News for 'Spark'

A Raja among 3 top DMK leaders booked over remarks against CM Vijay

A Raja among 3 top DMK leaders booked over remarks against CM Vijay

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Police have registered cases against senior DMK leaders A Raja, P K Sekar Babu, and Vasantham Karthikeyan for allegedly making defamatory remarks against Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay and Energy Resources and Law Minister R Nirmal Kumar during recent party protests. The controversy stems from CM Vijay's comments questioning DMK chief M K Stalin's MISA detention during the Emergency, which the DMK claims is a long-standing narrative.

Ameesha Patel shuts down Hardik Pandya dating speculation

Ameesha Patel shuts down Hardik Pandya dating speculation

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Actress Ameesha Patel strongly reacted to social media speculation regarding her friendship with cricketer Hardik Pandya after a viral video showed her hand on his arm, sarcastically dismissing romantic interpretations and advising the X user to 'have a girl even as a friend'.

So Dreamy, Arishfa, So Beautifully Dreamy!

So Dreamy, Arishfa, So Beautifully Dreamy!

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

At 23, Arishfa Khan has already mastered the art of looking like she's floating through a dream sequence.

Congress Accuses Modi Government Of US Appeasement On UPI MDR

Congress Accuses Modi Government Of US Appeasement On UPI MDR

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Congress party has strongly criticised the Modi government's decision to introduce a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions over Rs 2,000, alleging it is a result of US pressure to benefit American card companies. The party also linked this move to broader US actions against India, including tariffs and H-1B visa issues, coining the term "Narendra's Ongoing Trump Appeasement." The government, however, clarified that consumers will not bear the charge, which applies only to merchants.

Cong's Nandigram candidate sent to 14-day custody in 19-yr-old case

Cong's Nandigram candidate sent to 14-day custody in 19-yr-old case

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

Congress's Nandigram bypoll candidate Milan Pradhan has been sent to judicial custody until October 3 on charges dating back 19 years, effectively ending his campaign for the October 6 by-election.

Historic India T20I match can transform cricket in Japan, says JCA chief Curr

Historic India T20I match can transform cricket in Japan, says JCA chief Curr

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

The Japan Cricket Association (JCA) is set to host its first-ever T20I against reigning world champions India, a landmark event expected to significantly elevate cricket's profile and drive its long-term growth in Japan, according to JCA COO Alan Curr.

Infantino's Grip on FIFA Weakens as World Cup Rights Row Sparks Power Struggle

Infantino's Grip on FIFA Weakens as World Cup Rights Row Sparks Power Struggle

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is facing a deepening crisis after his proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup was abandoned, leading to public distancing from influential executives and calls for his removal from office.

Asia Cup: Pakistan Players And The Virat Kohli Link

Asia Cup: Pakistan Players And The Virat Kohli Link

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Pakistan's women cricketers found themselves in an unexpected Virat Kohli connection during the Women's Asia Cup. Several players were spotted wearing footwear from the Indian star's sportswear brand, sparking plenty of chatter on social media.

Gold Medalist Anush Agarwalla 'Deeply Hurt' By Asian Games Exclusion

Gold Medalist Anush Agarwalla 'Deeply Hurt' By Asian Games Exclusion

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Indian dressage rider Anush Agarwalla has voiced profound disappointment and hurt after being excluded from the upcoming Asian Games, despite being a gold medalist in the previous edition. He criticised the selection process as "unfair" and a "betrayal," stating he was never given a chance to compete, and called for a more transparent system in Indian sports.

Hurriyat ex-leader Bilal Lone's political foray sparks family rivalry in J-K

Hurriyat ex-leader Bilal Lone's political foray sparks family rivalry in J-K

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Former Hurriyat Conference leader Bilal Gani Lone on Sunday held a workers' rally in north Kashmir's Handwara constituency, signalling his entry into mainstream politics while asserting his claim to the political legacy of his slain father, Abdul Gani Lone.

Will Sooryavanshi get a game in final Afghanistan T20I?

Will Sooryavanshi get a game in final Afghanistan T20I?

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

India, having already secured the T20 series against Afghanistan, is likely to experiment with its playing XI in the third and final match in New Delhi. This provides an opportunity for players like Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and others on the bench to get game time before the Asian Games, while Afghanistan aims for an improved performance to boost morale.

