India has refuted a viral social media post, labeled as "fake," that allegedly called for the mobilization of the Indian community in Canada to confront pro-Khalistani elements. The fabricated post, falsely attributed to India's Ministry of External Affairs, suggested mobilizing diaspora organizations to act as a force against extremism. This incident follows escalating tensions between India and Canada after the killing of Khalistani activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. Days prior, pro-Khalistani individuals attacked a Hindu temple in Brampton, sparking further condemnation from Indian officials over perceived impunity given to extremists.

In Virginia, hundreds of Indian-Americans gathered to celebrate Chhath Puja, honoring the Sun God with traditional prayers and rituals. The four-day festival, which began on November 6, included the Kharna observance, where devotees fasted from sunrise to sunset. With support from local authorities, the community conducted rituals along a riverbank, mirroring celebrations in India. “Initially, only 7-8 families joined, but today, around 700 people celebrate here,” shared a local resident. Even Americans participated, asking for traditional prasad like Thekua. The event showcases Indian culture’s vibrancy and its growing presence within the U.S.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has dismissed as “fake” a purported memo allegedly issued by former Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra, which called on Indian diplomats in Canada to “cultivate diaspora groups” to counter Sikh extremism. The memo, which circulated on social media, named diaspora organizations as vital in street confrontations with Sikh extremists. The MEA clarified no such directive was issued, denouncing the document as fabricated. This response follows escalating tensions between India and Canada, with New Delhi rejecting Ottawa’s allegations linking Indian diplomats to the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in 2023.

On November 8, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud delivered an emotional farewell on his last working day. Addressing the courtroom, he reflected on his two-year tenure, expressing gratitude and humility while acknowledging the support of his colleagues. He asked for forgiveness for any unintentional hurt caused, saying, “Forgive me if I hurt anyone.” Chandrachud praised the tradition of the judiciary and expressed confidence in his successor, Justice Sanjiv Khanna. Colleagues, including Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, lauded his legacy, highlighting his balanced judgments and humane approach, making a lasting impact on India’s legal landscape.

Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has congratulated Donald Trump on his presidential victory, expressing confidence that India-US relations will deepen under Trump's leadership. Trump's second term is expected to have significant implications for India, particularly in trade and strategic partnerships. Analysts predict benefits for India despite potential trade frictions, emphasizing the importance of supply chain dynamics and domestic growth. Key areas impacted include strategic partnerships, immigration, regional stability, trade, and tariffs, and economic policies. Trump's presidency may lead to opportunities and challenges for India, especially regarding tariffs and trade policies.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister and Trade Minister Gan Kim Yong on friday to discuss strengthening bilateral ties, focusing on areas like industrial parks, innovation, semiconductors, green energy, and skilling. This meeting is part of Jaishankar's two-nation tour, which also included a visit to Australia. The discussions aim to take forward the contemporary partnership between India and Singapore, building on existing cooperation pillars. Jaishankar will also address the 8th Roundtable of the ASEAN-India Network of Think Tanks, further solidifying India's ties with the region.

Anita Lallian, an Indian-origin real estate developer, has purchased the former Los Angeles home of actor Matthew Perry, famed for his role as Chandler Bing in Friends, for $8.55 million. Located in Pacific Palisades, the 3,500-square-foot home offers stunning ocean views and a pool with a Batman logo, a tribute to Perry's love for the character. Lallian held a traditional Hindu puja ceremony, honoring Perry’s legacy before moving in. Despite the property's tragic history, she expressed love for its architectural beauty and plans to preserve select design elements in homage to Perry’s life and career.

India has criticized Canada's decision to block the social media handles of the Australian outlet Australia Today after it aired a press conference featuring Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong. The Ministry of External Affairs called it an example of Canada's hypocrisy towards freedom of speech. Jaishankar had raised concerns about Canada's approach towards India, citing allegations without evidence and the surveillance of Indian diplomats. The move comes amid strained ties between India and Canada over the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed optimism regarding Donald Trump’s possible return to the U.S. presidency, calling it an “opportunity” for enhancing India-US business relations. Speaking in Sydney, Jaishankar highlighted supply chain realignments, saying, “This reordering presents a chance for India to advance in manufacturing.” He emphasized immigration reform as a top priority, with expectations for U.S. policies to favor economically justified mobility. Jaishankar also praised the Indian diaspora’s role in strengthening ties and noted natural synergies with Australia for mutual growth. He underscored that India is ready to “optimize a global workplace” through collaboration.

A Hindu temple priest in Brampton, Canada, has been suspended for promoting violent rhetoric during a clash between Khalistani flag-waving protesters and temple-goers. The incident occurred on November 3 at the Hindu Sabha temple, where unverified videos showed demonstrators holding pro-Khalistan banners, engaging in fistfights, and striking each other with poles. The protest disrupted a consular event co-hosted by the temple and the Indian Consulate. Authorities are investigating the matter, which has raised concerns about hate speech and violence. The suspension aims to address the priest's inflammatory remarks, which allegedly fueled the tensions.