News for 'Society'

'I tried to talk him down': McCullum on Stokes' retirement

'I tried to talk him down': McCullum on Stokes' retirement

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

England coach Brendon McCullum revealed he tried to convince Ben Stokes not to retire, calling the Test captain a "leader of men" whose leadership and presence will be impossible to replace as England prepare for a new era.

Rural Sports Festival Isha Gramotsavam Reaches North India

Rural Sports Festival Isha Gramotsavam Reaches North India

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Sadhguru's Isha Gramotsavam, a rural sports festival, is expanding its 18th edition into North India, covering 10 states and one Union Territory. This year's event will engage over 80,000 players from 40,000 villages in men's volleyball and women's throwball, offering a prize pool exceeding Rs 1 crore, with the aim of social transformation through sport.

Chembur tree collapse: Contractor fined, BMC to implement new SOPs

Chembur tree collapse: Contractor fined, BMC to implement new SOPs

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

A committee investigating the fatal Chembur tree crash has recommended fines of Rs 5 lakh on the roadwork contractor and Rs 2 lakh on the supervising consultant. The panel found no prima facie fault with BMC's garden and roads departments but suggested implementing a Standard Operating Procedure for urban tree safety and appointing tree experts to oversee pruning work to prevent future incidents.

CJP Protest: The Rise Of Fearless Youth

CJP Protest: The Rise Of Fearless Youth

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

On camera, youngsters gave their names, where they'd come from, where they were studying or working - and then proceeded to criticize Modi. On camera, they held up posters mocking Modi, points out Jyoti Punwani.

Ram Temple Trust deactivates VIP pass IDs of Champat Rai, two ex-officials

Ram Temple Trust deactivates VIP pass IDs of Champat Rai, two ex-officials

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has deactivated the digital IDs of former general secretary Champat Rai, trustee Anil Mishra, and special invitee Gopal Rao. This action follows alleged irregularities in the issuance of VIP darshan passes and an ongoing SIT probe into financial misconduct at the Ayodhya Ram Temple. The move aims to curb misuse of preferential entry passes.

Why Bombay High Court Says FIR Delay Cannot Quash Sexual Assault Cases

Why Bombay High Court Says FIR Delay Cannot Quash Sexual Assault Cases

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The Bombay High Court has ruled that delay in lodging an FIR for sexual assault and harassment cases cannot be the sole ground for quashing a criminal prosecution, especially given the societal challenges families face in reporting such incidents. The court dismissed a petition by a man accused of molesting his domestic help, rejecting his arguments about delayed complaint and false implication.

Independence Day for Dara Singh? SC asks Odisha to decide on remission by Aug 15

Independence Day for Dara Singh? SC asks Odisha to decide on remission by Aug 15

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has given the Odisha government one month to decide on the remission plea of Ravindra Pal, alias Dara Singh, who is serving a life sentence for the 1999 murders of Australian missionary Graham Stuart Staines and his two minor sons.

2020 Delhi riots: Ex-AAP leader Tahir Hussain convicted for IB officer's murder

2020 Delhi riots: Ex-AAP leader Tahir Hussain convicted for IB officer's murder

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

A Delhi court has convicted former Aam Aadmi Party councillor Tahir Hussain and four others for the murder of Intelligence Bureau officer Ankit Sharma during the 2020 northeast Delhi riots. Hussain was found guilty of charges including murder, rioting, and promoting enmity, following a complaint by Sharma's father. The incident occurred amidst communal violence linked to anti-CAA protests, which resulted in 53 deaths.

Rhiya Ahir: 'I'd Rather Die A Martyr Than Be Helpless'

Rhiya Ahir: 'I'd Rather Die A Martyr Than Be Helpless'

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

'When you are standing for what the Constitution guarantees you, you are not alone.'

Meerut SSP defends police action amid protests over SC student's death

Meerut SSP defends police action amid protests over SC student's death

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Meerut SSP Avinash Pandey has defended the police's handling of a Scheduled Caste college student's death, asserting that all actions were evidence-based. He warned against disturbing law and order and appealed for peace, even as an alleged threat call to his PRO surfaced and police arrested several protesters involved in a recent demonstration.

CJP urges Modi to 'break silence', farmers to join protest

CJP urges Modi to 'break silence', farmers to join protest

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)'s protest at Jantar Mantar, demanding accountability for alleged examination irregularities, has entered its 15th day, garnering support from AAP MP Sanjay Singh and CPI(M) MP John Brittas. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk continues his hunger strike, while a student leader from AISA was hospitalised after her condition turned critical.

The Unforgettable Lesson My Father Taught Me

The Unforgettable Lesson My Father Taught Me

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Udaipur's Dilip Shah reveals why he is so proud of his father. A Father's Day Special.

