News for 'The Observer'

Relief for Abhishek Banerjee as HC halts demolition of TMC MP's office

Relief for Abhishek Banerjee as HC halts demolition of TMC MP's office

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

The Calcutta High Court has ordered a status quo on the demolition of TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee's constituency office in South 24 Parganas. The court's directive prevents further demolition until a new hearing or the end of July, following a petition by Leaps and Bounds Private Limited, a company Banerjee is CEO of. The district administration had initiated demolition citing alleged construction without an approved plan.

15 Documents Insufficient To Prove Citizenship Claim

15 Documents Insufficient To Prove Citizenship Claim

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

The Gauhati high court observed that merely producing a number of documents does not automatically establish citizenship unless they are legally admissible and capable of proving the person's linkage to Indian ancestors.

Citizenship must be determined through...: SC sets aside Assam foreigner rulings

Citizenship must be determined through...: SC sets aside Assam foreigner rulings

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has ruled that the determination of citizenship status in India must adhere to a fair, lawful, and reasoned process, setting aside Gauhati High Court verdicts that had affirmed orders declaring some individuals as foreigners. The court stressed that constitutional protections of equality, life, and personal liberty apply to every person within India's territory.

Swear words, vulgar expletives alone do not amount to obscenity: SC

Swear words, vulgar expletives alone do not amount to obscenity: SC

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has ruled that mere swear words, profanities, and vulgar expletives, however offensive, do not amount to obscenity under Section 294 of the Indian Penal Code. The court clarified that for an utterance to be considered obscene, it must be lascivious, appeal to prurient interests, and have the tendency to deprave and corrupt minds. This ruling came while hearing a plea challenging a high court order confirming a conviction under IPC Section 294.

Somanath Joins Agnikul Ahead Of Mission 02

Somanath Joins Agnikul Ahead Of Mission 02

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

The appointment comes as Agnikul prepares for Mission 02, a flight that will attempt, for the first time on Indian soil, the recovery of an orbital-class rocket booster and the extension of a rocket's upper stage into an on-orbit platform.

Monsoon Getaways Drive Travel Bookings

Monsoon Getaways Drive Travel Bookings

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Popular monsoon destinations include Kerala, Goa, Wayanad, Munnar, Mussoorie, Nainital, Bali, Thailand and the Maldives.

Protests demanding Pradhan's resignation sweep India

Protests demanding Pradhan's resignation sweep India

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Nationwide protests against the NEET paper leak have intensified across several Indian states, with demonstrators condemning the Delhi Police crackdown and demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The Congress party has called for further demonstrations, while various student and political groups have organised marches and sit-ins, some leading to clashes with police.

SC restores Kerala Waqf Board's autonomy, amends HC's supervision order

SC restores Kerala Waqf Board's autonomy, amends HC's supervision order

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the deletion of a Kerala High Court order that placed the state Waqf Board under the supervision of a joint secretary, thereby restoring the Board's autonomy. The apex court modified the high court's interim order, allowing the joint secretary to remain a board member but removing any supervisory capacity.

Police use lathi charge, tear gas to break up CJP's march; several injured, detained

Police use lathi charge, tear gas to break up CJP's march; several injured, detained

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Police forces from several adjoining districts were requisitioned to man key junctions, sensitive locations and government buildings in the Lutyens' area ahead of the march.

20 killed as suspected methane blast triggers Sikkim tunnel collapse

20 killed as suspected methane blast triggers Sikkim tunnel collapse

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Approximately 27 workers are trapped inside an under-construction tunnel in Sikkim's Namchi district following a landslide and suspected gas leak. Rescue operations are underway, but the presence of gas, believed to be methane, is complicating efforts, causing dizziness among rescue personnel. Teams from NDRF, SDRF, and West Bengal are involved in the challenging operation to save the workers.

Muslim personal law on age of marriage violates POCSO: HC

Muslim personal law on age of marriage violates POCSO: HC

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The Allahabad High Court has ruled that Muslim personal law, which recognises puberty as the age of marriage, cannot override the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA) and the Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, which criminalise sexual relations with a child.

Wangchuk's hunger strike enters Day 6, Dipke calls for solidarity fast

Wangchuk's hunger strike enters Day 6, Dipke calls for solidarity fast

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

As activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike at Jantar Mantar entered the sixth day on Friday, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) said he appeared "far weaker and more exhausted" and urged supporters across the country to observe a one-day fast in solidarity with the protest.

59 India-Bound Vessels Transited Hormuz Since War

59 India-Bound Vessels Transited Hormuz Since War

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

India has successfully evacuated 59 vessels, including 23 Indian-flagged and 36 foreign-flagged ships carrying cargo for India, from the Strait of Hormuz since March 1, 2026, amid fresh attacks and declining shipping traffic, Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal informed the Rajya Sabha.

HC allows Mamata's Martyrs' Day rally, shifts venue

HC allows Mamata's Martyrs' Day rally, shifts venue

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Calcutta High Court has directed the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress to hold its July 21 Martyrs' Day rally near the Birla Planetarium instead of its traditional venue in front of Victoria House, citing concerns over traffic flow and law and order.

