News for 'Bengal'

'SIR Is Bloodless Political Genocide'

'SIR Is Bloodless Political Genocide'

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

'93 lakhs deletions in Bengal, 96 lakhs in Tamil Nadu, 24 lakhs in Kerala, 77 lakhs in Gujarat, 45 lakhs in Madhya Pradesh, 44 lakhs in Rajasthan. 2.89 crores in Uttar Pradesh. Nearly 3 crores!'

Teenage Sensation Anushka Yadav Sets New Hammer Throw Meet Record

Teenage Sensation Anushka Yadav Sets New Hammer Throw Meet Record

Rediff.com6 days ago

Teenage hammer thrower Anushka Yadav broke the meet record at the 65th National Open Athletics Championships in New Delhi on Saturday with a throw of 66.53m, surpassing the previous record held by Manju Bala. She dominated the event, with her closest competitor significantly behind.

Army personnel found dead in Meerut hotel's bathroom

Army personnel found dead in Meerut hotel's bathroom

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

A 34-year-old Army Havaldar, Parvinder Singh, was found dead in a hotel bathroom in Meerut. Police suspect cardiac arrest as the cause of death, but the exact reason will be confirmed after the postmortem report. Singh had recently been discharged from a military hospital.

Rebel TMC MPs meet Bengal CM over mosque loudspeakers, SIR

Rebel TMC MPs meet Bengal CM over mosque loudspeakers, SIR

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Two NCPI MPs from Murshidabad, West Bengal, met with Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari to express concerns over the removal of mosque loudspeakers, alleging police overreach and targeting of Muslims. They also sought his intervention to expedite hearings for approximately 27 lakh people excluded from electoral rolls, highlighting difficulties faced by genuine voters due to delays in tribunal decisions.

States' Capital Expenditure Utilisation Falls Below Last Year's Level in Apr-Aug FY27

States' Capital Expenditure Utilisation Falls Below Last Year's Level in Apr-Aug FY27

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Indian states' capital expenditure (capex) utilisation for April-August FY27 fell to 21.21 per cent, slightly below the 21.73 per cent recorded in the same period of FY26, according to a CAG analysis. Despite the dip, this figure remains the third highest in the past six years, with significant variations observed across states.

Why Modi's Crackdown Could Backfire Politically

Why Modi's Crackdown Could Backfire Politically

Rediff.com2 days ago

Modi's greater weakness is his inability since July when he directed the exit of Dharmendra Pradhan, to come up with a political counter strategy. Security measures and executive orders as seen in recent days will only likely further weaken him and make him as lame duck a premier as many prior to him, Indira Gandhi and Manmohan Singh included, observes Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay.

West Bengal Pledges Full Support For India-Brazil Football Clash

West Bengal Pledges Full Support For India-Brazil Football Clash

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has assured the All India Football Federation of full government support to host India's biggest-ever international football fixture against five-time World Cup champions Brazil in Kolkata on October 3. This historic match will be India's first against a top-five FIFA-ranked nation, offering crucial exposure to the national team despite initial concerns over crowd management.

Punjab FC Announces 27-Member Squad For ISL 2026-27 Season

Punjab FC Announces 27-Member Squad For ISL 2026-27 Season

Rediff.com7 days ago

Punjab FC has announced a 27-member squad for the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) 2026-27 season, featuring a mix of retained players, national team members, foreign talents, and 10 academy graduates. Head Coach Pavlos Dermitzakis expressed confidence in the balanced squad, which is set to kick off its campaign on October 14 against Odisha FC.

Tensions Escalate: Man Hacked To Death Amidst Political Factionalism In Paschim Medinipur

Tensions Escalate: Man Hacked To Death Amidst Political Factionalism In Paschim Medinipur

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

A man identified as Samsher Khan was hacked to death in West Bengal's Paschim Medinipur district following a clash between two groups. Locals allege the incident stemmed from political factionalism within the BJP, a claim denied by a party official who stated the deceased was not a BJP worker. Police are investigating the matter.

