Bill Gates sparked outrage after calling India “a kind of laboratory to try things” during a podcast with Reid Hoffman. Critics accused him of insensitivity, with one user saying, “We Indians are guinea pigs for Bill Gates.” Gates clarified his admiration for India’s progress, stating, “India is stable enough and generating its own government revenue... things proven in India can be applied elsewhere.” Supporters defended Gates, highlighting his contributions to global health. “There’s no guinea pig-style experiments for vaccines happening in India, period,” said one user, urging balanced interpretation of his comments.

Indian envoy Pranay Verma assured that India and Bangladesh share strong, multi-dimensional ties despite recent tensions. He was summoned by Bangladesh’s foreign ministry after protesters vandalized the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala, Tripura. The protest was against attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh and the arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das. Verma called the incident “deeply regrettable” and stressed India’s commitment to positive relations. Three police officers were suspended over the security breach. Tensions have risen due to concerns over minority safety in Bangladesh, but both nations continue to work on mutual cooperation in various fields.

Bangladesh summoned Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma to discuss rising tensions over violence against Hindu minorities and a recent protest at its Agartala Assistant High Commission. Acting Foreign Secretary Reaz Hamidullah chaired the meeting. Verma emphasized India's commitment to fostering positive bilateral ties and mutual benefits through trade, power transmission, and security cooperation. Bangladesh expressed concerns over local police inaction during the Agartala protest, which left its mission staff feeling insecure. India called the incident "deeply regrettable" and pledged increased security at Bangladeshi missions nationwide. The diplomatic dialogue comes amid heightened tensions following Sheikh Hasina’s departure to India.

In Tripura, four police officers faced action after a breach at the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala during protests over alleged attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh. Three sub-inspectors were suspended, and a deputy superintendent was “closed” for negligence. Seven individuals were arrested in connection with the incident. The protests were organized by the Hindu Sangharsh Samity, condemning the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das. In response, security was heightened, and Tripura's hotel owners and hospitals announced boycotts of Bangladeshi nationals, citing the alleged desecration of the Indian flag and oppression of minorities in Bangladesh.

US Vice President-elect JD Vance's Thanksgiving photo with his wife Usha Vance’s Indian family has gone viral on social media. The picture, showing Vance in traditional Indian attire alongside his wife and 21 relatives, resonated with many Indians, evoking memories of their own festive family gatherings. The photo, shared by Silicon Valley venture capitalist Asha Jadeja Motwani, was praised by social media users for Vance’s efforts to embrace Indian culture, with many applauding his adaptation to Indian traditions, especially with the older generation. Vance has previously spoken about his love for Indian vegetarian cuisine.

The Biden administration has approved the sale of MH-60R helicopter equipment to India, valued at $1.17 billion. The deal includes advanced systems like tactical radios, fuel tanks, and infrared sensors, aiming to boost India's anti-submarine warfare abilities. Lockheed Martin will serve as the main contractor. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency stated that this sale will strengthen India's defence against current and future threats. The agreement, announced weeks before Biden’s term ends, will require US personnel to travel to India for technical support. President-elect Donald Trump will take office on January 20, 2025.

Indian-origin US Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi expressed concerns over Donald Trump’s potential second term, citing challenges for Indian immigrants. Speaking to Times of India, Krishnamoorthi highlighted Trump’s previous presidency's anti-immigration stance, which impacted skilled Indian workers significantly. He noted, "Trump's policies created an anti-immigration bias, and I fear these challenges will persist." Trump’s campaign promises include stricter border security, mass deportations, and a crackdown on illegal immigration. The Congressman, a Democrat representing Illinois' 8th district, emphasized the importance of supporting immigrants who contribute to America. Universities have already warned international students about the potential implications of Trump’s policies.

Manipur CM N Biren Singh announced the arrest of 29 suspected Bangladeshi nationals in Imphal West for violating the state's Inner Line Permit (ILP) norms. The individuals, working at a bakery, were found possessing Aadhaar cards issued in Assam. Following investigations, the suspects will be handed over to Assam authorities. A revenue official accused of issuing ILPs improperly has been suspended. Singh emphasized vigilance against illegal immigrants in the state. Separately, the Army continues searches for missing Meitei man Laishram Kamalbabu Singh in Kangpokpi district, with protests demanding swift action.

India condemned the breach at the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala during a protest by over 50 people against the arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das and attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh. The Ministry of External Affairs called the incident "deeply regrettable," emphasizing that diplomatic and consular properties must not be targeted. Security arrangements for Bangladesh’s missions in India have been strengthened. India previously raised concerns over increasing extremist rhetoric and violence against minorities in Bangladesh, urging the interim government to ensure their safety. Bangladesh refuted the allegations, calling them "unfounded."

Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee called for a United Nations peacekeeping force in Bangladesh and PM Modi's intervention to protect Hindu minorities amid escalating violence. The unrest began in August, leading to PM Sheikh Hasina's resignation and an interim government under Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. ISKCON priests' arrests and attacks on Hindu temples have drawn global attention. Banerjee expressed solidarity with victims and urged India to engage with the UN. Meanwhile, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized Bangladesh's responsibility to safeguard minorities. Protests continue across Bangladesh, demanding stronger protections for religious minorities.