News for 'Press Notes'

Spiritual preacher aplogises over Shivaji Maharaj remarks

Spiritual preacher aplogises over Shivaji Maharaj remarks

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Dhirendra Shastri, head of Bageshwar Dham, has apologised for his remarks on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj after facing backlash in Maharashtra. He claimed his comments were twisted on social media and clarified his stance on dedicating children to the RSS.

TCS Nashik conversion case: Fadnavis vows to 'bust the module'

TCS Nashik conversion case: Fadnavis vows to 'bust the module'

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated his government is confident of uncovering the module involved in the alleged sexual harassment and forcible religious conversion at a Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) unit in Nashik.

Saudi Arabia pledges additional $3 billion support to Pakistan

Saudi Arabia pledges additional $3 billion support to Pakistan

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

Pakistan's skewed foreign reserves got a major boost after Saudi Arabia pledged an additional $3 billion in deposits while extending its existing $5 billion facility for a further three years.

Court Orders Rape Accused To Pay Monthly Support

Court Orders Rape Accused To Pay Monthly Support

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

The High Court of Karnataka has directed a petitioner accused of repeated rape on false promise of marriage to pay Rs 75,000 monthly towards the sustenance of the victim and their 10-month-old child, while granting an interim stay on further criminal proceedings against him.

Marathi now must for Maha auto, taxi drivers; special drive from May 1

Marathi now must for Maha auto, taxi drivers; special drive from May 1

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Maharashtra minister Pratap Sarnaik announced a special verification drive from May 1 to August 15 to enforce the decision making Marathi mandatory for auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers in the state, during which no punitive action will be taken.

After Hormuz, Iran to block Bab el-Mandeb strait? Top official drops hint

After Hormuz, Iran to block Bab el-Mandeb strait? Top official drops hint

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

A senior Iranian legislator has suggested that Tehran could further escalate pressure on its adversaries by targeting the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, raising concerns about global supply chain vulnerabilities.

New Era Emerging In Persian Gulf After US 'Failure': Iran's Supreme Leader

New Era Emerging In Persian Gulf After US 'Failure': Iran's Supreme Leader

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei claims a new chapter is emerging in the Persian Gulf due to the 'shameful failure' of the United States in the region, citing shifting regional dynamics and weakening foreign influence.

IRGC threatens to destroy offices of 18 US tech giants from Apr 1

IRGC threatens to destroy offices of 18 US tech giants from Apr 1

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has issued a chilling ultimatum to 18 major American corporations, warning that their regional infrastructure will be targeted following allegations of their involvement in hostile operations.

Iran hits Israel's Haifa shortly after Trump says its missile program curtailed

Iran hits Israel's Haifa shortly after Trump says its missile program curtailed

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed the missile launches in a statement on Telegram, noting that defensive systems were actively operating to intercept the threat.

Gulf War Crisis: Why India Will Take A Huge Hit

Gulf War Crisis: Why India Will Take A Huge Hit

Rediff.com11 May 2026

This is the time for India to plan forward fully, with the goal of Atmanirbharata, and energy security. The Persian Gulf is no longer a reliable source, points out Rajeev Srinivasan.

IPL 2026: Why Lucknow Super Giants can't crack the Ekana pitch

IPL 2026: Why Lucknow Super Giants can't crack the Ekana pitch

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Lucknow Super Giants head coach Justin Langer has compared the Ekana pitch to the Perth track, admitting that the home team has been unable to adapt to the pace and bounce on offer. LSG have lost all three matches at home.

'Hormuz is still closed': Iranian embassy mocks Trump as 'idiot'

'Hormuz is still closed': Iranian embassy mocks Trump as 'idiot'

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

The Iranian Embassy in South Africa has launched a biting social media attack on US President Donald Trump, using a viral maritime audio clip to label him an "idiot".

Iran calls India a 'trusted partner'; asserts control over Hormuz

Iran calls India a 'trusted partner'; asserts control over Hormuz

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

Iran's ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, has described India as a "reliable and compassionate" partner while asserting Tehran's territorial authority over the Strait of Hormuz amidst ongoing regional tensions.

Nida Khan forced ST victim to wear burqa, adopt Muslim name: Prosecution

Nida Khan forced ST victim to wear burqa, adopt Muslim name: Prosecution

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

A court in Maharashtra's Nashik district on Monday fixed May 2 for giving its verdict on the anticipatory bail plea filed by TCS employee Nida Khan, an accused in a case related to alleged sexual harassment and forcible religious conversion at the IT firm's local unit.

