News for 'State Department'

Woman harassed on train in Keralam, beaten for threatening police complaint

Woman harassed on train in Keralam, beaten for threatening police complaint

Rediff.com1 days ago

A 25-year-old woman was sexually harassed aboard the Malabar Express on Tuesday. When she threatened to report the perpetrator to the police, he beat her, causing her to fall unconscious. Public intervention led to the arrest of the 39-year-old accused, who faces charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The victim drew parallels to the 2011 Soumya case, fearing for her life.

Vivek Ramaswamy loses Ohio governor's race despite Trump's backing

Vivek Ramaswamy loses Ohio governor's race despite Trump's backing

Rediff.com7 days ago

Indian-American Vivek Ramaswamy, endorsed by former US President Donald Trump, has lost Ohio's gubernatorial race to Democrat Amy Acton, who made history as the state's first woman governor.

Cyclone Arnab to make landfall in Andhra between 2 am and 4 am today

Cyclone Arnab to make landfall in Andhra between 2 am and 4 am today

Rediff.com28 Oct 2026

Andhra Pradesh is on high alert as very severe cyclonic storm Arnab is set to make landfall on its coast, with extensive evacuations, deployment of medical teams, and stocking of essential supplies underway to minimise damage and ensure public safety.

Maharashtra Revenue Official Caught Taking Bribe For Land Title Entry

Maharashtra Revenue Official Caught Taking Bribe For Land Title Entry

Rediff.com24 Oct 2026

A Revenue department official in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg district was arrested by the Anti-Corruption Bureau for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 5,000 to make an entry in a 7/12 land title extract. The official, Jitendra Khetade, was caught on Friday.

Agnipath scheme against country's security, scrap it at once: Congress

Agnipath scheme against country's security, scrap it at once: Congress

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Congress party has called for the scrapping of the Agnipath scheme, claiming it has weakened national security and led to a shortage of soldiers. This demand follows the government's recent decision to extend Agniveers' tenure by two years and offer permanent recruitment to some. The Congress also seeks retrospective benefits for regularised Agniveers and criticises the scheme's impact on soldiers' welfare, citing reported suicides and discrimination.

Maharashtra Credit Society Directors Face Cheating Charges

Maharashtra Credit Society Directors Face Cheating Charges

Rediff.com1 Nov 2026

Six individuals, including three directors of Hingoli Urban Nidhi Ltd, have been booked for allegedly defrauding 61 depositors of Rs 1.69 crore. The credit society promised attractive returns and insurance cover but failed to repay investments made between May 2020 and March 2024, eventually shutting down its office. The Economic Offences Wing is investigating the case.

No UP govt jobs for those involved in 'violent regime change' protest

No UP govt jobs for those involved in 'violent regime change' protest

Rediff.com29 Oct 2026

The Uttar Pradesh government has introduced new guidelines for state government jobs, barring individuals involved in violent protests aimed at changing the "established social system" and those implicated in serious offences. The rules also clarify that political ideology alone won't disqualify candidates and outline procedures for character verification and provisional appointments. The move has drawn criticism from opposition parties.

How Goa Is Becoming A Global Sports Tourism Hub

How Goa Is Becoming A Global Sports Tourism Hub

Rediff.com3 Nov 2026

Goa is actively expanding its tourism appeal beyond traditional beaches by strategically positioning itself as a premier international destination for sporting events. This initiative aims to attract athletes and sports enthusiasts globally, diversify tourism offerings, and ensure year-round visitor engagement, fostering economic opportunities for local communities.

Rubio pushes US energy, defence deals as India trade pact nears finish

Rubio pushes US energy, defence deals as India trade pact nears finish

Rediff.com20 Oct 2026

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio kick-started a three-day visit to India on Tuesday to advance bilateral ties in energy, trade and investment, defence, critical technologies, and exchange views on the West Asia crisis.

After jailbreak, TN allows prison guards to use guns

After jailbreak, TN allows prison guards to use guns

Rediff.com28 Oct 2026

Tamil Nadu prison authorities have authorised personnel to use firearms to prevent escapes, following a major security breach at Theni District Jail where 17 inmates fled. While 15 have been recaptured, a manhunt continues for two. The new directives include deploying armed guards at watchtowers across 125 state prisons.

