A new scandal involving the misappropriation of Covid-19 funds during former Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa's BJP-led government has overtaken the MUDA scam in headlines. Allegations of mishandling crores of rupees have sparked accusations of "tit-for-tat" corruption. A preliminary report by Justice John Michael D'Cunha was discussed by the state cabinet, revealing various irregularities. At the meeting, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah made three critical observations regarding the findings. The report's details are yet to be fully disclosed, but it has already intensified political tensions in Karnataka, with further investigations likely to follow.

Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden, pleaded guilty to federal tax charges on Thursday. He was accused of failing to pay $1.4 million in taxes between 2016 and 2019. The charges carried a maximum sentence of 17 years in prison and $450,000 in fines. By pleading guilty, Biden avoids a trial that was set to begin before the presidential election. Sentencing is scheduled for December 16. The guilty plea is likely part of an agreement with prosecutors for a reduced sentence.

Kapil Parmar, aged 24, won a bronze medal in judo at the Paris Paralympics, showcasing remarkable resilience despite his deteriorating vision. Once a promising wrestler, Parmar’s life changed after a severe electrocution accident led to progressive vision loss. Determined to continue his sporting dreams, he took up judo in 2017. His inspiring journey, marked by relentless training and adaptability, culminated in a 10-0 victory over Elielton de Oliveira. Parmar’s family, aware of his impending total blindness, celebrated his achievement, seeing it as a beacon of hope and perseverance. His story highlights extraordinary courage and determination.

Hamas has called on the United States to “exert real pressure” on Israel to secure a Gaza ceasefire, demanding an end to perceived bias. Hamas’s Khalil al-Hayya criticized the US for not acting against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who denies any ongoing deal. Netanyahu, speaking to Fox & Friends, said, “There is not a deal in the making,” emphasizing Israel’s goal to prevent Iranian resupply to Gaza. The US National Security Council claims a ceasefire deal is 90% complete but acknowledges ongoing complex negotiations. Meanwhile, Israel continues its offensive, impacting Gaza’s humanitarian situation.

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Thursday that Moscow’s primary goal in Ukraine is to capture the eastern Donbas region, claiming recent Ukrainian actions in Kursk have expedited Russian advances. Putin argued that Ukraine's push into Kursk, which aimed to distract Russian forces, has actually accelerated Moscow’s offensive in the Donbas. Despite setbacks, he asserted that Russian troops are making progress, nearing key logistics hubs. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to holding its ground and suggested a readiness for negotiations, albeit under specific conditions.

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has countered bribery allegations in the RG Kar rape-murder case by releasing a video of the victim’s parents, who deny claims of police bribery. The video, recorded last month, features the victim’s father rejecting bribery accusations, calling them "baseless rumours." TMC leader Shashi Panja accused the BJP of exploiting the tragedy for political gain and condemned the spread of "fake" videos by BJP's IT cell. The BJP has been criticized for politicizing the issue and attempting to undermine the pursuit of justice for the victim.

Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor to Bangladesh's interim government, has criticized Sheikh Hasina’s statements made from India, calling them an "unfriendly gesture." Yunus stated, “There is discomfort in Bangladesh over Hasina’s remarks from India,” and added, “If India wants to keep her until the time Bangladesh wants her back, the condition would be that she has to keep quiet.” He emphasized that the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and India are now at a low. Yunus also called for Hasina's return to Bangladesh for trial, urging India to improve its stance on political narratives.

Avani Lekhara, paralyzed waist-down from a car accident at 11, has made history by winning gold in women's 10m air rifle (SH1) at the Paris Paralympics, defending her Tokyo title. Despite a gallbladder surgery in March 2024 and subsequent health issues, Lekhara worked tirelessly to return to form. The 22-year-old, also an assistant conservator of forests in Rajasthan, shot 249.7 to break her own Paralympic record. Lekhara's victory, coupled with a double podium finish for India, highlights her remarkable resilience and determination in overcoming adversity.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed India, China, and Brazil as potential mediators for peace talks in the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian conflict. This suggestion follows Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Kyiv, where he reiterated India's commitment to peaceful resolution. Putin emphasized that Russia is open to negotiations based on the 2022 Istanbul talks, which were never implemented. The proposal highlights Modi’s diplomatic influence and India's growing role in global peace initiatives.

Pranav Soorma’s inspiring story is one of perseverance and triumph over adversity. A quadriplegic since a life-altering accident at 16, Pranav found his purpose in sports despite the immense physical challenges. Using glue to grip his club, Pranav won silver in the club throw event at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, throwing 34.59m. His determination, supported by his father, who left his job to care for him, led to this victory. Pranav credits his role model, Virat Kohli, for motivating him through tough times. His journey serves as a beacon of hope for overcoming obstacles.