News for '-the-times'

Probe Into Granite Baron POCSO Case Uncovers More Victims

Probe Into Granite Baron POCSO Case Uncovers More Victims

Rediff.com4 days ago

The ongoing police investigation into the POCSO case against granite baron R Veeramani has led to the identification of multiple survivors, many of whom were minors and from economically underprivileged backgrounds when allegedly assaulted. Charges under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act have been added, and Veeramani has been granted three days police custody for questioning within the prison due to his age and health.

Bainsla made indecent comments on female biker: Police

Bainsla made indecent comments on female biker: Police

Rediff.com7 days ago

Kalyan Bainsla has been arrested in connection with an alleged road rage incident in Gurugram where he reportedly hit a woman biker with his car after making indecent comments. The victim, Shivani Chauhan, survived due to protective gear. Bainsla, who claims it was an accident, was apprehended in Rajasthan's Dausa, and police are investigating the role of another person present.

Indian sports ministry seeks diaspora support for Asian Games lodging

Indian sports ministry seeks diaspora support for Asian Games lodging

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Indian Sports Ministry has sought assistance from the Indian diaspora in Nagoya to help with athlete accommodation at the Asian Games, as several Indian and other athletes have faced delays and issues with their designated lodging due to a lack of a dedicated athletes' village.

The Enduring Charm Of Anant Nag

The Enduring Charm Of Anant Nag

Rediff.com4 days ago

Mention Anant Nag to almost anyone in Karnataka and the reaction is immediate: 'Anant? Oh my God! What a fascinating man!' 'Such an intellectual. Such a great speaker. Brilliant actor.'

When Akshay Kumar's Stunt Broke Abhimanyu Singh's Leg

When Akshay Kumar's Stunt Broke Abhimanyu Singh's Leg

Rediff.com5 days ago

'If Vijay and I had left each other's hand, we would have fallen in the valley and died.'

Hoshiarpur Court Hands Death Sentence To Migrant Labourer For Heinous Child Murder

Hoshiarpur Court Hands Death Sentence To Migrant Labourer For Heinous Child Murder

Rediff.com4 days ago

A Fast-Track Special Court in Hoshiarpur has sentenced a 33-year-old migrant labourer, Nanke Yadav alias Radhe Sham, to death for the aggravated sexual assault and murder of a five-year-old boy. The court termed it a 'rarest of rare' case, with the death sentence subject to confirmation by the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

Mamata faction protests EC order, submits choices for names, symbols

Mamata faction protests EC order, submits choices for names, symbols

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Trinamool Congress has submitted new names and symbols to the Election Commission for the upcoming West Bengal bypolls, following an interim order that temporarily barred the party from using its original name and "flowers and grass" symbol due to an ongoing internal dispute and split. The party submitted its choices under protest.

Gukesh hits rating setback ahead of world title clash

Gukesh hits rating setback ahead of world title clash

Rediff.com4 days ago

World champion D Gukesh's live rating has slipped below 2700 after the first two rounds of the 46th Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The Indian men's team, defending champions, had an average start with two unconvincing wins, while the Indian women's team performed better against weaker opposition. Gukesh's rating drop comes ahead of his world title challenge against Javokhir Sindarov in November.

Why Ajit Agarkar Quit As Team India's Chief Selector

Why Ajit Agarkar Quit As Team India's Chief Selector

Rediff.com3 days ago

Former chief selector Ajit Agarkar's departure from the BCCI was primarily driven by disagreements over Rohit Sharma's future in white-ball cricket and policy differences with Centre of Excellence head VVS Laxman, culminating in his absence from a crucial review meeting.

Delhi Court Grants Bail To US National In NIA Drone Warfare Probe

Delhi Court Grants Bail To US National In NIA Drone Warfare Probe

Rediff.com4 days ago

A Delhi court has granted default bail to US national Matthew Aaron Van Dyke, who was arrested in connection with an NIA case involving a drone warfare training camp linked to ethnic armed groups in Myanmar. The bail was granted on a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh, with conditions to remain in Delhi and cooperate with the investigation. The NIA's chargesheet did not invoke UAPA provisions, instead citing the Immigration and Foreigners Act, leading to the default bail.

