News for 'The Union'

No talks with Pakistan except on PoK: Rajnath Singh

No talks with Pakistan except on PoK: Rajnath Singh

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday slammed Pakistan for making terrorism a "part of its state policy", and said there will be no talks with the country other than on Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir, which is a "part of India illegally occupied" by it.

'We Need To Stop Coaching Classes'

'We Need To Stop Coaching Classes'

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

'We can integrate AI and tech into education, but that is just a means and not an end.' 'Ultimately, we need to control what happens in a classroom and we need to let teachers innovate their teaching style to suit the needs of Gen Z and beyond.'

'Enemies like India': Pakistan rules out talks with PoK protesters

'Enemies like India': Pakistan rules out talks with PoK protesters

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Terming protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as "enemies" like India, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said there will be no dialogue with them, even as the death toll due to clashes between demonstrators and security personnel rose to 20 on Wednesday.

Sonam Wangchuk's hospital video sparks row

Sonam Wangchuk's hospital video sparks row

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk released a video detailing his experience at Safdarjung Hospital, where he alleged he was prevented from leaving despite a Delhi High Court order. Hospital authorities claim the video was recorded before they received the official court order and in a no-videography zone. Wangchuk, who was on a hunger strike for examination reforms, later ended his fast at Medanta Hospital after government assurances.

From farm laws to NEET: When Modi government yielded to pressure

From farm laws to NEET: When Modi government yielded to pressure

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

The article details instances where the Narendra Modi government has yielded to public and political pressure since 2014, leading to policy reversals and ministerial resignations. It highlights the recent resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak, alongside past events like the withdrawal of land acquisition amendments, M.J. Akbar's resignation, the repeal of farm laws, and other policy retreats.

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.

'They first said they were doctors and took Sonam Wangchuk away'

'They first said they were doctors and took Sonam Wangchuk away'

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Amidst escalating tensions at Jantar Mantar, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was hospitalised by Delhi Police on the 21st day of his hunger strike, sparking widespread protests from supporters.

Three more held in Kolkata NEET protest violence case; 14 arrests so far

Three more held in Kolkata NEET protest violence case; 14 arrests so far

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Three more persons were arrested on Sunday in connection with the violence during a protest here two days ago against the NEET paper leak, taking the total number of apprehended people to 14, the police said.

Oppn seeks urgent debate on police brutality at Gen Z protests

Oppn seeks urgent debate on police brutality at Gen Z protests

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Opposition parties have submitted notices in the Rajya Sabha demanding an urgent discussion on the alleged use of force, including pellet guns, against students protesting the NEET paper leak issue. They are seeking accountability from the Home Minister and Prime Minister regarding the police action and alleged assault on protesters and journalists.

Bypolls: Prashant Kishor breaches BJP bastion of Bankipur, Cong wins Datia, BJP retains Manjalpur

Bypolls: Prashant Kishor breaches BJP bastion of Bankipur, Cong wins Datia, BJP retains Manjalpur

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Former poll strategist Prashant Kishor made a stunning electoral debut by winning Bihar's Bankipur assembly seat, a long-held BJP bastion. Concurrently, the Congress retained the Datia assembly seat in Madhya Pradesh, while the BJP successfully held onto the Manjalpur seat in Gujarat, showcasing mixed results for the ruling and opposition parties in these crucial by-elections.

CJP protest: Teen receives pellet injuries, may lose sight in one eye

CJP protest: Teen receives pellet injuries, may lose sight in one eye

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The first thought Ajay Duggal had when he saw his nephew, his eyes shut, his face, neck and chest pockmarked with tiny red perforations, was this: "What if the 19-year-old loses his sight completely." Sahil Lochab was allegedly hit by a pellet gun in his right eye during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest in Delhi on June 20. His uncle asked him what he could see from the eye. The reply chilled him - there was nothing. No blur, no haze, only darkness.

Bindra Calls For Confident Education System Amid NEET Row

Bindra Calls For Confident Education System Amid NEET Row

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Olympic gold-medallist Abhinav Bindra has called for an education system that "inspires confidence" and rewards merit, amidst widespread protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET exam. The protests, which have seen student marches and support from activists like Sonam Wangchuk, highlight the demand for transparency and fairness in India's examination system.

Why female athletes demanded camera rule changes

Why female athletes demanded camera rule changes

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

European Athletics and the European Broadcasting Union have jointly introduced new guidelines aimed at preventing the sexualisation of female athletes in sports broadcasts. These guidelines, developed in response to athlete feedback, advise broadcasters to avoid specific camera angles and replays that detract from athletic performance, promoting instead a focus on technique and movement.

