Local Round-Up: SHANTI Nuclear Law Cleared, Delhi Fog Disrupts Flights, And Rail Fare Hike

This week saw sweeping legislative changes, court interventions, travel disruptions, sports milestones and law enforcement actions across India. From new nuclear regulations and railway fare hikes to high-profile investigations and humanitarian outreach, these developments reflect the breadth of political, social and institutional shifts shaping the national landscape.

President Murmu Clears SHANTI Bill, Replacing India’s Core Civil Nuclear Laws Framework

President Droupadi Murmu has given assent to the SHANTI Bill, approved during Parliament’s Winter Session. The law consolidates India’s civil nuclear regulatory framework, repealing the Atomic Energy Act of 1962 and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act of 2010. The legislation aims to streamline oversight and enable greater private sector participation in nuclear power generation. The government says the reform will improve safety clarity, regulatory efficiency and investment confidence in India’s expanding clean energy ambitions.

Dense Fog Disrupts Delhi Airport Operations, Causing Cancellations and Widespread Flight Delays

Severe fog disrupted operations at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, leading to the cancellation of 110 flights and delays affecting over 200 services. Poor visibility conditions severely impacted landing and take-off schedules, particularly during early morning hours. Airlines issued advisories urging passengers to check flight statuses before travel. The disruption highlights recurring winter aviation challenges in north India, with authorities stressing the need for enhanced fog-handling infrastructure and passenger communication during peak winter months.

Food Safety Regulator Rejects Claims Linking Egg Consumption to Cancer Risk

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has dismissed claims suggesting eggs increase cancer risk, calling such assertions misleading and unsupported by scientific evidence. The regulator clarified that eggs are a nutritionally valuable food source and safe for consumption when properly handled. Officials warned against misinformation circulating online and urged the public to rely on credible health guidance. FSSAI reaffirmed its commitment to evidence-based food safety communication and public health awareness initiatives nationwide.

ED Attaches Assets of Cricketers, Actors in Betting-Linked Money Laundering Probe

The Enforcement Directorate has attached assets linked to cricketers Yuvraj Singh and Robin Uthappa, actors Sonu Sood and Neha Sharma, among others, in a betting-related PMLA case. Assets linked to Urvashi Rautela’s mother, former MP Mimi Chakroborty and actor Ankush Hazra were also attached. The ED stated the action is part of an ongoing investigation into illegal betting platforms. The individuals have not been accused of wrongdoing but linked through financial transactions under scrutiny.

Live-in Relationships Not Illegal, State Must Protect Couples, Says Allahabad High Court

The Allahabad High Court ruled that live-in relationships are neither illegal nor criminal and that unmarried couples are entitled to full constitutional protection. The court emphasised that consenting adults have the right to choose their partners without fear of harassment. It directed authorities to ensure protection against threats or violence. The ruling reinforces judicial recognition of personal liberty and evolving social relationships, aligning with previous Supreme Court observations on individual autonomy and privacy.

Indian Railways Announces Fare Hike for Long-Distance Travel Starting December 26

Indian Railways will implement a fare hike for long-distance train travel from December 26, citing rising operational and maintenance costs. The increase will affect select passenger categories and distance slabs, while suburban and short-distance fares remain unchanged. Officials stated the revision is necessary to sustain services and infrastructure upgrades. The move has drawn mixed reactions from commuters, balancing fiscal considerations with concerns over affordability during a period of rising travel demand.

President Clears VB-G Ram G Bill as Opposition Alleges Dilution of Gandhi’s Legacy

President Droupadi Murmu has given assent to the VB-G Ram G Bill, triggering political controversy. Opposition parties allege the legislation undermines Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy, accusing the government of symbolic appropriation and dilution of historical principles. The government has defended the bill, stating it modernises governance while retaining Gandhian values. The issue has reignited debates over historical interpretation, political symbolism and the role of legacy in contemporary policymaking.

Gautam Gambhir’s India Clinch Fifth T20I, Seal Series with South Africa

India, under Gautam Gambhir’s leadership, secured their fifth consecutive T20I victory to seal the series 3–1 against South Africa. The team’s unbeaten run showcased strong batting depth and disciplined bowling performances. Players credited team cohesion and strategic clarity for the success. The series win strengthens India’s T20 credentials ahead of upcoming international tournaments, with selectors closely monitoring form and combinations in preparation for future global competitions.

Walton Family Tops Global Rich List, Ambani Family Only Indian Entry

The Walton family, heirs to the Walmart fortune, topped the list of the world’s richest families, according to recent rankings. India’s Reliance Industries-promoted Ambani family emerged as the sole Indian representation in the global top ten. The rankings highlight growing wealth concentration among legacy business families worldwide. Analysts note that while Indian conglomerates continue to expand globally, only a few family enterprises currently match the scale of Western retail and industrial giants.

Goa Nightclub Fire Probe Widens as Luthra Brothers Sent to Police Custody

A Goa court sent the Luthra brothers to five-day police custody as investigations intensified into the nightclub fire that killed 25 people. Authorities are probing alleged safety violations, licensing lapses and crowd management failures. Multiple agencies are examining the chain of responsibility behind the tragedy. The incident has prompted renewed scrutiny of nightlife safety norms across tourist hubs, with officials promising stricter enforcement to prevent similar disasters.

India Suspends Visa Applications Indefinitely in Bangladesh’s Chittagong Region

India has suspended visa application services indefinitely in Bangladesh’s Chittagong region, citing administrative and security considerations. Officials have not specified a timeline for resumption. The suspension affects travel for medical, educational and business purposes, prompting concern among applicants. Diplomatic sources indicated that services may resume after a review of operational conditions. The move underscores ongoing logistical and regional challenges impacting cross-border mobility in South Asia.

Bengal Renames State Job Scheme After Gandhi Amid Centre-State MGNREGA Row

The West Bengal government has renamed its state employment scheme after Mahatma Gandhi amid opposition to the Centre’s proposed bill to replace MGNREGA. The move is seen as both symbolic and political, asserting state autonomy while invoking Gandhian principles. The Centre argues its bill seeks reform and efficiency, while critics fear dilution of employment guarantees. The disagreement highlights ongoing tensions over federalism, welfare delivery and control of social schemes.

Seven Elephants Killed After Being Hit by Rajdhani Express in Assam

Seven elephants were killed after being struck by the Sairang–New Delhi Rajdhani Express in Assam’s Hojai district. No passengers were injured in the incident. Forest officials said the herd was crossing railway tracks in a known elephant corridor. The tragedy has renewed calls for improved wildlife safety measures, including speed restrictions and early warning systems, along rail routes passing through ecologically sensitive zones in the Northeast.