News for 'ANI'

Asian Games: India eye hockey gold, LA Olympic berth

Asian Games: India eye hockey gold, LA Olympic berth

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Indian men's and women's hockey teams commence their Asian Games campaign in Japan, with both aiming for a gold medal to secure direct qualification for the Los Angeles Olympics. The men's team seeks to recover from a recent World Cup slump, while the women's team looks to build on their strong World Cup performance, facing significant challenges from opponents like China.

Mamata to back Congress in Nandigram after candidate pulls out

Mamata to back Congress in Nandigram after candidate pulls out

Rediff.com2 days ago

Mamata Banerjee's faction of the Trinamool Congress announced support for the Congress candidate in the Nandigram assembly bypoll after its own candidate withdrew. This decision comes amidst a bitter dispute with the Election Commission over the freezing of TMC's traditional symbol and name, which Banerjee termed "arbitrary" and accused the BJP of trying to destroy opposition parties.

CM Orders Strict Action After Teacher Accused Of Harassing Students

CM Orders Strict Action After Teacher Accused Of Harassing Students

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

A teacher at a government residential school in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district has been accused of sexually harassing a 14-year-old girl and other students. Police have registered a case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and POCSO Act, with efforts underway to apprehend the accused. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has ordered a thorough probe, strict action, and directed district authorities to enhance vigilance and conduct regular inspections of girls' hostels and residential schools to ensure child safety.

Punjab Lions Bowler Takes Field After Grandfather's Death

Punjab Lions Bowler Takes Field After Grandfather's Death

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Ludhiana Lions' Krish Bhagat played an important Sher-E-Punjab T20 League match against Amritsar Soormas, dedicating a crucial wicket to his late grandfather, Chunni Lal Bhagat, a former Cabinet Minister. Krish shared how his grandfather's journey from Pakistan inspired him and spoke about his own early start in cricket, his family's support, and his focus on team goals in the league.

Kiran Bedi seeks role in Satya Niketan hostel collapse case, HC says...

Kiran Bedi seeks role in Satya Niketan hostel collapse case, HC says...

Rediff.com3 days ago

Retired IPS officer Kiran Bedi on Thursday approached the Delhi high court seeking to be made a party in a matter concerning the hostel building collapse in Satya Niketan that left seven people dead, saying she wanted to bring forth "critical public domain disclosures" and the "nexus" in the operation of PG hostels.

UP: Groom sent for sweets after wedding, bride vanishes with Rs 1.6L

UP: Groom sent for sweets after wedding, bride vanishes with Rs 1.6L

Rediff.com4 days ago

A man seeking a second marriage was allegedly duped of Rs 1.6 lakh by a matchmaker and a 'bride' who vanished shortly after their wedding rituals. The groom was sent to buy sweets, and upon his return, found the bride and accomplices had fled. Police have arrested the matchmaker and another accused in connection with the fraud.

I Stood Where Every Man Died A Hero's Death

I Stood Where Every Man Died A Hero's Death

Rediff.com3 days ago

The soil mingled with the blood of 114 soldiers, gathered from the battlefield, has been preserved in a glass bottle in Rezang La. When the frozen bodies of the were recovered, they had their rifles in hand, fingers on the trigger, pointed towards the enemy. The mountains they defended will never forget them. Neither should we.

Kerala High Court Confirms Life Sentence In Minor Rape Case

Kerala High Court Confirms Life Sentence In Minor Rape Case

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Kerala High Court has affirmed the conviction and life imprisonment of a former state government employee found guilty of raping a 14-year-old schoolgirl over 45 days in 2009. The court dismissed the accused's appeal, stating the victim's testimony was "sterling quality" and corroborated by medical evidence, rejecting claims of false implication.

