News for 'The Observer'

Continue HPV drive, but beware of 'half-baked' vaccines: HC

Continue HPV drive, but beware of 'half-baked' vaccines: HC

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has declined to halt the Centre's HPV immunisation campaign, noting that data on 5.5 million administered vaccines showed no 'instant harm'. However, the court emphasised that 'half-baked vaccines' should not be given to the public and raised 'serious issues' regarding past protocol violations in vaccine testing and certification.

HC seeks fresh medical reports on Wangchuk, defers hospital shift plea

HC seeks fresh medical reports on Wangchuk, defers hospital shift plea

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court is set to hear an appeal by Gitanjali J Angmo, wife of fasting activist Sonam Wangchuk, challenging a single judge's order that refused to interfere with his ongoing treatment at Safdarjung Hospital.

'Saransh Can Be Top Off-Spinner': Harbhajan

'Saransh Can Be Top Off-Spinner': Harbhajan

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

'Saransh is a very keen observer, he wants to keep learning.' 'He has the skills to be a top off-spinner, the way he releases the ball that is very good.' 'He is also mentally tough because he has played so much of domestic cricket.'

Pellet guns cannot be banned outright, specific misuse to be examined: SC

Pellet guns cannot be banned outright, specific misuse to be examined: SC

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has stated that a complete ban on pellet guns is not possible as long as existing advisories permit their use for crowd control in exceptional circumstances by security agencies. However, the court clarified that allegations of specific misuse can be examined on a case-by-case basis, particularly in light of recent protests against the NEET paper leak.

Sonam Wangchuk seeks temporary discharge from Safdarjung to join Parl march

Sonam Wangchuk seeks temporary discharge from Safdarjung to join Parl march

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk's vital parameters are stable, but his blood parameters require close clinical observation at Safdarjung Hospital. He is under continuous medical management by a multidisciplinary team following his forcible admission after a 21-day hunger strike protesting NEET irregularities.

Assam Wants Aditya Dhar To Direct Lachit Borphukan Biopic

Assam Wants Aditya Dhar To Direct Lachit Borphukan Biopic

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Lachit Borphukan is revered as one of Assam's greatest military commanders and a symbol of courage, patriotism and selfless leadership.

'We grant six weeks': SC orders Bihar to clear illegal Ganga encroachments

'We grant six weeks': SC orders Bihar to clear illegal Ganga encroachments

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has issued a directive to the Bihar government, ordering the removal of all unauthorised structures and encroachments along the Ganga river banks between Nauzar Ghat and Nurpur Ghat in Patna within six weeks. The court expressed concern over illegal constructions and noted the lack of action despite previous orders, warning of strict views on any laxity. The directive came during the hearing of a plea against a National Green Tribunal order regarding encroachments on eco-fragile floodplains.

Parliament clears tougher anti-paper leak law amid Oppn walkout

Parliament clears tougher anti-paper leak law amid Oppn walkout

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Parliament on Thursday passed a bill to amend the anti-paper leak law to introduce stricter punishments, with the government expressing its commitment to go the extra mile to safeguard the interests of students, who are the country's future.

Police dismantle CJP camp, protesters regroup at Jantar Mantar

Police dismantle CJP camp, protesters regroup at Jantar Mantar

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janata Party's protest site in New Delhi was dismantled by police following a thwarted march to Parliament that involved tear gas and baton charges. Despite the police action, protesters regrouped at Jantar Mantar, vowing to continue their agitation until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns over alleged examination irregularities. Activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike stage was also removed, but leaders confirmed the movement's resolve.

35 Years On, SC Quashes FERA Case Against Standard Chartered Bank

35 Years On, SC Quashes FERA Case Against Standard Chartered Bank

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court of India has quashed criminal proceedings against Standard Chartered Bank and one of its officers in a 1991-92 Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA) case, citing an extraordinary 23-year delay in prosecution and the Enforcement Directorate's failure to comply with mandatory procedural safeguards.

Press freedom can't shield irresponsible journalism: HC

Press freedom can't shield irresponsible journalism: HC

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has highlighted the need for a regulatory framework for the media, stating that freedom of the press cannot be a shield for irresponsible journalism or content that endangers public order. Justice Girish Kathpalia expressed concern over the unregulated nature of a significant section of the media, especially with the rise of social media, and stressed the importance of restraint, fairness, and responsibility. The court also criticised "self-styled reporters" for aggressive tactics and selective reporting that can deepen social divisions, while granting bail to two men accused of assaulting freelancers.

Delhi High Court Rules In Favour Of AI Development

Delhi High Court Rules In Favour Of AI Development

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has dismissed a lawsuit by news agency ANI against OpenAI, ruling that ChatGPT's use of copyrighted material for training large language models (LLMs) constitutes fair dealing under the Copyrights Act. The court emphasised that restraining AI development would be detrimental to India's growth in the field and public interest.

Pakistan Names New Nuclear Command Chief

Pakistan Names New Nuclear Command Chief

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Lieutenant General Syed Aamir Raza's loyalty to Field Marshal Asim Munir during the turbulent times appears to have stood him in good stead, points out Rana Banerji, who headed the Pakistan desk at R&AW.

