News for 'State Department'

'Only a matter of time': FBI chief Kash Patel next high-level Trump exit?

'Only a matter of time': FBI chief Kash Patel next high-level Trump exit?

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Amid mounting speculation over his position within the Trump administration, FBI director Kash Patel reportedly could be the next senior official to exit Trump's cabinet in recent times, according to a Politico report.

Maharashtra Government To Seek Death Penalty In Pune Rape-Murder Case

Maharashtra Government To Seek Death Penalty In Pune Rape-Murder Case

Rediff.com3 May 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has assured that the government will push for a death penalty for the accused in the Pune child rape-murder case, asserting that the state will fast-track the trial to ensure justice in 'record time'.

ED Unearths Crores In Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam Probe

ED Unearths Crores In Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam Probe

Rediff.com3 May 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) seized cash and gold worth crores during searches related to the alleged Rs 2,800-crore Chhattisgarh liquor scam. The raids targeted liquor traders, chartered accountants, and corporate entities suspected of handling proceeds from the scam.

Education Ministry dismisses concerns over CBSE 'On Screen Marking'

Education Ministry dismisses concerns over CBSE 'On Screen Marking'

Rediff.com17 May 2026

The Ministry of Education has dismissed concerns about On-Screen Marking (OSM) affecting students' scores in CBSE class 12 exams and announced a reduction in revaluation and answer sheet verification charges to ease student anxiety.

Vijay takes a selfie with Rahul Gandhi after swearing-in

Vijay takes a selfie with Rahul Gandhi after swearing-in

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Actor Vijay, president of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. The ceremony included a selfie with Rahul Gandhi and a 360-degree video of the cheering crowd. Vijay's party achieved a historic debut, ending the duopoly of DMK and AIADMK.

Madhya Pradesh Government Reshuffles 62 IPS Officers

Madhya Pradesh Government Reshuffles 62 IPS Officers

Rediff.com3 May 2026

The Madhya Pradesh government has transferred 62 IPS officers, including 19 superintendents of police, assigning them new roles across various levels.

Anil Deshmukh Demands Death Penalty In Pune Sexual Assault Case

Anil Deshmukh Demands Death Penalty In Pune Sexual Assault Case

Rediff.com2 May 2026

Former Maharashtra home minister Anil Deshmukh demands the death penalty for the accused in the sexual assault and murder of a four-year-old girl in Pune district. He also criticises the state and central governments for delays in implementing the Shakti Act to curb sexual crimes.

Two Chinese ex-defence ministers sentenced to death for corruption

Two Chinese ex-defence ministers sentenced to death for corruption

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Two former Chinese defence ministers, Wei Fenghe and Li Shangfu, were sentenced to death with a two-year reprieve over graft charges, official media reported.

India launches new cell broadcast system for disaster warnings

India launches new cell broadcast system for disaster warnings

Rediff.com2 May 2026

Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia launched the cell broadcast alert system, developed indigenously, to warn citizens about emergencies and natural disasters in their area. The system is now operational across all states and union territories.

Nine Arrested In Delhi Coaching Scam: What We Know

Nine Arrested In Delhi Coaching Scam: What We Know

Rediff.com1 May 2026

The Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) has arrested nine individuals linked to coaching institutes in connection with an alleged Rs 37.20-crore scam involving a Delhi government scheme.

Adityanath Blames Corruption For UP's 'BIMARU' Past

Adityanath Blames Corruption For UP's 'BIMARU' Past

Rediff.com3 May 2026

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath attributed the state's past 'BIMARU' (sick) status to corruption during previous governments, highlighting improvements in recruitment processes and medical facilities under his administration.

BJP MLA Booked For Assaulting Government Engineer In Rajasthan

BJP MLA Booked For Assaulting Government Engineer In Rajasthan

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Police in Rajasthan's Sriganganagar district have registered an FIR against BJP MLA Jaideep Bihani and several others in connection with an alleged assault on an assistant engineer of the Rajasthan Urban Infrastructure Development Project.

MP cruise tragedy: Toll rises to 9, six still missing

MP cruise tragedy: Toll rises to 9, six still missing

Rediff.com1 May 2026

A tragic cruise boat accident at Bargi Dam in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, has claimed nine lives after a sudden storm caused the vessel to capsize, prompting extensive rescue efforts.

How To Plan Urban Greenery For Cooling Effect

How To Plan Urban Greenery For Cooling Effect

Rediff.com12 May 2026

An analysis of 138 Indian cities reveals that urban greening should consider humidity and airflow for effective cooling, emphasising climate-responsive strategies over one-size-fits-all approaches.

