News for 'Central'

Who is Ajinkya Shinde? CJP's new face to lead Jantar Mantar protest

Who is Ajinkya Shinde? CJP's new face to lead Jantar Mantar protest

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Ajinkya Shinde, a native of Latur, Maharashtra, has taken charge of the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) "Jantar Mantar 2.0" protest in Delhi. This follows the detention of CJP's top leaders, including Dipke, Saurav Das, and Ashutosh Ranka, by Delhi Police on Saturday. Shinde, a former computer engineer and AAP activist, is leading the agitation against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged voter-list manipulation. The national capital saw a significant crackdown on Saturday, with nearly 500 protesters and leaders detained.

Rashtrapati Bhavan, PM's residence: INDIA bloc plans more protests agaistn CEC Gyanesh

Rashtrapati Bhavan, PM's residence: INDIA bloc plans more protests agaistn CEC Gyanesh

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

The INDIA bloc is escalating its protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, planning further actions and seeking an urgent meeting with President Droupadi Murmu.

Can Anurag Gupta Turn Fashion Into Real Change?

Can Anurag Gupta Turn Fashion Into Real Change?

Rediff.com16 Oct 2026

For generations, women in Bishkhor, Uttar Pradesh, have lived with stigma and limited choices. Designer Anurag Gupta hopes to help change that narrative, one livelihood at a time.

CJP leaders to reach Delhi airport amid govt crackdown

CJP leaders to reach Delhi airport amid govt crackdown

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

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.

'Every Time The Rains Fail, We Talk About Drought; By Next June We Have Forgotten About It'

'Every Time The Rains Fail, We Talk About Drought; By Next June We Have Forgotten About It'

Rediff.com16 Oct 2026

'Without that one critical irrigation, the entire crop can be lost.'

Barcelona rout Getafe; 10-man Real Madrid edge Villarreal

Barcelona rout Getafe; 10-man Real Madrid edge Villarreal

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

Barcelona secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Getafe, extending their perfect LaLiga start and maintaining a five-point lead. Real Madrid also won 1-0 against Villarreal, despite Vinicius Jr receiving a red card, keeping them six points behind their arch-rivals.

Amit Shah's warning to Rahul Gandhi: 'Be prepared for...'

Amit Shah's warning to Rahul Gandhi: 'Be prepared for...'

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and the opposition amidst ongoing protests for the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar and scrapping of SIR. Shah predicted a "crushing defeat" for the Congress in the 2029 general elections, citing the BJP's and NDA's strong public support and the Congress's dismal performance in recent bypolls and local body elections across several states, including West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Tripura. He urged the Congress to introspect instead of engaging in "negative politics" and "fabricated media events."

CISF jawan shoots dead 4 colleagues in J-K's Kathua; held

CISF jawan shoots dead 4 colleagues in J-K's Kathua; held

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Four Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel, including an assistant commandant, were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district after a colleague allegedly opened fire following an argument. The accused has been arrested and an investigation is underway.

BJP announces 8 names for RS election, drops Hardeep Puri

BJP announces 8 names for RS election, drops Hardeep Puri

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

The BJP has announced eight candidates, including minister Dharam Pal Singh, for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh. These elections, scheduled for October 16, will fill 10 seats from Uttar Pradesh, one from Uttarakhand, and a bypoll in West Bengal, with several prominent members retiring.

'Super Emergency': Delhi on edge as 7,000 protesters detained

'Super Emergency': Delhi on edge as 7,000 protesters detained

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Delhi Police launched a massive crackdown, detaining Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) leader Abhijeet Dipke, YouTuber Dhruv Rathee, and nearly 500 protesters who attempted to reach Jantar Mantar for a demonstration against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The Opposition, including AAP and Congress, denounced the situation as 'worse than the Emergency'.

