News for 'exercise'

'Modi govt has turned Mother of Democracy into muzzled democracy'

'Modi govt has turned Mother of Democracy into muzzled democracy'

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Aam Aadmi Party convenor Arvind Kejriwal criticised the Centre for the security clampdown in central Delhi against the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) protest, calling it "worse than Emergency" and alleging dictatorship. He also accused Prime Minister Modi of being scared and protecting "vote chori" by crushing democracy, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

Comedian Kunal Kamra joins SC case on MLAs' privilege vs free speech

Comedian Kunal Kamra joins SC case on MLAs' privilege vs free speech

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has moved the Supreme Court to intervene in a significant case concerning the interpretation of legislative privileges of MLAs and their impact on freedom of speech. A seven-judge Constitution bench will hear the matter from October 6. Kamra's involvement stems from privilege proceedings against him in the Maharashtra Assembly over his comedy special. The case also revisits a 2003 matter involving journalist N Ravi, highlighting conflicting views on whether fundamental rights override legislative privileges.

2 BLAs booked in Bengaluru for fraudulently deleting voters

2 BLAs booked in Bengaluru for fraudulently deleting voters

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Police in Bengaluru have registered a case against two Booth Level Agents (BLAs) and others for allegedly submitting fraudulent Form 7 applications to delete 5,698 voters from the electoral rolls in the Jayanagar Assembly constituency. The complaint, filed by Karnataka Mahila Congress president Sowmya Reddy, claims the BLAs are affiliated with the BJP and targeted minority communities and politically unfavourable voters.

CJP protest: Fresh FIR registered to probe 'larger conspiracy'

CJP protest: Fresh FIR registered to probe 'larger conspiracy'

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

The Crime Branch of the Delhi Police has registered a fresh FIR to investigate a "larger conspiracy" behind the violence that occurred during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest in the national capital on July 20, focusing on alleged instigators and premeditation.

'Stop facilitating infiltration': India summons Pak envoy after BSF action

'Stop facilitating infiltration': India summons Pak envoy after BSF action

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

India summoned Pakistan's Charge d'affaires to protest continued cross-border infiltration and alleged facilitation of drug smuggling, rejecting Pakistan's earlier protest regarding BSF action against suspected intruders. India stated BSF engaged infiltrators who posed a security threat after ignoring warnings.

Birthday Special: A Playlist of 25 Bachchan Bangers

Birthday Special: A Playlist of 25 Bachchan Bangers

Rediff.com12 Oct 2026

Celebrate Amitabh Bachchan's 84th birthday with a look back at his most iconic and electrifying dance numbers.

CJP threatens 'Jantar Mantar 2.0' if CEC doesn't resign

CJP threatens 'Jantar Mantar 2.0' if CEC doesn't resign

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has called for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging he has 'undermined' voter rights by excluding over 13 crore names from draft electoral rolls across 30 states and Union territories during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise.

SC flags 'mechanical' notices to 33 lakh Delhi voters, seeks SIR safeguards

SC flags 'mechanical' notices to 33 lakh Delhi voters, seeks SIR safeguards

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has expressed concern to the Election Commission regarding the "almost mechanical" issuance of notices under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in Delhi, urging additional safeguards and clarification on "logical discrepancy" criteria. The court is hearing a petition challenging the EC's process, which has seen millions of voters receive notices, raising practical difficulties and concerns about potential disenfranchisement.

Delhi police deploys bodycams for personnel in protest zones

Delhi police deploys bodycams for personnel in protest zones

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Delhi Police has equipped frontline officers in the New Delhi area with body-worn cameras to enhance accountability and provide evidence during protests and crowd management. This initiative follows recent allegations of misconduct against police personnel, including sexual harassment, during demonstrations, and aims to ensure transparency in interactions between police and protesters.

