News for 'ACT'

Kharge 'purification' row: FIR against Rahul for giving 'casteist spin'

Kharge 'purification' row: FIR against Rahul for giving 'casteist spin'

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

An FIR has been registered against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Haldwani following a complaint from a Valmiki community member. The complaint alleges Gandhi gave a casteist interpretation to a religious ritual performed after an AICC chief's programme, hurting community sentiments. The case involves provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, stemming from a political row over a 'purification yajna' at a rally venue.

Coming Up, Southern CMs' Dasara Conclave

Coming Up, Southern CMs' Dasara Conclave

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

Five southern states are stepping up coordination on delimitation, tax devolution and language issues, reviving calls for a stronger collective South platform.

Judge who awarded 23 death sentences questions recall of 97 cases

Judge who awarded 23 death sentences questions recall of 97 cases

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

Additional District and Sessions Judge Ravi Kumar Diwakar of Muzaffarnagar has publicly questioned the administrative recall of 97 serious criminal cases from his court. His remarks, made in an acquittal order, highlight concerns about judicial independence and the legality of withdrawing "part-heard" cases without proper procedure, especially after he had delivered 23 death sentences.

Commonwealth Champion Bids Farewell To Her Guns

Commonwealth Champion Bids Farewell To Her Guns

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Commonwealth Games gold medallist and Arjuna Awardee Roopa Unnikrishnan gives away the rifles that shaped her brilliant shooting career, hoping they will inspire a new generation of Indian shooters.

Kolkata's Lenin, Marx, Ho Chi Minh roads on BJP govt's renaming list

Kolkata's Lenin, Marx, Ho Chi Minh roads on BJP govt's renaming list

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

A committee formed by West Bengal's BJP government is considering proposals to rename several prominent roads, bridges, and public places in Kolkata, including those named after communist leaders Vladimir Lenin, Karl Marx, and Ho Chi Minh. This move has sparked sharp criticism from the Trinamool Congress and CPI(M), who view it as "vendetta politics" and an attempt to disrespect differing ideologies.

SC to hear marital rape criminalisation after Centre's reply

SC to hear marital rape criminalisation after Centre's reply

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has stated it will wait for the central government's response on petitions concerning the criminalisation of marital rape before scheduling a hearing. This comes as the Centre has yet to file a substantive reply on the matter, which challenges the constitutional validity of exceptions in criminal law that protect husbands from prosecution for sexual acts with their wives. The issue involves the interpretation of Section 375 of the IPC (now replaced by Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita) and has seen split verdicts in high courts.

Former Keralam DGP gets four-year jail term, Rs 30 lakh fine in DA case

Former Keralam DGP gets four-year jail term, Rs 30 lakh fine in DA case

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

A Kottayam Vigilance Court has sentenced former Kerala DGP Tomin J Thachankary to four years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 30.84 lakh in a disproportionate assets case. This marks the first time a DGP-rank officer in Kerala has been convicted for such an offence, with the court finding him guilty of amassing wealth 135.80 per cent in excess of his known income between 2003 and 2007.

Delhi Residents Shocked After Headless Infant Body Discovered Near Crematorium

Delhi Residents Shocked After Headless Infant Body Discovered Near Crematorium

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Residents of Kanjhawala, New Delhi, are in shock after the headless body of a newborn infant, estimated to be two to three months old, was discovered near a crematorium. Police have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances of the death, how the body was brought to the location, and who abandoned it. Multiple police teams are searching for the missing head, and authorities are checking crematorium records and questioning staff.

Angh: The Other Indian Film Going To The Oscars

Angh: The Other Indian Film Going To The Oscars

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

'I like to make films where I am also conflicted. I don't want to make films with themes that I am sure about because then it easily becomes agenda-driven.'

Cong's Nandigram candidate sent to 14-day custody in 19-yr-old case

Cong's Nandigram candidate sent to 14-day custody in 19-yr-old case

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

Congress's Nandigram bypoll candidate Milan Pradhan has been sent to judicial custody until October 3 on charges dating back 19 years, effectively ending his campaign for the October 6 by-election.

Will JD-U Blink On UCC In Bihar?

Will JD-U Blink On UCC In Bihar?

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

'Nitishji as CM never supported the UCC and publicly expressed his strong reservations over UCC.'

Asian Games 2026: Japan Blends Culture And Innovation At Colourful Opening Ceremony

Asian Games 2026: Japan Blends Culture And Innovation At Colourful Opening Ceremony

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

Japan hosted a vibrant opening ceremony for the Asian Games in Nagoya, showcasing its technological advancements and cultural heritage. The event, themed 'Harmonic Heart Beat', welcomed 11,000 athletes from 45 nations, despite prior logistical challenges.

Big Wins, Selfies, Tears And Kisses At The Emmys

Big Wins, Selfies, Tears And Kisses At The Emmys

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The 78th Primetime Emmy Awards celebrated the year's top television achievements, creating unforgettable moments.

