News for 'South Block'

India Owes Iran $7 Billion!

India Owes Iran $7 Billion!

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Formerly Iran's second-largest oil customer, Indian financial institutions were forced to withhold crude oil payments following the 2018 US sanctions.

Security guard held, protests erupt after sexual assault on 8-year-old girl

Security guard held, protests erupt after sexual assault on 8-year-old girl

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

An 8-year-old girl was allegedly sexually assaulted by a security guard in Mumbai's Pydhonie area, leading to his arrest and widespread public protests. Hundreds gathered outside the police station, demanding swift justice and stricter laws, drawing attention from political figures like MLA Rohit Pawar.

Political row erupts over heightened security at Mamata's residence

Political row erupts over heightened security at Mamata's residence

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Heavy police and central forces deployment outside Mamata Banerjee's Kolkata residence has sparked a political row. The TMC alleges it's to prevent her from visiting the family of an 11-year-old rape and murder victim in Baruipur, while the BJP claims it's routine security. This comes amidst public outrage and violence following the girl's death.

Key accused in 11-year-old's rape-murder in Bengal killed in encounter

Key accused in 11-year-old's rape-murder in Bengal killed in encounter

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

An accused in the rape and murder of an 11-year-old girl in West Bengal's Baruipur was killed in an alleged police encounter. Prabhas Mondal, a prime suspect, reportedly tried to escape and fired at police during a crime scene reconstruction, leading to police retaliation. The incident follows widespread public outrage and protests over the girl's death.

Bengal rape-murder case: Police examine shack as possible crime scene

Bengal rape-murder case: Police examine shack as possible crime scene

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Investigators probing the alleged rape and murder of an 11-year-old girl in Baruipur, West Bengal, suspect one of the accused took the victim to a shack where two others were present before the crime, with the three allegedly consuming intoxicants prior to the assault.

Mob lynches man in Bengal after suspected rape-murder of 11-year-old girl

Mob lynches man in Bengal after suspected rape-murder of 11-year-old girl

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

An 11-year-old girl's body was found in Baruipur, West Bengal, leading to local protests and the lynching of a man accused of involvement. Police have arrested four people and assured strict action, with the Chief Minister also intervening.

Messi, Bellingham and history collide in Argentina-England semi-final

Messi, Bellingham and history collide in Argentina-England semi-final

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi's Argentina take on Jude Bellingham's England in a blockbuster FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final, reviving one of football's greatest rivalries with a place in the final on the line.

New dynamic lighting illuminates North, South Block

New dynamic lighting illuminates North, South Block

Rediff.com11 Oct 2017

The President's House will also be lit with such a system within three months, an official said.

FIFA World Cup Round of 16: Mbappe's France refuse to take Paraguay lightly

FIFA World Cup Round of 16: Mbappe's France refuse to take Paraguay lightly

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

France arrive in Philadelphia as the World Cup's most feared attacking force, but Kylian Mbappe and coach Didier Deschamps have warned that acclaim, records and a seemingly clear path mean little if they fail to stay grounded against Paraguay in Saturday's last-16 clash.

Paraguay eliminate four-time champions Germany after penalty shoot-out

Paraguay eliminate four-time champions Germany after penalty shoot-out

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Paraguay achieved a stunning upset by eliminating four-time World champions Germany from the World Cup in a penalty shootout. After a 1-1 draw in their Round of 32 match, Paraguay secured a 4-3 victory in the shootout, with Jose Canale scoring the decisive kick.

Pakistan Rejects India's PoK Allegations, Issues Water Warning

Pakistan Rejects India's PoK Allegations, Issues Water Warning

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Pakistan has criticised India's recent remarks on Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) protests, asserting it is addressing issues democratically. Pakistan also warned India against blocking water, calling it an "act of war," and commented on India's nuclear capabilities and its own military strikes in Afghanistan.

Mamata accuses BJP of disrupting protest march after clashes

Mamata accuses BJP of disrupting protest march after clashes

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of disrupting a TMC protest march concerning the Baruipur rape and murder case, alleging that the police acted as an 'arm' of the saffron party by failing to enforce a Calcutta High Court order permitting the rally.

New Army Chief Set To Accelerate Modernisation

New Army Chief Set To Accelerate Modernisation

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Lieutenant General Seth's involvement in the army's capability development and modernisation efforts is evident from the key appointments he has held in the Strategic Planning and Capability Development Directorates, including Colonel Capability Development for Mechanised Forces, Brigadier Perspective Plans and Acquisition, and Additional Director General Capability Development.

