News for 'First Direct'

Don't keep saying 'by the inspiration of CM': Suvendu to officials

Don't keep saying 'by the inspiration of CM': Suvendu to officials

Rediff.com11 May 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Shuvendu Adhikari has directed senior officials to ensure transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to rules in governance. He emphasised the importance of honest opinions and actions for the state's development, urging officials to restart stalled centrally sponsored schemes and implement promises from the BJP's election manifesto.

Mission Sudarshan Chakra Action Plan Ready

Mission Sudarshan Chakra Action Plan Ready

Rediff.com5 days ago

Under Mission Sudarshan Chakra, the country's national security shield is to be expanded by 2035 to ensure comprehensive protection of both strategic and civilian critical infrastructure.

Twisha Sharma death: Court rejects 2nd autopsy plea, MP govt seeks CBI probe

Twisha Sharma death: Court rejects 2nd autopsy plea, MP govt seeks CBI probe

Rediff.com3 days ago

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has announced that the state government will seek a CBI probe into the death of Twisha Sharma, a former model and actor, who was found hanging at her matrimonial residence. Her family alleges dowry harassment and fears crucial forensic evidence may be lost due to delays in securing a second autopsy and proper body preservation.

Madhya Pradesh Seeks CBI Probe Into Dowry Death Case

Madhya Pradesh Seeks CBI Probe Into Dowry Death Case

Rediff.com3 days ago

The family of Twisha Sharma, who died last week, alleges dowry harassment and seeks a CBI probe into her death. A court rejected a plea for a second autopsy, prompting the family to express concerns about the preservation of forensic evidence. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has assured the family that the state government will seek a CBI investigation.

'Vijay Hasn't Displaced The Dravidian Frame. He Has Tried To Repossess It'

'Vijay Hasn't Displaced The Dravidian Frame. He Has Tried To Repossess It'

Rediff.com13 May 2026

'Vijay did not defeat Dravidian politics from outside. He entered the Dravidian field and claimed ownership of it. 'His argument was not that the room should be destroyed. It was that the present occupants no longer deserved to remain in it.'

Lack Of Evidence Leads To Acquittal In Navi Mumbai Murder Case

Lack Of Evidence Leads To Acquittal In Navi Mumbai Murder Case

Rediff.com7 days ago

A court in Navi Mumbai acquitted two individuals accused of a 2018 murder, citing insufficient forensic evidence and delays in filing the initial police report.

10-yr-old raped, brutally killed in TN; CM Vijay vows action

10-yr-old raped, brutally killed in TN; CM Vijay vows action

Rediff.com22 hours ago

Political leaders in Tamil Nadu, including TTV Dhinakaran and Anbumani Ramadoss, have strongly condemned the abduction and murder of a 10-year-old girl in Coimbatore district. Two people have been reportedly arrested in connection with the incident.

Kolkata Businessman Arrested In Land Grab Case

Kolkata Businessman Arrested In Land Grab Case

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested Biswajit Poddar, also known as 'Sona Pappu', following an extensive interrogation related to a money laundering investigation. The probe is linked to alleged illegal land dealings and extortion activities in south Kolkata.

West Bengal To Boost Border Security With Land Transfer To BSF

West Bengal To Boost Border Security With Land Transfer To BSF

Rediff.com4 days ago

The West Bengal government will hand over land to the Border Security Force for international boundary fencing and security infrastructure, starting with a 27 km stretch. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said more land would be provided wherever required to strengthen border management in the state.

Sunil Mittal plans Bharti Telecom to regain 51% Airtel stake, eyes succession in a decade

Sunil Mittal plans Bharti Telecom to regain 51% Airtel stake, eyes succession in a decade

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Telecom czar Sunil Bharti Mittal plans to hand over the reins of Bharti Airtel to his children in the next decade and desires that promoter firm Bharti Telecom regains over 50 per cent stake in the company.

IPL 2026: Sanju Samson's Century Fires CSK To First Win Of IPL 2026

IPL 2026: Sanju Samson's Century Fires CSK To First Win Of IPL 2026

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Sanju Samson rediscovered his batting range with a fabulous hundred and bowlers' fangs regrew as Chennai Super Kings outclassed Delhi Capitals by 23 runs to register their first win of IPL 2026.

Delhi University Stops St Stephen's Principal Appointment

Delhi University Stops St Stephen's Principal Appointment

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Delhi University has instructed St Stephen's College to halt the appointment of a new principal, citing that the selection committee was not formed in accordance with the University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations, 2018.

TVK worker files SC plea against governor; party disowns

TVK worker files SC plea against governor; party disowns

Rediff.com8 May 2026

A member of actor-turned-politician Vijay-led Tamilaka Vettri Kazhagam on Friday moved the Supreme Court seeking directions to Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar to invite his single largest political party to form the government in the state.

