News for 'Spark'

Shiv Sena leader thrashed inside police station over monetary dispute

Shiv Sena leader thrashed inside police station over monetary dispute

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

A Shiv Sena youth leader, Siddhesh Abhange, was allegedly assaulted inside Kopri Police Station in Thane over a monetary dispute with women involved in the textile business. The incident caused brief tension, and police are investigating, recording statements, and registering an FIR.

Gauff bows out in Beijing, cites fatigue as 'draining' days force Wuhan withdrawal

Gauff bows out in Beijing, cites fatigue as 'draining' days force Wuhan withdrawal

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Coco Gauff exited the China Open after a draining few days, then withdrew from Wuhan as fatigue, online racial abuse and a gruelling season took their toll.

Para-Cyclists To Protest Ministry's Asian Games Selection

Para-Cyclists To Protest Ministry's Asian Games Selection

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Seven para-cyclists, recommended by the national federation for the Asian Para Games, were largely omitted by the Sports Ministry, with only one receiving approval. The excluded athletes are planning a protest, alleging discrimination, while the Sports Authority of India (SAI) maintains selections were based strictly on performance criteria.

Rahul issues first remark in CJP's support, Dipke thanks him

Rahul issues first remark in CJP's support, Dipke thanks him

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and members of the INDIA bloc, have strongly condemned the arrest and jailing of Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) co-conveners Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka for protesting at Jantar Mantar, asserting that waving the national flag and peaceful protest are not crimes.

Israel was ready to 'shoot down' Flydubai plane, but...

Israel was ready to 'shoot down' Flydubai plane, but...

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

A news report details how Israel scrambled fighter jets and stood ready to shoot down a Flydubai plane after a co-pilot's cockpit stabbing attempt led to a rapid descent and fears of a hijacking en route to Tel Aviv.

Trump strikes surprise deal with Putin, Zelenskyy says...

Trump strikes surprise deal with Putin, Zelenskyy says...

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Former President Donald Trump's recent deal with Russia to supply diesel to the US and global markets has ignited a political firestorm, drawing sharp criticism from Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Democratic leaders, and a segment of Republicans, despite the US Treasury lifting sanctions on Russian diesel supplies.

Keralam Congress seeks CJI's exit, deletes X post amid row; BJP hits back

Keralam Congress seeks CJI's exit, deletes X post amid row; BJP hits back

Rediff.com12 Oct 2026

The official Congress Keralam 'X' account posted a controversial message against CJI Surya Kant, which quickly went viral before being deleted. The party subsequently removed the individual responsible, with KPCC president Sunny Joseph stating the post was unauthorised and did not reflect the party's stance on judicial impartiality. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju criticised Congress over the incident.

Coco Gauff targeted with 'insane' racial abuse after China Open win

Coco Gauff targeted with 'insane' racial abuse after China Open win

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

American tennis star Coco Gauff has revealed she received an "insane" amount of racial abuse on social media following her controversial win over Chinese teenager Sun Xinran at the China Open, where a replayed point sparked an online backlash.

Anti-drug activist shot dead by medical shop owner in Punjab

Anti-drug activist shot dead by medical shop owner in Punjab

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

An anti-drug activist, Parvinder Singh alias Jhota, was allegedly shot dead by a medical store owner in Mansa, Punjab, after confronting the owner about the illegal sale of intoxicating substances.

RSS critic Kharge says no rioting cases against outfit, sparks row

RSS critic Kharge says no rioting cases against outfit, sparks row

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge stated in the Legislative Council that no cases of communal riots or other crimes have been registered against the RSS. This statement, made in response to an opposition query, has sparked a political controversy, with the BJP criticising Kharge, a vocal RSS critic, for his alleged "political vendetta." Kharge, in turn, clarified that the RSS is not a registered legal entity, and therefore, cases are registered against individuals, not the organisation itself, calling for its registration for transparency.

