News for 'Independence'

Since he is 'forgiving'...: Sonia takes dig at Modi, hails Manmohan

Since he is 'forgiving'...: Sonia takes dig at Modi, hails Manmohan

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Following the Supreme Court's clean chit in the coal block allocation case, Congress leader Sonia Gandhi has lauded former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's integrity and accountability, drawing a sharp contrast with the Narendra Modi government's operational style and alleged misuse of investigative agencies.

FIFA vs UEFA: Unpacking the Power Struggle in Global Football

FIFA vs UEFA: Unpacking the Power Struggle in Global Football

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

FIFA's proposal to create a $20 billion subsidiary for the World Cup highlights the intricate balance of power in global football, where the governing body's authority is often challenged by the significant commercial strength of UEFA, particularly in Europe.

Cong, GFP begin alliance talks for 2027 Goa polls; AAP keen to join

Cong, GFP begin alliance talks for 2027 Goa polls; AAP keen to join

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Opposition parties Congress and Goa Forward Party have commenced preliminary discussions for an alliance ahead of the 2027 state assembly polls, with the Aam Aadmi Party also indicating its willingness to join. The primary goal of these potential alliances is to challenge and defeat the ruling BJP government in Goa, which aims for a fourth consecutive term.

'Extremely ashamed': Girl who abused Modi apologises

'Extremely ashamed': Girl who abused Modi apologises

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

A 15-year-old girl, who appeared in a viral video abusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has issued an apology, claiming she was "influenced" by a group at Jantar Mantar. She expressed embarrassment and shame, appealing for forgiveness. The apology follows a police complaint, and Delhi Police are investigating the matter, having also issued notices to social media platform X for content removal. PM Modi himself commented on the incident, advocating for forgiveness for "misguided children."

Why India Needs Strategic Autonomy In AI Ecosystem

Why India Needs Strategic Autonomy In AI Ecosystem

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

IT Secretary S Krishnan advocates for India to pursue "strategic autonomy" in the AI ecosystem by building domestic capabilities and diversifying global supply chains. He emphasized avoiding overdependence on single sources while integrating into trusted global networks, and also highlighted the need to consider an AI law and regulatory framework.

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.

Consumer forum lifts liquor seller's spirits, tells insurer to pay Rs 1.2 cr

Consumer forum lifts liquor seller's spirits, tells insurer to pay Rs 1.2 cr

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

A consumer disputes commission in Mumbai has directed National Insurance Company Ltd to pay a liquor wholesaler over 1.2 crore for stock ruined during the 2017 Mumbai floods, deeming the claim rejection 'arbitrary and unreasonable'.

J'khand PSC row: Talks fail, students threaten Aug 10 assembly march

J'khand PSC row: Talks fail, students threaten Aug 10 assembly march

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

As the agitation over alleged irregularities in Jharkhand recruitment examinations entered its 14th day, talks between the state government and student protesters on Friday failed to break the deadlock, with students deciding to continue their protest and hunger strike until their demands, including cancellation of the 14th JPSC examination, are met.

11 Questions Wives Hate Hearing From Husbands

11 Questions Wives Hate Hearing From Husbands

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Rediff's Divya Nair spoke to married women across India to list the most annoying questions their husbands ask them repeatedly and somehow expect them to answer with a straight face.

America Marks 250 Years In Spectacular Style

America Marks 250 Years In Spectacular Style

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Fireworks, rallies, drone shows and patriotic gatherings marked the historic milestone from coast to coast.

Major Restructuring Proposed For All India Tennis Association

Major Restructuring Proposed For All India Tennis Association

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Court-appointed administrator Justice Gita Mittal has proposed extensive constitutional amendments for the All India Tennis Association (AITA). These reforms aim to align AITA with the National Sports Governance Act, 2025, by significantly increasing athlete representation in decision-making bodies, downsizing the Executive Committee, and establishing independent ethics and dispute resolution committees. The changes, which include inducting Sportspersons of Outstanding Merit into key committees and reducing state association representation, await approval at an upcoming Extraordinary General Meeting.

Why Congress Is Suspicious About CJP

Why Congress Is Suspicious About CJP

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

A Congress spokesperson, quoted in media reports, summed up the party's thinking by saying, 'Whenever BJP is in trouble on the ground, a new 'apolitical' or 'alternative' party appears with the same ideology and the same backers.'

Right to protest can't endanger Parliament: HC on NEET march

Right to protest can't endanger Parliament: HC on NEET march

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The Delhi high court on Tuesday said the right to protest does not extend to damaging the "seat of sovereignty," and a police officer's image cannot be "tarnished" over an alleged "overuse of power" during the July 20 march to Parliament against the NEET paper leak.

Infantino's FIFA future in jeopardy after World Cup stake sale gamble backfires

Infantino's FIFA future in jeopardy after World Cup stake sale gamble backfires

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino's ambitious plan to sell a 20% stake in a commercial entity managing the World Cup and other tournaments to private investors has been abandoned following widespread opposition, including a boycott threat from UEFA.

