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US Lawmaker Ilhan Omar 'Attacked' During Minneapolis Town Hall, Act Caught On Cam

U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar faced a disturbing interruption during a town hall meeting in Minneapolis on Tuesday after a man sprayed an unidentified substance in her direction, prompting swift action from security personnel. The incident unfolded in full view of attendees and underscored the increasingly volatile atmosphere surrounding public political events in the United States. The disruption occurred while Omar was delivering remarks on immigration enforcement and sharply criticising the Department of Homeland Security over its handling of a recent fatal shooting involving an intensive care nurse. Attack Occurs Amid Sharp Criticism Of DHS Moments before the incident, Omar had reiterated her long-held position calling for the abolition of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. She also demanded the resignation of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, arguing that the agency was beyond reform, as per a report on AP. As she spoke, a man wearing a black jacket moved toward the front and sprayed a substance at her. Security officials immediately intervened, tackling the man to the ground, restraining his arms behind his back, and escorting him out of the venue. Video recordings from inside the hall captured panic and confusion among audience members, with one voice clearly heard shouting, “Oh my god, he sprayed something on her.” I am deeply disturbed to learn that Rep. Ilhan Omar was attacked at a town hall today. Regardless of how vehemently I disagree with her rhetoric - and I do - no elected official should face physical attacks. This is not who we are.pic.twitter.com/2kNUqcnAb8 — Rep. Nancy Mace (@RepNancyMace) January 28, 2026 Omar Refuses To End Event Despite Shock Although visibly shaken by the incident, Omar declined calls to suspend or end the town hall. She requested napkins to wipe off the substance and acknowledged that she did not know what had been sprayed on her, reported Hindustan Times. Despite concerns raised by attendees about her safety, she chose to continue addressing the crowd, signaling that she would not allow the incident to derail the discussion. Her decision drew a mix of concern and support inside the hall, with some urging caution while others applauded her determination to press on. Taking to X, Ilhan Omar said, "I’m ok. I’m a survivor so this small agitator isn’t going to intimidate me from doing my work.  I don’t let bullies win. Grateful to my incredible constituents who rallied behind me. Minnesota strong." Investigation Ongoing As Political Reactions Intensify Police have yet to confirm whether the attacker was formally arrested or what charges, if any, may be filed. Officials also have not identified a motive, though unverified online speculation suggested the individual may have been intoxicated. The incident quickly sparked widespread reaction on social media. While some users expressed outrage and called for stronger protections for elected officials, others focused on Omar’s response, praising her refusal to step away from the event.

ABP Live

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9 months ago

Bangladesh inks defence deal with China to set up UAV manufacturing plant

Dhaka, Jan 27 (PTI): Bangladesh on Tuesday inked a defence deal with China to set up a manufacturing facility for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), the interim government said. The agreement was signed between the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) and the state-owned China Electronics Technology Group Corporation International (CETC), the defence ministry said in a statement. "Under the agreement, BAF and CETC will jointly set up a facility to produce and assemble state-of-the-art UAVs,” it said. As part of the deal, CETC will transfer technology to the BAF and support capacity-building to independently produce UAVs in the long term. The UAVs will be used for humanitarian assistance and disaster management as well as military operations. According to the statement, the BAF will initially acquire the capability to manufacture and assemble various types of Medium Altitude Low Endurance (MALE) UAVs and Vertical Take-off and Landing (VTOL) UAVs. The agreement to set up the facility in Bangladesh was signed at the BAF headquarters in Dhaka Cantonment in the presence of Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan. Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen, Principal Staff Officer of Bangladesh’s Armed Forces Division Lt Gen SM Kamrul Hassan, and representatives from the Chief Adviser's office were also present at the signing ceremony. CETC manufactures radars, UAVs and telecommunication equipment, and develops IT infrastructure, including networks and software, for civilian and military applications. It also operates as an investment and asset management firm. China has been Bangladesh's primary supplier of defence hardware for decades. According to several reports, the BAF is finalising a USD 2.2 billion deal to procure 20 Chengdu J-10C "Vigorous Dragon" multi-role fighter jets to enhance its capabilities, replacing ageing F-7 and MiG-29 aircraft. PTI AR SCY SCY SCY(This story is published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. No editing has been done in the headline or the body by ABP Live.)

