News for 'ACT'

Conscientious objectors should not be punished: SC on Vande Mataram plea

Conscientious objectors should not be punished: SC on Vande Mataram plea

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has indicated that individuals with a conscientious objection should not face criminal consequences for declining to sing Vande Mataram, while asking the Centre to consider a 1986 judgment protecting similar rights concerning the national anthem.

CPI(M) Accuses UDF Of Colluding With BJP Over ED Probe

CPI(M) Accuses UDF Of Colluding With BJP Over ED Probe

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

The CPI(M) has strongly criticised the UDF government in Keralam for ordering a police inquiry into an alleged bribery case involving former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, his daughter, and son-in-law, based on an Enforcement Directorate report. The party alleges political targeting and a nexus between the UDF and the BJP-led Centre.

Online Task Fraud: Four Booked For Cheating Thane Accountant Of Lakhs

Online Task Fraud: Four Booked For Cheating Thane Accountant Of Lakhs

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

A 26-year-old woman accountant in Thane was allegedly cheated of Rs 6.97 lakh in an online "task" fraud involving product purchases and buybacks. Four individuals have been booked under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and IT Act, with efforts underway to apprehend them.

African National Arrested In Gurugram With MDMA

African National Arrested In Gurugram With MDMA

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Gurugram Police have arrested Eno Shedrack Wichu, a 35-year-old Cameroonian national, for possessing 14.83 grams of MDMA. Wichu, who entered India on a tourist visa in 2022, was apprehended by the Anti-Narcotics Cell and intended to supply the drug in Gurugram. A case has been registered under the NDPS Act.

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.com18 Sep 2026

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.

'It Isn't About Noel Tata, It Isn't Even About Chandra'

'It Isn't About Noel Tata, It Isn't Even About Chandra'

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

'You can't have a runaway board that takes decisions against the active disagreement of the 66 per cent shareholder.'

J&K High Court Denies ED's Request For Additional Charges In Cricket Fund Scam

J&K High Court Denies ED's Request For Additional Charges In Cricket Fund Scam

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

The Jammu and Kashmir High Court has rejected a petition by the Enforcement Directorate to add charges of receiving and concealing stolen property in the alleged Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association fund scam. While the court upheld the ED's right to file such an application, it found insufficient merit in the current material to invoke sections 411 and 424 of the Ranbir Penal Code, stating that the alleged acts were part of the principal transaction of conspiracy and breach of trust.

Punjab cop firing case: Shooter killed, 5 nabbed; Pak links suspected

Punjab cop firing case: Shooter killed, 5 nabbed; Pak links suspected

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

The Amritsar Rural police on Saturday arrested five accused linked to the firing incident involving assistant sub-inspector Jaswant Singh, who was posted with the Amritsar commissionerate.

'It Isn't About Noel Tata, It Isn't Even About Chandra'

'It Isn't About Noel Tata, It Isn't Even About Chandra'

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

'You can't have a runaway board that takes decisions against the active disagreement of the 66 per cent shareholder.'

LIC's top management thins as MD exits, other PSU insurers also face vacancies

LIC's top management thins as MD exits, other PSU insurers also face vacancies

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) is facing a thinning of its top management as Managing Director Dinesh Pant exits to join Irdai, leaving one of four MD posts vacant. This comes amidst broader staffing challenges across several public sector insurers and a headless Financial Services Institutions Bureau (FSIB).

EC hiding details of software used in SIR: Trinamool leader Saket Gokhale

EC hiding details of software used in SIR: Trinamool leader Saket Gokhale

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Saket Gokhale has accused the Election Commission of India (ECI) of withholding details about the software and algorithm used for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Citing an RTI response, Gokhale highlighted the ECI's claim that the information relates to "commercial confidence, trade secrets and intellectual property matters," raising concerns about transparency in the electoral process.

Gujarat CID-Crime Registers FIRs Against Three Political Outfits In Rs 314 Crore Poll Donation Scam

Gujarat CID-Crime Registers FIRs Against Three Political Outfits In Rs 314 Crore Poll Donation Scam

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Gujarat CID-Crime has registered FIRs against three political outfits Swatantrata Abhivyakti Party, Satyavadi Rakshak Party, and Garib Kalyan Party for allegedly orchestrating a 'poll donation scam' amounting to Rs 314 crore in tax evasion. These parties reportedly collected donations, returned money after deducting commissions, and facilitated tax rebates for donors, with chartered accountants also implicated. The scam involved submitting false contribution reports to the Election Commission.

'Why did ECs seek appointment with cabinet secretary'

'Why did ECs seek appointment with cabinet secretary'

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi has highlighted a report indicating internal differences within the Election Commission of India, questioning why two Election Commissioners reportedly sought an appointment with the Cabinet Secretary. She alleged centralisation of power, lack of transparency in voter list processes, and raised concerns over the commissioners not signing a press release, demanding an investigation into these matters.

