News for 'The Observer'

UN Women warns AI amplifies gender bias, digital violence

UN Women warns AI amplifies gender bias, digital violence

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

UN Women has issued a stark warning that the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is placing women at a higher risk of discrimination and digital violence, citing studies that reveal significant gender bias in AI systems and large language models.

History In Minutes: The Man Who Challenged A Prime Minister

History In Minutes: The Man Who Challenged A Prime Minister

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Jayaprakash Narayan was called the 'Second Mahatma'. He issued the clarion call against government corruption in June 1974 that ignited a fierce student movement that shook the Indira Gandhi government from the foundation to the rafters. His modest home in Patna is almost forgotten, only remembered on special anniversaries.

12 iconic Indian landmarks to host International Yoga Day 2026 celebrations

12 iconic Indian landmarks to host International Yoga Day 2026 celebrations

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

India will celebrate International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 at 12 iconic landmarks across the country, including the Red Fort, Hampi, and Konark Sun Temple, with the main event led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Kolkata.

Countdown to NEET re-exam: NTA to hold nationwide mock drill on Saturday

Countdown to NEET re-exam: NTA to hold nationwide mock drill on Saturday

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) will conduct a nationwide mock drill on Saturday ahead of the NEET-UG re-examination the day after as part of its preparations to ensure the smooth, secure and transparent conduct of the test, official said on Friday.

NEET re-test tougher, physics most challenging: Students

NEET re-test tougher, physics most challenging: Students

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

The NEET-UG re-exam was generally tougher than the previous one, with Physics identified as the most challenging and time-consuming section by both students and experts. While Biology was considered easier, Chemistry was moderate. Experts noted conceptual and lengthy questions in Physics and Chemistry, potentially leading to a lower cut-off.

'You'll get a million votes in Delhi': Meloni recalls India visit

'You'll get a million votes in Delhi': Meloni recalls India visit

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's new book, 'Giorgia's Vision', reveals anecdotes from her 2023 India visit, including the widespread 'Welcome' posters and a joke about her popularity in New Delhi. She also shares insights into her diplomatic approach, emphasising personal connections over rigid formalities, and recounts interactions with various world leaders.

Why Suryansh Shedge's call-up could change everything

Why Suryansh Shedge's call-up could change everything

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Suryansh Shedge's India call-up may have come as a "lucky break", but the young all-rounder has been urged to treat it as a learning opportunity by soaking in everything inside a dressing room full of experienced players and young leaders.

Supergirl Review: More So-So Than Super

Supergirl Review: More So-So Than Super

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

With no emotionally powerful moment or even a standout epic sequence, everything about Supergirl feels strictly functional, observes Mayur Sanap.

Madhu Kishwar denied anticipatory bail over video clip

Madhu Kishwar denied anticipatory bail over video clip

Rediff.com30 May 2026

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of academician Madhu Purnima Kishwar in a case registered against her for allegedly retweeting a video clip on social media.

Over 20 lakh aspirants take NEET re-test in India, abroad amid tight security

Over 20 lakh aspirants take NEET re-test in India, abroad amid tight security

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

The NEET-UG re-exam was held at centres across the country and overseas on Sunday amid tight security arrangements for the smooth conduct of the examination.

Inside GSB Cuisine Queen Komal Prabhu's Kitchen

Inside GSB Cuisine Queen Komal Prabhu's Kitchen

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Discover the inspiring journey of Komal Prabhu, called the Queen of GSB Cuisine, that saw her switch professions -- a Bharata Natyam dancer became a celebrated chef devoted to preserving traditional Gaud Saraswat Brahmin food traditions.

Nagpur NEET aspirant allotted Abu Dhabi centre; NTA says it was chosen by him

Nagpur NEET aspirant allotted Abu Dhabi centre; NTA says it was chosen by him

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has clarified the controversy surrounding a NEET-UG re-test candidate being allotted an examination centre in Abu Dhabi, stating the student himself had chosen the venue. Following a request, the NTA re-allotted a centre in Nagpur.

SC dismisses Natarajan's plea against nomination rejection

SC dismisses Natarajan's plea against nomination rejection

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The Supreme Court dismissed Congress leader Meenakshi Natarajan's challenge to her rejected Rajya Sabha nomination, reaffirming that the Election Commission is the sole recourse for such disputes and citing Article 329(b) of the Constitution which bars judicial interference in electoral matters.

