News for 'National Affairs'

Who is Ajinkya Shinde? CJP's new face to lead Jantar Mantar protest

Who is Ajinkya Shinde? CJP's new face to lead Jantar Mantar protest

Rediff.com4 days ago

Ajinkya Shinde, a native of Latur, Maharashtra, has taken charge of the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) "Jantar Mantar 2.0" protest in Delhi. This follows the detention of CJP's top leaders, including Dipke, Saurav Das, and Ashutosh Ranka, by Delhi Police on Saturday. Shinde, a former computer engineer and AAP activist, is leading the agitation against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged voter-list manipulation. The national capital saw a significant crackdown on Saturday, with nearly 500 protesters and leaders detained.

Serial practitioner of terrorism: Jaishankar slams Pak PM Sharif at UNGA

Serial practitioner of terrorism: Jaishankar slams Pak PM Sharif at UNGA

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, addressing the UN General Assembly, strongly criticised Pakistan for its support of terrorism, asserting India's right to self-defence and stating that friendship cannot coexist with terrorism. He also highlighted India's global responsibilities, contributions to the Global South, and its stance on reformed multilateralism and AI.

Jolt to Shabir Shah as NIA court rejects bail pela in 1996 terror case

Jolt to Shabir Shah as NIA court rejects bail pela in 1996 terror case

Rediff.com7 days ago

A special NIA court in Jammu has rejected the bail application of separatist leader Shabir Ahmad Shah in a 1996 case involving violence during a funeral procession. The court cited concerns over national security, public order, and potential intimidation of protected witnesses, while the NIA highlighted Shah's alleged role in inciting violence.

'Disastrous effect': SC orders halt to riverbed sand mining, seeks report

'Disastrous effect': SC orders halt to riverbed sand mining, seeks report

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) to submit a report on sand mining from riverbeds, highlighting its disastrous impact on river ecosystems. The court also ordered Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh to file compliance affidavits regarding measures against illegal sand mining in and around the National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary, following concerns over environmental damage and a forest ranger's death.

TMC stripped of key parliamentary panel chairpersonships

TMC stripped of key parliamentary panel chairpersonships

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

The Trinamool Congress has lost the chairpersonship of two significant Parliamentary panels following a reconstitution by Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. This development comes after a split in the TMC, with rebel MPs joining the Nationalist Citizen Party and supporting the NDA. The TMC has strongly criticised the move, alleging that Parliament is being turned into a 'deep, dark chamber' due to their exclusion from committee leadership.

Hasina's arrival in Delhi was 'unexpected': Indian envoy in Dhaka

Hasina's arrival in Delhi was 'unexpected': Indian envoy in Dhaka

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, clarified that former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's arrival in New Delhi two years ago was unexpected and not facilitated by the Indian military. He addressed ongoing extradition requests from the current Bangladeshi government, stating India acted out of duty during tragic circumstances in Bangladesh.

'We closely follow health condition of Captain Smit Machchhar': MEA

'We closely follow health condition of Captain Smit Machchhar': MEA

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

India is closely monitoring the health of Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian pilot who bravely saved a flydubai flight despite being stabbed by his co-pilot. Machchhar, initially treated in Saudi Arabia, has been moved to Abu Dhabi for further medical care, with Indian diplomatic missions providing full support.

Why India Is Wooing Sri Lanka's JVP

Why India Is Wooing Sri Lanka's JVP

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is actively courting Sri Lanka's Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), a Marxist party with strong Sinhalese nationalist roots, marking a significant shift in bilateral relations despite ideological differences. This engagement, highlighted by a recent high-profile visit by JVP leader Tilvin Silva, aims to foster cooperation on economic projects and address New Delhi's concerns over slow progress in India-aided initiatives in the island nation.

Pramod Bhagat And Bhavina Patel Named Flag Bearers For Asian Para Games

Pramod Bhagat And Bhavina Patel Named Flag Bearers For Asian Para Games

Rediff.com7 days ago

Paralympic champions Pramod Bhagat and Bhavina Patel have been chosen as flag bearers for the Indian contingent at the upcoming Asian Para Games in Nagoya, Japan, scheduled from October 18 to 24. Both athletes have significant achievements in their respective sports, and their selection aims to inspire the team.

Ramlila Maidan: Delhi's costly protest venue with limited dates

Ramlila Maidan: Delhi's costly protest venue with limited dates

Rediff.com2 days ago

Ramlila Maidan, recently designated as one of Delhi's new protest sites, is proving to be a costly and difficult option for demonstrators. With no free dates for the next two and a half months and booking fees exceeding Rs 1 lakh, it contrasts sharply with the previously free Jantar Mantar. The ground, rich in political history, also poses logistical challenges due to its busy commercial location and impact on traffic.

