News for 'Spark'

BJP veteran Advani hospitalised with pulmonary issues

BJP veteran Advani hospitalised with pulmonary issues

Rediff.com5 days ago

Veteran BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani has been admitted to Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in Delhi due to pulmonary issues. The 98-year-old former Deputy Prime Minister, who played a crucial role in the BJP's rise, is currently undergoing treatment.

Carlos Alcaraz says 'too much nipple' as US Open tank top sparks online frenzy

Carlos Alcaraz says 'too much nipple' as US Open tank top sparks online frenzy

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Carlos Alcaraz swapped his headline-making tank top for an undershirt after revealing too much chest, then beat Wu Yibing in straight sets to reach the US Open fourth round.

OpenAI, Anthropic, Google Launch Advanced AI Models, Sparking Debate On Monitoring And Security

OpenAI, Anthropic, Google Launch Advanced AI Models, Sparking Debate On Monitoring And Security

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Leading global technology companies OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google have introduced new AI models with enhanced capabilities, including advanced cybersecurity and coding. However, these releases have ignited significant debate among researchers regarding the transparency and monitorability of AI reasoning, particularly concerning OpenAI's Astra model and its "recurrent depth" architecture.

Rashmika, Athiya's Early Diwali Sparkle

Rashmika, Athiya's Early Diwali Sparkle

Rediff.com7 days ago

Swarovski's Diwali celebration in Mumbai transformed the city's festive glow into a full-blown fashion moment.

Muslim influencer cancels garba performances in Jaipur after threats

Muslim influencer cancels garba performances in Jaipur after threats

Rediff.com2 days ago

Social media influencer Javed Khan cancelled his Garba performances in Jaipur on October 17 and 18 after allegedly receiving threats from Hindu outfits. The organisations reportedly warned event organisers of protests if a Muslim artist performed. Khan returned advance payments and plans to file a police complaint regarding the incident.

'Raj Thackeray won't even step out of house if...': BJP MLC slams MNS chief

'Raj Thackeray won't even step out of house if...': BJP MLC slams MNS chief

Rediff.com8 hours ago

Maharashtra BJP MLC Parinay Fuke has criticised MNS chief Raj Thackeray, alleging that Thackeray's public statements and influence are solely due to the police security provided by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Fuke claimed Thackeray would not leave his home if the security was withdrawn. The MNS, through leader Sandeep Deshpande, retorted that security decisions are institutional, not personal, and challenged the BJP to withdraw it. This exchange follows Thackeray's recent criticisms of the state government.

Two Arrested For Brandishing Swords At Kalyan Garba Event

Two Arrested For Brandishing Swords At Kalyan Garba Event

Rediff.com3 days ago

Two individuals were arrested and a minor detained on Monday after allegedly brandishing swords and causing panic at a garba event in Kalyan, Thane district. The incident involved eight persons, with two carrying swords into the Navratri celebration area. Police have charged the accused under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Maharashtra Police Act, and a probe is ongoing to determine their motive.

'Certain photos...': Bikaner House on Raihan Vadra's exhibit takedown

'Certain photos...': Bikaner House on Raihan Vadra's exhibit takedown

Rediff.com12 hours ago

The Bikaner House Society requested the removal of certain photographs from Raihan Vadra's 'No Idea Is Final' exhibition, citing inconsistency with its policy. This move sparked controversy, with artist Raihan Vadra claiming an ultimatum and his mother, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, criticising it as 'muzzling' the voice of the youth.

Unscramble The Nakhrewaalii Jigsaw Puzzle

Unscramble The Nakhrewaalii Jigsaw Puzzle

Rediff.com14 Oct 2026

Here's a fun way to test your memory!

iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max launch sparks 'festival' atmosphere across India

iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max launch sparks 'festival' atmosphere across India

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

Apple's latest flagship smartphones, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, have gone on sale across India, drawing massive queues and creating a 'festival' atmosphere among eager buyers at Apple Stores in Noida, Bengaluru, and Maharashtra.

