News for 'Temple'

Confession statement of accused can't be basis for detention under NSA: SC

Confession statement of accused can't be basis for detention under NSA: SC

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court ruled that a confession statement cannot be the sole basis for detaining an individual under the National Security Act, quashing the preventive detention of Mulla Afroz and imposing a fine on the government for an illegal order.

Ram temple donation embezzlement case: SIT submits preliminary report

Ram temple donation embezzlement case: SIT submits preliminary report

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram temple has submitted its preliminary report to the Uttar Pradesh government. The SIT, formed on June 13 following requests from the temple trust, is continuing its investigation and expects to submit a final report within 10-15 days. Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav had previously raised concerns about missing donations and demanded transparency in the probe.

Ram Temple Trust declines financial disclosure amid SIT probe

Ram Temple Trust declines financial disclosure amid SIT probe

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust secretary, Champat Rai, has declined to provide financial details, including income, expenditure, and donations, citing an ongoing Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe. This decision follows a complaint to the Prime Minister's Office by BJP leader Rajneesh Singh, seeking transparency on the utilisation of funds for the Ram temple project.

Court prevents temple from appyling chemical coating on idol

Court prevents temple from appyling chemical coating on idol

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

A Solapur court has issued a temporary injunction preventing the Pandharpur temple committee from applying a chemical protective coating on the idol of Lord Vitthal. The decision came after devotees argued that modern chemicals violate religious traditions, while the committee cited preservation needs ahead of the Ashadi Ekadashi pilgrimage. The court emphasised the idol's ownership by devotees and the lack of immediate emergency for the controversial coating.

The Recipe That Tastes Like Home

The Recipe That Tastes Like Home

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

It isn't a fancy food. It doesn't have the national recognition of litti or baati. Outside its little corner of Vidarbha, many people may not even know it exists.

SC to hear plea for probe into Ram temple embezzlement on July 13

SC to hear plea for probe into Ram temple embezzlement on July 13

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court is set to hear a batch of petitions on July 13 seeking a fair and time-bound probe into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, with petitioners requesting a CBI investigation and a CAG audit of the temple trust's finances.

Pilibhit Court Directs FIR Against 10 Officials Over Alleged Assault On Women Protesters

Pilibhit Court Directs FIR Against 10 Officials Over Alleged Assault On Women Protesters

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

A special court in Pilibhit has ordered the registration of an FIR against 10 officials, including a sub-divisional magistrate and circle officer, following allegations of assault and misbehaviour with women protesting against liquor shops in a residential area. The court's directive came after the women's complaint was allegedly not registered by local police.

Monsoon session: Controversial bills, NEET Leak, Ram temple row set to dominate

Monsoon session: Controversial bills, NEET Leak, Ram temple row set to dominate

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

The Indian government and opposition are preparing for a contentious Monsoon Session of Parliament, with key issues including the Constitution Amendment Bill on delimitation and women's reservation, the alleged NEET paper leak, and a row over Ram temple donations set to spark heated debates.

Ram Temple donation scam accused's wife gets notice over illegal building

Ram Temple donation scam accused's wife gets notice over illegal building

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

The Ayodhya Development Authority has issued a notice to the wife of a Ram temple donation theft accused for alleged unauthorised construction, as police intensify their investigation into the embezzlement case. Recoveries of cash, gold, silver, and a "Ramrajya Kosh" donation box have been made, and eight people have been arrested.

All valuables donated to Ram Temple are safe: Trust

All valuables donated to Ram Temple are safe: Trust

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has displayed over 30 kg of gold-like items and 1,518 kg of silver-like items, asserting all 2,926 valuable articles donated by devotees are 'safe' and accounted for, amid an ongoing probe into alleged embezzlement of donations.

'Only Small Fish Have Been Caught For Ram Temple Theft'

'Only Small Fish Have Been Caught For Ram Temple Theft'

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

''These people who were running the show at the Ram temple have something to hide, therefore they are not ready for a CBI investigation.'