Ahmedabad blasts: Why HC upheld death sentence for 38 IM terrorists

Ahmedabad blasts: Why HC upheld death sentence for 38 IM terrorists

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

A division bench of justices AY Kogje and Samir Dave, in its July 7 judgment cited the "humongous" conspiracy, the intention to spread widespread terror and the large number of casualties as key reasons for affirming the punishment.

Saptapadi essential for Hindu marriage, not just registration: HC

Saptapadi essential for Hindu marriage, not just registration: HC

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

The Gujarat High Court has ruled that the performance of customary rites and ceremonies, particularly 'saptapadi', is essential for the validation of a Hindu marriage, stating that registration alone is insufficient. The court emphasised that marriage is a sacrament and not merely a social occasion, highlighting the spiritual and legal significance of traditional rituals.

'My Parents Want Me To Marry Without Dating'

'My Parents Want Me To Marry Without Dating'

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

"If you share a healthy relationship with your parents, let them know that while they are searching, you are open to meeting other men," counsels rediffGURU Shalini Singh, founder of andwemet, an online matchmaking service.

CJP stir enters Day 19: Wangchuk loses 7 kg, AISA member hospitalised

CJP stir enters Day 19: Wangchuk loses 7 kg, AISA member hospitalised

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's condition deteriorated further on Wednesday, with doctors reporting that he has lost more than seven kilograms since beginning his indefinite fast 11 days ago.

Jagannath Rath Yatra-Iskcon Clash Over Tithis

Jagannath Rath Yatra-Iskcon Clash Over Tithis

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

For the Jagannath Temple in Puri, the timing of Rath Yatra is a matter of scriptural injunction rather than convenience.

No rollback of E20 petrol, no selling pure petrol: Govt

No rollback of E20 petrol, no selling pure petrol: Govt

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

It, however, conceded that 20 per cent blending of ethanol with petrol leads to 3-5 per cent lower mileage in vehicles than conventional petrol, but said the blend offers a significantly higher octane rating, superior anti-knock properties, faster combustion, better pickup, smoother acceleration, and cleaner engine operation.

FIFPRO Calls For Urgent Action On Rising Player Abuse At World Cup

FIFPRO Calls For Urgent Action On Rising Player Abuse At World Cup

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Global players' union FIFPRO has highlighted a "growing pattern of abuse," including racist and discriminatory attacks, against players at the World Cup, both online and in person. The union is demanding urgent collective action from football stakeholders, law enforcement, and social media platforms to protect players and ensure meaningful consequences for perpetrators.

Exiled author Taslima Nasrin to return to Kolkata after 20 years

Exiled author Taslima Nasrin to return to Kolkata after 20 years

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasrin is set to return to Kolkata next month for an anti-fundamentalism literary event, nearly two decades after she was forced to leave the city amid violent protests over her writings. The BJP government in West Bengal is projecting this as a reversal of past capitulation to religious fundamentalism.

King Charles III, Queen Camilla to inaugurate scaled-down Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

King Charles III, Queen Camilla to inaugurate scaled-down Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

King Charles III and Queen Camilla will attend the opening ceremony of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games on July 23, where the King will read his message from the King's Baton, officially declaring the scaled-down multi-sport event open.

Shah vows ruthless crackdown on infiltration, demographic changes

Shah vows ruthless crackdown on infiltration, demographic changes

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said the Centre is committed to curbing unnatural demographic growth caused by abnormal factors, such as infiltration, with a ruthless approach and a quadrangular security grid has been created for the purpose, transforming India's approach from reactive to proactive.

Yastika Bhatia: Karate Kid To Lord's History Maker

Yastika Bhatia: Karate Kid To Lord's History Maker

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Yastika Bhatia scripted history by becoming the first woman to score a Test century at Lord's. Here's the inspiring story of her journey from Baroda prodigy and ACL injury comeback to India's latest cricket hero.

Anbe Diana Review: Breezy Romcom That Plays Safe

Anbe Diana Review: Breezy Romcom That Plays Safe

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Despite a wobbly screenplay and an overstretched runtime, Anbe Diana charms with its light-hearted approach and Ramya Ranganathan's performance.

91 Life Convicts Released From Telangana Prisons

91 Life Convicts Released From Telangana Prisons

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

The Telangana Prisons and Correctional Services Department facilitated the release of 91 life convicts who were granted special remission by the state government. The released prisoners include 85 men and six women, all of whom were found eligible for remission under the government's prescribed guidelines.

Nothing to do with track 2 India-Pakistan dialogue: Govt

Nothing to do with track 2 India-Pakistan dialogue: Govt

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that the Indian government has no involvement or official support for Track 2 discussions on India-Pakistan ties, even when retired Indian officials participate. He clarified that such participants speak in their personal capacities and do not represent the government's views, and New Delhi does not take cognisance of these private events.

