Law enforcement officials have taken an interest in the problems of the religious minority. In a meeting there was an exchange in which the faithful said they want to live in peace with Muslims, even though hate speech often comes from the mosque.

Indian authorities uncover widespread corruption in Home Affairs Ministry involving NGOs forced to pay bribes to get licence to receive foreign funds. Thousands of NGOs have seen their licence expire waiting for renewal after new legislation came into effect. The case of the Sisters of Mother Teresa highlighted the situation last Christmas.

A crowd gathered near a naval base looking for Mahinda Rajapaksa. His eldest son denies rumors that he fled abroad; however, rumours are flying that some politicians are trying to escape the island. Blockades have been set up at the airport while a strike has shut down immigration service. Diplomats and religious leaders condemn the violence.

The future of the Islamic Emirate will depend on the Taliban’s ability to pacify the country, says Prof Diego Abenante. However, anti-Taliban groups have few chances and any conflict would not benefit the population. The Islamic State group is still a major cause for concern. The only hope is that the less hard-line faction prevails over the radical Haqqani group.

Francis' appeal at general audience for grave crisis shaking South Asian country: let people's aspirations be heard. "Let us entrust the world's ardent desire for peace to Our Lady of Fatima." Continuing the cycle of catechesis on old age, the pontiff dwelt on the biblical figure of Judith: "The good sown is the best legacy we can leave behind."

Card Malcolm Ranjith reiterated the right to protest peacefully, urging President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to follow his brother, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, and resign. Several cars and homes owned by politicians were set on fire. A curfew is in place across the country until 7am tomorrow.