Prayers, a perfect 10 and historic gold: Kumkum Mohod's golden day

Prayers, a perfect 10 and historic gold: Kumkum Mohod's golden day

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Kumkum Mohod, a 17-year-old from Amravati, has won India's first-ever women's individual recurve archery gold at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. Her victory sparked celebrations in her hometown, with her family expressing immense pride and her father hoping for an Olympic gold. Kumkum also secured two other medals at the games.

Beed MP Bajrang Sonwane Alleges Jail-Orchestrated Plot To Frame Son

Beed MP Bajrang Sonwane Alleges Jail-Orchestrated Plot To Frame Son

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

NCP (SP) Beed Lok Sabha MP Bajrang Sonwane has alleged a politically motivated conspiracy to implicate his son, Saurabh Sonwane, in the murder of hotelier Vilas Ghule. The MP presented an audio clip purportedly showing a jailed accused instructing an aide to frame his son, and announced plans for a Rs 500 crore defamation suit and seeking FIRs against those involved.

Rajasthan ACB Nabs Middleman In High-Profile Bribe Scandal

Rajasthan ACB Nabs Middleman In High-Profile Bribe Scandal

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

The Rajasthan Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has arrested a middleman, Sajjan Kumar, for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 2 crore on behalf of SOG Additional Superintendent of Police Mukesh Kumar Soni. The bribe was reportedly demanded for assistance in a case, and further investigation is ongoing.

Punjabi influencer Mad Sandhu shot dead in Amritsar

Punjabi influencer Mad Sandhu shot dead in Amritsar

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Punjabi social media influencer and makeup artist Mad Sandhu was shot dead by two unidentified persons in Amritsar. The incident occurred on Loharka road, and Sandhu succumbed to his injuries at a hospital. Police are investigating the motive, and the murder has drawn criticism from Congress leader Raj Kumar Verka regarding the state's law and order.

Tension in Thane as Sena-UBT division head shot dead

Tension in Thane as Sena-UBT division head shot dead

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Local Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Pradeep Purnekar was shot and assaulted by unidentified assailants in Thane, Maharashtra, leading to his death during treatment. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday night, has sparked tension and concern, with police investigating potential motives like political rivalry and personal enmity. Authorities have launched a manhunt, setting up checkpoints to apprehend the suspects.

Archery Star Kumkum Mohod Scripts History With Asian Games Gold

Archery Star Kumkum Mohod Scripts History With Asian Games Gold

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Kumkum Mohod from Amravati, Maharashtra, has won India's first-ever women's individual recurve archery gold medal at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. Her family and community are overjoyed, and her father expresses confidence in her future Olympic aspirations.

Why India-Pakistan World Cup clash will be 'electrifying' again

Why India-Pakistan World Cup clash will be 'electrifying' again

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Former Pakistan pacer Sohail Tanvir has expressed his excitement for the India-Pakistan clash in the 2027 ICC Men's ODI World Cup, emphasising the importance of quality cricket. He highlighted the immense pressure from fans in such encounters, drawing from his own experiences of thriving under pressure while playing against India, including in the IPL and on bilateral tours. The article also notes the historical head-to-head record and details of the upcoming 2027 World Cup fixture.

No plague outbreak after Russia lab incident: WHO

No plague outbreak after Russia lab incident: WHO

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed that Russian authorities reported no recent plague cases in Irkutsk oblast following the death of a laboratory worker from severe pneumonia. Initial media reports had suggested pneumonic plague, but investigations found no high-threat pathogens among contacts, and the cause of death is still being clarified by WHO.

Karnataka DIG held over release of life convict by forging SC order

Karnataka DIG held over release of life convict by forging SC order

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

A Deputy Inspector General (Prisons) in Karnataka, M Somashekar, has been arrested for allegedly facilitating the release of a life convict in 2018 by forging a Supreme Court order. The convict's wife, also arrested, accused Somashekar of sexual exploitation. The case came to light after a complaint from the Bengaluru Central Prison Superintendent, revealing a complex conspiracy involving a prison assistant who forged the order.

Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep dismantle J&K to secure Irani Trophy for Rest of India

Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep dismantle J&K to secure Irani Trophy for Rest of India

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Rest of India defeated reigning Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir by 167 runs to clinch the Irani Cup, with pacers Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep sharing nine wickets in a sensational bowling performance.