Manipuri musician's death: Accused had issued prior threats

Manipuri musician's death: Accused had issued prior threats

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Manipuri musician Chongtham Vikram Singh, who died after a brutal assault in Delhi, had previously been threatened by the same accused individuals, according to the police FIR.

Arjun Tendulkar Commits To Goa; Ends Exit Rumours

Arjun Tendulkar Commits To Goa; Ends Exit Rumours

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Arjun Tendulkar, son of cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, has confirmed he will continue playing for the Goa cricket team, dispelling recent rumours of his departure after missing a tour to Oman.

NGOs down by half in last 10 years; contribution rises to Rs 22,974 cr

NGOs down by half in last 10 years; contribution rises to Rs 22,974 cr

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

The Ministry of Home Affairs informed a Joint Committee of Parliament that the number of active NGOs registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act has halved over the last decade, even as foreign funds received by them have significantly increased. Christian associations received the largest share of these funds in 2024-25. The report comes amidst discussions on a contentious FCRA amendment bill aimed at tighter government oversight.

New AI Models From Tech Giants Raise Safety Concerns

New AI Models From Tech Giants Raise Safety Concerns

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

Leading technology companies OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google have announced new AI models with advanced capabilities, including OpenAI's Astra reaching a "Critical" cybersecurity tier. However, these advancements have ignited a significant debate among safety researchers and netizens, particularly concerning the transparency and monitorability of OpenAI's novel "recurrent depth" architecture.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi's birthday sparks celebrations across Argentina

FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi's birthday sparks celebrations across Argentina

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Moved by Lionel Messi's record-breaking form at the World Cup, Argentines have taken to the streets and social media to sing "Happy Birthday" to their favourite footballer who turned 39 on Wednesday.

New UPI MDR Fee Could Push Small Retailers Back To Cash, Warns RAI

New UPI MDR Fee Could Push Small Retailers Back To Cash, Warns RAI

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Retailers Association of India (RAI) has voiced concerns that the government's new 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 could reverse the progress of digital payment adoption among small retailers. This fee, effective October 15, places the burden on merchants operating on thin margins, potentially pushing them back to cash transactions and undermining the government's formalisation agenda, especially ahead of the festive season.

Porn videos found on rape convict Prajwal Revanna's phone seized in jail

Porn videos found on rape convict Prajwal Revanna's phone seized in jail

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

A forensic examination of a mobile phone seized from former MP Prajwal Revanna's prison cell revealed numerous explicit videos, while a pen drive contained movies and web series. Revanna, who was found using a smartphone in prison, denied ownership of the device and downloading explicit content, despite call logs showing unauthorised communication. Five individuals have been arrested for allegedly smuggling the phone and SIM card into the Parappana Agrahara Central Prison.

Abhijit Dipke tenders his 'resignation' as 'Madhya Pradesh CM'

Abhijit Dipke tenders his 'resignation' as 'Madhya Pradesh CM'

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, used a satirical "resignation" letter to criticise the Mohan Yadav government in Madhya Pradesh over the deaths of over 30 tribal children in Balaghat district. His letter, addressed to the Governor, highlighted failures in compensation, basic amenities like water and education, and tribal welfare, questioning the government's accountability. The issue has also drawn the attention of the Madhya Pradesh High Court, which sought responses from state departments regarding the alleged deaths due to infectious diseases and inadequate facilities.

Mahua Moitra faces egg attack, 'go back' slogans in Bengal's Nadia

Mahua Moitra faces egg attack, 'go back' slogans in Bengal's Nadia

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

TMC MP Mahua Moitra was allegedly pelted with eggs by BJP workers during a visit to Nadia district's Tehatta area, despite police presence. Moitra invoked a recent Supreme Court observation regarding her apprehension of such attacks, questioning police inaction and alleging contempt of court. The BJP has condemned the act but denied involvement.

PM Modi, President Murmu congratulate Indian women's team on Asia Cup triumph

PM Modi, President Murmu congratulate Indian women's team on Asia Cup triumph

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The Indian women's cricket team secured their eighth Women's Asia Cup title, defeating Sri Lanka by 72 runs in the final, a triumph that has garnered widespread congratulations from top Indian leaders.

