News for 'Department of Legal Affairs'

Govt body plans legal framework for AI companies

Govt body plans legal framework for AI companies

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

India's newly formed Artificial Intelligence Governance and Economic Group (AIGEG) is set to advocate for a unified legal framework for AI companies, including developers of large language models and chatbot systems, alongside broader operational rules.

US Files Charges Against Indian Man In 2017 Murder Case

US Files Charges Against Indian Man In 2017 Murder Case

Rediff.com4 days ago

The US has announced federal charges against Nazeer Hameed, an Indian national, for his alleged involvement in the 2017 murder of Sasikala Narra and her six-year-old son Anish Narra in Maple Shade, New Jersey. Hameed fled to India after the murders and now faces charges for unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.

Kerala University Must Allow Iranian Student To Use Swimming Pool: Rights Body

Kerala University Must Allow Iranian Student To Use Swimming Pool: Rights Body

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The State Human Rights Commission has ruled that an Iranian student of Kerala University has the legal right to use the swimming pool at the Kariavattom campus and directed the Sports and Youth Affairs Department to ensure necessary facilities.

Why West Bengal Is Ending Religious Leader Payments

Why West Bengal Is Ending Religious Leader Payments

Rediff.com5 days ago

The West Bengal cabinet has decided to discontinue assistance-oriented schemes based on religious categorisation for Imams, muezzins and purohits from June. The cabinet also approved the 'Annapurna' scheme of Rs 3,000 monthly support to women from June 1, and granted in-principle consent for their free travel in state-run buses.

Union Cabinet approves renaming Kerala to Keralam

Union Cabinet approves renaming Kerala to Keralam

Rediff.com25 Feb 2026

The Union Cabinet has reportedly approved the Kerala government's proposal to officially change the state's name to Keralam, following a resolution passed by the Kerala Assembly.

India Forms AI Governance Body to Steer National Strategy

India Forms AI Governance Body to Steer National Strategy

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

India has established a high-level inter-ministerial body, the AI Governance and Economic Group (AIGEG), to steer the country's national AI governance strategy. The AIGEG will coordinate policy across ministries and oversee cross-sectoral governance issues, supported by a Technology and Policy Expert Committee (TPEC).

Puri Jagannath Temple Plans New Dress Code: No jeans, shirt

Puri Jagannath Temple Plans New Dress Code: No jeans, shirt

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

According to the recommendations, reviewed by Business Standard, any dress code shall always be akin to Hindu culture.

Morena Administration Halts Sand Mining Following Supreme Court Intervention

Morena Administration Halts Sand Mining Following Supreme Court Intervention

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

The Morena administration in Madhya Pradesh has banned sand mining and transportation from the Chambal River, along with restricting fuel sales to unregistered vehicles, following criticism from the Supreme Court regarding illegal mining activities.

Over 20 Indian workers died abroad daily, most in Gulf: Govt

Over 20 Indian workers died abroad daily, most in Gulf: Govt

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Data reveals a disturbing trend of Indian worker deaths abroad, particularly in Gulf nations, alongside numerous complaints of exploitation and labour rights violations.

NCLAT Rejects MMTC's Challenge to NSEL Settlement Scheme

NCLAT Rejects MMTC's Challenge to NSEL Settlement Scheme

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) has dismissed an appeal by MMTC, challenging the settlement scheme between National Spot Exchange Ltd (NSEL) and its traders, affirming the earlier approval by the NCLT and the Supreme Court.

The Gulf War: What's Pakistan Up To?

The Gulf War: What's Pakistan Up To?

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey met in Islamabad in what analysts say is the formal opening of a new diplomatic formation that could reshape the post-war regional order. Their immediate goal is a ceasefire; their larger ambition is to ensure that neither Iran nor Israel emerges from this war in a dominant position. Pakistan's foreign minister then flew directly to Beijing and mooted a Chinese role as guarantor of any eventual agreement. Prem Panicker continues his must read daily blog on the Gulf War.

Man loses Rs 16.50L in digital arrest for 'Delhi blast probe'

Man loses Rs 16.50L in digital arrest for 'Delhi blast probe'

Rediff.com22 Jan 2026

The caller told the victim that a bank account linked to his mobile number had allegedly received Rs 7 crore through money laundering activities and warned that he would be arrested in the case.

India-US Deal Shields Farmers

India-US Deal Shields Farmers

Rediff.com4 Feb 2026

New Delhi will substantially reduce tariffs on industrial and agricultural goods while continuing to protect sensitive sectors. Tariffs on some agricultural products that are not traditionally considered sensitive will be brought down to zero, while in the case of relatively sensitive items, duties will be reduced in a graded manner and quotas will be imposed.

Tariffs cut, $30tn market: India, US unveil interim trade pact

Tariffs cut, $30tn market: India, US unveil interim trade pact

Rediff.com8 Feb 2026

The agreement addresses non-tariff barriers and promotes increased trade in technology products and cooperation between the two countries.

