News for 'Independent India'

Arvind Subramanian: Be Wary of China Bashing

Arvind Subramanian: Be Wary of China Bashing

Rediff.com14 May 2026

It seems odd to criticise a country for delivering growth rates in standards of living and consumption that have been perhaps the fastest, longest, and most broad-based (affecting hundreds of millions of people) in history, points out Arvind Subramanian.

Sports Star Bilquis Mir Pursues Contempt Case Against J-K Sports Department

Sports Star Bilquis Mir Pursues Contempt Case Against J-K Sports Department

Rediff.com30 May 2026

International water sports star Bilquis Mir has filed a contempt case against the Jammu and Kashmir sports department for withholding her salary for over two-and-a-half years, despite a tribunal order to release it.

Bhopal Police Have No Objection To Second Autopsy In Dowry Death Case

Bhopal Police Have No Objection To Second Autopsy In Dowry Death Case

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Bhopal police have stated they have no objection to a second post-mortem of Twisha Sharma, who was found dead at her home last week, following allegations of dowry harassment. A local court is reviewing the case diary after the family requested the second autopsy be conducted at AIIMS Delhi, citing lapses in the initial investigation.

HC upholds 'right to be forgotten', orders de-indexing of acquittal records

HC upholds 'right to be forgotten', orders de-indexing of acquittal records

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

The Delhi High Court has recognised an individual's 'right to be forgotten', ruling that search engines cannot perpetually display judicial records in name-based searches for private cases or those ending in acquittal.

The 'Teenager' Who Beat Ranveer Singh

The 'Teenager' Who Beat Ranveer Singh

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

'Right now, people may see it (my youthful face) as an advantage, but behind it there have been many years of struggles and disadvantages -- like being bullied -- which shaped me more than anything else.'

HC allows 2nd autopsy on Twisha Sharma by AIIMS team

HC allows 2nd autopsy on Twisha Sharma by AIIMS team

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has permitted a second postmortem of Twisha Sharma, a Noida woman who allegedly died due to dowry harassment. The family sought the second autopsy citing discrepancies in the first postmortem report.

India Dismisses US Religious Freedom Concerns as 'Distorted'

India Dismisses US Religious Freedom Concerns as 'Distorted'

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The Indian government has dismissed the US Commission on International Religious Freedom's (USCIRF) report on religious freedom in India, stating that it does not recognise the commission's authority to comment on the rights of Indian citizens.

Supreme Court's Electoral Roll Ruling: Key Takeaways

Supreme Court's Electoral Roll Ruling: Key Takeaways

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Senior Trinamool Congress leader Kalyan Banerjee has commented on the Supreme Court judgment regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, emphasising its specific application to the Bihar case and highlighting the Election Commission's limited authority in determining citizenship.

Delhi HC asks IT body to review blocking of Cockroach party on X

Delhi HC asks IT body to review blocking of Cockroach party on X

Rediff.com29 May 2026

The Delhi High Court has asked a review committee to examine the blocking of the Cockroach Janta Party's X account, refusing to order its immediate unblocking but allowing the party's founder to appear before the committee.

Bhutan's Huge Crypto Gamble, India And China Watching

Bhutan's Huge Crypto Gamble, India And China Watching

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Is Bhutan merely experimenting with digital finance -- or is the Himalayan kingdom punching far above its weight, quietly playing one of the most sophisticated strategic games in Asia today? asks Varun Arya.

Why A Second Autopsy Was Ordered In Twisha Sharma Case

Why A Second Autopsy Was Ordered In Twisha Sharma Case

Rediff.com24 May 2026

A team of doctors from AIIMS Delhi has started a second autopsy of former model and actor Twisha Sharma in Bhopal, following a request from her family who allege inadequacies in the initial post-mortem.

Dowry Deaths: Why Justice Is Still Elusive For Indian Women

Dowry Deaths: Why Justice Is Still Elusive For Indian Women

Rediff.com24 May 2026

A look into the tragic deaths of three young women in India, allegedly due to dowry-related harassment, highlights the persistent social and legal challenges in addressing this issue.

Medical Tourism Revenues Grow Despite Conflicts

Medical Tourism Revenues Grow Despite Conflicts

Rediff.com26 May 2026

While the West Asia conflict has led to a drop in patient footfalls, hospitals are seeing higher realisations as international patients increasingly travel for complex, high-end procedures.

