News for 'Independence'

'Promoting love jihad': Aamir Khan gets threat from Bishnoi gang

'Promoting love jihad': Aamir Khan gets threat from Bishnoi gang

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Bollywood actor Aamir Khan has reportedly received a threat from individuals claiming affiliation with jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, accusing him of promoting 'love jihad' following his recent third marriage. Mumbai Police are currently verifying the authenticity of a social media post and a voice note related to the alleged threat.

Sonam Wangchuk's health critical, IV fluids, nutritional support must: Doctor

Sonam Wangchuk's health critical, IV fluids, nutritional support must: Doctor

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

A senior doctor at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital has stated that administering IV fluids and initiating nutritional support are essential for activist Sonam Wangchuk, warning that his condition could become critical if his ongoing hunger strike continues without medical intervention.

Most Agriculture Ministers Hated Varghese Kurien

Most Agriculture Ministers Hated Varghese Kurien

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

At a function in Anand, ministers and the chief minister all in attendance, Varghese Kurien called the IAS lobby termites.

Ladakh to get autonomous hill councils in all 7 districts under Art 371

Ladakh to get autonomous hill councils in all 7 districts under Art 371

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Union Territory administration in Ladakh has announced the establishment of an Autonomous Hill Development Council (AHDC) for each of its seven districts, significantly expanding democratic decentralisation. This move extends elected local self-governance beyond Leh and Kargil, with a proposed Union Territory-level body under a customised Article 371 framework to oversee these councils.

Assam's Bihmari Bongaon Village Gets Electricity After 78 Years

Assam's Bihmari Bongaon Village Gets Electricity After 78 Years

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

After 78 years of living with kerosene lamps, the remote village of Bihmari Bongaon in Assam has finally received electricity, marking a significant transformation for its residents and opening new opportunities for education and comfort.

Indian Students In Canada Face 'Post-Graduation Work Permit' Shock

Indian Students In Canada Face 'Post-Graduation Work Permit' Shock

Rediff.com7 days ago

For hundreds of Indian scholars who journeyed to Canada aiming for a foreign degree and a path toward long-term career opportunities, what should have been a triumphant graduation has instead spiralled into deep uncertainty.

Will Your Kids Pay For Your Retirement?

Will Your Kids Pay For Your Retirement?

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Your children may always love you but should you expect them to to finance your retirement in today's economy?

Dhamaal 4 Is A Major Hit!

Dhamaal 4 Is A Major Hit!

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Dhamaal 4 has emerged as an instant box office sensation, injecting much-needed life into Bollywood's theatrical landscape.

Nirmohi Akhara moves SC seeking reconstitution of Ram temple trust

Nirmohi Akhara moves SC seeking reconstitution of Ram temple trust

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

The Nirmohi Akhara has approached the Supreme Court, seeking a directive to the Centre to reconstitute the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Theerth Kshetra Trust as a 'public trust' and include structural safeguards for oversight by seers, citing alleged large-scale embezzlement of donations.

No better person than Dhoni to take over as CSK coach: Ashwin

No better person than Dhoni to take over as CSK coach: Ashwin

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

India's spin great Ravichandran Ashwin suggested Mahendra Singh Dhoni as the ideal successor for Stephen Fleming as CSK's head coach.

Delhi HC seeks police response on Sharjeel Imam's UAPA bail plea

Delhi HC seeks police response on Sharjeel Imam's UAPA bail plea

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has sought the Delhi Police's response on student activist Sharjeel Imam's appeal for bail in a UAPA case related to the 'larger conspiracy' behind the February 2020 Delhi riots, challenging a trial court's dismissal of his plea.

Xi Jinping Calls For Global AI Collaboration, Not Solo Performance

Xi Jinping Calls For Global AI Collaboration, Not Solo Performance

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for global collaboration in Artificial Intelligence development, stating it should be a "symphony" rather than a "solo performance." His remarks came at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, where 29 countries also signed an agreement to establish the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO), an independent intergovernmental body headquartered in Shanghai. China also pledged 5,000 AI research projects and training for developing nations.

Transgender Icon Urges Amendment to Protect Independent Identities

Transgender Icon Urges Amendment to Protect Independent Identities

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Maya Thakur, a transgender icon, advocates for amendments to the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Act, 2026, to include self-identification and protect transgender individuals who wish to remain independent from traditional eunuch communities.

WB SIT reconstructs scene of minor's rape-murder in Baruipur

WB SIT reconstructs scene of minor's rape-murder in Baruipur

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has reconstructed the crime scene of a rape and murder case in Baruipur, West Bengal, with the three arrested accused. Forensic experts collected new samples, and the reconstruction aimed to verify statements and corroborate evidence. This follows a previous incident where another accused was killed during a similar reconstruction. The Chief Minister has assured personal monitoring of the investigation, and four separate cases have been registered related to the incident and subsequent events.