Relief for Reliance Jio, Anti-Competition Complaint Against It Dismissed

Relief for Reliance Jio, Anti-Competition Complaint Against It Dismissed

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

India's fair trade regulator, the Competition Commission of India (CCI), has dismissed a complaint alleging anti-competitive conduct against Reliance Jio Infocom Ltd and over 4,500 other firms across various sectors, citing a lack of specific evidence.

How Interstellar Sugar Could Unlock Secrets Of Life's Origins

How Interstellar Sugar Could Unlock Secrets Of Life's Origins

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Scientists have detected erythrulose, a sugar found on Earth, in the interstellar medium, marking the first direct discovery of sugar in space. This finding, published in Nature Astronomy, suggests that complex, biologically important molecules can form in space and may have contributed to the chemical ingredients necessary for early metabolic and replication processes on Earth, offering new insights into the origins of life.

2 law students arrested for hurling abuses in Supreme Court

2 law students arrested for hurling abuses in Supreme Court

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Two law students, Prabal Pratap Singh and Chander Bhan, were arrested for allegedly disrupting Supreme Court proceedings. The incident involved hurling abuses, assaulting security staff, and creating a commotion during a Special Leave Petition hearing. Police recovered objectionable pamphlets, and both students were remanded to custody as the investigation continues.

India Creates History At Physics Olympiad

India Creates History At Physics Olympiad

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

All five Indian teenagers who competed at the International Physics Olympiad 2026 won gold medals; thanks to their achievement, India shared the world No 1 ranking with China, Kazakhstan, Russia, South Korea and Taiwan.

Op Sonam Wangchuk: How new Delhi Police chief oversaw 1st major action

Op Sonam Wangchuk: How new Delhi Police chief oversaw 1st major action

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to Safdarjung Hospital after his health deteriorated during his 21-day indefinite hunger strike, marking the first significant action under new Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar.

Mohanlal@World Cup Final: 'Thank You, Football'

Mohanlal@World Cup Final: 'Thank You, Football'

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final saw a galaxy of stars on the field and off it.

Sonam Wangchuk's health critical, IV fluids, nutritional support must: Doctor

Sonam Wangchuk's health critical, IV fluids, nutritional support must: Doctor

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

A senior doctor at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital has stated that administering IV fluids and initiating nutritional support are essential for activist Sonam Wangchuk, warning that his condition could become critical if his ongoing hunger strike continues without medical intervention.

Khalid Jamil's Heart Says Messi, Mind Says Spain For World Cup Final

Khalid Jamil's Heart Says Messi, Mind Says Spain For World Cup Final

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Indian football team head coach Khalid Jamil shares his predictions for the FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, expressing a personal preference for Lionel Messi's Argentina while acknowledging Spain's strong form and tactical advantages. He anticipates a tough and equal match.

UP medical varsity replaces non-veg with protein-rich veg menu after ban

UP medical varsity replaces non-veg with protein-rich veg menu after ban

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

King George's Medical University (KGMU) in Lucknow has banned non-vegetarian food in its hostels following a suggestion from Governor Anandiben Patel. To compensate, the university will now serve protein-rich vegetarian meals, including soy, paneer, and tofu. While the Vice-Chancellor cites hygiene and health benefits for the ban, it has drawn criticism from faculty members and political parties who question the imposition of dietary restrictions.

How 'Boss Scam' Cyber Fraud Targets Indian Companies

How 'Boss Scam' Cyber Fraud Targets Indian Companies

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

India's markets regulator, Sebi, has issued a warning to listed companies and regulated entities about an emerging cyber fraud known as the "Boss Scam." This scam involves fraudsters impersonating senior officials like CEOs or MDs to trick finance teams into transferring funds, often using advanced AI tools or malicious software. Sebi advises organisations to verify requests independently and report incidents to prevent financial losses.

Ahmedabad blasts: Why HC upheld death sentence for 38 IM terrorists

Ahmedabad blasts: Why HC upheld death sentence for 38 IM terrorists

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

A division bench of justices AY Kogje and Samir Dave, in its July 7 judgment cited the "humongous" conspiracy, the intention to spread widespread terror and the large number of casualties as key reasons for affirming the punishment.

'He Can't Continue A Long Distance Relationship. What's My Fault?'

'He Can't Continue A Long Distance Relationship. What's My Fault?'

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

'Sometimes, two people can deeply care about each other, but circumstances can get in the way,' counsels rediffGURU Ravi Mittal, CEO of online dating website Quack Quack and Rebounce, a matrimony platform.

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty Slump on West Asia Tensions, Oil Price Rise

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty Slump on West Asia Tensions, Oil Price Rise

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty experienced a significant slump in early trade, driven by escalating tensions in West Asia and a sharp rise in crude oil prices, alongside a bearish trend in other Asian markets.

