News for 'controversial statement'

Trump vs UEFA explodes over FIFA Balogun decision

Trump vs UEFA explodes over FIFA Balogun decision

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Former US President Donald Trump personally intervened with FIFA President Gianni Infantino to overturn a red-card ban for US striker Folarin Balogun, a decision UEFA called 'unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable' and which has sparked widespread criticism over the integrity of the game.

FIFA World Cup: Germany star Schweinsteiger in racism storm

FIFA World Cup: Germany star Schweinsteiger in racism storm

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Ivory Coast coach Emerse Fae said comments from World Cup winner Bastian Schweinsteiger could be labelled racist after the ex-Germany midfielder described African football as "wild" and "unorthodox".

Punjab Minister: 'Very Wrong To Ban Satluj'

Punjab Minister: 'Very Wrong To Ban Satluj'

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

'Propaganda films that the BJP makes, whether it's The Kerala Story or others, are shown wherever elections occur as part of their propaganda. But real-time human rights violations... If such things don't come on a public platform, how will correction occur?'

Vijay govt accuses DMK of horse-trading, 3 arrested

Vijay govt accuses DMK of horse-trading, 3 arrested

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

A major political controversy has erupted in Tamil Nadu as the TVK alleges the DMK attempted horse-trading to poach its MLAs, leading to arrests and an ongoing police investigation into the high-stakes political maneuvering.

Trump intervention sparks storm as FIFA clears Balogun to face Belgium

Trump intervention sparks storm as FIFA clears Balogun to face Belgium

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The United States' World Cup campaign took an extraordinary turn on Sunday when FIFA made the unprecedented decision to suspend Folarin Balogun's automatic red-card ban, clearing the striker to face Belgium in Monday's last-16 clash after US President Donald Trump personally urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the case.

Ram Temple donation probe: FIR alleges criminal conspiracy

Ram Temple donation probe: FIR alleges criminal conspiracy

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Ayodhya Police have taken Ram Shankar Yadav into custody following an FIR alleging embezzlement of donations at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. The complaint, lodged by a member of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, names nine individuals and others for systematic theft and misappropriation of funds. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed, and its preliminary findings led to the FIR. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has vowed a 'zero-tolerance' policy and urged evidence submission to the SIT.

NCW summons comedian, web developer over 'Rs 370 biryani' remark

NCW summons comedian, web developer over 'Rs 370 biryani' remark

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has summoned comedian Pranit More and web developer Himanshu Jangra following remarks made during a Gurugram stand-up show, which the commission alleges glorified sexual coercion and non-consensual conduct towards a woman.

Why Ben Stokes could be SACKED as England Test captain

Why Ben Stokes could be SACKED as England Test captain

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

England cricket captain Ben Stokes and teammate Gus Atkinson are under investigation by the ECB after reportedly breaking a midnight curfew and being involved in an incident at a Chelsea nightclub. A security guard accompanying the players was injured, and the controversy has raised questions about team discipline and Stokes's future as captain.

Football's race problem resurfaces after Garcia's Senegal remarks

Football's race problem resurfaces after Garcia's Senegal remarks

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Rudi Garcia's comments about Senegal's tactical structure, along with other pundit remarks, have reignited scrutiny over racially coded language in World Cup commentary, drawing criticism from scholars and anti-racism advocates who argue such language perpetuates harmful stereotypes about Black players and African teams.

Passport-citizenship row: Govt says no new move in 12 yrs; Oppn hits out

Passport-citizenship row: Govt says no new move in 12 yrs; Oppn hits out

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Government sources have clarified that a passport has never been considered proof of citizenship in India, a stance consistent for the past 12 years and rooted in the Passport Act 1967. This clarification, reiterated by the Ministry of External Affairs, has drawn criticism from opposition leaders and public figures.

'Will kill you if...': Sena MP Patil threatens scribes; Shinde seeks apology

'Will kill you if...': Sena MP Patil threatens scribes; Shinde seeks apology

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Dina Patil allegedly abused and threatened journalists, prompting Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to ask him to express regret. The incident occurred after journalists questioned Patil about a letter from Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut and his daughter's political stance, leading to a political controversy.

CBSE lodges plaint over coordinated cyber attacks on post-result portal

CBSE lodges plaint over coordinated cyber attacks on post-result portal

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has lodged a formal complaint with the Delhi Police regarding a series of coordinated cyber attacks targeting its post-result services portal. The board confirmed that all attacks were successfully mitigated, and no data breach or compromise of information was detected. The attacks aimed to destabilise the platform and potentially extract information, occurring amidst existing controversies for CBSE concerning alleged mismatches in Class 12 answer sheets.

