News for 'SPECIAL'

UPI MDR Charges: Merchants Cannot Pass On Fees To Customers

UPI MDR Charges: Merchants Cannot Pass On Fees To Customers

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Punjab & Sind Bank MD and CEO Swarup Kumar Saha clarified that merchants cannot pass on Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) charges to customers for UPI payments, ensuring consumers only pay the displayed price. The new MDR structure, effective October 15, applies a 0.4% charge on P2M transactions above Rs 2,000, with specific flat rates for certain sectors, but small-value transactions remain free.

'I Want My Voting Right Reinstated'

'I Want My Voting Right Reinstated'

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

'I was just thinking about me, because my rights have been affected. That's it.' 'I am an ordinary citizen of this country, and I am expecting my rights (as a voter) to be restored.'

'Super Emergency': Delhi on edge as 7,000 protesters detained

'Super Emergency': Delhi on edge as 7,000 protesters detained

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Delhi Police launched a massive crackdown, detaining Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) leader Abhijeet Dipke, YouTuber Dhruv Rathee, and nearly 500 protesters who attempted to reach Jantar Mantar for a demonstration against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The Opposition, including AAP and Congress, denounced the situation as 'worse than the Emergency'.

Zimbabwe excited for home World Cup challenge

Zimbabwe excited for home World Cup challenge

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Zimbabwe is buzzing with excitement to co-host the ODI World Cup next year, marking their return after a 12-year absence. Veteran all-rounder Sikandar Raza and coach Justin Sammons express enthusiasm for playing on home soil and testing themselves against top teams like India, while also highlighting caution regarding Afghanistan's strong "X-factor" players.

Interstate Counterfeit Drug Racket Kingpin Nabbed At Bengaluru Airport

Interstate Counterfeit Drug Racket Kingpin Nabbed At Bengaluru Airport

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Prashanth Rajan Babu, the alleged kingpin of an interstate counterfeit drug racket, has been arrested at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru after absconding to Azerbaijan. He is accused of leading a network that refilled cheap bulk drugs into new vials and relabelled them as premium imported brands, with a previous raid seizing fake medicines worth Rs 5 crore.

How Bengaluru Police Busted A Major Counterfeit Drug Operation

How Bengaluru Police Busted A Major Counterfeit Drug Operation

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Prashanth Rajan Babu, the alleged kingpin of an interstate counterfeit drug racket, has been arrested at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru after absconding in Azerbaijan. He is accused of leading a network that refilled cheap drugs and relabelled them as premium brands, with drugs worth Rs 5 crore seized earlier.

Top Lashkar terrorist Mohammed Asif killed, was part of Musharraf's team

Top Lashkar terrorist Mohammed Asif killed, was part of Musharraf's team

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Mohammed Asif, alias Hashim Moosa, a top Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist and a retired havildar from the Pakistan Army's elite Special Services Group (SSG) who once served in former president Pervez Musharraf's security convoy, was killed in a gunfight in central Kashmir's Budgam district.

WOMEN INTERRUPTED: Building Bridges For Women To Return To The Workplace

WOMEN INTERRUPTED: Building Bridges For Women To Return To The Workplace

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

A career break does not erase the experience that came before it. But the labour market can act as though it does. The more women invest in building professional careers, the more costly an interruption can become. How, then, do we enable women to make a comeback? Whose responsibility is it? asks Radha Roy Biswas.

Punjab BJP Accuses AAP Government Of Rampant Corruption, Predicts Its End

Punjab BJP Accuses AAP Government Of Rampant Corruption, Predicts Its End

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Punjab BJP president Kewal Singh Dhillon has accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government of widespread corruption, claiming its downfall is imminent. His remarks follow a CBI case against an OSD to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and other officials, leading to protests by BJP workers. Former Punjab BJP chief Sunil Jakhar also criticised the AAP, highlighting the high court's role in the investigation.

'Election Commission Is Shameless'

'Election Commission Is Shameless'

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

'Their functioning is flawed, they are not accountable, they are opaque, they are non-transparent, they have lost credibility.'

