News for 'US Special Representative'

US negotiators to head to Pakistan for Iran peace talks on Tuesday

US negotiators to head to Pakistan for Iran peace talks on Tuesday

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Ahead of the expiry on Tuesday of the two-week ceasefire declared by US President Donald Trump in the conflict with Iran, US media outlets reported on Sunday that negotiators Steve Witkoff, special envoy for peace missions and Jared Kushner will head to Islamabad for talks with Iran.

Ryan Williams Describes 'Blurry' Moment After Scoring on India Debut

Ryan Williams Describes 'Blurry' Moment After Scoring on India Debut

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Australian-born striker Ryan Williams describes his emotions after scoring on his India debut in an Asian Cup qualifying match against Hong Kong.

Pahalgam Memorial Honours Terror Attack Victims

Pahalgam Memorial Honours Terror Attack Victims

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

A memorial has been erected in Pahalgam to honour the victims of a terror attack last year. Security has been increased across Kashmir ahead of the anniversary.

No Israeli push, no nuclear Iran: Trump hardens Iran stance, targets media

No Israeli push, no nuclear Iran: Trump hardens Iran stance, targets media

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump on Monday doubled down on his hardline stance against Tehran while dismissing mainstream media narratives regarding his foreign policy motivations.

Quota bill defeat: NDA nationwide stir against Oppn from Saturday

Quota bill defeat: NDA nationwide stir against Oppn from Saturday

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

In a swift political counter-offensive, the Bharatiya Janata Party and its National Democratic Alliance (NDA) partners have announced a massive, nationwide protest campaign targeting the Opposition.

LS seats may rise up to 850 to roll out 33% women's quota before 2029 polls

LS seats may rise up to 850 to roll out 33% women's quota before 2029 polls

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

A bill to implement 33 per cent reservation for women in Lok Sabha and state assemblies by increasing the lower house's strength to 850 is slated for introduction in Parliament. The bill seeks to amend Article 81 of the Constitution and utilise 2011 Census data for redrawing constituencies.

'We win regardless...': Trump on US-Iran talks in Islamabad

'We win regardless...': Trump on US-Iran talks in Islamabad

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump expressed confidence in America's position amid US-Iran peace talks in Islamabad, stating that Washington stands to 'win' regardless of a deal.

Banerjee Accuses BJP Of Dividing Bengal On Religious Lines

Banerjee Accuses BJP Of Dividing Bengal On Religious Lines

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticised the BJP for allegedly attempting to divide people on religious and caste lines during a community outreach programme in her Bhabanipur constituency.

'Beating Pakistan Doesn't Feel Special Anymore'

'Beating Pakistan Doesn't Feel Special Anymore'

Rediff.com3 Feb 2026

'India-Pakistan match, if it does not happen, no big deal. Honestly, for a long time now, the actual game has never lived up to the hype and the drama we built up before the match.'

23 lakh voters in limbo as Bengal sees massive rush to tribunals

23 lakh voters in limbo as Bengal sees massive rush to tribunals

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

Thousands of West Bengal residents whose names were deleted from electoral rolls are awaiting decisions from tribunals, the final recourse after initial appeals were rejected. The fate of around 2.3 million people hinges on these adjudications, raising concerns about voting rights and citizenship.

Banerjee Accuses BJP Of Dividing Bengal On Religious Lines

Banerjee Accuses BJP Of Dividing Bengal On Religious Lines

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticised the BJP for allegedly deleting names from electoral rolls and attempting to divide people on religious and caste lines during a community outreach programme in her Bhabanipur constituency.

Iran-US peace talks hang in balance amid tensions

Iran-US peace talks hang in balance amid tensions

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Uncertainty surrounds the planned second round of peace talks between the US and Iran in Islamabad, as both sides engage in brinkmanship. Despite Pakistan's security preparations, Iran has yet to confirm its attendance, citing a lack of seriousness from the US in pursuing diplomacy and violations of the ceasefire.

Bhutan: Breathtakingly Beautiful!

Bhutan: Breathtakingly Beautiful!

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

The first thing you notice about Bhutan is not the mountains, but the silence.

Modi government's first defeat: Women's bill fails in LS

Modi government's first defeat: Women's bill fails in LS

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

A Constitution Amendment Bill aimed at implementing 33 per cent reservation for women in legislatures and increasing Lok Sabha seats was defeated in Parliament, marking a setback for the government's efforts to empower women in politics.

