News for 'Spark'

J-K police register FIR over books glorifying separatists, raid publisher

J-K police register FIR over books glorifying separatists, raid publisher

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

The Jammu and Kashmir Police's Counter Intelligence wing has registered an FIR and conducted raids in connection with two controversial books allegedly glorifying separatists. The action follows objections from political groups and the suspension of education department officials.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina fight back to beat England 2-1, face Spain in final

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina fight back to beat England 2-1, face Spain in final

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

England manager Thomas Tuchel has made three changes to his starting XI for the World Cup semi-final against Argentina, bringing Reece James and Djed Spence into the defence, while Argentina's Lionel Scaloni makes one switch, with Giuliano Simeone replacing Rodrigo De Paul.

'Where is the consistency?': Ex-referee slams FIFA World Cup ban row

'Where is the consistency?': Ex-referee slams FIFA World Cup ban row

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

FIFA is facing renewed scrutiny over its inconsistent handling of two World Cup red-card cases involving England's Jarell Quansah and the USA's Folarin Balogun. While Quansah received a two-match ban, Balogun's one-match suspension was controversially suspended, leading to accusations of external interference and a lack of transparency from the governing body.

Rapido founders booked over illegal bike taxi operations in Nagpur

Rapido founders booked over illegal bike taxi operations in Nagpur

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

The founders of the Rapido app have been booked in Nagpur for allegedly operating petrol-powered bike taxi services in Maharashtra without the necessary government permissions. A case was registered following a complaint from the Nagpur RTO after a special drive revealed private vehicles were being used commercially without proper licenses, raising concerns about passenger safety and revenue loss for the government.

Iran wait on World Cup progress after late goal disallowed in Egypt draw

Iran wait on World Cup progress after late goal disallowed in Egypt draw

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Iran face an anxious wait to see if they will progress to the World Cup knockout stage after they came from behind to hold Egypt to a 1-1 draw.

FIFA World Cup: Belgium players troll Trump after crushing USA

FIFA World Cup: Belgium players troll Trump after crushing USA

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Belgium players celebrated their 4-1 FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 victory over hosts United States with a dance inspired by US President Donald Trump. Romelu Lukaku and teammates performed the viral dance after Lukaku's stoppage-time goal sealed their quarter-final spot. The US Men's National Team thanked supporters after their elimination, while Belgium, led by Charles De Ketelaere's brace, will face Spain next.

Cape Verde make history; set up date with Argentina in Round of 32

Cape Verde make history; set up date with Argentina in Round of 32

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Debutants Cape Verde have made history by qualifying for the World Cup round of 32 after a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia. This unexpected achievement sets up a clash with defending champions Argentina. Despite a low-quality match, Cape Verde secured second place in their group, sparking celebrations among players and fans, while Uruguay and Saudi Arabia were eliminated.

Kakori Martyrs' Statues Demolished in UP, Sparking Protests

Kakori Martyrs' Statues Demolished in UP, Sparking Protests

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Statues of Kakori train action martyrs were allegedly demolished during road beautification work in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, leading to widespread protests and an FIR being filed against the responsible company.

81 lakh women removed from Maharashtra's Ladki Bahin scheme

81 lakh women removed from Maharashtra's Ladki Bahin scheme

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Maharashtra's Ladki Bahin Yojana has seen 81 lakh registered beneficiaries removed following a multi-month e-KYC verification drive, with the state's Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare clarifying the process was mandatory to filter out ineligible individuals, income-tax payers, and government employee families.

Ibrahimovic Doubts Ronaldo's Future Impact For Portugal

Ibrahimovic Doubts Ronaldo's Future Impact For Portugal

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Legendary footballer Zlatan Ibrahimovic has voiced concerns about Cristiano Ronaldo's role in Portugal's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, citing the 41-year-old's physical decline and suggesting his selection is based more on reputation than current performance. This comes as Portugal secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory against Croatia to advance to the Round of 16.

Switzerland beat Colombia on penalties to make World Cup last 8

Switzerland beat Colombia on penalties to make World Cup last 8

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Switzerland beat Colombia 4-3 on penalties after the teams were locked goalless at the end of extra-time in the Round of 16 match to enter the World Cup quarter-finals at BC Place, Vancouver, on Tuesday.

Ecuador shock Germany to enter World Cup last 32 stage

Ecuador shock Germany to enter World Cup last 32 stage

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Ecuador secured a stunning 2-1 victory over Germany in a crucial World Cup match, ensuring their qualification for the last 32. Despite an early German goal, Ecuador fought back with goals from Nilson Angulo and Gonzalo Plata to clinch the win.

