News for 'Voice'

Jantar Mantar: From voice of protest to a silenced space

Jantar Mantar: From voice of protest to a silenced space

Rediff.com6 days ago

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.

Trai directs telcos to offer voice-and-SMS-only plans, impacting ARPU

Trai directs telcos to offer voice-and-SMS-only plans, impacting ARPU

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has mandated that service providers offer voice-and-SMS-only tariff plans, without bundled data, with a minimum validity of 30 days or less, aiming to provide more affordable and shorter-duration options for consumers who do not require data.

Muzaffar Ali: 'Asha Bhosle Was Never Just A Voice'

Muzaffar Ali: 'Asha Bhosle Was Never Just A Voice'

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

'Ashaji has not left the human heart. That is her true mehfil. That is where she resides -- unfading, unending.'

Peter Cullen, Voice Of Optimus Prime In Transformers, Dies

Peter Cullen, Voice Of Optimus Prime In Transformers, Dies

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Canadian voice actor Peter Cullen, best known for giving life to the heroic Optimus Prime across the Transformers films, has passed away at 85.

Don't come in the way of protesting students: Rahul to Modi

Don't come in the way of protesting students: Rahul to Modi

Rediff.com5 days ago

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi met with students injured during recent protests and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi not to obstruct their voice. Gandhi assured the students of Congress's support and warned that action would be taken against all officials, from the Prime Minister to police constables, who acted against them. He emphasised the unity of the protesting students, transcending religion and caste.

Voice Of India Platform To Assess AI Systems For Indian Contexts

Voice Of India Platform To Assess AI Systems For Indian Contexts

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

AI4Bharat at IIT Madras and Josh Talks AI have launched 'Voice of India', a multimodal AI evaluation platform designed to assess AI systems against Indian conditions, languages, accents, and dialects. This platform aims to provide scientifically rigorous, India-specific evaluations, covering areas like Voice AI, large language models, document processing, safety, cultural appropriateness, and Indian legal reasoning, to build trust and enable informed deployment decisions.

Durga Puja: The Sounds Of The Mahalaya...

Durga Puja: The Sounds Of The Mahalaya...

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

'Ma would fiddle with the radio's knob until the static gave way to music; then, the voice would come on. I would be half-asleep still, understanding little of the Sanskrit words I heard but the words in chants, interspersed with songs, cast a spell. I still remember the goosebumps I felt as the epic tale of Goddess Durga's birth and battles unfolded,' says Radha Roy Biswas.

'Salman Khan Is The Main Target, Not Tiger'

'Salman Khan Is The Main Target, Not Tiger'

Rediff.com2 hours ago

'This incident will send a wave of fear through the entire Bollywood community.'

Anti-drug activist murder: Medical shop owner arrested

Anti-drug activist murder: Medical shop owner arrested

Rediff.com5 days ago

The alleged killer of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Punjab's Mansa district has been arrested from Rajasthan. Jhota was murdered on Tuesday after confronting the accused, a medical store owner, for allegedly selling drugs. The incident, captured on Facebook Live, led to widespread condemnation and protests against the state government.

Infinix Smart 20 HD Launched At Rs 10,999 With 120 Hz Display

Infinix Smart 20 HD Launched At Rs 10,999 With 120 Hz Display

Rediff.com9 hours ago

Infinix has introduced the Smart 20 HD, an affordable smartphone featuring a 120 Hz display, dual speakers with up to 300 per cent volume.

Punjab BJP Chief Demands CBI Probe In Anti-Drug Activist Jhota's Murder, Calls For Black Protest

Punjab BJP Chief Demands CBI Probe In Anti-Drug Activist Jhota's Murder, Calls For Black Protest

Rediff.com1 days ago

Punjab BJP chief Kewal Singh Dhillon met the family of slain anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota, demanding a CBI investigation into his murder. Dhillon appealed to Punjab residents to protest the AAP government by wearing black, alleging its failure to curb the drug menace and protect activists. Jhota was shot dead on October 13, and his family refuses cremation until justice is served.