'Entire truth...': Champat Rai breaks silence on Ram temple donation

'Entire truth...': Champat Rai breaks silence on Ram temple donation

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Former Ram temple trust chief Champat Rai has stated he will address all allegations of donation embezzlement against him only after the Special Investigation Team (SIT) submits its final report. Rai, who observed 'maun dharan' (silence) on the matter, highlighted that the SIT's preliminary report has already been made public. The trust has appointed an interim general secretary and acknowledged the theft from donation boxes, while also appreciating Rai's contributions.

Ahmedabad blasts an attack on India's sovereignty, meant to topple govt: HC

Ahmedabad blasts an attack on India's sovereignty, meant to topple govt: HC

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Gujarat high court has characterised the 2008 Ahmedabad serial bomb blasts as a direct assault on India's sovereignty and democratic governance.

What were you doing when...: SC questions Sonam's conduct in honeymoon murder case

"What were you doing when...": SC questions Sonam's conduct in honeymoon murder case

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has questioned the conduct of Sonam Raghuvanshi, accused of killing her husband during their honeymoon in Meghalaya, suggesting she surrender and face trial. The court is also examining whether a typographical error in the arrest memo justifies her bail.

Delhi High Court Upholds Abhishek Sharma's Personality Rights Against Misuse

Delhi High Court Upholds Abhishek Sharma's Personality Rights Against Misuse

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has issued an interim order protecting India cricketer Abhishek Sharma's personality rights, restraining third parties from misusing his name, image, and AI-generated content for commercial or personal gain. The court directed online platforms to remove infringing material, citing the spread of false and obscene content that damages his reputation and commercial value.

Delhi High Court Upholds Abhishek Sharma's Personality Rights Against Misuse

Delhi High Court Upholds Abhishek Sharma's Personality Rights Against Misuse

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has issued an interim order protecting India cricketer Abhishek Sharma's personality rights, restraining third parties from misusing his name, image, and AI-generated content for commercial or personal gain. The court directed online platforms to remove infringing material, citing the spread of false and obscene content that damages his reputation and commercial value.

Performance, Not Age, Should Dictate Kohli, Rohit and Rohit's ODI Future: Kapil Dev

Performance, Not Age, Should Dictate Kohli, Rohit and Rohit's ODI Future: Kapil Dev

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Legendary cricketer Kapil Dev stated that no player, not even stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, is a 'certainty' in the Indian team, emphasising that performance should be the sole criterion for selection.

The India Story Review: Not Brave Enough!

The India Story Review: Not Brave Enough!

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The India Story adopts a very soap opera-like approach, piling on ham-fisted melodrama along with plenty of unevenness, sighs Sreeju Sudhakaran

Pune court rules criticism of government is not 'waging war'

Pune court rules criticism of government is not 'waging war'

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

A Pune court has granted bail to NCP (SP) office-bearer Mahadev Balgude, ruling that criticism of the government or chief minister does not constitute "waging war" against the nation. The court emphasised every citizen's right to comment on and criticise government actions, noting that the charges under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Section 152 were debatable.

'We don't want any untoward thing': SC on Asaram's health bail plea

'We don't want any untoward thing': SC on Asaram's health bail plea

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court has asked the Rajasthan government for an update on the health of self-styled godman Asaram, who is seeking interim bail on medical grounds. The court expressed concern about his well-being, stating "We don't want any untoward thing to happen." Asaram's counsel claims he is a high-risk patient, while the Solicitor General noted he was recently seen walking in Ayodhya and Kashi Vishwanath. The apex court is hearing his plea challenging the Rajasthan High Court's decision to uphold his conviction and life sentence for the rape of a minor.

Delhi HC seeks police response on Sharjeel Imam's UAPA bail plea

Delhi HC seeks police response on Sharjeel Imam's UAPA bail plea

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has sought the Delhi Police's response on student activist Sharjeel Imam's appeal for bail in a UAPA case related to the 'larger conspiracy' behind the February 2020 Delhi riots, challenging a trial court's dismissal of his plea.

Worship Act doesn't stop land acquisition for public projects: HC

Worship Act doesn't stop land acquisition for public projects: HC

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

The Allahabad High Court has ruled that the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, prohibits only the conversion of religious character but does not prevent the state from acquiring such properties for secular and public purposes. This observation came while dismissing a petition challenging the widening and beautification of the Dalmandi area in Varanasi for the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Dham corridor, which involved the proposed demolition of six ancient mosques.

How Mantra Chanting Can Improve Your Cardiovascular Health

How Mantra Chanting Can Improve Your Cardiovascular Health

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

A study by Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY) suggests that a five-minute session of chanting 'Shanti mantra' or 'Mahamrityunjaya mantra' followed by rest can significantly reduce heart rate, blood pressure, and cardiac workload. The research indicates that mantra chanting activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting physiological relaxation and improved cardiovascular health.

When Garry Sobers Hit My Questions For Six

When Garry Sobers Hit My Questions For Six

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

I was armed with two dictaphones -- and a bottle of whisky that the editor had paid for, to lubricate the conversation.