News for 'The Society'

'Every Time The Rains Fail, We Talk About Drought; By Next June We Have Forgotten About It'

'Every Time The Rains Fail, We Talk About Drought; By Next June We Have Forgotten About It'

Rediff.com16 Oct 2026

'Without that one critical irrigation, the entire crop can be lost.'

'Will Modi shut 100 places?' CJP founder Dipke hits out over park closure

'Will Modi shut 100 places?' CJP founder Dipke hits out over park closure

Rediff.com16 Oct 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke called for a 'Lehra do Tiranga' march in Central Park, Connaught Place, on Friday, despite the NDMC announcing the park's closure and Delhi Police citing prohibitory orders against mass gatherings. The march is part of an ongoing protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in electoral rolls. Police have urged people to stay away, while Dipke questioned the authorities' stance on waving the national flag and alleged surveillance. The agitation follows the arrest of CJP leaders and the denotification of Jantar Mantar as a protest site.

'We know everything': SC takes strong note of march, seeks CEC reply on SIR

'We know everything': SC takes strong note of march, seeks CEC reply on SIR

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

The Supreme Court has sought responses from the Election Commission and Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar regarding a plea filed by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and 12 other opposition leaders concerning alleged large-scale voter deletions and Special Intensive Revision (SIR) irregularities.

'When Love Becomes Obsession, It's Dangerous'

'When Love Becomes Obsession, It's Dangerous'

Rediff.com14 Oct 2026

'Men think that if she doesn't like me, I am entitled to make her like me. What men need to realise is that it's nothing but her choice.'

Hunkkaar: The Roar Aims To Spark Action Against Sexual Assault

Hunkkaar: The Roar Aims To Spark Action Against Sexual Assault

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Actors Raghubir Yadav, Fatima Sana Shaikh, and Zoya Hussain discuss their JioHotstar series 'Hunkkaar: The Roar', which addresses sexual assault and victim-shaming. They express hope that the show will encourage viewers to speak out against such crimes and awaken the collective conscience of society.

SC: 'Create fear in minds of goons' for women's safety in Delhi-NCR

SC: 'Create fear in minds of goons' for women's safety in Delhi-NCR

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

The Supreme Court has strongly asserted the critical need to instill fear in criminals and enhance women's safety across Delhi-NCR, taking suo motu cognisance of recent alarming rape incidents.

BJP Mahila Morcha To Protest Rahul Gandhi's 'Protection' Of Accused MP

BJP Mahila Morcha To Protest Rahul Gandhi's 'Protection' Of Accused MP

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

The BJP's women's wing announced a protest march against the Congress, alleging that Rahul Gandhi is protecting Inner Manipur MP Prof Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, who was dismissed from JNU over sexual harassment allegations involving 11 students. The BJP Mahila Morcha will organise a 'Nari Shakti Hunkar Andolan' on Monday, demanding Akoijam's expulsion and resignation.

Former civil servants issue 'people's impeachment' notice against CEC

Former civil servants issue 'people's impeachment' notice against CEC

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Former civil servants and rights activists have issued a "people's impeachment" notice demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. They allege six charges against him, including undermining the Election Commission's functioning, mass disenfranchisement through Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, and compromising political impartiality. The group, including G K Pillai and Najeeb Jung, was prevented from submitting the notice at the EC office.

Nagaland University Faculty Earn Global Top 2% Scientist Recognition

Nagaland University Faculty Earn Global Top 2% Scientist Recognition

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Four faculty members from Nagaland University have been named among the world's top 2 per cent scientists for their significant research contributions, according to an annual database by Elsevier and Stanford University. Three of them also feature in the Career-Long Top 2 per cent Scientists list, highlighting the university's growing global research impact across various scientific disciplines.

Manipur tense as fresh violence claims 9 lives; CM calls for restraint

Manipur tense as fresh violence claims 9 lives; CM calls for restraint

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

Nine people have been killed in fresh clashes between two communities in Manipur's hill districts of Kamjong, Ukhrul, and Kangpokpi. Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh has appealed for peace and restraint, and additional security forces have been deployed. The violence began on Friday night with the killing of a woman, leading to further attacks and exchanges of fire. This comes after earlier ethnic violence in the state that killed over 300 people.

