News for 'General'

Vijay government may privatise TN's liquor sales to curb graft

Vijay government may privatise TN's liquor sales to curb graft

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

An intensified DVAC probe into a multi-crore liquor scam, allegedly involving former DMK Minister V Senthil Balaji, has led to a suggestion to privatise retail liquor sales in Tamil Nadu. The investigation targets alleged collusion in TASMAC bar licences, transport tenders, and procurement, with the Madras High Court dismissing Balaji's anticipatory bail plea. The FIR details systemic corruption, significant revenue loss, and illicit fund generation, prompting political reactions.

After donation theft, 250 Ayodhya seers meet to rebuild devotee trust

After donation theft, 250 Ayodhya seers meet to rebuild devotee trust

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

A crucial meeting of around 250 seers and VHP functionaries in Ayodhya will address issues concerning the Ram temple, including ensuring adherence to Vaishnav-Ramanandi traditions, restoring devotee confidence after an alleged donation theft, and deliberating on the Trust's management. The meeting follows deferred decisions by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on key appointments.

F1's surprise move! Bahrain GP heads to Malaysia

F1's surprise move! Bahrain GP heads to Malaysia

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Malaysia's Sepang circuit will host the rescheduled 'Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia' on October 4, Formula One announced, stepping in after the original April races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were cancelled due to the Iran war and Middle East situation.

SIT report on Ram Temple theft likely soon; may shape trust reforms

SIT report on Ram Temple theft likely soon; may shape trust reforms

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya is expected to submit its final report to the Uttar Pradesh government shortly, sources said on Thursday.

SC to hear Meghalaya's plea against bail for Sonam in honeymoon murder

SC to hear Meghalaya's plea against bail for Sonam in honeymoon murder

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court will hear a plea from the Meghalaya government challenging the bail granted to Sonam Raghuvanshi, accused of murdering her husband during their honeymoon. The case hinges on a legal question regarding a typographical error in the arrest memo and whether it justifies bail in a murder case.

46 militants surrender in Manipur; major step towards peace, says CM

46 militants surrender in Manipur; major step towards peace, says CM

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Forty-six militants of the banned Kangleipak Communist Party (People's War Group) surrendered before security forces in Manipur on Tuesday, the police said.

Christopher Nolan's Odyssey Is 'Gimmicky', 'Abysmal'

Christopher Nolan's Odyssey Is 'Gimmicky', 'Abysmal'

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

'None of the characters has convincing motivation for their actions or words. There are no sex scenes, and all the food looks horrible.'

No talks with Pakistan except on PoK: Rajnath Singh

No talks with Pakistan except on PoK: Rajnath Singh

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday slammed Pakistan for making terrorism a "part of its state policy", and said there will be no talks with the country other than on Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir, which is a "part of India illegally occupied" by it.

Continue HPV drive, but beware of 'half-baked' vaccines: HC

Continue HPV drive, but beware of 'half-baked' vaccines: HC

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has declined to halt the Centre's HPV immunisation campaign, noting that data on 5.5 million administered vaccines showed no 'instant harm'. However, the court emphasised that 'half-baked vaccines' should not be given to the public and raised 'serious issues' regarding past protocol violations in vaccine testing and certification.

Bypolls: Prashant Kishor breaches BJP bastion of Bankipur, Cong wins Datia, BJP retains Manjalpur

Bypolls: Prashant Kishor breaches BJP bastion of Bankipur, Cong wins Datia, BJP retains Manjalpur

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Former poll strategist Prashant Kishor made a stunning electoral debut by winning Bihar's Bankipur assembly seat, a long-held BJP bastion. Concurrently, the Congress retained the Datia assembly seat in Madhya Pradesh, while the BJP successfully held onto the Manjalpur seat in Gujarat, showcasing mixed results for the ruling and opposition parties in these crucial by-elections.

Brazil to face India in historic friendly in Kolkata on October 3

Brazil to face India in historic friendly in Kolkata on October 3

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Almost five decades after Pele ignited Kolkata's romance with Brazilian football, the iconic yellow jersey is set to return to the City of Joy, with the record five-time World Cup champions Brazil scheduled to face India in a landmark international friendly at the Salt Lake Stadium on October 3.

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.

No snooping at Jantar Mantar, only law and order, Centre tells HC

No snooping at Jantar Mantar, only law and order, Centre tells HC

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court is hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the "intrusive surveillance" of protesters at Jantar Mantar. The Solicitor General argued that videography is for law and order, not snooping, while the petitioner contended it violates privacy. The court has asked police about protest regulation guidelines.

Right to peaceful protest cannot be denied, doesn't justify police excesses: SC

Right to peaceful protest cannot be denied, doesn't justify police excesses: SC

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court asserted that the right to peaceful protest is 'absolutely guaranteed' and an agitation cannot justify 'police excesses' or a 'lathi charge,' while agreeing to hear pleas concerning alleged police brutality against students protesting the NEET paper leak.