Another DKS min in trouble as ED searches unearth Rs 3 cr, foreign assets

Another DKS min in trouble as ED searches unearth Rs 3 cr, foreign assets

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

The Enforcement Directorate has seized Rs 3.45 crore in cash during searches against Karnataka PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi, his family, and associates in a FEMA investigation. The probe concerns alleged undisclosed overseas investments, cross-border business links, and collection of bribes from PWD contractors, with the minister denying wrongdoing and alleging political targeting.

'Uttam Kumar Showed Us The Journey Of A Superstar'

'Uttam Kumar Showed Us The Journey Of A Superstar'

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

'It's a matter of pride for us that a man from Bengal is ruling hearts all over the world.'

Neena Kulkarni: 'Vijaya Bai Taught Us The Magic Moments Of Acting'

Neena Kulkarni: 'Vijaya Bai Taught Us The Magic Moments Of Acting'

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

'She taught us that acting wasn't something people did because they couldn't do anything else. It was a skill. A skill that needed to be constantly polished and shaped, and the respect you command with that.'

Manipuri musician beaten to death for objecting to noise outside Delhi home

Manipuri musician beaten to death for objecting to noise outside Delhi home

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

A 54-year-old Manipuri musician, C Vikram Singh, tragically died in New Delhi after being allegedly assaulted by a group of delivery workers and dhaba staff. The incident occurred when Singh objected to their loud behaviour and drinking outside his Kilokari village apartment. Police have arrested seven men and apprehended one juvenile in connection with the case, which is currently under investigation.

The Very Best Of Kunal Kemmu

The Very Best Of Kunal Kemmu

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

From a scene-stealing child actor to a cult-comedy favourite and a director in his own right, Kunal Kemmu has delivered plenty of memorable turns across three decades.

Saudi warns Houthis as drone intercepted over Mecca

Saudi warns Houthis as drone intercepted over Mecca

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Saudi-led coalition issued a stern warning to Yemen's Houthi rebels after intercepting a drone targeting Mecca, Islam's holiest city. Describing it as a "hostile and terrorist act," the coalition declared the security of holy sites a "red line" and vowed deterrent measures. This incident marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, with both sides exchanging accusations of military operations and civilian targeting.

Vijay, Jason Sanjay Set For Box Office Face-Off?

Vijay, Jason Sanjay Set For Box Office Face-Off?

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Vijay's Thirupaachi and son Jason Sanjay's Sigma could end up in an unexpected box office face-off, setting up a fascinating father-son clash.

Anant Nag Credits Karnataka For Dadasaheb Phalke Award

Anant Nag Credits Karnataka For Dadasaheb Phalke Award

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

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.

Congress Alleges Modi Govt Paving Way For UPI Fees, Surrendering To US Pressure

Congress Alleges Modi Govt Paving Way For UPI Fees, Surrendering To US Pressure

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Congress party has criticised the Modi government over a notification regarding UPI transactions, alleging it paves the way for imposing fees, especially on transactions above Rs 2,000. Rahul Gandhi claimed the government is surrendering to American pressure, while Mallikarjun Kharge highlighted the potential burden on common citizens amidst inflation. The government's notification prohibits charges on UPI transactions up to Rs 2,000 but remains silent on higher amounts, sparking fears of a "Digital Payments Tax."

Rahul Gandhi Claims Modi Government Surrendering To US Pressure On UPI Charges

Rahul Gandhi Claims Modi Government Surrendering To US Pressure On UPI Charges

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused the Modi government of quietly paving the way for imposing fees on UPI transactions, alleging it's a surrender to American pressure. The government's recent notification exempts charges only up to Rs 2,000, sparking concerns that higher value transactions and eventually all UPI payments could incur fees. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, however, clarified that Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) applies to merchants, not customers, and supports digital infrastructure.

Nagal falters as Korea end India's Davis Cup hopes

Nagal falters as Korea end India's Davis Cup hopes

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

India failed to qualify for the Davis Cup Final 8 after losing 3-1 to Korea in the Qualifier Round 2 tie. Despite a fighting doubles victory by Dhakshineswar Suresh and N Sriram Balaji, Sumit Nagal's defeat in the reverse singles sealed India's fate, making Korea the first Asian team to reach the knockout stage under the new format.

JD-U plans party renaming: What is behind the move?

JD-U plans party renaming: What is behind the move?

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Janata Dal (United) is considering a proposal to rename the party as 'JD(U)-Nitish' to honour its leader Nitish Kumar, a move supported by key aides but criticised by the RJD, which suggests it indicates an impending split within the party.

Internal Rift: Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey Strips DG Of All Powers

Internal Rift: Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey Strips DG Of All Powers

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey has served a legal notice to Director General Cdr RK Srivastava, immediately stripping him of all powers. The move comes amidst an internal rift, with Tirkey citing the need to maintain discipline, accountability, and smooth functioning within the organisation. Srivastava has been directed to hand over all operational charge and official documents.

