The future of the Indian Super League (ISL) has been mired in uncertainty since last year, with unresolved disputes between the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the league’s former commercial partner, Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), pushing Indian football into a deep crisis.

With no clear resolution in sight, Indian footballers have now escalated the matter to the sport’s global governing body, FIFA, seeking its intervention.

Former India captain Sunil Chhetri, along with senior national team players Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Sandesh Jhingan and Odisha FC’s French midfielder Hugo Boumous, have jointly appealed to FIFA to step in and help address the ongoing turmoil threatening the sport in the country.

“It’s January, and we should be on your screens as part of a competitive football game in the Indian Super League,” Gurpreet said in a video message featuring several players.

“Players, staff, owners, and the fans deserve clarity, protection, and more importantly, a future,” Chhetri said.

“Instead, here we are, driven by fear and desperation, to say aloud something which we all know,” Jhingan added.

In a collective statement, the players underlined the gravity of the situation.

“But more importantly, we are here to make a plea. The Indian football government is no longer able to fulfil its responsibilities. We are now staring at permanent paralysis. This is the last-ditch effort to save what we can. So we are calling on FIFA to step in and do what it takes to save Indian football. We hope this message gets to the powers that are in Zurich. This call is not political; it is not driven by confrontation but by necessity. It might sound like a big word, but the truth is that we are facing a humanitarian, sporting, and economic crisis. And of course, we need rescuing at the earliest. We just want to play football, please help us do it,” other players said in the statement.

Boumous echoed similar concerns, saying: “So we are calling FIFA to step in and do what it takes to save Indian football. We hope this message gets to the powers that are in Zurich.”

. @FIFAcom @FIFPRO @FIFPROAsiaOce @FPAI pic.x.com/urNqYfmVcH

— Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (@GurpreetGK) January 2, 2026

Meanwhile, the AIFF on Thursday received a letter from thirteen of the fourteen Indian Super League (ISL) clubs confirming their willingness to participate in the 2025–26 season, but only under certain conditions. The clubs have sought written guarantees from the federation on cost-sharing, removal of participation fees, and a clear long-term sustainability plan. They have also urged the AIFF to seek a one-time relaxation from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) regarding the minimum match requirement for continental competitions.

In September, the Supreme Court of India also acknowledged the severity of the crisis, urging all stakeholders to resolve their differences and ensure the season begins on time. The court lifted the restrictions that had stalled negotiations amid uncertainty surrounding the National Sports Governance Act, 2025, and approved the adoption of a new AIFF constitution drafted by Justice L. Nageswara Rao.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the Grand International Exposition of Sacred Piprahwa Relics related to Bhagwan Buddha at Rai Pithora Cultural Complex in New Delhi.

This historic event marked the reunification of the Piprahwa gem relics of Lord Buddha, repatriated after 127 years, with relics, gem relics, and reliquaries from 1898 and then 1971-1975 excavations at the Piprahwa site.

Addressing a gathering on the ocassion, Modi said that India’s sacred legacy has come back home after a wait of a one and quarter centuries. “From today, the people of India will be able to have the sacred darshan of these holy relics of Lord Buddha and receive his divine blessings,” Modi said.

The Prime Minister said that it was a matter of good fortune for him that this was his first public program of 2026, starting from the footsteps of Lord Buddha.

“My wish is that with the blessings of Lord Buddha, 2026 brings a new era of peace, prosperity, and harmony for the world. The place where this exhibition is set up is special in itself. This site of Kila Rai Pithora is a glorious land of India’s proud history,” he said.

The PM said that the relics of Lord Buddha were taken away from India during the period of slavery, and now that they have been brought back, it teaches a very profound lesson. “The lesson is that slavery is not merely political or economic; slavery also suppresses our heritage. The same happened with the sacred relics of Lord Buddha.”

Modi said that for India, the sacred relics of Lord Buddha are “a part of our deity himself, an integral part of our civilization.”

The sacred Buddha relics were discovered in 1898 by William Claxton Peppé at the ancient stupa of Kapilavastu.

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Following their discovery, portions were distributed globally, with one part gifted to the King of Siam, another taken to England, and a third preserved at the Indian Museum, Kolkata. In 2025, the Peppe family portion was repatriated through decisive intervention by the Ministry of Culture, supported by Buddhist communities worldwide.

The Ministry of Culture made extensive efforts to ensure repatriation of the relics in July 2025, achieved through a public-private partnership, halting an auction at Sotheby’s Hong Kong.

The exhibition features over 80 objects spanning the 6th century BCE to the present, including sculptures, manuscripts, thangkas, and ritual objects.