India coach backs women boxers to end Asian Games gold wait

India coach backs women boxers to end Asian Games gold wait

Rediff.com2 days ago

Indian women's boxing head coach Santiago Nieva is confident the team can secure an elusive gold medal at the upcoming Asian Games, building on their strong performance at the Commonwealth Games. Despite facing tough competition from powerhouses like China and Kazakhstan, Nieva believes the current squad is the best the country has seen and is capable of overcoming challenges, including previous struggles against Chinese opponents, by focusing on controlling bouts.

Mayawati slams nephew for 'spreading rumours' about her health

Mayawati slams nephew for 'spreading rumours' about her health

Rediff.com7 days ago

BSP chief Mayawati has accused her nephew Akash Anand, recently expelled from the party, of being involved in spreading rumours about her ill health. She detailed a phone call made by Akash to a party in-charge inquiring about her health and reiterated her stance on keeping family members away from political positions, except for her brother Anand Kumar who assists her. She also mentioned the ongoing protest by panchayat assistants in Uttar Pradesh.

Rajasthan civic polls: Cong wins 6 of 9 wards in repolling

Rajasthan civic polls: Cong wins 6 of 9 wards in repolling

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Congress party won six out of nine wards where repolling was conducted across four urban local bodies in Rajasthan, while the BJP secured three. These results finalise the tally for all 10,244 wards, with the BJP holding the overall lead in total wards won, followed by Congress and Independents. The process for electing mayors and chairpersons is now underway.

Nithari accused Surendra Koli found hanging at his tea shop

Nithari accused Surendra Koli found hanging at his tea shop

Rediff.com3 days ago

Surendra Koli, who was at the centre of the sensational Nithari killings and subsequently acquitted in all 13 cases, was found hanging at his tea stall in Haridwar, police confirmed, with investigations ongoing into the suspected suicide.

Tension in Bengal college after student clash over Vishwakarma Puja

Tension in Bengal college after student clash over Vishwakarma Puja

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

An educational institute in West Bengal's Purba Bardhaman district has been shut indefinitely and its hostel vacated following a violent clash between two student groups over organising Vishwakarma Puja. The incident at the University Institute of Technology, Burdwan University, led to injuries, property damage, and allegations of outsider involvement, prompting police intervention and an ongoing investigation.

Coming Up, Southern CMs' Dasara Conclave

Coming Up, Southern CMs' Dasara Conclave

Rediff.com3 days ago

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

Mbappe, Vinicius cover message of support for Ceuta; Real Madrid defends choice

Mbappe, Vinicius cover message of support for Ceuta; Real Madrid defends choice

Rediff.com5 days ago

Real Madrid has defended its players' right to hold differing opinions after Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. obscured a solidarity message for the people of Ceuta on their shirts before a LaLiga match, an act that sparked controversy.

Educational institute founder dies by suicide, police probe underway

Educational institute founder dies by suicide, police probe underway

Rediff.com6 days ago

Sanjeev Sonwane, the 65-year-old founder of a prominent educational institute in Latur and nephew of a former Maharashtra minister, allegedly died by suicide by shooting himself, prompting a police investigation.

Akhilesh Yadav Criticises New UPI MDR Charges As 'Chungi'

Akhilesh Yadav Criticises New UPI MDR Charges As 'Chungi'

Rediff.com4 days ago

Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav has criticised the BJP government's proposed Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on high-value UPI transactions, calling it a "chungi" (tax) on digital payments. He alleged the move was an attempt to extract money from people's transactions, contradicting the government's goal of a trillion-dollar economy. The new UPI framework will impose a 0.4% MDR on person-to-merchant transactions above Rs 2,000 from October 15, with certain sectors having a flat Rs 5 MDR.

Why Ajit Agarkar Quit As Team India's Chief Selector

Why Ajit Agarkar Quit As Team India's Chief Selector

Rediff.com2 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.

