News for 'Special Protection Group'

Gaza 'annexation' is part of Israeli military strategy: Defence minister

Gaza 'annexation' is part of Israeli military strategy: Defence minister

Rediff.com17 Apr 2025

Israel's Defence Minister, Israel Katz, has affirmed that Gaza's annexation was part of a military strategy and troops will remain in the security zones created in Lebanon and Syria indefinitely, Al Jazeera reported.

Budget 2024: Over Rs 2 lakh cr allocated to home ministry

Budget 2024: Over Rs 2 lakh cr allocated to home ministry

Rediff.com1 Feb 2024

The interim budget 2024-25 on Thursday allocated Rs 202868.70 crore to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) with the highest share of funds going to the paramilitary forces like Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF) and Central Industrial Secular Force (CISF), showing priority on internal security and border guarding.

It's Time to Update Army Regiment Names

It's Time to Update Army Regiment Names

Rediff.com2 Jul 2025

>The Indian Army still uses old British-era names and recruits soldiers based on caste or region, which hurts national unity, argues Colonel K Thammayya Udupa (retd).

Lightning: India's Deadliest Hazard

Lightning: India's Deadliest Hazard

Rediff.com19 Aug 2025

Lightning claims more lives in India annually than any other extreme weather event. Between April and July this year alone, 1,621 people died due to lightning strikes.

Is Modi's 'Mr India' Image Fading?

Is Modi's 'Mr India' Image Fading?

Rediff.com20 Aug 2025

'The Election Commission's involvement in the avoidable SIR controversy has carried a message down to the last voter -- who just does not like it,' observes N Sathiya Moorthy.

Amid row over Gandhis' security, SPG amendment bill to be tabled next week

Amid row over Gandhis' security, SPG amendment bill to be tabled next week

Rediff.com22 Nov 2019

According to official sources, family members of former prime ministers will not be guarded by the elite SPG commandos, as per the amendments approved by the Union cabinet.

Kejriwal reacts as intel says Khalistani hit squad out to kill him

Kejriwal reacts as intel says Khalistani hit squad out to kill him

Rediff.com15 Jan 2025

Amid intelligence reports of a pro-Khalistan group plotting an attack against him, Delhi Chief Ministerial candidate Arvind Kejriwal responded with faith, stating "God will save him." The threat comes ahead of the February 5 Delhi Assembly polls, with authorities reviewing Kejriwal's security and deploying round-the-clock surveillance.

Breach of SPG Act, Blue Book can have devastating consequences: SC

Breach of SPG Act, Blue Book can have devastating consequences: SC

Rediff.com12 Jan 2022

The Supreme Court on Wednesday said the provisions of the Special Protection Group Act and contents of the Blue Book are "comprehensive" in ensuring proximate security of the prime minister and other SPG protectees, and any lapse in following these can lead to "devastating and serious consequences".

SC extends bail to Ashoka university professor, bars posts on FIR

SC extends bail to Ashoka university professor, bars posts on FIR

Rediff.com29 May 2025

The Supreme Court of India has extended the interim bail of Ashoka University professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad, who was arrested for contentious social media posts on Operation Sindoor. The court, however, restrained him from posting anything online with respect to the cases against him, stating that there was no impediment on his right to speech and expression. The court directed the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to furnish the investigation report on the next date of hearing.

'Companies Will Be More Powerful Than Nations'

'Companies Will Be More Powerful Than Nations'

Rediff.com19 Aug 2025

'If you align your ambition with India's rise, the peak of your careers will unfold alongside the peak of India's power.'

Manmohan Singh's last rites to be performed with full State honours

Manmohan Singh's last rites to be performed with full State honours

Rediff.com27 Dec 2024

Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh passed away at the age of 92 on Thursday. He will be given a state funeral with full state honors at Nigambodh Ghat on Saturday. Singh served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014 and was known for his role in India's economic reforms. Leaders from across the political spectrum paid their respects to the departed leader, highlighting his contributions to the nation.

No headway in Ladakh talks, groups to decide future course

No headway in Ladakh talks, groups to decide future course

Rediff.com4 Mar 2024

The ministry said the high powered committee for Ladakh headed by Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai has been working actively with representatives of the ABL and the KDA and significant progress has been made.

BSF targeted 76 Pak posts, 42 FDLs, destroyed three terror launch pads

BSF targeted 76 Pak posts, 42 FDLs, destroyed three terror launch pads

Rediff.com27 May 2025

The Border Security Force (BSF) launched "Operation Sindoor" in retaliation to unprovoked firing and shelling by Pakistani Rangers along the International Border (IB) in Jammu. BSF troops destroyed three terrorist launch pads and targeted 76 Pakistani border outposts and 42 forward defence locations. The BSF action came after Pakistan launched heavy firing and shelling on 60 Indian posts and 49 forward positions, reportedly providing cover for an attempted infiltration by 40-50 terrorists.

