News for 'First Citizen'

Caste, Covid jab: What citizens have to answer in Census 2027

Caste, Covid jab: What citizens have to answer in Census 2027

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

The Centre has notified 40 questions for the upcoming Census 2027, including caste and place of Covid vaccination, marking the first time caste details will be collected as part of the decadal exercise. The population enumeration will be a fully digital process, with an option for self-enumeration.

What Modi Must Learn From The British Raj

What Modi Must Learn From The British Raj

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Accept the right to peaceful assembly; reverse the injustice done to crores of voters; punish the man responsible, points out Aakar Patel.

In a first, citizens may self-enumerate during the Census

In a first, citizens may self-enumerate during the Census

Rediff.com7 Jul 2025

A special dedicated web portal will be launched for self-enumeration during the upcoming Census, which will be available for both phases of the national enumeration exercise, officials said Monday.

Opposition leaders stage sit-in at Rajghat on Day 3 of protests against CEC

Opposition leaders stage sit-in at Rajghat on Day 3 of protests against CEC

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

Opposition INDIA bloc leaders staged a sit-in at Rajghat, alleging a 'criminal conspiracy of vote chori' by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, demanding Kumar's resignation and seeking a meeting with President Droupadi Murmu.

How Young Professionals And Women Are Reshaping India's Investment Landscape

How Young Professionals And Women Are Reshaping India's Investment Landscape

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

A new EY India report highlights how young professionals, women wealth creators, entrepreneurs, ESOP beneficiaries, and digitally active consumers from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities are fundamentally changing India's wealth ecosystem. This shift is evidenced by increased participation of young and women investors, a rise in disciplined investing via SIPs, and the crucial role of Digital Public Infrastructure in democratizing access to long-term wealth creation. The report predicts over 100 million new investors by 2035.

'Right to vote at great peril': SC ex-judge Justice Nariman on EC functioning

'Right to vote at great peril': SC ex-judge Justice Nariman on EC functioning

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Former Supreme Court judge Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman has voiced serious concerns regarding the Election Commission's functioning, stating that the right to vote is 'at great peril'. He called for the Supreme Court's intervention to address 'disturbing developments' within the poll panel, particularly citing issues like voter disenfranchisement during electoral roll revisions and the controversial appointment process of Election Commissioners.

Queue of bulldozers to welcome BJP chief Nitin Nabin in UP

Queue of bulldozers to welcome BJP chief Nitin Nabin in UP

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

BJP National President Nitin Nabin was welcomed by a fleet of brightly painted bulldozers at a Meerut toll plaza, marking the start of his significant two-day visit to Uttar Pradesh focused on Assembly election preparations, organisational meetings, and temple visits.

Software cannot override law in voter deletion: HC

Software cannot override law in voter deletion: HC

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

The Bombay High Court's Goa bench has ruled that draft electoral rolls cannot be the sole basis for deleting names from voter lists, asserting that administrative software cannot supersede statutory laws. The court questioned the Election Commission of India's authority to delete voters without a hearing, highlighting concerns over the ERONET system's limitations and its potential to disenfranchise citizens.

'Modi govt has turned Mother of Democracy into muzzled democracy'

'Modi govt has turned Mother of Democracy into muzzled democracy'

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Aam Aadmi Party convenor Arvind Kejriwal criticised the Centre for the security clampdown in central Delhi against the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) protest, calling it "worse than Emergency" and alleging dictatorship. He also accused Prime Minister Modi of being scared and protecting "vote chori" by crushing democracy, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

Can top professionals fall for cyber fraud? IIT Madras study says...

Can top professionals fall for cyber fraud? IIT Madras study says...

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

An IIT Madras study reveals that financial cybercrime victims in India are often highly educated professionals, challenging the notion that only careless or financially unaware individuals are targeted. The research highlights that digital literacy doesn't guarantee protection, as fraudsters exploit stress and emotional vulnerabilities.

UAPA charges not dropped against Van Dyke, others: Sources

UAPA charges not dropped against Van Dyke, others: Sources

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has confirmed that terror charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) against seven foreign nationals, including one American and six Ukrainians, have not been dropped and the probe is ongoing. The agency filed a chargesheet under the Immigration and Foreigners Act (IFA) to prevent the accused from becoming eligible for default bail, while explicitly stating that the UAPA investigation continues. The foreign nationals were arrested for allegedly entering India illegally from Myanmar.

'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.'

Will Modi Ask Gyanesh Kumar To Go?

Will Modi Ask Gyanesh Kumar To Go?

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Easing Gyanesh Kumar out would create a hazardous political precedent because forcing out a top official, due to public pressure, projects an image of reactive, defensive governing. Furthermore, making a high-level official like the CEC to hand in his papers would validate Opposition claims that Constitutional referees have been compromised, observes Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay.

PTI Chief On Media's Role: Scepticism Over Cynicism

PTI Chief On Media's Role: Scepticism Over Cynicism

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

PTI Editor-in-Chief Vijay Joshi emphasised that democracy thrives on citizens who question everything, not those who blindly believe or disbelieve. Speaking at 'Media Conclave 2026', he highlighted the challenges posed by social media, the focus on speed over verification, and AI-generated fake content, stressing the importance of media credibility for informed decision-making.