Indian-origin couple, ailing son fall to death in London

Indian-origin couple, ailing son fall to death in London

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

An Indian-origin couple and their 9-year-old terminally ill son died after falling from their 36th-floor apartment in London in a suspected murder-suicide. Police believe the son's severe illness contributed to the tragic decision.

Neeraj Chopra Satisfied With Doha Comeback After Injury Layoff

Neeraj Chopra Satisfied With Doha Comeback After Injury Layoff

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra finished fourth in the Doha Diamond League with a throw of 85.69m, marking his return to competition after multiple injuries. Despite not winning, Chopra expressed satisfaction with his performance, stating he focused on reaching the competition stage without extra pressure. He confirmed his participation in the upcoming Commonwealth Games and discussed his recovery process and the growing competition in South Asian javelin.

Stir erupts against Karnataka's AI city

Stir erupts against Karnataka's AI city

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

About 45 km from the tech hub of Bengaluru, the Karnataka government is planning a mega artificial intelligence (AI)-powered city with a budget of more than Rs 18,000 crore. To be spread over 9,000 acres, the project aims to follow the theme "Work, live, play" with technology as its core. At the centre of it are, however, thousands of farmers who are protesting against land acquisition by the government.

Monsoon fury brings Mumbai-Pune to a standstill; 'Missing Link' reopens

Monsoon fury brings Mumbai-Pune to a standstill; 'Missing Link' reopens

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Heavy monsoon rains have severely impacted Mumbai and its surrounding areas, leading to landslides, suspension of train services, and at least 13 fatalities over the past few days. The Mumbai-Pune Expressway was also shut due to a concrete pillar collapse and waterlogging.

Mexico lights up FIFA 2026 World Cup opener in style

Mexico lights up FIFA 2026 World Cup opener in style

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

With Mariachi costumes, trumpets, and a sea of dark green support, Mexico City has opened the World Cup on Thursday, as fans packed the famous Azteca stadium ahead of the opening game between Mexico and South Africa, amid a backdrop of protests around the capital.

Ceasefire in danger as Iran blocks Hormuz again after Israel attack

Ceasefire in danger as Iran blocks Hormuz again after Israel attack

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

The fragile ceasefire in West Asia between the US and Iran to halt the hostilities in the region for two weeks faces renewed uncertainty as Tehran reportedly moved to block the strategic Strait of Hormuz once again due to Israel's intensified offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon, according to Iranian state media Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), which US President Trump says was "not included" as part of the ceasefire deal.

Fire breaks out in Delhi's South Block

Fire breaks out in Delhi's South Block

Rediff.com20 Mar 2016

A fire broke out in a room of the South Block, which houses the PMO and offices of defence and external affairs ministry, but no one was injured, police and fire officials said.

Why Mexicans Feel Left Out of Their Own World Cup After 40 Years

Why Mexicans Feel Left Out of Their Own World Cup After 40 Years

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Despite the World Cup returning to their country for the first time in four decades, many in Mexico said they feel excluded, priced out of stadiums, forced to pay for expensive TV subscriptions and constrained by strict licensing rules.

Trauma lingers for Malviya Nagar residents after deadly blaze

Trauma lingers for Malviya Nagar residents after deadly blaze

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Residents of Malviya Nagar, South Delhi, are grappling with fear and trauma a day after a devastating hotel fire claimed 21 lives. Police have arrested the hotel owner and are investigating the cause, including alleged permit violations.

IMD Launches AI Monsoon Forecast Model

IMD Launches AI Monsoon Forecast Model

Rediff.com13 May 2026

'This system will be of immense help in agricultural planning, disaster management and water resources management.'

Outrage After Teen Dies Trying To Stop Girl's Harassment

Outrage After Teen Dies Trying To Stop Girl's Harassment

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

The death of a 17-year-old boy in Delhi, who was shot after objecting to the harassment of a girl, has triggered widespread protests and demands for justice. Family and community members are calling for swift action against those responsible.

Op Sindoor: 'Pakistan Was Completely Blind'

Op Sindoor: 'Pakistan Was Completely Blind'

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

'We won not (only) because we were able to carry out long-range precision strikes.' 'That is, of course, one of the reasons but we had better situational awareness about what's happening than Pakistan.'

