News for 'FREE'

SC tells EC, states to expedite probes into poll black money

SC tells EC, states to expedite probes into poll black money

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has emphasised the need for timely investigations and conclusions of criminal cases involving illicit money in elections. Observing that black money compromises democracy and the rule of law, the court issued several directives, including reporting seizures to competent authorities within 24 hours, completing investigations within a year, and submitting quarterly status reports to the Election Commission. The ruling also mandates High Courts to designate special courts for expeditious disposal of cases against candidates and requires High Court approval for withdrawing cases.

Devdutt Padikkal strengthens his claim for No. 3 spot with maiden Test ton

Devdutt Padikkal strengthens his claim for No. 3 spot with maiden Test ton

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

India's Devdutt Padikkal struck his maiden Test hundred to underline his credentials for the number three slot and propelled the tourists to a commanding 288-2 in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle on Saturday.

Kolkata Welcomes Back Taslima Nasreen

Kolkata Welcomes Back Taslima Nasreen

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

After nearly 19 years, exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen returned to Kolkata, calling it a deeply emotional homecoming.

Will Khalifa 2: The Legacy Be Made? Because...

Will Khalifa 2: The Legacy Be Made? Because...

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

If Khalifa: The Ruler continues to bleed at the box office, the odds of a big-budget sequel materialising drop to practically zero. The harsh reality of franchise filmmaking is incredibly simple: If the 'ruler' fails to conquer, absolutely no one is going to care about the 'legacy', no matter how many superstars you cram onto a poster.

Vinicius Jr Happy Under Mourinho as Arsenal Transfer Rumours Grow

Vinicius Jr Happy Under Mourinho as Arsenal Transfer Rumours Grow

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr is reportedly 'happy, cheerful and playing his football' under new manager Jose Mourinho, despite being in the final year of his contract and facing speculation about a potential move to Arsenal.

AICC 'Vande' row: Bankim Chandra's descendant seeks Sonia Gandhi's apology

AICC 'Vande' row: Bankim Chandra's descendant seeks Sonia Gandhi's apology

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

BJP MLA Sumitro Chatterjee, a descendant of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, has demanded an unconditional apology from Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi. This demand follows an alleged incident at the AICC headquarters on Independence Day, where Chatterjee claims there were attempts to prevent the full singing of "Vande Mataram," which he described as a "shameless repetition of a historical mistake."

A Mom-Son Japanese Odyssey

A Mom-Son Japanese Odyssey

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Researching Japan was like going down a rabbit hole. There is just so much to see and do, but I finally decided we would stick to the 'Golden Route' of Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, notes Radhika Mittal.

'K L Rahul better off without captaincy'

'K L Rahul better off without captaincy'

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Former India opener Wasim Jaffer believes K L Rahul performs best when not burdened by captaincy.

'Government Did A U-Turn On Caste Census'

'Government Did A U-Turn On Caste Census'

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

'They want to sabotage the caste census and bury Muslim backward classes, Hindu backward classes, Sikh backward classes and Buddhist backward classes.'

Can Social Media Age Bans Work?

Can Social Media Age Bans Work?

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

At what age should society stop regulating life choices and allow people to make their own?

Former India Hockey Captain Pargat Singh criticises saffron jersey, alleges BJP's 'petty mindset'

Former India Hockey Captain Pargat Singh criticises saffron jersey, alleges BJP's 'petty mindset'

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Congress MLA and former India Hockey Captain Pargat Singh has criticised the change in the Indian hockey team's national jersey colour from blue to saffron, alleging it reflects the BJP's mindset of 'giving everything a particular colour' and urging a focus on sports development instead.

OTT Releases This Week: Cocktail 2, Bharat Bhagya Vidhata, Aakhri Sawwal

OTT Releases This Week: Cocktail 2, Bharat Bhagya Vidhata, Aakhri Sawwal

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

This week's OTT releases feature a diverse range of films and series, including the spiritual sequel 'Cocktail 2' starring Shahid Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna, and Kriti Sanon, Kangana Ranaut's 'Bharat Bhagya Vidhata' based on the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, and the RSS-themed drama 'Aakhri Sawwal'.

Southern states back Shah's push for dialogue to settle water disputes

Southern states back Shah's push for dialogue to settle water disputes

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Chief ministers from southern states convened at the Southern Zonal Council meeting in Kovalam, where Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar advocated for the 1971 census as the basis for delimitation and a freeze on Lok Sabha seats, while also addressing the contentious Cauvery water and Mekedatu dam issues.

Jharkhand govt's move to cancel 44 recruitment exams sparks fresh protests

Jharkhand govt's move to cancel 44 recruitment exams sparks fresh protests

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Jharkhand government has cancelled 44 recruitment examinations conducted by the state Public Service Commission (JPSC) and an outsourced agency since 2014, including the JSSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) examination, following a 25-day student agitation over alleged irregularities. This decision has led to protests from around 2,000 candidates who had already been appointed to various state government departments after clearing the JSSC-CGL exam.

