Indian Navy intercepts a hijacked ship, ex-MV Ruen, commandeered by Somali pirates, as seen in a video capturing gunfire at a Navy chopper. The vessel, hijacked on December 14, was reportedly used for piracy. Responding in self-defence, the Navy urges pirates to surrender and release any hostages. The Navy asserts minimal force necessary to neutralize threats. This incident follows the rescue of a Bangladesh-flagged carrier's crew seized by pirates off Somalia's coast. The Navy remains vigilant against piracy, ensuring maritime security and safeguarding seafarers in the region.            

Bharat Rashtra Samithi leader K Kavitha asserts her arrest by the Enforcement Directorate as "illegal" amid allegations linked to the Delhi excise policy. Taken into custody from her Banjara Hills residence in Hyderabad, Kavitha vows to contest the charges. The arrest memo cites violations of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. Kavitha becomes the third high-profile figure apprehended in the case, joining AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh. Allegedly associated with a liquor lobby, Kavitha faces scrutiny over her purported involvement in the now-defunct excise policy.            

Prosecutors in New York City announced no charges would be filed against a 32-year-old man who shot another passenger on a subway train, citing self-defense. The incident, which occurred on a Brooklyn-bound A train, left a 36-year-old man critically injured. Law enforcement sources revealed the victim was armed with a knife and gun, acting as the aggressor. The altercation escalated over a possible dispute about a subway seat, resulting in the shooting. While the victim remains in critical condition, authorities continue to investigate the incident, urging anyone with information to come forward.            

The House's decision to pass a bill requiring TikTok to split from its Chinese parent company or face a U.S. ban has sparked criticism from younger users. With pressing issues like affordable housing and student debt, many question Congress's focus on the popular video app. Despite fears of Chinese influence, TikTok denies data sharing with China. While the bill awaits Senate review, concerns about free expression and livelihoods persist. Young creators express frustration, urging followers to oppose the legislation. As debates unfold, the ban's impact on community building and individual freedoms remains a central concern for users.

Bhutan's Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, speaking at the India Today Conclave 2024, highlights the importance of Gross National Happiness (GNH) 2.0. Tobgay emphasizes the need for balancing economic growth with environmental protection and good governance. Urging support amidst challenges, Tobgay invites Indians to visit Bhutan as tourists and friends. Expressing gratitude for India's support, he emphasizes the close ties between the two nations. GNH, introduced as an alternative to GDP, measures the happiness and well-being of Bhutan's population. Tobgay's vision for GNH 2.0 aims to contribute positively to global well-being.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah voices disillusionment with the Election Commission of India (ECI), citing its failure to restore democracy in the region. Abdullah urges the ECI to conduct both assembly and Lok Sabha polls simultaneously in J&K, emphasizing the absence of assembly elections in a decade. He criticizes the ECI's mission, highlighting President Ram Nath Kovind's proposal for "One nation, one election." Abdullah, advocating for electoral transparency, asserts the National Conference's autonomy in candidate selection for the upcoming polls.            

Labour activists dressed as chickens gather in Westminster, urging Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to announce the date for the upcoming general election. This follows Sunak's dismissal of a May 2nd election possibility, prompting accusations from Labour of him "running scared." Deputy national campaign coordinator Ellie Reeves criticizes the prolonged Conservative rule, stating, "People rightly want a general election." The stunt underscores mounting pressure on the government to address electoral uncertainty as political tensions heighten. Labour's demonstration reflects growing calls for transparency and clarity amidst ongoing speculation surrounding the timing of the election.

A Russian missile strike in Odesa, Ukraine, has resulted in the deaths of at least 20 people and left over 75 injured. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy vows a "fair response" to Russia's "vile" attack on the Black Sea city, which has faced continuous bombardment this month. Two Iskander-M missiles fired from Russian-occupied Crimea struck residential areas, causing widespread destruction. Saturday was declared a local day of mourning as residents rushed to donate blood. Odesa, a vital port city, has been targeted by Russia, exacerbating tensions as Ukraine retaliates amidst ongoing conflict.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal made a physical appearance before a court in the national capital regarding the Enforcement Directorate summonses case. The Rouse Avenue Court later granted him bail. This marks Kejriwal's first in-person appearance in connection with the case, following a previous virtual appearance. The Enforcement Directorate has filed two complaints against Kejriwal for allegedly disobeying their summons related to the Delhi excise policy case. The development comes amidst heightened political scrutiny as India gears up for the upcoming general elections.

Berlin's iconic techno music culture has been officially recognized as UNESCO cultural heritage, marking a significant milestone for the genre. The decision, announced by the German UNESCO Commission, acknowledges techno's pivotal role in shaping the capital's identity for over three decades. Advocates, including the charity Rave The Planet and Berlin's Clubcommission, celebrate the achievement, noting its positive impact on club maintenance and artist support. Techno's rise in Germany post-Berlin Wall fueled by abandoned sites provided a platform for musical expression, making Berlin a global hub for techno enthusiasts.