Why India Needs Trump's Tariffs To Reform Again

Why India Needs Trump's Tariffs To Reform Again

Rediff.com10 Apr 2025

India needs another shot of difficult reform, of the kind only possible at gunpoint. Mr Trump holds that gun to our heads now. A drastic reduction in tariff protection, other elements of sarkari wet-nursing will force entrepreneurial India to become competitive again, argues Shekhar Gupta.

Adani wins Rs 36,000-cr Mumbai project

Adani wins Rs 36,000-cr Mumbai project

Rediff.com12 Mar 2025

After the Dharavi slum redevelopment project, billionaire Gautam Adani's group has emerged as the highest bidder for the Rs 36,000 crore redevelopment of Motilal Nagar in Mumbai, sources said. Motilal Nagar I, II & III is one of Mumbai's biggest housing redevelopment projects, covering 143 acres in western suburb of Goregaon (W).

A Quick Lesson in Avionics For Modiji

A Quick Lesson in Avionics For Modiji

Rediff.com31 Oct 2022

Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi laid the foundation stone in Vadodara on Sunday, October 30, 2022, for a facility to produce C-295 military transport aircraft.

Delhi sizzles under season's first heatwave; docs warn of health risks

Delhi sizzles under season's first heatwave; docs warn of health risks

Rediff.com8 Apr 2025

Delhi is experiencing its first heatwave of the season, with temperatures reaching 40.2 degrees Celsius. Doctors have warned that exposure to extreme heat can lead to a range of health issues, from mild rashes and muscle cramps to serious conditions like heat exhaustion and heatstroke. They advise staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during peak hours, and wearing light, breathable clothes. Vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions are at greater risk.

When Indira Gandhi's demand for papaya left this chef in tears

When Indira Gandhi's demand for papaya left this chef in tears

Rediff.com28 Dec 2023

The papayas from Mumbai were too squishy, the chef raced through the streets of Goa in a police jeep to look for fruit ripened just right only to have security personnel puncture many a hole through them... a new book recalls in detail the struggle to procure and plate perfect papayas for Indira Gandhi during a Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 1983.

The Kashmiri Militant Who Killed 300 Terrorists

The Kashmiri Militant Who Killed 300 Terrorists

Rediff.com8 Jul 2025

'A man with a gun commanded respect. I thought if I also got a gun, I could save my family. With this thought, I went to Pakistan and got training there'

Vrindavan priests say no to barring Muslim artisans

Vrindavan priests say no to barring Muslim artisans

Rediff.com13 Mar 2025

Priests at the famed Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan have rejected a demand to stop using attires made by Muslim artisans for its deity, emphasizing that religious discrimination has no place in temple traditions. The demand was raised by a right-wing group, who argued that the deity's attire should be made only by those who adhere to "religious purity." The temple priests countered by highlighting the historical contributions of Muslim artisans to temple traditions and the impracticality of replacing them.

When Raj And Uddhav Met Each Other

When Raj And Uddhav Met Each Other

Rediff.com5 Jul 2025

'If Uddhav bhau and Raj bhau come together, who can stop us?' Prasanna D Zore reports on the fervour and hope set off by the Thackeray cousins coming together.

Minor fire at PM's residential complex

Minor fire at PM's residential complex

Rediff.com30 Dec 2019

PM's residence and office were not affected by the fire. The fire broke out at the SPG reception area.

'Manipur Govt Wants AFSPA In Kuki, Naga Areas But Not In Meitei Areas'

'Manipur Govt Wants AFSPA In Kuki, Naga Areas But Not In Meitei Areas'

Rediff.com27 Nov 2024

'This is leading to anarchy.'

SP leader moves SC for effective implementation of Places of Worship Act

SP leader moves SC for effective implementation of Places of Worship Act

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

Samajwadi Party leader and Kairana MP Iqra Choudhary has moved the Supreme Court seeking effective implementation of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991. This move comes amidst several petitions challenging the law's validity, including those filed by the Akhil Bhartiya Sant Samiti and lawyer Ashwini Upadhyay. The Supreme Court, in December 2022, had restrained all courts from examining fresh suits and passing interim orders in pending cases seeking to reclaim religious places. The Act aims to maintain the religious character of places of worship as they existed on August 15, 1947, but the dispute relating to Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid at Ayodhya was kept out of its purview. The court has listed Choudhary's plea with other pending pleas for February 17.

200 personnel guard her, but Maya still fears for life

200 personnel guard her, but Maya still fears for life

Rediff.com2 May 2012

Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati renewed demand for a Special Protection Group cover speaks volumes of her obsession for security, for which she already has more than 200 personnel to guard her round the clock. Sharat Pradhan reports.

President's Rule In Manipur: Need Of The Hour

President's Rule In Manipur: Need Of The Hour

Rediff.com13 Feb 2025

The solution to Manipur's problems lies in the government giving concessions to Meitis in jobs and education and to accept autonomy for the tribal dominated areas inhibited by the Kukis, suggests Colonel Anil A Athale (retd).

'Tahawwur Rana Won't Get Solitary Confinement, But...'

'Tahawwur Rana Won't Get Solitary Confinement, But...'

