News for 'Free Society'

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.'

'Traitor, gimmick': Rahul targets Modi over economy, 'Melody'

'Traitor, gimmick': Rahul targets Modi over economy, 'Melody'

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for gifting 'Melody' toffees to Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, calling it a 'gimmick' while India faces an 'economic storm'. He accused Modi of prioritising public relations over addressing the struggles of farmers, labourers, and youth, a sentiment echoed by other Congress leaders.

'Don't Know Whether Vijay Understands...'

'Don't Know Whether Vijay Understands...'

Rediff.com16 May 2026

'...the enormous responsibility and faith the youth has put on his shoulders, that he is going to solve their problems.'

Why Modi Empowered ED To Tackle Financial Crimes

Why Modi Empowered ED To Tackle Financial Crimes

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Union Minister Pankaj Chaudhary stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi strengthened the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to combat financial crimes like money laundering and corruption, dismissing allegations of it being used to target political opponents.

Global Leaders React To Shooting At White House Correspondents' Dinner

Global Leaders React To Shooting At White House Correspondents' Dinner

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

World leaders have expressed relief and condemnation following a shooting incident outside the White House Correspondents' Dinner, where US President Donald Trump and other top officials were present. Leaders from various countries reiterated that political violence has no place in a democracy.

J-K: Hero of Hill Kaka and Op Sarp Vinash veteran Tahir Fazal dies at 62

J-K: Hero of Hill Kaka and Op Sarp Vinash veteran Tahir Fazal dies at 62

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

The Army paid a solemn tribute to Fazal, who died on Thursday after a brief illness. They remembered him as a "valiant son of the soil" who stood shoulder to shoulder with troops during Operation Sarp Vinash, which successfully dismantled terrorists' operational hub in Hill Kaka.

'Vijay Not Only Had Star Power. He Had Timing'

'Vijay Not Only Had Star Power. He Had Timing'

Rediff.com13 May 2026

'Vijay entered politics at a much better age compared to Rajnikanth and Kamal Haasan. His fans are young and he has at least 2-3 decades ahead of him.'

Bengal turns saffron, Vijay shakes TN; Mamata, Stalin lose; BJP scores hat-trick in Assam

Bengal turns saffron, Vijay shakes TN; Mamata, Stalin lose; BJP scores hat-trick in Assam

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The BJP is showing strong leads in West Bengal and Assam, while actor Vijay's party is making a significant debut in Tamil Nadu. The Congress is ahead in Kerala, offering some consolation amid the changing political landscape in the state elections.

Karnataka varsity defies govt ban, holds event on Deendayal Upadhyay

Karnataka varsity defies govt ban, holds event on Deendayal Upadhyay

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Despite a government ban, Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) in Mysuru proceeded with a lecture series on RSS ideologue Deendayal Upadhyay, featuring virtual and physical attendance by high-profile figures, sparking political controversy and raising questions about university autonomy and ideological influence.

Why Modi Gave More Powers To The Enforcement Directorate

Why Modi Gave More Powers To The Enforcement Directorate

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Union Minister Pankaj Chaudhary stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi strengthened the Enforcement Directorate to combat financial crimes like money laundering and corruption, dismissing allegations of it being used to target political opponents.

Ex-Naxalites in Balaghat Find New Purpose Through Skill Training

Ex-Naxalites in Balaghat Find New Purpose Through Skill Training

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

Surrendered Naxalites in Madhya Pradesh's Balaghat district are learning new skills such as sewing and driving as part of their reintegration into mainstream society, with the support of the local police.

UN chief 'deeply troubled' by Trump's Iran remarks, urges Hormuz freedom

UN chief 'deeply troubled' by Trump's Iran remarks, urges Hormuz freedom

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed deep concern over US President Donald Trump's warning to Iran and appealed for the re-establishment of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Delhi Police Investigate Assault on Army Brigadier and Son After Public Drinking Dispute

Delhi Police Investigate Assault on Army Brigadier and Son After Public Drinking Dispute

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

An Army brigadier and his son were allegedly assaulted in Delhi after the officer objected to public drinking. Police have registered an FIR and are investigating the incident.

Spanish police probe Islamophobic chants at Spain-Egypt friendly

Spanish police probe Islamophobic chants at Spain-Egypt friendly

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Spanish police investigate Islamophobic chants during Spain vs Egypt friendly, drawing condemnation from government and football authorities over racism in stadiums.

