News for 'Sunday Observer'

HC suspends Dabholkar murder convict's life sentence, grants bail

HC suspends Dabholkar murder convict's life sentence, grants bail

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The Bombay High Court has suspended the life sentence of Sachin Andure, a convict in the 2013 murder case of rationalist Narendra Dabholkar, and granted him bail. The court cited "extremely weak" evidence against him, noting that eyewitness identification occurred eight years after the crime and there were loose ends regarding the weapon's recovery. Andure, who was sentenced to life imprisonment by a sessions court in May 2024, can now walk free as he has also secured bail in the Govind Pansare killing case.

I-T dept launches nationwide drive against suspicious foreign remittances

I-T dept launches nationwide drive against suspicious foreign remittances

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The Income Tax Department has initiated a nationwide verification drive targeting suspicious foreign remittances made by entities with minimal business activity, including those in border districts, and is scrutinising the chartered accountants who issued the mandatory tax determination certificates.

FIP Wants DGCA to Triple Drug Tests For Pilots

FIP Wants DGCA to Triple Drug Tests For Pilots

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Federation of Indian Pilots has requested the DGCA to increase random drug testing for pilots, aiming to enhance aviation safety.

The Rediff Podcast: 'Difference Between Ranveer Singh And Vicky Kaushal Is...'

The Rediff Podcast: 'Difference Between Ranveer Singh And Vicky Kaushal Is...'

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Watch Bollywood acting coach Atul Mongia talk about the secrets behind great acting on this latest episode of The Rediff Podcast.

SC orders SIT to expedite Ram Temple donations embezzlement probe

SC orders SIT to expedite Ram Temple donations embezzlement probe

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has directed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to expeditiously complete its probe into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The court also mandated the SIT to submit a sealed status report and consider suggestions from litigants for improving transparency and investigation quality.

'It's like chess': Gilmour on modern badminton's demands

'It's like chess': Gilmour on modern badminton's demands

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

European women's singles champion Kirsty Gilmour discusses the evolving nature of badminton, emphasising its mental aspect akin to a game of chess. Despite her early exit from the World Championships, she praised the improved arrangements at the New Delhi venue, particularly the availability of sanitary products, and contrasted it with the issues faced during the India Open.

NEET stir: Tejashwi Yadav detained in Patna, taken to undisclosed location

NEET stir: Tejashwi Yadav detained in Patna, taken to undisclosed location

Rediff.com7 days ago

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav was detained in Patna during a protest march concerning police action related to NEET paper leak protests in Bihar. Yadav, along with RJD workers, was protesting against frequent exam paper leaks, stating that the government is jeopardising students' futures.

Ex-terrorist gets life term for murder inside J-K mosque

Ex-terrorist gets life term for murder inside J-K mosque

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

A court in Srinagar has sentenced an ex-militant to life imprisonment for the 2020 murder of a former terror outfit chief inside a mosque, observing that violence in a place of worship cannot be tolerated.

Ex-Maoist leader seeks lifting of ban on outfit, to write to Amit Shah

Ex-Maoist leader seeks lifting of ban on outfit, to write to Amit Shah

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Senior surrendered CPI (Maoist) leader Tippiri Tirupati alias Devji plans to appeal to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to lift the ban on the outfit. He and other surrendered colleagues aim to work legally on people's issues and have also met Telangana DGP C V Anand regarding restrictions on their movements. Tirupati, a former top commander, surrendered in February due to health issues, vowing to work within a legal framework.

US Moves to Regulate Crypto. What Will India Do?

US Moves to Regulate Crypto. What Will India Do?

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The US push for clearer crypto rules is putting pressure on India to fill its own regulatory gap for virtual digital assets.

'Don't you want people to be healthy?': SC slams FSSAI over packaged food warning labels

'Don't you want people to be healthy?': SC slams FSSAI over packaged food warning labels

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

The top court was hearing a PIL of public charitable trust 3S and Our Health Society seeking directions to the Centre, states and Union territories to implement mandatory front-of-package warning labels (FOPL) on packaged foods.

