News for '-uttar-pradesh'

Samajwadi Party next? 2 UP ministers claim several leaders ready to defect

Samajwadi Party next? 2 UP ministers claim several leaders ready to defect

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Uttar Pradesh Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar has sensationally claimed a major split is imminent within the Samajwadi Party, with many leaders reportedly ready to defect to the BJP, a claim vehemently denied by SP chief Akhilesh Yadav.

UP headmistress suspended for brandishing knife, cleaver at school

UP headmistress suspended for brandishing knife, cleaver at school

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

A government primary school headmistress in Kaushambi, Uttar Pradesh, was suspended and an FIR registered against her after she allegedly brandished a knife and cleaver on school premises. The incident, which was captured on video, led to an inquiry. The teacher claimed she carried the weapons for personal safety, while her husband suggested mental health issues.

Brahmin Discontent May Reshape UP Politics

Brahmin Discontent May Reshape UP Politics

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

A caste recalibration is simmering just below the surface in UP.

SBI to oversee new donation counting system at Ram Temple

SBI to oversee new donation counting system at Ram Temple

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The Ram Temple trust in Ayodhya has implemented a new, two-shift system for counting cash donations, overseen by the State Bank of India (SBI), following an embezzlement scandal. A new team, including ex-servicemen and supervisors, has been deployed to enhance security and transparency in the process, aiming to prevent future theft and restore public trust.

Chhattisgarh Police Seizes Rs 10 Crore Ganja, Arrests Inter-State Kingpin

Chhattisgarh Police Seizes Rs 10 Crore Ganja, Arrests Inter-State Kingpin

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Chhattisgarh police have seized nearly 2,000 kg of ganja worth Rs 10 crore and arrested two individuals, including an alleged kingpin of an inter-state drug trafficking syndicate. The consignment was intercepted in Balrampur district while being transported from Odisha to Uttar Pradesh. The alleged mastermind was also involved in a previous large-scale drug seizure.

Chhattisgarh Police Seizes Rs 10 Crore Ganja, Arrests Inter-State Kingpin

Chhattisgarh Police Seizes Rs 10 Crore Ganja, Arrests Inter-State Kingpin

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Chhattisgarh police have seized nearly 2,000 kg of ganja worth Rs 10 crore and arrested two individuals, including an alleged kingpin of an inter-state drug trafficking syndicate. The consignment was intercepted in Balrampur district while being transported from Odisha to Uttar Pradesh. The alleged mastermind was also involved in a previous large-scale drug seizure.

Fake GST Credit Jumps To Rs 75,000 Cr In FY26

Fake GST Credit Jumps To Rs 75,000 Cr In FY26

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Central tax authorities detected input tax credit (ITC) fraud worth Rs 74,781.56 crore across 30,162 cases in FY26, more than doubling the number of cases from the previous year, according to the Ministry of Finance.

Sports Ministry Provisionally Recognises FMSCI To Boost Motorsport In India

Sports Ministry Provisionally Recognises FMSCI To Boost Motorsport In India

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Sports Ministry has provisionally recognised the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) as a National Sports Federation (NSF), a move aimed at promoting motorsport and facilitating Formula 1's return to India. This recognition requires FMSCI to amend its constitution to comply with governance acts, and a Task Force is being established to assess the benefits and challenges of hosting major motorsport events.

'This Is The Biggest Setback Of Modi's Career'

'This Is The Biggest Setback Of Modi's Career'

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

'For the rest of his tenure, people will start with the assumption that even Modi can be forced to bow down'

How MP ATS Uncovered Inter-State Radicalisation Network

How MP ATS Uncovered Inter-State Radicalisation Network

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

The Madhya Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested three individuals from Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan in connection with an alleged inter-state online radicalisation module. The module is believed to be operated by a Pakistan-based handler using encrypted messaging platforms, with central intelligence agencies providing initial inputs.

Provisional NSF Status For FMSCI Paves Way For F1 Return

Provisional NSF Status For FMSCI Paves Way For F1 Return

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Sports Ministry has provisionally recognised the Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) as a National Sports Federation (NSF). This status makes FMSCI eligible for financial grants and is a significant step in the government's efforts to bring Formula 1 racing back to India, with a Task Force also being formed to explore hosting major motorsport events.

UP authorities demolish banquet hall after beef served at wedding

UP authorities demolish banquet hall after beef served at wedding

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Authorities in Shamli, Uttar Pradesh, have initiated demolition proceedings against the Mughal Banquet Hall in Kairana after it was found to be an unauthorised structure and allegedly served beef at a wedding reception. Four individuals, including the groom and hall owner, have been arrested in connection with the case, with a car also seized.

Gadgets to be examined for cause of Tripura top cop's death

Gadgets to be examined for cause of Tripura top cop's death

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Tripura Police have initiated a forensic analysis of all electronic gadgets belonging to DGP Anurag Dhankar, who was found dead in his office washroom. A case of unnatural death has been registered, and the investigation aims to determine the cause and circumstances, especially if suicide is confirmed. Calls for a judicial probe into the incident are also growing.

