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Mayawati reappoints nephew Akash Anand as BSP national convenor

Mayawati reappoints nephew Akash Anand as BSP national convenor

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati has reappointed her nephew Akash Anand as the party's national convenor, reversing an earlier decision to remove him. This move comes after Anand's expression of desire to return and considering party members' views, with Mayawati emphasizing the decision was made in the interest of the party and the movement.

Neeru Dhanda's borrowed gun story ends with Asian Games gold

Neeru Dhanda's borrowed gun story ends with Asian Games gold

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Neeru Dhanda made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win an individual shotgun gold at the Asian Games in women's trap. Her inspiring journey began with a borrowed gun and practice at a pond, overcoming financial hurdles and recent illness, culminating in a record-breaking triumph. She dedicated her medal to soldiers and late champion Raja Ranjit Singh.

HC slams EC for allotting ISF's 'envelope' symbol to Trinamool faction

HC slams EC for allotting ISF's 'envelope' symbol to Trinamool faction

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

The Calcutta High Court criticised the Election Commission for reassigning the 'envelope' symbol to the Democratic Trinamool Congress, previously used by the ISF, for the Nandigram by-election. Justice Krishna Rao questioned the EC's fairness, especially when 183 free symbols were available, and adjourned the hearing until Friday.

Cockroaches from across India will march to Delhi on Oct 10 if...: Dipke warns CEC

Cockroaches from across India will march to Delhi on Oct 10 if...: Dipke warns CEC

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) led a large protest in Mumbai, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. CJP leader Abhijeet Dipke announced a further protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar on October 10 if Kumar does not step down, citing alleged voter deletions and irregularities in recent elections. The protest, which saw participation from various activists and public figures, also called for freezing voter lists and abolishing the 2023 law on Election Commissioner appointments.

After Oppn complaints, EC replaces Nandigram police chief day before bypoll

After Oppn complaints, EC replaces Nandigram police chief day before bypoll

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

The Election Commission replaced the inspector-in-charge of Nandigram police station, Ajay Kumar Mishra, with Debashis Sarkar a day before the bypoll, following complaints from opposition parties alleging Mishra's closeness to the ruling party. This move comes amidst heightened political scrutiny and concerns raised by opposition leaders regarding the fairness of the election process in Nandigram, a constituency with significant political history in West Bengal.

She sought proof of vote chori, will give: Rahul after Oppn MPs meet Prez Murmu

She sought proof of vote chori, will give: Rahul after Oppn MPs meet Prez Murmu

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Leaders of the opposition INDIA bloc met President Droupadi Murmu, alleging 'vote chori' and demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, along with the repeal of assembly polls from the last two years. Rahul Gandhi expressed shock that the President did not deny the 'election theft' charge but sought proof.

EC selection by executive creates 'shadow of doubt': SC Judge

EC selection by executive creates 'shadow of doubt': SC Judge

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Supreme Court Justice Dipankar Datta has strongly criticised the 2023 law for selecting the Chief Election Commissioner and election commissioners, arguing that the executive's dominant role in the selection committee creates a 'shadow of doubt' over the Election Commission's independence, even if appointments are meritorious.

Suryansh Shedge steps in for Hardik Pandya in India A squad for Australia A ODIs

Suryansh Shedge steps in for Hardik Pandya in India A squad for Australia A ODIs

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

All-rounder Suryansh Shedge has been named as a replacement for the injured Hardik Pandya in the India A squad for the upcoming three-match one-day series against Australia A in Puducherry, with Pandya ruled out due to a fresh injury concern preventing him from bowling pain-free.

MPs Express Alarm Over New UPI Merchant Fee

MPs Express Alarm Over New UPI Merchant Fee

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Opposition MPs have voiced strong concerns regarding the government's decision to levy a 0.4 per cent fee on UPI payments above Rs 2,000 made to merchants, effective October 15. They argue that this "anti-people" move will negatively impact a large segment of the population, despite the finance ministry clarifying that the charge is on the merchant ecosystem and not directly on customers for P2P or small payments.