ED Uncovers Major Call Centre Scam Targeting Americans

ED Uncovers Major Call Centre Scam Targeting Americans

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Enforcement Directorate conducted two-day searches across Chandigarh, Punjab, and Maharashtra, seizing mobile phones, laptops, and cash. This action is part of a money laundering investigation into a "fake" call centre accused of defrauding US citizens through spam emails.

Google Gemini hacked three companies in first known AI 'breakout'

Google Gemini hacked three companies in first known AI 'breakout'

Rediff.com20 Sep 2026

Google's Gemini reportedly hacked three companies in the first known breakout, after the model accessed the internet and breached external systems during an evaluation of its cybersecurity capabilities.

Former member of Patidar stir held for fake passport

Former member of Patidar stir held for fake passport

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Harikesh Patel, a former member of the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS), has been arrested by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) for allegedly obtaining a second passport using forged documents. Patel had previously surrendered his original passport in connection with an ED money laundering case. He reportedly used the fraudulently obtained passport for international travel.

Alia, Deepika, Helen: The Cabaret Queens Of Bollywood

Alia, Deepika, Helen: The Cabaret Queens Of Bollywood

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Alia Bhatt's upcoming cabaret performance in Love & War has sparked renewed interest in Bollywood's classic dance form, prompting a nostalgic look at the legendary actresses who mastered the art.

Filhaal To Daayra, Meghna Gulzar's Films, Ranked

Filhaal To Daayra, Meghna Gulzar's Films, Ranked

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

From Filhaal to Daayra, we look at Meghna Gulzar's filmmaking journey, including the highs of Talvar and Raazi and the films that fell short.

Bigg Boss 20: Meet Badshah's Ex Isha Rikhi

Bigg Boss 20: Meet Badshah's Ex Isha Rikhi

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Explore the intriguing journey of Isha Rikhi, the Punjabi actress and model currently making waves on Bigg Boss 20, as she navigates her career and recent high-profile separation from rapper Badshah.

FDA suspends licences of Mumbai's iconic Cafe Mondegar, 3 other eateries

FDA suspends licences of Mumbai's iconic Cafe Mondegar, 3 other eateries

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the licences of popular Mumbai restaurant Cafe Mondegar and three other food establishments due to serious food safety and hygiene violations. This action is part of an intensified crackdown by the FDA, which also saw inspections of 38 establishments, seizure of substandard food products worth over Rs 15 lakh, and action against banned gutkha products totalling Rs 1.35 crore in seized goods and vehicles across Maharashtra.

'Carnage': SC on 10x markup on cancer drugs, bats for 16pc margin

'Carnage': SC on 10x markup on cancer drugs, bats for 16pc margin

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has strongly criticised the exorbitant markup on cancer drugs by hospitals, calling it "carnage" and "broad daylight dacoity." The court highlighted a case where a cancer drug was marked up ten times its retail price and urged the Centre to implement a uniform 16% margin on all medicines. It also raised concerns about hospitals forcing patients to buy medicines from their in-house chemists.

Why Justice R C Chavan Quit Maharashtra UCC Panel

Why Justice R C Chavan Quit Maharashtra UCC Panel

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

'If the intention was simply to replicate what's already been done elsewhere, there was no need for a committee at all -- there's already an Act passed there (in Uttarakhand); just copy it, paste it, and you're done. Why waste everyone's time convening a panel for that?'

Hero Indian pilot on Flydubai prevents crash, saves 174 passengers

Hero Indian pilot on Flydubai prevents crash, saves 174 passengers

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

An Indian captain and Israeli passengers on a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv heroically fought off a co-pilot who allegedly attempted to crash the aircraft, forcing an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.

Will Vijay's Magic Work In TN Bypolls?

Will Vijay's Magic Work In TN Bypolls?

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Assembly by-elections in Madurantakam and Dharapuram will offer an early measure of the TVK's electoral strength and put the dynamics of its new alliance in focus.

India on watch as Trump may sign Russia sanctions bill today

India on watch as Trump may sign Russia sanctions bill today

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

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.

The Enduring Charm Of Anant Nag

The Enduring Charm Of Anant Nag

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

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.'

Police Encounter Leads To Arrest In Kalkaji Mandir Rape Case

Police Encounter Leads To Arrest In Kalkaji Mandir Rape Case

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

A man identified as Asif, accused of raping a 17-year-old girl near Kalkaji Mandir, was arrested after a police encounter in southeast Delhi. Two other suspects, an advocate and his brother, are being questioned. Asif allegedly fired at police during interception, leading to an exchange of fire where he was injured and subsequently apprehended. The incident involved three men posing as policemen, abducting the girl and her friend, and then raping the girl in Astha Kunj Park.