Main accused in Kaushambi firecracker blast arrested

Main accused in Kaushambi firecracker blast arrested

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

The main accused, Naushad, in the Kaushambi firecracker factory blast that killed 11 people, including eight children, has been arrested after an encounter. Two police personnel were suspended and three sent to police lines for alleged negligence, as the factory was operating illegally despite a previous licence suspension. Authorities are taking strict action, including invoking the Gangsters Act and NSA.

BRICS declaration backs India's stand on fighting terror

BRICS declaration backs India's stand on fighting terror

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

The BRICS grouping has fully endorsed India's demand for zero-tolerance against terrorism and rejected double standards in combating the menace. Their declaration condemned terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir and reaffirmed commitment to holding terrorists accountable under international law.

Police Investigate Revenge Angle In Delhi Gym Trainer's Murder

Police Investigate Revenge Angle In Delhi Gym Trainer's Murder

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Police are investigating a revenge angle in the recent murder of a gym trainer in South Delhi's Aya Nagar. The killing is suspected to be part of an ongoing feud between two families, with alleged gang involvement and a social media claim of responsibility by a foreign-based gangster.

Raj Thackeray's son booked for removing Modi's photo in Pune college

Raj Thackeray's son booked for removing Modi's photo in Pune college

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Two Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers have been arrested in Pune for allegedly removing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's photograph from a government polytechnic office. The incident occurred during a visit by MNS leader Amit Thackeray, who is also facing a case related to the alleged act. BJP criticised the MNS leader for political immaturity.

The Prince And The Driver

The Prince And The Driver

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

A Kishore Kumar song, a birthday cake, a prince's break from protocol to thank his driver, a Persian painting on the ceiling of the presidential residence -- the BRICS Summit had many memorable moments.

'Mindset must change': SC tells TN to provide land for Navodaya in 3 months

'Mindset must change': SC tells TN to provide land for Navodaya in 3 months

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Tamil Nadu government to comply with its previous order to identify land for establishing Navodaya Vidyalayas in each district of the state, emphasising cooperative federalism and urging a change in mindset regarding the central government's education policy.

Sports Minister Mandaviya Directs Hockey India To Revive Cash-Strapped League

Sports Minister Mandaviya Directs Hockey India To Revive Cash-Strapped League

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The Sports Ministry has formed a five-member committee to address the financial viability and sustainability of the Hockey India League (HIL). Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya met with Hockey India officials and franchise representatives, directing them to develop a comprehensive plan for the league's revival, which has faced challenges since its return last year.

Sports Ministry Steps In To Revive Hockey India League

Sports Ministry Steps In To Revive Hockey India League

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The Sports Ministry, led by Mansukh Mandaviya, has formed a five-member committee to develop a comprehensive roadmap for the financial viability and sustainability of the cash-strapped Hockey India League (HIL). This initiative follows concerns about the league's long-term future, which was revived last year after a seven-year hiatus. The committee will include representatives from Hockey India, franchises, and the Sports Ministry, tasked with presenting a report on governance, financial models, and league structure.

Akshaye Khanna's 7 Best Villain Acts: From Humraaz To Dhurandhar

Akshaye Khanna's 7 Best Villain Acts: From Humraaz To Dhurandhar

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Long before Rehman Dakait made the Internet swoon, Akshaye Khanna had already mastered the art of stealing the show from the dark side.

Will challenge HC order quashing activist's NSA detention: SG

Will challenge HC order quashing activist's NSA detention: SG

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the Supreme Court that an appeal would be filed against an Allahabad High Court decision that quashed the detention of Delhi University student Akriti Chaudhary under the National Security Act. The High Court had also awarded Rs 5 lakh compensation to Chaudhary and criticised the "despotic" conduct of the Gautam Buddha Nagar DM. The Supreme Court also expressed displeasure over a Greater Noida executive magistrate's notice to another student for protest participation.

India sounds alarm over security, navigation risks amid Red Sea tensions

India sounds alarm over security, navigation risks amid Red Sea tensions

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

India has once again raised alarms over the escalation in the security situation in the Red Sea area and strongly condemned Houthi strikes targeting Saudi Arabian territory, "including on civilians and economic assets."

UPI fee: Why govt is putting a price on big merchant payments

UPI fee: Why govt is putting a price on big merchant payments

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) stated that the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) "is distributed only amongst the UPI ecosystem, to further invest into infrastructure resilience, innovation, cybersecurity (protecting the UPI infrastructure with banks and non-banks) and customer service."

New UPI Charges: Understanding The Impact On Digital Payments

New UPI Charges: Understanding The Impact On Digital Payments

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The government is introducing a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI person-to-merchant payments above Rs 2,000, effective October 15. This move ends the zero-MDR regime, aiming to fund UPI infrastructure and sustainability, as the previous government subsidy was insufficient to cover operational costs. Payments between individuals and most everyday merchant transactions will remain free.

Kareena Kapoor's Top 10 Performances

Kareena Kapoor's Top 10 Performances

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

From the adorably vain Poo to the free-spirited Geet, Kareena Kapoor Khan has delivered some memorable performances.