Digest for 08 November, 2025
US to Restrict Visas for Applicants with Common Chronic Health Conditions
The US government has directed its consular offices worldwide to deny visas to applicants with certain chronic medical conditions, including diabetes, obesity, and cancer. The new guidance, issued via a State Department cable, argues such individuals could become a "public charge," relying on government resources for expensive, long-term care. Visa officers are now instructed to assess an applicant's financial ability to cover potential medical costs, a move that could significantly impact many aspiring immigrants from India and other nations.
Major ATC Glitch at Delhi Airport Disrupts Air Travel Nationwide
A critical failure in the Air Traffic Control system at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport caused chaos on Friday, leading to the delay of over 600 flights and a ripple effect across the country. The breakdown of the Automatic Message Switching System (AMSS) forced controllers to process flight plans manually, drastically slowing operations. The disruption stranded thousands of passengers and is estimated to have caused over ₹100 crore in losses to airlines, highlighting the vulnerability of India's busiest aviation hub.
Supreme Court to Hear Challenge to Pan-India Electoral Roll Revision
The Supreme Court has scheduled an urgent hearing for November 11 on petitions challenging the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The exercise, underway in 12 states and union territories, is being contested by groups like the Association for Democratic Reforms and the DMK party, who argue it is unconstitutional. The case holds significant implications for Indian democracy, as a similar process in Bihar recently resulted in the removal of nearly 4.7 million voters from the rolls.
US to Boycott G20 Summit in South Africa Over Farmer Treatment Claims
The United States will boycott this year's Group of 20 summit in South Africa, President Donald Trump announced Friday, calling the host nation's inclusion a "total disgrace." Citing alleged violence and land confiscation targeting white Afrikaner farmers, Trump confirmed that no US officials, including Vice President JD Vance who was scheduled to attend, will be present. The move marks a significant diplomatic rift, with the US withdrawing from a key global economic forum over domestic policies of the host country.
India Says Covert Nuclear Activity is Consistent with Pakistan's History
India's Ministry of External Affairs has responded to US President Donald Trump's claim that Pakistan is secretly testing nuclear weapons. A spokesperson stated that "clandestine and illegal nuclear activities" are in keeping with Pakistan's history, citing decades of smuggling, export violations, and the notorious AQ Khan proliferation network. While not directly confirming Trump's assertion, New Delhi used the opportunity to highlight its long-standing concerns to the international community about Pakistan's dubious nuclear track record, which Islamabad has denied.