Navy sailor caught in honey-trap, arrested for espionage

Navy sailor caught in honey-trap, arrested for espionage

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

An Indian Navy sailor, Pradeep Mukherjee, has been arrested by the Andhra Pradesh Police Counter Intelligence cell for allegedly transmitting classified maritime intelligence to a Pakistani operative. The espionage operation reportedly involved a social media "honey-trap" where a female Pakistani intelligence operative extracted sensitive data on naval assets and operations from Mukherjee.

Ooh La La, Janhvi!

Ooh La La, Janhvi!

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Janhvi Kapoor had quite the fashionable weekend in Paris, serving not one but two very different looks during her time in the French capital.

How Delhi Police Uncovered A Rs 73 Crore Digital-Arrest Scam

How Delhi Police Uncovered A Rs 73 Crore Digital-Arrest Scam

Rediff.com3 days ago

Delhi Police have arrested 11 individuals involved in multiple "digital-arrest" scams, recovering over Rs 12 crore. The scams, linked to handlers in Southeast Asia, have affected 78 complainants nationwide, totaling Rs 73 crore. A retired scientist was defrauded of Rs 1.25 crore, with the entire amount frozen. The investigation uncovered a network arranging mule bank accounts and using cryptocurrency for commissions.

'Right to vote at great peril': SC ex-judge Justice Nariman on EC functioning

'Right to vote at great peril': SC ex-judge Justice Nariman on EC functioning

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Former Supreme Court judge Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman has voiced serious concerns regarding the Election Commission's functioning, stating that the right to vote is 'at great peril'. He called for the Supreme Court's intervention to address 'disturbing developments' within the poll panel, particularly citing issues like voter disenfranchisement during electoral roll revisions and the controversial appointment process of Election Commissioners.

CJP leaders to reach Delhi airport amid govt crackdown

CJP leaders to reach Delhi airport amid govt crackdown

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is organising a protest in New Delhi, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged electoral irregularities and the deletion of names from voter rolls. CJP leaders claim activists have been detained and faced restrictions while travelling to the capital for the demonstration.

Punjab FC's IFA Shield run ends in penalty shootout

Punjab FC's IFA Shield run ends in penalty shootout

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Punjab FC's IFA Shield campaign concluded after a narrow 3-4 defeat on penalties to defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the semi-final. The match remained goalless after 120 minutes of competitive play, with both teams creating chances before the shootout decided the winner.

9 killed in hotel blaze in Bengal's Tarapith; owner among 2 detained

9 killed in hotel blaze in Bengal's Tarapith; owner among 2 detained

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Hotel officials claimed the fire was caused by a short circuit. A woman from Kolkata, who managed to escape the blaze, recalled the panic inside the hotel.

Bengal Police bust Pakistan-linked honeytrap network targeting ministers

Bengal Police bust Pakistan-linked honeytrap network targeting ministers

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

West Bengal police have unearthed a sophisticated Pakistan-linked honeytrap network targeting state ministers, their families, and other high-profile individuals, leading to the arrest of a third suspect, Aditya Singh, an alleged associate of Jaish-e-Mohammed operative Hamim Mondal.

Hasina slams Bangladesh PM for skipping BRICS meet

Hasina slams Bangladesh PM for skipping BRICS meet

Rediff.com1 days ago

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has strongly criticised Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's decision to skip the BRICS summit in India, calling it "immature" and detrimental to Bangladesh's national interest. She argued that the absence lost opportunities for economic development and that foreign policy should not be driven by personal considerations. Hasina also highlighted the current "grave national crisis" in Bangladesh and her intention to return to restore democracy.