Oppn seeks urgent debate on police brutality at Gen Z protests

Oppn seeks urgent debate on police brutality at Gen Z protests

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Opposition parties have submitted notices in the Rajya Sabha demanding an urgent discussion on the alleged use of force, including pellet guns, against students protesting the NEET paper leak issue. They are seeking accountability from the Home Minister and Prime Minister regarding the police action and alleged assault on protesters and journalists.

DSA Leadership Crisis Deepens As Ad Hoc Committee Formed

DSA Leadership Crisis Deepens As Ad Hoc Committee Formed

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

A factional feud has erupted within the Delhi Soccer Association (DSA), leading to the formation of a three-member ad hoc committee by a majority of its members. This committee aims to manage daily affairs and hold elections on August 30, bypassing current president Anuj Gupta, who has labelled the move "illegal" and plans legal action.

Manipal Health to launch India's largest healthcare IPO on July 29, aiming for Rs 9,275 crore

Manipal Health to launch India's largest healthcare IPO on July 29, aiming for Rs 9,275 crore

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Manipal Health Enterprises is set to launch India's largest healthcare initial public offering (IPO) on July 29, aiming to raise Rs 9,275.22 crore to fund expansion and debt reduction, with the issue closing on July 31.

Mohun Bagan to face East Bengal in 2026 Durand Cup opener

Mohun Bagan to face East Bengal in 2026 Durand Cup opener

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

The Trophy Tour for the 135th Durand Cup has concluded in Kolkata, marking the final stop before Asia's oldest football tournament begins. Kolkata will host 16 matches, including the highly anticipated Kolkata Derby and the final. The tournament features 24 teams from across five cities, with West Bengal sports minister and the organising committee chairman emphasising the city's deep connection to football and the tournament's legacy.

SC proposes special courts, speedy trial for Manipur ethnic violence cases

SC proposes special courts, speedy trial for Manipur ethnic violence cases

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has proposed establishing special courts for day-to-day trials in criminal cases stemming from the 2023 Manipur ethnic violence. The court also directed probe agencies to expedite investigations, ensure victims receive chargesheet copies, and asked for status reports on missing persons and ongoing cases.

'5,200 applications': Ram Temple Trust defers CEO selection by a month

'5,200 applications': Ram Temple Trust defers CEO selection by a month

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on Wednesday deferred the selection of its first chief executive officer (CEO) by a month after receiving 5,200 applications for the post and decided to appoint a secretary in the interim to meet growing administrative requirements.

Thousands Mourn J&K Policeman Slain By Terrorists

Thousands Mourn J&K Policeman Slain By Terrorists

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Thousands gather in Budgam to bid an emotional farewell to policeman Ashiq Hussain, killed in a militant attack in Anantnag.

'Desperate' Modi, 'pathetic' video: Cong slams PM over midnight address to nation

'Desperate' Modi, 'pathetic' video: Cong slams PM over midnight address to nation

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Congress party has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent video message on paper leaks as an 'eyewash', demanding the sacking of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and accountability for the alleged brutality against student protestors. The party highlighted the government's initial denial of the NEET-UG 2026 leak and its perceived failure to address widespread irregularities.

Inherited Gold: How Much Tax Will You Pay?

Inherited Gold: How Much Tax Will You Pay?

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

rediffGURU Vipul Bhavsar answers readers' personal income tax queries

NEET-UG Counselling: Essential Tips to Avoid Costly Mistakes and Secure Your Medical Seat

NEET-UG Counselling: Essential Tips to Avoid Costly Mistakes and Secure Your Medical Seat

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

As the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) web site opens for NEET-UG registration, aspiring medical students are urged to avoid simple, yet costly, mistakes during the online counselling process, with experts advising thorough preparation and careful choice filling.

What Your Health Insurance Policy Really Covers -- And The Fine Print You Should Never Ignore

What Your Health Insurance Policy Really Covers -- And The Fine Print You Should Never Ignore

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Here's decoding the fine print so that you know exactly what your health insurance policy covers, what it doesn't and the policy conditions that deserve your attention before you need to make a claim.

Nagaland's Sports Authority Of India Centre Set For Major Upgrade

Nagaland's Sports Authority Of India Centre Set For Major Upgrade

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Sports Authority of India's Training Centre in Dimapur, Nagaland, will be upgraded to a National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) following an MoU with the state government. This multi-phase development will transform the 64-acre Multi-Disciplinary Sports Complex, providing enhanced facilities for athletes in various disciplines.

Petrol bomb hurled at BJP office in Punjab's Sangrur

Petrol bomb hurled at BJP office in Punjab's Sangrur

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

An unidentified group hurled a petrol bomb at the BJP office in Sangrur, Punjab, prompting strong condemnation from party leaders who criticised the AAP government's handling of law and order. Police are investigating the incident, which caused no injuries but left a burn mark on the building.

