News for 'Free State'

Acid Attack on Schoolgirl Sparks Outrage in Maharashtra Assembly

Acid Attack on Schoolgirl Sparks Outrage in Maharashtra Assembly

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

The Maharashtra government is facing criticism after an acid attack on a Class 6 girl student in Sangamner. The Congress party has slammed the government in the legislative assembly, alleging a deterioration in law and order in the state. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of women and girls in Maharashtra.

BJP Alleges Mamata Banerjee a 'Threat' to Bengal, Dismisses Danger Claims

BJP Alleges Mamata Banerjee a 'Threat' to Bengal, Dismisses Danger Claims

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

The BJP has accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of using 'victim card' politics to gain sympathy during the assembly elections, dismissing claims of threats to her life as a political strategy.

India thrash Bhutan in Under-23 men's Tri-Nation tourney

India thrash Bhutan in Under-23 men's Tri-Nation tourney

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

India pumped five past Bhutan in the Under-23 men's Tri-Nation Football Championship 2026 at the Golden Jubilee Stadium in Yupia, Arunachal Pradesh, on Saturday.

Zubeen Garg drowned accidentally, no evidence of foul play: Singapore court

Zubeen Garg drowned accidentally, no evidence of foul play: Singapore court

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

A Singapore coroner's inquest has officially ruled the death of Indian singer Zubeen Garg as an accidental drowning, concluding a thorough investigation that found no evidence of foul play and highlighting the role of alcohol intoxication.

'Kasab Drank Urine, Didn't Eat Biryani'

'Kasab Drank Urine, Didn't Eat Biryani'

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

'The jail staff told me Kasab was served only jail food and not biryani.' 'They told me that Kasab was beaten regularly after court proceedings.' 'And they filled Kasab's bottle with urine so that whenever he felt thirsty he used to drink urine.'

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.

Don't Expect Too Much From Islamabad Summit

Don't Expect Too Much From Islamabad Summit

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

The core issues to be settled -- access to Hormuz, Israel's aggression in Lebanon, the question of Iran's nuclear programme, sanctions relief and compensation -- are thorny enough to require weeks of patient negotiation. The most likely outcome of the opening sessions is that both sides take the measure of each other, establish what is and is not negotiable, and return home without having broken anything. That would count as progress.

Maoist debate sparks fierce NDA-UPA war of words in Lok Sabha

Maoist debate sparks fierce NDA-UPA war of words in Lok Sabha

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

The Lok Sabha witnessed a heated debate between BJP and Congress members regarding the handling of Naxalism, with the BJP accusing the previous UPA government of failing to contain left-wing extremism and the Congress defending its efforts to curb the threat.

Kadian and Damani set up CCI Snooker Classic Final Showdown

Kadian and Damani set up CCI Snooker Classic Final Showdown

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

Digvijay Kadian of Punjab will face Brijesh Damani of Petroleum Sports Promotion Board in the final of the CCI Snooker Classic after both recorded semifinal victories.

Aditi Ashok in contention at Fortinet Founders Cup after impressive second round

Aditi Ashok in contention at Fortinet Founders Cup after impressive second round

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

Aditi Ashok carded a second round of 6-under 66 to move into tied third alongside world number one Jeeno Thitikul of Thailand at the Fortinet Founders Cup.

HC curbs 'trial by media' in molestation case, orders to take down posts

HC curbs 'trial by media' in molestation case, orders to take down posts

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

The Delhi High Court has directed the removal of defamatory social media posts concerning the alleged molestation of a journalist on a flight, citing a violation of the accused's right to dignity and fair trial. The court also criticised media houses and actor Richa Chadha for amplifying unverified allegations.

Urged Modi in 2010 to conserve Great Indian Bustard: Jairam Ramesh

Urged Modi in 2010 to conserve Great Indian Bustard: Jairam Ramesh

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh recalls writing to Narendra Modi in 2010 about conserving the Great Indian Bustard, amid recent announcements of successful conservation efforts.

PIX: Kosovo stun Slovakia, one win from World Cup dream

PIX: Kosovo stun Slovakia, one win from World Cup dream

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

Kosovo, Italy, Czech Republic, and Bosnia and Herzegovina have advanced to the World Cup playoff finals after securing victories in their respective semi-final matches. Thrilling encounters saw underdog triumphs and penalty shootout drama.

Haryana Police Crackdown Ahead of Holi

Haryana Police Crackdown Ahead of Holi

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Haryana Police launched 'Operation Aakraman-21' across the state, resulting in numerous arrests and seizures of drugs, illicit liquor, and illegal arms.

India has adequate fuel stocks, commercial LPG restored to 70%: Govt

India has adequate fuel stocks, commercial LPG restored to 70%: Govt

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The ministry of petroleum and natural gas on Friday reiterated that India has sufficient stock of crude oil, petrol and diesel, while ensuring an uninterrupted supply of LNG and LPG despite disruptions caused by the ongoing West Asia conflict.

Iran wanted to talk, I said 'too late': Trump

Iran wanted to talk, I said 'too late': Trump

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Trump said that Iran's leadership, along with its air defence, Air Force, and Navy are 'gone'.

Attacks on commercial, civilian ships unacceptable: India

Attacks on commercial, civilian ships unacceptable: India

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

Addressing the 36th extraordinary session of the Council of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) held on Thursday in London, the Indian envoy said, "India remains deeply concerned about the evolving situation and continues to call for de-escalation through dialogue and diplomacy, with utmost restraint and priority being given to the safety of civilians."

