Times of India

At least five people, including Maulana Hamid-ul-Haq Haqqani, were killed, and 20 injured in a suicide blast at a mosque in Nowshera district, Pakistan. The explosion occurred as people were leaving Friday prayers. Haqqani, head of Dar-ul-Uloom Haqqania school, was likely the target. Condemnations came from Pakistan's Prime Minister and President.

Sanjay Bhandari's appeal against extradition to India was successful due to potential risks of extortion, torture, and an unfair trial in Tihar jail. UK high court judges cited concerns over overcrowding, understaffing, and the frequent occurrence of extortion and mistreatment by prison officials.

PM Narendra Modi and EU leader Ursula von der Leyen emphasized a just and lasting peace in Ukraine and reiterated their support for the two-State solution for Israel and Palestine. Their stance aligns with the recent UN amendments led by France, focusing on respect for sovereignty and international law.

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy clashed with President Trump in the Oval Office, leading to the cancellation of their joint press conference. The tensions arose over discussions about U.S. involvement in peace negotiations with Russia, reflecting strained diplomatic relations.

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy left the White House without signing a minerals agreement after a heated exchange with US President Trump. During the meeting, tensions escalated over Ukraine's mineral resources and potential peace talks with Russia, jeopardizing future US assistance to Ukraine.

Pune police arrested Dattatray Gade, a rape suspect from Swargate, in Gunat village after a dramatic search involving drones and dog squads. He tried to end his life thrice while in hiding. Gade, with a criminal record, allegedly raped a 26-year-old woman in a parked bus at Swargate terminus. Villagers assisted in his capture and will receive a reward.

A 16-year-old girl in Nigohan area, Lucknow died by suicide after being allegedly harassed by gram pradhan Navneet Rawat. Rawat, who had gained the girl's trust and later refused to marry her, is accused of threatening to make their private photos and videos viral. An FIR has been registered.

A woman lawyer, Shashi Bala, was attacked with acid in the Thakurdwara court premises by two men she was representing in separate cases. The attackers threatened her with a pistol and poured acid on her, resulting in serious injuries. An FIR has been registered, and the police are investigating.

A Bengaluru techie's attempt to cheer up his girlfriend by having her sit on his lap while riding his motorcycle led to his arrest for rash driving. The ride, recorded by a fellow commuter and shared online, prompted police action. He was booked under relevant sections and released on bail. The investigation continues.

Heavy snowfall and rainfall in Himachal Pradesh on Friday caused major disruptions, with over 200 roads blocked, power outages, and water supply affected. Various areas, including Kullu, Manali, and Lahaul-Spiti, experienced snowfall and avalanches. Landslides and flash floods also occurred, leading to school closures and transportation issues, while cold wave conditions intensified.

Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar is under opposition fire over the recent cabinet expansion. Critics argue that Nitish Kumar's dominance in Bihar's politics is waning as BJP takes a firmer grip, evident from the fact that all new ministers were from the BJP. Opposition leaders claim the BJP is using Nitish as a mask, while the JD(U) and BJP firmly rebut these allegations.

A 30-year-old IT executive, Manav Sharma, committed suicide in Agra due to alleged marital issues and his wife's infidelity. He recorded a poignant video plea for more awareness and legal protection for men before his death. Sharma's father filed a complaint against his daughter-in-law and her family, while his wife denies the allegations.

United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer met US President Donald Trump at the White House to discuss US-UK relations. Body language expert Caroline Goyder highlighted the evident contrast between Trump's relaxed demeanor and Starmer's nervous gestures. Starmer faced the pressure of this significant political moment.

India's real GDP grew by 6.2% in Q3 FY 2024-25, with nominal GDP rising by 9.9%. The fiscal year is projected to see a 6.5% real GDP growth. Agriculture outperformed other sectors, while mining and manufacturing lagged. Private consumption is set to expand by 7.6% in 2024-25.

Michael Saylor's provocative remark urging people to 'sell a kidney' to keep their Bitcoin amidst its steep decline has drawn criticism and disbelief. Analysts now question Bitcoin’s resilience as its speculative bubble appears to deflate, highlighting Saylor's controversial advocacy.

To the public, Jeffrey Epstein was a financier, a man with wealth and high-profile friends. However, behind closed doors, he was far more—a manipulator who dealt not in money alone, but in secrets and leverage. His influence did not stem solely from his fortune but from the compromising material he allegedly collected on those in his orbit. As the Department of Justice released its first batch of unsealed court records, the world braced for what would come next.