News for 'Society'

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

'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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Special court sentences 65-year-old man to death for 3-year-old's rape-murder

Special court sentences 65-year-old man to death for 3-year-old's rape-murder

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Terming the case as "rarest of the rare", additional judge (special judge) S R Salunkhe sentenced Bhimrao Kamble, who was present in the witness box.

'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.

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.

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.

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.

Siya's family pressured her into marriage: Ketan's family

Siya's family pressured her into marriage: Ketan's family

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

The family of Pune realtor Ketan Agarwal, allegedly murdered by his fiance Siya Goyal and her lover Chetan Chaudhary, held a candlelight march demanding justice. Ketan's grandfather, parents, and community members participated, calling for capital punishment for the accused and a thorough investigation into Siya's family. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has assured a speedy trial with Ujjwal Nikam as public prosecutor.

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.

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.

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.

Gurugram Lift Operator Loses Eye After Brutal Attack Over Elevator Snag

Gurugram Lift Operator Loses Eye After Brutal Attack Over Elevator Snag

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

A lift operator in Gurugram was severely beaten by six youths with sticks and clubs, resulting in a ruptured eye and potential permanent sight loss. The attack occurred after four of the youths were briefly trapped in an elevator due to a technical glitch. Despite a complaint, police have yet to register a formal case.

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.

VB G RAM G Faces Monsoon Test

VB G RAM G Faces Monsoon Test

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

As MGNREGA comes to a close, both critics and supporters keenly eye VB G RAM G's performance.

Gurugram Lift Operator Brutally Attacked After Elevator Snag

Gurugram Lift Operator Brutally Attacked After Elevator Snag

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

A lift operator in Gurugram was brutally thrashed by six youths, allegedly rupturing his eye, after four of them were briefly trapped in an elevator. Despite a complaint being lodged, police have reportedly not yet registered a formal case, raising concerns about justice for the severely injured operator.

'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.

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.

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.

'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.'

Wangchuk's hunger strike enters Day 6, Dipke calls for solidarity fast

Wangchuk's hunger strike enters Day 6, Dipke calls for solidarity fast

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

As activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike at Jantar Mantar entered the sixth day on Friday, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) said he appeared "far weaker and more exhausted" and urged supporters across the country to observe a one-day fast in solidarity with the protest.

Calcutta HC backs college: No right to job after hurtful religious posts

Calcutta HC backs college: No right to job after hurtful religious posts

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The Calcutta High Court has upheld a college's decision to deny an assistant professor appointment due to his social media posts, observing that the right to profess one's religion does not permit hurting others' faith. The court ruled that the college's decision was bona fide and in the institution's best interest, despite the candidate's claims of infringed freedom of speech and religion.

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.

Court Orders Case Against 69 Indian Bank Staff In Rs 5 Crore Embezzlement

Court Orders Case Against 69 Indian Bank Staff In Rs 5 Crore Embezzlement

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Police in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh, have registered a case against 69 former and serving officers and employees of an Indian Bank branch for allegedly embezzling nearly Rs 5 crore from a union account. The case was filed following a court order after the accused failed to return the embezzled funds despite an earlier undertaking.

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.

Why Modi Praised Nanded's Pethkars On Mann Ki Baat

Why Modi Praised Nanded's Pethkars On Mann Ki Baat

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

'We ourselves hadn't heard it initially. Many people called us. The entire village was overjoyed.'

'Sidelined' Manish Tewari decries Punjab Cong snub with cryptic post

'Sidelined' Manish Tewari decries Punjab Cong snub with cryptic post

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Congress leader Manish Tewari expressed his disappointment after being overlooked in the recent Punjab Congress reshuffle for upcoming assembly polls, posting a cryptic message on X about "insecurities of individuals and institutions" while reaffirming his loyalty to the party. The reshuffle saw key appointments for election committees, including Charanjit Singh Channi as Campaign Committee chairman, but notably excluded Tewari.

WhatsApp Is Changing. Are You Safe?

WhatsApp Is Changing. Are You Safe?

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

WhatsApp is finally letting you hide your phone number behind a custom username. While it's a massive win for privacy, cybersecurity experts warn it could unleash a wave of identity scams. Here is what you need to know.