A. R. Rahman has released a video statement after facing criticism over comments made in a recent interview. The composer said India is his inspiration, teacher, and home, and stressed that his remarks were misunderstood. Rahman said his intention was never to hurt anyone and that he has always tried to serve the country through music. He highlighted his work with young artists, orchestras, and multicultural projects across India. Rahman also said he feels honoured to compose music for Ramayana. He ended the video by expressing gratitude to the nation and reaffirming his commitment to music rooted in Indian culture.

Iranian protesters say former US President Donald Trump “fooled and deceived” them after hopes of American support during the unrest failed to materialise. Many demonstrators believed Trump’s public warnings to Iran and social media posts showed the US was ready to act. Some said his comment that the US was “locked and loaded” pushed people back onto the streets. Iranian authorities later shut down internet services and used force to crush protests. When Trump later said Iran’s leaders had assured him killings would stop, he ruled out military action. Protesters say the sudden shift left them exposed and led to the collapse of the movement. (PC: X)

The European Parliament has suspended ratification of a trade deal with the United States after President Donald Trump announced new tariffs on some European countries. The move followed Trump’s decision to impose extra duties on nations that sent troops to Greenland. EU lawmakers said a zero-tariff pact cannot move forward under such pressure. Leaders warned that countermeasures may be considered under EU anti-coercion rules. The trade deal, agreed last year to ease tensions, aimed to stabilise tariffs and improve transatlantic trade ties. (PC: India Today)

Police in Varanasi registered eight FIRs over alleged AI-generated images and misleading posts about redevelopment work at Manikarnika Ghat. Officials said the visuals shared on social media were false and aimed at hurting religious sentiments and disturbing public order. The cases name eight individuals and several X handles. Police said action will also cover those who reposted the content. Opposition leaders raised concerns online, prompting a response from Yogi Adityanath, who called the claims false propaganda. He said redevelopment is ongoing and warned of strict action against misinformation. (PC: HT)

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said for the first time that thousands were killed during recent nationwide protests. Speaking on Saturday, he blamed the United States and Israel for the deaths. The unrest began in late December over economic issues and later turned into calls against Iran’s leadership. The Human Rights Activists News Agency said at least 3,090 people were killed, though activists believe the toll is higher. A near-total internet shutdown has limited information. US President Donald Trump urged protests to continue and warned of possible action. (PC: BBC)

US Congressman Rich McCormick said India brings money, talent, and investment to the United States, unlike Pakistan. Speaking at an event hosted by the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, he said India both receives and sends investment to the US. McCormick described India as a growing and influential country, driven by a rising middle class and strong talent base. He warned that pushing India away could harm American interests. Democratic Congressman Ami Bera said trade frictions exist, but both nations remain committed to long-term strategic and economic ties. He added that US companies continue to invest heavily in India. (PC: NDTV)

A thick layer of fog covered Delhi-NCR on Sunday morning, reducing visibility to near zero and delaying flights and trains. The minimum temperature fell to 5.3°C, below normal for this time of year. Air quality remained severe, with the AQI reaching 439, prompting authorities to enforce GRAP-IV curbs. The India Meteorological Department reported zero visibility at Safdarjung and very low visibility at Palam. Airlines issued advisories, while train services faced delays of up to 12 hours. Similar fog conditions were reported in parts of Uttar Pradesh and Punjab. (PC: India Today)

Music composer AR Rahman faced social media backlash over claims he refused to sing Vande Mataram in an interview. Journalist posts suggested Rahman had declined requests to perform the patriotic song. Singer Chinmayi Sripada defended him, tweeting that Rahman and his team had performed Vande Mataram with audiences at events, including a November 2025 concert in Pune, and that he often sings Maa Tujhe Salaam at shows — suggesting any refusal may have had non-controversial reasons. Actress Meerra Chopraa also supported Rahman, comparing his global stature to Priyanka Chopra and urging respect for the music legend. (PC: HT)

European Union leaders have strongly condemned U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to impose tariffs on several European countries over their opposition to his bid to acquire Greenland. Trump announced 10% tariffs on imports from nations including Denmark, Sweden, Germany, France, the UK, the Netherlands, Finland and Norway from February 1, rising to 25% by June unless the U.S. deal is reached. EU chiefs Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa said such tariffs risk undermining transatlantic relations and could spark a “dangerous downward spiral.” Diplomats plan an emergency meeting to coordinate a collective response, stressing unity and respect for sovereignty. (PC: PTI)

The West Bengal government has urged the Election Commission (EC) to rescind its directive to file FIRs against four electoral officers over alleged “ghost voters” found in electoral rolls during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in Moyna (Purba Medinipur) and Baruipur East (South 24 Parganas). The state argued that the officials have already faced suspensions and departmental action, and that criminal prosecution for procedural lapses is excessive, citing legal advice from the Advocate General. FIRs have not yet been registered, and the chief electoral officer’s office has forwarded the request to the EC for a final decision.