News for 'Spark'

Netanyahu's Alleged UAE Visit Sparks Diplomatic Tension With Iran

Netanyahu's Alleged UAE Visit Sparks Diplomatic Tension With Iran

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Iran has warned of consequences for any collusion between the United Arab Emirates and Israel, following reports of a secret meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during Operation Roaring Lion.

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.

Robot's Unexpected Hug Sparks AI Safety Debate In China

Robot's Unexpected Hug Sparks AI Safety Debate In China

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

A humanoid robot performing at a university dance event in China startled the crowd when it unexpectedly hugged a female student, prompting a debate about AI safety and autonomous behaviour.

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.

9 World Cup Finals Decided In Extra Time

9 World Cup Finals Decided In Extra Time

Rediff.com7 days ago

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final joined an exclusive list after Spain edged Argentina 1-0 in extra time. This is the ninth time a Cup final went beyond the stipulated 90 minutes,

Haaland to Real Madrid? Election promise sparks transfer controversy

Haaland to Real Madrid? Election promise sparks transfer controversy

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Real Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme claimed he would sign Erling Haaland if elected, triggering a swift response from Manchester City and the player's representatives.

'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.

How Modi's Political Aura Crumbled At Jantar Mantar

How Modi's Political Aura Crumbled At Jantar Mantar

Rediff.com20 hours ago

It was left to an incensed Gen Z to show the rest of India that enough was enough, and that the time had come to shatter the fear psychosis generated by the government's authoritarian approach to protests and criticism, points out M R Narayan Swamy.

Messi has work to catch Mbappe for the Golden Boot

Messi has work to catch Mbappe for the Golden Boot

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi is aiming for the Golden Boot and a record third Golden Ball at the World Cup final against Spain.

Maha minister calls Operation Blue Star a 'black day', sparks row

Maha minister calls Operation Blue Star a 'black day', sparks row

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Maharashtra minister Girish Mahajan has ignited a political controversy by labelling Operation Blue Star a 'black day' and referring to those killed as 'martyrs', while criticising former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and likening the military action to an invasion.

Trans Tamil immigrant wins Scotland poll, sparks debate

Trans Tamil immigrant wins Scotland poll, sparks debate

Rediff.com11 May 2026

An Indian doctoral student from Tamil Nadu, Q Manivannan, has sparked a debate on immigration and representation in UK politics after winning a local election in Scotland. Manivannan's victory has drawn criticism from anti-immigration voices, highlighting the rules that allow foreign nationals to contest elections in Scotland.

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.

Nadal, Alcaraz caught up in Spain's FIFA World Cup Final frenzy

Nadal, Alcaraz caught up in Spain's FIFA World Cup Final frenzy

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Spain's national football team, La Roja, has reached their second World Cup final, sparking widespread celebrations across the country. Tennis stars Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz, along with the Spanish Royal Family, extended their congratulations, highlighting the national unity and pride surrounding this historic achievement.

Jana Nayagan Piracy: '400 Cr Film Can't Leak'

Jana Nayagan Piracy: '400 Cr Film Can't Leak'

Rediff.com5 days ago

Director H Vinoth has finally broken his silence on the controversies surrounding Jana Nayagan, addressing allegations of the film's leak and the Censor Board's role in its delayed release, while also defending actor-politician Vijay's decision to remain silent.

'We lived up to the hype': Solbakken proud of Norway's World Cup

'We lived up to the hype': Solbakken proud of Norway's World Cup

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

An emotional Stale Solbakken praised Norway's historic FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign after a 2-1 extra-time defeat to England ended their dream run in the quarter-finals.

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.

UP medical varsity replaces non-veg with protein-rich veg menu after ban

UP medical varsity replaces non-veg with protein-rich veg menu after ban

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

King George's Medical University (KGMU) in Lucknow has banned non-vegetarian food in its hostels following a suggestion from Governor Anandiben Patel. To compensate, the university will now serve protein-rich vegetarian meals, including soy, paneer, and tofu. While the Vice-Chancellor cites hygiene and health benefits for the ban, it has drawn criticism from faculty members and political parties who question the imposition of dietary restrictions.