Don't view mosque demolitions for development communally: BJP's Basit Ali

Don't view mosque demolitions for development communally: BJP's Basit Ali

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Kunwar Basit Ali, national president of BJP Minority Morcha, stated that the demolition of religious structures for development should not be viewed communally, citing examples from Uttar Pradesh and Muslim nations. He accused the Congress of misleading Muslims and instigating unrest. Ali also expressed confidence in the BJP forming the next government in Jammu and Kashmir and addressed concerns regarding the delay in statehood restoration, asserting that the central government would make the best decisions for Kashmir.

Jantar Mantar: From voice of protest to a silenced space

Jantar Mantar: From voice of protest to a silenced space

Rediff.com12 Oct 2026

Jantar Mantar, a historic protest site in New Delhi, is facing de-notification by Delhi Police, raising concerns about its future as a space for public dissent. The site has been central to numerous significant movements, from Anna Hazare's anti-corruption fast and the Nirbhaya protests to recent agitations over NEET paper leaks and wrestlers' grievances. Its proximity to power centres made it a crucial platform for citizens to voice concerns and demand accountability, a role now threatened by its potential loss of status.

Employers can now claim ITC on group health, life insurance for staff

Employers can now claim ITC on group health, life insurance for staff

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council has announced that Input Tax Credit (ITC) will now be available on health and life insurance policies provided by employers to their employees, a move expected to significantly reduce costs for businesses, especially MSMEs.

Nana Patekar's helping hand made this village 'tanker-free'

Nana Patekar's helping hand made this village 'tanker-free'

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

Following the death of veteran actor Nana Patekar, a Maharashtra village, Dhondalgaon, recalls how his NAAM Foundation funded a water conservation project ten years ago, transforming it from a drought-prone area to a 'tanker-free' and economically thriving community. The project, which involved desilting barrages, boosted agriculture and dairy farming, and eliminated farmer suicides.

Is Bethlehem Kudumba Unit Girish AD's Best Film?

Is Bethlehem Kudumba Unit Girish AD's Best Film?

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

As Bethlehem Kudumba Unit reaches JioHotstar and Premalu remake reaches theatres, we rank Girish A D's films from good to awesome.

Microsoft Unveils Fourth Cloud Region In India, Bolstering Telangana's Tech Ambitions

Microsoft Unveils Fourth Cloud Region In India, Bolstering Telangana's Tech Ambitions

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Microsoft has inaugurated its India South Central data centre region in Telangana, marking its fourth cloud region in the country and significantly expanding its cloud and AI infrastructure. This strategic investment supports Telangana's ambitious goal of achieving 5 GW of data centre capacity by 2029 and attracting USD 30 billion in digital infrastructure investments, further solidifying Hyderabad's role as a global technology hub.

Microsoft Unveils Fourth Cloud Region In India, Bolstering Telangana's Tech Ambitions

Microsoft Unveils Fourth Cloud Region In India, Bolstering Telangana's Tech Ambitions

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Microsoft has inaugurated its India South Central data centre region in Telangana, marking its fourth cloud region in the country and significantly expanding its cloud and AI infrastructure. This strategic investment supports Telangana's ambitious goal of achieving 5 GW of data centre capacity by 2029 and attracting USD 30 billion in digital infrastructure investments, further solidifying Hyderabad's role as a global technology hub.

Microsoft Expands Cloud And AI Footprint With New Telangana Datacenter

Microsoft Expands Cloud And AI Footprint With New Telangana Datacenter

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Microsoft has inaugurated its India South Central datacenter region in Telangana, marking its fourth cloud region in the country. This expansion aims to bolster India's cloud and AI infrastructure, with Telangana targeting 5 GW of datacenter capacity by 2029 and attracting significant investment in the digital ecosystem.

Sadhna Group Chairman Held In Major Money Laundering Probe

Sadhna Group Chairman Held In Major Money Laundering Probe

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

The Enforcement Directorate has arrested Rakesh Kumar Gupta, Chairman of Sadhna Group, in a money laundering case linked to alleged irregularities in IBC processes. He is accused of engineering insolvency to settle significant Income Tax dues for a fraction of the amount, receiving cash via crypto/hawala, and share manipulation. The alleged proceeds of crime total Rs 168 crore, and Gupta has been remanded to five days of ED custody.