Karnataka Government Constitutes SIT For Fresh Probe Into 2012 Dharmasthala Rape-Murder Case

Karnataka Government Constitutes SIT For Fresh Probe Into 2012 Dharmasthala Rape-Murder Case

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

The Karnataka government has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct a fresh probe into the 2012 rape and murder of a 17-year-old girl near Dharmasthala, following a Supreme Court order. The SIT, headed by N Shashikumar, is tasked with completing the investigation within three months.

SC orders Delhi police audit, mapping of crime-prone areas

SC orders Delhi police audit, mapping of crime-prone areas

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has issued comprehensive directives to the Delhi Police Commissioner to enhance safety for women and minor girls in Delhi-NCR. These measures include forming dedicated police teams, conducting vulnerability audits of public spaces, improving lighting and CCTV surveillance, and strengthening grievance redressal mechanisms. The court also sought reports on the functioning of fast-track courts, utilisation of sexual offender databases, and the Mission Shakti programme.

LPU row: DGP defends police restraint, vows action against vandals

LPU row: DGP defends police restraint, vows action against vandals

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Punjab Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav visited Lovely Professional University (LPU) after student protests erupted over an alleged rape and vandalism. He stated that police used maximum restraint but would take strict action against those involved in violence. An FIR has been registered and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed to probe the rape allegation, while police also facilitated dialogue between students and university authorities to resolve administrative grievances.

UAPA charges not dropped against Van Dyke, others: Sources

UAPA charges not dropped against Van Dyke, others: Sources

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has confirmed that terror charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) against seven foreign nationals, including one American and six Ukrainians, have not been dropped and the probe is ongoing. The agency filed a chargesheet under the Immigration and Foreigners Act (IFA) to prevent the accused from becoming eligible for default bail, while explicitly stating that the UAPA investigation continues. The foreign nationals were arrested for allegedly entering India illegally from Myanmar.

At UNGA, Sharif thanks Trump for 'timely intervention' in 2025 conflict with India

At UNGA, Sharif thanks Trump for 'timely intervention' in 2025 conflict with India

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif used his UN General Assembly address to thank former US President Donald Trump for his "timely intervention" in the 2025 conflict with India, a claim India consistently denies. Sharif also raised the Kashmir issue and discussed the Indus Waters Treaty, while touting Pakistan's role in mediating US-Iran peace.

DU student harassed on road, dragged towards car

DU student harassed on road, dragged towards car

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

A Hindu College postgraduate student and her friend were allegedly harassed and nearly abducted by men in a car in Delhi's Mukherjee Nagar. Police have traced the vehicle and registered an FIR under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, with further investigation ongoing.

Reforms Utsav To Showcase 1,300 Reforms

Reforms Utsav To Showcase 1,300 Reforms

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

The three-month long outreach will be closely monitored by senior government officials.

Delhi minister Parvesh Verma slaps man during road inspection

Delhi minister Parvesh Verma slaps man during road inspection

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

A political controversy has erupted in Delhi after a video surfaced showing PWD Minister Parvesh Singh slapping a man who was recording a road inspection in Tilak Nagar.

Supreme Court Explains 'Rarest Of Rare' In Death Sentence Commutation

Supreme Court Explains 'Rarest Of Rare' In Death Sentence Commutation

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court commuted the death sentence of a man convicted of sexually assaulting and strangling his six-year-old step-daughter to life imprisonment for the remainder of his natural life. The court affirmed his conviction but cited mitigating circumstances and the state's failure to exclude the possibility of his reformation, while also highlighting issues with the trial court's sentencing procedure.

Justice Served: Man Gets Death Penalty In Assam POCSO Case

Justice Served: Man Gets Death Penalty In Assam POCSO Case

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

A POCSO court in Assam's Dhubri district has sentenced Utpal Roy to death for the rape and murder of a four-year-old girl in 2023. The judge cited the 'rarest of rare' category for the capital punishment.

Lust Stories 3: Lust Is Not Always About Sex

Lust Stories 3: Lust Is Not Always About Sex

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Netflix's Lust Stories 3 delves deeper than its predecessors, exploring the complex and often unacknowledged facets of human desire and its profound impact on relationships, identity, and personal expression, moving beyond mere sexual provocation.

SC asks Bengal govt to ensure Milan Pradhan contests Nandigram bypoll

SC asks Bengal govt to ensure Milan Pradhan contests Nandigram bypoll

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

The Calcutta High Court has verbally directed the West Bengal government to allow Congress' Nandigram bypoll candidate Milan Pradhan to contest the election properly, provided he secures bail in five criminal cases. Pradhan was recently arrested in connection with multiple long-pending cases, raising questions about his ability to campaign for the upcoming bypoll.

'India Should Stop Listening To The US'

'India Should Stop Listening To The US'

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

'If you listen to a rowdy in a class, he will keep on bullying you.' 'India can say do whatever you want. We will not compromise on anything.'