News for 'The Union'

Why Do Meitei Groups Want NRC Before the 2027 Census?

Why Do Meitei Groups Want NRC Before the 2027 Census?

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

A coalition of 14 Meitei civil society organisations in Manipur has urged Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla to implement a National Register of Citizens before the 2027 Census, arguing it is crucial for resolving the state's ongoing ethnic conflict and identifying 'illegal migrants'.

'Happened so fast...': Protesters recall how SOnam Wangchuk was whisked away

'Happened so fast...': Protesters recall how SOnam Wangchuk was whisked away

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk was forcibly removed from his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar by Delhi Police, sparking outrage and renewed determination among protesters who vowed to continue their demonstration.

Bengal govt can now detain suspects without trial, raze rioters' properties

Bengal govt can now detain suspects without trial, raze rioters' properties

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

West Bengal has enacted two controversial legislations, the Public Safety and Control of Anti-Social Activities Act and the Maintenance of Public Order (Amendment) Act, aimed at curbing organised crime and violent protests. These laws grant authorities significant powers, including preventive detention without trial and property attachment for riot damages, drawing both support and criticism.

Rahul 'expresses regret' in defamation case by Shivraj's son

Rahul 'expresses regret' in defamation case by Shivraj's son

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has filed an application in the Madhya Pradesh High Court expressing regret over an allegedly defamatory statement made against Kartikeya Singh, son of Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. Singh had filed a defamation complaint, leading Gandhi to seek quashing of the summons and the case.

Hormuz Closure Tests India's Energy Security

Hormuz Closure Tests India's Energy Security

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

'Energy prices would shoot up with the closure of Hormuz again.'

Wangchuk's health deteriorates as CJP protest at Jantar Mantar enters 11th day

Wangchuk's health deteriorates as CJP protest at Jantar Mantar enters 11th day

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and activist Sonam Wangchuk's protest at Jantar Mantar has entered its eleventh day, with Wangchuk's health deteriorating due to a hunger strike. Protesters allege heavy police deployment and restrictions, demanding accountability for examination irregularities and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Union minister Pradhan wants Mahakal Standard Time to replace GMT

Union minister Pradhan wants Mahakal Standard Time to replace GMT

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has advocated for the establishment of 'Mahakal Standard Time' (MST), citing Ujjain's historical significance as a centre for time calculation and astronomy.

El Nino effect severely impacts India's hydropower generation, pushing up power demand and coal reliance

El Nino effect severely impacts India's hydropower generation, pushing up power demand and coal reliance

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

India's hydropower generation has been significantly constrained in July due to the El Nio effect, which has weakened the southwest monsoon and reduced reservoir levels. This decline, following a 21 per cent year-on-year drop in June 2026, is forcing greater reliance on coal generation and straining grid flexibility amidst rising power demand.

EC's SIR exercise marks 1 year; Nearly 6cr names deleted so far

EC's SIR exercise marks 1 year; Nearly 6cr names deleted so far

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

The Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has completed one year, leading to the deletion of nearly six crore voters across 19 states and Union territories. This exercise, which began in Bihar, has faced opposition criticism but was upheld by the Supreme Court. The purification drive has significant implications, including linking voter data to social security benefits in some states.

FinMin Clears Rs 1.25 Lakh Crore for India Semiconductor Mission 2.0

FinMin Clears Rs 1.25 Lakh Crore for India Semiconductor Mission 2.0

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The Finance Ministry's expenditure department has approved a substantial Rs 1.25 lakh crore outlay for India Semiconductor Mission 2.0, significantly increasing the country's investment in global chip-making ambitions and aiming to establish India as a major semiconductor hub.

Zomato, Zepto, Swiggy, Urban Company, Porter Challenge Karnataka Gig Workers Act

Zomato, Zepto, Swiggy, Urban Company, Porter Challenge Karnataka Gig Workers Act

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

'If there are different laws governing the same subject, it can increase the compliance burden on platforms. The process would be easier and more transparent if there were a singular national-level law.'

'Bro, I'm an artist': Diljit Dosanjh to stay away from CJP protest

'Bro, I'm an artist': Diljit Dosanjh to stay away from CJP protest

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh has publicly distanced himself from the ongoing protests by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar, which are focused on alleged exam irregularities and the NEET paper-leak controversy. Dosanjh reiterated his identity as an artist, not a politician, despite his past support for the farmers' protest and recent appeals to enter politics.

NIA conducts nationwide raids to bust ISIS-backed plot; 12 held

NIA conducts nationwide raids to bust ISIS-backed plot; 12 held

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted nationwide searches across 10 states and one Union Territory, targeting an online terror radicalisation conspiracy linked to ISIS and AQIS. The operation, which led to the seizure of digital devices, is part of an ongoing investigation into a plot to establish an Islamic state in India through violent jihad. So far, 11 individuals and one juvenile have been arrested in connection with the case.