India's FDI Inflows Set to Cross $90 Billion in FY26, Says DPIIT Secretary

India's FDI Inflows Set to Cross $90 Billion in FY26, Says DPIIT Secretary

Rediff.com3 May 2026

India's foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows are projected to surpass $90 billion in 2025-26 (FY26), driven by robust policy reforms, free trade agreements, and strong economic growth, according to DPIIT Secretary Amardeep Singh Bhatia.

Doctors, Lab Operators Involved In Rajasthan Health Scheme Fraud

Doctors, Lab Operators Involved In Rajasthan Health Scheme Fraud

Rediff.com4 May 2026

The Special Operations Group (SOG) has uncovered a major fraud in the Rajasthan Government Health Scheme, involving doctors and a lab operator allegedly causing financial losses worth crores to the state exchequer.

EC deploys 432 counting observers across Bengal

EC deploys 432 counting observers across Bengal

Rediff.com3 May 2026

The Election Commission has deployed 432 counting observers across all 294 assembly constituencies in West Bengal to ensure transparent and smooth counting of votes. Several districts have been assigned additional observers in view of their sensitivity and electoral significance. Enforcement agencies have carried out extensive seizure drives during the election period to curb illegal inducements, with total seizures valued at approximately Rs 561 crore.

How Gujarat Police Solved A 34-Year-Old Murder Case

How Gujarat Police Solved A 34-Year-Old Murder Case

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Gujarat police have arrested two brothers in connection with the alleged murder of a woman 34 years ago. The breakthrough came after DNA analysis of exhumed skeletal remains matched the victim's siblings.

Smuggled Goods Worth Over Rs 1.79 Crore Seized At Mumbai Airport

Smuggled Goods Worth Over Rs 1.79 Crore Seized At Mumbai Airport

Rediff.com3 May 2026

Customs officials at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport seized electronic items, cosmetics, cigarettes, and crude gold worth over Rs 1.79 crore from passengers arriving from Dubai, leading to one arrest.

Gurugram Authorities Demolish Drug Smuggler's Illegal Property

Gurugram Authorities Demolish Drug Smuggler's Illegal Property

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Gurugram Police demolished an eight-story building allegedly used as a paying guest accommodation by convicted drug smuggler Satpal alias Kalu. The demolition was a joint effort with the municipal corporation, targeting properties acquired through drug trafficking proceeds. Authorities also demolished property illegally occupied by another alleged drug peddler.

Punjab Minister Accuses ED Of Politically Motivated Defamation

Punjab Minister Accuses ED Of Politically Motivated Defamation

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Punjab Minister Aman Arora has accused the Enforcement Directorate (ED) of defaming him by linking his name to recent raids in a money laundering probe. Arora alleges the BJP-led Centre is running a politically motivated campaign to malign him and has offered full cooperation with any inquiry.

Ended nine wars, would 'love to' make Russia-Ukraine 10th one: Trump

Ended nine wars, would 'love to' make Russia-Ukraine 10th one: Trump

Rediff.com9 May 2026

US President Donald Trump on Friday (local time) touted his claims of ending multiple global conflicts after he took charge of the White House and expressed hope that the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war could become the next one resolved, saying he would "love to" make it the tenth.

Police Investigate Killing Of Suvendu Adhikari's Aide

Police Investigate Killing Of Suvendu Adhikari's Aide

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Police in Kolkata are investigating the murder of Chandranath Rath, a close aide of BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari. Multiple special investigation teams have been formed, and CCTV footage is being examined to trace those involved. The probe includes the possibility of contract killers being hired for the crime.

India Post To Modernise Logistics Infrastructure

India Post To Modernise Logistics Infrastructure

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The government is planning a postal logistics infrastructure upgrade for India Post to modernise parcel facilities, aligning them with those in developed nations, according to Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia.

Kerala Professor Arrested In Student Harassment Case

Kerala Professor Arrested In Student Harassment Case

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

An associate professor from Kannur Dental College, accused in the death of a student allegedly harassed over caste, appeared before the investigation team and was subsequently arrested and released on bail.

Elephant Attack Claims Woman's Life In Bijnor

Elephant Attack Claims Woman's Life In Bijnor

Rediff.com1 May 2026

A 45-year-old woman was killed in an elephant attack in Rampur Chatha village, Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh, while she was on her way to collect milk from a farmhouse.

Delhi Government To Address School Infrastructure Gaps

Delhi Government To Address School Infrastructure Gaps

Rediff.com14 May 2026

A digital profiling exercise by the Delhi government has revealed significant infrastructure deficiencies in government schools, including shortages of drinking water taps, lack of facilities for children with special needs, and structurally unsafe buildings.