India Tops Global List Of Suspended Athletes For Doping Violations

India Tops Global List Of Suspended Athletes For Doping Violations

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

India has overtaken Kenya to lead the Athletics Integrity Unit's list of ineligible persons due to doping violations, with 148 suspended track and field athletes.

Sebi May Allow Salary In MFs

Sebi May Allow Salary In MFs

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Investments under the framework would remain voluntary for employees.

Twisha Sharma Death: AIIMS Team Conducts Second Post Mortem

Twisha Sharma Death: AIIMS Team Conducts Second Post Mortem

Rediff.com24 May 2026

A team of doctors from AIIMS Delhi completed the second post mortem of former model-turned-actor Twisha Sharma in Bhopal, following concerns raised by her family regarding the initial autopsy and allegations of dowry harassment.

Experts Urge Ethical AI Governance and Indigenous Development for India

Experts Urge Ethical AI Governance and Indigenous Development for India

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Experts at a discussion in Delhi emphasised the importance of ethical governance and indigenous capability in India's pursuit of becoming a global artificial intelligence power, ensuring technology serves the public good and maintains strategic autonomy.

Historic polling in Bengal: 92.47% turnout breaks all records

Historic polling in Bengal: 92.47% turnout breaks all records

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

West Bengal recorded its highest-ever voter turnout in the 2026 assembly polls since Independence, with a cumulative 92.47 per cent polling in two phases, the Election Commission said on Wednesday.

Paytm Reassures RBI Action Has No Financial Impact

Paytm Reassures RBI Action Has No Financial Impact

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

Paytm (One 97 Communications Ltd) has stated that the Reserve Bank of India's action on Paytm Payments Bank Ltd (PPBL) has no financial or business impact on the company. The fintech firm clarified it has no material business arrangements or exposure with the banking entity, which operates independently.

Ukraine accuses Russia of 'disinformation operation' in India

Ukraine accuses Russia of 'disinformation operation' in India

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

In an official statement, the embassy criticised remarks by the Russian foreign ministry, alleging that Moscow was attempting to manipulate information and interfere in India's internal processes.

Iran blames UAE after BRICS ministers fail to agree on joint declaration

Iran blames UAE after BRICS ministers fail to agree on joint declaration

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The BRICS foreign ministers' meeting in New Delhi concluded without a joint statement due to disagreements over the West Asia conflict, with Iran blaming the UAE for the lack of consensus. India, as the host, issued a chair's statement highlighting the differing views.

Mission Sudarshan Chakra Action Plan Ready

Mission Sudarshan Chakra Action Plan Ready

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Under Mission Sudarshan Chakra, the country's national security shield is to be expanded by 2035 to ensure comprehensive protection of both strategic and civilian critical infrastructure.

'Traitor, gimmick': Rahul targets Modi over economy, 'Melody'

'Traitor, gimmick': Rahul targets Modi over economy, 'Melody'

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for gifting 'Melody' toffees to Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, calling it a 'gimmick' while India faces an 'economic storm'. He accused Modi of prioritising public relations over addressing the struggles of farmers, labourers, and youth, a sentiment echoed by other Congress leaders.

Abortion, Rs 7 lakh claim: What Twisha's husband told MP SIT

Abortion, Rs 7 lakh claim: What Twisha's husband told MP SIT

Rediff.com26 May 2026

The CBI has registered an FIR in the death of Twisha Sharma, booking her husband and mother-in-law.

Rajnath Singh: India Shedding 'Cricket and Hockey Only' Image on Global Stage

Rajnath Singh: India Shedding 'Cricket and Hockey Only' Image on Global Stage

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlights India's transformation in sports, moving beyond cricket and hockey to achieve global recognition, driven by government investment and initiatives like the Khelo India programme.

UP Statues of Freedom Fighters Reinstalled After Outrage

UP Statues of Freedom Fighters Reinstalled After Outrage

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Statues of freedom fighters demolished in Shahjahanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, have been reinstalled within 24 hours following the Chief Minister's orders, prompting calls for a thorough investigation into the incident.

India, Russia discuss strengthening ties amid West Asia conflict

India, Russia discuss strengthening ties amid West Asia conflict

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

Russia's First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov met with Indian leaders to discuss strengthening bilateral ties in key sectors amidst the escalating conflict in West Asia.

AIIMS Team Performs Second Autopsy In Twisha Sharma Death Case

AIIMS Team Performs Second Autopsy In Twisha Sharma Death Case

Rediff.com24 May 2026

A team of doctors from AIIMS Delhi has begun a second autopsy of former model and actor Twisha Sharma in Bhopal, following a Madhya Pradesh High Court order. The family alleges dowry harassment and abetment to suicide, while the in-laws claim drug addiction. The family has raised concerns about the initial post-mortem and seeks a thorough investigation.

