News for 'US Special Representative'

Tahawwur Rana lands in Delhi, NIA records arrest

Tahawwur Rana lands in Delhi, NIA records arrest

Rediff.com10 Apr 2025

Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, was brought to India on Thursday after being "successfully extradited " from the US, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) said. The 64-year-old Canadian citizen of Pakistani origin landed in Delhi in a special plane on Thursday evening, ending days of speculation of when and how he will be extradited, officials said. The NIA said in a statement that it had secured the successful extradition after years of sustained and concerted efforts to bring to justice the key conspirator behind the 2008 mayhem that claimed 166 lives. Rana is accused of conspiring with David Coleman Headley alias Daood Gilani, and operatives of designated terrorist organisations Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Harkat-ul-Jihadi Islami (HUJI) along with other Pakistan-based co-conspirators, to carry out the the three-day terror siege of India's financial capital.

Want To See Sachin Bat Again?

Want To See Sachin Bat Again?

Rediff.com21 Feb 2025

'Walking back onto the field feels like coming home.'

'Mamata's Fundamental Concern Is The Muslim Vote'

'Mamata's Fundamental Concern Is The Muslim Vote'

Rediff.com18 Apr 2025

'Rather than assuaging the feelings of the Hindus accommodated in schools and hospitals, she calls a meeting of imams and tries to assuage them.'

Failed as CM, no 'cheap politics' on Pahalgam attack: Omar

Failed as CM, no 'cheap politics' on Pahalgam attack: Omar

Rediff.com29 Apr 2025

The Jammu and Kashmir assembly unanimously passed a resolution on Monday expressing shock and anguish over the terrorist attack in Pahalgam and resolved to fight resolutely to defeat the nefarious designs to disturb communal harmony and hinder progress.

Jaishankar carries Modi's letter to Trump's inauguration

Jaishankar carries Modi's letter to Trump's inauguration

Rediff.com20 Jan 2025

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, representing Prime Minister Narendra Modi, delivered a letter from Modi to US President Donald Trump at his inauguration on Monday. Jaishankar's presence at the inauguration is a common practice for India, sending special envoys to attend the swearing-in ceremonies of heads of state and government. The letter's content remains undisclosed.

All you need to know about Google's Republic Day doodle

All you need to know about Google's Republic Day doodle

Rediff.com26 Jan 2025

Google has created a special doodle to celebrate India's 76th Republic Day, featuring a vibrant 'wildlife parade' representing the country's diversity. The artwork depicts animals and birds from different regions of India, including a snow leopard in a Ladakhi dress and a tiger holding a traditional instrument. The doodle was illustrated by Pune-based artist Rohan Dahotre, who aimed to capture the spirit of India's unity and cultural richness.

'As He Was Taken To The Gallows, He Proclaimed 'Bharat Mata ki Jai'

'As He Was Taken To The Gallows, He Proclaimed 'Bharat Mata ki Jai'

Rediff.com12 Jun 2025

Standing near the noose, he recited a couplet in which he said he wished nothing but to sacrifice his life for the motherland. Utkarsh Mishra remembers Ram Prasad Bismil on the revolutionary leader's 128th birth anniversary.

Congress was soft on terror for vote bank: BJP on Tahawwur Rana

Congress was soft on terror for vote bank: BJP on Tahawwur Rana

Rediff.com10 Apr 2025

The BJP has lauded the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a key accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack, as a testament to "New India's" zero-tolerance stance against terrorism under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, the Congress has countered the claim, stating that the extradition was the result of diplomatic efforts initiated during the UPA government's tenure. The BJP highlighted Rana's return as a tribute to security personnel who lost their lives fighting Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and a step towards justice for victims of the attack. The Congress, however, asserted that the Modi government did not initiate the extradition process but benefited from the UPA's groundwork. The exchange of accusations has added a political dimension to Rana's extradition, with both parties vying for credit for the development.

'Only Trump Can Unite Thackeray Brothers'

'Only Trump Can Unite Thackeray Brothers'

Rediff.com6 Jun 2025

'Like me there are crores of Marathi people in the state hoping for this miracle to work.'