SC tells EC, states to expedite probes into poll black money

SC tells EC, states to expedite probes into poll black money

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has emphasised the need for timely investigations and conclusions of criminal cases involving illicit money in elections. Observing that black money compromises democracy and the rule of law, the court issued several directives, including reporting seizures to competent authorities within 24 hours, completing investigations within a year, and submitting quarterly status reports to the Election Commission. The ruling also mandates High Courts to designate special courts for expeditious disposal of cases against candidates and requires High Court approval for withdrawing cases.

Voter ID, Aadhaar, PAN not proof of Indian citizenship: HC

Voter ID, Aadhaar, PAN not proof of Indian citizenship: HC

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

The Calcutta high court has held that voter identity cards, Aadhaar and PAN cards are not conclusive proof of Indian citizenship.

Manav Suthar's secret to Galle success: Preparation, patience and Jadeja's influence

Manav Suthar's secret to Galle success: Preparation, patience and Jadeja's influence

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Manav Suthar, a left-arm spinner, delivered an exceptional four-wicket haul against Sri Lanka in the first Test, attributing his success to a pre-series training stint at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. His performance, including dismissing Dinesh Chandimal with his first ball, was crucial in keeping the Lankans in check despite a strong partnership. Suthar also highlighted the learning experience from bowling alongside Ravindra Jadeja.

'Girls wearing jeans corrupt boys' mindset unacceptable: HC

'Girls wearing jeans corrupt boys' mindset unacceptable: HC

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Delhi high court on Monday stated that a girl's choice of clothing is her personal decision and suggesting that her wearing jeans might 'corrupt young boys' reflects a deeply troubling and unacceptable mindset.

7 Dogs Review: Salman Khan, Sanjay Dutt Ham In Saudi Actioner

7 Dogs Review: Salman Khan, Sanjay Dutt Ham In Saudi Actioner

Rediff.com6 days ago

7 Dogs has all the money, stars and kinetic action you could want, but its vanity-project sheen cannot hide a painfully generic screenplay, observes Sreeju Sreedharan.

Publishers Must Adapt To Evolving AI Copyright Framework

Publishers Must Adapt To Evolving AI Copyright Framework

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

A new report highlights that publishers need to adopt clear records, AI-specific provisions, and transparent disclosure of AI use to manage legal and commercial risks as the copyright framework around artificial intelligence evolves. Jointly developed by SS Rana & Co and Ficci, the 'Copyright In The AI Age' report emphasises practical governance measures while courts and regulators work on legal principles. It also addresses concerns about authorship, creators' rights, and research integrity amidst increasing AI integration in publishing.

Bengal polls: Despite row, 'Singham' observer keeps vigil

Bengal polls: Despite row, 'Singham' observer keeps vigil

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Special police observer Ajay Pal Sharma toured West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district during the second phase of Assembly elections, facing political controversy and allegations of intimidation from TMC leaders.

8 Countries With The Most Public Holidays

8 Countries With The Most Public Holidays

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

These nations officially top the list when it comes to maximum number of official days off.

Southern states back Shah's push for dialogue to settle water disputes

Southern states back Shah's push for dialogue to settle water disputes

Rediff.com6 days ago

Chief ministers from southern states convened at the Southern Zonal Council meeting in Kovalam, where Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar advocated for the 1971 census as the basis for delimitation and a freeze on Lok Sabha seats, while also addressing the contentious Cauvery water and Mekedatu dam issues.

Let's Not Get Flattered By Sergei Gor's Kashmir Remarks

Let's Not Get Flattered By Sergei Gor's Kashmir Remarks

Rediff.com7 days ago

New Delhi must look for formal, institutional statements issued directly from Washington rather than rely on casual pronouncements meant for local audiences, notes Ambassador Rajasekhar.