Miscommunication Blamed For Asian Games Flag-Hoisting Ceremony Delay

Miscommunication Blamed For Asian Games Flag-Hoisting Ceremony Delay

Rediff.com3 days ago

The flag-hoisting ceremony for the Asian Games, involving India and five other contingents, was significantly delayed due to "miscommunication" between the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and the local organising committee (ANAGOC). The disruption, which lasted over an hour, initially caused confusion and speculation about political issues, but organisers later clarified it was a communication breakdown, adding to existing organisational challenges for the event.

'Final chance': SC gives Rajpal Yadav 2 weeks to return Rs 2 cr

'Final chance': SC gives Rajpal Yadav 2 weeks to return Rs 2 cr

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Supreme Court has given actor Rajpal Yadav a final two-week opportunity to present a concrete proposal for repaying an outstanding amount to a private firm, directing him to deposit Rs 2 crore with the apex court registry. This comes after a series of cheque bounce cases, with the Delhi High Court previously upholding his conviction and sentencing him to three months' imprisonment. The court noted Yadav's past conduct did not inspire confidence but granted a last chance.

'There Will Be No Water In The Rivers!'

'There Will Be No Water In The Rivers!'

Rediff.com5 days ago

'All the glaciers will disappear!'

Gurugram biker hit-and-run: Accused says 'lost control of the car'

Gurugram biker hit-and-run: Accused says 'lost control of the car'

Rediff.com6 days ago

A woman biker was hit by a speeding car on Golf Course Road in Gurugram, an incident captured on video and shared widely on social media. The accused driver, Kalyan Bainsla, admitted fault for the collision but claimed he fled fearing an attack from a group of bikers. Gurugram Police have taken suo motu cognizance, registered a case, and formed teams to apprehend the driver, while the victim plans to file a formal complaint.

Asian Games: Indian Hockey Teams Eye Gold And Direct Olympic Qualification

Asian Games: Indian Hockey Teams Eye Gold And Direct Olympic Qualification

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Indian men's and women's hockey teams are set to compete at the Asian Games in Kakamigahara, Japan, with the primary goal of winning gold to secure direct qualification for the Paris Olympics. The men's team aims to defend its title and overcome recent World Cup disappointment, while the women's team, buoyed by a strong World Cup performance, seeks only its second Asian Games gold. Both teams face tough competition, with the men needing to prove their dominance against regional rivals and the women confronting a strong Chinese side.

'We Will Ask Customers To Pay In Cash'

'We Will Ask Customers To Pay In Cash'

Rediff.com3 days ago

'UPI has been free since Covid, so why is the government charging us now?'

Gulf war simmers again: Houthi advance puts Saudi on edge

Gulf war simmers again: Houthi advance puts Saudi on edge

Rediff.com7 days ago

Fighting in Yemen has intensified as Houthi rebels advance on strategic government-held areas like Marib and Taiz, putting pressure on Saudi Arabia to respond. The conflict is also linked to wider US-Iran tensions affecting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, with former US President Trump commenting on the situation.

UPI charges: Govt rejects rollback amid Opposition outcry

UPI charges: Govt rejects rollback amid Opposition outcry

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% fee on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, sparking strong opposition from political parties and traders. Despite accusations of foreign influence and demands for a rollback, the finance ministry and top functionaries have stated there will be no reversal, citing the need for a self-sustaining digital payments ecosystem.

Former RAW chief AS Dulat debuts fiction with Kashmir espionage thriller

Former RAW chief AS Dulat debuts fiction with Kashmir espionage thriller

Rediff.com4 days ago

Former RAW chief AS Dulat has released his debut novel, "Our Kind of Games," a fictional exploration of the Kashmir insurgency and the complexities of intelligence work. The book, which features a foreword by Farooq Abdullah, delves into the moral dilemmas faced by an intelligence officer in Srinagar during the early 1990s.

'Washington Shouldn't Threaten A Strategic Partner'

'Washington Shouldn't Threaten A Strategic Partner'

Rediff.com3 days ago

'It is a blunt and dangerous attempt to pressure India to sign BTA on one-sided terms.'

