News for 'First Citizen'

Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde fined, faces warrant threat in 2016 assault case

Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde fined, faces warrant threat in 2016 assault case

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde has been fined Rs 1,000 by a city court for her repeated non-appearance in a 10-year-old assault case. The court warned that failure to appear at the next hearing on November 2 for framing of charges could lead to a warrant and cancellation of bail bonds. The case stems from a 2016 incident at a BMC school.

Rahul issues first remark in CJP's support, Dipke thanks him

Rahul issues first remark in CJP's support, Dipke thanks him

Rediff.com4 days ago

Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and members of the INDIA bloc, have strongly condemned the arrest and jailing of Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) co-conveners Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka for protesting at Jantar Mantar, asserting that waving the national flag and peaceful protest are not crimes.

How Delhi Police Saved Rs 1.53 Crore From Digital Arrest Scams

How Delhi Police Saved Rs 1.53 Crore From Digital Arrest Scams

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Delhi Police's Financial Monitoring Cell prevented potential losses of Rs 1.53 crore in "digital arrest" scams across five states. Their Proactive Victim Identification and Protection Team intervened to save multiple victims, including senior citizens, from transferring additional money to fraudsters who impersonated officials and threatened arrest for fabricated crimes.

How Long Can The Modi Government Stay Deaf?

How Long Can The Modi Government Stay Deaf?

Rediff.com4 days ago

When it pretends to be deaf, a situation can snowball into something it cannot contain. The government cannot dismiss public anger merely because protests are inconvenient or politically embarrassing, asserts Ramesh Menon.

Former Bengal MP among SIR-hit voters depose before panel of retired judges

Former Bengal MP among SIR-hit voters depose before panel of retired judges

Rediff.com3 days ago

A panel of retired Supreme Court and High Court judges, part of an Independent Commission on Special Intensive Revision (SIR), held a public hearing on Thursday to address widespread deletions from India's electoral rolls. Testimonies from affected citizens, including a former MP and a Delhi resident declared deceased by the Election Commission, highlighted significant issues. The SIR process, initiated in 2025, has led to the removal of approximately 13 crore voters nationwide, with substantial deletions reported in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.

Imran Khan: From Bollywood fame to political crossfire

Imran Khan: From Bollywood fame to political crossfire

Rediff.com3 days ago

Actor Imran Khan, an American citizen, has been served a notice by Mumbai Police directing him to leave India by October 28 for allegedly violating immigration laws. This comes after his participation in recent political protests. His lawyer plans to challenge the decision in the Bombay High Court.

PM Modi Calls For AI-Driven Civil Service Transformation At UPSC Centenary

PM Modi Calls For AI-Driven Civil Service Transformation At UPSC Centenary

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at the UPSC centenary, urged a fundamental shift in civil services recruitment and governance. He highlighted the need for services to adapt to an "instant-delivery world" powered by AI, focusing on citizen-centricity and evaluating candidates' motivation beyond academic knowledge. The PM also praised Captain Smit Machchhar's bravery during his address.

Put nation first, shoulder responsibility, Sitharaman tells Gen Z, Gen Alpha

Put nation first, shoulder responsibility, Sitharaman tells Gen Z, Gen Alpha

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman called upon 'Gen Z' and 'Gen Alpha' to assume leadership, prioritise the nation, and contribute to its growth, rather than questioning what the country has done for them.

First-ever Ganga Aarti held on River Thames in UK

First-ever Ganga Aarti held on River Thames in UK

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Thousands gathered on the banks of the River Thames in London for the first-ever Ganga Aarti, a traditional Hindu ceremony of light and thanksgiving. Organised by Chinmaya Mission UK as part of the 'Totally Thames' festival, the event symbolised gratitude for nature and knowledge, while also celebrating 75 years of the Chinmaya Mission. The ceremony was conducted on land to ensure environmental responsibility.