Mayawati Criticises New UPI Merchant Transaction Fee

Mayawati Criticises New UPI Merchant Transaction Fee

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

BSP chief Mayawati has criticised the Centre's decision to introduce a 0.4 per cent fee on UPI merchant transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective October 15. She termed it a "capitalist profiteering attitude" that burdens the common people, while the government clarified that the charge is on merchants and not customers for person-to-person transactions.

Should You Buy A Return-Of-Premium Plan?

Should You Buy A Return-Of-Premium Plan?

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Compare premiums, claim settlement ratios, exclusions, waiting periods and surrender provisions.

Joshi Maintains Lead At Bengaluru Open Despite Challenging Round

Joshi Maintains Lead At Bengaluru Open Despite Challenging Round

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Khalin Joshi maintained a three-shot lead after the third round of the Bengaluru Open, despite a challenging day. Manu Gandas shot the lowest score of the day, an eight-under 64, to move into second place and reduce Joshi's advantage. The tournament is heading into its final round with a prize purse of Rs 1 crore.

Paytm shares jump over 7% as UPI fee introduced; other fintechs volatile

Paytm shares jump over 7% as UPI fee introduced; other fintechs volatile

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Shares of fintech firms, particularly Paytm, saw significant movement after the Indian government introduced a 0.4 per cent fee on UPI transfers exceeding Rs 2,000 made to merchants, effective October 15.

When Sahara Shah Stunned Vivek Oberoi

When Sahara Shah Stunned Vivek Oberoi

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Sahara Shah, a cancer survivor whom actor Vivek Oberoi supported through her treatment, surprised him by announcing she has signed her first film as a lead actress.

Meesho's unique value-commerce model faces stiff competition, premium valuations

Meesho's unique value-commerce model faces stiff competition, premium valuations

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Meesho, a value-commerce platform targeting middle- and lower-income geographies, is poised for significant growth driven by its asset-light model and low fulfilment costs, but faces intense competition from e-commerce giants and high valuations.

Man City must face 'appropriate consequences' if wrongdoing established: UK PM's office

Man City must face 'appropriate consequences' if wrongdoing established: UK PM's office

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

A spokesperson for British Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated that Manchester City should face 'appropriate consequences' if financial wrongdoing is established, following earlier concerns raised by former Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham about the club's ownership.

Don't view mosque demolitions for development communally: BJP's Basit Ali

Don't view mosque demolitions for development communally: BJP's Basit Ali

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Kunwar Basit Ali, national president of BJP Minority Morcha, stated that the demolition of religious structures for development should not be viewed communally, citing examples from Uttar Pradesh and Muslim nations. He accused the Congress of misleading Muslims and instigating unrest. Ali also expressed confidence in the BJP forming the next government in Jammu and Kashmir and addressed concerns regarding the delay in statehood restoration, asserting that the central government would make the best decisions for Kashmir.

Indian Golfer Pranavi Urs Leads Asian Games Women's Event After Stellar Round

Indian Golfer Pranavi Urs Leads Asian Games Women's Event After Stellar Round

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

India's Pranavi Urs has taken a three-stroke lead in the Asian Games women's golf competition after a superb four-under 66 in the third round. She is now in strong contention for an individual gold medal, with a total of 15-under 195. Her performance also propelled the Indian women's team into second place, four shots behind China.

Nations League: France rally to trounce Belgium; Italy overcome Turkey

Nations League: France rally to trounce Belgium; Italy overcome Turkey

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

France staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Belgium 4-1 in their Nations League Group A1 encounter, with substitutes playing a crucial role in the final minutes. Meanwhile, Italy secured a comfortable 3-1 victory over Turkey in the same group, maintaining their strong form. These results significantly impact the group standings, with France now leading.