'We grant six weeks': SC orders Bihar to clear illegal Ganga encroachments

'We grant six weeks': SC orders Bihar to clear illegal Ganga encroachments

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has issued a directive to the Bihar government, ordering the removal of all unauthorised structures and encroachments along the Ganga river banks between Nauzar Ghat and Nurpur Ghat in Patna within six weeks. The court expressed concern over illegal constructions and noted the lack of action despite previous orders, warning of strict views on any laxity. The directive came during the hearing of a plea against a National Green Tribunal order regarding encroachments on eco-fragile floodplains.

The Real Reasons India Can't Reach the FIFA World Cup

The Real Reasons India Can't Reach the FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Despite a population of 1.45 billion, India's football team is ranked a lowly 138th in the world and failed to qualify for next year's Asian Cup, highlighting deep-rooted systemic issues and a failure to implement reforms that keep the World Cup dream distant for fans.

'Today's Children Are Not Slaves Of Anyone'

'Today's Children Are Not Slaves Of Anyone'

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

'This generation decides on their own what is good or bad for them.' 'They got an outlet to vent their anger against this government through CJP and they did that.' 'They felt how can the government control us or lathi charge us?'

Why Invasive Species Threaten Global South Biodiversity Most

Why Invasive Species Threaten Global South Biodiversity Most

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

A new study reveals that the impacts of invasive species on biodiversity are most severe in the Global South, challenging previous assumptions. Factors like rapidly developing economies, weak governance, and limited management capacity make these regions particularly vulnerable, leading to higher ecological and economic damages.

7 states account for 85% of India's installed solar capacity

7 states account for 85% of India's installed solar capacity

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Despite aggressive expansion, India's solar power sector faces significant hurdles from rising regional disparities in installed capacity and a looming manufacturing glut due to overcapacity in domestic solar equipment production, potentially leading to consolidation and pricing pressures.

'Are they terrorists?': Cong blasts BJP for deploying AK-47 at Bihar protests

'Are they terrorists?': Cong blasts BJP for deploying AK-47 at Bihar protests

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

The Congress party has strongly criticised the BJP government following allegations that AK-47 rifles were used against protesting students in Bihar, with Rahul Gandhi demanding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's apology and action against those responsible for the 'deadly attacks and brutality'.

Why Rs 5 Lakh Health Cover Falls Short

Why Rs 5 Lakh Health Cover Falls Short

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Marriage, childbirth, dependent parents and ageing increase the cover a person needs.

SC considers SIT to probe police brutality on NEET protesters

SC considers SIT to probe police brutality on NEET protesters

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court was strongly urged to establish a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by a former judge to investigate alleged police excesses against students protesting the NEET paper leak across various states. The court, while issuing interim directions, restrained states from coercive action against protesters and ordered the release of minors without criminal antecedents.

ICICI Bank raises $1 bn in largest dollar issue this year, signalling strong investor confidence

ICICI Bank raises $1 bn in largest dollar issue this year, signalling strong investor confidence

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

ICICI Bank has successfully raised $1 billion through a five-year senior unsecured US dollar bond, marking its first public dollar bond issuance since 2017 and the largest single-tranche US dollar bond issuance by an Indian issuer so far this year.

Rahul, Kharge write to Modi for probe into Ram temple theft

Rahul, Kharge write to Modi for probe into Ram temple theft

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding an independent investigation into alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram temple. They highlighted that devotees feel betrayed and urged the Prime Minister to ensure accountability and make the Trust's financial affairs public. The controversy follows the arrest of eight people and the resignation of two Trust functionaries in connection with the alleged theft.

Audio of special exam centre offer for Rs 12 lakh puts Maha CET under cloud

Audio of special exam centre offer for Rs 12 lakh puts Maha CET under cloud

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Maharashtra's CET Cell has lodged a police complaint after an audio clip surfaced, allegedly showing a woman offering a 'special' exam centre for the MH-CET engineering entrance test for Rs 12 lakh, promising a high percentile.

'We are targeting a combined ratio of around 107% in FY27,': SBI General CEO

'We are targeting a combined ratio of around 107% in FY27,': SBI General CEO

Rediff.com4 May 2026

SBI General Insurance aims to achieve a 10 per cent market share among private and standalone health insurers within approximately five years, up from its current 7.17 per cent, said Naveen Chandra Jha, managing director and chief executive officer, SBI General Insurance.

Why Hockey India Wants External Body To Investigate Harassment Allegations

Why Hockey India Wants External Body To Investigate Harassment Allegations

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey has requested the Sports Ministry to form an independent committee to investigate sexual harassment allegations made by Asunta Lakra, citing impartiality concerns if an internal probe is conducted due to the involvement of a federation office-bearer.