Raj Thackeray warns of communal tension during Ganesh festival

Raj Thackeray warns of communal tension during Ganesh festival

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has voiced strong concerns about the divisive role of social media in society, alleging it fuels anger and religious disputes. He also criticised the unbridled use of high-decibel sound systems, questioned the government's economic policies despite GDP growth claims, and objected to political messaging in public offices. Thackeray further addressed linguistic politics and endorsed the "Inquilab Zindabad" slogan.

Why India Needs A Unique AI Safety Framework

Why India Needs A Unique AI Safety Framework

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Industry experts advocate for India to develop its own artificial intelligence (AI) safety framework, distinct from US or EU models, to address unique challenges like deepfakes and cyberattacks. They call for a comprehensive commitment involving all stakeholders and a hybrid regulatory approach combining voluntary and binding measures, as the Indian government also considers new AI regulations.

Delhi court grants bail to 6 Ukrainians in UAPA case

Delhi court grants bail to 6 Ukrainians in UAPA case

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

A Delhi court has granted default bail to six Ukrainian nationals arrested in connection with an NIA probe into a drone-warfare training camp linked to ethnic armed groups in Myanmar, after the agency failed to file a chargesheet under UAPA within the stipulated time.

Assam CM Unveils NESFIC To Transform Northeast Into Innovation Hub

Assam CM Unveils NESFIC To Transform Northeast Into Innovation Hub

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the North East Seva Innovation Challenge (NESFIC), envisioning the region as India's 'living laboratory' for technology and problem-solving. The initiative aims to empower young innovators to address real-world challenges faced by government, industries, and citizens, with a focus on practical implementation and government procurement.

Kite-Flying For Gaza Brings Mumbai Cops To Student's Home

Kite-Flying For Gaza Brings Mumbai Cops To Student's Home

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

A Mumbai student activist's home was subjected to a nine-hour police search following her participation in a global kite-flying event expressing solidarity with children in Gaza.

Six Ukrainian Nationals Get Default Bail In NIA Drone Warfare Probe

Six Ukrainian Nationals Get Default Bail In NIA Drone Warfare Probe

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

A Delhi court has granted default bail to six Ukrainian nationals arrested in connection with an NIA probe into a drone-warfare training camp linked to ethnic armed groups in Myanmar. The court also discharged them from Immigration and Foreigners Act charges after the FRRO compounded the offences with a fine. The NIA's UAPA probe is ongoing, with a supplementary chargesheet possible.

31-year-old Goldy Brar: FBI's most wanted fugitive carrying $1 mn bounty

31-year-old Goldy Brar: FBI's most wanted fugitive carrying $1 mn bounty

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Satinderjeet Singh, alias Goldy Brar, a former petty criminal from Punjab, has escalated to become a leader of transnational organised crime and is now featured on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list. The FBI has offered a USD 1 million reward for information leading to his arrest, citing his alleged involvement in assassinations, extortions, and trafficking of narcotics and weapons across the US and Canada. Brar is also linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, designated an "individual terrorist" by India, and accused of orchestrating the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala.

In a first, 92 Maoist-free Bastar villages to celebrate I-Day

In a first, 92 Maoist-free Bastar villages to celebrate I-Day

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Ninety-two remote villages in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region, once a Maoist stronghold, will hoist the national flag for the first time since Independence on August 15. This historic event signifies the end of left-wing extremism in these areas, with the state government leading an extensive campaign to foster national pride.

How Much Should YOU Save For Retirement?

How Much Should YOU Save For Retirement?

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

'Your retirement corpus isn't just a big pile of cash for 'one day' -- it is the salary you pay yourself when you no longer want to go to work.'

In a first, Red Fort to echo Vande Mataram on Independence Day

In a first, Red Fort to echo Vande Mataram on Independence Day

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

For the first time in Independence Day celebrations, 'Vande Mataram' will be rendered at the Red Fort complex during the 79th anniversary on August 15, followed by the recitation of the National Anthem, marking 150 years of the National Song's legacy.

Sitharaman credits reforms, 'agile economic management' for 7.8% growth

Sitharaman credits reforms, 'agile economic management' for 7.8% growth

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that India's real GDP grew by 7.8 per cent in the April-June quarter, surpassing the RBI's forecast. She attributed this strong performance to government reforms and agile economic management, reaffirming the government's commitment to expanding economic opportunities.

It's treason, says Rahul Gandhi; Sack Gyanesh Kumar: Congress

It's treason, says Rahul Gandhi; Sack Gyanesh Kumar: Congress

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

The Congress party has demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging "vote chori" and treason, following a media report revealing that two other Election Commissioners had formally objected to decisions regarding the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge have accused the BJP, RSS, and EC of undermining democracy, citing concerns over voter list tampering and lack of transparency.

