News for 'Independent Institute'

Opposition backs women's quota, to vote against delimitation

Opposition backs women's quota, to vote against delimitation

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

Several opposition parties on Wednesday decided to jointly oppose the delimitation provisions in the Constitution amendment bill in Parliament, even as they reiterated support for women's reservation, with Mallikarjun Kharge alleging the move is politically motivated.

'Kasab Drank Urine, Didn't Eat Biryani'

'Kasab Drank Urine, Didn't Eat Biryani'

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

'The jail staff told me Kasab was served only jail food and not biryani.' 'They told me that Kasab was beaten regularly after court proceedings.' 'And they filled Kasab's bottle with urine so that whenever he felt thirsty he used to drink urine.'

Opposition targets CEC Gyanesh Kumar with 7-point chargesheet

Opposition targets CEC Gyanesh Kumar with 7-point chargesheet

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Opposition MPs in India have moved notices in Parliament seeking the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, accusing him of bias, misconduct, and acting under the influence of the executive.

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.

Biotechnology Facility Foundation Laid in Thiruvananthapuram

Biotechnology Facility Foundation Laid in Thiruvananthapuram

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Union Minister Jitendra Singh inaugurated a new biotechnology facility and dedicated a national facility for recombinant cells and sensors at the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology in Thiruvananthapuram, highlighting India's focus on biotechnology and its potential for economic growth.

Spirit Of Giving: Households Earning Rs 5,000 A Month Give To Charity

Spirit Of Giving: Households Earning Rs 5,000 A Month Give To Charity

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

Of the donations, 48% is in kind -- such as food, clothing, or other household goods -- followed by cash (44%) and volunteering (30%) with non-profits, religious institutions, or community groups.

DGCA Gets New Chief After Turbulent Year

DGCA Gets New Chief After Turbulent Year

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Events from mid-2025 to early 2026 exposed deeper systemic concerns for India's aviation safety architecture.

'He hugs and winks': Rijiju mocks Rahul, praises Priyanka; Cong MP hits back

'He hugs and winks': Rijiju mocks Rahul, praises Priyanka; Cong MP hits back

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju strongly defended Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla against a no-confidence motion, accusing the Congress party of attacking constitutional institutions and undermining parliamentary democracy.

SC asks CBI, ED to conduct 'fair, time-bound' probe into Anil Ambani Group banking fraud

SC asks CBI, ED to conduct 'fair, time-bound' probe into Anil Ambani Group banking fraud

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

The Supreme Court has ordered a 'fair, dispassionate, transparent, and time-bound' investigation by the CBI and ED into the Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group, addressing concerns over alleged large-scale banking fraud and demanding accountability.

Govt has no role to play in judicial transfers: SC judge

Govt has no role to play in judicial transfers: SC judge

Rediff.com25 Jan 2026

Supreme Court judge Justice Ujjal Bhuyan asserts the independence of the judiciary and its importance in upholding the Constitution, emphasizing that the government has no role in the transfer of judges.

HDFC Bank board firefights after ex-chairman's resignation

HDFC Bank board firefights after ex-chairman's resignation

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

HDFC Bank's leadership addresses the sudden resignation of its chairman, citing ethical concerns, and attempts to reassure stakeholders about the bank's governance and future stability.

Oppn MPs submit notices in LS, RS seeking motion for removal of CEC

Oppn MPs submit notices in LS, RS seeking motion for removal of CEC

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Opposition MPs have submitted notices in both Houses of Parliament seeking a motion for the removal of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, alleging partisan conduct and obstruction of electoral fraud investigations.

Acid Attack on Schoolgirl Sparks Outrage in Maharashtra Assembly

Acid Attack on Schoolgirl Sparks Outrage in Maharashtra Assembly

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

The Maharashtra government is facing criticism after an acid attack on a Class 6 girl student in Sangamner. The Congress party has slammed the government in the legislative assembly, alleging a deterioration in law and order in the state. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of women and girls in Maharashtra.

Trump's unpredictable Iran policy baffles Americans, allies

Trump's unpredictable Iran policy baffles Americans, allies

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Donald Trump's inconsistent statements and actions regarding the conflict with Iran have drawn criticism and confusion, raising questions about American credibility and the direction of US foreign policy.

