News for 'Free India'

NLSIU students, alumni oppose CJI, BCI chief attending convocation

NLSIU students, alumni oppose CJI, BCI chief attending convocation

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

The Students and Alumni of the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bengaluru have opposed Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Bar Council of India chairman Manan Kumar Mishra attending the upcoming convocation of the varsity.

Footpaths for walking: SC asks states, UTs for update

Footpaths for walking: SC asks states, UTs for update

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has declared the right to walk on demarcated footpaths a fundamental right, directing all states and Union Territories to ensure proper, encroachment-free pedestrian spaces. The court emphasised that footpaths are integral to human life and safety, and states must respond to advisories issued by central ministries regarding their implementation.

Booth level agents not responsible for...: HC ruling on SIR

Booth level agents not responsible for...: HC ruling on SIR

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Delhi High Court has ruled that Booth Level Agents (BLAs) of political parties are not liable for false details in electoral enumeration forms that cannot be personally verified. The court clarified that BLAs are only responsible for verifiable information, such as an elector's photograph, and struck down the Election Commission of India's mandate requiring BLAs to provide personal undertakings for all details.

Meta India head booked over posts against Modi during CJP stir

Meta India head booked over posts against Modi during CJP stir

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Hyderabad Cyber Crime police have taken action against Meta's India head and several social media account operators, registering cases for allegedly circulating morphed and objectionable content targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi amidst the ongoing NEET paper leak agitation.

Why Southern States Want Families To Have More Kids

Why Southern States Want Families To Have More Kids

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Southern chief ministers fear population stabilisation could reduce their parliamentary representation and tax devolution benefits.

Government Bats On Front Foot For Defence Exports

Government Bats On Front Foot For Defence Exports

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

The reforms, undertaken by the Department of Defence Production, remove stakeholder consultation for exports of non-lethal defence items to most destinations, while retaining safeguards for sensitive countries.

Parliamentary Panel Pushes for Swift India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement

Parliamentary Panel Pushes for Swift India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

A Parliamentary Standing Committee on Commerce has urged the Indian government to swiftly conclude the proposed India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), while ensuring India's interests are protected, recommending complete exemption for key export products like generic medicines and smartphones from future US tariff increases.

'Ethanol Blending Has Not Led to Sugar's Price Rise'

'Ethanol Blending Has Not Led to Sugar's Price Rise'

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

'The ethanol blended with petrol programme should not be halted or reconsidered.' 'India is not experiencing a structural sugar shortage, and the ethanol blending roadmap does not compete with food security or drive domestic price increases.'

Can VinFast Sustain Its Blistering India Start?

Can VinFast Sustain Its Blistering India Start?

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

VinFast has gone from an unknown brand to India's fifth-largest EV carmaker in just seven months, but its toughest battle is only beginning.

350,000 Tonnes Of Sugar Exports Diverted To Domestic Market

350,000 Tonnes Of Sugar Exports Diverted To Domestic Market

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Indian refiners are diverting 350,000 tonnes of sugar, originally slated for export, to the domestic market to ease a supply crunch and stabilise prices ahead of the festive season.

For ISRO, Friday Is Not About Putting Another Satellite Into Orbit

For ISRO, Friday Is Not About Putting Another Satellite Into Orbit

Rediff.com7 days ago

It is about proving that the agency can still deliver when the stakes are high.

Rayhan Thomas, Mahanth Chirravuri Make Strong Start At Korn Ferry Event

Rayhan Thomas, Mahanth Chirravuri Make Strong Start At Korn Ferry Event

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

India's Rayhan Thomas and Indian-origin Mahanth Chirravuri delivered impressive opening rounds at the AdventHealth Championship, a key Korn Ferry Tour event. Thomas shot an 8-under 64, placing him fifth, while Chirravuri's 9-under 63 put him in fourth, both in strong contention.

Nashik-Palghar Tremors: Cause For Alarm?

Nashik-Palghar Tremors: Cause For Alarm?

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

'Hydro-seismicity is a phenomenon that typically shows up during and just after the monsoon.' 'Heavy rain causes water to percolate deep into the rock, and where there are fractures, that water fills the pores and builds up what we call pore water pressure.' 'That pressure can widen existing cracks, and eventually the rock gives way -- which surfaces as tremors.'