After Class 8 row, new NCERT Class 9 textbook hails judiciary

After Class 8 row, new NCERT Class 9 textbook hails judiciary

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

A new Class 9 NCERT textbook describes the judiciary as an "impartial and independent institution" that safeguards citizens' rights and upholds the Constitution, contrasting with a previous Class 8 textbook that sparked controversy over its depiction of judicial corruption. The new textbook was prepared before the Class 8 controversy erupted.

'Bro, I'm an artist': Diljit Dosanjh to stay away from CJP protest

'Bro, I'm an artist': Diljit Dosanjh to stay away from CJP protest

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh has publicly distanced himself from the ongoing protests by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar, which are focused on alleged exam irregularities and the NEET paper-leak controversy. Dosanjh reiterated his identity as an artist, not a politician, despite his past support for the farmers' protest and recent appeals to enter politics.

Govt allots 2 million more tonnes of broken rice for E20

Govt allots 2 million more tonnes of broken rice for E20

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Indian government has allocated an additional 2 million tonnes of surplus broken rice from FCI stocks for its ethanol blending programme, while simultaneously issuing a detailed rebuttal to widespread misinformation regarding the E20 fuel, addressing concerns from water consumption to engine damage and environmental impact.

'Heroines Still Get Paid Less Than Heroes'

'Heroines Still Get Paid Less Than Heroes'

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

'Heroes get private chartered planes while we don't even make as much money. Unfortunately, that discrimination still exits.'

Ranked 114th, Arthur Fery chases a Wimbledon miracle

Ranked 114th, Arthur Fery chases a Wimbledon miracle

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

British wildcard Arthur Fery, ranked 114th in the world, has made a remarkable run to the Wimbledon semi-finals, defeating ninth seed Flavio Cobolli and setting up a clash with French Open champion Alexander Zverev.

How Exercise Reverses Muscle Ageing

How Exercise Reverses Muscle Ageing

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Healthy muscles do much more than enable movement. They are essential for maintaining metabolism, regulating blood sugar levels and supporting overall health.

Cooperative Official Arrested In Odisha For Embezzlement

Cooperative Official Arrested In Odisha For Embezzlement

Rediff.com30 May 2026

Odisha Vigilance arrested a cooperative official, Patitapaban Majhi, for allegedly misappropriating over Rs 33 lakh in government funds during his tenure at the Garhsantri Service Co-operative Society.

Wangchuk refuses to end fast despite being 'in immense pain'

Wangchuk refuses to end fast despite being 'in immense pain'

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk's health is rapidly deteriorating on his 17th day of hunger strike, prompting widespread appeals from prominent political figures and Bollywood celebrities for him to end his fast and for the government to address the urgent demands for NEET examination reforms.

What is hurting ease of doing business for Indian automakers?

What is hurting ease of doing business for Indian automakers?

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Automobile manufacturers are increasingly vocal about the mounting paperwork and delays associated with India's Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for the automotive sector, arguing that compliance requirements are becoming as challenging as meeting technical eligibility conditions. They are pushing for a simpler, faster, and more predictable certification and compliance framework.

Why Indians Thrive Overseas

Why Indians Thrive Overseas

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

India too can rise to the top if the 1.4 billion Indians back home are given better opportunities to use their innate talent and capacity to work hard, with right incentives in a more meritocratic rules-based system, asserts Ajay Chhibber.

UN Women warns AI amplifies gender bias, digital violence

UN Women warns AI amplifies gender bias, digital violence

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

UN Women has issued a stark warning that the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is placing women at a higher risk of discrimination and digital violence, citing studies that reveal significant gender bias in AI systems and large language models.

Manipur DGP Issues Stern Warning On Weapons, Misinformation

Manipur DGP Issues Stern Warning On Weapons, Misinformation

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Manipur's police chief, Mukesh Singh, has issued a stern warning against individuals taking the law into their own hands or firing at security forces, stating they will be dealt with strictly. He also highlighted efforts to recover looted weapons and combat social media misinformation.

CJP protest: Wangchuk loses 6 kg as fast enters 8th day

CJP protest: Wangchuk loses 6 kg as fast enters 8th day

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) protest at the Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and government accountability over alleged examination irregularities, entered its 16th day on Sunday, while it was the eighth day of an indefinite hunger strike announced by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has lost around six kg since beginning the fast.

CJP steps up protest, launches nationwide campaign against Pradhan

CJP steps up protest, launches nationwide campaign against Pradhan

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Stepping up attack against Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke on Friday announced the launch of a nationwide campaign to demand his resignation and exhorted students, farmers and civil society groups to join him at Jantar Mantar on June 28.