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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.

Man City must face 'appropriate consequences' if wrongdoing established: UK PM's office

Man City must face 'appropriate consequences' if wrongdoing established: UK PM's office

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

A spokesperson for British Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated that Manchester City should face 'appropriate consequences' if financial wrongdoing is established, following earlier concerns raised by former Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham about the club's ownership.

Joshi Maintains Lead At Bengaluru Open Despite Challenging Round

Joshi Maintains Lead At Bengaluru Open Despite Challenging Round

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Khalin Joshi maintained a three-shot lead after the third round of the Bengaluru Open, despite a challenging day. Manu Gandas shot the lowest score of the day, an eight-under 64, to move into second place and reduce Joshi's advantage. The tournament is heading into its final round with a prize purse of Rs 1 crore.

Indian Golfer Pranavi Urs Leads Asian Games Women's Event After Stellar Round

Indian Golfer Pranavi Urs Leads Asian Games Women's Event After Stellar Round

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

India's Pranavi Urs has taken a three-stroke lead in the Asian Games women's golf competition after a superb four-under 66 in the third round. She is now in strong contention for an individual gold medal, with a total of 15-under 195. Her performance also propelled the Indian women's team into second place, four shots behind China.

When Sahara Shah Stunned Vivek Oberoi

When Sahara Shah Stunned Vivek Oberoi

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Sahara Shah, a cancer survivor whom actor Vivek Oberoi supported through her treatment, surprised him by announcing she has signed her first film as a lead actress.

Nations League: France rally to trounce Belgium; Italy overcome Turkey

Nations League: France rally to trounce Belgium; Italy overcome Turkey

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

France staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Belgium 4-1 in their Nations League Group A1 encounter, with substitutes playing a crucial role in the final minutes. Meanwhile, Italy secured a comfortable 3-1 victory over Turkey in the same group, maintaining their strong form. These results significantly impact the group standings, with France now leading.

Mumbai lawyers offer free legal support to student protesters

Mumbai lawyers offer free legal support to student protesters

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Bombay Bar Association and senior lawyer Satish Maneshinde have strongly criticised the use of police force against students protesting the NEET leak issue in Mumbai. Maneshinde has offered pro bono legal assistance to any student facing legal action, while the BBA emphasised the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and dissent.

The Social Reckoning Review: A Timely Warning

The Social Reckoning Review: A Timely Warning

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Social Reckoning may lack the crackling energy of The Social Network, but Aaron Sorkin delivers a timely warning about what happens when a world-changing platform escapes the control of its creator.

Paytm shares jump over 7% as UPI fee introduced; other fintechs volatile

Paytm shares jump over 7% as UPI fee introduced; other fintechs volatile

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Shares of fintech firms, particularly Paytm, saw significant movement after the Indian government introduced a 0.4 per cent fee on UPI transfers exceeding Rs 2,000 made to merchants, effective October 15.

'Don't Push Me For Non-Veg... Veg Market Is Too Huge'

'Don't Push Me For Non-Veg... Veg Market Is Too Huge'

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

How India's Jumbo King Is Taking On McDonalds And Burger King Without Selling Chicken Burgers.

No amount of whataboutery can justify disenfranchising millions: SC judge on SIR

No amount of whataboutery can justify disenfranchising millions: SC judge on SIR

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Supreme Court Justice Ujjal Bhuyan has unequivocally stated that any process disenfranchising Indian citizens is arbitrary and violates the Constitution.

Panel To Decide UPI Charges Above Rs 2,000 For Merchants

Panel To Decide UPI Charges Above Rs 2,000 For Merchants

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

A high-level committee, including representatives from banks and payment associations, is set to decide on Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) for UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000 to merchants. While person-to-person and person-to-merchant transactions up to Rs 2,000 remain free, the move follows a recent amendment to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, sparking debate and clarification from the Finance Minister that only certain high-value merchant transactions might incur charges.

Why NCP (SP) Calls UPI MDR A 'Betrayal'

Why NCP (SP) Calls UPI MDR A 'Betrayal'

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The NCP (SP) has demanded a complete rollback of the 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, effective October 15. The party termed the move a "direct assault" on small traders and shopkeepers, accusing the Modi government of "double standards" by burdening small merchants while large industrialists benefit from loan write-offs.

How UPI MDR Charges Could Push Consumers Back To Cash

How UPI MDR Charges Could Push Consumers Back To Cash

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

A new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, effective October 15, could force small merchants and price-sensitive consumers to revert to cash, according to economic think tank GTRI. The move, which introduces a 0.4 per cent MDR with a Rs 300 cap and concessional rates for specific categories, is questioned by GTRI founder Ajay Srivastava, who suggests it's not a revenue issue for the government but potentially a response to US pressure regarding UPI and RuPay's preferential market position.