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9 months ago

Earth’s season timings shatter: Satellites reveal the planet no longer changing evenly

Satellite data reveals Earth's seasons are becoming fragmented and unpredictable, with neighboring regions falling out of sync. This breakdown in shared environmental timing disrupts agriculture and water cycles, leading to ecological consequences and accelerating biodiversity loss. The planet is no longer a single seasonal system but a patchwork of ecosystems on different clocks.

Times of India

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9 months ago

Scientists may have found a way to make old cells act young again

Scientists have discovered that old cells lose their coordinated gene activity. By resetting these internal control systems, researchers made aged human cells behave like younger ones. This approach showed promise in mice, improving liver function. The findings suggest a future where age-related decline could be slowed or reversed by fixing cellular organization, not replacing cells.

Times of India

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9 months ago

Solar wind explained: How the sun’s particle stream impacts our solar system

Times of India

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9 months ago

Why NASA releases half million gallons of water before every rocket launch

NASA's massive water deluge system, releasing nearly 450,000 gallons, is crucial for rocket launches. This powerful spray controls extreme sound, vibration, and heat generated at ignition, preventing catastrophic damage to the rocket and launchpad. Lessons learned from past missions underscore its vital role in ensuring successful liftoffs.

Times of India

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9 months ago

EV Safety Under Scrutiny: What Really Happened In The Mahindra BE 6 Incident Case

A fire involving a Mahindra BE 6 electric SUV on a highway in Uttar Pradesh last week prompted an investigation into the cause of the incident and renewed attention on electric vehicle safety. As the video spread across social media platforms, speculation followed about a possible battery failure or electrical fault. Mahindra’s subsequent technical note, however, presents a more conventional explanation focused on tyre damage rather than a fault in the high-voltage system. The incident occurred near Hapur’s Kurana toll plaza as the Mahindra BE 6 was travelling from Bulandshahr to Hapur. The vehicle, bearing registration number UP 13 U 7555, was being driven by Aman Kharbanda. According to eyewitness accounts and police records, the driver noticed smoke emerging from the rear of the vehicle and immediately pulled over to the side of the highway. Within moments, the smoke intensified, and flames began to spread, eventually engulfing the SUV. The driver and all occupants managed to exit the vehicle safely. No injuries were reported. Local residents alerted the police, and a team from Hafizpur police station, along with the fire brigade, reached the spot. Traffic on the busy highway was halted temporarily as firefighters worked to douse the blaze. The incident was followed by online speculation about possible battery risks, even as an official investigation was underway. What Mahindra’s Investigation Found In its official statement, Mahindra said it conducted a detailed on-site inspection along with an analysis of onboard sensor data and software diagnostics. The company confirmed that the high-voltage EV battery and motor remained fully intact and unaffected throughout the incident. “Quality and safety remain our utmost priority,” the company said, adding that all safety systems worked exactly as designed. Crucially, Mahindra’s engineers identified the origin of the fire not in the battery pack, but in the rear right tyre. The Role Of A Deflated Tyre Vehicle data shows that the car was driven for over 10 minutes at approximately 60 km/h on a fully deflated rear right tyre, despite repeated tyre pressure alerts being issued. A tyre high temperature alert was triggered, following which the vehicle automatically activated protective safety measures. These included limiting vehicle speed, activating Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), engaging Traction Control System (TCS), and initiating a controlled system shutdown to bring the car to a safe halt. Onboard sensors recorded that ESP and TCS were actively intervening to control wheel spin on the damaged tyre. The high temperature alert was caused by excessive friction between the deflated tyre and the road surface, Mahindra said. Analysis of bystander video footage confirmed that the fire originated from the rubber of the rear right tyre, not from the battery compartment. Battery, Motor And High-Voltage Systems: Unaffected A key concern in any EV fire is the possibility of thermal runaway, a chain reaction inside battery cells. Mahindra said no such event occurred in this case. Despite what it described as “intense thermal stress originating from an external source”, the company said battery health parameters were within specified limits, individual cell voltages remained stable, and the electric motor remained intact and functional In short, the battery neither failed nor contributed to the fire. A Viral Video And Public Questions The bystander video, widely circulated on social media, showed the SUV fully engulfed in flames, prompting users to question EV reliability and demand stricter safety norms. The images prompted concerns about electric vehicle safety, which industry experts say must be assessed on a case-by-case basis. While EV fires attract disproportionate attention, data globally suggests that internal combustion engine vehicles are statistically more likely to catch fire due to fuel leaks, overheating and electrical faults. In this case, Mahindra says the fire behaved like a conventional tyre fire, not an electrical or battery failure. About The Mahindra BE 6 The Mahindra BE 6 was launched in November 2024. Starting ex-showroom price: Rs 18.90 lakh Top variant price: Rs 27.65 lakh It is offered with two battery options: 59 kWh battery with a claimed range of 557 km, and 79 kWh battery with a claimed range of 683 km. This is believed to be among the first reported fire incidents involving the BE 6 model. Mahindra urged customers to always heed vehicle warnings and alerts. “All Mahindra vehicles are designed and built to the highest quality and safety standards,” the company said. “Customer safety remains our highest priority.” As electric vehicle adoption rises, experts say it is important to distinguish between battery-related incidents and fires originating from non-electrical components.