Nirmala Sitharaman: 'Prime Minister Modi Does Not Tolerate Gaming Of The System'

Nirmala Sitharaman: 'Prime Minister Modi Does Not Tolerate Gaming Of The System'

Rediff.com9 Feb 2026

'Grassroots-level corruption, which disrupts the last-mile work, cannot be ignored in your enthusiasm and drive to get going to complete the project.' 'Like it was in MGNREGA, in some states, it is the case with the Jal Jeevan mission.' 'The last minute levels of corruption can ruin the intent of the project itself.' 'When you see that people can game a particular well-intended and well-crafted project, you need to correct that.'

Why 2026 Is Crucial Year For India's Military

Why 2026 Is Crucial Year For India's Military

Rediff.com14 Jan 2026

'The tools of warfare are changing. The MoD must deepen its engagement with technology thinkers that can present compelling visions of where warfare may be heading.'

Gujarat cabinet rejig: A look at new ministerial portfolios

Gujarat cabinet rejig: A look at new ministerial portfolios

Rediff.com18 Oct 2025

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel allocated portfolios following a major cabinet reshuffle, with Harsh Sanghavi becoming Deputy CM and receiving Home and Industries. New ministers, including Rivaba Jadeja, were also assigned responsibilities.

FBI offers $50,000 reward for Indian who killed woman, son

FBI offers $50,000 reward for Indian who killed woman, son

Rediff.com3 Dec 2025

The FBI is offering a reward for information about an Indian national wanted in connection with the 2017 murder of an Indian woman and her son in New Jersey. US authorities are urging India to extradite the suspect, Nazeer Hameed.

US expands online vetting for all H-1B, H-4 applicants

US expands online vetting for all H-1B, H-4 applicants

Rediff.com22 Dec 2025

The United States Embassy in India on Monday said starting December 15, the United States has 'expanded' online presence reviews to all H-1B and H-4 applicants as part of standard visa screening, and this vetting is being conducted globally for 'all applicants of all nationalities' for these two visa categories.

SC to hear on Monday plea against Sonam Wangchuk's NSA detention

SC to hear on Monday plea against Sonam Wangchuk's NSA detention

Rediff.com23 Nov 2025

The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear a plea challenging the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA). The plea, filed by Wangchuk's wife, argues the detention is illegal and violates his fundamental rights.

Trump's H1B Diktat Fuels Anxiety For Indians

Trump's H1B Diktat Fuels Anxiety For Indians

Rediff.com24 Sep 2025

Social media feeds and immigration forums lit up with questions from workers and families who feared they might be stranded abroad, unable to return to their jobs or reunite with loved ones.

Antwerp court clears fugitive jeweller Mehul Choksi's extradition

Antwerp court clears fugitive jeweller Mehul Choksi's extradition

Rediff.com18 Oct 2025

A court in Antwerp on Friday cleared the extradition of fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi, noting that his arrest by the Belgian authorities on India's request was valid, officials in the know of the development said.

'Wangchuk's right to dissent stifled': SC to hear wife's plea on Nov 24

'Wangchuk's right to dissent stifled': SC to hear wife's plea on Nov 24

Rediff.com29 Oct 2025

The Supreme Court has sought responses from the Centre and the Ladakh administration regarding the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA). Wangchuk's wife has filed a plea challenging the detention, claiming it violates his fundamental rights. The court has given the Centre and Ladakh administration 10 days to respond and has scheduled the next hearing for November 24.

Sitharaman Orders Banks to Return Unclaimed Citizens' Money

Sitharaman Orders Banks to Return Unclaimed Citizens' Money

Rediff.com23 Sep 2025

Given that a sizeable part of this money is part of the coveted current accounts and savings accounts, it is surprising that banks are not in a hurry to revive these accounts, notes Tamal Bandyopdhyay.

'Where There Is So Much Infrastructure Creation, There Will Be Debt'

'Where There Is So Much Infrastructure Creation, There Will Be Debt'

Rediff.com26 Aug 2025

'We have created massive infrastructure in the past six years.'

'Curbs on sporting engagements standard safeguard'

'Curbs on sporting engagements standard safeguard'

Rediff.com13 Aug 2025

Implementation of sports bill in 6 months, regulation of participation standard safeguard: Mandaviya

'China Is Competing In A Space Where India Was Dominant'

'China Is Competing In A Space Where India Was Dominant'

Rediff.com19 Aug 2025

'These efforts by Beijing can be weaponised one day with economic, security and political implications for India.'

Maha govt sets up 7 member panel for law on love jihad

Maha govt sets up 7 member panel for law on love jihad

Rediff.com15 Feb 2025

The committee includes secretaries of the women and child welfare, minority affairs, law and judiciary, social justice and special assistance departments, and deputy secretaries of the home department.

'Have Modi And Trump Fallen Out?'

'Have Modi And Trump Fallen Out?'

Rediff.com20 Aug 2025

'We should watch -- in the near term -- for signs that the two have totally fallen out at a personal, political level.' 'Trump and Modi know how to be dealmakers, but they also know how to hold a grudge.'

What You Must Know About The CEC

What You Must Know About The CEC

Rediff.com4 Aug 2025

As an IAS officer in Kerala, Gyanesh Kumar -- who the Congress described as Amit Shah's 'right hand man' -- had a good working equation with the state's Congress and Left leaders.

