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News
Mon, 01 Dec 2025
India’s Parliament Winter Session began today, December 1, 2025, and the mood in Delhi is already charged. Although the government has lined up a busy legislative agenda for the short session that runs until December 19, the atmosphere is dominated by one issue: the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. Opposition parties arrived prepared to confront the government head-on, signalling that the SIR controversy could derail proceedings from the very first hour. At the heart of the storm is the Election Commission’s ongoing door-to-door verification exercise in twelve states and union territories—an effort meant to remove duplicate and ineligible voters while adding new, legitimate ones. While the Commission insists the revision is essential to safeguard elections from bogus voting, the opposition paints a very different picture. They argue that the process is being rushed, mismanaged, and selectively applied. The recent Bihar elections have become the rallying point: reports of mass deletions, overworked field officers, and a result that favoured the NDA have given fuel to accusations of “vote theft.” During the pre-session all-party meeting chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Samajwadi Party leader Ramgopal Yadav bluntly warned that Parliament would not function unless the issue is discussed. Congress, meanwhile, is pressing to widen the discussion to deeper electoral reforms. The government counters this outrage by framing SIR as a housekeeping exercise vital to democratic integrity. Bogus votes have affected outcomes before, and the Supreme Court, while urging transparency through measures like publishing deletion lists, has upheld the Election Commission’s authority to conduct such revisions. Yet the problem lies in execution. The deadlines, pressure on ground staff, and the difficulties faced by migrants and the poor in producing documents leave the opposition convinced that the clean-up is less about accuracy and more about electoral advantage in states preparing for polls. Meanwhile, the legislative calendar is dense. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has urged all parties to maintain productivity, emphasising that the government is willing to discuss differences without stalling the House. Among the major bills expected is the Atomic Energy Bill, which proposes to allow private investment in India’s nuclear sector—a significant shift for energy security. Other items include the Securities Market Code, amendments involving insurance and national highways, and changes in excise rules that could channel revenue from tobacco and other sin goods into health and security programmes. The government also wants to mark 150 years of “Vande Mataram,” adding a symbolic layer to an already charged session. But the opposition’s agenda stretches far beyond SIR. With recent blasts in Delhi raising new questions about security preparedness, demands for statehood for Jammu and Kashmir resurfacing, and Delhi’s pollution crisis worsening, parties like Congress and AAP are preparing to raise adjournment motions right from the opening day. Rahul Gandhi’s strategy group has already framed the SIR issue as part of a larger narrative of institutional failure, linking it to unresolved security lapses such as the attacks in Pahalgam. All of this sets the stage for a winter session that could either become another casualty of political gridlock or a moment of clarity on electoral transparency. The stakes are high: a well-run session could push forward critical reforms that influence India’s economy, education system, and infrastructure; a disrupted one risks repeating the frustrations of previous years, leaving the public wondering whether the democratic process is serving them at all. As both Houses assembled at 11 AM this morning, the question hung in the air—would this be a season of cooperation or confrontation? Disclaimer: This image is taken from
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Opinions
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Devansh Patel
Suicide bomber infiltrates FC camp in Nokundi, launching a major assault on Pakistani forces; BLF claims responsibility.

A major attack took place at a Pakistani forces’ camp in Balochistan’s Chagai district on Sunday evening, when a suicide bomber detonated explosives at the main entrance of the Frontier Corps headquarters in Nokundi, according to security officials cited by The Balochistan Post (TBP). Officials reported that gunfire continued inside the facility after the initial blast, though they did not provide casualty details. Initial reports indicated that the bomber’s explosion at the main gate allowed several armed assailants to enter the camp. Gunfire and multiple explosions were heard for over an hour, and clashes were ongoing at the time of reporting.

No group immediately claimed responsibility, but later on Sunday, the Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) stated that a sub-unit had carried out a “heavy attack” on what it described as the central compound used by foreign personnel working on the Reko Diq and Saindak mining projects in Nokundi, as noted by TBP. The BLF claimed the operation was still in progress and promised a detailed statement after its conclusion. Pakistani authorities have not responded to the BLF’s claims.