'Winning gold medal at Asian Games a matter of great pride for Indian cricket': V V S Laxman

'Winning gold medal at Asian Games a matter of great pride for Indian cricket': V V S Laxman

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Head coach V V S Laxman hailed the Indian team's 'champion's mindset' after they beat Pakistan to win the gold medal in the men's T20 cricket tournament at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan.

Interstate Counterfeit Drug Racket Kingpin Nabbed At Bengaluru Airport

Interstate Counterfeit Drug Racket Kingpin Nabbed At Bengaluru Airport

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Prashanth Rajan Babu, the alleged kingpin of an interstate counterfeit drug racket, has been arrested at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. He had been absconding and was reportedly hiding in Azerbaijan. The arrest follows a major raid in August where fake medicines worth Rs 5 crore were seized, and a Special Investigation Team was formed to probe the network.

Can CEC Gyanesh Kumar be removed? What law says

Can CEC Gyanesh Kumar be removed? What law says

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

The Opposition India bloc has threatened to initiate impeachment proceedings against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, citing alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. This move comes as the Opposition plans a joint agitation and highlights the constitutional process for removing a CEC, which mirrors that of a Supreme Court judge.

Mayawati reappoints nephew Akash Anand as BSP national convenor

Mayawati reappoints nephew Akash Anand as BSP national convenor

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati has reappointed her nephew Akash Anand as the party's national convenor, reversing an earlier decision to remove him. This move comes after Anand's expression of desire to return and considering party members' views, with Mayawati emphasizing the decision was made in the interest of the party and the movement.

Bijapur Teacher Held In Rajasthan For Alleged Sexual Harassment Of Minor

Bijapur Teacher Held In Rajasthan For Alleged Sexual Harassment Of Minor

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

A computer teacher from a government residential school in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district has been arrested in Rajasthan for allegedly sexually harassing a 14-year-old girl. The arrest followed a complaint lodged by the victim and her mother, leading to a special investigation team being formed.

'China's Process Is Top Secret, Like Nuclear Codes'

'China's Process Is Top Secret, Like Nuclear Codes'

Rediff.com6 days ago

Shooter Rudrankksh Patil, a world champion and Asian Games gold medallist, shares his extraordinary journey, from finding shooting boring to achieving global success, while also shedding light on China's formidable and secretive dominance in the sport.

Oppn declares all-out war on SIR, announces march to EC on Oct 6

Oppn declares all-out war on SIR, announces march to EC on Oct 6

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

The INDIA bloc has formulated a joint action plan to address the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) row and concerns over Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Following a meeting of key opposition leaders, the alliance announced a series of "save democracy" marches, demonstrations, and a march to the Election Commission, demanding a return to ballot papers for elections and alleging electoral malpractices by the ruling government.

New Study Reveals How Viral Infections May Trigger Parkinson's Disease

New Study Reveals How Viral Infections May Trigger Parkinson's Disease

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

A new study by CSIR-CCMB researchers has elucidated the molecular mechanisms by which viral infections, particularly RNA viruses like Influenza and COVID-19, can accelerate the formation of amyloid clumps in the brain, a hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's. The research highlights the role of viral RNA G-quadruplexes and the cellular protective protein DDX39A in this process.

Key Nirav Modi Aide Sandeep Mistry Deported From UAE, Arrested In PNB Fraud Case

Key Nirav Modi Aide Sandeep Mistry Deported From UAE, Arrested In PNB Fraud Case

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Sandeep Mistry, a key associate of fugitive businessman Nirav Modi, has been arrested by the CBI after his deportation from the UAE. Mistry is implicated in the Rs 6,498.20 crore Punjab National Bank scam, where he allegedly facilitated forged documents, coerced dummy directors, and siphoned funds. He has been remanded to judicial custody.

LS Speaker's unique move on FCRA Bill: Nomiates two Rajya Sabha MPs to JPC

LS Speaker's unique move on FCRA Bill: Nomiates two Rajya Sabha MPs to JPC

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has made a rare move by nominating two Rajya Sabha members as "special invitees" to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) examining the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026. This decision comes as the contentious Bill, referred to the 31-member JPC for detailed examination, faces opposition demands for its withdrawal.