Salman Khan: 'My Heart Goes Out To The Students'

Salman Khan: 'My Heart Goes Out To The Students'

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

'Paper leak is a very serious issue, and I am glad to know and see that the kids of our country have come together for a better educational system, and their parents supported them.'

Delhi police flag over 480 Pak handles spreading fake posts amid CJP stir

Delhi police flag over 480 Pak handles spreading fake posts amid CJP stir

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Delhi police on Thursday claimed it has identified more than 480 Pakistan-based social media handles allegedly involved in spreading misinformation amid the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest at Jantar Martar, saying the same accounts had been active during Operation Sindoor.

Thousands Mourn J&K Policeman Slain By Terrorists

Thousands Mourn J&K Policeman Slain By Terrorists

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Thousands gather in Budgam to bid an emotional farewell to policeman Ashiq Hussain, killed in a militant attack in Anantnag.

'Not settled and done': Meta summoned over Modi's post removal

'Not settled and done': Meta summoned over Modi's post removal

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The Indian government has summoned Meta's global head of public policy after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Facebook post, addressing youth and promising action against paper leaks, was temporarily removed. Meta attributed the removal to a 'glitch' in its automated content filters, an explanation the government deems insufficient, demanding further discussions.

Govt Unveils Rs 1.9 Lakh Cr Push for Semiconductor, Mobile Manufacturing

Govt Unveils Rs 1.9 Lakh Cr Push for Semiconductor, Mobile Manufacturing

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Indian government has approved two major manufacturing initiatives worth nearly Rs 1.9 lakh crore (USD 22 billion) to expand the country's semiconductor ecosystem and scale up mobile phone production, aiming to strengthen its position as a global electronics manufacturing hub.

Former MHA Official: Pak Cricket Teams Trafficked Drugs in India, Linked to Woolmer's Death

Former MHA Official: Pak Cricket Teams Trafficked Drugs in India, Linked to Woolmer's Death

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

R V S Mani, former Under Secretary of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, has alleged that drug trafficking was a regular practice by Pakistani cricket teams and delegations visiting India, linking it to the 2006 doping scandal involving Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif, and even the death of coach Bob Woolmer.

Next agitation to be 10 times bigger: Rahul's warning to BJP-RSS

Next agitation to be 10 times bigger: Rahul's warning to BJP-RSS

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Following Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation amidst widespread student protests over the NEET paper leak, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi congratulated the youth, calling it a crucial step for education reform, and urged broader public action to hold the government accountable, demanding an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Delhi Police Investigates Drone Footage Of Parliament Street Protest

Delhi Police Investigates Drone Footage Of Parliament Street Protest

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Delhi Police has launched an investigation into an alleged unauthorised drone operation that captured footage of protesters at Parliament Street. The New Delhi district is a highly sensitive area requiring prior permission for drone flights, and legal action will be taken for violations. Thousands had gathered to protest alleged examination irregularities and demand the Education Minister's resignation, leading to clashes with security personnel.

Wangchuk vows to 'stay alive' for July 20 march as hunger strike enters Day 20

Wangchuk vows to 'stay alive' for July 20 march as hunger strike enters Day 20

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike has entered its 20th day, with doctors warning of his critical health condition. Despite this, Wangchuk is resolute in his call for a peaceful march to Parliament on July 20, coinciding with the Monsoon Session's opening, to protest alleged examination irregularities and demand the Union education minister's resignation.

What Ananya Panday Did Before The FIFA Final

What Ananya Panday Did Before The FIFA Final

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Between cheering at Wimbledon and attending the FIFA final, Ananya Panday took to the runway as Gaurav Gupta's showstopper.

'End fast, save your strength': Prominent citizens' plea to Wangchuk

'End fast, save your strength': Prominent citizens' plea to Wangchuk

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

A group of prominent Indian citizens, including Arundhati Roy and Naseeruddin Shah, have appealed to protesters on an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar to end their fast due to health concerns, while fully supporting their demand for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over alleged NEET irregularities.

E20 petrol safe, no engine failure reported, Gadkari tells Parliament

E20 petrol safe, no engine failure reported, Gadkari tells Parliament

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

The Indian government has defended its E20 ethanol blending programme, stating that extensive testing and field experience show no evidence of abnormal engine wear, corrosion, or reduced vehicle life, despite a potential 2-6% reduction in fuel economy.

Jantar Mantar falls silent after 36-day NEET protest ends

Jantar Mantar falls silent after 36-day NEET protest ends

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

The chants fell silent and calm descended on Jantar Mantar on Sunday, a day after the 36-day agitation over irregularities in exams and the NEET paper leak ended with the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

I could have extended my hunger strike...: Sonam Wangchuk

I could have extended my hunger strike...: Sonam Wangchuk

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Educator-activist Sonam Wangchuk has ended his 26-day hunger strike, stating he received assurances from the government and MPs regarding examination reforms, compensation for NEET-UG paper leak victims, and protection for peaceful protesters.