Hindu Outfit's Visit Provokes Eiffel Staff Strike

Hindu Outfit's Visit Provokes Eiffel Staff Strike

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Eiffel Tower employees launched a strike, leading to the iconic landmark's closure, after allegations surfaced that female staff were asked to vacate their posts during a visit by the Hindu religious organisation BAPS.

Wait for a year, Ram temple thieves will get cancer: BJP MLA

Wait for a year, Ram temple thieves will get cancer: BJP MLA

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

A BJP MLA from Unnao, Anil Singh, has sparked controversy after a video showed him stating that those who embezzled donations from the Ram temple in Ayodhya would suffer from cancer and die painfully. His remarks come amidst a political row over alleged misappropriation of funds, leading to arrests and opposition criticism.

Ram Temple trust to discuss SIT report, pick new CEO

Ram Temple trust to discuss SIT report, pick new CEO

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is set to convene in Ayodhya to discuss the preliminary report of the SIT investigating the Ram Temple donation theft. The agenda includes reviewing the resignations of general secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra, considering the appointment of a CEO, and approving financial statements. The meeting comes amidst ongoing police and SIT investigations, with eight arrests made in connection with the theft.

Fear grips Ram Temple donation counting staffers as 50% quit amid probe

Fear grips Ram Temple donation counting staffers as 50% quit amid probe

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Over half of the employees engaged in counting donations at the Ram temple have resigned amid the ongoing investigation into the alleged embezzlement of offerings, reducing the strength of counting personnel to just around a dozen, sources said on Friday.

'Akhilesh persuaded a 'scared' Rahul to contest from Raebareli'

'Akhilesh persuaded a 'scared' Rahul to contest from Raebareli'

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Samajwadi Party MP Shiv Pal Singh Patel asserted that the Congress would not have secured any seats in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections without their alliance. He claimed SP chief Akhilesh Yadav persuaded Rahul Gandhi to contest Raebareli and highlighted the SP's significant contribution to the INDIA bloc's success in Uttar Pradesh.

Ram temple case: Fresh raids lead to recovery of donation box

Ram temple case: Fresh raids lead to recovery of donation box

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Ayodhya police have conducted fresh searches in the ongoing investigation into alleged donation embezzlement at the Ram temple, recovering a donation box with a QR code, cash, gold, silver, and foreign currency. The probe has also widened to include around 400 private security personnel.

Pune Murder Plot: Fiancee Used Online Research To Kill Realtor

Pune Murder Plot: Fiancee Used Online Research To Kill Realtor

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

A chargesheet filed by Pune Rural police reveals how Siya Goyal and her alleged lover Chetan Chaudhary meticulously planned the murder of realtor Ketan Agarwal. The accused reportedly researched online about past deaths at Lohagad Fort and methods to conceal evidence, including studying a 2025 death at the same location, to make Agarwal's murder appear accidental.

'He sacrificed his career, life for Ram temple': Brother defends Champat Rai

'He sacrificed his career, life for Ram temple': Brother defends Champat Rai

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The brother of Champat Rai, who resigned as the general secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, on Monday defended him against allegations of embezzling donations for the Ram temple, saying his brother had sacrificed both his personal life and career for the Ram temple movement and the service of the nation.

Uddhav calls CEC Gyanesh Kuamr BJP's weapon, Raj wants SIR cancelled in Maharashtra

Uddhav calls CEC Gyanesh Kuamr BJP's weapon, Raj wants SIR cancelled in Maharashtra

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray accused Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar of acting as a 'weapon' for the ruling BJP, while MNS leader Raj Thackeray demanded the cancellation of Maharashtra's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, amidst a large protest march in Mumbai.

Police seeks custody of 3 more in Ram temple embezzlement case

Police seeks custody of 3 more in Ram temple embezzlement case

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The Ayodhya Police are intensifying their investigation into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, preparing to seek custodial remand for three more accused. A Special Investigation Team's preliminary report found prima facie evidence of theft and pilferage during donation counting, with CCTV footage showing personnel concealing cash.