Beware These Insurance Sales Traps

Beware These Insurance Sales Traps

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

If a bank sold the policy, complain to its grievance cell and, if necessary, escalate the complaint to the Reserve Bank of India Ombudsman.

Remembering Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, Movie Legend

Remembering Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, Movie Legend

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, one of Indian cinema's most inventive filmmakers, leaves behind a seven-decade legacy of fearless experimentation.

Airtel Money files for London IPO, IFC to buy $90 mn stake

Airtel Money files for London IPO, IFC to buy $90 mn stake

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Airtel Africa's mobile payments arm, Airtel Money, has filed for an initial public offering (IPO) on the London Stock Exchange, with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) agreeing to purchase shares worth up to $90 million at the final offer price.

'Start afresh': Coach Fulton reveals India hockey's LA 2028 plan

'Start afresh': Coach Fulton reveals India hockey's LA 2028 plan

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Following the Indian men's hockey team's historic Asian Games gold and direct qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, Head Coach Craig Fulton revealed plans to 'build a new team afresh' after the Hockey India League, emphasising the need for meticulous planning for the upcoming Games.

Shiv Kapur Maintains Lead At AM Green IGPL Invitational

Shiv Kapur Maintains Lead At AM Green IGPL Invitational

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Experienced golfer Shiv Kapur shot a 69 to extend his lead to 13-under at the AM Green IGPL Invitational. His performance has helped RVR Delhi Blue Bulls share the team lead with Auro Goa Eagles at 17-under. Varun Chopra of Auro Goa is in second place individually, three shots behind Kapur.

Government Clarifies UPI Charges Amidst Political Row

Government Clarifies UPI Charges Amidst Political Row

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The BJP has accused the Congress of spreading "fake news" regarding UPI transaction charges, asserting that the government has clarified that consumers will not be levied merchant discount rate (MDR) charges. This comes after the Congress criticised a government notification, alleging it paves the way for imposing fees on UPI transactions. The BJP has strongly refuted these claims, highlighting that most UPI transactions remain free and the government provides incentives to maintain a charge-free ecosystem for users.

India, Pakistan players avoid handshakes in Asian Games cricket final

India, Pakistan players avoid handshakes in Asian Games cricket final

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

India defeated Pakistan by 19 runs to secure the gold medal in the Asian Games cricket final, a match that passed without any major controversy despite the ongoing diplomatic tensions and the conspicuous absence of customary handshakes between the teams.

How Mirabai Chanu Overcame Injury And Setbacks For Asian Games Silver

How Mirabai Chanu Overcame Injury And Setbacks For Asian Games Silver

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Mirabai Chanu secured a silver medal at the Asian Games, completing her medal hunt across major tournaments. She attributes this success to intense training, a strong focus on injury prevention, and rehabilitation, especially after narrowly missing a medal at the Paris Olympics. Chanu is now preparing for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, planning to change her weight category and improve her snatch technique.

'SIR Is Bloodless Political Genocide'

'SIR Is Bloodless Political Genocide'

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

'93 lakhs deletions in Bengal, 96 lakhs in Tamil Nadu, 24 lakhs in Kerala, 77 lakhs in Gujarat, 45 lakhs in Madhya Pradesh, 44 lakhs in Rajasthan. 2.89 crores in Uttar Pradesh. Nearly 3 crores!'

Lava Bold N4 Pro 5G Packs 5G And A 6,000 mAh Battery

Lava Bold N4 Pro 5G Packs 5G And A 6,000 mAh Battery

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

The Lava Bold N4 Pro 5G sports a sleek flat back, with its dual-camera module neatly housed in a raised rounded-rectangle unit at the top-left.

Ankush to Natsamrat, Nana Patekar's Unforgettable Roles

Ankush to Natsamrat, Nana Patekar's Unforgettable Roles

Rediff.com7 days ago

No shade or genre was a roadblock for Nana Patekar. In fact, some of his movies only age well because we associate them with his terrific presence.

Satwik-Chirag reveal what went wrong in shock Asian Games exit

Satwik-Chirag reveal what went wrong in shock Asian Games exit

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Indian men's doubles badminton player Satwiksairaj Rankireddy discusses the reasons behind his and Chirag Shetty's unexpected first-round exit from the Asian Games. He highlights the need to improve their mental game and acknowledges their opponents' strong comeback, while Chirag Shetty admits they could have played smarter.

'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.com7 days ago

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

'Election Commission Is Shameless'

'Election Commission Is Shameless'

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

'Their functioning is flawed, they are not accountable, they are opaque, they are non-transparent, they have lost credibility.'