Eligibility, not identity, key for public service selection: SC judge

Eligibility, not identity, key for public service selection: SC judge

Rediff.com1 hour ago

Supreme Court Justice Vikram Nath stated that eligibility and merit, not personal identity, should be the sole criteria for selection in public service. Speaking at the UPPSC premises, he highlighted the constitutional safeguards for impartiality in public service commissions and the far-reaching impact of their selections. His visit marked a historic first for the commission.

Dipke, Neha among 150 detained; flash protests continue in Delhi

Dipke, Neha among 150 detained; flash protests continue in Delhi

Rediff.com2 days ago

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) leader Abhijeet Dipke and AISA chief Neha Bora were preventively detained by Delhi Police on Friday, preventing their participation in the 'Lehra Do Tiranga' protests amidst heightened security in the national capital.

'13 crore voters deleted, 2% victory margin': Dipke alleges poll 'setting'

'13 crore voters deleted, 2% victory margin': Dipke alleges poll 'setting'

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and student organisations have accused the government of attempting to influence electoral outcomes by allegedly deleting over 13 crore voters. They have demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, citing alleged irregularities in voter rolls and criticising the police crackdown on protesters. Leaders questioned the government's protection of the CEC and linked voter deletions to the narrow victory margin in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

EC launches re-enrolment drive for omitted voters during SIR

EC launches re-enrolment drive for omitted voters during SIR

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

The Election Commission has launched a special drive to include eligible citizens who were omitted or deleted during the recent Special Investigative Review (SIR) exercise, as well as to register new and young voters. This initiative follows accusations from opposition parties regarding disenfranchisement and aims to ensure no eligible citizen is left out of the electoral process.

'This is why...': India slams UN report on youth protests

'This is why...': India slams UN report on youth protests

Rediff.com2 days ago

India has strongly rejected a report by a UN human rights expert, Gina Romero, which claimed that young people in India face retaliation or stigmatisation for discussing mental health or gender justice. India's First Secretary Anuj Swarup labelled the report as "hearsay" based on "anonymous and unverified claims," asserting that it does a disservice to the expert's mandate. Swarup highlighted India's constitutional freedoms, independent judiciary, and government's proactive engagement with youth, citing examples like the amendment to the Public Examinations Act and the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue.

'There Is Lack Of Clarity And Openness In Census'

'There Is Lack Of Clarity And Openness In Census'

Rediff.com9 hours ago

'What is the need for collecting so much data unless they are going to be used for some other purpose?'

Why Do We Need Permission to Protest Against the Government?

Why Do We Need Permission to Protest Against the Government?

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Before protesting against the State, the citizen should not have to ask: Sir, may I protest, please?, asserts Prem Panicker.

Former civil servants issue 'people's impeachment' notice against CEC

Former civil servants issue 'people's impeachment' notice against CEC

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Former civil servants and rights activists have issued a "people's impeachment" notice demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. They allege six charges against him, including undermining the Election Commission's functioning, mass disenfranchisement through Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, and compromising political impartiality. The group, including G K Pillai and Najeeb Jung, was prevented from submitting the notice at the EC office.

Only some people are heard: Ex-IAS Divya Mittal launches party

Only some people are heard: Ex-IAS Divya Mittal launches party

Rediff.com4 days ago

Former IAS officer Divya Mittal has launched her new political party, Jan Neeti Bharat, with the aim of contesting the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections and redefining governance by making people central to policymaking and ensuring government accountability.

'Suspension Of PERM May Not Immediately Affect Indian IT Companies'

'Suspension Of PERM May Not Immediately Affect Indian IT Companies'

Rediff.com6 days ago

'...but could demotivate employees seeking US residency.'

Ex-IAS officer and IIT-IIM alumna Divya Mittal enters UP politics

Ex-IAS officer and IIT-IIM alumna Divya Mittal enters UP politics

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Former IAS officer Divya Mittal has announced her independent entry into politics, starting her journey in Uttar Pradesh. She aims to create a platform to voice public grievances and challenge systemic issues, focusing on intent and justice rather than party politics.