China defends Brahmaputra dam, says project won't affect riparian states

China defends Brahmaputra dam, says project won't affect riparian states

Rediff.com27 Dec 2024

China has defended its plan to build the world's largest dam on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet, assuring that the project will not affect riparian states and safety issues have been addressed through decades of studies. The dam, estimated to cost USD 137 billion, has raised concerns in India and Bangladesh, but Chinese authorities maintain that the project has been thoroughly studied and safeguards are in place. The dam is part of China's efforts to develop clean energy and respond to climate change.

Alia, Priyanka And The Colours Of...

Alia, Priyanka And The Colours Of...

Rediff.com8 Mar 2025

Celebrate this day with important ladies in your life, all dressed up in these powerful hues.

J-K MP Engineer granted 2-day custody parole to attend Parl

J-K MP Engineer granted 2-day custody parole to attend Parl

Rediff.com10 Feb 2025

The Delhi High Court granted two-day custody parole to jailed J&K MP Abdul Rashid Sheikh, allowing him to attend the ongoing Parliament session. The court imposed certain restrictions on Rashid, including a ban on using a cellphone or addressing the media, and ordered that he be escorted by armed police personnel to and from the Lok Sabha. The decision came after a legal battle between the National Investigation Agency (NIA), which argued against the parole, and Rashid's lawyers, who highlighted the importance of his representation in Parliament during the budget session. Rashid's case is linked to funding separatist activities in Jammu and Kashmir and connections to designated terrorist Hafeez Saeed.

NIA focuses Rana probe on Lashkar link; may take him to key locations

NIA focuses Rana probe on Lashkar link; may take him to key locations

Rediff.com11 Apr 2025

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has begun questioning Tahawwur Hussain Rana, the mastermind behind the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, to uncover the larger conspiracy behind the deadly strikes. Rana, who was extradited from the US, is being held at the NIA headquarters in New Delhi. The interrogation is focused on his possible connection with the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and his suspected links with the Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

'Nitish Kumar Is Playing The Last Over Of His Last Match'

'Nitish Kumar Is Playing The Last Over Of His Last Match'

Rediff.com27 May 2025

'If his health was good he would have become CM again after polls.' 'Those who are with Nitish Babu today will remain with him till the elections to use his name for votes and would definitely play games with him after the polls.'

No Digital Data Protection Act Change Likely

No Digital Data Protection Act Change Likely

Rediff.com7 Apr 2025

The "construct of the DPDP Act" cannot be changed at this stage, though there may be some minor tweaks in the language of the Rules and formats in certain legitimate cases.

India, China to resume Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights

India, China to resume Mansarovar Yatra, direct flights

Rediff.com28 Jan 2025

India and China on Monday decided to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra as the two sides agreed to take certain people-centric steps to 'stabilise and rebuild' ties.

Won't give single drop of water to Haryana: Punjab passes resolution

Won't give single drop of water to Haryana: Punjab passes resolution

Rediff.com6 May 2025

The Punjab Assembly on Monday unanimously passed a resolution to not release any water from its share to Haryana, citing the state's water scarcity. The resolution also demanded the reorganization of the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) and the repeal of the Dam Safety Act of 2021. The decision comes amid a stand-off between the two states over the distribution of water from the Bhakra dam. The resolution was moved by Punjab's Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal, who accused the BJP of trying to take away Punjab's water rights. The resolution was supported by all parties, including the opposition, which termed the Dam Safety Act of 2021 as an "attack" on the rights of Punjab. The resolution also criticized the BBMB, calling it a "puppet" of the BJP-led central government. The Punjab government maintains that the state does not have surplus water to spare and needs it for the upcoming paddy sowing season. The resolution has triggered strong reactions from the BJP, which has accused the Punjab government of politicising the issue.

Tsari Yatra May Help Ease India China Tensions

Tsari Yatra May Help Ease India China Tensions

Rediff.com2 Jan 2025

Why can't the Indian government propose to the Chinese a corridor circumambulating the Holy Mountain where people from both sides could perform the yatra again? asks Claude Arpi.