US names India among nations helping China evade tariffs

US names India among nations helping China evade tariffs

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

The White House has launched a major crackdown on the 'Great Transhipment Scam', accusing India and over 40 other nations of helping Chinese exporters bypass US tariffs by misrepresenting the origin of goods. The US plans to use AI-driven monitoring and anti-transhipment clauses in future trade agreements to strengthen enforcement.

'Some forces want to disturb Punjab peace': Badal after Nanded attack

'Some forces want to disturb Punjab peace': Badal after Nanded attack

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal underwent a 90-minute surgery for a 'kirpan' attack injury sustained inside a gurdwara in Nanded and is now stable, with doctors repairing a tendon and ulnar artery nerve.

Jharkhand student leader on hunger strike stopped from joining Tiranga Yatra

Jharkhand student leader on hunger strike stopped from joining Tiranga Yatra

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JLKM) leader Devendra Nath Mahto was allegedly prevented by police from joining a Tiranga Yatra while on his 14th day of an indefinite hunger strike against alleged irregularities in state recruitment examinations. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Hemant Soren assured the public that his government is committed to ensuring transparency in examinations conducted by the JPSC and JSSC.

India's EV Ambitions: MHI Boosts Incentives, Tackles Financing & Manufacturing Hurdles

India's EV Ambitions: MHI Boosts Incentives, Tackles Financing & Manufacturing Hurdles

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) anticipates disbursing approximately 4,700 crore in incentives under the automotive PLI scheme in FY27, more than double the previous two years, while also exploring financing mechanisms for electric buses and trucks and promoting domestic manufacturing of critical EV components.

SC to hear Rahul's plea against HC order in assets case

SC to hear Rahul's plea against HC order in assets case

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has approached the Supreme Court to challenge an Allahabad High Court order that directed the CBI and ED to verify allegations of disproportionate assets against him. The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the matter on August 17. The Allahabad High Court had expressed dissatisfaction with the CBI's progress and ordered a fresh affidavit, also allowing the ED to proceed if illegality was found during its inquiry. The case stems from a plea by a BJP worker alleging disproportionate assets and dual citizenship.

Breakthrough: IIT Indore's Non-Invasive Oral Cancer Detection

Breakthrough: IIT Indore's Non-Invasive Oral Cancer Detection

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Researchers at IIT Indore have developed a non-invasive technique to detect early signs of oral cancer using saliva and a swab sample. This method is economical, quick, and aims to make early screening more accessible, especially in rural areas, offering an alternative to painful biopsies. The findings, published in the British Journal of Cancer, show distinctive molecular changes before the disease becomes clinically obvious.

JNUSU holds Umar Khalid book discussion despite venue cancellation

JNUSU holds Umar Khalid book discussion despite venue cancellation

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) proceeded with a discussion on former student Umar Khalid's book, "Fractured Communities: Adivasi Histories and the Politics of Power," despite the university cancelling the original venue booking. The event, planned to observe Indigenous Peoples' Day, was held outside an academic building after the JNUSU condemned the university's "arbitrary" decision.

Finfluencer Advice: What Investors Must Know

Finfluencer Advice: What Investors Must Know

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Verify a content creator's Sebi registration, qualifications and certifications before acting on their advice.

India Women squander lead, split points with China in hockey World Cup opener

India Women squander lead, split points with China in hockey World Cup opener

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

India played an impressive opening match at the Women's Hockey World Cup, securing a 2-2 draw against Olympic silver medallists China, with goals from Navneet Kaur and Deepika.

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.

India Gears Up For Major 100-Week Anti-Drug Abuse Campaign

India Gears Up For Major 100-Week Anti-Drug Abuse Campaign

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch a 100-week nationwide campaign, 'Nasha Mukta Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyaan', on August 2 to combat rising drug abuse in India. Led by MY Bharat youth, the initiative will involve various activities and aims to unite over one crore young people in a pledge against substance abuse, addressing alarming statistics from the Narcotics Control Bureau.

NEET-UG Counselling: Essential Tips to Avoid Costly Mistakes and Secure Your Medical Seat

NEET-UG Counselling: Essential Tips to Avoid Costly Mistakes and Secure Your Medical Seat

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

As the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) web site opens for NEET-UG registration, aspiring medical students are urged to avoid simple, yet costly, mistakes during the online counselling process, with experts advising thorough preparation and careful choice filling.

Why KL Rahul's Galle 50 could change everything

Why KL Rahul's Galle 50 could change everything

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

KL Rahul's patient half-century in the Galle Test against Sri Lanka highlights his evolving role as a consistent and strategic anchor for the Indian team. Despite a slower strike rate, his ability to stonewall spinners and build partnerships has been crucial, earning praise from coaches and teammates. This performance underscores his growing importance, especially after the departure of senior batters, as he aims to make a significant impact in the current Test series.

