News for 'Free State'

Mumbai civic polls: Mahayuti woos voters with AI, free bus travel for women

Mumbai civic polls: Mahayuti woos voters with AI, free bus travel for women

Rediff.com11 Jan 2026

The Mahayuti alliance has released its manifesto for the upcoming Mumbai civic elections, promising technology-led governance, concessions for women, and addressing issues like illegal immigration and infrastructure.

Elvish Yadav 'Relieved' After Supreme Court Quashes Snake Venom Case

Elvish Yadav 'Relieved' After Supreme Court Quashes Snake Venom Case

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

YouTuber Elvish Yadav expresses relief and questions the impact of harassment after the Supreme Court quashes the snake venom case against him, citing procedural flaws.

IPL: RCB to assemble at Chinnaswamy on March 15

IPL: RCB to assemble at Chinnaswamy on March 15

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) president, Venkatesh Prasad, has expressed confidence that the remaining security enhancements at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium will be completed before the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) squad arrives on March 15.

Iran war: Fiscal pressures on govt may mount next FY, say experts

Iran war: Fiscal pressures on govt may mount next FY, say experts

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Revenue collection next financial year may be affected, and, along with this, subsidies on food and fertilisers can go up if the war in West Asia drags for long, according to experts.

Uddhav Sena-MNS manifesto promises free power, allowance for domestic helps

Uddhav Sena-MNS manifesto promises free power, allowance for domestic helps

Rediff.com4 Jan 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS release a joint manifesto for Mumbai civic polls, promising free power, allowances for domestic helps, and property tax waivers.

Aman Raj Leads IGPL Season Opener After Injury Struggles

Aman Raj Leads IGPL Season Opener After Injury Struggles

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

Aman Raj, after battling injuries, takes a commanding lead at the IGPL season-opener in Chandigarh, with Gaganjeet Bhullar trailing behind.

'Kumbh Mela girl' Monalisa marries boyfriend in Kerala; seeks police help

'Kumbh Mela girl' Monalisa marries boyfriend in Kerala; seeks police help

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

Monalisa Bhonsle, who gained fame during the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela, sought police protection in Thiruvananthapuram to stay with her boyfriend and marry him, alleging her father was trying to forcibly take her back home.

Punjab Police Arrest 167 in Anti-Gangster Campaign, 75 in Anti-Drug Drive

Punjab Police Arrest 167 in Anti-Gangster Campaign, 75 in Anti-Drug Drive

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

Punjab Police have arrested 167 people in an anti-gangster campaign and 75 drug smugglers, seizing weapons and drugs as part of ongoing efforts to combat crime.

HC questions DU's blanket ban on campus protests, seeks explanation

HC questions DU's blanket ban on campus protests, seeks explanation

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

The Delhi High Court has questioned the blanket ban on protests and demonstrations on the Delhi University campus, seeking justification from the university and Delhi Police. The court acknowledged the need for balance but emphasized that a complete prohibition is likely untenable.

Maha assembly passes anti-conversion Bill; CM says not against any religion

Maha assembly passes anti-conversion Bill; CM says not against any religion

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

The Maharashtra assembly has passed the Freedom of Religion Bill 2026, introducing strict measures to prevent religious conversions through coercion, fraud, or marriage, sparking debate over constitutional rights and religious freedom.

Lahiri Finishes Strong at LIV Golf Hong Kong

Lahiri Finishes Strong at LIV Golf Hong Kong

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

Anirban Lahiri finished tied for 16th at the LIV Golf Hong Kong tournament, while Carlos Ortiz took the lead with a stunning 10-under 60.

Trump urges countries to send warships to open Hormuz Strait

Trump urges countries to send warships to open Hormuz Strait

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Trump also called upon China, France, and Japan, among others, to send ships to the Strait of Hormuz.

Maharashtra Announces 'Come Early, Go Early' Initiative for Women Government Staff

Maharashtra Announces 'Come Early, Go Early' Initiative for Women Government Staff

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

The Maharashtra government has announced a flexible work time initiative for women state government employees working in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The 'Come Early, Go Early' initiative will allow women employees flexible reporting times and earlier departure times.

India Out of AFC Women's Asian Cup After Loss to Chinese Taipei

India Out of AFC Women's Asian Cup After Loss to Chinese Taipei

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

India's campaign in the AFC Women's Asian Cup ended with a 3-1 defeat to Chinese Taipei, highlighting their inability to convert chances despite dominating the game.