'I Used To Be Paid Rs 5 Or 10 To Play For Different Buildings'

'I Used To Be Paid Rs 5 Or 10 To Play For Different Buildings'

Rediff.com21 Apr 2025

He would often cross the railway tracks next to the Wankhede stadium just to catch a glimpse of the top Mumbai players. Today, a stand at that very stadium bears his name.

Bumrah's INCREDIBLE year earns ICC Test Cricketer Honour

Bumrah's INCREDIBLE year earns ICC Test Cricketer Honour

Rediff.com27 Jan 2025

Jasprit Bumrah was on Monday named ICC men's Test Cricketer of the Year for excelling in both home and away conditions

Rahul Gandhi gets bail in Savarkar defamation case

Rahul Gandhi gets bail in Savarkar defamation case

Rediff.com10 Jan 2025

A special court in Pune on Friday granted bail to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in a defamation case related to his alleged objectionable remarks on Hindutva ideologue V D Savarkar.

No breakthrough in Karnataka cabinet meeting on caste census

No breakthrough in Karnataka cabinet meeting on caste census

Rediff.com17 Apr 2025

A special cabinet meeting in Karnataka convened to discuss the contentious Social and Educational Survey report, popularly known as 'caste census', ended without a decision. The cabinet will reconvene on May 2 to discuss the report further and make a final decision.

When Pope Leo XIV Visited Kerala

When Pope Leo XIV Visited Kerala

Rediff.com13 May 2025

'I remember our priests saying that he liked sea food. So, they cooked sea food for him without masala and spice.' 'It seems he enjoyed Kerala food very much.'

'India Is A Bloody Good Team'

'India Is A Bloody Good Team'

Rediff.com10 Mar 2025

'Representing India is not a joke.'

K'taka caste census sparks outrage, Sidda ministers to oppose in cabinet

K'taka caste census sparks outrage, Sidda ministers to oppose in cabinet

Rediff.com16 Apr 2025

Opposition to the Karnataka government's proposed implementation of a caste census has intensified with dominant communities raising concerns about the survey's findings. The report, which has not been publicly released, is said to contradict traditional perceptions regarding the numerical strength of various castes, particularly Veerashaiva-Lingayats and Vokkaligas. These communities, along with political parties, including sections of the ruling Congress, have criticized the survey as "unscientific" and demanded a fresh assessment. The Vokkaligara Sangha and the All India Veerashaiva Mahasabha have expressed strong opposition, alleging that the report misrepresents their populations and demanding a fresh survey. Meanwhile, Dalit and OBC groups have defended the survey and its recommendations, including an increase in reservation for OBCs to 51%. The controversy has fueled political tensions in Karnataka, with opposition parties accusing the Congress government of using the caste census for political gain.

When Cricket Legends Walked Away Without A Roar

When Cricket Legends Walked Away Without A Roar

Rediff.com15 May 2025

While Sachin Tendulkar's 2013 farewell became a national pilgrimage, a vibrant celebration befitting a cricketing deity, the exits of many other Indian icons this century have been quieter journeys into the twilight.

HC quashes ED summons to Sidda's wife, minister in MUDA case

HC quashes ED summons to Sidda's wife, minister in MUDA case

Rediff.com7 Mar 2025

The Karnataka High Court has quashed the Enforcement Directorate's summons to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's wife Parvathi B M and Urban Development Minister B S Suresh in connection with the MUDA site allotment case. The court ruled that the ED was conducting a parallel investigation despite the case already being probed by the Lokayukta police and a Special Investigation Team (SIT). The ED had alleged that Siddaramaiah and other accused were involved in attempted money laundering in the MUDA site allotment case and that the fourteen sites (plots) allotted to Parvathi in Mysuru upmarket were illegally allotted.

'Pope Leo Greeted People With A Namaste'

'Pope Leo Greeted People With A Namaste'

Rediff.com17 May 2025

'We had prepared tapioca and crabs for him, and he enjoyed the Kerala cuisine thoroughly.'

'Falsehood': Jaishankar on Rahul's Trump invite charge

'Falsehood': Jaishankar on Rahul's Trump invite charge

Rediff.com3 Feb 2025

Jaishankar said that Rahul Gandhi's lies damage India at an international level.

Has US Averted India-Pakistan War?

Has US Averted India-Pakistan War?