On Friday, as the makers of the much-anticipated war sequel “Border 2″ released the “Ghar Kab Aaoge” track from the film. Singer Sonu Nigam who has also sang the original track “Sandese Aate Hai” along with Roop Kumar Rathod, shared that being a part of the patriotic number felt like an emotional and beautiful homecoming to him.

The singer penned an emotional message

Posting the track on his Instagram, Nigam pointed out that this is not just a song for him, but an emotion. The singer dedicated “Ghar Kab Aaoge” to the brave soldiers and their families and wrote, “Some songs aren’t just melodies; they are emotions that belong to the soul of our nation. Being a part of this song for Border 2 felt like a beautiful homecoming. It is rare for an artist to relive such magic, and I feel truly blessed that this journey continues. This one is for our brave soldiers and the families waiting for them (sic).”

History of the original track

The original track “Sandese Aate Hai” from the 1999 war drama “Border” was sung by Sonu Nigam and Roopkumar Rathod and composed by Anu Malik. The lyrics of the track were penned by Javed Akhtar.

Details of the new track

The makers launched the song in a grand event on Friday with a stellar line-up of talented singers such as Nigam, Arijit Singh, Vishal Mishra, and Diljit Dosanjh.

And with this song, it is scored by anu malik, and has been reimagined by Mithoon, with new lyrics contributed by Manoj Muntashir Shukla.

About the film

Directed by Anurag Singh, “Border 2” boasts an ensemble cast with Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, Ahan Shetty, Mona Singh, Medha Rana, Sonam Bajwa, and Anya Singh in key roles, along with others.

Presented by Gulshan Kumar & T-Series, in association with J.P. Dutta’s J.P. Films, and backed by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, J.P. Dutta, and Nidhi Dutta.

Release Date of the film

“Border 2” will be released in theatres on January 23.

The United States of America on Saturday carried out air strikes on Venezuela and captured its President, Nicolas Maduro. US President Donald Trump confirmed in a statement that his country has carried out strikes in several parts of Venezuela, including Caracas, and had flown out President Maduro out of the country along with his wife. The duo was later indicted on drugs and weapons charges in New York.

The US President, in a statement on Truth Social, said: “The United States of America has successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country. This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement. Details to follow. There will be a News Conference today at 11 A.M., at Mar-a-Lago. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP.”

The US strikes came amid growing tensions in the region. US officials had earlier confirmed to CBS News that President Trump authorised air strikes inside Venezuela, including on military facilities.

The Venezuelan government of President Maduro denounced the US strikes, calling them “extremely serious military aggression”. It said the US carried out attacks on the capital Caracas and the states of Miranda, Aragua and La Guaira.

Reports said the residents of Caracas were woken up around 2 am by the noise of loud explosions and low-flying aircraft. People in several localities rushed into the streets following the explosions around 2 am.

BREAKING: The Trump administration has begun an illegal bombing campaign of Caracas, Venezuela, striking various parts of the city. pic.x.com/SeSfSzWh20

— BreakThrough News (@BTnewsroom) January 3, 2026

The development came amid the ongoing American military campaign to target alleged drug-smuggling boats in the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean.

Venezuela had yesterday stated that it was willing to discuss with the US government a deal to combat drug trafficking. President Maduro had on Thursday alleged that the Trump administration wanted to overthrow his government in the name of an anti-drug trafficking campaign and gain access to the country’s huge oil reserves.

President Donald Trump had been exerting pressure on the Venezuelan government by first ordering a massive military deployment in the Caribbean Sea, and then targeting ships and boats in anti-drug raids. His administration had accused Maduro of drug trafficking and working with gangs designated as terrorist organisations. Trump had also warned of land operations in the South American country while increasing pressure on Maduro to leave office.

In recent weeks, the American military seized control of two oil tankers off Venezuela, while launching deadly strikes on over 30 boats alleged to be carrying drugs.

US air strikes on Venezuela: HIGHLIGHTS

Chinese automaker BYD surpassed Tesla in full-year electric vehicle sales for the first time in 2025, securing its position as the world’s largest electric vehicle seller, according to a Global Times report.

The shift in market leadership follows a year where the American manufacturer recorded its first-ever decline in annual deliveries while its Chinese competitor reported significant growth in its electric segment.

According to the report, Tesla delivered 1.63 million units in 2025, representing an 8.6 per cent year-on-year decrease. This performance marked a significant turn for the manufacturer, which previously dominated the global market.

Tesla also reported a 6.7 per cent decline in annual production, which fell to 1.73 million units from the levels recorded in 2024. The company now faces intense competition from rivals such as Hyundai and BYD.

