A Hong Kong court sentenced key pro-democracy leaders, including Benny Tai and Joshua Wong, to prison under China’s controversial National Security Law. Tai received a 10-year term, while Wong was sentenced to over 4 years. The court ruled their unofficial primary elections in 2020 aimed to subvert the government, marking the largest trial under the NSL. Critics, including Human Rights Watch, condemned the sentencing as politically motivated, eroding Hong Kong’s freedoms and judicial independence. Beijing defended the law as essential for stability. Observers warn this trial signals China's tightening grip over Hong Kong’s autonomy and democracy.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met Indian PM Narendra Modi at the G20 Summit in Brazil, aiming to revive stalled India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) talks. Starmer emphasized the importance of a trade deal to support UK jobs and economic growth. Modi highlighted India's commitment to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, prioritizing technology, green energy, and security. Negotiations, stalled since May, face challenges in goods, services, and investment. The UK’s trade with India reached £42B in June 2024. Both leaders expressed optimism about concluding a balanced, mutually beneficial agreement to strengthen bilateral ties.

Delhi's air quality index (AQI) soared to 494 on Tuesday, with several monitoring stations hitting the 500-mark, categorizing the pollution as "severe plus." A thick smog engulfed the city, reducing visibility and heightening health concerns. GRAP-IV restrictions remain enforced, banning non-essential vehicles and halting public construction projects. The Supreme Court has urged Delhi-NCR states to consider halting physical classes. Schools and universities, including Delhi University and JNU, have shifted to online learning until later this week. Authorities advise residents to limit outdoor activities as particulate matter levels continue to worsen.

The UK faces harsh winter conditions as the Met Office forecasts up to 20cm of snow in affected areas. Amber cold health alerts, covering most of England, warn of significant risks to vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly. Temperatures plunged to -7.8°C in Scotland's Highlands, with yellow alerts for snow and ice impacting parts of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Experts predict widespread frosts, potential snowfall, and travel disruptions. "Prepare for colder-than-average temperatures and icy conditions," advised the Met Office, urging safety precautions for the week ahead.

China has affirmed its commitment to implementing agreements reached between PM Modi and President Xi Jinping during the BRICS Summit in Kazan. The leaders discussed patrolling and troop disengagement along the LAC in eastern Ladakh, aiming to end a 4-year military standoff. China’s Foreign Ministry emphasized enhancing strategic trust, communication, and cooperation with India. Both sides agreed to revive bilateral dialogue mechanisms and instructed Special Representatives, NSA Ajit Doval and Wang Yi, to meet soon. Xi stressed mutual respect and finding harmonious solutions as neighbors with 1.4 billion citizens. This marks a significant thaw post the deadly Galwan Valley clash in 2020.

Anmol Bishnoi, fugitive brother of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, was detained in California, U.S., following Mumbai Police's extradition efforts. Anmol, implicated in high-profile cases, including Sidhu Moosewala’s 2022 murder and former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique's killing, fled India last year using a fake passport. Wanted in 20+ criminal cases, Anmol also faces a ₹10 lakh reward for information on his arrest. Authorities suspect his involvement in a shooting outside Salman Khan’s residence. U.S. officials may hand him over to Canada for Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s murder case before extraditing him to India.

U.S. President Joe Biden has authorized Ukraine to launch long-range Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) into Russia, marking a significant policy shift. The missiles, with a range of up to 190 miles, are expected to be deployed soon. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy remarked, "Missiles will speak for themselves." The decision comes amid reports of North Korean troops aiding Russia, heightening fears of conflict escalation. Russian President Vladimir Putin previously warned such actions could signify NATO’s direct involvement. At the G20 summit, Sir Keir Starmer is urging stronger support for Ukraine, highlighting the conflict's global security implications.

Magnus Carlsen had a memorable moment in Kolkata during the Tata Steel Chess India tournament. While handing the trophy to 20-year-old Bristy Mukherjee, who won the All India Women Rapid event, the World No. 1 was left blushing when she touched his feet for blessings. Carlsen also clinched the blitz title with 13 points, completing a double victory in Kolkata for the second time since 2019. Filipino-American Grandmaster Wesley So secured second place, while Arjun Erigaisi and R Praggnanandhaa finished third and fourth. Carlsen now heads to Singapore for Freestyle Chess promotions and a match against Fabiano Caruana.

The UK braces for Arctic weather with yellow warnings issued by the Met Office. Heavy snowfall up to 20 cm, ice, and freezing temperatures are expected from Monday night into Tuesday. Areas in Yorkshire, Wales, the East Midlands, and the north of England may face power cuts, travel disruptions, and rural communities being cut off. Meteorologist Tom Morgan warns of significant impacts, especially in the Pennine regions and Peak District. "Overnight frosts and winter showers will persist throughout the week," he added. Public transport delays, icy roads, and risks of slips and falls are anticipated across affected areas.

Veteran Bengali actress Uma Dasgupta, known for portraying Durga in Satyajit Ray’s timeless classic Pather Panchali, passed away on Monday at a private hospital. She had been unwell for some time. Actor Chiranjit Chakraborty confirmed the news shared by her daughter. Despite stepping away from acting years ago, Dasgupta’s performance remains etched in the hearts of audiences. Discovered by Ray through her school principal, her portrayal of Durga symbolized innocence and sibling love. Tributes pour in for the actress whose work in the black-and-white era continues to resonate with audiences.