Today in History (December 29th, 1845)
The U.S. Congress approved the annexation of the Republic of Texas on the 29th day in 1845, leading to the Mexican War due to disputes over the territory between the Rio Grande and the Nueces River.
Summary of Today’s News
Qatar court drops death penalty for eight Indians.
Eight former Indian naval personnel sentenced to death in Qatar had their sentences commuted by the Court of Appeals in Doha. The individuals, employed by Dahra Global defense services, were convicted on October 26, and while the death penalty was waived, the original guilty verdict, likely involving espionage charges, was upheld. The families express relief but disappointment, vowing to continue the fight to prove the innocence of the ex-navy officers.
Pegasus spyware found on journalists’ phones after Apple alert, says Amnesty.
Siddharth Varadarajan and another Indian journalist were targeted with Pegasus spyware, as confirmed by Amnesty International. Apple alerts indicated “state-sponsored hacking,” leading to testing by Amnesty. NSO Group, the spyware developer, sells to governments, including India. Government pressure on Apple to provide alternative explanations for security alerts to Opposition leaders and journalists was reported by The Washington Post. Union Ministers and Apple made unsubstantiated statements during this period.
After 2 years, Delhi to notify amendments to abortion Act
The Lieutenant-Governor of Delhi approved amendments to a Central Act for improved abortion care. The approval comes after a two-year delay, and the Health Department is directed to investigate and assign responsibility. Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj welcomed the decision, emphasizing the government’s commitment to affordable healthcare. The amendments aim to enhance women’s access to safe and legal abortion services.
Will bring Ordinance to enforce Kannada signage: Siddaramaiah.
After a protest by Karnataka Rakshana Vedike activists for Kannada on signboards turned violent, the Karnataka government plans to promulgate an ordinance enforcing a 60:40 Kannada-English ratio on signboards. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasized the February 28 deadline for compliance by private establishments and warned against violence during protests. Cases have been registered, and arrests made for vandalism during the demonstration.