“Tesla’s data came just a day after Chinese EV maker BYD released its annual report for 2025 in which it revealed that the company delivered 4.6 million vehicles in 2025, up 7.7 percent from 2024. Of the total, EV sales rose 28 percent to 2.25 million units,” the report said.

Chinese new-energy vehicle makers were becoming more competitive in production and supply chains. Cui Dongshu, secretary-general of the China Passenger Car Association, told the Global Times on Saturday that these manufacturers “continue to invest in R&D, rapidly advance their technologies, build a complete industrial chain based on China’s advanced manufacturing base, and benefit from a well-established domestic market, infrastructure and policy measures that support the industry growth.”

The report noted that even Tesla required its gigafactory in China to secure its delivery targets. The growth of Chinese manufacturers remains supported by an expanding industrial chain and integrated manufacturing bases.

“Looking ahead, Chinese EV makers are expected to continue maintaining their competitive position in deliveries as their supply chains and industrial chain expand,” the report quoted an industry analyst.

At least 12 Naxals were killed by security forces following an encounter that broke out in the forest area under Kistaram of Sukma district in Chhattisgarh, Sukma SP Kiran Chavan said on Saturday.

Acting on specific inputs about the presence of Naxals, a team of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) had launched an operation in the forest area.

As they were closing in, the Naxals opened fire, prompting a strong retaliation from the DRG jawans. “Automatic weapons were also recovered,” SP Chavan added.

Meanwhile, two Naxals were also killed by DRG Jawans in the southern region of Bijapur district.

The DRG had launched a search operation after receiving intelligence regarding the presence of armed Naxals in the region.

IG Bastar P Sundarraj said that contact was established around 5 am and intermittent exchange of fire has been goining on since then.

Political controversy erupts over Naxal Madvi Hidma

“Based on intelligence regarding the presence of armed Maoists in the southern region of Bijapur district, a search operation was launched. A team of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) was on an operation in the South Bastar region. Intermittent exchanges of fire between the DRG and Maoists have been ongoing since 5.00 AM,” the IG Bastar said.

So far, the bodies of two Maoists have been recovered from the encounter site during the search operation, he added.

With the March 31, 2026 deadline set by Union Home Minister Amit Shah to end Naxalism from the country approaching, the security forces have intensified their operations against the left-wing extremism.

According to a report, security forces neutralised 256 Naxalites in the forests of various districts of the Bastar division from January 2025 to December 2025.

India on Saturday flagged as fake social media posts claiming that the President of the Republic of Somaliland held official talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and that India was set to recognise Somaliland.

Responding to the claims, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) FactCheck unit said in a post on X, “Fake news alert! The posts below are fake!”

The clarification came amid the circulation of viral posts suggesting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had held formal discussions with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi and that recognition of Somaliland by “the world’s largest democracy” was imminent.

MEA FactCheck also rejected reports that Somalia had recalled its ambassador to India over the alleged recognition move, stating that the online content was false.

Screenshots shared by the unit showed visuals and captions falsely portraying official-level engagement between India and Somaliland, which the government said had no basis.

The clarification assumes importance given Somaliland’s long-standing political status. The region declared independence from Somalia on May 18, 1991, following the Somali Civil War, but has not been recognised internationally, except by Israel, which formally acknowledged Somaliland as a sovereign state on December 26, 2025.

Amid the broader international debate, Somaliland has rejected allegations that it agreed to host Israeli military facilities or resettle displaced Palestinians from Gaza in exchange for recognition. In a statement, Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said its engagement with Israel was “purely diplomatic” and conducted “in full respect of international law”, Al Jazeera reported.

The denial followed remarks by Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who told Al Jazeera that Somaliland had accepted conditions including resettlement of Palestinians, establishment of a military base along the Gulf of Aden, and joining the Abraham Accords. Somaliland officials said no discussions had taken place on such proposals, though joining the Abraham Accords has been publicly acknowledged.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed earlier this week that Somaliland would join the Abraham Accords, saying Israel wanted to support “a democratic, moderate country” willing to participate in the agreement, according to US media outlet Newsmax.

Somaliland President Abdurrahman Mohamed Abdullahi, also known as Cirro, is expected to visit Israel in the coming weeks, during which he would formally join the Abraham Accords, Israel’s public broadcaster Kan reported.

Somalia’s president warned that Israel’s recognition was a cover for strategic objectives and could destabilise the Horn of Africa. Analysts cited by Al Jazeera said Israel’s recognition may be linked to Somaliland’s strategic location near the Red Sea, opposite Yemen’s Houthis.
The recognition has triggered protests across Somalia, with demonstrations reported on December 30 in Mogadishu, Baidoa, Dhusamareb and other cities. The African Union and the European Union reiterated that Somalia’s territorial integrity should be respected, Al Jazeera reported.