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9 months ago

India-EU Trade Deal: These Luxury Cars To Get Cheaper As Import Taxes Are Slashed

After years of negotiations, India and the European Union have finally concluded their long-awaited Free Trade Agreement, marking a major turning point for bilateral commerce. One of the most headline-grabbing outcomes is a steep reduction in import duties on European cars entering India, a move expected to reshape the country’s auto market. The deal is being seen as a win for consumers and manufacturers alike, opening the door to more affordable premium vehicles while strengthening India–EU trade ties. Here’s what the agreement means for buyers, brands and the broader economy. From 110% to 10%: A Massive Tariff Reset Under the agreement, import duties on European cars will be reduced from the current 110% to just 10. However, the cut will not happen overnight. The revised tariff structure will be implemented in phases, allowing the domestic industry time to adjust. The government has also fixed an annual quota of 250,000 vehicles that will qualify for the concessional rate. This means premium and global models from Europe could soon become significantly cheaper in India, making luxury and high-tech cars more accessible to Indian buyers. Until now, brands such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Skoda and Renault have remained expensive due to heavy taxation. With tariffs easing, industry watchers expect noticeable price corrections, broader consumer choice and faster rollout of international models in the Indian market. What It Means For Buyers For Indian customers, the FTA promises better value, advanced technology and increased access to premium vehicles. Greater competition is also likely to push manufacturers to improve features and pricing across segments. Beyond cars, the deal strengthens India-EU economic ties. In FY2024-25, bilateral trade crossed USD 190 billion. India exported USD 75.9 billion worth of goods and USD 30 billion in services to the EU, while European exports to India stood at USD 60.7 billion in goods and USD 23 billion in services. For the auto sector, this agreement is being viewed as one of the biggest openings in decades. European manufacturers will find it easier to introduce new models, while Indian consumers stand to benefit from a more competitive marketplace. Once implemented, the India-EU FTA is expected to usher in a new phase for India’s automotive industry, lowering prices, raising standards and accelerating integration with global markets. For buyers dreaming of European wheels at Indian prices, that future may now be closer than ever.

