The murder of Hyderabad native Nikitha Godishala in the US has taken a new turn. Her family claims she was killed over a money dispute with her ex-boyfriend, Arjun Sharma. Nikitha, 27, was found dead in Maryland after being reported missing on New Year’s Eve. Police have charged Sharma with first- and second-degree murder. Her cousin said Sharma had borrowed money and failed to return $1,000. Nikitha was following up with him for repayment. Her father said Sharma often borrowed money from many people. Nikitha had moved to the US in 2021 for studies and later worked there. (PC: Instagram/@_iamnikkig_)

Ambala police arrested 31-year-old Sunil from Sabga village for allegedly sharing sensitive Indian Army and Air Force information with Pakistan's ISI after being honeytrapped through social media. The accused, employed as construction supervisor at Air Force Station through a private contractor, had six-to-seven months contact with Pakistani handlers via fake female Facebook profile. Investigators allege he was trapped through emotional manipulation, inducement, and blackmail, then shared confidential details on military unit locations, troop movements, and deployment. Police recovered WhatsApp chats and voice call records linking him to Pakistani handlers. His bank account is under examination for suspicious financial transactions. The arrest occurred near Ambala Cantonment bus stand. (PC: News 18)

Nikitha Godishala's sister, Saraswati, filed a complaint with the Indian Embassy alleging accused Arjun Sharma made unauthorized transactions totaling USD 3,500 (Rs 3.16 lakh) from the victim's bank account before fleeing the United States. According to the complaint, Arjun owed Nikitha's family USD 4,500 (Rs 4.05 lakh) total in the days leading to her murder. The Telugu woman was allegedly killed by her ex-boyfriend in the US. Arjun Sharma was arrested by Interpol in Tamil Nadu on Monday following coordination between US federal agencies and Indian authorities who tracked him after he departed America. The sister detailed the financial exploitation in her formal complaint to authorities. (PC: X)

Indian entrepreneur Meghna left her high-flying media career to move to Denmark with her husband five years ago. Despite initial warnings about job difficulties for spouses, she secured a role at a reputable Danish organization, though with reduced seniority. After experiencing 2023 layoffs, she founded Pillion Expats consultancy. Meghna revealed that despite being in India's top 1% income bracket, their purchasing power felt limited, with most income going to rent and investments. In Denmark, earning average salaries with double income enabled them to buy an apartment and travel frequently. She highlights Denmark's safety and freedom for women, though notes quick-commerce services are absent and finding jobs remains challenging for Global South immigrants. (PC: HT)

Over one million Indian immigrants in Canada face losing legal status as more than two million work permits expire in 2025-2026 under Prime Minister Mark Carney's tightened immigration policies. Approximately 1,053,000 permits expired by end-2025, with another 927,000 expiring in 2026. Immigration consultant Kanwar Seirah estimates Canada could have two million undocumented immigrants by mid-2026, with Indians comprising nearly half. The crisis stems from Carney's sharp immigration caps reducing permanent residency targets to 380,000 in 2026 and cutting temporary foreign workers and student visas. Tent encampments have appeared in Greater Toronto Area as housing pressures mount. Expired permit holders have 90 days for costly restoration applications, but approvals take months without work authorization. (PC: India Today)

Pathankot police arrested a 15-year-old boy for allegedly spying for Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Authorities claim the minor shared sensitive information about India with ISI handlers for one year through communication channels now under investigation. Police expressed serious concerns that ISI is targeting and recruiting young children for espionage activities, posing significant security risks. Investigations suggest other minors in Punjab may have links with ISI operatives, prompting authorities to alert police stations statewide to remain vigilant. The investigation continues as officials work to identify the broader network involved. Police confirmed all legal procedures applicable to juveniles are being followed in this case, which highlights emerging security threats.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met International Energy Agency chief Fatih Birol in Paris to discuss global energy issues. The talks covered oil markets, nuclear power and critical minerals. Birol said the meeting was warm and productive. Jaishankar said he valued the IEA’s view of the world energy scene and its support for India’s growth. He also spoke about India’s aim to become a full member of the IEA. The minister is on a six-day visit to France and Luxembourg. In Paris, he also met members of the French-Indian Young Talents Program. He will later hold talks with French and Luxembourg leaders during the trip.

India has advised its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Iran until further notice. The advisory was issued as protests spread across the country over rising prices and living costs. The external affairs ministry asked Indians and people of Indian origin in Iran to stay alert and avoid protest areas. Those living in Iran were told to register with the Indian embassy. Around 10,000 Indians, mostly students, are currently in Iran. The move comes after US President Donald Trump warned of action if protesters are harmed. Iranian leaders have rejected foreign pressure. Protests have been reported in many cities. (PC: AP)

A 52-year-old Indian tourist, Raj Jasuja, was violently assaulted by transgender women in Pattaya, Thailand, on December 27 after allegedly refusing to pay for sexual services. Viral video footage shows three transgender women confronting Jasuja, blocking his car door as he attempted to leave. With assistance from bystanders, they pulled him from his vehicle and repeatedly kicked and struck him. Rescue workers from Sawang Boriboon Dhammastan Foundation arrived at 5:30 AM, finding Jasuja with facial and head injuries. He received first aid before hospitalization at Pattamakom Hospital. A 19-year-old witness, Phongphon, reported the argument escalated when the woman summoned friends. Police will request a formal complaint once Jasuja recovers.

US President Donald Trump warned India of increased tariffs if it continues importing Russian crude oil, stating PM Modi knows of Washington's displeasure. Indian exports already face 50% tariffs, with half linked to Russian oil purchases. Trump said tariffs could rise quickly, which "would be very bad for them." Despite pressure, Russia remained India's largest crude supplier (April-November 2025), providing 60 million of 178.1 million tonnes imported, though its share dropped to 33.7% from 37.9%. US imports surged 92% year-on-year to 7.6%. Senator Lindsey Graham is pushing legislation for harsh secondary tariffs. Experts warn India's strategic ambiguity is costly and recommend clearly stating its position on Russian oil.