New POCSO Case Filed Against Granite Baron Veeramani

New POCSO Case Filed Against Granite Baron Veeramani

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) in Chennai has registered a new case under the POCSO Act against granite baron R Veeramani, following a complaint from the mother of a minor girl. This development comes as Veeramani's judicial custody was extended, and the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) announced a fact-finding visit. The case has led to significant public outcry and action against police officers for alleged inaction.

After Oppn complaints, EC replaces Nandigram police chief day before bypoll

After Oppn complaints, EC replaces Nandigram police chief day before bypoll

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

The Election Commission replaced the inspector-in-charge of Nandigram police station, Ajay Kumar Mishra, with Debashis Sarkar a day before the bypoll, following complaints from opposition parties alleging Mishra's closeness to the ruling party. This move comes amidst heightened political scrutiny and concerns raised by opposition leaders regarding the fairness of the election process in Nandigram, a constituency with significant political history in West Bengal.

Top Maha poll official seeks more powers for EROs in SIR

Top Maha poll official seeks more powers for EROs in SIR

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Maharashtra's Chief Electoral Officer has formally requested the Election Commission to modify the ECINet software, seeking greater discretion for Electoral Registration Officers in addressing over 2 crore voter discrepancies.

Supreme Court Refuses To Unfreeze TMC Bank Accounts Amidst Probe

Supreme Court Refuses To Unfreeze TMC Bank Accounts Amidst Probe

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

The Supreme Court has dismissed a plea by the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC faction to operate four debit-frozen bank accounts, upholding a Calcutta High Court order. The accounts, holding around Rs 804 crore, are under investigation due to alleged cash deposits and a factional dispute within the party. The court noted the Election Commission's symbol freeze and requested the High Court to expedite the larger adjudication.

Surgical Strikes@10: When Indian Soldiers Inflicted Death On The Enemy

Surgical Strikes@10: When Indian Soldiers Inflicted Death On The Enemy

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

'This is what we train for: That one chance to deliver a blow so lethal that the enemy will constantly think about it when planning any misadventure.'

How Abhishek Nayar helped Shreyas Iyer end his T20I century drought

How Abhishek Nayar helped Shreyas Iyer end his T20I century drought

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Shreyas Iyer scored his maiden T20 International hundred after a crucial two-hour troubleshooting session with former India batting coach Abhishek Nayar. Nayar revealed they worked on Iyer's grip, initial movements, and tactical nuances to help him generate more force and clear boundaries, addressing issues Iyer felt during the Asian Games. Iyer's 43-ball 102 not out led India to an eight-wicket win against West Indies on Tuesday.

SC proposes special courts, speedy trial for Manipur ethnic violence cases

SC proposes special courts, speedy trial for Manipur ethnic violence cases

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has proposed establishing special courts for day-to-day trials in criminal cases stemming from the 2023 Manipur ethnic violence. The court also directed probe agencies to expedite investigations, ensure victims receive chargesheet copies, and asked for status reports on missing persons and ongoing cases.

School Principal Held In Bihar Over Molestation Allegations

School Principal Held In Bihar Over Molestation Allegations

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

A government school principal in Bihar's Nawada district, Mahesh Prasad Yadav, has been arrested following allegations of molesting girl students. Police initiated an investigation after receiving a complaint, recording student statements, and examining CCTV footage. A Special Investigation Team has been formed to probe the serious case further.

West Indies can match India, says Sammy after record chase

West Indies can match India, says Sammy after record chase

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

West Indies head coach Daren Sammy lauded skipper Shai Hope's 'amazing innings' of 162 not out, which led the team to a record chase of 352 against India, denying them a series sweep and providing valuable learnings for the Windies.

No Muslim officers in Amit Shah's Bengal events, Mahua tells UN body

No Muslim officers in Amit Shah's Bengal events, Mahua tells UN body

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

TMC MP Mahua Moitra has formally complained to the UN Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues, alleging that senior Muslim IAS and IPS officers in West Bengal were deliberately excluded from official events attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Moitra claims these officers were sidelined due to their religion, a pattern she describes as discriminatory and potentially damaging to minority confidence in security establishments.