Jodhpur Woman, Married at 12, Successfully Annulls Child Marriage

Jodhpur Woman, Married at 12, Successfully Annulls Child Marriage

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

A 21-year-old woman in Jodhpur has successfully annulled her child marriage, which took place when she was only 12 years old. The court emphasized the adverse impact of child marriage and the importance of eliminating the practice.

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.

US Special Envoy Meets Sri Lankan President Amidst Regional Tensions

US Special Envoy Meets Sri Lankan President Amidst Regional Tensions

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

US Special Representative Sergio Gor met with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to discuss strengthening bilateral relations and Sri Lanka's stance on the Middle East crisis. The visit occurs amidst regional tensions and US efforts to secure trade routes in the Indo-Pacific.

Aizawl FC Overcomes Deficit to Win Mizo Derby

Aizawl FC Overcomes Deficit to Win Mizo Derby

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Aizawl FC recovered from a 2-0 deficit to defeat Chanmari FC 3-2 in a thrilling I-League match, with Laldawngzuala scoring twice.

ISL: Sandesh Jhingan's Late Goal Rescues FC Goa Against Chennaiyin FC

ISL: Sandesh Jhingan's Late Goal Rescues FC Goa Against Chennaiyin FC

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Sandesh Jhingan's late header ensured a 1-1 draw for FC Goa against Chennaiyin FC in a closely contested Indian Super League match.

Sri Lanka rejects landing request by US warplane

Sri Lanka rejects landing request by US warplane

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

Sri Lanka's President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced that the country refused permission for the US to land two warplanes at Mattala International Airport, citing a commitment to neutrality amidst rising tensions in the Middle East.

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.

Talwar and Sheoran Joint Leaders After Round Three of Indorama Ventures Open

Talwar and Sheoran Joint Leaders After Round Three of Indorama Ventures Open

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Saptak Talwar and Dhruv Sheoran emerged as joint leaders after the third round of the DP World PGTI's Indorama Ventures Open Golf Championship, with Manu Gandas close behind.

Bengal polls: CEC warns of action over law and order lapses

Bengal polls: CEC warns of action over law and order lapses

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

The Election Commission has warned against any lapses in maintaining law and order ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections, questioning the absence of a Narcotics Advisory Committee in the state and directing strict monitoring of financial transactions.

Shivshankar Menon: 'Pakistan's Insider Threat Is Serious'

Shivshankar Menon: 'Pakistan's Insider Threat Is Serious'

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

'Pakistan's is the only military-controlled nuclear weapons programme in the world.' 'As people get radicalised, the risk of a brigadier or pilot taking matters into their own hands is a real concern.'

Day after Trump call, UK weighs 'Octopus' anti-drone shield in Gulf

Day after Trump call, UK weighs 'Octopus' anti-drone shield in Gulf

Rediff.com15 Mar 2026

Specifically, military experts are assessing if the 'Octopus' interceptor anti-drone system, produced in the UK to support Ukraine in countering Russian threats, could be repurposed to strengthen British protections against Iran's Shahed drones.

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.

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.

Foreign Nationals' Arrest Exposes Security Gaps on India-Myanmar Border

Foreign Nationals' Arrest Exposes Security Gaps on India-Myanmar Border

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Indian security agencies have arrested seven foreign nationals, including a US security analyst and six Ukrainians, for allegedly entering India illegally from Myanmar and suspected of training insurgent groups. The arrests have raised concerns about security vulnerabilities along the India-Myanmar border and triggered diplomatic friction.

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.

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.

Myanmar insurgent training: 7 foreigners' phones sent for analysis

Myanmar insurgent training: 7 foreigners' phones sent for analysis

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

A Delhi court has granted the National Investigation Agency (NIA) 11-day custody of several foreign nationals accused of training Myanmar-based Ethnic Armed Groups (EAGs) known to support insurgent groups in India.

Probe into Foreigners' Activities Aims to Uncover Conspiracy Against India

Probe into Foreigners' Activities Aims to Uncover Conspiracy Against India

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Security agencies in India are investigating a potential conspiracy involving arrested foreigners, including a US mercenary, who allegedly aimed to exploit Indian ethnic groups to undermine national security. The investigation involves data extraction from mobile phones and scrutiny of social media accounts to uncover the full extent of the plot and identify all involved parties.

YouTuber Elvish Yadav 'Relieved' After Snake Venom Case Quashed

YouTuber Elvish Yadav 'Relieved' After Snake Venom Case Quashed

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

YouTuber Elvish Yadav expresses relief and questions accountability after the Supreme Court quashes the FIR against him in the snake venom case, highlighting the impact of media coverage and the harassment faced by his family.

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.

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The 'rescue' operation occurred within kilometres of Iran's underground tunnel complex at Isfahan, assessed by the IAEA and US intelligence as holding a substantial portion of the country's 60 per cent enriched uranium stockpile. Retired senior US military officers have highlighted that the mission's footprint -- hundreds of special operators, multiple heavy-lift aircraft deep inside Iran -- appears outsized for recovering a single airman. Prem Panicker continues his must read blog on the Iran War.

Gulf War: India Is In A Catch-22 Situation

Gulf War: India Is In A Catch-22 Situation

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

India's handling of the Iran crisis reflects a growing strain between strategic autonomy and geopolitical alignment, observes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

'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.