Mouni Roy Shines at Cannes Days After Separation

Mouni Roy Shines at Cannes Days After Separation

Rediff.com5 days ago

Mouni Roy made a striking appearance at the Cannes Film Festival, showcasing two glamorous looks, just days after announcing her separation from husband Suraj Nambiar.

How RCB Cultivated A Winning 'Hunter Mindset' In IPL

How RCB Cultivated A Winning 'Hunter Mindset' In IPL

Rediff.com5 days ago

Royal Challengers Bengaluru's director of cricket, Mo Bobat, attributes the team's IPL success to a 'hunter mindset' that prevents complacency after their previous trophy win. This psychological shift has been key to maintaining motivation and focus.

Are You Ready For Shekhar Suman 2.0?

Are You Ready For Shekhar Suman 2.0?

Rediff.com12 May 2026

'Shekhar Tonite will critique the government, but it will not hit out. The show will nudge and point out what can be done better to bring change.'

Suvendu Adhikari Promises To Restore Voter Rights In Falta

Suvendu Adhikari Promises To Restore Voter Rights In Falta

Rediff.com7 days ago

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has alleged that the people of Diamond Harbour have been unable to exercise their voting rights for a decade. He assured people that the scenario has now changed, and the May 21 repolling in the Falta Assembly seat will re-establish voter rights.

Kerala Government: Full Cabinet Expected To Be Sworn In On Monday

Kerala Government: Full Cabinet Expected To Be Sworn In On Monday

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The entire Cabinet of the new Kerala government is expected to be sworn in on Monday, with the list of ministers likely to be finalised soon, according to UDF convenor Adoor Prakash. Leaders of UDF allies held a meeting to discuss the preparations for the swearing-in ceremony.

The Girl Who Hand-Painted Alia's Cannes Outfit

The Girl Who Hand-Painted Alia's Cannes Outfit

Rediff.com5 days ago

Alia Bhatt's first daytime appearance at the Cannes Film Festival 2026 instantly became one of her best red carpet moments ever as she walked in a soft, dreamy hand-painted gown inspired by the French Riviera.

Chhattisgarh HC Upholds Acquittal In 2010 Maoist Attack Case

Chhattisgarh HC Upholds Acquittal In 2010 Maoist Attack Case

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The Chhattisgarh High Court has dismissed an appeal by the state government, upholding the acquittal of all 10 accused in the 2010 Tadmetla Maoist attack case due to lack of direct evidence and procedural lapses in the investigation.

Madhya Pradesh Seeks CBI Probe Into Dowry Death Case

Madhya Pradesh Seeks CBI Probe Into Dowry Death Case

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Madhya Pradesh government has ordered a CBI probe into the death of Twisha Sharma, a woman who was allegedly harassed for dowry. Her family had requested a second autopsy, which was initially rejected by a court.

Vijay's unconventional journey from 'Thalapathy' to 'Muthalvan'

Vijay's unconventional journey from 'Thalapathy' to 'Muthalvan'

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Actor Vijay's journey from a shy film star to a political leader is explored, highlighting his unconventional methods and the key moments that shaped his transformation.

How Data Centres Contribute To Urban Heat Islands

How Data Centres Contribute To Urban Heat Islands

Rediff.com5 days ago

A new study in Phoenix, USA, reveals that waste heat from data centres can significantly increase air temperatures in nearby neighbourhoods, exacerbating urban heat island effects.

Suvendu issues 'final' warning, vows zero tolerance on attacks against police

Suvendu issues 'final' warning, vows zero tolerance on attacks against police

Rediff.com6 days ago

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has declared a zero-tolerance policy towards vandalism and attacks on police personnel following violent protests in Kolkata. He warned of strict legal action and promised full government support for law enforcement.

Satheesan-led Kerala govt sworn in, announces key welfare measures

Satheesan-led Kerala govt sworn in, announces key welfare measures

Rediff.com5 days ago

V D Satheesan was sworn in as Kerala's Chief Minister, with Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administering the oath of office. The swearing-in ceremony was attended by prominent political figures, including Congress leaders and Chief Ministers of Congress-ruled states.

Cocktail 2: At Kriti-Rashmika-Shahid's Musical Night

Cocktail 2: At Kriti-Rashmika-Shahid's Musical Night

Rediff.com6 days ago

Kriti's glam, Rashmika's goof-up, and Shahid's banter. The trio made the song launch event for Cocktail 2 so much fun.

'I Never Told Anyone I Had Cancer'

'I Never Told Anyone I Had Cancer'

Rediff.com3 days ago

'I didn't tell anyone in the film industry. I used to think people might assume that if he has cancer, he might die, and they would probably not offer me any work. So I didn't tell anyone.'