Congress Challenges BJP On Women's Reservation Stance

Congress Challenges BJP On Women's Reservation Stance

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal criticised the BJP's stance on women's reservation, challenging them to reject ideological texts like the Manusmriti. He accused the BJP of using the issue for political gains and misrepresenting Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge's remarks.

'Oil Is Not The Problem. The Bigger Problem Is Gold'

'Oil Is Not The Problem. The Bigger Problem Is Gold'

Rediff.com18 May 2026

'Every year we import approximately $70 billion worth of gold -- closer to $72 billion in 2025-2026, an all-time record.' 'There is no parallel for this anywhere in the world. And this love for gold will not disappear overnight.'

Iran denies Trump's direct talk claims; confirms indirect US outreach

Iran denies Trump's direct talk claims; confirms indirect US outreach

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said that the country has held no "direct" talks with the United States as of now and added that it has received messages through some mediators regarding the US' desire for negotiations.

UN report flags forced conversions of Hindu, Christian women in Pakistan

UN report flags forced conversions of Hindu, Christian women in Pakistan

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

UN experts have voiced serious concerns regarding the ongoing abduction and forced religious conversion through marriage of women and girls from minority communities in Pakistan, highlighting that impunity is fuelling the practice.

'Biggest Single Danger Is If Remittances Come Down'

'Biggest Single Danger Is If Remittances Come Down'

Rediff.com13 May 2026

'At the first sign of real trouble, that money will move. There will be a run.'

Ali Larijani is dead, confirms Iran; top leaders vow 'severe' revenge

Ali Larijani is dead, confirms Iran; top leaders vow 'severe' revenge

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

The assassination of Ali Larijani, Iran's top security official, in an alleged Israeli strike has sent shockwaves through the region, prompting vows of revenge and raising concerns about escalating tensions.

Trump dispatches Vance, Kushner to Pak for Iran talks

Trump dispatches Vance, Kushner to Pak for Iran talks

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump on Monday confirmed that a high-level American negotiating team, including Vice President JD Vance, Jared Kushner, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, is en route to Pakistan to initiate critical negotiations with the Iranian leadership.

Iran signals 'turning point' in war as strikes hit Israel, US installations

Iran signals 'turning point' in war as strikes hit Israel, US installations

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

The operation reportedly extended to American assets, with the IRGC claiming that "US military bases in the region, namely Ali al-Salem in Kuwait, as well as al-Minhad and al-Dhafra in the United Arab Emirates, were also targeted."

Iran claims downing of second US F-35, pilot unlikely to survive

Iran claims downing of second US F-35, pilot unlikely to survive

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

A second United States fifth-generation F-35 fighter jet was struck and downed over central Iran by a modern air-defence system of the Islamic Republic's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), with officials saying the pilot is unlikely to have ejected, Iranian state media reported on Friday.

Representative of Iran's Supreme Leader lauds India as 'land of humanity'

Representative of Iran's Supreme Leader lauds India as 'land of humanity'

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The representative of Iran's Supreme Leader in India expressed gratitude towards Indians, calling India a land of 'loyalty and humanity'.

Russia expels British diplomat over spying allegations

Russia expels British diplomat over spying allegations

Rediff.com15 Jan 2026

Russia has expelled a British diplomat, Gareth Samuel Davies, accusing him of spying and working for UK secret services. The UK's Charge d'Affaires was summoned, and a formal protest was lodged. Russia warned of retaliation if the UK escalates the situation.

Not blocking Strait of Hormuz, clarifies US

Not blocking Strait of Hormuz, clarifies US

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

The United States has clarified that its naval blockade in West Asia targets Iranian ports and coastline, not the Strait of Hormuz, applying to all ships regardless of nationality. US officials warned Iran against threatening commercial ships and hinted at ceasefire negotiations as an alternative.

TCS Nashik case: No interim relief to Nida Khan; SIT intensifies search

TCS Nashik case: No interim relief to Nida Khan; SIT intensifies search

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

A local court in Nashik has deferred a decision on interim protection from arrest for Nida Khan, an accused in the Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) sexual harassment and religious coercion case, requesting a police response by April 27. The SIT is investigating multiple cases of molestation and harassment at TCS's Nashik unit.

