News for 'High Commission'

ED books Sonia, Rahul in National Herald case; Cong says vendetta

ED books Sonia, Rahul in National Herald case; Cong says vendetta

Rediff.com15 Apr 2025

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a chargesheet against Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and others on charges of money laundering in the National Herald case. The chargesheet, filed on April 9, names Congress leaders Sam Pitroda and Suman Dubey as accused persons. The case pertains to the alleged fraudulent takeover of properties valued over Rs 2,000 crore belonging to the Associated Journals Limited (AJL), the publisher of the National Herald news platform. The ED alleges that Young Indian, a private company "beneficially owned" by Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, "acquired" AJL properties for a mere Rs 50 lakh, significantly undervaluing its worth. The case has been transferred to Special Judge Vishal Gogne's court for further proceedings.

BJP mulls 2 deputy CMs in Delhi to reflect 'mini' India

BJP mulls 2 deputy CMs in Delhi to reflect 'mini' India

Rediff.com13 Feb 2025

The BJP is considering having two deputy chief ministers in the new Delhi government to represent the city as a "mini" India, party leaders said. The move is aimed at accommodating MLAs from different castes, communities, and regional backgrounds. The proposal is under consideration by the national leadership, which will also decide on the chief minister and other ministers. The process of government formation is expected to gain momentum after Prime Minister Narendra Modi returns from his foreign visit over the weekend.

NDMA Plans 300 More Heat Action Plans as Mercury Rises

NDMA Plans 300 More Heat Action Plans as Mercury Rises

Rediff.com18 Mar 2025

States are mandated to develop and implement 'heat HAPs' for prevention of heat-induced diseases. But most do not go beyond standard advisory on heat prevention.

Speeches brainwashing youth serious, says HC; rejects terror accused's plea

Speeches brainwashing youth serious, says HC; rejects terror accused's plea

Rediff.com30 Dec 2024

The appellant argued though he was held guilty of indulging in preparatory acts for the commission of a terrorist act and recruiting persons for terrorist act, there was no evidence to show he committed such acts.

President nod for FIR against Sisodia, Jain in Rs 2,000-cr classroom scam

President nod for FIR against Sisodia, Jain in Rs 2,000-cr classroom scam

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

President Droupadi Murmu has approved the registration of an FIR against AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain in an alleged scam of Rs 2,000 crore in the construction of classrooms in Delhi government schools. The alleged scam involves the construction of around 12,748 classrooms at an inflated cost, according to a report by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) of the Delhi government. The ACB report alleged that the classrooms were constructed at a rate of Rs 8,800 per square feet, whereas the average construction cost was around Rs 1,500 per square feet. The President's approval came under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

Sajjan Kumar convicted in another 1984 riots case, faces death

Sajjan Kumar convicted in another 1984 riots case, faces death

Rediff.com12 Feb 2025

Former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar now faces a maximum of death penalty and a minimum of life term in prison after being convicted on Wednesday by a Delhi court in a murder case stemming from 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

Police name person of interest in Sudiksha Konanki case

Police name person of interest in Sudiksha Konanki case

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

US authorities have identified a 24-year-old man as a person of interest in the case of a 20-year-old Indian student who has gone missing during a spring break visit to the Dominican Republic. Sudiksha Konanki, a citizen of India and a permanent resident of the United States, was last seen on March 6 at the Riu Republic Resort in Punta Cana. The Loudoun County Sheriff's Office, Konanki's hometown in Virginia, said Joshua Riibe was seen with Sudiksha at a resort before she went missing. While Konanki's father has asked local authorities to broaden the investigation, authorities maintain that the case is not a criminal investigation and Riibe is not considered a suspect. However, he is considered a person of interest as he was the last one to be seen with Konanki. The Dominican Republic National Police has established a "high-level commission" to oversee the investigation and will be reinterviewing "targeted individuals" who were seen near or with Konanki at the time of her disappearance.

Medical Tourism Revenue Takes A Hit After Govt Stops Visas For Bangladeshis

Medical Tourism Revenue Takes A Hit After Govt Stops Visas For Bangladeshis

Rediff.com18 Nov 2024

According to a recent CareEdge Ratings report, Bangladesh accounts for around 50-60 per cent of India's total medical tourism inflow

Court to rule on death plea for Sajjan Kumar on Feb 25

Court to rule on death plea for Sajjan Kumar on Feb 25

Rediff.com21 Feb 2025

A Delhi court reserved its order on the quantum of sentence against Congress leader Sajjan Kumar in a murder case related to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots for February 25. The complainant, whose husband and son were killed, sought the maximum punishment of death penalty for Kumar. The court on February 12 convicted Kumar for the offence and sought a report from Tihar jail on his psychiatric and psychological evaluation.