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9 months ago

NASA tests space sensors for tracking ocean debris

Times of India

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9 months ago

Jaya Ekadashi 2026: Know Date, Puja Guidelines And Things To Avoid

Jaya Ekadashi 2026: Jaya Ekadashi holds a special place in Sanatan Dharma and is observed with deep devotion to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. According to the Hindu calendar, Jaya Ekadashi will be observed on Thursday, January 29, 2026. It is believed that observing this sacred fast helps devotees overcome sorrow, remove obstacles, and attain spiritual peace. However, unknowingly breaking certain rules on Ekadashi can reduce the spiritual merit of the vrat. That is why it is essential to understand the correct date, fasting guidelines, and actions that must be strictly avoided on this day. ALSO READ: Magh Purnima 2026 Date: Is It On 1 Or 2 February? Know Snan, Daan And Puja Muhurat Jaya Ekadashi 2026: Correct Date And Paran Time There has been some confusion regarding the date of Jaya Ekadashi, as the Ekadashi tithi spans both January 28 and 29. According to the Hindu Panchang, the Ekadashi tithi begins on January 28 at 4:35 pm and ends on January 29 at 1:55 pm. Since Ekadashi fasting is observed based on the Udaya Tithi, the vrat and worship of Jaya Ekadashi will be performed on Thursday, January 29, 2026. The Paran should be done on January 30 between 6:41 am and 8:56 am. Why Jaya Ekadashi Is Spiritually Significant Jaya Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe. Scriptures state that observing this fast with purity of mind and actions helps devotees eliminate negative karma and attain divine blessings. Worshipping Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi on this day is believed to bring prosperity, peace, and relief from long-standing difficulties. The vrat is not just about fasting, but about maintaining discipline, compassion, and spiritual awareness throughout the day. Avoid Rice Consumption And Donation On Ekadashi (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) Rice consumption is strictly prohibited on Ekadashi. While charity is considered highly auspicious on this day, donating rice is also discouraged. According to religious beliefs, consuming or donating rice on Ekadashi diminishes the spiritual benefits of the fast. Devotees may instead donate fruits, clothes, money, or other essentials according to their capacity. Control Anger And Speech During The Vrat (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) Maintaining control over one’s speech and emotions is crucial while observing Ekadashi. Arguments, harsh words, anger, shouting, or dishonesty can significantly reduce the merits of the vrat. The essence of Ekadashi lies in purity of mind, speech, and action, not merely in abstaining from food. Treat elders, children, and family members with patience and kindness throughout the day. Do Not Pluck Tulsi Leaves On Ekadashi (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) Plucking Tulsi leaves on Ekadashi is strictly forbidden. It is believed that Tulsi also observes a fast on this sacred day, and breaking her leaves is considered disrespectful. Devotees should use Tulsi leaves that were plucked the previous day for worship. Touching or plucking Tulsi on Ekadashi is believed to displease Lord Vishnu. Follow Complete Sattvic Discipline (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) Devotees must strictly follow a sattvic lifestyle on Ekadashi. Consumption of onion, garlic, alcohol, meat, lentils like masoor dal, honey, and brinjal should be avoided. Observing brahmacharya (celibacy) is also considered essential during the fast. Such discipline enhances spiritual focus and helps devotees fully benefit from the sacred observance. [Disclaimer: The content of this article is based solely on assumptions and available information. ABPLive.com does not assert the accuracy or validity of any claims or information presented. It is strongly recommended to consult a qualified expert before considering or implementing any information or belief discussed herein.]

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9 months ago

iPhone 16 Pro Max Is Now Around Rs 35,000 Off: Here’s How You Can Grab The Deal

iPhone 16 Pro Max Discount: Apple’s premium flagship, the iPhone 16 Pro Max, is now available at a much lower effective price on Flipkart. With the help of bank discounts and exchange offers, the cost can drop below Rs 1 lakh. This sharp cut has made the device more reachable for buyers who were waiting for the right moment to upgrade.  The phone still sits in Apple’s high-end lineup, but the reduced price has changed how people see it. Instead of feeling out of reach, it now attracts users planning a serious upgrade. iPhone 16 Pro Max Price Drops In India  The iPhone 16 Pro Max with 256GB storage is listed at Rs 1,34,900. Flipkart is offering a flat Rs 4,000 discount on select bank credit cards. That brings the price down instantly. The real impact comes from the exchange offer. Depending on the phone you trade in, you can get up to Rs 68,050 off. The exact value depends on your device model, condition, and location. For example, an iPhone 13 Pro can fetch around Rs 30,000. When both the bank discount and exchange value are applied together, the final price falls under Rs 1 lakh. That is rare for a Pro Max model that is still fully relevant in Apple’s lineup. This pricing changes the phone’s position in the market. It no longer feels like a luxury-only purchase. For many users planning an upgrade in 2026, the iPhone 16 Pro Max now sits in the “worth considering” zone. Also Read- iPhone 17 Pro Max Now Rs 33,000 Cheaper During Republic Day Sale: Here's How To Get This Deal iPhone 16 Pro Max Specification Even though it is not Apple’s newest phone, the iPhone 16 Pro Max still feels modern. It runs on the A18 Pro chip, which handles daily tasks, heavy apps, gaming, and AI features smoothly. Apple’s long software support also means the phone will stay updated for years. The device has a large 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, HDR, and Always-On mode. The titanium frame and Ceramic Shield glass add strength and durability. The camera setup includes a 48MP main camera, a 48MP ultra-wide lens, and a 12MP 5x telephoto camera. It supports ProRAW, ProRes video, and Night mode. You also get Face ID, 5G, Wi-Fi 7, spatial audio, IP68 water resistance, and safety features like Emergency SOS via satellite. At its current effective price, the iPhone 16 Pro Max offers strong value in 2026.