'Are they terrorists?': Cong blasts BJP for deploying AK-47 at Bihar protests

'Are they terrorists?': Cong blasts BJP for deploying AK-47 at Bihar protests

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

The Congress party has strongly criticised the BJP government following allegations that AK-47 rifles were used against protesting students in Bihar, with Rahul Gandhi demanding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's apology and action against those responsible for the 'deadly attacks and brutality'.

EC's SIR exercise marks 1 year; Nearly 6cr names deleted so far

EC's SIR exercise marks 1 year; Nearly 6cr names deleted so far

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

The Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has completed one year, leading to the deletion of nearly six crore voters across 19 states and Union territories. This exercise, which began in Bihar, has faced opposition criticism but was upheld by the Supreme Court. The purification drive has significant implications, including linking voter data to social security benefits in some states.

Another arrest made in Ayush Malik conversion case

Another arrest made in Ayush Malik conversion case

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Police in Shamli, Uttar Pradesh, have made another arrest in an alleged unlawful religious conversion case, recovering a 'nikahnama' from the accused. The case involves Ayush Malik, who his father claims was forcibly converted, but Ayush himself states his conversion to Islam was voluntary. Legal action has been initiated against nine people, and Hindu organisations are demanding strict measures.

Day after the violence: Protesters return to Jantar Mantar

Day after the violence: Protesters return to Jantar Mantar

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Hundreds of students and supporters returned to Jantar Mantar to protest alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination, asserting that police action on Monday had only strengthened their resolve. The demonstration, joined by parents, reiterated demands for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and called for greater transparency and fairness in competitive exams.

SIT report on Ram Temple theft likely soon; may shape trust reforms

SIT report on Ram Temple theft likely soon; may shape trust reforms

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya is expected to submit its final report to the Uttar Pradesh government shortly, sources said on Thursday.

NDA cadet dies during routine physical training

NDA cadet dies during routine physical training

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

A first-term cadet at the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Pune, Abhinav Bajpai, died after complaining of uneasiness during a routine physical training session. A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to investigate the circumstances of his death.

Why Congress decided to sing only 2 stanzas of Vande Mataram

Why Congress decided to sing only 2 stanzas of Vande Mataram

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Vande Mataram, the national song that has stirred passions and political controversies for more than a century, received legal protection on Thursday with Parliament passing a bill making any insult to it a punishable offence, rekindling the long-running debate over its place in India's history and identity.

NDA ally SBSP seeks 32 seats in UP polls; BJP says....

NDA ally SBSP seeks 32 seats in UP polls; BJP says....

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

The Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party, a constituent of the Bhaatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance, has staked claim to 32 seats for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, with the aim to wrest the Samajwadi Party's stronghold of Azamgarh.

Cong hints at equal seat-sharing with SP in 2027 UP assembly polls

Cong hints at equal seat-sharing with SP in 2027 UP assembly polls

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Newly-appointed Uttar Pradesh Congress in-charge Rajendra Pal Gautam on Wednesday hinted at an equal seat-sharing arrangement with the Samajwadi Party for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections.

UP govt forms SIT to probe Ram Temple donation controversy

UP govt forms SIT to probe Ram Temple donation controversy

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

The Uttar Pradesh government has formed a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe allegations of financial mismanagement and missing donations related to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in Ayodhya. The move follows a request from the Trust itself, amidst escalating political demands for transparency from various parties including the Samajwadi Party and Congress.

SC shields student protesters; mulls SIT probe into police excesses

SC shields student protesters; mulls SIT probe into police excesses

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has issued interim directions regarding nationwide protests over the NEET paper leak, ordering the release of minor student protesters without criminal records and directing states to preserve all digital evidence. The court also called for a fair and independent investigation into allegations of police excesses against students, while also acknowledging concerns for injured police personnel.

Murder, robbery, rape accused among hundreds at CJP protest: Police

Murder, robbery, rape accused among hundreds at CJP protest: Police

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

A police investigation into the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest at Jantar Mantar revealed that over 980 of the 2,873 scrutinised individuals had previous criminal records. These included serious charges such as murder, attempt to murder, robbery, rape, kidnapping, and violations of the Arms Act and NDPS Act. The verification exercise was initiated following clashes during the 'Chalo Sansad' protest on July 20, which left many protestors and police personnel injured.

SC considers SIT to probe police brutality on NEET protesters

SC considers SIT to probe police brutality on NEET protesters

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court was strongly urged to establish a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by a former judge to investigate alleged police excesses against students protesting the NEET paper leak across various states. The court, while issuing interim directions, restrained states from coercive action against protesters and ordered the release of minors without criminal antecedents.

UP Police-Meta Coordination Saves Life After Instagram Suicide Alert

UP Police-Meta Coordination Saves Life After Instagram Suicide Alert

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Meerut Police swiftly intervened to save a 25-year-old man's life after Meta flagged his Instagram post indicating self-harm. The police responded within eight minutes, getting him to a hospital. This incident highlights the ongoing coordination mechanism between Uttar Pradesh Police and Meta, which has successfully saved over 3,000 lives since 2023 by acting on social media suicide alerts.

