News for 'Spark'

Vijay government may privatise TN's liquor sales to curb graft

Vijay government may privatise TN's liquor sales to curb graft

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

An intensified DVAC probe into a multi-crore liquor scam, allegedly involving former DMK Minister V Senthil Balaji, has led to a suggestion to privatise retail liquor sales in Tamil Nadu. The investigation targets alleged collusion in TASMAC bar licences, transport tenders, and procurement, with the Madras High Court dismissing Balaji's anticipatory bail plea. The FIR details systemic corruption, significant revenue loss, and illicit fund generation, prompting political reactions.

'Goes against India's sovereignty': Govt backs ban on 'Satluj'

'Goes against India's sovereignty': Govt backs ban on 'Satluj'

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

A central government committee has upheld the ban on the Diljit Dosanjh-starrer film Satluj, citing concerns over India's sovereignty and integrity, sparking political debate in Punjab.

CJP ends 36-day protest after govt accepts all demands

CJP ends 36-day protest after govt accepts all demands

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has called off its 36-day agitation following the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who stepped down amidst widespread protests over irregularities in the exam system and the NEET paper leak. The government also agreed to the CJP's demands for 1 crore compensation to families of students who died by suicide and no action against protesters.

Teacher suspended after child locked inside classroom in UP

Teacher suspended after child locked inside classroom in UP

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

An assistant teacher in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, has been suspended after a Class 2 student was inadvertently locked inside a primary school classroom. The incident, which occurred on Friday, came to light through a viral video showing the distressed child. Villagers intervened, contacting school staff who returned to release the student after about 90 minutes. An inquiry held the teacher responsible, leading to her immediate suspension and a further probe.

UK Sikh man's conviction sparks riots, scrutiny of kirpan laws

UK Sikh man's conviction sparks riots, scrutiny of kirpan laws

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Large crowds gathered in Southampton on Tuesday evening as officers from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary stood in riot gear near the home of Vickrum Digwa, who was sentenced to life imprisonment for stabbing 18-year-old Henry Nowak to death.

'Felt insulted': Dalit bride forced to get off horse, sparks outrage

'Felt insulted': Dalit bride forced to get off horse, sparks outrage

Rediff.com9 May 2026

A Dalit bride in Rajasthan was forced to dismount from a mare during her wedding procession, sparking outrage and protests. The incident has led to demands for a fair investigation and action against those responsible.

IIMT University Student Death Sparks Suicide Investigation

IIMT University Student Death Sparks Suicide Investigation

Rediff.com20 May 2026

A 23-year-old MBA student died after falling from her hostel building at IIMT University in Meerut, India, prompting a police investigation and student protests.

PV Sindhu Knocked Out Of China Open, Criticises Tournament Scheduling

PV Sindhu Knocked Out Of China Open, Criticises Tournament Scheduling

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Indian badminton star PV Sindhu was defeated by local favourite Chen Yufei in the second round of the China Open. Sindhu, who recently won the Japan Open, lost a close three-game match. Following her exit, she publicly criticised the tournament's scheduling, highlighting the inadequate recovery time she received compared to her opponent. Other Indian shuttlers Ayush Shetty and Lakshya Sen also exited the men's singles.

Moments That Defined 2026 World Cup

Moments That Defined 2026 World Cup

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

From Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to Cape Verde's fairytale run, VAR controversies and unforgettable fan moments, relive the memories that made the 2026 FIFA World Cup the biggest and most dramatic tournament in history.

Assam: Food Stall Inside Public Toilet Triggers Outrage

Assam: Food Stall Inside Public Toilet Triggers Outrage

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The unusual location of the food stall has fuelled public concern over compliance with food safety and sanitation norms.

TMC MP suspended from Lok Sabha for 'unsavoury' language against women members

TMC MP suspended from Lok Sabha for 'unsavoury' language against women members

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee has been suspended from the Lok Sabha for the remainder of the Monsoon session due to his use of "unsavoury" language against women members during a heated exchange with NCPI members.

Spain Coach Slams Argentina's 'Intolerable' World Cup Final Brawl

Spain Coach Slams Argentina's 'Intolerable' World Cup Final Brawl

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has strongly condemned the post-match clashes that marred the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, calling the behaviour of Argentina's players 'unacceptable' after his side lifted the trophy with a dramatic extra-time victory.

'Humiliated' RJD spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari quits party

'Humiliated' RJD spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari quits party

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

RJD spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari has announced his resignation from the party, citing a lack of space for dedicated workers and alleging humiliation. He also claimed that Tejashwi Yadav is surrounded by elements "hollowing" the party.