Father Sentenced To 20 Years For Daughter's Sexual Assault

Father Sentenced To 20 Years For Daughter's Sexual Assault

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

A court in Maharashtra's Palghar district has sentenced a 55-year-old man to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for sexually assaulting his seven-year-old daughter. The crime came to light in November 2020 after neighbours alerted an NGO. The court noted the man exploited his position of trust, making the child believe his actions were right.

Is India-US Trade Deal Near The Finish Line?

Is India-US Trade Deal Near The Finish Line?

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

Marco Rubio will visit Mumbai and Jamnagar to discuss energy cooperation as S Jaishankar says India-US trade talks are nearing a landing point, with a few issues unresolved.

ISKCON vs ISKCON: Supreme Court to revisit ownership case

ISKCON vs ISKCON: Supreme Court to revisit ownership case

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has agreed to list a review plea concerning its May 2025 verdict on the ownership of the Hare Krishna temple in Bengaluru. The original verdict had ruled in favour of ISKCON Bangalore, but a subsequent split verdict by a review bench led to the matter being referred to the Chief Justice for further directions. The legal battle involves ISKCON Bangalore and ISKCON Mumbai over control of the temple and educational complex.

Who Fears AI Most? The Global Jobs Picture

Who Fears AI Most? The Global Jobs Picture

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Across 34 of 37 nations included in a Pew Research Center survey this year, the prevailing view is that artificial intelligence is more likely to displace workers than open up new employment opportunities.

Pakistan Terrorists Set Up Base in Bangladesh

Pakistan Terrorists Set Up Base in Bangladesh

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

India is deeply concerned by the growing consolidation of Pakistan-backed jihadi and radical Islamist groups in Bangladesh, particularly in the strategically vital Chittagong Hill Tracts, which experts warn is transforming the country into a new safe haven for these networks and posing a direct threat to India's security.

Why Residents Are Upset About Ajay Devgn's Bungalow

Why Residents Are Upset About Ajay Devgn's Bungalow

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Ajay Devgn's lease of his Juhu bungalow to a commercial salon has ignited a dispute with his housing society, which is vehemently opposing the move citing the area's residential character and potential disruptions.

Jantar Mantar: From voice of protest to a silenced space

Jantar Mantar: From voice of protest to a silenced space

Rediff.com12 Oct 2026

Jantar Mantar, a historic protest site in New Delhi, is facing de-notification by Delhi Police, raising concerns about its future as a space for public dissent. The site has been central to numerous significant movements, from Anna Hazare's anti-corruption fast and the Nirbhaya protests to recent agitations over NEET paper leaks and wrestlers' grievances. Its proximity to power centres made it a crucial platform for citizens to voice concerns and demand accountability, a role now threatened by its potential loss of status.

Amit Shah's warning to Rahul Gandhi: 'Be prepared for...'

Amit Shah's warning to Rahul Gandhi: 'Be prepared for...'

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and the opposition amidst ongoing protests for the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar and scrapping of SIR. Shah predicted a "crushing defeat" for the Congress in the 2029 general elections, citing the BJP's and NDA's strong public support and the Congress's dismal performance in recent bypolls and local body elections across several states, including West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Tripura. He urged the Congress to introspect instead of engaging in "negative politics" and "fabricated media events."

Why India Needs A Unique AI Safety Framework

Why India Needs A Unique AI Safety Framework

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Industry experts advocate for India to develop its own artificial intelligence (AI) safety framework, distinct from US or EU models, to address unique challenges like deepfakes and cyberattacks. They call for a comprehensive commitment involving all stakeholders and a hybrid regulatory approach combining voluntary and binding measures, as the Indian government also considers new AI regulations.

'Blasting music with DJ not Bhakti': Allu Sirish's complaint sparks row

'Blasting music with DJ not Bhakti': Allu Sirish's complaint sparks row

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Telugu actor Allu Sirish complained to Hyderabad Police about a temple playing loud music late at night, disturbing residents. He clarified his complaint was about civic sense, not religious devotion, after facing criticism from netizens.