Maharashtra Opposition walks out to protest over TET exam paper leak, demands probe

Maharashtra Opposition walks out to protest over TET exam paper leak, demands probe

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The Maharashtra legislature witnessed widespread protests as Opposition legislators accused the government of failing to prevent examination paper leaks, including the recent Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) and NEET. Senior leaders alleged links between those behind the leaks and the BJP, demanding a comprehensive investigation into the examination process and government accountability.

Govt warns Meta over WhatsApp username feature, slaps notice

Govt warns Meta over WhatsApp username feature, slaps notice

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

The Indian government has issued a notice to Meta regarding WhatsApp's upcoming username feature, warning the platform not to roll it out until concerns about potential fraud, impersonation, and public safety are addressed to the government's satisfaction.

Manika Batra Alleges TTFI Violated Constitution In Asian Games Squad Selection

Manika Batra Alleges TTFI Violated Constitution In Asian Games Squad Selection

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Star Indian table tennis player Manika Batra has accused the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) of violating its own Constitution during the selection of the Asian Games squad, where she was named a reserve. Batra claims a nine-member committee, exceeding the constitutional limit, finalised the team, leading to her "mental exhaustion" from the ongoing fight.

It's a shame! Meloni blasts Trump for saying 'she begged for a photo'

It's a shame! Meloni blasts Trump for saying 'she begged for a photo'

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has strongly rebuked former US President Donald Trump's claims that she 'begged' for a photo-op at the G7 summit, dismissing his remarks as 'utterly fabricated' and asserting, 'Italy and I never beg.'

Indian teen killed in bid to save mother in runaway horse carriage in NYC's Central Park

Indian teen killed in bid to save mother in runaway horse carriage in NYC's Central Park

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

An 18-year-old Indian teenager, Romanch Mahajan, died in New York's Central Park after a horse-drawn carriage bolted, throwing his mother. He attempted to save her but sustained fatal injuries. The incident has reignited calls to ban horse carriages in the park, with officials and union representatives commenting on driver negligence and a history of similar accidents.

Why YRF's Spy Universe Is Failing: From Pathaan's Peak To Alpha's Struggles

Why YRF's Spy Universe Is Failing: From Pathaan's Peak To Alpha's Struggles

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The once promising YRF Spy Universe, which delivered Bollywood's first Rs 500 crore grosser with Pathaan, is now grappling with an uncertain future as recent releases like Alpha and War 2 fail to ignite the box office.

'Captaincy Burned Me Out': Ben Stokes to Retire After Third Test

'Captaincy Burned Me Out': Ben Stokes to Retire After Third Test

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

England captain Ben Stokes will retire from international cricket after the third Test against New Zealand, saying the demands of captaincy had burned him out after a remarkable career featuring World Cup glory and Ashes heroics.

NCERT brings Emergency into Class 9 syllabus; Pradhan hails move

NCERT brings Emergency into Class 9 syllabus; Pradhan hails move

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The NCERT has included in the class 9 social science textbook a section on Emergency, which it described as "one of the major challenges to democracy in India" with Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan hailing the move saying future generations should know about the "dark deeds".

Question on 'Brahmanical patriarchy' in BHU's history paper triggers row

Question on 'Brahmanical patriarchy' in BHU's history paper triggers row

Rediff.com19 May 2026

A question in a Banaras Hindu University history exam paper on 'brahmanical patriarchy' has sparked controversy, with some alleging the promotion of a particular ideology.

Iran fans denied FIFA World Cup tickets days before World Cup

Iran fans denied FIFA World Cup tickets days before World Cup

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Iran's football federation announced its World Cup ticket allocation has been revoked just days before the tournament, leaving many fans unable to attend.

Manika Batra Demands Answers, Threatens Legal Action Over Asian Games Snub

Manika Batra Demands Answers, Threatens Legal Action Over Asian Games Snub

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Indian table tennis star Manika Batra has threatened legal action against the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) if she is not provided a 'factual explanation' for her omission from the Asian Games squad.

Only illiterate people in Gujarat...: Kharge sparks row

Only illiterate people in Gujarat...: Kharge sparks row

Rediff.com5 Apr 2026

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge made a controversial statement during an assembly poll campaign speech in Kerala, referring to the people of Gujarat as 'illiterate' and claiming they are being 'fooled' by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain's Shilpa Shinde Responds To Fake Sexual Claim

Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain's Shilpa Shinde Responds To Fake Sexual Claim

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Television actress Shilpa Shinde addressed the ongoing backlash surrounding her Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain sexual harassment row, alleging a 'paid PR' campaign is behind the criticism.

Why Is Odisha BJD Questioning Dharmendra Pradhan's Family Trust?

Why Is Odisha BJD Questioning Dharmendra Pradhan's Family Trust?