Somaliland’s president has said more nations would soon recognise the region, which continues to be claimed by Somalia despite maintaining its own government, currency and military.

Veteran actor Anupam Kher decided to take a moment on the first day of shooting his 550th film, “Khosla Ka Ghosla 2” by reflecting on his challenging yet fulfilling cinematic journey

He shared a remark by an International director during the Cannes Film Festival last year. “So You are the MARATHON MAN of Indian Cinema!!” Said an International Director at the #CannesFilmFestival last year when I told him the number of films I have acted in! (sic),” he recalled. This shows the immense work he has done over the years.

A trip down memory lane

On his Instagram, Kher shares his memory of  looking back at the day when he first arrived in Mumbai in 1981 with just a heart full of dreams, he wrote, “So today as I start my 550th film #KhoslaKaGhosla2 my heart is filled with GRATITUDE and THANKFULNESS ! When I landed in #Mumbai, the city of dreams on the 3rd June 1981 never had I dreamt that I will reach this LANDMARK of 550 films.”

A long journey ahead

The veteran actor said, despite his long journey, he has only reached his ‘interval’ point and still has a lot more to give. “But here I am in Delhi ready to give my first shot for KKG2. Just FYI I genuinely feel I have so much to give, so much to do! I have reached only the ‘interval point’ of my life and my career! Dreams have no EXPIRY date!,” he wrote.

Secret behind his strength

Revealing his biggest strength during these years, he added, “My Optimism, my Never Giving up attitude and my ability to Work Hard has been my biggest strengths!”

Actor expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support

However, he also credited his directors, producers, and the audience for his long stay in the industry. Kher expressed his gratitude, by sharing, “But my survival for all these years has only been possible because of the support I got from all my producers, directors, co-actors, technicians and above all YOU, my AUDIENCES! Without your support reaching this landmark would never have been possible! So a big heartfelt THANK YOU! Jai Ho! Jai Hind! Om Namah Shivay!”

Congress leader Udit Raj on Saturday targeted the BJP-led governments over the contaminated water incident in Indore, alleging failure of governance and questioning the silence of the Prime Minister on the issue.

Speaking to ANI, Congress leader Udit Raj said, “People are dying, the Prime Minister remains silent. Delhi is in the grip of pollution, with people suffering from lung disease and age is declining. The situation in the Indore incident is such that they cannot even provide clean drinking water. This is the reality of the double-engine government. Their (BJP) situation is the same everywhere. They are not running a government with reality. They claim to be the world’s fourth-largest economy, Vishwaguru, and Digital India, but the reality is different.”
Water contamination in Indore’s Bhagirathpura area claimed several lives, and many families were affected by the incident.
Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav condemned the negligence of officials in the water contamination issue and announced the suspension of two officials following the incident.

In a post on X, the CM clarified his stance on the water contamination issue, saying, “The state government will not tolerate negligence in the incident that occurred in Bhaagirthpura, Indore, due to contaminated drinking water. Strict decisions are being taken in this regard.”
“The corporation’s Additional Commissioner Rohit Sisonia and the in-charge Superintending Engineer of PHE, Sanjeev Shrivastava have been suspended. Instructions have also been given to remove Indore Municipal Corporation Commissioner Dilip Kumar Yadav,” he added.
According to Indore district Collector Shivam Verma, five deaths have been officially confirmed so far in the water contamination incident, and the total number of hospitalised patients has risen to 210.

He also highlighted that a team of senior doctors was constituted to “analyse death figures” reported from various sources, and that, based on their findings, the official figure would be updated.

“The administration issues the figures on the basis of medical confirmation, and so far, five deaths have occurred in the incident. We have also constituted a team of senior doctors who will analyse death figures, which were received from other sources, such as public representatives or the media, and we will update our official death figure report. Till January 1, 201 people were admitted and on January 2, nine more people have been admitted, and the number has risen to 210,” Collector Verma said.

Samajwadi Party leader Ravidas Mehrotra on Saturday echoed the remarks of Jannayak Janta Party founder member Ajay Singh Chautala, saying the country is witnessing conditions similar to those that led to mass uprisings in several neighbouring nations.

Speaking to ANI, Mehrotra said public anger was growing due to unemployment, inflation and poverty, while those in power remained indifferent to people’s suffering.

He called on the youth to take to the streets as happened in Nepal.