CJP Spokesperson Under Fire For Eating Burger At Monday's Protest

CJP Spokesperson Under Fire For Eating Burger At Monday's Protest

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Cockroach Janata Party Spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya has sparked a controversy by defiantly defending his decision to eat a burger during Monday's protests against the NEET paper leak, rejecting public accountability for his personal actions.

Couple Assaulted In Odisha; Incident Sparks Outrage

Couple Assaulted In Odisha; Incident Sparks Outrage

Rediff.com19 May 2026

A man and his female friend were allegedly assaulted with sticks by a group of people in Odisha's Berhampur city, triggering outrage after a video of the incident went viral on social media.

Norway Football Team Gets Royal Welcome

Norway Football Team Gets Royal Welcome

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Norway enjoyed a memorable 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, reaching the quarter-finals for the first time in the tournament before suffering a narrow 2-1 extra-time defeat to England.

Bhagyashri Borse Is Living In A...

Bhagyashri Borse Is Living In A...

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Some people dress for the occasion. Bhagyashri Borse dresses like she's about to bump into the love of her life in the middle of a flower field.

CJP sacks spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya over 'insensitive' protest conduct

CJP sacks spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya over 'insensitive' protest conduct

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) has removed its spokesperson, Vijeta Dahiya, after videos of him eating a burger during a protest against police violence and the NEET exam paper leak sparked public outrage and were deemed 'insensitive' by the party.

'Hum Jeet Gaye': Tears, joy at Jantar Mantar after Pradhan resigns

'Hum Jeet Gaye': Tears, joy at Jantar Mantar after Pradhan resigns

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned following weeks of widespread protests and public outrage over examination paper leaks, particularly the NEET-UG controversy, leading to jubilant scenes at Jantar Mantar as demonstrators declared 'victory'.

UP headmistress suspended for brandishing knife, cleaver at school

UP headmistress suspended for brandishing knife, cleaver at school

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

A government primary school headmistress in Kaushambi, Uttar Pradesh, was suspended and an FIR registered against her after she allegedly brandished a knife and cleaver on school premises. The incident, which was captured on video, led to an inquiry. The teacher claimed she carried the weapons for personal safety, while her husband suggested mental health issues.

RAF probes use of excessive force, pellet guns during Delhi protests

RAF probes use of excessive force, pellet guns during Delhi protests

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Rapid Action Force (RAF) has initiated an inquiry into allegations of its personnel using disproportionate force and firing pellet guns during recent student protests in Delhi, following social media footage and reports of injuries.

'Are they terrorists?': Cong blasts BJP for deploying AK-47 at Bihar protests

'Are they terrorists?': Cong blasts BJP for deploying AK-47 at Bihar protests

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

The Congress party has strongly criticised the BJP government following allegations that AK-47 rifles were used against protesting students in Bihar, with Rahul Gandhi demanding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's apology and action against those responsible for the 'deadly attacks and brutality'.

Can Prashant Kishor Pull Off The Impossible In Bankipur?

Can Prashant Kishor Pull Off The Impossible In Bankipur?

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The Bankipur assembly bypoll is a high-stakes electoral debut for Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor as he challenges the BJP in a constituency that has been a BJP stronghold for nearly two decades.

How Young Players Sparked Kohli's Batting Reinvention In IPL 2026

How Young Players Sparked Kohli's Batting Reinvention In IPL 2026

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Virat Kohli credits the influence of young players for his T20 reinvention and fastest IPL fifty, leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their second successive trophy. He highlights the team's depth and shared responsibility in securing the IPL title.

Gen Z is 'Generation gutter', 'puke-inducing videos'. Kangana

Gen Z is 'Generation gutter', 'puke-inducing videos'. Kangana

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Kangana Ranaut said some of the women protestors were "so ugly and corrupt that they can't be home makers either"

Doctors resign following assault by Shiv Sena corporator

Doctors resign following assault by Shiv Sena corporator

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Two doctors at a civic-run hospital in Thane, Maharashtra, have resigned after being brutally assaulted by a Shiv Sena corporator and his aides. The incident, which was captured on video and went viral, occurred after the doctors advised a newborn's relatives to shift the baby due to lack of NICU space. The corporator and his aides have been arrested, but the incident has highlighted severe concerns about the safety of healthcare workers.

Is Hardik Pandya Headed To CSK?

Is Hardik Pandya Headed To CSK?

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Hardik Pandya has been linked with multiple franchises after another disappointing Mumbai Indians campaign, with the Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals also being mentioned as potential suitors.