This attack is part of a wider surge of militant activity across Balochistan over the past 24 hours, during which armed groups have targeted Pakistani forces with IED explosions, ambushes, and attacks on checkpoints in multiple areas. Analysts say the recent wave of attacks shows that Baloch armed groups retain the capability to strike at will, despite strict security measures. Internet services, transportation routes, and several urban centers have been restricted in recent days to prevent attacks, yet militants have continued operations in various locations, TBP reported. Chagai district, where the attack occurred, hosts the Reko Diq copper and gold reserves—among the largest undeveloped deposits globally—and is a critical part of Pakistan’s mining and investment plans, according to TBP.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.

World
Mon, 01 Dec 2025
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Arnav Sharma
Navy Chief calls reports of missile test delay caused by Chinese spy ship a 'figment of imagination'.

Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of Naval Staff, dismissed reports suggesting that a Chinese spy vessel caused a delay in an Indian missile test, calling such claims “somebody’s figment of imagination” or a possible planted narrative during his remarks on 30 November 2025. Speaking at the National Defence Academy’s 149th Passing Out Parade in Khadakwasla, Admiral Tripathi admitted he was not fully aware of the specifics. He noted that in the past, survey and satellite-tracking ships from other countries have appeared near areas of Indian interest, occasionally requiring operational adjustments.

The Navy Chief emphasized that such occurrences are part of routine global maritime practices. He stated that the Indian Navy consistently monitors foreign vessels, including dual-use ships, to maintain full maritime domain awareness in the Indian Ocean Region. The parade marked the completion of three years of training for 329 cadets, including 20 from friendly foreign nations and a second batch of 15 women cadets. Admiral Tripathi, an NDA alumnus, reviewed the parade and lauded the graduates for their discipline and dedication. He also highlighted the academy’s 75-year tradition of excellence, quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi: “The path to peace runs through power,” and noted that the cadets embody this principle, ready to protect India’s sovereignty and that of partner nations.

Chinese surveillance ships, such as the Yuan Wang-class and Shi Yan-6, have frequently entered the Indian Ocean, often around Indian missile test schedules. Past instances, including in 2022 near Bali and recent sightings in late November 2025, reportedly delayed tests from 25–27 November to 1–3 December.

Equipped with advanced sensors for tracking missile trajectories and underwater activities, these vessels are closely monitored by India. The country has deployed assets for surveillance and occasionally engaged diplomatically, such as with Sri Lanka over the docking of such ships at Hambantota port. Admiral Tripathi’s statements reflect India’s continued vigilance against foreign intelligence-gathering in strategic waters. Operation Sindoor remains active, demonstrating integrated tri-service preparedness amid regional tensions.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from desi talk chicago.

Military
Mon, 01 Dec 2025
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Anika Mehra
James Cameron states he will never use AI actors, describing the idea as "horrifying."

James Cameron has described the idea of generative AI replacing actors as “horrifying.” While the Avatar: The Way of Water director—who also sits on the board of Stability AI—has spoken positively about AI’s role in filmmaking, he draws a clear line when it comes to substituting human performers.

Cameron, an Oscar-winning filmmaker, praised motion capture as the “purest form” of performance and admitted he regretted not fully revealing the CGI-assisted techniques in 2009’s Avatar to preserve the “magic” for audiences. Speaking on CBS Sunday Morning, he emphasized the difference between motion capture and AI, describing traditional techniques as a celebration of actors’ performances and interactions.

“In contrast, generative AI can fabricate characters, actors, and performances entirely from text prompts,” he said. “That’s horrifying to me. That’s the opposite of what we’re doing.” He stressed that he never wants technology to replace actors, saying, “I love working with actors.” However, Cameron believes AI can still benefit filmmaking, particularly in reducing VFX costs. He noted that imaginative, high-budget science-fiction films are increasingly rare because studios favor safe, established IP, making projects like Avatar unlikely today.

He also argued that AI might challenge filmmakers to push their creativity further, as generative models can only remix existing works and cannot produce truly original ideas. “You won’t find the idiosyncrasies of a particular actor or a screenwriter’s unique lived experience,” he said. “The act of performance—the real-time creation by an artist—will become even more sacred.”
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Insta/James Cameron.

Entertainment
Mon, 01 Dec 2025
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Isha Thakur
British MP Tulip Siddiq has been handed a two-year prison sentence in Bangladesh over a corruption case.

A court in Bangladesh has sentenced British MP and former minister Tulip Siddiq to two years in prison in a corruption case concerning the alleged illegal allocation of a land plot, according to local media reports. The verdict was delivered in absentia, as Siddiq, her aunt and former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and Hasina’s sister Sheikh Rehana—all co-accused—were not present in court. Hasina received a five-year sentence, while Rehana was handed seven years.