“In India’s neighbouring countries, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, people have overthrown their governments through protests. A similar situation exists in India; people are dying of hunger, there is poverty, inflation, and unemployment, and those in power are ignoring these problems. Therefore, the youth of the country should take to the streets like in Nepal and remove those in power through a mass movement,” he said.

Earlier, former MP Ajay Chautala ignited criticism over his remarks, calling on the youth to take to the streets against the ruling government.
“The youth of Sri Lanka have overthrown the government and brought about a change in power. The youth of Bangladesh forced them to leave the country. The youth of Nepal not only ousted them from power but also chased and beat them on the streets. We need similar youth here as well,” Chautala said.

Meanwhile, fresh protests erupted in Bangladesh’s capital, Dhaka, on Friday as Inqilab Moncho, a mass cultural movement formed during the 2024 July Uprising, held a blockade in the Shahbagh region, demanding justice in the murder of Osman Hadi, one of the prominent leaders of the movement, who died on December 18.

During the rally, Inqilab Moncho leaders reminded Bangladesh’s interim government of the deadline for initiating and expediting the trial into Hadi’s killing, noting that only 22 days were left of the 30-day deadline provided by the movement for the matter.

Sharif Osman Hadi, an Inqilab Moncho convenor and one of the prominent figures behind the July Uprising last year, which led to the ousting of the former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s regime, was pronounced dead on December 18, after he was shot at close range on December 12 while travelling in a rickshaw in Dhaka’s Bijoynagar area.

After US President Donald Trump warned of possible intervention if Iranian authorities target protesters, Iran’s former Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi thanked him for supporting the Iranian people.

Pahlavi said Iranians are demanding an end to “this regime’s 46-year reign of chaos and terror” and want to rebuild ties with the United States to bring peace and stability to the region.

In a post on X, Pahlavi wrote, “President Trump, thank you for your strong leadership and support of my compatriots. This warning you have issued to the criminal leaders of the Islamic Republic gives my people greater strength and hope–hope that, at last, a President of the United States is standing firmly by their side. As they risk their lives to end this regime’s 46-year reign of chaos and terror, they send me with a responsibility and a message: to seek the relationship Iran once had with America that brought peace and prosperity to the Middle East.”

The former Iranian Queen, Farah Pahlavi also backed the protests calling on security forces to join the people in their struggle
“We are a people with a proud history of culture, art, intellect and innovation. Iran was once a beacon of hope and progress and it will be again. The future belongs to those who dare to dream, who dare to fight for a better tomorrow. I have full faith that you will reclaim your land, your freedom and your dignity. To my fellow Iranians, hold onto your faith in each other. Stand together, with love in your hearts for this beautiful land and for the generations yet to come. Your struggle is not in vain. This moment is yours. This time will be remembered as the turning point, when the Iranian people took their future back into their hands. I call on the security forces to join the people in this movement,” she posted on X.

Meanwhile, Volker Turk, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights called on Iranian authorities to uphold the rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly. He said that all individuals must be able to protest peacefully and express their grievances.
US President Donald Trump had earlier issued the warning on Tuesday (local time) through a social media post, threatening the current Iranian regime amid ongoing protests.

He wrote, “If Iran shots and violently kills peaceful protesters, which is their custom, the United States of America will come to their rescue. We are locked and loaded and ready to go. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”

The remarks came as people across Iran continued to protest against rising prices and economic hardship. Demonstrations have been reported in several provinces, with some turning violent and leading to deadly clashes with security forces, CNN reported.

Meanwhile, Iran’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Amir Saeed Iravani, wrote to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the President of the UN Security Council, urging them to condemn Trump’s “unlawful threats” against Tehran.

The letter was sent on Friday, just hours after Trump said that the US was “locked and loaded and ready to go” if protesters were killed during demonstrations triggered by rising living costs.

In the letter, Iravani asked UN leaders to “unequivocally and firmly condemn” Trump’s “reckless and provocative statements,” saying they amounted to a serious violation of the UN Charter and international law.

“Any attempt to incite, encourage or legitimise internal unrest as a pretext for external pressure or military intervention is a gross violation of the sovereignty, political independence and territorial integrity of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Iravani wrote. The letter was published in full by Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency.

He added that Iran’s government “reiterates its inherent right to defend its sovereignty” and would act in a “decisive and proportionate manner.”

“The United States of America bears full responsibility for any consequences arising from these illegal threats and any subsequent escalation of tensions,” Iravani said.

According to IRNA, protests continued on Friday in several Iranian cities, including Qom, Marvdasht, Yasuj, Mashhad and Hamedan. Demonstrations were also reported in parts of Tehran, including Tehranpars and Khak Sefid.