NDA alleges 'massive irregularities' in Karnataka SIR, demands probe

NDA alleges 'massive irregularities' in Karnataka SIR, demands probe

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

A delegation of NDA leaders in Karnataka has formally complained to the Chief Electoral Officer, alleging "massive irregularities" in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and demanding an immediate inquiry and door-to-door re-verification.

Bombay HC upholds right to protest, quashes externment order

Bombay HC upholds right to protest, quashes externment order

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

The Bombay High Court has quashed a year-long externment order against a political leader, ruling that involvement in agitations and protests against the government cannot be the sole basis for such orders. Justice Madhav Jamdar stated that externment for opposing government decisions affects fundamental rights, including freedom of speech and expression.

Delhi Gymkhana members challenges Centre's eviction notice in HC

Delhi Gymkhana members challenges Centre's eviction notice in HC

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

The Centre had previously informed the high court it would not take forceful possession of the land by June 5, stating it would follow due legal procedure.

Delhi HC orders restoration of CJP's X handle, revokes govt ban

Delhi HC orders restoration of CJP's X handle, revokes govt ban

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has ordered the unblocking of the Cockroach Janta Party's X handle, which was previously withheld due to concerns over potential "chaos" during the NEET re-test. The court's decision came after the Solicitor General stated that the primary concern was no longer relevant as the NEET exam was over. The CJP, a youth-driven satirical movement, aims to hold the government accountable and has gained significant digital traction.

Mumbai grinds to a halt as BEST strike pulls 2,700 buses off roads

Mumbai grinds to a halt as BEST strike pulls 2,700 buses off roads

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Employees of Mumbai's BEST undertaking have launched an indefinite strike, severely impacting public transport and electricity services. The strike, called by a joint action committee, demands budget merger with BMC, settlement of dues, and implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission, among other issues. Despite court orders and MESMA invocation, the strike continues, causing widespread inconvenience to millions of commuters and electricity consumers.

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay to meet Karur stampede victims' kin, offer jobs

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay to meet Karur stampede victims' kin, offer jobs

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay is set to visit Karur for a crucial public interaction, where he will address victims of last year's stampede, distribute welfare, and lay the foundation stone for a major Rs 1,700 crore footwear manufacturing factory.

Manipur groups demand NRC update ahead of Census 2027

Manipur groups demand NRC update ahead of Census 2027

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Fourteen civil society organisations from Manipur have urged the Centre to update the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the state before the completion of Census 2027. They argue this is essential to address concerns over demographic changes and alleged illegal immigration from Myanmar, which they believe has altered the state's population profile.

Kiren Rijiju Foresees Indian Fencers Winning Asian Games Medals And Qualifying For Olympics

Kiren Rijiju Foresees Indian Fencers Winning Asian Games Medals And Qualifying For Olympics

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju expressed confidence that Indian fencers will secure medals at the upcoming Asian Games and qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. He emphasized the need to popularize fencing in India, highlighting its potential to capture the youth's imagination and its significant medal opportunities at the Olympics. Rijiju also commented on the government's non-interference policy regarding sports federations' internal affairs, specifically addressing the Manika Batra selection issue.

India Set To Introduce Dedicated AI Regulation Framework

India Set To Introduce Dedicated AI Regulation Framework

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

India's IT Secretary S Krishnan announced that the government is considering a dedicated regulatory framework for Artificial Intelligence, moving beyond existing IT rules to address challenges like deepfakes and synthetic content. This comes as global policymakers grapple with AI's rapid emergence and its implications.

SIR focused on voter exclusion, disturbed free and fair elections: Ex-CEC Quraishi

SIR focused on voter exclusion, disturbed free and fair elections: Ex-CEC Quraishi

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Former Chief Election Commissioner S Y Quraishi has strongly criticised the Election Commission's ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, stating it is 'focussed more on exclusion' and has 'played havoc with democracy' by disturbing free and fair elections.

Dipke says Pradhan's exit 'bare minimum' as NEET aspirants join CJP stir

Dipke says Pradhan's exit 'bare minimum' as NEET aspirants join CJP stir

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is continuing its protest at Jantar Mantar for the third day, demanding accountability for alleged examination irregularities and the May 3 NEET paper leak. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke has called for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and compensation for affected families, with farmer unions expected to join the ongoing agitation.

Climate Change Threatens World Cup Match Safety

Climate Change Threatens World Cup Match Safety

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

A World Cup game between Paraguay and France in Philadelphia is at risk due to extreme heat and humidity, linked to climate change and fossil fuel use. A heat dome over the U.S. and Canada has pushed temperatures beyond safe play recommendations, raising concerns about player safety and future tournament scheduling.

CJP's Abhijeet Dipke to appear before MeitY panel over X account block

CJP's Abhijeet Dipke to appear before MeitY panel over X account block

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke is set to appear before a Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) committee regarding the withholding of the group's X account. This development comes amidst an ongoing CJP protest at Jantar Mantar demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged exam irregularities and the NEET paper-leak controversy.