Dating For The First Time? Think About This First

Dating For The First Time? Think About This First

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

'One of the biggest mistakes first-time daters make is spending too much time texting before meeting in person,' says Shalini Singh, founder of andwemet, an invite-only WhatsApp matchmaking community for Indian singles.

Why Were Alia Bhatt, Vicky Kaushal All Smiles?

Why Were Alia Bhatt, Vicky Kaushal All Smiles?

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

The 15th annual Mijwan Fashion Show took place on September 26, 2026, at Taj Lands End in Mumbai, marking a milestone celebration of ethical luxury and heritage.

He was always most 'sorted out': Capt Machchhar's friend

He was always most 'sorted out': Capt Machchhar's friend

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Captain Smit Machchhar, an Indian pilot, is being hailed as a hero for his quick thinking and bravery in preventing a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv from crashing, an act praised by both Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and Indian PM Narendra Modi.

Mumbai Developer, Wife Face Trial For Rs 28 Crore Homebuyer Cheating Case

Mumbai Developer, Wife Face Trial For Rs 28 Crore Homebuyer Cheating Case

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

A special MPID court in Mumbai has framed charges against developer Vijay Machhindar, his wife, and their company Ornate Spaces Pvt Ltd for allegedly cheating homebuyers and investors of Rs 28 crore. The charges relate to failing to deliver flats in an Oshiwara residential project and not returning the invested money, leading to a trial under IPC, MPID, and MOFA provisions.

Bank blocks widow from deposits, consumer panel orders to pay Rs 14 lakh

Bank blocks widow from deposits, consumer panel orders to pay Rs 14 lakh

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

A district consumer commission in Thiruvananthapuram has directed a cooperative bank to pay over Rs 14 lakh to a widow, Sheeba R, after it unlawfully denied her access to her deposited funds. The bank had cited an ongoing enquiry against its officials as a reason, but the commission ruled this was not a justifiable cause for withholding the money, especially given the woman's circumstances and need for funds for her mother's treatment.

India Must Prioritise Child Safety In AI Education: WEF Expert

India Must Prioritise Child Safety In AI Education: WEF Expert

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

Cathy Li, Head of the Centre for AI Excellence at the World Economic Forum, advocates for integrating AI literacy into India's education curriculum and incentivising AI companies to prioritise child safety. She stresses the need for localised solutions that account for India's linguistic and cultural diversity, as well as varying levels of connectivity and digital literacy, to ensure AI systems are safe and beneficial for children.

UN flags mass detentions during Delhi stir, calls for protesters' release

UN flags mass detentions during Delhi stir, calls for protesters' release

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

The UN human rights office expressed concern over mass detentions during protests in Delhi on Saturday, urging India to respect peaceful assembly rights and release detainees. India rejected these concerns as "misplaced" and "unwarranted interference." The protests, organised by the Gen Z-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), demanded electoral reforms and the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar over alleged voter list manipulation, which the Election Commission and BJP deny.

Delhi police deploys bodycams for personnel in protest zones

Delhi police deploys bodycams for personnel in protest zones

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Delhi Police has equipped frontline officers in the New Delhi area with body-worn cameras to enhance accountability and provide evidence during protests and crowd management. This initiative follows recent allegations of misconduct against police personnel, including sexual harassment, during demonstrations, and aims to ensure transparency in interactions between police and protesters.

'Fight won't be easy': CJP gears up for anti-Gyanesh Kumar protest

'Fight won't be easy': CJP gears up for anti-Gyanesh Kumar protest

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and various student organisations have called for a united protest on October 10 against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. They demand his resignation and an overhaul of the electoral system, describing the confrontation as a fight for democracy against the BJP. The groups are seeking to sustain street pressure, following a previous agitation that led to a minister's resignation.

Why Delhi High Court Says POCSO Cases Cannot Be Settled

Why Delhi High Court Says POCSO Cases Cannot Be Settled

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

The Delhi High Court has ruled that criminal cases involving sexual offences against children, particularly under the POCSO Act, cannot be settled by the survivor or their family. Justice Sachin Datta emphasised that such heinous offences have a serious societal impact and quashing proceedings based on a compromise would undermine the statute's objectives and justice.