The unrest spread nationwide after shopkeepers in Tehran went on strike on Sunday over soaring prices and prolonged economic stagnation.
At least nine people have been killed and 44 arrested so far. The deputy governor of Qom province said another person died after a grenade exploded in his hand, calling it an attempt to provoke unrest, IRNA reported.

Transport Canada has issued a legal warning to Air India after one of its pilots was found unfit for duty during pre-flight preparations at Vancouver International Airport, raising serious aviation safety concerns, reported CBC.

The incident occurred on December 23 and led to the pilot being arrested by local authorities

According to Canadian officials, the pilot was preparing to operate Air India’s scheduled daily flight from Vancouver to Delhi when concerns were raised about his fitness to fly. Following a “report of concern” involving a crew member, Richmond Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) intervened and arrested the pilot. An investigation into the matter is currently ongoing, and police have stated that no further details will be released at this stage.

Transport Canada confirmed that it has formally engaged both Air India and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) of India to ensure appropriate follow-up actions are taken. While the DGCA holds primary responsibility for regulatory oversight of the airline, Transport Canada emphasized that it remains committed to taking immediate and necessary action if any safety risks are identified, reported CBC.

A spokesperson for Vancouver International Airport said the flight was delayed for several hours due to the incident but eventually departed safely after alternate arrangements were made.

In a statement, Transport Canada reiterated that Canadian aviation regulations strictly prohibit pilots and other crew members from performing duties within 12 hours of consuming alcohol or while under its influence. The agency also warned that airlines must not assign crew members who are unfit for duty. Failure to comply with these regulations could result in serious consequences, including suspension or cancellation of flight authorizations, as well as judicial and other penalties.

Air India, responding to the incident, said Flight AI186 from Vancouver to Delhi experienced a last-minute delay after one of the cockpit crew members was offloaded prior to departure. The airline stated that Canadian authorities raised concerns regarding the pilot’s fitness for duty, after which the crew member was taken for further inquiry.

“In accordance with safety protocols, an alternate pilot was rostered to operate the flight, resulting in the delay. Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to its passengers and is fully cooperating with the local authorities,” an Air India spokesperson said.

The airline added that the pilot has been taken off flying duties during the course of the enquiry. It further stated that any confirmed violation, pending the outcome of the investigation, would attract strict disciplinary action in line with company policy.

Transport Canada reaffirmed that ensuring aviation safety remains its top priority and that it will continue to closely monitor compliance with all applicable regulations.

 BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia on Saturday confirmed that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has instructed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad in light of the recent developments.

“Due to the recent developments that are going on all across, BCCI has instructed the franchise KKR to release one of their players, Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh, from their squad. If KKR asks for any replacement, BCCI is going to allow that replacement,” Saikia said.

#WATCH | Guwahati | BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia says, “Due to the recent developments that are going on all across, BCCI has instructed the franchise KKR to release one of their players, Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh, from their squad and BCCI has also said that if they ask… pic.x.com/53oxuRcmZp

— ANI (@ANI) January 3, 2026

Saikia also clarified that KKR will be allowed to sign a replacement player, should the franchise choose to do so, with the BCCI granting approval for the replacement. 

This comes on the backdrop of the ongoing debates around including Bangladeshi players in the Indian Premier League (IPL) amid the criticism of the violence against Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. Many of the people from religious and political groups came around to criticise Shah Rukh Khan, who is the co-owner of the KKR, to remove Rahman from the team. KKR bought Rahman for 9.20 crore, making him the most expensive Bangladeshi player ever in IPL history. 

KKR has confirmed that they abide by the BCCI’s directive to remove Mustafizur Rahman from the squad ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season.

KKR Media Advisory. pic.x.com/ZUZB620Uv7

— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) January 3, 2026

Saikia also provided an update on India’s ODI squad announcement for the New Zealand series, confirming that the selection meeting is scheduled for this afternoon.

“As you know, from the 11th of January, India is going to play New Zealand in a three-match ODI series. Today we have a meeting with the selectors and in the afternoon we are going to announce the squad for the New Zealand series,” he added.

India and New Zealand will face off in a three-match ODI series starting January 11, 2026.

For the T20i five-match series scheduled to start on 21 January, Saikia said that one of the matches will be conducted in Guwahati.

If hair strands on your pillow have started feeling like daily gossip, you’re not alone. In today’s fast and furious life, hair fall has become that uninvited guest no one asked for. Stress from work, pollution outside, junk food inside, and shelves full of chemical-loaded hair products are slowly turning young heads into thinning stories.