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9 months ago

MG Majestor Spy Images Show Off The SUV’s Huge Road Presence

JSW MG is readying its next launch for India and it is the Majestor. We have spy images of the same which showcase the huge size of this SUV. The Majestor is the updated Gloster and was shown at the Bharat Mobility Expo. Meanwhile, these images show the car testing being out in the wild. From the side the Gloster like proportions are seen while now it has a meaner looking front end design. It has a huge new grille being layered with gloss black while it also has vertical LED headlights. You can also see the slim DRLs plus loads of cladding too. It has more presence now and even more so with being seen out in the wild. Engine, Features and Launch Timeline The Majestor is expected to come with a two litre twin turbo diesel engine which will have plenty of torque for this SUV. Standard would be a n 8-speed automatic plus it will have AWD also on offer. Inside, the new Majestor will get an overhauled cabin and will include a larger touchscreen along with the fact that we can expect more equipment like massage seat for the driver plus heated as well as powered front seats. The Majestor would be launched on the 12th of February and would be the flagship SUV within the MG range. This SUV will rival a lot of the larger three row SUVs but here as seen with the spy pics, the MG Majestor has more presence with being larger and looking more premium. Expect more details to be spilled on the MG Majestor leading upto the launch soon including interior images and features plus which powertrain it will be using as well.

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9 months ago

ABP Live Astro Analysis | Why 95% People Fail And Only 5% Succeed: The 5 AM Club Secret Explained

Success and failure are often seen as matters of luck, talent, or destiny. But what if the real difference between the 95% who struggle and the 5% who succeed lies hidden in one simple habit — waking up early? According to productivity experts and ancient wellness wisdom alike, the early morning hours hold transformative power. The globally popular concept known as the 5 AM Club reveals how aligning your routine with this sacred time can rewire your mind, boost health, and unlock long-term success. ALSO READ: ABP Live Astro Analysis: Why You Keep Waking Up At Night? Know What Planets Reveal About Your Sleep What Is The 5 AM Club? The 5 AM Club is a world-renowned productivity concept popularised by leadership coach and author Robin Sharma. Its core belief is that the hour between 5 AM and 6 AM, often called The Victory Hour, is the most powerful time of the day. By waking up early and following a disciplined routine during this hour, individuals can dramatically improve focus, creativity, emotional balance, and energy levels. This is not merely about waking up early; it is a structured method to mentally and physically prepare the mind for excellence. Why Do The World’s Most Successful People Wake Up At 5 AM? From Apple CEO Tim Cook to Disney’s Bob Iger, many global leaders are known for their early-morning routines. The reason lies in a scientifically recognised mental state called Transient Hypofrontality. During the early morning hours, the brain’s prefrontal cortex, responsible for stress, overthinking, and fear, remains relatively calm. This allows the subconscious mind to become more active, enabling deeper thinking, clarity, creativity, and problem-solving. In spiritual terms, this time is also considered Brahma Muhurta, ideal for growth and self-discipline. The 20/20/20 Rule: The Real Formula Of The 5 AM Club Robin Sharma emphasises that simply waking up at 5 AM is not enough. The first 60 minutes must be divided into three powerful segments: First 20 Minutes – Move Engage in intense physical activity such as stretching, yoga, jogging, or strength exercises. This releases dopamine and serotonin, eliminates morning lethargy, and energises the body. Next 20 Minutes – Reflect Practise meditation, mindfulness, or journaling. Writing down thoughts, goals, or gratitude brings mental clarity, emotional stability, and reduces daily stress. Last 20 Minutes – Grow Use this time for reading, learning a new skill, or gaining knowledge. This habit keeps you mentally sharp and consistently ahead of the crowd. From Failure To Leadership: A Real-Life Experience Rohan, a freelance graphic designer from Noida, once struggled with late mornings and constant fatigue. Taking up the 5 AM Club as a personal challenge changed everything. “Initial days were extremely difficult,” he shares. “But by the second week, my creativity peaked. Tasks that took 10 hours were completed in just 3 calm morning hours. Within 21 days, I landed a new project and lost 3 kilograms.” His experience proves that consistent effort and discipline are the true tests of success. Why The 5 AM Club Is Essential For Your Health Waking up early positively impacts both physical and mental health: Better Sleep Quality: To wake up at 5 AM, you naturally sleep earlier, improving your circadian rhythm. Reduced Stress: Completing key tasks before the world wakes up keeps you proactive, not reactive. Stronger Willpower: Early rising strengthens self-discipline, the foundation of long-term success. How To Become A Part Of The 5 AM Club: Expert Tips Start Gradually: If you wake up at 8 AM, move your alarm 15 minutes earlier each day. Keep The Alarm Away: Place your phone or alarm at least 10 feet from the bed. 90-Minute Digital Detox: Avoid screens 90 minutes before sleep to ensure deep rest. The 5 AM Club is not a punishment, but a powerful gift to yourself. While the world sleeps, you lay the foundation of your dreams. Remember, one disciplined morning hour can shape the next 23 hours of your life. [Disclaimer: The content of this article is based solely on astrological predictions, and should be taken as general guidance. Individual experiences may vary. ABPLive.com does not assert the accuracy or validity of any claims or information presented. It is strongly recommended to consult a qualified expert before considering or implementing any information or belief discussed herein.]