Rajya Sabha polls announced in 3 states, all eyes on UP's 10th seat

Rajya Sabha polls announced in 3 states, all eyes on UP's 10th seat

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

The Election Commission has announced elections for 12 Rajya Sabha seats across Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal on October 16. The BJP is expected to retain eight seats in UP and gain one in West Bengal, increasing its overall strength. The Samajwadi Party is also likely to gain one seat in UP, while Mayawati's BSP faces the prospect of losing its representation in Parliament.

INDIA leaders meet at Rahul Gandhi's home, 'vow to reclaim' Jantar Mantar

INDIA leaders meet at Rahul Gandhi's home, 'vow to reclaim' Jantar Mantar

Rediff.com3 days ago

The INDIA bloc, comprising 17 opposition parties and civil society members, met at Rahul Gandhi's residence to strategize against alleged "vote chori" and the denotification of Jantar Mantar as a protest site. Leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Tejashwi Yadav, vowed to continue their united political and people's resistance, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and asserting that those responsible for undermining democracy would be held accountable.

Against all odds, Beed trio break into Maharashtra Ranji team

Against all odds, Beed trio break into Maharashtra Ranji team

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Three young cricketers from Beed, Saurabh Navale, Sachin Dhas, and Rishikesh Sonawane, have been selected for the Maharashtra Ranji Trophy squad, marking a historic first for the district. Their selection highlights their hard work and talent despite limited local facilities, inspiring future generations. Prithvi Shaw will captain the Maharashtra team.

Suspected Jaish operative held in Bengal; STF probes spy network

Suspected Jaish operative held in Bengal; STF probes spy network

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

A suspected operative of Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) was arrested in West Bengal's Purba Bardhaman district, and investigators believe he could be part of an ISI-backed network tasked with collecting intelligence on VIPs including BJP leaders, recruiting operatives and laying the groundwork for possible terror activities in the state.

'Election Commission Is Shameless'

'Election Commission Is Shameless'

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

'Their functioning is flawed, they are not accountable, they are opaque, they are non-transparent, they have lost credibility.'

Drought: Is Maharashtra Growing The Wrong Crops?

Drought: Is Maharashtra Growing The Wrong Crops?

Rediff.com12 hours ago

'Nearly two-thirds of Maharashtra has been drought-prone on and off, and climate change is making it worse.'

Historic Ranji Call-Up For Three Beed Youngsters

Historic Ranji Call-Up For Three Beed Youngsters

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Three young cricketers from Beed, Saurabh Navale, Sachin Dhas, and Rishikesh Sonawane, have been selected for the Maharashtra Ranji Trophy squad, marking a historic first for the district. Their selection highlights their hard work and talent despite limited local facilities, inspiring future generations. Prithvi Shaw will captain the Maharashtra team.

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.

Mamata moves SC against EC order on party name, symbol

Mamata moves SC against EC order on party name, symbol

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has filed a plea in the Supreme Court challenging the Election Commission's interim decision to freeze the Trinamool Congress' name and party symbol. The EC had allotted separate names and symbols to two rival TMC factions ahead of upcoming bypolls, a move Banerjee has strongly criticised as a "black day" for democracy.

Bengal ex-dy speaker's death: TMC factions trade charges, BJP seeks probe

Bengal ex-dy speaker's death: TMC factions trade charges, BJP seeks probe

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

The death of former West Bengal assembly deputy speaker and veteran Trinamool Congress leader Ashis Banerjee on Sunday triggered a political blame game, with the rival factions within the party and the Bharatiya Janata Party trading allegations over the circumstances surrounding the 74-year-old leader's death.

27 killed in rain-related incidents in Nepal; 4 missing

27 killed in rain-related incidents in Nepal; 4 missing

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Heavy rainfall, floods, landslides, and an avalanche have claimed at least 27 lives across Nepal in recent days, with four people missing and eight injured. The monsoon-induced incidents have destroyed hundreds of homes and damaged infrastructure, highlighting the country's vulnerability to such natural disasters, following last month's devastating flash floods.

