News for 'The Citizen'

Suvendu plans stringent anti-conversion law, implementation of UCC in Bengal

Suvendu plans stringent anti-conversion law, implementation of UCC in Bengal

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced plans to enact a stringent law against religious conversion and implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state. He linked these measures to strengthening national security and preserving Bengal's cultural identity, citing concerns over infiltration and demographic changes. Adhikari also highlighted efforts in border security, distinguished between illegal immigrants and CAA refugees, and paid tribute to Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.

Rhodes Scholarship: How Indian Students Can Study At Oxford

Rhodes Scholarship: How Indian Students Can Study At Oxford

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Eligible and selected students will receive a stipend of 20,400 per annum, course fee and other costs.

CJP ramps up Pradhan's exit demand; Wangchuk joins Hyderabad stir

CJP ramps up Pradhan's exit demand; Wangchuk joins Hyderabad stir

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party and other organisations staged a protest in Hyderabad on Sunday, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak and irregularities related to the CBSE's on-screen marking system.

Senior NCPI leader questions merger with rebel Trinamool MPs

Senior NCPI leader questions merger with rebel Trinamool MPs

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

A day after 20 rebel Trinamool Congress MPs announced their merger with the Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI), a senior functionary of the outfit questioned the decision, claiming the party leadership had never been consulted on the move and that such a decision could not be taken unilaterally.

FBI foils major attack on White House UFC event attended by Trump

FBI foils major attack on White House UFC event attended by Trump

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

The FBI announced it foiled a potential attack on the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event held at the White House last weekend, leading to multiple arrests. The alleged plot involved using explosive-laden drones and a sniper team to target the event attended by President Trump, with a "second wave" planned to storm the White House gate.

Gujarat Intensifies Crackdown On Undocumented Bangladeshi Nationals

Gujarat Intensifies Crackdown On Undocumented Bangladeshi Nationals

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Gujarat's "Operation Delta Hunt" has led to the apprehension of over 600 undocumented Bangladeshi nationals, including women and children, across various districts. The state-wide drive, which began on June 3, uses technical surveillance and human intelligence to identify and detain illegal immigrants, with authorities also investigating those who provide them accommodation or employment without verification.

India And Nepal Launch UPI-NPI Linkage For Seamless Cross-Border Payments

India And Nepal Launch UPI-NPI Linkage For Seamless Cross-Border Payments

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

India and Nepal have launched a peer-to-peer (P2P) cross-border remittance mechanism, linking India's UPI with Nepal's NPI. This system allows real-time money transfers via mobile banking, enhancing convenience for travellers and businesses, fostering financial inclusion, and strengthening economic ties between the two nations.

RBI Achieves Near-Perfect Application Processing Rate

RBI Achieves Near-Perfect Application Processing Rate

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced that it processed 99.9 per cent of applications within the prescribed timeline under its Citizen's Charter in May 2026. The central bank handled 18,763 applications, showcasing efficient processing across various functions.

'Without A Shade Of Doubt BJP Is Behind This'

'Without A Shade Of Doubt BJP Is Behind This'

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

'It was done with record speed. First, a revolt of the MLAs, which was obviously engineered.' ''No one believed me when I said the MLAs breaking away is not the real issue.' 'It is like a comet. The head doesn't matter, the tail matters.' 'And the tail is Parliament. Suvendu has gifted the prime minister 20 MPs.'

Oath-taking only in name of god or by solemn affirmation: Kerala HC

Oath-taking only in name of god or by solemn affirmation: Kerala HC

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

The Kerala high court has ruled that elected local body representatives must take their oath strictly as prescribed by law, invalidating oaths that included names beyond "God" or solemn affirmation. The court directed affected councillors to retake their oaths within four weeks, clarifying that while their elections remain valid, actions by a panchayat member whose oath was invalid are also invalid.

Assam not to issue Aadhaar cards to adults anymore

Assam not to issue Aadhaar cards to adults anymore

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

The Assam cabinet has decided to restrict the issuance of Aadhaar cards to individuals over 18 years of age, a move aimed at preventing illegal immigrants from acquiring the document. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that exceptions would require district commissioner proposals and state government approval, with a complete ban for all communities over 18 set for April 1, 2027.

Tension escalates as Iran's IRGC claims it hit 8 US bases in Kuwait, Bahrain

Tension escalates as Iran's IRGC claims it hit 8 US bases in Kuwait, Bahrain

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Sunday claimed it had destroyed eight US military infrastructures in Kuwait and Bahrain in a joint missile and drone operation, describing the strikes as retaliation for a second wave of US military attacks on Iranian targets.