The rise and fall of Dharmendra Pradhan

The rise and fall of Dharmendra Pradhan

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Dharmendra Pradhan's political career faced an unexpected jolt as he resigned as Education Minister following nationwide protests over the NEET paper leak, marking a significant departure from the government's initial dismissive response to the agitation.

Out-of-court settlement fails in Gyanvapi, Mathura, Sambhal disputes

Out-of-court settlement fails in Gyanvapi, Mathura, Sambhal disputes

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Efforts to resolve three major religious site disputes in Uttar Pradesh - Gyanvapi, Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Eidgah, and Sambhal Shahi Jama Masjid - through out-of-court settlements have failed, with all parties insisting on judicial adjudication.

How UP's Zero Tolerance Policy Cut Crime, Boosted Convictions

How UP's Zero Tolerance Policy Cut Crime, Boosted Convictions

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Uttar Pradesh's 'zero tolerance' policy against crime has resulted in a conviction rate of more than 93 per cent over the past year, according to the state's newly appointed DGP, Rajeev Krishna. Courts convicted 42,681 accused, and authorities seized properties worth nearly Rs 788.38 crore linked to criminal activities.

Ram Temple funds row: SP seeks removal of trust members, probe by SC judges

Ram Temple funds row: SP seeks removal of trust members, probe by SC judges

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

The Uttar Pradesh government has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe alleged irregularities in the Ram temple donation funds, a move welcomed by the Ram Mandir Construction Committee chairperson. The trust itself requested the inquiry to counter misinformation, while an opposition MP demanded a Supreme Court judge-led investigation.

UP medical varsity replaces non-veg with protein-rich veg menu after ban

UP medical varsity replaces non-veg with protein-rich veg menu after ban

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

King George's Medical University (KGMU) in Lucknow has banned non-vegetarian food in its hostels following a suggestion from Governor Anandiben Patel. To compensate, the university will now serve protein-rich vegetarian meals, including soy, paneer, and tofu. While the Vice-Chancellor cites hygiene and health benefits for the ban, it has drawn criticism from faculty members and political parties who question the imposition of dietary restrictions.

Ram temple theft drives judge to moot death penalty for corruption

Ram temple theft drives judge to moot death penalty for corruption

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Justice Atul Sreedharan of the Allahabad High Court has made strong observations on systemic corruption in India, suggesting the death penalty for offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act. He criticised the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple and the Uttar Pradesh government's "bulldozer actions," highlighting the normalisation of corruption and the state's complicity in unauthorised constructions.

Who Will Lord Ram Bestow His Blessings On In UP Polls?

Who Will Lord Ram Bestow His Blessings On In UP Polls?

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The monsoon session of Parliament will set the tone for how the Hindu community feels about what happened at the Ram Mandir. Whether emotions will be stirred within the voters of India lies solely at the oratory skills of the Congressis and Samajwadis, notes Zainab Sikander.

SIT questions Ram temple trust officials over donation theft allegations

SIT questions Ram temple trust officials over donation theft allegations

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed by the Uttar Pradesh government has questioned Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai and administrator Gopal Rao regarding allegations of donation money theft and financial mismanagement at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

Jantar Mantar protest brings together Boomers and Gen Z

Jantar Mantar protest brings together Boomers and Gen Z

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The protest at Jantar Mantar against alleged paper leaks and irregularities in public examinations, initially led by students, has now entered its seventh week and is increasingly drawing support from senior citizens, who view it as a fight for the nation's future and education reforms.

Ayodhya Ram Temple to train, certify priests for India, abroad

Ayodhya Ram Temple to train, certify priests for India, abroad

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

The Ram temple trust's decision to establish a permanent institute for training and certifying Hindu priests is being seen by religious leaders and members of the Indian diaspora as a significant step towards addressing the growing demand for qualified 'archaks' (priests) not only in India but also overseas.

When Manmohan Singh told then CEC: 'I will commit suicide'

When Manmohan Singh told then CEC: 'I will commit suicide'

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh once told then Chief Election Commissioner SY Quraishi in 2012, "I will commit suicide," expressing his deep anguish over ministers' "loose talk" criticising the Election Commission's functioning, a revelation made in Quraishi's upcoming book.

UP Man Gets Life Sentence For Killing Employer

UP Man Gets Life Sentence For Killing Employer

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

A court in Uttar Pradesh's Baghpat district has sentenced a man to life imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 20,000 after convicting him of murdering his employer in 2022, police said on Tuesday.

SC shields inter-caste couple, stays HC order amid honour killing fears

SC shields inter-caste couple, stays HC order amid honour killing fears

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Coming to the aid of an inter-caste couple fearing "honour killing", the Supreme Court on Monday stayed a Rajasthan high court order allowing the woman's parents to meet them, despite their apprehensions of any untoward eventuality.