Trump tariffs: 'This is not a tax cut, this is a tax hike'

Trump tariffs: 'This is not a tax cut, this is a tax hike'

Rediff.com3 Apr 2025

"These latest so-called 'Liberation Day' tariffs are reckless and self-destructive, inflicting financial pain on Illinois at a time when people are already struggling to keep their small businesses afloat and put food on the table."

After cement, Adani and Birla are set for a face-off in the wires and cable biz

After cement, Adani and Birla are set for a face-off in the wires and cable biz

Rediff.com30 Mar 2025

After cement, billionaire Gautam Adani's group and Kumar Mangalam Birla's Aditya Birla Group are set for a face-off in the wires and cable business with both conglomerates announcing forays into the high double-digit growth sector.

Will Sitharaman's Debt-GDP vs Fiscal Deficit Gamble Pay Off?

Will Sitharaman's Debt-GDP vs Fiscal Deficit Gamble Pay Off?

Rediff.com21 Feb 2025

Using the debt-to-GDP ratio as a fiscal anchor aligns with efforts to promote fiscal transparency through proper disclosure of off-budget borrowings.

'Time ripe for replacing collegium with NJAC or a better system'

'Time ripe for replacing collegium with NJAC or a better system'

Rediff.com6 Apr 2025

Former Union Law Minister Ashwani Kumar has argued for replacing the existing collegium system for judicial appointments, asserting that public sentiment leans toward an alternative mechanism, potentially resembling the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC). He believes that the government has the authority to propose a revised constitutional amendment for judicial appointments that would withstand judicial scrutiny. Kumar also urged the Supreme Court to establish a robust internal process to address concerns within the judiciary, including allegations against judges.

Why are we giving $21 million to India?: Trump on DOGE cut

Why are we giving $21 million to India?: Trump on DOGE cut

Rediff.com19 Feb 2025

Trump made these remarks after Elon Musk-led DOGE's (Department of Government Efficiency) disclosed that USAID contributed USD 21 million to Election Commission for boosting voter turnout.

Clashes at Hindu temple in Canada, Trudeau says...

Clashes at Hindu temple in Canada, Trudeau says...

Rediff.com5 Nov 2024

Canadian Member of Parliament Chandra Arya also condemned the violence and said that a "red line has been crossed" by Khalistani extremists, highlighting the rise of brazen violent extremism in Canada.

SC slams cops for not appealing acquittals in anti-Sikh riots cases

SC slams cops for not appealing acquittals in anti-Sikh riots cases

Rediff.com10 Feb 2025

The Supreme Court has expressed its dissatisfaction with the Delhi Police's handling of appeals against acquittals in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots cases. The court emphasized the need for serious and earnest prosecution, not just for the sake of it. This comes in the wake of a public interest litigation filed by a former Shiromani Gurudwara Prabhandak Committee member, seeking justice for the victims of the violence.

The Lady Judge Who Heads Gujarat UCC Panel

The Lady Judge Who Heads Gujarat UCC Panel

Rediff.com5 Mar 2025

On the basis of her committee's report, the UCC in Uttarakhand established mandatory registration for marriages and live-in relationships, banned polygamy, and provided equal inheritance rights for women.

Modi's goal to make India high-income country by 2047 unlikely: Financial Times expert

Modi's goal to make India high-income country by 2047 unlikely: Financial Times expert

Rediff.com5 Jul 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's goal of making India a high-income economy by 2047 is unlikely to be achieved, but the country should become an upper middle-income nation by then, Financial Times chief economics commentator Martin Wolf said on Friday. Wolf further said that India would also become a superpower by 2047. "India wishes to become a high-income country by 2047.

MP: 'Disabled' govt employee 'seen dancing', probe sought

MP: 'Disabled' govt employee 'seen dancing', probe sought

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

A students' organization in Madhya Pradesh has demanded an inquiry after a woman, recently selected in the government service in the disabled quota, was seen dancing in a viral social media video. The woman, however, denied any irregularity in her appointment, claiming that she suffers from 45 percent disability due to bone-related problems. She stated that she is able to walk and even dance for short periods due to implants from surgery following a serious hip injury.