Australian Public Servant Of Indian Origin Denied Bail For Stalking

Australian Public Servant Of Indian Origin Denied Bail For Stalking

Rediff.com4 days ago

An Australian public servant of Indian origin, Suyash Sinha, has been arrested and denied bail in Canberra for allegedly stalking a woman and threatening to use government databases to obtain information about her and her family. Sinha, who became an Australian citizen last week, is accused of continuing to harass the woman after she rejected his advances, even claiming he could access her family's details through government systems. The case has been adjourned to November 4.

CEC row: Opposition parties to march to SC on Monday to meet CJI

CEC row: Opposition parties to march to SC on Monday to meet CJI

Rediff.com7 days ago

Opposition parties, led by Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, plan to march to the Supreme Court on Monday to meet the Chief Justice of India. They aim to submit a memorandum regarding alleged 'vote chori' and demand CEC Gyanesh Kumar's resignation, halting of SIR, and a return to paper ballots. The protest follows widespread detentions during previous demonstrations, which the opposition condemns as an assault on democracy.

Yeh Jeevan Hai... Well Done Appa!!

Yeh Jeevan Hai... Well Done Appa!!

Rediff.com2 days ago

Some people leave behind a business. A rare few leave behind a place in people's hearts. Appa leaves behind both.

Karnataka Government Urges Stronger BFSI And FinTech Partnerships

Karnataka Government Urges Stronger BFSI And FinTech Partnerships

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

The Government of Karnataka has called for enhanced collaboration with the BFSI and FinTech sectors to bolster its technology ecosystem and accelerate the adoption of innovative solutions. This initiative, discussed at an Industry Meet, aims to foster partnerships between government, industry, and academia, particularly through programmes like 'Government First', in preparation for the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2026.

'We Will Do It': Modi coins slogan for developed India by 2047

'We Will Do It': Modi coins slogan for developed India by 2047

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the 'We Will Do It' slogan, aiming for India to become a developed nation by 2047 through visionary policies and hard work, while also addressing the challenge of societal division.

Arkhangelskiy, Son of Russian Political Refugees, Wins Asian Games Gold For Bahrain

Arkhangelskiy, Son of Russian Political Refugees, Wins Asian Games Gold For Bahrain

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Michel Arkhangelskiy, whose family fled Russia as political opponents, clinched his first major title at the Asian Games, winning the 50-metre butterfly gold for Bahrain.

INDIA bloc will hold major protest in Delhi on Monday, to meet CJI

INDIA bloc will hold major protest in Delhi on Monday, to meet CJI

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

AICC general secretary K C Venugopal announced that the INDIA bloc will stage a major protest in Delhi on Monday to protect voting rights, following meetings with the President and a planned meeting with the Chief Justice of India. He accused PM Modi and Amit Shah of attempting to protect Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and criticised the Centre for denying an AIIMS facility to Keralam despite past assurances. Venugopal affirmed the bloc's commitment to ensuring free and fair elections and expressed hope for AIIMS if they come to power.

SC advances hearing on Delhi's SIR pleas to October 28

SC advances hearing on Delhi's SIR pleas to October 28

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Supreme Court will hear a plea on October 28 regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Delhi's electoral roll. Petitioners seek transparency from the Election Commission on voter deletion reasons and a simplified re-inclusion process for those omitted, especially concerning Form 6. The court had previously raised concerns about "mechanical" notice issuance during the SIR, which led to 47 lakh voter deletions in Delhi.

I had that one last fight left in me: Captain Smit Machchhar

I had that one last fight left in me: Captain Smit Machchhar

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Indian pilot Smit Machchhar is being hailed as a hero for preventing his co-pilot from crashing an Israel-bound flydubai flight. Machchhar recounted his struggle in the cockpit, where he was attacked by the co-pilot and fought to open the cockpit door from the inside, allowing others to intervene and regain control of the aircraft.

Ahead of CJP protest, 'Lal Hit Janata Party' protest in Delhi

Ahead of CJP protest, 'Lal Hit Janata Party' protest in Delhi

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

A new political outfit, the 'Lal Hit Janata Party', has emerged in Delhi, staging a counter-protest against alleged abuse of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and attacks on police.