'Could take out Iran in one day': Trump issues stern warning to Tehran

'Could take out Iran in one day': Trump issues stern warning to Tehran

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump on Sunday expressed confidence that Tehran would eventually concede to American demands, while simultaneously issuing a stern warning regarding the potential for total military devastation.

Bai Hirabai Trust to move for alteration of restrictive clauses on trustee eligibility: Tata Trusts

Bai Hirabai Trust to move for alteration of restrictive clauses on trustee eligibility: Tata Trusts

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Tata Trusts announced that the trustees of the Bai Hirabai Trust will initiate proceedings to alter restrictive clauses in its trust deed, specifically those prohibiting non-Zoroastrians from serving as trustees. This decision follows a challenge by former trustee Mehli Mistry regarding the appointments of Venu Srinivasan and Vijay Singh, who allegedly did not meet the original Parsi Zoroastrian faith and residency criteria.

Despite talks, US may deploy 10,000 additional troops to West Asia

Despite talks, US may deploy 10,000 additional troops to West Asia

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The deployment could include infantry and armoured units, in addition to the 82nd Airborne Division, which is already stationed in the region.

Harmanpreet & Co keen to build momentum, squad depth ahead of T20 World Cup

Harmanpreet & Co keen to build momentum, squad depth ahead of T20 World Cup

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

India Women's cricket captain Harmanpreet Kaur emphasises the importance of the T20I series against South Africa for World Cup preparation, highlighting the need to provide opportunities to all players and build momentum.

Kerala braces for heatwave: IMD issues orange alert

Kerala braces for heatwave: IMD issues orange alert

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The IMD has issued an orange alert for heatwave conditions in parts of Kerala, prompting authorities to urge caution. Maximum temperatures are expected to reach up to 41 degrees Celsius in some districts. Strict guidelines have been issued, including the suspension of vacation classes and rescheduling of working hours.

India women stun Malawi, finish third in FIFA Series 2026

India women stun Malawi, finish third in FIFA Series 2026

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

The India women's football team secured a 3-2 victory against Malawi in the third-place play-off of the FIFA Series 2026 in Nairobi, with goals from Astam Oraon, Aveka Singh, and Priyadharshini Selladurai.

Devdutt Padikkal attributes T20 success to captaincy experience

Devdutt Padikkal attributes T20 success to captaincy experience

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

Devdutt Padikkal credits his captaincy experience with Karnataka for enhancing his game awareness and contributing to his development as a T20 batter. He also praised Virat Kohli's intensity and the supportive environment at Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

'We're in war': Trump says downing of US jet not to affect Iran talks

'We're in war': Trump says downing of US jet not to affect Iran talks

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump has asserted that the destruction of an American military aircraft will have no bearing on diplomatic discussions with Iran, according to a report by NBC News.

VHP Demands Action Against Radical Networks Amid Delhi Attack Claims

VHP Demands Action Against Radical Networks Amid Delhi Attack Claims

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has alleged a rise in targeted attacks on Hindus in Delhi, demanding a high-level review and the formation of a special task force to counter radical networks.

IPL 2026: Sudharsan backs mindset over milestones as GT seek turnaround

IPL 2026: Sudharsan backs mindset over milestones as GT seek turnaround

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Gujarat Titans' opener Sai Sudharsan reveals that he puts in the same kind of preparation for ever game and invests considerable time in mental fitness.

Factory workers protest in Faridabad over wages for two days; 23 held

Factory workers protest in Faridabad over wages for two days; 23 held

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

Workers at an automotive components factory in Haryana, India, protested for two days demanding the implementation of a minimum wage hike announced by the state government. The protests led to detentions and police action, highlighting tensions over wages and working conditions.

Trinamool Congress Counters Amit Shah's Allegations, Raises Concerns Over BJP's Governance

Trinamool Congress Counters Amit Shah's Allegations, Raises Concerns Over BJP's Governance

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has responded to Union Home Minister Amit Shah's 'chargesheet' against the West Bengal government, accusing the BJP of attempting to polarise voters and evade accountability on issues such as women's safety and infiltration.

Nirav Modi's Extradition Case Shielded from Public View by European Court

Nirav Modi's Extradition Case Shielded from Public View by European Court

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

The European Court of Human Rights has granted fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi anonymity, shielding his extradition case from public scrutiny. This decision comes as Modi faces potential extradition to India from the UK, where he is accused of a large-scale fraud.