Holidays in December 2024 offer a mix of global and regional observances, including Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year's Eve. These holidays provide an opportunity for rest and celebration, with many businesses, banks, and services closing or operating on reduced hours. Bank holidays in December 2024 also affect public services and retail operations.
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Shirsat stated that if Eknath Shinde does not accept the deputy CM post, another party leader will take it. Discussions continue regarding the Maharashtra CM post. Shinde affirmed there are no obstacles for the CM post and will accept any decision by PM Modi. BJP and Shiv Sena will soon finalize the decision collectively.
The Supreme Court has instructed the Shahi Idgah Masjid's management committee in Sambhal to raise their concerns about the trial court's survey order with the high court. The top court has suspended the trial court's directive until further notice, emphasizing the need to maintain peace and harmony.
Parliament has been adjourned for the fifth day amid opposition protests over the Adani indictment, Manipur's situation, and Sambhal violence. Both Houses faced disruptions, and the government is criticized for inactivity. Frequent adjournments have marked the winter session. The opposition demands discussions on allegations and current violence. Ministers managed limited participation amid the uproar.
Rajya Sabha chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar criticized opposition MPs for continuous disruptions over Adani group allegations and other issues, accusing them of «weaponising» Rule 267. He expressed deep anguish over the loss of productive time and leaving the House as a «laughing stock». Congress and others persisted, leading to the House's adjournment within 15 minutes.
Congress raises concerns over inconsistencies in Maharashtra's election data, citing arbitrary voter deletions, unexplained voter additions, and unusual surges in voter turnout. They request an in-person hearing with the Election Commission. BJP-led Mahayuti wins 230 out of 288 seats, while Congress secures only 16 seats.
Following PM Sheikh Hasina's ouster in August, minority Hindu community in Bangladesh faces increasing violence, triggering concern in New Delhi. Monk Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari's arrest for alleged sedition heightens tensions, with Iskcon's Bangladesh chapter facing potential ban amid protests and bilateral diplomatic strain.
Maharashtra's caretaker chief minister Eknath Shinde states that the Mahayuti alliance will decide on the next chief minister in an upcoming meeting in Mumbai. Shinde confirms no issues with the chief minister’s position and agrees with the Prime Minister's decision. BJP and Shiv Sena leaders emphasize unity and collective decision-making.
Indian consular officials in Canada have been subjected to audio and video surveillance, with their private communications intercepted. India lodged a strong protest with Canada, citing violation of diplomatic provisions. Tensions between India and Canada escalated following diplomat expulsions and accusations related to the killing of a Sikh separatist on Canadian soil.
Railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw dismissed reports of delays in Vande Bharat sleeper train production due to design issues, clarifying the real cause was the Russian firm's limited experience with larger trains. Vaishnaw assured that the Indian Railways' needs for 16 to 24-coach trains were clearly communicated and production will commence soon.
Over 140 candidates from the economically weaker section have secured postgraduate medical seats in private colleges despite high tuition fees. Questions have arisen about the authenticity of their EWS certificates. Candidates have reportedly paid up to Rs 1.6 crore, prompting calls for a government investigation to address potential misuse of EWS reservations.
Andhra Pradesh government may incur financial impacts between Rs 2,500 crore and Rs 2,800 crore if it cancels the power sale agreement with SECI. Energy Minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar warned of potential litigation and compensation. The deal, now under scrutiny for alleged bribery involving Adani Group, could face legal probes.
Authorities have uncovered illicit activities at Khyati Hospital in Ahmedabad, where young patients, including an 18-year-old, underwent unnecessary angioplasties for illicit gains under PM-JAY. Investigations reveal nine deaths and further evidence against hospital staff, including the marketing director, CEO, and others, for fraudulent activities and conspiracy.
Srinagar experienced its coldest night of the season with temperatures dropping to minus 2.1 degrees Celsius. Shopian was even colder, recording minus 5.5 degrees Celsius. The weather is expected to stay dry until Friday evening, with a chance of light rain or snow in higher reaches until December 1.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Kashmir's top clergyman and separatist leader, has written to Jagdambika Pal, chair of the JPC on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, seeking an urgent meeting. Farooq claims the Bill could undermine the autonomy of Waqf boards and negatively impact Islamic institutions in Jammu and Kashmir, urging that the state's Muslim-majority concerns be addressed thoughtfully.
India reassured the US of its robust legal framework for export controls following US sanctions on 19 Indian firms. The MEA emphasized compliance with non-proliferation obligations and assured action against violations. Affected firms, Shreegee Impex and TSMD Global, downplayed the impact, citing no US trade links. India aims to strengthen its strategic partnership with the US.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands police found Myanmarese smugglers using Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet for navigation while transporting 6,000 kg of methamphetamine. The Indian Coast Guard apprehended six smugglers and seized Myanmar currency, a portable Inmarsat mobile, multiple SIM cards, and a Starlink dish. Investigations are ongoing, including inquiries with SpaceX regarding the purchase details.
India has launched its first auction for offshore mineral exploration blocks, offering 13 blocks comprising lime mud, construction sand, and polymetallic nodules. The move aims to bolster the country's mineral wealth, with a significant rise in critical minerals demand anticipated, particularly for lithium. This initiative follows recent amendments to streamline offshore mineral resource allocation.
A management committee from Sambhal's Jama Masjid has petitioned the Supreme Court to challenge the order for a mosque survey after a local court's ruling. Tensions in the area have been high following clashes that resulted in casualties and injuries. Authorities are using footage to identify those involved in the unrest and plan to recover damages from the perpetrators.
RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav criticises India's decision to skip ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan, stressing that politics should not interfere with sports. Despite security concerns and tensions, Yadav insists that India should participate, questioning why political figures can visit Pakistan, but not the cricket team. The ICC Board is set to address this issue soon.