Paul Bettany Expresses Trepidation Over AI's Rapid Advancements

Paul Bettany Expresses Trepidation Over AI's Rapid Advancements

Rediff.com5 days ago

Hollywood actor Paul Bettany, known for voicing J.A.R.V.I.S. and playing Vision in the MCU, expresses trepidation about the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence. He discusses potential dystopian futures and the need for democratised AI, while promoting his new series "VisionQuest" which started streaming on JioHotstar on Tuesday.

Property Dispute Angle In Greater Noida Family Deaths

Property Dispute Angle In Greater Noida Family Deaths

Rediff.com1 days ago

Police in Greater Noida have arrested three relatives of a deceased man for alleged abetment to suicide, following the deaths of five family members from suspected poisoning. The investigation suggests a property dispute may be the motive, with the deceased having left a voice note blaming the accused. Forensic reports are awaited to confirm the exact cause of death.

Verdict in defamation case against Rahul Gandhi on Oct 26

Verdict in defamation case against Rahul Gandhi on Oct 26

Rediff.com6 days ago

An MP-MLA court in Sultanpur has set October 26 as the date to pronounce its verdict in a defamation case against Rahul Gandhi. The case stems from alleged objectionable remarks made by Gandhi against then BJP president Amit Shah in 2018. Gandhi is required to appear in court on the verdict day.

'Abhijeet Dipke, Cockroach Janata Party funded by US donors'

'Abhijeet Dipke, Cockroach Janata Party funded by US donors'

Rediff.com5 days ago

American singer Mary Millben has ignited a political debate by calling on 'young patriots' in India to protest the Cockroach Janata Party..

Anti-drug activist murder: Accused's house razed, shop torched

Anti-drug activist murder: Accused's house razed, shop torched

Rediff.com5 days ago

Public anger erupted in Mansa, Punjab, following the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh alias Jotha. Authorities demolished a portion of the accused medical store owner's house, while mobs set his shop ablaze. Jotha was shot on Tuesday after confronting the owner about selling addictive drugs, leading to widespread condemnation and protests.

Sachin Pilot To Tour Punjab, Highlight Gang Violence Victims' Plight

Sachin Pilot To Tour Punjab, Highlight Gang Violence Victims' Plight

Rediff.com3 days ago

Congress leader Sachin Pilot is set to embark on a five-day visit to Punjab starting October 16, where he will meet families of gang violence victims across 11 districts. This visit aims to amplify their voices and is seen as a strategic move by the Congress to make law and order a central issue against the AAP government in the upcoming elections. Punjab Congress chief Pargat Singh also criticised the AAP government over deteriorating security and extortion threats faced by traders.

Abhijeet Dipke has Imran Khan's back: 'If Milliben can...'

Abhijeet Dipke has Imran Khan's back: 'If Milliben can...'

Rediff.com4 days ago

Bollywood actor Imran Khan, an American citizen holding an OCI card, has been issued a 'Leave India' notice by Mumbai Police for participating in a protest, sparking debate over OCI cardholder rights and political expression.

'Unacceptable interference, double standards': India slams UN rights body

'Unacceptable interference, double standards': India slams UN rights body

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

India firmly dismissed the concerns raised by the United Nations human rights body on Sunday regarding the security measures implemented ahead of the proposed Cockroach Janta Party demonstration in Delhi, branding the remarks as "unwarranted" and an "unacceptable interference" in domestic matters.

How A Kozhikode Woman Lost Rs 1.35 Crore To Cyber Fraudsters

How A Kozhikode Woman Lost Rs 1.35 Crore To Cyber Fraudsters

Rediff.com2 days ago

A 57-year-old woman in Kozhikode allegedly lost Rs 1.35 crore to cyber fraudsters who posed as Mumbai Crime Branch officers. They threatened her with criminal cases and coerced her into transferring money for "verification" to the Reserve Bank of India, promising a return with interest. Police have registered a case and are investigating the incident.

