News for 'Independent'

NDA sweeps RS polls as Nitish, Nitin enter Upper House

NDA sweeps RS polls as Nitish, Nitin enter Upper House

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

The ruling NDA alliance has secured a majority in the Rajya Sabha elections, winning key seats in Bihar, Odisha, and Haryana, while other candidates were elected unopposed across multiple states. The elections were marked by cross-voting allegations and political maneuvering.

Punjab CM Questions Centre's 'Denial' of Bharat Ratna to Martyrs

Punjab CM Questions Centre's 'Denial' of Bharat Ratna to Martyrs

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has reaffirmed his government's commitment to honouring martyrs and building a vibrant Punjab, while also criticising the central government for not awarding the Bharat Ratna to freedom fighters like Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev.

Trump's unpredictable Iran policy baffles Americans, allies

Trump's unpredictable Iran policy baffles Americans, allies

Rediff.com5 days ago

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.

25 Women Rescued in Solapur Prostitution Bust

25 Women Rescued in Solapur Prostitution Bust

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Police in Solapur, Maharashtra, have dismantled a prostitution racket operating from a dance academy, rescuing 25 women and arresting five individuals on human trafficking charges.

Honey Trehan: 'Speaking The Truth Is Becoming A Crime In This Country For The CBFC'

Honey Trehan: 'Speaking The Truth Is Becoming A Crime In This Country For The CBFC'

Rediff.com5 days ago

Director Honey Trehan's film Punjab '95, based on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra's life, remains stuck with the Censor Board, facing over 127 cuts.

HC Closes Proceedings on Karti Chidambaram's Plea Regarding Chinese Visa Scam Case

HC Closes Proceedings on Karti Chidambaram's Plea Regarding Chinese Visa Scam Case

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

The Delhi High Court has closed proceedings on a plea by Congress MP Karti Chidambaram seeking to defer the hearing on framing of charges in a money laundering case linked to the alleged Chinese visa scam.

US weighs easing Iran oil sanctions to curb global price surge

US weighs easing Iran oil sanctions to curb global price surge

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Bessent indicated that the U.S. is evaluating the status of Iranian oil as the current campaign progresses.

Tribal Athletes Get National Platform at Khelo India Tribal Games

Tribal Athletes Get National Platform at Khelo India Tribal Games

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games (KITG) commenced in Chhattisgarh, providing a national stage for tribal athletes to showcase their abilities. Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted the event's significance in promoting sports culture and identifying talent from remote areas.

SAD Leader Alleges 'Stage-Managed' Arrest to Distract from Suicide Case

SAD Leader Alleges 'Stage-Managed' Arrest to Distract from Suicide Case

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia has criticised the Bhagwant Mann government, alleging that the arrest of AAP MLA Harmeet Singh Pathanmajra is a 'stage-managed show' designed to divert attention from the suicide of a warehousing corporation official.

Pilots Told To Refuse Unsafe Flights: No VVIP Pressure: DGCA Cracks Down

Pilots Told To Refuse Unsafe Flights: No VVIP Pressure: DGCA Cracks Down

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

Pilots and aircraft maintenance engineers are responsible for planning and conducting flights, and these decisions must rely on technical judgment rather than external influence.

SC Orders Special Probe into Haryana Rape Case, Slams Police Handling

SC Orders Special Probe into Haryana Rape Case, Slams Police Handling

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The Supreme Court has criticised Haryana Police and Gurugram's Child Welfare Committee for their handling of a three-year-old's rape case, ordering a special investigation team and a fair probe.

8 Safest Countries To Flee To If WW3 Starts Tomorrow

8 Safest Countries To Flee To If WW3 Starts Tomorrow

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Amid growing international instability, folks all over the world are wondering if there is any country that can be considered a secure refuge, should this conflict expand into a larger war, drawing in many more nations.

We are not a dalal nation: Jaishankar at all-party meet

We are not a dalal nation: Jaishankar at all-party meet

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

The Indian government addressed opposition concerns regarding the West Asia crisis in an all-party meeting, outlining its strategy for ensuring the security of the Indian diaspora, fulfilling energy needs, and maintaining diplomatic relations with key partners. The government also dismissed Pakistan's reported mediation efforts.