Abhinav Mukund questions Punjab Kings' trade of Arshdeep Singh for Hardik Pandya

Abhinav Mukund questions Punjab Kings' trade of Arshdeep Singh for Hardik Pandya

Rediff.com2 days ago

Former India opener Abhinav Mukund has labelled Punjab Kings' decision to trade pacer Arshdeep Singh for all-rounder Hardik Pandya as "questionable," suggesting the deal heavily favours Mumbai Indians and raises concerns about team dynamics and player roles within PBKS.

Contractor flags 'ignored evidence' in probe linked to CEC Gyanesh Kumar

Contractor flags 'ignored evidence' in probe linked to CEC Gyanesh Kumar

Rediff.com2 days ago

Contractor V O Sajan appeared before the VACB in Thiruvananthapuram for a preliminary probe into alleged corruption in a road project from years ago. The project was undertaken when current Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar served as the Kerala Public Works Department secretary. Sajan claims crucial evidence against Kumar was ignored in an earlier investigation and that statements were altered under pressure.

Gyanesh Kumar Faces Heat Over Kerala Corruption Charges

Gyanesh Kumar Faces Heat Over Kerala Corruption Charges

Rediff.com3 Nov 2026

As CEC Gyanesh Kumar faces protests over electoral roll revisions, a 20-year-old Kerala corruption case resurfaces.

Indian man detained in Russia, 'pressured to join army'

Indian man detained in Russia, 'pressured to join army'

Rediff.com2 days ago

A man from Raipur, Tikeshwar Sahu, who travelled to Russia for a job in September, has reportedly been detained there on "false" drug charges. His family alleges he is being pressured to join the Russian Army to fight in the war or face a long jail term. This incident follows a similar case last month involving another Chhattisgarh man. Sahu's family has sought intervention from the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister's Office and other authorities for his safe return.

Kolkata Police Probe Decomposed Body Found In Luxury Car

Kolkata Police Probe Decomposed Body Found In Luxury Car

Rediff.com6 days ago

A decomposed body of an unidentified man was discovered in a luxury car parked in a garage in Kolkata's Kasba area on Thursday. Police were alerted by a foul smell and found the body on the driver's seat of a dust-covered, number-plate-less vehicle. The Homicide Squad has launched an investigation to identify the deceased and determine the circumstances of death.

Is India-US Trade Deal Near The Finish Line?

Is India-US Trade Deal Near The Finish Line?

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

Marco Rubio will visit Mumbai and Jamnagar to discuss energy cooperation as S Jaishankar says India-US trade talks are nearing a landing point, with a few issues unresolved.

Mizoram Police Make Dual Seizures: Drugs And Foreign Cigarettes

Mizoram Police Make Dual Seizures: Drugs And Foreign Cigarettes

Rediff.com27 Oct 2026

Mizoram police arrested two individuals in separate operations, seizing 1 kg of methamphetamine in Aizawl and foreign cigarettes worth Rs 8 lakh at Seling's Zero Point.

Badrinath chopper crash: Cop among 5 Karnataka pilgrims killed

Badrinath chopper crash: Cop among 5 Karnataka pilgrims killed

Rediff.com31 Oct 2026

A helicopter crash in Uttarakhand killed six people, including five from Karnataka and the pilot. Among the deceased were a Bengaluru Police inspector, businessmen, and advocates. Karnataka authorities are coordinating with Uttarakhand to repatriate the bodies, while state leaders have expressed profound sorrow and offered assistance to the bereaved families.

Myanmar National Arrested With Heroin In Mizoram's Champhai District

Myanmar National Arrested With Heroin In Mizoram's Champhai District

Rediff.com22 Oct 2026

A Myanmar national was arrested in Mizoram's Champhai district on Thursday with 1.18 kg of heroin, seized during a joint operation by the Excise and Narcotics Department and Assam Rifles. The contraband was found packed in 100 soap cases, and a case has been registered under the NDPS Act.

Revenue Official Murdered In Ranchi Home

Revenue Official Murdered In Ranchi Home

Rediff.com25 Oct 2026

A 40-year-old revenue department official, Lakshmikant Munda, was allegedly killed at his home in Ranchi, Jharkhand, by unidentified persons. Police have launched an investigation, considering angles like robbery and old enmity, and a Special Investigation Team has been formed to nab the culprits.

Pawar-Patel hospital meet fuels fresh buzz over NCP merger

Pawar-Patel hospital meet fuels fresh buzz over NCP merger

Rediff.com5 days ago

Speculation about a merger between the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has intensified following a viral video of Praful Patel meeting NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar in hospital. This comes as ruling NCP president Sunil Tatkare revealed that a merger would have occurred in February this year if Ajit Pawar were alive. The meeting and Tatkare's comments have reignited discussions about the future of the NCP.