The Social Reckoning Review: A Timely Warning

The Social Reckoning Review: A Timely Warning

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

The Social Reckoning may lack the crackling energy of The Social Network, but Aaron Sorkin delivers a timely warning about what happens when a world-changing platform escapes the control of its creator.

Panel To Decide UPI Charges Above Rs 2,000 For Merchants

Panel To Decide UPI Charges Above Rs 2,000 For Merchants

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

A high-level committee, including representatives from banks and payment associations, is set to decide on Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) for UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000 to merchants. While person-to-person and person-to-merchant transactions up to Rs 2,000 remain free, the move follows a recent amendment to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, sparking debate and clarification from the Finance Minister that only certain high-value merchant transactions might incur charges.

'Don't Push Me For Non-Veg... Veg Market Is Too Huge'

'Don't Push Me For Non-Veg... Veg Market Is Too Huge'

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

How India's Jumbo King Is Taking On McDonalds And Burger King Without Selling Chicken Burgers.

No amount of whataboutery can justify disenfranchising millions: SC judge on SIR

No amount of whataboutery can justify disenfranchising millions: SC judge on SIR

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Supreme Court Justice Ujjal Bhuyan has unequivocally stated that any process disenfranchising Indian citizens is arbitrary and violates the Constitution.

How UPI MDR Charges Could Push Consumers Back To Cash

How UPI MDR Charges Could Push Consumers Back To Cash

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

A new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, effective October 15, could force small merchants and price-sensitive consumers to revert to cash, according to economic think tank GTRI. The move, which introduces a 0.4 per cent MDR with a Rs 300 cap and concessional rates for specific categories, is questioned by GTRI founder Ajay Srivastava, who suggests it's not a revenue issue for the government but potentially a response to US pressure regarding UPI and RuPay's preferential market position.

Why NCP (SP) Calls UPI MDR A 'Betrayal'

Why NCP (SP) Calls UPI MDR A 'Betrayal'

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The NCP (SP) has demanded a complete rollback of the 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, effective October 15. The party termed the move a "direct assault" on small traders and shopkeepers, accusing the Modi government of "double standards" by burdening small merchants while large industrialists benefit from loan write-offs.

Beware These Insurance Sales Traps

Beware These Insurance Sales Traps

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

If a bank sold the policy, complain to its grievance cell and, if necessary, escalate the complaint to the Reserve Bank of India Ombudsman.

Airtel Money files for London IPO, IFC to buy $90 mn stake

Airtel Money files for London IPO, IFC to buy $90 mn stake

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Airtel Africa's mobile payments arm, Airtel Money, has filed for an initial public offering (IPO) on the London Stock Exchange, with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) agreeing to purchase shares worth up to $90 million at the final offer price.

Remembering Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, Movie Legend

Remembering Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, Movie Legend

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, one of Indian cinema's most inventive filmmakers, leaves behind a seven-decade legacy of fearless experimentation.

Shiv Kapur Maintains Lead At AM Green IGPL Invitational

Shiv Kapur Maintains Lead At AM Green IGPL Invitational

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Experienced golfer Shiv Kapur shot a 69 to extend his lead to 13-under at the AM Green IGPL Invitational. His performance has helped RVR Delhi Blue Bulls share the team lead with Auro Goa Eagles at 17-under. Varun Chopra of Auro Goa is in second place individually, three shots behind Kapur.

Government Clarifies UPI Charges Amidst Political Row

Government Clarifies UPI Charges Amidst Political Row

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The BJP has accused the Congress of spreading "fake news" regarding UPI transaction charges, asserting that the government has clarified that consumers will not be levied merchant discount rate (MDR) charges. This comes after the Congress criticised a government notification, alleging it paves the way for imposing fees on UPI transactions. The BJP has strongly refuted these claims, highlighting that most UPI transactions remain free and the government provides incentives to maintain a charge-free ecosystem for users.