India-EU FTA Legal Scrub to Conclude Soon, Pact Expected by December 31

India-EU FTA Legal Scrub to Conclude Soon, Pact Expected by December 31

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced that the legal scrubbing of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) text is expected to be completed within 10-12 days, with the final deal anticipated to be signed by December 31.

Blasts in Syria near hotel where French PM was to stay

Blasts in Syria near hotel where French PM was to stay

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Several explosions were reported in Damascus, Syria, on Tuesday, with two occurring near a hotel where French President Emmanuel Macron was expected to stay during his first official visit to the country. The blasts caused plumes of smoke but no immediate casualties were reported. This incident follows a recent bomb blast in central Damascus on July 3 that killed five people.

Kumaraswamy Calls For Tech Adoption In Steel To Boost Competitiveness

Kumaraswamy Calls For Tech Adoption In Steel To Boost Competitiveness

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Union Steel Minister HD Kumaraswamy has urged the Indian steel industry to adopt advanced technologies like AI, Machine Learning, and IoT to enhance global competitiveness and productivity. Speaking at a Chintan Shivir, he highlighted that digitalisation is crucial for achieving ambitious steel capacity targets by 2035 and addressing challenges such as operational efficiency, decarbonisation, and export competitiveness. The minister also emphasised how technology can improve safety and reduce downtime in steel plants.

Wangchuk refuses to end fast despite being 'in immense pain'

Wangchuk refuses to end fast despite being 'in immense pain'

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk's health is rapidly deteriorating on his 17th day of hunger strike, prompting widespread appeals from prominent political figures and Bollywood celebrities for him to end his fast and for the government to address the urgent demands for NEET examination reforms.

Centre Tightens Rules on Alcohol-Based Medicines

Centre Tightens Rules on Alcohol-Based Medicines

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

The move follows reports from several state drug-regulatory authorities indicating misuse and hoarding oral formulations with high ethyl-alcohol concentration, which people use as a substitute for liquor.

LeT chief Hafiz Saeed named as accused in Pahalgam terror attack

LeT chief Hafiz Saeed named as accused in Pahalgam terror attack

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a supplementary chargesheet naming Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) chief Hafiz Saeed as an accused in the Pahalgam terror attack, charging him with waging war against India and hatching a cross-border conspiracy.

Crucial Ram temple trust meeting today amid donation row

Crucial Ram temple trust meeting today amid donation row

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is set to hold a critical meeting in Ayodhya to address the ongoing probe into alleged donation theft and the resignations of its general secretary and a trustee. The meeting will review the SIT report and discuss potential appointments.

'Only one Shiv Sena exists': Shah's dig at Uddhav

'Only one Shiv Sena exists': Shah's dig at Uddhav

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticised Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, accusing him of aligning with Congress to use infiltrators as a vote bank. Shah asserted that India is not a "dharmashala" and vowed to expel all infiltrators. He also commented on the impending split within the Sena (UBT), stating that Eknath Shinde now leads the only true Shiv Sena.

Why FPI Selling Hasn't Hurt Markets

Why FPI Selling Hasn't Hurt Markets

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Foreign investors have largely been exiting one part of the market while domestic investors have been enthusiastically accumulating another, points out Debashis Basu.

Union Minister Accuses West Bengal Government of Farmer Injustice

Union Minister Accuses West Bengal Government of Farmer Injustice

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan criticised the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal for allegedly failing to implement central agriculture schemes, claiming injustice to farmers.

CJP stir enters Day 19: Wangchuk loses 7 kg, AISA member hospitalised

CJP stir enters Day 19: Wangchuk loses 7 kg, AISA member hospitalised

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's condition deteriorated further on Wednesday, with doctors reporting that he has lost more than seven kilograms since beginning his indefinite fast 11 days ago.

CEA Calls For Industry Investment In Skilling, Innovation For GCCs

CEA Calls For Industry Investment In Skilling, Innovation For GCCs

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran has urged the industry to invest in skilling, capability development, and innovation to counter the challenges posed by artificial intelligence, particularly for Global Capability Centres (GCCs). He noted that while the government has supported GCCs through Budget measures like simplifying transfer pricing and promoting expansion into tier-II/III cities, industry must move beyond low-cost execution to thrive in an an AI-driven landscape. Nageswaran emphasised that AI displaces routine tasks, necessitating a focus on higher-value work and continuous skill enhancement to maintain India's competitive edge.

Union Cabinet approves renaming Kerala to Keralam

Union Cabinet approves renaming Kerala to Keralam

Rediff.com25 Feb 2026

The Union Cabinet has reportedly approved the Kerala government's proposal to officially change the state's name to Keralam, following a resolution passed by the Kerala Assembly.

HC seeks Centre's stand on Delhi Gymkhana Club eviction

HC seeks Centre's stand on Delhi Gymkhana Club eviction

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has sought the Centre's response regarding pleas from Delhi Gymkhana Club members and staff challenging a show-cause notice for eviction. The court has asked the Solicitor General to ensure the Estate Officer's hearing is adjourned until after the next court date, indicating judicial oversight in the ongoing dispute over the club's 27.3-acre premises.