Tata Motors CV business pivots to logistics, mobility platforms for resilient growth

Tata Motors CV business pivots to logistics, mobility platforms for resilient growth

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Tata Motors' commercial vehicle (CV) business is strategically repositioning itself from a traditional truck manufacturer to a comprehensive logistics and mobility platform, aiming to reduce dependence on cyclical vehicle demand by accelerating growth in digital, international, and services segments.

Plea in SC seeks probe against Cockroach Janta Party-linked activities

Plea in SC seeks probe against Cockroach Janta Party-linked activities

Rediff.com24 May 2026

A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking a probe into the allegations regarding fake advocates and activities associated with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), a satirical digital outfit that came up recently and took social media by storm.

Father's Day: 'I Work Odd Hours, But I Still Show Up'

Father's Day: 'I Work Odd Hours, But I Still Show Up'

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

For Valerian Vincent, who works a night shift for a US-based company, fatherhood means squeezing playtime, learning and love into the few precious hours he gets with his one-and-a-half-year-old son.

Trump calls Modi a 'very tough cookie', 'great leader'

Trump calls Modi a 'very tough cookie', 'great leader'

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Former US President Donald Trump lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a 'great leader' and 'tough guy' who has been in power for over 12 years, placing him alongside China's President Xi Jinping as leaders he admires for their power and ability to execute.

High Court Expresses Concern Over Police Handling Of Missing Minor Girls

High Court Expresses Concern Over Police Handling Of Missing Minor Girls

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

The Allahabad High Court's Lucknow bench has expressed serious concern over the rising number of missing minor girls in the state capital, directing senior police officers to ensure effective monitoring and accountability in such cases. The court ordered a detailed report from the DCP (East) and sought explanations from the Police Commissioner, stressing the need for vigilance.

India bags first-ever vice presidency of Paris-based financial watchdog FATF

India bags first-ever vice presidency of Paris-based financial watchdog FATF

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

India was on Friday accorded the vice presidency of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global body that sets standards for combating money laundering and terrorist financing, for the first time.

'RTI activism a new business', says SC; denies bail to activist

'RTI activism a new business', says SC; denies bail to activist

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

The Supreme Court has criticised RTI activism, calling it a "new business," while denying anticipatory bail to an activist accused of obstructing road construction work and intimidating public servants in Punjab.

'Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Reminds Me Of Gary Sobers!'

'Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Reminds Me Of Gary Sobers!'

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Former India and Irish cricketer M V Narasimha Rao said the young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi reminds him of the legendary Gary Sobers.

Man Sentenced To Life Imprisonment For Wife's Murder In Kushinagar

Man Sentenced To Life Imprisonment For Wife's Murder In Kushinagar

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

A court in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, has sentenced Sanjay Prasad to life imprisonment for the murder of his wife, Pramila Devi, whom he killed with a spade in October 2023. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 50,000.

Man Sentenced To Life Imprisonment For Wife's Murder In Kushinagar

Man Sentenced To Life Imprisonment For Wife's Murder In Kushinagar

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

A court in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, has sentenced Sanjay Prasad to life imprisonment for the murder of his wife, Pramila Devi, whom he killed with a spade in October 2023. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 50,000.

Con City Review: Heist Comedy That Keeps Misfiring

Con City Review: Heist Comedy That Keeps Misfiring

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Con City has a fun premise and a handful of clever scams, but its biggest con is convincing you it's smarter than it really is.

FIFA World Cup: Japan Fans Clean Stadium, Win Hearts

FIFA World Cup: Japan Fans Clean Stadium, Win Hearts

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Japan's fans once again captured the world's admiration after clearing thrash from the stands following their Group F match against the Netherlands on Sunday.

Subbaraman Vijayalakshmi On India's Unmatched Chess Dominance

Subbaraman Vijayalakshmi On India's Unmatched Chess Dominance

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Subbaraman Vijayalakshmi, India's first female International Master and Women's Grandmaster, asserts that India is the strongest chess-playing nation globally and will only grow stronger. She highlights Chennai's pivotal role in this revolution, crediting pioneers like Manuel Aaron and Vishwanathan Anand, and expresses confidence in the next generation, including Gukesh and Vaishali. Vijayalakshmi also reflects on her own career, a near-miss men's GM title, and her plans for a comeback after a personal tragedy.

Ananthan Kaadu Review: Predictable Revenge Saga

Ananthan Kaadu Review: Predictable Revenge Saga

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Indrans' standout performance deserves a sharper screenplay than this over-edited, all-too-familiar revenge saga, rues Sreeju Sudhakaran.