BRICS Nations Strengthen Health Cooperation Through Digital Innovation

BRICS Nations Strengthen Health Cooperation Through Digital Innovation

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava highlighted the strong health cooperation within BRICS, emphasising the critical role of digital health and artificial intelligence in ensuring continuity of care. Speaking at the 16th BRICS Health Ministers' meeting, she noted shared challenges among member nations and showcased India's advancements in digital health infrastructure and AI strategy.

Maharashtra ends mandatory service bond for MBBS graduates

Maharashtra ends mandatory service bond for MBBS graduates

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Maharashtra government has abolished the mandatory one-year service bond for MBBS students, citing an "inverse ratio" of available positions to graduating candidates. This decision benefits graduates from various medical colleges, exempting most from the bond, though those who have already joined their postings must complete it. The move aims to ease postgraduate admission difficulties and address issues of competency and motivation in bond service, a decision welcomed by the Maharashtra Association for Resident Doctors (MARD).

Mamata reaches out to Cong, CPI-M for anti-BJP front

Mamata reaches out to Cong, CPI-M for anti-BJP front

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee has urged the Congress and CPI(M) to set aside their differences and unite under the INDIA bloc to fight the BJP in West Bengal. This marks a significant shift in the TMC's stance, which has historically been a bitter rival to the Congress and Left in the state.

Ink thrown at Abhijeet Dipke after Wangchuk's removal

Ink thrown at Abhijeet Dipke after Wangchuk's removal

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

A woman hurled an ink-like liquid at Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke during a protest at Jantar Mantar, leading to her detention. This incident occurred hours after activist Sonam Wangchuk, on an indefinite hunger strike over NEET irregularities, was shifted to Safdarjung Hospital due to deteriorating health.

'Ultimately, Indian Football Has To Be Built By Indians'

'Ultimately, Indian Football Has To Be Built By Indians'

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

'Our biggest opportunity lies with the younger age-group teams.' 'If you look at the senior national team, our chances are about 50-50.' 'The gap becomes smaller as you move down the age groups.' 'At the Under-20 level, it's closer to 60-40.' 'By the Under-17 level, it's around 80-20. That's where I feel we have our best chance.'

Delhi HC allows Wangchuk's transfer to private hospital; Centre says...

Delhi HC allows Wangchuk's transfer to private hospital; Centre says...

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has proposed transferring activist Sonam Wangchuk, currently on an indefinite fast since June 28 over alleged examination irregularities, from Safdarjung Hospital to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram. This development follows a plea by Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, challenging a previous court order that refused to interfere with his ongoing treatment at the central government hospital. The government has indicated no objection to the transfer, provided Wangchuk does not seek discharge against medical advice.

Actor Rajpal Yadav gets 3 months jail in cheque-bounce cases

Actor Rajpal Yadav gets 3 months jail in cheque-bounce cases

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has upheld actor Rajpal Yadav's conviction in multiple cheque-bounce cases, sentencing him to three months' imprisonment and ordering him to pay over Rs 1 crore to the complainant in each of the seven complaints, with Rs 2 crore already paid to be adjusted.

SC shields student protesters; mulls SIT probe into police excesses

SC shields student protesters; mulls SIT probe into police excesses

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has issued interim directions regarding nationwide protests over the NEET paper leak, ordering the release of minor student protesters without criminal records and directing states to preserve all digital evidence. The court also called for a fair and independent investigation into allegations of police excesses against students, while also acknowledging concerns for injured police personnel.

Ministers helping break my fast was our victory: Wangchuk

Ministers helping break my fast was our victory: Wangchuk

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk emphasised the enduring relevance of Mahatma Gandhi's non-violent resistance, stating, "His path is as relevant today as it was 100 years ago. This experiment is successful today."

HC dismisses PIL over Wangchuk's forcible hospital shift

HC dismisses PIL over Wangchuk's forcible hospital shift

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the forcible shifting of activist Sonam Wangchuk from a protest site at Jantar Mantar to Safdarjung Hospital during his hunger strike. The court noted that the issue of his hospitalisation had been previously addressed and dismissed the new petition, advising the petitioner to lodge an FIR if still aggrieved.

SC considers SIT to probe police brutality on NEET protesters

SC considers SIT to probe police brutality on NEET protesters

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court was strongly urged to establish a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by a former judge to investigate alleged police excesses against students protesting the NEET paper leak across various states. The court, while issuing interim directions, restrained states from coercive action against protesters and ordered the release of minors without criminal antecedents.

'Aditya Chopra Is The Best Brother-In-Law Anyone Could Ask For'

'Aditya Chopra Is The Best Brother-In-Law Anyone Could Ask For'

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

'It's very easy for people to say, 'She got work because of her connections. What they don't see is the number of rejections I went through. Even if someone helps you get your first opportunity, you can't sustain a career unless you know your craft. I wanted people to hire me because they believed in my work, not because I was related to someone.'

