UN HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL MEET
Taken from India, 39 Naga ancestors return after 100 years: Oxford museum transfers skulls taken by British officials during colonial rule
Oxford's Pitt Rivers Museum has formally handed over the remains of 39 Naga ancestors, mostly skulls collected during British colonial rule between the 1910s and 1940s. A Nagaland delegation received them after a reconciliation process that began in 2020. The remains will be brought to India and laid to rest at a shared memorial.
UN body agrees to postpone review of US rights record after Trump administration snub
The UN Human Rights Council has postponed its review of the United States' human rights record until January after the Trump administration refused to participate, making the US the first UN member state to fully reject the process. The 47-member council approved the delay by consensus to give Washington more time to reconsider its decision.
India's water journey a model for developing nations: World Bank official
India's water management initiatives, including the Jal Jeevan Mission and Namami Gange Programme, are gaining international recognition. Senior officials at the World Bank have praised these efforts as models for developing countries. The upcoming United Nations Water Conference will highlight India's achievements and encourage knowledge sharing. India is actively preparing for the conference, emphasizing its role in global water security discussions.
Microsoft presses Trump to scuttle expected ban on Chinese data center technology: Report
Microsoft is lobbying against a proposed ban on Chinese optical transceivers essential for artificial intelligence data centers. The Trump administration's decision could significantly impact the speed of data center development in the US. Industry groups have expressed concerns about potential supply chain disruptions and competitive disadvantages. The Federal Communications Commission is currently deliberating on the implications of this ban.
Microsoft presses President Trump to scuttle expected ban on Chinese data centre technology
Reuters reported in August that the Trump administration wants to ban US imports of new models of Chinese optical transceivers, which allow data to travel over fiber-optic cables at the speed of light within data centers. The concern is that they could be used by Beijing to steal data, install malware or disrupt service at US data centers.
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Why is Sheikh Hasina's plan to return to Bangladesh contentious?
Bangladesh has rejected a fresh passport request from former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who plans to return from exile in India in December despite facing a death sentence over the 2024 crackdown on protesters. With Dhaka urging New Delhi to extradite her, Hasina's possible return could reignite political tensions, test the new government and threaten Bangladesh's fragile stability.
India's water management initiatives a model for developing nations: World Bank official
India's water management efforts, such as the Jal Jeevan Mission, are being recognized internationally for their effectiveness. The World Bank highlights India's initiatives, including river restoration and dam safety improvements. These programs aimed at increasing access to clean water are now models for other developing nations. The upcoming 2026 United Nations Water Conference will provide a platform for India to share these experiences.
US lawmakers introduce bill to make Diwali a federal holiday, 19 representatives back proposal
US lawmakers have reintroduced the Diwali Day Act in the House of Representatives, seeking to designate the festival as a federal holiday. Spearheaded by Congresswoman Grace Meng, the bill has secured the backing of 19 lawmakers, including five Indian-origin representatives. Its passage would make Diwali the 12th federally recognised US holiday.
Political row erupts in West Bengal after fourth police encounter since July; CM Suvendu Adhikari cites self-defence
A political row has erupted in West Bengal after the prime accused in the alleged rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl in Raiganj was killed in a police encounter. Police said Dilip Roy opened fire on the team sent to arrest him, prompting retaliatory firing.
RRAG urges UN to intervene over Sheikh Hasina’s right to return to Bangladesh
The Rights and Risks Analysis Group urges the UN Secretary General and other officials to intervene concerning Sheikh Hasina's return. The former Prime Minister's passport application was denied by Bangladesh's government, preventing her return. Bangladesh's Constitution and international law recognize the right to return, which has been allegedly violated in this case. Despite demands for her extradition, the government has created obstacles for Hasina's return from India.
Nvidia scandal: The AI arms race puts human spies back into the game
The Nvidia controversy involving CEO Jensen Huang and a woman suspected by US intelligence of having links to Beijing has renewed concerns over corporate espionage in the AI industry. Recent cases involving OpenAI and Google have also highlighted risks from insiders and traditional spying methods.
2026 to be one of four warmest years on record: WMO
The year 2026 is on track to become one of the four hottest years on record, with global temperatures averaging 1.47°C above pre-industrial levels during January-September, according to the World Meteorological Organization. An intensifying El Nino could push temperatures higher into 2027, as record ocean heat, rising greenhouse gas concentrations and extreme weather deepen the global climate crisis.
COP31 a 'moment of truth': UN chief Guterres urges world leaders to act now on climate change
António Guterres has urged global leaders to take immediate action against climate change ahead of the COP31 summit. He emphasizes that responsibility should not be shifted and that everyone must commit to change now. Guterres highlights the worsening impact of climate disasters and the interplay between climate change and other global challenges. Additionally, he believes that fossil fuel companies should contribute by being taxed on their profits.
Environmental groups embrace AI, even as they warn of data center impacts
Environmental organisations are increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance conservation efforts and analyze ecological data. Many express concerns about the environmental impact caused by data centers that support AI technologies. The energy and water consumption of these centers is projected to double by 2030, raising emissions concerns.
US election confirms erosion of support for Israel, with even Trump questioning military aid
A notable change is occurring in US-Israel relations as bipartisan support dwindles following Israel's actions in Gaza. President Donald Trump suggested cutting off military aid to Israel, stirring political discourse. Meanwhile, significant Democratic victories signal a shift in public opinion towards Israel's military policies. Vice President JD Vance indicated a need for Republicans to reassess their stance on Israel. The implications of these developments could reshape future US policy significantly.
