News for 'Bills'

Another final heartbreak for Chirag-Satwiksairaj

Another final heartbreak for Chirag-Satwiksairaj

Rediff.com21 Sep 2025

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty registered a second successive runner-up finish, after they were beaten in the final of the China Masters.

Noida Airport set to begin operations post-Diwali

Noida Airport set to begin operations post-Diwali

Rediff.com21 Sep 2025

The Noida International Airport (NIA), being developed as a greenfield aviation hub in Jewar, Gautam Buddh Nagar, is on track to begin operations by the end of this year.

How India Have Fared Against Pakistan In Finals

How India Have Fared Against Pakistan In Finals

Rediff.com27 Sep 2025

Pakistan leads India 3-2 in finals.

SC okays 10 TN bills, slams delay, fixes timeline for governor

SC okays 10 TN bills, slams delay, fixes timeline for governor

Rediff.com8 Apr 2025

In a landmark verdict, the Supreme court fixed a timeline for Governor to act on bills passed by the state legislature as it pulled up Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi for reserving 10 bills for President's consideration, saying it was against the constitutional provisions.

States can move court if Prez withholds assent on bill: SC

States can move court if Prez withholds assent on bill: SC

Rediff.com12 Apr 2025

A bench comprising justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan on April 8 gave a huge relief to the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-led Tamil Nadu government and cleared 10 state bills which were stalled and reserved by Governor R N Ravi for President's consideration, and also set a timeline for all governors to act on the bills passed by state assemblies.

Congress to Challenge Waqf Bill in Supreme Court 'very soon'

Congress to Challenge Waqf Bill in Supreme Court 'very soon'

Rediff.com4 Apr 2025

The Congress party announced its intention to challenge the constitutionality of the recently passed Wakf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the Supreme Court. AICC general secretary Jairam Ramesh stated that the party will "very soon" file a petition, citing concerns about the bill's impact on constitutional principles. Ramesh highlighted the Congress's ongoing legal challenges against other legislation, including the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), amendments to the Right to Information (RTI) Act, and changes to the Conduct of Election Rules. He emphasized the party's commitment to defending the Constitution's principles, provisions, and practices.

'BJP Should Be Extremely Wary Of 130th Amendment'

'BJP Should Be Extremely Wary Of 130th Amendment'

Rediff.com22 Aug 2025

'If the INDIA bloc ever forms the government, they will be more than tempted to use such provisions to bring about regime change in BJP-ruled states.'

Waqf Bill brazen assault on Constitution: Sonia Gandhi

Waqf Bill brazen assault on Constitution: Sonia Gandhi

Rediff.com3 Apr 2025

Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi has criticized the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, calling it a 'brazen assault' on the Constitution and part of the BJP's strategy to keep society in a 'permanent state of polarization.' She also spoke out against the One Nation, One Election Bill, calling it a 'subversion of the Constitution.' Gandhi further accused the Modi government of ignoring the women's reservation bill and other demands for reservation, and of 'dragging the country into an abyss' where the Constitution will only exist on paper. She also criticized the government for limiting the speaking time of the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament and for not allowing discussions on important issues like the working of the defense and external affairs ministries and the challenges posed by China on the border.

SC to pronounce interim orders on Waqf Act today

SC to pronounce interim orders on Waqf Act today

Rediff.com15 Sep 2025

The Supreme Court is scheduled to pronounce interim orders on key issues related to the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, including the power to denotify waqf properties.

SEE: Is PSL better than the IPL? Billings spills truth bomb

SEE: Is PSL better than the IPL? Billings spills truth bomb

Rediff.com17 Apr 2025

This is not the first time an IPL-related reference was made at a PSL media briefing.

Waqf bill: Govt says no interference in Muslims; Oppn objects

Waqf bill: Govt says no interference in Muslims; Oppn objects

Rediff.com2 Apr 2025

Introducing the bill, Rijiju said the consultation process of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) was the largest ever exercise carried out by a parliamentary panel in India's democratic history.

