News for 'The Independent News'

Public Sector Banks Face Boardroom Vacancies

Public Sector Banks Face Boardroom Vacancies

Rediff.com6 May 2026

In the draft norms issued last month, the RBI said that the ultimate responsibility for the bank's performance, conduct and control rests with the Board

Who's Madame Azurie, Whom Priyanka Plays In Mira Nair's Amri?

Who's Madame Azurie, Whom Priyanka Plays In Mira Nair's Amri?

Rediff.com3 days ago

Madame Azurie was a highly popular dancer in early Indian cinema, starring in over 700 movies.

BJP bags 50%+ votes across all categories in Gujarat local polls

BJP bags 50%+ votes across all categories in Gujarat local polls

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

The BJP has secured a majority vote share across all categories in the recent local body elections in Gujarat, according to data released by the State Election Commission (SEC). The ruling party swept the elections, winning a significant number of seats across municipal corporations, municipalities, district panchayats, and taluka panchayats.

TMC Claims Workers Attacked In Post-Poll Violence In West Bengal

TMC Claims Workers Attacked In Post-Poll Violence In West Bengal

Rediff.com1 hour ago

The TMC has dispatched fact-finding teams to investigate alleged post-poll violence against its workers in West Bengal, accusing BJP-backed individuals of carrying out attacks and intimidation.

Haryana Municipal Elections: Vote Counting Begins For Key Cities

Haryana Municipal Elections: Vote Counting Begins For Key Cities

Rediff.com3 days ago

Counting of votes is underway for municipal corporations in Ambala, Panchkula, Sonipat, and other civic bodies in Haryana. Polling was held on Sunday for mayor and ward councillor elections.

Hundreds of Vijay fans who came for 'swearing-in' leave disappointed

Hundreds of Vijay fans who came for 'swearing-in' leave disappointed

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Hundreds of TVK supporters gathered in Chennai, hoping to see their leader Vijay become chief minister, only to find the venue closed and the event cancelled, leading to disappointment and confusion.

Kerala Dalit Groups Call For Strike Over Student Death

Kerala Dalit Groups Call For Strike Over Student Death

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Dalit organisations in Kerala have called for a state-wide strike to protest the death of Nithin Raj, a dental college student, alleging caste-based harassment and demanding a fair investigation.

How Satheesan Emerged As Consensus Choice For Kerala CM

How Satheesan Emerged As Consensus Choice For Kerala CM

Rediff.com2 days ago

'He worked over time to become the natural claimant,' a senior UDF leader observed. 'Others had organisational stature, but Satheesan had momentum.' For the Congress, it may signal the beginning of a new leadership template -- one where performance, communication and grassroots credibility increasingly outweigh inherited power structures in deciding who leads the party into its next phase.

CBI cracks NEET paper leak with arrest of 'source' professor in Pune

CBI cracks NEET paper leak with arrest of 'source' professor in Pune

Rediff.com20 hours ago

The CBI claims to have cracked the NEET paper leak case with the arrest of a Pune-based professor, identified as the source of the leak. The professor allegedly exploited his position to leak the paper to students in exchange for money.

NITI Aayog: India's Scientific Knowledge Systematically Destroyed

NITI Aayog: India's Scientific Knowledge Systematically Destroyed

Rediff.com4 days ago

NITI Aayog member Gobardhan Das asserted that India possessed a rich scientific tradition that suffered setbacks during centuries of foreign domination, with its repository of knowledge systematically destroyed by invaders.

India restricts gold imports to 100 kg under Advance Authorisation scheme

India restricts gold imports to 100 kg under Advance Authorisation scheme

Rediff.com1 days ago

India has capped gold imports under the Advance Authorisation scheme at 100 kg, a day after significantly increasing import duties on precious metals. This move aims to tighten conditions for duty-free gold imports by jewellery exporters and curb non-essential imports amidst a ballooning import bill.

Why CBI Is Now Investigating Suvendu Adhikari Aide's Murder

Why CBI Is Now Investigating Suvendu Adhikari Aide's Murder

Rediff.com4 days ago

The CBI has registered an FIR in the alleged murder of Chandranath Rath, an aide to West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, taking over the investigation from the state police following a request from the state government.

In UAE, Modi offers help to end West Asia crisis

In UAE, Modi offers help to end West Asia crisis

Rediff.com1 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has offered India's support to bring peace to West Asia during talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Both countries signed agreements to strengthen strategic collaborations in energy and defence.

