Times of India

The Election Commission clarified the rise in voter turnout in Maharashtra on polling day is part of a normal process, addressing Congress’s concerns. Between 5 PM and 11:45 PM, turnout rose from 58.22% to 65.02%, with the final reported turnout at 66.05%.

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams is celebrating Christmas on the ISS with her crew, enjoying holiday traditions, special meals from fresh ingredients, and video calls to loved ones. Despite concerns over her appearing thinner, NASA assures her health is closely monitored. Williams continues her mission, focusing on scientific research and inspiring future space explorers through educational outreach.

A gay couple, William Zulock and Zachary Zulock, received 100-year sentences without parole for sexually abusing their adopted sons. The boys endured horrific abuse, starting at ages three and five, and were exploited to produce pornography. Authorities found extensive digital evidence after an investigation linked to a local abuse network.

Manu Bhaker's name went missing from the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award recommendation list, despite her historic achievements in the 2024 Olympics. The Sports Ministry is considering using executive powers to nominate her, a rare move previously applied to cricketer Mohammed Shami for the Arjuna Award, highlighting extraordinary performance deviations.

French President Emmanuel Macron appointed Francois Bayrou as his new prime minister, marking his sixth appointment. The government aims to address political and economic challenges. Two former prime ministers join the cabinet, but the absence of left-wing figures and controversy over far-right involvement create challenges.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma confirmed the team is adjusting to used practice pitches before their final training on fresh surfaces ahead of the fourth Test against Australia. He noted the grass covering on the Melbourne Cricket Ground pitch and mentioned weather considerations in deciding whether to play an extra spinner. The series is currently tied at 1-1.

India managed to draw the third Test in Brisbane, keeping the Border Gavaskar Trophy series level at 1-1. Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali believes this gives India a strong chance to win in Melbourne, which offers a favorable pitch. The series will conclude in Sydney, with Australia under pressure to secure their place in the World Test Championship final.

Manish Sisodia accuses Manoj Tiwari of spreading misinformation over an edited video of Arvind Kejriwal. Tiwari's clip implied Kejriwal insulted the Indian Constitution, but the full video shows Kejriwal referred to Congress' party constitution. This dispute follows Amit Shah's controversial remarks on BR Ambedkar.

Intel shareholders filed a derivative lawsuit against former CEO Pat Gelsinger and current CFO David Zinsner, seeking the return of $207 million in executive compensation. The lawsuit alleges that Intel's leadership misled investors about the performance of Intel Foundry Services, which incurred significant losses and led to company-wide layoffs.

In Budhana town of Uttar Pradesh, a mazaar near the vegetable market was allegedly demolished by landowners, including Gulzar Uddin and his brothers. Police have filed an FIR and launched an investigation based on a complaint from Pavnesh Kumar. Authorities have pledged thorough inquiries and appropriate legal action against those responsible.

A Peruvian police officer, dressed as the Grinch, conducted a drug trafficking bust in Lima just before Christmas. The operation led to the arrest of three suspects and the seizure of various narcotics. This inventive strategy mirrors similar tactics by Peruvian police, who previously used horror character disguises for drug raids.

Social media users swiftly condemned the video, with many highlighting the alarming nature of her proposal and the divisive tone of her messaging. "So, first you want to bring back public executions which have been outlawed nationwide for almost 100 years. Then you want to create a 2-tier justice system which specifically dehumanizes non-citizens instead of including some provision to extradite or deport them? Horrifying," commented one user.

India captain Rohit Sharma assured that his knee injury is fine before the Boxing Day Test against Australia. Despite speculation about his batting position, Rohit emphasized the team's interests and praised KL Rahul's recent performances and young Yashasvi Jaiswal's natural playing style.

A 19-year-old youth was injured when a tyre exploded at a vehicle workshop in Koteshwara while inflating a private school bus tyre. Thrown into the air by the blast's force, he was taken to a hospital in Mangaluru. The incident, recorded on CCTV and dated December 21, has gone viral on social media. No case has been registered yet.

Virat Kohli's form is in the spotlight as India and Australia prepare for the fourth Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, beginning on the Boxing Day (December 2). Kohli has had mixed performances on this tour so far, starting with a century in Perth but faltering in subsequent two Tests. India captain Rohit, however, remains confident about Kohli turning it around.

Sunil Yadav, an alleged international drug smuggler, was killed by Lawrence Bishnoi's shooters in California as claimed by Goldy Brar and Rohit Godara. Yadav was accused of collaborating with the Punjab Police and implicated in the drug trade. He had fled to the USA using a fake passport.

In Baglan taluka, a farmer protested falling onion prices by presenting a garland of onions to Maharashtra fisheries minister Nitesh Rane. The incident occurred at a programme in Chirai village. The farmer was detained briefly by the police. A case was registered against him under section 223 of Bharti Nyaya Sanhita for disobeying an order by a public servant.

Police have filed an FIR against a 43-year-old Kalyan engineer for giving triple talaq to his second wife after she refused to have a physical relationship with his employer. The complainant also accused him of demanding Rs 15 lakh dowry, physical, and mental harassment.

India's captain Rohit Sharma exuded confidence ahead of the Boxing Day Test against Australia at MCG, emphasizing his team's resilient attitude. He praised the team's performance in Perth while noting their shortcomings in Adelaide. With the series tied at 1-1, Rohit stressed the importance of the remaining matches and staying focused on excelling at Melbourne.

Rumors of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's engagement have surfaced due to a photo from a recent party showing Swift's ring finger seemingly blurred. Despite fan speculation, sources suggest no imminent engagement as the couple enjoys privacy. Neither Swift nor Kelce has addressed the rumors directly, leaving fans eagerly awaiting confirmation.