Neighbour's Family Accused In Fatal Attack On Elderly Man

Neighbour's Family Accused In Fatal Attack On Elderly Man

Rediff.com5 days ago

A 70-year-old man was allegedly beaten to death by his neighbour's family in Kharad village, Muzaffarnagar, while selling vinegar. Police have registered a murder case against five accused who are currently absconding. The incident led to local protests, and security has been heightened in the village.

AIFF Announces Discounted Tickets For India's FIFA Tier-1 Friendlies

AIFF Announces Discounted Tickets For India's FIFA Tier-1 Friendlies

Rediff.com3 days ago

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is facilitating discounted tickets for members of Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, and Mohammedan Sporting for India's upcoming FIFA tier-1 friendlies against Panama, Brazil, and Uruguay. These high-profile matches will be held in Bengaluru and Kolkata, with the AIFF also planning Fan Parks across districts to promote grassroots football and allow wider viewership. The matches are seen as a significant opportunity for the Indian national team to test itself against top-ranked opponents.

Why I Refuse To Romanticise The 1980s

Why I Refuse To Romanticise The 1980s

Rediff.com7 days ago

Some decades are worth remembering exactly as they were, unfiltered, because that's the only way the people who survived them get to be seen at all, points out Binu Alex.

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.com2 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.

The Long Road To Viksit Bharat

The Long Road To Viksit Bharat

Rediff.com6 days ago

The question for the next 20 years is not whether India can become a $5 trillion or $10 trillion economy. Those are attractive targets, but the real question is whether India can create enough productive jobs, educate its children properly, make its cities liveable, and give hundreds of millions of people a substantially better life, asserts Ramesh Menon.

Why Gaurav Khanna Quit Khatron Ke Khiladi 15

Why Gaurav Khanna Quit Khatron Ke Khiladi 15

Rediff.com5 days ago

'I got back on the show after taking medication and doing whatever I could to ease the pain in my elbow. But when it happened again, I realised I couldn't take it anymore because, going forward, it could hamper my recovery.'

Caste alone not enough to invoke SC/ST Act: Allahabad HC

Caste alone not enough to invoke SC/ST Act: Allahabad HC

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

The Allahabad High Court has ruled that the SC/ST Act cannot be invoked merely because a complainant belongs to a Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe. Justice Santosh Rai observed that specific ingredients of the offence must be present, quashing proceedings under the Act in a property dispute where no caste-based abuse occurred.

'Modi Played A Lot Of Cricket'

'Modi Played A Lot Of Cricket'

Rediff.com3 days ago

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

RBI Deputy Governor Dismisses MDR Concerns, Clarifies Cash Paradox

RBI Deputy Governor Dismisses MDR Concerns, Clarifies Cash Paradox

Rediff.com3 days ago

RBI Deputy Governor Shirish Chandra Murmu has dismissed concerns that the new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI payments above Rs 2,000 will increase cash transactions. He also clarified the 'cash paradox' of rising digital payments alongside cash in circulation, explaining cash's dual role. Murmu further detailed the RBI's extensive regulatory changes aimed at reducing compliance burdens and emphasised that accountability for AI-driven decisions in finance will remain with institutional boards.

IPL 2027 Auction To Be Held In India; Impact Player Rule Under Review

IPL 2027 Auction To Be Held In India; Impact Player Rule Under Review

Rediff.com5 days ago

IPL players' auction for the 2027 season is slated to be held in India, marking a return after three overseas editions, with league chairman Arun Dhumal expressing a strong desire for a domestic venue.

Traders Call For Reversal Of UPI Transaction Fee Decision

Traders Call For Reversal Of UPI Transaction Fee Decision

Rediff.com4 days ago

A member of the National Traders' Welfare Board (NTWB) has urged the central government to withdraw its decision to impose a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, effective from October 15. He warned that the new charge, which will be borne by merchants, could negatively impact business growth and lead to higher prices, contradicting the government's 'ease of doing business' policy.

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.com3 days ago

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.