Storm caused Jabalpur cruise boat tragedy: MP minister

Storm caused Jabalpur cruise boat tragedy: MP minister

Rediff.com2 May 2026

Madhya Pradesh tourism minister blames a sudden storm for the cruise boat tragedy in Jabalpur, raising questions about safety checks and vessel fitness.

Why Indian Cities Need Smarter Greening Strategies

Why Indian Cities Need Smarter Greening Strategies

Rediff.com11 May 2026

A study by IIT Gandhinagar researchers reveals that urban greening alone is insufficient to reduce heat stress in Indian cities, highlighting the need for climate-responsive planning that considers humidity, ventilation, and urban compactness.

Kerala braces for heatwave: IMD issues orange alert

Kerala braces for heatwave: IMD issues orange alert

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The IMD has issued an orange alert for heatwave conditions in parts of Kerala, prompting authorities to urge caution. Maximum temperatures are expected to reach up to 41 degrees Celsius in some districts. Strict guidelines have been issued, including the suspension of vacation classes and rescheduling of working hours.

NEET paper leak: 5 remanded in CBI custody, 2 more arrested

NEET paper leak: 5 remanded in CBI custody, 2 more arrested

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The CBI has taken custody of five individuals arrested in connection with the NEET-UG exam leak and apprehended two more suspects. The agency is investigating the potential involvement of insiders within the National Testing Agency (NTA). Protests continue across the country, demanding accountability and reforms in the examination process.

UWW Acknowledged Vinesh Phogat's Retirement, Raises Questions

UWW Acknowledged Vinesh Phogat's Retirement, Raises Questions

Rediff.com8 May 2026

A communication from United World Wrestling's anti-doping department confirmed Vinesh Phogat's retirement intimation to the International Testing Agency (ITA) in December 2024, amidst claims and controversies surrounding her comeback and eligibility for the Asian Games.

Notorious Drug Peddler Detained In Reasi, Opium Crop Destroyed

Notorious Drug Peddler Detained In Reasi, Opium Crop Destroyed

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

Police in Reasi district detained a drug peddler under the PIT-NDPS Act and destroyed an illegally cultivated opium poppy crop in separate anti-narcotics operations.

Himachal Pradesh Pension Scam: 40 Falsely Declared 'Elderly'

Himachal Pradesh Pension Scam: 40 Falsely Declared 'Elderly'

Rediff.com8 May 2026

A pension fraud has been uncovered in Himachal Pradesh, where over 40 individuals were falsely declared as 'elderly' in official records to receive old-age pensions.

Duo Booked After Porcupine Killing Video Surfaces

Duo Booked After Porcupine Killing Video Surfaces

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Two men in Pithoragarh have been booked after a video surfaced on social media showing them chasing a porcupine to death. The forest department took action following a complaint from PETA.

Odisha To Formulate SOP After Census Officials Attacked

Odisha To Formulate SOP After Census Officials Attacked

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

Four Census officials were assaulted in Odisha's Dhenkanal district, prompting the state government to formulate a standard operating procedure (SOP) to safeguard census officials from physical harm and heat-related risks.

Prominent cleric shot dead by ISIS gunmen in targeted attack in Pakistan

Prominent cleric shot dead by ISIS gunmen in targeted attack in Pakistan

Rediff.com5 May 2026

A prominent cleric, Sheikh-ul-Hadith Maulana Muhammad Idrees, was shot dead in a targeted attack in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The assassination has sparked protests and condemnation from political leaders.

Iran submits new proposal for talks with US via Pak

Iran submits new proposal for talks with US via Pak

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Iran has submitted its latest proposal aimed at advancing negotiations to end the ongoing West Asia conflict with the US, days after the Islamic Republic submitted a fresh proposal through regional intermediaries to cease its military operations in the Strait of Hormuz, which is likely to get rejected by Washington.

Hoshiarpur Authorities Demolish Illegal Structure Linked To Drug Traffickers

Hoshiarpur Authorities Demolish Illegal Structure Linked To Drug Traffickers

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Authorities in Hoshiarpur demolished an illegal structure built on panchayat land by a family allegedly involved in drug trafficking, as part of the state government's campaign against drugs.

Jharkhand Parties Demand Pay For Police Amid Treasury Scam

Jharkhand Parties Demand Pay For Police Amid Treasury Scam

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Opposition parties in Jharkhand are demanding the release of salaries for police personnel, which have been withheld following the discovery of irregularities in treasury funds across several districts. The police association claims that over 70,000 personnel have not been paid since March, prompting calls for a thorough investigation and prompt action from the state government.