CEC row: Opposition parties to march to SC on Monday to meet CJI

CEC row: Opposition parties to march to SC on Monday to meet CJI

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

Opposition parties, led by Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, plan to march to the Supreme Court on Monday to meet the Chief Justice of India. They aim to submit a memorandum regarding alleged 'vote chori' and demand CEC Gyanesh Kumar's resignation, halting of SIR, and a return to paper ballots. The protest follows widespread detentions during previous demonstrations, which the opposition condemns as an assault on democracy.

SC to hear plea seeking CEC Gyanesh Kumar's suspension

SC to hear plea seeking CEC Gyanesh Kumar's suspension

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) next week that seeks the suspension of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar and challenges the alleged unilateral decision-making within the Election Commission without the approval of two other Election Commissioners.

Delhi SIR: Advani, Jaishankar, Dhankhar get notices over voter discrepancies

Delhi SIR: Advani, Jaishankar, Dhankhar get notices over voter discrepancies

Rediff.com20 Sep 2026

The Delhi Chief Electoral Officer's office has issued notices to over 33 lakh voters, including former deputy prime minister LK Advani, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and former vice-president Jagdeep Dhankhar, over discrepancies in their electoral roll details. These notices are part of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise, primarily due to details not matching with the 2002 SIR. Despite concerns raised by some politicians, officials assure that no names will be deleted without due verification and an opportunity for voters to respond.

Delhi High Court Backs Centre On Asian Games Jiu-Jitsu Squad

Delhi High Court Backs Centre On Asian Games Jiu-Jitsu Squad

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

The Delhi High Court has declined to intervene in the Centre's decision not to send an Indian contingent for the men's 94 kg Jiu-Jitsu category at the Asian Games, dismissing a petition by athlete Shubham Kumar. The court stated it cannot compel participation when authorities have made a decision, especially as the Games have already commenced, rendering effective relief impossible.

What Modi Must Learn From The British Raj

What Modi Must Learn From The British Raj

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Accept the right to peaceful assembly; reverse the injustice done to crores of voters; punish the man responsible, points out Aakar Patel.

CBI Files Closure Report In Hindustan Zinc Disinvestment Case

CBI Files Closure Report In Hindustan Zinc Disinvestment Case

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

The CBI has filed a closure report in the 2002 disinvestment of Hindustan Zinc Ltd, stating that allegations of irregularities could not be substantiated. This comes despite a 2022 Supreme Court directive by then-CJI D Y Chandrachud to register a regular case, citing sufficient material and concerns over undervaluation and the role of a global advisor. The special court will now decide on the report.

UP CEO rejects reports of 16 lakh 'mysterious' voter additions

UP CEO rejects reports of 16 lakh 'mysterious' voter additions

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

The Chief Electoral Officer of Uttar Pradesh has strongly denied media reports alleging irregularities in the addition of 16.18 lakh voters during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). The CEO asserted that the process was conducted with "utmost transparency" and in strict adherence to electoral laws and ECI instructions, clarifying the collection and processing of Form-6 applications.

Google Gemini hacked three companies in first known AI 'breakout'

Google Gemini hacked three companies in first known AI 'breakout'

Rediff.com20 Sep 2026

Google's Gemini reportedly hacked three companies in the first known breakout, after the model accessed the internet and breached external systems during an evaluation of its cybersecurity capabilities.

'Hostile Takeover Of Tata Sons Would Be Extremely Difficult'

'Hostile Takeover Of Tata Sons Would Be Extremely Difficult'

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

'The issue appears to be less about Chandrasekaran personally and more about the direction Tata Sons should take.'

'Hammer to kill a fly': SC slams curbs imposed in Delhi ahead of protests

'Hammer to kill a fly': SC slams curbs imposed in Delhi ahead of protests

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

The Supreme Court expressed concern over the closure of 57 Metro stations and cancellation of trains in Delhi ahead of protests, stating the Centre 'cannot use a hammer to kill a fly' and ordered against complete prohibition of transport services.

India ready for dialogue with Bangladesh on all issues, says MEA

India ready for dialogue with Bangladesh on all issues, says MEA

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

India's Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India desires positive, constructive, and forward-looking ties with Bangladesh and is ready to discuss all bilateral issues. This comes amidst queries regarding the state of relations following a change in Bangladesh's government and upcoming international engagements.