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9 months ago

'WhatsApp Is Not Secure': Elon Musk, Pavel Durov Slam Meta After Explosive Privacy Lawsuit

Elon Musk and Telegram founder Pavel Durov have jumped into the spotlight after Meta was sued in the US over claims that WhatsApp misled users about message privacy. Durov called WhatsApp “unsafe” and said believing in its security in 2026 is “braindead.” Musk went a step further, saying even Signal is doubtful and urging people to use X Chat.  Their sharp comments came after a lawsuit accused Meta of secretly storing and analysing WhatsApp messages despite promising full end-to-end encryption. WhatsApp Privacy Lawsuit: What The Case Claims The lawsuit was filed in a US District Court in San Francisco and was first reported by Bloomberg. It has been brought by an international group of users from India, Brazil, Australia, Mexico, and South Africa. The case claims that Meta falsely tells users that WhatsApp messages are fully private and can only be read by the sender and receiver. According to the plaintiffs, Meta actually stores and analyses parts of user communication and can access the substance of messages. The lawsuit is based on information from unnamed whistleblowers who allegedly worked closely with Meta’s systems. They argue that WhatsApp’s promise of “only you can read your messages” is misleading and gives users a false sense of safety. This report triggered strong reactions from tech leaders. Durov said Telegram had studied WhatsApp’s encryption and found “multiple attack vectors.”  You’d have to be braindead to believe WhatsApp is secure in 2026. When we analyzed how WhatsApp implemented its “encryption”, we found multiple attack vectors. https://t.co/BC1TWFAIlc — Pavel Durov (@durov) January 26, 2026 Musk echoed the criticism and posted, “WhatsApp is not secure. Even Signal is questionable.” WhatsApp Privacy Lawsuit: Meta’s Response & Reactions Meta has completely rejected the allegations. A company spokesperson called the lawsuit “frivolous” and said the claims are “categorically false and absurd.” Meta stated that WhatsApp has used end-to-end encryption for nearly ten years. WhatsApp is not secure. Even Signal is questionable. Use 𝕏 Chat. https://t.co/MWXCOmkbTD — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 27, 2026 WhatsApp head Will Cathcart also replied directly to Musk. He said WhatsApp cannot read messages because encryption keys stay on users’ phones. “We don’t have access to them,” he wrote. Cathcart also pointed out that the same law firm behind this case previously defended NSO Group, whose spyware was used against journalists and officials. He called the lawsuit “headline-seeking” and without merit. For now, the case is just beginning. But the public debate it has sparked is already making users question how private their chats really are.

