News for 'Spark'

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.

9 hours of Delhi police questioning: Why was ex-DoT officer taken away?

9 hours of Delhi police questioning: Why was ex-DoT officer taken away?

Rediff.com3 days ago

Former bureaucrat Ashish Joshi was questioned for nearly nine hours by the Delhi Police Special Cell in connection with an old case. He was later released without arrest. The questioning followed claims by Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit about Joshi being taken away by police.

Raj Thackeray's son booked for removing Modi's photo in Pune college

Raj Thackeray's son booked for removing Modi's photo in Pune college

Rediff.com4 days ago

Two Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers have been arrested in Pune for allegedly removing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's photograph from a government polytechnic office. The incident occurred during a visit by MNS leader Amit Thackeray, who is also facing a case related to the alleged act. BJP criticised the MNS leader for political immaturity.

Left London career to join IAS, Divya Mittal quits after 13 years

Left London career to join IAS, Divya Mittal quits after 13 years

Rediff.com2 days ago

Divya Mittal, a 2013-batch IAS officer and former Deoria district magistrate, has resigned from the Indian Administrative Service after 13 years. An alumna of IIT Delhi and IIM Bangalore, Mittal cited no specific reason but reflected on her journey from working in London to serving India, highlighting her impactful tenures in Mirzapur and Deoria.

Alaya, Disha Are Rhinestone-Obsessed Girlies

Alaya, Disha Are Rhinestone-Obsessed Girlies

Rediff.com6 days ago

Rhinestones have officially escaped the jewellery box. The girlies are sticking them on phone cases, water bottles, face masks and even their shoes, turning literally everything into a tiny disco ball.

CJP splits, Manish Brahmbhatt launches 'democratic' faction

CJP splits, Manish Brahmbhatt launches 'democratic' faction

Rediff.com2 days ago

Activist Manish Brahmbhatt has launched the Cockroach Janta Party-Democratic (CJP-D) as an alternative to the existing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). Brahmbhatt alleges that the CJP, led by Abhijeet Dipke, has deviated from its student-led origins, becoming too aligned with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and failing to represent its diverse volunteer base, particularly regarding issues like examination paper leaks.

NEET-PG 2026: Chaos, protests in Jaipur as computers crash repeatedly

NEET-PG 2026: Chaos, protests in Jaipur as computers crash repeatedly

Rediff.com6 days ago

Technical disruptions plagued the NEET-PG 2026 examination at two centres in Jaipur, leading to repeated computer shutdowns and widespread protests from candidates. Aspirants raised concerns about the fairness and confidentiality of the test, demanding an impartial inquiry into the technical failures.

Krystle, Rida Win Traitors 2: Here's How Much They Take Home!

Krystle, Rida Win Traitors 2: Here's How Much They Take Home!

Rediff.com2 days ago

Traitors 2 gave us near slice-of-life glimpses of actors Rhea Chakraborty, Mallika Sherawat and Shweta Tiwari -- especially how they think, and make dumb decisions, notes Divya Nair.

Women on public platforms will cause 'great destruction': Islamic scholar

Women on public platforms will cause 'great destruction': Islamic scholar

Rediff.com6 days ago

Islamic scholar Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musliyar has sparked controversy by advocating for women's confinement to their homes, citing religious teachings and the concept of purdah to prevent societal "destruction."

'Respect The Sport': Osaka's Blunt Warning To US Open Influencers

'Respect The Sport': Osaka's Blunt Warning To US Open Influencers

Rediff.com2 days ago

Naomi Osaka and other top tennis players are raising concerns about the disruptive presence of social media influencers at the US Open. While acknowledging their potential to promote the sport, players like Osaka and Jessica Pegula highlight instances of disrespect and distraction during matches due to influencers staging photo shoots and creating content, calling for better management of their activities. Daniil Medvedev offers a more balanced view, seeing potential benefits if disruptions are avoided.

Indian Stocks Fall as West Asia Tensions Push Crude Oil Higher

Indian Stocks Fall as West Asia Tensions Push Crude Oil Higher

Rediff.com5 days ago

Indian stock markets closed lower due to selling in IT and FMCG shares, triggered by renewed tensions in West Asia which led to a rally in crude oil prices and concerns over inflation and interest rates.

Tiger mauls woman sanitation worker to death in Jaipur as guard opens gate

Tiger mauls woman sanitation worker to death in Jaipur as guard opens gate

Rediff.com3 days ago

A woman sanitation worker, Sugna Devi, was mauled to death by a tiger named Shivaji in Nahargarh Biological Park, Jaipur, after a forest guard allegedly opened the enclosure gate while workers were inside. The forest department has suspended the guard and ordered an inquiry. The victim's family protested, leading to an agreement for Rs 10 lakh compensation, a dairy booth, and contractual jobs for two family members.