'Rahul's claims incorrect, unfortunate President is being involved'

'Rahul's claims incorrect, unfortunate President is being involved'

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Sources have refuted Rahul Gandhi's claims regarding President Droupadi Murmu's response to 'vote chori' allegations, stating it's 'unfortunate' she's being drawn into the controversy. Meanwhile, the INDIA bloc, after meeting the President, has vowed to provide a 'mountain of proof' to support their claims of electoral malpractice and demand for the CEC's resignation.

'Election Commission Is Shameless'

'Election Commission Is Shameless'

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

'Their functioning is flawed, they are not accountable, they are opaque, they are non-transparent, they have lost credibility.'

Corporator Mhatre, Others Surrender After SC Cancels Bail In Doctor Assault Case

Corporator Mhatre, Others Surrender After SC Cancels Bail In Doctor Assault Case

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Shiv Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre and three others have surrendered to a Thane trial court after the Supreme Court cancelled their bail in a doctor assault case. The Supreme Court overturned a Bombay High Court order, emphasizing the importance of doctor safety and noting Mhatre's extensive criminal history.

The Real Reason You May Be Feeling Fat, Angry, Tired...

The Real Reason You May Be Feeling Fat, Angry, Tired...

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Dr Pooja Chaudhary, consultant-obstetrics, gynaecology and laparoscopic surgery at Motherhood Hospitals, explains how you can manage your thyroid-related health problems.

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, Arvind Kejriwal issued SIR notices; CM's vote validated

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, Arvind Kejriwal issued SIR notices; CM's vote validated

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

The Delhi poll body has issued notices to several prominent voters, including Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal, for discrepancies in their enumeration forms during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. While Gupta's entry has been validated, millions of other voters, including other political figures, have received notices for issues like age-related mismatches or being unmapped with previous SIR records, requiring them to submit documents by October 29.

Amid row, EC officials say ECINet functions decentralised

Amid row, EC officials say ECINet functions decentralised

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

The Election Commission has clarified that its ECINet platform is decentralised, with statutory functions performed only by designated officials, not headquarters staff. This comes after concerns were raised about the centralisation of electoral roll databases. The EC also defended the legality of an additional declaration sought from new voters during the Special Intensive Revision, citing unanimous commission approval and a Supreme Court judgment.

AISA chief Neha Bora held during protest in Delhi, released later without phone

AISA chief Neha Bora held during protest in Delhi, released later without phone

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

AISA national president Neha Bora was released at the Narela Industrial Area police station after being picked up during the organisation's protest march towards Jantar Mantar, with AISA members alleging procedural violations during her detention.

Shiv Sena symbol row: Shinde faction defends EC decision in SC

Shiv Sena symbol row: Shinde faction defends EC decision in SC

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

The Eknath Shinde faction on Wednesday defended the Election Commission's decision to recognise it as the real Shiv Sena and allot it the bow-and-arrow symbol in the Supreme Court. Senior advocate N K Kaul argued that no subsequent Shiv Sena constitution was submitted to the EC after 2011 and emphasised the importance of inner-party democracy. The hearing, which also touched upon the timing of the EC's decision and the pendency of disqualification petitions, remained inconclusive and will continue on Thursday.

Joshna Chinappa chases elusive Asian Games gold at 40

Joshna Chinappa chases elusive Asian Games gold at 40

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Indian squash veteran Joshna Chinappa, at 40, continues to defy age, securing her sixth Asian Games medal in her record seventh appearance. She attributes her remarkable longevity to rigorous training, meditation, and a dedicated support team, while also expressing her desire for an elusive Asian Games gold and her hopes for Indian squash at the 2028 Olympics.

What Went Wrong Between Chandra and Noel Tata?

What Went Wrong Between Chandra and Noel Tata?

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Even as lawyers on both sides study the pros and cons of a court battle, there are unanswered questions: When did Tata Trusts review its resolution of 2025 on backing Chandrasekaran for a third term?How will the shareholders of Tata Sons respond on listing and the leadership issue?