AHPI, Star Health in spat over cashless service

AHPI, Star Health in spat over cashless service

Rediff.com15 Sep 2025

If cashless services are suspended, AHPI said, its member hospitals will continue to treat Star Health policyholders, but patients will have to pay upfront and later seek reimbursements directly from the insurer.

Speaker Birla ticks off Sonia for 'Waqf bill bulldozed' remark

Speaker Birla ticks off Sonia for 'Waqf bill bulldozed' remark

Rediff.com4 Apr 2025

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla criticized former Congress president Sonia Gandhi's remarks about the Waqf (Amendment) Bill being "bulldozed through" the Lower House. Birla said a senior member casting aspersions on the House proceedings was "most unfortunate" and against the dignity of parliamentary democracy. He pointed out that the bill was debated for 13 hours and 53 minutes with several members participating and was passed after multiple divisions.

Dream11 Hit by Online Gaming Ban, India Jersey in Limbo

Dream11 Hit by Online Gaming Ban, India Jersey in Limbo

Rediff.com22 Aug 2025

With the Asia Cup starting September 9 in the UAE, the team could play without a sponsor logo after the government passed the Online Gaming Bill.

From Russia With Love

From Russia With Love

Rediff.com10 Oct 2025

Red Square and VDNKh easily rank among the most striking places I've visited -- both for their historical significance and architectural splendour.
My admiration for Russian culture, vision and ambition grew with every step as I clocked the miles, Nitin Sathe tells us after a visit to Moscow and St Petersburg.

As new GST rates kick in, groceries, medicines, cars get cheaper

As new GST rates kick in, groceries, medicines, cars get cheaper

Rediff.com22 Sep 2025

New lower GST rates kicked in from Monday, resulting in a slashing of prices of as many as 375 items ranging from toothpaste and shampoo to cars and television sets, a move seen as an attempt to boost consumption to cushion an economy facing tariff headwinds. Tax rates of 5, 12, 18, and 28 per cent have been clubbed into two rates of 5 per cent and 18 per cent, resulting in a reduced price of 99 per cent of daily use items.

Waqf Act: SC to pronounce interim order on Sept 15

Waqf Act: SC to pronounce interim order on Sept 15

Rediff.com13 Sep 2025

The Supreme Court is scheduled to pronounce interim orders on key issues related to the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, including the power to denotify properties declared as waqf.

Abhishek-Gill bond blooms into India's Fire & Ice act

Abhishek-Gill bond blooms into India's Fire & Ice act

Rediff.com22 Sep 2025

'It's really important to be very good friends off the field. When you open together, that bond matters. Sometimes you don't have to say anything in the middle.'

BCCI To Stay Outside The Ambit Of RTI ACT!

BCCI To Stay Outside The Ambit Of RTI ACT!

Rediff.com6 Aug 2025

In what can be construed as a relief to the BCCI, the Sports Ministry has amended the RTI-related provision of the National Sports Governance Bill, placing only those bodies under its ambit which rely on government grants and assistance.

'Lot of bidders' to sponsor Team India's new jersey

'Lot of bidders' to sponsor Team India's new jersey

Rediff.com13 Sep 2025

BCCI's vice-president Rajiv Shukla said the Indian cricket team's new jersey sponsor will be finalised in the next two to three weeks.

We're secular, asserts BJD amid row over supporting Waqf Bill

We're secular, asserts BJD amid row over supporting Waqf Bill

Rediff.com4 Apr 2025

Amid a row over change in stand over voting on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Friday asserted it is a secular regional outfit and maintains equal distance from the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance and the opposition Indian National Democratic Inclusive Alliance bloc led by the Congress.

Parliament passes Waqf bill after RS nod by 128-95 votes

Parliament passes Waqf bill after RS nod by 128-95 votes

Rediff.com4 Apr 2025

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was passed in the Lok Sabha early Thursday, with 288 members supporting it and 232 against it.

Naagin Derby Drama Unfolds Again

Naagin Derby Drama Unfolds Again

Rediff.com21 Sep 2025

In a rivalry born of pride and provocation, Bangladesh's one ball victory over Sri Lanka felt like more than just a win, it was a tale of heritage, heartbreak and the unshakable passion that makes the Naagin Derby cricket's most emotional stage.

