News for 'Church'

Three church leaders killed in suspected militant attack in Manipur

Three church leaders killed in suspected militant attack in Manipur

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Three people were killed and four others injured in an attack by suspected militants in Manipur's Kangpokpi district. The victims were members of the Thadou Baptist Association returning from a religious gathering. The Chief Minister has condemned the violence and assured support for the injured.

Chennithala Accuses BJP of Trying to Intimidate Kerala Church Leaders

Chennithala Accuses BJP of Trying to Intimidate Kerala Church Leaders

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala has accused the BJP of attempting to intimidate bishops and church leaders in Kerala to gain their support, asserting that such tactics will not succeed in the state.

Nagaland postpones yoga day events to Monday after widespread opposition

Nagaland postpones yoga day events to Monday after widespread opposition

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

The Nagaland government has postponed its official International Day of Yoga programme from Sunday to Monday following significant opposition from student bodies, tribal organisations, churches, and political groups. These groups cited religious sentiments in the Christian-majority state against holding the event on a Sunday.

Gakpo's Tears: A World Cup Story Beyond Football

Gakpo's Tears: A World Cup Story Beyond Football

Rediff.com2 hours ago

Dutch footballer Cody Gakpo scored a goal at the World Cup against Morocco, immediately breaking down in tears due to the recent loss of his unborn baby boy. His emotional reaction, understood by teammates and visible to his parents in the stands, highlighted the profound personal grief he carried while competing on the global stage, overshadowing the team's eventual defeat.

Sri Lanka Easter Attack Victims Demand Unhindered Probe

Sri Lanka Easter Attack Victims Demand Unhindered Probe

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Kin of 2019 Easter Sunday attack victims in Sri Lanka protested against alleged opposition attempts to obstruct ongoing investigations. The protests follow the arrest of former intelligence chief Suresh Sallay and accusations of political conspiracy related to the attacks. The current government has reopened the probe, citing past political interference.

The Last Trip With My Father

The Last Trip With My Father

Rediff.com4 days ago

At Kolga Aabla, the closest beach to her grandmother's home, at the edge of a birch forest, we immersed her balance ashes. It was a sombre, precious day for both of us. But a day that also brought long-needed closure. My mother's spirit, chained for so many years in a Parkinson's-locked body, was free. But my father came back from the beach a visibly older man.

Kerala church, health body oppose bar hours extension

Kerala church, health body oppose bar hours extension

Rediff.com18 Feb 2026

The Malankara Orthodox Church opposes the Kerala government's decision to extend bar timings, fearing it will negatively impact the youth. The government defends the decision as a tourism-boosting measure already in place in tourist areas.

NCERT to restore 'Dancing Girl' image in school textbook after criticism

NCERT to restore 'Dancing Girl' image in school textbook after criticism

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has altered the iconic 'Dancing Girl' figurine from Mohenjo-daro in its new Class 9 arts textbook, covering its bare torso with shading. This change has drawn criticism for misrepresenting the original artefact and sparking a debate on what is considered 'age-appropriate' in educational materials.

Sri Lanka Court Imposes Travel Ban On Gotabaya Rajapaksa Over Easter Attack Probe

Sri Lanka Court Imposes Travel Ban On Gotabaya Rajapaksa Over Easter Attack Probe

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

A Sri Lankan court has imposed an overseas travel ban on former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa and two former military officers in connection with ongoing investigations into the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks. The ban was issued after the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) raised concerns that their flight could hamper the probe into the coordinated suicide bombings that killed 270 people. The current government reopened the investigation in late 2024, alleging political influence led to an earlier cover-up.

Militants Attack Manipur Village, Two Dead And Homes Torched

Militants Attack Manipur Village, Two Dead And Homes Torched

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Suspected militants attacked Kultuh Kuki village in Manipur's Kamjong district, killing two people and burning 30 houses. This incident follows the recovery of six Naga civilians' bodies, believed to be hostages. Security forces are investigating, while the Kuki Baptist Convention and a Congress leader have condemned the violence and criticised the government's response.

22 Oldest Churches Of India

22 Oldest Churches Of India

Rediff.com5 Apr 2026

Christianity came to India long before it came to Europe and the Western world, and India's spiritual landscape, that had always hosted diverse faiths, quickly adopted the religion as its own. A look at 22 historic Indian churches...

Sri Lanka Court To Probe Ex-Intelligence Chief's Torture Allegations

Sri Lanka Court To Probe Ex-Intelligence Chief's Torture Allegations

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

A Sri Lankan court has ordered a five-member expert judicial panel to investigate claims of torture made by former state intelligence chief Suresh Sallay, who is currently detained under the anti-terror act and on a hunger strike. Sallay was arrested in connection with the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks.