'What Logic Is There?': Gambhir's Decisions Face Heat

'What Logic Is There?': Gambhir's Decisions Face Heat

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Following India's disappointing limited-overs tour of the UK, head coach Gautam Gambhir and the team management are facing intense scrutiny over selection decisions, particularly the omission of Kuldeep Yadav in the third ODI. Former cricketer Sadagoppan Ramesh criticised the team's logic, while also praising Rohit Sharma's century under pressure. The tour has sparked broader discussions about team selections and optimal talent utilisation.

Siddaramaiah to resign tomorrow? Meeting with guv sparks speculation

Siddaramaiah to resign tomorrow? Meeting with guv sparks speculation

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has requested a meeting with the Governor, intensifying speculation about a potential change in leadership, with rumours suggesting he may resign to allow his deputy, D K Shivakumar, to take over.

FIFA World Cup: Is Everything OK Between Bellingham and Tuchel?

FIFA World Cup: Is Everything OK Between Bellingham and Tuchel?

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

After England's 2-1 World Cup quarter-final win over Norway, midfielder Jude Bellingham pushed back against manager Thomas Tuchel's "sloppy" performance assessment, highlighting the team's resilience and the challenging conditions. Despite the friction, Bellingham's two goals were crucial in securing England's semi-final spot, underscoring his vital role in the tournament.

Kerala Farmer's Death at CPI Office Sparks Investigation

Kerala Farmer's Death at CPI Office Sparks Investigation

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

A farmer was found dead at a CPI office premises in Kerala, leading to a police investigation and local protests.

IUML Support For Satheesan Sparks Political Debate In Kerala

IUML Support For Satheesan Sparks Political Debate In Kerala

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has voiced its support for V D Satheesan as the potential Chief Minister of Kerala if the Congress-led UDF alliance wins, drawing criticism from SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan, who suggests this indicates the IUML would effectively rule the state.

CJP claims first victory, says protests to continue at Jantar Mantar

CJP claims first victory, says protests to continue at Jantar Mantar

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) celebrated Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation, calling it their first victory in the ongoing protest against the alleged NEET paper leak. Led by Abhijeet Dipke, the CJP vowed to continue their agitation until demands for compensation for student suicide victims and action against those responsible for the leak and police excesses are met.

Cop on Amarnath security duty killed in Anantnag terrorist attack

Cop on Amarnath security duty killed in Anantnag terrorist attack

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

A head constable on Amarnath Yatra security duty was killed in a terror attack in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir. The Resistance Front (TRF) has claimed responsibility for the attack, prompting security forces to launch a search operation.

What Sparked The Deadly Clash In Delhi's Rohini?

What Sparked The Deadly Clash In Delhi's Rohini?

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Two minors were killed and another injured in a violent clash between two groups in Delhi's Rohini area, triggered by a past rivalry and suspicions of harbouring individuals involved in a previous murder case.

Julian Alvarez Lauds Lionel Messi As Argentina Stages Epic World Cup Comeback

Julian Alvarez Lauds Lionel Messi As Argentina Stages Epic World Cup Comeback

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Argentina captain Lionel Messi inspired a dramatic comeback victory over Egypt in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, prompting teammate Julian Alvarez to hail him as "the best player in the world and in history." Despite missing a penalty, Messi scored a crucial equaliser, leading Argentina to a 3-2 win and a quarter-final clash with Switzerland, keeping their title defence hopes alive.

There have been several ups and down in the last 4 months: Sooryavanshi

There have been several ups and down in the last 4 months: Sooryavanshi

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Indian batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi acknowledges a period of 'several ups and downs' over the past four months but asserts his confidence remains high as he prepares for the T20I series against Zimbabwe.

Gurindervir Singh's Record Run Sparks Sub-10 Second Hopes

Gurindervir Singh's Record Run Sparks Sub-10 Second Hopes

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Gurindervir Singh's record-breaking 10.09-second run in the 100m at the Federation Cup National Championships has ignited hopes for Indian athletes to finally break the coveted sub-10-second barrier. Experts believe that with the right training, equipment, and opportunities, an Indian sprinter could achieve this milestone in the near future.

'They first said they were doctors and took Sonam Wangchuk away'

'They first said they were doctors and took Sonam Wangchuk away'

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Amidst escalating tensions at Jantar Mantar, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was hospitalised by Delhi Police on the 21st day of his hunger strike, sparking widespread protests from supporters.

Hyderabad SI faces action after video shows his granddaughter driving car

Hyderabad SI faces action after video shows his granddaughter driving car

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

A sub-inspector in Hyderabad has been booked after a video went viral showing him allowing his minor granddaughter to drive a car. The incident led to a case being registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Motor Vehicles Act, with the Telangana DGP calling for the officer's suspension and a departmental enquiry.