Rediff.com11 Apr 2025

'It is ensured that no adversaries or people who oppose Tahawwur Rana's philosophy are housed in the same ward or jail.' 'Additionally, it is ensured that he does not have any prior contacts within that jail.' 'So, the lodgment of such a high-profile prisoner is done very carefully.'

'Modi's security adequate, Rajiv didn't have even a sub-inspector'

'Modi's security adequate, Rajiv didn't have even a sub-inspector'

Rediff.com6 Nov 2013

In the wake of the Bharatiya Janata Party's demand for fool-proof security to Narendra Modi, the government on Wednesday said the BJP's prime ministerial candidate's security has already been tightened but ruled out Special Protection Group protection for him.

Don't allow a cover-up of the chopper scam

Don't allow a cover-up of the chopper scam

Rediff.com16 Feb 2013

One cannot expect a thorough-going investigation by the CBI as long as it acts under the supervision of the government, points out B Raman

SC puts off pleas on Places of Worship Act to April

SC puts off pleas on Places of Worship Act to April

Rediff.com17 Feb 2025

A bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar also indicated that it may not take up the pending scheduled petitions, heard earlier by a three-judge bench, during the day as it was sitting in a combination of two judges.

When Cong leaders had no clue about Kejriwal's expose

When Cong leaders had no clue about Kejriwal's expose

Rediff.com9 Nov 2012

Congress' Samvad Baithak (conclave meeting) at Surajkunad on Friday was a closed door affair, with no scope of any media coverage. Our correspondent in New Delhi gets you the exclusive buzz of what transpired at the meet.

Jolt to TN as HC nod for Modi's Coimbatore roadshow on Mar 18

Jolt to TN as HC nod for Modi's Coimbatore roadshow on Mar 18

Rediff.com15 Mar 2024

Setting aside the order of the assistant commissioner of police, the judge directed the officer to grant the permission and provide necessary police protection, besides imposing reasonable conditions.

SPG braces itself to prevent shoe-attack on VVIPs

SPG braces itself to prevent shoe-attack on VVIPs

Rediff.com20 Dec 2008

The latest gadget in the armour of Special Protection Group, the crack commando force that protects the Prime Minister and four other VVIPs, are electronic stunners that look just like an ordinary laptop.

3-judge SC bench to hear pleas on Places of Worship Act on Thursday

3-judge SC bench to hear pleas on Places of Worship Act on Thursday

Rediff.com11 Dec 2024

The Supreme Court of India is scheduled to hear a batch of petitions challenging the validity of certain provisions of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, which prohibits lawsuits to reclaim a place of worship or change its character from what prevailed on August 15, 1947. The pleas, including one filed by Ashwini Upadhyay, argue that these provisions violate the right to judicial remedy and create an arbitrary cut-off date. The matter will be heard in the backdrop of several ongoing cases related to places of worship, including the Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi and the Shahi Idgah Mosque in Mathura. The Muslim side has cited the 1991 law to argue that such suits are not maintainable. The Supreme Court had previously sought the Centre's response to Upadhyay's petition, which alleged that the law creates an "arbitrary and irrational retrospective cut-off date" for maintaining the character of places of worship.

Ex-armyman's plea to probe corruption in RAW dismissed

Ex-armyman's plea to probe corruption in RAW dismissed

Rediff.com26 Oct 2012

A former army officer's plea for the Central Bureau of Investigation probe into alleged corruption in procurement of some electronic equipment for the Research and Analysis Wing and the Special Protection Group has been dismissed by a Delhi court.

'Insaniyat Zindabad: If I Die Saving Them, So Be It'

'Insaniyat Zindabad: If I Die Saving Them, So Be It'

Rediff.com30 Apr 2025

'I will do it again. I am ready to put my life in danger a second time. This is my land, this is my responsibility'

Deep State And Beyond: The Rise of Conspiracy Theories

Deep State And Beyond: The Rise of Conspiracy Theories

Rediff.com25 Feb 2025

From bhikshus of Ashokan 3rd century BC and medieval Sufis to Oxfam, Omidyar and Soros now, non-State actors have any real power only when they work in conjunction with a real State, asserts Shekhar Gupta.

Next Maha Kumbh could be on sand as rivers may dry up: Sonam Wangchuk to Modi

Next Maha Kumbh could be on sand as rivers may dry up: Sonam Wangchuk to Modi

Rediff.com26 Feb 2025

Wangchuk rued that over the years, glacial ice has been receding but action remains delayed.

Manmohan Singh, wife get Z+ VIP CRPF security cover

Manmohan Singh, wife get Z+ VIP CRPF security cover

Rediff.com2 Sep 2019

Singh and his wife have been accorded the cover with a strength of about 45 armed commandos who will guard them round-the-clock at their residence on 3, Motilal Nehru Road and during their movement across the country.

The unknown men behind Rahul's padyatra

The unknown men behind Rahul's padyatra

Rediff.com8 Jul 2011

Rahul Gandhi's padyatra has grabbed the headlines and the imagination of many. As he sweats it out in the dust and heat of Uttar Pradesh's villages, travelling on foot from one village to another across four districts, there are a group of people who silently oversee it all.