Wangchuk intervenes as 5 more join Mahato in Jharkhand hunger strike over exam irregularities

Wangchuk intervenes as 5 more join Mahato in Jharkhand hunger strike over exam irregularities

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk urged Devendra Nath Mahto, who is on a hunger strike against alleged irregularities in Jharkhand recruitment examinations, to drink water, which Mahto heeded. This comes as other protesters also began an indefinite hunger strike, intensifying demands for the cancellation of the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission examination and a CBI inquiry.

64-team World Cup moves closer as FIFA launches feasibility study

64-team World Cup moves closer as FIFA launches feasibility study

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

South American confederation CONMEBOL had officially proposed hosting the 2030 World Cup with 64 teams last year, allowing more countries the opportunity to join in the celebrations for the tournament's centennial edition.

Can Social Media Age Bans Work?

Can Social Media Age Bans Work?

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

At what age should society stop regulating life choices and allow people to make their own?

10 Stars Who Clashed With Themselves On The Same Day!

10 Stars Who Clashed With Themselves On The Same Day!

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Before Shabana Azmi tries to outrival herself in the Batwara 1947 and Awarapan 2 clash, we look at other Bollywood stars whose films released on the same day.

Highest ever voter turnout in Bengal Phase 1 since Independence: CEC

Highest ever voter turnout in Bengal Phase 1 since Independence: CEC

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

The first phase of the West Bengal assembly elections saw a record voter turnout of 91.78 per cent, the highest since Independence, according to the Chief Election Commissioner. Polling took place in 16 districts with women voters outnumbering men. The Election Commission attributed the high turnout to voter-friendly measures.

'There is no Pakistani Kashmir, only PoK': India rebukes NYT headline

'There is no Pakistani Kashmir, only PoK': India rebukes NYT headline

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The Indian Embassy in the US strongly refuted a New York Times headline referring to "Pakistani Kashmir," asserting that there is only Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and that Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh are integral parts of India. The embassy highlighted Pakistan's illegal occupation and exploitation of these territories, linking it to ongoing protests in PoK.

Fresh twist in Asunta Lakra vs Hockey India row

Fresh twist in Asunta Lakra vs Hockey India row

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Former India women's hockey team captain Asunta Lakra has challenged the ethics proceedings initiated against her by Hockey India, citing procedural irregularities and questioning the Ethics Committee's jurisdiction. Lakra denied all allegations as 'false, baseless, malicious, motivated and defamatory' and is seeking full disclosure of documents before providing a detailed reply.

Why Malaysia Is Winning Indian Tourists

Why Malaysia Is Winning Indian Tourists

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Go once. You will know, even before you board the flight home, that you will return.

'Lost faith': Wangchuk's wife moves HC to shift him to private hospital

'Lost faith': Wangchuk's wife moves HC to shift him to private hospital

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk's wife has said she has moved the Delhi high court seeking permission to shift him from Safdarjung Hospital to a private facility, and will seek an urgent hearing on her plea on Sunday.

Ensure every road has encroachment-free pedestrian space: SC to Centre

Ensure every road has encroachment-free pedestrian space: SC to Centre

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to ensure all roads have properly demarcated, encroachment-free spaces for pedestrians, emphasising that the right to walk on a footpath is a fundamental right.

Former Captain Asunta Lakra Questions Hockey India Ethics Committee's Jurisdiction

Former Captain Asunta Lakra Questions Hockey India Ethics Committee's Jurisdiction

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Former India women's hockey captain Asunta Lakra has formally challenged the ethics proceedings initiated against her by Hockey India, citing procedural irregularities and questioning the Ethics Committee's jurisdiction. Lakra denies all allegations as "false, baseless, malicious, motivated and defamatory," and highlights issues with the committee's constitution and the incomplete documentation provided. This challenge comes amidst a broader context of sexual harassment allegations in Jharkhand hockey and institutional intimidation claims.

Raghav Juyal's Brother Makes A Fascinating Film!

Raghav Juyal's Brother Makes A Fascinating Film!

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

'Raghav and I complement each other. He talks to me a lot about form and how he approaches his characters. Our paths are different, but we both are very much aligned emotionally.'

Former Army chief Gen Vishwa Nath Sharma passes away at 96

Former Army chief Gen Vishwa Nath Sharma passes away at 96

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Former Indian Army Chief General Vishwa Nath Sharma, who led the Army from 1988 to 1990 and was a veteran of the 1965 Indo-Pak War, has passed away at the age of 96. He was a highly decorated officer, receiving the AVSM and PVSM, and came from a distinguished military family, being the younger brother of India's first PVC awardee, Major Som Nath Sharma.

DMK signals shift on delimitation bill, says will decide on merits

DMK signals shift on delimitation bill, says will decide on merits

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The DMK has announced it will meticulously examine the proposed delimitation Bill when it is introduced in Parliament, making a decision based on its merits to safeguard Tamil Nadu's interests. The party's stance will be independent, without consultation with the Congress party, despite their former alliance.