Bengal govt revokes BJP MP's award for remarks on Netaji

Bengal govt revokes BJP MP's award for remarks on Netaji

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

The West Bengal government has revoked the Banga Bibhushan award from Rajya Sabha MP Ananta Maharaj following his controversial remarks describing Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose as a 'war criminal' and questioning the Azad Hind Fauj's role in India's freedom struggle.

Sena split: SC says party controls legislature wing, but MLAs need 'elbow room'

Sena split: SC says party controls legislature wing, but MLAs need 'elbow room'

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court, hearing pleas on the Shiv Sena split, observed that a political party retains control over its legislature wing and its valid decisions must prevail, but also advocated for granting 'elbow room' to elected representatives for political decisions if a majority 'genuinely disagree' with party directions.

HC bars 4 lawyers from Lucknow courts, orders IB probe into alleged assault

HC bars 4 lawyers from Lucknow courts, orders IB probe into alleged assault

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The Allahabad High Court has barred four advocates from entering any court premises in Lucknow and ordered a confidential inquiry by the Intelligence Bureau (IB) into their background and activities following an alleged assault on a litigant and Delhi lawyers.

Big relief for Vijay govt as SC clears jobs for Karur victims' kin

Big relief for Vijay govt as SC clears jobs for Karur victims' kin

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has stayed a Madras High Court order that had quashed the Tamil Nadu government's decision to provide government jobs to relatives of those who died in a stampede at Karur last year, questioning the locus standi of petitioners challenging government policy.

Skoda Bets Big On India With CNG, Diesel and EVs

Skoda Bets Big On India With CNG, Diesel and EVs

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Skoda Auto is strategically navigating the competitive Indian automotive market by prioritising profitable growth, exploring new powertrain options like CNG and a limited diesel return, and gearing up for a locally produced electric SUV, all while expanding its retail footprint.

HC bars Arya Samaj temple from solemnising marriages

HC bars Arya Samaj temple from solemnising marriages

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

The Allahabad High Court has temporarily restrained an Arya Samaj temple in Lucknow from solemnising marriages or issuing certificates, citing serious concerns over its alleged failure to verify the legal age of couples. The court's order came during a hearing of a protection petition, where it was revealed that a petitioner's age was misrepresented in the marriage certificate despite Aadhaar card evidence. The court emphasised legal liability for those involved in underage marriages and questioned the temple's adherence to foundational values.

Rajasthan HC flags unchecked construction on Udaipur hills

Rajasthan HC flags unchecked construction on Udaipur hills

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

The Rajasthan High Court has expressed serious concern over rampant construction on Udaipur's ecologically sensitive hills, questioning the state's hill policies and demanding records of commercial project permissions. The court's observations stem from a petition challenging a hotel project and an interim report highlighting extensive hill cutting and inadequate policy formulation, potentially leading to a suo motu Public Interest Litigation.

Hyderabad police warn women against 'rent a boyfriend' dating scam

Hyderabad police warn women against 'rent a boyfriend' dating scam

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Hyderabad City Police are actively cautioning young women against the emerging "rent boyfriend" cyber scam, a deceptive online trap designed to defraud and blackmail victims through fake companionship offers.

From Delhi's NEET stir to Ranchi, this UP man keeps feeding protesters

From Delhi's NEET stir to Ranchi, this UP man keeps feeding protesters

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Mohammad Junaid Malik, a volunteer known for supporting protests in Delhi, has arrived in Jharkhand to provide aid to students protesting alleged irregularities in state recruitment exams. The protest, now in its 14th day, demands cancellation of the 14th JPSC Civil Services Exam and an independent probe, with several students on hunger strike.

No blanket ban, bank account freeze must match proceeds of crime: HC

No blanket ban, bank account freeze must match proceeds of crime: HC

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

The Allahabad High Court has ruled that investigating agencies cannot impose a blanket debit freeze on a person's bank account during cybercrime investigations. The court stated that restraint must be proportionate to the suspected proceeds of crime, directing banks to de-freeze accounts beyond the disputed amount. This ruling aims to protect innocent account holders from complete financial deprivation due to minor disputed transactions.