3 publishers remanded for books glorifying J-K separatists

3 publishers remanded for books glorifying J-K separatists

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Three publishers have been remanded to 10-day police custody in Jammu for allegedly publishing and circulating books that glorify separatist leaders. The Counter Intelligence Unit is investigating the matter, which led to the blacklisting of two publishers and the suspension of several education department officials.

Fans go wild! Fireworks, tears as Spain wins World Cup

Fans go wild! Fireworks, tears as Spain wins World Cup

Rediff.com7 days ago

Thousands of fans across Spain erupted in joyous celebrations, dancing in the streets, setting off fireworks, and launching red flares, after La Roja secured their second World Cup title with a 1-0 victory over Argentina.

No better person than Dhoni to take over as CSK coach: Ashwin

No better person than Dhoni to take over as CSK coach: Ashwin

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

India's spin great Ravichandran Ashwin suggested Mahendra Singh Dhoni as the ideal successor for Stephen Fleming as CSK's head coach.

Govt will consider demands, including Pradhan's resignation: Nadda to CJP

Govt will consider demands, including Pradhan's resignation: Nadda to CJP

Rediff.com7 days ago

A delegation from the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) met Union Health Minister JP Nadda in New Delhi amidst widespread protests demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged examination irregularities. Nadda assured the CJP representatives that he would hold internal discussions and requested time to address their demands, which include the minister's resignation, compensation for NEET aspirants, and the release of Sonam Wangchuk. Protesters, facing police action, continued their march towards Parliament.

Passports 'regulate departure' of Indians from country: MEA

Passports 'regulate departure' of Indians from country: MEA

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has clarified that an Indian passport is primarily a travel document issued to regulate the departure of citizens and is not intended as proof of citizenship. This statement comes amidst a debate on its use for verifying citizenship, particularly concerning electoral rolls, and has drawn criticism from opposition parties.

The Balogun controversy that rocked the FIFA World Cup

The Balogun controversy that rocked the FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

U.S. striker Folarin Balogun, despite a controversial FIFA decision to suspend his red card ban, struggled in the World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium, leading to the U.S. team's elimination. The decision, which saw U.S. President Donald Trump claim credit, sparked accusations of political pressure on FIFA, while Balogun's birthright citizenship also came under scrutiny.

Paresh Rawal: Modi Never Does Hindu-Muslim Politics

Paresh Rawal: Modi Never Does Hindu-Muslim Politics

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Paresh Rawal has robustly defended Prime Minister Narendra Modi, dismissing claims of divisive politics and asserting that Modi 'never does Hindu-Muslim politics.

Senegal FA President: World Cup Team Doctor Was 'Gynaecologist'

Senegal FA President: World Cup Team Doctor Was 'Gynaecologist'

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Senegal's football federation president, Abdoulaye Fall, has claimed the national team's doctor at the recent World Cup in North America was 'trained as a gynaecologist', raising concerns among players about medical support during their disappointing campaign. The Senegalese Association of Sports Medicine has rejected these allegations as 'unfounded and defamatory'.

Urinating in Public? Beware, You're on Camera

Urinating in Public? Beware, You're on Camera

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Forget fines. In Assam's Tinsukia, people allegedly caught urinating in public on CCTV are now being shown on giant LED screens in a bid to shame repeat offenders

Gen Z Protests: 'I Hope They Keep Questioning The Government'

Gen Z Protests: 'I Hope They Keep Questioning The Government'

Rediff.com1 days ago

'I thought this generation was no good, will not be able to do much with all this social media etc. But then, they surprised us.'

Derek O'Brien questions ED action, asks why not freeze temple funds too?

Derek O'Brien questions ED action, asks why not freeze temple funds too?