Justice Sought For Slain Anti-Drug Activist Parvider Singh Jhota In Mansa

Justice Sought For Slain Anti-Drug Activist Parvider Singh Jhota In Mansa

Rediff.com1 days ago

Anti-drug activist Parvider Singh Jhota was shot dead in Mansa on October 13. His family and supporters are refusing to cremate his body until their demands for justice, including a CBI probe and resignations of top officials, are met. The incident has triggered political protests and condemnation across Punjab, with various leaders visiting the protest site and the SGPC announcing a tribute.

Punjab Mourns Anti-Drug Activist's Murder, Demands CBI Probe

Punjab Mourns Anti-Drug Activist's Murder, Demands CBI Probe

Rediff.com8 hours ago

Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh has called for justice for anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota, who was shot dead in Mansa last week. Jhota was killed after confronting a medical store owner selling addictive drugs. His family and supporters are protesting, demanding a CBI probe and refusing cremation until justice is served, with actress Neeru Bajwa and singer Babbu Mann also showing support.

How youth dodge barricades, diversions to reach Delhi protest site

How youth dodge barricades, diversions to reach Delhi protest site

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Citizens in Delhi faced significant restrictions and detentions on Saturday while attempting to protest alleged irregularities in voter rolls. Despite barricades, metro closures, and vehicle diversions, individuals found various ways to reach central Delhi, determined to voice their concerns about the electoral process and fundamental rights.

Opposition Slams AAP Govt Over Mansa Murder

Opposition Slams AAP Govt Over Mansa Murder

Rediff.com5 days ago

Opposition parties in Punjab have strongly criticised the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government following the murder of anti-drug activist Parminder Singh Jhota in Mansa. They allege a breakdown of law and order and "jungle raj," demanding accountability from Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and a CBI probe into the killing. The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of those fighting the drug menace in the state.

Faridkot MP Demands CBI Inquiry For Slain Anti-Drug Activist

Faridkot MP Demands CBI Inquiry For Slain Anti-Drug Activist

Rediff.com20 hours ago

Faridkot MP Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa has formally requested the Union Home Ministry to initiate a CBI investigation into the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa. Jhota was shot on October 13 while exposing illegal drug sales, and the incident has sparked outrage in Punjab. Khalsa expressed concerns about the local police probe and the accused's alleged criminal history, questioning the issuance of an arms license.

SAD Leader Seeks CBI Probe Into Anti-Drug Activist's Mansa Murder

SAD Leader Seeks CBI Probe Into Anti-Drug Activist's Mansa Murder

Rediff.com3 hours ago

Senior SAD leader Harsimrat Kaur Badal has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, requesting a CBI probe into the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa. She also called for an investigation into the alleged politicians-police drug trade nexus in Punjab, citing claims by Jhota's father about a wider conspiracy.

Nana Patekar's 8 Most Iconic Film Dialogues

Nana Patekar's 8 Most Iconic Film Dialogues

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Is your favourite Nana Patekar dialogue on this list?

Will Man City be stripped of their Premier League titles?

Will Man City be stripped of their Premier League titles?

Rediff.com5 days ago

Paris St Germain manager Luis Enrique has stated that Manchester City deserve to keep their trophies, despite the Premier League club facing potential sanctions for alleged financial rule breaches. Enrique emphasised respecting the ongoing process but highlighted City's on-pitch performance.

How female Pak spies honey-trap Indian Navy personnel for ship, sub secrets

How female Pak spies honey-trap Indian Navy personnel for ship, sub secrets

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Andhra Pradesh police have revealed that female Pakistan Intelligence Operatives (PIOs) are actively targeting Indian defence personnel through social media, honey traps, and financial inducements to extract sensitive information. Under "Operation Firewall-2026," two individuals, including a naval staffer, were arrested for allegedly spying for Pakistan, with 13 naval personnel among 18 suspects involved in the espionage conspiracy.

Akoijam to contest in court JNU dismissal over harassment claims

Akoijam to contest in court JNU dismissal over harassment claims

Rediff.com3 days ago

Congress MP Bimol Akoijam, dismissed from JNU following sexual harassment allegations, announced his legal team is preparing to challenge the action in court. After appearing before Delhi Police investigators, Akoijam returned to Imphal, urging peace and calm. He stated he would cooperate with the investigation but also highlighted other pressing issues in Manipur. Akoijam denies the charges, which stem from complaints by multiple female students.