Opposition backs women's quota, to vote against delimitation

Opposition backs women's quota, to vote against delimitation

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

Several opposition parties on Wednesday decided to jointly oppose the delimitation provisions in the Constitution amendment bill in Parliament, even as they reiterated support for women's reservation, with Mallikarjun Kharge alleging the move is politically motivated.

Karnataka: Congress MLA gets life term in BJP leader's murder case

Karnataka: Congress MLA gets life term in BJP leader's murder case

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

A Bengaluru court has sentenced Congress MLA Vinay Kulkarni to life imprisonment for the murder of BJP leader Yogeshgouda Goudar. The court also sentenced 15 others to life imprisonment in connection with the 2016 murder case.

India rue 'three hours of bad tennis' after Billie Jean King Cup failure

India rue 'three hours of bad tennis' after Billie Jean King Cup failure

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

India's captain Vishal Uppal reflects on the team's performance in the Billie Jean King Cup, highlighting missed opportunities and the need for improvement despite a strong finish.

US-Iran talks: First phase concludes, both sides exchange texts

US-Iran talks: First phase concludes, both sides exchange texts

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

The United States and Iran concluded the first phase of in-person talks in Islamabad, with both delegations exchanging written texts to formalise areas of understanding. The discussions, involving key representatives from both sides, are aimed at reducing tensions and exploring possibilities of a structured understanding.

Made lot of progress, ball in Iran's court: Vance

Made lot of progress, ball in Iran's court: Vance

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

US Vice President J D Vance stated that while progress was made during peace talks in Islamabad, it is now up to Iran to further the discussions and address US concerns regarding its nuclear ambitions.

Modi Blasts TMC Over Lawlessness and Infiltration in West Bengal Rally

Modi Blasts TMC Over Lawlessness and Infiltration in West Bengal Rally

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticised the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal, accusing them of lawlessness, corruption, and enabling illegal infiltration. He promised to initiate a special inquiry against facilitators of infiltration and to deport unauthorised entrants if the BJP comes to power in the state.

Judicial officers' gherao in Malda: SC transfers probe to NIA

Judicial officers' gherao in Malda: SC transfers probe to NIA

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court has transferred the investigation of the Malda incident, involving the gherao and attack on judicial officers, to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), citing concerns about the credibility of West Bengal's bureaucracy.

Amit Shah Pledges To Resolve Gorkha Issue In Six Months

Amit Shah Pledges To Resolve Gorkha Issue In Six Months

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah promised to resolve the decades-old Gorkha issue within six months if the BJP comes to power in West Bengal, addressing a rally in Kurseong, Darjeeling district.

BJP MLA Lodha ask 5 LPGs for Jain temples amid crisis, sparks row

BJP MLA Lodha ask 5 LPGs for Jain temples amid crisis, sparks row

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Maharashtra minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha defends his request for LPG cylinders for Jain temples, claiming criticism is part of a larger anti-Hindu narrative.

Talks failed due to 'excessive demands' made by US: Iran

Talks failed due to 'excessive demands' made by US: Iran

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

Talks between Iran and the US in Pakistan concluded without a deal due to disagreements over key issues, including Iran's nuclear programme and sanctions, despite efforts to find common ground.

How RBI Plans To Protect Your Money From Scams

How RBI Plans To Protect Your Money From Scams

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

The proposed solution is a one-hour delay for digital transactions exceeding Rs 10,000, particularly when the transfer is made to a new or unverified beneficiary. The idea is simple -- give users a window to reconsider, detect fraud or alert their bank before the funds are irretrievably transferred.

Abhishek Banerjee: TMC Vote Only Way To Stop BJP

Abhishek Banerjee: TMC Vote Only Way To Stop BJP

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee has urged voters to support the TMC as the only way to defeat the BJP, particularly in areas with a strong Congress base. He accused the BJP of dividing communities and failing to address key issues such as river erosion and farmer distress, while outlining the TMC's welfare plans.

IPL 2026: 'I'm not done': Krunal Pandya eyes India comeback, slams critics

IPL 2026: 'I'm not done': Krunal Pandya eyes India comeback, slams critics

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

Indian all-rounder Krunal Pandya discusses his desire to represent India again and reflects on his batting contributions, highlighting his match-winning performances in the IPL.