TN jailbreak: Vijay suspends Dy jail superintendent

TN jailbreak: Vijay suspends Dy jail superintendent

Rediff.com31 Oct 2026

Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay ordered the suspension of a deputy jail superintendent and initiated action against prison personnel following a major jailbreak on October 26 in Theni district. Seventeen prisoners escaped but were later recaptured. The CM has directed stringent disciplinary actions, including suspensions and transfers, to address dereliction of duty and security lapses, emphasising zero tolerance for complacency.

Russian lab worker's death sparks plague fears, hundreds quarantined

Russian lab worker's death sparks plague fears, hundreds quarantined

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

A laboratory technician in Siberia died from 'pneumonia of unknown aetiology' at an Anti-Plague Research Institute, sparking fears of pneumonic plague, with the US now monitoring the situation and urging Russia for transparency.

Man Shot Dead After Police Allegedly Dismiss Threat

Man Shot Dead After Police Allegedly Dismiss Threat

Rediff.com4 days ago

A 42-year-old man, Paramjeet Dhankhar, was shot dead in Gurugram by his neighbour Monu Sharma over a parking dispute. The accused had allegedly threatened the victim at a police post hours before the murder, but officials reportedly considered the threat hollow and facilitated a compromise.

High alert in Odisha as Cyclone Murasu intensifies

High alert in Odisha as Cyclone Murasu intensifies

Rediff.com1 Nov 2026

Odisha is preparing for Cyclone Murasu, which intensified from a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal. This comes less than a week after Cyclone Arnab hit the region, causing significant damage and prompting relief efforts. Murasu is expected to make landfall in Andhra Pradesh on November 3, bringing heavy rainfall to Odisha.

Key Players Sidelined As India Prepares For New Zealand Friendlies

Key Players Sidelined As India Prepares For New Zealand Friendlies

Rediff.com5 days ago

Head coach Khalid Jamil has announced a 23-member Indian squad for the upcoming international friendlies against New Zealand. The squad sees the omission of veteran goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and the absence of key defender Anwar Ali due to a hamstring injury. Other players like Lalengmawia Ralte and Mohammed Sanan are also out with injuries, while some SAFF Championship players will join the team for the New Zealand tour.

Kannada flag to be flown alongside tricolour: Shivakumar

Kannada flag to be flown alongside tricolour: Shivakumar

Rediff.com1 Nov 2026

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar announced the government's commitment to making the yellow and red Kannada flag the official state flag. He stated that a legal framework would be introduced to allow it to be flown alongside the national flag on government buildings. The matter will be discussed during the winter session of the Legislature in Belagavi. Shivakumar also highlighted the importance of preserving Kannada language and culture, outlining initiatives to strengthen public education and promote the language.

Former SHO, sub-inspector convicted in 2015 Deoband rape case

Former SHO, sub-inspector convicted in 2015 Deoband rape case

Rediff.com6 days ago

A fast-track court in Saharanpur has convicted a former Station House Officer (SHO) and a sub-inspector for raping a woman 11 years ago at Deoband police station. The incident occurred in 2015 when the victim visited the station regarding her husband's arrest. The court found former SHO Braj Mohan Yadav and sub-inspector Vedpal Singh guilty, and they were arrested post-verdict. Arguments on the quantum of sentence are scheduled for November 6.

Former SHO, Policeman Convicted In Deoband Rape Case From 11 Years Ago

Former SHO, Policeman Convicted In Deoband Rape Case From 11 Years Ago

Rediff.com6 days ago

A fast-track court in Saharanpur has convicted a former Station House Officer (SHO) and a sub-inspector for the gang-rape of a woman at Deoband police station 11 years ago. The victim had approached the police station regarding her husband's arrest when the incident occurred. The court will hear arguments on the quantum of sentence on November 6.

US House to get first African-American Speaker as Democrats take control

US House to get first African-American Speaker as Democrats take control

Rediff.com7 days ago

Democrats are projected to reclaim control of the House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections, paving the way for House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries to potentially become the first African American Speaker of the House, marking a historic political transformation in the United States.

