News for 'controversial statement'

Russia controversy derails Andrea Pirlo's Italy hopes?

Russia controversy derails Andrea Pirlo's Italy hopes?

Rediff.com1 days ago

Andrea Pirlo's potential appointment as Italy's head coach is facing significant political opposition due to his commercial ties as a global ambassador for Russian betting company Fonbet, with Italian parliamentarians and football federation figures expressing concerns.

Ram Temple donation scam: Champat Rai's statement recorded

Ram Temple donation scam: Champat Rai's statement recorded

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai's statement has been recorded by Ayodhya police as part of the investigation into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple, following his offer to resign over the controversy.

Solbakken raises spider-cam controversy after Norway's World Cup exit

Solbakken raises spider-cam controversy after Norway's World Cup exit

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

FIFA rejects Norway coach Stale Solbakken's claim of spider-cam interference in Jude Bellingham's equaliser for England.

Nepal PM's 'encroaching' Indian land remark triggers controversy

Nepal PM's 'encroaching' Indian land remark triggers controversy

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Nepal's Prime Minister Balendra Shah addressed parliament on the ongoing border dispute with India, stating both countries have agreed to seek resolution through diplomatic means and expert consultation. Shah's remarks about Nepal also encroaching on Indian territories have sparked controversy.

NCP distances itself from MLA Sana Malik's remarks on polygamy

NCP distances itself from MLA Sana Malik's remarks on polygamy

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

The Nationalist Congress Party in Maharashtra has swiftly distanced itself from MLA Sana Malik's controversial statements on talaq and polygamy, reiterating its firm commitment to women's rights and constitutional principles.

'Won't delete': BJP MP's daughter's post on Pradhan's exit sparks row

'Won't delete': BJP MP's daughter's post on Pradhan's exit sparks row

Rediff.com12 hours ago

A social media post by BJP MP Aparajita Sarangi's daughter celebrating Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation as Union Education Minister, has ignited an internal controversy within the BJP.

World Cup Pride Match: FIFA Allows Rainbow Flags Amidst Controversy

World Cup Pride Match: FIFA Allows Rainbow Flags Amidst Controversy

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

FIFA has confirmed that rainbow flags will be permitted at the World Cup match between Egypt and Iran in Seattle, which coincides with the city's Pride weekend. This decision comes despite objections from Egypt and Iran, where homosexuality is criminalised, and FIFA's attempt to distance itself from the "Pride Match" designation, stating it's a local initiative.

Sena MP moves NCW against Sanjay Raut over abusive language

Sena MP moves NCW against Sanjay Raut over abusive language

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Shiv Sena Rajya Sabha MP Jyoti Waghmare has filed a complaint with the National Commission for Women (NCW) against UBT Sena MP Sanjay Raut, alleging continuous use of abusive language and public insult of women representatives. Waghmare has sought the registration of a criminal case against Raut, citing his conduct over the past four years and its negative impact on Maharashtra's political culture.

CJI clarifies 'parasites' remark after controversy, says misquoted by media

CJI clarifies 'parasites' remark after controversy, says misquoted by media

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant issued a clarification on his 'parasites' remarks, stating that he was misquoted by the media and that his comments were directed at individuals entering the legal profession with fake degrees, not the youth of the nation.

3 publishers remanded for books glorifying J-K separatists

3 publishers remanded for books glorifying J-K separatists

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Three publishers have been remanded to 10-day police custody in Jammu for allegedly publishing and circulating books that glorify separatist leaders. The Counter Intelligence Unit is investigating the matter, which led to the blacklisting of two publishers and the suspension of several education department officials.

Dharmendra Pradhan meets LS speaker as govt agrees to paper leak debate

Dharmendra Pradhan meets LS speaker as govt agrees to paper leak debate

Rediff.com5 days ago

The Indian government has expressed willingness to hold a detailed discussion in the Lok Sabha regarding the NEET paper leak issue, while cautioning against street protests. The opposition, however, is demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and has staged protests, including wearing black clothes in Parliament, highlighting the widespread concern among students.

Court Rejects Police Custody For NCP Leader Vikas Lawande

Court Rejects Police Custody For NCP Leader Vikas Lawande

Rediff.com22 May 2026

A local court in Pune has remanded NCP (SP) spokesperson Vikas Lawande in judicial custody until June 6 over controversial statements he made about leaders of the Warkari sect. The court cited insufficient grounds for police remand. Police admitted to inadvertently mentioning the wrong crime number in an earlier reply opposing interim protection from arrest.

'My work is in Maharashtra': Fadnavis rules out Delhi shift

'My work is in Maharashtra': Fadnavis rules out Delhi shift

Rediff.com1 days ago

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has dismissed rumours of his shift to national politics, asserting his commitment to the state. He also commented on the NEET paper leak issue, supporting the Union government's actions and criticising Uddhav Thackeray's remarks.