Will Modi, Trump meet soon? US official says sure, but...

Will Modi, Trump meet soon? US official says sure, but...

Rediff.com25 Sep 2025

'Trump is not shy when he is frustrated with countries'

BCCI shake-up! Binny quits... this veteran is taking over

BCCI shake-up! Binny quits... this veteran is taking over

Rediff.com29 Aug 2025

In a significant development for Indian cricket, Rajeev Shukla has taken over as the interim president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) following the reported departure of Roger Binny.

Watershed moment: Modi after Waqf bill passed in Parl

Watershed moment: Modi after Waqf bill passed in Parl

Rediff.com4 Apr 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in Parliament as a "watershed moment" in the country's quest for socio-economic justice, transparency and inclusive growth. He said the legislation will particularly help those who have long remained on the margins, thus being denied both voice and opportunity. Modi stated that the Waqf system was synonymous with lack of transparency and accountability, especially harming Muslim women, poor Muslims and Pasmanda Muslims. He added that the legislation will boost transparency and safeguard people's rights, ushering in a more modern and socially just framework. The prime minister thanked all members of Parliament and the public for their contributions to the legislation.

India close partner of US, but Trump...: US Secy Rubio

India close partner of US, but Trump...: US Secy Rubio

Rediff.com24 Sep 2025

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio claims President Donald Trump was instrumental in bringing about the cessation of hostilities between India and Pakistan, a claim India has consistently denied.

Why Are Movie Stars So GREEDY?

Why Are Movie Stars So GREEDY?

Rediff.com15 Sep 2025

'I have heard big stars, who are a part of Gen Z, demand not only food of their choice but also insist on taking food home for their family. And I am talking about stars who charge anything from Rs 40 crore to Rs 100 crore.'

Waqf Bill vote: BJD leaders seeks action own MP

Waqf Bill vote: BJD leaders seeks action own MP

Rediff.com5 Apr 2025

Senior leaders of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in India are calling for action against Rajya Sabha MP and national spokesperson Sasmit Patra for allegedly creating confusion among lawmakers regarding the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. The controversy arose after Patra, despite the party's announced opposition to the Bill, revealed he had voted in favor of it and stated that MPs could vote according to their conscience. The situation has led to accusations of a possible "deal" between the BJD and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Thermostat Setting: India's Cool Move

Thermostat Setting: India's Cool Move

Rediff.com27 Aug 2025

'Are there other ways to reduce the energy airconditioners consume?' asks Ambi Parameswaran.

Kerala okays private university bill, marking LDF's major policy shift

Kerala okays private university bill, marking LDF's major policy shift

Rediff.com25 Mar 2025

The Kerala Assembly passed a bill allowing for the establishment of private universities in the state. This marks a significant policy shift for the CPI(M)-led government, which had previously opposed privatization of education. The bill was passed by voice vote following discussions on Monday and Tuesday. The opposition raised concerns about the potential impact of private universities on public institutions and questioned the practicality of the requirements for starting a private university. However, the government defended the bill, stating it was a necessary step to improve higher education in Kerala and elevate public universities to global standards.

Assam Mourns Zubeen Garg

Assam Mourns Zubeen Garg

Rediff.com20 Sep 2025

According to Indian High Commissioner to Singapore Shilpak Ambule, Zubeen Garg had gone with 17 others on a yacht trip and died while 'swimming in the sea without a life jacket'.

Kerala church daily bats in favour of Waqf amendment bill

Kerala church daily bats in favour of Waqf amendment bill

Rediff.com1 Apr 2025

A leading Catholic Church daily in Kerala has described the Waqf amendment bill as a crucial test of secularism in Parliament, urging MPs to support it. The editorial in Deepika daily comes as the union government prepares to table the bill for parliamentary consideration. The editorial calls the bill a test of secularism and warns MPs that failing to support it would mark them in history as endorsing religious fundamentalism. The paper added that the bill will also put an end to the injustices faced by thousands of Hindu, Christian, and Muslim citizens who have suffered due to the Waqf law. The editorial also recalled the recent statement addressed to Kerala MPs by Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council (KCBC) where the KCBC President Cardinal Mar Baselios Cleemis Catholicos urged amending provisions in the Waqf law that validate claims over land which people of Munambam have lawfully possessed. Opposition parties have slammed the bill as "unconstitutional" and against the interest of the Muslim community.