US Secret Service confirms shooting near White House

US Secret Service confirms shooting near White House

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The US Secret Service shot an armed individual involved in a shooting incident near the White House, prompting a warning for the public to avoid the area. A juvenile bystander was also injured during the incident.

Defence Stocks Soar on Geopolitical Tensions, Indigenisation Push

Defence Stocks Soar on Geopolitical Tensions, Indigenisation Push

Rediff.com2 days ago

Indian defence stocks have seen an average year-on-year gain of 67 per cent, driven by renewed interest following 'Operation Sindoor' and a broader increase in global geopolitical tensions, with the combined market capitalisation of 18 firms increasing by approximately 2.3 trillion.

Historic polling in Bengal: 92.47% turnout breaks all records

Historic polling in Bengal: 92.47% turnout breaks all records

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

West Bengal recorded its highest-ever voter turnout in the 2026 assembly polls since Independence, with a cumulative 92.47 per cent polling in two phases, the Election Commission said on Wednesday.

Thane Court Acquits MCOCA Robbery Accused Due To Lack Of Evidence

Thane Court Acquits MCOCA Robbery Accused Due To Lack Of Evidence

Rediff.com6 days ago

A Thane court acquitted two men accused of robbery under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA), citing a lack of substantial evidence linking them to the crime.

'I Miss Privacy; Relatives Walk Into Our Bedroom Without Knocking'

'I Miss Privacy; Relatives Walk Into Our Bedroom Without Knocking'

Rediff.com4 May 2026

rediffGURU Kanchan Rai, a mind coach and founder of Let Us Talk Foundation, suggests how to adapt and find a middle ground in a relationship.

Hampton Sky Realty Claims Innocence After Director's Arrest

Hampton Sky Realty Claims Innocence After Director's Arrest

Rediff.com6 days ago

Hampton Sky Realty Limited, formerly directed by Punjab minister Sanjeev Arora, has issued a statement asserting its innocence and cooperation with authorities following the arrest of Arora in connection with a money laundering probe.

Supreme Court Permits Filing Of SIT Report In Gurugram Rape Case

Supreme Court Permits Filing Of SIT Report In Gurugram Rape Case

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Supreme Court has permitted the filing of a special investigation team (SIT) probe report before a Gurugram court regarding the rape of a three-year-old girl. The court is also considering the role of doctors and compensation for the victim.

CBI To Investigate Suvendu Adhikari Aide's Murder

CBI To Investigate Suvendu Adhikari Aide's Murder

Rediff.com4 days ago

The CBI has registered an FIR in the alleged murder of Chandranath Rath, an aide to West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, taking over the investigation from the state police following a request from the state government.

Bengal set for 'Sonar Bangla' under BJP: Adhikari ahead of oath ceremony

Bengal set for 'Sonar Bangla' under BJP: Adhikari ahead of oath ceremony

Rediff.com7 days ago

West Bengal's chief minister-elect Suvendu Adhikari announced the beginning of 'Sonar Bangla' with the formation of the first BJP government in the state, heralding an era of 'peace and prosperity'. The oath-taking ceremony, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other prominent figures, marks a significant political shift for West Bengal.

NEET-UG 2026 exam cancelled over paper leak; CBI to probe

NEET-UG 2026 exam cancelled over paper leak; CBI to probe

Rediff.com3 days ago

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has cancelled the NEET (UG) 2026 exam, which was conducted on May 3, following allegations of irregularities. A CBI inquiry has been ordered, and a re-examination will be scheduled.

Haryana Local Body Polls Record 25% Voter Turnout Till 1 PM

Haryana Local Body Polls Record 25% Voter Turnout Till 1 PM

Rediff.com6 days ago

Polling is underway for local body elections in Haryana, including municipal corporations of Ambala, Panchkula, and Sonipat. An average voter turnout of 25 per cent was recorded till 1 pm. The main contest is expected between the Congress and the ruling BJP.

When Love Turned Into Betrayal

When Love Turned Into Betrayal

Rediff.com9 hours ago

An electric current passed through me, and I couldn't figure out what hit me. Aarti David explores love and betrayal in this short story.

Why Gulf States Now Need India

Why Gulf States Now Need India

Rediff.com1 days ago

India is the only significant power that all parties trust, or at least do not distrust, notes former defence secretary Ajay Kumar.

BRICS meet in India from Thursday on West Asia; Iran to attend, China skips

BRICS meet in India from Thursday on West Asia; Iran to attend, China skips

Rediff.com3 days ago

The escalating crisis in West Asia and its impact on the global energy supply chain are expected to dominate deliberations at a two-day meeting of BRICS foreign ministers to be hosted by India.