Two Indians charged with selling fake Ozempic in US

Two Indians charged with selling fake Ozempic in US

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Two Indian nationals have been charged in a US federal court for their alleged involvement in a transnational scheme to distribute counterfeit Ozempic, a popular diabetes drug. The scheme involved obtaining fake drugs from China, deceptive packaging, and continued even after FDA warnings, with the accused facing significant jail time if convicted.

Work With The US, With Or Without Trump

Work With The US, With Or Without Trump

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

India-US ties may be strained, but abandoning the relationship is not the answer; India must deal with Washington firmly without becoming either servile or hostile, asserts Ambassador T P Sreenivasan.

On Trump's UNGA Agenda: Mamdani, Macron and Zelenskyy

On Trump's UNGA Agenda: Mamdani, Macron and Zelenskyy

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

US President Donald Trump is set to engage in a series of high-profile meetings during the 81st United Nations General Assembly High-Level Week in New York, including discussions with NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The Nana Patekar You Didn't Know

The Nana Patekar You Didn't Know

Rediff.com17 hours ago

'I had narrated a script to Nana Patekar, and four days before the end, he told me that once he returned from Goa, he would take the project forward. I still can't believe he is never coming back. He was always so fit, proudly flexing his muscles and urging me to work out.'

Modi, Trump talk on phone amid sanctions threat

Modi, Trump talk on phone amid sanctions threat

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held a telephone conversation to review progress in bilateral ties, covering trade, defence, and energy, against the backdrop of heightened trade friction due to the 'Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026'.

Mizoram Rewards Hockey Stars Lalremsiami And Lalthantluangi With Rs 40 Lakh Each

Mizoram Rewards Hockey Stars Lalremsiami And Lalthantluangi With Rs 40 Lakh Each

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

The Mizoram government has announced a cash reward of Rs 40 lakh each for hockey players Lalremsiami and Lalthantluangi, who were part of the Indian women's team that won gold at the Asian Games. Chief Minister Lalduhoma felicitated the athletes, highlighting their historic achievement for the state and the government's commitment to promoting hockey through schemes and infrastructure development.

Nirmala Sitharaman: Next-Gen GST and India's next phase of growth

Nirmala Sitharaman: Next-Gen GST and India's next phase of growth

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

India's Next-Gen GST reforms are proving instrumental in driving robust economic growth, simplifying tax compliance, and fostering a more inclusive business environment across the nation, aligning with the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat', writes Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

AICF Treasurer Resigns Amid Chess Body Turmoil

AICF Treasurer Resigns Amid Chess Body Turmoil

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

The troubles, however, go beyond the exit of one office-bearer.

Now, Google to share child abuse case details with govt

Now, Google to share child abuse case details with govt

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Search engine major Google will also start sharing details of child sexual abuse cases and repeat offenders with the cybercrime division of the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

MT El Gaia attack: India reiterates safe navigation in international waters

MT El Gaia attack: India reiterates safe navigation in international waters

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

India on Tuesday reiterated the call for free and safe navigation in international waters and the unhindered flow of commerce through international waterways in the region after the Panama-flagged commercial vessel MT El Gaia came under attack off the coast of Oman, with 13 of the 14 Indian nationals on board rescued while search operations are underway for one missing seafarer.

What Is Driving India's Outreach To Neighbours?

What Is Driving India's Outreach To Neighbours?

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

India has significantly increased its diplomatic engagements with Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh and the Maldives.

India condemns Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, urges regional stability

India condemns Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, urges regional stability

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

India has expressed serious concern over Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia's civilian infrastructure and economic assets, stating that such actions threaten regional stability and freedom of navigation through the Bab-el-Mandeb strait. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar discussed the issue with his Saudi counterpart. India also condemned the targeting of commercial shipping after an Indian national went missing following an attack on a Panama-flagged ship off Oman.

SC asks high court to consider Delhi Gymkhana members' plea

SC asks high court to consider Delhi Gymkhana members' plea

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Delhi High Court to reconsider a plea by 11 members of the Delhi Gymkhana Club challenging the Centre's decision to take over 27.3 acres of land leased to the club and subsequent eviction proceedings. The members argue that the government-nominated management cannot effectively challenge the Centre's actions, which they deem a "colourable exercise" of power and a violation of fundamental rights.

MEA Clarifies India's Participation In SAF Games 2027

MEA Clarifies India's Participation In SAF Games 2027

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs stated that India's participation in the 2027 SAF Games in Pakistan will be guided by the sports ministry's policy, which permits Indian athletes to compete in events with Pakistani participants and vice-versa. Separately, the MEA also commented on the ongoing legal proceedings for seven foreign nationals, including a US citizen and six Ukrainians, who were recently chargesheeted by the NIA for illegal entry and movement, though not under UAPA at this stage.

Reforms Utsav To Showcase 1,300 Reforms

Reforms Utsav To Showcase 1,300 Reforms

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

The three-month long outreach will be closely monitored by senior government officials.