Kharge 'purification' row: FIR against Rahul for giving 'casteist spin'

Kharge 'purification' row: FIR against Rahul for giving 'casteist spin'

Rediff.com6 days ago

An FIR has been registered against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Haldwani following a complaint from a Valmiki community member. The complaint alleges Gandhi gave a casteist interpretation to a religious ritual performed after an AICC chief's programme, hurting community sentiments. The case involves provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, stemming from a political row over a 'purification yajna' at a rally venue.

Did Sohail Khan Take Ozempic For Weight Loss?

Did Sohail Khan Take Ozempic For Weight Loss?

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Sohail Khan has candidly addressed the recent national concern and online speculation surrounding his significant weight loss, revealing the true, organic reasons behind his transformation and firmly denying the use of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic.

'Illegal' UP mosque razed amid heavy police deployment

'Illegal' UP mosque razed amid heavy police deployment

Rediff.com19 hours ago

An 'illegally' constructed mosque within the Saharanpur district collectorate complex was demolished following a court order, drawing strong condemnation from opposition parties who accused the government of engaging in 'politics of hate' and undermining social harmony.

3 newborns killed in Maha govt hospital fire, 36 rescued; probe ordered

3 newborns killed in Maha govt hospital fire, 36 rescued; probe ordered

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

The incident, which occurred early Monday morning, was reportedly caused by a sparking ventilator.

2 dead, 130 'Govindas' injured in Dahi Handi festivities in Maha

2 dead, 130 'Govindas' injured in Dahi Handi festivities in Maha

Rediff.com15 hours ago

Dahi Handi celebrations in Maharashtra turned tragic with two fatalities and over 130 'Govindas' injured. A seven-year-old boy died in Mumbai after a brick column collapsed, while a woman was crushed by an iron frame in Pune. Authorities are investigating the incidents, and political leaders have urged for safety during the festivities.

Goa govt drops plan to table anti-conversion bill

Goa govt drops plan to table anti-conversion bill

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Goa government has decided not to introduce its anti-religious conversion bill during the ongoing monsoon session of the state assembly, following significant pushback from legislators representing the minority community.

Gaur kills Kerala man, kin dies of heart attack; villagers protest

Gaur kills Kerala man, kin dies of heart attack; villagers protest

Rediff.com6 days ago

A man was killed by a gaur in Kozhikode, Kerala, followed by the death of his relative from a heart attack. Villagers are refusing to cremate the bodies until the government assures action against wild gaurs, demanding compensation and elimination of the animals from residential areas.

Carla Jeffery, Known For Zombies, Good Luck Charlie, Dies At 33

Carla Jeffery, Known For Zombies, Good Luck Charlie, Dies At 33

Rediff.com1 days ago

Zombies Actor Carla Jeffery has tragically passed away at 33, prompting an outpouring of tributes from her family and friends.

Berrettini spoils Wawrinka's Grand Slams farewell

Berrettini spoils Wawrinka's Grand Slams farewell

Rediff.com5 days ago

Former champion Stan Wawrinka lost to Italy's Matteo Berrettini in the first round of the US Open, marking the end of the 41-year-old Swiss national's Grand Slam career before his retirement at the end of the season.

DGP Dhankar's death was suicide, Tripura CM tells assembly

DGP Dhankar's death was suicide, Tripura CM tells assembly

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha informed the Assembly that the post-mortem report indicated DGP Anurag Dhankar's death was suicidal. This statement came amidst demands for a high court judge-led probe from the opposition, who also questioned the disclosure of the report in the Assembly. An impartial inquiry is currently underway.

Axed over daughter's CM remarks? T'gana minister slams Revanth

Axed over daughter's CM remarks? T'gana minister slams Revanth

Rediff.com2 days ago

Telangana Forest Minister Konda Surekha was dropped from the state cabinet, leading her to accuse Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy of "blackmail politics." Surekha claims her removal was due to critical remarks made by her daughter against the CM and other party leaders, despite the Congress high command not favouring her ouster. She has written to top Congress leaders seeking intervention.

Abhishek Banerjee's office ransacked, six held; TMC blames BJP

Abhishek Banerjee's office ransacked, six held; TMC blames BJP

Rediff.com2 days ago

TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee has accused armed BJP men of vandalising the party's Camac Street office in Kolkata, damaging property and stealing items. The BJP has denied the allegations, calling them staged. The incident further intensifies the political confrontation between the two parties in West Bengal, following a recent dispute over a billboard at the same premises.

Haaland Stuns with Bold New Buzz Cut

Haaland Stuns with Bold New Buzz Cut

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Erling Haaland stunned fans by replacing his trademark flowing blonde locks with a buzz cut, sparking playful reactions from Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Pep Guardiola before Manchester City's opener.