CPI(M) Distances Itself From 'Communal' Malappuram Remark

CPI(M) Distances Itself From 'Communal' Malappuram Remark

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

CPI(M) state secretary M V Govindan clarified the party's position on Malappuram district, stating they criticise the influence of communalism on parties like IUML, not the district itself. This comes after former MLA P Nandakumar allegedly made communal remarks about Malappuram, leading to complaints and criticism from Minister K M Shaji.

Kotdwar's 'Mohammad' Deepak arrested for threatening businessman

Kotdwar's 'Mohammad' Deepak arrested for threatening businessman

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Deepak Kumar, a gym owner from Kotdwar known for confronting Bajrang Dal members, has been arrested on charges of abusing, assaulting, and threatening a businessman. Police stated the arrest was a preventive measure to maintain peace, with additional sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita added based on evidence.

No meet was sought, offer turned down: EC on Oppn protest

No meet was sought, offer turned down: EC on Oppn protest

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

The Election Commission of India clarified its position after INDIA bloc MPs marched to its office, stating that no formal appointment was sought until late afternoon. The EC later declined a request to meet 240 MPs at the Parliament House Annexe, citing protocol that meetings must be held at the EC premises. The incident involved a protest march led by Rahul Gandhi and a standoff with police.

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.

Maharashtra BLOs asked to accept voter documents on WhatsApp

Maharashtra BLOs asked to accept voter documents on WhatsApp

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Maharashtra's Chief Electoral Officer has allowed voter documents via WhatsApp for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise, with Block Level Officers (BLOs) conducting home verifications. This development comes amidst controversy surrounding the Election Commission and its Chief, Gyanesh Kumar, over alleged unilateral decisions regarding the SIR, which opposition parties claim dilute the powers of Electoral Registration Officers. The deadline for claims and objections has been extended to October 12.

Family Demands Justice For Nursing Student Found Dead In Jaipur Hotel

Family Demands Justice For Nursing Student Found Dead In Jaipur Hotel

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

The family of Prakash Khinchi, a 32-year-old nursing student found dead in a Jaipur hotel, is protesting for the second day, alleging he was murdered. They demand arrests and compensation, despite police finding a suicide note. An FIR has been lodged, claiming he was killed over money owed for a job.

Eight Pune students on picnic drown off Maha's Diveagar beach

Eight Pune students on picnic drown off Maha's Diveagar beach

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Eight students from a Pune-based coaching class drowned in the Arabian Sea off Diveagar beach in Maharashtra's Raigad district during a picnic. The incident, which saw all bodies recovered, has led to criticism from a local MLA regarding inadequate safety measures and the need for better guidance for young visitors at popular tourist spots.

JD-U's Anant Singh defies party, backs Jan Suraaj candidate

JD-U's Anant Singh defies party, backs Jan Suraaj candidate

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

JD(U) MLA Anant Kumar Singh openly defied his party by supporting a rival candidate, Anuj Singh of the Jan Suraaj Party, for the Bihar legislative council elections. This move is seen as a direct challenge to JD(U)'s official candidate, Neeraj Kumar, with whom Singh has a long-standing rivalry. The JD(U) leadership is reportedly considering action against Singh.

How Long Can The Modi Government Stay Deaf?

How Long Can The Modi Government Stay Deaf?

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

When it pretends to be deaf, a situation can snowball into something it cannot contain. The government cannot dismiss public anger merely because protests are inconvenient or politically embarrassing, asserts Ramesh Menon.

AISA chief Neha Bora held during protest in Delhi, released later without phone

AISA chief Neha Bora held during protest in Delhi, released later without phone

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

AISA national president Neha Bora was released at the Narela Industrial Area police station after being picked up during the organisation's protest march towards Jantar Mantar, with AISA members alleging procedural violations during her detention.