Xi Jinping Urges Global Cooperation For Ethical AI Development

Xi Jinping Urges Global Cooperation For Ethical AI Development

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping called for global collaboration in artificial intelligence development, emphasising a "symphony of global collaboration" over a "solo performance" by any single nation. Speaking at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, Xi highlighted the need for ethical AI governance, shared prosperity, and addressing challenges like the widening digital divide. He also announced China's commitment to support developing countries with 5,000 AI research projects and training programmes. The event also saw 29 countries sign an agreement to establish the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO) in Shanghai.

Sports Ministry Directs Hockey India To Probe Harassment Allegations

Sports Ministry Directs Hockey India To Probe Harassment Allegations

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Sports Ministry has directed Hockey India to investigate allegations of intimidation and sexual harassment made by former India captain Asunta Lakra. Lakra accused HI general secretary Bhola Nath Singh and highlighted institutional protection for alleged misconduct, urging an independent inquiry and stronger safeguards for women athletes.

Iran hatched fresh plot to kill Trump, Israel alerts US

Iran hatched fresh plot to kill Trump, Israel alerts US

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The latest development comes as diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran continue despite renewed hostilities. CNN reported that US and Iranian officials are still working towards a nuclear agreement by mid-August, even as preparations for possible military action have continued in parallel.

Who Should Pay On A First Date? It's Complicated, Says Gen Z

Who Should Pay On A First Date? It's Complicated, Says Gen Z

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

A viral Rs 370 biryani debate has reignited an age-old dating question. Should the man pay, should couples split the bill or does it depend on the situation? We asked Gen Z and dating experts.

High Court To Rule On Asian Games Dressage Team Selection Dispute

High Court To Rule On Asian Games Dressage Team Selection Dispute

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has reserved its verdict on petitions filed by riders Anush Agarwalla and Sudipti Hajela, who challenged their exclusion from India's dressage team for the upcoming Asian Games. The athletes appealed a single judge's earlier decision that upheld the Equestrian Federation of India's selection process. The court heard arguments from all parties, including the EFI, which maintained that the best riders were selected and opposed external interference.

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.

From Widow's Bay to Raakh: Must Watch Shows of 2026 to Fill the Post-World Cup Void

From Widow's Bay to Raakh: Must Watch Shows of 2026 to Fill the Post-World Cup Void

Rediff.com7 days ago

As the FIFA World Cup concludes, we give you a curated list of the most impressive Hindi and English shows from 2026 to fill the OTT void.

America 250: Power, Despair And Hope

America 250: Power, Despair And Hope

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The question nobody seems to ask is why a democracy should be silent when many of its citizens are concerned about the way the US is deviating from its traditional ways of consultation, cooperation and collaboration and moving away from traditional allies, asks Ambassador T P Sreenivasan.

'I Don't Want People To Expect Another RRR'

'I Don't Want People To Expect Another RRR'

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

'I am aware that my time is running out, and there's so much to do.'

Oppn's symbolic walk-out from all-party meet signals stormy monsoon session

Oppn's symbolic walk-out from all-party meet signals stormy monsoon session

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

An all-party meeting convened by the government ahead of Parliament's Monsoon Session on Sunday saw the entire opposition staging a symbolic walkout over the invitation to rebel Trinamool Congress MPs and a demand for a discussion on the issues of Ram temple donation 'theft', NEET paper leak and mixing of ethanol in petrol.

HDFC Bank's Workforce Shrinks by 3,343 in FY26 Despite Balance Sheet Expansion

HDFC Bank's Workforce Shrinks by 3,343 in FY26 Despite Balance Sheet Expansion

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

HDFC Bank, India's largest private sector lender, reported a reduction of 3,343 employees in FY26, bringing its total workforce to 2,11,178, even as its balance sheet expanded by 12 per cent. The bank's MD and CEO, Sashidhar Jagdishan, attributed the headcount reduction to redeploying talent from back-end functions to customer-facing roles due to technology-led efficiencies. The annual report also addressed the challenging resignation of part-time chairman Atanu Chakraborty, which raised questions about the bank's governance standards.

And The USA Is 250!!

And The USA Is 250!!

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

The Great American State Fair on the National Mall in Washington, DC drew crowds with rodeo performances, military flyovers and robotic dog demonstrations ahead of the 250th anniversary of US independence.

Bulldozer demolitions: SC asks aggrieved to approach HCs, extends protection

Bulldozer demolitions: SC asks aggrieved to approach HCs, extends protection

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court on Thursday refused to consider a batch of contempt petitions alleging that demolitions were carried out in violation of its 2024 judgment and asked aggrieved parties to approach the high courts concerned.