BJP govt to table UCC bill in Bengal assembly, face twin TMC challenge

BJP govt to table UCC bill in Bengal assembly, face twin TMC challenge

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Less than two months after ending the TMC's 15-year rule in the state, the BJP government is expected to table one of its most ambitious and politically sensitive promises, setting the stage for what could become the first major ideological confrontation of the post-election period.

Modi under Cong fire over US statements after killing of Indian seafarers

Modi under Cong fire over US statements after killing of Indian seafarers

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

The Congress on Sunday lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the US' statements after three Indian sailors were killed in American attacks on ships, with party leader Rahul Gandhi saying the "compromised PM" listens "like an obedient servant" and "complies with the orders".

Hezbollah rejects Israel-Lebanon truce, vows to fight

Hezbollah rejects Israel-Lebanon truce, vows to fight

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

In a statement issued following the announcement of the US-mediated deal, Qassem characterised the agreement as a 'humiliating' and 'shameful' surrender of Lebanese sovereignty that prioritises Israeli and American dictates over the nation's independence.

Rebel Trinamool MPs spark symbol war, claim mission to 'rectify' party

Rebel Trinamool MPs spark symbol war, claim mission to 'rectify' party

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Rebel Trinamool Congress MP Arup Chakraborty on Monday said the breakaway faction is trying to "rectify" the party, and would fight for the control of its election symbol, even as the Mamata Banerjee-led outfit termed the move illegal under the anti-defection law.

Do not cross borders without embassy nod, India tells citizens in Iran

Do not cross borders without embassy nod, India tells citizens in Iran

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

The Indian Embassy in Tehran has issued an advisory urging Indian citizens in Iran to coordinate with the embassy before attempting to cross any land borders, citing potential logistical and immigration difficulties.

How AI Can Transform Delhi's Administration: LG Sandhu

How AI Can Transform Delhi's Administration: LG Sandhu

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu highlighted the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in enhancing urban governance. He stressed that AI can address complex administrative challenges, improve efficiency in areas like traffic management and environmental monitoring, and shift governance towards an intelligence-driven model, provided it is human-centric and reflects India's diverse context.

TMC merger: Strategic move to aid BJP without legal hurdles

TMC merger: Strategic move to aid BJP without legal hurdles

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Twenty rebel Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha MPs have merged with the obscure Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI), a move seen by political observers as a strategic way to support the BJP-led NDA without immediately joining the saffron party and bypassing legal complexities.

'I Don't Miss My Father; I Miss...'

'I Don't Miss My Father; I Miss...'

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

In a touching tribute on Father's Day, Professor Asim Kumar Mukherjee pens a touching tribute to the most amazing man he has ever known -- his father, Bimal Kumar Mukherjee.

Bengaluru Dog Walking Row: Pet Owner and Senior Citizens Accuse Each Other of Assault

Bengaluru Dog Walking Row: Pet Owner and Senior Citizens Accuse Each Other of Assault

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

A dispute over dog walking in a Bengaluru apartment complex escalated into a physical altercation, with both a pet owner and a group of senior citizens filing assault complaints.

Cabinet reshuffle imminent; Pradhan, a few others likely to lose ministry

Cabinet reshuffle imminent; Pradhan, a few others likely to lose ministry

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

There are strong possibilities of some Union ministers being sent to take organisational roles in the BJP and party office-bearers being inducted into the Modi ministry.

Domestic Helps Arrested For Hyderabad Gold Heist

Domestic Helps Arrested For Hyderabad Gold Heist

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Hyderabad police apprehended three Nepali nationals, including a couple who worked as domestic help, from Rampur, Uttar Pradesh, in connection with the theft of 7.5 kg gold and 1.5 kg silver ornaments from a businessman's house. The stolen property was recovered intact, and the accused are being brought to Hyderabad on a transit warrant.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Visa cleared, Cape Verde star Vozinha's mother ready for reunion

FIFA World Cup 2026: Visa cleared, Cape Verde star Vozinha's mother ready for reunion

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

The mother of Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha will finally get to watch her son play at the World Cup after receiving a visa to travel to the United States, following his tearful revelation that she missed his heroics against Spain due to travel issues.

NCERT brings Emergency into Class 9 syllabus; Pradhan hails move

NCERT brings Emergency into Class 9 syllabus; Pradhan hails move

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The NCERT has included in the class 9 social science textbook a section on Emergency, which it described as "one of the major challenges to democracy in India" with Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan hailing the move saying future generations should know about the "dark deeds".

LS Speaker to decide on rebel TMC, Sena-UBT MPs before monsoon session

LS Speaker to decide on rebel TMC, Sena-UBT MPs before monsoon session

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla is set to make crucial decisions regarding the disqualification petitions against rebel MPs from the Trinamool Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) before the upcoming monsoon session of Parliament. Both parties have sought the disqualification of their defecting members under the anti-defection law, while the Speaker is consulting legal experts and examining precedents to ensure legally sound decisions.