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Odisha's opposition BJD has requested Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to clarify his family's connection with the Vikas Foundation Trust, which is alleged to have purchased properties in the US. BJP leaders have dismissed the allegations as a smear campaign.

Mahayuti bags 16 of 17 MLC seats in Maha amid cross-voting row; Oppn routed

Mahayuti bags 16 of 17 MLC seats in Maha amid cross-voting row; Oppn routed

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Amid cross-voting from both ruling and Opposition ranks, the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Mahayuti on Monday swept 16 of the 17 Maharashtra Legislative Council seats from local authorities' constituencies even as Nashik delivered a surprise defeat to the governing bloc.

Ex-CBFC Chief Pahlaj Nihalani Passes Away

Ex-CBFC Chief Pahlaj Nihalani Passes Away

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Producer and former Central Board of Film Certification chairman Pahlaj Nihalani was known for backing several commercially successful entertainers and his controversial tenure at the CBFC.

FIR against Mamata for remarks 'hurting religious sentiments'

FIR against Mamata for remarks 'hurting religious sentiments'

Rediff.com27 May 2026

An FIR has been lodged against former West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee for allegedly hurting religious sentiments based on a complaint by a lawyer.

Stokes, Atkinson in nightclub trouble as ECB probes incident

Stokes, Atkinson in nightclub trouble as ECB probes incident

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

England captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson are under investigation by the ECB for a nightclub incident following their first Test victory against New Zealand. This incident, which occurred despite stricter team protocols and a midnight curfew, adds pressure on the team and coach Brendon McCullum, recalling previous off-field controversies involving England players.

Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai Team Rejects Bhagnani's Smear Campaign Claims

Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai Team Rejects Bhagnani's Smear Campaign Claims

Rediff.com28 May 2026

The makers of Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, including producer Ramesh Taurani and Tips, have vehemently denied producer Vashu Bhagnani's allegations regarding song ownership, calling them a "smear campaign" ahead of the film's release.

Is All Well With US-Iran MoU?

Is All Well With US-Iran MoU?

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Much will depend on how the protagonists use the current interlude to work proactively for the beginning of a durable settlement or, on the contrary, prepare for a new round of escalation, points out Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Jharkhand High Court Issues Landmark Directives On Rape Cases

Jharkhand High Court Issues Landmark Directives On Rape Cases

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

The Jharkhand High Court has issued comprehensive directives for handling rape cases, mandating swift investigations, prohibiting the two-finger test, ensuring victim rehabilitation, and protecting victim identity. The court also directed support for children born out of rape incidents.

Assam-Nagaland Border Tension Flares Again

Assam-Nagaland Border Tension Flares Again

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The appearance of the signboard has reignited long-standing concerns over alleged encroachment in the Assam-Nagaland border belt.

Vinesh Phogat's Asian Games Dream Dashed In Trials

Vinesh Phogat's Asian Games Dream Dashed In Trials

Rediff.com30 May 2026

Vinesh Phogat's return to competitive wrestling ended in disappointment as she lost in the Asian Games selection trials, highlighting the challenges she faces in her comeback journey after the Paris Olympics trauma.

Mamata Banerjee Booked For Hurting Religious Sentiments

Mamata Banerjee Booked For Hurting Religious Sentiments

Rediff.com27 May 2026

An FIR has been lodged against former West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee for allegedly hurting religious sentiments based on a complaint by a lawyer.

Lucknow University Professor Suspended For Alleged Student Harassment

Lucknow University Professor Suspended For Alleged Student Harassment

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Lucknow University has suspended an assistant professor following allegations of inappropriate behaviour and attempted enticement of a female student with a leaked question paper.

Row over Vande Mataram before Tamil anthem at TN swearing-in event

Row over Vande Mataram before Tamil anthem at TN swearing-in event

Rediff.com21 May 2026

A political controversy has erupted in Tamil Nadu after the Tamil invocation song was rendered last during the swearing-in of new ministers. Left parties have criticised the decision to sing the Tamil anthem after Vande Mataram and the national anthem.

Kane Williamson: The Cricketer Who Made Me Cry

Kane Williamson: The Cricketer Who Made Me Cry

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

One of the world's gentleman cricketers has quietly walked away from the game, just as he played it: With grace, dignity, and zero fuss.

Vinesh Phogat's Asian Games Dream Dashed After Trials Defeat

Vinesh Phogat's Asian Games Dream Dashed After Trials Defeat

Rediff.com30 May 2026

Vinesh Phogat's return to competitive wrestling ended in disappointment at the Asian Games selection trials, losing to Meenakshi Goyat in the 53kg semifinals after a controversial and emotionally charged day.