Justice After 11 Years: Cops Jailed For Pregnant Woman's Rape

Justice After 11 Years: Cops Jailed For Pregnant Woman's Rape

Rediff.com5 days ago

A fast-track court in Saharanpur has sentenced two police officers, a former SHO and a sub-inspector, to 20 years in prison for raping a pregnant woman in Deoband 11 years ago. The incident occurred when the woman visited the police station regarding her husband's arrest. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 1.20 lakh on each convict.

Mizoram Launches Second Phase Of Anti-Drug Campaign

Mizoram Launches Second Phase Of Anti-Drug Campaign

Rediff.com30 Oct 2026

The Mizoram government has initiated the second phase of its anti-drug campaign, 'Operation Jericho-2', to curb narcotics movement ahead of the festive season. Led by DGP Sharad Agarwal, the operation involves multiple police battalions and focuses on border districts, intelligence-led enforcement, and community participation to dismantle trafficking networks. This follows a successful first phase that saw significant drug seizures and arrests.

Himachal Pradesh Boosts Sports With Him Ratna 2026 Awards

Himachal Pradesh Boosts Sports With Him Ratna 2026 Awards

Rediff.com31 Oct 2026

Himachal Pradesh honoured 419 outstanding sportspersons with the Him Ratna 2026 Awards, distributing Rs. 17.85 crore in prize money. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presented cheques to athletes excelling in national and international events, including Asian Games medalists and Indian women's kabaddi team members. The state government also announced increased award money, incentives for coaches, and a new 'Khelo Himachal Campaign' to combat drug abuse and promote sports.

Nvidia CEO's female friend was Chinese asset: US intel report

Nvidia CEO's female friend was Chinese asset: US intel report

Rediff.com30 Oct 2026

US intelligence agencies have reportedly concluded that Alice Huang, a Chinese businesswoman with close ties to Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, was a Chinese intelligence asset. She is accused of funnelling information to Beijing and helping China circumvent US AI chip restrictions. China has dismissed these allegations as a "smear". The findings raise concerns about potential access to sensitive information regarding US-China relations and Nvidia's technology.

Goa Police Inspector Held For Alleged Sexual Assault On Minor

Goa Police Inspector Held For Alleged Sexual Assault On Minor

Rediff.com7 days ago

A suspended inspector of the Goa Crime Branch, Vikas Deykar, has been arrested along with a woman in connection with the alleged sexual assault of a minor girl. The incidents reportedly occurred on July 25 and October 27 inside Deykar's cabin, leading to charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and POCSO Act.

Nepal bans import, sales of Priyagold biscuits after FSSAI action

Nepal bans import, sales of Priyagold biscuits after FSSAI action

Rediff.com19 Oct 2026

Nepal has banned the import, sale, and distribution of Priyagold biscuits, citing them as sub-standard. This decision follows India's food regulator FSSAI initiating legal proceedings against the manufacturer, Surya Food and Agro Ltd, for using cattle feed bran and other serious violations, and suspending its licence.

Prayagraj Civic Team Attacked, Dogs Stolen During Sterilisation Drive

Prayagraj Civic Team Attacked, Dogs Stolen During Sterilisation Drive

Rediff.com3 Nov 2026

An FIR has been registered in Prayagraj against seven named individuals and 10-15 unidentified persons for allegedly assaulting a Municipal Corporation team, confining its employees, and taking away nine stray dogs meant for sterilisation. The incident occurred after the team caught dogs for sterilisation, leading to an alleged storming of the dog shelter, assault on staff, and theft of the animals.

Gadkari's plan: Using silt from rivers to build Bihar's highways

Gadkari's plan: Using silt from rivers to build Bihar's highways

Rediff.com3 Nov 2026

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will utilise sand and silt excavated from Bihar's rivers and water bodies for building the state's national highway network. This initiative, formalised through an MoU between NHAI and the Bihar government, aims to address annual flood losses, improve water flow, reduce construction costs, and conserve agricultural land by repurposing silt as a primary construction material.

Is US Shrimp Lobby Targeting Indian Exporters?

Is US Shrimp Lobby Targeting Indian Exporters?

Rediff.com7 days ago

An American shrimp producer's complaint against an Indian exporter over alleged forced labour could threaten 35% of India's marine exports to the US.

U'khand avalanche: Bodies of two trekkers recovered; six still missing

U'khand avalanche: Bodies of two trekkers recovered; six still missing

Rediff.com3 Nov 2026

After five days of search to find eight trekkers missing on the Kedartal route in Uttarakhand, rescuers Tuesday recovered bodies of two persons buried in avalanche, officials said.