News for 'governance'

India's youngest municipal chairperson ousted in trust vote

India's youngest municipal chairperson ousted in trust vote

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

India's youngest municipal chairperson, Diya Binu, on Tuesday lost office after a no-confidence motion moved by the Left Democratic Front was passed in Kerala's Pala Municipality with the support of rebel Congress councillors, ending the United Democratic Front's rule in the civic body.

UK Government Announces Stricter Penalties For Parents Of Young Criminals

UK Government Announces Stricter Penalties For Parents Of Young Criminals

Rediff.com18 May 2026

The UK government has announced new youth justice reforms, including tougher fines for parents whose children commit crimes or engage in anti-social behaviour. The reforms aim to address the root causes of youth crime through earlier intervention and targeted support.

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.

'We flipped over in 3 minutes': Vietnam boat tragedy survivor

'We flipped over in 3 minutes': Vietnam boat tragedy survivor

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Nirmal Kumar, an Indian survivor of the recent speedboat tragedy near Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam, has recounted the horrific moments when a sudden, violent wave capsized their boat, trapping 15 passengers underwater. The accident, which occurred on July 11, claimed the lives of 15 Indian tourists, with 10 from Tamil Nadu. Kumar, who lost a childhood friend, highlighted the lack of immediate medical supplies and appealed for government assistance for the grieving families.

Olympic Medallist Vijender Singh Seeks Ministry Support For Haryana Boxing Academy

Olympic Medallist Vijender Singh Seeks Ministry Support For Haryana Boxing Academy

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Indian boxing icon Vijender Singh is planning to establish a boxing academy in his ancestral village of Kaluwas, Bhiwani, and has sought financial assistance from the Sports Ministry.

Could a 64-team World Cup put Asian football at FIFA's mercy?

Could a 64-team World Cup put Asian football at FIFA's mercy?

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has acknowledged the possibility of expanding the World Cup to 64 teams, a move that could significantly alter the sport's economics and logistics, despite opposition from major confederations like UEFA and AFC.

How Mumbai's Siddhivinayak Temple Counts Cash, Donations

How Mumbai's Siddhivinayak Temple Counts Cash, Donations

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

'Earlier, people used to hand money directly to priests after a ritual, and priests would keep it in their own pockets. We completely stopped that practice.'

Passports 'regulate departure' of Indians from country: MEA

Passports 'regulate departure' of Indians from country: MEA

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has clarified that an Indian passport is primarily a travel document issued to regulate the departure of citizens and is not intended as proof of citizenship. This statement comes amidst a debate on its use for verifying citizenship, particularly concerning electoral rolls, and has drawn criticism from opposition parties.

Gadgets to be examined for cause of Tripura top cop's death

Gadgets to be examined for cause of Tripura top cop's death

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Tripura Police have initiated a forensic analysis of all electronic gadgets belonging to DGP Anurag Dhankar, who was found dead in his office washroom. A case of unnatural death has been registered, and the investigation aims to determine the cause and circumstances, especially if suicide is confirmed. Calls for a judicial probe into the incident are also growing.

Ahmedabad blasts an attack on India's sovereignty, meant to topple govt: HC

Ahmedabad blasts an attack on India's sovereignty, meant to topple govt: HC

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Gujarat high court has characterised the 2008 Ahmedabad serial bomb blasts as a direct assault on India's sovereignty and democratic governance.

Govt Unveils Rs 1.9 Lakh Cr Push for Semiconductor, Mobile Manufacturing

Govt Unveils Rs 1.9 Lakh Cr Push for Semiconductor, Mobile Manufacturing

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Indian government has approved two major manufacturing initiatives worth nearly Rs 1.9 lakh crore (USD 22 billion) to expand the country's semiconductor ecosystem and scale up mobile phone production, aiming to strengthen its position as a global electronics manufacturing hub.

CJP Spokesperson Under Fire For Eating Burger At Monday's Protest

CJP Spokesperson Under Fire For Eating Burger At Monday's Protest

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Cockroach Janata Party Spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya has sparked a controversy by defiantly defending his decision to eat a burger during Monday's protests against the NEET paper leak, rejecting public accountability for his personal actions.

Xi Jinping Urges Global Cooperation For Ethical AI Development

Xi Jinping Urges Global Cooperation For Ethical AI Development

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping called for global collaboration in artificial intelligence development, emphasising a "symphony of global collaboration" over a "solo performance" by any single nation. Speaking at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, Xi highlighted the need for ethical AI governance, shared prosperity, and addressing challenges like the widening digital divide. He also announced China's commitment to support developing countries with 5,000 AI research projects and training programmes. The event also saw 29 countries sign an agreement to establish the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO) in Shanghai.