West Bengal Polls: Mamata Banerjee Can't Underestimate BJP

West Bengal Polls: Mamata Banerjee Can't Underestimate BJP

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

This election is different. It is no longer simply about governance or welfare. It is about identity, fear, and who belongs. The BJP has successfully shifted the terms of the debate from what the government has delivered to who the real Bengali is and who is an outsider, points out Ramesh Menon.

Even If US, Iran Signed Deal Today, Hormuz Strait Won't...

Even If US, Iran Signed Deal Today, Hormuz Strait Won't...

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

...reopen for up to six months. Until then, the Strait stays nearly closed. The world pays. And no one, including the man who started this, can say when it ends, notes Prem Panicker in his must read blog on the Iran War.

10 Airports Passengers Love The Most

10 Airports Passengers Love The Most

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

SKYTRAX's annual airport rankings for 2026, based on a global passenger poll, placed four Indian gateways within the top 100. Delhi moved up to 28th and led the India-South Asia region, while Hyderabad climbed to 43rd and earned praise for staff service. Goa and Mumbai improved to 64th and 66th respectively.

The Six Men Who Decide Iran's Fate

The Six Men Who Decide Iran's Fate

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

As Iran heads into crucial peace talks with the United States of America, here are the six men who decide the Islamic Republic's course.

White House dismisses reports of peace talks in Pakistan as 'speculation'

White House dismisses reports of peace talks in Pakistan as 'speculation'

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Iranian representatives have conveyed to the Trump administration that they are unwilling to resume talks with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, preferring instead to engage with Vice President J D Vance.

Trump, Iran Inch Closer And Closer To A Deal

Trump, Iran Inch Closer And Closer To A Deal

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Trump has said he would be present at the signing ceremony in Islamabad. Don't be surprised if the Pakistani hosts make it a grand event in the geopolitics of the region. Trump would love that, notes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Bombay High Court Orders Retrial in 2017 Rape and Murder Case Due to Lack of Legal Representation

Bombay High Court Orders Retrial in 2017 Rape and Murder Case Due to Lack of Legal Representation

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The Bombay High Court overturned the conviction and death sentence of a man in a 2017 rape and murder case, citing a violation of his fundamental right to a fair trial due to lack of legal representation. The court ordered a fresh trial, emphasising the need for a fair process for both the accused and the prosecution.

Court Denies Bail in Rs 117-Crore Money Laundering Case, Cites Threat to Financial Health

Court Denies Bail in Rs 117-Crore Money Laundering Case, Cites Threat to Financial Health

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

A special court in Mumbai has denied bail to Pune businessman Amit Thepade in a Rs 117-crore money laundering case, citing the serious threat economic offences pose to the country's financial health.

First Khelo India Tribal Games to Spotlight 1300 Athletes

First Khelo India Tribal Games to Spotlight 1300 Athletes

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games are set to begin in Chhattisgarh, featuring nearly 1300 athletes from across India competing in nine disciplines. The event aims to provide a platform for tribal athletes to showcase their talent and promote sports at the grassroots level.

TMC-backed BLOs clash with police in Kolkata over voter list row

TMC-backed BLOs clash with police in Kolkata over voter list row

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Tension flared outside the Chief Electoral Officer's office in Kolkata following a confrontation between Trinamool Congress supporters and police over alleged voter list manipulation, with accusations of illegal voter enrolment from other states.

Indian-Origin Ex-Cop Pleads Guilty in UK 'Crash for Cash' Fraud

Indian-Origin Ex-Cop Pleads Guilty in UK 'Crash for Cash' Fraud

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

A former Metropolitan Police officer of Indian origin has pleaded guilty to his involvement in a 'crash for cash' scam in the UK, involving fraudulent personal injury claims after staged vehicle collisions.

21-hour US-Iran talks fail, ceasefire hangs in balance

21-hour US-Iran talks fail, ceasefire hangs in balance

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

Direct talks between the US and Iran, mediated by Pakistan, have failed to produce an agreement after 21 hours of negotiations, with disagreements over Iran's nuclear ambitions and sanctions proving insurmountable.

CEC asks TMC delegation to 'get lost'; O'Brien accused of 'shouting'

CEC asks TMC delegation to 'get lost'; O'Brien accused of 'shouting'

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

A Trinamool Congress delegation reported a contentious meeting with the Election Commission, alleging the chief election commissioner dismissed them abruptly, while the EC has accused the TMC of disruptive behaviour.