How Long Can The Modi Government Stay Deaf?

How Long Can The Modi Government Stay Deaf?

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

When it pretends to be deaf, a situation can snowball into something it cannot contain. The government cannot dismiss public anger merely because protests are inconvenient or politically embarrassing, asserts Ramesh Menon.

A Dance Festival To Celebrate Love

A Dance Festival To Celebrate Love

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

'Through dance, we explore the many expressions of love across India's literature, music and storytelling traditions.'

Sachin Waze wanted to be seen as 'super cop', planted SUV, NIA tells HC

Sachin Waze wanted to be seen as 'super cop', planted SUV, NIA tells HC

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

The NIA informed the Bombay High Court that dismissed police officer Sachin Waze planted an explosives-laden SUV near Mukesh Ambani's residence in 2021 to gain fame as a "super cop" by solving the case himself. The agency further alleged that Waze murdered his friend Mansukh Hiran, who owned the vehicle, fearing he would expose the conspiracy. The High Court extended its interim stay on Waze's bail, which was previously granted by a special court.

El Nio threatens rabi crops, may affect foodgrain output

El Nio threatens rabi crops, may affect foodgrain output

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

India's Agriculture Secretary Atish Chandra has warned that the upcoming rabi (winter) crop season is likely to be challenging for rainfed areas due to the strengthening El Nio weather pattern, potentially affecting foodgrain production. This comes as Maharashtra declares drought in nearly 74 per cent of its talukas, highlighting the immediate impact of climate change.

Mayawati reappoints nephew Akash Anand as BSP national convenor

Mayawati reappoints nephew Akash Anand as BSP national convenor

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati has reappointed her nephew Akash Anand as the party's national convenor, reversing an earlier decision to remove him. This move comes after Anand's expression of desire to return and considering party members' views, with Mayawati emphasizing the decision was made in the interest of the party and the movement.

Showbiz Will Miss The Sound Of Nana Patekar's Irritation

Showbiz Will Miss The Sound Of Nana Patekar's Irritation

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Never a crowd pleaser in the conventional sense, Nana Patekar's knack for not mincing words, if anything his brusque, take it-or-leave it persona -- which made his eccentricity a guilty pleasure of sorts -- contributed to his eminence, observes Sukanya Verma.

No enough understanding or empathy...: Jaishankar on India-US ties

No enough understanding or empathy...: Jaishankar on India-US ties

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted that India's primary concern regarding terrorism from its neighbour, Pakistan, if not fully appreciated by partners like the US, negatively impacts bilateral relations. Speaking at the Asia Society, Jaishankar discussed the turbulence in India-US ties, particularly in light of Washington's renewed engagement with Pakistan and the perceived lack of empathy for India's terrorism concerns, especially under the second Trump administration. He emphasized that addressing these sensitivities is crucial for improving the relationship.

Prakash Raj, Dipke, Dhruv Rathee protest against CEC in Bengaluru

Prakash Raj, Dipke, Dhruv Rathee protest against CEC in Bengaluru

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, YouTuber Dhruv Rathee, and actor-activist Prakash Raj joined a protest in Bengaluru, demanding the scrapping of the electoral roll revision exercise and the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging widespread voter deletion aimed at disenfranchising specific groups.

Ankush to Natsamrat, Nana Patekar's Unforgettable Roles

Ankush to Natsamrat, Nana Patekar's Unforgettable Roles

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

No shade or genre was a roadblock for Nana Patekar. In fact, some of his movies only age well because we associate them with his terrific presence.

Thales CEO Warns Of AI-Powered Cyberattacks And Quantum Threats

Thales CEO Warns Of AI-Powered Cyberattacks And Quantum Threats

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Patrice Caine, Chairman and CEO of Thales, highlighted Artificial Intelligence as both a major cybersecurity challenge, accelerating attack speed and autonomy, and a crucial tool for defenders. He also warned about quantum computing's future threat to encrypted data. Thales introduced new AI-powered solutions like Luna 8 and CipherTrust DSPM at its Cyber Summit 2026 to combat these evolving threats.