a vehicle attack in New Orleans on New Year’s Day. The suspect, Shamsud-Din Jabbar, drove a truck into crowds, killing and injuring dozens. The FBI labeled the act as premeditated, citing connections to extremist ideologies. Edward’s family described him as a “wonderful son and friend.” Prince William and Prince Harry have been informed, with no public statement from Harry. The royal family extended condolences to all affected by the tragedy.

Chhattisgarh journalist Mukesh Chandrakar, 28, known for exposing corruption in a ₹120 crore road project, was found dead in a septic tank on January 3. Police arrested his cousin, Ritesh Chandrakar, and two others while the prime suspect, contractor Suresh Chandrakar, remains at large. Mukesh's exposé led to a government inquiry, allegedly straining ties with Ritesh. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) is probing the case, revealing Mukesh suffered severe injuries from a blunt weapon. Journalists in Raipur protested the murder, highlighting threats to reporters exposing corruption. Authorities have intensified their search for Suresh, seizing his assets and questioning suspects.

India's stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah suffered a back spasm on Day 2 of the crucial fifth Test against Australia in Sydney, a match determining the WTC Final. Bumrah managed only one over post-lunch before being sent for precautionary scans. Although he is fit to bat, the decision on his bowling will depend on his condition on Day 3. Prasidh Krishna (3-42), Mohammed Siraj (3-51), and Nitish Kumar Reddy (2-32) stepped up in his absence, dismissing Australia for 181. India finished at 141-6, with Rishabh Pant's blazing 50 adding momentum. India must win to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as Australia leads 2-1.

A report by Barratt London claims Indians have overtaken Brits as the largest property owners in London. Indian-origin residents, NRIs, students, and investors are investing ₹30-47 million in properties, reshaping the city's real estate landscape. The findings, shared on X by BRICS News, went viral, garnering 14M views. Social media users responded with humor and historical reflections, with one saying, "Colonise you right back," referencing British colonialism. Another remarked, "What goes around comes around." Indians now lead ahead of English and Pakistani groups, underscoring their increasing global economic influence and migration trends.

In a rare medical case, a 53-year-old German surgeon developed cancer after operating on a patient with a rare tumor. During the procedure, the surgeon accidentally cut his hand, but the wound was disinfected and bandaged. Five months later, a malignant lump appeared at the injury site. Genetic tests revealed it was identical to the patient’s cancer. Experts suggest the surgeon’s body had an ineffective immune response, allowing tumor cells to grow. This unique case highlights potential risks for medical professionals despite stringent precautions. Researchers are studying the immune mechanisms involved to improve understanding and safety protocols.