Hyderabad teacher booked for giving 'Islamic homework' to Hindu student

Hyderabad teacher booked for giving 'Islamic homework' to Hindu student

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

An FIR has been registered against a teacher and others at a private school in Hyderabad after a Hindu student was allegedly assigned "Islamic religious practices" as homework. The incident sparked outrage from political and religious groups, leading to the teacher's termination.

Kejriwal meets Wangchuk; alleges exam system collapsed in past 5 yrs

Kejriwal meets Wangchuk; alleges exam system collapsed in past 5 yrs

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Security has been increased at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi ahead of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's visit to meet activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is on a hunger strike protesting NEET irregularities. Kejriwal has expressed support for the protest and its demand for the Union Education Minister's resignation.

Petrol bomb hurled at BJP office in Punjab's Sangrur

Petrol bomb hurled at BJP office in Punjab's Sangrur

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

An unidentified group hurled a petrol bomb at the BJP office in Sangrur, Punjab, prompting strong condemnation from party leaders who criticised the AAP government's handling of law and order. Police are investigating the incident, which caused no injuries but left a burn mark on the building.

How AIFF's New Governance Framework Empowers Retired Footballers

How AIFF's New Governance Framework Empowers Retired Footballers

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has opened applications for its Sportspersons of Outstanding Merit (SOM) roster, a crucial step under the newly adopted National Sports Governance Act. This initiative aims to induct retired players into the federation's General Body, ensuring greater representation and direct involvement in governance. The process outlines specific eligibility criteria across various tiers of sporting achievement and allows direct applications, bypassing state association endorsements.

'Stop, these are our sons and daughters': Sonia slams govt

'Stop, these are our sons and daughters': Sonia slams govt

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi has launched a scathing attack on the Modi government, accusing it of responding to student demands for accountability and educational reforms with 'cowardice and wanton cruelty,' treating them as 'enemies of the nation.' She further alleged that the government has degraded India's education landscape and routinely chooses violence over dialogue.

400 booked in Mumbai for holding pro-CJP protests

400 booked in Mumbai for holding pro-CJP protests

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The Mumbai police have registered 13 FIRs since July 18 in connection with the ongoing protests on charges of unlawful assembly and violation of prohibitory orders, booking 400 people, officials said on Wednesday.

Gen Z is 'Generation gutter', 'puke-inducing videos'. Kangana

Gen Z is 'Generation gutter', 'puke-inducing videos'. Kangana

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Kangana Ranaut said some of the women protestors were "so ugly and corrupt that they can't be home makers either"

'Today's Children Are Not Slaves Of Anyone'

'Today's Children Are Not Slaves Of Anyone'

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

'This generation decides on their own what is good or bad for them.' 'They got an outlet to vent their anger against this government through CJP and they did that.' 'They felt how can the government control us or lathi charge us?'

Digital India RISC-V Symposium To Boost Semiconductor Innovation

Digital India RISC-V Symposium To Boost Semiconductor Innovation

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

IIT Madras is hosting the 3rd Digital India RISC-V (DIR-V) Symposium 2026 in partnership with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and RISC-V International. The symposium aims to unite stakeholders from government, industry, and academia to advance India's semiconductor innovation, focusing on indigenous processor technologies, secure computing, hardware innovation, and AI, aligning with the government's vision for India as a global semiconductor hub.

PoK elections turn deadly, JAAC alleges 14 activists killed

PoK elections turn deadly, JAAC alleges 14 activists killed

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Clashes erupted during the first phase of legislative assembly elections in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), with the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) claiming 14 deaths, a figure disputed by law enforcement. India condemned the elections as an attempt by Pakistan to legitimise its illegal occupation and human rights abuses in the region, while ongoing JAAC protests highlight deep-seated grievances.

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.

Wangchuk loses 8.2 kg as fast enters 16th day; 'lives at stake', says Dipke

Wangchuk loses 8.2 kg as fast enters 16th day; 'lives at stake', says Dipke

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's health has significantly deteriorated on the 16th day of his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, protesting alleged examination irregularities. His blood glucose and weight have dropped, prompting calls from the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and political leaders like AAP's Atishi and CPI(M) MPs for government intervention and accountability.

Can India's New Mobile Scheme Beat China?

Can India's New Mobile Scheme Beat China?

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Apple Inc, which had planned to shift only 10 per cent of its global production base from China to India with respect to iPhones at the end of FY26, is currently churning out one out of every four iPhones in the world from India.