Ahead of World Cup 2026, Pope Leo XIV throws his support behind team USA

Ahead of World Cup 2026, Pope Leo XIV throws his support behind team USA

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Pope Leo may have traded his life in Chicago for the ornate apartments at the Vatican's apostolic palace, but he still plans to root for his old national team at the World Cup this month.

Mr Modi Goes To Church!

Mr Modi Goes To Church!

Rediff.com25 Dec 2025

On Christmas Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the Christmas morning service at the Cathedral Church of the Redemption in New Delhi along with a large congregation of Christians from Delhi and north India.

Nagaland CM Demands Justice For Six Nagas Killed In Manipur

Nagaland CM Demands Justice For Six Nagas Killed In Manipur

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has strongly condemned the "horrific and inhuman" killing of six Nagas in Manipur, demanding immediate action against those responsible. The incident occurred after Naga organisations facilitated the release of 14 hostages, but appeals for the reciprocal release of six Naga hostages allegedly held by the Kuki community ended in tragedy. Rio urged both the Indian and Manipur governments to ensure justice and called for peace and restraint among communities.

Man killed, wife hurt in fresh militant attack in Manipur's Noney

Man killed, wife hurt in fresh militant attack in Manipur's Noney

Rediff.com14 May 2026

One person was killed and his wife injured in a fresh attack in Manipur's Noney district on Wednesday evening, when suspected militants fired on their vehicle, officials said.

Sri Lankan Opposition Leaders Protest Over Detained Ex-Intelligence Chief's Treatment

Sri Lankan Opposition Leaders Protest Over Detained Ex-Intelligence Chief's Treatment

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Sri Lankan opposition leaders are protesting the detention and alleged mistreatment of former state intelligence chief Suresh Sallay, who was hospitalised after a hunger strike. Sallay was arrested in connection with the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings investigation, and his wife has raised concerns about his treatment and restricted access.

The Doctor Who Saved Thousands Of Babies

The Doctor Who Saved Thousands Of Babies

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Thousands and thousands and thousands of adults owe their lives to the commitment and medical fervour of Dr Armida Fernandez, who a grateful nation honoured with the Padma Shri this year.

Decked churches, midnight masses: India celebrates Christmas

Decked churches, midnight masses: India celebrates Christmas

Rediff.com25 Dec 2025

Christmas was celebrated with devotion and festive gaiety across India, with churches decked in lights, midnight masses, and community events spreading cheer. Leaders extended greetings, and celebrations took place in various states with prayers for peace and harmony.

Manipur Protests Disrupt Highway Over Hostage Allegations

Manipur Protests Disrupt Highway Over Hostage Allegations

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Security forces used tear gas to disperse protestors blocking National Highway 202 in Manipur's Ukhrul district. The protest was triggered by allegations that Naga groups were holding 14 community members hostage. The disruption affected the movement of essential supplies and security forces.

Attacks may soon target prayers inside, warns Kerala church head

Attacks may soon target prayers inside, warns Kerala church head

Rediff.com2 Jan 2026

Baselios Marthoma Mathews III, head of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, condemns attacks against Christians in India and urges government authorities to control religious fanatics. He highlights the constitutional right to religious freedom and criticizes the silence of governing bodies in the face of increasing attacks.

Indian-origin groom among two killed, bride critical in US helicopter crash

Indian-origin groom among two killed, bride critical in US helicopter crash

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

An Indian-origin groom and a pilot have died in a helicopter crash in Georgia shortly after the groom's wedding. The bride survived and is receiving treatment.

Olympian Jennifer Paes, Mother Of Leander Paes, Passes Away At 72

Olympian Jennifer Paes, Mother Of Leander Paes, Passes Away At 72

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Former India basketball captain and Olympian Jennifer Paes, mother of tennis legend Leander Paes, passed away on Sunday after a prolonged battle with cancer. She was 72.

Modi attends Christmas morning service at Delhi Church

Modi attends Christmas morning service at Delhi Church

Rediff.com25 Dec 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended a Christmas morning service at the Cathedral Church of the Redemption in Delhi, joining a large congregation. The service included prayers, carols, and a special prayer for the Prime Minister. The Vice President also extended Christmas greetings.

Nagaland Launches 'Jan Bhagidari Abhiyan' For Remote Areas

Nagaland Launches 'Jan Bhagidari Abhiyan' For Remote Areas

Rediff.com22 May 2026

Nagaland has launched the 'Jan Bhagidari Abhiyan -- Sabse Dur, Sabse Pehle' campaign to ensure government welfare schemes and essential services reach remote areas and underserved communities.

Nagaland Police Appeal For Peace Amid Manipur Tensions

Nagaland Police Appeal For Peace Amid Manipur Tensions

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Nagaland Police have urged citizens to maintain peace and communal harmony amid concerns over the law and order situation in Manipur and the possibility of disturbances spilling over into Nagaland.