RTI not to satisfy curiosity: DU tells HC on Modi's degree

RTI not to satisfy curiosity: DU tells HC on Modi's degree

Rediff.com13 Jan 2025

University of Delhi on Monday said the purpose of Right to information (RTI) was not to satiate a third party's curiosity as it challenged the central information commission's order over disclosure of information on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's degree.

India suspends all visa services for Canadian citizens

India suspends all visa services for Canadian citizens

Rediff.com21 Sep 2023

India on Thursday announced temporarily suspending issuance of visas to Canadian citizens in view of "security threats" faced by its high commission and consulates in Canada, amid an escalating diplomatic row over Ottawa's allegations relating to the killing of a Khalistani separatist on Canadian soil.

Why Is Jaiswal Looking Tense?

Why Is Jaiswal Looking Tense?

Rediff.com7 Aug 2023

The Indian team, currently in the Caribbean for their Windies tour, were hosted at the Indian high commission in Guyana.

Did US meddle in Indian elections? Trump drops big hint

Did US meddle in Indian elections? Trump drops big hint

Rediff.com20 Feb 2025

Trump further pointed out India's strong economic position and high tariffs on US goods, stating, "They got a lot of money. They're one of the highest taxing countries in the world in terms of us. We can hardly get in there because their tariffs are so high."

Bangladesh must protect all minorities, says India; raises monk's arrest

Bangladesh must protect all minorities, says India; raises monk's arrest

Rediff.com29 Nov 2024

India has expressed serious concern over the increasing incidents of violence and extremist rhetoric against minorities in Bangladesh, urging the interim government to fulfill its responsibility of protecting all minorities. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, stated that India has consistently raised the issue of threats and targeted attacks on Hindus and other minorities with the Bangladeshi government. Jaiswal emphasized that these developments cannot be dismissed as mere media exaggeration and called upon Bangladesh to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and security of minorities.

Bride decamps mid-wedding with jewellery, cash in UP

Bride decamps mid-wedding with jewellery, cash in UP

Rediff.com5 Jan 2025

A bride in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, disappeared during her wedding ceremony, taking jewellery and cash with her, leaving her 40-year-old groom in distress. The incident occurred at the Shiv Temple in Bharohiya where the groom, Kamlesh Kumar, was getting married for the second time. Kamlesh alleged that the bride and her mother left for the bathroom and never returned. He claims to have given the bride sarees, beauty products, and jewellery, and was already bearing the wedding expenses. Police are investigating the matter but no complaint has been filed yet.

ASI seeks control of Sambhal mosque post violence, cites heritage status

ASI seeks control of Sambhal mosque post violence, cites heritage status

Rediff.com1 Dec 2024

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has sought control and management of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, citing its status as a protected heritage structure. The request comes after violence erupted during a court-ordered survey of the mosque, which was linked to a petition claiming that a Harihar temple once stood at the site. The ASI has argued that unauthorized changes to the mosque's structure by the management committee are unlawful and should be restricted. A three-member judicial commission has been formed to probe the violence and is expected to visit Sambhal on Sunday.

Tribunal stays CCI ban on WhatsApp-Meta data sharing

Tribunal stays CCI ban on WhatsApp-Meta data sharing

Rediff.com23 Jan 2025

The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) on Thursday stayed the five-year ban imposed by competition watchdog CCI on data-sharing practices between WhatsApp and Meta for advertising purposes, offering a breather to the tech giant. Meta welcomed the "NCLAT's decision to grant a partial stay on the Competition Commission of India's (CCI) order" and said it will evaluate next steps.

'BJP Won't Be Able To Form Government In Bengal in 2026'

'BJP Won't Be Able To Form Government In Bengal in 2026'

Rediff.com21 Apr 2025

'The BJP lacks a credible mass leader who matches Mamata Banerjee's popularity.' 'Given the division of votes among Opposition parties, the West Bengal government's dole-giving strategy, and the consolidation of the poor, significant sections of scheduled caste groups and Muslim minorities behind the ruling party, it will be difficult to dislodge the Trinamool from power.'

