Digest for 06 November, 2025
US Supreme Court Questions Legality of Trump's Global Tariffs
The US Supreme Court is scrutinizing President Donald Trump's authority to impose sweeping global tariffs under the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The case, brought by several states and businesses, challenges the president's power to unilaterally levy taxes on imports, a role constitutionally assigned to Congress. Justices appeared skeptical of the administration's broad interpretation of the law. A ruling against the government, expected in 2026, could invalidate tariffs, force billions in refunds, and significantly curtail future presidential trade powers.
India to Reduce Direct Russian Oil Imports Following New US Sanctions
Several major Indian refiners, including Reliance Industries, are set to halt or reduce direct crude oil purchases from Russia's Rosneft and Lukoil starting late November. This follows new US sanctions targeting the Russian energy giants, which take effect on November 21. The move is expected to cause a sharp decline in Russian crude arrivals in December, shifting India's procurement towards the Middle East, West Africa, and the Americas to avoid exposure to the sanctions, which have reshaped global energy flows.
Zohran Mamdani Makes History as New York City's First South Asian Mayor
Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani has been elected the 111th mayor of New York City, becoming the city's first mayor of South Asian heritage and its first Muslim leader. The 34-year-old son of filmmaker Mira Nair defeated former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa. Mamdani's victory, celebrated with Bollywood music and a quote from Jawaharlal Nehru, marks a significant progressive shift in the city's politics. His campaign focused on affordability, housing, and social justice issues in America's largest city.
Voting Underway for First Phase of Bihar Assembly Elections
Voting has begun for the first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections, covering 121 constituencies across 18 districts. Over 37.5 million voters are eligible to decide the fate of 1,314 candidates in this crucial phase. Key contestants include INDIA bloc's chief ministerial candidate Tejashwi Yadav and BJP's Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary. The election, which pits the ruling NDA against the opposition Mahagathbandhan, is being held amid tight security, with results for the two-phase poll scheduled for November 14.
Typhoon Kalmaegi Kills Over 100 in Central Philippines
The Philippines has declared a national state of calamity after Typhoon Kalmaegi devastated central provinces, leaving at least 114 people dead and 127 missing. The majority of casualties were from drownings in flash floods, particularly in the hard-hit Cebu province, which was still recovering from a recent earthquake. The typhoon has affected nearly two million people and displaced over 560,000. The emergency declaration will expedite the release of funds for relief efforts as the country braces for another potential cyclone.