The US State Department urged Pakistan to "respect human rights and fundamental freedoms" as protests intensify. Spokesman Matthew Miller stated, "We call on protesters to demonstrate peacefully and refrain from violence, and we call on Pakistani authorities to respect human rights and ensure respect for Pakistan's laws and constitution." Over 4,000 supporters of Imran Khan’s PTI party have been arrested since Friday, with internet services cut in some areas. Clashes with security forces have resulted in six officers' deaths, including four paramilitary rangers. The government imposed a lockdown in Islamabad, as tensions rise despite restrictions.

India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das Prabhu in Bangladesh and called for the safety of minorities. Prabhu, an ISKCON leader, was arrested at Dhaka airport on sedition charges on 25 November. Known for peaceful protests against attacks on Hindus, he was denied bail by a court. The MEA urged Bangladesh to protect minorities and allow peaceful expression. Protests erupted in Dhaka and Chittagong, demanding his release. ISKCON Vice President Radharaman Das called the charges false, thanking India for its support. A review petition for Prabhu's bail is underway.

A tourist boat, Sea Story, sank in the Red Sea near Marsa Alam, Egypt, on Monday, leaving three people dead and 13 missing. The boat, carrying 44 passengers, capsized within minutes after being hit by a large wave. Rescuers saved 28 people, including British, Irish, German, and other nationals. Some passengers were trapped in cabins, making escape impossible, according to Red Sea Governor Amr Hanafi. Egyptian military forces are leading search efforts. The boat was on a five-day trip from Port Ghalib to Hurghada Marina. The sinking followed weather warnings of rough seas issued by the Egyptian Meteorological Authority.

The BJP criticised Rahul Gandhi for allegedly not greeting President Droupadi Murmu during her Constitution Day address in Parliament. BJP leader Amit Malviya said, “Rahul Gandhi is so arrogant that he did not even greet the President. Just because she comes from the tribal community, is a woman, and Rahul Gandhi is the prince of Congress?” Another leader, Pradeep Bhandari, accused the Gandhi family of disrespecting tribals, saying, “Why does the Vadra Gandhi family hate tribals so much?” President Murmu’s speech focused on the Constitution's role in achieving social justice and lauded government efforts for weaker sections of society.

India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir is flying back to India due to a family emergency. He will miss the pink-ball practice game in Canberra but is expected to return for the second Test in Adelaide. India leads the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 1-0 after a stunning 295-run win in Perth. Jasprit Bumrah’s brilliant performance as stand-in captain was key to the victory. Gambhir, who faced criticism recently, earned praise as young players Harshit and Nitish shone under his guidance. The team is preparing for a tough day-night Test against Australia’s pace attack, aiming to keep their World Test Championship hopes alive.

Thousands of Imran Khan supporters protested in Islamabad, demanding the release of the jailed former prime minister. They defied roadblocks and tear gas as they marched towards the city. Clashes between Khan’s Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and security forces have left six officers dead, including four paramilitary rangers and two policemen. Dozens have been injured in the unrest, which began on Monday. The government imposed a lockdown on Islamabad, sealing roads with shipping containers. Protests intensified despite warnings from authorities and restrictions on mobile services. Security remains tight as tensions escalate across the capital. Investigations into the violence are ongoing.

Two crude bomb explosions occurred outside two clubs in Chandigarh’s Sector 26 on Monday night. One of the clubs, Seville Bar and Lounge, is owned by rapper Badshah. CCTV footage shows a man throwing bombs and fleeing the scene. The blasts shattered window panes but caused no injuries. Police are investigating the incident, suspecting an extortion attempt or a dispute between the club partners. Senior police officials visited the site and are exploring other possible angles. Badshah, who opened Seville last year, co-owns other restaurants and is known for his songs in Hindi, Punjabi, and Bollywood films.

A federal judge has dismissed the case accusing Donald Trump of trying to overturn the 2020 election. Special prosecutor Jack Smith requested the dismissal, citing a policy that sitting presidents cannot face federal prosecution. The dismissal is "without prejudice," meaning charges could be refiled after Trump’s term ends. Trump, now president again after his 2024 win, called the cases against him political. Smith also seeks to drop the classified documents case, pending court approval. Other legal issues, including Georgia state charges, remain uncertain. Trump remains the first president to face criminal charges and conviction after leaving office.

Eknath Shinde resigned as Maharashtra Chief Minister on Tuesday but will continue as caretaker CM until a new leader is chosen. The BJP-led Mahayuti coalition won 235 of 288 seats in the recent Assembly elections, but there is no consensus on the next CM. Shiv Sena wants Shinde to stay, crediting him for the success of schemes like Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana. However, the BJP, which secured 132 seats, its best-ever in Maharashtra, is backing Devendra Fadnavis for the role. Discussions are ongoing to finalize the leadership for the new government.

The ICC is trying to convince the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to accept a hybrid model for the 2025 Champions Trophy. India has refused to play in Pakistan and wants its matches held in the UAE, including a possible final in Dubai. The ICC has offered the PCB extra financial incentives to break the deadlock. The PCB insists that Pakistan-India matches and the final be held in Lahore if it agrees to a hybrid model. A virtual meeting is scheduled today to resolve the issue. The tournament is set to begin on February 19, with venues in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi.