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Stay updated with the biggest headlines for Friday, 19 December—politics, crime, sports, and more—all summarized for quick reading. Get instant access to breaking news, major developments, and trending stories in just one click. Perfect for busy readers who want news on the go.
Top news of the day
In the domestic bullion market, gold prices have surged for the third consecutive day. On the morning of December 19, the price of 24-karat gold in Delhi reached ₹1,35,000 per 10 grams, while 22-karat gold was trading at ₹1,23,760 per 10 grams. Strong demand and global uncertainties have kept gold attractive as a safe-haven investment.
Gold prices remain high in other major cities across the country. In Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata, 24-karat gold reached ₹1,34,850 per 10 grams and 22-karat gold reached ₹1,23,610 per 10 grams. Similar prices were recorded in Pune and Bengaluru, indicating uniformity in gold prices across the country.
There has been no relief from air pollution in the national capital Delhi. Falling temperatures and calm winds are causing pollution levels to rise continuously. On Friday morning, a blanket of smog, along with mist and light fog, covered several parts of Delhi, reducing visibility and affecting daily life.
According to the Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, the average Air Quality Index (AQI) in the capital was recorded at 387 on Friday morning, which falls in the "very poor" category. Experts say that seasonal conditions are preventing pollutants from dispersing, making the air even more toxic.
Widespread tension has gripped Bangladesh following the death of Sharif Usman Hadi, spokesperson for the Inqilab Manch. Violent protests erupted in several major cities, including the capital Dhaka. Angry mobs targeted media outlets, and incidents of vandalism and arson were reported in multiple locations, making the situation extremely volatile.
Sharif Usman Hadi had been battling for his life at Singapore General Hospital for the past six days. He passed away on Thursday night while undergoing treatment. He had been critically injured last week when unknown assailants shot him in the head in Dhaka. He was taken to Singapore for better medical care.
An unprecedented political confrontation was witnessed in Parliament over the Developed India Guarantee for Employment and Livelihood Mission (Rural), or VB-GRAM Bill 2025, related to the employment system in rural India. After the bill was passed by both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, opposition parties accused the government of crushing the democratic process.
The Rajya Sabha passed the bill by voice vote after midnight. The Lok Sabha had already approved it earlier. This new law will replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA). The government claims that it will provide more employment opportunities to rural families.
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