IOA To Probe Sexual Harassment Allegations In Hockey Jharkhand Polls

IOA To Probe Sexual Harassment Allegations In Hockey Jharkhand Polls

Rediff.com7 days ago

The recent Hockey Jharkhand elections have been embroiled in controversy following allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation made by former India women's captain Asunta Lakra against Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh. The Sports Ministry has directed the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to form an inquiry panel to investigate these serious claims, while Bhola Nath Singh denies all allegations.

FIFA World Cup controversy? Senegal explains airport security video

FIFA World Cup controversy? Senegal explains airport security video

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Videos circulated online showed Senegal players being screened by airport security before travelling from Raleigh, North Carolina to San Antonio, Texas for a warm-up friendly against Saudi Arabia ahead of the tournament.

Dharmendra Pradhan resigns after days of widespread protests

Dharmendra Pradhan resigns after days of widespread protests

Rediff.com2 days ago

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned from his post amidst widespread nationwide protests concerning the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy, citing the larger interest of students and the need to prevent exploitation by anti-national forces. The government is also preparing to introduce a stringent anti-paper leak law.

Anti-Paper Leak Bill: Political Battleground In Parliament

Anti-Paper Leak Bill: Political Battleground In Parliament

Rediff.com3 hours ago

Monday's proceedings demonstrated that the legislative debate has become inseparable from the broader political crisis surrounding the NEET controversy.

FIFA backs Brazilian referee Claus after Trump's criticism on red card

FIFA backs Brazilian referee Claus after Trump's criticism on red card

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

FIFA has strongly defended Brazilian referee Raphael Claus after US President Donald Trump questioned his integrity following a controversial red card shown to US striker Folarin Balogun at the World Cup.

BJP greets Pradhan with 'zindabad' slogans at Parl, Cong fumes

BJP greets Pradhan with 'zindabad' slogans at Parl, Cong fumes

Rediff.com7 hours ago

Opposition parties, particularly the Congress, have strongly criticised the BJP for felicitating former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who resigned following student protests over the NEET exam controversy. They have also dismissed the government's proposed anti-paper leak legislation as a 'cosmetic Bill' and questioned the sincerity of education reforms.

Ayodhya service complete, won't serve anymore: Champat Rai amid Ram mandir row

Ayodhya service complete, won't serve anymore: Champat Rai amid Ram mandir row

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Senior Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust functionary Champat Rai has reportedly resigned, stating his "service in Ayodhya is complete" due to the donation embezzlement controversy. He feels "betrayed," and his future, along with that of Trust member Anil Mishra, will be decided at a July 6 meeting. The controversy began with allegations from Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, leading to an SIT investigation, arrests, and Rai's resignation offer.

UP Cong chief claims house arrest ahead of Ram Temple visit

UP Cong chief claims house arrest ahead of Ram Temple visit

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai claims he was placed under "house arrest" in Ayodhya to prevent him from visiting the Ram temple amidst an ongoing controversy over alleged embezzlement of donations. Other Congress delegation members were also reportedly stopped or detained, sparking protests and further political debate.

Priyadarshan: 'Thousands Of Legal Issues With Hera Pheri 3'

Priyadarshan: 'Thousands Of Legal Issues With Hera Pheri 3'

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

'I am not sure it will ever be made. Even if it is, I am not part of it.'

J-K police register FIR over books glorifying separatists, raid publisher

J-K police register FIR over books glorifying separatists, raid publisher

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

The Jammu and Kashmir Police's Counter Intelligence wing has registered an FIR and conducted raids in connection with two controversial books allegedly glorifying separatists. The action follows objections from political groups and the suspension of education department officials.

Four-member temple panel to probe Badrinath Dham donation irregularities

Four-member temple panel to probe Badrinath Dham donation irregularities

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

The Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee has formed a four-member panel to investigate alleged irregularities in pilgrims' offerings and donations at Badrinath Dham. The allegations, which went viral on social media, have sparked political controversy in Uttarakhand, with the Congress demanding strict action. The inquiry will examine CCTV footage and statements, with a report due in seven days.

World Cup Shock: Belgium Furious as FIFA Rejects Appeal

World Cup Shock: Belgium Furious as FIFA Rejects Appeal

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

FIFA has rejected a request from the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) for a copy of the decision that made U.S. striker Folarin Balogun eligible for a World Cup match, treating Belgium's inquiry as an inadmissible appeal. This decision follows U.S. President Donald Trump's personal intervention with FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review Balogun's red-card ban.

'What Logic Is There?': Gambhir's Decisions Face Heat

'What Logic Is There?': Gambhir's Decisions Face Heat

Rediff.com6 days ago

Following India's disappointing limited-overs tour of the UK, head coach Gautam Gambhir and the team management are facing intense scrutiny over selection decisions, particularly the omission of Kuldeep Yadav in the third ODI. Former cricketer Sadagoppan Ramesh criticised the team's logic, while also praising Rohit Sharma's century under pressure. The tour has sparked broader discussions about team selections and optimal talent utilisation.

UP govt appoint legal aid for accused in Ram temple theft case

UP govt appoint legal aid for accused in Ram temple theft case

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Uttar Pradesh government has appointed Kulshekhar Singh, an ex-joint director of the Department of Prosecution, as legal aid defence counsel for the accused in the alleged Ram temple donation embezzlement case, following a boycott by the Faizabad Bar Association.