Punjab CM Vows Strict Action In Anti-Drug Activist's Murder

Punjab CM Vows Strict Action In Anti-Drug Activist's Murder

Rediff.com3 days ago

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has condemned the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh, alias Jhota, in Mansa, assuring strict action against all involved. He also criticised opposition parties for politicising the incident. The medical store owner accused of the shooting was arrested, and public outrage led to property damage.

Nana Patekar: 'Never Seen Rs 1 lakh In My Life'

Nana Patekar: 'Never Seen Rs 1 lakh In My Life'

Rediff.com6 days ago

'People started fearing Nana Patekar's frankness. Kuchh bhi bol sakta hai yeh. He once pointed to a major respected politician's belly and asked 'Kya hai yeh?''

Punjab observes state-wide bandh over anti-drug activist's murder

Punjab observes state-wide bandh over anti-drug activist's murder

Rediff.com3 days ago

A state-wide bandh was observed across Punjab on Thursday following the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa. Markets and educational institutions remained shut, and roads were blocked by protesters, disrupting traffic. Jhota was shot on Tuesday for questioning the illegal sale of addictive drugs. His family, supported by various political parties and farmer unions, has refused to perform his last rites until justice is delivered, demanding resignations of top officials and a CBI probe. The incident has intensified the political debate on drug menace and law and order in Punjab.

Sanjay Raut ready to apologise to SC over remarks

Sanjay Raut ready to apologise to SC over remarks

Rediff.com3 days ago

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut stated on Friday that he is prepared to apologise to the Supreme Court if his remarks were deemed inappropriate, emphasising his party's respect for the judiciary. His comments followed observations by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant regarding attempts to browbeat the judiciary. Raut also linked his apology to demands for justice concerning alleged electoral roll irregularities and the delayed hearing on the Shiv Sena name and symbol dispute.

Punjab Shuts Down After Anti-Drug Activist's Murder

Punjab Shuts Down After Anti-Drug Activist's Murder

Rediff.com4 days ago

A 'Punjab Bandh' was observed on Thursday, leading to widespread closures of shops and private schools and road blockades across several districts, following the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa on Tuesday. Jhota was shot by a chemist owner for questioning the sale of addictive drugs. The incident has triggered significant political backlash against the Aam Aadmi Party government, with various organisations and opposition parties demanding accountability and a CBI probe.

Genelia-Riteish At Unusual Awards Night

Genelia-Riteish At Unusual Awards Night

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

The second Film Federation of India and People for Animals CineKind awards were held on October 4 in Mumbai.

India raises concern over US temple shooting plot

India raises concern over US temple shooting plot

Rediff.com3 days ago

India has expressed deep concern over reports of an alleged plot to carry out a mass shooting at a Hindu temple in Illinois, US. A teenager was arrested on October 11 in connection with the plot, which reportedly involved white supremacist ideology and threats against people of Indian origin. India has urged US authorities to investigate thoroughly and take measures to prevent such hate-motivated violence.

How Are You Really Feeling? Take This Quiz To Find Out

How Are You Really Feeling? Take This Quiz To Find Out

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Anu Krishna, mind coach and co-founder of Unfear Changemakers, invites you to take this quiz to better understand your mental health.

What Jeffrey Archer wanted his epitaph to read

What Jeffrey Archer wanted his epitaph to read

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Bestselling author Jeffrey Archer has passed away at the age of 86. Known for his prolific career spanning 59 books, including "Kane and Abel" and "Clifton Chronicles," Archer's final novel, "Adam and Eve," was published posthumously. He was celebrated for his storytelling and had a deep connection with India.

US lawmakers ask Rubio to question India on CJP protests

US lawmakers ask Rubio to question India on CJP protests

Rediff.com2 days ago

Six US Democratic lawmakers, including Pramila Jayapal and Ilhan Omar, have urged US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to address alleged excessive force during student protests in India and concerns over voter purges during his upcoming visit. They also accused Indian diplomatic missions of surveillance of protesters in the US and called for investigations into human rights violations and potential arms sales implications.