A powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake has left a trail of destruction across Kumamoto, Japan, with one of the most shocking moments unfolding at AEON Mall Kumamoto, where a massive explosion ripped through the shopping complex shortly after the quake. Viral videos circulating online capture the terrifying moment the blast sent thick black smoke, debris and panic across the area, turning an already devastating natural disaster into an even greater tragedy. Authorities say the explosion occurred within an hour of the powerful earthquake, prompting an immediate large-scale emergency response. Rescue teams continue to comb through the collapsed sections of the mall in search of survivors, while several people have already been pulled from the rubble. Investigators are examining whether a gas leak triggered by the earthquake may have caused the deadly explosion, though the exact cause remains under investigation. The earthquake has claimed at least 13 lives, with fears that the toll could rise as search operations continue. WATCH

Mamata Banerjee's proposed visit to Baruipur has triggered a major political showdown in West Bengal. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has alleged that Mamata Banerjee was placed under "house arrest" after heavy security deployment and barricades were put up outside her residence to stop her from meeting the family of the 12-year-old girl allegedly raped and murdered. The BJP has strongly rejected the allegation, saying the deployment was part of routine Z-plus security arrangements. BJP leader Agnimitra Paul also accused Mamata Banerjee of trying to politicise the incident.