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien questioned the Enforcement Directorate's decision to freeze three of the party's bank accounts, worth Rs 440 crore, under the anti-money laundering law. He controversially asked when the ED would freeze "temple funds," in an apparent reference to alleged financial irregularities at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, amidst opposition demands for a judicial probe into the matter.

MS Dhoni Turns 45, Social Media Goes Wild

MS Dhoni Turns 45, Social Media Goes Wild

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Legendary Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni celebrated his 45th birthday, prompting an outpouring of wishes and tributes from fans worldwide. Known as 'Captain Cool', Dhoni's remarkable career and leadership continue to inspire, even after his retirement from international cricket.

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.

7 girls collapse after sit-up punishment at Bihar school over homework

7 girls collapse after sit-up punishment at Bihar school over homework

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Seven schoolgirls in Bihar's Khagaria district fainted after being subjected to physical punishment by a teacher for not completing homework. The incident at Eknia Middle School led to outrage among parents and villagers, prompting officials to launch an investigation and warn other schools.

Bakrid goat shed sparks scuffle in Mumbai society

Bakrid goat shed sparks scuffle in Mumbai society

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The controversy erupted at Srishti Complex in the Poonam Cluster area near Mira Road on Sunday after residents and Hindu organisations objected to the setting up of a shed for sacrificial goats on the housing complex premises, according to local officials.

OTT This Week: Samantha, Nolan, K-Dramas

OTT This Week: Samantha, Nolan, K-Dramas

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

This week's OTT offerings promise a diverse range of entertainment, from daredevilry in a sari to epic filmmaking journeys and a variety of spooky, lucky, and heart-stopping shows.

Changes to World Cup formats make sense but associate teams need more: Ashwin

Changes to World Cup formats make sense but associate teams need more: Ashwin

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

India's spin maestro Ravichandran Ashwin has urged the ICC to integrate lower-ranked teams into every bilateral series, arguing that this is crucial for the sport's global expansion, beyond just expanding World Cup formats.

'Why Washington Sundar Again?' Fans Question India's Selection

'Why Washington Sundar Again?' Fans Question India's Selection

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Following a poor performance against England, all-rounder Washington Sundar's place in India's T20 team is being heavily debated by fans and critics. His inability to consistently deliver with both bat and ball has led to questions regarding his continued selection.

J-K's Doda tense after SOG firing kills man; 3 cops hurt, internet suspended

J-K's Doda tense after SOG firing kills man; 3 cops hurt, internet suspended

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

A 30-year-old man was killed and three Special Operations Group (SOG) personnel were injured during a firing incident following an alleged attempt to snatch a service rifle in the Jaie area of Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district, officials said.

Super-sub Torres stars as Spain down 10-man Argentina to win FIFA World Cup 2026 title

Super-sub Torres stars as Spain down 10-man Argentina to win FIFA World Cup 2026 title

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

It's goalless at half-time in the FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain in New York on Sunday.

Palghar Rape Case Sparks Outrage; Official Assures Support

Palghar Rape Case Sparks Outrage; Official Assures Support

Rediff.com6 May 2026

A 13-year-old rape survivor in Palghar district was visited by an official, sparking outrage and calls for stricter laws and swift justice in the case.

Zaragoza keeper Andrada sent off after punch sparks brawl

Zaragoza keeper Andrada sent off after punch sparks brawl

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Esteban Andrada sent off for punching Jorge Pulido as a mass brawl erupts in Zaragoza vs Huesca clash, with three red cards shown.

Massive fire at Bangkok eatery after stage circuit breaker explodes, 27 dead

Massive fire at Bangkok eatery after stage circuit breaker explodes, 27 dead

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

A devastating fire at the Na Ladprao eatery in Bangkok's Chatuchak district resulted in 27 fatalities and 63 injuries, with officials confirming that most deaths were due to smoke inhalation after a stage circuit breaker exploded.