India Faces Surge in Guillain-Barré Syndrome Cases Linked to Foodborne Pathogen

As US immigration policies tighten, Indian professionals are increasingly turning to Hindu temples for divine intervention in securing US visas. The phenomenon has been particularly notable at the Chamatkari Hanuman temple in Ahmedabad, where applicants place their passports before Lord Hanuman and recite hymns, hoping for favorable outcomes. Temple priest Vijay Bhatt claimed that many devotees experienced expedited visa approvals after performing rituals, stating, “If you believe, it will happen.” The situation stems from executive orders issued by former President Donald Trump, which intensified scrutiny of visa applications. This has led to concerns about the future of the H-1B visa program, crucial for skilled workers, with a significant majority of recipients hailing from India. At Hyderabad's Chilkur Balaji temple, devotees perform extensive rituals including 108 circumambulations, demonstrating their dedication. One engineer shared that despite being the only one among eleven applicants to receive approval, she continues to visit the temple regularly. Temple priests report that many go to great lengths—such as dietary restrictions over extended periods—expressing their earnest hopes for visa success.

The tragic suicide of 15-year-old Mihir Ahammed in Kerala has prompted widespread outrage and calls for justice in India. Mihir, who took his life on January 15 after enduring severe bullying at school, was mocked and subjected to inhumane treatment by his peers, according to his uncle Musthafa PC, CEO of ID Fresh Foods. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Musthafa revealed that cruel messages continued to circulate after Mihir's death, with attackers referring to him using derogatory terms. Mihir's mother, Rajna PM, chimed in, accusing the school of negligence and attempting to cover up the bullying. She stated that they had gathered evidence indicating her son faced relentless torment, including physical assaults and humiliating acts such as being forced to lick a toilet seat. Following public outcry, Kerala’s Education Minister V. Sivankutty ordered an inquiry into the incident, with the Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights also taking interest. Both family members and advocates are urging systemic changes in schools to prevent future tragedies and ensure a safe environment for students.

The Bengaluru Transport Department has seized 30 luxury vehicles, including high-end brands such as Ferrari, Porsche, and Aston Martin, for failing to pay required taxes. The operation, led by Deputy Commissioner of Transport C Mallikarjun, took place over the weekend and involved a team of 41 officers who issued tax notices totaling approximately ₹30 million (around $360,000). As part of ongoing efforts to ensure tax compliance among luxury car owners in the city, officials stated that under Section 47 of the Motor Vehicle Act of 1988, vehicles registered in one state must obtain new registration if they are kept in another state for more than a year. The crackdown reflects the Transport Department's commitment to enforcing tax regulations in Bengaluru, ensuring that all vehicle owners adhere to local laws. The action aligns with broader efforts to enhance tax compliance across various sectors within Karnataka.