Karnataka CM Unveils KEONICS' Vision For Tech-Driven Future

Karnataka CM Unveils KEONICS' Vision For Tech-Driven Future

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar lauded KEONICS' initiative to provide AI-based KEO computers to rural children, marking the institution's golden jubilee. The KEO computers, developed in Karnataka, aim to bridge the digital divide. Shivakumar also highlighted government efforts to promote IT beyond Bengaluru, enhance industry-oriented skills, and digitise property records, emphasising the state's commitment to technology and skill development.

No tolerance for abusive remarks against women, CM Vijay warns Oppn

No tolerance for abusive remarks against women, CM Vijay warns Oppn

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay issued a stern warning against personal attacks, double-meaning insults, and derogatory language targeting women, particularly in political discourse. Speaking in the Assembly, he recalled past humiliations faced by late CM J Jayalalithaa and condemned recent incidents involving women personalities, stressing that such behaviour would face immediate legal consequences. He also outlined his administration's vision for public security and zero-tolerance against crime.

Indian-origin man loses US citizenship 15 years after rape conviction

Indian-origin man loses US citizenship 15 years after rape conviction

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

The US District Court for the Eastern District of New York has revoked the naturalisation of Gurmeet Singh, an Indian-origin man, after he was convicted of rape and kidnapping. Singh had concealed these serious criminal acts during his naturalisation process, leading to the federal court's decision to strip him of his US citizenship.

Omar Abdullah Backs UPI Charges, Urges Consumer Protection

Omar Abdullah Backs UPI Charges, Urges Consumer Protection

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed support for the Centre's decision to levy charges on UPI transactions, citing the cost of maintaining the digital payment infrastructure. However, he emphasised the need to protect retail consumers from these fees. Abdullah also discussed the upcoming seven-day Assembly session, highlighting the government's commitment to smooth functioning and addressing MLAs' concerns, and touched upon efforts to tackle drainage issues affecting water bodies.

SC strengthens arrestee rights, says magistrate must approve re-arrest

SC strengthens arrestee rights, says magistrate must approve re-arrest

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has ruled that an investigating agency must seek a magistrate's approval for re-arresting an individual if they were previously released due to a breach of constitutional rights, such as not being informed of arrest grounds or being detained beyond 24 hours. This judgment reinforces the importance of Articles 22(1) and 22(2) and introduces stricter accountability measures for police officers.

Gujarat man among 12 killed in latest Russian strikes on Ukraine

Gujarat man among 12 killed in latest Russian strikes on Ukraine

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that an Indian citizen was among 12 people killed in recent Russian aerial bomb and drone strikes on Odesa, Ukraine. Dozens more were injured in the attacks that occurred since Monday evening.

Mamata faction gets 'football player' as symbol for bypolls

Mamata faction gets 'football player' as symbol for bypolls

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

The Election Commission has allotted the 'Football Player' symbol to the Mamata Banerjee-led faction of the Trinamool Congress for the upcoming West Bengal bypolls, while the rival Arup Roy-led group will contest with the 'Envelope' symbol.

Census Brings Meiteis, Nagas Closer, Puts Kukis On Edge

Census Brings Meiteis, Nagas Closer, Puts Kukis On Edge

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Amidst ongoing ethnic tensions, a new political alignment in Manipur sees Meitei and Naga groups uniting to demand an update to the National Register of Citizens with a 1951 base year, a move fiercely opposed by Kuki-Zo communities who fear it will disenfranchise them.

Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation: First Crack In Modi's Fortress?

Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation: First Crack In Modi's Fortress?

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation is significant because it punctures, however slightly, the perception that the Modi government never retreats under pressure. Every long-serving government eventually reaches a point where every institutional failure is identified with the leader himself. Removing the minister may have prevented that political burden from falling directly on Modi. Whether it also resolves the underlying crisis is another matter, notes Ramesh Menon.

Why This CM Is Probing Lionel Messi!

Why This CM Is Probing Lionel Messi!

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

In 100 days in office, Chief Minister V D Satheesan has ordered five SITs. This would appear to be some kind of a record, points out Aditi Phadnis.

US deploys sea, air attack drones for first time in Iran war

US deploys sea, air attack drones for first time in Iran war

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) has launched extensive precision strikes across multiple Iranian military installations, deploying both one-way attack aerial and sea drones for the first time, to degrade Tehran's ability to disrupt international maritime trade in the Strait of Hormuz.

Vande Bharat's first live heart transport helps save patient in Ahmedabad

Vande Bharat's first live heart transport helps save patient in Ahmedabad

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

In a highly sensitive and time-bound mission, a live donor heart was successfully transported aboard a Vande Bharat train from Surat to Ahmedabad on Friday for transplantation at a prominent cardiac teaching hospital in Gujarat's commercial capital.

First meet at Seva Teerth: Cabinet pledges citizen-centric governance

First meet at Seva Teerth: Cabinet pledges citizen-centric governance

Rediff.com24 Feb 2026

The Union Cabinet, meeting at the new PMO complex 'Seva Teerth', resolved to prioritize citizen empowerment and service in all its decisions, guided by the principle of 'Nagrik Devo Bhava'.

FMGE Rules Stay Strict Despite Protests

FMGE Rules Stay Strict Despite Protests

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

NBEMS will not lower FMGE qualifying standards despite protests.