HDFC Bank's Workforce Shrinks by 3,343 in FY26 Despite Balance Sheet Expansion

HDFC Bank's Workforce Shrinks by 3,343 in FY26 Despite Balance Sheet Expansion

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

HDFC Bank, India's largest private sector lender, reported a reduction of 3,343 employees in FY26, bringing its total workforce to 2,11,178, even as its balance sheet expanded by 12 per cent. The bank's MD and CEO, Sashidhar Jagdishan, attributed the headcount reduction to redeploying talent from back-end functions to customer-facing roles due to technology-led efficiencies. The annual report also addressed the challenging resignation of part-time chairman Atanu Chakraborty, which raised questions about the bank's governance standards.

Cop on Amarnath security duty killed in Anantnag terrorist attack

Cop on Amarnath security duty killed in Anantnag terrorist attack

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

A head constable on Amarnath Yatra security duty was killed in a terror attack in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir. The Resistance Front (TRF) has claimed responsibility for the attack, prompting security forces to launch a search operation.

Delhi High Court Ruling Paves Way For YFI Recognition

Delhi High Court Ruling Paves Way For YFI Recognition

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The Yoga Federation of India (YFI) announced its intention to seek recognition from the Sports Ministry and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) following a Delhi High Court decision. The court set aside Yogasana Bharat's national federation status, mandating a fresh affiliation process. YFI plans to meet with IOA President P T Usha and Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya to present its vision for Yogasana development.

CJP founder says Sonam Wangchuk was forcibly dragged away, cops cite HC order

CJP founder says Sonam Wangchuk was forcibly dragged away, cops cite HC order

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has been shifted to a hospital from Jantar Mantar after a 20-day hunger strike, with Delhi Police stating the move was in compliance with High Court directions and medical advice due to his deteriorating health. Protesters, however, alleged he was forcibly removed against his will.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk shifted to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram

Activist Sonam Wangchuk shifted to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite fast, was discharged from Safdarjung Hospital and transferred to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram. This move followed a Delhi High Court order, which intervened after his wife's appeal, citing his fundamental rights to choose his hospital. Wangchuk is currently admitted to ICU 8 for further treatment.

Hydel projects to add 14,000 Mw by '32-33, CEA reckons

Hydel projects to add 14,000 Mw by '32-33, CEA reckons

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The focus is now on accelerating PSP development through faster approvals, better-quality detailed project reports (DPRs), simplified clearances, and early excavation permissions. Speaking at a recent event, Prasad said hydropower and PSPs would be central to supporting India's renewable energy expansion by providing the reliable and flexible capacity needed to balance rising solar and wind generation. "A huge amount of variability is getting introduced into the grid.

Rahul, Kharge write to Modi for probe into Ram temple theft

Rahul, Kharge write to Modi for probe into Ram temple theft

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding an independent investigation into alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram temple. They highlighted that devotees feel betrayed and urged the Prime Minister to ensure accountability and make the Trust's financial affairs public. The controversy follows the arrest of eight people and the resignation of two Trust functionaries in connection with the alleged theft.

SIT report on Ram Temple theft likely soon; may shape trust reforms

SIT report on Ram Temple theft likely soon; may shape trust reforms

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya is expected to submit its final report to the Uttar Pradesh government shortly, sources said on Thursday.

CJP protest: Teen receives pellet injuries, may lose sight in one eye

CJP protest: Teen receives pellet injuries, may lose sight in one eye

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The first thought Ajay Duggal had when he saw his nephew, his eyes shut, his face, neck and chest pockmarked with tiny red perforations, was this: "What if the 19-year-old loses his sight completely." Sahil Lochab was allegedly hit by a pellet gun in his right eye during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest in Delhi on June 20. His uncle asked him what he could see from the eye. The reply chilled him - there was nothing. No blur, no haze, only darkness.

Commonwealth Games 2026 Kick Off In Glasgow With Focus On Environment

Commonwealth Games 2026 Kick Off In Glasgow With Focus On Environment

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The 23rd Commonwealth Games opened in Glasgow with a vibrant ceremony blending Scottish heritage and a strong message of sustainability. King Charles III declared the Games open, highlighting efforts to combat plastic pollution. The event featured a unique indoor setting, an early athletes' parade including the Indian contingent, and diverse musical and cultural performances, setting a new precedent for the multi-sport event.

Ahead of Monday's Parl march, Dipke urges supporters to throng Jantar Mantar

Ahead of Monday's Parl march, Dipke urges supporters to throng Jantar Mantar

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke on Sunday urged its supporters to gather at the Jantar Mantar in large numbers ahead of its proposed 'Sansad Chalo' march on Monday, claiming that there could be a police crackdown on the protest.

Andhra Covid Deaths Trigger Southern Alert

Andhra Covid Deaths Trigger Southern Alert

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

'There is no need for panic as there is widespread protective immune memory in the population from vaccination as well as prior infections.'

Suspended employee arrested for Badrinath temple donation irregularities

Suspended employee arrested for Badrinath temple donation irregularities

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Uttarakhand Police have arrested Pramod Nautiyal, a suspended employee of the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC), in connection with alleged irregularities in the handling of donations at the Badrinath temple. Nautiyal, formerly PA to the BKTC chairman, faces questioning after an FIR was lodged and an inquiry committee found prima facie evidence against him.