I'd love to run for 3rd term but...: Donald Trump

I'd love to run for 3rd term but...: Donald Trump

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Donald Trump has explicitly acknowledged that the US Constitution's 22nd Amendment prevents him from seeking a third presidential term in 2028, despite expressing a desire to run again and noting strong support from his base.

SC to hear Rahul's plea against HC order in assets case

SC to hear Rahul's plea against HC order in assets case

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has approached the Supreme Court to challenge an Allahabad High Court order that directed the CBI and ED to verify allegations of disproportionate assets against him. The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the matter on August 17. The Allahabad High Court had expressed dissatisfaction with the CBI's progress and ordered a fresh affidavit, also allowing the ED to proceed if illegality was found during its inquiry. The case stems from a plea by a BJP worker alleging disproportionate assets and dual citizenship.

'You are always pressuring me': RS chairman to Kharge

'You are always pressuring me': RS chairman to Kharge

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan stated he is constantly under pressure from Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge, particularly after disallowing Kharge's attempt to raise the alleged theft of Ayodhya Ram Temple donations. Radhakrishnan also mentioned disallowing Treasury benches from raising the "Jharkhand issue," asserting that state subjects cannot be debated in the House. The session saw continuous disruptions, leading to an adjournment.

How Lovlina Borgohain Ensured India's Map Integrity Abroad

How Lovlina Borgohain Ensured India's Map Integrity Abroad

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Indian Olympic medallist boxer Lovlina Borgohain noticed an inaccurate map of India, missing the Northeast region, displayed at a popular Indian restaurant in Glasgow during a celebratory dinner. Following her observation, Boxing Federation of India president Ajay Singh confirmed that the restaurant management acknowledged the error and assured the Indian contingent that the map would be corrected.

SC grants relief to Rahul Gandhi in disproportionate assets case

SC grants relief to Rahul Gandhi in disproportionate assets case

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has provided significant relief to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi by directing the Allahabad High Court to cease proceedings in a case alleging disproportionate assets against him. The apex court also instructed the CBI and ED not to submit any reports based on the high court's previous directives.

Bengal BJP battles to prevent 'Trinamoolisation' of party

Bengal BJP battles to prevent 'Trinamoolisation' of party

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Three months after winning power in West Bengal, the BJP is confronting a significant political challenge: how to expand and consolidate its presence without adopting the very political culture it campaigned against, particularly concerning the integration of former TMC leaders and the need to curb practices like extortion and intimidation among its own cadres.

EC unlawfully recognised Shinde faction: Sena-UBT tells SC

EC unlawfully recognised Shinde faction: Sena-UBT tells SC

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The Uddhav Thackeray faction has told the Supreme Court that the Election Commission's decision to recognise the Eknath Shinde-led unit as the "real Shiv Sena" and grant it the 'bow-and-arrow' symbol was unlawful. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal argued that a split in a legislature party cannot, by itself, amount to a split in the political party, challenging the very basis of the poll panel's jurisdiction and its disregard for the party's 2018 constitution.

CAG audit reveals Indian Railways' lease repayment on wrong track

CAG audit reveals Indian Railways' lease repayment on wrong track

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

A Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) audit for 2024-25 has highlighted Indian Railways' concerning trend of repaying lease charges to its borrowing arm, IRFC, from budgetary grants instead of internal resources, alongside significant delays in safety-centric works.

How Urban Development Shapes Future Cooling Demand

How Urban Development Shapes Future Cooling Demand

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

A new study by IIT Kharagpur researchers, published in Nature Communications, reveals that urban growth patterns significantly influence future cooling demand in cities. The research highlights that a city's "thermal memory," shaped by decades of development decisions, impacts its heat burden and energy requirements, independent of global temperature rises. The study analysed 88 Indian cities and a global sample of 52 cities over two decades.