Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not travel to Kuala Lumpur for the 47th ASEAN Summit, scheduled from October 26 to 28, citing Diwali-related commitments in India. Anwar stated he “respects Modi’s decision” and acknowledged India’s continued engagement through virtual participation. Modi will address the summit online, reaffirming India’s commitment to strengthening ASEAN ties under the Act East Policy. The change means no in-person bilateral meetings, including potential interactions with regional leaders. Despite his absence, India emphasized its dedication to regional cooperation, trade, and stability through digital diplomacy. (PC: HT File)  

A 21-year-old Indian man, Jashanpreet Singh, an illegal immigrant in the US, caused a crash that killed three people in Southern California. The accident happened on a San Bernardino County freeway when Singh, under the influence of drugs, slammed his truck into slow-moving traffic without braking. Several others were injured, including Singh.   Singh crossed the US southern border in 2022 and was released under the "alternatives to detention" policy. He was arrested for gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. US authorities confirmed he has no legal immigration status. The crash raises concerns about illegal immigrant truck drivers in the US. 

The U.S. government has introduced new immigration rules that exempt employers from the $100,000 H-1B visa petition fee when hiring F-1 students or extending the status of current H-1B holders. This change, effective from October 20, 2025, means that U.S. employers sponsoring F-1 students for H-1B status or filing petitions for existing H-1B workers seeking an extension will not be required to pay the hefty fee. However, the fee applies if the petition involves a change of status or extension of stay and is deemed ineligible by USCIS. This development is expected to ease the transition for international students and current H-1B workers in the U.S. 

On October 22, 2025, Taliban spokesperson Suhail Shaheen stated that the Indian Embassy in Kabul would play a constructive role in promoting regional peace. This statement follows India's recent decision to elevate its diplomatic mission in Afghanistan to full embassy status, reflecting a commitment to engage with the Taliban-led administration. Shaheen emphasized that the Indian mission's presence would support Afghanistan's stability and development. While India has not officially recognized the Taliban government, this move signifies a pragmatic approach to fostering bilateral cooperation and addressing mutual concerns in the region. (PC: The Hindu)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to skip traveling to Kuala Lumpur for the ASEAN Summit scheduled from October 26 to 28 due to pressing domestic commitments, including upcoming state elections and festive events. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will represent India at the summit in person, highlighting New Delhi’s continued engagement with Southeast Asian partners under the Act East Policy. Modi is likely to join select sessions virtually, reinforcing India’s strategic partnership with ASEAN on trade, security, and regional stability amid growing Indo-Pacific cooperation and geopolitical challenges. (PC: ANI)

President Trump announced new U.S. sanctions targeting Russia’s leading oil companies Rosneft and Lukoil, citing Moscow’s refusal to end the war in Ukraine. Simultaneously, Trump reiterated that he spoke with India’s Narendra Modi, who reportedly pledged that India will “not buy much oil” from Russia—though Indian officials denied any such call. The sanctions mark a major shift in U.S. policy: the Treasury declared readiness to take further action and urged allies to join in isolating Russia economically. (PC: File)

The recent daylight heist at Paris's Louvre Museum, where thieves made off with jewels valued at €88 million, has captivated global attention. The audacity and precision of the robbery have led social media users to reminisce about Bollywood's iconic action franchise, 'Dhoom'. Many online commentators suggest that Hrithik Roshan, known for his role as Aryan/Mr. A in 'Dhoom 2', would be the perfect fit to portray a mastermind thief in a potential 'Dhoom 4'. The incident has reignited discussions about the franchise's future and the possibility of incorporating real-life inspirations into cinematic plots. (PC: X)  

New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi during Diwali events in Queens, saying he grew up in an India that celebrated pluralism. Visiting several Hindu temples, Mamdani said Modi and the BJP promote a vision that “only has room for certain kinds of Indians.” He added that his criticism comes from his belief in equality and inclusion. Mamdani said he would represent all New Yorkers, even those who disagree with him. His comments have drawn sharp reactions from Indian leaders and Hindu Americans, some accusing him of being “anti-Indian” and spreading false claims. (PC: X)

India has shared the first photos of Mehul Choksi’s cell in Mumbai’s Arthur Road Jail with Belgian authorities. Choksi will stay in Barrack No 12, a 46-square-metre barrack with two rooms and private toilets. He will only leave for medical visits or court hearings. The move is part of India’s effort to counter Choksi’s claims of poor prison conditions. Belgian court rejected his extradition challenges, saying he provided no proof of personal risk or unfair treatment. India assured that Choksi’s health and rights will be protected and that the jail meets international standards.

In a symbolic gesture, the intersection of 114th Street and 101st Avenue in Richmond Hill, Queens — located near the historic Gurdwara Makhan Shah Lubana — has been officially renamed “Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Marg Way” in honour of the ninth Sikh Guru. Approved by the New York City Council earlier this year, the naming was unveiled in a renaming ceremony held on the eve of Diwali, celebrating the Guru’s message of sacrifice, compassion and justice. According to Council member Lynn Schulman, the act recognises the vibrant Sikh-American presence in the area and underscores New York’s multicultural identity.