Stay updated with the biggest headlines for Sunday, 21 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
The Uttar Pradesh government is set to promote as many as 61 IPS officers including six who will bw elevated from ADG to DG rank in the coming year. Six officers currently serving at the ADG level are expected to move up in phases.
Unidentified gunmen opened fire indiscriminately at a bar in the Bekkersdal area of Johannesburg, South Africa, in the early hours of Sunday morning. The attack killed nine people and injured 10 others. The attack took place in a gold mining area approximately 40 kilometers southwest of Johannesburg. Police said this is the second major shooting incident in the country this month.
According to police, the shooting occurred at approximately 1 AM (local time). The attackers fired shots at patrons inside the tavern and at people on the streets outside. The location was near an illegally operating tavern. Police initially reported 10 deaths, but later revised the number to nine.
In a long post on social media, former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav described the Aravalli mountain range as the natural protective shield of Delhi and the NCR. He said, “If the Aravallis remain, Delhi will remain green. Saving the Aravallis should not be an option, but a firm resolve.” According to him, this mountain range protects Delhi's air, water, and biodiversity.
Akhilesh Yadav explained that the Aravalli mountain range plays a crucial role in reducing air pollution, rainfall, and water conservation. The Aravallis help regulate the temperature of the NCR. Its destruction will lead to a decline in bird populations, the destruction of wetlands, and increased environmental imbalance. He said that saving the Aravallis is essential for protecting the health and lives of Delhi residents in the future.
A plan to infiltrate Pathankot from Pakistan has been revealed. According to intelligence inputs, the terrorists' targets include the airbase, railway station, and other important military installations. The mastermind of the new plot is a Pakistani national, Muzaffar Ahmed.
The Punjab Police have detained Billu Gujjar from the Gandla Lahri area on suspicion of involvement in terrorist activities. Another suspect, Nazakat Hussain, is currently missing and a search is underway.
Actress and dancer Nora Fatehi was involved in a car accident in Mumbai on Saturday afternoon. Just hours after the accident, she surprised everyone by performing on stage. Later, Nora shared an update on her health via social media, stating that she sustained minor injuries and a mild concussion, but was safe.
Nora Fatehi shared several videos on her Instagram Stories, detailing the incident. She said that a drunk driver hit her car, and the impact was quite severe. During the collision, her head hit the car window. Nora described it as one of the most terrifying and traumatic moments of her life.
On December 20/21, the STF headquarters received information that Siraj Ahmed, a murderer from Sultanpur, had crossed the Punjab-Haryana border and was present in the Gangoh police station area of Saharanpur. Acting on the informant's tip, the police immediately launched a cordon and search operation.
During the operation, Siraj opened fire on the police. The police retaliated in self-defense, seriously injuring Siraj. He was immediately admitted to a nearby hospital.
Gold prices in the domestic bullion market have continued to rise on a weekly basis, although the increase has been limited this time. Over the past week, 24-karat gold has become Rs 260 per 10 grams more expensive, while the price of 22-karat gold has increased by Rs 250. On December 21, 24-karat gold reached Rs 1,34,330 per 10 grams in Delhi.
Gold prices are also showing strength in the international market. The spot price of gold in the global market remains at $4,322.51 per ounce. Gold has received support after US Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller hinted at further interest rate cuts. Weakening US labor data has also increased demand for the precious metal.
A large number of people gathered in Dhaka on Saturday to pay their last respects to Bangladeshi student leader and Inqilab Manch spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi. Bangladesh's interim government's Chief Advisor, Muhammad Yunus, was also present. Addressing the mourners, Yunus said that Osman Hadi's ideas and struggles would continue to inspire the country's youth, and that Bangladesh is committed to upholding his ideals.
Osman Hadi was among the key leaders of the student movement that took place last year. He played a crucial role in ousting then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from power. At just 32 years old, Hadi had carved out a distinct identity for himself in politics and had a profound influence among young people. He was considered a proponent of transparency, accountability, and public participation in politics.
Severe cold, dense fog, and extremely poor weather conditions in North India, including Delhi and the NCR, have severely disrupted daily life. The continuously low visibility is now clearly impacting railway operations. Taking precautionary measures for passenger safety, the railways and IRCTC have canceled more than 20 trains, while approximately 28 trains are running late.
According to the Meteorological Department, the impact of dense fog is most pronounced during the morning and late night hours. Visibility has dropped significantly in many areas, forcing trains to slow down. Some trains are being affected en route, while several have been temporarily canceled. Delhi's Air Quality Index also remains in the 'Severe Plus' category, further exacerbating the situation.
North India is currently grappling with biting cold, dense fog, and icy winds. The cold wave has intensified across the region, from the hilly states to the plains. Extremely low visibility during the mornings and nights has severely disrupted daily life, as well as road, rail, and air traffic. In Delhi alone, 129 flights had to be canceled on Saturday, causing significant inconvenience to passengers.
Along with the cold, air pollution has also reached critical levels in Delhi-NCR. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, Delhi's average Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 398 on Saturday evening, falling into the 'very poor' category. The situation was even more severe in Noida, with an AQI of 401. Pollution levels remain alarming in Gurugram, Ghaziabad, and Greater Noida as well. In several areas of Delhi, the AQI was recorded above 420.
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