Brazil's fan mourn yet another early World Cup exit

Brazil's fan mourn yet another early World Cup exit

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Brazil's national football team, the 'Selecao', suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Norway in the World Cup last 16, marking their sixth consecutive early exit and extending their title drought to 24 years. Fans criticised missed opportunities and manager Carlo Ancelotti's defensive tactics.

Are FIFA Officials Partial To Messi?

Are FIFA Officials Partial To Messi?

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi broke the FIFA World Cup scoring record, but his achievement was overshadowed by controversial refereeing decisions.

Political row erupts over heightened security at Mamata's residence

Political row erupts over heightened security at Mamata's residence

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Heavy police and central forces deployment outside Mamata Banerjee's Kolkata residence has sparked a political row. The TMC alleges it's to prevent her from visiting the family of an 11-year-old rape and murder victim in Baruipur, while the BJP claims it's routine security. This comes amidst public outrage and violence following the girl's death.

'Ready if needed': Harry Kane offers services to England Cricket, RCB

'Ready if needed': Harry Kane offers services to England Cricket, RCB

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

England captain Harry Kane sparked a social media buzz after showing off his cricket skills during the team's FIFA World Cup 2026 training camp in the United States.

Like Bollywood's New Denim Trend?

Like Bollywood's New Denim Trend?

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Bollywood celebrities are embracing innovative and unique denim styles, moving beyond classic jeans to incorporate elements like shoelace patterns, diamond embellishments, 3D flowers, and monogrammed designs, setting new fashion trends.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Switzerland ready for high-pressure Colombia encounter

FIFA World Cup 2026: Switzerland ready for high-pressure Colombia encounter

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Switzerland are preparing for a fiery contest on and off the pitch against Colombia as they gear up for what they expect to be their toughest test of the tournament in Tuesday's World Cup round-of-16 clash, midfielder Ardon Jashari said on Sunday.

Why Did India Drop 15-Year-Old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi?

Why Did India Drop 15-Year-Old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi?

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

India's decision to drop 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for the fifth and final T20I against England, despite the series already being decided, has drawn criticism from former cricketers like Sunil Gavaskar and Graeme Swann, who argue the youngster should have been given more opportunities.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Egypt hits out at VAR after Argentina heartbreak

FIFA World Cup 2026: Egypt hits out at VAR after Argentina heartbreak

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The Egyptian Football Association on Wednesday criticised refereeing decisions in Egypt's dramatic 3-2 World Cup round-of-16 defeat by Argentina, saying it would not remain silent over what it described as the improper use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system.

Star Wars: The Mandalorian And Grogu Review: The Force Has Lost Its Spark!

Star Wars: The Mandalorian And Grogu Review: The Force Has Lost Its Spark!

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Star Wars franchise as a whole has struggled creatively in recent years, and sadly, Grogu's cuteness alone is not enough to save the day, asserts Sreeju Sudhakaran.

I Celebrated My Birthday With Messi. No, Really.

I Celebrated My Birthday With Messi. No, Really.

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

When I planned my 27th birthday trip to Kerala, I had a very clear vision in mind. There would be beaches. There would be the backwaters. There would be long boat rides, cute cafs and perhaps a fancy dinner overlooking the water. What I did not anticipate was celebrating my birthday with Lionel Messi.

Congress Leader Hacked to Death in Punjab, Sparking Outrage

Congress Leader Hacked to Death in Punjab, Sparking Outrage

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

A Congress leader was murdered in Punjab's Ludhiana district, prompting strong reactions and raising concerns about the state's law and order situation.

India's T20 Experiments End In Disaster

India's T20 Experiments End In Disaster

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

The umbrella of 'inexperience' or 'reset' is merely an excuse. Team India's think-tank will have to admit that this is experimentation without a roadmap, points out K R Nayar.

Women's T20 World Cup: Australia crush West Indies to reach final

Women's T20 World Cup: Australia crush West Indies to reach final

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Australia put in a commanding all-round display to beat West Indies by eight wickets and book their place in Sunday's final, chasing down 126 in just 13 overs.

Humayun Kabir Video Sparks Political Storm in West Bengal

Humayun Kabir Video Sparks Political Storm in West Bengal

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

A political controversy has erupted in West Bengal following the emergence of an alleged video of Humayun Kabir, purportedly claiming links with senior BJP leaders and efforts to defeat Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in the upcoming Assembly elections.

FIFA WC 2026: Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 in extra time to make semis

FIFA WC 2026: Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 in extra time to make semis

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Alexis MacAllister has puts Argentina ahead in the10th minute.

Cruel game! VAR drama, penalty send Senegal packing vs Belgium

Cruel game! VAR drama, penalty send Senegal packing vs Belgium

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw expressed his disappointment, calling football a "cruel game" after his team's dramatic 3-2 defeat to Belgium in the World Cup round of 32. Senegal had held a 2-0 lead until the 85th minute but conceded two late goals, followed by a controversial penalty in extra time that led to their elimination.