Can Sujata Revive BJD's Fortunes?

Can Sujata Revive BJD's Fortunes?

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Having governed Odisha for 24 uninterrupted years, the BJD now finds itself in the unfamiliar role of Opposition. Its organisational overhaul following the 2024 defeat has yet to produce a recognisable second line of leadership.

BCCI tightens no-ball rules, introduces new regulations for domestic cricket

BCCI tightens no-ball rules, introduces new regulations for domestic cricket

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The BCCI has announced significant changes to domestic cricket playing conditions for the 2026-27 season, including stricter penalties for deliberate front-foot no-balls, new rules for day's closure, and restrictions on declarations.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain's final training session cancelled due to thunderstorms

FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain's final training session cancelled due to thunderstorms

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Spain's final training session before Sunday's World Cup final against Argentina has been cancelled due to thunderstorms, organisers FIFA said on Saturday.

'Certain elements' in Israeli govt want war to continue 'indefinitely': Vance

'Certain elements' in Israeli govt want war to continue 'indefinitely': Vance

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

US Vice President JD Vance has accused 'certain elements' within the Israeli government of attempting to manipulate American public opinion to prolong the conflict with Iran 'indefinitely', according to a Wall Street Journal report.

Wangchuk loses 8.2 kg as fast enters 16th day; 'lives at stake', says Dipke

Wangchuk loses 8.2 kg as fast enters 16th day; 'lives at stake', says Dipke

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's health has significantly deteriorated on the 16th day of his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, protesting alleged examination irregularities. His blood glucose and weight have dropped, prompting calls from the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and political leaders like AAP's Atishi and CPI(M) MPs for government intervention and accountability.

19th maternal death in Rajasthan as woman dies post-Caesarean

19th maternal death in Rajasthan as woman dies post-Caesarean

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

A 25-year-old woman's death at Bikaner's PBM Hospital due to post-Caesarean complications marks the third such fatality at the facility and brings Rajasthan's maternal death toll to 19 in three months. The state government has launched a five-day campaign to screen all pregnant women to address the rising mortality rate.

Pune plant mishap: 2 officials booked over safety lapses

Pune plant mishap: 2 officials booked over safety lapses

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Police in Pune have registered a case against two officials of Antony Lara Renewable Energy Pvt Ltd following the collapse of a three-storey building at a waste-to-energy project, which resulted in nine deaths. The officials are booked for culpable homicide and negligence, as preliminary inquiries suggest a lack of safety measures despite heavy rains and the proximity of a large waste mound. The Maharashtra government has formed a high-level technical committee to investigate the incident and recommend preventive measures.

How Spain Threw a Party for Their World Champions...

How Spain Threw a Party for Their World Champions...

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Spain's national football team celebrated their second World Cup victory with a massive parade through Madrid, drawing nearly two million ecstatic fans. The players, fresh from their 1-0 win over Argentina, were also greeted by King Felipe and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who praised their achievement and looked forward to future successes.

Wangchuk refuses to end fast despite being 'in immense pain'

Wangchuk refuses to end fast despite being 'in immense pain'

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk's health is rapidly deteriorating on his 17th day of hunger strike, prompting widespread appeals from prominent political figures and Bollywood celebrities for him to end his fast and for the government to address the urgent demands for NEET examination reforms.

New TN cabinet vows break from Dravidian-era governance

New TN cabinet vows break from Dravidian-era governance

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Following the swearing-in of C Joseph Vijay as Tamil Nadu's chief minister, the new cabinet has pledged a 'white paper' audit of all state departments and a 'zero-interference' policy in administration, signalling a significant shift in governance.

West Bengal Government To Prioritise Women's Safety And Freedom

West Bengal Government To Prioritise Women's Safety And Freedom

Rediff.com14 May 2026

West Bengal minister Agnimitra Paul has said the state government would ensure women can move freely at any time of the day, and that complaints lodged by them are treated by the police on a priority basis.

Commonwealth Games Kick Off With Focus On Sustainability

Commonwealth Games Kick Off With Focus On Sustainability

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The 23rd Commonwealth Games opened in Glasgow with a vibrant ceremony at the OVO Hydro, blending Scottish heritage with modern performances. King Charles III declared the Games open, emphasising a message of sustainability, particularly regarding plastic pollution in oceans. The event showcased a new, more compact model for the Games, focusing on existing venues and integrated Para sports, following Glasgow's role as a step-in host.

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.

'Pocketless clothing, frisking': Major temples adopt new SOPs amid Ram temple theft row

'Pocketless clothing, frisking': Major temples adopt new SOPs amid Ram temple theft row

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Following alleged thefts at the Ram temple in Ayodhya and other incidents, prominent temples across India, including Baba Balak Nath Temple in Himachal Pradesh and Ambaji temple in Gujarat, are implementing stringent new rules for counting offerings. These measures include mandatory pocketless clothing for staff, extensive CCTV surveillance, metal detector frisking, and promoting digital payments to ensure transparency, honesty, and accountability in donation management.