People are spending thousands on treatments, oils, serums, and pills, but results? Mostly short-lived. And that’s where Ayurveda casually walks in and clears its throat.

According to Acharya Balkrishna, the answer might already be sitting in your home garden: Ghritkumari, better known as Aloe Vera.

Also Read: Eat wheat bran, stay healthy: Acharya Balkrishna explains benefits for cholesterol, intestines and overall health

What is Ghritkumari and why everyone is talking about it

Ghritkumari, or Aloe Vera, is not some rare plant found in the Himalayas. It’s simple, green, and quietly powerful. Ayurveda has trusted it for centuries for skin, hair, and overall health.

Aloe Vera is rich in Vitamin A, C, E, folic acid, and natural enzymes. These nutrients directly nourish the scalp and strengthen hair roots. In simple words, it feeds your hair from the inside out.

Why aloe vera is a hair hero

Aloe Vera goes deep into the scalp and strengthens weak hair roots. Regular use helps reduce hair fall caused by dryness, stress, and pollution.

Its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties help fight dandruff, itching, and scalp infections; problems many people silently suffer from.

The natural enzymes in Aloe Vera improve blood circulation in the scalp. Better blood flow means better hair growth. Simple math, great results.

Aloe Vera is a natural moisturiser. It hydrates dry and lifeless hair, making it soft, shiny, and healthier without chemicals.

How to use aloe vera for hair fall (no fancy salon needed)

Cut a fresh Aloe Vera leaf and extract the gel. Massage it gently into your scalp. Leave it on for 30–40 minutes and wash with lukewarm water.

Mix Aloe Vera gel with neem leaf paste. Apply to the scalp to fight dandruff and infections naturally.

Mix Aloe Vera gel with one spoon of coconut oil. Warm it slightly and massage into the roots. This combo helps make hair thicker, stronger, and shinier.

Acharya Balkrishna suggests grinding Aloe Vera flowers and applying the paste to the scalp. It is believed to speed up hair growth naturally.

Senior Congress leader BK Hariprasad on Friday launched a sharp attack on the credibility of a recent survey on voter trust in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in Karnataka, alleging that it was conducted by government-linked agencies and lacked transparency, independence and statistical rigour.

Reacting to the survey findings, Hariprasad questioned both the commissioning authority and the agency that carried out the exercise. “This survey is commissioned through government-linked agencies, right? It is not an independent constitutional or judicial body,” he said.

He further alleged that the individual who conducted the survey, Dr Subramaniam, is associated with the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and runs an NGO whose credibility, he said, needs verification.

Hariprasad also targeted the Election Commission of India (ECI), claiming its credibility has eroded. “The Election Commission is at its lowest ebb in terms of its credibility. If the Election Commission wants to improve or build its image, there should be transparency. They should be impartial and listen to political parties and electoral representatives,” he said.

Linking the timing of the survey to recent political developments, the Congress leader alleged that the ECI was “disturbed” by the massive protest led by Rahul Gandhi at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan on December 14.

“They got jittery by the response of the people. Over a lakh people were there. They have realised that the Election Commission has a very bad name in this process, so they are trying to build up their image,” Hariprasad claimed.

Earlier in the day, other Congress leaders echoed similar concerns. Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge alleged that the survey, commissioned through the State Chief Electoral Officer, covered only 50 respondents per Assembly constituency, making it statistically weak and prone to sampling errors and selection bias. He also claimed the BJP was misleadingly projecting it as a “state government survey”.

Congress leader Supriya Shrinate questioned the impartiality of the agency, Grassroots Research and Advocacy Movement (GRAAM), noting its founder’s links to the PMO and his authorship of a laudatory book on the Prime Minister.

The controversy erupted after BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla cited a media report claiming that a survey showed high public trust in India’s electoral process, with over 84% of respondents believing elections are free and fair and more than 83% expressing confidence in EVMs.

The ruling BJP-led Mahayuti alliance has apparently won 68 seats uncontested in the crucial municipal corporation elections in Maharashtra. As per the reports, the BJP, Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde), and NCP have no opponents in these 68 seats. An Islam Party candidate in Malegaon also has no opponents. The development was confirmed on Friday, the last day of nomination withdrawals.

There are 2,869 seats in the 29 municipal corporations in Maharashtra where elections will be held on January 15. Of the total 2,869 seats, the BJP faces no opponents on 44 seats, while the Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar’s NCP are uncontested on 22 and two seats, respectively.