Delhi University College Renaming Sparks Staff Protest

Delhi University College Renaming Sparks Staff Protest

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Staff at Delhi University's Dyal Singh Evening College stage a fresh protest against the proposed renaming of the institution, raising concerns about the legacy of Sardar Dyal Singh Majithia and the lack of consultation in the decision-making process.

Two nannies held for abusing toddlers at creche on Capgemini campus

Two nannies held for abusing toddlers at creche on Capgemini campus

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Two nannies at a daycare centre on an IT firm's campus in Bengaluru have been arrested for allegedly abusing toddlers. The arrests followed viral videos showing caregivers threatening and mistreating children, prompting a strong response from Karnataka's Home Minister and the IT firm, Capgemini.

'We overcame every obstacle': Tuchel after England survive Mexico scare

'We overcame every obstacle': Tuchel after England survive Mexico scare

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

England manager Thomas Tuchel praised his side's "pure mentality and heart" after the 10-man Three Lions survived a thrilling 3-2 win over Mexico at the Azteca Stadium to book a FIFA World Cup quarter-final against Norway.

Jodie Foster Believes Brad Pitt's 'F1' Was Made With Artificial Intelligence

Jodie Foster Believes Brad Pitt's 'F1' Was Made With Artificial Intelligence

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Hollywood veteran Jodie Foster has controversially suggested that Brad Pitt's recent film "F1" was created using Artificial Intelligence, citing its formulaic structure and dialogue. She discussed the growing influence of AI in the film industry, acknowledging its potential to replace jobs but also its utility if filmmakers can control the technology.

Kakori Martyrs' Statues Demolished in UP, Sparking Political Fury

Kakori Martyrs' Statues Demolished in UP, Sparking Political Fury

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Statues of Kakori train action martyrs in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, were allegedly demolished during road beautification work, sparking outrage and demands for action against those responsible.

Nationwide Raids Target Euro 2024 Ticket And Hospitality Violations

Nationwide Raids Target Euro 2024 Ticket And Hospitality Violations

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

German investigators have launched nationwide searches, including at the DFB soccer association offices, as part of a probe into suspected ticket and hospitality violations related to the 2024 European Championship. The investigation targets illegal allocation of thousands of tickets and hotel invitations to preferred guests, with one municipal employee suspected of receiving benefits worth 2,400.

Why Vinesh Phogat's Registration Sparked Controversy With WFI

Why Vinesh Phogat's Registration Sparked Controversy With WFI

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has addressed Vinesh Phogat's concerns regarding her delayed entry into an upcoming ranking tournament, stating that her registration was processed and there was no attempt to block her participation.

Ooh La La, Banita!

Ooh La La, Banita!

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

From stealing hearts in October to becoming the internet's favourite girl in With You, Banita Sandhu has always had a quietly magnetic presence.

Mumbai man dies after falling into open manhole; 4 officials suspended

Mumbai man dies after falling into open manhole; 4 officials suspended

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

A 55-year-old man died after falling into an open manhole in Mumbai during heavy rains, leading to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) suspending four officials and initiating a homicide case against the responsible contractor for alleged negligence.

Champat Rai's resignation accepted, interim general secretary appointed

Champat Rai's resignation accepted, interim general secretary appointed

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The Ram temple trust on Monday accepted the resignations of Champat Rai as its general secretary and member Anil Mishra in the wake of embezzlement of donations. Trustee Krishna Mohan has been named as interim general secretary. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust also announced the formation of a three-member committee to identify a chief executive officer (CEO) for the temple trust.

USA's Balogun becomes fourth player to score and see red in FIFA World Cup knockout

USA's Balogun becomes fourth player to score and see red in FIFA World Cup knockout

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Balogun scored his third goal of the tournament but was later sent off, becoming only the fourth player to score and receive a red card in a FIFA World Cup knockout match.

Asunta Lakra Calls For Urgent Intervention Against Sexual Harassment In Indian Hockey

Asunta Lakra Calls For Urgent Intervention Against Sexual Harassment In Indian Hockey

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Former India women's hockey captain Asunta Lakra has written to the Sports Ministry, SAI, and IOA, alleging institutional protection of sexual harassment and intimidation of women athletes within the sport. She claims she faced threats and a smear campaign after raising concerns about an individual, Sudhir Gola, and has accused Hockey India Secretary General Bholanath Singh of threatening her. Singh denies the allegations, linking them to upcoming elections, while Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey has acknowledged Lakra's concerns and promised an amicable resolution.