'I Was Hit By A Burst Of Gunfire'

'I Was Hit By A Burst Of Gunfire'

Rediff.com7 days ago

A Kargil War Hero looks back at the victory of Tiger Hill and the men who didn't return.

Praful Patel pooh-poohs secretary's letter, says no rift in NCP over Sunetra

Praful Patel pooh-poohs secretary's letter, says no rift in NCP over Sunetra

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Nationalist Congress Party national working president Praful Patel has dismissed claims of a rift within the party, specifically addressing a legal challenge to Sunetra Pawar's election as party president. A national secretary, Sachchidanand Singh, alleged the election was unconstitutional, but Patel stated the letter carries no weight and senior leaders support Sunetra Pawar. The dispute highlights internal dynamics following the demise of Ajit Pawar.

Nexon Geochem And Russia's Giredmet Forge Rare Earth Partnership

Nexon Geochem And Russia's Giredmet Forge Rare Earth Partnership

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Hyderabad-based Nexon Geochem has partnered with Russia's Giredmet to establish integrated rare-earth processing and downstream facilities in India. This collaboration aims to bridge critical gaps in India's rare earth value chain, focusing on producing NdFeB permanent magnets essential for electric vehicles, wind turbines, and defence systems, reducing reliance on imports.

Argentina Players Display Political Banner After World Cup Victory, Spark Row

Argentina Players Display Political Banner After World Cup Victory, Spark Row

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Argentina's football players displayed a political banner claiming "The Falklands are Argentine" after their World Cup semi-final win against England, potentially violating FIFA's code of conduct.

CAG flags Rs 3,541 crore excess spend in Ladki Bahin scheme

CAG flags Rs 3,541 crore excess spend in Ladki Bahin scheme

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has identified significant financial irregularities in the Maharashtra government's flagship Ladki Bahin scheme, including an excess expenditure of Rs 3,541.16 crore and the parking of Rs 15,586 crore in Virtual Personal Deposit Accounts (VPDAs) without immediate need. The report highlights deficiencies in budget estimation and financial management, recommending realistic fund assessments and strict adherence to expenditure needs.

RBI Ombudsman Can Award Compensation Of Up To 30 Lakh For Financial Loss

RBI Ombudsman Can Award Compensation Of Up To 30 Lakh For Financial Loss

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

...and 3 lakh for harassment.

'Love Has A Way Of Rewriting Every Plan We've Carefully Made'

'Love Has A Way Of Rewriting Every Plan We've Carefully Made'

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

'Some people enter our lives not to stay forever, but to leave us changed forever.'

'Janaki Amma Is An All-Rounder'

'Janaki Amma Is An All-Rounder'

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

'I could place her in any song situation, sad, happy, bhajan, cabaret, fun song... she took just a few minutes to catch the tune.'

How El Nino and climate change are reshaping India's monsoon

How El Nino and climate change are reshaping India's monsoon

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Climate experts explain how El Nino and climate change are intricately linked, with El Nino delaying monsoon onset and climate change intensifying rainfall. This new reality is altering the Indian monsoon's behaviour, leading to short-duration, high-intensity rain spells, especially in western and northwestern regions.

DMK moves SC against Vijay's ministers influencing stampede witnesses

DMK moves SC against Vijay's ministers influencing stampede witnesses

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The DMK has approached the Supreme Court, alleging that Tamil Nadu ministers are actively influencing witnesses in the CBI probe into last year's Karur stampede case, which resulted in 41 deaths.

Experts Call For National Policy To Boost Assistive Technology Market

Experts Call For National Policy To Boost Assistive Technology Market

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Experts highlight India's significant market potential for assistive technologies, estimated at Rs 75,000-95,000 crore by 2030. They advocate for a National Assistive Technology Policy to address current gaps in access and service delivery, fostering inclusion, independence, and economic participation for persons with disabilities and the elderly.

Hindu law not based on Manu Smriti: Solicitor General Tushar Mehta

Hindu law not based on Manu Smriti: Solicitor General Tushar Mehta

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta elaborated on the origins of Hindu law, stating it emanates from the 'Smritis' and highlighting the two prominent schools of thought, Mitakshara and Dayabhaga. He emphasised the dynamic interpretation possible within Hindu legal texts and the foresight of ancient scholars in formulating concepts like prohibited relationships.

'Paani Waali Train': 'This Is The Future Of Railway Mobility'

'Paani Waali Train': 'This Is The Future Of Railway Mobility'

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

India has launched its first hydrogen-powered train, the 'Namo Green Rail', from Jind, Haryana, marking a significant step towards sustainable railway mobility. The 10-coach train, which emits only water vapour, is currently operating on the Jind-Sonipat route and represents a major technological advancement for the country's transport sector.