News for 'Common Cause'

Can Damp Clothes Cause Fungal Infections?

Can Damp Clothes Cause Fungal Infections?

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The damp, humid monsoon weather can increase the risk of infections, warns Dr Ritika Shanmugam, founder, chief dermatologist and director of Skin Hair Aesthetics.

'China Should Have Alerted Nepal'

'China Should Have Alerted Nepal'

Rediff.com2 days ago

'The trigger for the flood was definitely natural, but the damage that it caused was human-made.'

Could Nepal's Disaster Have Been Foreseen?

Could Nepal's Disaster Have Been Foreseen?

Rediff.com4 days ago

'This is no longer a single-hazard problem; it is a cascading, multi-hazard problem. A landslide never occurs in isolation. This entire chain is the cascading effect of what looks, at first, like a single disaster.'

Beware! Are You Using Your Phone In The Dark?

Beware! Are You Using Your Phone In The Dark?

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Ophthalmologist Dr Ravindra Mohan explains the potential risks of prolonged screen exposure and how excessive screen use in the dark can affect your eyes.

Nepal floods revive Uttarakhand's Rishiganga, Dharali horrors

Nepal floods revive Uttarakhand's Rishiganga, Dharali horrors

Rediff.com4 days ago

The devastating floods in Nepal have brought back memories of two major disasters in Uttarakhand in recent years, the Rishiganga tragedy of February 2021 and the Dharali disaster of August 2025, which caused extensive loss of life and property and left thousands struggling to rebuild their lives.

CRPF forms 10-member 'core group' to tackle rising suicides

CRPF forms 10-member 'core group' to tackle rising suicides

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has formed a 10-member 'core group' to prevent 'self-harm' incidents among its personnel, following a record 59 suicides in 2025, the highest in five years. The group, headed by the CRPF Director General, will meet monthly to review incidents and suggest preventive measures.

Home Flooded? Avoid These Insurance Claim Mistakes

Home Flooded? Avoid These Insurance Claim Mistakes

Rediff.com6 days ago

Flood insurance claims can be rejected or reduced if homeowners do not understand what their policy actually covers.

Nepal floods: 24 years of memories destroyed in 2 minutes

Nepal floods: 24 years of memories destroyed in 2 minutes

Rediff.com2 days ago

Residents of Galchhi, Nepal, are grappling with the aftermath of devastating flash floods caused by an ice-rock avalanche, which submerged homes and infrastructure within minutes, leaving many to rebuild their lives.

Chhattisgarh: Father rapes 16 year old daughter, forces abortion, sells newborn

Chhattisgarh: Father rapes 16 year old daughter, forces abortion, sells newborn

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

A minor girl in Raipur was allegedly repeatedly raped and impregnated by her father, who then arranged her delivery using forged documents and sold the newborn. Eight people, including the father, aunt, and nurses, have been arrested in connection with the horrific crime, which also involved a forced abortion.

Why BJP Wants To Go It Alone In Punjab

Why BJP Wants To Go It Alone In Punjab

Rediff.com2 days ago

There is a strong opinion within the BJP in Punjab that the party must now stand on its own two feet and dump the badly compromised SAD baggage.

'Ethanol Blending Has Not Led to Sugar's Price Rise'

'Ethanol Blending Has Not Led to Sugar's Price Rise'

Rediff.com3 days ago

'The ethanol blended with petrol programme should not be halted or reconsidered.' 'India is not experiencing a structural sugar shortage, and the ethanol blending roadmap does not compete with food security or drive domestic price increases.'

Surge in H1N1 cases: IMA warns against...

Surge in H1N1 cases: IMA warns against...

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has issued a public health advisory on the seasonal surge in Influenza A (H1N1), or swine flu, urging people not to self-medicate with antibiotics and antivirals and advising immediate medical attention for severe symptoms.

H1N1, Flu Cases: 'No Need To Panic'

H1N1, Flu Cases: 'No Need To Panic'

Rediff.com5 days ago

Several Indian cities report a surge in influenza cases, prompting state governments to issue advisories asking people to mask up in public spaces and follow basic respiratory hygiene.

12 bootleggers detained, 21 others booked after Gujarat hooch tragedy

12 bootleggers detained, 21 others booked after Gujarat hooch tragedy

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Seven people have died and 30 others are hospitalised in Gujarat's Bhavnagar district after consuming spurious liquor. Police have detained 12 bootleggers and registered an FIR against 21 individuals. The victims reportedly consumed illicit liquor from duplicate bottles of an IMFL brand, with preliminary investigations suggesting the supply originated from Madhya Pradesh.