Delhi techie holidaying with husband found dead at Mussoorie homestay

Delhi techie holidaying with husband found dead at Mussoorie homestay

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

A 27-year-old Gurugram-based IT professional, P Radha Gayatri, was found dead under mysterious circumstances at a homestay in Mussoorie. Her husband reported finding her unresponsive after they had consumed alcohol. Police are investigating the incident and awaiting the post-mortem report.

Fake video on NEET-UG exam paper leak, says NTA

Fake video on NEET-UG exam paper leak, says NTA

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has strongly refuted a video circulating on social media that falsely claims the NEET-UG 2026 paper was leaked, asserting that the recent re-examination was conducted successfully with comprehensive security measures.

Supreme Court Questions Allahabad High Court's 40-Year Delay In Murder Case

Supreme Court Questions Allahabad High Court's 40-Year Delay In Murder Case

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

The Supreme Court has expressed serious concern over the Allahabad High Court's extraordinary 40-year delay in deciding a criminal appeal filed by a murder accused. The case involves Vijay Singh, who was convicted in 1985 and whose appeal was only dismissed in February this year, after four decades. The top court questioned measures to address mounting pendency and rejected a suggestion to dismiss old cases solely due to delay.

22 lakh take NEET re-exam today, Pradhan urges calm

22 lakh take NEET re-exam today, Pradhan urges calm

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan urged 22 lakh students appearing for the NEET re-exam to do so "fearlessly and free of anxiety," while the National Testing Agency (NTA) reminded candidates to download fresh admit cards and adhere to entry guidelines.

'If Your Child Says No To Marriage...'

'If Your Child Says No To Marriage...'

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Do not push your children into situations that leave them feeling trapped or desperate, appeals rediffGURU Anu Krishna.

Fit Hardik Pandya could be India's X-factor at 2027 World Cup: WV Raman

Fit Hardik Pandya could be India's X-factor at 2027 World Cup: WV Raman

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Former India coach WV Raman says a fully fit Hardik Pandya could provide India the edge at the 2027 ODI World Cup, highlighting his all-round value while urging the team management to use the next 12-15 months to experiment with combinations and define player roles.

Jim Sarbh: 'I'm Not Much Of A Watch Guy'

Jim Sarbh: 'I'm Not Much Of A Watch Guy'

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

'I do have a couple watches that I like very much, one my dad gave me. But I only wear it with a more formal kind of a look... Otherwise, in my day-to-day life, I don't wear a watch.'

NTA calls NEET-UG 2026 paper leak video 'fake' amid re-exams

NTA calls NEET-UG 2026 paper leak video 'fake' amid re-exams

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has strongly refuted a video circulating on social media that falsely claims the NEET-UG 2026 paper was leaked, asserting that the recent re-examination was conducted successfully with comprehensive security measures.

Gram Chikitsalay Season 2 Review: A Heartwarming Upgrade Within Panchayat's Shadow

Gram Chikitsalay Season 2 Review: A Heartwarming Upgrade Within Panchayat's Shadow

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Gram Chikitsalay Season 2 returns with a confirmed connection to Panchayat universe and a more heartwarming narrative, observes Sreeju Sudhakaran.

Mahayuti bags 16 of 17 MLC seats in Maha amid cross-voting row; Oppn routed

Mahayuti bags 16 of 17 MLC seats in Maha amid cross-voting row; Oppn routed

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Amid cross-voting from both ruling and Opposition ranks, the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Mahayuti on Monday swept 16 of the 17 Maharashtra Legislative Council seats from local authorities' constituencies even as Nashik delivered a surprise defeat to the governing bloc.

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.

None can deny there is corruption in judiciary: Madras HC

None can deny there is corruption in judiciary: Madras HC

Rediff.com28 May 2026

The Madras High Court acknowledged the existence of corruption within the judiciary while dismissing a PIL seeking a ban on the Tamil film 'Karuppu'. The court emphasised the need for introspection and improvement within the judicial system, stating that judges are not exempt from criticism.

Uncle Sentenced To Death For Nephew's Brutal Murder

Uncle Sentenced To Death For Nephew's Brutal Murder

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

A court in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, has sentenced Amjad Khan to death for the brutal murder of his four-year-old nephew, Daniyal, in 2021, citing extreme cruelty in the crime.