The Kardashians Love Namrata Karad's Bags

The Kardashians Love Namrata Karad's Bags

Rediff.com7 days ago

Namrata Karad, founder of Ahikoza by BRHAM, opens up about going from working on a Hugo Boss sales floor to seeing her bags carried by Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor, Kylie Jenner, Khloe Kardashian...

US Senate passes Russia sanctions bill with 100% tariff on India, 4 others

US Senate passes Russia sanctions bill with 100% tariff on India, 4 others

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

The US Senate has overwhelmingly approved a bill, the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, which aims to punish Russia and its major petroleum product buyers, including China and India. The legislation allows the US President to impose 100 per cent tariffs on goods from the top five importers of Russian oil and gas, and also extends sanctions on Iran's energy sector. The bill, championed by the late Senator Lindsey Graham, now moves to the House of Representatives for further approval.

NTA to review internal processes after UGC-NET exam errors

NTA to review internal processes after UGC-NET exam errors

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) is reviewing its internal processes and protocols following lapses in three papers of the UGC-NET June 2026 examination, leading to re-tests for English, Commerce, and Sociology. The agency stated it proactively identified issues and is taking corrective measures to ensure fair and error-free examinations, amidst strong criticism from opposition leaders.

Kolkata's heartbreak: Messi's retirement and a city's unwavering devotion

Kolkata's heartbreak: Messi's retirement and a city's unwavering devotion

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Kolkata, a city with a deep passion for football, is grappling with Lionel Messi's international retirement. The article explores the city's unique and enduring connection to the Argentine superstar, from his memorable 2011 visit to the emotional fan reactions to his retirement, including a controversial 2023 event.

Indian Golfer Pranavi Urs Makes Strong Start In Irish Open

Indian Golfer Pranavi Urs Makes Strong Start In Irish Open

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Pranavi Urs carded a three-under 69 to secure a spot inside the top 10 after the opening round of the KPMG Women's Irish Open. While Urs showed strong form, fellow Indian golfers Diksha Dagar and Tvesa Malik struggled, both carding 74s and facing a battle to make the cut. South African Casandra Alexander leads the tournament with a stunning nine-under 63.

Why Are National Chess Champions Ignored?

Why Are National Chess Champions Ignored?

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

If winning the National Championship does not help a player make the national team, what exactly is the value of becoming India's national champion?

'You will probably see the Olympics': Mirabai on Asian Games challenge

'You will probably see the Olympics': Mirabai on Asian Games challenge

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Ace Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu is gearing up for an 'Olympic-level' competition at the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, where she expects to face the strongest lifters from China, North Korea, and Thailand, making it her toughest challenge yet.

Hindutva influencer Swatantra Bhardwaj held hours after viral video

Hindutva influencer Swatantra Bhardwaj held hours after viral video

Rediff.com5 days ago

Hindutva influencer Swatantra Bhardwaj was detained in Uttar Pradesh following a protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) demanding his arrest for allegedly assaulting a student's father and bragging about it, while the victim's daughter reported receiving rape threats and online abuse.

How Ordinary Indians Brought A Mighty Empire To Its Knees

How Ordinary Indians Brought A Mighty Empire To Its Knees

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

What Every Indian Must Know About the Quit India Movement.

Why Bangladesh Matters For India's Future

Why Bangladesh Matters For India's Future

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

For India, the guiding principle should remain clear: Engage Bangladesh as a sovereign nation and society rather than through the prism of any individual leader or political party, suggests Manoj Mohanka.

'UP Has Potential To Generate More Than 11 Million Jobs'

'UP Has Potential To Generate More Than 11 Million Jobs'

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

'Improved law and order and transparent governance have helped change UP's investment image.'

NRI Deposit Inflows Drop 23% in Q1 FY27, RBI Data Reveals

NRI Deposit Inflows Drop 23% in Q1 FY27, RBI Data Reveals

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Inflows into non-resident Indian (NRI) deposit schemes decreased by 23.24 per cent to $2.78 billion during the first quarter of FY27, down from $3.61 billion in the previous year, according to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data.

'If Inflation Persists, MPC May Review Policy Rates'

'If Inflation Persists, MPC May Review Policy Rates'

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

'A balance had to be struck between the economic cost of taking action at this point against the need not to fall behind the curve in controlling inflation and anchoring inflation expectations.'