'Start afresh': Coach Fulton reveals India hockey's LA 2028 plan

'Start afresh': Coach Fulton reveals India hockey's LA 2028 plan

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Following the Indian men's hockey team's historic Asian Games gold and direct qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, Head Coach Craig Fulton revealed plans to 'build a new team afresh' after the Hockey India League, emphasising the need for meticulous planning for the upcoming Games.

India, Pakistan players avoid handshakes in Asian Games cricket final

India, Pakistan players avoid handshakes in Asian Games cricket final

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

India defeated Pakistan by 19 runs to secure the gold medal in the Asian Games cricket final, a match that passed without any major controversy despite the ongoing diplomatic tensions and the conspicuous absence of customary handshakes between the teams.

How Mirabai Chanu Overcame Injury And Setbacks For Asian Games Silver

How Mirabai Chanu Overcame Injury And Setbacks For Asian Games Silver

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Mirabai Chanu secured a silver medal at the Asian Games, completing her medal hunt across major tournaments. She attributes this success to intense training, a strong focus on injury prevention, and rehabilitation, especially after narrowly missing a medal at the Paris Olympics. Chanu is now preparing for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, planning to change her weight category and improve her snatch technique.

Lava Bold N4 Pro 5G Packs 5G And A 6,000 mAh Battery

Lava Bold N4 Pro 5G Packs 5G And A 6,000 mAh Battery

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

The Lava Bold N4 Pro 5G sports a sleek flat back, with its dual-camera module neatly housed in a raised rounded-rectangle unit at the top-left.

Satwik-Chirag reveal what went wrong in shock Asian Games exit

Satwik-Chirag reveal what went wrong in shock Asian Games exit

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Indian men's doubles badminton player Satwiksairaj Rankireddy discusses the reasons behind his and Chirag Shetty's unexpected first-round exit from the Asian Games. He highlights the need to improve their mental game and acknowledges their opponents' strong comeback, while Chirag Shetty admits they could have played smarter.

Joshi Dominates Second Round, Leads Nava Raipur Open By Two Shots

Joshi Dominates Second Round, Leads Nava Raipur Open By Two Shots

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Khalin Joshi has extended his lead to two shots at the inaugural Rs 1 crore Nava Raipur Open after a bogey-free four-under 30 in the second round. The Bengaluru golfer now stands at nine-under 59, showcasing consistent ball-striking despite challenging weather conditions that shortened rounds to nine holes.

New UPI Merchant Fee Ignites Fierce Political Debate

New UPI Merchant Fee Ignites Fierce Political Debate

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% transaction fee on UPI payments above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, sparking a political row. The Congress party has labelled it a "Modi tax" and accused the government of succumbing to US pressure, while the BJP has defended the move, clarifying that consumers will not be charged and small vendors are protected. The finance ministry reiterated that the charge is on merchants, not customers.

'SIR Is Bloodless Political Genocide'

'SIR Is Bloodless Political Genocide'

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

'93 lakhs deletions in Bengal, 96 lakhs in Tamil Nadu, 24 lakhs in Kerala, 77 lakhs in Gujarat, 45 lakhs in Madhya Pradesh, 44 lakhs in Rajasthan. 2.89 crores in Uttar Pradesh. Nearly 3 crores!'

Ankush to Natsamrat, Nana Patekar's Unforgettable Roles

Ankush to Natsamrat, Nana Patekar's Unforgettable Roles

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

No shade or genre was a roadblock for Nana Patekar. In fact, some of his movies only age well because we associate them with his terrific presence.

Trump-media tiff escalates as he defends White House ban on CNN, MS NOW

Trump-media tiff escalates as he defends White House ban on CNN, MS NOW

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

US President Donald Trump on Monday (local time) defended his decision to bar CNN, MS NOW, and POLITICO from the White House, characterising the media access ban as an action against "fake news" rather than an attack on constitutional press freedoms.