Volleyball Federation of India Receives Provisional Recognition Amid Visa and Payment Concerns

Volleyball Federation of India Receives Provisional Recognition Amid Visa and Payment Concerns

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) has granted provisional recognition to the Volleyball Federation of India (VFI) while also raising concerns with the IOA regarding visa delays for athletes and pending dues from private partners.

Why HDFC Bank Chairman Atanu Chakraborty Resigned

Why HDFC Bank Chairman Atanu Chakraborty Resigned

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

Atanu Chakraborty has resigned as chairman of HDFC Bank, citing ethical concerns, marking an unusual departure and prompting the appointment of an interim chairman.

Cong MLAs face action after cross-voting in Rajya Sabha polls

Cong MLAs face action after cross-voting in Rajya Sabha polls

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

Rajya Sabha elections in Bihar, Odisha, and Haryana were marred by allegations of cross-voting and 'horse trading', leading to suspensions and warnings from the Congress party.

HP CM Sukhu Promises No Mercy for Police in Drug Trade

HP CM Sukhu Promises No Mercy for Police in Drug Trade

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has vowed to take strict action against any police personnel found involved in the drug trade, addressing concerns raised by the opposition regarding the deteriorating law and order situation in the state.

Powerica IPO Sees Slow Start, Subscribed 1% on Opening Day

Powerica IPO Sees Slow Start, Subscribed 1% on Opening Day

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The Powerica Limited IPO opened on March 24, 2026, with muted Day 1 subscription. Check latest GMP, price band, lot size, issue details, and investor response.

Rahul wearing T-shirt in Parliament is not nice: Rijiju

Rahul wearing T-shirt in Parliament is not nice: Rijiju

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju criticises Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's parliamentary conduct, accusing him of being unduly influenced by advisors and questioning his casual attire in the House.

No proof, no benefits: Govt clarifies limits of census data use

No proof, no benefits: Govt clarifies limits of census data use

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India, Mritunjay Kumar Narayan, has reassured the public that individual data collected during the upcoming census will remain confidential and cannot be used for any purpose other than statistical aggregation.

Rs 64,000 Crore Investment in Coal Gasification to Cut Energy Imports

Rs 64,000 Crore Investment in Coal Gasification to Cut Energy Imports

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy announced that seven coal gasification projects will be established in Maharashtra, Odisha, and West Bengal with a Rs 64,000 crore investment, aiming to reduce India's reliance on energy imports.

Nayara Energy Increases Petrol and Diesel Prices Amidst Global Oil Surge

Nayara Energy Increases Petrol and Diesel Prices Amidst Global Oil Surge

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Nayara Energy, a private fuel retailer in India, has increased petrol and diesel prices following a surge in global oil prices due to Middle East tensions. This move contrasts with state-owned retailers who continue to freeze prices.

Karur stampede: TVK's Vijay grilled by CBI for over 7 hours

Karur stampede: TVK's Vijay grilled by CBI for over 7 hours

Rediff.com15 Mar 2026

Actor Vijay faces intense CBI questioning regarding the tragic stampede at his rally in Tamil Nadu, as the investigation seeks to uncover the truth behind the incident that claimed 41 lives.

Did Wankhede take bribe from SRK to spare his son? Ex-NCB officer answers

Did Wankhede take bribe from SRK to spare his son? Ex-NCB officer answers

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Former NCB Mumbai zonal director Sameer Wankhede has denied demanding or accepting a bribe from Shah Rukh Khan to exonerate his son Aryan Khan in the 2021 cruise ship drugs case. His counsel argued before the Bombay High Court that the CBI lacks evidence to support the bribery allegations.

IPL 2026: Buttler reveals how he balances IPL and England cricket

IPL 2026: Buttler reveals how he balances IPL and England cricket

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

England's Jos Buttler discusses the challenges of balancing franchise cricket with international duties, the importance of saying 'no', and managing external pressures as a professional cricketer.

