Europe is battling one of its most severe wildfire emergencies as massive blazes continue to rage across France and Spain. More than 300,000 people have been evacuated or confined, while thousands of firefighters are racing to contain fires near Bordeaux and Madrid before another extreme heatwave arrives. French President Emmanuel Macron has chaired a crisis meeting as firefighters continue battling flames threatening communities across southwest France. In Spain, thousands remain displaced as authorities struggle to contain multiple wildfires.

A political controversy has erupted after viral videos allegedly showing CJP leaders celebrating at a luxury hotel following Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation triggered a nationwide debate over the funding of the organization's agitation. Senior advocate Mahesh Jethmalani has publicly questioned how the CJP allegedly financed its nationwide protests, travel, accommodation and logistical operations, after videos surfaced online showing senior leaders, including Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka, participating in what social media users described as a victory celebration at a five-star hotel. The viral clips, which have spread rapidly across social media platforms, have intensified scrutiny over the finances behind the 36-day agitation. Jethmalani questioned whether the organization should disclose the sources of funding used to sustain protests, nationwide mobilisation, hotel stays and other operational expenses. The controversy has grown further as several social media users also alleged that some CJP leaders appeared intoxicated during the celebration. WATCH