Police seeks custody of 3 more in Ram temple embezzlement case

Police seeks custody of 3 more in Ram temple embezzlement case

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The Ayodhya Police are intensifying their investigation into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, preparing to seek custodial remand for three more accused. A Special Investigation Team's preliminary report found prima facie evidence of theft and pilferage during donation counting, with CCTV footage showing personnel concealing cash.

Govt panel asks states for data on demographic changes over 15 years

Govt panel asks states for data on demographic changes over 15 years

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

The Union Home Ministry's High-Level Committee on Demographic Changes has requested states and Union Territories to provide detailed data on "visible changes" in religious demography over the last 15 years. This includes information on birth registrations, religious structures, vehicle registrations, property transfers in tribal areas, and educational institutions, aiming to assess demographic shifts and recommend policy measures.

Unidentified Assailants Attack Priest In Hathras Temple

Unidentified Assailants Attack Priest In Hathras Temple

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

A 51-year-old priest, Dilip alias Chandu Lala, was found dead in a Hanuman temple in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, after allegedly being attacked on the head by unidentified assailants. Police have launched an investigation, formed multiple teams, and sent the body for post-mortem.

Ram temple chief Mahant Nritya Gopal Das admitted to ICU

Ram temple chief Mahant Nritya Gopal Das admitted to ICU

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, chairman of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, has been admitted to the ICU of a private hospital in Lucknow due to a urinary tract infection.

Kamakhya temple gears up for lakhs of devotees for Ambubachi Mela

Kamakhya temple gears up for lakhs of devotees for Ambubachi Mela

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

The famed Ambubachi Mela at Kamakhya temple in Guwahati is set to begin, with the administration expecting around eight lakh devotees over the next four days. The temple doors will close on Monday night for the 'prabritti' period, symbolising the annual menstrual cycle of Goddess Kamakhya, and reopen on June 26.

Ram Temple Donation Theft: 'Every Effort Was Made To Bury This'

Ram Temple Donation Theft: 'Every Effort Was Made To Bury This'

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

'But two things worked against them: People kept coming forward, and -- crucially -- these were not outsiders.'

'I was fighting for my life, but wouldn't let others die': Capt Machchhar tells Modi

'I was fighting for my life, but wouldn't let others die': Capt Machchhar tells Modi

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Captain Smit Machchaar for his exceptional bravery in foiling an alleged attempt by his co-pilot to crash an Israel-bound flydubai flight. Modi spoke to Machchaar and his family, expressing pride in his heroic actions that saved hundreds of lives. The incident involved a sharp descent and diversion of the flight, with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu also acknowledging Machchaar's courage.

5 dead, 18 injured as temple roof collapses in Maharashtra

5 dead, 18 injured as temple roof collapses in Maharashtra

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

A slab of a Hanuman temple collapsed in Yashwadi village, Parbhani district, Maharashtra, resulting in the deaths of at least three people and injuries to several others. A rescue operation is underway, and approximately 25 individuals have been rescued so far. The incident occurred on a Saturday, a day when the temple typically sees a large number of devotees.

Delhi Government Under Scrutiny Over Women's Safety After Horrific Park Incident

Delhi Government Under Scrutiny Over Women's Safety After Horrific Park Incident

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

AAP Delhi unit president Saurabh Bharadwaj has criticised the Delhi government's handling of women's safety after a 17-year-old girl was allegedly raped at Aastha Kunj Park, leading Lady Shri Ram College to shift classes online. Bharadwaj questioned the BJP government's achievements in ensuring safety and highlighted daily crimes against women, while also alleging harassment of opposition leaders.

Netanyahu invites Capt Machchhar, Modi to Israel's I-Day event

Netanyahu invites Capt Machchhar, Modi to Israel's I-Day event

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has lauded Indian pilot Smit Machchhar as a 'hero of the entire world' for his bravery in foiling an alleged co-pilot's attempt to crash a flydubai flight, and has extended an invitation to Machchhar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to light a flame on Israeli Independence Day.