Rediff.com2 May 2025

The 'mediation' by the United States from behind the scene on the diplomatic track appears to be once again working, which calls on both Delhi and Islamabad to show restraint and pull back from a military confrontation, notes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Violence being instigated after Waqf Bill passage: Adityanath slams Oppn

Violence being instigated after Waqf Bill passage: Adityanath slams Oppn

Rediff.com13 Apr 2025

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday condemned the violence in West Bengal's Murshidabad district following the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, accusing the opposition of instigating the violence. He also criticized the opposition for their alleged silence over the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh and emphasized the BJP's commitment to protecting Hindus.

SC slams cops for not appealing acquittals in anti-Sikh riots cases

SC slams cops for not appealing acquittals in anti-Sikh riots cases

Rediff.com10 Feb 2025

The Supreme Court has expressed its dissatisfaction with the Delhi Police's handling of appeals against acquittals in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots cases. The court emphasized the need for serious and earnest prosecution, not just for the sake of it. This comes in the wake of a public interest litigation filed by a former Shiromani Gurudwara Prabhandak Committee member, seeking justice for the victims of the violence.

Marc Grossman resigns as Special Af-Pak representative

Marc Grossman resigns as Special Af-Pak representative

Rediff.com28 Nov 2012

Special United States envoy for Afghanistan and Pakistan Marc Grossman has resigned after leading the American diplomatic campaign in the volatile region for two years as President Barack Obama's pointsman to the region. Grossman would be replaced by Deputy Special US Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan David D Pearce in an acting capacity. His resignation would come into effect on December 14.

'Rubio's Call To Munir Was Critical'

'Rubio's Call To Munir Was Critical'

Rediff.com12 May 2025

'Fears in Washington began to intensify when it was realised that subsequent Pakistani and Indian attacks on major military facilities -- which were significant in terms of geographic scope and intensity -- could rapidly take both sides to where neither actually wanted to go.' 'The US objective was to stop the fighting as soon as possible. Everything else was secondary.'

For Now DIIs In Driver's Seat...

For Now DIIs In Driver's Seat...

Rediff.com16 May 2025

The interplay between domestic and foreign capital will shape India's equity markets.

Court to rule on death plea for Sajjan Kumar on Feb 25

Court to rule on death plea for Sajjan Kumar on Feb 25

Rediff.com21 Feb 2025

A Delhi court reserved its order on the quantum of sentence against Congress leader Sajjan Kumar in a murder case related to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots for February 25. The complainant, whose husband and son were killed, sought the maximum punishment of death penalty for Kumar. The court on February 12 convicted Kumar for the offence and sought a report from Tihar jail on his psychiatric and psychological evaluation.

Disengagement likely to smoothen bilateral ties: Chinese envoy

Disengagement likely to smoothen bilateral ties: Chinese envoy

Rediff.com30 Oct 2024

Chinese ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, on Wednesday expressed hope that the recently completed Indo-China border disengagement in Eastern Ladakh would smoothen relations and pave the way for a better understanding between the two neighbours in the days ahead.

Meet new BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia

Meet new BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia

Rediff.com12 Jan 2025

A former cricketer, Devajit Saikia represented Assam in four first-class matches during the 1990s before transitioning to cricket administration.

China to build world's largest dam near India border

China to build world's largest dam near India border

Rediff.com26 Dec 2024

China has approved the construction of the world's largest dam on the Brahmaputra River in Tibet, close to the Indian border. The USD 137 billion project, which is expected to dwarf even China's own Three Gorges Dam, has raised concerns in India and Bangladesh, the downstream riparian states. Concerns in India are centered around China's potential to control water flow, potentially enabling the release of large amounts of water to flood border areas in times of hostilities. The dam is part of China's 14th Five-Year Plan, and the Chinese government claims that the project is safe and prioritizes ecological protection.

Will Pakistan's Generals Never Learn?

Will Pakistan's Generals Never Learn?

Rediff.com19 Apr 2025

Asim Munir and his brand of short-sighted army officers give no inkling of paying heed, changing course or learning lessons from the past, observes Rana Banerji, who headed the Pakistan desk at RA&W.