Union Home Minister Assures Justice To Families Affected By Punjab's Drug Menace

Union Home Minister Assures Justice To Families Affected By Punjab's Drug Menace

Rediff.com2 days ago

Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Punjab to meet families of individuals who died in incidents linked to the state's drug menace. He assured justice to the families of Gulzar Singh, Bikramjit Singh, and anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota, who were victims of drug-related issues. The visit comes amidst a political slugfest ahead of upcoming Assembly elections, with opposition parties criticising the AAP government over the drug problem.

West Indies' India tour a huge confidence booster: Chanderpaul

West Indies' India tour a huge confidence booster: Chanderpaul

Rediff.com5 days ago

Former West Indies skipper Shivnarine Chanderpaul believes the team's strong performance against India in white-ball cricket will significantly boost their confidence. He hopes this momentum translates into success in Test cricket, acknowledging their recent struggles but seeing a spark. Chanderpaul praised Shai Hope's leadership and batting, and discussed the balance between T20 freelancing and the enduring challenge of Test cricket.

Nepal Disaster Sparks Crisis In Bihar

Nepal Disaster Sparks Crisis In Bihar

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Nepal's devastating flash floods have created a worrisome flood situation in Bihar.

Navratri Day 9: How To Add a Pop of Peacock Green

Navratri Day 9: How To Add a Pop of Peacock Green

Rediff.com3 days ago

For Navratri Day 9, master the vibrant peacock green hue by drawing inspiration from these celebrity-approved accessories.

CBI begins probes into Punjab anti-drug activist murder

CBI begins probes into Punjab anti-drug activist murder

Rediff.com1 days ago

The CBI has taken over the investigation into the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa, Punjab. A special team has been formed, including drug controllers, forensic experts, and GST officials, to examine all angles of the killing. The takeover follows the Punjab government's consent and a notification extending CBI's jurisdiction. Ashwani Kumar, accused of the shooting, has been apprehended. Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann announced the CBI probe, fulfilling the family's demand.

Film Body Condemns Tiger Shroff Car Firing Incident

Film Body Condemns Tiger Shroff Car Firing Incident

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has condemned the firing incident on Bollywood actor Tiger Shroff's car in Mumbai, raising concerns about the safety of film personalities. The incident, which injured Shroff's driver and an autorickshaw driver, is the second such attack on a film personality, prompting calls for immediate investigation and action from authorities. The Lawrence Bishnoi gang has reportedly claimed responsibility, and three suspects were detained on Monday.

Karnataka govt's two-stanza Vande Mataram order sparks political storm

Karnataka govt's two-stanza Vande Mataram order sparks political storm

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Congress government in Karnataka has issued an order limiting the singing of 'Vande Mataram' to its first two stanzas at state programmes, with exceptions for events attended by high-ranking officials. This decision, based on a 1937 Congress resolution, has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition BJP, which labels it "appeasement politics" and an insult to the national symbol.

Lokayukta Probe Uncovers Rs 64 Crore Assets Linked To Head Constable

Lokayukta Probe Uncovers Rs 64 Crore Assets Linked To Head Constable

Rediff.com3 days ago

Madhya Pradesh Lokayukta police raids have uncovered 46 immovable properties worth an estimated Rs 64 crore allegedly linked to head constable Firoz Khan, his family, and associates. The properties, including houses and land, far exceed his legitimate income over 24 years of service, prompting an ongoing investigation under the Prevention of Corruption Act.

Punjab Mourns Anti-Drug Activist's Murder, Demands CBI Probe

Punjab Mourns Anti-Drug Activist's Murder, Demands CBI Probe

Rediff.com3 days ago

Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh has called for justice for anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota, who was shot dead in Mansa last week. Jhota was killed after confronting a medical store owner selling addictive drugs. His family and supporters are protesting, demanding a CBI probe and refusing cremation until justice is served, with actress Neeru Bajwa and singer Babbu Mann also showing support.

Tata Trusts Row: Ball In Charity Commissioner's Court

Tata Trusts Row: Ball In Charity Commissioner's Court

Rediff.com2 days ago

Sir Dorabji Tata Trust has submitted its response to governance complaints filed by two trustees, with the Maharashtra charity commissioner expected to decide the next course of action.