3rd T20I: Abhishek's 30-ball masterclass paves way for India's 127-run Afghan demolition

3rd T20I: Abhishek's 30-ball masterclass paves way for India's 127-run Afghan demolition

Rediff.com4 days ago

Opening batter Abhishek Sharma blasted a record-shattering 30-ball century, powering India to a massive 221-7 and sparking a total bowling collapse that sealed a 127-run series sweep against Afghanistan.

Ben Shelton's girlfriend pulls off 200-mile dash, only to watch him lose US Open final

Ben Shelton's girlfriend pulls off 200-mile dash, only to watch him lose US Open final

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Trinity Rodman raced 200 miles from Washington to New York after her match to support boyfriend Ben Shelton, arriving just in time to witness his US Open final defeat.

Court grants bail to US national Van Dyke in terror conspiracy case

Court grants bail to US national Van Dyke in terror conspiracy case

Rediff.com4 days ago

A Delhi court has granted default bail to US national Matthew Aaron Van Dyke, who was arrested in a terror-conspiracy case being probed by the National Investigation Agency, amidst ongoing investigations into potential UAPA offences.

How A Ronaldinho Reel Changed Quimcy's Sporting Journey

How A Ronaldinho Reel Changed Quimcy's Sporting Journey

Rediff.com3 days ago

Quimcy Dsouza, a former Maharashtra footballer, made an unconventional journey to the Asian Games teqball semifinals after discovering the sport through Ronaldinho. Despite a defeat, she expressed pride in her performance and her role in pioneering teqball in India, highlighting the challenges of limited funding and her dedication to growing the sport.

New UPI MDR Fee Could Push Small Retailers Back To Cash, Warns RAI

New UPI MDR Fee Could Push Small Retailers Back To Cash, Warns RAI

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Retailers Association of India (RAI) has voiced concerns that the government's new 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 could reverse the progress of digital payment adoption among small retailers. This fee, effective October 15, places the burden on merchants operating on thin margins, potentially pushing them back to cash transactions and undermining the government's formalisation agenda, especially ahead of the festive season.

'Modi Played A Lot Of Cricket'

'Modi Played A Lot Of Cricket'

Rediff.com4 days ago

'Modi had his own cricket team in his school days. He was a good cricketer.'

40 Years Since The Chennai Tied Test!

40 Years Since The Chennai Tied Test!

Rediff.com3 days ago

The only previous tie had occurred at Brisbane back in December 1960 between Australia and the West Indies. In the 40 years since the Madras Test, there have been 1,583 Test matches. But there has never again been a tie.

Mamata faction gets 'football player' as symbol for bypolls

Mamata faction gets 'football player' as symbol for bypolls

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Election Commission has allotted the 'Football Player' symbol to the Mamata Banerjee-led faction of the Trinamool Congress for the upcoming West Bengal bypolls, while the rival Arup Roy-led group will contest with the 'Envelope' symbol.

CBIC plans wider AI use, unified portal to ease Customs compliance: Chairman

CBIC plans wider AI use, unified portal to ease Customs compliance: Chairman

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) is set to significantly increase its use of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and real-time analytics in Customs processes, aiming for a near-touchless, near-digital clearance experience, according to Chairman Vivek Chaturvedi.

'Kareena Performs From The Gut'

'Kareena Performs From The Gut'

Rediff.com5 days ago

'Kareena is completely instinctive.'

Jarange ends fast, warns govt of protest in Mumbai if...

Jarange ends fast, warns govt of protest in Mumbai if...

Rediff.com5 days ago

Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange has ended his 20-day hunger strike after discussions with a Maharashtra government delegation. He issued a three-month ultimatum, threatening to resume protests in Mumbai if demands for Maratha reservation, based on Kunbi lineage recognition, are not met. The government has assured action on historical gazettes to facilitate OBC benefits for Marathas.