Cong slams Assam CM after govt reports 72 encounters

Cong slams Assam CM after govt reports 72 encounters

Rediff.com4 Mar 2025

The opposition Congress in Assam has accused the BJP government of running a "police raj" after official data revealed that 72 people were killed and 220 injured in police actions since Himanta Biswa Sarma became the chief minister in May 2021. The Congress has demanded that the Supreme Court take suo motu cognisance of the data and investigate the alleged fake encounters in the state. The data shows that a total of 256 police actions have been taken between May 2021 and February 2024, resulting in the deaths of 38 people in police remand and 34 more while in custody but before remand. The Congress has alleged that the ruling party is using the police for political gains, while the government has defended its actions, stating that police cases have been registered in each incident and that the NHRC guidelines have been followed.

Ready to show Modi's degree to court, not strangers, DU tells HC

Ready to show Modi's degree to court, not strangers, DU tells HC

Rediff.com27 Feb 2025

Delhi University (DU) has informed the Delhi High Court that it is willing to show its records on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's degree to the court, but not disclose it to "strangers" under the Right to Information (RTI) Act. The university's solicitor general, Tushar Mehta, argued that the "right to privacy" superseded the "right to know" in this case, and that allowing disclosure would expose the university to RTI applications for information about lakhs of its students. The court has reserved its verdict on the matter.

Budget will revitalise agri sector, rural economy

Budget will revitalise agri sector, rural economy

Rediff.com4 Feb 2025

Recent documents by NITI Aayog and periodic labour force surveys on employment show that the importance of agriculture is rising in the Indian economy.

Those who spread communal divide can't be Hindu: Uddhav

Those who spread communal divide can't be Hindu: Uddhav

Rediff.com24 Jan 2025

Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray chief Udvav Thackeray launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party and said that anyone who spreads communal disharmony 'can't be a Hindu', while also affirming that the 'Hindutva' of his party is 'clean'.

Govt tweaks election rule; why is ECI afraid, asks Cong

Govt tweaks election rule; why is ECI afraid, asks Cong

Rediff.com21 Dec 2024

Based on the recommendation of the Election Commission (EC), the Union law ministry on Friday amended Rule 93(2)(a) of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, to restrict the type of "papers" or documents open to public inspection.

NIA raids 31 places in Punjab, Haryana over Indian mission attack in London

NIA raids 31 places in Punjab, Haryana over Indian mission attack in London

Rediff.com1 Aug 2023

They committed criminal trespass, injured officials, disrespected the Indian flag and damaged public property.

ED seizes 'biggest' crypto fund worth Rs 1,646 crore

ED seizes 'biggest' crypto fund worth Rs 1,646 crore

Rediff.com15 Feb 2025

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has seized its biggest-ever cryptocurrency worth Rs 1,646 crore in a money laundering investigation into a fraud investment scheme called BitConnect. The scheme, which ran between 2016 and 2018, promised investors high returns through a proprietary trading bot but was found to be a sham. The ED tracked transactions through the dark web and seized the cryptocurrency from numerous wallets. This is the agency's largest-ever seizure of virtual digital assets and the investigation is ongoing.

Govt examines need for law to regulate digital content

Govt examines need for law to regulate digital content

Rediff.com22 Feb 2025

The Information and Broadcasting Ministry is examining the existing statutory provisions and the need for a new legal framework to regulate 'harmful' content amid complaints of 'obscenity and violence' being shown on digital platforms.

'Disgraceful': India condemns Glasgow gurudwara incident

'Disgraceful': India condemns Glasgow gurudwara incident

Rediff.com30 Sep 2023

'On September 29, 2023, three persons- all from areas outside Scotland-deliberately disrupted a planned interaction organised by the Gurudwara Committee for the community, the High Commissioner and the Consul General of India. This interaction was to discuss community and consular issues,' the High Commission of India, London said in a statement on Saturday.

Sexual harassment case cannot be closed over compromise: SC

Sexual harassment case cannot be closed over compromise: SC

Rediff.com7 Nov 2024

The observation came while setting aside an order of the Rajasthan high court which had quashed the FIR against a teacher who was accused of sexually molesting a 16-year-old girl at school in Rajasthan's Sawai Madhopur district.

NIA takes over probe into Indian mission attack in London

NIA takes over probe into Indian mission attack in London

Rediff.com18 Apr 2023

Pro-Khalistani protestors tried to vandalise the Indian High Commission in London and pulled down the national flag while holding protests outside the high commission complex on March 19.

Asiad champ Bahadur Sagoo is AFI president

Asiad champ Bahadur Sagoo is AFI president

Rediff.com7 Jan 2025

Sagoo was the lone candidate left in fray after incumbent senior vice president Anju Bobby George opted out of the race for the position.