Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina condemned the arrest of a Hindu priest, calling it "unjust." She demanded his immediate release while highlighting the burning of a temple in Chittagong and past attacks on religious sites, including mosques, shrines, and Ahmadiyya community homes. Hasina urged the government to protect religious freedom and ensure the safety of all communities' lives and properties. She also mentioned a lawyer's death during protests related to the priest's arrest. Her statement follows rising tensions over religious intolerance in the country, drawing attention to the need for stronger safeguards for minorities.

Salman Rehman Khan, a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)-linked terrorist, has been extradited from Rwanda to India in a covert operation by the CBI, NIA, and Interpol. Accused of aiding terror activities in Bengaluru, Khan was charged with supplying arms, ammunition, and explosives to militant groups. The case originated after a significant arms seizure at Bengaluru's Parappana Agrahara Central Prison. Interpol issued a Red Notice for Khan in August 2024. This marks the third extradition by the CBI this month, reflecting intensified efforts against fugitive criminals. Khan will face prosecution for conspiracy and terrorism-related offenses.

Raj Matharu, a 31-year-old Indian-origin man from California, was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport for attempting to smuggle 32.4kg of methamphetamine soaked into clothing, including a cow-print pajama onesie. He was intercepted while boarding a flight to Sydney, Australia, after X-ray scans revealed irregularities in his luggage. Matharu has been charged with possession and intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and a maximum life sentence in federal prison. US Attorney Martin Estrada emphasized law enforcement's commitment to combating creative drug trafficking methods that endanger global communities.

Iskcon India has responded to Bangladesh’s petition demanding a ban on the organization following protests over the arrest of Hindu leader Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari. Vice President Radharamn Das stated, “The situation is out of hand... We will wait till January 20, when Trump takes office. Hope things get better then.” Iskcon called for global leaders to speak up against anti-Hindu violence in Bangladesh. Das also emphasized Iskcon’s humanitarian efforts, feeding over eight billion people worldwide. The Bangladesh High Court has asked the Attorney General to submit the government’s position on the ban by Thursday morning.

India welcomed the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire deal, calling it a step towards peace. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized India’s commitment to de-escalation, diplomacy, and dialogue. Brokered by the US and France, the ceasefire ends 14 months of clashes, including escalations linked to the Israel-Gaza conflict. Israeli PM Netanyahu thanked US President Biden for supporting the agreement while stressing Israel’s freedom of action if terms are breached. The truce, lasting 60 days, mandates withdrawal from southern Lebanon. Lebanon reported 3,760 deaths from Israeli strikes, primarily civilians. The ceasefire excludes ongoing Israel-Hamas fighting in Gaza, keeping regional tensions unresolved.

“Let’s unite in condemning ISKCON priest Chinmoy Krishna Das’s detention by Bangladesh police,” said Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, calling for United Nations intervention. The Hindu monk, arrested on November 25 at Dhaka airport and denied bail, faces sedition charges. Massive protests erupted as India's Ministry of External Affairs urged Bangladesh to ensure the safety of minorities. Kalyan reminded Bangladesh of India’s sacrifices during its liberation. Bangladesh dismissed India’s concerns, labeling the issue an internal matter. “Indian army blood was spilled for Bangladesh’s formation,” Kalyan added, urging unity among Hindus worldwide.

Donald Trump has appointed Jay Bhattacharya, a Kolkata-born economist and health policy professor at Stanford University, as Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Bhattacharya, known for criticizing US COVID-19 policies and co-authoring the 2020 Great Barrington Declaration, will oversee NIH's $47.3B budget across 27 institutes. His research focuses on vulnerable populations, aging, and biomedical innovation. Bhattacharya previously sued the US government, alleging social media censorship of his views. Trump also named Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services, reflecting shifts in US health policy leadership.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav is on a seven-day visit to the UK to showcase the state’s growth potential and attract investments. During an event in London, Yadav engaged with the Indian diaspora, encouraging them to invest in Madhya Pradesh. Manish Tiwari, founder of Friends of Madhya Pradesh, said, “The event let the diaspora hear the CM’s vision for the state.” Yadav highlighted Madhya Pradesh’s rapid industrial and economic development, positioning the state as a hub for growth. Rajesh Agarwal, former Deputy Mayor of London, called the visit essential, adding, “Madhya Pradesh is full of opportunities, and this trip strengthens ties between the UK and India.” The Chief Minister’s visit involves meetings with key stakeholders to explore business collaborations and boost industrial growth. Yadav’s efforts aim to create partnerships that benefit Madhya Pradesh and the UK, showcasing the state's commitment to development and global cooperation. The trip has been well-received by the diaspora and local leaders alike.

US president-elect Donald Trump announced plans to impose tariffs on imports from China, Canada, and Mexico. He stated that on his first day in office, he would sign an executive order to impose a 25% tariff on all goods from Canada and Mexico. China will face a 10% tariff in addition to other levies. Trump did not mention India in his tariff announcement, raising questions about its future trade status. With India exporting $75 billion worth of goods to the US, the situation could change depending on future policies.

India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das Prabhu in Bangladesh and called for the safety of minorities. Prabhu, an ISKCON leader, was arrested at Dhaka airport on sedition charges on 25 November. Known for peaceful protests against attacks on Hindus, he was denied bail by a court. The MEA urged Bangladesh to protect minorities and allow peaceful expression. Protests erupted in Dhaka and Chittagong, demanding his release. ISKCON Vice President Radharaman Das called the charges false, thanking India for its support. A review petition for Prabhu's bail is underway.