SC pulls up NCERT over judiciary chapter; directs govt to drop 3 experts

SC pulls up NCERT over judiciary chapter; directs govt to drop 3 experts

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

The Centre has directed the NCERT to review all textbooks after the Supreme Court raised concerns about 'offending' content on corruption in the judiciary in a Class 8 social science book.

Gurdaspur Murder Suspect Blames Others for Police Killings

Gurdaspur Murder Suspect Blames Others for Police Killings

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

One of the accused in the Gurdaspur police killings has blamed his accomplices for the crime, while questions arise regarding the encounter death of another suspect, prompting calls for an independent investigation.

Will Embracing Israel Prove Costly For India?

Will Embracing Israel Prove Costly For India?

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

By appearing to privilege ideological affinity over strategic balance, India risks eroding the trust painstakingly built across West Asia. Once the perception takes hold that India's friendship is conditional and transactional, rebuilding credibility will be difficult, warns Amberish K Diwanji.

'They have fired a gunshot': SC bans NCERT textbook

'They have fired a gunshot': SC bans NCERT textbook

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

The apex court ordered that the Centre and state authorities comply with its directions immediately, and warned of 'serious action' if directions are defied in any form.

Gulf War: India Is In A Catch-22 Situation

Gulf War: India Is In A Catch-22 Situation

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

India's handling of the Iran crisis reflects a growing strain between strategic autonomy and geopolitical alignment, observes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

If You Are In New York On March 20 Don't Miss Ravi Shankar Ensemble

If You Are In New York On March 20 Don't Miss Ravi Shankar Ensemble

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

The multi-generational ensemble of world-class musicians dedicated to the masterful compositions and enduring legacy of the legendary sitar-musician.

Experts Urge Schools to Integrate AI Education Responsibly

Experts Urge Schools to Integrate AI Education Responsibly

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Education experts are advocating for the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) education in schools, emphasizing the need for age-appropriate implementation, data privacy awareness, and the use of vetted AI tools within secure school environments.

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The 'rescue' operation occurred within kilometres of Iran's underground tunnel complex at Isfahan, assessed by the IAEA and US intelligence as holding a substantial portion of the country's 60 per cent enriched uranium stockpile. Retired senior US military officers have highlighted that the mission's footprint -- hundreds of special operators, multiple heavy-lift aircraft deep inside Iran -- appears outsized for recovering a single airman. Prem Panicker continues his must read blog on the Iran War.

'Biggest reform in sports since independence': LS passes Sports Bill

'Biggest reform in sports since independence': LS passes Sports Bill

Rediff.com11 Aug 2025

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said the Sports Bill is a key reform aimed at building a "transparent, accountable and world-class sports ecosystem" in India.

Delhi court acquits Brazilian in cocaine case, slams probe lapses

Delhi court acquits Brazilian in cocaine case, slams probe lapses

Rediff.com20 Feb 2026

A Delhi court acquitted a Brazilian national in a 2016 cocaine seizure case, citing the prosecution's failure to comply with mandatory provisions of the NDPS Act.

'Life Support Withdrawal Is About Reducing Suffering, Not Ending Life'

'Life Support Withdrawal Is About Reducing Suffering, Not Ending Life'

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

'Families go through turmoil at that time. There is a feeling of guilt and uncertainty, and they do not know what they should be doing.' 'Now that the new judgment has clarified what the procedure is, doctors will be confident enough to talk to the families and explain what is to be done.'

Defence stocks gain amid West Asia crisis

Defence stocks gain amid West Asia crisis

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

Even as the benchmark and broader indices were down sharply on Monday due to escalating tensions in West Asia, the Nifty Defence index ended the session in the green.

India cosponsors UN resolution condemning Iran's attacks on Gulf countries

India cosponsors UN resolution condemning Iran's attacks on Gulf countries

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

The UN Security Council, with India's support, has adopted a resolution condemning Iran's attacks on Gulf Cooperation Council countries and Jordan, demanding an immediate cessation of hostilities and denouncing threats to the Strait of Hormuz.

AI ecosystem opaque, needs accountability: CCI chairperson

AI ecosystem opaque, needs accountability: CCI chairperson

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

The artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem is opaque and needs to be made transparent and accountable, said Competition Commission of India's (CCI) Chairperson Ravneet Kaur at the Business Standard Manthan Summit on Wednesday.