Govt sends eviction notice to elite Delhi Gymkhana Club, cites security reasons

Govt sends eviction notice to elite Delhi Gymkhana Club, cites security reasons

Rediff.com20 hours ago

The Delhi Gymkhana Club, a historic landmark in Lutyens' Delhi, is facing eviction as the government seeks to reclaim its land for defence infrastructure, raising concerns about the future of this elite institution.

How Sunrisers Hyderabad Made It To IPL 2026 Playoffs

How Sunrisers Hyderabad Made It To IPL 2026 Playoffs

Rediff.com5 days ago

Sunrisers Hyderabad's decision to ditch their all-out attacking approach with the bat and respect the conditions paid rich dividends against Chennai Super Kings.

Harish Rana, India's First Passive Euthanasia Recipient, Passes Away

Harish Rana, India's First Passive Euthanasia Recipient, Passes Away

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Harish Rana, the first person in India to be granted passive euthanasia, has died at AIIMS-Delhi after being in a coma for over 13 years. His case led to a landmark Supreme Court judgment allowing passive euthanasia and sparked discussions about the right to die with dignity in India.

IPL 2026: The Boy Who Makes World-Class Bowlers Look Ordinary

IPL 2026: The Boy Who Makes World-Class Bowlers Look Ordinary

Rediff.com4 days ago

Fans are travelling from across cities just to be in the stadium on days Rajasthan Royals play -- on the off-chance they get to watch him bat. Television numbers spike the moment he walks out to the crease. And there's a pattern that have quietly started to notice: The moment Sooryavanshi is dismissed, a significant chunk of viewers switch off.

TVK seeks SC intervention to form govt in Tamil Nadu

TVK seeks SC intervention to form govt in Tamil Nadu

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Actor Vijay's TVK party, despite being the single largest party in Tamil Nadu, has approached the Supreme Court seeking a directive for the Governor to invite them to form the government.

Court Orders Police FIR Over Madhya Pradesh Boat Tragedy

Court Orders Police FIR Over Madhya Pradesh Boat Tragedy

Rediff.com5 May 2026

A court in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, has directed police to register an FIR regarding the Bargi Dam cruise boat tragedy that resulted in 13 deaths. The court cited the crew's failure to rescue passengers as potential culpable homicide.

Chhattisgarh HC Upholds Acquittal In 2010 Maoist Attack Case

Chhattisgarh HC Upholds Acquittal In 2010 Maoist Attack Case

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The Chhattisgarh High Court has upheld the acquittal of ten accused in the 2010 Tadmetla Maoist attack case, citing lack of direct evidence and procedural lapses in the investigation.

Growing Talent Pool In Indian Junior Women's Hockey Praised

Growing Talent Pool In Indian Junior Women's Hockey Praised

Rediff.com5 days ago

Indian junior women's hockey team head coach Tim White has lauded the growing talent pool in the country's age-group national pathway during his scouting visit to the ongoing India-Australia U-18 exposure series in Bhopal. White emphasised the importance of building a strong connection between the youth tiers and the senior national team, aiming to develop players ready for world-class performance.

Mudassar Aziz: 'Comedy Fascinates Me'

Mudassar Aziz: 'Comedy Fascinates Me'

Rediff.com13 May 2026

'We should want Saiyaara, Pati Patni Aur Woh Do, Animal and Dhurandhar to coexist. Let the audience decide what they connect with.'

Is Mourinho returning to Real Madrid? Perez opens up

Is Mourinho returning to Real Madrid? Perez opens up

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez rejected resignation rumours, addressed Jose Mourinho speculation and defended his leadership after a chaotic, trophyless season for the Spanish giants.

Billie Eilish - Hit Me Hard And Soft Review: A Glossy Vanity Project

Billie Eilish - Hit Me Hard And Soft Review: A Glossy Vanity Project

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Billie Eilish: Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour: Live in 3D is packed with moments that are clearly meant to make die-hard fans go 'Aww,' but they don't really give a true look at the person behind the artist, notes Mayur Sanap.

RBI likely to maintain repo rate at 5.25% through FY27, says India Ratings

RBI likely to maintain repo rate at 5.25% through FY27, says India Ratings

Rediff.com4 days ago

India Ratings and Research predicts the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will maintain the repo rate at 5.25 per cent throughout FY27, despite potential inflationary pressures from higher fuel prices, with inflation expected to remain within the central bank's tolerance band.

Bengal to enforce strict loudspeaker curbs at religious places, events

Bengal to enforce strict loudspeaker curbs at religious places, events

Rediff.com14 May 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Shubhendu Adhikari has directed police to take strict action against the use of loudspeakers beyond permissible sound limits at religious places and events across the state.