Joshi Dominates Second Round, Leads Nava Raipur Open By Two Shots

Joshi Dominates Second Round, Leads Nava Raipur Open By Two Shots

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Khalin Joshi has extended his lead to two shots at the inaugural Rs 1 crore Nava Raipur Open after a bogey-free four-under 30 in the second round. The Bengaluru golfer now stands at nine-under 59, showcasing consistent ball-striking despite challenging weather conditions that shortened rounds to nine holes.

New UPI Merchant Fee Ignites Fierce Political Debate

New UPI Merchant Fee Ignites Fierce Political Debate

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% transaction fee on UPI payments above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, sparking a political row. The Congress party has labelled it a "Modi tax" and accused the government of succumbing to US pressure, while the BJP has defended the move, clarifying that consumers will not be charged and small vendors are protected. The finance ministry reiterated that the charge is on merchants, not customers.

Uddhav calls CEC Gyanesh Kuamr BJP's weapon, Raj wants SIR cancelled in Maharashtra

Uddhav calls CEC Gyanesh Kuamr BJP's weapon, Raj wants SIR cancelled in Maharashtra

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray accused Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar of acting as a 'weapon' for the ruling BJP, while MNS leader Raj Thackeray demanded the cancellation of Maharashtra's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, amidst a large protest march in Mumbai.

SC refuses to stay MDR on UPI, seeks govt's response

SC refuses to stay MDR on UPI, seeks govt's response

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has refused to grant an interim stay on the imposition of Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI person-to-merchant transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, which is set to take effect from October 15. The court has agreed to examine the challenge to this new fee and has issued notices to the Centre, RBI, and NPCI, seeking their responses within four weeks. A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) argues that the levy lacks statutory safeguards, transparency, and public consultation, and could adversely affect merchants and consumers.

Understanding The Impact Of New UPI Merchant Charges

Understanding The Impact Of New UPI Merchant Charges

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

UPI transactions saw a 27% volume increase and 20% value increase in the first half of the current fiscal year. Despite a slight moderation in September, the digital payment system is set to implement a 0.4% merchant discount rate on transactions over Rs 2,000, aiming for a sustainable revenue model. Small merchants and person-to-person payments remain exempt, and UPI's global presence continues to expand.

Flydubai cockpit stabbing a 'dangerous terror act': UAE official

Flydubai cockpit stabbing a 'dangerous terror act': UAE official

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

In a major disclosure, Anwar Gargash, an adviser to UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed, has officially termed the cockpit attack aboard a Tel Aviv-bound Flydubai flight a "dangerous terrorist act," marking the first time a top Emirati official has formally classified the attempted crash in such terms.

Trump-media tiff escalates as he defends White House ban on CNN, MS NOW

Trump-media tiff escalates as he defends White House ban on CNN, MS NOW

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

US President Donald Trump on Monday (local time) defended his decision to bar CNN, MS NOW, and POLITICO from the White House, characterising the media access ban as an action against "fake news" rather than an attack on constitutional press freedoms.

Were These Biopics Done Right?

Were These Biopics Done Right?

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

From Azhar and Sanju to Thackeray and Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, Bollywood has often struggled to tell controversial true stories without turning their subjects into heroes.

Zidane's France held by Italy; Belgium whip Turkey

Zidane's France held by Italy; Belgium whip Turkey

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Zinedine Zidane's France were held to a 1-1 draw by Italy in their Nations League match at the Stade de France. Michael Olise opened the scoring for France, but Alessandro Bastoni equalised for Italy. The match also saw France reduced to 10 men late in the game. In another Group A1 fixture, Belgium secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Turkey.

Satwik-Chirag Blame Gruelling Schedule For Asian Games Loss

Satwik-Chirag Blame Gruelling Schedule For Asian Games Loss

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Indian badminton doubles pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, world No. 5, suffered a surprising first-round exit at the Asian Games, losing to Thailand's Pakkapon Teeraratsakul and Peeratchai Sukphun. The duo cited a demanding schedule, lack of recovery, and mental struggles as factors, while also acknowledging their opponents' strong performance.

Boycott 'rigged' elections: Dipke to Oppn parties

Boycott 'rigged' elections: Dipke to Oppn parties

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Abhijeet Dipke has issued a strong call to Indian opposition parties, urging them to boycott elections if they genuinely believe the electoral process is rigged, arguing that their continued participation only legitimises alleged unfairness.

Asian Games: Sindhu Criticises Badminton Schedule And Lack Of Hawk-Eye

Asian Games: Sindhu Criticises Badminton Schedule And Lack Of Hawk-Eye

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

Ace Indian shuttler PV Sindhu voiced strong displeasure regarding the "not really well organised" badminton scheduling at the Asian Games, citing three matches in 24 hours and insufficient recovery time.