News for 'Office of Immigrant Affairs'

Delhi Court Seeks Clarification in Russian Woman's Child Custody Case

Delhi Court Seeks Clarification in Russian Woman's Child Custody Case

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

A Delhi court has requested further information from the investigating officer in the child custody case involving Viktoriaa Basu, a Russian woman accused of illegally leaving India with her child.

Gujarat couple heading to US kidnapped in Azerbaijan

Gujarat couple heading to US kidnapped in Azerbaijan

Rediff.com11 Feb 2026

An Indian couple from Gujarat was dramatically rescued from kidnappers in Azerbaijan after intervention by the Ministry of External Affairs.

Over 3,800 Indians deported from US in 2025, govt tells RS

Over 3,800 Indians deported from US in 2025, govt tells RS

Rediff.com5 Feb 2026

The Indian government informed the Rajya Sabha that over 3,800 Indian nationals were deported from the US in 2025. The government is working with US authorities to ensure humane treatment during deportation operations and is taking action against illegal recruitment agents facilitating illegal immigration.

The Year Of Michael B Jordan

The Year Of Michael B Jordan

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

An awards season full of twists, upsets, and shifting narratives culminated in a night that defied early predictions. The Best Actor race delivered the biggest surprise, as momentum, controversy, and changing perceptions reshaped the field.

India, Canada take steps to repair security ties

India, Canada take steps to repair security ties

Rediff.com9 Feb 2026

Both countries also committed to formalising cooperation on cybersecurity policy and information sharing on cybersecurity issues.

New York City Immigrant Affairs chief: I was in tears

New York City Immigrant Affairs chief: I was in tears

Rediff.com13 Feb 2017

Nisha Agarwal, commissioner of the New York Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs, recalls, with both anguish and elation, the events of the last fortnight after the US President's order banning entry for people from seven countries was put in place.

After US, Israel cuts ties with several UN bodies

After US, Israel cuts ties with several UN bodies

Rediff.com14 Jan 2026

Following an examination and discussions held in the aftermath of the United States' decision to withdraw from dozens of international organisations, Israel's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gideon Sa'ar, has decided that Jerusalem will immediately sever all contact with several United Nations agencies and international bodies, citing what the government described as persistent bias, politicisation and actions hostile to Israel.

UK bars US Islamic preacher's entry for defending Hamas

UK bars US Islamic preacher's entry for defending Hamas

Rediff.com6 Jan 2026

Britain has banned the entry of an Islamic preacher, Dr. Shadee Elmasry, over his defence of Hamas following the October 7, 2023, attack in Israel. The UK Home Office cited concerns about hate speech and extremist ideas.

Over 18,000 Indians deported by US since 2009, Jaishankar tells RS

Over 18,000 Indians deported by US since 2009, Jaishankar tells RS

Rediff.com4 Dec 2025

The Indian government reveals that the United States has deported over 18,000 Indian nationals since 2009, with a focus on human trafficking investigations and concerns over the treatment of deportees.

'I Want The South Asian Community To Feel They Have A Voice At City Hall'

'I Want The South Asian Community To Feel They Have A Voice At City Hall'

Rediff.com27 Oct 2025

'As Mayor, I will use my platform to reject any efforts by the Trump administration to curtail immigration.'

Trump show from start to finish at World Cup 2026 draw

Trump show from start to finish at World Cup 2026 draw

Rediff.com6 Dec 2025

US President Donald Trump, who has campaigned aggressively this year for a Nobel Peace Prize, was given FIFA's inaugural peace prize for his efforts to promote dialogue and de-escalation in some of the world's biggest hotspots.

Wife seeks govt help after TN doctor detained in Russia

Wife seeks govt help after TN doctor detained in Russia

Rediff.com9 Nov 2025

The wife of an Indian doctor, allegedly detained in Sochi, Russia, appeals to the Indian government for help in securing his release and safe return to India.

India rolls out next-gen e-passports to stop forgery, impersonation

India rolls out next-gen e-passports to stop forgery, impersonation

Rediff.com18 Nov 2025

The Indian government has introduced a next-generation e-passport with enhanced security features, including an embedded RFID chip, to combat forgery and impersonation. The rollout follows successful pilot testing and implementation across India and abroad.

'Mamdani's win NYC's answer to right-wing movements'

'Mamdani's win NYC's answer to right-wing movements'

Rediff.com6 Nov 2025

'We should not look at him as a representative of the Indian community, especially now that he is the mayor of New York. What is important is the value he upholds, which are general values that liberals across the world would believe in'

'Bulldozer Justice Continues Despite SC Verdict'

'Bulldozer Justice Continues Despite SC Verdict'

Rediff.com2 Dec 2025

'Even as the Supreme Court's anti-punitive demolition judgment nears its first anniversary, no formal contempt proceedings have been initiated either by the Supreme Court or any high court against officers or demolition squads who have acted in violation of it.'