India ready for dialogue with Bangladesh on all issues, says MEA

India ready for dialogue with Bangladesh on all issues, says MEA

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

India's Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India desires positive, constructive, and forward-looking ties with Bangladesh and is ready to discuss all bilateral issues. This comes amidst queries regarding the state of relations following a change in Bangladesh's government and upcoming international engagements.

Will India travel to Pakistan for 2027 SAF Games?

Will India travel to Pakistan for 2027 SAF Games?

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

India has clarified its policy regarding participation in the 2027 South Asian Federation (SAF) Games in Pakistan, stating decisions will align with national sports policies and international governing bodies. While bilateral sporting engagements with Pakistan remain suspended, Indian athletes are permitted to compete in multilateral events. The government also aims to simplify visa processes to position India as a global sports hosting destination.

Stabbed pilot Capt Machchhar airlifted to Abu Dhabi for advanced treatment

Stabbed pilot Capt Machchhar airlifted to Abu Dhabi for advanced treatment

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian pilot operating flydubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv, is being airlifted to Abu Dhabi for advanced medical care after suffering stab wounds during a violent mid-air cockpit attack by his co-pilot.

Conscientious objectors should not be punished: SC on Vande Mataram plea

Conscientious objectors should not be punished: SC on Vande Mataram plea

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has indicated that individuals with a conscientious objection should not face criminal consequences for declining to sing Vande Mataram, while asking the Centre to consider a 1986 judgment protecting similar rights concerning the national anthem.

The Recipe That Tastes Like Home

The Recipe That Tastes Like Home

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

It isn't a fancy food. It doesn't have the national recognition of litti or baati. Outside its little corner of Vidarbha, many people may not even know it exists.

Omani flydubai co-pilot to be handed over to UAE after Saudi probe

Omani flydubai co-pilot to be handed over to UAE after Saudi probe

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Saudi Arabia will conduct the preliminary investigation into the Omani co-pilot who attempted to crash flydubai flight FZ1073, after the Tel Aviv-bound plane was forced to make an unscheduled landing at Tabuk Airport.

How Meta's Offer Will Nail Child Sex Abuse Offenders

How Meta's Offer Will Nail Child Sex Abuse Offenders

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

'Details of accounts such as the name, email id associated with the account, the IP address will now be shared with law enforcement agencies, which will help track down offenders faster.'

SENSATIONAL! Who In Delhi Stopped The GSLV Launch?

SENSATIONAL! Who In Delhi Stopped The GSLV Launch?

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

'An instruction came from somebody in Delhi saying, "don't go with the launch".'

SC orders Delhi police audit, mapping of crime-prone areas

SC orders Delhi police audit, mapping of crime-prone areas

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has issued comprehensive directives to the Delhi Police Commissioner to enhance safety for women and minor girls in Delhi-NCR. These measures include forming dedicated police teams, conducting vulnerability audits of public spaces, improving lighting and CCTV surveillance, and strengthening grievance redressal mechanisms. The court also sought reports on the functioning of fast-track courts, utilisation of sexual offender databases, and the Mission Shakti programme.

Modi-Xi Meet: Look At The Body Language

Modi-Xi Meet: Look At The Body Language

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi.

India Declares Shahzad Bhatti Network A Terrorist Organisation

India Declares Shahzad Bhatti Network A Terrorist Organisation

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Indian government has officially declared the Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN) a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). This action, announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, targets a group involved in cross-border smuggling of arms, explosives, and narcotics, as well as inciting youth into terrorism and spreading hateful digital content. SBN is accused of threatening India's democratic structure, communal harmony, and internal security.

Article 370 to 'vote chori': When Gyanesh Kumar made headlines

Article 370 to 'vote chori': When Gyanesh Kumar made headlines

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar is facing significant scrutiny after an investigation revealed objections from his fellow election commissioners, Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, regarding decisions made during the Special Intensive Revision of voter lists. The objections, reportedly made at least 14 times, concerned issues like changes to voter registration forms and centralised control over electoral roll databases, intensifying criticism of Kumar's tenure and the EC's impartiality.

Were These Biopics Done Right?

Were These Biopics Done Right?

Rediff.com7 days ago

From Azhar and Sanju to Thackeray and Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, Bollywood has often struggled to tell controversial true stories without turning their subjects into heroes.

Arunachal Pradesh Set To Lead Northeast In Sports, Says Minister

Arunachal Pradesh Set To Lead Northeast In Sports, Says Minister

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Arunachal Pradesh Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Kento Jini announced the state's ambition to become the leading sporting state in the Northeast, highlighting its current second-place ranking after Manipur and the participation of two athletes in the upcoming Asian Games. The state celebrated National Sports Day by felicitating over 102 athletes and coaches with Rs 50 lakh in incentives, while officials and a renowned mountaineer encouraged continued sports participation.

Why This CM Is Probing Lionel Messi!

Why This CM Is Probing Lionel Messi!

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

In 100 days in office, Chief Minister V D Satheesan has ordered five SITs. This would appear to be some kind of a record, points out Aditi Phadnis.