RBI's MPC begins deliberations, 25 bps rate hike anticipated

RBI's MPC begins deliberations, 25 bps rate hike anticipated

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has commenced its three-day meeting, with a majority of economists and bankers anticipating a 25 basis point rate hike to counter escalating inflation risks, particularly from West Asia conflicts.

RBI raises India's FY27 GDP growth forecast to 7.1% amid global headwinds

RBI raises India's FY27 GDP growth forecast to 7.1% amid global headwinds

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has increased its GDP growth forecast for the current fiscal year (FY27) by 40 basis points to 7.1 per cent, acknowledging the resilience of domestic economic activity despite global headwinds and geopolitical tensions.

Court Remands Five Pakistani Nationals In Massive Drug Smuggling Case

Court Remands Five Pakistani Nationals In Massive Drug Smuggling Case

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Five Pakistani nationals have been remanded to police custody by an Ahmedabad court in connection with a Rs 3,000 crore drug haul involving 526 kg of methamphetamine and heroin seized from an Iranian boat in the Arabian Sea. The operation was a joint effort by the Gujarat ATS and Indian Coast Guard.

JNU dismisses Cong MP prof over sexual abuse allegations

JNU dismisses Cong MP prof over sexual abuse allegations

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has dismissed Professor Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, also a Congress MP, following sexual harassment complaints from at least 11 female students. Akoijam has termed his dismissal a 'witch hunt' and questioned the due process.

GST Council scraps arrest power, approves faster refunds, lowers penalties

GST Council scraps arrest power, approves faster refunds, lowers penalties

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

The GST Council has approved significant reforms including removing the arrest power of tax officials, raising the prosecution threshold fivefold to Rs 5 crore, and introducing faster, largely automated refunds for taxpayers. These changes, aimed at fostering trust and easing business, will be implemented from April 1, 2027.

Nana Patekar's 8 Most Iconic Film Dialogues

Nana Patekar's 8 Most Iconic Film Dialogues

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Is your favourite Nana Patekar dialogue on this list?

New bilateral investment treaty framework to get Cabinet nod soon: FM Sitharaman

New bilateral investment treaty framework to get Cabinet nod soon: FM Sitharaman

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that India is set to introduce a new, more investor-friendly bilateral investment treaty (BIT) framework, which is expected to receive Cabinet approval shortly, aiming to provide sharper protection for investors from both sides.

Sensex drops 429 points as RBI hikes rates, crude prices surge

Sensex drops 429 points as RBI hikes rates, crude prices surge

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Indian stock markets closed lower, with the Sensex falling 429 points, after the Reserve Bank of India raised its benchmark interest rate for the first time in nearly four years, coupled with rising crude oil prices and persistent foreign fund outflows.

Assam STF Arrests Second Accused In Spy Case

Assam STF Arrests Second Accused In Spy Case

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Police recovered a mobile phone, SIM cards and documents described as incriminating from his possession.

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.com11 Oct 2026

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.

CJP stir: 200 detained as protest enters Day 2, police excesses alleged

CJP stir: 200 detained as protest enters Day 2, police excesses alleged

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

Several protesters, including CPI(M) MP John Brittas, were detained in Delhi as the Cockroach Janata Party's (CJP) protest demanding Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar's resignation entered its second day on Sunday. Protesters alleged manhandling by security personnel, while police maintained extensive security arrangements, detaining thousands over the weekend.

From protest art to lathi-charge tips, July protesters gear up for CJP stir

From protest art to lathi-charge tips, July protesters gear up for CJP stir

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Protesters associated with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) in Delhi, many of whom participated in a July demonstration, adapted their strategies for a recent protest on Saturday. They used digital artwork, prepared for potential police action like lathi charges, and advised newcomers on safety measures such as carrying multiple masks and goggles. The protest, called to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged voter-list manipulation, faced heavy security deployment, barricades, and mass detentions, preventing a large-scale gathering at Jantar Mantar.