Maha bans illegal dhabas, eateries, structures on NHs

Maha bans illegal dhabas, eateries, structures on NHs

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The Maharashtra government has issued strict directives to local authorities, mandating an immediate ban on illegal dhabas, eateries, and commercial structures within national highway Right of Way. The order requires demolition of existing encroachments within 60 days, formation of highway safety task forces, and mandates prior clearance from NHAI or PWD for any new licenses in highway safety zones, aiming to enhance commuter safety and clear obstructions.

Three goals in 17 minutes sink FC Goa in AFC Champions League Two clash

Three goals in 17 minutes sink FC Goa in AFC Champions League Two clash

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

FC Goa's AFC Champions League Two campaign concluded with a 0-3 loss to Turkmenistan's FC Arkadag, relegating the Indian club to the AFC Challenge League, the third tier of Asian club football.

SEE: Taslima Nasreen returns to Kolkata after 19 years

SEE: Taslima Nasreen returns to Kolkata after 19 years

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen has returned to Kolkata after nearly 19 years, describing the visit as an emotional homecoming to a city she still considers her own, ahead of a literary event that has acquired political resonance under West Bengal's new BJP government.

Esports World Cup: LYON, Vitality, Dplus KIA, PVISION Win Titles

Esports World Cup: LYON, Vitality, Dplus KIA, PVISION Win Titles

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Four champions were crowned during the second week of the Esports World Cup in Paris. LYON won the Free Fire title, Team Vitality secured the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Women's International crown, Dplus KIA emerged victorious in League of Legends, and PVISION triumphed in Dota 2, with several teams also making strides in the Club Championship standings.

Avani Prashanth Cards Bogey-Free Round At Amundi German Masters

Avani Prashanth Cards Bogey-Free Round At Amundi German Masters

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Indian golfer Avani Prashanth finished the Amundi German Masters in T-49 place after carding a bogey-free round of 2-under 71. Germany's Leonie Harm secured her first title.

From Maoist Camps To The Fashion Ramp

From Maoist Camps To The Fashion Ramp

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

From guns to handlooms. From forest trails to a public runway. Women who had once been associated with that conflict walked into the spotlight wearing Bastar's traditional textiles.

SC grants relief to Rahul Gandhi in disproportionate assets case

SC grants relief to Rahul Gandhi in disproportionate assets case

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has provided significant relief to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi by directing the Allahabad High Court to cease proceedings in a case alleging disproportionate assets against him. The apex court also instructed the CBI and ED not to submit any reports based on the high court's previous directives.

Indira Gandhi Stadium Ready For Badminton World Championships

Indira Gandhi Stadium Ready For Badminton World Championships

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has expressed satisfaction with the extensive renovation and cleaning work at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi, addressing previous criticisms regarding hygiene and facilities. Significant improvements have been made, including toilet renovations, deep cleaning, seat replacements, and pest control measures, ensuring the venue is ready for the upcoming World Championships.

FIFA World Cup couldn't stop Wimbledon's record run

FIFA World Cup couldn't stop Wimbledon's record run

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Wimbledon achieved record attendance and social media engagement, along with strong broadcasting figures, despite competing with the soccer World Cup. The tournament saw over half a million fans, significant retail sales, and a notable audience share for the women's singles final in the Czech Republic.

Bar Council revokes order banning enrolment of NALSAR graduates after outcry

Bar Council revokes order banning enrolment of NALSAR graduates after outcry

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

The Bar Council of India initially directed state bar councils not to enrol 2026 NALSAR University of Law graduates due to alleged student protests against the CJI's convocation participation. However, following widespread social media criticism, the BCI reversed its decision, allowing students to enrol while an inquiry into the instigators continues.

Durand Cup: Shillong Lajong, East Bengal, Jamshedpur FC Advance to Quarter-Finals

Durand Cup: Shillong Lajong, East Bengal, Jamshedpur FC Advance to Quarter-Finals

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Shillong Lajong FC secured their place in the Durand Cup quarter-finals by topping Group E after a 3-3 draw with Langsning FC, while East Bengal and Jamshedpur FC also advanced as the best second-placed teams.

Tata Sons continues as 'upper-layer NBFC'; listing application pending

Tata Sons continues as 'upper-layer NBFC'; listing application pending

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Tata Sons, the holding company of the Tata group, continues to be classified as an 'upper-layer non-banking financial company' (NBFC) by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), despite its application to deregister as an NBFC-Core Investment Company (CIC) remaining under consideration. This classification subjects it to enhanced regulation and a mandatory listing requirement, which remains uncertain.

Indian Golfers Diksha Dagar And Aditi Ashok Hold Strong At London Championship

Indian Golfers Diksha Dagar And Aditi Ashok Hold Strong At London Championship

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

Indian golfers Diksha Dagar and Aditi Ashok have maintained their positions within the top-20 at the London Championship after the third round. Diksha Dagar carded a 1-over 72 to stay T-19, while Aditi Ashok also finished T-19 with a 73. Pranavi Urs, however, dropped to T-38. Canada's Anna Huang leads the tournament with a dominant 19-under-par score.