Top News Headlines of the Day: Trump’s inauguration, RG Kar convict sentenced, and more

As the world witnesses significant political and social developments, today’s top stories highlight Donald Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency, justice delivered in a high-profile Kolkata case, and more.

Donald Trump Sworn in as 47th U.S. President

Donald Trump took the oath of office as the 47th President of the United States, promising sweeping reforms and a bold transformation of the nation’s policies. India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, attended the ceremony and delivered a letter from Prime Minister Modi, reaffirming the strategic partnership between the two nations. Trump signed 80 executive orders immediately, overturning key policies of the Biden administration.

Donald Trump sworn in as 47th U.S. President: Key takeaways from his speech

RG Kar Convict Sentenced to Life Imprisonment

Sanjay Roy, convicted of raping and murdering a doctor in Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College, was sentenced to life imprisonment. While the CBI sought the death penalty, the court ruled that the case did not meet the “rarest of rare” criteria. The West Bengal government was ordered to compensate the victim’s family with ₹17 lakh.

Kokata rape-murder case: Court sentences Sanjay Roy to life imprisonment

Soldier Killed in Kashmir Encounter

In a tragic encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Sopore, Sepoy Pangala Kartheek lost his life while fighting terrorists. The Indian Army hailed his sacrifice, emphasising his bravery in the line of duty. Security forces remain on high alert in the region as operations continue to root out militancy.

Bihar’s Hooch Tragedy Claims Seven Lives

Seven people in Bihar’s West Champaran district reportedly died after consuming spurious liquor, despite the state’s prohibition laws. While authorities deny the connection to alcohol, an investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the fatalities.

Kerala Woman Sentenced to Death for Murdering Boyfriend

In Kerala, a 24-year-old woman, Greeshma, was sentenced to death for poisoning her boyfriend, Sharon Raj. The court dismissed her plea for leniency, citing the crime’s gravity, making her the youngest woman to face capital punishment in the state.

Israeli Ministers Resign Over Gaza Ceasefire Deal

Three far-right ministers, including Itamar Ben-Gvir, resigned from Israel’s cabinet in opposition to the Gaza ceasefire deal. While the move doesn’t destabilise Prime Minister Netanyahu’s coalition, it highlights tensions over sensitive negotiations.

Nigerian Gas Tanker Explosion Death Toll Rises

The death toll from a gas tanker explosion in Nigeria’s Niger State has climbed to 98, with several others injured. The tragedy occurred during an illegal fuel transfer, shedding light on unsafe practices amidst soaring fuel prices in the country.

Rishabh Pant Named Captain of Lucknow Super Giants

Rishabh Pant has been appointed captain of the Lucknow Super Giants for IPL 2025, following his record-breaking ₹27 crore auction price. Pant expressed gratitude for the team’s faith in him, promising to give his “200%” to lead the team to success.

Kareena Kapoor Appeals for Privacy Amid Family Crisis

Actress Kareena Kapoor Khan took to Instagram to urge the media to respect her family’s privacy as they deal with a personal crisis following an attack on Saif Ali Khan. She later deleted the post, but the message resonated with fans and media alike.

Amitabh Bachchan Sells Mumbai Duplex for ₹83 Crore

Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan sold his sprawling duplex apartment in Mumbai’s Oshiwara for ₹83 crore. The luxury property includes a large terrace and parking for six cars, adding to the superstar’s notable real estate transactions.

Closing Thoughts

Today’s headlines underscore a world in flux—diplomatic engagements shape international relations, while domestic tragedies and achievements remind us of the resilience and complexities of life. These stories reflect the ever-evolving landscape of global and local events that continue to define our times.