Fabrice Kah's Goal Secures Victory for Sreenidi Deccan Against Gokulam Kerala

Fabrice Kah's Goal Secures Victory for Sreenidi Deccan Against Gokulam Kerala

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Sreenidi Deccan FC defeated Gokulam Kerala FC 1-0 in an Indian Football League match, with Fabrice Kah scoring the decisive goal in the second half.

Yes Bank Introduces Exclusive Salary Account for Working Women

Yes Bank Introduces Exclusive Salary Account for Working Women

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

Yes Bank has launched a salary account designed for working women, offering financial protection, healthcare benefits, lifestyle privileges, and wealth-creation opportunities.

Late Substitutes Spark India U-17 Women's Football Team's Victory Over Myanmar

Late Substitutes Spark India U-17 Women's Football Team's Victory Over Myanmar

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

The Indian U-17 women's football team defeated Myanmar 3-2 in a friendly match, with substitutes playing a key role in the late comeback victory.

India Responds to West Asia Crisis: Six Nationals Dead, One Missing

India Responds to West Asia Crisis: Six Nationals Dead, One Missing

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed the deaths of six Indian nationals and one missing person amidst the escalating conflict in West Asia, detailing ongoing efforts for repatriation and diplomatic engagement.

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.

Last-Gasp Goal Earns Kerala Blasters a Point Against East Bengal

Last-Gasp Goal Earns Kerala Blasters a Point Against East Bengal

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Kerala Blasters FC secured a 1-1 draw against East Bengal FC in an Indian Super League match, with Muhammad Ajsal scoring a late equaliser after Youssef Ezzejjari had given East Bengal the lead.

Indore Organisation Burns Effigies of Women Accused of Child Murder

Indore Organisation Burns Effigies of Women Accused of Child Murder

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

A social organisation in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, staged a controversial protest during 'Holika Dahan', burning pictures of 11 women accused of murdering children, prompting a police investigation.

Jharkhand Health Department Investigates Hospital Over Newborn's Body Transport

Jharkhand Health Department Investigates Hospital Over Newborn's Body Transport

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

The Jharkhand health department has launched an investigation into allegations that a hospital in Chakradharpur failed to provide an ambulance to a parent to transport his dead newborn, forcing him to carry the body in a box.

BJP Blames Kerala Govt for Water Crisis Ahead of Attukal Pongala

BJP Blames Kerala Govt for Water Crisis Ahead of Attukal Pongala

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Kerala BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar criticizes the state government for the water crisis in Thiruvananthapuram ahead of the Attukal Pongala festival, alleging negligence and failure to utilize funds. He also addressed the Gulf conflict and political alliances in the state.

Rodriguez Double Propels NorthEast United to Victory Over Jamshedpur

Rodriguez Double Propels NorthEast United to Victory Over Jamshedpur

Rediff.com15 Mar 2026

NorthEast United FC secured their first win of the Indian Super League season with a 2-1 victory over Jamshedpur FC, thanks to two goals from Andy Rodriguez.

Ten-Man Punjab FC Secure Resilient Draw Against FC Goa

Ten-Man Punjab FC Secure Resilient Draw Against FC Goa

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

Punjab FC, despite playing with ten men for a significant portion of the match, managed to secure a 1-1 draw against FC Goa in the Indian Super League.

'So jaao, theek hai': Harish Rana prepares to say final goodbye

'So jaao, theek hai': Harish Rana prepares to say final goodbye

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

After a landmark Supreme Court ruling, the family of Harish Rana, comatose for 12 years, prepares for his passive euthanasia, marking a significant moment in India's end-of-life care debate.

Nadda Alleges Bengal Helping Infiltrators, Endangering Original Inhabitants

Nadda Alleges Bengal Helping Infiltrators, Endangering Original Inhabitants

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Union Minister JP Nadda accuses the West Bengal government of aiding infiltrators, claiming it will lead to original inhabitants becoming a minority. He also criticizes the TMC for alleged corruption and failure to implement the Ayushman Bharat scheme.

Maha tables stricter anti-conversion Bill, proposes 7-year jail term

Maha tables stricter anti-conversion Bill, proposes 7-year jail term

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

The Maharashtra government has introduced the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill 2026, which aims to prohibit religious conversions carried out through coercion, fraud, or marriage, with stringent penalties for violations.