Political Row Erupts Over UPI Fee Decision

Political Row Erupts Over UPI Fee Decision

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Congress party has strongly refuted government claims that its MPs on the Parliament Standing Committee on Finance supported a fee on high-value UPI payments. Congress leaders, including Gaurav Gogoi and Manish Tewari, stated that the "UPI tax" proposal was not specifically discussed by the committee, accusing the Modi government of diverting attention from public backlash and appeasing US companies. The government, however, cited the committee's report which pressed for a tiered Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework.

Tension in Navi Mumbai as BJP, Uddhav Sena workers clash over SIR forms

Tension in Navi Mumbai as BJP, Uddhav Sena workers clash over SIR forms

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

A political controversy has erupted in Navi Mumbai after thousands of SIR forms, used for voter list revision, were allegedly found at a photocopy shop. This led to a clash between Shiv Sena (UBT) and BJP activists, with allegations of voter list manipulation and questions raised about the transparency of the electoral process.

UPI charges: Govt rejects rollback amid Opposition outcry

UPI charges: Govt rejects rollback amid Opposition outcry

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Indian government has introduced a 0.4% fee on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 for merchants, effective October 15, sparking strong opposition from political parties and traders. Despite accusations of foreign influence and demands for a rollback, the finance ministry and top functionaries have stated there will be no reversal, citing the need for a self-sustaining digital payments ecosystem.

Pakistani Naval Captain Was Reckless, Incompetent

Pakistani Naval Captain Was Reckless, Incompetent

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

The captain of the Pakistani naval ship was overconfident, reckless and professionally incompetent. He displayed false bravado and by his actions would have caused grievous injuries to his men onboard and severely damaged the ship. On the other hand the captain of INS Kolkata maintained his cool, composure, displayed excellent seamanship skills and maintained his course and speed to avoid a major catastrophe. Comparison of the two captains shows the levels in professional competence of the two navies which are miles apart, points out Commodore Venugopal Menon (retd).

Indian-origin woman arrested for killing 2 friends in US

Indian-origin woman arrested for killing 2 friends in US

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

An Indian-origin woman, Anila Baby, has been arrested in California for allegedly murdering two of her friends, Ann Mary Mathew and Anjana Hari, in separate incidents within 90 minutes. The victims, also of Indian origin from Kerala, were reportedly strangled and stabbed, and run over by a car. The motive remains under investigation, and Baby faces two counts of first-degree murder.

Kolkata's Lenin, Marx, Ho Chi Minh roads on BJP govt's renaming list

Kolkata's Lenin, Marx, Ho Chi Minh roads on BJP govt's renaming list

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

A committee formed by West Bengal's BJP government is considering proposals to rename several prominent roads, bridges, and public places in Kolkata, including those named after communist leaders Vladimir Lenin, Karl Marx, and Ho Chi Minh. This move has sparked sharp criticism from the Trinamool Congress and CPI(M), who view it as "vendetta politics" and an attempt to disrespect differing ideologies.

Strain in J-K ruling allies? NC, Cong clash over Vande Mataram rendition

Strain in J-K ruling allies? NC, Cong clash over Vande Mataram rendition

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Tensions have emerged within Jammu and Kashmir's ruling alliance between the National Conference and Congress over the full rendition of Vande Mataram at an official state event. While the NC defends it as a "statutory obligation," the Congress expresses strong disapproval, citing historical resolutions and the need to respect India's pluralistic ethos.

After ISRO, Oppn red flags corporatisation of statistics body ISI

After ISRO, Oppn red flags corporatisation of statistics body ISI

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

A government bill proposing to widen the remit of the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) is facing scrutiny from Members of Parliament. Concerns have been raised that the Indian Statistical Institute Bill, 2026, could reduce the premier institute's autonomy. The bill, currently under examination by a Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance, aims to incorporate ISI as a 'body corporate' to strengthen governance and promote academic excellence, but critics fear increased government control.

2 burqa-clad women denied entry at Mumbai hospital

2 burqa-clad women denied entry at Mumbai hospital

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Security personnel reportedly justified the action due to child theft concerns and identity verification.