17 Delhi protesters granted bail, custodial torture charges to be probed

17 Delhi protesters granted bail, custodial torture charges to be probed

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

A Delhi court granted bail to 17 protesters arrested for unlawful assembly and obstructing public space, citing their youth and future careers. Simultaneously, the court sought a report from Delhi Police regarding allegations of "custodial torture" made by some of the accused, while also emphasising the right to peaceful protest but condemning assault on police officials.

Former civil servants issue 'people's impeachment' notice against CEC

Former civil servants issue 'people's impeachment' notice against CEC

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Former civil servants and rights activists have issued a "people's impeachment" notice demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. They allege six charges against him, including undermining the Election Commission's functioning, mass disenfranchisement through Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, and compromising political impartiality. The group, including G K Pillai and Najeeb Jung, was prevented from submitting the notice at the EC office.

'Right to vote at great peril': SC ex-judge Justice Nariman on EC functioning

'Right to vote at great peril': SC ex-judge Justice Nariman on EC functioning

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Former Supreme Court judge Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman has voiced serious concerns regarding the Election Commission's functioning, stating that the right to vote is 'at great peril'. He called for the Supreme Court's intervention to address 'disturbing developments' within the poll panel, particularly citing issues like voter disenfranchisement during electoral roll revisions and the controversial appointment process of Election Commissioners.

Why Justice R C Chavan Quit Maharashtra UCC Panel

Why Justice R C Chavan Quit Maharashtra UCC Panel

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

'If the intention was simply to replicate what's already been done elsewhere, there was no need for a committee at all -- there's already an Act passed there (in Uttarakhand); just copy it, paste it, and you're done. Why waste everyone's time convening a panel for that?'

Oppn wants CEC sacked, jailed; seeks repoll in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Bengal

Oppn wants CEC sacked, jailed; seeks repoll in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Bengal

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Opposition parties in India are demanding the impeachment and arrest of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, alleging he is running the poll panel as a 'one-man autocracy' following revelations that two Election Commissioners red-flagged issues related to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

CEC Gyanesh Kumar defers visit to UP amid controversy

CEC Gyanesh Kumar defers visit to UP amid controversy

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar's planned visits to Uttar Pradesh for electoral literacy club conferences have been postponed, with officials stating it's a routine rescheduling. They denied any link to recent controversies regarding differences among election commissioners, highlighting that the postponements predated the controversy. The Election Commission is also ramping up efforts to engage Gen Alpha and Z ahead of the 2029 Lok Sabha polls through educational outreach.

'Welcome step': Pak on Indian delegation's Islamabad visit for SCO meet

'Welcome step': Pak on Indian delegation's Islamabad visit for SCO meet

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Pakistan has welcomed an Indian delegation's visit to Islamabad for a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting, marking the first such visit after a significant gap. The visit is seen as a positive step towards regional peace and cooperation, with Pakistan also commenting on other international and domestic issues.

'I Want My Voting Right Reinstated'

'I Want My Voting Right Reinstated'

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

'I was just thinking about me, because my rights have been affected. That's it.' 'I am an ordinary citizen of this country, and I am expecting my rights (as a voter) to be restored.'

High drama near EC office as Rahul-led INDIA bloc protests

High drama near EC office as Rahul-led INDIA bloc protests

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

High drama unfolded as INDIA bloc leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, marched to the Election Commission headquarters in Delhi, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls and his misleading statements regarding Supreme Court observations on Form 6.

Over 200 detained in Jantar Mantar protests against CEC Gyanesh Kumar

Over 200 detained in Jantar Mantar protests against CEC Gyanesh Kumar

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Nearly 200 protesters, including prominent activists, were detained at Jantar Mantar during demonstrations demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Delhi Police registered cases under the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for disobedience and obstruction, following prohibitory orders in the New Delhi district. The protests stem from alleged irregularities in electoral roll revisions, prompting significant police deployment and ongoing legal actions.