Hasina, who fled to India in August 2024 amid an uprising against her government, was sentenced to death last month over her administration’s violent crackdown on protesters. In addition, she received a combined 21-year prison sentence in other corruption cases. Prosecutors stated that the 13,610 sq ft land plot was allocated illegally through political influence and collusion with senior officials, accusing Siddiq, Hasina, and Rehana of abusing their authority during Hasina’s tenure as prime minister. Most of the 17 defendants were absent when the judgments were pronounced.

Siddiq resigned in January from her position as the UK minister responsible for financial services and anti-corruption initiatives, following scrutiny over her financial ties to Hasina. She has consistently dismissed the allegations, describing them as a “politically motivated smear.” The UK currently does not have an extradition treaty with Bangladesh, making it unlikely that Siddiq will face imprisonment there.

The case has drawn international attention, highlighting ongoing concerns about political corruption in Bangladesh and the legal risks faced by high-profile figures involved in government affairs. The sentencing underscores the government’s crackdown on alleged misuse of power and continues to resonate amid the country’s turbulent political landscape.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.

Asia In News
Mon, 01 Dec 2025
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The government announced on Monday that 87 illegal loan-lending apps have been blocked after completing the required procedures. It stated that the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has the authority to restrict public access to information under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000. According to Minister of State for Corporate Affairs Harsh Malhotra, MeitY has so far blocked 87 unlawful loan apps under this provision. In a written reply to the Lok Sabha, he added that regulatory steps such as inquiries, inspections of financial records, and investigations under the Companies Act, 2013 are periodically carried out against various companies, including those involved in online lending through such apps. He said that whenever violations of the Companies Act are detected, suitable legal action is taken. The Companies Act is administered by the corporate affairs ministry.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Business Standard.

Economy
Mon, 01 Dec 2025
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Podcasts
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Devansh Mehra
I realized we were going to die: the final journey of the Scandies Rose

In December 2019, a fishing boat set out from an Alaskan port with an experienced crew, unaware that an icy storm was gathering. The events that followed underscore why deep-sea fishing is considered one of the most dangerous professions in the world. This account is by Rose George, read by Rosalie Craig, and is adapted from Every Last Fish: What Fish Do for Us, and What We Do to Them, published by Granta.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.

News
Sat, 29 Nov 2025
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Rishabh Iyer
Republicans court women ahead of midterms, including Maga moms and Erika Kirk.

Erika Kirk, widow of the late right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, has expressed openness to backing JD Vance if he runs for president in 2028. Meanwhile, Katie Miller, wife of White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, hosts senior Republicans on her podcast to engage with conservative women. The Trump administration is also crafting policies aimed at baby boomers to attract female voters ahead of the midterms. Jonathan Freedland discusses this Republican effort to appeal to women with Guardian columnist Arwa Mahdawi.
Disclaimer: This Podcast is taken from The Guardian.

Politics
Fri, 28 Nov 2025
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Karan Dutt
Tariffs, Challenges, and Key Moments: A Year of Trade Change Under Trump

From April's "Liberation Day" to the end of the year, tariff changes have produced distinct winners and losers, along with a long list of countries still under close examination. Some nations hit hardest by the tariffs have managed to mitigate the impact by shifting supply chains and negotiating strategic side agreements. As global trade patterns adjust, new beneficiaries are starting to emerge. The wave of bilateral agreements expected in 2026 could once again alter the global landscape. Andrea Heng and Susan Ng discuss the year's developments with Chris Humphrey, Executive Director of the EU-Asean Business Council.
Disclaimer: This Podcast is taken from CNA.

Economy
Thu, 27 Nov 2025
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Ishaan Verma
Guardian Essential report: climate crisis fears and concerns over AI

Just over 50% of voters acknowledge that climate change is real and driven by human activity, according to the latest Guardian Essential poll. Interestingly, a similar proportion held the same view more than 15 years ago. Essential Media’s executive director, Peter Lewis, and political reporter Josh Butler examine the disconnect between climate science and the politics of climate action in Australia. They also discuss why self-aware AI, rather than climate change, is seen as the biggest existential threat, and how strong public backing for gambling reform highlights the gap between Prime Minister Albanese’s current policies and the public’s appetite for change.

Disclaimer: This Podcast is taken from The Guardian.

News
Wed, 26 Nov 2025