Student bodies protest UGC-NET re-exam, demand inquiry into NTA's failures

Student bodies protest UGC-NET re-exam, demand inquiry into NTA's failures

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Student organisations across India are protesting the National Testing Agency's (NTA) decision to re-conduct the UGC-NET examinations for three subjects, citing repeated lapses that jeopardise students' academic and career plans. They are demanding the NTA be scrapped or held accountable for its failures.

Harsh Tokas eyes India's first Commonwealth Games judo gold

Harsh Tokas eyes India's first Commonwealth Games judo gold

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Indian judoka Harsh Tokas, inspired by Olympic champion Lasha Bekauri, is determined to win India's first-ever Commonwealth Games gold medal in judo at his debut in Glasgow, competing in the men's 81kg category.

Why India's Youth Anger Exploded

Why India's Youth Anger Exploded

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The failure of the State when it directly affects our lives, through a corrupt exam system, has produced this current anger, points out Aakar Patel.

New Study Reveals White Matter's Crucial Role In Cognitive Health

New Study Reveals White Matter's Crucial Role In Cognitive Health

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

A study conducted on older adults in India suggests that the health of the brain's white matter wiring can help mitigate the cognitive effects of gray matter loss, supporting overall cognitive health. Researchers found that healthier superficial white matter is linked to stronger language skills and may act as a source of resilience against cognitive decline.

Tata Sons Listing: Suspense Continues

Tata Sons Listing: Suspense Continues

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Tata Sons approached the RBI in 2024 seeking de-registration after becoming debt-free, a move that would allow it to remain a privately held, unlisted company. The application has remained pending.

A Sarpanch Who Is Changing Lives

A Sarpanch Who Is Changing Lives

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Smriti Singh was alarmed to learn that several girls and women in her village were using ash, wheat stubble and tattered rags during menstruation because they could not afford or access sanitary pads.

Bengal to fast-track CAA hearings, 23,000 get citizenship: CM Suvendu

Bengal to fast-track CAA hearings, 23,000 get citizenship: CM Suvendu

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Monday said that hearings of applications for citizenship under the CAA will soon be over, and so far the state has issued certificates to 23,000 people out of 2.30 lakh applicants.

Why Nobody Cares About Building Toilets

Why Nobody Cares About Building Toilets

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

We raid restaurants for cockroaches but never raid the roadside. Public hygiene runs entirely on faith and fumes. Even after so many years of being a free nation, points out Binu Alex.

Irdai's crackdown on insurer operating costs signals stricter compliance

Irdai's crackdown on insurer operating costs signals stricter compliance

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India's (Irdai) recent actions against insurers for breaching expense of management (EoM) limits indicate a serious commitment to enforcing operating and distribution cost controls, according to industry experts.

OpenAI Launches ChatGPT For Teens

OpenAI Launches ChatGPT For Teens

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

'ChatGPT for Teens brings together learning and safety features in one unified experience, supporting active, collaborative learning outside the classroom while enabling more intentional and age-appropriate use of AI.'

Govt sought removal of 2.44 lakh URLs in five months

Govt sought removal of 2.44 lakh URLs in five months

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Government departments requested social media platforms to remove 2.44 lakh pieces of content between March and July, with states initiating 82% of these requests. The IT Intermediaries Rules 2021 were amended to reduce takedown time to three hours. The PIB Fact Check unit clarified its role in content moderation, refuting claims of automated blocking by Meta and emphasising the need to address lawlessness in cyberspace.

Will Trump Impose 100 Per Cent Tariffs On India?

Will Trump Impose 100 Per Cent Tariffs On India?

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

It is plain to see that the US senate bill's real objective is to derail India's time-tested strategic partnership with Russia, points out Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

DRI uncovers Rs 2,500-cr areca nut import fraud; 9 held

DRI uncovers Rs 2,500-cr areca nut import fraud; 9 held

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has dismantled a large-scale network involved in fraudulently importing South-East Asian areca nuts into India. The syndicate falsely declared the nuts as Bangladeshi origin to evade customs duty, leading to a potential revenue loss of over Rs 2,500 crore. Nine individuals have been arrested in connection with the scam.

Tata Motors PV: Margin Pressures May Dampen Strong Volume Growth

Tata Motors PV: Margin Pressures May Dampen Strong Volume Growth

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles (TMPV) reported Q1FY27 results showing significant margin pressures at both Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and its domestic operations, despite strong volume growth in the India business. Analysts expect these margin headwinds to persist, potentially offsetting gains from increased sales and new launches.