Raj Thackeray warns of communal tension during Ganesh festival

Raj Thackeray warns of communal tension during Ganesh festival

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has voiced strong concerns about the divisive role of social media in society, alleging it fuels anger and religious disputes. He also criticised the unbridled use of high-decibel sound systems, questioned the government's economic policies despite GDP growth claims, and objected to political messaging in public offices. Thackeray further addressed linguistic politics and endorsed the "Inquilab Zindabad" slogan.

JD-U plans party renaming: What is behind the move?

JD-U plans party renaming: What is behind the move?

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Janata Dal (United) is considering a proposal to rename the party as 'JD(U)-Nitish' to honour its leader Nitish Kumar, a move supported by key aides but criticised by the RJD, which suggests it indicates an impending split within the party.

'Coach's Favourites': Badrinath's Dig at Gambhir's Choices

'Coach's Favourites': Badrinath's Dig at Gambhir's Choices

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Former India batter S Badrinath has expressed concerns regarding India's T20I squad for the upcoming Afghanistan series, particularly questioning the consistent inclusion of Washington Sundar and Nitish Kumar Reddy. He suggested that some selections might be influenced by team management preferences. Badrinath also welcomed Jasprit Bumrah's potential return, calling it a significant boost for the team ahead of the Asian Games.

Big call on India's openers ahead of Afghanistan T20I

Big call on India's openers ahead of Afghanistan T20I

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Former India cricketer Vivek Razdan has shared his preferred batting lineup for India's first T20I against Afghanistan, advocating for Shreyas Iyer to retain his number four spot and Sanju Samson to open the innings. Razdan emphasized performance over the left-right batting combination, highlighting Samson's recent T20 form. The series opener will also see a selection dilemma with multiple openers available and marks Iyer's first home series as captain.

Wrongly Credited NSE Shares Spark Battle

Wrongly Credited NSE Shares Spark Battle

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

NSE's draft prospectus discloses a legal dispute over 5,000 shares allegedly transferred by mistake into an individual investor's demat account.

Gurugram biker hit-and-run: Accused says 'lost control of the car'

Gurugram biker hit-and-run: Accused says 'lost control of the car'

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

A woman biker was hit by a speeding car on Golf Course Road in Gurugram, an incident captured on video and shared widely on social media. The accused driver, Kalyan Bainsla, admitted fault for the collision but claimed he fled fearing an attack from a group of bikers. Gurugram Police have taken suo motu cognizance, registered a case, and formed teams to apprehend the driver, while the victim plans to file a formal complaint.

US DHS deletes 'Mr Singh, off our roads' poster, dismisses backlash

US DHS deletes 'Mr Singh, off our roads' poster, dismisses backlash

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The US Department of Homeland Security removed a controversial X post featuring a Transformers-themed cartoon targeting an Indian Sikh man, Harjinder Singh, with racially charged language. The post, which linked Singh to vehicular homicide charges and used phrases like "Self deport or find out," drew fierce condemnation from Indian American organisations and Democratic lawmakers for its discriminatory nature. DHS initially dismissed the outcry but later removed the post without explanation, while continuing its campaign against "illegal aliens" involved in fatal traffic accidents.

Why Have Sreesanth, Sanju Samson Fallen Out?

Why Have Sreesanth, Sanju Samson Fallen Out?

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

S Sreesanth and Sanju Samson ignore each other at the Kerala Cricket League 2026 awards ceremony.

Matthew McConaughey watches Ben Shelton end 149-year Grand Slam streak

Matthew McConaughey watches Ben Shelton end 149-year Grand Slam streak

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Ben Shelton's victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas at the US Open quarter-finals marked the first time in 149 years that no male player with a one-handed backhand reached a Grand Slam semi-final, highlighting the decline of the elegant stroke in modern tennis.

WATCH: Sanjay Dutt's Marathi Remark Puts Minister In Spot

WATCH: Sanjay Dutt's Marathi Remark Puts Minister In Spot

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Sanjay Dutt's confession about his inability to learn Marathi, even after six years in Yerwada jail, has inadvertently sparked controversy and put Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik in an awkward position, given Sarnaik's stringent policy on Marathi proficiency for auto and taxi drivers.