Punjab police raid 1,274 immigration firms, 7 illegal travel agents held

Punjab police raid 1,274 immigration firms, 7 illegal travel agents held

Rediff.com26 Feb 2025

Punjab Police conducted raids and search operations at 1,274 immigration firms across the state to protect aspiring immigrants from falling prey to unscrupulous travel agents. The massive operation, carried out on the directions of Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav, was a response to the recent deportation of illegal Indian immigrants by the US. Many of the deportees from Punjab and Haryana have alleged they were duped by travel agents who promised legal entry to the US but instead used the "donkey route" - an illegal and risky pathway. Police have registered 24 FIRs against travel agents and arrested seven. The operation was conducted under the Punjab Travel Professionals' Regulation Act, 2012, which mandates travel agents to obtain a license, maintain records, and comply with other regulations. The police advised citizens to verify travel agents' credentials before entrusting them with documents and money.

Why J&K Border Villages Are Safe Haven For Terrorists

Why J&K Border Villages Are Safe Haven For Terrorists

Rediff.com5 Sep 2025

'Why have we failed to address the issue of ensuring a requisite buffer zone in J&K, given that cross-border links of some J&K politicians are known?', asks Lieutenant General Prakash Katoch (retd).

Nehru Should Have Retired In 1957

Nehru Should Have Retired In 1957

Rediff.com13 Nov 2025

...a time when his legacy ledger was still positive and before the debacle against China. With every subsequent election, our leaders tend to become weaker. India should consider passing a law that no person should hold the highest office in our country for more than two terms, points out Harishchandra.

'Assault on peace, order': Trump slams LA protests

'Assault on peace, order': Trump slams LA protests

Rediff.com11 Jun 2025

Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom said Trump is "pulling a military dragnet" across Los Angeles.

'Trump's Win Won't Affect Skilled Immigrants'

'Trump's Win Won't Affect Skilled Immigrants'

Rediff.com27 Nov 2024

'As far as skilled immigration is concerned, the US needs Indian skills and Indian talent, and there are no two opinions about it even among US companies.'

Trump deploys more 2,000 National Guard troops in LA amid protests

Trump deploys more 2,000 National Guard troops in LA amid protests

Rediff.com10 Jun 2025

The latest deployment comes on the same day California filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, asking a judge to declare the deployments unconstitutional.

Turbulence In Tokyo: What It Means For India

Turbulence In Tokyo: What It Means For India

Rediff.com12 Sep 2025

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's sudden resignation after only a year in office has thrown Japan into political turmoil, raising doubts about how the country will handle economic and regional challenges, observes Dr Rajaram Panda.

Will Language Politics Help Didi Win 4th Term?

Will Language Politics Help Didi Win 4th Term?

Rediff.com14 Aug 2025

Will Mamata's bhasha andolan campaign sway Bengal's bhadralok before the 2026 election in the TMC's favour?

Pak envoy denied entry to US, deported despite valid visa

Pak envoy denied entry to US, deported despite valid visa

Rediff.com11 Mar 2025

Pakistan's ambassador to Turkmenistan, K K Wagan, was deported from the United States after being denied entry at Los Angeles airport. The incident has sparked concerns about diplomatic protocol and the nature of the US authorities' decision. Wagan, who holds a valid US visa, was forced to return to his last port of departure. The Foreign Office confirmed the envoy had gone to the US on a private visit and is investigating the matter. It remains unclear what specific concerns triggered the deportation, but sources suggest the US immigration system flagged Wagan over controversial visa references. The incident has been communicated to Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Foreign Secretary Aamna Baloch, and the Foreign Ministry has directed its Consulate in Los Angeles to investigate.

Ex-prez Hamid, facing murder probe, returns to B'desh after treatment

Ex-prez Hamid, facing murder probe, returns to B'desh after treatment

Rediff.com9 Jun 2025

The 81-year-old ex-president returned from Thailand a month after his "secret departure" sparked protests in Bangladesh for being allowed to leave despite being accused of murder.

'Strongly told US...': India on treatment of deportees

'Strongly told US...': India on treatment of deportees

Rediff.com22 Mar 2025

India has expressed concern to the US authorities over the treatment of deportees on a flight that landed on February 5, particularly with respect to the use of shackles, especially on women. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has also registered its concerns regarding the need to accommodate the religious sensitivities and food preferences of the deportees. The US side has confirmed that no women or children were restrained on the deportation flights that landed in India on 15th and 16th February, 2025.

What You Must Know About The CEC

What You Must Know About The CEC

Rediff.com4 Aug 2025

As an IAS officer in Kerala, Gyanesh Kumar -- who the Congress described as Amit Shah's 'right hand man' -- had a good working equation with the state's Congress and Left leaders.

India plans new migration law amid US deportations

India plans new migration law amid US deportations

Rediff.com6 Feb 2025

The proposed legislation on Emigration (Overseas Mobility (Facilitation and Welfare) Bill, 2024) seeks to replace the Emigration Act of 1983 with a view to facilitate the circular mobility of people intending to emigrate for overseas employment.