Court issues fresh summons to BBC, Wikimedia, US library over documentary row

Court issues fresh summons to BBC, Wikimedia, US library over documentary row

Rediff.com8 Jul 2023

They said according to the Hague Convention, the service upon a foreign entity had to be served through the prescribed rules.

US Visa Cancellations: Indians Hit Hardest

US Visa Cancellations: Indians Hit Hardest

Rediff.com19 Apr 2025

'If you follow the law, America offers opportunities. But those who violate the law will face the consequences.'

SC constitutes task force to address student suicides

SC constitutes task force to address student suicides

Rediff.com24 Mar 2025

The Supreme Court of India has formed a National Task Force (NTF) to address the growing concern of student suicides in higher educational institutions. The court took note of the recurring cases and directed Delhi Police to register FIRs on the complaints of families of two students who died by suicide at IIT Delhi in 2023. The NTF, chaired by former apex court judge Justice S Ravindra Bhat, will prepare a comprehensive report, including the identification of causes leading to suicides, analysis of existing regulations, and recommendations for strengthening protections. The NTF will also have the authority to conduct surprise inspections of higher educational institutions and make further recommendations to ensure a holistic approach to addressing mental health concerns and eliminating suicides.

No data on undocumented Indians residing in US: Centre

No data on undocumented Indians residing in US: Centre

Rediff.com13 Feb 2025

The Indian government does not track the number of undocumented Indian immigrants residing in the US. Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh, in a written response to a query in the Rajya Sabha, said these immigrants have "legally exited India" but have either overstayed their visa validity, or have entered the US illegally or without valid documents. The response comes at a time when Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a two-day visit to the US, during which he will hold a bilateral meeting with President Trump. The two leaders are likely to discuss India-US cooperation in sectors like trade, investment, energy, defense, technology and immigration.

'India deserved it', said Rana; wanted award for 26/11 attackers

'India deserved it', said Rana; wanted award for 26/11 attackers

Rediff.com11 Apr 2025

Tahawwur Rana, a Canadian citizen and native of Pakistan, was extradited to India to face charges related to his alleged role in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. The US Department of Justice said Rana allegedly commended the LeT terrorists who carried out the attacks and suggested they should be awarded Pakistan's highest gallantry award. Rana is accused of facilitating a fraudulent cover for his childhood friend, David Headley, to conduct surveillance in Mumbai for the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist group. He is also accused of helping Headley submit false visa applications to Indian authorities. This extradition follows a lengthy legal process that began in 2020 with India's request for Rana's surrender. Rana, who was previously convicted in the US for providing material support to LeT, will now face trial in India on 10 criminal charges related to the Mumbai attacks.

Now, Trump says $21 million went to 'my friend Modi' for voter turnout

Now, Trump says $21 million went to 'my friend Modi' for voter turnout

Rediff.com22 Feb 2025

United States President Donald Trump for the fourth time in recent days claimed that the Biden administration allocated $21 million funding to India for 'voter turnout', evoking a sharp response from the Congress which urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to 'talk to his friend' and strongly refute the allegation.

'Strongly told US...': India on treatment of deportees

'Strongly told US...': India on treatment of deportees

Rediff.com22 Mar 2025

India has expressed concern to the US authorities over the treatment of deportees on a flight that landed on February 5, particularly with respect to the use of shackles, especially on women. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has also registered its concerns regarding the need to accommodate the religious sensitivities and food preferences of the deportees. The US side has confirmed that no women or children were restrained on the deportation flights that landed in India on 15th and 16th February, 2025.

Parliamentary panel calls meeting on Uniform Civil Code on July 3

Parliamentary panel calls meeting on Uniform Civil Code on July 3

Rediff.com30 Jun 2023

Till Tuesday evening, the law panel had received nearly 8.5 lakh responses on its public notice.

Rana not in custody, says US Bureau of Prisons

Rana not in custody, says US Bureau of Prisons

Rediff.com10 Apr 2025

Tahawwur Rana, accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, has been extradited to India after the US Supreme Court denied his last-ditch effort to avoid being sent back. Rana, a close associate of David Coleman Headley, another key conspirator in the attacks, was expected to be extradited "shortly" after his legal appeals failed. This decision comes after a multi-agency team from India traveled to the US to complete all necessary paperwork and legalities with the US authorities. Rana's extradition marks a significant development in the pursuit of justice for the victims of the Mumbai attacks.

I&B holds meet to discuss Big Tech revenue sharing

I&B holds meet to discuss Big Tech revenue sharing

Rediff.com13 Jun 2024

The ministry of information and broadcasting (I&B) on Wednesday held an inter-ministerial meeting with various departments to discuss issues regarding revenue sharing between Big Tech companies and digital news publishers, according to sources. The meeting - chaired by I&B Secretary Sanjay Jaju - invited senior officials from the ministry of corporate affairs (MCA), Competition Commission of India (CCI), ministry of electronics and information technology (Meity) and departments of promotion of industry and internal trade, legal affairs and consumer affairs.