'We are Gen Zs': Tourist's Ladakh video irks Army veterans

'We are Gen Zs': Tourist's Ladakh video irks Army veterans

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

A viral video showing a woman tourist complaining to security personnel at a Ladakh checkpoint has ignited widespread criticism from military veterans. The woman's tirade, allegedly over vehicular movement restrictions, has been condemned as disrespectful to soldiers and ignorant of the region's security sensitivities.

Kolkata Janmashtami row: BJP leader drops Muslims, forms all-Hindu panel

Kolkata Janmashtami row: BJP leader drops Muslims, forms all-Hindu panel

Rediff.com3 days ago

A long-standing Janmashtami celebration in Kolkata's Mominpore, known for its syncretic culture with significant Muslim participation, is undergoing a major change. BJP leader Rakesh Singh has taken charge, forming an exclusively Hindu organising committee, sparking a debate about religious harmony, political influence, and the nature of shared festivals in the city.

South Africa's former World boxing champion Tete shot dead outside his home

South Africa's former World boxing champion Tete shot dead outside his home

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Former world boxing champion Zolani "Last Born" Tete was tragically shot dead outside his home in South Africa's Eastern Cape province.

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.

'Not Sonam Wangchuk': Aamir Khan's '3 Idiots' remark sparks storm

'Not Sonam Wangchuk': Aamir Khan's '3 Idiots' remark sparks storm

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Aamir Khan's comments that his 3 Idiots character Phunsukh Wangdu was not based on Sonam Wangchuk has triggered reactions from politicians, activists and social media users, with some accusing the actor of distancing himself from the educationist, who is currently on a hunger strike.

K'taka suspends two govt teachers for taking part in RSS route march

K'taka suspends two govt teachers for taking part in RSS route march

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Two government school teachers in Yadgir, Karnataka, have been suspended pending inquiry for participating in an RSS Patha Sanchalana. The Education Department cited violations of the Karnataka Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 2021, which prohibit government employees from associating with political organisations or participating in agitations. The teachers argued their participation was outside working hours and cultural, but their explanations were rejected.

Olympic Gold Medallist Arshad Nadeem Faces NOC Controversy

Olympic Gold Medallist Arshad Nadeem Faces NOC Controversy

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Olympic gold medallist javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem is embroiled in a controversy with the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) for travelling to South Africa for training without obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC). This unapproved travel could impact his participation in upcoming international competitions like the World Ultimate Athletics Championship and the Asian Games.

Gulf tensions drive NRI luxury home investments back to India

Gulf tensions drive NRI luxury home investments back to India

Rediff.com3 days ago

Non-resident Indians are increasingly investing in luxury homes in India, driven by geopolitical uncertainties, particularly the Iran war. This trend is observed across major cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and the National Capital Region, with developers noting a significant rise in NRI pre-sales. While some see it as a temporary shift, others believe India is becoming a stable, long-term investment destination for NRIs, especially those from West Asia.

CM Vijay breaks TN assembly tradition, moves to ministers' row

CM Vijay breaks TN assembly tradition, moves to ministers' row

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay departed from a long-standing Assembly tradition by sitting with ministers in the front row instead of his designated chair. This move, considered unprecedented for a chief minister, occurred during a session where the presence of department secretaries was also debated.

FMGE Rules Stay Strict Despite Protests

FMGE Rules Stay Strict Despite Protests

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

NBEMS will not lower FMGE qualifying standards despite protests.

'What May Be Justice For You May Be Injustice For Me'

'What May Be Justice For You May Be Injustice For Me'

Rediff.com3 days ago

'What Daayra tries to do is explore the greys because everything is not black and white.'

'Trying to kill him': Imran Khan's sons raise alarm

'Trying to kill him': Imran Khan's sons raise alarm

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Imran Khan's sons, Suleiman and Kasim Khan, alleged in a Sky Sports interview that there is a "blatant" attempt to kill their father in prison, describing his conditions as severely worsened and isolating.

Will Dara Singh Be Released Soon?

Will Dara Singh Be Released Soon?

Rediff.com4 days ago

'Dara's case can strengthen the perception among sections of the BJP's traditional support base.'

Mirzapur: The Movie Review: New, Improved Swagger

Mirzapur: The Movie Review: New, Improved Swagger

Rediff.com1 days ago

The cast, once again, remains the biggest reason to invest in this world, notes Mayur Sanap.

Angad Cheema Fires Career-Low 61 To Take Two-Shot Lead At Telangana Open

Angad Cheema Fires Career-Low 61 To Take Two-Shot Lead At Telangana Open

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Angad Cheema delivered a career-best, bogey-free 11-under 61 in Round 2 of the Rs one-crore Telangana Open, establishing a two-shot lead at 13-under 131. Delhi's Rashid Khan is in second place, while Hyderabad's Vishesh Sharma holds third. The cut was made at one-under 143, with 50 players advancing.