Think Tank Calls For Probe Into Fake Diabetes Drug Racket

Think Tank Calls For Probe Into Fake Diabetes Drug Racket

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

An independent think tank on policing has called for a multi-agency investigation into the recent unearthing of a spurious Mounjaro (tirzepatide) injection manufacturing racket in Gurugram, offering free-of-cost forensic expertise.

Delhi demolitions 'biggest destruction' in independent India: Kejriwal

Delhi demolitions 'biggest destruction' in independent India: Kejriwal

Rediff.com16 May 2022

Slamming the anti-encroachment drive being carried out in various parts of the city, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said if bulldozers raze shops and houses of 63 lakh people in Delhi, which are considered illegal, it will be the "biggest destruction" in independent India.

Technical Issues Hinder India's Renewable Energy Goals, Says Official

Technical Issues Hinder India's Renewable Energy Goals, Says Official

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

A top government official says that while India has made significant progress in renewable energy, technical issues are hindering large-scale implementation. The government is working on solutions such as grid flexibilisation and battery storage.

Delhi High Court Questions WFI's Decision On Vinesh Phogat

Delhi High Court Questions WFI's Decision On Vinesh Phogat

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Delhi High Court has criticised the Wrestling Federation of India for declaring wrestler Vinesh Phogat ineligible for domestic events, raising concerns about her participation in the upcoming Asian Games selection trials.

India Inc hits pause on factory expansion in March

India Inc hits pause on factory expansion in March

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

India's new manufacturing project announcements more than halved in the fourth quarter of FY26, falling 60 per cent sequentially and 78 per cent year-on-year to approximately 1.7 trillion, driven by global uncertainties, geopolitical conflicts in West Asia, and existing unutilised manufacturing capacity.

Justice Nagarathna: Judiciary Must Be Free From Algorithmic Influence

Justice Nagarathna: Judiciary Must Be Free From Algorithmic Influence

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Supreme Court judge Justice B V Nagarathna has cautioned against the over-reliance on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the judiciary, emphasising the need for judicial independence from algorithmic influence. She stressed that AI should only serve as a tool and not replace human judgement, which is guided by legal reasoning, constitutional values, and a deep sense of justice.

21, mostly foreigners, killed in massive fire at Delhi hotel

21, mostly foreigners, killed in massive fire at Delhi hotel

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

The building suffered extensive damage in the fire, with debris, shattered glass and burnt materials strewn in the vicinity. A large crowd gathered near the site as authorities cordoned off the spot and diverted traffic to facilitate rescue operations.

In UAE, Modi offers help to end West Asia crisis

In UAE, Modi offers help to end West Asia crisis

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has offered India's support to bring peace to West Asia during talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Both countries signed agreements to strengthen strategic collaborations in energy and defence.

Defence Stocks Soar on Geopolitical Tensions, Indigenisation Push

Defence Stocks Soar on Geopolitical Tensions, Indigenisation Push

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Indian defence stocks have seen an average year-on-year gain of 67 per cent, driven by renewed interest following 'Operation Sindoor' and a broader increase in global geopolitical tensions, with the combined market capitalisation of 18 firms increasing by approximately 2.3 trillion.

AIIMS Team Conducts Second Autopsy On Model Twisha Sharma

AIIMS Team Conducts Second Autopsy On Model Twisha Sharma

Rediff.com24 May 2026

A team of doctors from AIIMS Delhi completed the second postmortem of former model-turned-actor Twisha Sharma in Bhopal, following her death on May 12. Her family alleges dowry harassment and abetment to suicide, while her in-laws claim she suffered from drug addiction.

Criminal law can't target every in-law in marital disputes: SC

Criminal law can't target every in-law in marital disputes: SC

Rediff.com25 May 2026

The Supreme Court on Monday said criminal law cannot be permitted to be set in motion against every relative of the husband in a matrimonial dispute merely on the basis of omnibus allegations lacking a specific factual foundation.

Govt sends eviction notice to elite Delhi Gymkhana Club, cites security reasons

Govt sends eviction notice to elite Delhi Gymkhana Club, cites security reasons

Rediff.com23 May 2026

The Delhi Gymkhana Club, a historic landmark in Lutyens' Delhi, is facing eviction as the government seeks to reclaim its land for defence infrastructure, raising concerns about the future of this elite institution.