Gurugram Woman Held For Extorting Rs 90 Lakh Via Dating App Blackmail

Gurugram Woman Held For Extorting Rs 90 Lakh Via Dating App Blackmail

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

A woman in Gurugram was arrested for allegedly blackmailing a man she met on a dating app, extorting approximately Rs 90 lakh by threatening to file a false rape case. Police set a trap and apprehended her while she was accepting an additional Rs 50,000.

Heavy rain disrupts life across North India; six killed in UP

Heavy rain disrupts life across North India; six killed in UP

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Heavy rainfall has severely impacted Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Uttarakhand, leading to casualties, widespread flooding, and significant disruptions. The Char Dham Yatra was suspended, flights were cancelled, and standing crops were damaged. Other regions like Himachal Pradesh, West Bengal, Rajasthan, and Delhi also experienced varied weather conditions, including snowfall and light rains.

CEC row: Opposition parties to march to SC on Monday to meet CJI

CEC row: Opposition parties to march to SC on Monday to meet CJI

Rediff.com5 days ago

Opposition parties, led by Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, plan to march to the Supreme Court on Monday to meet the Chief Justice of India. They aim to submit a memorandum regarding alleged 'vote chori' and demand CEC Gyanesh Kumar's resignation, halting of SIR, and a return to paper ballots. The protest follows widespread detentions during previous demonstrations, which the opposition condemns as an assault on democracy.

Hasina's arrival in Delhi was 'unexpected': Indian envoy in Dhaka

Hasina's arrival in Delhi was 'unexpected': Indian envoy in Dhaka

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, clarified that former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's arrival in New Delhi two years ago was unexpected and not facilitated by the Indian military. He addressed ongoing extradition requests from the current Bangladeshi government, stating India acted out of duty during tragic circumstances in Bangladesh.

Young Indian Women's Football Squad Prepares For Russia Test

Young Indian Women's Football Squad Prepares For Russia Test

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

India's women's football team, the Blue Tigresses, will play two international friendlies against 27th-ranked Russia in Kolkata. These matches serve as a crucial test for India's young squad, with an average age of 23, as they prepare for next year's AFC Women's Asian Cup. Head coach Crispin Chettri views this as an opportunity for emerging players to prove themselves against a stronger opponent.

Mamata to back Congress in Nandigram after candidate pulls out

Mamata to back Congress in Nandigram after candidate pulls out

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

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.

Mamata faction gets 'football player' as symbol for bypolls

Mamata faction gets 'football player' as symbol for bypolls

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

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.

SC to hear plea seeking CEC Gyanesh Kumar's suspension

SC to hear plea seeking CEC Gyanesh Kumar's suspension

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) next week that seeks the suspension of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar and challenges the alleged unilateral decision-making within the Election Commission without the approval of two other Election Commissioners.

'Rahul's claims incorrect, unfortunate President is being involved'

'Rahul's claims incorrect, unfortunate President is being involved'

Rediff.com6 days ago

Sources have refuted Rahul Gandhi's claims regarding President Droupadi Murmu's response to 'vote chori' allegations, stating it's 'unfortunate' she's being drawn into the controversy. Meanwhile, the INDIA bloc, after meeting the President, has vowed to provide a 'mountain of proof' to support their claims of electoral malpractice and demand for the CEC's resignation.

Rishabh Pant 'fits perfectly' as Delhi's middle-order mainstay: Ganguly

Rishabh Pant 'fits perfectly' as Delhi's middle-order mainstay: Ganguly

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Newly-appointed Delhi Capitals head coach Sourav Ganguly expresses confidence in Rishabh Pant's return to form and his perfect fit in the team's middle order for the upcoming IPL season. Ganguly also outlines his vision for the team, aiming to lead them to success after a period away from the franchise.

'Never Seen Such Suppression Of A Political Movement'

'Never Seen Such Suppression Of A Political Movement'

Rediff.com5 days ago

'If Gyanesh Kumar had some shame he would have resigned and would have taken agni pariksha.'