Meitei man shot dead, Kuki wife set free by militants in Manipur's Churachandpur

Meitei man shot dead, Kuki wife set free by militants in Manipur's Churachandpur

Rediff.com22 Jan 2026

The kidnappers are suspected to be members of the United Kuki National Army (UNKA), a non-signatory to the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement.

Why Justice Manmohan Urges Viewing Criticism As Suggestion

Why Justice Manmohan Urges Viewing Criticism As Suggestion

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Supreme Court judge Justice Manmohan stated that criticism of the existing legal system should be viewed as a suggestion for improvement rather than a condemnation. He highlighted the importance of addressing shortcomings to elevate the system and urged law firms to adopt a global perspective on legal education. He also emphasised the need for human oversight in technology and addressing the issue of pendency in the legal system.

Global Leaders React To Shooting At White House Correspondents' Dinner

Global Leaders React To Shooting At White House Correspondents' Dinner

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

World leaders have expressed their relief and condemnation following a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, emphasising that political violence has no place in a democracy.

Global support pours in for Trump after White House dinner shooting

Global support pours in for Trump after White House dinner shooting

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

World leaders have expressed their relief and condemnation following a shooting incident near the White House Correspondents' Dinner, emphasising that political violence has no place in a democracy. Leaders including Narendra Modi, Mark Carney, and others have voiced their support and concern for President Trump and all attendees.

10 Times Nicole Kidman Stunned Us On OTT

10 Times Nicole Kidman Stunned Us On OTT

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

As Nicole Kidman delivers yet another impressive performance in the OTT series Scarpetta, we explore some of her other compelling movies and shows.

India Dismisses US Religious Freedom Concerns as 'Distorted'

India Dismisses US Religious Freedom Concerns as 'Distorted'

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The Indian government has dismissed the US Commission on International Religious Freedom's (USCIRF) report on religious freedom in India, stating that it does not recognise the commission's authority to comment on the rights of Indian citizens.

UP Police Prioritises Preventive Policing and Speedy Case Resolution

UP Police Prioritises Preventive Policing and Speedy Case Resolution

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police Rajeev Krishna has directed officers to strengthen preventive policing and ensure timely disposal of investigations across the state.

'People Voted In Anger Against Mamata Banerjee'

'People Voted In Anger Against Mamata Banerjee'

Rediff.com4 May 2026

'The nepotism, corruption, bad governance and 15 years of rampant crime that has happened across West Bengal under her rule led to her ouster.'

SAD (Punar Surjit) Launches Vision Document 'Akali Declaration 2026'

SAD (Punar Surjit) Launches Vision Document 'Akali Declaration 2026'

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The Shiromani Akali Dal (Punar Surjit) has launched its 'vision document' outlining its ideological direction and commitment to the rise of the 'Panth' and the progress of Punjab. The 'Akali Declaration 2026' addresses issues concerning youth, farmers, women, and other sections of society, with a focus on education, health, and internal party reforms.

Kerala Police Investigate AI Video Defaming PM and Election Commission on X

Kerala Police Investigate AI Video Defaming PM and Election Commission on X

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Kerala Police have registered a case against social media platform X and one of its handles for circulating an AI-generated video allegedly depicting the Prime Minister and the Election Commission of India in a misleading and defamatory manner.

FIR registered against X for AI video on Modi, EC chief

FIR registered against X for AI video on Modi, EC chief

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Kerala Police have registered a case against X and one of its handles for circulating an AI-generated video allegedly depicting the Prime Minister and the Election Commission of India in a misleading and defamatory manner.

Banerjee Claims BJP Stoking Social Discord to Loot India

Banerjee Claims BJP Stoking Social Discord to Loot India

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of stoking fights among all sections of society and attempting to loot the country by exploiting these divisions. She also criticised the BJP's economic policies and alleged discrimination in welfare schemes.

What NSA Ajit Doval Told 16 Prominent Indian Muslims

What NSA Ajit Doval Told 16 Prominent Indian Muslims

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

'I cannot imagine that any NSA before Ajit Doval would have given us this kind of time and this kind of engagement. They would have offered slogans, or nothing at all. That, too, tells you something.'

'Vijay Is Not Accessible Even To His Parents'

'Vijay Is Not Accessible Even To His Parents'

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

'He is not accessible even to his family, his wife or his mother or his father. No one.' 'He has created a barrier so that nobody can go and talk to him.' 'This kind of a mentality is a big question mark in politics.'