EC reacts after report flags differences in poll panel on SIR

EC reacts after report flags differences in poll panel on SIR

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi reportedly flagged multiple issues during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls, including name deletions. Despite a media report suggesting 14 objections over 10 months, Election Commission officials assert that all decisions, including SIR, were unanimous and approved by all commissioners. The report also highlights opposition parties' criticism of the SIR, alleging it targets non-BJP aligned voters.

BCCI President Mithun Manhas praises Indian team for retaining Asian Games gold

BCCI President Mithun Manhas praises Indian team for retaining Asian Games gold

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

BCCI President Mithun Manhas lauded the Indian men's cricket team for retaining their Asian Games gold medal, highlighting their exceptional performance under pressure against arch-rivals Pakistan and commending individual contributions from players like Tilak Varma and Abhishek Sharma.

'I was fighting for my life, but wouldn't let others die': Capt Machchhar tells Modi

'I was fighting for my life, but wouldn't let others die': Capt Machchhar tells Modi

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Captain Smit Machchaar for his exceptional bravery in foiling an alleged attempt by his co-pilot to crash an Israel-bound flydubai flight. Modi spoke to Machchaar and his family, expressing pride in his heroic actions that saved hundreds of lives. The incident involved a sharp descent and diversion of the flight, with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu also acknowledging Machchaar's courage.

Is Bethlehem Kudumba Unit Girish AD's Best Film?

Is Bethlehem Kudumba Unit Girish AD's Best Film?

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

As Bethlehem Kudumba Unit reaches JioHotstar and Premalu remake reaches theatres, we rank Girish A D's films from good to awesome.

Supreme Court Directs SIT For 2012 Rape-Murder Re-Investigation

Supreme Court Directs SIT For 2012 Rape-Murder Re-Investigation

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has ordered the Karnataka government to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) for a fresh probe into the 2012 rape and murder of a 17-year-old girl in Dharmasthala. The court expressed shock at the previous investigations by local police, CID, and CBI, which led to the acquittal of the sole accused. The new SIT must conclude its investigation within three months, excluding any officers involved in prior probes, and the acquitted individual will not be re-investigated.

Message From Shivaji Park: 'Gyanesh Kumar Must Resign!'

Message From Shivaji Park: 'Gyanesh Kumar Must Resign!'

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

From meme-worthy poster carrying youngsters to an E20 petrol hater to the disenfranchised and youth with spine, the CJP's Shivaji Park rally on Friday saw them all.

Should You Buy A Return-Of-Premium Plan?

Should You Buy A Return-Of-Premium Plan?

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Compare premiums, claim settlement ratios, exclusions, waiting periods and surrender provisions.

Manipur Sexual Violence: SC Orders CBI To Ensure Witness Appearance

Manipur Sexual Violence: SC Orders CBI To Ensure Witness Appearance

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the trial court to ensure the appearance and examination of two crucial victim-witnesses in a Manipur sexual violence case. This order comes amidst the CBI's plea to cancel the bail of two accused, citing concerns over witness intimidation. The court emphasized the authorities' obligation to provide witness protection and set specific dates for the witnesses to depose, as part of its ongoing monitoring of cases related to the 2023 ethnic violence in Manipur.

Sena-UBT leader murder: 2 held, kin claim political rivalry

Sena-UBT leader murder: 2 held, kin claim political rivalry

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) functionary Pradeep Purnekar was brutally murdered in Thane, Maharashtra, leading to one arrest and one detention. The incident has sparked widespread protests, with party leaders like Aaditya Thackeray and Sanjay Raut alleging political rivalry and demanding further arrests, including a former mayor and her husband. Police are investigating all potential angles, including personal enmity and Purnekar's activism against the builder lobby and drug networks.

Sena (UBT) Demands CBI Probe Into Pradeep Purnekar's Murder Amid Political Row

Sena (UBT) Demands CBI Probe Into Pradeep Purnekar's Murder Amid Political Row

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Sushma Andhare has called for a CBI probe into the murder of party leader Pradeep Purnekar in Thane, alleging it was a contract killing and citing potential political pressure on local police. Opposition parties have also announced a protest march to the Thane police commissioner's office, while Shiv Sena MP Jyoti Waghmare accused opposition leaders of politicising the tragedy. Police have made arrests in connection with the murder.