Eggs hurled at two arrested TMC councillors in Kolkata

Eggs hurled at two arrested TMC councillors in Kolkata

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

In south-eastern Kolkata's Patuli, hundreds of residents gathered outside the local police station to protest against Councillor Bappaditya Dasgupta, who was arrested on Saturday evening, on charges, including extortion, criminal trespass, criminal intimidation and attempted arson.

Beijing reacts to Quad ministers' New Delhi statement

Beijing reacts to Quad ministers' New Delhi statement

Rediff.com26 May 2026

In response to the Quad ministers' joint statement, China on Tuesday said it opposes the creation of exclusive 'small cliques' and 'bloc confrontation'.

Theatre Command Gets Push With New CDS, Navy Chief

Theatre Command Gets Push With New CDS, Navy Chief

Rediff.com11 May 2026

'General Subramani's appointment as military adviser in the NSCS has given him insight into decision-making at the apex level prior to formally taking over as CDS.'

Fit-Again Sophie Molineux To Captain Australia At Women's T20 World Cup

Fit-Again Sophie Molineux To Captain Australia At Women's T20 World Cup

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Sophie Molineux has recovered from a back injury and will captain Australia at the women's Twenty20 World Cup in England. Australia will aim for a record-extending seventh title after losing in the semi-finals in 2024.

Delhi Boy, 13, Strangled To Death In Bhati Mines

Delhi Boy, 13, Strangled To Death In Bhati Mines

Rediff.com6 May 2026

A 13-year-old boy was allegedly strangled to death in south Delhi's Bhati Mines area, police said on Wednesday. The incident has triggered protests in the area.

Why Sea Chokepoints Have Become The New Battleground

Why Sea Chokepoints Have Become The New Battleground

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

If Iran and Oman choose to charge a fee for rendering services to vessels using their territorial waters, so be it. The US is indulging in an irrationally self-destructive act, notes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Delhi hotel fire: Initial probe reveals major safety lapses

Delhi hotel fire: Initial probe reveals major safety lapses

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

The establishment had permission for only six rooms under the Delhi government's bed-and-breakfast policy but was allegedly operating around 25 rooms, including some in the basement, police sources said.

The Many Self Contradictions Of San Francisco

The Many Self Contradictions Of San Francisco

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

San Francisco is a coastal megacity yet at times it can feel like a foggy hill station full of picturesque views, recalls Dinesh Raheja after visiting one of America's prettiest cities.

QR code verification for Delhi Census enumerators to curb cyber fraud

QR code verification for Delhi Census enumerators to curb cyber fraud

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Authorities in Delhi have implemented a QR code-based verification system for census enumerators and supervisors to combat rising cyber fraud cases involving impersonation and fake government officials during the Census 2027.

No double standards in fight against terror: Ajit Doval

No double standards in fight against terror: Ajit Doval

Rediff.com29 May 2026

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval called for decisive action against terrorism and said there cannot be 'double standards' in the fight against it, while addressing an international security forum in Russia.

TMC's Abhishek Banerjee attacked; stones, shoes, eggs hurled

TMC's Abhishek Banerjee attacked; stones, shoes, eggs hurled

Rediff.com30 May 2026

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee was allegedly attacked by locals during a visit to Sonarpur, West Bengal, to meet families affected by post-poll violence.

Shivakumar to take oath as K'taka CM; religious heads, students to attend

Shivakumar to take oath as K'taka CM; religious heads, students to attend

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

D K Shivakumar, the Vokkaliga strongman and state Congress President, is set to be sworn in as the Chief Minister of Karnataka today at 4:05 pm at Lok Bhavan. The ceremony will also see some ministers taking oath, though the final list is awaiting approval from the Congress high command.

Bengal polls: Despite row, 'Singham' observer keeps vigil

Bengal polls: Despite row, 'Singham' observer keeps vigil

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Special police observer Ajay Pal Sharma toured West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district during the second phase of Assembly elections, facing political controversy and allegations of intimidation from TMC leaders.

T20 World Cup: South Africa Survive Super Scare! The Key Moments...

T20 World Cup: South Africa Survive Super Scare! The Key Moments...

Rediff.com11 Feb 2026

This was the first-ever double Super Over in the history of the T20 World Cup.

North, South blocks to be converted into national museums, Centre tells SC

North, South blocks to be converted into national museums, Centre tells SC

Rediff.com29 Oct 2021

The Centre has informed the Supreme Court that the North and South blocks, which cover nearly 27 acres housing government offices in national capital, are proposed to be converted into national museums.