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9 months ago

Thyroid Disease And Pregnancy: Risks, Symptoms, And Expert-Backed Management Explained

{By: Dr. Kshitiz Murdia} Thyroid disorders are among the most common endocrine conditions affecting women of reproductive age. The thyroid gland, located in the neck, produces hormones that regulate metabolism and play a central role in growth, development, and physiological balance. When hormone production falls below normal levels, it results in hypothyroidism, while excess production leads to hyperthyroidism. In India, the estimated burden of thyroid disease is around 42 million individuals, with women disproportionately affected. Despite its prevalence, thyroid health is often under-recognised in discussions around reproductive planning and pregnancy outcomes. ALSO READ: Aortic Stenosis In Older Adults: The Silent Heart Problem And The New Fix Changing Lives Why Thyroid Hormones Matter During Pregnancy (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) Thyroid hormones play a critical role during pregnancy, particularly in the early stages of foetal development. During the first trimester and into the early second trimester, the developing foetus relies entirely on maternal thyroid hormones, which cross the placenta to support the formation of the brain and nervous system. Only later does the foetus begin producing its own thyroid hormones. For women planning a pregnancy, maintaining stable thyroid hormone levels is therefore not just a matter of maternal health, but an important determinant of foetal development. Even subtle imbalances during early gestation can have downstream effects. Recognising Symptoms During Pregnancy Pregnancy itself brings about significant hormonal shifts. Rising levels of oestrogen and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) can stimulate changes in thyroid hormone levels, sometimes masking or mimicking thyroid dysfunction. This overlap can make diagnosis challenging, particularly in cases of hyperthyroidism, where symptoms may resemble normal pregnancy-related changes. Hypothyroidism during pregnancy may present with muscle cramps, heightened sensitivity to cold, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and weight gain, symptoms that are often attributed to pregnancy itself. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, may be associated with heat intolerance, palpitations, irregular or rapid heart rate, sleep disturbances, unexplained weight loss, and severe nausea or vomiting. Autoimmune Causes And Thyroid Dysfunction In many cases, thyroid disease during pregnancy is linked to autoimmune conditions, either pre-existing or newly identified during gestation. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is characterised by an immune-mediated attack on thyroid tissue, leading to a gradual decline in hormone production. Alongside classical features of hypothyroidism, it may be associated with dry skin, constipation, joint stiffness, muscle weakness, cold intolerance, and swelling of the extremities. Graves’ disease represents the opposite end of the spectrum. It is driven by thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) antibodies, which trigger excessive hormone secretion. Clinical features can include heat intolerance, elevated blood pressure, palpitations, menstrual irregularities, diarrhoea, and insomnia. TSI levels tend to fluctuate during pregnancy, often peaking in the first and last trimesters and improving mid-pregnancy due to transient changes in immune activity. Implications For The Mother And Child (Image Source: ABPLIVE AI) Thyroid hormones are integral to foetal growth, particularly neurological development. When thyroid levels remain untreated or poorly controlled, the risks extend to both mother and baby. Adverse outcomes may include preterm birth, low birth weight, miscarriage, or stillbirth. In cases of maternal hypothyroidism, impaired neurodevelopment may affect the child’s cognitive outcomes. For women with a history of Graves’ disease, TSI antibodies can cross the placenta even if thyroid levels appear controlled. Elevated thyroid hormone levels in the newborn can result in poor weight gain, tachycardia, irritability, and respiratory distress, requiring prompt medical attention. Maternal complications may include anaemia, gestational hypertension, and preeclampsia. Hyperthyroidism is also associated with hyperemesis gravidarum, a severe form of pregnancy-related vomiting that can lead to dehydration and metabolic imbalance. Postpartum thyroiditis may develop after delivery, presenting as transient hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or a combination of both. This condition affects an estimated 7.5 percent of women, with a higher incidence observed among those with type 1 diabetes. Managing Thyroid Disease During Pregnancy Effective management begins with a detailed medical history and ongoing monitoring. Women with known thyroid conditions require close coordination between obstetric and endocrine care teams throughout pregnancy. Hypothyroidism is typically treated with levothyroxine, a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4), to maintain hormone levels within the recommended range. Mild hyperthyroidism may not require active treatment unless symptoms are severe or complicated by conditions such as hyperemesis gravidarum. In cases of significant hyperthyroidism, carefully titrated doses of antithyroid medication are used to balance maternal health while minimising foetal risk. Thyroid health is an essential, though often under-emphasised, component of pregnancy care. For fertility providers, recognising, monitoring, and managing thyroid disorders before and during pregnancy forms a critical part of preconception assessment and ongoing treatment planning. Timely intervention can play a meaningful role in safeguarding both maternal wellbeing and long-term child health. The author, Dr. Kshitiz Murdia, is the CEO and Whole-Time Director of Indira IVF Hospital Limited. [Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is shared by experts and is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]

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9 months ago