In a significant political development, Samrat Choudhary is set to become the next Chief Minister of Bihar after Nitish Kumar resigned from the post to take up a position in the Rajya Sabha. Choudhary’s appointment marks a major shift in the state’s political landscape, as he becomes the first leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party to hold the top post, ending Kumar’s decades-long dominance in Bihar politics. Meanwhile, tensions continue in Noida as fresh protests erupted despite heavy police deployment and a recent wage hike announcement. Authorities reported that the situation is under control, but over 300 individuals have been arrested and seven FIRs registered following Monday’s violence. Investigators have flagged the possible role of an organised WhatsApp-based network that may have mobilised protesters, raising concerns over coordinated unrest. On the international front, talks between the United States and Iran are moving toward a second round, even though earlier negotiations failed to achieve a breakthrough. With tensions still high, both sides remain engaged in diplomatic efforts. Islamabad and Geneva are being considered as potential venues, with Pakistan emerging as a possible mediator. Separately, residents of Karachi continue to face severe disruptions due to unannounced gas outages for a second consecutive week, impacting daily life and essential services.