Saini Targets Rivals, Courts OBCs in Punjab

Saini Targets Rivals, Courts OBCs in Punjab

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini addressed the 'Saini Samaj' in Punjab, appealing to the OBC community ahead of the upcoming state elections. He criticized rival parties for neglecting OBCs and highlighted the BJP's commitment to their welfare.

Supreme Court Dismisses Snake Venom Case Against Elvish Yadav

Supreme Court Dismisses Snake Venom Case Against Elvish Yadav

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

The Supreme Court has quashed the FIR against Elvish Yadav, who was arrested for allegedly using snake venom at a rave party in Noida. Yadav expresses relief and questions who will compensate for the harassment he and his family faced.

Indian Women's Hockey Team Secures World Cup Berth Despite Loss to England in Qualifiers

Indian Women's Hockey Team Secures World Cup Berth Despite Loss to England in Qualifiers

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

The Indian women's hockey team qualified for the FIH Hockey World Cup despite losing to England in the qualifiers final.

Badal Accuses AAP of Deteriorating Punjab Law and Order

Badal Accuses AAP of Deteriorating Punjab Law and Order

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal has criticised the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab, alleging a decline in law and order and accusing them of using financial schemes to sway voters ahead of elections.

Woman Delivers Baby at Hospital Gate After Ambulance Driver Leaves Her

Woman Delivers Baby at Hospital Gate After Ambulance Driver Leaves Her

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

A 28-year-old woman delivered a baby girl at the main gate of a Raisen district hospital after a Janani Express ambulance driver allegedly left her outside. Hospital staff assisted the woman and her newborn, and the hospital is investigating the incident.

States Have Thrown A Spanner In RBI's Easy-Money Machine

States Have Thrown A Spanner In RBI's Easy-Money Machine

Rediff.com7 Jan 2026

State debt is rising because revenues are disappointingly weak. Ten states have debt ratios exceeding 30 per cent. In 2023-2024, states were borrowing simply to meet day-to-day expenses, points out Debashis Basu.

Kathua Police Foil Bovine Smuggling Attempt, Rescuing 20 Animals

Kathua Police Foil Bovine Smuggling Attempt, Rescuing 20 Animals

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

Police in Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, rescued 20 bovine animals from smugglers in two separate operations, arresting two suspects and impounding two vehicles.

India Navigates West Asia Crisis: Ensuring Energy Security and Citizen Safety

India Navigates West Asia Crisis: Ensuring Energy Security and Citizen Safety

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

India addresses the escalating conflict in West Asia, outlining its diplomatic efforts to ensure energy security, the safety of its citizens, and advocating for a peaceful resolution through dialogue.

LPG cylinder price hiked by Rs 60 amid Iran war

LPG cylinder price hiked by Rs 60 amid Iran war

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

Domestic LPG and commercial cylinder prices in India have seen a significant increase, driven by rising global energy costs linked to the conflict in West Asia. This marks the second price hike in less than a year, impacting households and businesses.

Rs 18.63 Crore Worth of Narcotics Destroyed in Navi Mumbai

Rs 18.63 Crore Worth of Narcotics Destroyed in Navi Mumbai

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

Narcotics worth Rs 18.63 crore were destroyed in Navi Mumbai as part of the 'Nasha Mukt (Drug Free) Navi Mumbai' campaign. The destruction involved drugs seized in 55 cases and is part of a larger effort that has seen drugs worth Rs 38.45 crore seized in 114 cases. Recent crackdowns include busting a gang from Punjab involved in heroin and opium peddling.

Set up gaushalas to keep highways free of stray animals, SC tells NHAI

Set up gaushalas to keep highways free of stray animals, SC tells NHAI

Rediff.com29 Jan 2026

The Supreme Court has suggested that the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) consider establishing gaushalas (cowsheds) under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to care for stray animals entering highways. The court also expressed dissatisfaction with several states' efforts to manage stray dog populations and suggested developing an app to report stray animal sightings.

SC steps in to fast-track acid attack cases nationwide

SC steps in to fast-track acid attack cases nationwide

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

The Supreme Court of India has directed all high courts to establish timelines for trial courts to expedite the conclusion of acid attack cases across the country, emphasising the need for a more proactive approach and adequate compensation for victims.