Kalyan-Dombivali Municipal Corporation (KDMC) has the highest number of ruling alliance candidates with no opponents – 22, including 15 from the BJP and seven from the Shiv Sena. The seat is the home turf of the BJP Maharashtra President, Ravindra Chavan. In Jalgaon, 12 Mahayuti candidates (six from the BJP and six from the Shiv Sena) are likely to win unopposed with no opponents. Jalgaon is the hometown of Water Resources Minister Girish Mahajan.

In the 78-seat Panvel Municipal Corporation, the BJP candidates on 6 seats don’t have any opponents from the Opposition parties, as their candidates mysteriously withdrew at the eleventh hour. In the 165-seat Pune Municipal Corporation, BJP’s Manjusha Nagpure and Shrikant Jagtap are set for a clear victory after Opposition candidates withdrew their nominations.

‘Just a trailer, the full picture is yet to come’

Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC said that this is just the trailer and the ruling alliance will dominate all 29 Municipal Corporations. “There are 22 candidates who won unopposed, a major achievement for the MahaYuti alliance. As they say, this is just the trailer—the full picture is yet to come… The Mahayuti alliance will dominate all 29 Municipal Corporations. By any measure, this wave is like a blockbuster film,” she said.

Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol attributed the unopposed wins to the development work carried out in the city under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

“BJP candidates Manjusha Nagpure and Shrikant Jagtap are elected unopposed from Ward No. 35 of the Pune Municipal Corporation. This is a result of the development work carried out in Pune under the leadership of PM Modi and Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis… This is the beginning for ensuring that Pune gets a BJP Mayor,” Mohol said.

Opposition cries foul

The development prompted sharp reactions from the Opposition parties, which alleged that the ruling BJP-led alliance had intimidated their candidates into withdrawing their nominations at the last moment. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut claimed that returning officers have been directed to accept withdrawal of nominations even if they come late at night.

“A friend of mine, who is in this election process, said this (accepting the form beyond 3 pm) would not be appropriate. He was told by the guardian minister, in a tone that sounded both a request as well as a threat, that he should listen to what the local MLA says,” Raut said, adding, “this is mobocracy in the name of democracy” and warning of a public uprising like Bangladesh and Nepal.

Following the Opposition’s allegations, the State Election Commission has directed the returning officers to hold the final announcement of winners in these wards until the investigation is complete.

Rutuja Dadaso Pisal (30′) and Sakshi Rana (54′) scored a goal each as Ranchi Royals defeated Soorma Hockey Club 2-0 in their Women’s Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26 encounter at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium in Ranchi on Friday.

Defences were on top in the first quarter as both sides hardly made any errors or gave away good chances to their opposition. Ranchi Royals held more possession in the beginning; however, JSW Soorma Hockey Club showed great attacking intent and made 10 circle penetrations in the first 15 minutes of the contest.

In the 12th minute, Soorma Hockey Club won the first penalty corner of the evening, but Penny Squibb’s shot was stopped by the first rusher.

In the 18th minute, Rutuja Dadaso Pisal took a shot which was saved by Savita, Hannah Cotter couldn’t control the ball on the rebound, and the chance was squandered by the Royals. In the 25th minute, Ranchi Royals’ Ishika committed a foul inside the circle, giving away a penalty stroke to JSW Soorma Hockey Club; however, Penny Squibb was denied due to a brilliant save by Madhuri Kindo for Ranchi Royals. In the next minute, Soorma won a penalty corner as they continued to pile on the pressure, but Penny Squibb’s strike was yet again stopped by the first rusher.

With seconds left in the first half, Ranchi Royals bagged the first goal of the contest. Agostina Alonso played a powerful pass into the circle from midfield as Rutuja Dadaso Pisal (30′) showcased incredible skill to poach the ball perfectly, deflecting it into the net to score.

In the opening minutes of the third quarter, Soorma’s Olivia Shannon made a brilliant individual effort, winning the ball herself in a dangerous position as she fired a back-handed shot, denied by Ranchi Royals’ Bichu Devi Kharibam.

In the 34th minute, Maria Ortiz came teasingly close to increasing the advantage for the Royals as she did well to beat her marker and unleash a low-driven shot towards goal, but the ball struck the post. With just two seconds left on the clock, Ranchi Royals won another penalty corner, but the ball wasn’t trapped effectively, and the opportunity was missed.

In the 54th minute, Ranchi Royals increased their advantage with another amazing field goal. Sakshi Rana (54′) unleashed a powerful strike from a tight angle into the top right corner of the goalpost as the Royals built on their lead.

Soorma Hockey Club won a crucial penalty corner in the final minute of the match as Penny Squibb’s dragflick was denied by Bichu Devi Kharibam to end her game with a clean sheet.