Mbappe's Double Propels Real Madrid To Dominant Win Over Sevilla

Mbappe's Double Propels Real Madrid To Dominant Win Over Sevilla

Rediff.com3 days ago

Kylian Mbappe scored two goals to lead Real Madrid to a convincing 4-1 victory over Sevilla, narrowing the gap on LaLiga leaders Barcelona to six points ahead of their crucial upcoming encounter.

Tottenham end winless streak with dominant victory over Coventry

Tottenham end winless streak with dominant victory over Coventry

Rediff.com2 days ago

Tottenham Hotspur secured their first Premier League win in 148 days, beating Coventry City 3-1 at home, a result manager Roberto De Zerbi described as 'very happy' and a sign of playing 'much better than in other games'.

Faridkot MP Demands CBI Inquiry For Slain Anti-Drug Activist

Faridkot MP Demands CBI Inquiry For Slain Anti-Drug Activist

Rediff.com4 days ago

Faridkot MP Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa has formally requested the Union Home Ministry to initiate a CBI investigation into the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa. Jhota was shot on October 13 while exposing illegal drug sales, and the incident has sparked outrage in Punjab. Khalsa expressed concerns about the local police probe and the accused's alleged criminal history, questioning the issuance of an arms license.

Bengaluru Police Detain Two In Siddaramaiah Defamation Case

Bengaluru Police Detain Two In Siddaramaiah Defamation Case

Rediff.com14 Oct 2026

Bengaluru police have detained two individuals for questioning regarding an alleged defamatory social media post targeting former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The detention follows Siddaramaiah's complaint and an injunction order against media outlets. Political figures have termed the incident a 'sting operation', with calls for a CBI probe.

Gurugram Police Bust Drug Ring, Arrest Thailand National With Ecstasy

Gurugram Police Bust Drug Ring, Arrest Thailand National With Ecstasy

Rediff.com4 days ago

A Thailand national woman was arrested in Gurugram with approximately 14 grams of MDMA during a raid by the Haryana State Narcotics Control Bureau. Investigators are probing her alleged visa overstay and potential links to a wider drug distribution network, with a case registered under the NDPS Act.

SAD Leader Seeks CBI Probe Into Anti-Drug Activist's Mansa Murder

SAD Leader Seeks CBI Probe Into Anti-Drug Activist's Mansa Murder

Rediff.com3 days ago

Senior SAD leader Harsimrat Kaur Badal has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, requesting a CBI probe into the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa. She also called for an investigation into the alleged politicians-police drug trade nexus in Punjab, citing claims by Jhota's father about a wider conspiracy.

School Principal Arrested In Muzaffarnagar For Alleged Sexual Harassment Of Student

School Principal Arrested In Muzaffarnagar For Alleged Sexual Harassment Of Student

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

A principal of a private inter college in Muzaffarnagar was arrested for allegedly sexually harassing a Class 11 girl student on the premises. Police registered a case under the BNS Act and POCSO Act following a complaint from the girl's mother.

Former Associate Of Maratha Quota Activist Manoj Jarange Attacked In Beed

Former Associate Of Maratha Quota Activist Manoj Jarange Attacked In Beed

Rediff.com12 Oct 2026

Amol Khune, a former associate of Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange, was allegedly assaulted by a group of youths in Pali village, Beed district, Maharashtra. Khune sustained injuries and claimed the attack was due to his criticism of Jarange and to prevent him from attending a Dussehra rally. Police have detained three suspects and are investigating the incident.

Police Sub-Inspector Caught Red-Handed In Bribery Case

Police Sub-Inspector Caught Red-Handed In Bribery Case

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

A sub-inspector in Arunachal Pradesh was arrested for accepting a Rs 65,000 bribe to release documents related to a road accident case, after demanding Rs 1.5 lakh. The Anti-corruption Bureau caught him red-handed.

Idukki Police Detain Youth In Charred Body Murder

Idukki Police Detain Youth In Charred Body Murder

Rediff.com6 days ago

Police in Idukki have taken a 19-year-old youth, Nishanth, into custody on suspicion of murdering an 18-year-old girl from Tamil Nadu. Her charred body was found near the Pambla checkpost on Wednesday. Relatives identified the body on Thursday. Police suspect the girl was sexually assaulted and strangled before her body was set on fire, following an alleged argument with Nishanth, with whom she had a relationship. The family has called for a detailed investigation into the accused's background.