CJP's Ashutosh Ranka detained by Assam police

CJP's Ashutosh Ranka detained by Assam police

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

Ashutosh Ranka, co-convenor of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), and his supporters were reportedly detained by Assam Police in Guwahati ahead of a planned volunteers' meet-up. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke claimed the detention was to prevent the meeting, while Ranka alleged Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma was afraid of the party exposing local issues.

Delhi Police file 3 FIRs over Jantar Mantar protest against CEC

Delhi Police file 3 FIRs over Jantar Mantar protest against CEC

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Delhi Police have registered three FIRs and detained nearly 1,000 individuals, including prominent political leaders and activists, following protests at Jantar Mantar demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The protests, which violated prohibitory orders, were in response to allegations concerning the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.

Police Summon RSS Leader Kalladka Prabhakar Bhat In 2025 Murder Case

Police Summon RSS Leader Kalladka Prabhakar Bhat In 2025 Murder Case

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

RSS leader Kalladka Prabhakar Bhat has been issued a notice by Bantwal Rural Police to record his statement in connection with a 2025 murder case. The case involves the murder of Abdul Rahiman in May 2025. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad has warned of dire consequences if Bhat's image is harmed.

Congress alleges police raid party's Maha HQ, arrest tribal students

Congress alleges police raid party's Maha HQ, arrest tribal students

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

The Congress party in Maharashtra has accused the police of illegally entering its Mumbai headquarters, Tilak Bhawan, and arresting tribal students and NSUI members who were protesting. While the police deny these claims, stating no arrests were made from the building, the Congress has threatened to gherao the Chief Minister's residence if the detained individuals are not released, escalating a political confrontation over student protests.

Football Friendly: Thapa Scores But India Suffer Heavy Defeat Against Uruguay

Football Friendly: Thapa Scores But India Suffer Heavy Defeat Against Uruguay

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

India's national football team suffered a 6-1 defeat against two-time former world champions Uruguay in an international friendly in Kolkata.

High-Level Panel Investigates Medical Care Delay In Jharkhand Gang-Rape Case

High-Level Panel Investigates Medical Care Delay In Jharkhand Gang-Rape Case

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

A high-level committee has been formed to investigate the alleged delay in medical care for a 13-year-old girl in Jharkhand who died after an alleged gang-rape and assault. The two-member panel visited Gumla and Simdega districts, speaking with the family and examining documents, as police continue their investigation into the incident.

MCC Head of Cricket Fraser Stewart addresses player exodus to T20 leagues, pink ball trials

MCC Head of Cricket Fraser Stewart addresses player exodus to T20 leagues, pink ball trials

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Fraser Stewart, Head of Cricket at MCC, expressed concern over cricketers retiring early from Tests for franchise T20 leagues but acknowledged players' desire for higher earnings with less play. He also welcomed the ICC's decision to trial pink balls in day-time Tests to mitigate fading light issues and boost spectator interest.

Keralam minister returns friend's luxury car amid row

Keralam minister returns friend's luxury car amid row

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

Keralam Minister K M Shaji has returned an ultra-luxury Range Rover, belonging to a friend, which he was using as his official vehicle. The move comes amidst controversy and allegations of violating his oath of office, with the opposition questioning the use of a private luxury car instead of a government-provided one.

JD-U MLA Anant Singh backs rival candidate to settle scores with party MLC

JD-U MLA Anant Singh backs rival candidate to settle scores with party MLC

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

JD(U) MLA Anant Kumar Singh has publicly declared his intention to support and campaign for Jan Suraaj Party candidate Anuj Singh against his own party's MLC, Neeraj Kumar, in the upcoming Bihar legislative council polls. Singh cited personal scores and past conspiracies involving Neeraj Kumar and RCP Singh as reasons for his rebellion.

'We have to be careful': Jamil's Uruguay warning

'We have to be careful': Jamil's Uruguay warning

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

India's head coach Khalid Jamil and left-back Akash Mishra discuss the team's short recovery time and the significant challenge posed by two-time world champions Uruguay, following their 0-4 defeat to Brazil. Despite the demanding schedule, the team remains focused on performing well in the upcoming friendly, with players acknowledging the importance of competitive football.