New Year's celebrations commenced globally as 2026 began. In India, Indore faces a worsening water contamination crisis, leading to increased deaths and hospitalizations, intensifying political pressure on the state government. Bangladesh is investigating a murder accused's video claiming presence in the UAE, raising border security concerns amid fresh attacks on the Hindu minority. Political discussions in India include demands to criminalize racial slurs against Northeast people and controversies surrounding faith and leadership. Meanwhile, a fire during New Year celebrations in Switzerland has resulted in numerous fatalities, triggering an investigation into safety protocols.