Children in uniform to senior citizens, thousands join CJP's 'Chalo Sansad' protest

Children in uniform to senior citizens, thousands join CJP's 'Chalo Sansad' protest

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Thousands of protesters, including children, students, and the elderly, gathered in central Delhi for the Cockroach Janta Party's 'Chalo Sansad' march towards Parliament. The protest, coinciding with the Monsoon Session, led to clashes with police, who used tear gas and lathi-charge, resulting in injuries to both sides and suspension of internet services. Despite police action and barricades, protesters repeatedly attempted to reach Parliament, leading to a day-long standoff.

Prakash Raj, Dipke, Dhruv Rathee protest against CEC in Bengaluru

Prakash Raj, Dipke, Dhruv Rathee protest against CEC in Bengaluru

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, YouTuber Dhruv Rathee, and actor-activist Prakash Raj joined a protest in Bengaluru, demanding the scrapping of the electoral roll revision exercise and the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging widespread voter deletion aimed at disenfranchising specific groups.

All You Need to Know About New Green Card Bill

All You Need to Know About New Green Card Bill

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

The Bill proposes replacing employment-based Green Card preferences with a points-based immigration framework.

Elon Musk: Starlink services in India must be affordable, slams 'de facto monopoly'

Elon Musk: Starlink services in India must be affordable, slams 'de facto monopoly'

Rediff.com6 days ago

Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, stated that Starlink's services in India must be affordable for widespread adoption and that competition would benefit consumers, despite potentially reducing Reliance Jio's profits. He criticised Reliance Jio as a 'de facto monopoly' in India, alleging that certain business conglomerates were blocking Starlink's entry.

CJP leaders breach Jantar Mantar, detained; FIR filed

CJP leaders breach Jantar Mantar, detained; FIR filed

Rediff.com5 days ago

Delhi Police has registered an FIR against Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) leaders Saurav Das, Ashutosh Ranka, and other members for allegedly trespassing into the Jantar Mantar area, which was recently denotified as a protest site. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke has condemned the detentions as 'kidnapping' and questioned the legality of preventing lawyers from meeting the detained members.

MMA Fighter Varun Sanyal's Unforgettable Asian Games Debut

MMA Fighter Varun Sanyal's Unforgettable Asian Games Debut

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Indian MMA fighter Varun Sanyal faced a challenging Asian Games debut, marked by logistical issues and a medical disqualification due to a weight-cutting incident. Despite the setback, Sanyal, an Indian citizen with Singapore PR, shares his journey in MMA, his 'fighting nomad' lifestyle, and his aspirations for Indian fighters.

Don't Let Your Health Insurance Lapse

Don't Let Your Health Insurance Lapse

Rediff.com7 days ago

Buying a policy is only the beginning. Health insurance is a long-term commitment that needs regular review as your age, health needs and family circumstances change.

TMC stripped of key parliamentary panel chairpersonships

TMC stripped of key parliamentary panel chairpersonships

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

The Trinamool Congress has lost the chairpersonship of two significant Parliamentary panels following a reconstitution by Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. This development comes after a split in the TMC, with rebel MPs joining the Nationalist Citizen Party and supporting the NDA. The TMC has strongly criticised the move, alleging that Parliament is being turned into a 'deep, dark chamber' due to their exclusion from committee leadership.

Why India's Banks Need A Five-Day Week

Why India's Banks Need A Five-Day Week

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

A two-day weekend would help employees recover physically and mentally. They would return better prepared for branch work that demands patience, judgment, and accuracy, asserts Tamal Bandyopadhyay.

Netanyahu invites Capt Machchhar, Modi to Israel's I-Day event

Netanyahu invites Capt Machchhar, Modi to Israel's I-Day event

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has lauded Indian pilot Smit Machchhar as a 'hero of the entire world' for his bravery in foiling an alleged co-pilot's attempt to crash a flydubai flight, and has extended an invitation to Machchhar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to light a flame on Israeli Independence Day.