Strong wind warning as Christmas getaway continues

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee led a significant protest rally in Jhargram, condemning alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking migrants and accusing the BJP of using citizenship and voter list revisions as tools for discrimination. She emphasized the need to protect Bengali identity and language, warning that she would expose the BJP's actions if attacks on Bengalis continue. Want More Context? 🔎

Pakistan has begun deporting documented Afghan refugees ahead of a September 1 deadline, potentially expelling over 1 million individuals, according to the UNHCR, which condemned the actions as violations of international obligations. The UN agency urged Pakistan to cease forced returns and adopt a humane approach, as many Afghans face instability upon repatriation amid ongoing deportations from Iran as well. Want More Context? 🔎

The US will implement a 12-month pilot program requiring citizens from Malawi and Zambia to pay a $15,000 deposit for tourist or business visas to reduce visa overstays. This initiative stems from President Trump's efforts to curb illegal immigration and may expand to other countries with high overstay rates, as identified by the State Department. Want More Context? 🔎

A 90-year-old woman, Margaret Rose Harris, died after falling on an escalator in the WHSmith store at the Quadrant Shopping Centre in Swansea on January 21. An inquest revealed that she suffered severe leg injuries and that prescribed medications contributed to her bleeding; the coroner ruled her death as an accident, with no faults found in the escalator. Want More Context? 🔎

The Voting Rights Act of 1965, signed by President Lyndon Johnson to combat racial discrimination in voting, abolished practices like poll taxes and literacy tests, and established preclearance for states with histories of voter suppression. Despite its initial protections, the 2013 Supreme Court decision in Shelby v. Holder weakened these safeguards, allowing states to impose restrictive voting laws, leading to ongoing legal challenges and legislative actions regarding voting rights. Want More Context? 🔎

The first footage of US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff in Moscow shows him casually interacting with Russian officials, including Vladimir Putin, raising concerns about the seriousness of US negotiations. Despite a tougher stance from the Trump administration, including threats of sanctions, it remains uncertain if Witkoff can secure meaningful concessions amid ongoing Russian military advances in Ukraine. Want More Context? 🔎