Opposition MPs Urge Amit Shah to Address Alleged Threats to Muslims in Uttam Nagar

Opposition MPs Urge Amit Shah to Address Alleged Threats to Muslims in Uttam Nagar

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Opposition MPs, led by Congress MP Mohammad Jawed, have written to Home Minister Amit Shah expressing concerns over alleged threats to Muslims in Uttam Nagar, urging him to direct the Delhi Police to take decisive action against those spreading hate and creating an atmosphere of fear.

Ex-CPI(M) Leader Sudhakaran Refutes Kerala CM's Contact Claims

Ex-CPI(M) Leader Sudhakaran Refutes Kerala CM's Contact Claims

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

Former CPI(M) leader G Sudhakaran, now an independent candidate, has denied claims by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan that the CM attempted to contact him, sparking a political controversy.

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.

Haryana Boosts Anti-Narcotics Efforts with New Tech and Coordination

Haryana Boosts Anti-Narcotics Efforts with New Tech and Coordination

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Haryana is strengthening its anti-narcotics framework with an integrated and technology-driven roadmap, focusing on increased enforcement, inter-state coordination, and financial disruption of drug networks.

Kochi Biennale co-founder Bose Krishnamachari quits over sexual harassment charges

Kochi Biennale co-founder Bose Krishnamachari quits over sexual harassment charges

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The Kochi-Muziris Biennale, a prominent art event, is embroiled in controversy as co-founder Bose Krishnamachari faces sexual harassment allegations, prompting his resignation and raising concerns about the event's future.

Unborn child over 5 months a 'person', eligible for compensation: HC

Unborn child over 5 months a 'person', eligible for compensation: HC

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

The Allahabad High Court has ruled that an unborn child of more than five months' gestation is considered a 'person' under the law, entitling the family to separate compensation in the event of its death in an accident.

American firms investing in IPL franchises show confidence in league's growth

American firms investing in IPL franchises show confidence in league's growth

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

Satyan Gajwani, chairman of Times Internet Limited and RCB's new co-owner, discusses the significance of American companies investing in IPL franchises like RCB and Rajasthan Royals, highlighting the league's immense growth potential and global appeal.

Modi emerges longest-serving head of govt, surpassing Pawan Chamling

Modi emerges longest-serving head of govt, surpassing Pawan Chamling

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

With 8,931 days in office as head of government covering his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister and as Prime Minister, PM Modi has overtaken Chamling's record of 8,930 days.

Suresh Gopi Defends Protocol After Kerala CM Boycotts Modi Event

Suresh Gopi Defends Protocol After Kerala CM Boycotts Modi Event

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

Union Minister Suresh Gopi addressed the controversy surrounding the Kerala Chief Minister's absence at Prime Minister Modi's event, citing Blue Book protocol and SPG procedures.

Suresh Gopi Defends Protocol After Kerala CM Boycotts Modi Event

Suresh Gopi Defends Protocol After Kerala CM Boycotts Modi Event

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

Union Minister Suresh Gopi addressed the controversy surrounding the Kerala Chief Minister's absence at Prime Minister Modi's event, citing Blue Book protocol and SPG procedures.

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.

BJP Demands CBI Investigation into Punjab Official's Suicide, Alleges Government Cover-Up

BJP Demands CBI Investigation into Punjab Official's Suicide, Alleges Government Cover-Up

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

A Punjab BJP delegation has requested a CBI investigation into the suicide of a Punjab State Warehousing Corporation official, alleging harassment and a cover-up by the state government.

Amritpal Singh's Absence Nears Limit: Court Reserves Order

Amritpal Singh's Absence Nears Limit: Court Reserves Order

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The Punjab and Haryana High Court is considering a plea regarding incarcerated MP Amritpal Singh's absence from Parliament, which has reached 59 sittings. The court has been informed that Singh can apply for condoning his absence, as continuous absence for 60 sittings could lead to his seat being declared vacant.

Senegal to appeal after CAF strips AFCON title, allege corruption

Senegal to appeal after CAF strips AFCON title, allege corruption

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Senegal has called for an international probe into Confederation of African Football after being stripped of the 2025 AFCON title, which was awarded to Morocco.

Jazz City Review: Over-Ambitious Historical Fiction

Jazz City Review: Over-Ambitious Historical Fiction

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Jazz City could have been enjoyable had it not been so densely over-plotted and unevenly executed, notes Deepa Gahlot.