One-Regulator Education Bill Sent To Panel

One-Regulator Education Bill Sent To Panel

Rediff.com16 Dec 2025

'It interferes in administrative matters of institutions, robbing them of their independence in day-to-day affairs and appointments.'

Muslim names in LD lists exceed population share in 4 Kolkata seats: Study

Muslim names in LD lists exceed population share in 4 Kolkata seats: Study

Rediff.com12 Feb 2026

A new study alleges that Muslim voters are disproportionately represented in Logical Discrepancy (LD) lists during Kolkata's voter roll revision, raising concerns about potential bias in the electoral process.

UGC 2026: 'No One Is Being Criminalised'

UGC 2026: 'No One Is Being Criminalised'

Rediff.com2 Feb 2026

'Once the actual scope is understood, it becomes evident that the framework is about internal redress and course correction, and in no way criminalisation.'

Bengal Guv Bose's sudden exit before polls triggers political row

Bengal Guv Bose's sudden exit before polls triggers political row

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose has resigned from his post, triggering a political storm in the state ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. The sudden resignation has led to speculation and accusations between the ruling TMC and the BJP.

Pankaja, O'Sey Balamma Make It To Sundance

Pankaja, O'Sey Balamma Make It To Sundance

Rediff.com26 Jan 2026

Pankaja and O'Sey Balamma bring deeply personal yet universally resonant stories to Sundance. They represent a new wave of South Indian storytelling, blending cultural authenticity with cinematic innovation, and mark an important step in amplifying regional voices on the international stage.

World Bank flags how India failed to rein in debt in several states

World Bank flags how India failed to rein in debt in several states

Rediff.com5 Feb 2026

India's state-level fiscal rules have improved headline deficits, but the gains are fragile and uneven with major states still grappling with high debt levels, a World Bank report submitted to the 16th Finance Commission (FC) said. According to the report, despite nearly two decades of adoption of fiscal responsibility laws (FRLs), debt levels have not converged.

Fadnavis slams decision to postpone local body polls

Fadnavis slams decision to postpone local body polls

Rediff.com1 Dec 2025

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has criticized the State Election Commission's decision to postpone some local body elections, calling it unfair to candidates. The decision follows petitions and sub judice matters, which Fadnavis argues should not halt the election process. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also expressed disappointment, while tensions rise between BJP and Shiv Sena in Sindhudurg ahead of local polls.

Trump's Pause Gives Iran NOTHING!

Trump's Pause Gives Iran NOTHING!

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The pause gives the US time to breathe, to regroup, to move its expeditionary force into position without risk of interception along the way. It gives Iran nothing -- on the ground, attacks against its infrastructure continue apace. Prem Panicker in his must read daily blog on the Gulf War.

Sebi calls for sharper IPO disclosures on risk factors, valuation rationale

Sebi calls for sharper IPO disclosures on risk factors, valuation rationale

Rediff.com16 Jan 2026

Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey on Thursday called for sharper disclosures in IPO (initial public offering) offer documents, particularly around risk factors, valuation rationale, objects of the issue, and utilisation of proceeds.

What's Choking India's Capital Markets

What's Choking India's Capital Markets

Rediff.com2 Feb 2026

'Large firms and their interests can dominate the narrative, even as smaller stakeholders and retail investors struggle to be heard.' 'Regulators therefore require deep subject-matter expertise to assess representations, recognise underlying incentives, incorporate the perspectives of less-visible stakeholders, and guard against bias or capture,' notes Ananth Narayan.

Tension rises in Manipur after several houses set ablaze

Tension rises in Manipur after several houses set ablaze

Rediff.com9 Feb 2026

Armed militants allegedly torched several houses in Manipur's Ukhrul district, as tensions simmered in the area after a Tangkhul Naga community member was "assaulted" by a group of people. Two tribal groups engaged in intense stone pelting at Litan village, prompting the administration to clamp prohibitory orders. Additional security personnel have been deployed to maintain law and order.

Why The Markets Fell After 12.10 PM

Why The Markets Fell After 12.10 PM

Rediff.com1 Feb 2026

Ambareesh Baliga's quick take on the markets after the increase in STT on futures and options trading...