'India's First Substantive Judicial Engagement With AI'

'India's First Substantive Judicial Engagement With AI'

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

The judgment is India's first to examine AI companies' use of copyrighted works for foundation models, setting an analytical framework for Section 52 of the Copyright Act.

SC to review anti-defection law's 'deemed merger' clause

SC to review anti-defection law's 'deemed merger' clause

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a plea by senior advocate Kapil Sibal challenging the interpretation of the Tenth Schedule's 'deemed merger' provision, which allows MLAs and MPs to avoid disqualification under the anti-defection law, citing its 'huge repercussions on our polity'.

Jagannath Rath Yatra-Iskcon Clash Over Tithis

Jagannath Rath Yatra-Iskcon Clash Over Tithis

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

For the Jagannath Temple in Puri, the timing of Rath Yatra is a matter of scriptural injunction rather than convenience.

Satcom To Drive India's Digital Transformation

Satcom To Drive India's Digital Transformation

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Trai Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti highlighted the transformative role of satellite communications in expanding seamless connectivity across India, especially in remote areas. He noted that India's space economy is projected to grow significantly, driven by satcom technology that will bridge the digital divide, provide resilient infrastructure during disasters, and support strategic sectors.

Satcom To Drive India's Digital Transformation

Satcom To Drive India's Digital Transformation

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Trai Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti highlighted the transformative role of satellite communications in expanding seamless connectivity across India, especially in remote areas. He noted that India's space economy is projected to grow significantly, driven by satcom technology that will bridge the digital divide, provide resilient infrastructure during disasters, and support strategic sectors.

Domestic Air Traffic Sees 12% Monthly Drop in June

Domestic Air Traffic Sees 12% Monthly Drop in June

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Domestic air traffic in India experienced a nearly 12 per cent decline in June, falling to 1.35 crore passengers from 1.53 crore in May, with IndiGo increasing its market share to 66.3 per cent.

US F-1 Visa: 'Continuing Studies In The US Will Depend On...

US F-1 Visa: 'Continuing Studies In The US Will Depend On...

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

With the duration of stay capped at four years, the biggest impact of the new F-1 visa rules is likely to be on PhD scholars, students enrolled in longer professional programmes, those whose graduation gets delayed and students moving from one academic programme to another, highlight education experts.

FSSAI issues notice to alcohol makers over misleading age claims, unauthorised flavours

FSSAI issues notice to alcohol makers over misleading age claims, unauthorised flavours

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

India's food safety regulator, FSSAI, has issued a notice to alcoholic beverage manufacturers for violating regulations concerning the unauthorised use of added flavours and misleading age-related claims, demanding compliance and explanations.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Steals Spotlight At Wimbledon

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Steals Spotlight At Wimbledon

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi attended the Wimbledon men's singles final, sharing the experience with Yuvraj Singh, Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson, marking his first visit to the iconic tournament.

DGCA warns IndiGo over dangerous goods handling lapses

DGCA warns IndiGo over dangerous goods handling lapses

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Aviation watchdog DGCA has issued a warning letter to IndiGo for lapses in compliance with norms for handling dangerous goods and has asked the airline to review the relevant training programme to include more practical exercises as well as operational scenarios.

Actor Rajesh Sharma Hospitalised After Insect Bite

Actor Rajesh Sharma Hospitalised After Insect Bite

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Rajesh Sharma has been hospitalised in Kolkata with a severe, rapidly spreading infection after a suspected insect bite during a film shoot in Hyderabad, prompting close medical observation for potential complications.

How Overuse Of 'Watch' Antibiotics Drives Global Resistance

How Overuse Of 'Watch' Antibiotics Drives Global Resistance

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

A new study published in The Lancet Public Health journal reveals that almost all countries are overusing 'watch' class antibiotics, which are stronger drugs meant for specific conditions and contribute significantly to antibiotic resistance. The research developed a framework to assess appropriate antibiotic use and found that while many countries overuse antibiotics, particularly the 'watch' category, some also underuse 'reserve' antibiotics, potentially leaving patients with drug-resistant infections untreated. The study highlights a global inequality where lower-income countries need more specialised antibiotics but higher-income countries use them more.

India's Women Boxers Poised for Medals at Commonwealth Games, Says Former Coach Qamar

India's Women Boxers Poised for Medals at Commonwealth Games, Says Former Coach Qamar

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Former Indian boxing coach Mohammed Ali Qamar believes the country's women's boxing squad for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games is one of its best ever, with each of the seven members capable of securing a medal, though he cautioned that draws would be crucial.

Can Sujata Revive BJD's Fortunes?

Can Sujata Revive BJD's Fortunes?

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Having governed Odisha for 24 uninterrupted years, the BJD now finds itself in the unfamiliar role of Opposition. Its organisational overhaul following the 2024 defeat has yet to produce a recognisable second line of leadership.

Musafir Cafe Review: Fickle Face Of Modern Love

Musafir Cafe Review: Fickle Face Of Modern Love

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Vikrant Massey, Vedika Pinto and Mahima Makwana are persuasive enough to hold ground even when their on screen actions leave you more flummoxed than fascinated, notes Sukanya Verma.