One or two bad series won't define us as batting department, says Abhishek Sharma

One or two bad series won't define us as batting department, says Abhishek Sharma

Rediff.com4 days ago

Abhishek Sharma smashed a record-breaking 30-ball century, the fastest by a full member in T20Is, leading India to a massive 127-run victory over Afghanistan. Sharma's explosive innings and his comments on India's batting philosophy highlight the team's focus on dominance ahead of the T20 World Cup, despite recent setbacks. Captains Shreyas Iyer and Ibrahim Zadran also shared their perspectives on the match and team development.

India-Afghanistan cricketing bond celebrated at 'Koh-E-Zafar'

India-Afghanistan cricketing bond celebrated at 'Koh-E-Zafar'

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Afghanistan Cricket Board hosted 'Koh-E-Zafar' in New Delhi to celebrate the strong cricketing friendship between India and Afghanistan.

Anahat Singh Eyes Asian Games Gold, Olympic Berth

Anahat Singh Eyes Asian Games Gold, Olympic Berth

Rediff.com4 days ago

World junior champion Anahat Singh, now 18, is returning to the Asian Games with significantly higher stakes, as the women's singles gold medal offers direct Olympic qualification. Ranked world number 20, she is a strong medal contender and is embracing the pressure of competing for her country. Anahat faces formidable opponents like Satomi Watanbe and Sivasangari Subramaniam but is focused on refining her game and physical strength to achieve her goals.

TMC rebellion: Mamata faces her own political weapon

TMC rebellion: Mamata faces her own political weapon

Rediff.com4 days ago

Mamata Banerjee, who founded the Trinamool Congress through an act of rebellion against the Congress, now faces a similar internal revolt that threatens the very identity of her party. The Election Commission's interim decision to withhold the TMC name and symbol for the upcoming bypolls highlights a deeper struggle for political inheritance. This situation, unprecedented for the party, forces both Mamata's loyalists and rebels to seek electoral recognition without their established identity, marking a significant challenge to her long-standing dominance.

'Individual results do not matter in the Davis Cup': Sumit Nagal

'Individual results do not matter in the Davis Cup': Sumit Nagal

Rediff.com5 days ago

Sumit Nagal, India's top singles player, believes sheer desire will be crucial in the Davis Cup qualifier against Korea, especially on the slow Seoul courts.

Davis Cup: India Prepares To Counter Korea's Home Court Advantage

Davis Cup: India Prepares To Counter Korea's Home Court Advantage

Rediff.com7 days ago

India's singles players Sumit Nagal and Dhakshineswar Suresh face challenging conditions in their Davis Cup Qualifier Round 2 tie against South Korea. The hosts have prepared a slow, low-bounce court with heavy balls to negate India's strengths. Captain Rohit Rajpal is confident in the team's ability to adapt and strategize, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and exposing younger players to high-pressure situations.

Seema Kaliramna Balances Motherhood With Asian Games Ambitions

Seema Kaliramna Balances Motherhood With Asian Games Ambitions

Rediff.com5 days ago

Indian discus thrower Seema Kaliramna discusses the emotional challenges of balancing motherhood with her sporting career, as she prepares for the Asian Games after winning bronze at the Commonwealth Games.

Sports Ministry Monitors Hockey India Internal Strife

Sports Ministry Monitors Hockey India Internal Strife

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Sports Ministry is closely monitoring the internal dispute within Hockey India between President Dilip Tirkey and Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh, stemming from a controversial jersey colour change. The Ministry prefers the factions resolve their differences amicably before considering intervention.

Pics: Readers Share Their Ganesha Blessings

Pics: Readers Share Their Ganesha Blessings

Rediff.com7 days ago

Thank you, Dear Readers, for sharing your pictures of Lord Ganesha.