Haryana Voters Affirm Trust In BJP's Development Model

Haryana Voters Affirm Trust In BJP's Development Model

Rediff.com1 days ago

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini celebrated the BJP's victory in the recent civic body elections, attributing the win to public confidence in the party's development-focused governance and rejection of the Congress' negative politics.

Boxing Federation Agrees To Rework Selection Criteria After SAI Intervention

Boxing Federation Agrees To Rework Selection Criteria After SAI Intervention

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Boxing Federation of India (BFI) has agreed to rework its selection criteria after talks with the Sports Authority of India (SAI) following the suspension of an assessment camp due to alleged irregularities. The decision comes after concerns were raised about transparency and fair play in the selection process for the Commonwealth and Asian Games.

Victory margin less than deleted votes: SC allows Mamata, others to file fresh pleas

Victory margin less than deleted votes: SC allows Mamata, others to file fresh pleas

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Supreme Court has allowed former West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee and others to file fresh applications regarding their claim that victory margins in 31 constituencies in the recent assembly polls were less than the deletion of votes during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

Suvendu aide murder: CBI probe hints at Rs 1 cr contract killing

Suvendu aide murder: CBI probe hints at Rs 1 cr contract killing

Rediff.com3 days ago

The CBI has registered an FIR in the alleged murder of Chandranath Rath, an aide to West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, taking over the investigation from the state police following a request from the state government.

Haryana Local Body Polls Record 54.5 Per Cent Voter Turnout

Haryana Local Body Polls Record 54.5 Per Cent Voter Turnout

Rediff.com5 days ago

Local body elections in Haryana, including municipal corporations of Ambala, Panchkula, and Sonipat, saw a 54.5 per cent voter turnout. Polling was held for mayor and ward councillor posts, with key contestants from BJP and Congress. The votes will be counted on May 13.

Sanjeev Arora Challenges Arrest By ED In Money Laundering Case

Sanjeev Arora Challenges Arrest By ED In Money Laundering Case

Rediff.com3 days ago

Punjab Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora has challenged his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), claiming it is illegal and unconstitutional. The Punjab and Haryana High Court heard arguments and adjourned the matter to May 14. Arora was arrested in connection with an alleged Rs 100-crore GST fraud-linked money laundering case.

Jhon Arokiasamy Scripts TVK's Stunning Rise

Jhon Arokiasamy Scripts TVK's Stunning Rise

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Building a party from scratch and leading it to electoral success is an entirely different challenge.

Arvind Subramanian: Be Wary of China Bashing

Arvind Subramanian: Be Wary of China Bashing

Rediff.com2 days ago

It seems odd to criticise a country for delivering growth rates in standards of living and consumption that have been perhaps the fastest, longest, and most broad-based (affecting hundreds of millions of people) in history, points out Arvind Subramanian.

Iran seeks India's help on West Asia, flags UAE hurdle in BRICS

Iran seeks India's help on West Asia, flags UAE hurdle in BRICS

Rediff.com2 days ago

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has urged India to take the lead in bringing peace to West Asia, highlighting the UAE's role in stalling BRICS consensus on the conflict. Gharibabadi also discussed a new framework with Oman for merchant vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Why CBI Officers Were Jailed For Assaulting IRS Officer

Why CBI Officers Were Jailed For Assaulting IRS Officer

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

A Delhi court has sentenced two CBI officers to three months' imprisonment for assaulting and trespassing into the residence of an IRS officer during a raid two decades ago.

Srinagar Police Seize Drug Peddlers' Assets Worth Over Rs 2 Crore

Srinagar Police Seize Drug Peddlers' Assets Worth Over Rs 2 Crore

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Police in Srinagar have attached immovable properties worth over Rs 2 crore belonging to alleged drug peddlers as part of the 'Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan'. The attached properties include residential houses in Chanapora and Qamarwari, acquired through proceeds from drug trafficking.

India flags energy, maritime threats at BRICS amid West Asia crisis

India flags energy, maritime threats at BRICS amid West Asia crisis

Rediff.com1 days ago

India has expressed serious concerns about the West Asia crisis and its potential impact on energy supplies and maritime stability, urging BRICS nations to find practical solutions to geopolitical challenges and unilateral sanctions.

BJP's Assam Sweep Redrew Political Map

BJP's Assam Sweep Redrew Political Map

Rediff.com4 days ago

The 2026 election appears to have reinforced a new political formula in Assam: Strong organisation, continuous grassroots engagement, effective alliance management and welfare-based voter outreach.