Dhurandhar Director's Wish For Ranveer-Deepika's Baby

Dhurandhar Director's Wish For Ranveer-Deepika's Baby

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

Filmmaker Aditya Dhar, who directed Ranveer Singh in Dhurandhar, Kareena Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, Raveena Tandon have extended his warm wishes to Bollywood power couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh on the joyous arrival of their second daughter.

Raids conducted at accused's homes in Ram Temple donation scam; money recovered

Raids conducted at accused's homes in Ram Temple donation scam; money recovered

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Ayodhya Police conducted simultaneous raids at the residences of eight individuals arrested in connection with the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple. The raids followed their remand to judicial custody, with police expected to seek custodial remand. The accused were involved in counting donations, and investigators have recovered Rs 79.85 lakh so far in a case registered under various sections including the Prevention of Corruption Act.

Natural Justice Violated: MP High Court Sets Aside Birth Date Change

Natural Justice Violated: MP High Court Sets Aside Birth Date Change

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

The Madhya Pradesh High Court's Indore bench has quashed an order by a municipal officer that altered a young woman's date of birth, citing a violation of natural justice. The case involves an interfaith marriage and allegations of 'love jihad', where the woman's father sought to prove her a minor by changing her birth record, leading to an FIR against her husband. The court directed the Chief Municipal Officer of Maheshwar to reconsider the application after giving the woman an opportunity to be heard.

BJP fields slain Suvendu aide's mother from Nandigram

BJP fields slain Suvendu aide's mother from Nandigram

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The BJP has announced Hasirani Rath, mother of slain former aide to Suvendu Adhikari, as its candidate for the Nandigram bypoll, aiming for an emotive campaign. The party also named Sakharav Sarkar for the Rejinagar seat. These bypolls are set against a backdrop of multi-cornered contests and internal TMC disputes, with voting scheduled for October 6.

Ram temple theft row, CJP protest mar first day of Parliament

Ram temple theft row, CJP protest mar first day of Parliament

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Opposition parties disrupted Lok Sabha proceedings on the opening day of the Monsoon Session, leading to multiple adjournments. Protests focused on the alleged NEET paper leak and Ram temple donation theft issues, with demands for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. The House was eventually adjourned for the day after repeated appeals for order failed.

Teacher, mechanic, ex-bank employee among 8 held in Ram Temple theft case

Teacher, mechanic, ex-bank employee among 8 held in Ram Temple theft case

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

A primary school teacher, a former car mechanic, a retired bank employee and a trusted aide of a senior Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust functionary -- people from diverse backgrounds are among the eight arrested in connection with the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

Uddhav claims silver bricks donated by Sena to Ram temple 'stolen'

Uddhav claims silver bricks donated by Sena to Ram temple 'stolen'

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray criticised the BJP, accusing it of betraying Hindus by allegedly embezzling donations for the Ram temple in Ayodhya. He vowed to lead protests for "BJP-mukt Ram" and questioned the BJP's Hindutva, calling it a "Pakistan Janata Party" for its alleged party-splitting tactics and questioning citizenship. Thackeray also targeted rebel MPs, including Sanjay Deshmukh, for their defection.

Ayodhya lawyers not to defend Ram temple accused; want Champat Rai, others to leave

Ayodhya lawyers not to defend Ram temple accused; want Champat Rai, others to leave

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The Faizabad Bar Association in Ayodhya has resolved that its members will not represent the eight individuals accused of embezzling donations from the Ram Temple, imposing a Rs 5 lakh penalty on any lawyer who violates this decision. The association also demanded that Champat Rai, Anil Mishra, and Gopal Rao, associated with the temple management, leave Ayodhya within three days, threatening a city blockade if they do not comply.

10 Famous Maa Temples

10 Famous Maa Temples

Rediff.com11 May 2026

We journey to 10 famous Maa temples, each devoted to a different form of Devi or the female force...