Odisha Police Arrest Tribal Activists Over Mining Protest Clash

Odisha Police Arrest Tribal Activists Over Mining Protest Clash

Rediff.com2 days ago

Two tribal rights activists, Dr Randall Sequeira and Laxman Naik, have been arrested in Odisha's Rayagada district in connection with a six-month-old clash during an anti-mining protest. While police claim the activists instigated tribals to attack security personnel, a civil society group has condemned the arrests, alleging they are an attempt to suppress protests for tribal rights over natural resources. The activists face serious charges including attempt to murder and rioting.

Horrific Discovery: Class 9 Girl Found Dead In Dumka

Horrific Discovery: Class 9 Girl Found Dead In Dumka

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

A Class 9 student was found dead near her home in Dumka, Jharkhand, with police suspecting she was raped and murdered. Her body was discovered on Friday night after she went missing from home. Police have launched an investigation and sent the body for post-mortem.

Has Shehzad Poonawalla quit BJP? X bio sparks buzz

Has Shehzad Poonawalla quit BJP? X bio sparks buzz

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla has updated his X (formerly Twitter) bio, removing any mention of the BJP and listing himself as a "Lifelong follower of PM Narendra Modi," sparking speculation about his potential exit from the party and active politics.

Navratri Day 4: The Best Ways To Wear The Blues

Navratri Day 4: The Best Ways To Wear The Blues

Rediff.com14 Oct 2026

Discover how to effortlessly elevate your Navratri Day 4 festive look with stunning blue accessories.

Ex-MLA Questioned By CBI In Ankita Bhandari Murder Probe

Ex-MLA Questioned By CBI In Ankita Bhandari Murder Probe

Rediff.com5 days ago

The CBI questioned former MLA Suresh Rathore in Haridwar regarding the Ankita Bhandari murder case, a day after meeting Bhandari's parents. Rathore, who has been expelled from the BJP, denied knowing actress Urmila Sanawar, whose allegations fueled the 'VIP' involvement controversy. The case has seen renewed protests following a governor's appointment and a recommended CBI inquiry earlier this year.

'Shami Doesn't Need to Prove Himself'

'Shami Doesn't Need to Prove Himself'

Rediff.com6 days ago

Former chief selector M S K Prasad wants Mohammed Shami considered for the New Zealand series and the 2027 ODI World Cup while former bowling coach Bharat Arun says the pacer has nothing left to prove.

J-K government orders inquiry into babu's abuse of female officer

J-K government orders inquiry into babu's abuse of female officer

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Jammu and Kashmir government has initiated a thorough inquiry into allegations of misconduct against IAS officer Kumar Rajeev Ranjan, who is accused of using abusive language towards a female JKAS officer during a recent virtual review meeting, an incident that has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for strict action.

SC to hear plea against Rahul Gandhi for pushing pregnant journalist

SC to hear plea against Rahul Gandhi for pushing pregnant journalist

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear an application alleging that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi pushed a pregnant journalist during a march to the apex court on October 12. The matter was mentioned by senior advocate Gaurav Bhatia, who stated the journalist was three months pregnant and required hospitalisation. The court will hear the application on October 26 or October 27, alongside other pleas related to the October 12 march and electoral roll irregularities.

Odisha Teacher Held For Molesting Class V Student

Odisha Teacher Held For Molesting Class V Student

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

A 45-year-old teacher in Balasore, Odisha, was arrested on Saturday for allegedly molesting a Class V girl student during lunch break. The teacher initially denied the allegations but later confessed to the crime, with a video of his confession going viral. He has been booked under the POCSO Act.

Ayodhya fish feast sparks political storm in UP; Yogi targets Ajay Rai

Ayodhya fish feast sparks political storm in UP; Yogi targets Ajay Rai

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

A political controversy has erupted in Uttar Pradesh after Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath accused state Congress chief Ajay Rai of participating in a fish feast in Ayodhya during the holy month of Shravan, near the Ram temple. Rai has vehemently denied the allegations, challenging Adityanath to provide proof and threatening to resign if proven, while also demanding the CM's resignation if no evidence is found. The Congress party has defended the event, stating it was a Nishad community gathering with their own food traditions.