US President Donald Trump said Elon Musk will help uncover “hundreds of billions” in fraud within federal agencies. Speaking to Fox News, Trump stated that Musk, leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), will investigate wasteful spending, starting with the Department of Education and the military. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz suggested Pentagon shipbuilding could also be scrutinized. Meanwhile, a judge blocked Musk’s move to furlough 2,000 USAID employees, and over 40 lawsuits challenge Trump’s policies. The White House dismissed the lawsuits as political resistance, affirming its commitment to cost-cutting reforms.

Political strategist Prashant Kishor criticized Arvind Kejriwal’s decision to resign as Delhi Chief Minister after securing bail, calling it a "major strategic blunder." Speaking to India Today TV, Kishor argued that Kejriwal should have stepped down immediately after his arrest, which could have strengthened AAP’s position. He claimed the delayed resignation weakened the party's credibility, contributing to its electoral losses. AAP has been struggling amid corruption allegations and leadership challenges. Kishor’s remarks come as the party faces a political crisis in Delhi following its recent electoral setbacks.

Indian security forces killed 31 Maoist rebels in the forests of Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, in one of the deadliest clashes in recent years. Two commandos were also killed, while two other personnel sustained injuries. Security forces seized assault rifles and grenade launchers from the rebels. Union Home Minister Amit Shah called the operation a "big success," reiterating the government's goal to eliminate the insurgency by 2026. The Maoist rebellion, ongoing since the 1960s, continues in India's "red corridor." Last year, 287 rebels were killed in security operations, mostly in Chhattisgarh. The death toll may rise as operations continue.

British singer Ed Sheeran was stopped mid-performance by Bengaluru police while singing on Church Street. A viral video shows officers unplugging his microphone as Sheeran told fans, "We have permission, but the police are shutting it down." The incident sparked mixed reactions online. Some fans called it "embarrassing," while others defended the police, citing public safety concerns. Comparisons were made to the Pushpa 2 stampede incident. Sheeran is in India for his Mathematics Tour and will next perform in Shillong and Delhi NCR. The Bengaluru police have yet to comment.

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned on Sunday but has been asked by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to continue as caretaker CM until a new appointment. Singh has been advised against making major policy decisions while handling routine governance. The BJP government faces a potential no-confidence motion after losing ally NPP’s support, though it retains a majority with 32 seats and backing from JD(U) and NPF. Ethnic violence since 2023 has worsened political instability, with over 250 deaths reported. The 12th Manipur Assembly’s 7th session is set to begin on February 10.

India defeated England by 4 wickets in Cuttack, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 3-match ODI series. Rohit Sharma ended his 16-month century drought with a 119 off 90 balls, supported by Shubman Gill’s 60. India successfully chased the target in 44.3 overs despite a late collapse. Ravindra Jadeja’s 3/35 restricted England, whose batting was criticized by Kevin Pietersen for failing to convert starts into big scores. With the Champions Trophy approaching, India’s dominance strengthens their campaign, while England struggles with form and consistency.

Israeli forces withdrew from the Netzarim Corridor, which had divided Gaza, allowing displaced Palestinians to return north. Many found their homes destroyed. The move follows the January 19 Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal, under which 16 Israeli hostages and 566 Palestinian prisoners have been released. The ceasefire's first phase aims to free 33 hostages and 1,900 prisoners. Talks in Qatar are set to discuss further releases and a possible full withdrawal. Meanwhile, Trump’s call for Gaza’s depopulation sparked global outrage, with Saudi Arabia and Egypt rejecting it as "ethnic cleansing" and the Arab League planning an emergency summit.

India captain Rohit Sharma smashed 119 off 90 balls as India closed in on victory against England in the 2nd ODI at Barabati Stadium, Cuttack. Chasing 305, India needed less than 20 runs with four wickets remaining. Rohit’s 32nd ODI century, reached in 76 balls, was his 49th international ton, surpassing Rahul Dravid in India’s all-time list. He also overtook Chris Gayle for the second-most ODI sixes (332), trailing Shahid Afridi (351). Earlier, Ravindra Jadeja’s 3/35 helped restrict England to 304. India is on the verge of sealing the series.

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned on Sunday, nearly 2 years after ethnic violence erupted in the state. He submitted his resignation to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla as speculation grew over a no-confidence motion and floor test by Congress. Singh, who recently met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi, stated it was an "honor" to serve Manipur. Despite BJP’s majority, dissent within the party raised concerns. Manipur has faced ethnic violence since May 2023, leaving over 250 dead. The Manipur Assembly’s 7th session begins February 10, where political developments are expected to unfold.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma was frustrated after KL Rahul and Axar Patel chose not to review an LBW appeal against Joe Root. In the 25th over, Axar's delivery struck Root on the pads, but umpire Chris Brown denied the appeal. Rahul and Axar decided against reviewing, only for replays to show the ball clipping the off-stump. Rohit was visibly irritated, shaking his head in disappointment. Earlier, India had wasted a review on Root. England, batting first in Cuttack, started strong, with Ben Duckett scoring 65. India leads the three-match ODI series 1-0.