'India deserved it', said Rana; wanted award for 26/11 attackers

'India deserved it', said Rana; wanted award for 26/11 attackers

Rediff.com11 Apr 2025

Tahawwur Rana, a Canadian citizen and native of Pakistan, was extradited to India to face charges related to his alleged role in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. The US Department of Justice said Rana allegedly commended the LeT terrorists who carried out the attacks and suggested they should be awarded Pakistan's highest gallantry award. Rana is accused of facilitating a fraudulent cover for his childhood friend, David Headley, to conduct surveillance in Mumbai for the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist group. He is also accused of helping Headley submit false visa applications to Indian authorities. This extradition follows a lengthy legal process that began in 2020 with India's request for Rana's surrender. Rana, who was previously convicted in the US for providing material support to LeT, will now face trial in India on 10 criminal charges related to the Mumbai attacks.

Modi arrives in Canada for G7 Summit amid Israel-Iran conflict

Modi arrives in Canada for G7 Summit amid Israel-Iran conflict

Rediff.com17 Jun 2025

The Kananaskis gathering on June 16-17 is the Prime Minister's 6th consecutive participation in the G7 Summit.

Modi dials Trump, says 'delighted to speak to dear friend'

Modi dials Trump, says 'delighted to speak to dear friend'

Rediff.com28 Jan 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Donald Trump on Monday vowed to work towards a 'trusted' partnership with a focus on boosting India-US cooperation in areas of trade, energy and defence in their first phone conversation since the American leader's inauguration last week.

New York City declares April 14 as Dr BR Ambedkar Day

New York City declares April 14 as Dr BR Ambedkar Day

Rediff.com15 Apr 2025

Deputy Commissioner for the New York City Mayor's Office for International Affairs Dilip Chauhan made the announcement in the presence of Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr Ramdas Athawale, who delivered the keynote address at a special event organised at the UN headquarters on Monday to commemorate Dr Ambedkar's 134th birth anniversary.

'Trump Will Unite America Provided...'

'Trump Will Unite America Provided...'

Rediff.com22 Jan 2025

'...he keeps his campaign promises, does what he said he will do which led to his huge victory.'

NIA to question Rana about planning of 26/11 attacks

NIA to question Rana about planning of 26/11 attacks

Rediff.com11 Apr 2025

Tahawwur Hussain Rana, the mastermind behind the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, has been taken into 18-day custody by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in India. Rana was extradited from the United States after years of legal battles and will be questioned to unravel the complete conspiracy behind the attacks.

Tahawwur Rana lands in Delhi, NIA records arrest

Tahawwur Rana lands in Delhi, NIA records arrest

Rediff.com10 Apr 2025

Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, was brought to India on Thursday after being "successfully extradited " from the US, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) said. The 64-year-old Canadian citizen of Pakistani origin landed in Delhi in a special plane on Thursday evening, ending days of speculation of when and how he will be extradited, officials said. The NIA said in a statement that it had secured the successful extradition after years of sustained and concerted efforts to bring to justice the key conspirator behind the 2008 mayhem that claimed 166 lives. Rana is accused of conspiring with David Coleman Headley alias Daood Gilani, and operatives of designated terrorist organisations Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Harkat-ul-Jihadi Islami (HUJI) along with other Pakistan-based co-conspirators, to carry out the the three-day terror siege of India's financial capital.

'We Were Handcuffed, Our Legs Were Chained'

'We Were Handcuffed, Our Legs Were Chained'

Rediff.com6 Feb 2025

'Prime Minister Modi should sit with Trump and find a solution to this issue.'

Modi congratulates 'friend' Trump on historic inauguration

Modi congratulates 'friend' Trump on historic inauguration

Rediff.com21 Jan 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Donald Trump on his historic inauguration as the 47th US president and said he looks forward to working closely together once again, to benefit both the countries as well as to shape a better future for the world.

'BJP Won't Be Able To Form Government In Bengal in 2026'

'BJP Won't Be Able To Form Government In Bengal in 2026'

Rediff.com21 Apr 2025

'The BJP lacks a credible mass leader who matches Mamata Banerjee's popularity.' 'Given the division of votes among Opposition parties, the West Bengal government's dole-giving strategy, and the consolidation of the poor, significant sections of scheduled caste groups and Muslim minorities behind the ruling party, it will be difficult to dislodge the Trinamool from power.'

Immigration officer who asked Manipuri girl to prove 'Indian-ness' identified

Immigration officer who asked Manipuri girl to prove 'Indian-ness' identified

Rediff.com13 Jul 2016

The immigration officer has been identified by investigators after checking the CCTV footage of the immigration area in IGI airport in New Delhi.

Who Accompanied Modi, Trump?

Who Accompanied Modi, Trump?

Rediff.com17 Feb 2025

Who accompanied Prime Minister Narendra D Modi to his Thursday meeting with US President Donald J Trump in the Oval Office, and who did POTUS bring along?