'I was in Russia': Bihar man challenges NEET protest FIR

'I was in Russia': Bihar man challenges NEET protest FIR

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

A resident of Bihar's Kishanganj district, Mohammad Sadaqat, claims he was wrongly booked for a NEET paper leak protest despite being in Russia for four months. His video has gone viral, prompting the state government to announce the withdrawal of all cases related to the protests and the release of those arrested.

SC grants anticipatory bail to DMK's Senthil Balaji in TASMAC corruption case

SC grants anticipatory bail to DMK's Senthil Balaji in TASMAC corruption case

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has granted anticipatory bail to DMK leader and former minister V Senthil Balaji in a fresh corruption case related to alleged irregularities in the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC), with conditions including cooperation with the investigation and depositing his passport.

The Retirement Crisis Nobody Talks About

The Retirement Crisis Nobody Talks About

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Behind the aesthetics of an entrepreneurial lifestyle lies a silent financial crisis that nobody is talking about: Freelancers are sprinting toward a retirement brick wall.

Sena split: SC says party controls legislature wing, but MLAs need 'elbow room'

Sena split: SC says party controls legislature wing, but MLAs need 'elbow room'

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court, hearing pleas on the Shiv Sena split, observed that a political party retains control over its legislature wing and its valid decisions must prevail, but also advocated for granting 'elbow room' to elected representatives for political decisions if a majority 'genuinely disagree' with party directions.

Why Neeraj Chopra's coach travelled to Glasgow at his own cost

Why Neeraj Chopra's coach travelled to Glasgow at his own cost

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Neeraj Chopra's personal coach, Jaiveer Chaudhary, travelled to the Commonwealth Games at his own expense to support the javelin thrower, despite not being part of the official Indian contingent. Chopra, along with Rohit Yadav and Yashvir Singh, successfully qualified for the men's javelin throw final.

Nasscom Urges Focus On Deep Engineering Skills Amid AI Adoption

Nasscom Urges Focus On Deep Engineering Skills Amid AI Adoption

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Nasscom has warned that India's technology workforce risks becoming merely AI-reliant rather than truly AI-native if deep engineering expertise is not preserved. The industry body highlights that while many professionals adopt AI, only a fraction are AI-native, necessitating a shift in academic and industry approaches to foster foundational skills and independent problem-solving.

Slipper attack on Pappu Yadav at presser as he defends Ram Temple theft skit

Slipper attack on Pappu Yadav at presser as he defends Ram Temple theft skit

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

The controversy surrounding the Parliament Ram Mandir skit intensified on Sunday after a clash broke out at the residence of Purnia MP Pappu Yadav, who had portrayed a temple priest wearing saffron robes during the performance in Parliament on Friday.

India Launches CHESS+ To Boost Chess In Schools

India Launches CHESS+ To Boost Chess In Schools

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

The 'CHESS+' initiative, Championing Excellence in Sport Skills, has been launched to establish a structured chess curriculum in schools across India. This program, a collaboration between the All India Chess Federation and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti, aims to enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students, starting with a pilot in 30 Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas.

NFRA Probes Rajesh Exports Over Rs 15.5 Lakh Crore Revenue Discrepancies

NFRA Probes Rajesh Exports Over Rs 15.5 Lakh Crore Revenue Discrepancies

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) has initiated a probe into Rajesh Exports following capital markets regulator Sebi's findings of Rs 15.5 lakh crore in revenue misstatements. NFRA chairperson Nitin Gupta also emphasised the critical need for genuine board independence in promoter-driven companies and human oversight in financial reporting, especially with the increasing integration of AI.

NFRA Probes Rajesh Exports Over Rs 15.5 Lakh Crore Revenue Discrepancies

NFRA Probes Rajesh Exports Over Rs 15.5 Lakh Crore Revenue Discrepancies

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) has initiated a probe into Rajesh Exports following capital markets regulator Sebi's findings of Rs 15.5 lakh crore in revenue misstatements. NFRA chairperson Nitin Gupta also emphasised the critical need for genuine board independence in promoter-driven companies and human oversight in financial reporting, especially with the increasing integration of AI.

Customer ordered iPhone, received beard oil; sellers fined Rs 1.8 lakh

Customer ordered iPhone, received beard oil; sellers fined Rs 1.8 lakh

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

A Mumbai consumer court has directed Flipkart and its seller to refund over Rs 1.11 lakh to a customer who received beard growth oil instead of an Apple iPhone, and to pay an additional Rs 70,000 in compensation and litigation costs, citing "unfair trade practice" and "deficiency in service."

Pune plant mishap: 2 officials booked over safety lapses

Pune plant mishap: 2 officials booked over safety lapses

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Police in Pune have registered a case against two officials of Antony Lara Renewable Energy Pvt Ltd following the collapse of a three-storey building at a waste-to-energy project, which resulted in nine deaths. The officials are booked for culpable homicide and negligence, as preliminary inquiries suggest a lack of safety measures despite heavy rains and the proximity of a large waste mound. The Maharashtra government has formed a high-level technical committee to investigate the incident and recommend preventive measures.