Atlanta Police enhance security for high-stakes England vs. Argentina World Cup semi-final

Atlanta Police enhance security for high-stakes England vs. Argentina World Cup semi-final

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Atlanta Police Department has significantly increased security measures for the World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, two nations with a historically fierce football rivalry, deploying additional personnel and resources across the city and stadium.

Haaland to Real Madrid? Election promise sparks transfer controversy

Haaland to Real Madrid? Election promise sparks transfer controversy

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Real Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme claimed he would sign Erling Haaland if elected, triggering a swift response from Manchester City and the player's representatives.

Indian Students In Canada Face 'Post-Graduation Work Permit' Shock

Indian Students In Canada Face 'Post-Graduation Work Permit' Shock

Rediff.com5 days ago

For hundreds of Indian scholars who journeyed to Canada aiming for a foreign degree and a path toward long-term career opportunities, what should have been a triumphant graduation has instead spiralled into deep uncertainty.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Egypt hits out at VAR after Argentina heartbreak

FIFA World Cup 2026: Egypt hits out at VAR after Argentina heartbreak

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The Egyptian Football Association on Wednesday criticised refereeing decisions in Egypt's dramatic 3-2 World Cup round-of-16 defeat by Argentina, saying it would not remain silent over what it described as the improper use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system.

Sonam Wangchuk continues fast; hospital gives update on his health

Sonam Wangchuk continues fast; hospital gives update on his health

Rediff.com6 days ago

Activist Sonam Wangchuk's vital parameters remain stable, but he continues to refuse intravenous fluids and glucose despite repeated medical advice, Safdarjung Hospital authorities said, as he extends his hunger strike over police action against protesters.

IAS officer transferred in UP days after altercation with BJP leader

IAS officer transferred in UP days after altercation with BJP leader

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Days after an altercation with a Bharatiya Janata Party block chief, IAS officer Rinku Singh Rahee, posted as sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) of Jalaun tehsil, has been transferred with immediate effect.

Derek O'Brien questions ED action, asks why not freeze temple funds too?

Derek O'Brien questions ED action, asks why not freeze temple funds too?

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien questioned the Enforcement Directorate's decision to freeze three of the party's bank accounts, worth Rs 440 crore, under the anti-money laundering law. He controversially asked when the ED would freeze "temple funds," in an apparent reference to alleged financial irregularities at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, amidst opposition demands for a judicial probe into the matter.

Exiled author Taslima Nasrin to return to Kolkata after 20 years

Exiled author Taslima Nasrin to return to Kolkata after 20 years

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasrin is set to return to Kolkata next month for an anti-fundamentalism literary event, nearly two decades after she was forced to leave the city amid violent protests over her writings. The BJP government in West Bengal is projecting this as a reversal of past capitulation to religious fundamentalism.

Senegal FA President: World Cup Team Doctor Was 'Gynaecologist'

Senegal FA President: World Cup Team Doctor Was 'Gynaecologist'

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Senegal's football federation president, Abdoulaye Fall, has claimed the national team's doctor at the recent World Cup in North America was 'trained as a gynaecologist', raising concerns among players about medical support during their disappointing campaign. The Senegalese Association of Sports Medicine has rejected these allegations as 'unfounded and defamatory'.

Centre forms review panel to examine 'Satluj' OTT removal

Centre forms review panel to examine 'Satluj' OTT removal

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has formed a three-member review committee to investigate the removal of the film "Satluj" from the ZEE5 OTT platform. The film, which depicts the life of activist Jaswant Singh Khalra during Punjab's turbulent 1990s, was briefly available before being taken down, sparking criticism from political parties and Sikh bodies.

Won't spare those...: Modi's message to youth amid protests

Won't spare those...: Modi's message to youth amid protests

Rediff.com4 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced stringent measures, including the establishment of fast-track courts, to combat exam paper leaks and protect the future of India's youth, following widespread protests over the NEET paper leak.

'Despicable woman': Mbappe hits back at Paraguayan senator

'Despicable woman': Mbappe hits back at Paraguayan senator

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

France striker Kylian Mbappe hit back at a Paraguayan senator, describing her as a "despicable woman" on Monday after she launched a racist attack on him following Paraguay's elimination from the World Cup.

Ram Temple Trust holds series of meetings; eyes administrative overhaul

Ram Temple Trust holds series of meetings; eyes administrative overhaul

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Amidst an ongoing SIT probe into alleged embezzlement of Ram temple donations, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust treasurer Govind Dev Giri held a series of meetings in Ayodhya. These discussions followed the acceptance of resignations from former general secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra, and the Trust's decision to overhaul its administrative structure, including appointing a professional CEO. Rai, who has adopted a vow of silence, questioned the State Bank of India's role in the donation counting process, while Giri defended Rai but acknowledged his trust in the wrong people. The SIT probe is expanding to examine the Trust's financial transactions and administrative processes.