Rouble Nagi, Winner, Global Teacher Prize: 'A Single Teacher's Faith Can Alter The Trajectory Of A Child's Life'

Rouble Nagi, Winner, Global Teacher Prize: 'A Single Teacher's Faith Can Alter The Trajectory Of A Child's Life'

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

'Many of the children I work with had never attended school before and had never been given the right environment or opportunity to learn.'
'When education became accessible -- through flexible learning spaces, creative methods and community-based classrooms -- these same children began to thrive.'
'Over time, many who had never stepped into a formal classroom not only entered the education system but continued their studies further, with some going on to university.'

Maoist Surrenders Signal Insurgency's Endgame

Maoist Surrenders Signal Insurgency's Endgame

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

As the March 31 deadline arrives, a wave of Maoist surrenders suggests insurgency's end, but political and social concerns remain.

Uniform Civil Code, One Nation One Election BJP's unfinished agenda: Modi

Uniform Civil Code, One Nation One Election BJP's unfinished agenda: Modi

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the BJP's 47th Foundation Day, highlighting the Uniform Civil Code and 'One Nation, One Election' as key unfinished agendas. He also reaffirmed the party's commitment to implementing women's reservation in the 2029 elections and criticised dynastic politics.

Odisha CM: Maoist Menace to Be History Soon, Focus on Women's Safety

Odisha CM: Maoist Menace to Be History Soon, Focus on Women's Safety

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced significant progress in combating Maoist insurgency, stating it will soon be a thing of the past. He also addressed concerns about crimes against women, highlighting the government's commitment to justice and a zero-tolerance policy.

Rajasthan High Court Orders Tree Planting as Community Service for Accused in ATM Theft Case

Rajasthan High Court Orders Tree Planting as Community Service for Accused in ATM Theft Case

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

The Rajasthan High Court has granted bail to two accused in an ATM theft case, ordering them to plant trees as community service, emphasising a reformative approach to criminal justice.

Family Bids Farewell to Harish Rana, First Indian Granted Passive Euthanasia

Family Bids Farewell to Harish Rana, First Indian Granted Passive Euthanasia

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The family of Harish Rana, the first person in India permitted passive euthanasia, bid him farewell at his cremation in Delhi. Rana's organs were donated, and mourners gathered to pay their respects after a 13-year ordeal following a tragic accident.

India's Supreme Court Addresses the Deep-Rooted Issue of Crimes Against Women

India's Supreme Court Addresses the Deep-Rooted Issue of Crimes Against Women

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court of India has expressed concern over the continued prevalence of domestic abuse and crimes against women, highlighting that these issues are symptomatic of a deeper societal problem rooted in patriarchy, despite economic and legal advancements.

Assam polls: Congress, Raijor Dal finalise alliance

Assam polls: Congress, Raijor Dal finalise alliance

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

The Congress and Raijor Dal have finalised a seat-sharing agreement for the Assam assembly elections, with Congress leaving 11 constituencies for Raijor Dal and a friendly contest in two others. The alliance aims to defeat the BJP government.

'He is in a happy place now': Harish Rana, India's 1st passive euthanasia case, cremated

'He is in a happy place now': Harish Rana, India's 1st passive euthanasia case, cremated

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The family of Harish Rana, India's first passive euthanasia patient, bid him farewell at his cremation in Delhi. Rana's death follows a Supreme Court ruling allowing the withdrawal of life support.

PMK Leader Criticises DMK Government Over Tamil Nadu Law and Order

PMK Leader Criticises DMK Government Over Tamil Nadu Law and Order

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss has criticised the DMK government over the law and order situation in Tamil Nadu, citing the Tuticorin rape and murder case and other incidents as evidence of police failure to monitor and prevent crimes.

Key Maoist Leader Surrenders, Marking Progress in Chhattisgarh's Anti-Insurgency Efforts

Key Maoist Leader Surrenders, Marking Progress in Chhattisgarh's Anti-Insurgency Efforts

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

A senior Maoist commander, Papa Rao, surrendered with his team in Chhattisgarh, signalling a significant blow to Left-Wing Extremism in the region. This event underscores the impact of sustained security pressure and rehabilitation efforts on the Maoist movement.

Why I Want Iran To Win

Why I Want Iran To Win

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

For that to happen America does not have to lose. It only has to do the right thing, asserts Aakar Patel.