Hiroshima Day: 6 Facts You Need To Know

Hiroshima Day: 6 Facts You Need To Know

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Hiroshima Day is observed on August 6. On that day, the United States B-29 bomber Enola Gay dropped the atomic bomb over the city of Hiroshima on May 6, 1945 changing the course of history.

Spurious liquor kills 4 in Gujarat; 18 hospitalised

Spurious liquor kills 4 in Gujarat; 18 hospitalised

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Two individuals have died and 19 others have been hospitalised in Gujarat's Bhavnagar district after consuming spurious liquor. Authorities have detained four bootleggers and are investigating the source of the duplicate Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) bottles, which are believed to have originated from Madhya Pradesh. Gujarat is a dry state where alcohol is banned.

Jantar Mantar protest brings together Boomers and Gen Z

Jantar Mantar protest brings together Boomers and Gen Z

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The protest at Jantar Mantar against alleged paper leaks and irregularities in public examinations, initially led by students, has now entered its seventh week and is increasingly drawing support from senior citizens, who view it as a fight for the nation's future and education reforms.

Twisha Sharma died by suicide, no sign of assault: AIIMS

Twisha Sharma died by suicide, no sign of assault: AIIMS

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The AIIMS medical board has definitively concluded that former actor-model Twisha Sharma died by suicidal hanging.

Can Cutting Down Sugary Tea, Coffee Help Lose Weight?

Can Cutting Down Sugary Tea, Coffee Help Lose Weight?

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

A diabetic can safely enjoy occasional sweets if their overall blood sugar control is good and the portion is small, advises rediffGURU Komal Jethmalani, a nutritionist with nearly three decades of experience.

Gene Activity Linked To Spinal Disc Breakdown And Back Pain

Gene Activity Linked To Spinal Disc Breakdown And Back Pain

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

New research using zebrafish suggests that changes in gene activity can lead to the hardening of spinal discs, a major cause of neck and back pain. The study identified potential drug targets, including existing osteoporosis medication and pathways related to fat and phosphate metabolism, offering new avenues for treating intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) beyond surgery.

Doctors Warn Of Pollution's Link To Foetal Development Issues

Doctors Warn Of Pollution's Link To Foetal Development Issues

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Doctors and researchers are increasingly concerned about the potential link between exposure to polluted air during pregnancy and its influence on foetal development, particularly the male reproductive system. While hypospadias, a common congenital abnormality, is multifactorial, endocrine-disrupting chemicals in air pollution are being investigated for their role. Experts call for more research and advise expectant mothers on preventive measures.

Are These 7 Dangerous Food Items In Your Kitchen?

Are These 7 Dangerous Food Items In Your Kitchen?

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Many of us consume genetically modified (GMO) foods without even realising it. Which leads to an important question -- how can we protect ourselves from food adulteration and misleading claims? asks Nikita Garg, nutritionist and founder of Entech Wellness.

Operation Safed Sagar Brings IAF's Kargil Story Alive For Gen Z

Operation Safed Sagar Brings IAF's Kargil Story Alive For Gen Z

Rediff.com4 days ago

If an OTT series can make a young person curious about the armed forces, make a family understand the sacrifices made by those in uniform, or simply make someone walk up to a veteran and say, "Thank you for your service," then it has achieved something far more important than merely getting its history right, notes Air Commodore Nitin Sathe (retd).

Left AAP because...: Harbhajan Singh opens up on joining BJP

Left AAP because...: Harbhajan Singh opens up on joining BJP

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Cricketer-turned-politician Harbhajan Singh revealed in a podcast interview that his decision to switch from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) stemmed from the AAP government's alleged neglect of his concerns regarding drug abuse and sports promotion in Punjab.

Market Crash: 7 Costly Mistakes to Avoid

Market Crash: 7 Costly Mistakes to Avoid

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Understanding the most common mistakes during market downturns can help you protect your investments and stay focused on your long-term financial goals, says Ramalingam Kalirajan

'Crisis In The Economy Started Last Year'

'Crisis In The Economy Started Last Year'

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

'It is not because of the war in West Asia, which began on February 28.' 'Petroleum product prices are already going through the roof. They are bound to have a serious inflationary impact.' 'A country's leadership is tested in trying times. It is here that the current leadership is failing.'