LS passes Waqf bill by 288-232 votes; Oppn's amendments rejected

LS passes Waqf bill by 288-232 votes; Oppn's amendments rejected

Rediff.com3 Apr 2025

The Lok Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, with the ruling NDA defending it as beneficial for minorities while the opposition called it "anti-Muslim". All amendments moved by the opposition were rejected and the bill was passed with 288 votes in favor and 232 against. Union Minorities Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju asserted that India is the safest place in the world for minorities, refuting claims of their insecurity.

Scottish-born travel writer Bill Aitken dies in Dehradun at 90

Scottish-born travel writer Bill Aitken dies in Dehradun at 90

Rediff.com18 Apr 2025

Noted Scottish-born travel writer Bill Aitken, known for his writings on Indian mountains, rivers, and railways, died in Dehradun at the age of 90. Aitken, who arrived in India in the late 1950s, traveled extensively throughout the country, especially in and around the Himalayan ashrams of Kausani and Mirtola. He lived between Delhi and Mussoorie since the 1970s. In over two dozen travel books, Aitken explored India's religious and natural landscapes, wrote intimately about its people and their beliefs, and had a keen interest in Indian railways. Some of his noted works include "Seven Sacred Rivers," "Divining the Deccan - A Motorbike to the Heart of India," "Footloose in the Himalaya," and "Exploring Indian Railways."

Waqf bill debate finale to Budget session ending with over 100% productivity

Waqf bill debate finale to Budget session ending with over 100% productivity

Rediff.com4 Apr 2025

Parliament's approval of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, a contentious piece of legislation aimed at reforming Waqf bodies, has sparked strong reactions from the opposition, who allege that the bill was "bulldozed" through Parliament. The bill, considered the government's most consequential legislation in its third term, was passed with comfortable majorities in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha despite opposition claims of a lack of consultation and an intrusion into religious affairs. Other notable bills approved during the session included the Finance Bill, Appropriation Bill, Immigration and Foreigners Bill, and Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill. The session, which saw high productivity, also witnessed debates on issues such as economic distress, delimitation, and the three-language policy. While the government touted its achievements, the opposition criticized the government's approach and vowed to challenge the Waqf bill in court.

'Only People Who Will Be Affected By H1B...'

'Only People Who Will Be Affected By H1B...'

Rediff.com24 Sep 2025

'...are young Indians with aspiration to go to the US.' 'The dream has to be more about working in India...'

In a 1st, SC sets timeline for Prez on bills sent by Guv

In a 1st, SC sets timeline for Prez on bills sent by Guv

Rediff.com12 Apr 2025

Four days after the top court cleared 10 bills, which were stalled and reserved by Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi for the president's consideration, and set a timeline for all governors to act on the bills passed by the state assemblies, the judgement running into 415 pages was uploaded on the apex court's website at 10.54 pm on Friday.

Stalin to challenge Waqf Bill in SC, gets AIADMK support

Stalin to challenge Waqf Bill in SC, gets AIADMK support

Rediff.com3 Apr 2025

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president M K Stalin announced that his party will file a case in the Supreme Court against the Waqf Bill passed in the Lok Sabha. The opposition AIADMK expressed solidarity with the DMK's stance, while the BJP members staged a walkout from the Assembly in protest. The CM argued that the amendment was passed at the behest of a few allies despite opposition from majority parties and that it is an attack on the Constitution and religious harmony. The DMK claims the bill threatens the autonomy of the Waqf Board and the Muslim minority population.

Has Karur Tragedy Halted Vijay's Political Rise?

Has Karur Tragedy Halted Vijay's Political Rise?

Rediff.com28 Sep 2025

The Karur tragedy has exposed the huge gaps in Vijay's understanding of realpolitik, elections and political administration, asserts N Sathiya Moorthy.