Rahul Gandhi in Chennai for 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' event, to meet Vijay

Rahul Gandhi in Chennai for 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' event, to meet Vijay

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi arrived in Chennai on Saturday for the sixth edition of 'Chhatron Ki Goonj,' a youth outreach programme. He is scheduled to meet Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, marking their first interaction since the formation of the SSJV alliance and TVK joining the INDIA bloc. The visit includes an unscripted interaction with students at Island Grounds, focusing on critical issues, amidst tight security arrangements.

China's Communist Party Expels 2 Generals

China's Communist Party Expels 2 Generals

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

China's communist party has expelled two senior military officials, including General Zhang Youxia, the highest-ranking People's Liberation Army officer, for serious discipline and law violations.

Asian Games: 'We wanted to hear the national anthem'

Asian Games: 'We wanted to hear the national anthem'

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

India's women's 4x400m relay team, featuring Kiran Pahal, Prachi Choudhary, MR Poovamma, and Vithya Ramraj, secured a historic gold medal at the Asian Games 2026. The athletes received a grand welcome upon their return to Delhi, expressing immense pride and dedicating their victory to the nation and their supporters. Prachi and Vithya also earned individual bronze medals, and the team now aims for gold at the World Championships.

RBI's Net Short Dollar Position Soars to Record $200 Billion in August

RBI's Net Short Dollar Position Soars to Record $200 Billion in August

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

The Reserve Bank of India's outstanding net short dollar position in the forward book surged to a record $200.06 billion at August-end, up from $136.77 billion at July-end, primarily driven by FCNR(B) flows.

Drivers Of Gem Granite Founder Held In Minor Sexual Harassment Probe

Drivers Of Gem Granite Founder Held In Minor Sexual Harassment Probe

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Three drivers of Gem Granite founder R Veeramani have been arrested in Chennai for their alleged involvement in the sexual harassment of minors. The arrests are part of an ongoing investigation into five cases against Veeramani, who was previously arrested along with accomplices after a pendrive allegedly containing video evidence triggered the probe.

GST Bachat Utsav Gets Half Of Rs 54 Crore Ad Spend

GST Bachat Utsav Gets Half Of Rs 54 Crore Ad Spend

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Across all 10 schemes from FY24 to FY26, print media captured 58.8 per cent of the total ad spending, followed by electronic media at 19.5 per cent, digital media at 14.6 per cent, and outdoor media at 7.2 per cent.

700 detained as Delhi protests target CEC Gyanesh Kumar on Gandhi Jayanti

700 detained as Delhi protests target CEC Gyanesh Kumar on Gandhi Jayanti

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

The Delhi police detained more than 500 protesters, including Aam Aadmi Party leaders Saurabh Bharadwaj, Sanjeev Jha, Atishi and Sanjay Singh, as well as activists of some student outfits, during a protest against the CEC at Jantar Mantar on Friday.

High Court Slams CBI For 'Casual' Probe Into Balabhaskar Case

High Court Slams CBI For 'Casual' Probe Into Balabhaskar Case

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

The Kerala High Court has ordered a further probe by the CBI into the death of renowned violinist Balabhaskar and his daughter in a 2019 car accident. The court criticised the CBI for its "casual and lackadaisical manner" in handling the previous investigation, which concluded it was an accident. The court directed the CBI to appoint an officer not below the rank of Additional Superintendent of Police for the new investigation.

National Green Tribunal allows women's cricket at Raipur with Rs 20 lakh deposit

National Green Tribunal allows women's cricket at Raipur with Rs 20 lakh deposit

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has permitted the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur to host three women's international cricket matches in October. This approval comes with the condition that the stadium deposits Rs 20 lakh for groundwater recharge, addressing its previous failure to use sewage treatment plant (STP)-treated water instead of groundwater for ground maintenance.