Manipur's Kangpokpi tense as 3 hurt in firing between two tribal groups

Manipur's Kangpokpi tense as 3 hurt in firing between two tribal groups

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Three individuals were injured in an exchange of fire between two tribal groups in Manipur's Kangpokpi district. Following their admission to RIMS hospital in Imphal, protests erupted with demonstrators questioning the security arrangements for the injured, leading to a tense situation requiring additional central forces.

Why Bengal's Annapurna Yojana Form Requires Extensive Details

Why Bengal's Annapurna Yojana Form Requires Extensive Details

Rediff.com28 May 2026

West Bengal minister Agnimitra Paul defended the detailed application form for the Annapurna Yojana scheme, stating it ensures benefits reach only Indian citizens. She also announced stringent waste-related penalties and a 'Swachh App' to improve urban cleanliness.

FIT India Cyclothon Promotes Cycling Amid Fuel Concerns

FIT India Cyclothon Promotes Cycling Amid Fuel Concerns

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya led the FIT India Cyclothon in Mumbai, advocating for cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation. The event, attended by Narsingh Yadav and Jackie Shroff, highlighted the importance of cycling for personal health, environmental sustainability, and energy conservation, especially amidst global fuel supply concerns.

India Post's Biggest Makeover in 150 Years

India Post's Biggest Makeover in 150 Years

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

India Post is reinventing itself from a traditional mail service into a modern logistics, e-commerce, and real estate powerhouse. Several post offices situated inside major university campuses, called Gen Z post offices, have received a facelift, with cafe-like decor and wi-fi availability.

Tamil Nadu Debt Nearly Doubles to 10 Trillion in Five Years

Tamil Nadu Debt Nearly Doubles to 10 Trillion in Five Years

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

A new white paper released by the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government reveals that Tamil Nadu's direct debt has nearly doubled to an alarming 10 trillion in the past five years, exposing significant fiscal strain and a substantial debt burden on every citizen.

First in six decades: Australia pick India-born Nikhil Chaudhary for Bangladesh T20s

First in six decades: Australia pick India-born Nikhil Chaudhary for Bangladesh T20s

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Delhi-born Nikhil Chaudhary, who played for Punjab till 2016-2017, was called up to the Australian T20 squad for a three-match tour to Bangladesh next week.

Delhi Fires Reveal A Grim Reality

Delhi Fires Reveal A Grim Reality

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

We have built an economy that can deliver everything -- from iPhones to biryani -- to a doorstep in 10 minutes, but it cannot deliver a fire engine through a lane in 20, points out Amit Kapoor.

Modi to lead International Yoga Day from Kolkata

Modi to lead International Yoga Day from Kolkata

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) celebrations from Kolkata's iconic Red Road on June 21, with over 210 Indian Missions organising events at nearly 2,500 locations worldwide under the theme 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing'.

How Kushinagar Police Busted International Job Fraud Syndicate

How Kushinagar Police Busted International Job Fraud Syndicate

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Kushinagar police busted an international fraud syndicate that allegedly lured Nepali citizens with false promises of jobs and higher education, arresting ten members and rescuing 453 Nepali nationals.

Why Bengal's Annapurna Yojana Form Is Facing Criticism

Why Bengal's Annapurna Yojana Form Is Facing Criticism

Rediff.com29 May 2026

West Bengal minister Agnimitra Paul defended the detailed application form for the 'Annapurna Yojana', stating the government aims to ensure benefits reach only Indian citizens, amidst criticism over excessive documentation.

RBI Processes 99.8% of Applications Under Citizen's Charter Within Timeline

RBI Processes 99.8% of Applications Under Citizen's Charter Within Timeline

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced that it processed 99.8% of applications within the prescribed timeline under its Citizen's Charter in February, demonstrating high efficiency in its operations.

Supreme Court's Electoral Roll Ruling: Key Takeaways

Supreme Court's Electoral Roll Ruling: Key Takeaways

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Senior Trinamool Congress leader Kalyan Banerjee has commented on the Supreme Court judgment regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, emphasising its specific application to the Bihar case and highlighting the Election Commission's limited authority in determining citizenship.

Cape Verde keeper Vozinha set for emotional World Cup reunion with mom

Cape Verde keeper Vozinha set for emotional World Cup reunion with mom

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Cape Verde's heroic goalkeeper Vozinha will have his mother in the stands when he next takes to the pitch at the World Cup on Sunday, after US officials moved to ensure she could obtain a visa in time.

'Stay hydrated, avoid...': Modi lists precautions amid heatwave

'Stay hydrated, avoid...': Modi lists precautions amid heatwave

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged Indian citizens to take precautions during the ongoing heatwave, emphasising hydration and care for vulnerable individuals and animals.