Anant Nag Credits Karnataka For Dadasaheb Phalke Award

Anant Nag Credits Karnataka For Dadasaheb Phalke Award

Rediff.com5 days ago

Anant Nag has dedicated the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2024 to the people and unique cultural environment of Karnataka, crediting the state for his unparalleled success in both art and commercial films.

80s Trend Turns Nostalgia Into Memory

80s Trend Turns Nostalgia Into Memory

Rediff.com4 days ago

The retro hair, the vintage clothing, that's not the real charm of these images. It's the ability to look at a screen and create the one thing modern technology has never been able to give us: the tactile, imperfect feeling of memory, points out Kaleem Ullah Fasihi.

Aya Nagar Gym Trainer Murder: Police Recover Key Motorcycle, Suspects Identified

Aya Nagar Gym Trainer Murder: Police Recover Key Motorcycle, Suspects Identified

Rediff.com5 days ago

Police have recovered a motorcycle allegedly used in the killing of a 28-year-old gym trainer in Aya Nagar. Two suspects have been identified, and raids are underway to apprehend them. The investigation is delving into a long-running rivalry involving previous murders and potential organised crime links.

New Study Reveals Asymmetric Expansion Of Extreme Heat Seasons Globally

New Study Reveals Asymmetric Expansion Of Extreme Heat Seasons Globally

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

A new study published in AGU Advances reveals that extreme heat events are becoming more frequent and expanding beyond traditional summer months globally. This expansion is asymmetric, occurring earlier in spring in regions like western Europe and northwestern India, and later into autumn in areas such as the western US and eastern China. Researchers highlight the challenges this poses for human acclimatisation and community preparedness, as existing infrastructure like cooling centres are built around historical summer calendars.

Government Firm On UPI MDR Charges Above Rs 2,000

Government Firm On UPI MDR Charges Above Rs 2,000

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Indian government has confirmed there will be no rollback of the 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) charges on Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective from October 15. Despite opposition, officials state the decision aims to make the UPI ecosystem self-sustainable and secure, with charges applying only to merchant payments, not person-to-person transactions.

Paytm CEO Foresees Increased Profitability From New UPI Charges

Paytm CEO Foresees Increased Profitability From New UPI Charges

Rediff.com6 days ago

Paytm CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma stated that the government's new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on large-value UPI transactions will significantly increase the company's revenue and profitability. The 0.4% fee on UPI transfers exceeding Rs 2,000 to merchants, effective October 15, is expected to give Paytm a competitive edge. Sharma also highlighted the company's focus on generating free cash flow, expanding internationally, and developing proprietary artificial intelligence capabilities to drive future growth.

Indian Gymnast Pranati Nayak Eyes Maiden Asian Games Medal

Indian Gymnast Pranati Nayak Eyes Maiden Asian Games Medal

Rediff.com5 days ago

Indian gymnast Pranati Nayak, the sole representative from India, is set to compete in her fourth Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, aiming for her first medal.

'Modi Doesn't Take Decisions In A Day'

'Modi Doesn't Take Decisions In A Day'

Rediff.com5 days ago

'If he settles on something, there are fifty considerations behind it -- the pros and cons, all of it.'

'Misleading and unfair': Govt bans advance tipping on ride-hailing apps

'Misleading and unfair': Govt bans advance tipping on ride-hailing apps

Rediff.com6 days ago

India's Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare announced that cab aggregators have been ordered to cease advance tipping options, deeming the practice misleading and unfair. This follows the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) imposing a Rs 10 lakh penalty on Rapido for unfair business practices, including advance tipping and "dark patterns" that pressure users to pay more. Investigations into Uber and Ola are ongoing, with the government emphasizing that tipping should be voluntary and post-ride.

India on watch as Trump may sign Russia sanctions bill today

India on watch as Trump may sign Russia sanctions bill today

Rediff.com3 days ago

US President Donald Trump is expected to sign the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 later on Friday (local time). A White House official confirmed the development to ANI without revealing further details.