January 19, 2026, brings a mix of disturbing incidents, political developments, extreme weather updates, sports drama, and major international news. From fear gripping students after the Patna hostel case to biting cold waves across North India, and from India’s defeat against New Zealand to global political and economic developments, here is a comprehensive look at the Top 20 news stories of the day, all in one place.

Fear Among Students After Patna Hostel Incident

The Patna hostel case involving the death of a NEET aspirant has sparked fear among female students preparing for competitive exams. After the incident, the hostel was sealed, leaving students unable to access their belongings or continue their studies. Many residents have openly stated that they no longer feel safe staying in girls’ hostels. The case has taken a new turn as students living in the hostel shared their concerns, demanding stricter safety measures and accountability.

The owner of the Shambhu Girls Hostel, Manish, who was arrested in connection with the case, is now under scrutiny. Reports reveal that he arrived in Patna five years ago and allegedly rose from working as a peon to becoming a property owner worth crores, raising serious questions about his background and financial dealings.

Former Bihar Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi has taken a strong stand, stating that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken up the case. He added that he would raise the matter with the Union Home Ministry if required, emphasizing that no culprit should be spared.

Emergency Landing After Bomb Threat on Indigo Flight

Panic broke out after a bomb threat was discovered written on a tissue paper aboard an Indigo flight traveling from Delhi to Bagdogra. The aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing at Lucknow Airport. The flight was carrying 222 passengers, including eight children, along with two pilots and five crew members. All passengers were safely evacuated, and security agencies are investigating the threat.

Migrant Workers’ Deaths in Tamil Nadu

Three migrant workers from Murshidabad district in West Bengal lost their lives at a construction site in Tamil Nadu. Even before the bodies reached home, grieving families appealed to the state government for financial assistance and justice. The incident has once again highlighted safety concerns for migrant laborers working far from home.

Political and International Developments

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a sharp attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC), accusing the party of endangering national security and shielding illegal infiltrators. Addressing a rally in West Bengal, the Prime Minister described the past 15 years under TMC rule as “Mahajungle Raj” and urged voters to support a “double-engine government” for development.

Internationally, a massive fire continued to rage for over 16 hours at a shopping mall in Karachi, Pakistan, resulting in six deaths and leaving more than 20 people injured. Firefighters faced severe challenges due to intense heat and smoke.

In Africa, Uganda’s 81-year-old leader Yoweri Museveni secured his fifth consecutive presidential term with 72% of the vote. Following the results, opposition leader Bobi Wine reportedly fled after security forces raided his residence.

Weather Alert: Severe Cold and Dense Fog Grip North India

North India continues to reel under an intense cold wave. Punjab and Haryana reported temperatures dropping below 2°C, while Jharkhand’s Gumla recorded a minimum of 3.1°C. Dense fog has disrupted road and rail traffic in several regions. Meanwhile, meteorological departments have warned that two western disturbances may become active in Kashmir next week, potentially bringing rain and snowfall.

PM Modi Announces Major Projects in Assam

Prime Minister Modi laid the foundation stone for a 34.45-kilometer wildlife-friendly elevated corridor near Kaziranga National Park. He also flagged off two Amrit Bharat trains, highlighting improved rail connectivity under the “Act East” policy to link Assam with states like Uttar Pradesh and Haryana.

Sports Highlights: India vs New Zealand

In a major upset, New Zealand defeated India by 41 runs in the third and final ODI at Indore, clinching the three-match series 2–1. Despite Virat Kohli’s brilliant 124-run knock, India were bowled out for 296 while chasing a target of 338. The match also went viral for a light-hearted moment involving Kohli and Daryl Mitchell, which amused fans worldwide.

Other Major Headlines of the Day

• A devastating road accident in Jharkhand’s Latehar district claimed six lives and injured over 30 people.
• Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma called Dhurandhar 2 the biggest multi-starrer ever, increasing excitement around the Ranveer Singh starrer.
• Actors Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa shared the first glimpse of their baby girl and revealed her name on social media.
• Amazon’s Republic Day Sale is offering massive discounts on the iPhone 17 Pro, with prices starting at ₹85,700.
• Magh Gupt Navratri began today, with devotees worshipping the ten Mahavidyas of Goddess Durga under auspicious yogas.
• Jharkhand Police busted a child trafficking gang while searching for missing children Ansh and Anshika, rescuing 12 more children and arresting 13 accused.

These were the Top 20 news stories of January 19, 2026, covering national, international, weather, sports, entertainment, and spiritual developments. Stay updated for more breaking news and in-depth coverage throughout the day.