This special report delves into Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama's announcement about the country's AI-generated minister, Deela, whose name means 'Sun'. Rama announced, 'I owe you to to share for first time that the LA is pregnant and and she's expecting 83 kids.' This symbolic 'pregnancy' refers to the creation of 83 AI assistants for Socialist Party MPs, designed to record sessions, provide summaries, and suggest responses. Appointed to make the public procurement system transparent, Deela is a cornerstone of Albania's anti-corruption strategy and its bid to join the EU by 2030. However, the move has sparked controversy, with the opposition raising constitutional challenges and expressing fears that the AI could conceal corruption rather than eliminate it.
This edition of Newstrack focusses on actor-turned-politician and TVK chief Vijay, who was questioned by the Central Bureau of Investigation for over seven hours in New Delhi in connection with Karur stampede that resulted in 41 deaths three months ago.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who inaugurated the International Kite Festival 2026 at the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad, flew kites, a gesture symbolising the strong ties between India and Germany.
Three months after the tragic Karur stampede, actor-turned-politician and TVK chief Vijay was questioned for over seven hours by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in New Delhi. The probe, initiated after a Supreme Court order, focuses on lapses at the rally that led to 41 deaths. The CBI questioned Vijay on why he continued his speech despite the chaos and his delayed arrival at the venue. According to sources, Vijay told investigators that 'neither he nor TVK was responsible for the stampede'. He reportedly maintained that he left the venue fearing his presence could worsen the situation. While the DMK has accused the central agency of misusing its power, the CBI will now analyse Vijay's statement against police testimonies. Vijay has not been summoned again but may be called for further questioning after Pongal.
A news bulletin reports a setback for the Mahayuti government in Maharashtra as the State Election Commission (SEC) has stalled advance payments for the 'Ladki Bahin Yojana'. The government had planned to release a combined payment of ₹3,000 to beneficiaries on January 14, ahead of BMC polls. Following complaints from the Congress and other opposition parties, the SEC intervened, citing the Model Code of Conduct. According to the commission's directive, while existing schemes can continue, 'advance payments of the existing schemes cannot be made'. This decision blocks the two-month lump sum payment, permitting only a single month's disbursement. The scheme is noted as having played a significant role in the previous assembly elections for the Mahayuti government.