Divya Deshmukh finds success with confession box at Norway Chess

Divya Deshmukh finds success with confession box at Norway Chess

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Divya Deshmukh has embraced the 'confession box' at Norway Chess, highlighting its potential to enhance player clarity and viewer engagement, despite its slow adoption among Indian grandmasters.

31 of 38 Naga, Kuki hostages released in Manipur

31 of 38 Naga, Kuki hostages released in Manipur

Rediff.com15 May 2026

These people were taken to unknown areas after suspected militants shot dead three church leaders and injured four others in Kangpokpi on Wednesday, while a civilian was gunned down and his wife was wounded in Noney district.

Security Forces Launch Hostage Rescue Operation In Manipur

Security Forces Launch Hostage Rescue Operation In Manipur

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Security forces in Manipur's Kangpokpi district have launched operations to rescue individuals held hostage by armed groups. The operations include area domination exercises and search operations to locate missing persons and apprehend those responsible for the hostage situation.

Nagaland Aims To Adapt Juvenile Justice Act To Local Customs

Nagaland Aims To Adapt Juvenile Justice Act To Local Customs

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Nagaland is seeking to implement the Juvenile Justice Act and Adoption Regulations in a way that respects the state's customary laws and traditional systems of care, while remaining legally sound.

Manipur violence probe panel gets six-month extension

Manipur violence probe panel gets six-month extension

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The Centre has granted a six-month extension to the Commission of Inquiry investigating the 2023 Manipur violence, pushing the deadline for its report to November 20. This marks the fifth extension for the panel, which was formed in June 2023 to probe the ethnic clashes that resulted in over 260 deaths.

Easter Attacks: Will Sri Lanka Ever Nail The Guilty?

Easter Attacks: Will Sri Lanka Ever Nail The Guilty?

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Sri Lanka's response to the Easter attacks has been slow and politically contested, unlike India's swift institutional reforms after the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, observes Colonel R Hariharan (retd).

National churches body moves SC against anti-conversion law in 12 states

National churches body moves SC against anti-conversion law in 12 states

Rediff.com2 Feb 2026

The Supreme Court has sought responses from the Centre and 12 states on a PIL challenging the validity of their anti-conversion laws. The National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) filed the PIL, seeking a stay on the operation of these laws.

Not afraid of Trump admin, will speak out loudly against war: Pope Leo XIV

Not afraid of Trump admin, will speak out loudly against war: Pope Leo XIV

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Pope Leo XIV on Monday underscored his commitment to spiritual advocacy over political friction, stating that he has no desire to engage in a confrontation with the US administration.

Sri Lanka: Ex-Intel Chief Held Over Easter Bombings

Sri Lanka: Ex-Intel Chief Held Over Easter Bombings

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

A Sri Lankan court has ordered the continued detention of the former head of the state intelligence service in connection with the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings that killed nearly 270 people.

Vijay's cabinet expansion signals new coalition era in TN politics

Vijay's cabinet expansion signals new coalition era in TN politics

Rediff.com22 May 2026

AM Shahjahan and Vanni Arasu from IUML and VCK respectively were sworn in as ministers in Tamil Nadu, increasing the number of allies in the TVK government. This marks the first time representatives from both parties have been inducted into the state cabinet, signifying a shift in Tamil Nadu's coalition dynamics.

K V Thomas Predicts LDF Victory, Cites Congress Infighting

K V Thomas Predicts LDF Victory, Cites Congress Infighting

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

K V Thomas, Kerala's Special Representative in New Delhi, forecasts a third term for the CPI(M)-led LDF government, attributing the UDF's potential failure to internal conflicts and criticising the BJP for introducing 'consumerism' into Kerala politics.

Drishyam 3 Teaser: Georgekutty Faces a New Unknown Fear

Drishyam 3 Teaser: Georgekutty Faces a New Unknown Fear

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

The highly-anticipated Drishyam 3 teaser has dropped, promising a gripping continuation of Georgekutty's relentless battle to safeguard his family, with Mohanlal returning to face new, unseen threats.

Mizoram Women's Group Condemns Trafficking Of Women

Mizoram Women's Group Condemns Trafficking Of Women

Rediff.com12 May 2026

The apex women's association in Mizoram, Mizo Hmeichhe Insuihkhawm Pawl (MHIP), has strongly condemned the alleged trafficking and exploitation of women from the state under the guise of employment outside Mizoram. The organisation is pursuing the matter to ensure the accused receive stringent punishment under the law.

Villages Attacked Near Myanmar Border, Residents Flee

Villages Attacked Near Myanmar Border, Residents Flee

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Heavily armed militants attacked villages in Manipur's Kamjong district near the India-Myanmar border, torching houses and forcing residents to flee. The attack targeted Tangkhul Naga villages, with allegations pointing to Myanmar-based militant groups.