Trump could woo North Korea after midterm setback, but Kim may not respond
Following an unfavorable midterm election, Trump may pivot towards foreign policy engagement with North Korea, as analysts suggest this could fortify his legacy. Nevertheless, the North seems disinclined to reciprocate Trump's overtures, and regional partners, including South Korea and Japan, are apprehensive about being excluded from talks with Kim Jong Un. The intricate dynamics of the situation are likely to hinder productive discussions moving forward.
Donald Trump's political humbling after US midterms signals short-term gain, long-term pain for China
Donald Trump's US midterm election defeat could strengthen China's hand in upcoming US-China trade negotiations, giving Beijing leverage to push for tariff reductions and other concessions. However, Beijing remains wary of a potentially more hawkish US administration after Trump. China's concerns include Taiwan arms sales, a possible Iran war escalation, energy security and the future of its fragile trade truce with Washington.
Bangladesh's ousted premier Hasina tells the AP she will return from exile in December at any cost
Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina intends to return to Bangladesh from exile in India next month. She has been sentenced to death for her government's actions during a crackdown on protests. Hasina expressed her willingness to face arrest and possible imprisonment upon her return. Her political party continues to face significant challenges under the current administration. Concerns have been raised about the rising influence of radical groups in the country.
Trump's midterm defeat dims hopes of North Korea meeting
A meeting between Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un seems less likely following Trump's midterm election defeat. Analysts believe Kim has less incentive to engage with Trump in the current political environment. North Korea's leadership expresses reluctance to resume dialogue, citing distrust toward the US government. The ongoing nuclear ambitions of North Korea add complexity to potential negotiations between the two leaders.
UN says Yemeni staff member dies in Houthi custody, demands investigation
A Yemeni staff member of the UN Human Rights Office has died after being detained by the Houthis. Mohammad el Shami had been in custody since June 2024, and circumstances around his death remain unclear. The UN is calling for an independent investigation and the release of detained personnel. Yemen's prime minister condemned the death and held the Houthis accountable for continued detentions.
India urges UN to advance human rights through dialogue, cautions against political bias
India has called for genuine partnerships and equal treatment of human rights at the United Nations General Assembly. First Secretary Bhavika Mangalanandan highlighted the importance of international cooperation while opposing politicisation of human rights. Mangalanandan emphasized the need for balanced attention to all categories of rights, including economic and social rights. She also urged for adequate funding and effective coordination between Geneva and New York.
Russia, US veto rival UN Western Sahara resolutions, leaving peacekeeping mission in limbo
Russia and the United States recently vetoed each other's resolutions concerning Western Sahara at the Security Council. This disagreement halts the renewal of the UN peacekeeping mission just before its mandate expires. Oxfam expressed concerns that civilians may be at risk without the mission's oversight. The US resolution aimed to solidify Morocco's autonomy plan as the basis for peace talks.
Iran hasn't tried to repair nuclear facilities damaged in US strikes, UN nuclear chief says
Rafael Grossi of the IAEA stated that Iran has not repaired its nuclear facilities after military strikes. The US and Israel initiated strikes to hinder Iran's nuclear weapon capabilities, according to President Donald Trump. Iran is accused of failing to comply with nuclear nonproliferation obligations while maintaining its program is peaceful. The UN Security Council meeting addressed these concerns amidst tensions with Russia and China.
UN nuclear watchdog chief urges Iran to grant access
IAEA chief Rafael Grossi urged Iran to immediately grant inspectors access to its nuclear facilities and materials to verify its nuclear programme. The IAEA has been unable to access key sites since Israeli and US strikes in June 2025, while further attacks have hit nuclear facilities in the latest conflict. Iran criticised the UN Security Council for what it called a double standard over the strikes. The IAEA had previously estimated Iran held about 440 kg of uranium enriched to 60%, leaving the status of the stockpile uncertain.
Inducting new permanent members in UNSC without veto powers would perpetuate existing inequalities: India
India has expressed its opposition to the proposed expansion of the UN Security Council. The country’s representative highlighted that permanent members should have equal veto powers to maintain fairness. India argued that creating members without veto powers would create a hierarchy among permanent members. Concerns were raised regarding the informal consensus rules potentially acting as a hidden veto.
BRICS parliamentary forum condemns Pahalgam attack, calls for UN reforms
The 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum took place in New Delhi, gathering legislative leaders from various member nations. Delegates emphasized the need to reform the United Nations for more effective global governance while condemning terrorism and unilateral sanctions. The forum expressed concern over regional conflicts, urging resolutions based on human rights and humanitarian law.
New UNSC permanent members without veto would be 'second-class': India
India has said that any proposed UN Security Council reform creating permanent members without veto powers is unacceptable. Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni emphasized that all permanent members should have equal rights, reflecting fairness and justice. India continues to advocate for expanding both permanent and non-permanent membership categories in the Council.
India hits out at UN rapporteur Ben Saul for bias in counter-terror report, affirms Dawood Ibrahim in Pakistan
India expressed serious concern over the UN rapporteur's report, claiming it contained factual inaccuracies regarding Dawood Ibrahim. Indian diplomat Raghoo Puri highlighted that Ibrahim is a wanted criminal residing in Pakistan. Puri noted that the report overlooked key facts, which harms the UN's legitimacy. He criticized the use of human rights frameworks to justify terrorism and reaffirmed India's stance on Jammu and Kashmir.
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