ITR Filed? Here's When You Can Expect Your Income Tax Refund

ITR Filed? Here's When You Can Expect Your Income Tax Refund

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

The income tax department has significantly reduced refund processing times over the past few years. But while some taxpayers receive refunds within days, others may wait several weeks or even longer. Here's why.

5 Early Signs Of Hepatitis: Don't Ignore

5 Early Signs Of Hepatitis: Don't Ignore

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Hepatitis is a condition that causes the liver to become inflamed. Make sure you treat it early.

Bangladesh PM seeks Hasina's extradition in meeting with Indian envoy

Bangladesh PM seeks Hasina's extradition in meeting with Indian envoy

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Bangladesh has once again sought the extradition of former premier Sheikh Hasina from India during High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi's first meeting with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman in Dhaka, amidst fresh strains in ties between the two countries following Hasina's controversial virtual media interaction in New Delhi.

'Delimitation Bill Is A Done Deal'

'Delimitation Bill Is A Done Deal'

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

'The BJP has all the instruments with them and they do have a sense of purpose, so I don't think there will be a challenge.'

Far-Right UK Party Leader's Anti-Immigration Stance Causes Uproar

Far-Right UK Party Leader's Anti-Immigration Stance Causes Uproar

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Rupert Lowe, leader of the far-right Restore Britain party in the UK, has sparked controversy with anti-immigration posts targeting Indian and Pakistani immigrants, leading to a social media backlash and raising concerns ahead of a crucial by-election.

4 bills introduced in Lok Sabha amid opposition protests

4 bills introduced in Lok Sabha amid opposition protests

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Lok Sabha introduced four significant bills on Monday, including amendments to mines and minerals regulations, the establishment of a National Tribunals Commission, and the renaming of Kerala to Keralam, all while facing continuous protests from opposition members demanding a discussion on the July 20 police crackdown on students.

World IVF Day: 10 Habits That Lower Sperm Count

World IVF Day: 10 Habits That Lower Sperm Count

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

From what goes on your plate to how long someone sits with a laptop on their lap, seemingly harmless habits can make a big difference, warns says Dr Aakil Khan, consultant and urologist at KIMS Hospitals, Thane.

Wildfire Smoke Threat to NYC World Cup Final Recedes with Weekend Rain

Wildfire Smoke Threat to NYC World Cup Final Recedes with Weekend Rain

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Concerns over Canadian wildfire smoke impacting air quality and player health for the World Cup final in New York are easing, with forecasts predicting significant rain and a cold front to clear the haze before Sunday's match, though hot and hazy conditions could still pose risks.

10 Skin Care Mistakes to Avoid

10 Skin Care Mistakes to Avoid

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Applying random products on your skin, just because they are trending, may damage or weaken your skin barrier, warns Dr Rupika Singh, dermatologist and founder of Akiya Aesthetics.

10 Inspiring Student Protests In Bollywood

10 Inspiring Student Protests In Bollywood

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Bollywood has captured the essence of India's youth activism and student protests, from fighting corruption in Yuvaa to demanding accountability in Rang De Basanti.

When protestors found 'Bapu' walking in their midst

When protestors found 'Bapu' walking in their midst

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

'We looked up and there was a man dressed as Mahatma Gandhi walking with the protesters under Minto Bridge. Everyone burst into laughter. Almost instinctively, we shouted, 'Bapu ki jai ho!' It's one of those moments I'll never forget.'

Schoolchildren among 5 dead as train hits pool car in Murshidabad

Schoolchildren among 5 dead as train hits pool car in Murshidabad

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Five people, including two school students, have died after a local train struck a pool car at an open level crossing in West Bengal's Murshidabad district. The gateman has been arrested, and a railway permanent way inspector suspended for alleged dereliction of duty.

How Overuse Of 'Watch' Antibiotics Drives Global Resistance

How Overuse Of 'Watch' Antibiotics Drives Global Resistance

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

A new study published in The Lancet Public Health journal reveals that almost all countries are overusing 'watch' class antibiotics, which are stronger drugs meant for specific conditions and contribute significantly to antibiotic resistance. The research developed a framework to assess appropriate antibiotic use and found that while many countries overuse antibiotics, particularly the 'watch' category, some also underuse 'reserve' antibiotics, potentially leaving patients with drug-resistant infections untreated. The study highlights a global inequality where lower-income countries need more specialised antibiotics but higher-income countries use them more.

How China, US Crack Down on Paper Leaks

How China, US Crack Down on Paper Leaks

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Beyond imprisonment, candidates caught cheating face cancellation of examination scores, blacklisting under China's social credit system and multi-year bans from appearing in state examinations.